I am writing as a member of the 11-year-olds Auburn All-Star Team that went to the state championship tournament in the Bronx. When we won the district title in Elmira, our team learned we would be going on to states. We were all really excited, and our parents began to make plans.

If we were to win the state title then we would be in the Bronx for a minimum of six days (we were there for five and came home second in the state). In today's economy an unplanned event isn't easy, but all of our families made it. I would like to publicly thank the Auburn Professional Firefighters Union Local No. 1446, the Auburn Permanent Professional Firefighters and the Little League board members for their generous donation of money to each member of our team. It really helped.

Firefighters risk their lives for our protection every day and yet they continue to give back to their community. I know they donate to many local charities and events along with raising a lot of money for MDA. They truly are Auburn's Finest.

Thanks again.

Matthew Netti

Auburn

Netti writes on behalf of

the 11-year-olds All-Star team