Zephyrs vow to stay in New Orleans

METAIRIE, La. -- The New Orleans Zephyrs announced that they have every intent on remaining in New Orleans and playing baseball on Opening Day, April 6, 2006, despite the catastrophe of Hurricane Katrina.

Zephyr Field suffered damage due to the storm. Structurally, the building is fine and can be repaired by Opening Day. The Zephyrs have several employees working at the stadium day and night to get it ready for opening day.

"There is a lot to do, but we are lucky to have time on our side," said Mike Schline, Zephyrs general manager. "Opening Day is over six months away and we are determined to open our gates, play baseball and launch fireworks on Opening Day for the people of this city that have been through so much."

Zephyrs owner Don Beaver agrees, seeing baseball in New Orleans and Opening Day as a landmark day for the city.

"The Zephyrs will remain in New Orleans and I expect the relationship between the team and the people of the city to be greater than ever in years to come," Beaver said. "The Zephyrs represent family values and affordable fun, and there is no greater time to provide that for New Orleans than now."

Currently, Zephyr Field is being used as a headquarters for FEMA and the National Guard. The stadium parking lot is full of emergency vehicles, campers, helicopters and other rescue equipment. Stadium Operations Director Jon Peterson has spent the last week sleeping at Zephyr Field and working hand in hand with FEMA and the National Guard.

"It is strange to see all of this at the ballpark, but at the same time it feels good knowing that our stadium and the Zephyrs are providing a positive outlet for the city," Peterson said.

Opening Day is April 6, 2006 against the Round Rock Express. The promotion will be "2005 Fan Appreciation Day."

"We never got to do it on August 28, so we will do it April 6 and let our fans know we appreciate all their support and are glad to have them back," said Schline.