Los Angeles Dodgers

OKC Dodgers Introduce Inaugural CommUNITY Run

December 1, 2016

OKLAHOMA CITY – The OKC Dodgers Baseball Foundation, in conjunction with the Oklahoma City Police Athletic League, will host the first OKC Dodgers CommUNITY Run on March 25, 2017.

Runners can participate in a 5K or 1K Fun Run, and all runners will receive a t-shirt and commemorative medal. Each run will start at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark and end on the field.

There will be also be a special Kids Run for children ages 5-10 that will take place on the warning track inside Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. Kids Run participants will receive an OKC Dodgers baseball.

Registration fees range from $5-25, and runners can sign up by clicking here. All entry fees and monetary donations at the event will go directly to the OKC Dodgers Baseball Foundation and the OKC Police Athletic League.

Minor League Baseball launched the CommUNITY initiative in Aug. 2016 to create a call to action to encourage fans to think of ways to be a positive influence on their families and communities to help end senseless violence and discrimination. As a result, the OKC Dodgers Baseball Foundation and OKC Police Athletic League are partnering together to creative positive opportunities for youth in the Oklahoma City area through sports and education.

“The OKC Dodgers CommUNITY Run is more than a race,” said OKC Dodgers Baseball Foundation Managing Director Jennifer Van Tuyl. “It is an opportunity for the community to come together and showcase our ability to have a positive impact in the place we live and with the people that make this place so great.”

The CommUNITY run will be held before the Dodgers’ third annual First Look Fan Fest. All runners and spectators are encouraged to stay at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark to enjoy the festivities, as the Dodgers gear up to start the team’s 20^th season in Bricktown.

The OKC Dodgers Baseball Foundation was established in 2015 as a 501(c)3 nonprofit in the state of Oklahoma. Its mission is to impact the lives of the families in the state of Oklahoma, provide educational opportunities for our youth and support the first responders of our great state, through charitable contributions and programming initiatives.

The Oklahoma City Police Athletic League (OKC PAL) is a 501(c)(3) organization that exists, in partnership with the Oklahoma City Police Department, to serve students and schools in Oklahoma City. OKC PAL strives to better the relationship between police officers and kids by providing students and schools with a variety of athletic outlets, mentoring programs, and service opportunities.

For more information about the OKC Dodgers Baseball Foundation, please contact Jennifer Van Tuyl at (405) 218-2104 or jennifer.vantuyl@okcdodgers.com.

Missing Children Shown on ONEOK Field Sign Found

September 20, 2016

The Tulsa Drillers are thrilled to announce that three of the missing children seen on signage at ONEOK Field this season have been located and returned home safely.

Fans may recall seeing pictures of Ziare McDonald from Oklahoma City, Michaela Brummett from Eufaula and Jazmin Fonseca from Oologah on BairFind Foundation signage located on the first base concourse between Drill Bits and the main concession stands.

The BairFind Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to finding missing children, confirmed that Ziare, Michaela and Jazmin had all been found and safely returned home. It was also verified that Michaela was located and rescued in Tulsa, while Jazmin was found in Glenpool after being missing for over a year.

“This year we featured over 500 kids in MiLB ballparks, and so far 169 have been safely located,” said BairFind Foundation Director Dennis Bair.

The search continues for Paige Moore from Broken Arrow, as the 18-year-old is the only remaining missing child seen on the BairFind Foundation’s poster this season. Fans wishing to learn more about the BairFind Foundation can visit their website at www.bairfind.org.

The Foundation would like to highlight the fact that the top proven method to locating missing children is to have as many eyes as possible looking. If you or someone you know has any information on the whereabouts of a missing child, please call 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or visit www.missingkids.org to report the information.

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

OKC Dodgers to Host Free Car Seat Check Saturday

September 8, 2016

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers, the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, and Safe Kids Oklahoma are teaming up to sponsor a free car seat check from 9 a.m. – noon Saturday, Sept. 10 at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

Child Passenger Safety Week runs Sept. 18-24, but organizations such as the Dodgers are hosting events throughout the month of September to benefit the campaign, which is dedicated to helping parents and caregivers make sure their children ride as safely as possible, every trip, every time.

Certified technicians will be on hand to install car seats and booster seats, and to check previously installed seats, at no charge. Car seats will also be available for $10 for those who can provide proof of government assistance. To receive a car seat check or be eligible to receive a car seat, the child must be present and an expectant mother must be within six weeks of delivery.

“The Dodgers are pleased to have the opportunity to partner with the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office and offer free car seat checks to the Oklahoma City community,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “OHSO is among the leaders in communicating important safety measures to the public, and their partnership with Safe Kids in organizing these events further shows what an asset they are to our state.”

Technicians will be stationed just east of Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark in the Joe Carter Lot, located at the northeast corner of the intersection of Joe Carter Avenue and East Reno Avenue, on Saturday.

“It’s our job to keep our children safe,” Devon Sisson, director of Safe Kids Oklahoma, said. “Get your car seats checked. Make certain they’re installed correctly, that your kids are in the right seats and are buckled in correctly. Even if you think your child is safe, check again, so you can be sure that your child is the safest he or she can be while traveling.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends keeping children in rear-facing seats as long as possible. Once the child outgrows the rear-facing seat size limits, the child is ready to travel in a forward-facing car seat with a harness and tether. After outgrowing that type of seat, children should be placed in booster seats until they are the right size to use seat belts safely.

For more information about car seat safety or to locate a certified technician, visit: safercar.gov/parents.

The OKC Dodgers continue play in the American Conference Finals against the Nashville Sounds at 7:05 p.m. today at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. Nashville leads the best-of-five series, 1-0. Today is a $2 Thursday featuring $2 soda, water and select draft beer. For tickets, please call (405) 218-1000 or visit: okcdodgers.com.

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

Loons, MBF Team Up for Baseball Camps

May 5, 2015

Clinics focus on skill development, coached by Loons

MIDLAND, Mich. – The Michigan Baseball Foundation is pleased to announce the dates of this season’s Loons Summer Baseball Camps – presented by Culver’s of Midland & Mt. Pleasant – at Dow Diamond. The first two-day camp will be held June 17-18.

The camps will pair participants with professional players and coaches from the Great Lakes Loons in a strong learning environment. Loons manager Luis Matos will serve as Camp Director.

Campers will learn various aspects of hitting, throwing, fielding and pitching while being instructed in the characteristics that define successful baseball players. The drills taught will be the same ones utilized by the coaches and player personnel of the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Great Lakes Loons.

Loons Summer Baseball Camp Dates
June 17 & 18 (ages 7-12) • July 8 & 9 (ages 7-12)

As part of the camp, each participant will receive two days of instruction from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Campers will also receive a camp t-shirt and two tickets to a Loons game that will take place following the second day of instruction. All campers will be invited on the field for a special pre-game recognition.

Each two-day Loons Summer Baseball Camp is $90 per person with all proceeds benefiting the Michigan Baseball Foundation. A portion of the entry fee is tax deductible.

All interested parties should reserve their spot now as space is limited. To secure a spot or to obtain more information, please contact Amy Charboneau at 989-837-6137, cpmpone@loons.com or Aaron Cole at 989-837-6148, cpmptwo@loons.com. Fans can also visit Loons.com. You can download a registration form here.

Through your support at Loons games, the Michigan Baseball Foundation has been able to award $829,486 to youth baseball leagues, schools and other deserving non-profit organizations throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region. To continue its economic and charitable impact and to meet its obligations as a public charity, MBF must raise annual funds from public support.

The Michigan Baseball Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and public charity, which was formed in 2006 to generate regional economic development through creative partnerships and grants and to enhance the efforts of regional organizations that serve young people. The Michigan Baseball Foundation owns and operates Dow Diamond, home of the Great Lakes Loons, a ninth-year Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Great Lakes Loons. Click here to view the original story.

Dodgers to Honor Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma as Chesapeake Community All-Stars

April 23, 2015

Organization to become first honoree of the 2015 season Saturday

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and Chesapeake Energy Corporation are proud to honor Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma as Chesapeake Energy Community All-Stars during Saturday’s Dodgers’ game against the Omaha Storm Chasers at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

The Chesapeake Energy Community All-Stars program identifies organizations that have gone above and beyond to make a difference in their communities. In partnership with the Dodgers, Chesapeake will honor five organizations throughout the 2015 baseball season.

“We’re so fortunate to live in the state of Oklahoma, which is full of so many generous organizations,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “Dodgers games provide an ideal platform to assist in Chesapeake’s mission of recognizing deserving organizations that better their communities.”

More than 14,000 people are involved with Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma, which aims to build “girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place,” according to the organization’s mission statement.

“At Girl Scouts, girls have the opportunity to do something big,” Shannon Evers, chief executive officer at Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma said. “They discover themselves and they learn about who they are, what they care about and what interests they may have.”

Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma will be honored at the end of the third inning of Saturday’s game.

Lindsay McIntyre, with Chesapeake, will present the award. Karen Sandlin, public relations and marketing specialist for Girls Scouts Western Oklahoma, will accept the award on behalf of the organization.

First pitch for Saturday’s game is set for 7:05 p.m. at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. The award presentation, including an informational video about Girls Scouts Western Oklahoma, will follow the end of the third inning.

For more information about the Chesapeake Energy Community All-Stars program, visit okcdodgers.com.

Tickets for tonight’s game are available through the OKC Dodgers ticket office at (405) 218-1000 or through okcdodgers.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Oklahoma City Dodgers. Click here to view the original story.

MBF Announces 2015 Grant Recipients

April 15, 2015

22 organizations are part of 2015 grant class

MIDLAND, Mich. – The Michigan Baseball Foundation (MBF) is pleased to announce that 22 organizations are part of its 2015 grant class. The 2015 grant total is $108,477.

At Olson Park in Saginaw County, Heritage High School Athletics will install two scoreboards with an $8,000 grant. The Mt. Pleasant School District in Isabella County received $6,900 for construction of a press box at their athletic complex. Improvements to the horse arena at the Bay County Fair and Youth Expo received 6,858 this year. In Tuscola County, the Reese High School softball program received $5,000 to build batting cages for their teams to use.

Since 2008, the Michigan Baseball Foundation has awarded 231 grants to deserving non-profit organizations across 14 counties, bringing the grant program’s total to $829,491 since its inception.

The Foundation began its eighth annual grant process in April 2014 and solicited grant applications from non-profit organizations throughout the region. All applicants were required to meet one or more of the following guidelines, which reflected the purposes for which the Michigan Baseball Foundation was organized:

•   The organization contributes to regional economic development.
•   The organization is based in Mid-Michigan and serves young people.
•   The organization promotes amateur sports and fitness

The 2016 grant session begins Monday, April 20, 2015 and applications will be accepted until February 19, 2016. For more information, contact Eric Ramseyer at 989.837.6166, or at eramseyer@loons.com.

The Michigan Baseball Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and public charity, which was formed in 2006 to generate regional economic development and to enhance the efforts of regional organizations that serve young people through creative partnerships and grants. The Michigan Baseball Foundation owns and operates Dow Diamond, home of the Great Lakes Loons, a Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Foundation received its initial funding from The Dow Chemical Company Foundation, The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation, The Dow Corning Corporation, The Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation, The Charles J. Strosacker Foundation and The Bill and Linda Stavropoulos Foundation.

Full list of grant recipients (by county):

Bay County

Bay City Central High School – $5,000
Bay City Northeast Little League – $3,770
Bay County Fair and Youth Expo – $6,858

Gratiot County

Breckenridge Little League Association – $1,755

Isabella County

Mt. Pleasant School District – $6,900

Midland County

Chippewa Nature Center – $4,900
Edenville Township – $2,834
FRC Team 2619 – $1,900
HH Dow H.S. All Sports Booster Club – $4,550
Midland Center for the Arts – $4,764
Midland Public Schools; Midland High School – $4,000
Midland Speed Skating Club – $5,000
Momentum Midland – $20,000
Sanford Youth League – $4,900

Saginaw County

Carrollton Township Recreation – $4,800
Hemlock Boosters – $1,763
Heritage High School Athletics – $8,000
Mid‐Michigan Children’s Museum – $1,200
Saginaw Community Foundation – $2,583
Swan Valley Little League – $5,000
YMCA of Saginaw – $3,000

Tuscola County

Reese High School Softball – $5,000

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Great Lakes Loons. Click here to view the original story.

Michigan Blood Celebrates Milestone at Dow Diamond

April 13, 2015

Employee of The Dow Chemical Company is 10,000th blood donor

Michigan Blood opened a donation center at Dow Diamond prior to the 2012 season. It's open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. — Michigan Blood opened a donation center at Dow Diamond prior to the 2012 season. It’s open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

SAGINAW, Mich. – The nation’s first blood donation center inside a sports stadium opened in April 2012 and three years later, 10,000 donors have walked through its doors.

The Dow Diamond Donor Center is the result of a partnership between The Dow Chemical Company, the Michigan Baseball Foundation, the Great Lakes Loons baseball franchise, and Michigan Blood. Thanks to a generous donation from The Dow Chemical Company to support renovations, the Dow Diamond Donor Center replaced a long-time location at Dow.

“The Dow Diamond Donor Center is a continuation of the rich history of blood donation in Midland. It’s an honor for Michigan Blood to be a part of this legacy,” said Bill Rietscha, CEO and president of Michigan Blood. “We are pleased to have a center right in the heart of the Great Lakes Bay Region that offers donors another opportunity to help support the needs of our partner hospitals throughout Michigan.”

Todd Sloggett of Midland and an employee of The Dow Chemical Company was the 10,000th person through the doors of the Michigan Blood donation center at Dow Diamond.

“Donating blood allows others to get back to good health. My daughter had to get several pints of blood last year for a surgery. Now my son is donating at Dow High School as a junior which really makes me proud of him and the other students that are starting this process young in life,” said Sloggett who has donated over 6 gallons of blood.

In recognition of the 10,000th donor and three years of operations at Dow Diamond, Michigan Blood will present representatives of The Dow Chemical Company, Michigan Baseball Foundation, and the Great Lakes Loons with its Ruby Award, which recognizes people or organizations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to saving lives of patients in Michigan hospitals.

“We are very grateful for the ongoing and generous support of these fine organizations,” said Carleen Crawford, Director of Community Relations and Marketing for Michigan Blood. “They, along with hero donors like Todd, help Michigan Blood ensure that our partner hospitals and their patients have this precious blood resource when needed. The MB Ruby Award is our way of recognizing this valuable contribution.”

Besides the Dow Diamond Donor Center, Michigan Blood collects blood donations at other donation centers in the Great Lakes Bay Region including one at MidMichigan Medical Center-Midland. Michigan Blood is the exclusive provider to MidMichigan Health, Covenant HealthCare, and St. Mary’s of Michigan, as well as over 40 other hospitals throughout the state.

Any healthy person 17 or older (or 16 with parental consent) who weighs at least 110 pounds may be eligible to give blood every 56 days. Blood donors should bring photo ID (or two forms of non-photo ID). Appointments are preferred. Individuals can schedule appointments by visiting www.miblood.org or calling 1-866-MIBLOOD (642-5663).

About Michigan Blood

Founded in 1955, Michigan Blood is an independent, nonprofit, blood bank that provides blood for hospitals across Michigan. Michigan Blood is committed to serving the needs of Michigan hospitals first. Besides blood donation at permanent donation sites, Michigan Blood conducts more than 3,700 mobile blood drives each year. Other related services include Michigan’s first public cord blood bank, blood stem cell (marrow) program, transfusion medicine consultation, transplant center support, and other services. For more information, visit www.miblood.org.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Great Lakes Loons. Click here to view the original story.

Kela Robinson Celebrates “Home Run For Life” Opening Night with the OKC Dodgers

April 7, 2015

Young Mother is First Oklahoman to Benefit from New INTEGRIS ECMO Life Support Program

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS Health proudly begin the 2015 “Home Run for Life” series on Opening Night Thursday, April 9 during the Dodgers’ game against the Round Rock Express at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. The Dodgers and INTEGRIS will recognize Shaquile “Kela” Robinson, a young mother who became the first patient in the state of Oklahoma to undergo a new specialized life support program at INTEGRIS that utilizes extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

“Home Run For Life” recognizes people in the Oklahoma City area who, with the help of their families, physicians and health care professionals, have overcome a significant medical event. Honorees are recognized during a Dodgers’ game and take a home run “lap” around the bases, symbolizing the end of their battle against adversity.

“We are so pleased to continue the ‘Home Run For Life’ series with our partner INTEGRIS Health,” Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “Throughout the season, ‘Home Run For Life’ allows us to feature several extraordinary individuals from the local community who summoned a great deal of tenacity and courage to get where they are today.”

Robinson, 21, began experiencing chest pains shortly after the birth of her son in June 2014. Breathing became difficult and she fatigued so easily she was unable to hold her newborn baby.

Doctors soon discovered her heart was working at just 10 percent capacity. Her condition continued to worsen, despite the implantation of a defibrillator. She developed pneumonia and coughed up blood. Her heart and lungs were shutting down and Robinson’s life was in immediate danger.

A newly created specialized life support program at INTEGRIS Health saved the Oklahoma City resident’s life.

INTEGRIS became the first hospital in Oklahoma to establish an ECMO program for adults facing imminent death caused by heart or respiratory failure. Robinson was the first patient to benefit from the INTEGRIS program.

“I had no idea what ECMO was, but I know it saved my life,” Robinson said.

The last-resort lifesaving technique provides both cardiac and respiratory support oxygen to patients whose heart and/or lungs are so severely diseased or damaged they can no longer serve their function, such as after a heart attack, cardio surgery, pulmonary embolism, near drowning or lung-related issues like flu or pneumonia.

ECMO therapy continually pumps blood from the patient via a tube to a membrane oxygenator that imitates the gas exchange process of the lungs, removing carbon dioxide and adding oxygen before returning the blood to the patient.

The therapy aims to allow the heart and lungs to rest and recover while the machine does the work. Once the heart and or lungs have healed, and can function on their own, the support of the ECMO machine is gradually removed.

Doctors told Robinson’s family that if they didn’t try the ECMO therapy, death was the only alternative.

“Given those odds, we chose life,” Robinson’s mom, Kerri Harkey, said.

ECMO technology has traditionally been used to support underdeveloped hearts and lungs in premature babies. Medical adaptations and advancements have led to increased, and extended, adult usage.

Robinson was on the ECMO device for seven days. Once her heart and lungs were strong enough to tolerate the medications she needed to stabilize her condition, she was removed from the therapy. She then received a left ventricular assist device, known as a heart pump.

ECMO saved Robinson’s life, and the new INTEGRIS therapy gave her the chance to move forward with her now 10-month-old son, Thomas.

Come see Shaquile “Kela” Robinson complete her “Home Run For Life,” following the third inning of the OKC Dodgers’ Opening Night game Thursday, April 9 against the Round Rock Express. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Oklahoma City Dodgers. Click here to view the original story.

APD Officer Golson To Throw Out First Pitch

April 1, 2015

Golson Is Recovering From Being Shot In The Line Of Duty January 3

Albuquerque Police Officer Lou Golson is scheduled to throw out the first pitch for the Albuquerque Isotopes on Opening Night, April 9, when the Isotopes host the Reno Aces at 6:35 p.m.

Officer Golson was shot four times on January 3 when he initiated a traffic stop for a suspected DWI. Upon Golson approaching the vehicle, the driver flung open his door and fired five shots at Golson, striking him four times. He was shot in the leg, breaking his left femur, while another bullet penetrated his bulletproof vest. He also broke his wrist when he fell to the pavement.

Golson returned fire as the suspect fled the scene and maintained his composure to call for help on his radio. Golson was able to accurately identify the suspect, and the suspect was apprehended a few days later.

“We are honored to have Officer Golson joining us for Opening Night,” Isotopes General Manager John Traub said. “He has been making a remarkable recovery since being shot in the line of duty earlier this year, and we’re thrilled he will be able to throw out the first pitch of the 2015 season. We are very thankful for his service to the community as well as the service of all of our military members and public safety officers.”

A 31-year veteran of the Albuquerque Police Department, Golson also served in the Armed Forces in many different capacities. He’s worked a variety of beats at APD, including traffic and SWAT, but recently volunteered to return to DWI Patrol. He was also honored by MADD as a hero awardee on November 8.

Mayor Richard J. Berry, Colorado Rockies Senior Director of Player Development Zach Wilson and Isotopes President Ken Young are also scheduled to be on hand for the Opening Night festivities.

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

OKC Dodgers Announce Faith Night

March 11, 2015

Featuring pregame concert by Hawk Nelson on July 19

The Oklahoma City Dodgers will host the team’s first Faith Night on Sunday, July 19, the team announced today.

Popular Christian rock band Hawk Nelson will perform a pregame concert in the right field parking lot adjacent to Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark from 4-5 p.m. Following the concert, the OKC Dodgers will take on the Round Rock Express at 6:05 p.m.

Tickets packages for groups of 10 or more are currently on sale and can be purchased by calling (405) 218-2100. For just $15, fans will receive tickets to both the Hawk Nelson concert and the OKC Dodgers game, as well as an OKC Dodgers hat. At this time individual ticket packages are not available, nor are tickets for the concert only.

Since forming in 2003, Hawk Nelson has produced eight studio albums, with a ninth set to be released soon. The band has had 12 singles reach the top 20 on the contemporary hit radio charts, including three number-one hit songs. Their music has been featured by Major League Baseball, the National Football League, and NBC Sports.

“Hawk Nelson is a nationally-recognized name, and we’re excited they will be performing here,” said OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes. “Faith Night fits in well with the rest of our promotional schedule, and the concert will be a perfect complement to another great night of Oklahoma City Dodgers baseball.”

The Oklahoma City Dodgers start their season in less than one month on April 9 at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. For more information about Faith Night or the upcoming 2015 Oklahoma City Dodgers season, visit okcdodgers.com or call (405) 218-1000.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Oklahoma City Dodgers . Click here to view the original story.

Community Organization of the Night Returns in ’15

March 3, 2015

Loons, SVSU will spotlight local organizations at Dow Diamond

The Great Lakes Loons and Saginaw Valley State University are pleased to present the “Community Organization of the Night” promotion for the 2015 season at Dow Diamond.

Sponsored by SVSU, the “Community Organization of the Night” will give non-profit groups the opportunity to win up to $1,500, while also spotlighting their organization at a Loons home game and through various media.

Non-profit organizations wishing to participate can do so by purchasing a minimum of 20 tickets to their scheduled game. Each organization will get a skirted table set up on the concourse to display information about their group, radio mention on ESPN 100.9-FM, and a Dow Diamond public address and video board announcement.

Helping to drive traffic to the group’s table will be an entry form box in which fans can enter a drawing to win an iPad Mini, courtesy of SVSU.

The organization which sells the most tickets to a Loons game during the season will receive $1,000. Organizations that purchase the minimum of 20 tickets are also automatically entered into an end-of-season raffle to win an additional $500.

For more information or to book a “Community Organization of the Night” date, contact Amber Ferris at aferris@loons.com, or 989-837-6140, or James Cahilellis at jcahillellis@loons.com, or 989-837-6173.

The Great Lakes Loons are a ninth-year Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Loons ticket staff is currently taking orders for individual game tickets, ticket packages and group outings for the 2015 season. For more information, visit Loons.com or call 989-837-BALL.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Great Lakes Loons. Click here to view the original story.

Loons, Girl Scouts Team Up For Dow Diamond Sleepover!

February 19, 2015

Girl Scout Family Night and sleepover scheduled for May 15

The Great Lakes Loons and Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan are pleased to partner for the Girl Scout Family Night and Sleepover at Dow Diamond on May 15.

The event will include two options for participants. The Game Only option will give participants the opportunity to watch the Loons game vs. the South Bend Cubs, take a behind-the-scenes tour, receive a patch, and meet and greet with Rall E. Camel

The Game and Sleepover option will include all of the above plus a post-game dance party, a movie shown on Dow Diamond’s video scoreboard, as well as the opportunity to sleep on the field. All participants must supply their own tent. Males will sleep in a separate area and must also provide their own tent.

The Game Only Option is $8 per participant until April 30 and $11 after until May 6. The Game & Sleepover Option is $15 per participant until April 30 and $18 after. The sleepover will last until 7 a.m. Saturday. Dow Diamond is located at 825 E. Main St., Midland, MI.

A special prize will be awarded to the troop or Girl Scout family who show the most Girl Scout spirit.

To reserve tickets, fill out a Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan program registration form and roster (attached), or register online at gshom.org. Participants are asked to bring a blanket to sit on in Girl Scout lawn area during the game. For additional information, contact Michelle Holmes, GSHM program specialist, at 989-399-7260.

The Loons are a ninth-year Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. For tickets or more information about the team, call 989-837-BALL or visit loons.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Great Lakes Loons. Click here to view the original story.

MBF Grant Application Deadline is Feb. 13

January 22, 2015

Grant applications can be picked up at Dow Diamond or downloaded online

The Michigan Baseball Foundation’s 2015 grant application season will be closing on Friday, February 13.

Grant applications can picked up at Dow Diamond or downloaded at Loons.com. All grant applications must be received by the Michigan Baseball Foundation via mail (825 E. Main St.; Midland, MI 48640), in person at Dow Diamond, or via email at eramseyer@loons.com.

MBF has awarded 209 grants totaling $721,014 to non-profit organizations across 14 counties of the Great Lakes Bay Region over the past seven years.

To be considered for a grant from MBF, the organization must meet one or more of the following guidelines, which reflect the purposes for which the Michigan Baseball Foundation operates.

– The organization contributes to regional economic development by expanding employment opportunities, and promoting the general welfare of the area.

– The organization is based in the Mid-Michigan area and serves young people.

– The funded project promotes amateur sports and fitness.

The Michigan Baseball Foundation will consider funding Mid-Michigan non-profit organizations that use the grant money to fund projects; the grants are not intended to fund day-to-day operations.

Grant recipients will be notified by mid-April 2015. Recipients will also be asked to respond to the Michigan Baseball Foundation Board of Directors on the success of the project for which the grant was used.

The Michigan Baseball Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit public charity that was founded in 2006 to create regional economic development through creative partnerships, and to enhance the efforts of regional organizations that serve young people. The Michigan Baseball Foundation owns and operates Dow Diamond, home of the Great Lakes Loons, a Class A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

For more information contact Eric Ramseyer at 989.837.6166, or at eramseyer@loons.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Great Lakes Loons. Click here to view the original story.

MBF Spotlight: The ROCK Center for Youth Development

December 22, 2014

Creating new, positive path for area youths at core of mission

For the staff of The ROCK Center For Youth Development, creating a new, positive path for area youths isn’t just an idea. It’s at the very core of everything they do.

The ROCK, based in Midland, is a teen-focused organization that helps youth succeed and thrive. Its mission is to provide every youth with unconditional love, support, respect, a safe environment, guidance and a model of healthy behavior.

And it works.

In a recent evaluation by The Legacy Center for Community Success, teens involved in The ROCK’s Exposure program scored higher in all developmental asset categories while the program curriculum positively impacts participants.

“If we can get young people to truly desire something positive, then that makes everyone’s job easier – parents, teachers … everyone involved with their lives,” said Beverlee Wenzel, ROCK’s executive director.

“Once a person is on fire for something, they’re going to succeed.”

In a season of giving, while also spotlighting non-profit organizations in the Great Lakes Bay Region, The ROCK (Reaching Our Community’s Kids) has provided solid ground for local teens looking to build life skills, gain confidence and make healthy life choices.

The Michigan Baseball Foundation has recognized The ROCK’s efforts by rewarding them with three grants over the years: In 2008, MBF provided $4,000 toward the purchase of The ROCK’s mobile rock climbing wall; in 2011 it provided $2,500 for playground equipment, and in 2013 $1,580 was given for a portable sound system of sporting events.

“The rock climbing wall is a big part of our ‘Unplugged’ program,” said Wenzel. “It’s used for larger events in the community that we’re a part of, plus it’s just a great symbol for what we are.”

The ROCK was established in 2001 as an independent, grass-roots program located at 2300 E. Gordonville Rd. Bullock Creek Schools bused students to the facility, and the program provided after school and Friday and Saturday night activities.

Since then, the program has expanded widely, encompassing several local schools, establishing a new base at the Midland Community Center, while also providing programs for juvenile care and detention centers.

It’s open to any teen.

“We do well with at-risk kids but we target all kids,” said Wenzel. “We serve all socio-economic groups.”

The ROCK offers three umbrella programs: ROCK Exposure, ROCK Grounded and ROCK Unplugged. The group employs several full-time “coaches”, or mentors, who work with teens in a variety of settings and activities.

The Exposure program includes ROCK-authored curriculum focused on developing life skills and character. Within Exposure are four unique programs: Drive, Perform, Build and Accelerate. Courses, which are taught by ROCK staff members, include character development, decision-making, conflict resolution, independent living, resource and finance management, trades or college, and employment.

“It’s highly activity-based,” said Wenzel. “If I stand up there and say (to a teen), ‘You need to do this,’ it’s not nearly as effective as them experiencing it. Once you experience something you really can’t un-experience it.”

Current venues and classrooms for the Exposure program include Meridian High School, Coleman 7-12 school, Bullock Creek High School and Middle Schools, Midland High, Midland Dow High, Jefferson and Northeast Middle Schools, the Academic and Career Education Academy and the Juvenile Care Center.

In 2014, Midland Public Schools approved Exposure as curriculum and it is provided in the classroom to all freshmen.

The ROCK Grounded program provides after school mentorship, tutoring, food and activities at Northeast, Jefferson, and the ROCK Underground at the Midland Community Center. In fact, The ROCK has taken over all of the after school non-athletic teen activities at the MCC.

Part of the Grounded program’s mission is to provide a safe place for students who might otherwise go home to an empty house. Its mentors/coaches fill a need for positive role models many teens don’t have.

“With teens, you have to provide something safe enough that the parents trust, but you also have to have programs that are relevant to the teen,” said Wenzel.

Another consistent lesson in ROCK programs, says Wenzel, is perseverance.

“One of the things we teach is grit,” said Wenzel. “There are always going to be tough times in anyone’s life, but you have still have to find a way to get up and face another day. The tough times will pass, but you have to learn how to endure them in a positive way.”

ROCK’s Unplugged program provides community-based summer activities that encourage healthy life choices and relationship. Its activities include the climbing wall, an annual Battle of the Bands, the Midland County youth fishing program, and teen pool parties.

“The Rock Wall was really the start of that program in many ways,” Wenzel said. “We wanted something unique to take to events, and we felt it was also a universal symbol for what we’re about.”

To contact The ROCK’s offices, call (989) 835-2542. Information can also be found on its website, www.therockc4yd.org.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Great Lakes Loons. Click here to view the original story.

“Anchor the Anchors” Child Car Seat Event Saturday

December 4, 2014

Event in Conjunction with the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office and Safe Kids Oklahoma

The Oklahoma City RedHawks, the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, and Safe Kids Oklahoma are teaming up to sponsor a free car seat check from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 13 at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

Technicians will be on hand to install car seats and to check previously installed seats for the general public. Local media, especially television anchors, are encouraged to attend and participate to ensure their car seats are properly installed and correctly “anchored” in their vehicles.

“Studies show that four out of five car seats are installed incorrectly,” said Katie Mueller, Executive Director at Safe Kids Oklahoma. “Events like this give parents and caregivers a chance to make sure their car seats are properly installed and to ensure that they are using the correct type for each child’s age, size, and weight.”

A very limited number of cars seats will be available for $10 to attendees on a first-come, first-served basis. In order to be eligible to receive a car seat, the child and the legal guardian must be present and show proof of state assistance, food stamps, WIC, etc.

“We encourage families and caregivers to stop by and make sure they have all car seats properly installed,” Mueller said. “Our goal is to be sure that occupants in each car leave the event safer than when they arrived.”

“The RedHawks are pleased to have the opportunity to partner with the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office,” said RedHawks President/General Manager Michael Byrnes. “OHSO is among the leaders in communicating important safety measures to the public, and their partnership with Safe Kids in organizing these events further shows what an asset they are to our community.”

For more information about Oklahoma’s occupant protection laws, car seat guidelines, and other seat check events across the state, visit www.ohso.ok.gov.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Oklahoma City Dodgers. Click here to view the original story.