South Bend Cubs Welcome National Anthem Auditions for Upcoming 2020 Season

 

SOUTH BEND, IN – Auditions and applications are now being accepted for individuals and groups to perform the National Anthem at Four Winds Field prior to a 2020 South Bend Cubs home game.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE AUDITION FORM

Audition Requirements:

All auditions must be submitted as a video. Audio files, tapes, or CDs will not be accepted. Videos will be accepted as a downloadable file, video link such as YouTube or Google Drive, or DVD. Videos can also be recorded on a mobile device. The 2020 audition form must accompany your submission. Performances of the National Anthem are not to exceed two minutes. All vocal auditions must be performed a cappella (no musical accompaniment). Instrumental performances will be accepted. Those who audition in groups must include all members in the audition video.

Please send all electronic auditions to marketing@southbendcubs.com. Mailed auditions should be sent to South Bend Cubs, National Anthem Audition, 501 W South St. South Bend, IN 46601. Audition drop-offs can be submitted at the same address.

The last day to submit 2020 National Anthem auditions is Monday, March 2, 2020. Applicants are asked to submit their audition video via email or DVD by dropping off at the Four Winds Field main office. Once submitted, auditions will go through a careful judging process. Final decisions will be made in March and a member of the South Bend Cubs staff will reach out to those who have been selected.

The South Bend Cubs open the 2020 season at Four Winds Field on April 9 against the Lake County Captains. Opening Night will feature a special presentation celebrating the 2019 Midwest League Championship. Additional details on the celebration will be released in the coming weeks.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 32 seasons, the team has won four Midwest League titles, most recently in 2019, and has captured eight division titles. In 2019, the South Bend Cubs hosted the Midwest League All-Star Game. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

South Bend Cubs Now Accepting Job Applications for the 2020 Season

 

SOUTH BEND, IN – Now is your chance to join a championship winning team! The South Bend Cubs are looking for energetic and customer service focused individuals to work at Four Winds Field this summer. Applications can be submitted through the online portal or by filling out an application at the South Bend Cubs main office.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

The streamlined application, added last season, has been designed with mobile devices in mind, making it accessible and easy for anyone to complete. All applications will be reviewed by the South Bend staff and those whose qualifications match the desired needs will be contacted to set up an interview.

There are 15 different positions across eight departments that the South Bend Cubs are looking to fill. Some of the available positions include gameday ambassador, ticket seller, hospitality host, parking attendant, custodial services, fun zone employee, concessions team member, and more.

“The reason we have become a summer destination for people across the region is because our gameday staff creates a fun and exciting place to visit,” South Bend Cubs Vice President and General Manager Nick Brown said. “It’s the gold-standard guest service that keep our fans coming back year after year. We’re looking for people who are passionate, energetic, and customer service focused to join our team.”

The South Bend Cubs will open the 2020 season by hosting the Lake County Captains for a three-game series beginning on Thursday, April 9.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 32 seasons, the team has won four Midwest League titles, most recently in 2019, and has captured eight division titles. In 2019, the South Bend Cubs hosted the Midwest League All-Star Game. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill. More information is available at www.SouthBendCubs.com.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

FIRST SMOKIES JOB FAIR OF THE 2020 SEASON

 

SEVIERVILLE, TN – The Tennessee Smokies have announced that the club will be hosting their first job fair of the 2020 season at Smokies Stadium on Friday, February 7 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, February 8 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. When reporting to the stadium, please enter by The Restaurant located on the left side of the stadium.

The job fair will only feature job positions from food and beverage. Tennessee Smokies are looking for employees who are able to work all home games and additional events as needed inside Smokies Stadium. Most games are held during evening hours of the week and many weekends.

Available departments include new hires for The Restaurant, Smokies Concessions, and Smokies Hospitality Positions.

The Restaurant is searching for the following positions: 

  • Bartenders
  • Hosts
  • Servers
  • Cooks

Smokies Concessions are in search of the following positions: 

  • Cashiers
  • Cooks
  • Stand Runners
  • Warehouse Runners
  • Stand Managers

Smokies Hospitality are in search of:

  • Picnic Attendants
  • Luxury Suite Servers

Most Smokies Stadium positions require a person to stand and walk for extended periods of time, as well as run, sit, navigate stairs, kneel or crouch. Prospective employees may also be asked to occasionally lift and/or move up to approximately 25 pounds and be exposed to various weather conditions and noise levels.

Potential employees will be asked to fill out their top three job choices on their interview questionnaire, which will be provided at the job fair. All persons seeking employment may not be able to work in their area of choice, as jobs will be offered by strength of application and/or resume.

The Smokies will commence their 2020 home opener against the Chattanooga Lookouts on Wednesday, April 15, 2020. Season ticket information can be found online at smokiesbaseball.com, or by calling the Smokies Ticket Office at 865-286-2300.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

SMOKIES INVITATIONAL WILL BE FRIDAY, MARCH 13

 

SEVIERVILLE, TN – The Smokies have announced their Smokies Invitational on March 13, 2020, held at Three Ridges Golf Course (6101 Wise Springs Road, Knoxville, TN 37918). The day’s events begin at 11:30 a.m. with lunch followed by a 1:00 p.m. tee time. Smokies Invitational will feature a round of golf, 50/50 raffle, men’s and women’s longest drive competitions, hole-in-one contest, and closest to the pin contest.

A portion of the proceeds from the event will be donated to Smoky Mountain Service Dogs. The donation will include 100% of the proceeds from the silent auction, purchases made for red tee shot and more. Tim Volk, Smokies General Manager, explained, “We are excited to be partnering up with Smoky Mountain Service Dogs again this year. For all they do in our community, this is our way to help them succeed.”

There are three (3) different options for Smokies Invitational registration all including, lunch, green/cart fees, and donation to Smoky Mountain Service Dogs. Two of the options come in teams of four (4) ranging from $750/each-$500/each. The third option is individual players who will later be placed onto a team of four costing $150/each.

To register or find more information on the Smokies Invitational please visit www.smokiesbaseball.com/invitational2020 or direct any questions to events@smokiesbaseball.com.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com

ABOUT SMOKIES MOUNTAIN SERVICE DOGS

We believe that through appropriate utilization of a public access tested/approved, highly trained service dog, individuals with physical and/or psychological disabilities can often become increasingly self-sufficient and independent. We believe that a large percentage of disabled individuals can experience a higher level of societal and community involvement and acceptance through effective use of a service dog.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

South Bend Cubs Host Fourth Annual Polar Plunge

 

SOUTH BEND, IN – Leap year will take a whole new meaning this February as the South Bend Cubs will host the 4th annual Michiana Polar Plunge. This event will benefit Special Olympics Indiana and will take place on Saturday, February 29, 2020. Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. the with the plunge starting at 12:00 p.m. After taking the plunge, participants are invited to celebrate at the After-Splash Bash in the Pepsi Stadium Club.

DONATE TO THE SOUTH BEND CUBS PLUNGE TEAM BY CLICKING HERE

The Polar Plunge is an event that is held across Indiana as well as across the country. Special Olympics Indiana is a non-profit organization whose mission is to empower those with intellectual disabilities. As explained by President and CEO of Special Olympics Indiana, Jeff Mohler, “The vision of Special Olympics Indiana is that sports will open hearts and minds towards individuals with intellectual disabilities and create inclusive communities across the state.” By putting on events like the Polar Plunge, Special Olympics Indiana is able to raise funds that will improve the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. The funds that are raised at the Polar Plunge will be used to support the thousands of Special Olympics athletes in Indiana.

“One way we accomplish our vision is through fantastic community partners, the South Bend Cubs are one such partner,” stated Mohler. “From their owner, Mr. Berlin, to their general manager, to the players, and every staff member. The South Bend Cubs are a premier organization. We are excited to partner with them again next February for the 2020 Polar Plunge. Go Cubs!”

Special Olympics Indiana has succeeded in raising over $55,000 in the last three years. The 2019 Polar Plunge raised over $20,000, and Special Olympics Indiana and the South Bend Cubs are looking to you to help reach the 2020 goal of $24,000.

“Every year, our fans and fellow plungers have helped exceed our fundraising goal for Special Olympics Indiana,” said South Bend Cubs Director of Media and Promotions Chris Hagstrom-Jones. “To help us get to $24,000, we’re adding a couple of prizes for our top fundraisers. The individual who raises the most money will receive a free outdoor suite to a South Bend Cubs game in April and the chance to throw out a ceremonial first pitch. To the group that raises the most money, they will each receive a ticket voucher good for any April South Bend Cubs game.”

Fans who do not wish to plunge can also donate to the South Bend Cubs front office team. Fans who donate at least $15 will be entered to win a set of four tickets to a South Bend Cubs game. Three lucky winners will be chosen after February 29. Donate by visiting SouthBendCubs.com or clicking this link.

To participate in the 2020 Michiana Polar Plunge, individuals or groups must raise a “bear” minimum of $75 in pledges. All funds raised will benefit Special Olympics Indiana. Participants can register as an individual or gather friends, family members, co-workers, civic group or school group and register as a team. Register by visiting soindiana.org and clicking on the events page. Funds raised by this event will help local athletes train and compete at local, area and state level.

About Special Olympics Indiana

Special Olympics Indiana is a not-for-profit organization that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in more than 20 Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, reaching more than 16,000 athletes across Indiana. The organization receives no federal- or state-appropriated funds, is not a United Way agency and relies entirely on corporate, civic and individual donations. For more information about Special Olympics Indiana, call (317) 328-2000 or visit www.soindiana.org.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 32 seasons, the team has won four Midwest League titles, most recently in 2019, and has captured eight division titles. In 2019, the South Bend Cubs hosted the Midwest League All-Star Game. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

SMOKIES TO HELP RESTORE CATON’S CHAPEL ELEMENTARY’S BASEBALL/SOFTBALL FIELDS

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies have announced they have teamed up with Tennessee 811, Sevier County Utility District, and Sevier County Electric to host a Field Restoration at Caton’s Chapel Elementary School Baseball Field on Tuesday, October 22nd.

“We are very appreciative of the generosity of the Tennessee Smokies Baseball Team and their interest in Caton’s Chapel Elementary School. Our students will greatly benefit from the renovated baseball field and facilities,” said Dr. Cline of Sevier County Schools. “The involvement of community partners in our school is helpful and allows us to do many things that might otherwise be difficult.”

Staff from all four organizations will spend the day assisting in renovations for the baseball/softball field at Caton’s Chapel Elementary School. The organizations will create a new playing surface; reset the mound and bases; repaint, repair and clean the concession stand; fix and update the batting cage as well as other renovations to the field. Equipment will also be donated after the renovation to give the elementary school the proper tools to maintain the renovated areas.

“We’re thankful for this opportunity to work alongside the Smokies and local utilities to give back to the residents of Sevier County and the students at Caton’s Chapel Elementary,” said Craig Ingram, Public Awareness Manager for Tennessee 811, the statewide “Call Before You Dig” service. “We hope the improvements to the ball field create new opportunities for children to get outside and active and are a source of pride in the community.”

“The Sevier County Utility District (SCUD) is honored to be part of the Caton’s Capel Elementary School Baseball Field renovation. By providing a renovated and updated facility, we are laying the groundwork for lessons in sportsmanship, team building, and perseverance. These are all traits we pride ourselves on at SCUD. It is a privilege for us to be a small part of helping these young kids develop their character and athletic ability.”

“Community involvement is one of Sevier County Electric System’s core values. We appreciate the invitation from the Tennessee Smokies to participate in this revitalization project,” said Allen Robbins of Sevier County Electric Systems. “This endeavor also provided SCUD and SCES the opportunity to educate the public on the importance of the 811 Call Before You Dig Campaign.”

“Being able to support our community in such a meaningful way is very important to us,” said Tim Volk, General Manager of the Tennessee Smokies. “We love getting out into the community and giving back as much as we can.”

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

SMOKIES & U.S. CELLULAR TO HOST LITTLE LEAGUE TAKEOVER

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies have announced they have teamed up with U.S. Cellular to host a Little League Takeover on Monday, October 14th at Fountain City Youth Baseball fields from 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM. The U.S. Cellular Little League Takeover will allow the youth baseball players ages 5-13 to experience what it is like to be a Smokies player for a day.

“We are the definition of excited to team up with U.S. Cellular for this event,” added Smokies President and COO Chris Allen. “This is an awesome event to allow these kids the chance to experience what it is like to be a genuine Smokies ballplayer for a day. We are thrilled to give back to the community.”

The event will take place at the Fountain City Ballfields located at 3701 Ludo Rd, Knoxville, TN 37918. The youth baseball players will play their scheduled games with a host announcing the players, on-field games, inflatables, prizes, and much more. The youth baseball players will also have a chance to feel like a true Smokies player with a mock interview station featuring a podium and a media backdrop where they can answer questions following their game.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for these kids,” said Nathan Waddell, director of sales for U.S. Cellular in Tennessee. “Providing an opportunity for them to enjoy a day as a professional baseball player is as exciting for us as it is for them. We’re grateful to have the ability to bring meaningful experiences to the communities we serve.”

The U.S. Cellular Little League Takeover will also feature Smokies mascots interacting with the players throughout the event.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com

About U.S. Cellular 

U.S. Cellular is the fifth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to elevate the customer experience. The Chicago-based carrier offers coverage where the other carriers don’t and a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. For the fifth time in a row, U.S. Cellular has the Highest Wireless Network Quality Performance, according to J.D. Power’s twice-annual U.S. Wireless Network Quality Performance Study, and 99 percent of customers have access to 4G LTE speeds. To learn more about U.S. Cellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, promos and videos, connect with U.S. Cellular on Facebook.com/uscellular, Twitter.com/uscellular and YouTube.com/uscellularcorp.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Season In Review | Ems Go Above And Beyond To Benefit Local Community

 

With another season of Emeralds baseball now officially in the rear-view mirror, we’re taking a look back at some of the special moments and memories created during the 2019 season. Today, we reflect on all the good that the Emeralds imparted throughout the Eugene/Springfield community.

Over the past decade, the Ems have made a concerted effort to ingrain the organization within the fabric of Eugene/Springfield through countless community efforts and initiatives. With almost too many donations, drives and events to keep track of, let’s go by the numbers to see exactly how the Emeralds made a positive impact in Lane County during the past season.

$7,451: Dollars raised to benefit local nonprofits through Good Karma Monday.

Good Karma Monday, presented by Yogi, is a weekly ticket promotion created in recent years with the goal of supporting local nonprofit organizations and initiatives. During every Good Karma Monday throughout the 2019 season, fans were able to purchase discounted box seat tickets ($10) with 50% of ticket sales directly benefitting a local nonprofit organization. All told, the Ems raised a combined $7,451 that together benefitted the Pearl Buck Center, Relief Nursery, A Family For Every Child, and Womenspace.

7: Community focus nights.

The Ems aim to use their influence to shine light on causes and efforts that are near and dear to the organization. During the 2019 season, a total of seven (7) different home games were used to highlight important (local) causes, efforts, and personalities: PRIDE, Climate Change, First Responders Appreciation, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics), League Of Her Own (Lois Youngen – former AAGPBL Player), Suicide Prevention, and Military Appreciation.

5: Community events.

Even when there aren’t ballgames happening at PK Park, the Emeralds are often still playing their part in helping support the local community. All told, the Emeralds hosted five (5) separate non-gameday events during the 2019 season to support local nonprofits and organizations: American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, Eugene Police’s National Night Out, Eugene Food Truck Fest benefitting Eugene Mission, Wham Bam Kendall Jam Car Show benefitting Relief Nursery, and the Boys and Girls Club‘s Field of Dreams.

$3,500: Dollars raised through specialty jersey sales during the 2019 season.

Every year, the Emeralds front office collaborates to design one-of-a-kind, specialty jerseys to be worn on a select night during the season. During each specialty jersey game, fans in attendance can bid on the game-worn jerseys via a silent auction, and the auction winners receive their jersey directly from the corresponding player immediately following the game.

Below, you can find the corresponding nonprofit beneficiary for each specialty jersey worn by the Ems this past season.

PRIDE – HIV Alliance

Climate Change – Our Children’s Trust

Star Wars – Children’s Miracle Network

Black Panther – Ems Community Fund

3: Collection drives hosted to benefit nonprofit organizations.

The Emeralds hosted three separate community collection drives during the past season: a book drive benefitting United Way, a cat/dog items drive benefitting Greenhill Humane Society, and a new socks/underwear drive benefitting Eugene Mission.

6,500: Tickets donated to local elementary school students and teachers through Sluggo’s Home Run Reading Challenge, presented by Oregon Medical Group and Wildish.

Year after year, Sluggo and the Emeralds staff spend the spring visiting countless Lane County schools in an effort to encourage reading among children. Participating schools and teachers decide on a reasonable reading goal for their students’ respective reading levels. Once the individual goal is reached by a student, they automatically receive two free tickets to one of the Emeralds Reading Program Redemption games.

This year, the Emeralds hosted a total of eleven (11) Reading Program Nights with more than 6,500 total tickets donated to local elementary school students and teachers.

6: Monarcas games at PK Park this past season.

Starting in 2018, the Emeralds proudly joined “Copa de la Diversión,” or “Fun Cup,” a season-long event series specifically designed to embrace the culture and values that resonate most with participating teams’ local U.S. Hispanic/Latino communities. As such, the Emeralds created their own unique identity as Los Monarcas de Eugene, using the Monarch butterfly as a subtle and beautiful symbol for the migrant community. Every Sunday home game, the Emeralds transformed into los Monarcas by donning specially designed uniforms while also incorporating Latin-themed food, music, and decorations all throughout PK Park.

$6,850: Dollars raised through the 50/50 raffle for Eugene Little League and Boys & Girls Club.

25: Emeralds player outings and efforts within the community totaling more than 175 hours of volunteer work.

5: Days Emeralds players hosted baseball clinics during the season.

1: Guide dogs that the Emeralds helped train this season.

Last but not least, fans at PK Park likely noticed a new four-legged friend roaming the concourse during the 2019 season. Vegas, the Emeralds service dog in-training, joined the organization earlier this year under the direction of Anne Culhane, the team’s Director of Community Relations. Since his arrival, Vegas has been a (rapidly growing) staple at the Ems office and at PK Park, and thanks to Culhane’s guidance he’s also continued to take major steps towards his goal of one day becoming a service dog.

To learn more about The Joys of Living Assistance Dogs visit joydogs.org.

Stay up to date with the Emeralds by following the team on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

First responders and military can attend this Wednesday’s Midwest League championship game for free

 

SOUTH BEND, Indiana (September 9, 2019) – The South Bend Cubs will play the first two games of the Midwest League Championship series at Four Winds Field this Wednesday and Thursday night. On Wednesday night, September 11, South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart has invited all active and retired military, as well as all first responders, to attend that night’s game free of charge.

“We are so proud to be in the championships. It’s certainly a special night for us as a team, but also as a community,” Hart said. “We can spend the evening together honoring those who protected our country on 9/11, and celebrating those who continue to protect us. We want as many military personnel and first responders as we can get in the stadium on Wednesday.”

Hart said all first responders, active duty and military veterans can receive two free tickets to the game. Guests must present Military ID or form of first-responder identification at the Box Office to claim tickets. The offer is not available online.

This week’s Midwest League championship games take place at Four Winds Field, 501 W. South Street, South Bend. Tickets can be purchased online at SouthBendCubs.com or by calling the Box Office at 574-235-9988. Gates for both games will open at 6 p.m., first pitch is at 7:05 p.m.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

SMOKIES AND U.S. CELLULAR TO HOST LITTLE LEAGUE TAKEOVER

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies have announced they have teamed up with U.S. Cellular to host a Little League Takeover on Tuesday, September 3rd at Sevierville City Park Baseball fields from 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM. 2019 marks the second year in a row the event will take place at the Sevierville City Park Baseball fields, and the third year in a row the Smokies have partnered with U.S. Cellular for this event overall. The U.S. Cellular Little League Takeover will allow the youth baseball players ages 5-13 to experience what it is like to be a Smokies player for a day.

“We are extremely excited to team up with U.S. Cellular for this event,” added Smokies President and COO Chris Allen. “This is a great event to allow these kids the chance to experience what it is like to be a Smokies player for a day. We are thrilled to be involved in this event as we love being a part of this Sevierville community.”

The event will take place at the Sevierville City Park Baseball fields located at 1005 Park Rd, Sevierville, TN 37862. The youth baseball players will play their scheduled games with a host announcing the players, on-field games, inflatables, prizes, and much more. The youth baseball players will also have a chance to feel like a true Smokies player with a mock interview station featuring a podium and a media backdrop where they can answer questions following their game.

“At U.S. Cellular, we’re happy to bring interactive experiences like this to the communities we serve,” said Nathan Waddell, director of sales for U.S. Cellular in Tennessee. “Providing an opportunity for these kids to enjoy a day in the life of a professional baseball player is as exciting for us as it is for them. We hope they all soak in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

The U.S. Cellular Little League Takeover will also feature the Smokies mascot interacting with the players throughout the event.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com

ABOUT U.S. CELLULAR

U.S. Cellular is the fifth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to elevate the customer experience. The Chicago-based carrier is building a stronger network with the latest 5G technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. To learn more about U.S. Cellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, promos and videos, connect with U.S. Cellular on Facebook.com/uscellular, Twitter.com/uscellular and YouTube.com/uscellularcorp.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

CPR Mass Training Event at Four Winds Field September 5

SOUTH BEND, IN – For the third year in a row, the South Bend Cubs will host a CPR Training Event with over a thousand local children participating from South Bend Community School Corporation and School City of Mishawaka at Four Winds Field. This event is the largest in the region.

Unlike heart attacks or strokes, which result from disruptions of blood flow, Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) occurs when the heart has an electrical malfunction and stops beating without warning. SCA is the leading cause of death in adults over 40. In 2015, several Saint Joseph County physicians created a task force to collect data on survival rates and conduct evidence-based interventions to improve those survival rates. They found that 70% of these incidents occur in the home and that, on average, one resident of Saint Joseph County suffered SCA every 28 hours. Despite these startling statistics, SCA is treatable. Prompt administration of CPR within 3-5 minutes is the key to survival.

On September 5th, over 1,800 8th-grade students from Saint Joseph County schools will gather at Four Winds Field to be taught hands-only CPR using take-home training kits. Multiple studies have shown that students, when given this kit, train an average of 2.5 additional people at home and in their communities. To improve knowledge retention, community leaders and first responders will also present testimonies that inspire students to engage in the training by expressing the importance of this life-saving skill.

With the support of numerous community partners, the event was coordinated by enFocus, a local nonprofit, and the Out-Of-Hospital-Cardiac-Arrest (OHCA) Task Force to drive home the importance of prompt bystander intervention for victims of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). Sponsors of this event are enFocus, St. Joseph Health System, Beacon Health System, the University of Notre Dame, Press Ganey, and the South Bend Cubs. Additional partners are Dr. William Sarnat, OHCA Task Force, and the City of South Bend.

The event is not open to the public, but news media representatives are welcome. Please see the second page for a specific timeline. In the event of inclement weather, enFocus will announce the postponement of the event to Thursday, September 19th.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

South Bend Cubs to Host Trick or Treating Event on October 28

SOUTH BEND, IN – After the success of last year’s event, the South Bend Cubs have once again partnered with the South Bend Police Department to bring back Stu and Swoop’s Cops and Goblins trick or treating event on Monday, October 28 from 5:00 P.M.-7:30 P.M at Four Winds Field.

Over 6,000 kids and parents packed the ballpark last year in a massively successful first go-around of the event. Stu and Swoop’s Cops and Goblins allows local families to come out and enjoy safe trick or treating as the South Bend Police and Fire Department will be joined by other city officials. The groups will hand out candy with other South Bend community sponsors. Along with the groups present, South Bend Cubs mascots Stu and Swoop will be present to meet and take pictures with the kids.

With the completion of The Ivy at Berlin Place Apartments and “Gateway to South Bend” between the two buildings, patrons attending the event can enter and exit through Gate D past center field. The success and attendance of last year’s event has also brought in more vendors for this year’s function. Tables will be set up all throughout the concourse.

The South Bend Fire Department will also bring along their smoke house to the event. The partnership between the Cubs and South Bend Police Department allows the tandem to give back to the entire South Bend community.

“Community policing is a priority for the South Bend Police Department and this annual trick or treat event is the one officers look forward to the most,” South Bend Police Chief Scott Ruszkowski said. “This fun and safe event for families is yet another opportunity for the community and officers to come together and continue to build positive relationships that benefit the city as a whole.”

“We were hoping for a good turn out last year but did not expect our first year hosting this wonderful event to be so successful,” South Bend Cubs Director of Media and Promotions Chris Hagstrom-Jones said. “Given the success of last year, we plan to use more of the ballpark to space out candy tables and try to get more kids through the lines.”

Halloween music will also be playing from the speakers around the ballpark. Both the Cubs Den Team Store and 1st Source Bank Performance Center will be open to the public. Kids hoping to check out the Performance Center will be able to take swings in the same batting cages used by the South Bend Cubs players.

Kids arriving in their Halloween costumes will have the chance to enter a costume contest at the park. Prizes will be awarded to those who are wearing the most fun and creative costumes. Make sure to arrive early, as a crowd exceeding last year’s 6,000 is expected this year.

Any other businesses and organizations who are interested in hosting and sponsoring a table at the event can contact Officer Keenan Lane at 574-235-5941 for more information.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 31 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2019, the South Bend Cubs hosted the Midwest League All-Star Game. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Pelicans partner with WMBF to help local schools

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (August 12, 2019) – With the summer drawing to an end and school starting back soon, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans are partnering with WMBF News for the annual School Tools Drive. Fans who donate school supplies will receive a free drink ticket good for the final Pelicans game of the 2019 season.

Drink tickets are good for a 12oz. draft beer or regular soda between 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Thursday, August 22 and will run from the time gates open until 8:00 p.m. Donations can be dropped off at the Box Office at TicketReturn.Com Field. All donations will benefit local students in need.

“The School Tools Drive with WMBF has become an annual event for us,” stated Pelican’s General Manager, Ryan Moore. “We are excited to continue the partnership and to help local students as they head back to the classroom.”

A list of suggested supplies include:

  • Pencils (wooden or mechanical)
  • Dry Erase Markers
  • Composition Notebooks
  • Three Ring Binders
  • 2 Pocket Folders
  • Notebook Paper
  • Crayons

Gates will open at 5:30pm for a 7:05pm first pitch as the Pelicans will look to close their last regular season game with a win against the Carolina Mudcats (Brewers affiliate). For more information please visit www.myrtlebeachpelicans.com or call 843-918-6000.

ABOUT THE PELICANS: The Myrtle Beach Pelicans are the Class A–Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs and play their home games at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Since being acquired by a group led by Chuck Greenberg during the 2006 season, the Pelicans have repeatedly set team attendance records and become known as one of Minor League Baseball’s most innovative and creative franchises. The team and its employees have been dedicated to making a difference in the Myrtle Beach community, specifically giving back over $2 million in donations, fundraising proceeds, in–kind services and community service since launching the Pelicans Play It Forward Community Initiative in 2013. TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark has ranked in the top eight in all of Minor League Baseball by Stadium Journey in six of the last seven seasons. The same publication also placed the Pelicans in the Top 100 Stadium Experiences and the best in the Carolina League for six of the past seven seasons. In June 2017, the Pelicans won the 2017 TripAdvisor.com Certificate of Excellence award. On the field, the team has won four Mills Cup Championships, including claims to back–to–back titles in 1999 and 2000, and again in 2015 and 2016. The Pelicans have made 11 postseason appearances behind 13 half–season Southern Division championships, including the first half of the 2015 season, second half of 2016 and first half of 2017. For more information on the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, please contact the Pelicans at (843) 918–6000 or email Info@MyrtleBeachPelicans.com.

###

Emeralds To Host UnderAWARE Drive In Support Of Eugene Mission

Universally, socks and underwear are the most needed clothing item for emergency shelters across our nation but one of the least donated items. This month the Eugene Emeralds are hosting an UnderAWARE Drive to help provide the Eugene Mission with new underwear and socks for those they serve. From August 11th to the 22nd the Emeralds hope fans will bring in new socks and underwear for men, women and children.

Statistically, the Eugene Mission sees 700 people a day and allows them access to their free clothing rooms stocked with essential clothing. Over the last five months, they’ve distributed over 8,400 items, including over 1,000 pairs of underwear.

“Having a clean pair of underwear is something so simple we don’t really think much about it,” said Anne Culhane, Director of Community Relations. “It really is something that brings comfort and dignity to a person.”

Fans can drop their donations off at the Ticket Office or inside the ballpark at the Information Booth. To thank fans for their donations, the Emeralds will provide each donor with one coupon good for 20% off their next team store purchase.

“The Eugene Mission does amazing things for our community, we are just happy to be able to help them out with this collection drive,” said Culhane.

The Eugene Missions works to compassionately provide emergency services and long-time solutions to help our homeless neighbors transitioning back into the community with gainful employment, sustainable income and stable housing. The Emeralds hope fans will be able to help support the Eugene Mission.

Tickets to Emeralds home games are on sale now at www.EmeraldsBaseball.com or by calling (541) 342-5367.

Stay up to date with the Emeralds by following the team on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Registration for 2019 Meijer Baseball Academy Now Open

SOUTH BEND, IN – With the 2019 Midwest League season underway, the South Bend Cubs players and coaches are preparing for the 2019 Meijer Baseball Academy at Four Winds Field this July. The organization will welcome young baseball players of all skill levels to participate in the Academy for two three-day sessions that run from July 10 through July 12, and again from July 24 until July 26.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

The two academy training sessions are to help keep the camp sizes more concise and to allow more one-on-one interaction with the South Bend players and coaches. Registration is open to children from 6 to 12 years of age. Instruction from players and coaches will be based on the age and skill level of each participant. Throughout the three-day experience, participants will learn about hitting, pitching, fielding (infield and outfield), catching, and base running.

The registration fee for one, three-day session is $125.00 per child. All attendees will receive a Meijer Baseball Academy t-shirt, a South Bend Cubs hat, lunch after each day of camp, and four (4) tickets to a South Bend Cubs game where all academy campers will participate in a pre-game recognition on the field.

Check-in for the first day of each session will begin at 8:30 a.m. ET. Camps will run from 9:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., with lunch at 11:50 a.m. Do not delay in registering, there is a limit of only 85 kids per session with the registration deadline set for June 10. To sign up, download the application and wavier form available here and email it to Marketing@SouthBendCubs.com. Payments can be mailed or dropped off at the South Bend Cubs main office at Four Winds Field. Registration is not complete until payment has been received.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 31 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2019, the South Bend Cubs will host the Midwest League All-Star Game. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.