Lugnuts and Disability Rights Michigan to host Accessible Day Sunday

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LANSING, Mich. – The Lansing Lugnuts and Disability Rights Michigan (DRM) have partnered to host an Accessible Day at Jackson® Field™ on Sunday, September 11th. This partnership hopes to raise awareness about the need for full inclusion, so individuals with disabilities feel empowered within the community.

Ballpark gates open at 12 noon, with first pitch at 1:05 p.m. between the Lugnuts and the visiting Dayton Dragons. This is the final scheduled game in the Lugnuts’ season.

Accessible Day at the ballpark will include ASL interpreters, menus in braille, sensory kits, quiet room, “get your wiggles out” station and a host of other accommodations. Fans can learn about advocacy organizations in the area and what assistive technology is available to them.

“Disability Rights Michigan would like to thank the Lansing Lugnuts for celebrating the beauty of inclusion,” said Executive Director Michelle Roberts. “To have an experience where everyone feels welcomed and included brings together a community. Baseball is for everyone, and we are excited to be part of this day.”

“We’re proud to partner with Disability Rights Michigan, whose values we share,” said Lansing Lugnuts general manager Tyler Parsons. “This is about celebrating inclusivity, extending not only through all Lugnuts fans but also through our staff. This will be an outstanding afternoon to connect, empower and root together at the ballpark.”

Disability Rights Michigan and Michigan Disability Rights Coalition will be present on the concourse providing information and awareness around the services they offer. Autism Alliance of Michigan will be providing sensory kits and the Bureau of Elections will showcase the Voter Assist Terminals available in the upcoming November election.

About Disability Rights Michigan
Disability Rights Michigan (DRM) is the independent, private, nonprofit organization designated by the governor of the State of Michigan to advocate and protect the legal rights of people with disabilities in Michigan. www.drmich.org.

About the Lansing LugnutsThe High-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics, the Lansing Lugnuts have won over 1,800 games and two league championships, hosted four All-Star Games, and produced 171 Major Leaguers in 26 seasons. Over 8,000,000 fans have attended Lugnuts games, including over 250,000 this season. For more information, call (517) 485-4500.

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Loons Hosting Seasonal Job Fair This Saturday

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MIDLAND, Mich. – The Great Lakes Loons and Professional Sports Catering will be hosting a seasonal job fair from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturday, March 19th to fill roles needed during Loons games. The Loons are seeking outgoing, enthusiastic individuals with a passion for delivering excellent service in a fun, unique, and fast-paced environment to be a valuable part of their game-day team. The event will take place on the main concourse at Dow Diamond. Staff members will be present to meet and talk with interested candidates looking for seasonal work during the 2022 season. On-the-spot interviews and immediate hirings will take place, with work shifts available to begin as soon as March 21st and wages as high as $16.00 per hour, depending on the role.

Job seekers must be at least 16 years of age, have a valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport), and be able to provide valid identification to prove eligibility to work in the United States. Minors must present a work permit completed by their parents. Updated resumes are required to receive an on-the-spot interview.

Potential candidates are encouraged to bring their social security card and banking information (canceled check or statement with account and routing numbers) with them to the job fair to complete new hire paperwork if hired on the spot.

The following opportunities are available and can be applied for at the event:

• Bartender

• Bat Boy/Girl

• Box Office Ticket Seller

• Catering Attendant

• Concessions Cashier

• Concessions Lead

• Fun Flock (Promo Team)

• Gameday Assistant

• Grill Cook

• Grounds Crew Lead

• Grounds Maintenance Worker

• Janitorial/Custodial Worker

• Loon Loft Retail Associate

• Parking Attendant

• Playground Assistant

• Post-Event Cleaning Crew

• Prep Cook

• Section Leader

• Security Guard

• Stats and Scoreboard Crew

• Suite Servers

• Ticket Taker

“Our game day staff play such an important role in creating the total game experience for our fans,” stated Chris Mundhenk, President and General Manager. “Dow Diamond is truly a unique place to work and our game day roles are a great way to engage with the community, develop lasting relationships with staff and fans while being part of the Loons organization.”

Lugnuts to honor Bud Fowler, Page Fence Giants on June 24

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LANSING, Mich. – The Lansing Lugnuts will honor incoming 2022 National Baseball Hall of Fame inductee Bud Fowler with a bobblehead giveaway on a special Page Fence Giants Night on June 24 at Jackson® Field™, the Lugnuts announced today.

The tribute night, honoring Fowler and the dominant trailblazing 19th-century team he co-founded, is part of Minor League Baseball’s “The Nine,” a Black-community focused initiative that will celebrate the legacies of Black baseball pioneers throughout the upcoming season. The Lugnuts will wear the Page Fence Giants’ black and maroon uniforms, with the first 1,000 fans through the gates receiving a special Bud Fowler commemorative bobblehead, presented by Physicians Health Plan. LAFCU Fireworks will follow the game.

“Our connection with Bud Fowler and the Page Fence Giants began last year, when we learned their story as they were inducted into the Michigan Baseball Hall of Fame,” said Lansing Lugnuts owner Tom Dickson. “Theirs is an important story to retell: a Black professional baseball team based out of Michigan that won an overwhelming number of the games they played. We are proud to continue to tell their story and join The Nine during the same summer that Bud Fowler rightfully takes his place in Cooperstown.”

“Celebrating the rich history of baseball in Michigan, especially when we honor players like Bud Fowler and the rest of the Page Fence Giants, is absolutely incredible. Lansing is proud to be the home of the Lugnuts, and even prouder to join with them for this great night of baseball. I look forward to seeing the Page Fence Giants’ uniforms in action at Jackson Field this season and saluting the memory of Bud Fowler,” stated Lansing Mayor Andy Schor.

Bud Fowler, born John W. Jackson, Jr., in 1858, was the first professional Black baseball player. He began his baseball career as a fine pitcher and catcher before turning to the infield after developing arm troubles. Wrote the Sporting Life, “With his splendid abilities he would long ago have been on some good club had his color been white instead of black. Those who know say there is no better second baseman in the country.” By the time he was done, Fowler had logged over 2,000 at-bats during a career lasting two decades. His final team in organized baseball was the 1895 Lansing Senators, with whom he batted .331 in 31 games.

In August of 1894, Fowler broke his leg in a game. He spent his rehabilitation time joining with young slugger Grant “Home Run” Johnson and a trio of white businessmen in Adrian to found the Page Fence Giants in September 1894. Sponsored by the Page Woven Wire Fence Company, the Giants traveled around the Midwest and Canada in their own private railroad car, winning over 100 games each year from 1895 through 1898. In their most famous moment, they convincingly defeated the Cuban X-Giants in 1896 in a series that was promoted as determining the best Black baseball team of the era.

The Lugnuts will open 2022 on Wednesday, April 6, playing the Michigan State Spartans in the Crosstown Showdown, before welcoming the Lake County Captains to Jackson® Field™ on Friday, April 8, raising the curtain on the 132-game High-A season.

For more information on “The Nine,” visit milb.com. For the latest information about the Lansing Lugnuts, visit lansinglugnuts.com or call (517) 485-4500.

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Annual West Michigan Whitecaps Fundraiser has a New Look in February

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Comstock Park, MI – – Tuesday, January 4, 2022 – – The Whitecaps Community Foundation announced a new look for their annual fundraiser in 2022. Past events were featured as a banquet and the Detroit Tigers caravan was the highlight. This year’s event will again support local youth baseball and softball, but with a few changes.

This February, the Whitecaps will celebrate The Golden Age of Baseball, during what is now called the Whitecaps Winter Gala presented by Eastbrook Homes. Proceeds benefit the YMCA Ted Rasberry Youth League and the Detroit Tigers Foundation, an affiliate of Ilitch Charities.

Since its inception, the Ted Rasberry Youth League has given more than 30,000 children a chance to play baseball and softball each summer. The program provides uniform hats and t-shirts, teaches kids baseball skills, provides healthy meals, helps kids make long-lasting friendships and the opportunity for fun during the summer.

“In classic Whitecaps tradition, we’re stepping up our entertainment game this year,” said Whitecaps Community Relations Manager, Jenny Garone. “Not only is the event in downtown Grand Rapids at the Public Museum, but we’ll also have live music, an auction, a strolling dinner, and guests will be dressed in 1920s attire as we’re celebrating the Golden Age of Baseball.”

Former major leaguer Craig Monroe is scheduled to speak at the gala (see attached photos, biography below). Monroe played six seasons with the Detroit Tigers during a career that spanned nine years: 2001– 2009.

“Baseball is what we do” Garone added. ‘We’re thrilled to be joined by former Tiger Craig Monroe who will visit and give a keynote talk. It’s all about raising funds so kids get the opportunity to have fun next summer. It’s a tradition and a party West Michigan won’t want to miss. We expect a sellout.”

The Whitecaps and the venue continue to monitor the community spread of COVID 19 and how current transmission rates may impact masking and vaccination requirements for this event. Further updates on these requirements will be provided in the coming weeks.

The Whitecaps Community Foundation The Golden Age of Baseball Winter Gala presented by Eastbrook Homes is Thursday, February 3rd at 6:00 p.m. at the Grand Rapids Public Museum.

Tickets are available at now at https://WCFgala22.givesmart.com.

About West Michigan Whitecaps: The Whitecaps minor league baseball team was established in 1994. The Whitecaps are the High- A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers and play in the Eastern Division of the High-A Central League. The team’s home games are played in West Michigan’s favorite, largest, outdoor, multi-purpose venue, LMCU Ballpark. For more information on Whitecaps and LMCU Ballpark visit whitecapsbaseball.com or contact Steve VanWagoner at [email protected] or 616.318.8949.

About Craig Monroe: Former Tigers outfielder Craig Monroe returns for his 11th season as a studio analyst for the Detroit Tigers on Bally Sports Detroit. He also occasionally serves as an analyst on game broadcasts.

• Monroe played nine seasons in the majors with the Texas Rangers (2001), Detroit Tigers (2002-07), Chicago Cubs (2007), Minnesota Twins (2008) and Pittsburgh Pirates (2009). He was originally drafted in the eighth round of the 1995 MLB First-Year Player Draft by the Rangers.

• The Texarkana, TX, native joined the Detroit Tigers organization on February 1, 2002, when he was selected off waivers from the Rangers. He played his first full season in 2003, hitting 23 home runs.

• On July 19, 2006, Monroe hit a grand slam home run off Javier Vazquez of the Chicago White Sox that was decisive in the Tigers’ 5-2 win. A career .252 hitter, he recorded career highs with 28 homers and 92 RBI with Detroit in 2006. He also hit five home runs in the 2006 postseason, which culminated in a World Series appearance. Monroe tied the Tigers’ career postseason record set by Hall of Famer Hank Greenberg.

• Craig and his wife, Kasey, have three children, Morgan, Cannon and Collin.

• Follow Monroe on Twitter at @CMo_27

Michigan Baseball Foundation Grant Application Available December 1st

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MIDLAND, Mich. – The Michigan Baseball Foundation (MBF) is proud to announce the opening of the 2022 Grant Application on December 1st, 2021. Grants are available for registered 501c3 organizations that focus on youth-related activities or economic development. Applications must be for specific projects or initiatives the organization is undertaking in 2022 and not for general operations. Primary consideration will be given to organizations in the Midland, Bay, Saginaw, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Genesee, Isabella, Tuscola, Huron, Arenac, Ogemaw, Sanilac, and Iosco counties. The application will close on February 18th, 2022.

This is the first time the Michigan Baseball Foundation is soliciting grant requests since the 2019 grant cycle due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Grants are funded by ticket sales to Great Lakes Loons games, 50/50 raffle sales during Loons games, and direct contributions to the foundation. Grants for the 2022 cycle have been made possible by the Great Lakes Bay Region’s strong support of the Loons in their return to the field in 2021 following the cancelation of the 2020 season.

Grant applications can be completed online: http://michiganbaseballfoundation.org/grants/. All applications must be received by the Michigan Baseball Foundation via the website, before Feb. 18**th**, 2022.

MBF has awarded 327 grants totaling $1,224,647 to non-profit organizations across 14 counties of the Great Lakes Bay Region over the past twelve grant cycles. Grant recipients will be notified by the end of April 2022. 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.

“We’re incredibly excited to be able to offer grants from the Michigan Baseball Foundation once again in 2022,” stated Mike Hayes, Chair of the MBF Grants Committee. “MBF and the Great Lakes Loons were established in 2006 with goals of supporting youth-focused non-profits in the Great Lakes Bay Region and promoting economic development and prosperity in the region. We’re grateful for the support the Loons received in their return to play last summer and we’re excited to support the region in return through the grant process. These grants are a significant step forward in achieving our goals of leaving our region a better place than we found it.”

For more information contact Jessica Gillespie at 989.837.6144 or [email protected].

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 Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Whitecaps reveal “Grand Rapids Dam Breakers” persona that will bring more awareness to Grand Rapids Whitewater project

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Comstock Park, MI – – Saturday, July 17, 2021 – – West Michigan Whitecaps Manager Brayan Pena answered his phone. The call was from Jim Jarecki, Whitecaps VP & General Manager. Pena listens intently, then smiles. “We’re doing WHAT?”

Jarecki was calling to get some Whitecaps players set up for a photo shoot on the banks of the Grand River. They would be dressed in a new uniform; with a new name they would not recognize.

At LMCU Ballpark tonight, the West Michigan Whitecaps announced their newest alternate identity, and with a grand purpose. The Whitecaps will become the Grand Rapids Dam Breakers for one night only on Saturday, August 21**st**, at 7:05 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at https://www.milb.com/west-michigan

“Efforts to restore the Grand River have been underway for over a decade” said Matt Chapman, of Grand Rapids Whitewater. “We are honored that the entire Whitecaps organization believes in the tremendous opportunity our community has with the Grand River. With the support and awareness from The Grand Rapids Dam Breakers, we will work to restore the rapids in the Grand River for everyone.”

The Grand Rapids Dam Breakers persona was created to bring awareness to the Grand River restoration project. Spearheaded by Grand Rapids Whitewater, the goal is to restore the rapids back to a 2.5 mile stretch of the Grand River.

“There’s no doubt the Whitecaps love Grand Rapids and the unique history our city and even our ballpark have with the Grand River,” said Whitecaps CEO Joe Chamberlin. “This Dam Breakers persona is an awesome opportunity for us to bring awareness to this very special project and we will be doing all that we can to highlight the efforts of Grand Rapids Whitewater. The Whitecaps are an important part of the West Michigan landscape, and we are excited to support this new vision of revitalization, economic growth and plenty of new fun for everyone in our community.”

Why?

Residents and visitors alike flock to downtown attractions on both sides of the Grand River. It makes smart economic sense to make the riverfront a central gathering place for everyone.

The Anderson Economic Group projects 230,000 net new visitor days and more than 500,000 people each year, a boon that translates up to almost $19 million in net economic impact for the city and 80-100 new jobs. In addition, $250+ million in capital investments are anticipated within 10 years of the project completion.

“By embracing the Dam Breakers brand our fans, business partners, and all of West Michigan can join us in helping to create momentum and support for this exciting project that has the potential to mean so much to our city,” Chamberlin added. “A healthy and thriving Grand River helps create a healthy and thriving Grand Rapids and through the Dam Breakers brand we invite all of our Whitecaps fans to be part of this historic movement,” Chamberlin said.

Consumers Energy is one of those business partners who embraces the message and already responded as the Grand Rapids Dam Breakers game sponsor on August 21**st**.

“Consumers Energy is proud to be part of this community effort to put the Rapids back in Grand Rapids – a project that will provide west Michigan families significant recreational, economic, and environmental benefits,” said Lauren Youngdahl Snyder, Consumers Energy’s vice president of customer experience. “We are committed to better protecting our planet for generations to come, and we applaud the Whitecaps, temporarily the Grand Rapids Dam Breakers, and Grand Rapids Whitewater in their mission to enhance the natural resources here in the Grand Rapids community.”

In early July, the Whitecaps began teasing the announcement and the new name with cryptic sounds of water, images of waves and dates on their social media. The announcement tonight was the collaborative work of the Whitecaps, Grand Rapids Whitewater, and Consumers Energy.

The Whitecaps organization plans to give a portion of the proceeds of all Grand Rapids Dam Breakers merchandise over to the Whitewater project.

The Grand River restoration project proposes to bring natural, cultural and commercial excitement back to our waterway by restoring a 2.5-mile stretch of the river to its rightful, rolling state. From Ann Street to Fulton Street, the project will reveal an 18-foot drop in spectacular fashion, snaking and snarling around boulders, stone and natural reefs. With this exciting feature at its heart, a new riverfront will rise.

About West Michigan Whitecaps: The Whitecaps minor league baseball team was established in 1994. The Whitecaps are the High- A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers and play in the Eastern Division of the High-A Central League. The team’s home games are played in West Michigan’s favorite, largest, outdoor, multi-purpose venue, LMCU Ballpark. For more information on Whitecaps and LMCU Ballpark visit whitecapsbaseball.com or contact Steve VanWagoner at [email protected] or 616.318.8949.

About Grand Rapids Whitewater: Grand Rapids WhiteWater (GRWW) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, formed as an outgrowth of the **Green Grand Rapids**** initiative to champion the restoration of the rapids on the Grand River. Started by Chip Richards and Chris Muller, the organization is led by Steve Heacock and Matt Chapman, and backed by an active board of directors. **

In 2013, the Grand River restoration initiative was designated an Urban Waters Federal Partnership project. Working with numerous community partners, including design experts from the River Restoration Org., GRWW has led the planning, fundraising and permitting process.

About Consumers Energy: Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

Media Contacts: Katie Carey, 517-740-1739, or Brian Wheeler, 517-740-1545

Pride Night Celebration at LMCU Ballpark

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What: The Whitecaps close out Pride Month by announcing a Pride Night Celebration for fans at LMCU Ballpark on Saturday, September 4th at 7:05 p.m. Additionally, the Whitecaps are working on special in-game entertainment, music, giveaways, and more.

Whitecaps: “We are excited to announce Pride Night at LMCU Ballpark will take place on September 4th! We’re looking forward to a game night celebrating the LGBTQ+ community and all the wonderful diversity we have right here in West Michigan.” said Joe Chamberlin, Whitecaps CEO. “As a community centric organization, we work hard to always be inclusive and to ensure all Whitecaps fans know we celebrate them. Everyone is invited and our team is working hard to ensure September 4th will be a ton of FUN!”

Fans will be encouraged to show support on social media throughout the night by using #CAPSPRIDENIGHT

Media: For more information or comments, contact Jenny Garone at [email protected] or 616.821.1383.

About West Michigan Whitecaps: The Whitecaps minor league baseball team was established in 1994. The Whitecaps are the High- A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers and play in the Eastern Division of the High-A Central League. The team’s home games are played in West Michigan’s favorite, largest, outdoor, multi-purpose venue, LMCU Ballpark. For more information visit whitecapsbaseball.com. Contact: Steve VanWagoner at [email protected] or 616.318.8949.

Loons to Host Seasonal Job Fair May 26th

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MIDLAND, Mich. – The Great Lakes Loons and Professional Sports Catering will be hosting a seasonal job fair from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, May 26th to fill roles needed during Loons games. The event will take place on the main concourse at Dow Diamond. Staff members will be present to meet and talk with interested candidates looking for seasonal work during the remaining months of the 2021 season. On-the-spot interviews and immediate hirings will take place, with work shifts available to begin as soon as June 1st.

“Our game day staff play such an important role in creating the total game experience for our fans. Dow Diamond is truly a unique place to work and our game day roles are a great way to engage with the community, develop lasting relationships with staff and fans while being part of the Loons organization,” said, Chris Mundhenk, President and General Manager.

Job seekers must be at least 16 years of age, have a valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport), and able to provide valid identification to prove eligibility to work in the United States. Minors must present a work permit completed by their parents. Updated resumes are required to receive an on-the-spot interview.

Potential candidates are encouraged to bring their social security card and banking information (canceled check or statement with account and routing numbers) with them to the job fair to complete new hire paperwork if hired on the spot.

The following opportunities are available and can be applied for at the event:

  • Grounds crew members
  • Guest Service Team
  • Ticket Takers
  • Ticket Sales Associates
  • Seating Section Leaders
  • Cooks
  • Food Runners
  • Dishwashers
  • Bartenders
  • Post-Game Cleaning Crew
  • In-Game Cleaning Crew
  • Retail associates
  • Suite servers
  • TV Production Crew
  • Parking Lot Attendants
  • Fun Flock
  • Security Personnel

The Great Lakes Loons have been the Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers since the team’s inception in 2007. Dow Diamond serves as the team’s home and also houses the Michigan Baseball Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit public charity, and ESPN 100.9-FM. For tickets or information about the Loons, call 989-837-BALL or visit Loons.com.

Loons Join MiLB’s CommUNITY First Campaign

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MIDLAND, Mich. — The Great Lakes Loons today announced they are joining MiLB CommUNITY First, a new national initiative developed by Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) in conjunction with Feeding America®, to raise funds for local food banks and to honor individuals risking their lives on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Loons fans are encouraged to visit MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst through May 31 to donate. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and the Loons as the recipient of their donation to direct funds to the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan. For every $10 donated, the Loons will donate one ticket to a future home game this season or in 2021 to a local hero of the pandemic.

Since 1981, the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan has grown to serve more than 331,000 people annually through a network of over 700 Hunger Relief Partners, including partner agencies, schools, and other community organizations.

School closures, rising unemployment and rising poverty due to quarantine and extended stay-at-home orders have disproportionately impacted people already at risk of hunger and could result in an estimated additional 17.1 million people experiencing food insecurity in the next six months, according to Feeding America. As the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization with a network of more than 200 affiliates, Feeding America has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.

In response, contributions from Loons fans and Minor League Baseball will help ensure families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic are fed and cared for during these uncertain times. Join the national campaign by donating and selecting Loons at MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst and use #MiLBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

The Great Lakes Loons have been the Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers since the team’s inception in 2007. Dow Diamond serves as the team’s home and also houses the Michigan Baseball Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit public charity, and ESPN 100.9-FM. For tickets or information about the Loons, call 989-837-BALL or visit Loons.com.

Feeding America® is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs, we provide meals to more than 40 million people each year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Individuals, charities, businesses and government all have a role in ending hunger. Donate. Volunteer. Advocate. Educate. Together we can solve hunger. Visit feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

3,000 Books Being Donated by the Whitecaps Community Foundation to Area Schools

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COMSTOCK PARK, MI – The Whitecaps Community Foundation will donate 3,000 books to six West Michigan Public Schools this month in an effort to encourage children to read during March is Reading Month and beyond!

The books were selected with the help of GRPS educators and will be delivered as a surprise to CA Frost Elementary and Grand Rapids Montessori on Friday, March 15. Then on Wednesday, March 20, MLK Jr. Elementary in Muskegon Heights and Aberdeen Elementary in Grand Rapids will receive the books. Lastly, on Thursday March 21st the Whitecaps Community Foundation will visit Southwest Community Campus and North Park Montessori.

These six schools were selected to receive the free books because of their designation as high priority elementary schools; many of their pupils do not have access to resources such as books. With this donation, every child at these six schools will receive one free book.

This is the fourth year of the book donation program and in that time more than 10,000 books have been donated.

The book donation is a part of the Whitecaps Community Foundation’s Reading Program, which helps area school children enjoy Whitecaps baseball while promoting reading. Children from West Michigan schools who read 15 minutes a day, during the month, can attend a Whitecaps game for free in April through June. The Foundation delivers all support materials, such as reading tracking calendars and posters, to all participating schools at no cost. Last year’s Reading Program had more than 67,000 K-6 area children participate from 322 schools. Nearly 19,000 complimentary tickets were given this season to children and their families in West Michigan.

The Whitecaps Community Foundation, the nonprofit extension of the West Michigan Whitecaps, is a 501c3 organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children and their families by providing them with access to social, educational and recreational programs that will have a positive impact on their futures. With the help and generosity of community partners and members, the Whitecaps Community Foundation continues to strive to make the West Michigan area a better place to grow, learn, and thrive.

In 2018, through a combination of donations and fundraising efforts, the Whitecaps Community Foundation gave more than 1.4 million dollars to local children and their families through programs such as the reading program’s book donation and many others.

For more information on the book deliveries please contact Mickey Graham at (616) 726-7067 and for information on the Whitecaps Community Foundation, including how to volunteer and/or donate, please visit www.whitecapscommunityfoundation.org.

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

Whitecaps Community Foundation to Donate 5,000 books

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COMSTOCK PARK MI, – The Whitecaps Community Foundation is celebrating “March is Reading Month” in a big way this year, by donating 5,000 books to local Grand Rapids elementary schools. The book donations will benefit the students of 15 Grand Rapids Public Schools recommended for the program based on their needs and their potential for impacting as large a student group as possible.

The Whitecaps Community Foundation started their book donation program two years ago when 300 books were donated to one school in need and since then the program has blossomed. Each school receiving books will host an assembly recognizing the importance of reading where the books will be distributed to students. Two of the donations will occur in April where West Michigan Whitecaps players will be on hand to help distribute books. Those are April 11 at Ridgemoor Park Montessori and on April 19 at Sherwood Park Global Studies Academy. Both of those are scheduled to start at 10:30 a.m.

The book donations are a key part of the Whitecaps Community Foundation’s Reading Program, which helps area school children enjoy Whitecaps baseball while promoting reading and literacy. Kids who read 15 minutes a day, during the month of March, can attend a Whitecaps game for free in April, May or June. The Whitecaps Community Foundation provides participating schools with all support materials, such as reading tracking calendars and posters, at no cost. Last year’s Reading Program had more than 67,000 K-6 children participate from over 260 West Michigan schools. Nearly 16,000 complimentary tickets were donated to students who completed the challenge.

The Whitecaps Community Foundation, the nonprofit extension of the West Michigan Whitecaps, is a 501c3 organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children and their families by providing them with access to social, educational and recreational programs that will have a positive impact on their futures. With the help and generosity of community partners and members, the Whitecaps Community Foundation continues to strive to make the West Michigan area a better place to grow, learn, and thrive.

In 2017, through a combination of donations and fundraising efforts, the Whitecaps Community Foundation gave more than $530,000 to local children and their families. For details on the Whitecaps Community Foundation’s programs and how to participate in the Reading Program please visit us at www.whitecapscommunityfoundation.org or call the Whitecaps front office at 616.784.4131.

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

FIFTH THIRD BANK STEPS UP TO THE PLATE WITH BIGGER DONATIONS ON “STAND UP TO CANCER NIGHT”

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LANSING, Mich. – Fifth Third Bank Western Michigan and the Lansing Lugnuts are teaming up to help fight cancer when the Bank hosts a special Stand Up To Cancer Night at Cooley Law School Stadium on Saturday, August 12. Fifth Third will offer fun, interactive fan activities during the game as part of the bank’s ongoing commitment to raise awareness and contributions to support cancer research.

Among the in-game promotions planned include:

  • A $5,300 donation to Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) that the bank will make for every strikeout that the home team accomplishes during the game. This is an increase from the $530 donation per strikeout last year.
  • Fifth Third will also donate $5.30 to SU2C for every eligible public use of the hashtag #howifight on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, up to $500,000 during the promotion period.*
  • A special mid-game stretch is planned when fans can show their support for loved ones who have fought or are fighting cancer by holding up, in unison, special customized SU2C game placards.

Since teaming up with SU2C in 2013, Fifth Third has contributed more than $7.2 million in donations to help fund innovative cancer research and support SU2C’s mission to bring new cancer treatments to patients quickly and save lives now. SU2C has helped receive two drug approvals in the last seven years, a process that can typically take between 12-15 years for just one drug.

“Stand Up To Cancer’s teams of researchers and scientists are making significant breakthroughs in cancer research,” said Tom Ruis, Vice President, Fifth Third Bank. “With the help of the Lugnuts fans, and Fifth Third customers, we hope to get one step closer to ‘striking out’ this disease once and for all.”

Tickets can be purchased at the Lugnuts website, lansinglugnuts.com. On top of the other donations, Fifth Third will also give $1 to SU2C for each person who attends the game.

Stand Up To Cancer, a division of the Entertainment Industry Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, is a breakthrough initiative that raises funds to accelerate innovative cancer research, enabling scientific collaboration in order to get new therapies to patients quickly. Fifth Third supports this collaborative approach and is committed to finding different ways to improve people’s lives and better our communities. As such, Fifth Third began working with SU2C in 2013 when the Bank introduced its Fifth Third SU2C debit and credit cards, which raise funds to support SU2C research through every qualifying purchase made using those cards. Fifth Third Bank is the only card issuer to offer the SU2C payment cards. Visit 53.com/su2ccards for full details.

*$5.30 donation to SU2C for every eligible public post with the hashtag #howifight on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, from 7/1/17-12/31/17, up to $500,000. Only one hashtag use per username, per Monitored Social Media Site, per day will be counted.

About the Lansing Lugnuts
The Lansing Lugnuts, Class-A Affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, are in their 22nd season in Michigan’s Capital City. The Lugnuts make their home at beautiful Cooley Law School Stadium, built in 1996 with an award-winning renovation in 2015/16, and continue to be a key component in revitalizing Lansing’s downtown while providing fun, affordable, family entertainment to fans in Mid Michigan and beyond. Find them online: www.lansinglugnuts.com.

About Fifth Third Bank
Fifth Third Bancorp is a diversified financial services company headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio. As of June 30, 2017, the Company had $141 billion in assets and operated 1,157 full-service Banking Centers and 2,461 ATMs in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Florida, Tennessee, West Virginia, Georgia and North Carolina. Fifth Third operates four main businesses: Commercial Banking, Branch Banking, Consumer Lending, and Wealth & AssetManagement. As of June 30, 2017, Fifth Third also had a 17.7 percent interest in Vantiv Holding, LLC. Fifth Third is among the largest money managers in the Midwest and, as of June 30, 2017, had $330 billion in assets under care, of which it managed $34 billion for individuals, corporations and not-for-profit organizations through its Trust and Registered Investment Advisory businesses. Investor information and press releases can be viewed atwww.53.com. Fifth Third’s common stock is traded on the Nasdaq® Global Select Market under the symbol “FITB.” Fifth Third Bank was established in 1858. Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender.

About Stand Up To Cancer
Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) raises funds to accelerate the pace of research to get new therapies to patients quickly and save lives now. SU2C, a division of the Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF), a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, was established in 2008 by film and media leaders who utilize the industry’s resources to engage the public in supporting a new, collaborative model of cancer research, and to increase awareness about cancer prevention as well as progress being made in the fight against the disease. As SU2C’s scientific partner, the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) and a Scientific Advisory Committee led by Nobel Laureate Phillip A. Sharp, PhD, conduct rigorous, competitive review processes to identify the best research proposals to recommend for funding, oversee grants administration, and provide expert review of research progress.

Current members of the SU2C Council of Founders and Advisors (CFA) include Katie Couric, Sherry Lansing, Lisa Paulsen, Rusty Robertson, Sue Schwartz, Pamela Oas Williams, Ellen Ziffren, and Kathleen Lobb. The late Laura Ziskin and the late Noreen Fraser are also co-founders. Sung Poblete, PhD, RN, has served as SU2C’s president and CEO since 2011.

For more information on Stand Up To Cancer, visit www.StandUpToCancer.org.

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Loons to Host Pride Night on May 31

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

MIDLAND, Mich. – The Great Lakes Loons will host Pride Night at Dow Diamond on Wednesday, May 31 during their game against the West Michigan Whitecaps. The Dow Chemical Company and GLAD (Dow’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Ally (LGBTA) employee resource group) are proud to sponsor this inaugural event with the Loons.

“We’re looking forward to hosting our first-ever Pride Night here at Dow Diamond,” Loons Vice President of Baseball Operations & Gameday Experience Tiffany Wardynski said. “It’s another opportunity for the Loons to connect with our fans and have our ballpark act as a community gathering place.”

The Loons, Dow and GLAD are focused on inclusion and awareness for the LGBTA community in the Great Lakes Bay Region. LGBTA advocacy groups will be on hand throughout the concourse that night.

Fans interested in purchasing a Pride Night ticket package can do so for $20. The purchase gets fans a reserved box seat, as well as a Loons Pride Night t-shirt.

Dow fosters a safe, inclusive, supportive and open working environment for all employees regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. GLAD is one of eight diversity networks at Dow, and for more than 17 years the group has been championing for the realization of a fully inclusive workplace and community.

“A community that is inclusive, celebrates differences, and respects and welcomes everyone, unites its people – enabling individuals and families to thrive, businesses to prosper and economies to grow,” said Howard Ungerleider, vice chairman and chief financial officer of Dow and GLAD executive sponsor.

Jim Fitterling, Dow president and chief operating officer, will throw the ceremonial first pitch prior to the Loons facing the Whitecaps.

The 2016 Midwest League Champions and hosts of the 2017 MWL All-Star Game presented by GoGreat.com have been a Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers since the team’s inception in 2007. For tickets and more information about the Great Lakes Loons, call 989-837-BALL or visit Loons.com.

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

MBF Exceeds $1 Million in Grant Donations

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

MIDLAND, Mich. – The Michigan Baseball Foundation is pleased to announce that after awarding grants for the 2017 cycle, MBF has exceeded $1 million donated to non-profit organizations since 2008. This month, MBF distributed 26 grants totaling $104,515 across seven counties in the Great Lakes Bay Region this past year.

“Giving back to our local youth has been something we have taken pride in since MBF started awarding grants,” Michigan Baseball Foundation vice president Paul Barbeau said. “It’s an important part of what we do at Dow Diamond, not just providing fun entertainment during the baseball season, but also supporting the communities that surround us.”

MBF has awarded 283 grants totaling $1,022,761 to deserving non-profit organizations across 14 counties in the Great Lakes Bay Region over the past 10 years.

This year the Friends of Hoyt Park Foundation in Saginaw received $6,600 for dugout benches and a tractor. Midland Center for the Arts received a grant in the amount of $6,250 to upgrade the permanent microscope exhibit in the museum’s “Hall of Ideas.” The Bay Community Tennis Center will install net posts, while Gladwin Community Schools will use $3,000 to upgrade their athletic building and batting cages.

The Foundation began its annual grant process in April 2016 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 Michigan Baseball Foundation considers 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. Primary consideration will be given to organizations in the Midland, Bay, Saginaw, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Genesee, Isabella, Tuscola, Huron, Arenac, Ogemaw, Sanilac and Iosco counties.

The 2018 grant process is currently in the planning stage. Updates will be communicated once the plans are finalized for the next cycle. For more information contact Carol VanWert at 989.837.6144, or at cvanwert@loons.com.

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 Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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

Whitecaps Community Foundation to Donate 1,900 Books to Area Schools to Encourage Reading

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

COMSTOCK PARK, MI – The Whitecaps Community Foundation will donate 1,900 books to five Grand Rapids Public Schools this week in an effort to encourage children to read during March is Reading Month and beyond.

The books were selected by GRPS educators and will be delivered as a surprise to Brookside Elementary, Mulick Park Elementary, Ken-O-Sha Park Elementary, Cesar Chavez Elementary and Burton Elementary on Wednesday, March 22 and Thursday, March 23. These five schools were selected to receive the free books because of their designation as high priority elementary schools in the GRPS system; many of their pupils do not have access to resources such as books. With this donation, every child at these five schools will receive one free book.

This is the second year of the book donation. Last year, the Whitecaps Community Foundation donated a book to every child at Dickinson Elementary School in Grand Rapids (300 in total).

The book donation is a part of the Whitecaps Community Foundation’s Reading Program, which helps area school children enjoy Whitecaps baseball while promoting reading. Children from area West Michigan schools who read a 15 minutes a day, during the month, can attend a Whitecaps game for free in April through June. The Foundation delivers all support materials, such as reading tracking calendars and posters, to all participating schools at no cost. Last year’s Reading Program had more than 70,000 K-6 area children participate from 268 schools. Nearly 20,000 complimentary tickets were given this season to children and their families in West Michigan.

The Whitecaps Community Foundation, the nonprofit extension of the West Michigan Whitecaps, is a 501c3 organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children and their families by providing them with access to social, educational and recreational programs that will have a positive impact on their futures. With the help and generosity of community partners and members, the Whitecaps Community Foundation continues to strive to make the West Michigan area a better place to grow, learn, and thrive.

In 2016, through a combination of donations and fundraising efforts, the Whitecaps Community Foundation gave more than $555,000 to local children and their families through programs such as the reading program’s book donation and many others.

For more information on the book deliveries please contact Mickey Graham at (616) 726-7067 and for information on the Whitecaps Community Foundation, including how to volunteer and/or donate, please visit www.whitecapscommunityfoundation.org.

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