Team recognizes fourth grader and K-9 Police Officer

(West Islip, N.Y., Jan. 5, 2016) – On Tuesday, the Long Island Ducks spent an hour at Bayview Elementary School as part of their annual TD Bank “Take a Duck to Class” essay contest. Fourth grader Kevin Mauri was awarded the special visit for being one of four winners with his essay on “Who is a hero in your community and why?”

CLICK HERE to view a Facebook photo album from the event

The entire fourth grade class attended an assembly at the school for Kevin. Following opening remarks by Ducks representatives, he read his essay out loud to the entire class and was greeted with a loud ovation. Kevin was then presented with a $50 Visa gift card by Eric Fishon, TD Bank Vice President of U.S. Field Marketing Strategy, and Jennifer Arnold, TD Bank West Islip Store Manager.

Following the introduction of QuackerJack, the Long Island Ducks mascot, the students welcomed one final guest. Suffolk County K-9 Police Officer Kenny O’Brien, who Kevin chose as his hero in his winning essay, also addressed the students. He thanked Kevin for choosing him as the person to write about and took questions from those in attendance.

Once the assembly ended, Kevin helped lead QJ back to his classroom. The visit was topped off with an exclusive autograph and photo session for those in his class. Each student also took home a TD Bank gift bag full of goodies.

TD Bank “Take a Duck to Class” essay contestants were able fill out applications available at LIDucks.com this fall and submit an essay of 250 words or less on “Who is a hero in your community and why?” Four lucky winners were selected from an entry pool that included a record number of essays. Each winner will receive an hour-long visit to their school from QuackerJack and the Ducks as well as a Visa gift card from TD Bank.

Here is the final winner in this year’s TD Bank “Take a Duck to Class” essay contest and when the Ducks will be visiting her school:

Ayse Yildiz – Fifth Grade – Santapogue Elementary School (West Babylon, N.Y.) – Friday, Jan. 22 at 10:00 a.m.

The Long Island Ducks are members of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball and play their home games at Bethpage Ballpark. For further information, call (631) 940-DUCK or visit www.liducks.com.

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