Homestand Moments to Remember

Just a quick glimpse at some of the moments both on and off-the-field that have made this week's brief homestand special:

After struggling for much of July, the Curve have taken three straight from their arch-rival Akron Aeros (dramatic doubleheader on Tuesday, single game on Wednesday) to fight off their mounting challenge.  The Aeros had a chance to get to within a 1/2 game of the Curve with a series sweep, but now are 7 1/2 games out and in fourth place.

Chase d'Arnaud was moved from shortstop to second base on Tuesday.  He responded by playing well in the field and providing the game-winning hit in both games of the doubleheader.

Rudy Owens allowed a first-inning home run on Wednesday, but not another Aero reached base.  Owens retired 18 of the 19 batters he faced - including the last 17 in a row - in his six-inning performance.

Erin Kelly, the Altoona resident who has overcome the challenges posed by cerebal palsy to graduate high school and college, came out to the ballpark as part of her "Project Possible: Erin Kelly on Ellen" effort.  Hundreds of Curve fans, staff members, and WALY 103.9 and Altoona Mirror employees signed her banner to try to help her appear on the Ellen DeGeneres talk show.  What an inspiring young woman, who is an example to all about not letting challenges stop you from reaching goals.

"Bark in the Park" came back to the promotional calendar with a flourish as nearly 100 fans brought their canines out the park to watch the game with them.  Look for another "Bark in the Park" or two on the 2011 schedule.

Karl Diehl of Martinsburg, who at 93 years of age looks like he could still play the game himself, threw a strike with his ceremonial first pitch on Tuesday night.  A true gentleman, Mr. Diehl handcrafts baseball bats with his own trademark and gives them out as gifts to Curve fans and staff members.

Looking forward to seeing what memories will be made tonight!