Team makes final TD Bank “Take a Duck to Class” visit of 2018
(Holtsville, N.Y., March 6, 2018) – On Tuesday morning, the Long Island Ducks made their final TD Bank “Take a Duck to Class” visit of the year at Tamarac Elementary School. Fifth grade student Jacob Rubbo was recognized for writing a winning essay about his hero in the community, Spectrum of Dreams Foundation President Tim Szlosek.
“Tim made [the Spectrum of Dreams Foundation] because he wants to help kids like [Tim’s son] Shane get the resources they need,” Jacob wrote in his essay. “He did something very nice and helpful for kids with autism. I am so happy to know such an amazing person.”
Szlosek’s son, Shane, was diagnosed with autism at an early age. The Spectrum of Dreams Foundation’s mission is to help special needs children and their families who require financial resources by providing support that enhances their life skills, education and quality of life.
The entire student body from Tamarac Elementary School attended an assembly in the gymnasium to honor Jacob. Following opening remarks from Principal Michael Saidens, Jacob was brought up to read his essay aloud, earning a resounding applause from all in attendance. The winning student then received congratulations and a Visa gift card from Eric Fishon, TD Bank Vice President of U.S. Field Marketing & Strategy and Ed Pesapane, TD Bank Lake Ronkonkoma Store Manager. Szlosek was also present during the ceremony to congratulate Jacob and speak to the children.
Before wrapping up the assembly, eight-time Best Long Island Mascot, QuackerJack, was welcomed by a loud cheer from the students. Several of the children then asked Jacob various questions about his essay.
To end the school visit, Jacob’s fifth grade class enjoyed a game of wiffleball in the gym with QuackerJack and the Ducks Street Team. Finally, the entire class received special gift bags, courtesy of TD Bank, back in their classroom.
TD Bank “Take a Duck to Class” contestants were able fill out applications on LIDucks.com last fall and submit an essay of 250 words or less on the theme “Who is a hero in your community and why?” Four lucky winners were selected from an entry pool that included thousands of essays. Each winner received an hour-long visit to their school from QuackerJack and the Ducks as well as a Visa gift card from TD Bank.
The following are all the winners in this year’s TD Bank “Take a Duck to Class” essay contest:
Megan Heffernan – Third Grade – Fifth Avenue Elementary School (East Northport)
Victoria Rice – Kindergarten – Fort Salonga Elementary School (Fort Salonga)
Jeremy Romero Jaramillo – Second Grade – Flower Hill School (Huntington)
Jacob Rubbo – Fifth Grade – Tamarac Elementary School (Holtsville)
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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