Events on tap to raise funds for liver transplant

Sept. 16 is the date for a fundraising event to benefit Lampasan Manuel Torrez Jr., a 49-year-old Lampasas High School graduate who was diagnosed this year with non-alcoholic end-stage liver disease.

Torrez, who was born and reared in Lampasas, participated in football, basketball, track and baseball while in high school and was a member of the band, Spanish Club and Thespian Club.

He worked at the former Bowden's Restaurant, Crocker's Food Mart, H-E-B and the former TG&Y store that preceded Wal- Mart.

Torrez also coached boys' and girls' Little Dribblers and Little League baseball and served as an umpire. He played softball for the Aces, Hijackers and Chaparrals.

He held a variety of jobs until his diagnosis earlier this year.

Torrez was told he needs a liver transplant, and to be placed on the list, a $250,000 deposit must be made.

Funds are being raised through the Manuel Torrez Jr. Liver Transplant Fund-raising Committee. Organizers are planning a Sept. 16 event to be held at AMVETS Post 80 in Lampasas. Plans call for an auction, a cake walk, raffles and queens' contests.

A Queen of the Day Contest will be held, and the winner will be chosen based upon the amount of money each is able to raise through donations. Candidates are those ages 7 to 12; 17 to 21; and golden girls, ages 65 and older.

Potential candidates may register at AMVETS on the day of the contest beginning at noon. Crowning will be at 5 p.m. Information on this event is available from Dolores at (520) 298-4242.

A dance will close out the day's events from 6-10 p.m.

A three-day softball tournament is set for Oct. 19-21 at Turner Field in Lampasas. The Chaparrals, a semi-pro ball team on which Torrez played, will participate. There will be concessions offered. For information on the tourney, contact Lori at (512) 459-0901.

Organizers note they plan to hold monthly events until the funds are raised. Money collected is being placed into an account through the American Liver Foundation, a non-profit organization.

To make a donation in Torrez's name, send funds to The American Liver Foundation, Manuel Torrez Jr., recipient, 1425 Pompton Ave. Suite 2, Cedar Grove, NY 07009.

For more information on upcoming events, phone Mary Sue Ramirez at 556-9622; Tim Felan at (512) 773-7276; or Carlos Jasso at 556-5544.