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 2012 program, please click here.
April 5
Monday, April 5 - John Wathan
Representing the 1985 champions this 25th anniversary year, former catcher John Wathan has been an integral part of the Kansas City Royals organization for many years. In addition to playing ten seasons with the Royals from 1976 to 1985, "Duke" has served the Royals in many capacities including as a manager for five seasons, a broadcaster and currently serves a the Special Assistant to Player Development/Scouting. John and his wife Nancy reside in Lee's Summit, Mo., and have three children and six grandchildren, including sons Derek and Dusty who played minor league baseball and a daughter Dina, who works in the Royals Media Relations Department.
April 7
Wednesday, April 7 - Gale Watson
Independence, Mo., resident Gale Watson has volunteered with the Salvation Army for more than 13 years, specifically working with the Honk 'n Holler program. Many of Kansas City's homeless have come to know Gale and his fellow volunteers as they deliver hot food, drinks and warm clothing to the adults and children living on the streets throughout the year. After retiring from a career as a pipefitter, Gale has dedicated his life to helping those in need.
April 8
Thursday, April 8 - Judy Akers
For more than 30 years Judy Akers has served the Kansas City area through Della Lamb, a nonprofit mission founded in 1897 to provide child care for poor, working mothers. Today, under the Kansas City, Mo., resident's direction, Della Lamb provides many services including child care, youth sports programs, adult education and run an Elementary Charter School for low-income families and international refugees. Judy's dedication to the poor has impacted thousands of lives.
April 9
Friday, April 9 - Bill Kersten
Longtime metro professional wrestling announcer Bill Kersten, who announced All-Star Wrestling on local television from 1966 through 1985, was honored last summer by the International Wrestling Institute and Museum, for his lifetime commitment to community service as well as professional wrestling. The former Liberty, Mo, mayor and Clay County commissioner, has been a long-time civic servant to his community and was named the 2000 Clay County Citizen of the Year. When he was broadcasting, Bill was often known for his trademark "Hellooooo, Wrestling Fans!" salutation.
April 10
Saturday, April 10 - Mary Dobbins
A long-time volunteer and board member of the Kansas Children's Service League, Mary Dobbins has been a strong advocate for children in Kansas City. The DeSoto, Kans., resident was instrumental in founding the first Healthy Families program in the state of Kansas, which is a home based child abuse prevention program that works with new parents. Mary joins us in the Buck Seat as the Royals honor Child Abuse Awareness Month through Wear Blue for Kids night at The K.
April 11
Sunday, April 11 - Terry Franz
Terry Franz runs the Kansas City based nonprofit organization Cars for Christmas which provides free basic transportation to disadvantaged individuals who are not able to obtain it on their own. Realizing the need for personal transportation for people who are battling serious illnesses or facing unexpected tragedies, the Belton, Mo., resident started Cars for Christmas in 1996. Terry has impacted hundreds of lives in Kansas City and looks to help more people in cities across the United States.
April 23
Friday, April 23 - Andy Metzler
Kansas City-native and Lee's Summit resident Andy Metzler didn't settle for serving on important charity boards. He created one. Known by friends and family as a "volunteer extraordinaire," Andy founded the DeLaSalle SOUL (the Society of Urban Leadership) in 2008. The organization is made up of young professionals seeking to revitalize the DeLaSalle Education Center's mission through volunteering. Andy also serves on the Don Bosco Community Center Board.
April 24
Saturday, April 24 - Chuck Sailors
In 2004, Chuck Sailors founded the KC Urban Youth Center at 28th and Troost in Kansas City, Mo. Today, the center is part of three low income housing communities in urban Kansas City serving more than 300 students and their families each year. Church and his staff work daily with a holistic approach in order to offer hope, community and wholeness to children and youth living in traditionally underserved communities.
April 25
Sunday, April 25 - Carolyn Mitchell (Win KC)
A 73-year-old grandmother of five, Carolyn Mitchell has completed 97 full marathons so far on her goal to 100. The Lenexa, Kans., resident has already met her other goals - a marathon in each of the 50 states and one on each of the seven continents. These accomplishments aloe would be impressive, however Carolyn did not even start running until she was 50 and still works full-time for the Environmental Protection Agency. Carolyn was recently honored by the Women's Intersport Network for Kansas City (WIN for KC).
April 26
Monday, April 26 - Francis "Gil" Carter
On August 11, 1959, Gil Carter, while playing for the Carlsbad, New Mexico, Potashers, hit a baseball more than 650 feet, the longest hit ever recorded in Minor League Baseball. Gil went on to play in the Negro Leagues and holds a place in baseball lore. Now, the 78-year old Topeka, Kans., resident is going to bat for young people and is matched with a young boy through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, proving his heart is as big as his famous home run.
April 27
Tuesday, April 27 - Nancy Simons
Nancy Simons, who was selected as a "Point of Light" in 2003 by President Bush, has been dedicated to providing wholesome activities for young people in the inner city. Though she now serves on the board of directors of the Police Athletic League of Kansas City, her community involvement started when she built a basketball court in her backyard to allow all girls the opportunity to play basketball. She has impacted the lives of many young women who continually site her as the reason for their own success.
April 28
Wednesday, April 28 - JoAnne Fluke
Ottawa, Kans., native JoAnne Fluke cofounded Groovability, Inc. which provides the art of dance to individuals with physical disabilities and their non-disabled partners. Recently forming a partnership with Will Shields 68's Inside Sports and Accessible Arts, JoAnne will be able to help even more people improve physical strength and develop social skills to overcome boundaries among different communities. JoAnne wakes up each day and doesn't focus on her disability but on how she can inspire others and make the world a better place.
May 11
Tuesday, May 11 - Jean Hinman
Jean Hinman never says no to an opportunity for outreach. She has spearheaded dozens of community projects through Church of the Ascension in Overland Park and just recently added two addiction support programs to a host of other activities. Through her church community, Jean has made sure food is delivered to the sick, Habitat for Humanity programs are supported, and blankets are made and sent to those in need.
May 12
Wednesday, May 12 - Carrie Rosetti
Carrie Rosetti has an unbelievable story, which she has drawn upon during the last seven years while working at Hope House helping abuse victims. Carrie is known as a person who will commit any amount of time to provide support for others in need. Recently, she has concentrated her efforts in combating the very real problem of modern-day slavery and founded the Kansas City Alliance Against Human Trafficking.
May 13
Thursday, May 13 - Marsha Elbasani
On this School Day at the K, we welcome Marsha Elbasani, the now retired long-time executive director of the Fox Four Love Fund for Children. The program was founded by former WDAF anchor Cynthia Smith in 1982. Marsha carried out the day-to-day duties of working with Kansas City social workers to provide assistance to children who otherwise might fall through the cracks.
May 14
Friday, May 14 - Brandi Palmer (Breast Cancer Survivor)
At 39-years old and symptom-free, Overland Park, Kans., resident Brandi Palmer was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. After undergoing a double mastectomy, Brandi created an online video entitled "Don't Wait for the Lump" that has been viewed by more than 2 million people worldwide. Brandi continues to volunteer with Susan G. Komen for the Cure to spread her life-saving message of early detection and one day find a cure for the disease.
May 15
Saturday, May 15 - Pfc. James Cerv
Army Private First Class James Cerv came home to Overland Park, Kans., on leave from Afghanistan on Mother's Day. He returns to Afghanistan in a couple of weeks with the 101st Air Assault Division out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Private Cerv represents three generations of military service in his family. His father, Joe, is here tonight. His grandfather, Bob Cerv, served in World War II and played for the Kansas City Athletics hitting 38 home runs in 1958, which still stands as Kansas City's major league record for home runs.
May 16
Sunday, May 16 - Kori Quinn
Diagnosed with stage four Ewing's Sarcoma in November 2008, Kori Quinn has undergone several rounds of chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Kori's focus, however, is on raising funds for pediatric cancer research and playing soccer at Excelsior Springs High School, where she is a freshman. Kori, along with her soccer teammates, formed a foundation entitled i-ROK, which is Kori spelled backwards and stands for Imagine Getting Rid of Kancer, and has already raised nearly $35,000.
May 21
Friday, May 21 - Dylan Peters
At the age of 12, Dylan Peters of Olathe has already made a significant contribution to the community. He wrote an award-winning book called "Tic Talk - Living with Tourette Syndrome." Former Royals outfielder Jim Eisenreich, who also deals with Tourette's, wrote the book's forward. Dylan has spoken to thousands of kids in the Kansas City area on accepting and comforting those who suffer from personal challenges. His family says Dylan has personally come to the aid of kids in crisis.
May 22
Saturday, May 22 - Nancy Carson
Nancy Carson of Lee's Summit is a teacher at Chapel Lakes Elementary in Blue Springs and is retiring next month after 31 years in education. She's known throughout the district as a passionate teacher who encourages her students to apply what they've learned outside the classroom. Nancy has been recognized as one of the best by the local PTA and the state of Missouri.
May 23
Sunday, May 23 - Val Lund
Val Lund is changing lives throughout the Western Hemisphere including Kansas City. She has worked with youth and seniors at the Don Bosco Center after a stellar high school and college career as a student and athlete. Val started a master's degree program but instead spent two and a-half years in Costa Rica as a member of the Peace Corps, helping members of a community develop infrastructure and better lives. She continues to help in the same way here in Kansas City.
May 25
Tuesday, May 25 - Jenny Horn
Jenny Horn and her husband, Brett, turned a terrible tragedy into a community service that has gained national attention. Their son, Charlie, died when a dresser tipped over on him at age 2. The Horns now serve on the board of directors for an organization they helped start to educate people on childhood safety in and around the home. Now known as Charlie's House, Jenny and Brett have no doubt saved families from experiencing the same tragedy.
May 26
Wednesday, May 26 - Sylvester Thurman
Sylvester Thurman of Kansas City, Missouri, has spent more than 30 years focusing on the needs of people with disabilities and severe disadvantages. He is also an avid environmentalist, leading the way to improve recycling at both the individual and community level.
May 31
Monday, May 31 - Ralph Shackelford
92-year-old Ralph Shackelford is a veteran of World War 2 where he served as a Sergeant in the 9th Armed Infantry Division and fought in the Battle of the Bulge and the Battle at the Remagen Bridge. After being honored with two bronze stars, Ralph returned to Kansas City where he worked for TWA as a mechanic. Now, the Kansas City North resident passionately serves as a spokesman for Honor Flight, which flies World War 2 Veterans free of charge to Washington, D.C. so they can see their memorial.
June 1
Tuesday, June 1 - Alejandro Cabero
Alejandro Cabero utilizes his experiences as an immigrant, coach, and parent to help with the diverse needs of youth of the ethnically-rich neighborhoods in Northeast Kansas City. He helps to develop programs for all ages of kids to assist with cultural and language integration through soccer as well as interpretation programs. Alejandro's passion for assisting others has touched more than 5,000 lives, while helping to build a strong community.
June 2
Wednesday, June 2 - Kate Schmidt
Lenexa, Kans., resident Kate Schmidt has worked in elementary education for over 30 years. As a teacher and principal she has worked with many underprivileged and special needs children. Working with violent, angry or depressed kids, Kate has an uncanny ability to connect with her students. Kate is a role model for the youth she serves, her fellow educators, as well as her own family.
June 3
Thursday, June 3 - Bridget McCandless
Dr. Bridget McCandless left her full-time private practice to devote her time to the Jackson County Free Health Clinic, an organization she co-founded to serve uninsured low-income adults who have chronic medical issues. The Independence, Mo., resident has also used her medical background and expertise to serve in various capacities including the Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City and the Healthy Independence Coalition.
June 4
Friday, June 4 - Janet Arnold
After retiring from serving more than 21 years as a nurse in the Recovery Room of St. Joseph Hospital, Janet Arnold has filled her weeks by volunteering to help others. The Overland Park, Kans., resident has logged more than 1,000 volunteer hours of volunteer service to Children's Mercy Hospital, assists at Villa St. Francis Nursing Home, spends time with Catholic Charities and Holy Trinity Catholic Church, and helps to care for her grandson.
June 5
Saturday, June 5 - Jim Mattes
Jim Mattes of Shawnee is wrapping up a stint as District Governor for northeast Kansas Rotary Clubs this year. He has volunteered and held leadership positions in Rotary for years, including work locally and internationally. Jim led his club to a small community in Mexico to build complete and adobe home. He has also worked tirelessly on Rotary International's drive to eliminate polio from the face of the earth and will join hundreds of fellow Rotarians at the Royals game tomorrow to "Strike Out Polio" at Rotary Day at the K.
June 6
Sunday, June 6 - Shaleia Jamison
Eighth grader Shaleia Jamison is a stand-out basketball player and honor student in Olathe, Kans. She was featured in Sports Illustrated for Kids magazine as a finalist for the 2009 Sportskid of the Year, however, what makes her inspiring is the way she has overcome the obstacles in her young life, including her mother's tragic shooting when she was five. After being adopted by her uncle and his wife, Shaleia now says that sports have made her a stronger person and helped her through the difficult times.
June 15
Tuesday, June 15 - Roney Eapen
Roney Eapen works at Olathe Medical Center but has volunteered many hours of his free time so that he can keep helping others. Roney volunteers for Rose Brooks Center, a local agency for victims of domestic violence. Roney and others go "on call" when the agency's staff is off work so they can respond to a hospital call and tend to a victim of abuse. Often times Roney and other men are considered the first positive male figures in these women's lives.
June 15
Wednesday, June 16 - Alan Cleek
Alan Cleek teaches fourth grade at Harmony Elementary School in Overland Park and is widely regarded as one of the most caring and compassionate teachers in the Blue Valley School District. Several of his students and their parents nominated Mr. Cleek for his unique approach in the classroom and his insistence on using a life of local and international volunteer work to teach kids real "life lessons."
June 15
Thursday, June 17 - Tom Waris
Tom Waris and his wife Sharon have served on the board of Operation Breakthrough, an inner city child care facility. But they didn't stop there. He and his wife, Sharon, decided to mentor a boy and girl when the children were quite young and have continued to be a part of their lives for the past dozen years. Tom shows that giving one's time makes as much of a difference or more as writing a check.
June 25
Friday, June 25 - Sarah Strube
For the third time, 10 year-old Kansas City, Mo., resident Sarah Strube recently donated her hair to Locks of Love, an organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children in the United States and Canada suffering from long-term medical hair loss.
Sarah, who is entering the 6th grade, has her sights set on growing the proper amount of hair so she make another donation during her 7th grade year.
June 26
Saturday, June 26 - Mary Lynne Dolembo
Mary Lynne Dolembo of Kansas City is celebrating her 30th year as executive director of the Children's Center for the Visually Impraired - CCVI. Under her leadership, CCVI has grown from serving 36 young blind and visually impaired children in 1980 to more than 350 last year.
In October 2004, she received the first-ever Missouri AER Award for Professional Excellence given by the Association for the Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired.
June 27
Sunday, June 27 - Joe Franklin
After overcoming several obstacles, including a battle with a brain tumor, Joe Franklin volunteers with several organizations including Cancer Action, where he helps to encourage others undergoing cancer treatments.
Joe is one of the many individuals served by United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Kansas City and knows the importance of giving back to the community. The Kansas City, Mo., resident uses his experiences to provide strength and hope to others.
June 28
Monday, June 28 - Cindy Glass
Overland Park, Kans., resident Cindy Glass has been coaching with the Johnson County Parks & Rec Department's Special Olympics for more than 20 years, where she coaches many sports including softball.
Cindy says the best part about coaching is watching the joy her athletes have in participating in the various sports and building long-term bonds with the athletes' families.
June 28
Tuesday, June 29 - Jim Petrie
Jim Petrie, from Overland Park, Kans., and his wife Kathy, have been taking care of their two sons who are both afflicted with Muscular Dystrophy for more than 25 years, yet have also raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for MDA.
Jim and his wife never are able to sleep a full night as they constantly tend to the hygiene and medical needs of their boys.
June 30
Wednesday, June 30 - Antonio Holland
Antonio Holland is retiring this year following a 39-year teaching career at Lincoln University, a historically black institution in Jefferson City, Mo., where he became a nationally recognized scholar and pioneer in the field of African-American history.
Antonio is also a Vietnam veteran who served with the Missouri National Guard for 25 years retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel.
July 16
Friday, July 16 - Max Berenbom
After retiring at the age of 70 as a biochemist at the University of Kansas Medical Center, Max Berenbom of Kansas City immediately started volunteering at Children's Mercy Hospital. After 20 years, the 90-year old is still helping the children and families who are receiving treatment at the hospital.
In addition to volunteering, the long-time Royals fan keeps in shape by walking 4 miles and does 50 push-ups every day.
July 17
Saturday, July 17 - Phil Gronniger
Shawnee, Kans., resident Phil Gronniger is a Head for the Cure 5k Run & Walk Team Captain, who leads Team Guy Gronniger in memory of his uncle. Phil's commitment the walk has helped Head for the Cure raise nearly $1 million dollars to help find a cure for brain cancer.
Phil participated in Head for the Cure since its inception - even before his uncle's diagnosis - and has found inspiration in honoring Guy's legacy alongside so many others each year.
July 18
Sunday, July 18 - Darrell Cantrell
Darrell Cantrell administrates the Micah Ministry at Independence Boulevard Christian Church that feeds 400 of the homeless and working poor on Mondays in Kansas City.
In addition to personally cooking the food, the Shawnee, Kans., resident plans the menu, purchases the food and manages the 80 volunteers who help to serve meals at each event.
July 19
Monday, July 19 - Doug Rawdon
Former Royals batboy Doug Rawdon joined his family at an early age to lend humanitarian assistance to several countries in South and Central America, Europe and Asia. Close to home, the Plattsburg, Mo., resident currently serves as the associate pastor at Northern Hills Baptist Church.
Soon, Doug will lead another youth team to assist the poor and hungry living in Jamaica.
July 20
Tuesday, July 20 - Dusty Boatright
In June, Dusty Boatwright of Independence, Mo., was named the 2010 Royals Father of the Year by the National Center for Fathering. Dusty, the father of four, advises fellow dads to "pick your battles, listen more, and be patient."
Dusty's third-grade daughter, Kellis nominated him for the award, and he often gushes that she, along with the rest of his children, make him proud and that they "light up his life."
July 21
Wednesday, July 21 - Richard Vogel
Dick Vogel is a tireless and energetic volunteer who is revered for his volunteer service in Kansas City, Kans. Dick is active with many organizations including Metro Lutheran Ministry where he assists with the food pantry and the Shepherd Center where he performs minor home repair for senior citizens.
Dick also helps with the health care needs of indigent citizens through Riverview Health Services and spends time with residents at the Providence Place nursing facility.
July 26
Monday, July 26 - Jan Kreamer
Jan Kreamer founded Exchange City, an economic education program which has benefited thousands of Kansas City area 5th and 6th graders since 1980. In addition, she served as President of The Greater Kansas City Community Foundation where she helped develop many programs to benefit area children.
While Jan was with the foundation, the Kansas City, Mo., resident worked with Ewing Kauffman to craft his ownership transition plan that helped keep the Royals in Kansas City.
July 27
Tuesday, July 27 - Dave Cooper
Dave Cooper has coached baseball for more than 20 years in Chanute, Kans., serving teams in various leagues including American Legion, Babe Ruth and many other youth baseball and softball teams.
Under Dave's leadership, his teams have gone on to compete in many state tournaments. However, he says his proudest accomplishments have come from his former players finding successful in life.
July 28
Wednesday, July 28 - Deborah Mann
Deborah Mann is committed to helping children to excel. In fact, she and her husband personally invested their savings to build Emmanuel Child and Youth Development Center, located in Kansas City, Mo. Since the inception of the center the programs, aimed to helping at-risk youth, have grown by leaps and bounds.
Recently the center received a grant from the Department of Education to provide after school services for kids living in the urban core.
July 29
Thursday, July 29 - Tom and Ben Zarda
Tom and Ben Zarda are known as pillars of Shawnee, Kans., due to their civic, community and charitable causes. They both champion the causes of the poor through Catholic Charities and host an annual golf tournament for the organization that raises more than $100,000 each year to feed and cloth those less fortunate.
Strong contributors to the KC BBQ scene, Tom and Ben are active in the Shawnee Chamber of Commerce and have been recognized for providing economic development to their community.
July 29
Friday, July 30 - Loretta Sinnett
Loretta Sinnett served as the physical education teacher at Raytown South from 1966 to 1995 and passed on her love of sports to more students than anyone could count. Even before Title IX mandated equal girls sports, Loretta made it possible for girls to play various sports including softball, volleyball and basketball.
Loretta says she loves sports, and she just wanted her students to experience all that sports have to offer. Many of her former students say, "Loretta changed our lives."
July 31
Saturday, July 31 - Willie Wilson
Royals Hall of Fame outfielder Willie Wilson called Buck a "father figure." He immediately filled a void at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum by serving as host for monthly State Farm luncheons on behalf of the museum. He also served as a presenter at the annual Legacy Awards and helped chair the Buck O'Neal Golf Tournament.
Willie was inducted into the Royals Hall of Fame in 2000 after a stellar baseball career. The two-time All-Star won a batting title, a Gold Glove and the devotion of Royals fans for decades.
Aug. 1
Sunday, August 1 - Donnie Dempewolf
While volunteering at Camp Quality, a camp for kids with cancer, Children's Mercy Hospital Care Assistant Donnie Dempewolf met a child who inspired him run with Team in Training to help support children with cancer. He admits he was out of shape then, but a year later he has lost more than 40 pounds and is running four marathons this year.
Donnie says when he does not feel like running, he thinks of the child who has no choice but to go through chemo therapy treatment. That thought motivates him to lace up his running shoes every time.
Aug. 12
Thursday, August 12 - Roger Kemp
Following the murder of his daughter Ali, Roger and his wife Kathy established The Ali Kemp Educational Foundation or T.A.K.E. Foundation, which has provided more than 32,000 girls and women free hands-on self-defense training. Sharing their family's tragedy and turning into a positive program, Roger has created a lasting legacy in memory of his daughter.
The Leawood, Kans., resident says at each self-defense class, "If we can save one life out there, I don't care what it costs; this whole program will be worth it."
Aug. 13
Friday, August 13 - Lee Dodson
Lee Dodson, was a standout high school and minor league pitcher, playing in the NY Yankees farm system in the 1940's. His passion for baseball led him to coach and manage American Legion, semi-professional teams and during the last 20 years, an over 30 league in Topeka, Kans. Thousands of youth and adults have benefited from Lee's leadership.
Many residents have said, "when you think of baseball in Topeka you automatically think of Lee Dodson."
Aug. 14
Saturday, August 14 - Frank Royer
Kansas City native Frank Royer joins the Royals to help commemorate the 65th anniversary of the end of World War II. During WW2, Frank was a prisoner of war for 6 months and was awarded two Purple Hearts and French Legion of Honor.
After retiring from 31 years working at General Motors in 1980, Frank started volunteering at the Veterans Administration Hospital where he recently surpassed 10,000 hours of community service, and more 3,000 hours at St. Luke's Hospital.
Aug. 15
Sunday, August 15 - Kevin Kalish
Lenexa, Kans., resident Kevin Kalish has volunteered with Big Brothers/Big Sisters more than 10 years, specifically with the organization's largest fundraiser, Bowl for Kids Sake. For the past seven years, Kevin has become the top fundraiser for the event, raising over $100,000.
Kevin also serves on the Big Brothers/Big Sisters Board of Directors helping to create one-to-one relationships between adult volunteers and children at risk.
Aug. 17
Tuesday, August 17 - Joe Haney
Joe Haney volunteers with the Rainbow Center for Communicative Disorders assisting the children and adults with developmental disabilities. In addition, Joe utilizes his background as a retired banker to aid several other Blue Springs, Mo., area organizations.
Joe volunteers with the Blue Springs Planning Commission, Good Shepherd Church, Pheasants Forever and the School of Economics.
Aug. 18
Wednesday, August 18 - Darrell Stafford
Last December, Darrell started banging on the door of a house on fire before he helped pull eight kids to safety and find them temporary shelter in the neighborhood. Because he was already late to work, Darrell didn't meet the family until they were reunited after a news story on the fire.
One of the saved family members called Darrell a guardian angel. We call him a hero of the finest kind.
Aug. 19
Thursday, August 19 - Dave Swift
As his kids were growing up, Dave told his wife he needed to find a hobby. She told him it was a "no-brainer" for him to coach for Special Olympics. For the past 16 years, he's coached soccer, softball, volleyball, and basketball for the Blue Valley Special Olympics.
Dave is known as the unofficial "athletic director" for the program and says he loves how the athletes show uninhibited joy for learning and competing.
Aug. 20
Friday, August 20 - Ken Hidden
Ken retired from a career as a certified public accountant and immediately put his knowledge to work to help people. For the past decade since, Ken and several other accountants have volunteered at local libraries doing taxes for seniors and low-to-middle income taxpayers.
Ken volunteers through AARP's Tax Aid Foundation because he likes to keep busy and help people.
Aug. 21
Saturday, August 21 - Russ Mueller
Overland Park's Russ Mueller is busier in retirement than during his many years in the business world. Russ is known as a "mega-volunteer" through his decades of work with the United Way, the blind, elderly and disabled.
Russ served in World War II and the Korean War and to this day visits more than 40 people in nursing homes every week.
Aug. 22
Sunday, August 22 - Janette Fennell
Janette Fennell of Leawood, Kansas, and her family made headlines in the 1990's after they became victims of a horrifying robbery in which they became trapped in the trunk of their car. After years of advocating with lawmakers and the media, the Fennels witnessed major legislation approved through their Kids and Cars organization.
Janette's advocacy has led to other laws concerning car safety and entrapment, potentially saving many lives.
Aug. 30
Monday, August 30 - Patty Mohn
Lifelong Kansas City resident Patty Mohn is celebrating 31 years of service in the Raytown and Blue Springs School Districts as a classroom teacher and early child advocate establishing the school's Parents as Teachers program.
Patty's work has benefited thousands of children and has garnered several awards for her commitment to make sure children start school ready to learn.
Aug. 31
Tuesday, August 31 - Jim Moran
Jim Moran has been a volunteer coach of Blue Springs, Mo., American Legion baseball for more than 30 years touching the lives of over 500 young men. The Blue Springs, Mo., resident also established the original Wood Bat Invitational 23 years ago, which recently welcomed 40 teams from eight states.
Coach Moran's is most proud of the fact that 65 percent of the players he has coached over the years have gone on to play baseball on the collegiate level.
Sept. 1
Wednesday, September 1 - Monika Rojas Beck Pfannes
Monika Rojas Beck Pfannes has coached men's and women's soccer in Kansas City for more than 10 years, while teaching Spanish at North Kansas City High School. Furthermore, Monika is President of the Northland Diversity Council which is a non-profit organization dedicated to understanding and diversity.
In addition, in 2003 Monika established the Sabor Latino, a dance group celebrating Latin culture and is open to all students of the school.
Sept. 3
Friday, September 3 - Clark Smith
Independence, Mo., resident Clark Smith is a World War II veteran who was involved in several battles including the D-Day invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. Upon returning from the war, Clark worked for Amoco for 40 years, retiring in 1982.
Clark has been recognized for his service by the Harry S. Truman Good Neighbor Foundation and has received two presidential citations, two bronze stars for bravery and valor and a bronze arrowhead for the invasion of Europe.
Sept. 4
Saturday, September 4 - Kevin McArdle
After seeing family and friends battle blood cancers, Kevin McArdle recently participated in a personal fundraising campaign for the Leukemia and Lymphoma society where he helped to raise more than $22,000 to find a cure for the disease. The organization recently named Kevin the 2010 Man of the Year for his efforts.
The Kansas City, Mo., resident is also a devoted husband and father and an executive at Cerner Corporation.
Sept. 5
Sunday, September 5 - Daphna Bottcher
Upon the diagnosis of her 7-year old child with Type-1 diabetes, Lee's Summit, Mo., resident Daphna Bottcher founded the Kids with Courage organization to help other parents adjust to their family's rearranged lives living with the disease.
The non-profit provides a "Crate Full of Courage" to every diagnosed Type-1 child at Children's Mercy Hospital providing families useful tools, educational material, and inspirational words and encouragement.
Sept. 13
Monday, September 13 - Lisa Lopez
Lisa Lopez of Kansas City, Missouri, has worked for more than 30 years at The Kansas City Star. Her real passion, though, is helping local Hispanic youth achieve and remember their heritage. She has coordinated fundraisers for "Grupo Atotonilco," a dance group performing at tomorrow night's Viva Los Royals celebration at The K.
Lisa contributes greatly to many festivals and programs throughout the year for the Kansas City Hispanic community.
Sept. 14
Tuesday, September 14 - John Fierro
John Fierro is the first Hispanic president of the Kansas City Parks and Recreation Department board and currently serves as President and CEO of Mattie Rhodes Center, a local organization dedicated to providing arts, mental health and social services to a primarily Latino clientele.
Joining us tonight for Viva Los Royals, John now serves on a national parks and recreation board. His civic involvement dates back decades in Kansas City.
Sept. 15
Wednesday, September 15 - Sherri Hamilton
On a Spring Break trip to Sunrise Beach, Missouri, last March, Sherri Hamilton heard a poolside cry for help. Sherri gave CPR to an unconscious 15-year old boy and saved his life. Her boyfriend, Mark Boles, who is here tonight, dove in and pulled the boy from the water.
Sherri is a registered nurse with the Lee's Summit School District and encourages everyone to take a CPR class.
Sept. 17
Friday, September 17 - Martha Malsbary
Martha Malsbary starts thinking about the holiday season long before her neighbors. She chairs the "coat department" for the Johnson County Christmas Bureau, a weeklong program to provide clothing, food, and toys to underprivileged families. Martha and her husband, Sam, connected with the Royals for the annual Coat Drive, which takes place tonight and tomorrow at The K.
Martha has made sure thousands of coats over the years have warmed needy people in and around Kansas City.
Sept. 18
Saturday, September 18 - Jenna Bell
Jenna Bell of Fort Riley, Kansas, thought she was a healthy 23-year old before she was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy. Two years later, she's a healthier 25-year old thanks to a lifestyle change and the desire to spread the word about heart disease. Jenna spends much of her time reminding people to take of their hearts and volunteering for the American Heart Association.
Jenna sits in the Buck Seat tonight in honor of Girls Night Out and the event's charity of choice, the American Heart Association.
Sept. 19
Sunday, September 19 - Beverly McAuley
Beverly McAuley of Overland Park decided she wanted to make a difference in the community and started recruiting her clients to organize teams for community service. Through "Project Change," Beverly and her husband, Ryan, organized 15 teams in, this, their first year to raise more than $200,000 dollars.
Project Change is a 100% volunteer-based organization and aims to make an even bigger impact in Year Two.
Sept. 27
Monday, September 27 - Carol Nalbandian
Lawrence, Kans., resident Carol Nalbandian is long-time volunteer with several organizations including the Headquarters Counseling Center, Community Mercantile Board, the Friends of the Lawrence Public Library, and the Family Promise of Lawrence Charity Auction and Golf Tournament.
In addition, Carol has been honored as Citizen of the Year by the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce and also Educator of the Year by the National Forum for Black Public Administrators.
Sept. 28
Tuesday, September 28 - Jeanne Patterson
In 1995, Jeanne Patterson joined with Cerner Corporation associates to establish the First Hand Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting individual children with health-related needs when insurance and other financial resources have been exhausted.
Since its inception, the First Hand Foundation has distributed more than $12 million to over 93,000 lives in 70 countries.
Sept. 29
Wednesday, September 29 - Rich and Judy Cummings
Rich and Judy Cummings were instrumental in creating the Hillcrest Ministries Thrift Shop in Kansas City, Mo. The shop supports the services of Hillcrest Ministries Transitional Housing of Platte County that helps homeless families become self-sufficient and have a home of their own.
In addition to helping found the thrift store, Rich and Judy raised over $750,000 to help expand the housing part of the program from 6 apartment units to 20 units.
Sept. 30
Thursday, September 30 - Major Gene Briseno
Retired from the Army, Major Gene Briseno established the Community Cadet Program and serves as the Athletic Director at Central High School in Kansas City, Mo. He has dedicated himself to helping hundreds of inner city high school students build strong character and graduate from high school.
Major Briseno has a heart for the children of our community and devotes his life to ensuring that they have an opportunity to succeed everyday.
Oct. 1
Friday, October 1 - Gloria & Ricardo Hernandez
After their son, Ricky, who has cerebral palsy wished and received a baseball field to be built in his Merriam, Kans., back yard, Gloria and Ricardo Hernandez opened up their hearts and home to more than 20 special needs children for seven years of Saturday morning baseball games.
The Hernandez family also helped to shape the design of Kauffman Stadium by serving on the Americans with Disabilities Act Advisory Committee.
Oct. 2
Saturday, October 2 - Ted Meyer
Ted Meyer started Meyer Music in Blue Springs, Mo., 44 years ago, and his family has been spreading musical cheer across Kansas City since. Throughout his business career, he and his wife, Betty, have been honored numerous times for community service, including being recognized by the Truman Heartland Foundation along side Buck O'Neil. The Meyers have donated thousands of dollars in musical equipment to raise funds for hospitals and other charitable endeavors.
Ted's work with the Rotary Club and Chamber of Commerce has complemented his philosophy: If you live in a town, you take an active part in making it better.
Oct. 3
Sunday, October 3 - Ron Ferguson
Ron Ferguson of Leawood, Kansas, represents all Royals Associates at this final game of the 2010 season and embodies Buck's spirit. He works as a special assignment guard near the Diamond Club and retired after 28 years as a federal probation and parole officer. Ron is loved by fans and fellow associates and says he loves spending time at The K.
Ron and his wife, Tessie, attend Church of the Nativity in Leawood and support Doctors Without Borders, the Kansas City Rescue Mission, the Salvation Army and other worthy causes.
