Iowa – Page 4

Garrett Brockway Baseball Clinic set for May 9th

March 19, 2015

The Burlington Bees/Garrett Brockway Memorial spring baseball camp is set for May 9th for ages 7-14 at Community Field from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. The cost is just $25 per child.

Bees players will be on hand to teach the basics of hitting, throwing, and fielding. All proceeds will benefit the Garrett Brockway Foundation.

Garrett Brockway was only 10 years old when he passed away in March of 2013. He loved to play baseball and attended many Bees games.

For more information or to print out a sign up form, please click here. If you have any questions, please contact the Bees at (319) 754-5705.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Burlington Bees. Click here to view the original story.

2015 Nick Adenhart Memorial Scholarship

February 16, 2015

Application deadline is Friday, April 17.

Applications are being accepted through The Kernels Foundation for the fifth annual Nick Adenhart Memorial Scholarship.

Nick Adenhart was a bright young pitcher who played for the Cedar Rapids Kernels in 2006, and was a rising star in the Los Angeles Angels organization. Only hours after Nick’s 2009 season debut on the mound for the Angels, a drunk driver tragically killed him on April 9, 2009 at age 22.

Nick’s family would like to honor him by awarding a $1,000 scholarship in his memory. The Kernels Foundation is privileged to administer the scholarship on behalf of Nick’s family.

The deadline for submitting applications for this scholarship is Friday, April 17, 2015. Applicants must be a graduating high school senior from an area high school and attend a two or four-year accredited college or university and take 12 or more hours per semester. The applicant must have played an organized sport in the last two years, must be a great teammate, must demonstrate hard work and determination, and must have a clear vision of their career goal.

Scholarship applications are available through area schools guidance offices, or may be downloaded from the Kernels website by clicking here.

For more information, please contact Doug Nelson at 319-363-3887 or email at doug@kernels.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Cedar Rapids Kernels . Click here to view the original story.

Fundraising with the Kernels

February 6, 2015

Three ways for your non-profit group or organization to raise money this season

The Cedar Rapids Kernels have three ways for your non-profit group or organization to raise money this season – before, during and after Kernels games!

Kernels 4-Pack Ticket Fundraiser

Selling Kernels tickets is an easy way to raise money for your team or organization! Each 4-Pack of tickets sells for $30.00, and you get to keep $10.00 of each sale. That can really add up with just a few sales! The 4-Pack consists of four plaza ticket vouchers, which can be redeemed at the Kernels box office for any home game during the 2015 season.

Who to sell to: Mom and Dad, Grandparents, Aunts and Uncles, Neighbors, Teachers, Coaches, Your parents’ co-workers, People at church.

How it works: The Kernels supply a form for you to track your sales during the fundraising period. People purchasing a package complete their personal information and the seller collects $30 for each 4-pack sold. Cash and personal checks made out to the Cedar Rapids Kernels are accepted. Your group coordinator will turn in all orders to the Kernels and in 3-4 weeks, the Kernels will mail out all ticket vouchers and cut a check back to your organization for the total amount raised.

Questions? Please contact Sammy Brzostowski at the Cedar Rapids Kernels by phone at (319) 896-7622 or by e-mail at sammy@kernels.com.

Stadium Alcohol Purchase Wristbanding

The Kernels are looking for non-profit organization to man alcohol purchase wristbanding stations at various locations throughout the stadium at all 70 Kernel home games. People who wrist band should be at least 18 years of age and be able to verify a customer’s ID and issue a wristband so they may purchase and consume alcoholic beverages at the stadium. The wristbanders must be at their posts when the gates open one hour before the scheduled first pitch, but may leave the game upon the completion or the 6th inning (at the latest). The number of wristbanders needed at each home game varies and the number needed will be sent to the group leader.

For more information about wristbanding, contact Scott Wilson at the Kernels by phone at (319) 896-7612 or by email at scott@kernels.com.

Post-Game Stadium Cleanup

The Kernels are looking for non-profit organization to assist in the post-game cleaning of Perfect Game Field at Veterans Memorial Stadium following Kernels games. Cleaning crews will pick up general trash from the main seating bowl and group areas, separate recyclable items, such as soda and water bottles from the general trash, put the items into the proper bins and take them to either the bottle storage area or trash compactor. The cleaning crew will also empty the various trash bins from around the stadium and return them to their usual location. The cleaning crew will arrive at the stadium approximately 30 minutes before the end of the game and the cleaning process takes between 60 and 90 minutes following the end of the game.

A cleanup group will earn $125 per night cleaning the stadium and most groups commit to a home stand, consisting of 3-4 consecutive games.

For more information about post-game stadium cleanup, contact Scott Wilson at the Kernels by phone at (319) 896-7612 or by email at scott@kernels.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Cedar Rapids Kernels. Click here to view the original story.

Bandits, Genesis plan Community Day Saturday, Jan. 31, at 9 a.m.

January 20, 2015

Ballpark to host 500 free flu shots, youth activities, team’s annual job fair, national anthem tryouts

The Quad Cities River Bandits and Genesis Health System are inviting the Quad Cities community to join their team to protect the community from seasonal influenza, and to build a lineup that will make another memorable season for guests at Modern Woodmen Park. Community Day on the morning of Saturday, Jan. 31, will include 500 free vaccinations to protect against seasonal influenza, the River Bandits’ annual job fair, and auditions for national anthem singers.

“We hope people who haven’t yet gotten a flu shots this year will take this pitch out of the park,” said Ken Croken, vice president of marketing and corporate communications, Genesis Health System. “We know it has already been an active flu season locally and nationally, but the only real protection is a flu shot, and it isn’t too late to get that protection. And at this event, it will be free.”

The Genesis Flu-Free Quad Cities program – which the River Bandits and Main Street Amusements supported as part of a $50,000 donation to the Genesis Health Services Foundation in November – has provided flu shots to about 48,000 Quad Cities adults and children since the fall and protected thousands more indirectly. Nearly 9,000 elementary school children received free flu shots at their schools this fall.

“The River Bandits and Main Street Amusements have been proud to partner with Genesis Health System to make the family-friendly fun of Modern Woodmen Park become a positive and lasting impact for our community with programs such as Genesis Flu-Free Quad Cities,” said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. “Community Day continues our strong partnership to provide fun, health and wellness to entire Quad Cities region.”

The doors will open for all Community Day events at 9 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 31. All events will be on the suite level of Modern Woodmen Park. Information about each event are listed below.

9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
500 free flu shots and Genesis events

Complications from seasonal influenza can be fatal for as many as 30,000 nationally in a single year. The youngest, the oldest and those with chronic conditions are at highest risk for serious complications. Each person who receives seasonal influenza vaccinations is believed to protect five people around them, including higher-risk individuals.

Genesis will also host a throwing clinic to prevent injuries in young baseball and softball players; free blood pressure checks; and a jump analysis for kids.

9:00 a.m. – noon
2015 Modern Woodmen Park Job Fair

The Quad Cities River Bandits, Main Street Amusements and Professional Sports Catering, the food and beverage provider at Modern Woodmen Park, are seeking outgoing, hard-working, fun-loving, friendly people to assist fans and be a part of the team that will help make another memorable season for guests at the ballpark.

The River Bandits, Main Street Amusements and Professional Sports Catering will host a job fair on Saturday, Jan. 31, from 9 a.m. to noon at Modern Woodmen Park to fill the ballpark’s game day staff and food and beverage positions. Interested individuals can fill out an application and be interviewed on the suite level during the job fair.

Listed below are the positions that the River Bandits, Main Street Amusements and Professional Sports Catering need filled:

Amusements
Amusements and kids zone workers (includes work on non-game days)

Box Office & Ticketing
Box Office Intern
Box Office Employees
Ticket Takers

Ballpark Hospitality
Ushers
Parking Attendant

Concessions
Kitchen Staff
Gameday supervisors
Warehouse Employees
Seat Vendors
Attendants
Cooks
Cashiers
Bartenders

Field/Stadium Maintenance
Field/Grounds Crew
Custodial Host (Mornings)
Custodial Host (Game Ops)

Merchandise
Retail Store Employees

Promotions
“Street Team” in-game entertainment staff

Video Production
Video production interns

The River Bandits, Main Street Amusements and Professional Sports Catering are equal opportunity employers; women, minorities and U.S. veterans are encouraged to apply.

9:00 a.m. – noon
2015 River Bandits National Anthem and Talent Auditions

The River Bandits will hold tryouts on Saturday, Jan. 31, from 9 a.m. to noon for individuals and groups, including National Anthem singers, to perform and entertain fans with their talents prior to home games during the 2015 season.

National Anthem and other pre-game performance tryouts will take place in the Budweiser Champions Club at Modern Woodmen Park. Registration is first come, first served. Talents can range anywhere from singing, dancing, and comedy to miming, juggling or magic.

Everyone participating in the tryouts will perform their talent for a panel of River Bandits staff and local judges. Those talented enough to entertain crowds at River Bandits games this summer will be included in the show during the 2015 season.

9:00 a.m. – noon
Ticket plans, Kids Club and more on sale

Fans may learn about ticket plans and group outings, and purchase or renew ticket packages for the 2015 season. For children ages 14 and under, the River Bandits will offer another one-day special on 2015 Kids Club memberships. Normally $30 per child 14 and under, a membership will be $25 at Modern Woodmen Park on Saturday, Jan. 31. A Kids Club Membership includes a free bleacher ticket good for all River Bandits 2015 regular season home games, a membership card, a T-shirt, a 10 percent discount off purchases in the team store, an email newsletter with exclusive special offers and much more.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Quad Cities River Bandits. Click here to view the original story.

Bandits fulfill $50,000 pledge to Genesis Foundation

November 12, 2014

A portion from each of 68,000 amusement rides last season will benefit health initiatives for children

Holding the donation check are (from left to right) Genesis Health Services Foundation Executive Director Missy Gowey, River Bandits owner Dave Heller, and Genesis Health System Vice President, Corporate Communications, Marketing and Advocacy Ken Croken.

Fulfilling a pledge made for the inaugural season of the Ferris wheel and other amusements at Modern Woodmen Park, the Quad Cities River Bandits and Main Street Amusements on Wednesday presented a $50,000 donation to the Genesis Health Services Foundation. Dave Heller, owner of the River Bandits, presented the check to Ken Croken, Genesis Health System Vice President, Corporate Communications, Marketing and Advocacy, during a press conference Wednesday at Modern Woodmen Park.

With a portion from each of 68,000 rides of the new amusements this season at Modern Woodmen Park – including the 105-foot Ferris wheel, the expanded 300-foot zip line, Space Camp gyroscope and the Mediacom Drop’N Twist – the donation will benefit Genesis Health Services Foundation health initiatives for children, including the Flu-Free Quad Cities campaign, Camp Genesis for kids who have someone close to them with cancer and Genesis Neonatal Intensive Care services to help struggling newborn babies.

“The River Bandits belong to the people of the Quad Cities, and a big part of our mission is to make a positive and lasting impact across this great community,” said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. “When both of my sons were born, they had to spend time in the neo-natal intensive care unit. Fortunately, we were able to afford such care. My hope is that, with this donation, needy families throughout our region will be able to come to Genesis and get the care they need when they need it. We are so grateful for all of the support we receive every day from Quad Cities families and we are delighted to be able to give back in a big way to help others in our community.”

“By their conduct here, the Quad Cities River Bandits and their owner, Mr. Dave Heller, have helped define corporate social responsibility for our community,” said Ken Croken, vice president of corporate communications, Genesis Health System.

On May 24, with an Inaugural Ferris Wheel Ride event and fundraiser, the Quad Cities River Bandits became the first team in Minor League Baseball to open a Ferris wheel inside its ballpark. Towering 105 feet above the playing field, the Ferris wheel was part of the debut for a full lineup of amusements that opened every weekend, including non-game days, for the Quad Cities community to enjoy through November 1. The Ferris wheel was named Monday as the Best Ballpark Improvement in all of baseball for the 2014 season by Ballpark Digest. It followed a year in which Modern Woodmen Park drew its largest average attendance – 3,885 per game – in the history of the 83-year-old ballpark.

“The success and recognition the amusements have brought to this community has been exciting, but it is most gratifying when our success makes such a positive difference in the lives of Quad Cities families in need,” said River Bandits General Manager Andrew Chesser. “This season’s donation to the Genesis Health Services Foundation is another example of the strong partnerships we are blessed to have in the Quad Cities community.”

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Quad Cities River Bandits. Click here to view the original story.

Kernels donate MWL fine money to HACAP Food Reservoir

October 17, 2014

The Cedar Rapids Kernels donated their share of the Midwest League fine money, collected from the 16 MWL clubs, to the HACAP Food Reservoir.

As a member of America’s Second Harvest and the National Food Bank Network, the HACAP Food Reservoir distributes donated products to area soup kitchens, pantries, senior & child care centers, drug & alcohol rehabilitation centers and other non-profit food programs that feed the needy. Annually, the HACAP Food Reservoir Programs distribute 2.4 million pounds of food to local organizations and provide 4,000 food boxes to families in need.

The Midwest League collects fine money from players and coaches throughout the season when they are ejected from a game, and the total amount collected this season was $8,450 of which the Kernels’ share was $529.

The Cedar Rapids Kernels are pleased to support HACAP, a diverse, community-focused non-profit dedicated to empowering and improving the lives of families living with the everyday barriers of poverty.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Cedar Rapids Kernels. Click here to view the original story.

Kernels season-long charity partners raise over $35,000

September 23, 2014

The Cedar Rapids Kernels partnered with three local companies during the 2014 season to raise over $35,000 for local charities through three different season-long promotions.

For the fifth consecutive season, The Transamerica Foundation has sponsored K’s for Kids, where for every strikeout (or K) recorded by Kernels pitchers this season (home and away, plus playoff games) Transamerica donated $25 to Kids First Law Center for Childr en of Divorce. This season, Kernel pitchers struck out 1,188 batters for a grand total of $29,700 for Kids First. This is the fifth consecutive season that Transamerica has sponsored the K’s for Kids promotion and the highest pledge total to date.

“At Transamerica, we believe in supporting the communities in which we work and live. Since 1994, the Aegon Transamerica Foundation, through a combination of financial grants and the volunteer commitment of our employees, has supported a wide variety of non-profit organizations focused on the education, health and the well-being of community members” said Terrie Rethamel, VP of Specialized Operations with Transamerica. “Our $25 donation for every strikeout pitched by the Cedar Rapids Kernels supports the good work of the Kids First Law Center as they help children and their families through difficult circumstances. We appreciate all that they do to assist families, and consequently, our entire community.”

CarePro Health Services sponsored Plating for Plates, where for every run scored by the Kernels (home and away plus playoffs) CarePro donated $5 to Horizons Meals On Wheels, a program that delivers hot, nutritious meals to local homebound citizens. This season, the Kernels scored 643 runs and that means that CarePro Health Services donated $3,215 or 643 plates of food, to Meals on Wheels. This is the seventh consecutive season that CarePro Health Services has sponsored Plating for Plates.

“It has been a privilege for CarePro Health Services to support the Horizons Meals on Wheels program over the past seven Kernels seasons” said Chris Nichols, Marketing Director at CarePro Health Services. “The Plating for Plates program has been a fun way to be able to support the community and has provided thousands of meals to area community members.”

For the fourth consecutive season, Millhiser Smith Agency, Inc. and West Bend Insurance have partnered to make a donation to Junior Achievement for every home run the Kernels hit at Perfect Game Field this season. In 2014, the Kernels hit 42 home runs and Millhiser Smith and West Bend Insurance donated $2,500 to Junior Achievement.

“One of our fundamental philosophies at Millhiser Smith is to reciprocate the support we receive from Cedar Rapids and surrounding communities – this is why we chose to support Junior Achievement” said Jessica Rhatigan, Risk Consultant with Millhiser Smith Agency, Inc.. “Their focus is on educating our children in preparation for a successful future and we’ve been honored to contribute to their efforts.”

These three companies combined to raise $35,415 for local non-profits in our community this season. The Kernels would like to thank The Transamerica Foundation, CarePro Health Services, Millhiser Smith Agency, Inc. and West Bend Insurance for their continued support of these local charity programs.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Cedar Rapids Kernels. Click here to view the original story.

Bandits to donate at least $50,000 to Genesis Foundation

August 6, 2014

A portion of every amusement ride at Modern Woodmen Park this season will be donated

The Quad Cities River Bandits and Main Street Amusements are pledging at least a $50,000 donation this year to the Genesis Health Services Foundation, benefiting Camp Genesis, Genesis Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Genesis Flu-Free Quad Cities. Dave Heller, owner of the River Bandits, and Ken Croken, Genesis Health System Vice President, Corporate Communications, Marketing and Advocacy, made the announcement at press conference Wednesday at Modern Woodmen Park.

For each ride of the new amusements at Modern Woodmen Park – including the 105-foot Ferris wheel, the expanded 300-foot zip line, Space Camp and the Mediacom Drop’N Twist, 50 cents will be donated to Genesis Health Services Foundation health initiatives for children. Since the Ferris wheel opened May 24, approximately 30,000 people have taken rides, but the River Bandits ownership will personally make up the difference for a total donation of at least $50,000.

“The amusements at Modern Woodmen Park have brought great joy to thousands of families in the Quad Cities region this summer, and we are blessed to be able to use these rides to help some of the less fortunate families in our community,” said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. “We are thrilled to be able to partner with the Genesis Health Services Foundation to ensure that affordable, family-friendly fun at Modern Woodmen Park makes a lasting impact for families across the region.”

The donations will go toward the Flu-Free Quad Cities campaign, Camp Genesis for kids who have someone close to them with cancer and Genesis Neonatal Intensive Care services to help struggling newborn babies.

“The Ferris wheel is one of the best new additions to the Quad Cities skyline in years. The best ballpark in baseball is now even better, attracting visitors from all over the country. And now, every time they take a ride on the Ferris wheel or the Drop and Twist ride, they are supporting children’s health programs in the region,” said Ken Croken, vice president of corporate communications, Genesis Health System. “Dave Heller and the Quad Cities River Bandits are a great partner of Genesis Health System and I want to applaud the generosity and Quad City values behind their support.”

The 105-foot Ferris wheel, Mediacom Drop’N Twist, Space Camp, and 300-foot zip line are open during all River Bandits home games, normally beginning 90 minutes before the scheduled first pitch. The rides are also open every Saturday morning – weather permitting – from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., as well as weekend non-game days: Fridays 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturdays and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Sundays 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Fans may purchase special tickets that can be redeemed at amusement areas, including the Ferris wheel and Bounce QC Kids Zone. Tickets are sold at $1 each, 5 for $5, 12 for $10, and 20 for $15. No tickets are required for children three years and under. An all-you-can-ride-and-bounce daily pass is $20, and a season pass for unlimited rides and play in the Bounce QC Kids Zone for $49. Purchases can be made at the amusement areas of Modern Woodmen Park.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Quad Cities River Bandits. Click here to view the original story.

Fans 4 the Cure to be at Community Field

July 30, 2014

Representatives from Ed Randall’s Fans for the Cure will be at Community Field this upcoming Friday, August 1 for their Bat 4 the Cure promotion as the Bees take on the Clinton LumberKings at 6:30 PM. They will be on hand to educate fans on the tragic illness that is prostate cancer. They will be in the main concourse providing informational materials that could save lives

“Ed Randall’s Bat 4 Cure is an excellent cause, simply put.” said Director of Community Relations Nick Waterman. “Prostate Cancer is nothing to take lightly, so making sure fans get the information they need through the baseball scope is a must. I read in the brochure that Prostate Cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in the U.S., striking 240,000 men each year, enough to fill Yankee Stadium five times!-that’s just so crazy and sad to think about.”

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Burlington Bees. Click here to view the original story.

Quilting for Veterans donates 60 quilts

July 8, 2014

Raises $1,260 for local Veterans

Sixty quilts and $1,260 was presented to Don Tyne and Linn County Veterans Affairs as part of Quilts to honor Vets in an on-field ceremony before the Kernels game with Beloit on July 5^th.

The project began on March 8^th as local quilters, organized by Connie Moyer and Connie’s Quilt Shop in Marion, began making quilts at Veterans Memorial Stadium, with 60 quilts produced by June 2nd. Also, a special quilt was made that was raffled off at the July 5^th game, and $1,260 was raised for Linn County Veterans Affairs through the quilt raffle.

The quilts will be given to local veterans in need through Linn County Veterans Affairs and events like Stand Down for Veterans.

“It was my honor to represent all of the quilters who spent their time and talents to make the 60 quilts that were given to Don Tyne to be distributed to local veterans as our way of saying thank you for their service to our country.”, said event organizer Connie Moyer of Connie’s Quilt Shop.

The Kernels begin a three game home stand tonight against the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers at 6:35 pm with the gates opening at 5:30 pm. The current home stand continues through Thursday, July 10^th.

Morgan Hawk brings you all of the play-by-play on the radio home of Kernels baseball, 1450 KMRY AM and 93.1 KMRY FM. Fans may listen on-line at www.kmryradio.com, or www.kernels.com.

Tickets may be purchased on-line at www.kernels.com, or by calling the Kernels Ticket Office at 896-7560. Ticket office hours are 10 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday, and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Cedar Rapids Kernels. Click here to view the original story.

Photo squares on sale for Autism Awareness Jerseys

June 27, 2014

River Bandits will wear specialty jerseys for third annual photo jersey auction Friday, Aug. 8

The Quad Cities River Bandits are again offering fans the chance to put their photographs in small squares in the team’s jersey numbers for the annual photo jersey auction on Autism Awareness Night presented by KWQC on Aug. 8 at Modern Woodmen Park. All of the proceeds of the square purchases and jersey auction will benefit the Quad Cities Autism Center Inc.

At $25 per square, fans can purchase a space in the River Bandits’ jersey numbers to feature a photograph of themselves, a family member or friend, or a picture chosen by the Quad Cities Autism Center. A limited number of squares are available, and each square comes with a certificate of purchase. Each square is guaranteed to be on at least one jersey, and the maximum individual order is five squares.

In 2012, the River Bandits became the first U.S. professional sports team to hold a photo jersey auction for charity, and the team’s second annual event was recognized last season with the annual Golden Bobblehead Award for the Best Charity Promotion or Event in Minor League Baseball.

“We are thrilled to partner again with the Quad Cities Autism Center to give River Bandits fans another incredible opportunity to be part of a nationally-recognized promotion and help fight autism right here in the Quad Cities,” said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. “The Quad Cities community has shown generous and enthusiastic support for the photo jersey auction and has demonstrated its determination to help fight autism, and we are excited for another memorable event at Modern Woodmen Park!”

In 2013, the River Bandits’ Autism Awareness Night raised more than $12,000. The promotion was selected in September 2013 among nearly 200 nominations as a finalist in its promotional category. It was later selected as the 2013 Golden Bobblehead Award winner for Best Charity Promotion or Event at Minor League Baseball Promotional Seminar in Louisville, Ky., last September.

Fans can order the photo squares by completing the form at www.riverbandits.com, calling 563-324-3000 or emailing Alex@riverbandits.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Quad Cities River Bandits. Click here to view the original story.

Batting for Scholars Home Run Derby rescheduled for Sept. 21

June 26, 2014

First-Ever Event will Welcome Participants from Tee Ball Through Adult to Modern Woodmen Park

The first-ever Batting for Scholars Home Run Derby to benefit the Bandit Scholars Program has been rescheduled for Sunday, Sept. 21. The event will give fans and people across the Quad Cities region the chance to swing for the fences at Modern Woodmen Park.

Presented by Modern Woodmen of America and Triumph Community Bank, the Batting for Scholars Home Run Derby will include a Minors Division, with participants from Tee Ball through age 17, and a Majors Division, including all ages at a competitive level. Registration will begin at 10 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 21. The Minors Division event will take place at 11 a.m., and the Majors Division event will be at 2 p.m. that day. Participants receive a free River Bandits T-shirt and a ticket to a 2015 River Bandits game. Non-participants are welcome to catch balls in the outfield of Modern Woodmen Park during the derby.

“The Batting for Scholars Home Run Derby offers a great opportunity for people in the Quad Cities to show off their skills and enjoy a unique and memorable experience on the field of Modern Woodmen Park,” said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. “The best part is all of the money raised at this unique event will help pay the college tuition for Quad Cities area students – perhaps in the future including one of the young participants in this first-ever Batting for Scholars Home Run Derby!”

The Minors Division will have three competitions – Single A (players in Tee Ball through levels under age 10), Double A (ages 10 to 12), and Triple A (ages 13 to 17). The top three winners in each division will receive prizes. Registration is $20 per participant, and each hitter can choose to hit baseballs or softballs. The registration deadline is Monday, Sept. 15.

Majors Division will include all ages at a competitive level, hitting softball pitches. The winner will receive $200 cash and a 2015 suite rental as prizes. Registration is $30 per participant and limited to the first 50 who register. The deadline is Monday, Sept. 15.

All fans are welcome to catch balls in the outfield during the derby. Non-participants for the home run derby are asked to make a $5 donation to the Bandit Scholars Program.

The Batting for Scholars Home Run Derby registration form is available at Modern Woodmen Park and at www.riverbandits.com. More information is available by contacting Brittany Carter at 563-333-2736 or emailing Brittany@riverbandits.com.

The Bandit Scholars Program was founded in 2009 by the Quad Cities River Bandits’ team owners Dave Heller and Bob Herrfeldt; the program pays the entire first year of college tuition for Quad Cities area students through the Bandit Scholarships. The scholarships are administered by the non-profit Community Foundation of the Great River Bend, and recipients are selected by a committee made up of River Bandits’ staff, CFGRB volunteers and area community leaders. Awarded annually to Quad Cities area high school seniors, each scholarship includes a summer internship with the River Bandits following the winner’s first year of college. Tax-free donations to the scholarship fund can be made through the CFGRB web site.

The scholarships are funded by fan donations and fund-raising efforts by the River Bandits and the team’s ownership. Fundraising events include the annual Frost Fest, Bandits Race to Home 5K and Bandit Scholars Home Run Derby, set for July 26-27 this season. Through the partnership with the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend, donors can make online, tax-deductible donations to the Bandit Scholars Program by going to www.cfgrb.org. Fans can also visit the Bandit Scholars Program page on the team’s website, www.riverbandits.com, and follow a link to the Bandit Scholars page on the Foundation’s website. Beginning with the next scholarship application cycle in 2015, students from eight Quad Cities-area counties – Henry, Mercer, Rock Island and Whiteside Counties of Illinois, and Cedar, Louisa, Muscatine and Scott Counties of Iowa – will be eligible for the scholarships.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Quad Cities River Bandits. Click here to view the original story.

Burlington Bees to host Community Blood Drive on Monday, July 14

June 24, 2014

The Burlington Bees will host a community Blood Drive from 3 PM to 6 PM on Monday, July 14 at Community Field inside the Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center bus.

Donors on that day will each receive a ticket voucher for any home game of their choosing during the rest of the season. All presenting donors will also be entered to win a party night with the Burlington Bees, including 4 box seat tickets to a home game, hot dogs, chips, and soft drinks for 4 and 2 Burlington Bees t-shirts.

To donate, please contact Kim Parker at (319) 754-5705 or visit www.bloodcenterimpact.org.

Potential donors must be at least 17 years of age (or 16 with parental permission form found at www.bloodcenter.org) and must weight more than 110 pounds. A photo I.D. or MVRBC Donor Card is requried to donate. Donors who last gave blood on or before May 19, 2014 are eligible to give blood at this drive.

Blood donation is a safe, simple procedure that takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Individuals with diabetes or controlled high blood pressure may be accepted as eligible donors.

Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center is the provider of blood and blood components to more than 87 hospitals in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin. In your area, MVRBC is the exclusive provider to http://www.bloodcenter.org/about-us/service-hospitals.aspx.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Burlington Bees. Click here to view the original story.

Bandits announce record 3 scholarship winners

June 15, 2014

Scholars Program to pay first years of tuition for two at University of Iowa, one at Western Illinois University

QuadCitiesRiverBandits_2014-06-15 — Left to right: Andrew Chesser, Jennifer Lucier, Nidia Villalpando, Dave Heller, Jordan Raso, Bryce Allison, Bob Herrfeldt. PHOTO BY: Sean Flynn

The Quad Cities River Bandits awarded their annual scholarships at their game Sunday afternoon, announcing three winners for the first time in the history of the Bandit Scholars Program. River Bandits owners Dave Heller and Bob Herrfeldt, along with Jennifer Lucier, announced Bryce Allison as the winner of the Bandit Scholarship, Nidia Villalpando as the winner of a second Bandit Scholarship for the University of Iowa, and Jordan Raso as the winner of the Keith Lucier Memorial Scholarship.

Allison, an East Moline native and United Township High School graduate, will attend both Black Hawk College and Western Illinois University through their Linkages Program. Villalpando, a Rock Island native and Rock Island High School graduate, and Raso, a Davenport native and Bettendorf High School graduate, are entering the University of Iowa. Each scholarship ensures the students’ first year of tuition will be covered at no expense to them or their families.

“Giving out these scholarships is the single most enjoyable thing I do as owner of the River Bandits, and I am so proud, on behalf of the organization and the Quad Cities community, to present these scholarships to a record three very-deserving recipients,” said team owner Dave Heller. “Bryce, Nidia and Jordan have demonstrated incredible talent, hard work, dedication and a passion for community service, and I am confident they will be outstanding representatives of our Bandit Scholars Program and the Quad Cities in their immensely promising futures.”

The Bandit Scholars Program was founded in 2009 by the Quad Cities River Bandits’ team owners Dave Heller and Bob Herrfeldt; the program pays the entire first year of college tuition for Quad Cities area students through the Keith Lucier Memorial Scholarship and the Bandit Scholarship. The Keith Lucier Memorial Scholarship is named in honor of the late Keith Lucier, who passed away in 2009. The Bandit Scholars Program and, in particular, the Lucier Scholarship, honors Keith’s strong belief in higher education and celebrates his love for sports, learning, charitable endeavors and the Quad Cities community. Lucier graduated from Bettendorf High School and the University of Iowa. He was the River Bandits’ Assistant General Manager in 2008.

The scholarships are administered by the non-profit Community Foundation of the Great River Bend, and recipients are selected by a committee made up of Lucier’s family, friends, River Bandits’ staff, CFGRB volunteers and area community leaders. Awarded annually to a Quad Cities area high school senior, each scholarship includes a summer internship with the River Bandits following the winner’s first year of college. Tax-free donations to the scholarship fund can be made through the CFGRB web site.

“I am honored to have been selected by the scholarship committee to be part of history within the Bandit Scholars Program,” Allison said. “This scholarship will help both me and my family as I continue my education.”

Allison hopes to pursue an accounting degree, attending both Black Hawk College and Western Illinois University. He has been involved in National Honor Society, baseball, golf, Link Crew, the Living Lands and Waters XStream Cleanup and Million Trees Project, the River Bandits Fan Club, and the John Deere Classic, among other activities with local organizations.

“This scholarship represents a great honor, and I am grateful to receive it and represent my family,” Villalpando said. “This scholarship also demonstrates the hard work required to exceed expectations, and a reminder of what will be necessary to achieve my future goals.”

Villalpando hopes to pursue a pre-medical curriculum and biology degree to become a pediatrician. In high school, she has been involved with Student Ambassadors, Student Council, National Honor Society, Key Club, the Spanish and French Clubs, varsity cheerleading, softball, the Quad City Minority Program Partnernship, Trinity Health Academy, and Mini-Medical Academy, while also working at McDonald’s as a crew trainer and hospitality ambassador.

“I have enjoyed coming to River Bandits games for years, and it is a thrill to have the River Bandits be part of supporting my future,” Raso said. “I am excited to begin paying this forward, applying what I learn, and bringing the benefits of my education back to the Quad Cities.”

Raso hopes to pursue a double degree in Business Management and Mass Communication and Journalism. In high school, she has been involved in Raising Student Voice and Participation, the student newspaper and yearbook, drama club, Thespian Society, choir, and National Honor Society, and she volunteered in several school and community projects, performances and events.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Quad Cities River Bandits. Click here to view the original story.

Free kids clinic on Wednesday, June 18

June 13, 2014

Legends for Youth baseball clinic at Principal Park

Kids will have an opportunity to play with their big-league heroes at the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association Legends for Youth baseball clinic series on Wednesday, June 18, at Principal Park. The free clinic features former major-league baseball players who will teach baseball skills, drills and life lessons for kids ages 6-16.

Players scheduled to attened include Don Wengert, Dwight Siebler, Don Eddy, Curt Kaufman and Matt Wagner.

The clinic will take place at Principal Park from 9-11 a.m. Players will train at stations including pitching, catching, base running and life skills. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. The morning will conclude with an autograph session for children in attendance.

To register for this clinic, please visit www.baseballalumni.com. Registration is required.

For more information regarding the clinic, please contact Nikki Warner, Director of Communications, at (719) 477-1870, ext. 105 or visit www.baseballalumni.com.

About The Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association (MLBPAA)
MLBPAA was founded in 1982 with the mission of promoting baseball, raising money for charity and protecting the dignity of the game through its Alumni players. The MLBPAA is headquartered in Colorado Springs, CO with a membership of more than 6,900, of which approximately 5,300 are Alumni and active players. Alumni players find the MLBPAA to be a vital tool to become involved in charity and community philanthropy. Follow @MLBPAA for Twitter updates.

About Legends for Youth Clinics
MLBPAA’s Legends for Youth clinics impact more than 15,000 children each year, allowing them the unique opportunity to interact with and learn from players who have left a lasting impact on the game of baseball. The MLBPAA has reached children across America and internationally in Australia, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, the United Kingdom and Venezuela, through the Legends for Youth clinic series. To donate to this program, visit baseballalumni.com/donate. The official hashtag of the Legends for Youth clinic series is #LFYClinic.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Iowa Cubs. Click here to view the original story.