We celebrated Rotary Family Day at the Ball Park on July 13. Thanks to all who bought and sold tickets. Springfield and District leadership were well represented by the founder of the this event and Past District Governor Rod Buffington (Rotary Club of Springfield), Past District Governor Brian Barstead (Springfield Sunrise), District Governor Dan O'Brien (Rotary Club of Carlinville), and past District Governor Tony Williams (Springfield Sunrise) and his granddaughter (image above, listed from left to right). Dan O/Brien and Tony Williams both threw out first pitches. Following Rod's sage advice, Tony intentionally let his pitch bounce so the souvenir ball would have dirt on it, thus increasing its value.
Springfield ticket sales were strong, and the passenger bus arranged by Rod Buffington was nearly full, and many participants drove on their own. The first inning held our attention, with the Cards scoring 9 of their 11 points, essentially winning the game. They ultimately smeared the cubs 11-3. It was a hot afternoon and by the fourth inning, even the diehards (images to left and below) decided to retreat to shaded seats.
Numerous club members participated and continued to enjoy the game from the stands (image on right and images below). Special thanks are due to Bill Sturm (image on right) who purchased baseball tickets for youth from The Outlet. One of the supervisors from The Outlet told us that their group came early and gave participants a chance to see the St. Louis Arch and some of the architecture of the city. They wisely sat in shaded seats and enjoyed the trip to St. Louis and the game.
