| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Jessica Abel BVL Executive Director (703) 934-6039 jessica@bvl.org The Bowlers to Veterans Link (BVL) has created a special recognition category for individuals who have made significant and meaningful contributions to BVL over a period of at least 10 years. The new category is named BVL Legends. Since forming in 1942, the BVL has funded a variety of programs, particularly in recreation therapy, that benefit veterans and those in active duty. “The members of the inaugural class of BVL Legends are being recognized for their exceptional dedication to the organization’s mission, ‘Brightening Veteran’s Lives,’” said Nancy Schenk, BVL Chairperson. “These honorees have demonstrated significant devotion to BVL in terms of time, passion and financial support.”Walter Hall, Annapolis Bowl, has provided guidance and leadership to BVL by serving as a board member for more than two decades.John LaSpina, LaSpina is the immediate past chairman of the Bowlers to Veterans Link and his Maple Family Centers continue to be the industry’s leading fundraiser, contributing over $750,000 to date and counting.Johnny Petraglia, Vietnam Veteran and a member of multiple Halls of Fame. For decades Petraglia has been a spokesman for The Bowlers to Veterans Link. Petraglia is BVL’s hero as he quietly visits hospitalized veterans, makes appearances for BVL and raises significant funds along the way.And a pair of posthumous honorees, Helen Duval, who traveled the country on behalf of BVL teaching bowling to hospitalized veterans for 25 years, and Elaine Hagin, who served as the chairperson of BVL for nearly two decades.Individuals with BVL Legends status are invited to attend BVL events, such as the Veterans Day celebration at Arlington National Cemetery. Recipients will receive a plaque, recognition during the high-profile presentations and receive permanent placement on the BVL website. The initial rollout will be announced during the 2025 International Bowl Expo in Washington D.C. About BVLSince 1942, the BVL has remained bowling’s longest-running charity, providing funding to veterans and active-duty military for recreation therapy programs that address the emotional and physical needs of those in need. The BVL is a national nonprofit 501 (c) (3) charity that is consistently acknowledged for providing effective programming — efficiently. For more information on BVL, visit www.bvl.org. # # # |
Striking Spotlight 