By Jason KUROSU

The Crescenta Sports Association’s lone fundraiser, Slugfest, occupied the grounds of Crescenta Valley Park this past weekend, the baseball diamonds in particular. Other areas of the park were occupied by booths for games and food, transforming it into a baseball bazaar.

Kids clad in baseball gear scurried from booth to booth, exploring the different attractions Slugfest had to offer. Tees were lined up like a golf driving range with baseballs perched, laying in wait for passers-by to come along, pick up a bat and pound them into the outfield, which was covered with distance markers. At an adjacent field, kids tested their throwing arms against a radar gun, delighting their parents with their baseball prowess, while at one of the other booths, kids tested their throwing arms and their willingness to soak their peers at the dunk tank.

“Our organization is run completely by volunteers,” said President of Baseball Jim Smiley.

Indeed, nearly every booth worker was a parent or member of the community, from the ticket booth to the food to the attractions. The team photographs were taken by Dave Debuque, also the umpire.

“We have people volunteer whose kids last played in the CSA 20 years ago,” said Smiley. “They’re committed.”

Gift baskets were put together by parents as part of the fundraising effort and a silent auction was also held.

After the festivities, All-Star games were held, capping off a glorious day of baseball.

“CSA strives to be a leader in the community,” said Smiley. “We want to offer a solid program that gives kids an opportunity to grow, learn and have something positive in their lives.”

For more information or to donate, which are accepted year-round, visit www.playCSAball.com.

  Food, fun, Jason Kurosu, YOUTH