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Monroe Monarchs Press Release, posted by Jeffrey Newman on 4/27/2005 11:21:33 AM
Foundation and website announced to lead effort in erecting a historical marker for Monroe Negro League Baseball team Dallas, TX and Monroe, LA, May 1, 2005 – The Monroe Monarchs Historical Foundation, the organization that will be coordinating the erection and dedication of a historical marker to recognize the Depression-era Monroe Monarchs Negro baseball team, today announced the launch of a new website that will be used to centralize all information and communication re: the dedication of the historical marker for the team, as well as all related event activities during the formal ceremonies during Black History Month, February, 2006. "This event will not only provide formal recognition of a team that has largely been forgotten, even in Monroe history, but will also provide a historical backdrop of encouragement for future athletes in Northeast Louisiana, especially in urban areas" said Jeffrey Newman, who will become Vice President of the Monroe Monarchs Historical Foundation. "Even in an era of racial divide, the Monroe Monarchs were a beacon of racial unity with both whites and blacks regularly attending games. This team also launched the careers of many well-known Negro League baseball players, such as Barney Morris, Leroy Morney and recent Baseball Hall of Fame inductee, Hilton Smith. The historical significance of this team is vital to preserving the culture of Northeast Louisiana and is educational to the youth of today. It shows how a seemingly minor geographical portion of the country contributed greatly to the nationwide prominence of many well-known figures in the 'the great game' of baseball." The catalyst for this event was the amateur interest and investigation of the subject by former Monroyan, Scott Greer. Now living in Dallas, TX after over 20 years in Monroe, Scott's interest in all facets of history, as well as his love of sports, led him to begin this venture. After significantly researching the subject and finding very little information and recognition of such an important part of Monroe's history, Scott enlisted the aid of his friend, former Monroyan and sports fan, Jeffrey Newman, to begin the project that would result in formal recognition of the Monroe Monarchs. To help launch the new organization, the foundation will be working with Northeast Louisiana corporations, such as CenturyTel and JPMorgan Chase and Co., to raise the relatively small amount of money required to erect and dedicate the marker. Other volunteers have pledged their information, time and support of this venture, including many Monroe citizens, Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo's executive staff, members of the Monroe News-Star, the Monroe Free Press and the Ouachita Parish Public Library. “Without the support of Monroe's citizens, governmental bodies and corporations, we would not be able to complete such a large undertaking in a short period of time. We are delighted at the significantly positive response and eagerness to contribute we have received. We encourage the elders of Monroe's rich past to contribute pictures, memories and stories so that we may paint a detailed portrait for Monroe's future.” commented Scott Greer, future President of the Monroe Monarchs Historical Foundation. "Record-keeping was not a priority during this era, so very little is available. This is very much a grass-roots effort that needs the participation of all Monroyans." About the Monroe Monarchs Historical Foundation The Monroe Monarchs Historical Foundation (www.monroemonarchs.org) is the group that exists to plan, erect and dedicate a historical marker in recognition of the Monroe Monarchs Negro baseball team. The Monroe Monarchs Historical Foundation was founded by Scott Greer and Jeffrey Newman. The Monroe Monarchs Historical Foundation is seeking to obtain 501(c)(3) status as a non-profit organization. It will continue to be based in Dallas, TX and Monroe, LA. Contact information Monroe Monarchs Historical Foundation: - Scott Greer - scott-greer@sbcglobal.net - Jeffrey Newman - jonewman1@sbcglobal.net http://www.monroemonarchs.org

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