‘Back to the Park’ with pro-athletes, alumni and food tasting
THE PARK includes walking trails, athletic fields, picnic areas and playgrounds.
A silent auction, food tasting and celebrity events are among festivities at the Pan Pacific Park Alumni Reunion Weekend, “Back to The Park,” Fri., June 20 to Sun., June 22 at the park, 6500 Beverly Blvd.
Most of the events are free, and the community is invited to eat, play and rub elbows with pro athletes to mark the park’s rebirth since it burned down 25 years ago.
“Pan Pacific Park is one of the greatest parks and treasures that Los Angeles has to offer,” said Councilman Tom LaBonge. He will host a gala “Meet & Greet” on Friday with a silent auction—with donations from celebrity alumni—and a “Taste of the Park,” which will offer food and retail contributions from Farmers Market and The Grove.
More than 200 former and current Park athletes and coaches will participate along with alumni, many now in professional leagues, in basketball, flag football and baseball games and other activities on Sat., June 21. An afternoon celebrity concert and fundraiser featuring alumni in the music industry, including rap star Casey Veggies, is on Sun., June 22. Tickets for the concert are $25.
“Funds raised will allow the less fortunate in our community to continue to play basketball, baseball, and football and attend classes alongside those in the community not fiscally challenged,” said Reggie Turner, president of the Park Advisory Board.
NBA PRO Allen Crabbe of the Portland Trailblazers got his start at Pan Pacific.
“There is not enough space in our new gym to post all of the championship banners won in sports by our girls and boys. We proudly boast numerous professional athletes and more than 100 collegiate scholarship athletes who began and honed their skills in the youth programs,” said Phyllis Grierson, senior park director. Purchase tickets for the Sunday concert and make donations at www.PanPacificConcert.eventbrite.com.
Category: Entertainment
