Baseball fans are counting the days till the July 10 Major League Baseball All Stars game at Kauffman Stadium. Why not drive a couple of miles to nearby Independence to continue the celebration? ·
Stir up your baseball fever with a dose of presidential flair at a special exhibit called “Presidential Pitch: Harry Truman and Baseball." The Harry S. Truman Library and Museum, 500 W. U. S. 24 Highway, has created a display that focuses on the ties between two great American institutions -Harry S. Truman and baseball. You’ll see balls and gloves that Truman used when throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at baseball games, programs, ticket stubs and other baseball souvenirs he was given. The exhibit begins June 29, runs through July 15 and is included with paid museum admission.
The Midwest Genealogy Center, 3440 S. Lee's Summit Road, is staging a "Find your All Star Ancestors" display in the front lobby, which will run from Monday, June 25 through the end of July. Read biographical/genealogical sketches of Royals and other famous baseball players, and see baseball themed memorable and souvenirs from various local collectors. Free. Call 816-252-7228 for details.
On Saturday, July 7 at 9:00 a.m., Independence Parks and Recreation will present the “Legends of Chrysler Stadium.” During this ceremony at the stadium ( 2301 S. Chrysler), the jerseys of 10 local baseball players who played high school and American Legion games at the stadium and later made it to the big leagues will be retired. Those players are Albert Pujols, David Haas, Rick Sutcliff, Russ Morman, Mort Cooper, Brian McRae, Dusty Wathan, Brad Ziegler, Don Buschhorn and Walker Cooper. Following the ceremony, Independence high school and American Legion baseball teams will offer a baseball skills clinic for youth ages 8-14. From 10:30 a.m. to noon, skills such as out fielding, pitching, base running, T-ball work, batting and infield skills will be taught. Cost is $5 per person. To register, contact Jeremy Rogers at 325-7839, jrogers@indepmo.org.
Wind down that night by relaxing to the music of the Southern rock inspired Christian band Third Day, in concert at the Events Center, 19100 E. Valley View Parkway. This popular group of musicians boasts multiple platinum records and many Dove and Grammy awards. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. and tickets range from $25-$35, plus facility and service fees. Go to www.ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000.
Can’t score tickets to the big game? You’re invited to a free watch party on the Square at Liberty and Maple on July 10. Kick back and watch the action on a giant LED screen, listen to live music, entertain your kids with free children’s activities and chow down on all kinds of food and beverage concessions. The fun begins at 5:30, events for kids continue till 8:30 and the party’s not over till the game is! The party is sponsored by the City of Independence and McClain Enterprises. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Questions? Call 816-32507111 or www.visitindependence.com.
For more information about Independence tourism attractions, other summer events, the popular Truman Trolley, our summer photos contests, lodging, shopping, restaurants and discount coupons, call Tourism at 816-325-7111, 800-748-7323 or check out www.visitindependence.com.
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