Monday, May 3, 2010

City of Meridian Blogs

Last week we had a real opportunity to celebrate in Meridian with one of the all-time Major League Baseball greats, Vern Law. Vern was a pitcher for the Pittsburg Pirates for 16 seasons through the 1960’s. Many of you probably recognize his name because you are a baseball purist and are aware of his nationally recognized skills and talents, but what you may not know is that Vern Law was Meridian’s first professional athlete.

Nicknamed “the Deacon,” Vern was known for his accomplishments both on and off the field. In addition to helping the Pirates win their third World Series, Vern was also the recipient of the prestigious Cy Young Award – the award given to the best pitcher in both the American and National leagues. Vern was also regarded as an individual who valued his reputation as a leader and his moral character, earning him the coveted Lou Gehrig award in 1969 given to the player that best exemplifies character and integrity both on and off the field.

Kiss it Good-Bye is a new book about Vern Law’s life and career written by author and lifelong baseball fan, John Moody. It contains unique stories about Law and the 1960 Pirates, including one that might give Law the unique distinction of being the only man in the history of major league baseball to be ejected from a game due to another player’s bad conduct.

During a game Vern claims that pitcher Nellie King was sitting next to him, and began yelling and cursing - things that Vern never would have done. When the umpire took notice he saw Vern pointing at the score board and thought Vern was making an inappropriate gesture. According to Law, the ump came over to the dugout and said, "That’s it Law, you’re out of here!” Law said, “I was embarrassed to be out there any way with all the bad language. He accused me of impersonating an umpire. And I wish I would have thought faster and accused him of the same thing.” These, and other great stories, are part of this book about this truly amazing Meridian High School graduate.

At 3:00 pm today, I would like to invite everyone in the community to come out and meet Vern Law – a “Major League Meridian Legend”. We will be celebrating Vern and his accomplishments on the steps of City Hall by proclaiming April, 22, 2010 as Vern Law Day. In addition Vern will be signing autographs, a pitching session will take place, and refreshments and prizes will be provided. This is a great opportunity to celebrate a Meridian citizen who has become a local hero and brings pride to many in our community. Please join us.

Do you know of a local hero or legend making an impact in Meridian? If so I want to hear about it. Email me at Mayortammy@Meridiancity.org and together we can recognize those individuals and celebrate Meridian as the premier community to live, work and raise a family.