Three-day celebration planned for O'Neil

KANSAS CITY -- The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum will hold a three-day community-wide celebration in Kansas City in recognition of the late Buck O'Neil's 102nd birthday on Nov. 9, 10 and 13.

O'Neil, a former Negro Leagues player and manager and Major League coach and scout, was one of the founders of the KC-based institution. One of the goals, according to museum president Bob Kendrick, will be to raise $102,000 for its continued support.

On Saturday, Nov. 9 at 9 a.m. CT, there is a 2.2-mile family run/walk through 18th and Vine area (register at www.nlbm.com). The $22 entry fee includes a T-shirt and museum admission. There is an 11.m. CT discussion and book signing by former Major Leaguers George Altman and Willie Wilson at the museum. Buck's Bash and "The Power of Love" is at 8 p.m., as well as soul performer Howard Hewett at the Gem Theater.

On Sunday, Nov. 10 at 3:30 p.m. CT, there is the third annual Gospel Salute to Buck, free to public at the Gem Theater. On Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 7:30 p.m., there is the Buck O'Neil Legacy Award presentation to University of Kansas Hospital president Bob Page and broadcaster and 1984 National League Cy Young Award winner Rick Sutcliffe, followed by Sati Word's one-man play inspired by O'Neil's life at the Gem Theater.

For more details and ticket information, call the NLBM at 816-221-1920.