Arkansas Business

This story is from the archives of ArkansasSports360.com.

The Naturals have finalized the schedule of pre-game festivities at Arvest Ballpark for tonight’s opener against the San Antonio Missions, featuring a celebration of the team’s 2010 Texas League Championship.

The gates will open at 5:00, and each of the first 5,000 fans to enter the ballpark will receive the official 2011 Naturals Magnet Schedule, presented by Pinnacle Hills Promenade, featuring a picture of manager Brian Poldberg holding the championship trophy.

Fans are encouraged to enter the ballpark and take their seats by 5:45, as at that time the Naturals’ mascot Strike will make his annual entrance into the ballpark to kick off the ceremonies. Immediately thereafter, Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe, Kansas City Royals owner David Glass and Poldberg will address the fans in attendance.

Following these speeches, the 17 players returning from last year’s championship team will be presented with their championship rings, and the Texas League Championship flag will be unveiled. The flag will fly at every home game this season.

Weather permitting, the Naturals will then continue the tradition of having skydivers land in the outfield and present special game balls to the Texas League umpires working the game.

The ceremonial first pitch will then be thrown by Governor Beebe.

The Northwest Arkansas Youth Chorus will conclude the pregame festivities with the singing of the Star Spangled Banner. Based in Rogers, the organization offers three levels of choirs for students in grades 2-12.

The game’s first pitch is scheduled for 6:20.