July 1, 2009

Fullerton, Calif. - The Orange County Flyers of the Golden Baseball League are hosting a night for former Cal State Fullerton catcher Jon Wilhite on Monday, July 6, when they play the Calgary Vipers at 7:05 p.m. at Goodwin Field.

There will be no admission charge for fans but there will be silent auctions of sports and Hollywood memorabilia and opportunity drawings between innings for numerous donated prizes with proceeds going toward Wilhite's extensive medical bills. He is the lone survivor of the Apr. 9 auto crash that killed Cal State Fullerton cheerleader Courtney Stewart, former high school teammate Henry Pearson and Angels' pitcher Nick Adenhart.

Phil Nevin, manager of the Flyers and a former All-American infielder for the Titans, is supporting the effort along with the Flyers' front office.

"It's about the Titan family, plain and simple," said Nevin, a veteran of 12 major league seasons. "These tragic things happen every day, but when they happen in your family you stop, take a look and do everything you can to help family."

Wilhite and his family will be present along with some of the first responders from the Fullerton Fire Department who have received much of the credit for Wilhite's miraculous survival of an internal decapitation. A moment of silence will be observed for Jon's late friends.

The Northern Division-leading Vipers are making their first visit to Goodwin Field since losing to the Flyers, 10-9, last September in the Golden League championship game.

Donations will be accepted at the stadium or can be made at any Wells Fargo Bank to account No. 3980643658.

For further information, contact Bob Elder, vice president of communications for the Flyers, at 714-526-8326.