Ruppersberger Honors Cal Ripken on Election to the Hall of Fame

(Washington, D.C.)- Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) honored Oriole great Cal Ripken on his election to the Hall of Fame at special gala at the Baltimore Convention Center on January 27, 2007.  Cal Ripken received 98.53% of the votes – the third highest in Major League Baseball history.  The Congressman submitted a statement into the Congressional Record honoring the “Iron Man” and presented it to him at the function. 

“Cal Ripken is a man who leads by example on and off the baseball diamond.  The ‘Iron Man’ has some impressive stats – from his Rookie of the Year Award in 1982 to his Most Valuable Player Awards in 1983 and 1991 to his record breaking streak of playing in 2,632 consecutive games, but that’s not where his career ended.  Cal continues to give back to the community by helping underprivileged children develop leadership skills and a healthy lifestyle through baseball themed camps and after school activities,” said Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD).   

The Ripken family created the Cal Ripken, Senior, Foundation in 2001 in honor of their late father, Cal Ripken, Sr. who worked for 37 years as a player, coach, and manager with the Baltimore Orioles’ organization.  His teachings and the “Ripken Way” influenced thousands of young ballplayers including his sons, Cal, Jr. and Bill Ripken.

“The Ripkens exemplify hard work, dedication, and strong leadership that has led them to phenomenal success.  It is wonderful that they want to share their talents and experiences with at risk kids.  These programs improve the lives of these children and make our entire community stronger.  It is an honor to call Cal Ripken one of Maryland’s favorite sons,” said Congressman Ruppersberger (D-MD).

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