Garrison Middle School to dedicate new baseball backstop

Garrison Middle School to dedicate new baseball backstop
Walla Walla Valley Select Baseball program fundraiser pays for project

Dedication Ceremony
- Thursday, April 14
- 3:45 p.m. (dedication ceremony prior to first pitch of the 2011 Garrison baseball season)
- Location: Garrison Middle School baseball field (906 Chase St.)

Garrison Middle School is planning a dedication ceremony Thursday, April 14 at 3:45 p.m. for its new baseball backstop. The Walla Walla Valley Select Baseball program, under the direction of fundraising chair Peggy Needham, led a successful fund-raising campaign which generated more than $9000 for the materials to replace the aging baseball backstop.

"This backstop was in desperate need of replacement," Needham said. "Not only is the Garrison field utilized by the middle school, it is utilized by summer ball as well. It will be wonderful to have an additional field to use for summer and fall baseball programs."

The backstop was originally installed by the Rotary Club of Walla Walla in 1958 for use as a Pony League field. The new backstop was installed by Eagle Construction of Walla Walla. Walla Walla Public Schools paid for the cost of the installation.

The new backstop was moved forward to enhance competitive play and allow for additional fan seating, and improve safety by increasing the overhang to lessen the chance of cars and spectators being hit by foul balls.

A sign donated by Key Technology with names of those who contributed $500 or more to the project will be placed on the backstop at the Garrison baseball field.

$500 or more donor list:
- Mike and Peggy Needham
- Tom and Sydnee Watson
- Stubblefield Trust
- Eric Kimball
- Walla Walla Babe Ruth
- Walla Walla Valley Select Baseball
- Rotary Club of Walla Walla

- Gary Carlson