Barbee steps down as Kernels president

The Cedar Rapids Kernels announced Wednesday that Tom Barbee has resigned as president of the club's board of directors and is being replaced by longtime board member Gary Keoppel.

Barbee led the Kernels for six years. He cited a "busy schedule, including increasing travel demands," as his reasons for stepping down.

“Walking through the stadium throughout the summer, meeting the fans and listening to what they have to say, has been and will remain a wonderful experience,” he said.

Under his sted, the Kernels were honored with Minor League Baseball's John H. Johnson Award in 2008, as MiLB's top organization. Keoppel has served the Kernels as club vice president and president of the Kernels Foundation.

“We're looking forward to a great 2010 and beyond, helping to continue to move professional baseball forward in the community for years to come," he said.

Greg Seyfer was elected as vice president of the board, with Craig Schulte secretary and Rob Brooks treasurer.