The St. Louis Cardinals and fans paid tribute to the memory of legendary Hall of Famer Jack Buck at the Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club’s 17th Annual “Jack Buck Celebrity Night with the Stars” held Sunday, July 20, at the Missouri Athletic Club, 405 Washington Ave. The 2008 “That’s A Winner Award” went to Cardinals Pitcher Adam Wainwright, who could not be present due to family committments and planned a visit to Mathews-Dickey later in the year. KMOX Radio made a live broadcast from the dinner auction, with Sports Director Tom Ackerman emceeing the festivities, and Hall of Famer Red Schoendienst who made a special appearance. 

“We are pleased to honor one of Jack Buck’s greatest wishes — to do something for the kids,” said Martin L. Mathews, the Club’s president, CEO & co-founder. “We were delighted to have the community support this cause and help us reach the successful conclusion of our $1 million ‘In the Footprints of Jack Buck’ campaign.” 

A wave of excitement rushed over this gala, complete with organ antics by Ernie Hays. Sponsors who signed on for a Team Player table of 10 at $1,000, nominated one representative to take a picture with LaRussa, and to receive a replica 2006 World Series championship ring and team photo.

More than 250 sports lovers attended the delicious dinner gala and high-level silent and live sports/celebrity memorabilia auction. Cardinals Care, the St. Louis Rams, Blues and others, donated auction items this year. Carole Buck attended the gala and provided special remarks, highlighting her husband's legacy. American Airlines was the official airline sponsor.

On July 18, 19 and 20, Dennis Jenkerson, fire chief and commissioner of the St. Louis Fire Department, lead a “Safety Weekend for Kids” toll road for the cause before and after the Cardinals games at Busch Stadium.

Proceeds benefited the Mathews-Dickey Sports Program,which brings families together and fosters strong character in young people through “America’s Past-time” Baseball, Hoops Basketball, Bulldog Football, Swimming and more.  The Club annually provides educational, athletic and cultural enrichment programs to more than 40,000 young people from throughout the St. Louis-metropolitan area, and is a United Way member agency.  For more information on this or future events, call Barbara A. Washington or Bill Fronczak at (314) 382-5952, ext. 234.

See Jack Buck Tribute

Archived:

Jack Buck Celebrity Night With the Stars - 2008
Jack Buck Celebrity Night With the Stars - 2007
Jack Buck Celebrity Night With the Stars - 2006
Jack Buck Celebrity Night With the Stars - 2005
Jack Buck Celebrity Night With the Stars - 2004
Jack Buck Celebrity Night With the Stars - 2003
Jack Buck Celebrity Night With the Stars - 2002
Jack Buck Celebrity Night With the Stars - 2001

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