The Derrick Thomas/Neil Smith Third and Long Foundation is giving Kansas City a reason to celebrate. Fans of all ages are invited to recognize the impending Pro Football Hall of Fame induction of the Third and Long’s founder, former Kansas City Chiefs LB Derrick Thomas. The “celebration” event will take place on Friday, July 31, 2009 from 5:00-8:30 PM at downtown’s historic “City Market.” Admission for this special retrospective is free. The evening will serve as a salute to one of the greatest ever to don the Red and Gold.

The highlight of the night will come when the player most synonymous with Thomas, DE Neil Smith, leads an on-stage panel to discuss “D.T.’s” distinguished career. Undoubtedly, it will afford Chiefs fans a rare opportunity to remember the late, great #58 through the eyes of those that knew him best. Included in this showcase will be the playing of a special Derrick Thomas tribute video.

Chiefs Alumni such as FB Kimble Anders, C Tim Grunhard and DT Dan Saleaumua, among others, will also be on hand to sign autographs for those in attendance. Additionally, there will be visits by Chiefs Cheerleaders and KC Wolf, music, inflatables and face painting. Derrick Thomas Hall of Fame merchandise as well as food and drinks will be on sale at this festival-style event.

Team President Denny Thum will also be on-hand at the event to reflect on Thomas’ legacy. Included in the evening’s festivities will be special recognition of Third and Long Foundation board members and representatives from the Derrick Thomas Academy.

Thomas will be enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio during induction festivities on August 8, 2009. At that time, he will officially take his place as one of the 253 individuals so recognized.

A stalwart member of the Chiefs on and off the field for the final 11 years of his life, “D.T.” possessed an effervescent personality and was widely recognized as one of the greatest pass rushers the League has ever known. Thomas was the fourth overall selection in the ‘89 NFL Draft out of the University of Alabama. A nine-time Pro Bowl selection, Thomas registered a franchise-record 126.5 career sacks. The Miami, Florida native also holds Chiefs records for career safeties (3), forced fumbles (45) and fumble recoveries (19).

The primary mission of the Derrick Thomas/Neil Smith Third and Long Foundation is to support and improve reading and learning abilities of disadvantaged school children in Kansas City, Missouri and its surrounding areas. The Foundation strives to change the lives of 9-13 year old urban children facing challenging and even life-threatening situations. For more information, please visit: http://www.thirdandlong.org/

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