Tom Barbee Steps Down As Kernels President
Published on January 27, 2010 under Midwest League (MWL1)
Cedar Rapids Kernels News Release
Cedar Rapids, IA - Tom Barbee is stepping down as president of the Board of Directors of the Cedar Rapids Ball Club, Inc., after six years of service. In action taken at Tuesday night's board meeting, Barbee indicated he would not seek another term as president, and Gary Keoppel was elected the new board president.
In a public statement, outgoing team president Barbee expressed his "heartfelt thanks" to the board of directors and the front office staff for their support over the past 6 years. He acknowledged that working with the front office and the board made his years as president "a wonderful experience."
Barbee cited a very busy schedule, including increasing travel demands, as the main reasons for stepping down. He also extends his gratitude to the growing number of Kernels fans he has met over the years. "Walking through the stadium throughout the summer, meeting the fans and listening to what they have to say, has been and will remain a wonderful experience". Tom will be no stranger to the stadium, as he will continue serving on the executive committee of the board.
During his time as president of the Board of Directors, Barbee faced the challenges of the flood and the subsequent downturn in the economy. The Board and the Kernels met the challenges and, in fact, were named the top organization in Minor League Baseball in 2008.
Gary Keoppel will take over as board president effective immediately. He has a long history with professional baseball that started when he worked as a bat boy in the old Veterans Memorial Stadium. He has served on the board of directors since 1988, most recently as vice president, and has also been the president of the Kernels Foundation. Gary thanked Tom for his great service to the club, and looks forward to working with Tom on the board.
In a prepared statement, Keoppel looked to the future stating, "We're looking forward to a great 2010 and beyond, helping to continue to move professional baseball forward in the community for years to come."
Greg Seyfer was elected as vice president of the Board of Directors, as Craig Schulte (secretary) and Rob Brooks (treasurer) were re-elected to their positions.
The Cedar Rapids Kernels open their ninth season in Perfect Game Field at Veterans Memorial Stadium on Thursday, April 8th against the Beloit Snappers at 6:35 pm. Season tickets and 10-Game Anytime Coupon Books are on sale now at the stadium, or on-line at www.kernels.com, and individual game tickets go on sale Monday, March 15th at 10 am.
Midwest League Stories from January 27, 2010
- Tom Barbee Steps Down As Kernels President - Cedar Rapids Kernels
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