Gems Announce Future Plans
August 20, 2013 - West Coast League (WCL)
Klamath Falls Gems News Release
"The Gems will be back in Klamath Falls for the 2014 Season!" The announcement, made by team owners Jerry and Lisa Walker extinguishes any thought that the franchise was looking to relocate. "We know of the speculation that the Gems may not be returning to Klamath, but We Are", said Lisa Walker, who took over as interim General Manager for the team on July 15th. "We feel it is important to let our fans know now, of our commitment to the community," said Walker.
"We are very excited for the 2014 Season, and beyond," said Jerry Walker. "We are dedicated to making next season the best yet." The West Coast League's spotlight will be on Klamath Falls next summer as the Gems' won the bid to host the League's 2014 All-Star Game. "It's an incredible honor and something that the entire region should be proud of. Major League Baseball Scouts, from all 30 major league teams will be invited. This is an opportunity to expose the great baseball history and tradition here in Klamath to all of baseball," concluded Walker.
"This is a showcase event that Klamath can embrace and benefit from. It is an opportunity to fill up hotel rooms, convenience stores, restaurants, and help all local businesses flourish," said Chip Massie, Executive Director for the Klamath Chamber of Commerce. "This will be one of the Chamber's top priorities in 2014, and we look forward to working with the Gems' owners and staff to maximize this incredible opportunity for our community," said Massie.
The Gems' owners also announced extending their working relationship with the Kiger Association who operates Kiger Stadium. "We are collaborating with the Kiger Association for additional upgrades and improvements to the Stadium prior to the 2014 season," said Jerry Walker. A building is being planned that will provide new restrooms for men and women at the Stadium. "The restrooms will also be ADA accessible," said Don Ambers who is the chairman of the Association. "The Walker's have been great partners and have been very good to work with. A great deal of the work is expected to be done through volunteer labor and materials. In addition, the Gems will be making a cash donation to the project! We all want Kiger Stadium to be in the very best condition possible for the All Star Game next summer. It's a marquee event," concluded Ambers. Those wishing to volunteer to assist in this effort, or make donations, should contact Don Ambers at 541-891-8609.
The Gems will also be hosting a Brewfest at the Stadium this Saturday, August 24th, with proceeds to benefit The Kiger Association. Walk the Bases, Taste the Brews will run from noon to 8pm. Over a dozen locally inspired brews will be featured. Admission is $10, and will include a tasting mug and tickets to taste the brews.
The Gems also are expected to announce a General Manager soon. "We've had a great deal of interest and we have been very diligent in the selection process. Our goal is to find someone that is a perfect fit for Klamath Falls, someone whom effectively can lead the franchise for years to come," said Lisa Walker.
The future indeed is bright for baseball in The Klamath basin.
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