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| McDonald’s Owner/Operator Roland Parrish celebrates his ceremonial first pitch with son Ro Parrish during the April 15th MLB game between the Texas Rangers and Seattle Mariners |
Dallas, TX – April 17, 2014 – Roland Parrish, President, CEO and Owner of Parrish McDonald’s Restaurants Ltd, which owns and operates 25 McDonalds in the Dallas area was invited to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at the Texas Rangers vs. Seattle Mariners game on Tuesday, April 15, 2014 at Globe Life Park in Arlington, TX. This unique honor is both a tribute to the legacy of Mr. Robinson and a way to celebrate the success of one of America's great business leaders.
Parrish reflected on his respect for Robinson and the sacrifices made to provide equality in a sport all enjoy. He also spent several days making certain that his throw was good and crossed the plate. “I had to get the pitch back to home plate” he said. “I had family, friends and some employees there for this special day”.
The night was completed as a success as the Rangers won 5-0, earning their first shutout of the season.
Jackie Robinson Day is a traditional event which occurs annually in Major League Baseball, commemorating and honoring the day Jackie Robinson made his major league debut. April 15 was Opening Day in 1947, Robinson's first season in the Major Leagues. Initiated for the first time on April 15, 2004, Jackie Robinson Day is celebrated each year on that day as all players wear the number “42” as a tribute to Mr. Robinson. The festivity is a result of Robinson's memorable career, best known for becoming the first black major league baseball player of the modern era in 1947.
Two Krannert graduates helped honor Jackie Robinson on April 15th as Shawn Taylor threw out the first pitch at the Astros vs. Royals game at Minute Maid Park.