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Former Phillies Fave Talkin' Baseball with Maris Grove Residents to Raise Money for Community Fund

January 17, 2015

GLEN MILLS, P.A. – Former Phillies All-Star second baseman Mickey Morandini, who played in the 1993 World Series with the team and currently serves as a coach in the organization, spoke with Maris Grove residents earlier today about good ol' fashioned Phillies Baseball!

The purpose of the discussion was Mickey's way of helping the community raise money for the Maris Grove Residents Care Fund, that helps provide future financial support for residents who may find that they have exhausted their financial resources due to unforeseen circumstances such as long-term illness.

Attendees purchased tickets to attend this luncheon event with proceeds going toward the fund and also the Phillies Alumni Association. Attendees enjoyed great stadium-style food, including hot dogs, chips, soda and great conversation.

This was the second luncheon discussion as part of this Maris Grove Talkin' Baseball Series. This past November, former Phillies former shortstop and coach Bobby Wine regaled residents about his take on baseball.

In addition to chatting about America's Pastime, Mickey held a question-answer session with residents, he signed autographs and took photos with members of the community.

Residents asked Mickey great questions, including his opinion on performance enhancing drugs by athletes, his favorite professional baseball memory, his thoughts on instant replay and the designated hitter rule, and who was the toughest pitcher he ever faced. Mickey, who played professional baseball for 11 years, admitted that growing up he was a big Pittsburgh Pirates fan and as far as the rooting for the Phils, that didn't happen until he joined the organization. Pirates outfielders Dave Parker and Al Oliver were amongst his favorite players, as well as St. Louis Cardinals Shortstop Ozzie Smith.

During the event, Mickey also introduced the Phillies "newest" catcher. Well, sort of… Maris Grove Executive Director Maureen Heckler, dressed in full catcher's mask and gear, surprised residents who took turns attempting to guess who the mystery catcher was. 

"What a great way to usher in thoughts of warmth, summer and Phillies baseball on such a cold January day," Ms. Heckler said. "There are so many Phillies fans here at Maris Grove and offering them the chance to interact with Bobby Wine last year, and Mickey Morandini today, was a great way to raise some money. Thank you, Phillies!" 

And who was the toughest pitcher Mickey Morandini faced? He said it was fireball throwing right-hander Randy Johnson. 

About Maris Grove:  Maris Grove is one of 18 continuing care retirement communities managed by Erickson Living. The scenic 87 acre campus is located in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania and is home to approximately 1,500 residents. Maris Grove is a perfect greater Delaware County destination offering a true sense of community, convenience beyond compare and a sensible financial structure.  

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