Memories from the Press Box: Reflecting on Kansas City Royals' Opening Days with Steve Slivka

As I flipped through my notebooks for the week of April 1st, I realized there weren't many standout stories. However, one recurring theme caught my eye: the Kansas City Royals' opening days. Even before my full-time stint at KOAM-TV, my dear friend Steve Slivka and I made it a tradition to cover these events. Despite the chilly weather, I cherished our time in the cozy press box, indulging in the abundance of food and drinks provided for the media. Sporting events always offered a delightful perk of free food, a small joy I never took for granted. During these games, Steve and I made a point to seek out fans from the Joplin/Pittsburg area, capturing their stories for our local angle. But beyond the professional pursuit, what I truly miss are the car rides to Kansas City with Steve. Those journeys were filled with conversations ranging from sports to work to life itself. Steve has not only been a reliable friend but also a valuable mentor in my journey.

Steve Slivka and I in front of Wrigley Field in Chicago.