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A Glove of Their Own: A Grand Slam On and Off the Field

Every so often in the sports industry, do you encounter a genuine person who is trying to making a difference without a hidden agenda. Bob Salomon is one such individual. Over the past month, I have gotten to know Bob and truly what he is about. His book, “A Glove of Their Own” is truly a treasure as reflected in the below article by Diane M. Grassi that we recently featured in Premier Players Magazine. Enjoy! 

 A Glove of Their Own: A Grand Slam On and Off the Field by Diane M. Grassi

“The future ain’t what it used to be.” – Yogi Berra 

The recession of 2008, long documented as the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression, has impacted not only Wall Street and the American pocketbook, but the American psyche. 

As such, there has been a symptomatic withdrawal not only by the American consumer, but by the American family and thus, by extension, the American neighborhood. And such has left many communities unengaged and in a state of bewilderment, with others steeped within the depths of despair. 

It is in such times of crisis that the national fabric becomes torn and many feel displaced and disconnected. Yet, there remain some select individuals who take it upon themselves to offer hope, in helping to present a new paradigm for a collective morale boost, by uniting families with neighborhoods, and in helping to reconnect those neighborhoods with their respective communities; revisiting those values once identified as the essence of the American spirit. 

And in that effort, a unique “movement” is evolving by way of a New Jersey father, most proud of his two children, and outwardly dedicated to reaching out to all children, in order that they too may continue to pass on the once held dear concept of “giving back”, as they become adults and raise children of their own. And Salomon and his wife do no less with their own two youngsters.

 Bob Salomon is a name you will be hearing about. He is using the concept of children participating in sports as the vehicle to communicate his all encompassing goal of giving back. His first effort has evolved through the game of baseball. More specifically, the illustrated children’s book, A Glove of Their Own, published in November 2008,has caught fire and is the centerpiece of Salomon’s main vision. 

The story is about a group of youngsters playing a pick-up game of baseball on a local neighborhood lot. Unfortunately, not all have bats and gloves to properly play the game. But a retired gentleman comes across them playing, only to return another day with a duffle bag filled with used gloves, bats and balls from games gone by, used by his own children. He then donates them all to the group of children. It but sets a good example for the children and serves to inspire them to keep on playing the game they love. 

As a direct result of brainstorming with two friends, the eventual co-authors of A Glove of Their Own,

Debbie Moldovan, Keri Conkling and Lisa Funari-Willever, Salomon was presented a written story, and later beautifully illustrated by Lauren Lambiase . 

But it was Salomon’s tenacity that convinced Funari-Willever, to see his project through, assuring her that she would not regret her involvement. Funari-Willever, herself, has dedicated much of her life to giving back and was the main force behind Salomon’s now realized proposition. 

The end result of this collaborative effort was not just that of publishing a nice children’s story, but an extended benefit from it arose. It would serve as an example for children to be forthright, unselfish, giving and grateful. But equally important to Salomon, is that children are reminded to have fun while playing the game of baseball, and all sports, and to point out that just being a kid is okay, too. 

Yet, it was only through A Glove of Their Own that Salomon realized his deep-felt obligation to become a facilitator of charitable efforts, not only by continuing to publish children’s sports stories, but by reaching out to a variety of organizations and media entities as well. 

The intent is to pique the interest of professional athletes, professional sports franchises, sports-affiliated businesses, community invested corporations, and non-profit agencies, amongst others. And Salomon hopes to meld various partnerships to approach communities. These communities would then become their own facilitators with the intended goal of encouraging children’s participation in extra-curricular organized sports, funded by a combination of various entities and manifesting fundraisers nationwide. 

However, the underlying theme, which Salomon insists must remain, is that professional athletes, both active and now retired, start making more of an investment in their local communities in which they play or in which they reside. 

And it would behoove these professional athletes, and those now retired from professional play, to become involved on their own accord, rather than, for example, through a required clause in their playing contracts to perform volunteer work, which many Major League Baseball (MLB), National Football League (NFL), National Basketball Association (NBA) and National Hockey League (NHL) professional teams now require as part of player negotiated deals. 

Charity is but a gift and giving back should ultimately come from the heart. And Salomon truly believes that children will see through those athletes who are merely going through the motions, thereby not setting a good example for them. He wants to work with those who are dedicated in their intent to reach out to the children in the community, and simply because it is the right thing to do, rather than to garner accolades for themselves. 

At such a time when discretionary income is dangerously low nationwide, it is imperative that municipalities, local communities, schools and neighborhoods alike, come together in innovative ways to mobilize future generations to continue to thrive; to return the favors bestowed upon them by enjoining the public with the private sector to a positive end. 

Salomon has duly impressed many already in the private sector such as Rich Lampmann, Director of Promotions and Public Relations of Modell’s Sporting Goods. “The memories of the pick-up games in the yard or at the field, stick with us for a lifetime. Bob and his team have taken this a step further and are not only promoting the game…but also using the games as a means of spreading sportsmanship and teamwork for the greater good.” 

And Rick Redman, Vice President of Corporate Communications for the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory notes, “It’s a wonderful story that everyone can learn from; kids and adults. Plus, it’s tied to many great causes and provides the chance to donate funds to your favorite baseball charity. How could we say no to Bob Salomon? He has a drive and passion that’s unmatched.” 

There also are many retired athletes who have leant their support to A Glove of Their Own such as former MLB players Craig Biggio, Bernie Williams, Sean Casey, Jason Grilli, Tommy John, Roy White, Dick Drago, Phil Niekro, Bud Harrelson, current Los Angeles Dodgers manager, Joe Torre, former Yankee great Yogi Berra and the Yogi Berra Museum and Learning Center, and many others. 

And Bob Salomon hopes to collaborate with active MLB players such as Joe Mauer, starting catcher for the Minnesota Twins, and Nick Swisher, the right fielder for the New York Yankees. Both players are dedicated philanthropists in their own right, making giving back through charity a priority in their lives off the field. And there are a bevy of many well intentioned athletes in the NFL, NBA and NHL who Salomon continually reaches out to in hopes of being afforded the opportunity to meet with them on future charitable endeavors. 

Salomon is also involved in a collaborative effort with former MLB pitcher, Tommy John, as a producer of a film documentary. It will feature John’s life and center on the now worldwide famous Tommy John Surgery now considered the state-of-the-art corrective surgical procedure for injured elbows, based upon John’s own surgery decades ago. It not only saved John’s career but has extended the careers of countless other players, not only in MLB, but throughout professional and amateur sports. 

Those wishing to learn more about A Glove of Their Own can visit its website, agloveoftheirown.com where one can learn more about all of its affiliated organizations, including corporations, broadcast media outlets, non-profit agencies and other athletes and celebrities touched by the spirit of giving. 

And Salomon also wants to ensure that individuals can play a participatory role in whatever way they choose, in order to give back. It does not necessarily have to be on a grand scale or with relationship to an agency or corporate interest, either. Any small acts of kindness and involvement in neighborhoods and communities is the intent of Salomon’s purpose. Or folks may choose to go the route of purchasing copies of A Glove of Their Own and rallying others to participate in that way as well. 

As such, books may be purchased through  AGloveOfTheirOwn.com. Glove donates $.10 from the sale of each book to the following organizations: Good Sports, Sports Gift, and Pitch In For Baseball. In addition, $3.00 per sold book will be given to any school or non-profit organization that joins Salomon’s effort. 

His immediate next project is to publish a children’s book involving football as the theme, this time. But again, his effort is far more than a hyped up version of pay it forward, and rather a rallying cry to nurture our children. In doing so, we will all be better human beings for it will serve to enrich the quality of all of our lives, both locally and nationally, for decades to come. And that should be a priority for all of us. 

“Success is not the place one arrives, but rather the spirit with which one undertakes and continues the journey.” – Alex Noble                                                                                                                                                           

Copyright ©2010 Diane M. Grassi All rights reserved.

Baseball brings out the kid in us because it is such a kid-friendly game. That is obvious in books
that are hitting the shelves.

A Glove of Their Own by Debbie Moldovan, Keri Conkling and Lisa Funari-Willever and illustrated by Lauren Lambiase is a story of san?dlot kids who inspire an adult to share in their experience.

It also inspired Bob Salomon, a New Jersey state worker to make the book a personal project and a fund-raiser for kids and baseball.(Book cover courtesy of Franklin Mason Press)
His efforts have picked up sponsors from Rawlings to Louisville Slugger to Modell’s, and endorsements from major leaguers. It also spawned the website, agloveoftheirown.com.

 “I’m a Little League dad and father of two,” said Salomon. “I read this book, I got chills. I started calling people. I followed my heart, my passion. Parents have loved it because it is a message to their kids to do what is fair and what’s right and it reminds them of their childhood.”

Minnie Torres Pays It Forward In the DR: With Help From Baseball’s Biggest Names.

In the United States, we are suffering the biggest economic crisis since The Great Depression. In these tough times there are people like Minnie Torres, coach Bob Salomon, A Glove of Their Own, and giants in the baseball industry such as Louisville Slugger, Modell’s, Upper Deck and Rawlings who are still going above and beyond to help children that are less fortunate .

Growing up an impoverished child, Minnie is no stranger to the struggles of making ends meet. Today, as a single mother, she recalls the invaluable lesson once taught by her parents about generosity; it’s not how much you give, but just the act of giving that matters. Her first trip to the Dominican  Republic nine years ago proved to be much more than a vacation; it changed her life.  Minnie witnessed poverty in a way that would remain etched in her memory.  She began by emptying her suitcase and returning to the neighborhood overflowing with need and beautiful children.  There she would share all of her belongings and fuel the desire where “paying it forward” would be the both the purpose and the reward of all future trips to the Dominican Republic.  Minnie couldn’t help but think about all those bright young eyes having seen the harsh realities of poverty and hunger, yet they had never laid eyes on baseball equipment most of us would deem common.  The idea of new equipment even as simple as a brand new baseball was something only on wish lists.  The adoration behind your favorite baseball card typical here in the U.S. was something unknown to the children of the Dominican Republic and that was all about to change.  Excitement filled the air and proved that the children of the Dominican Republic, for all that they lacked, were not short on the ability to dream.

“It always make you feel great when you see a kid who ordinarily might not be able to obtain a pack of baseball cards open up his first pack.   ”It actually warms your heart because you see the excitement and joy come right through their faces. It’s a thrilling experience for them and a rewarding one for us,” says Terry Melia, Upper Deck’s Public Relations Manager.

 As a result, her most recent  trip in February 2010, exceeded her all of her expectations; it was beyond special.   This hard working, state employee made an enormous delivery to a land full of kids whose tough lives give her own underprivileged childhood a new definition.  Not long after the plane landed, the kids were able to see only one thing: Minnie. They began chanting her name as she filled their empty hands with purpose, happiness, and a new sense of hope in the form of bats and gloves.  She delivered the game of baseball and it read just like a verse out of the award winning children’s book, A Glove of Their Own.

“Few things in life are ever as good as the smell of your own glove, the crack of the wood, or being with friends at that one special spot and sharing what you have with those who have not.”

 When fulfilling her vocation of sharing typical items such as clothes, shoes, and more, Minnie ran into the last person she expected to see.  Coach Bob Salomon, a co-worker of Minnie’s and one of the creators behind the children’s book, “A Glove Of Their Own.  She learned that he, too, had simultaneously been fighting for the same cause as he spearheaded the movement behind A Glove of Their Own  that focuses on “paying it forward.”   When he realized that Minnie was equally devoted to this cause, Bob was able to make her most recent trip to Dominican Republic the most successful one yet.  Bob called in the giants of the sports equipment world,  Louisville Slugger, Modell’s, Rawlings and Upper Deck and they graciously stepped up to the plate

 “Louisville Slugger is honored to be able to help spread joy to these kids by providing them high quality baseball equipment.  Any kid who wants to play baseball or softball should be able to do so with good equipment.  Our 126 year old company is humbled and honored to hold the unique place it does in baseball history.  Louisville Slugger wants to do all it can to introduce more people, especially kids, to baseball, the greatest game ever invented,” says Rick Redman, VP Corporate Communications, Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory.   

 I don’t know how to thank Bob Salomon, the team from A Glove of their Own, and these very generous companies. Louisville Slugger gave the kids mini bats , Modell’s gave the kids baseball pants, shirts, and hats and made them feel like they were part of a team. Rawlings put baseballs into their hands which they repeatedly tossed into the air with excitement, and Upper Deck donated baseball cards which had the children in awe as they looked at pictures of their hometown heroes said Minnie. I don’t know how I could ever thank Bob and his team enough.  There are no words to express the gratitude that both the children and I have experienced.  I would like these companies to personally know that I was grateful and  honored to deliver their donations.  I was the lucky one who witnessed their eyes light up and I will never forget the words I heard one boy say, I hope you will be there someday to see me make it to the big leagues, I’m going to make it Minnie, I promise. Those words cause the tears I still experience now as I recall the raw desire and passion that little boy shared.”

It always feels great when you receive feedback on how your efforts and the efforts of those around you can have such a positive impact on the lives of others.  Something so small to some can end up being somewhat of a life-changing occurrence for others!- Rich Lampmann, Director of Promotions & Public Relations, Modell’s Sporting Goods.

Childhood is fleeting, and to think that some kids see it pass by before they ever have a chance to actually be kids is, sadly, all too common in the world.  These lucky kids from the Dominican, even if just this one time, have a memory from their childhood that reigns supreme.  It was not so long ago that Minnie was a poor little girl, but having learned the importance of giving ensured that she is one rich woman today.

Louisville Slugger, Modell’s, Rawlings, and Upper Deck are as synonymous  with Major League Baseball as the ballad Take Me Out To The Ball Game and the seventh inning stretch.  In a world where we too often hear of corporate corruption and the evil ways of big companies, these baseball companies and their generous act of giving show that there are still good people in this world stepping to the plate to help those less fortunate.

          “I’m so grateful and blessed to have met Minnie because I was able to help her crusade in honoring and supporting children in need.  Yet again,  A Glove of Their Own proves to be the perfect vehicle to share the message of kindness and community outreach.  It was the vision that fuels and enabled me to create the movement behind this special book.  The message in our award winning children’s  book is simple:  pay it forward.  As a Dad, it’s one lesson that I feel is imperative to instill as a fundamental principle and message to our children.  And that’s exactly what Louisville Slugger, Modell’s, Rawlings, and Upper Deck have done from the inception of this project,” says coach Bob Salomon.

A Glove of Their Own has supporters from all over the Major League Baseball community including: Louisville Slugger, Modell’s, Rawlings, and Upper Deck, as well as current and former major leaguers and legends, Phil Neikro, Tommy John, Bud Harrelson, Dick Drago, Jason Grilli, Craig Biggio, Roy White, Sean Casey and Joe Torre to name a few of the stars from our extensive and impressive list of supporters. 

            “After my first read through of  Glove [A Glove of Their Own], I had tears in my eyes and read it two more times.  I felt compelled to share it with my own grandchildren and shortly thereafter found myself eager to visit their schools and share it there too.  This book will be enjoyed by everyone that reads it, that I can guarantee,” says 1997 Hall of Famer, Phil Niekro.

          “It brought me back to my sandlot days and really makes me reflect on my childhood playing ball with my friends.  I instantly knew there was something special about this book and Bob’s passion about it’s message.  Baseball’s impact on my own life is immeasurable so the opportunity to support an initiative that gives back to my beloved sport was something I knew I couldn’t pass up,”  says former Major Leaguer, Tommy John. 

          “Bob Salomon won me over on the first phone call. He’s a warm, compassionate human being who truly believes in the book and the message it’s trying to convey about giving back. We wish him and everybody else associated with A Glove of Their Own all the success in the world,”  said Terry Melia, Upper Deck’s Public Relations Manager.

                       “Bob Salomon is one of those people who you can just tell is extremely motivated to promote a great cause.  Bob shares the same feeling as countless Americans when it comes to the game of baseball.  The memories of pick-up games in the yard, lot, or at the field stick with us for a lifetime.  Bob and his team have taken this a step further and are not only promoting the game in and of itself, but also using the game as a means of spreading sportsmanship and teamwork for the greater good,” says Rich Lampmann, Director of Promotions & Public Relations, Modell’s Sporting Goods.

 ”It’s a wonderful story that everyone can learn from, kids and adults.  Plus it’s tied to many great causes and provides the chance to donate funds to your favorite baseball charity.  For example, it helps introduce more kids to baseball, particularly kids who might not otherwise have a chance to ever play ball.  Louisville Slugger has a long history of supporting programs that provide disadvantaged kids opportunities to learn the game.  Currently we are also involved with the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation, the Cincinnati Reds and their youth baseball charities, and MLB’s RBI program.  Plus, how could we say no to Bob Solomon?!  He has a drive and passion that’s unmatched,” says  Rick Redman, VP Corporate Communications, Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory.

It was an honor to speak with Minnie and learn the details of her heroic story.  Her emotion and gratitude were raw and obvious.  With help from Coach Bob and his team, she will continue to spread her kindness overseas.  These trips will undoubtedly change lives both in the Dominican Republic and the United States.  Once again, the message of this all-star team is simple…”pay it forward” but the rewards priceless from every angle across the globe.  For more information on A Glove of Their Own please visit:www.agloveoftheirown.com

 For each sale of the book, $3.00 is donated to WBO ,use the code WBO,  listed on a drop down menu on the book’s popular website.

If interested in fundraising please contact Bob Salomon at www.agloveoftheirown.com or call (732) 604-0468

Jay Ferraro is the Executive Producer of Baseball Digest LIVE and Gotham Baseball LIVE.  He is also a columnist for Baseball Digest ,Baseballdigest.com, and Gothambaseball.com. You can reach him atJay_Ferraro@Juno.com , follow him on Twitter here and add him on Facebook here.

Bernie Williams Drives Home the Winning Message of "A Glove of Their Own"

When any baseball fan hears the name Bernie Williams, a distinct image immediately comes to mind. Brimming with class, a confident smile, and, of course, dressed in pinstripes, Williams is to the Yankees what The Stadium is to the Yankees—forever connected until the very end of time. 

Williams, however, possesses the undeniable character traits which transcend the uniform and are universally admired by fans from New York, Chicago and, yes, even Boston, whenever his name is mentioned.

"Bernie Williams is a class act," explains Bob Salomon, coach of the award-winning children's story A Glove of Their Own. "I guarantee you that every teammate, every opponent, and every fan of baseball describes him in much the same way. A kind and caring family man, who also happened to be one hell of a baseball player.

"Bernie, the man, is far bigger than any stats he put up on the board," added Salomon, who is the "man behind the movement" that has the entire baseball world talking about his wonderful children's story. 

"He defines what my project is all about."

Williams is the latest in a growing roster of star players and coaches who not only promote A Glove of Their Own, but who have aligned themselves with its message of giving.

"It's about paying it forward and that is what these players are all about. Players like  Jason Grilli, Joe Torre, Tommy John, Dick Drago, Craig Biggio, Roy White, Phil Niekro, Ken Griffey and Luis Tiant Jr.," Salomon said. "These are the players who have become synonymous with kindness and have become such a huge part of the movement that surrounds the pages of the book." 

Salomon and authors Keri Conkling, Debbie Moldovan, and Lisa Funari-Willever created A Glove of Their Own less than a year ago as a way to teach kids about paying it forward through baseball. 

The book has a heartfelt, rhyming message that allows children to experience giving through a simple act of kindness performed by a stranger. It is through this act that the message of the book becomes apparent.

Salomon, a Little League coach, husband, and father of two, considers himself fortunate to work with the players and often has difficulty understanding the magnitude of what he is building.

"I speak to these athletes frequently. Guys like Drago, Tiant, Junior, and Tommy John have become my friends," Salomon said. "Their advice is invaluable and we share a mutual love of the game.

"Bernie and the other players worked their whole career to project a certain image every time they put on the uniform. They played the game the right way. They were bigger than steroids, cheating and skyrocketing salaries, and they each lived their life outside of baseball in much the same way.

"I'm confident that if you took the salaries out of the game, these guys would still suit up each day, slap on some eye-black and be at the field two hours before game time. That's what these guys stand for and what my book stands for, too."

Salomon speaks endlessly about using the book to heal the black eye that baseball has gotten in recent years. He is passionate about cleaning up the negativity that surrounds the sport and uses the book as part of his platform to resurrect the game's image.

"Baseball has gotten a bad name and that really upsets me," he said. "It's time to start discussing the positives in baseball. To bring baseball back to what it was intended to be. Baseball is a kids game. This is what my whole project is about. Giving baseball and all the goodness that surrounds it back to the kids."

Like perhaps no other, Salomon is humbled by the greatness of the lineup he has assembled and is grateful for their participation in the project.

"This isn't about statistics. It's about the character of the man," he said. "This All-Star team is about far more than hits, walks, and errors. It's about life."

And the addition of Williams gives Salomon the clean-up hitter that allows him to knock his message home.

"Bernie represents what this project is all about," Salomon said. "The man lives to give.

"People often forget about the goodness that these athletes try to promote. That's why they start their own foundations. As a way to thank God for the amazing good fortune that they have been blessed with."

Players, coaches and organizations like Louisville Slugger, Rawlings, Modell's Sporting Goods, Upper Deck, and iFungo have also aligned themselves with the book and are using it as part of their campaign of giving.

For each sale of the book, $3.30 is donated to any of the 100 affiliated non-profit organizations listed on a drop down menu on the book's popular Web site.

"We have some wonderful organizations that are benefiting from sales of the book," Salomon said. "Groups like Covenant House, who recently came on board and does so many great things for homeless children. It is a great pleasure to welcome them as part of the Glove team."

According to Salomon, he's nowhere near finished with his vision. He has plans to continually update the book to include a reference section where fans can be made aware of the players' foundations and showcase all the good that they do off the field.

"The final step in my project is to hold a huge charity event that brings all of the players together to simply thank them and to let the fans thank them," Salomon said. "Then—and only then—will my mission be complete."

Todd Civin is a freelance writer for Bleacher Report, Seamheads, and Boston Sports Then and Now. He can be reached at toddcivin1@aim.com. He is also a supporter of A Glove of Their Own, the award-winning children's story that teaches paying it forward through baseball.

Please visit the site at www.agloveoftheirown.com and purchase the book under today's donor code CVH113 Covenant House Foundation or RWF626 The Roy White Foundation, as $3.00 from each book sold will be donated to these wonderful charities, while an additional 30 cents will be used to purchase sporting equipment for underprivileged children.

THREE NJ MOMS UNLEASH THEIR "MIRACLE"

WRITE CHILDREN'S BASEBALL BOOK AND INSPIRE GIVING

Original Location: www.BaseBall Digest.com

‘A Glove of Their Own’ Hits A Homer With MLB Players

The sport of baseball brings joy and nostalgia to millions upon millions of people across the globe, and the phrase “America’s pastime” doesn’t do this international sport justice. Baseball is played all over the world and brings extremely talented athletes to the Major Leagues. The business of baseball consists of billion dollar corporations,  high paid salaries, and sadly, performance enhancing products.  But when I’m watching Mariano Rivera take the mound at Yankee Stadium in his matter-of -fact way that makes the heart of a team’s lineup look foolish, all the business of baseball leaves and the pureness of baseball remains.

  The pureness of baseball has never been more alive than in the nationally awarded children’s book A Glove of Their Own – www.agloveoftheirown.com ,by authors Lisa Funari-Willever , Debbie Moldovan and Keri Conkling. Through rhyme and beautifully illustrated art, the book’s message is loud and clear – pay it forward.  This heartfelt children’s masterpiece will be on bookshelves across the world for generations to come. This past October ( yes, during the ALCS/NLCS) I married my wonderful wife Lisa and, following  my first read through of A Glove of Their Own, I imagined reading this story to my son or daughter one day. The lessons passed on in this book are ones that all children, from every walk of life, need instilled in them at a young age.

   Critics have spoken as well; A Glove of Their Own is the Winner of the Benjamin Franklin Children’s Book Award and finalist for Eric Hoffer Book Award,and Forword Magazine Book of the Year.  As well as praises from over twenty-five major leaguers and legends including: Jason Grilli, Joe Torre, Tommy John,Bernie Williams, Dick Drago, Craig Biggio, Roy White, Sean Casey, Phil Niekro, Ken Griffey, Jack Cust,  Mud Cat Grant, Bud Harrelson and many more.

         “A Glove Of Their Own is a great story about baseball and life and how many gifts can come as surprises. People are kind and love our #1 pastime, baseball. Enjoy!” –Craig Biggio , former Houston Astros legend and member of the exclusive 3,000 hit club.

  Just like every baseball team, this book has its manager -Coach Bob Salomon. He is the co-creator and driving force behind the books movement of giving. This New Jersey father and coach has been promoting and spreading the message of this book throughout America. He’d be the first to tell you that he has loved every single minute of it! “Paying It forward and teaching young children values that will stay with them for the rest of their lives is the reason I’m devoted to this book”, says Salomon.  Bob’s work has paid off, landing supporters such as Louisville Slugger, Rawlings, iFungo, Modell’s ,Upper Deck and Diamond Nation(Flemington, New Jersey) . In addition, the book has found support in many non-profit organizations including, Covenant House, World Baseball Outreach, Joe Torre Foundation, USA Cares,  Make-A-Wish Foundation of New Jersey, K.I.D.S, Boomer Esiason Foundation, Global Village Market and The Roy White Foundation.  The A Glove of Their Own team and Coach Salomon will also be at the Little League World Series this year. They will be signing copies of the book and fundraising at the Peter J. McGovern Little League Museum. 

  In all of my years in baseball, I have never read a book that delves deeper into the pureness of baseball than A Glove of Their Own. It’s message was recently used to by Dr. Harvey Schiller to persuade the Olympic Committee to bring back baseball as an event in 2016.  Amazingly enough, with all the positive support Bob Salomon stays humble, “ I’m just a little league dad and it’s a dream come true”,  he says.   This book is a children’s classic in the making and I hope you share it with your family, like I have done with mine.  

For each sale of the book, $3.00 is donated to any of the 100 affiliated non-profit organizations listed on a drop down menu on the book’s popular website.

If interested in fundraising please contact Bob Salomon at www.agloveoftheirown.com or call (732) 604-0468

Original Location: www.northjersey.com

Mothers and friends Keri Conkling of Pequannock and Debbie Moldovan of Basking Ridge started their literary ball rolling a year ago in a Moldovan kitchen, and backers have been pegging and line-driving the result forward since.

"Debbie started with a story inspired by a [ninth birthday] baseball party for her son, Tyler, and by his friend, Danny [Giberna], and their ability to share," Conkling says. "She and I were sharing things we had written over the years, and that story just hit me."

From there, a children's book, "A Glove of Their Own," took shape.

Little League coach and father Bob Salomon of Howell, the book's biggest backer, knew the women through his wife, Martha. He read their draft of "A Glove of Their Own" and told them, "I'm gonna get this out there, and you guys are going to become very famous."

The children's book and its colorful illustrations by Lauren Lambiase are out there now, and fame, to some degree, is following. Book-signings. School assemblies. Stories in New Jersey and New York papers. A spot on Dennis Miller's national radio show.

The authors and Salomon say they are more interested, though, in the message, not whatever profit accrues from the $15.95 retail price. Thirty cents per book are earmarked for three charitable organizations (Good Sports, Pitch in for Baseball and Sports Gift) that bring children together with the game and the equipment they need to play it.

The book opens with a sandlot encounter in a neighborhood park, kids sharing gloves and skills and longings for glory. It summons bygone childhood ball games in rhyme, with stanzas such as:

"With no bleachers, no benches, no scoreboard to use, rocks kept the score and we played in old shoes. But for us, it was more than just innings and outs. Dreams on a field, that's what this was about."

It's about other things, too — about fair play and mutual respect, about the players' common lament ("The little we had was so worn out and old, that a new bat or new cleats were worth more than gold"). And about a gray-haired man cheering them ("our game's only fan"), who turns out to be a former Little League coach, delivering a heart-warming finish with his surprise gift of baseball equipment.

The story's main point, its authors say, is teaching children to value teamwork and generosity.

Moldovan adds that the spark came with the birthday party, three years ago, when Tyler and Danny were asked what they wanted and both said they didn't need anything.

"It was one of those 'Ahha!' moments," Moldovan says, "when your kids realize they have what they need.

"My husband and Dan's mom, also named Debbie, thought, 'Well, the kids [at the party] are going to be bringing gifts. Why don't we do some kind of charity?' The boys both play on summer teams. Let's collect new and used baseball equipment and donate it to children in need."

Spreading the word

Getting the equipment placed, and the lessons across, in hardback and on the Web and in local and national media, has taken some very adult effort.

Some of it came from their husbands, Rob Moldovan and Bill Conkling, who both grew up playing baseball and shared their enthusiasm for the game. (Conkling pitched for Fordham University and played a year in the Chicago Cubs farm system.)

Moldovan established a key connection when he took some 100 pieces of equipment collected at the party to David Rhode and his Pitch in for Baseball charity in Pennsylvania, to join a flow of equipment and uniforms to needy children worldwide. Contacts with Good Sports and Sports Gift followed.

The biggest boost has come from Salomon, who works as a state employee in Middlesex County. He speaks in an energetic Jersey-ese. "My kids are sick, and now I'm gettin' so freakin' sick!" he said over the phone one recent day. He isn't a man, though, to wallow.

The book and its message, he says, propelled him into an arduous search through literary thickets and into corporate sponsorships. "I wouldn't stop, even through one denial after another," he says.

Debbie Moldovan's central story, and Keri Conkling's key additions, including a greater focus on the generous grandfather, took final shape through publisher and eventual co-author Lisa Funari-Willever, founder and head of Franklin Mason Press in Trenton and author of 16 children's books.

"She really sharpened the focus and had a great way with words," Moldovan says.

The book's final passage is its swing for the fences: "For few things in life are ever as good, as the smell of your own glove, the crack of the wood. Or being with friends, at that one special spot, and sharing what you have… with those who

Original Location: http://www.app.com/

  Howell coach Turns Passion into Children's Books
  By Keith Hagarty  
   
 

--Photo By Kieth Hagarty Combining his love of baseball with his charitable, compassionate spirit, Howell South Little League coach Bob Salomon can't contain his boundless enthusiasm for the launch of his first children's book, "A Glove Of Their Own."

  "In our town there's a park, with an oak tree so tall / We meet there each day, so we can play ball / This spot is home plate for our everyday game / Sticks are the bases; they work just the same."  

 

Those four simple lines begin the heartfelt tale of sportsmanship and compassion found in the new children's book "A Glove of Their Own."

Harnessing a lifelong love and passion for baseball, Howell South Little League coach Bob Salomon, 40, is proud to be one of the driving forces behind the book.

Married with two children, Daniel, 9, and Julia, 5, Salomon received the first galleys of the book two months ago. After being completely immersed in the creation of the project since last October, Salomon said it was a surreal moment for both him and his family.

"When that first came to the door, my wife teared up," he said. "It was amazing when after a year of work; we finally saw that finished product."

In fact, his son, a pitcher in Howell South Little League, gave his own two-cents for what he wanted to see on the cover of the book. A photograph of him even served as the model for one of the players.

"He said you want to see kids (on the cover) pitching, hitting and actually playing ball," Salomon said of his son's input. "It's just great. He loved it, and got so excited seeing the cover, saying, 'that's me pitching!'"

Copies of the book have already received rousing accolades from several major league baseball players, including New York Mets' star Jose Reyes, legendary Houston Astros' second baseman Craig Biggio and current players Sean Casey of the Boston Red Sox, and Robb Quinlan of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

"'A Glove of their Own' is a great story about baseball and life, and how many gifts can come as surprises," said Biggio. "People are kind, and love our number one pastime—baseball."

Receiving such praise for the book has been overwhelming for Salomon, who said the character of the professional players involved has been even more impressive, embodying what good role models should be for the kids.

"They're all good guys," he said. "They're all clean-cut, do-the-right-thing kind of guys."

Like the producer of a movie, Salomon developed and collaborated on the book with newcomer children's authors Debbie Moldovan, Keri Conkling and Lisa Funari-Willever, a publisher at Franklin Mason Press. Lauren Lambiase provided the illustrations.

"It's driven by faith, and the most important part is to line yourself up with aces," Salomon said of his partnership. "There's no greed involved, and they're in there for the right reasons. That's my team—my publisher, my two authors, my Web designer— my whole team is aces."

Working as a state employee, Salomon said he had never even conceived of the possibility that he someday would be contributing to children's literature, let alone helping to organize and launch such an undertaking.

"When I read the (first draft) of the book, I said what it's missing is Keri's heartfelt way she writes," he said. "I thought if (the authors) could combine and listen to what I orchestrate, then I thought we could have a winner."

Being a novice to the book publishing industry, Salomon said he never knew getting his story into print would prove to be such a daunting task.

"It's a million-in-one shot to get a book published, and I didn't know that," he said.

Getting in contact with Funari-Willever, the publisher of the book, proved to be a turning point for the project, according to Salomon.

"She gave me a little insight into book publishing, and was very kind," he said. "I told her no matter what I need to do, I need her involved, and I guess she liked my hype and excitement and got involved. She revamped the story, and got me the three authors. So now I have a professional, two newcomers, and there's the book."

Ten cents from the sale of each book will automatically be donated to three partner charities for the book—Good Sports, Pitch In For Baseball and Sports Gift—in an effort to make sure children across the nation have a glove of their own.

Other charities benefiting from book sales include: Kids In Distressed Situations, the Make-A-Wish Foundation of New Jersey, the Sunshine Foundation, Cheerful Givers, Pitch In For Baseball, the Lakewood BlueClaws and USA Cares.

Those purchasing the book via the official Web site, www.agolveoftheirown.com, can designate the remaining $3 of their donation by using codes available on the site.

"At check out, the buyer has an option in a drop down menu to enter their favorite charity, and $3 will go to that charity from the sale," said Salomon.

In addition, when any of the network of groups sell a book through their own fundraising efforts, an additional $3 per book sold will be given back to any school or non-profit organization that joins up, including the Howell South Little League, who also has a code on the Web site.

The Little League and their president, Bill O'Toole, were big supporters of the book from day one, said Salomon.

"He's a really good guy and gets what it's all about," Salomon said of O'Toole. "He was the first one to see the vision."

Salomon is eager to teach the next generation the importance of giving back by becoming aware of those around us who would otherwise go without.

"This book is the vehicle that will drive us to deliver new and used sporting goods equipment or funds to children in need," he said.

Once the book is up and running, Salomon also plans on traveling to the Dominican Republic to hand out free gloves and baseball equipment to children in the impoverished nation.

"A lot of the current (major league) players are from down there, and we want to help get those kids equipment where they might not ever have any," he said. "I can't wait to expose my family to that. I think that life lesson alone is going to be amazing."

Some of the notable sporting goods companies who have already joined the book's charitable cause include Rawlings, Louisville Slugger and Modell's, and even more in the works.

In addition, the book has already been accepted into the Louisville Slugger Hall of Fame, with Salomon and the authors scheduled to do a signing at the ceremonial event.

With over 500 phone calls to companies each week, looking to further bolster the growing support network for the book's cause, Salomon said after countless rejections, his persistence and positive attitude is finally paying off.

"If it's about the children and helping them out, then I'm not stopping," he said, never daunted by the overwhelming task. "I knew that the more I got denied, the more I said to myself, 'oh man, I've got to get this.'"

With everyone close to him accustomed to now seeing a telephone all but glued to his ear 24-7, Salomon said he never had any doubts about the eventual success of the entire project.

"I'm putting all these companies together, and it just keeps on going and going and going," he said. "That's what the whole book is all about: helping one another … I think we're going to have a grand slam here."

Taken from This Week Live's web site: (click below to see original)
www.thisweeklive.com/

Original Location:
http://www.looktothestars.org/news/1094-baseball-stars-offer-a-glove-of-their-own

Baseball Stars Offer A Glove Of Their Own

August 7, 2008 by Myrlia Purcell

Baseball stars across the country are stepping up to support a new children’s book, A Glove of Their Own. The book aims to teach children the value of sharing what you have with those in need.

Craig Biggio, Sean Casey, Jack Hannahan and Robb Quinlan are some of the Major League Players to give the book their approval, and charity partners include Good Sports, Sports Gift, Pitch In For Baseball, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Cheerful Givers, and the Sunshine Kids Foundation.

From the back cover: “Few things in life are ever as good as the smell of your own glove, the crack of the wood. Or being friends at that one special spot and sharing what you have… with those who have not.”

Bob Salomon, the head of the grass-roots movement promoting this book, told us, “As a little league coach and proud father of two, I am fortunate enough to be passionate about the “pay it forward” or “give it back” mindset that has slowly been catching on throughout corporate America. Moreover, A Glove of Their Own is a children’s picture book that personifies this “paying it forward” mentality. It utilizes baseball, and an underprivileged group of boys’ childhood experience. Their love of the game is not defined by the equipment they don’t have but rather the passion and dreams that they do have.”

The writers themselves, Debbie Moldovan, Keri Conkling and Lisa Funari-Willever are no strangers to the giving back mentality, and have a track record of volunteerism which they have shared with their own children. The book was inspired by a birthday party held for one of Moldovan’s children. In place of gifts, guests were asked to donate baseball equipment for children who normally do without.

Naturally, A Glove of Their Own caught the attention of big-hearted baseball players. Robb Quinlan is a supporter of the Angels Baseball Foundation, Jack Hannahan has played in the A’s annual Community Fund Golf Classic, Sean Casey helps fight hunger with the charity Labels Are For Jars, and Craig Biggio has been the lead spokesperson for the Sunshine Kids Foundation for more than 10 years.

A Glove of Their Own comes out in October, and those wishing to get their hands on a copy need to reserve now! Go to the Franklin Mason Press website to reserve your copy. Enter the code LTS 127, and we will donate a portion of the sales to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.