Chicago Cubs – Page 6

Birds renew partnership with Axelrod & Associates and Make-A-Wish Foundation

March 29, 2019

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (March 29, 2019) – The Myrtle Beach Pelicans, the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, in partnership with Axelrod & Associates, P.A., are glad to announce the renewal of the home run promotion which benefits the South Carolina Make-A-Wish Foundation. For every home run hit by a Pelicans player in a 2019 game at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark, Axelrod & Associates will donate $100 to the South Carolina Make-A-Wish Foundation.

“Come out and support Make-A-Wish and the Pelicans,” Managing Attorney Stuart Axelrod said. “Got baseball?”

Additionally, the GotAxelrod.com billboard in right-centerfield returns, which includes a caricature of Mr. Stuart M. Axelrod extending a glove to make a catch. If a home run ball by a Pelicans player goes through the cutout hole in the glove then one lucky fan in attendance will be chosen at random to win $100,000. Fans must be present at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark to win. The winner will be selected based on the tickets scanned at the gates prior to the first pitch.

The Pelicans’ 2019 season kicks off on April 4 against the Lynchburg Hillcats. Season tickets are available now. For more information or to purchase tickets visit 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 Set to Hit a Home Run in Reading

March 18, 2019

The Eugene Emeralds are excited to announce they are once again partnering with Oregon Medical Group and Wildish for Sluggo’s Home Run Reading Challenge. Starting this week, the program is designed to motivate students to become better readers by completing reading assignments to earn free Ems tickets!

Last year, 56 schools signed up for the Reading Challenge and a record 11,528 completed the program. “The growth of the Reading Program over the 10 years here at PK Park has been incredible,” said Ems Assistant General Manager Matt Dompe. “It is one of our biggest community outreach programs year after year, and it’s a great way to kick off the Emeralds season with games filled with kids that completed the reading challenge.”

For 2019, the new and improved Reading Challenge assembly will take on a Super Hero theme as Sluggo travels faster than a speeding green bear all over Lane County to spread the joy of reading. At the end of the assembly, teachers will give their students a 10-task reading goal, which students will track with a Sluggo-themed bookmark.

Students who complete their bookmarks receive two free tickets to a Eugene Emeralds baseball game this summer. In addition to the tickets, students will be invited to go down onto the field at PK Park and have a chance to meet some of the 2019 Emeralds players!

“We are committed to helping build healthier communities, and the connection between literacy and health is strong. Oregon Medical Group is excited to once again be part of Sluggo’s Home Run Reading Challenge. It motivates kids to read, and it gets them out to a ballgame – that’s a pretty healthy combination.” says Josh Cox, Director of Marketing and Public Relations.

The Emeralds and OMG will be updating the progress of Sluggo’s Home Run Reading Challenge through social media posts all spring so be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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

Pelicans to host first-annual charity fishing derby

March 14, 2019

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (MARCH 14, 2019) – On Monday, May 6, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, in conjunction with Murrells Inlet Fishing Charters and Wahoo’s Fish House, will hold the first-annual Pelicans Community Fund Fishing Derby. All funds raised through the event will benefit the Pelicans Community Fund, which annually supports over 200 local charities. Since the initiation of the fund in 2013, the Pelicans have given back at least $250,000 per year to the Grand Strand for a total of more than $2.2 million.

A limited number of charters are available for this exclusive event. Entry into the derby is $1,200 and includes a four-hour fishing trip for four people, an after-party at Wahoo’s Fish House, breakfast, an event shirt and a gift bag. A limited number of after-party passes will be released at a later date.

“Even without a marquee fundraising event, the Pelicans Community Fund has allowed us to give back a substantial amount to the Grand Strand area,” stated Pelicans General Manager Ryan Moore. “While $2.2 million in six years is great, we want to do more. A signature event such as the Pelicans Community Fund Fishing Derby will allow us to do just that. Additionally, it’s a really unique event that we believe will be a lot of fun for everyone involved.”

Those wishing to participate in the event can reserve a spot by calling the Pelicans Front Office at 843-918-6000.

Pelicans unveil Community Heroes Card Set members

March 1, 2019

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (March 1, 2019) – During Hurricane Florence’s devastation of the Atlantic coast of the United States and in the aftermath, stories began to emerge of heroism and selflessness by the people of this country. All along the Grand Strand, there were countless individuals that helped others, volunteered their time and worked to rebuild the beautiful beaches in the coastal regions of South Carolina. This season, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans are recognizing 24 of these wonderful stories in which individuals gave their time to their communities, with a Hurricane Florence Community Heroes Card Set.

The card set will be given away to the first 1,000 fans through the gates of the Pelicans’ game on Saturday, April 6 against the Lynchburg Hillcats. Gates open at 6:00 p.m. for a 7:05 p.m. first pitch.

The 24 honorees are as follows:

Scott Mann

Scott Mann is a host on the Wave 104.1 radio station. Wave 104.1 was up and running as Scott weathered the storm on air providing accurate information to the local community.

Chris Choe

Chris Choe is an Horry County police officer stationed in the south precinct. Chris worked countless days and hours patrolling neighborhoods to make sure residents were safe during and after the storm. He even worked river patrol while waiting for the flood waters to subside.

Chris Aranda

Chris Aranda is a retired veteran who serves as the Veteran Outreach Program Specialist for the Myrtle Beach Veteran Center. During Hurricane Florence, Chris visited shelters across the Grand Strand, searching for veterans and their families that were in need of help.

Ron Dozler

Ron Dozler, Pastor of Calvary Chapel, led teams from multiple states to help the Socastee community recover after Hurricane Florence. Pastor Ron shared information and updates from the church radio station WXMB. His congregation helped feed over 10,000 meals to those affected by the hurricane, as well as work on various reconstruction projects in the community.

Todd & Michelle Wood

When Hurricane Florence and the subsequent floods hit, Todd and Michelle coordinated hundreds of volunteers to help those in need. Todd and Michelle created the website disasterhelp.me which allowed homeowners to sign up and ask for assistance with anything they might need after the hurricane.

Jaret Hucks

When hundreds of families lost their homes and belongings to Hurricane Florence, Jaret and his staff stepped up. Jaret opened the doors of his 70-room Midtown Motel out of the kindness of his heart to homeless flood victims.

Larry Nowak

When Hurricane Florence and the subsequent flooding affected Myrtle Beach, Larry opened his bowling alley for free to those who had been displaced from their homes. Larry served meals and provided some entertainment during the time schools were closed.

Beth Kohlmann

Beth is a volunteer with South Strand Helping Hand. Beth began selflessly assisting the entire county with daily urgent needs during the aftermath of Hurricane Florence.

Abby Wood

Abby is a 3rd grader at Ocean Bay Elementary School and was one of the hundreds of Horry County students who used their time when schools were closed to help their community. She could be found filling sandbags, helping sort food and supply donations for flood victims, or serving a hot meal.

Amy Van Schoick

Amy collected and distributed clothes to people who desperately needed them since the flooding. She helped people find furniture, appliances and pretty much anything they needed.

Tina Corley

When Hurricane Florence hit, Tina went from hotel to hotel begging them to open their doors to flood victims. Everyone told her no, but Tina found Jaret’s Midtown Motel. Once Midtown was full, Tina spent every day making sure their needs were met. After the storm, Tina spent months and days making sure each family was placed after the storm.

Wendy Naramore

Wendy helped during the storm by collecting donated food and delivering it to the right place no matter the distance. If someone had a need and Wendy didn’t have it, she purchased it with her own money: blankets, diapers, food and so much more.

Tim Irving

Tim Irving is the Director of Citizens Helping in Natural Disasters (CHIND) and a member of Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD). Tim and his organization have been instrumental in the rescue and safety of the Hurricane/Flood areas in North and South Carolina.

Leila & Connor Bandari

Leila and Connor, siblings from Waterway Elementary, held a bake sale to raise money to give care packages to kids whose families had lost everything in the flood. They packed 94 bags with a stuffed animal, coloring book, crayons and a puzzle.

Ashley Todd

Ashley helped form the collective volunteer group One Neighbor To Another and has been selflessly dedicated to assisting and providing meals to the Socastee area flood victims. Ashley has helped and protected so many families since the flood and has done this with her own money and limited donations.

Linda Messer

Linda helped form the volunteer group One Neighbor to Another. Linda has been helping those in the Rosewood neighborhood every week since the hurricane, sometimes even more than once.

Steve & Lori Roekle

Steve and Lori single-handedly organized a supply drive in the Highlands neighborhood. Their neighborhood drive collected four vehicle loads of supplies, which they delivered to the shelter for flood victims. The two also helped during Christmas time as they delivered over 300 toys to the shelter for the children of flood victims so they could have a Merry Christmas.

Joe Falcone

While others evacuated, Joe stayed home and patrolled neighborhoods, looking for house damage, flooding and suspicious activity. He patrolled several times each day until home owners could return.

Taylor Newell

Taylor is the Public Information Officer for the City of Conway. She spent countless hours updating the people of Conway on road closures, flood damage and places for residents to get help.

Adam Dellinger

Adam is the program director and morning show co-host on 107.9 The Gator. Adam and many members of The Gator team, worked extended hours during Hurricane Florence to provide listeners with pertinent information about evacuation and subsequent flooding.

Carolina Forest Varsity Girls Soccer Team

The CFHS varsity girls soccer team heard students from Socastee High were going to be affected by the rising water and wanted to do something to help their community. The players requested to help as a team, and came together to fill sand bags.

Jason Hurdich

Jason, a professor of American Sign Language at Clemson, volunteered with Horry County Emergency Management to make ASL videos during Hurricane Florence. Through Jason’s videos, the deaf community was able to receive proper instructions on evacuation and preparing their houses for flood waters. Jason did all of this on his own time to make sure that everyone was able to stay safe.

Nicole Young-Cline

Nicole and her family went above and beyond after Hurricane Florence, filling sandbags for days and taking food to volunteers. She helped run a collection drive through her speech therapy center, and updated patients and people in the community through her center’s Facebook page.

The Szyszkowski Family

When the Szyszkowski’s first heard about the families who were relocated at the Midtown Motel, Ashley, along with her daughters Caroline and Katherine donated 100 bars of soap from their family business, Ash’s Practical Magic.

In addition to being recognized in the Community Heroes Card Set, these individuals will be recognized on the field prior to the April-6 game.

Single-game tickets will be available on March 14 with the first Thirsty Thursday of the season as part of the Season Kick-Off Party. The event includes live music from Julio Navarro, $1.00 Bud and Bud Light drafts, $2.00 craft drafts, and 1/2 price Duplin Winery wines from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. Admission is free, and all fans are welcome to attend.

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

Hurricane Florence Benefit Concert Raises Over $128,000 for Local Relief

December 6, 2018

Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune announced this morning that $128,324.36 was raised through the Hurricane Florence Benefit Concert held last month at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. The proceeds will be shared between the Eastern South Carolina Chapter of the American Red Cross and the Waccamaw Community Foundation with each organization receiving $64,162.18. A recap video of the concert, including artist interviews, is available here.

At a press conference earlier today, Mayor Bethune stated, “We rise by lifting others up, and that was the whole purpose of the Hurricane Florence Benefit Concert. It was an incredible event that will forever change the lives of many of our neighbors throughout the county. Now as we approach the holiday season, it truly is a joy to celebrate this time of year by being able to give back.”

The benefit concert, which featured Darius Rucker, Michael Ray, Carly Pearce, Love and Theft, Chris Bryant, Josh Phillips, The Davisson Brothers Band, The Swon Brothers and more, was pulled together in less than six weeks. Additionally, all of the talent, and much of the time, efforts, and resources to execute the event were donated.

“The Hurricane Florence Benefit Concert came together very quickly thanks to a group of very dedicated people,” stated Mayor Bethune. “This team not only created a great event, but while we were planning it we formed some lifelong friendships for which I am very grateful.”

The host committee for the benefit concert was comprised of Ryan Moore and Kristin Call (Myrtle Beach Pelicans), Amie Lee (Palmetto Event Productions), Adam Dellinger and Jimmy Feuger (iHeart Media/Gator 107.9), Ed Piotrowski and members of WPDE ABC 15 and the CW21, The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, VisitMyrtleBeach.com, Southern Entertainment, Whirlwind Creative, Carolina Country Music Fest, Mayor Bethune, and the City of Myrtle Beach.

The majority of the funds were raised through ticket sales, sponsorship, and concession sales. Additional donations came in through a text to donate campaign which is still active. If you would like to donate to local relief efforts text REDCROSS to 90999.

The Waccamaw Community Foundation will be distributing their allocation of the funds through a grant process and will be vetting all non-profit applications. Only non-profit organizations helping flood relief efforts in Horry County are eligible to receive these funds. To learn more about the Waccamaw Community Foundation click here.

The Eastern South Carolina Chapter of the American Red Cross will be deploying their allocation of funds to help with a number of flood related efforts. Such efforts include providing financial assistance to families with destroyed and majorly damaged homes, offering mental and spiritual help to all affected residents free of charge, providing clean-up kits, and more. To learn more about the Eastern SC Chapter of the American Red Cross click here.

South Bend Cubs Host Third Annual Polar Plunge

November 7, 2018

SOUTH BEND, IN – For the third straight year, the South Bend Cubs will host the Michiana Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Indiana on Saturday, February 23, 2019 at Four Winds Field. Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. with the plunge beginning at 12:00 p.m. followed immediately by the After-Splash Bash in the Pepsi Stadium Club.

The Polar Plunge, an event held across the state of Indiana, continues to be a hit among the South Bend community. Because of this fundraiser, Special Olympics Indiana can continue to work towards their objective of improving the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by offering year-round programs and events such as the plunge. All funds raised at the Polar Plunge goes towards supporting the 16,000 Special Olympics athletes in all of Indiana.

“In 2019, Special Olympics Indiana celebrates 50 years of serving people with intellectual disabilities,” said Special Olympics President and CEO Jeff Mohler. “During this important milestone, we have set a goal to reach $1 million through our Polar Plunges across the state. The South Bend Cubs and our polar plungers will make this possible. Help our athletes reach their goals too.”

After raising over $17,000 dollars last year, the South Bend Cubs are issuing a challenge to the community in the hope of breaking last year’s record.

“Last year, we nearly doubled our fundraising goal,” said South Bend Cubs Director of Media and Promotions Chris Hagstrom-Jones. “With our new goal of $20,000 for 2019, we’re adding an incentive for our plungers. The individual or group 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.”

Fans who do not wish to plunge can also donate to the South Bend Cubs front office team, headlined by Owner & Chairman Andrew Berlin. 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 23. Donate by by clicking here.

To participate in the 2019 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 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.

Special Guest Appearance by Darius Rucker for Hurricane Florence Benefit Concert

November 1, 2018

Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune announced this morning that Darius Rucker will have a special guest appearance during the upcoming Hurricane Florence Benefit Concert. Rucker, originally from Charleston, South Carolina is a singer/songwriter known as the frontman of the musical group Hootie & the Blowfish who transitioned to a solo country artist in 2008.

The concert, which will take place on Sunday, November 11 at TicketReturn.Com Field, also features Michael Ray, Carly Pearce, Love and Theft, Chris Bryant, Josh Phillips, The Davisson Brothers Band, The Swon Brothers, and The Blue Dogs. Additional artist announcements are expected in the coming days. Tickets for the event begin at $50 and are available at myrtlebeachpelicans.com/concert.

All proceeds from the event will go to the Area Recovery Council through the Waccamaw Community Foundation to support disaster relief efforts in Horry and Georgetown counties, as well as the Eastern South Carolina Chapter of the American Red Cross to support disaster relief efforts in the counties of Horry, Florence, Darlington, Marlboro, Dillon, and Marion. To learn more about the Waccamaw Community Foundation click here. To learn more about the Eastern SC Chapter of the American Red Cross click here.

Pelicans Announce Ticket Fundraiser for Local Flood Victims

October 10, 2018

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (October 12, 2018) – The Myrtle Beach Pelicans have partnered with WPDE News 15 and The Sun News on a ticket sales fundraiser to benefit local flood victims. Tickets for Saturday, April 6 on are on sale now at myrtlebeachpelicans.com. A portion of all online tickets purchased using the promo code “HELP” will benefit the Waccamaw Community Foundation. Tickets for the game will be on sale through the month of October.

“Our area has experienced unprecedented levels of flooding. As a member of the Grand Strand community we want to help, and a ticket fundraiser is one of our more effective ways of generating funds for this cause,” stated Pelicans General Manager Ryan Moore. “This is the first time we have opened single game tickets sales so far in advance. In doing so, it allows us to generate much needed dollars now for the Waccamaw Community Foundation.”

In recognition of his efforts throughout not only Hurricane Florence and her flooding, but during any weather related event, the Pelicans will honor WPDE Chief Meteorologist Ed Piotrowski with his very own bobblehead. The bobblehead will be distributed along with the Community Heroes Card Set to the first 1,000 fans through the gates on April 6.

“Ed is a long-standing member of this community,” said Moore. “His wealth of knowledge and straight forward dissemination of the facts during weather events is what makes him such a reliable source. This community is fortunate to have such a dedicated citizen and we are delighted to honor him in this way.”

In addition to the fundraiser and bobblehead giveaway, the Pelicans will be highlighting members of the community who have gone above and beyond to help those in need. The club is designing a Community Heroes Card Set that will be given away to the first 1,000 fans on April 6. If you know someone who helped you, a friend, a neighbor, or a stranger during Hurricane Florence and the subsequent flooding the Pelicans ask that you submit their name and story at myrtlebeachpelicans.com for a chance to be included in the Community Heroes Card Set.

To purchase tickets visit myrtlebeachpelicans.com/help. For more information please call the Pelicans Front Office at 843-918-6000.

Thousands of Local Children to Learn Life Saving CPR at Four Winds Field

October 2, 2018

SOUTH BEND, IN – For the second 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.

Students will be given training in Hands-Only CPR by area EMS, fire, police, and medical personnel. Each student will be given their own CPR Anytime training kit complete with an inflatable manikin and DVD with instructions in CPR. Students will be encouraged to take home their kits and train friends and family using the DVD. While at the training they will also hear speeches from local community leaders and testimonies from area sudden cardiac arrest survivors.

The event is 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). Research indicates that hands-only CPR can significantly increase the likelihood of survival of such an event. The national average for survival is only about 10% and in 2015 in Saint Joseph County it was only 5%.

“We are honored to host this event again in conjunction with enFocus,” said South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. “The amount of space Four Winds Field has, gives us the flexibility to host such a large number of students. Our hope is that the students trained at this event will then train their friends and family.”

This is not a public event, but media representatives are welcome. South Bend Schools will be trained during the morning session (10:30am – 12:00pm) and Mishawaka and Catholic schools will be trained in the afternoon session (1:00pm – 2:30pm). In the event of inclement weather, the event will be postponed until Tuesday, October 16. Additional information can be found at www.savealifesjc.org.Additional information can be found at SaveALifeSJC.org.

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

September 27, 2018

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies have announced they have teamed up with U.S. Cellular to host a Little League Takeover on Monday, October 1st at Sevierville City Park Baseball fields from 5:00 PM – 9:00 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 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 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.

South Bend Police Department and Cubs to Host Trick or Treating Event on October 29

September 25, 2018

UPDATE: Due to the expected crowd size, the entrance has been moved to Gate B, next to the Box Office.

SOUTH BEND, IN – The South Bend Cubs have partnered with the South Bend Police Department to introduce Stu and Swoop’s Cops and Goblins trick or treating event taking place on Monday, October 29 from 5:00 P.M.-7:30 P.M at Four Winds Field.

The new event in Downtown South Bend will allow local families to come out to the ballpark 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 along with other South Bend community sponsors. South Bend Cubs mascots Stu and Swoop will also be in Halloween costumes to meet and take pictures with the kids.

The South Bend Fire Department will also bring their smoke house to the event. The new partnership between the Cubs and South Bend Police Department creates for a new opportunity to give back to the entire community.

“This is an amazing event our community, officers, and the City looks forward to every year,” South Bend Police Chief Scott Ruszkowski said. “Thousands of people have enjoyed a fun and safe trick or treating experience with officers. This year, we’re excited to be partnering with the South Bend Cubs and taking our Halloween event fun to a whole new level.”

“We’re excited to be partnering with the South Bend Police Department in this community event,” South Bend Cubs Director of Media and Promotions Chris Hagstrom said. “This event continues to show that Four Winds Field isn’t just a baseball destination. We want the stadium to be seen as another great entertainment venue in the city of South Bend.”

Around the ballpark with spooky music playing from the speakers, both the Cubs Den Team Store and 1^st 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 opportunity to also enter a costume contest at the park. Prizes will be awarded to those who are wearing the most fun costumes. Be creative!

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

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

Guns & Hoses Charity Softball Event Set for October 7

September 5, 2018

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (September 6, 2018) – The 11^th Annual Guns & Hoses Charity Softball Game will take place at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark on Sunday, October 7. The event, presented by 707 Shooting Range and Goldfinch Winslow Law Firm, features a 4-team showdown between Myrtle Beach and Horry County first responders. All proceeds from the event will benefit SOS Health Care, Inc. Project Lifesaver for Horry County.

“This is a great, friendly rivalry game between the police and fire departments,” said Project Lifesaver Program Coordinator Monique Clement. “Without their support Project Lifesaver would not be possible in our area. They are our first responders, our search and rescue, and the backbone to Project Lifesaver.”

“After teaming up with the Myrtle Beach Pelicans in 2017 this event drew its biggest crowd to date,” added Clement. “The Pelicans have stepped up to the plate again this year and I have no doubt it will be bigger and better than before, allowing SOS Health Care to make Project Lifesaver more successful.”

Admission to the event is a $5 donation to SOS Health Care, Inc. The event will also include a hot dog buffet while supplies last. Concessions will also be available. Additionally, spectators can participate in various games and raffles with all proceeds benefiting SOS Health Care Inc.

“We’re excited to host this event for a second straight year,” stated Pelicans General Manager Ryan Moore. “TicketReturn.Com Field is the community’s ballpark and what better way to celebrate that than by hosting a charity event headlined by our community’s first responders.”

Gates for the Guns & Hoses Charity Softball Game will open at 2 PM. The approximate schedule of play is as follows:

3:00PM Myrtle Beach Fire Department vs. Horry County Fire Rescue
4:00 PM Myrtle Beach Police Department vs. Horry County Police Department
5:30 PM Championship Game

Event details are available online at myrtlebeachpelicans.com/guns&hoses.

ABOUT SOS HEALTH CARE, INC: The mission of SOS Health Care, Inc. is to partner and inform the community by providing hope, care and assistance to individuals with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities. Their vision is to be an organization that is proactive and always moving forward. It creates its own future, is results focused, and seeks to achieve impact that adds value to a large group of stakeholders. It honors traditions but values change which it sees as a necessary part of an evolving world. Internally, development is almost sacred. People routinely exchange resources and share new ideas. Everyone is connected internally and externally. “What ifs” and “what’s out there” are considered normal parts of conversation.

ABOUT PROJECT LIFESAVER: The primary mission of Project Lifesaver is to provide timely response to save lives and reduce potential injury for adults and children who wander due to Alzheimer’s, autism and related conditions. This is a program that uses radio telemetry to track individual transmitters on a band worn like a watch or a bracelet. The transmitter is assigned a frequency that can be used to track down the wearer should he or she leave home without the knowledge of their caregiver. Project Lifesaver currently is a partnership program between SOS Health Care and Horry County Public Safety and currently covers 32 children with autism. The cost of the band and batteries for one year is $375 per year. Project Lifesaver provides this service free of charge to the individual.

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. For more information on the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, please contact the Pelicans at (843) 918-6000 or email Info@MyrtleBeachPelicans.com.

Pelicans give back to area high schools with rivalry series

August 22, 2018

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (August 22, 2018) – The Myrtle Beach Pelicans are giving back to area high schools through their rivalry series this coming week, August 27-30. Fans can purchase tickets online through MyrtleBeachPelicans.com/rivals. A portion of the proceeds from tickets purchased through this link will be donated to the school of their choice.

On Monday, the battle will be between Georgetown and Waccamaw High Schools. Carolina Forest and Conway collide on Tuesday while Wednesday features Socastee versus St. James. The Pelicans’ home slate concludes on Thursday with the Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach rivalry.

As part of Grand Strand Rivals Week courtesy of Angelo’s Steak and Pasta, each game will feature between-inning match-ups between the schools. All game times are 7:05 p.m. against the Buies Creek Astros. Gates will open at 6 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now and are available online at MyrtleBeachPelicans.com/rivals

The 2018 season is the 20th season for the Pelicans franchise and fourth as the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. For tickets visit MyrtleBeachPelicans.com/softball, call (843) 918-6000, or visit the Pelicans Box Office.

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.

South Bend Cubs Co-Host Inaugural Military Honor & Appreciation Fair on Memorial Day

May 16, 2018

SOUTH BEND, IN – As a kickoff to South Bend’s “Best.Week.Ever.” festival, the South Bend Cubs will host the inaugural Military Honor & Appreciation Fair at Four Winds Field on Monday May 28. The fair is part of “Armed Forces Week”, a special week of home games dedicated to the United States military service branches starting on Monday, May 21st and culminating with Military Appreciation Days on Sunday evening and Memorial Day.

“Every year, we are honored to partner with Express Employment Professionals over Memorial Day weekend,” said South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. “This season, we have expanded the weekend to include the full eight game homestand as well as a Military Honor and Appreciation Fair to help bring awareness to issues that our active duty military and veterans are facing.”

Co-hosted by Express Employment Professionals, Military Appreciation Days on Sunday, May 27 and Memorial Day, May 28, will honor veterans and currently-serving military personnel by offering two free tickets to either the Sunday or Monday games with proof of service.

On Sunday, visitors around the Four Winds Field Plaza will be visually inspired by 50 US flags placed in-line by the Indiana Patriot Guard Riders in dedication to Vietnam veterans. This display will recognize members of the Vietnam Veterans of America. The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association will also ride their motorcycles onto the field, which will be followed by a live flyover and field landing of UH-1 Huey 369, a restored Huey helicopter from American Huey 369 out of Peru, Indiana.

On Memorial Day, Express Employment Professionals and the South Bend Cubs will host the inaugural Military Honor & Appreciation Fair. The event starts at 10:45 a.m. with a special wreath-laying ceremony featuring area dignitaries that include Indiana’s 2nd District Congresswoman Jackie Walorski, 95.3 MNC’s afternoon radio host Casey Hendrickson, and South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. Other participants will include the Miller’s Vets Color Guard, area Boy & Girls Scouts, and representatives of the Indiana Army National Guard, who will perform TAPS and the National Anthem.

Following the ceremony will be the Military Appreciation Fair. Over 25 local military service organizations will be represented along with military vehicles and equipment on display. There will also be a paintball shooting booth from BlastCamp out of Hobart, Indiana. All events on Monday will take place outside of Gates A & B in the Four Winds Field plaza.

Prior to first pitch on Monday, the families of fallen service members will be recognized on the field, organized by US Army Survivor Outreach Services and Helping Hands for Freedom.

In addition to the events on May 27 and 28, the South Bend Cubs and Express Employment Professionals will host a food drive during all eight games. Nearly 25% of food insecure Hoosiers are our military veterans. All food and money collected will benefit the Food Bank of Northern Indiana and their area food agencies, who help feed hungry and food insecure families across North-Central Indiana.

About Express Employment Professionals
Express Employment Professionals is a leading workforce staffing provider in the U.S., Canada and South Africa. Founded in 1983, Express Employment Professionals has nearly 800 franchise locations, including three franchise offices covering a six-county area and located in Mishawaka, Elkhart, and Warsaw, in North-Central Indiana. Express specializes in the placement of job-seekers with employers for commercial, administrative, skilled trades, and professional positions.

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 30 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. This year, Four Winds Field, home of the Cubs, was named Ballpark Digest’s Best Single-A ballpark. 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 sole 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.

ALLERGY, ASTHMA & SINUS CENTER WILL HOST PEANUT FREE NIGHT AT SMOKIES STADIUM

May 1, 2018

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies have partnered with the Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center to host a Peanut-Free Night at America’s Friendliest Ballpark on Wednesday, May 2 as the Smokies take on the Birmingham Barons. The Peanut-Free Night allow fans with peanut allergies the chance to enjoy the game at Smokies Stadium.

“The Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center is excited to sponsor Peanut Free Night with the Tennessee Smokies for the seventh year in a row,” said Board Certified Allergist, Dr. Bob Overholt. “We are honored to be able to provide a peanut-free environment for all baseball fans, especially those who might not be able to normally attend, and we hope this event will help raise awareness in East Tennessee about food allergies.”

The Smokies will take anything containing peanuts off its concessions menu for the 7:00 p.m. contest. Additionally, the stadium will be cleaned and rinsed to remove as much peanut residue from the seats, concourse and other areas as possible.

“We are very excited to once again host Peanut Free Night at Smokies Stadium this year,” said Smokies Vice President Jeremy Boler. “This is a night where many children and families with peanut allergies can actually come out and enjoy a Smokies game. I hope this game brings awareness to food allergies and we look forward to hosting Peanut Free Night for many more years to come!”

The Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center and the Tennessee Smokies team up for this event annually to raise awareness about food allergies, and to allow an enjoyable baseball experience for those with peanut allergies specifically.

The Smokies return home to Smokies Stadium on Wednesday, May 2, 2018 against the Birmingham Barons. The full schedule for this season and information regarding single-game tickets, season tickets, and mini plans can be found online at smokiesbaseball.com, or by calling the Smokies Ticket Office at 865-286-2300.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

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