South Bend Cubs Host Fifth Polar Plunge March 21

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The annual Special Olympics Indiana signature event will be held at Four Winds Field and spectators can watch the event online.

SOUTH BEND, IN – For the fifth year in a row, the South Bend Cubs are teaming up with Special Olympics Indiana to present the 2021 South Bend Polar Plunge on Sunday, March 21. Registration is now open, and participants are encouraged to register online.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER OR TO DONATE

To limit crowds and to ensure social distancing guidelines can be followed while plunging, the South Bend Polar Plunge will use a segmented schedule with multiple plunge times spread over a two-hour period beginning at 12:00 PM ET. Spectators will also be limited at all Polar Plunge events, with only guardians encouraged to attend. Other adjustments will be implemented on a case-by-case basis according to guidelines issued by the St. Joseph County Health Department and state of Indiana.

The Polar Plunge is an annual fundraising event for Special Olympics that is held across the United States. Special Olympics Indiana is a non-profit organization whose mission is to empower those with intellectual disabilities. All funds raised by these events directly benefit more than 18,000 Special Olympics athletes throughout the state, giving them the means to train locally and compete at the state level in a number of Olympic-type sports.

“During the pandemic, our athletes need Special Olympics more than ever,” said Special Olympics Indiana President and CEO Jeff Mohler. “Last March and April, our athletes were isolated from their friends and teammates. Yet we remain connected to them through our various virtual sports and fitness challenges through the year and we continue to keep them active and engaged, ready for competition to begin again.”

In the winter of 2020, Special Olympics Indiana set an all-time high when more than 3,500 plungers took part in their signature fundraiser and brought in over $920,000 to support year-round programs and events for their athletes. To date, the South Bend Polar Plunge has raised nearly $80,000 in the last four years.

“With the help of our good friends, the South Bend Cubs and Mr. Berlin, Special Olympics makes a difference every day, whether in-person or virtual,” continued Mohler. “We thank the Cubs for their ongoing support and for hosting our annual Polar Plunge, as we all hope to soon hear those words, “Play ball!”

“This year’s plunge will be a little different, but the Special Olympics’ mission remains the same,” said South Bend Cubs Assistant General Manager for Marketing & Media Chris Hagstrom-Jones. “These fundraisers make it possible for athletes to stay active and participate in a number of local and state programs. The South Bend Cubs are proud to host this event year after year.”

Those who cannot attend the South Bend Polar Plunge will be able to watch the entire event on the South Bend Cubs Facebook page.

To better accommodate supporters who wish to be a part of the fun without attending an in-person Polar Plunge event this year, a new and improved Virtual Plunger program will be offered. Find out how to Earn Your Wings for Special Olympics Indiana this winter by clicking here.

To participate in the 2021 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 clicking here.

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 18,000 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 soindiana.org.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A-Advanced minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 33 years, 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.

Indianapolis Indians Charities Partners with Toys for Tots

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Rowdie plush doll donations highlight “Rowdie’s Toy Drive”

INDIANAPOLIS – Indianapolis Indians Charities is partnering with Toys for Tots of Central Indiana this holiday season thanks to the Tribe’s lovable mascot, Rowdie. The toy drive campaign begins today on Giving Tuesday, Dec. 1 and continues thru Thursday, Dec. 17, with various initiatives driven by IIC, fan and community involvement benefiting Toys for Tots.

“Rowdie brings smiles to the faces of thousands of young Hoosiers each year at the ballpark and in our community,” said Randy Lewandowski, Indianapolis Indians President and General Manager. “This holiday season, we hope Rowdie’s plush dolls bring the same delight into the homes of children in Central Indiana through our partnership with Toys for Tots.”

Over 100 Rowdie plush dolls have already been donated by IIC to Toys for Tots thru a merchandise initiative. From Nov. 23-29, online merchandise orders over $60 received free shipping and as a bonus, IIC donated one Rowdie plush doll per order to the toy drive.

Starting today and continuing until Sunday, Dec. 6 at 11:59 PM ET, IIC will donate a Rowdie plush doll to Toys for Tots for every doll purchased online by fans.

Sun King Brewing is generously contributing to IIC’s Toys for Tots collection efforts by housing toy collection boxes at its four locations in downtown Indy, Broad Ripple, Fishers and Carmel thru Dec. 17. Sun King’s contributions expand to three consecutive Tuesdays – Dec. 1, 8 and 15 – with the local brewery donating $1 to Toys for Tots for every 4-pack sold at each location on those dates.

Any direct donation to Toys for Tots this holiday season can be made here.

Rowdie’s GIVEmber Campaign Ignites Holiday Spirit

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Food distribution event, deliveries to nonprofits highlight November initiative

INDIANAPOLIS – Indianapolis Indians Charities and Rowdie have been a busy duo since hosting the second annual Rowdie’s Pumpkin Patch in October at Victory Field, in which ticket proceeds benefited IIC. To begin Rowdie’s GIVEmber campaign in November, IIC partnered with Indiana WIC and Gleaners Food Bank for a food drive-thru distribution event at The Vic, where over 1,000 families were provided food. Rowdie then led the charge on many GIVEmber deliveries to the following locations and organizations:

  • Goodie bags to JW Marriott hospitality staff
  • Reading books, art kits and t-shirts to students, teachers and volunteers at Shepherd Academy
  • New therapy equipment, kitchen supplies and a play set to Children’s TheraPlay Foundation, Inc.
  • Indianapolis Indians winter hats to Bigs and Littles from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana

IIC and Rowdie give back to the community in many ways thanks to support from partners, fundraisers and monetary donations. Tribe fans can positively impact those living in Central Indiana by donating to IIC here.

“Rowdie took the initiative to give back and show his thanks to many partners of the Indianapolis Indians and Indianapolis Indians Charities in November, and it was all made possible because of community support,” said Jo Garcia, Indianapolis Indians Community Outreach Manager. “There are rumors swirling that Rowdie has even bigger plans in store in December, and we can’t wait to see what he comes up with next.”

Indianapolis Indians Charities Golf Outing Recap

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INDIANAPOLIS – Thanks to a 32-team field, hole sponsors and generous donations from participants who purchased raffle tickets, cheat bags and played in the Tee Box Chipping Challenge, Indianapolis Indians Charities raised over $20,000 in its charity golf outing at Broadmoor Country Club. The success of the golf outing enables IIC to fulfill its annual mission of providing for the community by strengthening youth, family, neighborhood and educational development.

When the round concluded, three teams finished within a stroke of each other for the title. Ric Cabrera, Neal Johnson, Alicia Peck and Cheyne Reiter took home first place by shooting 18 under to hold off Craig Huls, Rodney Kuhl, Nick Venice and Joel Zawacki at 17 under. The champions rolled in 16 birdies, one eagle and one par. Team Zawacki earned second place over Adam Basinger, Evan Buckley and Joey Stevenson by way of a tiebreaker that was not settled until the eighth handicap hole. All individuals received gift certificates to the Broadmoor Country Club pro shop.

Five golfers secured closest to the pin and/or longest drive honors. Wes Bankert led the charge by winning the men’s longest drive on hole No. 9 and closest to the pin on No. 15. Alicia Peck’s best drive of the day came at an opportune time on No. 9 to win the women’s longest drive contest. Other closest to the pin winners were Travis Visley on No. 4, Jeremy Smith on No. 8 (a near hole-in-one, no less), and Randy Rennaker on No. 11.

Many golfers sunk at least one chip during the Tee Box Chipping Challenge on the 10th tee box, but Chad Bohm emerged victorious from the drawing to win a Yuengling cooler.

Thank you again for playing in the 2020 Indianapolis Indians Charities Golf Outing. IIC looks forward to welcoming all golfers back in 2021!

Video Board Message Donations Return for Breast Cancer Awareness Month 

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SOUTH BEND, IN – October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the South Bend Cubs mascot Stu D. Baker is raising money for the American Cancer Society’s Real Men Wear Pink campaign. For this month only, fans can purchase a special video board message to help in his cause.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE A VIDEO BOARD MESSAGE

For a minimum donation of $20, fans can get their personalized message displayed on the video board at Four Winds Field and receive a digital copy of that message. All of the money raised in the month of October will go to Stu’s Real Men Wear Pink campaign. The photos will also be shared on the South Bend Cubs Facebook page.

Back in the spring, the South Bend Cubs raised over $2,700 for the Walter A. Meyer Food Pantry at the Salvation Army Kroc Center Family Resource Center and the United Way of St. Joseph County.

To purchase a video board message, visit SouthBendCubs.com and click on the video board message request link through the Cubs Den Team Store. Just select the amount you wish to donate (minimum $20 donation) and go to check out. In your shopping cart special instructions box, enter your personalized message (maximum of 40 characters) then click checkout. In order for your message to be displayed properly, please include one of the five headers your message request (South Bend Cubs Welcome, Happy Birthday, Happy Anniversary, Congratulations, Honoring, or In Memory Of).

Message requests will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, with a maximum of 20 per day. There are no refunds for video board messages. The South Bend Cubs reserve the right to approve and edit any message. Messages that contain obscene or offensive content or include foul language will not be accepted. Marketing messages are not permitted. Photos will be sent to the email provided associated with the Team Store account.

Due to the overwhelming response, a maximum of 10 messages will be displayed on the South Bend Cubs Facebook page per day. Those who do not wish their message to be added should leave a note in the comments section at check out.

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.

Special Olympics Indiana 2020 State Softball Championship Games Coming to Victory Field

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INDIANAPOLIS – The Indianapolis Indians and Indianapolis Indians Charities today announced that two Special Olympics Indiana State Softball Championships featuring four teams and nearly 70 athletes will be played on Saturday, Oct. 10 at Victory Field. The first game begins at 11 AM and the second contest starts at 1 PM.

“We have been proud partners with Special Olympics Indiana for over 50 years and are thrilled to provide its athletes an opportunity to play at beautiful Victory Field,” said Randy Lewandowski, Indianapolis Indians President and General Manager. “We hope to uplift the spirits of the athletes in what has been a challenging summer and give them a memory they’ll cherish forever.”

Special Olympics Indiana softball teams consist of athletes of all ages and compete in one of three classifications: traditional teams including only Special Olympics athletes; unified teams comprised of individuals with or without intellectual disabilities; and designated pitcher teams, which play under modified rules to ensure greater pitcher consistency. The Special Olympics Indiana 2020 State Softball Championships feature gold medal games in the traditional (Johnson County Blue vs. Johnson County White) and designated pitcher (Tippecanoe County Sluggers vs. Shelby County Cardinals) classifications. Both games will be seven-inning affairs.

“In a year that has seen the cancellation or suspension of countless events and even entire sports seasons, the excitement our athletes are now feeling about the chance to compete – not only in-person, but at a professional baseball stadium – just cannot be overstated,” said Special Olympics Indiana President & CEO Jeff Mohler. “So, on behalf of the entire Special Olympics Indiana community, I’d like to extend our gratitude to the Indianapolis Indians and Indianapolis Indians Charities for helping us to get back on the field and for making this a really memorable experience for everyone involved.”

For those wanting to attend the championship games, please contact Special Olympics Indiana Director of Sports & Competition Scott Mingle at [email protected] or (317) 328-2004. Gates open at 10 AM.

Officially established as a Special Olympics sport in 1983 and based upon rules developed by the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC), softball is played by more than 70,000 Special Olympics athletes worldwide each year. Softball is Special Olympics Indiana’s fourth-most popular sport, promoting personal growth and development among its athletes, to encourage active lifestyles, and to improve self-esteem among children and adults with intellectual disabilities throughout Indiana.

In a typical year, softball is played throughout the summer by thousands of individuals and dozens of teams. Special Olympics Indiana’s annual state softball tournament includes sectional qualifiers in the north, south and central regions of Indiana in mid-August, with state finals taking place in or near Indianapolis each September.

On a national level, Team Indiana earned gold in softball at the 2018 USA Games in Seattle, Wash. and is preparing to compete once again at the 2022 USA Games in Orlando, Fla.

Johnny TinCap Joins Fight Against Breast Cancer, Teams with Rival

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FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Fort Wayne TinCaps mascot Johnny TinCap is joining the fight against breast cancer. As part of the American Cancer Society’s “Real Men Wear Pink of Fort Wayne” campaign, Johnny is raising money and awareness to help save lives from breast cancer.

For an added incentive, Johnny is competing against the South Bend Cubs’ mascot, Stu, to see who can raise more money. Johnny and Stu have agreed that whoever comes up short in their challenge will have to wear the opposing team’s gear for a day with proof shared on social media.

Neither Johnny nor Stu could be reached for comment. However, through a team spokesperson, Johnny said, “Everyone knows my favorite colors are TinCaps green and red, but for October, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I’ll be rocking pink. That’s because breast cancer affects everyone, not just women. The American Cancer Society is helping people take steps to reduce their risk of breast cancer or find it early, when it’s easier to treat. I’m glad my friend Stu is teaming up with me to support this important cause.”

Johnny TinCap is one of 11 Fort Wayne area community leaders fundraising for the American Cancer Society (ACS). Donations will be counted through Nov. 2.

The ACS says it’s in need of help now more than ever. Since February, mammograms have declined by 87%, which can delay an important diagnosis for women. COVID-19 will likely reduce the American Cancer Society’s ability to fund cancer research by 50% in 2020 if current trends continue.

In addition to more than 240,000 women, the ACS notes that thousands of men also are diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States every year.

Despite the 2020 Minor League Baseball season being lost, the TinCaps have remained committed to community service. Through “IN This Together” t-shirt sales, the team donated $10,000 to the Parkview Foundations in August as a way of expressing appreciation for healthcare workers during the fight against COVID-19. In a similar fashion, the TinCaps have rallied their fans to donate meals to local healthcare workers. Meanwhile, Parkview Field has also served as a food distribution site for Community Harvest Food Bank and Aging & In-Home Services. The ballpark continues to host other events for non-profits as well.

Victory Field Lights Up Red as Part of #RedAlertRestart

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INDIANAPOLIS – Tonight, Victory Field and other venues around Indiana have gone on #RedAlert to raise awareness for the thousands of Hoosier workers and small businesses in our industry who have been impacted by COVID-19. Live events venues were the first to close and will be among the last to return, and efforts to help us safely back to live events are critical for our economy.

Did You Know?

  • Live events employ over 12 million people.
  • Live events contribute over $1 trillion annually to the US economy.
  • 95% of live events have been canceled due to COVID-19.
  • 96% of companies have cut staff and/or wages.
  • 77% of people in the live events industry have lost 100% of their income, including 97% of 1099 workers.

On September 1, 2020, #WeMakeEvents, a coalition of trade bodies, businesses, unions and live events workers, will light up their venues, home and cities red in over 1,500 locations across North America to raise public and media awareness in support of the live events sector. Will you join us?

How You Can Help

  • Please contact your representatives at WeMakeEvents.org.
  • Post a red-tinted photo of your favorite live event to your social media with the following caption: #RedAlertRESTART: the live events we love may never recover from the pandemic, we need to take action! Take 2 minutes to contact your representatives here, and post a red photo of you at your favorite event, too: https://WeMakeEvents.org #WeMakeEvents #ExtendPUA
  • Turn your photo red here: https://www11.lunapic.com/editor/?action=tint
  • Check out the hashtag #RedAlertRESTART and share/RT images of venues and live events workers you love.

TinCaps Donate $10,000 to the Parkview Foundations

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Money Raised Through “IN This Together” T-Shirt Sales

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne TinCaps are proud to have donated $10,000 to the Parkview Foundations, as a way of expressing support and appreciation for healthcare workers during the fight against COVID-19. The money was raised through the sales of special edition TinCaps “IN This Together” t-shirts.

“We’re glad to support healthcare workers in our community while they’re protecting us during these uncertain times,” said Michael Limmer, TinCaps Vice President for Marketing and Promotions. “In addition to our tremendous appreciation for our healthcare heroes, we also send gratitude to all of our fans who purchased an ‘IN This Together’ t-shirt.”

Parkview Health is a not-for-profit health system. As a 501(c)(3), Parkview Foundations accept tax-deductible donations. These fund essential needs such as new equipment, enhanced health services, outreach programs, the expansion of medical facilities, access to medication, and assistance to patients and their families. 100% of every gift made through Parkview Foundations is used to benefit patients, their families, and the care received at Parkview Health locations.

“We’d like to thank each of the TinCaps fans who bought a t-shirt and supported the Parkview Foundations,” said Ben Miles, President of Parkview Regional Medical Center and Affiliates, and Interim Senior Vice President of Parkview Foundations. “These donations are going to support our Parkview Health frontline workers. Each of us has been impacted in some way during this pandemic. Your donation to the Parkview Foundations is helping us to keep patient care at the forefront of everything we do. We’re honored to serve you and to support our TinCaps as well.”

The t-shirts, which were produced by _18 Threads_, a Fort Wayne-based custom print apparel shop, are green and read “TinCaps” across the chest. While the team’s primary logo features a red apple at the center, this design substituted in a red heart. Below that is the phrase “IN This Together,” part of a statewide campaign to promote social distancing to keep Hoosiers healthy and return Indiana to normal social interactions and business operations. Nearly 1,000 shirts were sold from late April through late June.

Fans can continue to support the Parkview Foundations thanks to a partnership that allows tax-deductible monetary donations to be used to provide TinCaps Meal Kits to Parkview Health frontline workers. For more information on how you or your organization can donate to this program, call 260-407-2813 or email [email protected].

Parkview Foundation Accepting Donations Toward TinCaps Meal Kits for Healthcare Workers

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FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne TinCaps have announced a partnership with the Parkview Foundation that allows tax-deductible monetary donations to be used to provide TinCaps Meal Kits to Parkview Health frontline workers.

“We’ve been offering the community the chance to provide a TinCaps Meal Kit to a Parkview Health frontline worker since the program’s launch,” said TinCaps Vice President Michael Limmer. “But this announcement allows individuals and companies to make tax deductible monetary donations to the Parkview Foundation that will be used to provide Parkview Health employees and families most in need with a TinCaps Meal Kit.”

The TinCaps Meal Kit program was launched in late April as the organization faces the uncertainty of a 2020 Minor League Baseball season.

“We wanted the opportunity to connect with our fans and the community,” Limmer said. “This program allows fans to bring a taste of Parkview Field home with them at a time where we aren’t able to open our doors for fans to come in.”

The opportunity to donate a TinCaps Meal Kit to a Parkview employee has been a part of the program since its inception, but now there is the opportunity for a monetary donation to be made directly to the Parkview Foundation to provide the Meal Kits.

“We are proud to be able to broker the generosity of our community through the Foundation in getting TinCaps Meal Kits to our healthcare team members,” said Denise Andorfer, Director of Leadership Gifts for the Parkview Foundation. “We know acts of kindness during these challenging times are so appreciated in lifting the spirits of those working hard to keep our community safe. Generosity is an empowering reminder of our solidarity.”

“I’m a single mom with four kids and I feel truly blessed by this,” said Brittany Smith, who works at the Parkview Cancer Institute and recently received a TinCaps Meal Kit. “This box had five meals in it with everything that’s needed. They were all different meals and everything was absolutely delicious. I’m very grateful for this meal kit and want to thank the TinCaps for doing this.”

TinCaps Meal Kits are $100 if portioned for two and $185 (tax included) for a family-size that’s designed to feed 4-6 people. Meal Kits can be ordered at tincaps.com. For more information on how you or your organization can donate to this program, please contact Michael Limmer with the TinCaps at [email protected] or 260-407-2813.

Pastime Youth Baseball Tournaments Held at Four Winds Field

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SOUTH BEND, IN – Baseball returns to Four Winds Field as youth teams throughout the Midwest compete in the Pastime Baseball Youth Travel Tournaments. Admission and parking are free to all games. While admission is free, the organization is adhering to the current guideline of 250 people maximum capacity inside sporting venues.

In accordance with the St. Joseph County Health Department and the State of Indiana, Four Winds Field has instituted the rules and guidelines below in the interest of safety for the fans and players.

  • Cubs staff members will adhere to the most recent guidelines as set forth by the St. Joseph County Department of Health.
  • Fans will be encouraged to practice social distancing when entering, leaving, and during the duration of their stay at Four Winds Field. Please be respectful of fellow guests and staff, especially individuals you may not know. No more than six people are allowed at a single table.
  • Fans are asked to keep at least six feet away from other fans you may not know. While masks are not required for those in the stands, we encourage all fans to wear them if sitting in groups.
  • There are multiple hand sanitizer stations available throughout the stadium including the entry gate and outside the restrooms.
  • Outside food and beverages are prohibited, including peanuts and sunflower seeds. The 3rd base concession stand will be open with a limited menu, while supplies last. A limited selection of beer will also be available for those 21 and older.
  • Gate A will be used entry and exit of the stadium.
  • Fans can park in any legal space around the stadium including Lots A, B, C, and D.
  • All outdoor and indoor suites are closed to all fans as are the Pepsi Stadium Club and Clubhouse level.
  • Be aware of foul balls and bats that may leave the playing surface and enter the stands. Fans are asked to return any foul ball to either dugout.
  • No seeds, no gum, no peanuts are permitted in the dugouts or on the field.
  • Personal sanitizer is strongly recommended for all patrons and participants.
  • Smoking and vaping are not permitted in the seating bowl or anywhere inside the stadium. Fans are asked to exit Gate A to smoke or vape.
  • The Cubs Den Team Store will be open throughout the tournament. Fans can also shop online by clicking here.
  • Help keep Four Winds Field clean throughout the tournament. Please pick up your trash and dispose of it in trash cans on the concourse.

Tournament Schedules (updated June 16)

All Pro Elite Tournament (June 14-17)

Great Lakes T.O.C. (June 18-21)

All Prospect Irish Select (June 25-28)

For the most up to date schedules and tournament specific information, visit pastimetournaments.com.

Four Winds Field to Host South Bend Community School Corporation Graduations July 24 & 25 

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SOUTH BEND, IN – The South Bend Cubs and Four Winds Field are proud to partner with the South Bend Community School Corporation to host their 2020 Graduation Ceremonies. The five area high schools will hold their ceremonies over two days, July 24 and 25 with a rain date of July 26.

“The generosity of the South Bend Cubs and Four Winds Field management has been essential in allowing us to safely honor our graduates in person,” said Superintendent Dr. C. Todd Cummings. “Our community partnership with the South Bend Cubs, the guidance of Dr. Mark Fox with the St. Joseph County Health Department, and the input of our graduating seniors have all made it possible for us to grant Class of 2020 the meaningful experience they deserve.”

“We know how important these ceremonies are, not just to the graduates, but to the families as well,” said South Bend Cubs Team President Joe Hart. “We’re proud to partner with Dr. Cummings and his staff to provide a safe place for the seniors to be recognized.”

In accordance with CDC guidelines and the Saint Joseph County Health Department, all participants including graduates, Corporation staff, School Board members, and invited guests will be required to wear masks and use hand sanitizer upon entering the stadium. Masks will be provided and must be worn when entering and exiting the venue.

Tickets will be distributed by each school based on the size of each graduating class (two or four tickets maximum). A letter will be sent to all graduates and guests outlining health and social distancing guidelines.

For those unable to attend, the South Bend Cubs will stream the ceremonies live through their social media channels.

Graduation Schedule:

• Dress rehearsals – Thursday, July 23, 2020 from 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

• John Adams High School – Friday, July 24, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. (doors open at 5:45 p.m.)

• Washington High School – Saturday, July 25, 2020 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (doors open at 8:30 a.m.)

• Clay High School – Saturday, July 25, 12:00 p.m.- 1:00 p.m. (doors open at 11:30)

• RISE UP Academy – Saturday, July 25, 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. (doors open at 2:00 p.m.)

• Riley High School – Saturday, July 25, 5:00 p.m.- 6:30 p.m. (doors open at 4:30 p.m.)

Additional details are available on the South Bend Community School Corporation website.

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.

South Bend Cubs Launch Meals for Medical MVPs

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UPDATE: Due to overwhelming demand, we’re offering our Meals For Medical MVPs for one more week. Feed a front line healthcare worker and their family with a ballpark feast that includes hot dogs, hamburgers, potato salad, cookies and more! All orders must be in by Thursday, June 18 at 5:00 p.m. THANK YOU for your generosity Michiana!

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE A MEAL PACKAGE

SOUTH BEND, IN – The South Bend Cubs have teamed up with Beacon Health System and Saint Joseph Health System to launch a new program that will feed front line healthcare workers and their families. Meals for Medical MVPs kicks off this week. Fans interested in thanking these essential workers and their families can purchase a $60 feast of ballpark favorites by calling (574) 235-9988 or by clicking below.

The meal includes hot dogs, hamburgers, potato salad, chips, cookies and lemonade and serves 4-5 people. As a personal way to say ‘thank you’, each donation will also include the name of the individual, family, or business providing the meal. Packages will be donated and distributed to healthcare workers at Memorial Hospital in South Bend and Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center in Mishawaka.

“Great teammates support each other in both good times and hard times. Meals for Medical MVPs is another way we as a community can thank front line healthcare workers for always having our backs,” stated South Bend Cubs President, Joe Hart. “My family and I are donating the first five meals. And, I want to challenge our community and business leaders to join me in showing our gratitude for these folks and their families.”

This program expands upon earlier efforts made by the South Bend Cubs, when the organization donated over 2,000 meals to both hospitals as healthcare workers and medical staff were hit with the initial outbreak of COVID-19 in the Michiana region.

“The South Bend Cubs are one of the many community partners who demonstrates tremendous support to our medical team,” stated Chad Towner, Chief Executive Officer of Saint Joseph Health System.

Susan King, President of Beacon Health Foundation added, “From all of us at Beacon Health System, thank you to Joe Hart, the South Bend Cubs and our entire community. Over the last two months, our community has pulled together to help one another. The generosity and support from business and the broader community to all healthcare workers has been amazing and has helped sustain us during these challenging times.”

Both Beacon Health System and Saint Joseph Health System will manage the distribution of food donations and the South Bend Cubs will help coordinate meal delivery. All meal donations placed after 3:00 p.m. on Thursdays will be rolled over to the following week.

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.

TinCaps Team with Community Harvest to Host Downtown Fort Wayne Farm Wagon Distribution

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — In an effort to feed more individuals suffering from the economic effects of COVID-19, the Fort Wayne TinCaps have partnered with Community Harvest Food Bank to distribute food at Parkview Field’s “Silver” parking lot. The food bank has operated the Farm Wagon program since 1999, and has recently made changes to the schedule to eliminate unnecessary personal contact by using a drive through system.

“We want to reach as many people as possible who are living without affordable food access,” said Carmen Cumberland, Community Harvest Executive President. “This unique opportunity to partner with the Fort Wayne TinCaps allows us to get food distributed into the hands of vulnerable families downtown.”

“Although the TinCaps are not currently playing games at Parkview Field, we want to continue our focus on impacting the community during these tough times,” said Mike Nutter, TinCaps President. “We have been longtime partners with Community Harvest Food Bank and we are happy to be partnering with them again to get food to the families and folks in our region that need it the most.”

The Parkview Field Farm Wagon will be held for two weeks, and may extend for a third week. People in need of food assistance can drive to the location and Community Harvest will distribute food boxes into car trunks.

Parkview Field Distribution Schedule:

  • Monday, April 20, 1:00PM, Silver Parking Lot, Parkview Field
  • Monday, April 27, 1:00PM, Silver Parking Lot, Parkview Field
  • Monday, May 4, 1:00PM, Silver Parking Lot, Parkview Field (Added to original schedule)

The Farm Wagon at Parkview Field and all other Farm Wagon trucks are open to anyone in need with no ID required. Currently, Community Harvest operates Farm Wagons throughout northeast Indiana in their nine-county service area. Anyone in need of food assistance can visit CHFB.org to see the schedule and find out more information.

About Community Harvest Food Bank

Established in 1983, Community Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Indiana, Inc. feeds 21,100 people every week. Last year, CHFB distributed 13.8 million pounds of food to nearly 85,000 unique individuals. Donna Van Vlerah serves as Board Chair, Carmen Cumberland serves as Executive President, and John Wolf serves as the Chief Executive Officer. Community Harvest is one of 200 Feeding America member food banks in the United States, and one of 11 regional members of Feeding Indiana’s Hungry. Community Harvest feeds hungry people in the nine counties of northeast Indiana. For more information, please visit www.chfb.org.

South Bend Cubs Offering Personalized Messages for Donations to Food Pantry

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

SOUTH BEND, IN – The South Bend Cubs are offering an opportunity to help the community and provide you with a special memento. Fans can purchase a message to be displayed on the video board at Four Winds Field for a minimum donation of $10 and receive a digital copy of that message on the video board. All of the money raised will go to the Walter A. Meyer Food Pantry at the Salvation Army Kroc Center Family Resource Center.

Fans will receive an added bonus and have their message displayed on the South Bend Cubs Facebook and Twitter pages. Those who do not wish their message to be added should leave a note in the comments section at check out.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE

“During this time of social distancing, we’re actively trying to find ways to help our community,” said South Bend Cubs Team President Joe Hart. “We know there are some in our community that are food insecure or having a difficult time. The Kroc Center is just one of the many organizations providing assistance for those who need it. I’m encouraging anyone who is looking for a unique gift for a friend or family member to purchase a message. It’s a great way to show someone you care and help our community at the same time.”

“The Salvation Army, motivated by God’s love, continues to meet human needs through its Family Resource Center, ensuring that families and individuals have food to eat,” said Senior Kroc Officer Monty Wandling. “In the first two weeks of our drive-through pantry we have already given away 300 prepackaged food boxes to aid our fellow community members who are struggling during this time of quarantine. Your ongoing prayer and financial support of our service to the community are greatly appreciated.”

The process is simple. Fans can visit SouthBendCubs.com and click on the video board message request link through the Cubs Den Team Store. Just select the amount you wish to donate (minimum $10 donation) and go to check out. In your shopping cart special instructions box, enter your personalized message then click checkout.

Message requests will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, with a maximum of 20 per day. There are no refunds for video board messages. The South Bend Cubs reserve the right to approve and edit any message. Messages that contain obscene or offensive content or include foul language will not be accepted. Marketing messages are not permitted. Photos will be sent to the email provided associated with the Team Store account.

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.