By By Lisa Tindell
news editor
The Pittsburgh Steelers have become a part of the Escambia County Habitat for Humanity efforts thanks to a little help from Habitat board member Felton Hardy.
Hardy was instrumental in securing an autographed commemorative football signed by team members and coaches of the 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers who just happen to be the 2008 Superbowl champions.
Hardy’s call was made to Mitchell following a visit to Martha’s Vineyard last year.
Alecia Glaize, executive director of ECHFH said the acquisition of the football is a wonderful way to help raise funds for the organization.
The ball will be raffled off through the sale of the tickets at $5 each, Glaize said.
The site of house 16 will be at the corner of Hollinger and Brannon streets; however, being present for the drawing is not necessary to win, Glaize said.
Hardy said his association with other coaches of the championship team was made possible during a visit with Mitchell in September.
During the September visit, Hardy donned his cook’s apron and cooked up some ribs for the coaching staff of the team.
After that dining event, Coach Mitchell offered his assistance to Hardy.
Glaize said the ball has been displayed in a custom case and is now on display at the group’s retail outlet.
The store is located at 1658 Douglas Ave., and raffle tickets will be available there throughout the raffle period.
Tickets are also available for purchase at the Habitat office located on the second floor of Jim Hart’s law office at 212 Belleville Ave. Tickets will be available at the Habitat build site for Oct. 16-18, Oct. 24-25 and Oct. 31, as well as outside the gates at T.R. Miller football stadium on homecoming night, Oct. 23.
For additional information about Escambia County Habitat for Humanity contact their office at 867-0095.