R-Braves auction helps Hokies fund

Richmond, Va. -- The Richmond Braves benefit auction of the autographed Virginia Tech hats worn by the Braves for two games has generated more than $3,000 in bids in less than a week. The online auction at www.rbraves.com started following last Thursday's 11-inning win over Louisville and runs through Sunday, May 3.

Over 160 bids have already been received. The top bid for a player hat is currently $250 for Yunel Escobar. In addition to the hats, a Virginia Tech game-worn batting practice top autographed by the entire 2007 R-Braves club has been added to the auction. 100% of the proceeds of the auction will be donated to the Hokie Spirit Memorial Fund to honor the victims of the April 16 shootings at Virginia Tech. Checks will be required for payment. Please make the checks out directly to the Virginia Tech Foundation Inc. and add Hokie Spirit Memorial Fund on the memo line. The link for the auction is http://www.rbraves.com/auction/.

Virginia Tech has established the Hokie Spirit Memorial Fund to aid in the healing process and generate financial support. The fund will be used to cover expenses including but not limited to: grief counseling, memorials, communication expenses, comfort expenses, and incidental needs. For more information on the Hokie Spirit Memorial Fund please visit http://www.vt.edu/tragedy/memorial_fund.php.