"We are very excited about the Brighton Community Rally set for Thursday, Jan. 22," said Ron Colangelo, vice president of communications for the Detroit Tigers organization. "We heard about the flooding of the American Red Cross building and wanted to help."

The rally, which will feature talks by Tigers' manager Jim Leyland and outfielder Curtis Granderson about teamwork, dedication and the importance of community involvement, will begin at 5:45 p.m at the Brighton Center for the Performing Arts.

Admission is free, but attendees are asked to bring new blankets, water, Gatorade or hand warmers to help resupply the Livingston County Chapter of the American Red Cross. Non-perishable food items will also be accepted for Gleaners Community Food Bank of Livingston County.

Items will be combined with goods donated by Pepsi Bottling Group and brought by the Tigers Organization.

Awards also will be given to leaders of the local Red Cross chapter and Gleaners by members of Cub Scout Pack No. 342 from Hilton Elementary School in Brighton.

The 90-minute event will be the group's first stop in Livingston County.

Mike McDonald, director of operations for Gleaners Community Food Bank of Metro Detroit, is grateful to be included. "Part of what makes that pantry so successful is that the area rallies around it 365 days a year. It's nice to be top of mind."

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Howell, and Livingston County Sheriff Bob Bezotte also will speak.