7/19/2018
ITD and Boise Hawks team up for "Saved by the Belt" night at Memorial Stadium July 21
BOISE—Baseball and seatbelts may not seem to have a lot in common on the surface, but if you really think about it, the goal is the same for both — to make it home safe. That’s why the Idaho Transportation Department’s Office of Highway Safety and the Boise Hawks are partnering for “Saved by the Belt Night.”
On Saturday, July 21, the Hawks will promote traffic safety by playing in jerseys that feature seatbelts. The pregame festivities will also include a visit from television star Dennis Haskins, better known as Mr. Belding from the popular '90s series “Saved by the Bell.”
“We’re really excited for this event,” said Highway Safety Manager John Tomlinson. “It couldn’t come at a better time; not only are we well into the baseball season, but we’re also in the middle of the most dangerous time on Idaho roads.”
The period of time between Memorial Day and Labor Day is referred to as the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer. Since the Memorial Day weekend, there have been at least 55 people killed in traffic crashes in Idaho.
“We don’t know what caused all of those crashes, but we do know that buckling up is a good way to improve your chances of surviving a crash.” Tomlinson said.
After Saturday’s game, the jerseys will be auctioned off, with proceeds going to Saint Alphonsus to provide car seats to underserved members of the community.
“Saint Alphonsus is deeply grateful for the generosity of the Boise Hawks and the Idaho Transportation Department,” said Practice Manager Ryan Lipscomb. “Donated funds from this event will help us provide car seats for a significant number of families who have come through refugee resettlement.”