The Cedar Rapids Kernels’ new Veterans Memorial Stadium is paying dividends for the ballclub in many ways. The Kernels have won the right to host the 2004 Midwest League All-Star game. General Manager Jack Roeder says the stadium played a big role in winning the bid.He says they also been awarded the 2006 American Legion World Series and are seeking other events. Roeder says they’re also in the running to host the NCAA Division Three College World Series.He says the decision on that bid should come in July, and they’re in competition with the Wisconsin franchise. Roeder says a new stadium gives them a lot of options with the ability to hold concerts, and the new parking lot also can used for events. Roeder says the new stadium is showing an impact in the number of people who attend the Kernels’ games.Attendance is already up, and he expects it to be up even more in the second half of the season when there’s better weather. This will be the first time Cedar Rapids has hosted the event since 1991, and the sixth time overall.