Jehovah’s Witnesses, baseball creating $2.4M economic impact

Two upcoming events involving Jehovah’s Witnesses and baseball together are estimated to create a $2.4 million economic impact in the Queen City.

The bulk is expected from the Jehovah’s Witnesses Summer Regional Convention scheduled July 6-9 at Missouri State University’s JQH Arena, according to a news release.

Officials with the Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau project nearly 6,000 people will visit Springfield for the event and spend $2.3 million while they’re here.

“Nearly 13 million persons attended our conventions last year worldwide,” said David Semonian, spokesman for Warwick, New York-based Jehovah’s Witnesses, in the release. “We hope to have an even larger audience this year.”

The June 27-July 2 Premier Baseball Incoming Freshman Championship is expected to create a nearly $900,000 economic impact, according to the CVB.

The event is estimated to bring 36 teams and 1,200 additional guests at 10 area baseball fields.

The tournament allows student athletes to gain exposure to collegiate and professional scouts, according to a release.