Lifestyle

Celebrities Play Kickball Game For Mental Health Awareness

THE AFRO — Leigh Bodden promised the Black team would win, but Santana Moss wasn’t having any of it. Moss delivered a three-run kickball home run in the bottom of the first inning, which proved to be the difference in the game as the white team won the inaugural Barry’s Game at Bowie Baysox Stadium.

Published

5 years ago

August 14, 2019

Oakland Post

Leigh Bodden’s LBFoundation.org and Lauryn’s Law teamed up at the Bowie Baysox Stadium for baseball and celebrity kickball games in honor of mental health and suicide awareness. (Courtesy Photo)

By Mark F. Gray

Leigh Bodden promised the Black team would win, but Santana Moss wasn’t having any of it. Moss delivered a three-run kickball home run in the bottom of the first inning, which proved to be the difference in the game as the white team won the inaugural Barry’s Game at Bowie Baysox Stadium.

“We’re keeping our mouth shut and will let our play do the talking,” Moss said. “We’ll see what happens at the end of the game.”

On a day where there were no losers, Bodden’s LBFoundation.org brought together local celebrities and former pro athletes by galvanizing the community to begin learning more about a silent killer amongst minorities. However, thanks to Moss’s heroics the white team withstood a late inning comeback attempt to hold on for a 5-3 victory.

Despite the game, mental health awareness and suicide prevention were the focus of the Baltimore Orioles class AA affiliate Bowie Baysox in conjunction with Bodden’s Foundation and Lauryn’s Law. The charity organizations collaborated to play the game in honor of two people who tragically lost their lives due to their undiagnosed mental health issues.

Linda Diaz and Bodden carry the pain of their respective losses daily, as both carry memories of loved ones who took their lives. Diaz, who shared the day with her granddaughter, started the push for Lauryn’s Law after her daughter took her life after battling the effects of bullying that led to undiagnosed depression. Her efforts led to a state law requiring in school counseling and intervention for students who are displaying those symptoms.

Bodden’s friend Barry, who also took his life, is to whom the game was dedicated. Before the first “pitch” it was clear this was more than a celebrity good time. In addition to the passion for the competition there was a palpable sense of commitment to the cause that was conveyed by Bodden himself, as he addressed the fans who stayed and watched with an emotional appreciation to those in attendance.

“There is not a day that doesn’t go by where I don’t think about him,” Bodden said with his voice cracking as he tried to hold back tears. “Hopefully, you’ve been able to speak with the representatives of the organizations that can help you be there for someone who may not realize the help they need and you can be there to support them.”

The crowd who attended the baseball game was able to attend the kickball game afterward for the price of the game ticket. During the game itself, various mental health organizations were stationed throughout the concourse distributing information and sharing basic knowledge about the warning signs of what could lead to suicidal behavior.

“It’s so important to have an opportunity to share this kind of information with the public,” Diaz said. “When someone like Leigh adds his name too and genuinely cares because he knows the pain that friends and families go through, it only helps create greater awareness in the community.”

Approximately 1,000 fans stayed after the Baysox Eastern League 10-4 victory over the Portland Sea Dogs for the kickball game. During the long afternoon, they also had an opportunity to receive information from a series of mental health organizations who lined the concourse with a message of intervention and therapy. The celebrities who attended also recognize the role they play in pushing the message.

“It’s something that we can now have open conversations when we’re on the air,” said Sunni [in the City] from WPGC-FM. “Artists like Wale use their twitter accounts to talk about his therapist all the time. It’s a disease that’s out of the closet right now and people are beginning to realize they don’t have to feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about mental health issues anymore.”

This article originally appeared in The Afro.

Oakland Post

Posts by Oakland Post

Up Next

L.A. Council Members Smith, Wesson Call on Legislators to Act on Gun Control

Don't Miss

Braveboy Announces Youth Justice Reform Plans

Oakland Post

Click to comment

Bay Area

Richmond’s First ‘Mobile Vendor Plaza’ Opens for Business

The very first Mobile Vendor Plaza brought a variety of food options to a parking lot in Downtown Richmond on Saturday, Sept. 21. It also brought the promise of more markets just like it to come. The market was held in the lot at 1401 Macdonald Ave., near the BART parking garage. It will open every Thursday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., offering foods such as tacos, pupusas, sandwiches, and also refreshing drinks, according to the city.

Published

6 days ago

October 2, 2024

Oakland Post

Courtesy of the City of Richmond.

The Richmond Standard

The very first Mobile Vendor Plaza brought a variety of food options to a parking lot in Downtown Richmond on Saturday, Sept. 21.

It also brought the promise of more markets just like it to come.

The market was held in the lot at 1401 Macdonald Ave., near the BART parking garage. It will open every Thursday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., offering foods such as tacos, pupusas, sandwiches, and also refreshing drinks, according to the city.

Announced in August, the new market is a partnership between the City of Richmond and Richmond Farmers Market. It is the first of the Mobile Vendor Program, which aims to provide a place for sidewalk vendors to conduct business in a regulated manner.

All mobile vendors can participate for free, but vendors must be registered with the City with a Special Business Activity Permit. For more about the program, go to https://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/4685/COMING-SOON—Mobile-Vendor-Market.

Oakland Post

Posts by Oakland Post

Community

California’s Aging Services Offer Valuable Resources for Older Adults

As we grow older, our needs and priorities change. In California, a wide range of services is available to help you maintain your independence, stay connected, and lead a fulfilling life. Whether you’re looking for support with daily tasks, health care guidance, or planning for the future, California’s aging services are here to help.

Published

6 days ago

October 2, 2024

Oakland Post

iStock

Advertorial

Aging in Place

Many of you may prefer to stay in your own home as you get older. California offers programs that can assist with home repairs, transportation, and in-home care. Additionally, health and social care programs, including day centers with activities like arts and exercise, help you stay independent.

Nutrition Services

You can enjoy home-delivered meals or gather for group meals at local centers. For those with limited income, there are options to get fresh produce and other food benefits through the CalFresh Expansion program.

Health Insurance Guidance

Confused about health insurance options? The Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) provides guidance on Medicare and long-term care insurance.

Support for Caregivers

If you are caring for an older adult, there are programs like Caregiver Resource Centers (CRCs) and the Family Caregiver Support Program offering respite, counseling, and assistance with paperwork. CRCs also provide action plans for families dealing with dementia.

Legal Assistance

Facing issues like consumer fraud, elder abuse, or age discrimination? Legal Services are available to help with Social Security, health insurance, pensions, and more.

Employment Opportunities

Looking for a job? Free training and job placement services are available for older Californians.

Emergency Preparedness

Planning for emergencies is especially important as we age. California offers resources to help you prepare for natural disasters, power outages, and other emergencies. Creating a personal emergency plan, keeping an emergency kit ready, and staying informed about local resources can make all the difference.

All these services and more are coordinated through local Area Agencies on Aging. Find yours by calling the California Aging and Adult Information Line at 800-510-2020 or visiting aging.ca.gov.

Oakland Post

Posts by Oakland Post

Bay Area

Oakland at Its Best… A Glimpse: Uniting the Community and Supporting Future Generations

This past Saturday, September 7, 2024, the West Oakland community, particularly in the Campbell Village area at 8th and Campbell, came together for a heartwarming and festive event. The 4th annual backpack giveaway, hosted by Formerly Incarcerated Giving Back (FIGB) in collaboration with annual community giveaway by the Grown & Sexy Divas Motorcycle Club, truly captured the spirit of Oakland — uniting the community and supporting future generations.

Published

7 days ago

October 1, 2024

Oakland Post

LeRonne Armstrong and Richard Johnson. Photo Credit: Jonathanfitnessjones

Oakland Unites: FIGB and Grown & Sexy Divas Motorcycle Club Host 4th Annual Backpack Giveaway

By: Richard “Razor” Johnson

Children and families were able to do more than just pick up backpacks filled with school supplies; they stayed to play, eat, and engage with community leaders. The event featured bungee jumping, games for the children, delicious food for all, and clothing donations for those in need. The collaboration between FIGB and the Grown & Sexy Divas demonstrated the strength and unity of Oaklanders coming together for the greater good.

Nicole Goodwin and Dana Terry of the Grown & Sexy Divas Motorcycle Club, along with FIGB, organized the event with the mission of empowering and uplifting the community. Their commitment was evident in the joy and sense of togetherness felt by all who attended.

Sam DJ McNeal, one of the many who stopped by to show support, added energy to the event while participating in a nearby dance video shoot. In addition to the backpack giveaway, the event offered free clothing, toiletries, toys, and meals, accompanied by uplifting music that set the perfect tone.

Most notably, ex-Oakland Police Chief LeRonne Armstrong took the time out of his busy schedule to attend the event and assist in the backpack giveaway. His presence was a powerful reminder of his commitment to bringing the community back to its prominence. Armstrong’s actions reflect a genuine desire to improve Oakland, not just through words, but through direct involvement. His participation helped make the event a shining example of what collective action and leadership can achieve.

The success of the event was made possible by the generous support of community leaders and organizations. Among the key supporters were Kathy Adam, CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce; Jonathan Paul Jones from the African American Sports & Entertainment Group (AASEG); Oakland Post News Group; Rick Fortenberry of the Oakland Private Industry Council (OPIC); and Maritony & Associates. FIGB members from Sacramento, Stockton, and San Francisco also came out, further showcasing regional unity.

The overwhelming participation from so many groups and individuals is a testament to the power of unity in Oakland. In all, it was a joyous and successful day, showcasing what the city can achieve when the community comes together to uplift its own, fostering hope and strength for the future.

Special thanks to all the sponsors and supporters who made this event possible.