The countdown is underway for David Iery Day at Great American Ball Park.
The annual event will be this Saturday, September 17, when the Cincinnati Reds take on the Pittsburgh Pirates. Game time is 6:10 p.m. and Iery will serve as the honorary captain for the game.
As an added bonus, the Lewis County High School Band will be performing the National Anthem prior to the game’s first pitch.
“I’m really excited,” Iery says. “It gives us a chance to showcase our community and the great people we have here.
A few tickets still remain and there are also a few seats up for grabs on the motor coach that will take fans from Tollesboro to the ball park and back.
As an added bonus for those attending, if you’re one of the first 20,000 fans to arrive, you’ll receive a Reds commemorative stein. September 17 is also German Heritage Night at the ballpark.
Iery will take part in the umpires and coaches meeting at home plate before the first pitch.
September is a special month for Iery.
“It’s National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month,” Iery said. “The Reds recognize the importance of that and help to promote awareness.”
Iery was paralyzed in 1989, his senior year at Lewis County High School, when he slid head-first into home plate during a game against the East Carter Raiders.
He and brother Russell operate Iery Construction.
Iery also heads up a beef cattle farm and has entered the world of politics. He is the second year of his first term as Second District Magistrate.
Lewis County native Bobby Mackey will also be welcoming those who travel to Cincinnati to attend the game.
“We’re having Lewis County night,” Mackey said. “We always have a great time when my hometown friends and neighbors stop by.”
Show your Reds ticket at the door at Bobby Mackey’s Music World for free admission.
Mackey’s country music club is just across the river from Great American Ball Park at 44 Licking Pike in Wilder.
For ticket information call Iery at 606-796-3785.
