Due to a rise in crime and a lack of resources to address crime, local business leaders have been reaching out to the City of Tacoma, Washington to express their concerns. One local business owner contacted Tacoma Police Union I.U.P.A. Local 6 to ask what could be done to address the shortage of staffing. They were advised that morale was critically low and that union members felt attacked by their own city. This business owner took it upon himself to contact the Tacoma Rainers to pitch the idea of an Officer Appreciation Night at Cheney Stadium, the home stadium of the Tacoma Rainers (AAA affiliate of the Seattle Mariners).
The Tacoma Rainers have been and continue to be very supportive of Local Six and its members to include hosting a first responder night as well as a police versus fire softball game. At great expense to himself, the local business owner bought out a full section of the stadium for local law enforcement and their families. This included 400 tickets, free food/drinks, face painting, and a bouncy house.
Local Six members and their families were treated to a truly great night at the ball game. The above video was played on the big screen between innings during the game. The whole night was meant to show officers and their families that they are loved and appreciated by their community.
