Kernels kick off 2012 summer reading program

Each day inches us closer to summer, and that means the Cedar Rapids Kernels Summer Reading Program is back in full swing and ready to entertain. The program kicked off its 14th consecutive year this Monday morning at St. Jude Elementary school in front of an energetic young audience. Mr. Shucks, our favorite mascot, even made an appearance to get the kids pumped up for the upcoming season.

The goal of this program is to stimulate the minds and imaginations of kids in the Corridor through the power of reading. Over the next 8 weeks, Kernels players will visit over 50 elementary schools across Eastern Iowa. The program was extremely successful last summer, with over 3,700 kids participating, and over 4,000 are expected for the 2012. This program is made possible with the generous support of Toyota Financial Services and contributing sponsors, The Gazette, Rockwell Collins, Fazoli's, Heartland Graphics and Wells Fargo.

Starting today, kids can log their minutes onto a miniature Kernels scorecard, where they can redeem hard earned minutes for great prizes. Kids who read 250 minutes and hit first base earn a free ticket to any Cedar Rapids Kernels baseball game. If they keep reading and reach second base at 500 minutes, they receive a free Kid's Meal from Fazoli's. Kids who hit a triple and read 750 minutes at third base earn an exclusive Kernels jersey draw string bag. If they read 1000 minutes, they've hit a home run and receive a Mr. Shucks wobblehead and will also be recognized on the field during the August 26th game.

Prizes can be claimed in the Bimm Ridder Diamond Shop at Veterans Memorial Stadium by showing your reading scorecard at any level to redeem your prize. Kids can read a book on their own, but being read to can be logged as well.

For questions about the Kernels Summer Reading Program, contact Brandon Clemens at (319) 896-7617 or brandon@kernels.com.

The Kernels open the 2012 MWL home season tonight at 6:35 pm against the Clinton LumberKings. Gates open at 5:30 pm and the first 1,000 fans through the gates receive a free Mike Trout bobblehead, thanks to Great Clips. 2012 Magnet Schedules will be handed out throughout the entire opening series (April 9-15) thanks to Mercy Care Community Physicians.

Tickets are available by calling the Kernels Ticket Office at (319) 896-7560 from 10 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday and from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday, or order tickets on-line at www.kernels.com.