This book was created especially for

Michael Jordan Smith

With love from,
Grandma and Grandpa
April 22, 2006

Today, Homer couldn’t wait for practice to end. He was heading to Omaha, NE to meet Michael. The bus, called the Home Run Express, was already running when he walked out to the parking lot. “Boy, I hope that Michael is as excited as I am!” thought Homer. “We are going to a big league game together. It’s going to be fun!”

Baseball Tip#1: It is important to stretch slowly before you practice or play. Give your muscles a chance to warm up, so you don't get hurt!

Homer was excited as he pulled up to the house where Michael was waiting. Michael wasn't alone. In fact, half of the neighborhood was there to meet Homer! "This is my friend, Jason,” said Michael. "That's great!" Homer said, "the more the merrier!" After Homer met everyone, Michael and Jason got on the Home Run Express together. "We'll see you after the game," said Michael. "Look for us on TV!"

S.T.R.I.K.E. FORCE Lesson One: You are important! There is only one person like you. You are special! Always do your best and feel good about yourself!

After everyone had buckled up, Michael asked, “Homer, what are all of these posters on the wall of your bus? "I'm glad you noticed," Homer replied. "These are posters of my program. 'Hit A home Run Against Drugs.' They help to remind kids to stay away from things that can keep them from reaching their goals." "What kind of things?" asked Michael . "Bad things, like drugs that can hurt your body," replied Homer. "My goal is to help you make good choices and stay drug-free!"

Baseball Tip #2: When you start to play catch, start slowly. It's not about how hard you can throw, but it's about getting your arm loose.

During the bus ride, Homer and the children shared baseball stories. Some of the children told Homer they had already played on a baseball team. Suddenly, Woodie the driver, announced over the speaker, "Homer, we are at the stadium!" "Hooray!" yelled Michael and Jason, "Let's go!" As they walked closer, Michael was amazed at the size of the stadium. "I never realized it was so BIG!" said Michael. "WOW!" said Jason. "Now this is a ball park!" "It sure is," said Homer. "It's a great place to work too! It takes a lot of people to put on a baseball game."

(...and there's much, much more!)