In late 2024 Meg McCormick Hoerner interviewed the recipients of the BACC Hometown Hero awards so we could produce a short compilation of the winners. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPZF7JQbakY)

This is the first of the series to be released in it's full form, with local Beacon, Gary Fischer.

In this conversation, Gary Fischer, the recipient of the 2024 Community Hero Award, shares his journey from a player to the director of the Bridgeton Invitational Tournament. He reflects on his extensive baseball career, the significance of the tournament in the community, and the challenges faced in revitalizing the event. Fischer discusses unique tournament rules that enhance the experience and highlights the strong competition in recent years, emphasizing the importance of community support in keeping the tournament alive. takeaways Gary Fischer has played in the Bridgeton Invitational Tournament for five decades. The tournament has a rich history dating back to 1962. Community support is crucial for the success of local events. Fischer took over as director to ensure the tournament's future. The tournament was moved from August to May to increase participation. Unique rules like the speed clock enhance the tournament experience. The competition level has increased in recent years with new teams. Fischer's son played professional baseball, showcasing the tournament's impact. The event fosters a strong sense of community and family atmosphere. Volunteers are essential for the tournament's operations. Chapters 00:00 Celebrating Community Heroes 01:52 A Legacy of Baseball: Gary Fisher's Journey 08:00 Reviving the Bridgeton Invitational Tournament 12:12 Innovations in Tournament Rules 18:03 The Future of the Bridgestone Invitational