Spokane, WASH. – Each quarter, Fairchild Air Force Base hosts family members of deployed personnel on base, providing a welcome distraction and the chance to spend time with families facing similar challenges. At these events, the goal is to provide a free meal and entertainment while enjoying each other’s company and support.
This spring, in light of recent world events, the Spokane Indians and Avista Utilities teamed up to host this event with over 100 family members of deployed personnel from Fairchild at the ballpark on Friday, April 22nd.
The group enjoyed a ballpark-catered dinner in the Coors Light Caboose and cheered on the Indians to a 7-3 victory over the Hillsboro Hops on a gorgeous spring night at Avista Stadium.
Lindsey Diaz, whose grandfather played in the New York Mets organization, threw out the first pitch before the game. Her husband, Lt. Col. Valentino “Tino” Diaz, has been in the Air Force since 2005 and is currently stationed in the European Theater.
“It means everything to have someone who is going through the same things you are going through,” said Lindsey. “And an event like this to bring it all together – it’s super fun.”
Marissa Korzilius’ husband Lt. Col. Joshua Korzilius, who was in the same class at the Air Force Academy as Lt. Col. Diaz, has been in the European Theater since October. The mother of four is thankful to have the support of the Spokane community and fellow military spouses like Lindsey.
“Things like this help, seeing the community rally around you,” said Marissa. “The kids are able to do something fun and get their mind off missing dad.”
The night at the ballpark for the deployed families started with a light rain but ended with an Indians win, a beautiful sunset, and a rainbow over the Caboose, showing that — with a little help from the community and support from friends and family – there are brighter days ahead.
NEXT HOMESTAND
The Indians return home to Avista Stadium for a six-game series against the Eugene Emeralds starting on Tuesday, May 17th with the Businessperson’s Special Day Game presented by the Journal of Business & KXLY AM 920/100.7 FM. Daytime baseball is back at Avista Stadium with a first pitch at 12PM. Move your afternoon business meetings to the ballpark for a hot dog and beer! Bring your gently used neckties to donate to local charities. CLICK HERE for tickets.
ABOUT THE SPOKANE INDIANS
The Spokane Indians are the High-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies located in Spokane, Washington, and were named 2021 MiLB Organization of the Year. Avista Stadium is home to the MultiCare Kids Bench Seat. Parking at all Spokane Indians games is FREE. The Spokane Indians office and team store hours are 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM on Monday through Thursday and 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM on Fridays. On game days, the office and team store are open from 10:00 AM through the end of the game.