At our last club meeting of the month, we were greeted by LYNN BUCHANAN and JO “on the spot” MCCLAIN led us in our invocation. Our fill in president was JAY CARROL and he led the meeting “with gusto”. Guests included Ron Anderson, a prospective member, and our program for the day, Yakima Bears Baseball co-owner, Mike McMurray and players, Sean Morgan, Josh Collmenter and Clayton Conner.

DON DAVIDSON passed around a sign up for greeters for the next three months. The list was full by the end of the club meeting. Thank you to those that signed up!

BETH KLINGLE presented CHIRSTINE COTE with a beautiful plaque for her hard work to make the Rock the Gap event a huge success! Over $25,000 was raised and will be split with the Greenway.

STEVE EMHOFF gave a quick update about the Father Daughter Dance that will be scheduled for January 19th.

ROGER BELL collected volunteers for upcoming interclub meetings.

There was some official business to take care of. Members were asked to vote on a motion made to elect RON ZIRKLE as the new president elect that would serve after WENDY AGUILAR’S term. The group passed the motion. The new Vice President is to be determined.

STEVE PICKETT called bingo and the winner was DON DAVIDON.

Our program was our very own KL WOMBACHER, General Manager of the Yakima Bears. With him he brought three players who shared a bit about what it is like to be drafted and play ball all summer long. Opening night was a huge success, and despite the weather they had great fan support! Prior to the season, the park underwent a face lift. New lights were installed, the outfield was replaced, there is a new cover over the picnic deck and don’t forget about the fabulous video screen that was added last year! Over $600,000 will be coming for next year to continue updates. The Yakima Bears not only have a strong presence during the season, but off season work hard to be involved within the community. At just about all major events in Yakima, you will see the staff there, perhaps even BOOMER! This year there has also been a change with coaching staff and team. Mike Bell is a new coach and is working with a great club house of players. A few of them joined us at the meeting. Sean Morgan, from New Orleans is a pitcher and this is his first year with the Bears. He is also looking for a host family! And a used car! Josh Collmenter, from Michigan is also a pitcher and is beginning his first year with the Bears. He too is looking for a place to sleep. And then there was Clayton Conner, from Florida who is the Bears third baseman. Several of your favorite players will be coming back this year! Please support our local team and come out for a game or two! It is fun for the entire family!

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