Michigan – Page 2

MBF Grant Application Deadline is Friday

February 13, 2017

MIDLAND, Mich. – The Michigan Baseball Foundation’s 2017 grant application season will be closing this Friday, February 17. Grant applications can be picked up at Dow Diamond or downloaded at Loons.com. All 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 cvanwert@loons.com.

MBF has awarded 257 grants totaling $918,251 to non-profit organizations across 14 counties of the Great Lakes Bay Region over the past nine 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.

• Contributes to regional economic development by expanding employment opportunities and promoting the general welfare of the area.
• Based in the mid-Michigan area and serves young people.
• 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. 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.

Grant recipients will be notified by the end of April 2017. 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.

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.

MBF Grant Applications Available Now

December 6, 2016

MIDLAND, Mich. – The Michigan Baseball Foundation’s 2017 grant application cycle is now open.

Grant applications can be picked up at Dow Diamond or downloaded at Loons.com. All 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 cvanwert@loons.com. The deadline for the current cycle is February 17, 2017.

MBF has awarded 257 grants totaling $918,251 to non-profit organizations across 14 counties of the Great Lakes Bay Region over the past nine 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.

For more information contact Carol VanWert at 989.837.6144, or at cvanwert@loons.com.

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

Whitecaps named Midwest League’s John Henry Moss Community Service Award Nominee

October 8, 2016

COMSTOCK PARK, MI – The Midwest League of Professional Baseball Clubs has named the West Michigan Whitecaps as its 2016 nominee for Minor League Baseball’s post-season John Henry Moss Community Service Award.

The John Henry Moss Community Service Award is presented to a club that demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within their local community and within the baseball industry.

Since the Whitecaps’ inaugural season in 1994, the team has been committed to operating as a community-based organization focused on providing affordable family friendly entertainment to the West Michigan region. And since that time, the Whitecaps’ success as an organization has been closely linked to the outstanding support received from the community. Giving back to that community has always been a pillar of the Whitecaps’ operating philosophy, and in 2013 the Whitecaps Community Foundation (a 501c (3)) was founded to focus the Whitecaps’ commitment to, and leadership of, charitable support of West Michigan kids and their families.

Some of the Whitecaps’ and Whitecaps Community Foundation’s 2016 highlights and community impacts are detailed below:

Ted Rasberry Field

Thanks to the efforts of the Whitecaps Community Foundation and its community partners, a $54,000 grant was secured from the Baseball Tomorrow Fund (a partnership with Major League Baseball). In just four months’ time one of Grand Rapids’ most historic inner city fields was completely revitalized. Use of the new field is primarily for the Inner City Youth Baseball and Softball program and surrounding Grand Rapids community neighborhoods.

Orchestrating the revitalization of a field named in honor of a historic Negro League owner/player and Grand Rapids native was an easy decision for the Whitecaps Community Foundation’s Board of Directors. When all was said and done, the Ted Rasberry Field renovations included: new bleachers, improved infield and playing surface, new equipment storage facility, reseeded outfield and an enhanced irrigation system.

Inner City Youth Baseball & Softball Program

The primary recipient of the Whitecaps’ and Whitecaps Community Foundation’s charitable efforts every year is the Inner City Youth Baseball and Softball program (ICYBS). This program is perhaps the Whitecaps’ best example of stability and sustainability as this season marked its 22nd year of providing free baseball to Grand Rapids inner city kids. The program is a collaborative effort between the Whitecaps Community Foundation, the Whitecaps and other community partners. Since 1995, more than $250,000 has been pledged to the program by the Whitecaps and the Whitecaps Community Foundation, allowing more than 27,000 children the opportunity to participate in organized baseball for free within the inner city.

In 2016, the ICYBS added a focus on nutrition and fighting childhood hunger and provided 9,600 post-game meals for the program participants. In total, the 2016 season stat line reads as follows: 1,400 children participated with 68 volunteers serving as coaches, drivers, and scorekeepers who donated a total of 1,758 hours of their time. Equipment was also provided for free with the West Michigan community donating more than 300 gloves and various pieces of equipment through the Whitecaps Community Foundation’s annual equipment drive.

Reading Program & Book Donation

The Whitecaps Community Foundation Reading Program is in its 12th year of helping area school children enjoy Whitecaps baseball while promoting reading. Children from area elementary schools who read a total of 450 minutes, or 15 minutes a day, in the month of March (known nationally as Reading Month) receive two tickets to any Whitecaps game in April-June. The Foundation delivers all support materials, such as bookmarks and posters, to all participating schools at no cost. The 2016 Reading Program had involvement from 75,000 K-6 area children from 268 schools ranging from public schools to home schooled. More than 20,000 complimentary tickets were given this season to children and their families in West Michigan.

To create even more excitement during the month of March and to encourage reading after the program had finished, the Whitecaps Community Foundation donated a book to every child at Dickinson Elementary School in Grand Rapids. Dickinson Elementary is considered a high-need school within Grand Rapids and received a total of 300 books.

Pinch Hitter Program

The Pinch Hitter Program is designed to give groups in need the opportunity to experience a Whitecaps game at no cost. Non-Profit organizations are matched with program donors and receive tickets allowing those groups to attend a Whitecaps game when they otherwise would not have been able to meet the financial obligation. In 2016 the Whitecaps Community Foundation was able to match 20 groups with corporate donors and as a result donated 500 tickets to groups in need. Michigan area.

Player Community Service Award

Since 1994, community involvement has been a pillar of how the Whitecaps operate, and this does not stop at the clubhouse door. West Michigan Whitecaps players are given the opportunity to volunteer throughout the community each season and in 2016, 30 players volunteered over 500 hours during the season. Players visited schools to encourage reading, Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Veteran’s home as well as other locations in the West Michigan area. This season three players won the Inaugural Whitecaps Community Service Award, given to players who had the most impact within the community: Pitcher Sandy Baez, Outfielder Rashad Brown and Infielder Will Allen. Each of these players volunteered more than 50 hours of their time from April through August.

50/50 Program

Throughout the 2016 season, The Whitecaps Community Foundation helped non-profits raise funds by using the West Michigan Whitecaps facilities. Twelve non-profits raised $29,175 over the course of the season participating in the 50/50 raffle program. Non-profits took half of the $29,175 to use at their own discretion, while the winner took the other half. The Whitecaps Community Foundation had 13 of its own 50/50 raffles and managed to raise $30,760 for its programs in 2016.

The final line for 2016: With donations and fundraising efforts, the Whitecaps Community Foundation was able to give out more than $552,716 to local children and their families in 2016. All of these programs were considered by the Midwest League in choosing the West Michigan Whitecaps as its John Henry Moss Community Service Award winner and MiLB nominee.

Winners of all five of MiLB’s post-season awards, including the Charles K. Murphy Patriot Award, the John Henry Moss Community Service Award, the Larry MacPhail Award, the John H. Johnson President’s Award, and Rawlings Woman Executive of the Year Award, will be announced at the Baseball Winter Meetings in Washington, D.C. in December.

The Whitecaps open the 2017 season at home on Thursday, April 6 at 6:35 p.m. against the South Bend Cubs. Season tickets and mini plans will go on sale October 25 and can be purchased by calling the Whitecaps at 616-784-4131. Tickets for groups of 20 or more, including private party areas, will go on sale in November.

-end

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.

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.

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.

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.

Michigan Baseball Foundation Reflects During Season of Giving

December 3, 2014

Area MBF grant recipients will be highlighted in coming weeks

As we enter this season of giving, we’d like to take time to reflect on the impact the Michigan Baseball Foundation has had on other non-profit organizations in our region.

The MBF has always strived to hit a home run when it comes to promoting regional economic development and supporting local non-profit organizations. These organizations encompass a vast range of community engagement and improvement – from homeless shelters to local Little Leagues.

And now we’d like to show not only how MBF grants have helped non-profits in the Great Lakes Bay Region, but also the good works that those groups do.

In the coming weeks, we will spotlight some regional non-profit organizations that have received MBF grants. We’ll share information about the organization, including their mission and the work they do in the community, as well as show how their MBF grant was used by the organization to enhance their efforts.

In 2014, a total of $98,555 was distributed by the MBF between 25 different organizations. To date, the MBF grant program has awarded 209 grants totaling $721,014 to non-profit organizations in the Great Lakes Bay Region.

But there’s always more work to be done.

The MBF accepts grant applications throughout the year and awards grants of various amounts to deserving non-profit organizations. In order to qualify for a grant, applicants must contribute to regional economic development, serve young people in the Great Lakes Bay Region, or fund projects promoting amateur sports.

The grant money is used to fund projects within the non-profit organization, but isn’t intended to fund day-to-day operations.

Primary consideration is given to organizations in Midland, Bay, Saginaw, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Genesee, Isabella, Ogemaw, Tuscola, Huron, Arenac and Iosco counties. The MBF is currently accepting grant applications from now until February 13, 2015.

MBF owns and operates Dow Diamond – home of the Great Lakes Loons – as an engine of economic growth, charitable giving and high quality of life through its Dow Diamond All-Stars program, a charitable giving program that enables its members to contribute to future enhancements of Dow Diamond. Through a tax-deductible donation to the Dow Diamond All-Stars Fund, supporters are able to select a distinct level of giving, with levels beginning at $10.

Dow Diamond has been rated as one of the premier minor league baseball stadiums since it opened on April 13, 2007. Over 2-million fans have attended Loons games through eight seasons.

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

MMIC’s ‘Heading For The Big Leagues’ Returns To Dow Diamond

May 28, 2014

Trade show will bring together regional innovators, business and community leaders

The sixth annual “Heading For The Big Leagues” entrepreneur expo returns to Dow Diamond on Thursday, May 29. Sponsored by the Mid-Michigan Innovation Center, the event brings together a wide variety of groups – from regional innovators and startups, to community and business leaders.

The event kicks off at 3 p.m. with a MiQuest Coaching Session and a Buyer’s Circle Panel Discussion. There will be two sessions available for both events – from 3-4 p.m. and from 4-5 p.m. Also from 3 to 5 p.m. is an Advanced Materials Tech Forum, which is by invite only.

The VIP Reception and MMIC Award Presentation will be from 5 to 6 p.m., and hors d’ouevres and beverages will be available.

The Exhibitor Showcase takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. on the Dow Diamond Concourse. There will be food and beverages available, along with the opportunity to browse new technology companies started in Michigan.

Standard tickets are priced at $25 each and include exhibit access and a food and drink item. VIP tickets ($100 each) include exhibit access, all educational sessions, food and beverages, and the VIP reception and networking area.

To purchase tickets online, visit the MMIC website at http://mmic.us. Tickets will also be available at the door on the day of the event.

Dow Diamond is owned by the Michigan Baseball Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity and non-profit corporation.

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!

May 15, 2014

Scouts will get the opportunity to watch Loons and stay over on Dow Diamond field

The Great Lakes Loons and Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan are pleased to partner for the Girl Scout Family Night and Sleepover event at Dow Diamond on June 13.

The event is scheduled on a night when the Loons play the Lansing Lugnuts, and will include two options for participants. The Game Only option will give participants the opportunity to watch the game, take a behind-the-scenes tour, receive a patch, and meet and greet with Lou E. Loon – the Great Lakes Bay Region’s Amabassador of Fun!

The Game Only Option is $8 per participant until June 4 and $11 after. The Game & Sleepover Option is $15 per participant until June 4 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 ask to bring a blanket to sit on in Girl Scout lawn area during the game.

The Loons are an eighth-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.

Loons, MBF Team Up For Summer Baseball Camps

May 8, 2014

Hands-on baseball clinics focus on the skill development of campers

The Michigan Baseball Foundation is pleased to announce the dates of this season’s Loons Summer Baseball Camps – presented by CherryBerry – at Dow Diamond. The first two-day camp will be held June 19-20.

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

Loons Summer Baseball Camp Dates:
June 19 & 20 (ages 7-12) • July 16 & 17 (ages 7-12)

Camp instruction will run from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. each day. Participants will also receive a camp t-shirt and two tickets to a Loons game that will take place following the second day of instruction, as well as a CherryBerry coupon. All campers will be invited on the field for 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 very limited. To secure a spot or to obtain more information, please contact Tyler Kring at 989-837-6165 or tkring@loons.com. Fans can also visit Loons.com.

Through your support at Loons games, the Michigan Baseball Foundation has been able to award $721,014 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, an eighth-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.

Amateur Baseball Returns to Dow Diamond in 2014

April 14, 2014

Great Lakes Loons home will host teams from around the region, state

MIDLAND, Mich. – Dow Diamond will once again host amateur baseball this season, featuring teams from the Great Lakes Bay Region as well as from around the state who will play during April and May when the Great Lakes Loons are out of town.

The schedule kicks off this Tuesday when Freeland and Reese square off for a 5 p.m. game. It will be the first of 13 amateur dates and 26 games scheduled for the home of the Great Lakes Loons.

Listed below is a full schedule of games. All dates are and times are subject to change.

Tuesday, April 15 Freeland vs. Reese 4:30 p.m. gates / 5:00 first pitch

Wednesday, April 16 Hale vs. Marion 3:30 p.m. gates / 4:00 first pitch

Thursday, April 17 Meridian vs. St. Charles (JV/V) 3:30 p.m. gates / 4:00 first pitch

Monday, April 28 Freeland vs. Reese (makeup) 4:30 p.m. gates/5 p.m. first pitch

Tuesday, April 29 Bay City Western vs. Clio 4:00 p.m. gates / 4:30 first pitch

Wednesday, April 30 Standish-Sterling vs. Tawas (JV/V) 4:30 p.m. gates / 5:00 first pitch

Thursday, May 1 Birch Run vs. Flint Kearsley 4:30 p.m. gates /5:00 first pitch

Sunday, May 4 Oscoda vs. Kingsley 12:30 p.m. gates / 1:00 first pitch

Friday, May 9 Vassar vs. Mlllington 4:30 p.m. gates/ 5 p.m. first pitch

Saturday, May 10 Midland Dow vs. Grosse Pointe South 10:30 a.m. gates / 11:00 first pitch

Sunday, May 11 Swartz Creek vs. Montrose Hill-McCloy 2:30 p.m. gates / 11:00 first pitch

Tuesday, May 20 BC John Glenn vs. Ogemaw/Ann Arbor Skyline 4:30 p.m. gates / 5:00 first pitch

Wednesday, May 21 Midland vs. Bullock Creek 4:30 p.m. gates / 5:00 first pitch

Tuesday, May 27 Coleman vs. Gladwin (JV/V) 3:30 p.m. gates / 4:00 first pitch

“One of our goals is to make Dow Diamond available for as many community events as we can,” said Great Lakes Loons President Paul Barbeau. “We’re excited to host a large number of amateur teams once again this year and allow some of the area’s younger baseball talent to enjoy the ballpark.”

Centrally located in downtown Midland, beautiful Dow Diamond is the home field for the Great Lakes Loons and is one of the region’s premiere special events facilities. Dow Diamond is owned by the Michigan Baseball Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity and non-profit corporation.

The Great Lakes Loons are an eighth-year Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. For more information about Dow Diamond and the Loons, 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.