Seat Winners
Buck O'Neil had an enormous impact on the world of baseball and the lives of the everyday people he touched. Buck spent many days and nights supporting the Royals from the same seat behind home plate at Kauffman Stadium, both as a scout and a fan. To honor Buck, the Buck O'Neil Legacy Seat program fills "Buck's Seat" for every home game with a member of the community who, on a large or small scale, embodies an aspect of Buck's spirit.
To nominate someone for the 2011 program, please click here.
March 31
Thursday, March 31 – Doddie DiPardo
During the off-season, the sports community lost two Kansas City icons – longtime announcer Bill Grigsby and "Mr. Music," Tony DiPardo. Bill Grigsby served as a play-by-play announcer and commentator for the Kansas City Athletics and the Kansas City Chiefs. He loved the Royals, the Chiefs, his family and so many friends and reminded all of us that every day can be "bee-u-ti-ful." Bill championed Kansas City and – with a twinkle in his eye – encouraged all of us to serve with a smile.
Tony DiPardo delighted Kansas Citians for decades with his music in various venues around the city and became best known as the leader of the TD Pack Band at Arrowhead Stadium. In recent years, he played the National Anthem at Kauffman Stadium and sat in the Buck O'Neal Legacy Seat.
In honor of her late husband Tony and their friend Bill, Doddie (pronounced Doe-dee) DiPardo is today's Buck Seat honoree. She is joined by her daughter and Tony's longtime musical partner, Patti DiPardo-Livergood and the DiPardo family.
April 1
Friday, April 1 – Brandon Richardson
Barton Richardson of Kansas City, Kansas. Here on this April Fool's Day, "B Rich" is a nationally-recognized comedian, who has performed for U.S. Troops overseas. He personally knew Buck and has served the last seven years as KCK firefighter.
B Rich wrote the original grant for the youth-based Weed and Seed program through the U.S. Department of Justice and continues to be active in youth organizations. He loves to "make 'em laugh" and serve the community.
April 2
Saturday, April 2 – Justin Brandon
Justin Brandon of Topeka, Kansas, is a lifelong Royals fan and computer whiz. He's joined today by his family, who says he has faced major health challenges with bravery and a great spirit.
Justin has completed rounds of chemotherapy for a rare cancer and endured open heart surgery. He returns for another surgery in just a few days and says he will follow the Royals throughout his recovery.
April 3
Sunday, April 3 – Cle Ross
Cle Ross started the Kansas City, Kansas chapter of the Reviving Baseball in the Inner Cities program in 2010 after seeing a declining number of local kids playing baseball, a sport he played in both college and at the professional level.
In its first year of the program, Cle provided the opportunity for more than 380 boys and girls to develop life skills through the game of baseball.
April 5
Tuesday, April 5 – Brian Wilson
Police officer Sgt. Brian "Bighead" Wilson of the Lee's Summit Police Department has volunteered countless hours to visit and encourage the Athletes of the Special Olympics of Missouri.
Each February, Sgt. Wilson participates in the Polar Bear Super Plunge, dipping into the frozen waters of Longview Lake once an hour for 24 hours to raise awareness and money for the Special Olympics programs.
April 6
Wednesday, April 6 – Anna Noonoo
After discovering triathalon training as a means of her own self-improvement, Ana helped to create the Grow, Overcome triathlon club or G.O. Tri! to help encourage all women in southeast Kansas who want to improve their physical and mental health.
Earlier this year, Anna was honored by the Women's Intersport Network or WIN for KC for her example and unselfish vision to help numerous women overcome challenges and achieve personal goals.
April 14
Thursday, April 14 – Rhonda McNeese
Rhonda McNeese is recognized by her peers as a volunteer extraordinaire around town. She's active with the Children's Place, Children's TLC, and the Rose Brooks Foundation. But she loves taking the lead on granting dreams for kids through the Kansas City chapter of The Dream Factory.
Rhonda and others are working hard to make the April 29th Dream Factory Gala another success so more kids with life-altering illnesses see their dreams come true.
April 15
Friday, April 15 – Tom McCallan
Tom McCallan has been a single foster parent for the past 13 years, welcoming in 75 children into his home and adopting one son. He's described as the "go-to" foster dad for children who otherwise would have to live in institutions. Instead of "foster family," he calls his a "forever family."
Tom is joined tonight by Juan, Jackson, Jeremiah and Jeffrey. They're wearing blue in honor of child-abuse prevention month.
April 16
Saturday, April 16 – Kelly Lee
Kelly Lee co-founded and serves as the executive director of Camp Encourage, with the goal of encouraging social growth, independence, and self-esteem in youth with autism spectrum disorders through a quality summer camp experience.
Away from the camp, Kelly serves as an Autism Spectrum Disorder Specialist for the Lee's Summit, Mo., School District, helping children with special needs succeed in the classroom.
April 17
Sunday, April 17 – Auggy Barnhorst
16 year-old Auggy Barnhorst is a dedicated volunteer with the YMCA Challenger program, serving as a "Buddy" to his Challenger athlete, Raef, on activities such as baseball, football and soccer. Due to Auggy's continuous involvement in his life, Raef no longer requires physical therapy at school.
Auggy not only volunteers his time, but is also an advocate among his peers, recruiting additional challenger buddies for the YMCA Challenger program.
April 18
Monday, April 18 – Steve Warger
Parkville, Mo., resident Steve Warger has led the Northland Suburban Youth Football League for more than 30 years. Despite the fact that he has never had a son or daughter participate in the league, Steve continues to coach a 5th and 6th grade team, as well as oversee the entire Team Jets program.
Steve's coaching and leadership has positively impacted the lives of thousands of children throughout the years.
April 19
Tuesday, April 19 – John Kelly
After serving in the U.S. Army in Vietnam and as a Peace Corps volunteer in India, John Kelly taught and retired as assistant principal and athletic director at Hickman High School in Columbia, Mo. During his career he developed programs and mentored at-risk youth to continue their high school education.
John continues his interest in Columbia youth by overseeing the Douglass Athletic Association, a youth baseball league in the inner-city.
April 20
Wednesday, April 20 – Jamila St. Ann
As a junior at Liberty High School, Jamila St. Ann dealt with many obstacles including a health condition and her single mother's deployment overseas. However, Jamila found a healthy escape by staying active in sports and extracurricular activities, all while maintaining a 3.9 grade point average.
Earlier this year, Jamila was honored by the Women's Intersport Network or WIN for KC for her ability to rise above adversity and inspire others to overcome their own challenges.
April 21
Thursday, April 21 – Lynn Rolf III
3rd generation military member and veteran of the Iraq war, Lynn Rolf III works to assist others as the 1st District Commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 56, in Leavenworth, Kans. Among other acts of service, the chapter adopted a local military unit by supporting deployed families during their time of separation.
Lynn's service to his chapter and the military families has helped to turn the chapter into a model for the entire VFW system.
April 29
Friday, April 29 – Rob Smith
Rob Smith is being named this spring as a "Rising Star of Philanthropy" for his vast array of work with the homeless and mentally ill. Rob says he was brought into this work because a family member suffered a mental disability but quickly learned that mental health affects so many more people. He took a five-month leave from his job to serve on the United Way and volunteered at "reStart," a homeless support organization.
He's been a Big Brother and now works to help the homeless or mentally ill find work.
April 30
Saturday, April 30 – Catherine Sarno
Catherine Sarno is an inspiration to the staff and fellow residents of the Little Sisters of the Poor Nursing Home. If there is work to be done, Catherine leads the way. The 86-year-old seldom misses an activity at the center and even volunteers at many of them. She has served as Resident Council President for five years, is a member of the Red Hat Society and attends Mass daily.
One of Catherine's favorite hobbies is watching the Royals, and she cheers them on at Kauffman Stadium whenever possible.
May 1
Sunday, May 1 – Jim Thacker
Jim Thacker, a respiratory therapist and asthma educator from Lexington, Mo., founded the Thacker Rural Asthma Consortium to provide medically underserved asthmatics with free resources needed to control asthma symptoms. His dedication to fighting the disease also includes "Walkin' for Wheezers," an annual 120-mile trek to raise money for asthma awareness and those in need of care.
Jim is also a member of several respiratory care associations and serves on the Leadership Council of the American Lung Association of the Great Plains States.
May 3
Tuesday, May 3 – Sarah Storie
Sarah Storie lives the busy life of many young mothers – working full-time while taking care of her husband and two children. However, Sarah also faces another challenge – battling multiple sclerosis. Diagnosed with the disease when she was just 25 years old, Sarah's high energy and positive outlook are a daily inspiration to others.
In February, Sarah was honored by the Women's Intersport Network – WIN for KC – by receiving The BlueCross BlueShield of Kansas City Courage Award.
May 4
Wednesday, May 4 – Mary Edwards
Mary Edwards has done it all on the Kansas City running circuit. An accomplished runner and triathlete, Mary was one of the pioneers who brought the world of running and road racing to Kansas City thirty years ago and continues to volunteer her time and expertise for almost every race in town. She inspires another generation of Kansas City women to run farther, volunteer more and become stronger athletes and leaders.
Earlier this year, Mary was honored by the Women's Intersport Network – WIN for KC – by receiving the UMB Senior Sportswoman Award.
May 5
Thursday, May 5 – Catherine Atchity
Royals fan Catherine Atchity is celebrating her 94th birthday with us today at the ballpark. Catherine, a former dedicated volunteer for Our Lady of Charity, now lives at the John Knox Village where she plans every social event for her fellow residents.
Catherine loves to watch the Royals, visits Kauffman Stadium each year for her birthday and reads the paper to stay current on the players and team. Happy birthday, Catherine!
May 6
Friday, May 6 – Ed Mendez
Since 1999, Ed Mendez has served in various capacities at Alta Vista Charter High School in Kansas City – the beneficiary of this weekend's Baseball Equipment Drive. After serving as a teacher and at-risk coordinator, Ed has spent the past five years as the educational leader and principal of the school that serves a large number of students of Mexican heritage.
It is at Alta Vista that he realized his true calling – helping the disadvantaged youth of Kansas City achieve personal and academic success.
May 7
Saturday, May 7 – Shirley Hemenway
The news this week brought closure to millions of people on this 10th anniversary year of the 9-11 attacks. Electronic Technician First Class Ronald John Hemenway worked for the Navy at the Pentagon and was killed on September 11th, 2001. Sitting in the Buck O'Neil Legacy Seat tonight is Ronald's mother, Shirley, joined by Ronald's father, Bob, and other family members.
Shirley represents all 9-11 families and the entire nation who have endured a trying decade of patriotism and a sense of closure this week.
May 8
Sunday, May 8 – Stephanie Komen
Stephanie Komen was only six years old when her mother, Susan G. Komen, lost her batting with breast cancer in 1980. Her mother's legacy gave rise to a movement that would inspire a generation to fight and raise awareness of the disease that has taken so many lives. Through public policy and volunteer work, Stephanie has dedicated her life to being a women's health advocate.
The Royals salute Stephanie and all the volunteers with Susan G. Komen for the Cure for their efforts.
May 16
Monday, May 16 – Valerie Rexin
Valerie Rexin is the director of CHD Families. CHD stands for congenital heart defects. Valerie is joined tonight by husband Jonathan. In 2001, their two-year old Noah died from CHD, a disease that affects more children than all pediatric cancers combined. The Rexins started the support group to help families in a similar situation and want to spread the word that research has saved lives.
The Rexins ask anyone who might be affected by CHD to read more on their website – chdfamilies.org.
May 17
Tuesday, May 17 – Arlin Buyert
Arlin Buyert is a tireless and selfless volunteer who repairs the homes of low-income seniors in Kansas City's urban core. He recently helped repair 52 homes – one for each week of the year. Arlin also volunteers twice monthly to distribute food through Metro Lutheran Ministry.
In addition, he volunteers one day a week at MLM's thrift store, "Blessings Abound."
May 18
Wednesday, May 18 – Karli "Ritter" Lockard
Karli Lockard is known to most in Kansas City as Karli Ritter, one of the meteorologists at Fox 4, WDAF-TV. She was given a special award at the WIN for KC "Women's Sports Awards Celebration" this past winter. Karli is a coach for Girls on the Run, a ten-week program that teaches young women about healthy eating, staying active and inner beauty.
"Coach Karli" says she tries to teach girls the most important lesson of all – self-respect.
May 19
Thursday, May 19 – Lawrence Bivins
Lawrence Bivins, a friend of the late Buck O'Neil, serves as a volunteer recruiter at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. He has been active in the Urban League for decades and works to find the young and old decent housing and employment.
Lawrence is also committed to health care and education, serving in the past on the Lee's Summit Hospital Board and the Lee's Summit School District.
May 20
Friday, May 20 – Linda Krehbiel
Linda Krehbiel is retiring from the Blue Springs School District after a quarter of a century of teaching. She was nominated by several of her past students to sit in the Buck Seat. They say she encouraged them to strive for excellence and is the reason for their success today.
Mrs. Krehbiel says she's loved every minute of her teaching career and hopes to continue educating the people she comes in contact with.
May 21
Saturday, May 21 – Jesse Milan
Like Buck, Jesse Milan is a pioneer. He was the first African-American teacher hired in the Lawrence, Kansas, School District in 1954 and the first black professor hired at Baker University years later also, the first African-American to manage a summer recreation program in Lawrence.
Professor Milan was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Education in 2001 at Baker.
May 22
Sunday, May 22 – Ed Kamler
Ed Kamler loves baseball, especially when he can make a difference in the lives of kids and help them to become good citizens. Ed has served as a scheduler and planner for the North Kansas City Area Baseball and Softball League for more than 30 years. He is joined tonight by wife, Donna, and three of their four children. He's attended thousands of games during that time and has ensured a safe environment.
Ed retires this year but says his love for the game of baseball and people will never end.
May 30
Monday, May 30 – Kevin Boldridge
Lexington, Mo., native Kevin Boldridge joined the US Navy in 1972 and has been volunteering at the Kansas City VA Medical Center for more than 22 years accumulating over 12,050 hours of volunteer service. Kevin is a well-loved, dedicated volunteer who continually makes a difference in the lives of his fellow veterans.
Today, the Royals salute Kevin and remember all of those members of the military that have sacrificed for our country.
May 31
Tuesday, May 31 – Patti Phillips
From first-time triathletes to collegiate coaches and young athletes, thousands of women and girls have been inspired, mentored or high-fived by Patti Phillips. Patti served as the Executive Director of the Women's Intersport Network – WIN for KC – for more than 10 years, which recently honored her for her work to empower women through participation in sports.
Patti now leads the National Association of Collegiate Women Athletics Administrators promoting sports all across the county.
June 1
Wednesday, June 1 – David Matson
In 1998, David Matson and his family hosted their first foster child placement and twelve years later, the Maston family has fostered more than thirty children and adopted one. David's commitment to serving children resulted in his decision to leave his legal career to become the executive director of The Children's Place in Kansas City.
Under David's leadership, The Children's Place continues to be a place of refuge and hope for child survivors of abuse, neglect and trauma.
June 2
Thursday, June 2 – Eloise Millis
Kansas City resident Eloise Millis' week is full of time spent volunteering, including tutoring three mornings a week at Maplewood Elementary, leading craft classes at Bethel Neighborhood Center and creating empathy dolls for young patients at Children's Mercy Hospital.
Eloise spends her free-time crocheting sleep caps for cancer victims through Cancer Action. She is known by many as a volunteer extraordinaire.
June 3
Friday, June 3 – Ludwell Gaines
Long-time friend and fan of the Royals, retired stockbroker Ludwell Gaines was instrumental in founding the Kansas City Securities Association Educational Scholarship Fund which provides scholarships for inner city children to attend college.
The fund has provided more than $1.3 million in scholarships for more than 200 Kansas City students.
June 4
Saturday, June 4 – Jeremy Haney
Kansas City, Mo., resident Jeremy Haney motivates his team of friends and family across the city to collect toys for the Salvation Army Forgotten Angels program. Utilizing technology as a tool, last year Jeremy was able to collect more than 300 toys in nine days to make sure every child has a present to open during the holidays.
Jeremy has already set plans in motion for Christmas 2011 by encouraging his team to purchase a toy a month.
June 5
Sunday, June 5 – Beckett McBride
After learning of a friend's diagnosis with cancer, Beckett McBride, who was 8-years old at the time, organized a series of lemonade stands throughout the summer of 2009 to help earn $700 for help with medial bills. In addition, following his father's heart attack, Beckett set school records in fundraising for the Jump Rope for Heart program.
Beckett continues to be an example of compassion and dedication for everyone in his life.
June 6
Monday, June 6 – Pete Muenks
Raymore, Mo., resident Pete Muenks exemplifies volunteerism and giving back to the community by supporting several area organizations including Veronica's Voice, Derrick Thomas Academy and Christmas in October.
Pete has a long history of supporting children and has served as a teacher and administrator for more than 35 years in public and charter schools.
June 7
Tuesday, June 7 – Milo Mitchell
84-year old Milo Mitchell is a compassionate man who served in World War II and spent over five decades volunteering his time assisting youth and adult athletes as a coach and administrator for softball leagues in the Topeka, Kans., area.
Elected to the Kansas Softball Hall of Fame in 1989, Milo is known by many as the "Hank Aaron of Softball."
June 8
Wednesday, June 8 – Ralph Apel
In his free time, local real estate agent Ralph Apel helps to grant dreams as the President of the Dream Factory Kansas City. The all-volunteer organization grants dreams to critically and chronically ill children ages three through 18.
Ralph aims to create smiles for the children when they are often in a lot of suffering and pain, while making sure the Dream Factory raises the funds necessary to provide these dreams whenever the need arises.
June 9
Thursday, June 9 – Peggy Clum
Peggy Clum has been an active part of the Harrisonville, Mo., community for years including being voted the first woman to the city council in 1975 and has volunteered with many civic organizations including the Red Cross, Boys Scouts, Eastern Star and Rainbow Girls.
Despite many accolades for her community service, her proudest accomplishments are her three children, two grand-children and six great-grandchildren, she has raised with her husband Bill.
June 21
Tuesday, June 21 – Mary Lou Jaramillo
Throughout her life, Mary Lou Jaramillo (här (like hard)-a-ME-yo) has been inspired by her grandparents' journey to the U.S. from Mexico as they worked on the railroad in the early 1900s. Today, Mary Lou serves as the CEO of El Centro, Inc., which supports the growing Hispanic population by providing programs and services including education, child care, advocacy and community outreach.
Mary Lou has also served as Executive Director at Mattie Rhodes, a bilingual social services agency, and is involved in a number of other non-profit organizations around the metro. She was recently recognized by the City Union Mission at its annual "Women Who've Changed the Heart of the City" event.
June 22
Wednesday, June 22 – Bob Hentzen
Bob Hentzen from Kansas City, Kan., is co-founder of the Christian Foundation for Children and Aging, a non-profit organization that is currently helping more than 300,000 children and elderly people in 22 developing countries create a path out of poverty.
In December 2009, Bob embarked on an 8,000 mile walk from Guatemala to Chile to bring awareness about those living in poverty. Bob concluded his walk this month at age 75.
June 23
Thursday, June 23 – Philip Wilson
Avid Royals fan Philip Wilson from Kansas City, Mo., is the father of four daughters. For the last six years, Philip has been battling kidney cancer but continues to maintain an upbeat attitude that serves as a daily inspiration for his family and friends.
As a testimony to his positive outlook and fighting spirit, several family friends nominated Phillip for the thrill of getting to watch his favorite team from Buck's seat.
June 24
Friday, June 24 – Mary Meador
In 1991, Mary Meador left her full-time job to become a volunteer coordinator for Meals on Wheels. She also soon began sharing her time and talents at the St. James Community Kitchen every Thursday night, coordinating volunteers from local parishes and organizations. Mary continues to spend her Thursday nights at St. James Place and says her weekly visits to the kitchen give meaning to her life and allow her to share God's blessings with her community.
The Royals thank Mary and all the volunteers at St. James Place and the Bishop Sullivan Center, the beneficiary of the Royals Wives Food Drive.
June 25
Saturday, June 25 – Susan Stanton
After a diverse and success career that included serving as Director of Corrections for Jackson County, Susan Stanton now serves the metro as a full-time volunteer. She works to improve the lives of children in Kansas City by working with advocacy and outreach programs including CASA, MOCSA (MOCK-suh), Operation Breakthrough and St. James Place. Her business and leadership skills help organizations run more efficiently while empowering staff and volunteers to serve more people.
Susan was recently recognized for her numerous contributions by the City Union Mission at its annual "Women Who've Changed the Heart of the City" event.
June 26
Sunday, June 26 – Barbara Spilker
For Barbara Spilker, the spirit of giving has been a lifelong inspiration. Barbara began her charitable contributions as a young woman and has since worked both in the forefront and behind the scenes for countless charitable efforts and events. Most recently, she developed the "1 Year 2 Go Celebration" event for the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts and raised critical funds to make the performing arts accessible to the entire metro area through the new facility.
Barbara was recently recognized for her numerous contributions by the City Union Mission at its annual "Women Who've Changed the Heart of the City" event.
July 7
Thursday, July 7 – David Williams
David Williams, a soon to be third grader in Liberty, Mo., who after learning that Billy Butler had a program that helps to feed hungry people in Kansas City, decided to encourage his friends to bring food donations to his 8-year old birthday party instead of presents. David collected two grocery carts full of food, which he donated to the food pantry at the Bishop Sullivan Center.
Butler's "Hit it a Ton" program partners with the Bishop Sullivan Center to provide food for every double and home run he hits during the season.
July 8
Friday, July 8 – Ron Bryant
Lee's Summit, Mo., resident Ron Bryant and his wife Mary have been life-long missionaries helping various people in need, including prisoners in Mexico, as well as founding more than 300 Bible schools in Nicaragua.
Currently, the Bryants are back in Kansas City to work with Missions International to collect and donate food to numerous food banks in Kansas City.
July 9
Saturday, July 9 – Randall Ferguson
Today marks the 100th anniversary of the late Buck O'Neil's birth, who was born on November 13, 1911. In memory of Buck, one of his closest friends, Randall Fergusson is sitting in the Buck O'Neil Legacy Seat. Randall was hand-picked by Buck O'Neil to serve on the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum's board of directors early in the museum's history.
Retired after 35 years at IBM, Randall served as board president longer than any other person and was instrumental in the museum's early success.
July 10
Sunday, July 10 – Nancy Howser
1985 World Series Manager Dick Howser passed in 1987, however his wife Nancy Howser continues to champion brain cancer research and support nurses who work with patients battling the disease. Nancy established and continues to support the Dick Howser Memorial Scholarship at the St. Luke's College of Nursing to support future nurses. In addition, Nancy has teamed up with the Head for the Cure to raise funds to help find a cure for brain cancer.
Through these efforts, Nancy and the entire Howser family has left a legacy of hope and strength for the people of Kansas City.
July 18
Monday, July 18 – Danny Duvall
The youngest of nine children, Independence, Mo., resident Danny Duvall has excelled in several sports in his 34 plus years with Special Olympics, and is an inspiration to the hundreds of people he has touched in his daily life. In addition, Danny is a dedicated volunteer in several organizations including the Knights of Columbus and Nativity of Mary Parish in Independence.
Due to his dedication and positive spirit, Danny was chosen as one of seven Athletes in the state of Missouri to attend the 2011 Special Olympic World Games in Athens, Greece.
July 19
Tuesday, July 19 – Linda Voelker
Linda Voelker touched many lives in her 42 years as an English teacher and recently retired from Indian Woods Middle School, in Overland Park, Kans. Linda is known as an encouraging teacher who displays a constant smile.
Mrs. Voelker's commitment and dedication to her students is evident through the more than 30 nominations that were submitted on her behalf to sit in the Buck O'Neil Legacy Seat.
July 20
Wednesday, July 20 – Ella and Liliana Keathley-Helms
Ten-year-old twins Ella and Liliana Keathley-Helms founded Cupcakes for Kiddos, a non-profit organization that raises money for women and children in need. Over one weekend in May, the girls baked more than 600 cupcakes from scratch, raising $1,100.
Ella and Liliana have received both international and domestic cupcake orders and continue to raise money for other kids around the world.
July 22
Friday, July 22 – Buddie Butterfield
Buddie Butterfield founded Buddie's Buddies to enhance the lives of people with disabilities by showing them that playing golf is not out of bounds. Meeting Wednesdays at Overland Park Golf Course, Buddy leads free adaptive golf clinics for people with special needs ranging in age from 6 to 80.
Buddy received the Professional Golf Association's Foundation Growth of the Game Award in 2005 and has enhanced the lives of hundreds of people in the Midwest.
July 23
Saturday, July 23 – Keri Mathew
Keri Mathew is a 35-year-old wife, mother of two, career woman, and survivor of a heart disease that has affected three generations of her family. Keri uses her story to encourage others to lead heart-healthy lives and support the work of the American Heart Association.
Keri and her family represent the millions of heart disease survivors who benefit from the work of the American Heart Association and especially the survivors who join the Royals as part of Girls Night Out.
July 24
Sunday, July 24 – Mike Pratt
For several years, Kansas City, Mo., resident Mike Pratt has worked with local businesses to collect and refurbish bicycles to distribute to underprovided children during the holidays. To date, Mike and his coworkers have collected, refurbished and distributed more than 2,500 bikes to kids throughout Kansas City.
Mike says a new bike was one of the best presents he received as a child and wants to make sure other children experience the same excitement during the holidays.
Aug 2
Tuesday, August 2 – Kenny Kieser
Kenny Kieser (kee-zer), an avid fisherman from Olathe, Kan., has taken his love of fishing and shared that with others, including special-needs children. In addition to serving as a fishing columnist for newspapers and magazines in the Kansas City area for more nearly 35 years, Kenny was in charge of the fishing seminar program for the Easter Seals and the Kansas City Chiefs in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
In 2010, Kenny was inducted into the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame because of his extensive work with mentally and physically challenged children.
Aug 3
Wednesday, August 3 – Larry Garrett
Larry Garrett, a lifelong resident of Kansas City, has spent his life contributing to the betterment of his hometown through a number of volunteer and charitable endeavors. Most notably, Larry has volunteered for MOSCA – the Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault – for 35 years and spent eight years serving on its board. In addition, he founded "Toys for Toddies" more than 35 years ago and continues the work to supply toys to children in need.
Larry has worked with a number of other charitable organizations though the years, positively impacting hundreds of lives.
Aug 4
Thursday, August 4 – Jerry Cooke
Jerry Cooke is President-Elect of Kansas City's Rotary Club 13 – the 13th-oldest Rotary Club in the world with the motto of "Service Over Self." Jerry has long lived by the motto, as apparent by his long list of charitable endeavors. Most notably, Jerry worked to bring a chapter of Big Brothers/Big Sisters to Kansas City in 1964 and served as the chapter's first president.
He was also instrumental in bringing the Irish Museum to Union Station and served for 10 years as the vice president of the Irish Museum and Cultural Center.
Aug 5
Friday, August 5 – Melanie Dolloff
After moving to Joplin, Mo., three years ago, Melanie Dolloff began volunteering with the Joplin Schools Bright Futures program. After the devastating tornado hit on May 22, she took her commitment to a new level, overseeing day-to-day operations, fundraising and awareness efforts for the needs of Joplin schools and its students.
All 7,000-plus Joplin students will have a new backpack filled with supplies when school begins on August 17 as part of the Adopt-an-Eagle program. Teachers who lost classrooms they spent years creating will enjoy new items thanks to the Adopt-a-Teacher program and thanks to Melanie Dolloff's efforts.
Aug 6
Saturday, August 6 – Richard Graham
Richard Graham, a resident of Olathe, Kan., has served in the United States Army for more than 25 years and has completed several overseas tours of duty. Rich is currently on leave from a deployment in Afghanistan and returns mid-August to complete his tour. His daughter, Gretchen, who nominated him for this honor, looks at him as a hero for her entire family.
As part of our Armed Forces Day celebration, the Royals are pleased to honor Richard and all of his fellow heroes who have and continue to serve our country.
Aug 7
Sunday, August 7 – Skylar Ross
Eagle Scout Skylar Ross from Troop 169 in Basehor, Kan., put his skills to work in a dramatic life-saving rescue in April 2010. The teenager from Linwood, Kan., and his father, Matt, witnessed a woman's suicide attempt as she jumped off the Wyandotte Street Bridge over the Kansas River. After calling 9-1-1, the father and son, along with a local fireman, sprinted down to the river to race alongside the woman. When she got caught on a snag near a steep bank, Skylar was able to hold out a branch to the woman and remain with her until emergency crews arrived
For his courageous act, Skylar was honored with the Boy Scout's Heroism Award.
Aug 15
Monday, August 15 – Bob Cerv
Tonight's Buck O'Neil Legacy Seat is a special guest of the Royals from Lincoln, Nebraska, on this first game of the Royals-Yankees series. Bob Cerv played for the Yankees in the 1950s before coming to Kansas City to play for the A's. In 1958, he hit 38 home runs for the A's, playing part of the season with his jaw wired shut from an on-field collision. He still holds the record for homers in a season by a Major Leaguer playing for a Kansas City team.
Bob served in the U.S Navy during World War II and later coached several college and semi-pro players to the Majors. Bob, the Royals and the Yankees congratulate you on this special honor.
Aug 16
Tuesday, August 16 – Liz Sutherlin
Liz Sutherlin runs a unique non-profit effort for the little ones of the Kansas City region. She is executive director of "Happy Bottoms," started last year to provide diapers to babies and very small children who are born into poverty. With the high cost of diapers, Liz says her organization can cover the cost that other aid programs do not.
Every 31 minutes, a child is born into poverty in Missouri, and Liz and her staff have made sure they're "covered."
Aug 17
Wednesday, August 17 – Doris Soltys
Doris Soltys has literally sewn and knitted her way to a reputation as one of the hardest working volunteers in the city. Doris knits baby blankets, hats and scarves for new mothers at Truman Medical Center and won an award from "Cancer Action" for her donation of homemade bed sheets, medication bags and nursing pads.
The Kansas City, Missouri, resident is also famous for making pillowcase dresses for mission trips throughout the world. She loves to make these items while watching the Royals.
Aug 18
Thursday, August 18 – Dick Murray
Dick Murray regularly takes time away from work and leisure to volunteer for the Down Syndrome Guild. The last two years, Dick has put together the largest teams for the Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk that takes place at the Truman Sports Complex. In fact, his teams are the largest in the country for a Down syndrome walk.
Dick's four-year old grandson, Luke, was born with Down syndrome, and Dick says he wants to see all families helped. This year's Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk is set for October 29.
Aug 19
Friday, August 19 – Kim Harbur
Kim Harbur and her husband Nate are the parents of the first pediatric liver transplant patient in Kansas City. They were so grateful for their son Luke's life that they founded Gift of Life. The program spawned another effort called LifeSavers, where school children throughout the area hear about organ and tissue donation.
Kim led more than 400 classroom sessions this past year. And Luke is a healthy teenager.
Aug 20
Saturday, August 20 – "Grandma" Lois Lakey
Lois Lakey is known by "Grandma Lois," and not just by her family. Grandma Lois is Children's Mercy Hospital's lone "full-time" volunteer because she makes a practice of holding and comforting babies in the neonatal intensive care eight hours a day, five days a week.
Lois has been volunteering for the past 12 years, and at the age of 73, has several more years left to rock sick and premature babies to sleep.
Aug 21
Sunday, August 21 – Sharon Bates
Sharon Bates started the Anthony Bates Foundation in honor of her son who died of sudden cardiac arrest as a football player in 2000 at Kansas State University. The foundation promotes and educates others about the dangers of Sudden Cardiac Arrest, which is the leading killer of young athletes in this county.
Sharon, a Phoenix, Ariz., resident, travels around the country including an annual trip to Manhattan, Kans., to conduct heart screening clinics.
Sept 2
Friday, September 2 – Henry Bloch
Henry Bloch is a true Kansas City philanthropist and community leader whose support of the arts and education has improved the quality of life in Kansas City. The Kansas City native, who also served in World War II, co-founded H&R Block to become the world's largest tax services company.
One of Henry's most significant contributions was the creation of the Bloch Scholars program in 2001, which has transformed the lives of nearly 1,000 low-income urban students and allowed them to go to college.
Sept 3
Saturday, September 3 – Estella Morales
Estella Morales, one of Kansas City's life-long citizens, has dedicated her time and talents to assisting Kansas City's non-profit organizations. Estella currently serves several organizations including the Greater Kansas City Hispanic Collaborative, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Kansas City, Mo., School District and the Immaculate Conception Parish.
After retiring from 32 years of employment with the City of Kansas City, Mo., Estella now spends her time with family and her volunteer work in the community.
Sept 4
Sunday, September 4 – Julie Moise
Julie Moise and her husband Glenn founded Ian's Rainbow Flu Foundation in memory of their son Ian who died of complications from Influenza A in 2003. The foundation provides health and safety information for all children through free flu vaccines, flu clinics, fundraising events and grants creating healthy kids.
The Moise family aims to share their story with others so parents can make the proper decisions for their own children to keep them healthy.
Sept 13
Tuesday, September 13 – Shannon Loy
Two days ago, the nation and the world paused to remember the victims and heroes on the 10th anniversary of the 9-11 attacks. Sitting in the Buck O'Neil Legacy Seat tonight is Shannon Loy of North Kansas City, Missouri. Shannon was in the North Tower of the World Trade Center when the first plane hit. She escaped just as the South Tower collapsed. Shannon says she represents all survivors of 9-11 and joins them in remembering those who lost their lives that day.
Shannon and her family also express gratitude for those who have sacrificed for freedom these past 10 years.
Sept 14
Wednesday, Sept. 14 – Tom Hill
In June, Tom Hill of Perry, Kansas, was named the 2011 Royals Father of the Year by the National Center for Fathering. Tom and his wife, Nancy, have two biological children and six adopted children, and they have cared for dozens of others.
Tom, pastor of Perry Christian Church, has hosted foster children for about 13 years and has been taking care of kids for more than 37 years.
Sept 15
Thursday, September 15 – Beatrice Agee
Beatrice Agee (pronounced age-ee) of Lee's Summit, Missouri, has been in retirement for a few years but still looks for ways to educate children. Bea was one of the first African-American teachers in the Independence School District in 1967 and the district's first African-American principal in 1974.
She spent more 40 years at the district, served on many boards, and has won numerous civic and education awards.
Sept 16
Friday, September 16 – Paul McGarvey
Paul McGarvey lives in Kansas City, Missouri, and now serves as an associate pastor at Northland Cathedral. "Coach" McGarvey coached high school and college baseball and football for more than 30 years and now teaches Sunday School to folks of all ages.
Coach McGarvey has led nearly a hundred mission trips around the world.
Sept 17
Saturday, September 17 – To Be Announced
The Club will honor a family who has supported the Royals through the years during our Fan Appreciation Night.
Sept 18
Sunday, September 18 – Beverly Pinault
Sitting in the Buck O'Neil Legacy Seat at today's game, in honor of Bark at the K Day, is Beverly Pinault, one of Wayside Waifs' most active and dedicated animal foster mothers. She has personally nursed nearly a hundred sick puppies and kittens back to health, enabling them to be adopted into loving families.
Beverly loves using her skills as a hospice nurse at Wayside Waifs to help rehabilitate sick and injured animals.
Sept 20
Tuesday, September 20 – Beth Searcy
Beth Searcy and her husband, Ryan, are proud parents of two boys, Matthew and Grant. Grant was diagnosed with a type of Cerebral Palsy that led the Searcys to start an organization called "Grant's Giving Hands."
Beth knew other families dealing with this disease would benefit from their knowledge, determination and positive outlook. They have a website: grantsgivinghands.com.
Sept 21
Wednesday, September 21 – Virgil Parker
Representing all Royals associates, Virgil Parker serves a traffic director in Lot L at the Truman Sports Complex and has worked Royals games for 25 years. He and his wife, "Bert," who also works as a seasonal associate, love baseball, their kids and grandkids.
On this final night of the 2011 season, Virgil and Bert represent the best of the Kansas City Royals.
