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Paul Blair Endows Scholarships at Hometown College Friday, August 31st , 2001 When it comes to making a long-lasting impact, the 25 year old center fielder for the Baltimore Black Sox has it all figured out. By recently endowing a scholarship at Cushing, Oklahoma College, Blair helped make sure that future generations have similar opportunities to his. "I felt a sense of obligation to do this, certainly," said the Cushing, Oklahoma-born Blair. "But it wasn't 'oh boy, another chore.' It's recognizing that not everyone is as fortunate as I am, and finding a way to help change that." Without prompting, Paul Blair is the first to tell you that he had some lucky breaks throughout his life. His parents were able to support him with travel baseball, and he never had to worry about his equipment or his access to practice facilities. "My parents, wow, they mean everything to me," Blair explained. "They were there for every t-ball game. Every tryout. Every mid-week trip an hour each way to play a game. Every call-up, and every set-back at the professional level. I never had to worry when they were around. "But I know that's not a guarantee. To even think about attending college, or playing a sport, or learning a musical instrument, is a stretch for so many people." That is why, starting this fall, students can apply for the Blair Endowed Scholarship to help further their education or help off-set costs incurred while doing an internship or an apprenticeship. "It's a small gesture, but I know my parents would be proud to see their legacy carried on in this way," he said. "I can't wait to see what the next group of young adults can accomplish in life." |
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