Fundraising to keep the Edenton Steamers (summer collegiate; Coastal Plain League) alive has come up short of the goals set by organizers, but enough money has come in to keep the efforts alive — for now.
The goal from the nonprofit running the Steamers, the Edenton Chowen Community Foundation: raising $50,000 by Labor Day. That effort has come up short, but not by that much: around $30,000 has been raised, with contributions still coming in daily. Much of the money is in response to a direct-mail piece sent out to 500 supports and former players and coaches.
Besides, it’s not as though the Labor Day deadline is hard and fast. The team doesn’t need to post its line of credit to the league until May 11, 2011; the more looming deadline is to raise enough money to hire a general manager by Nov. 1. The Steamers are the only team in the circuit lacking a year-round general manager; the feeling is that by bringing in the right person revenues would increase. We saw that happens with the Martinsville Mustangs this last season — a hiring that probably saved the franchise.
RELATED STORIES: Edenton Steamers may fold if community support doesn’t arrive; Martinsville Mustangs approach break-even point, ensuring survival for 2011
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