12th annual Danny B held this weekend

By CHARITY SMITH

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GILE, Wis. — Thirteen years after Danny Baross, of Erwin Township, died by suicide, his family and friends continue to keep his name alive, by holding the annual Danny B. Jack and Jill softball tournament at Gile Field.

The event, which benefits the Range Suicide Prevention Council, will take place this weekend starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday and continuing through the late afternoon. Eight teams of men and women are registered to compete in the tournament this year. Six teams will advance to Sunday’s action.

The two teams eliminated on Saturday afternoon will compete in a kickball game at 6 p.m. Saturday.

On Sunday, play will resume at 9 a.m., with the final scheduled for 4 p.m. The top three teams will win a cash prize.

There will be concessions and various raffles available during the tournament for fans to take part in.

“Danny loved Jack and Jill tournaments,” said his sister, Lori Vernetti. “When they played the mens tournaments they were a little too serious, but when him and his wife used to play Jack and Jill tournaments it was fun. That’s what sports should be about, is the fun.”

She said that is why 12 years ago a group of his family and friends started the annual event as a memorial to Danny and to help bring awareness to the issue of suicide. She said all the efforts for the event are worth it if they can save one life.

“I’m so grateful for this tournament, because if we can save one person then it was worth it in the end,” said Vernetti. “And it is just to keep his name alive. It is one weekend that I think everybody remembers my brother.”

She said many companies have donated to the event, but 60% of their fundraising is brought in through the concessions and raffles during the event. This year, Vernetti said they have several nice prizes including: tickets to the Green Bay Packers vs. the Minnesota Vikings game on Sept. 21, a big screen TV, and several gift baskets.

Along with helping the RSPC, the event also helps to maintain and improve Gile Field. Over the years there has been improvements to the concession stand, bleachers, bathrooms and utilities. The tournament also provides two $500 scholarships for graduating seniors each year.

Since the first tournament in 2010, the event has raised more than $58,000, with $38,000 going directly to RSPC, Vernetti said.

She said she attributes the success of the event to the community. She said volunteers have already started to grade the field in preparation for the event.

“This community is just unbelievable,” said Vernetti. “It takes a village and we have an amazing village.”