CAPAHAS NEED HELP WITH TRIP TO WICHITA; MISSOURIAN GETS FUND DRIVE GOING

The Kohlfeld Capahas are in a financial pinch -- and the Southeast Missourian has stepped to the plate first to help get Cape Girardeau's tradition-rich baseball team to the National Baseball Congress World Series in Wichita, Kan.

Southeast Missourian Publisher Wally Lage and Editor R. Joe Sullivan announced Monday that the Southeast Missourian has pledged $500 to the Capahas, and challenges other area businesses to do the same.

"The Southeast Missourian believes the Capahas deserve the support of the community for this important tournament," said Sullivan. "We believe other businesses will also contribute to allow the Capahas to raise the money to compete in Wichita."

The Capahas will leave for the double-elimination NBC World Series in Wichita Wednesday night. They will play games Friday and Sunday, then return to Cape Girardeau. If they win at least one of the games, they will return to Wichita the following weekend for more tournament action.

Kohlfeld Distributing has been the Capahas' primary sponsor since 1984, and Kohlfeld paid the team's NBC World Series entry fee of $1,000. But a minimum of about $4,000 is needed for lodging and gasoline expenses.

"We're in a pinch, and we need to raise some money in a hurry," said Capahas' manager Jess Bolen. "We're trying to get as much money as we can before we leave Wednesday, then the fund-raising can continue next week when we get back, as long as we're still alive in the tournament.

"We really appreciate what the Southeast Missourian has done," said Bolen. "Their participation is tremendous, and hopefully this will get the ball rolling for us. Kohlfeld has been a tremendous supporter of our ballclub over the years, but financially it's gotten to the point where we need extra help."

Bolen said the Capahas played their first game in 1894, making the team the oldest baseball team in the country. Bolen is in his 31st year as manager, compiling a 1,016-342 record with eight state or regional championships and a top finish of fourth in the NBC World Series.

The NBC World Series, featuring teams with top collegiate and former professional players, annually attracts the top 32 teams in the nation. The Capahas, 30-5 this year, have been a fixture in the elite tournament since Bolen took over as manager.

Area businesses or individuals wishing to donate money to the Capahas can either call Bolen at 334-7327 or 335-6644, or mail checks made payable to the Capahas Baseball Team to 2001 Perryville Road, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63701.