Lexington Two Student Throws Out First Pitch at Fireflies Game

Airport Junior Carlee Vella threw out the first pitch at the Columbia Fireflies game Friday, April 15.

Vella won an essay contest through The Arc of the Midlands. As a part of the recognition for winning the essay contest, she was selected to throw out the first pitch at the game. Vella was surprised with the Fireflies tickets at an Airport High School varsity baseball game.

The Arc of the Midlands and The Columbia Fireflies sponsored the essay contest, and the theme was “What Makes you Glow?” Vella, the selected winner, was one of many from a pool of entries from schools across the Midlands. Doug Finkelstein, Director of Business Development of The Arc of the Midlands presented Vella with her tickets and prize information. As the contest winner, she got to throw out the first pitch of the game at the new Spirit Communications Park for the Columbia Fireflies game on Friday night, April 15.

Photo: L-R: Dr. Dixon Brooks, Airport High Principal; Tim Perry, Airport High Baseball Coach; Carlee Vella, Winner; and Doug Finkelstein, Arc of the Midlands.