Deadline for $5000 scholarships extended to June 14th

SOUTH BEND, Ind. – The South Bend Cubs have extended the deadline for scholarships reserved for college bound high school seniors to June 14, 2017. Up to $25,000 will be awarded to softball and baseball players from 11 counties surrounding Four Winds Field in South Bend.

“We make no small plans here at Four Winds Field. Nor should the young men and in this region who compete in high school softball and baseball,” commented Andrew T, Berlin, Chmn./Owner of the South Bend Cubs. “These are for any senior softball or baseball player who intends to continue his or her education full time after high school – whether they continue playing ball in college or not.”

In 2016, The South Bend Cubs awarded five scholarships worth $5,000 each to high school seniors from Edwardsburg, MI, Bremen, LaPorte, South Bend and Walkerton, IN. Two of the recipients were softball players, three were baseball players.

Applications for the 2017 South Bend Cubs Scholarships will be accepted until the close of business at the 1st Source Bank Performance Center at Four Winds Field on June 14, 2017. Up to five (5) $5,000 scholarships will be granted. A full set of rules, eligibility requirements and an application form can be found online at www.1stSourceBankPerformanceCenter.com.

“We want to make sure people understand two things about these scholarships that are very important,” added Joe Hart, President of the South Bend Cubs. “These are not just baseball scholarships. We hope to see as many softball applicants as baseball. And we want people to know that we’re doing our part to build a new baseball and softball dynasty in this region. That’s what the 1st Source Bank Performance Center here at Four Winds Field is all about-year-round professional pitching, conditioning, fielding and at-bat training with professional instructors.

About the South Bend Cubs
The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

South Bend Cubs Go to Bat Against Hunger and Honor our Fallen Heroes

SOUTH BEND, IN – The South Bend Cubs, in conjunction with Express Employment Professionals, are proud to host a collection for the Food Bank of Northern Indiana, during the Memorial Day weekend four-game homestand. The Cubs are asking all fans coming to the games to donate non-perishable food items and placing them in the orange barrels located inside all gates at Four Winds Field.

“The entire Express Employment Professionals team is thrilled that the South Bend Cubs have said ‘Yes’ to fighting hunger by hosting the Food Bank’s orange collection barrels at all gates for the upcoming home games,” said Norm Robertson, franchise owner of Express. “We know that the generosity of our community is unparalleled when it comes to helping others in need.”

Along with the food drive over the holiday weekend, the South Bend Cubs and Express Employment Professionals are providing all active duty military and veterans with two free tickets the games on Sunday, May 28 and Monday, May 29 at Four Winds Field.

“Although a solemn day of reflection in remembrance of the multitude of men and women who have lost their lives in the defense of our country, Memorial Day also reminds us of the resilience of our constitutional republic, and how we are always the first to grab the flag and lead others in the direction of all peoples yearning to breathe free,” said Express Employment Professionals Director of Marketing Greg Mackey. “Express Employment Professionals is honored to sponsor Military Appreciation Days on behalf of our active-duty military personnel and our veterans and in partnership with Andrew Berlin, Joe Hart, and this great South Bend Cubs organization!”

“Every year, we are honored to partner with Express Employment Professionals to give back to our local veterans and those who are on active duty in the military as a small way to say thank you for your service,” said South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. “The collection for the Food Bank of Northern Indiana is a great addition to this weekend of giving back. We encourage our fans to bring non-perishable food items to join us in the fight against hunger.”

In order to receive the two free tickets, all active duty personnel and veterans must visit the South Bend Cubs Box Office and show a form of military ID. This offer is not available over the phone or online. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Should either game sell out, lawn tickets will be provided.

Sunday’s game has a special first pitch time of 7:05 p.m. with gates opening at 5:00 p.m. with fireworks after the game. Monday’s game has a scheduled first pitch at 2:05 p.m. and gates open at 1:00 p.m.

The South Bend Cubs are one of over 150 area volunteer organizations helping to fight hunger and food insecurity this summer with the North-Central Indiana offices of Express Employment Professionals, as a part of Express’s “Brand It Blue” food drive campaign.

About Express Employment Professionals:

Express Employment Professionals is a leading workforce staffing provider in the U.S., Canada and South Africa. Founded in 1983, Express Employment Professionals has nearly 800 franchise locations, including three franchise offices covering a six county area and located in Mishawaka, Elkhart, and Warsaw, in North-Central Indiana. Express specializes in the placement of job-seekers with employers for commercial, administrative, skilled trades, and professional positions.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

Alex Hilgeford Celebrates Home Run for Life May 31

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons will host 14-year-old Alex Hilgeford during the unique Anthem Home Run for Life program on Wednesday, May 31, at 7:00 p.m., when the Dayton Dragons take on the South Bend Cubs at Fifth Third Field.

The Anthem Home Run for Life program provides children in the Dayton region who are battling serious medical conditions with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Each honoree gets to take a lap around the bases at Fifth Third Field during a sold-out Dragons home game while the crowd cheers them on.

Alex’s Story

Alex Hilgeford is an active 8th grader at St. Helen’s Catholic School. He spends his time camping, fishing, and hunting. His favorite passion is wheelchair basketball. While he sounds like a typical kid, Alex’s journey to this point has been far from typical.

In January of 2002, Alex was born with some unusual physical features. He had webbing behind both knees, a club foot, a cleft palate, and his tongue was attached to the roof of his mouth.

Alex immediately underwent testing in the neonatal intensive care unit so doctors could plan the next steps in his care. Because his symptoms were so rare, it took nearly eighteen months before Alex could be officially diagnosed with Popliteal Pterygium (Pop-la-teal Ter-ridge-e-um) syndrome.

Popliteal Pterygium syndrome is a very rare condition that affects the development of the skin and face. Individuals like Alex who have Popliteal Pterygium syndrome could be born with a host of issues such as a cleft lip, a cleft palate, and webs of skin behind their knees.

After diagnosis, Alex faced more than a dozen surgeries. The first surgery came when Alex was only three days old and continued until he was nine.

Following those surgeries, Alex still faced issues using his right leg. Dr. Albert told Alex and his family that amputating his leg and fitting him with a prosthetic was a good option to increase Alex’s mobility. So, at the age of 7, Alex made the incredibly courageous decision to go through with the amputation.

Alex’s decision has been the right choice for him, allowing him to lead an active lifestyle. He loves playing wheelchair basketball and hopes to make the 2024 Paralympics. For the past three years, he has joined the Amputee Coalition at Camp Joy, a camp that helps kids with limb loss and limb indifference enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle. He’s looking forward to the day when he can give back to the camp by volunteering as a camp counselor.

“I want kids to understand that whatever your situation, it’s not going to last forever,” Alex said. “You will come out okay on the other side. This isn’t the end of the road…It’s just a bump along the way.”

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons applaud all those who have been instrumental in Alex’s life, including his parents Mindy and Drew, his siblings Eric and Kate, all extended family, Dr. Albert, and his entire medical team. Please join us in cheering on Alex as he completes his Anthem Home Run for Life at Fifth Third Field on May 31.

More Information:  The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com.

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

Dragons Host Hometown Heroes Celebration Night at Fifth Third Field

The Dayton Dragons and the Dayton Development Coalition will hold the first of two Hometown Heroes™ Celebration Nights Saturday, May 20 at Fifth Third Field when the Dragons play the Bowling Green Hot Rods at 7:07 p.m.

“Hometown Heroes™ Celebration Nights represent something truly special about the Dayton Region,” said Jeff Hoagland, DDC President and CEO. “Our desire to thank those who serve our country, combined with a true American pastime, has created an incredible night dedicated to our Hometown Heroes. We want to thank them for their service and let them know, no matter where they are stationed, Dayton will always welcome them home.”

The Celebration Nights are the highlight of the year-long Hometown Heroes™ program, which honors our community’s service men and women affiliated with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the Springfield, Ohio Air National Guard Base. The DDC and the Dragons, with the generous support of local businesses, began the program 14 years ago as a way for the community to support the thousands of military families in the region.

Colonel McDonald, the installation and 88th Air Base Wing commander, will swear in 12 new Air Force recruits during the game.

Major General William Cooley, the commander of Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, and Colonel Bradley McDonald, the Wright-Patt installation and 88th Air Base Wing commander at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base., will throw out a first pitch.

The Association of Defense Communities recently recognized Dayton as a Great American Defense Community, in part for the Hometown Heroes™ programs at the Dragons, Victoria Theatre Association, Dayton Art Institute, and Dayton Air Show. Hometown HeroesTM, working in close partnership with Dayton Hoopla/First Four events, UD & WSU Men’s Basketball, and the Fraze Pavilion, offers year-long events honoring our military community.

Staff Sergeant Kelly Perry from the Air Force Band of Flight. During the national anthem, the Wright Patterson Air Force Base Honor Guard will present the colors.

On the plaza, there will be a Security Forces Humvee, an Air Force Recruit Van, and the 445th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron will showcase equipment used on evacuation missions. The Dragons Entertainment staff will hand out mini flags, and fans can sign “Thank You” cards to send to troops overseas.

More Information: The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling (937) 228-2287, by email at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com

The Dayton Development Coalition (DDC) is the leading economic development organization for the 14-county Dayton region. Working closely with public and private regional partners, its mission is to retain, expand and recruit jobs. The DDC and the Dayton region ranked as the nation’s top metro for its size for economic development in 2008, 2009 and 2012 and runner-up in 2010, 2011, 2014 and 2015. With the State’s largest single-site employer in its backyard, the DDC also focuses on advocating for the critical missions at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and supporting the work of the United States Air Force. The DDC was ranked as America’s top military community, and was presented with the 2015 Community Excellence Award from the Association of Defense Communities. It was designated as one of the ADC’s Great American Defense Communities in 2016 – a testament to the collaborative efforts in support of Wright-Patt, America’s #1 Air Force Base as ranked by the Air Force Times (2014). For any questions regarding the DDC, contact Shannon Joyce Neal at (937) 231-5436.

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

KHN Presents Strike Out Stroke Event

Dayton, Ohio – Abbey Hendershott, a stroke survivor, will throw out the first pitch at the Dayton Dragons game on Sunday, May 21, at 2:07 p.m. when Kettering Health Network presents the “Strike Out Stroke™” event. The Dragons will be hosting the Bowling Green Hot Rods at Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton. Strike Out Stroke is a registered trademark of the “Retreat and Refresh Stroke Camp.”

Hendershott experienced a stroke at her home on March 23, 2015. Despite being a nurse and recognizing the symptoms of a stroke, she initially attempted to talk herself out of the fact that she could be having one because she was only in her mid-twenties.

Hendershott’s face did not move when she smiled and went numb when she tried to laugh at a joke that her sister-in-law told. She was also experiencing numbness on the left side of her body. Her sister-in-law immediately called 911 and Hendershott was transported to Sycamore Medical Center.

After a one-day stay at that facility, she was taken to Kettering Medical Center for further evaluation and seen by Dr. Short, a neurosurgeon. Hendershott was released from the hospital three days later.

Hendershott provides a simple piece of advice to people who think they may be suffering a stroke no matter their age, “If you are having any symptoms, do not wait.”

Kettering Health Network will be on the plaza from noon-2:30 p.m. with stroke awareness and prevention information and will also be passing out various stroke awareness items.

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

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Chiefs Partner with PNC for Pre-K Day

PEORIA, IL – The Peoria Chiefs and corporate partner PNC Bank are teaming up with the Heart of Illinois United Way’s Success By 6 program to reward Pre-K children who took part in the Homer’s Pups Reading Program with a free ticket to the Sunday May 21 2:00 p.m. Chiefs game and a pre-game Street Fest outside Dozer Park.

Homer’s Pups Reading Program is in its fourth year as an off-shoot of Homer’s Reading Program and provides benefits for children under the age of six who are in the early stages of developing reading skills. The program has over 3500 kids enrolled for the 2017 season. They earn prizes by reading their way around the bases and the home run prize is a free ticket to the Sunday, May 21 game against the Beloit Snappers.

      “One of the earliest indicators of a child’s future success is the number of words he or she hears prior to kindergarten,” said Brian Ray, PNC regional president for Central Illinois. “Today with the Chiefs we are celebrating the success of the children who have reached their reading goals and we encourage family togetherness especially when they include reading.”

This is the fourth year of the partnership between the Chiefs and PNC for the Homer’s Pups Reading Program and the third year for the PNC Mobile Learning Adventure to be part of the Street Fest outside Dozer Park prior to the game. The Mobile Learning Adventure encourages family participation and focuses on education for preschool children. This year the Mobile Learning Adventure provides families with educational DVD’s created by Sesame Workshop and children are able to take home a photo of them dressed up as what they would like to be when they grow up. The Street Fest, which on Oak Street is free and runs from Noon – 3:00 p.m. on May 21, also includes Barnyard Discoveries and inflatable activities from Fun on the Run for families.

“Days like the PNC Pre-K Day are some of the most rewarding days we have at the ballpark all summer,” said Chiefs President Rocky Vonachen. “Seeing these young kids running around, getting player autographs, taking photos with Homer and the Super Heroes, playing on the inflatables, having fun with their families and knowing they earned it by reading is what being part of this great community is all about and we couldn’t do it without great corporate partners like PNC.”

The game on the 21st begins at 2:00 p.m. with gates opening at 1:00 p.m. There will be an appearance by PBS character Natuue Cat and a player poster giveaway to the first 1000 fans presented by the PJStar and CityLink. Fans can play catch on the field after the game and Chiefs players will sign autographs for fans 12 and under from 1:10 – 1:30. After the game, kids 12 and under can run the bases. Kids 12 and under get $5 tickets and a free hot dog, chips and soda. Tickets are available online at www.peoriachiefs.com or at the Dozer Park Box Office (open 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.)

PNC Bank, National Association, is a member of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC). PNC is one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States, organized around its customers and communities for strong relationships and local delivery of retail and business banking including a full range of lending products; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance and asset-based lending; wealth management and asset management. For information about PNC, visit www.pnc.com

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

Chiefs Announce Pete Vonachen Community Service Award

PEORIA, IL – The Peoria Chiefs and Humana have announced creation of the Pete Vonachen Community Service Award designed to honor individuals from Central Illinois who are making a positive difference in their community. Nominations will be accepted online throughout the season.

The awards are designed to honor those who have gone above and beyond in their Central Illinois community in the spirit of Pete Vonachen who successfully impacted the Peoria area throughout his life. Nominees could be firefighters, police officers, first responders, volunteers, teachers, doctors, good Samaritans or the neighbor down the street who is always helping those who need it.

      Fans can go to the nomination page to nominate their favorite Humana Community All-Star by providing information and a reason why they are an unsung Humana Community All-Star deserving of recognition.

The Chiefs will honor a finalist at five different games this season: May 20, June 10, July 4, July 29 and August 12. Then on September 1 the overall Humana Community All-Star of the 2017 season will be honored at the final regular season game of the season.

Tickets and Promotions:

Season ticket packages, including full-season, a 35-game ticket package, an 18-game ticket package, a Flex Plan or Pick-Six Plan are currently on sale by calling 309-680-4000. Individual game tickets are also on sale with the Dozer Park Box Office open Monday – Friday from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm and online at www.peoriachiefs.com which also lists all of the season’s promotions. Game times and promotions are subject to change.

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

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Dragons and Vectren Honor Charles Fox as “Community All-Star”

The Dragons and Vectren will honor Charles Fox during the unique “Community All-Stars” program on Friday, May 12, at 7:00 p.m. when the Dayton Dragons take on the Quad Cities River Bandits at Fifth Third Field.

The Dayton community is a great place to live, work and play. But what makes Dayton truly great are the people that call Dayton home. We have great people and great organizations in our community that do incredible things each and every day. Throughout the season, the Dragons and Vectren will honor five “All-Stars” with a special inning break tribute in recognition of their service.

Charles’ Story

During his wife Charlotte’s battle with cancer, Charles Fox noticed the comfort she received from a soft blanket their daughter had given her. After Charlotte passed away in 2009, Charles decided he wanted to provide that same comfort to other cancer patients during their treatments. He began buying and donating blankets to the Kettering Medical Center Foundation to distribute to patients undergoing chemotherapy. Each patient receives a soft fleece blanket with love and well wishes.

Charles also established the Grammy CC Foundation of Love in dedication to Charlotte. While the foundation mainly focuses on donating blankets, they have also worked with local organizations to donate knitted hats to cancer patients.

“During her five year battle with cancer, Charlotte never gave up,” said Charles. “She persevered with grace, dignity, and tremendous courage. If Charlotte were here today, she would be so proud of the Grammy CC Foundation of Love and our efforts to help other patients with their own battles.”

The goal of the Grammy CC Foundation of Love is to provide cancer patients with gifts to let them know that they are in the hearts and prayers of others. If you want to learn more or get involved with the foundation, please visit www.grammycc.org.

For his efforts to provide comfort for cancer patients, Charles has been selected as a Dragons Community All-Star. The program honors those that have gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley.

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program is made possible by the generous support of Vectren. For more information or to nominate an All-Star in your life, visit www.daytondragons.com/communityallstar.

More Information: The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling (937) 228-2287, by email at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com.

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

Rattlers and Elite Smiles Dental Make an Oral Health Challenge to Children 12 and Younger

GRAND CHUTE, WI – Elite Smiles Dental and the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers want your children to have healthy teeth and gums. That is why they are asking children 12 years of age and younger to take the Oral Health Challenge. Each participant who successfully completes the challenge will receive two free tickets to a Timber Rattlers game.

Here is how the challenge works:

Once a participant has turned in a completed form, the participant will receive two reserved seat tickets to one of four Oral Health Days at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium. Those days are Thursday, May 18; Monday, June 12; Monday, July 24; and Tuesday, August 8.

Completed forms will be accepted until August 1, 2017.

Challengers may also want to come to the game on Friday, June 9 when the Rattlers and Elite Smiles Dental will be giving away a toothbrush holder to the first 1,000 fans. Game time is 7:05pm.

Partial season and group ticket packages are currently available for the 2017 season. Tickets packages are available online, over the phone at (920) 733-4152 or (800) WI-TIMBER, and in person. Individual game tickets for this season are also on sale now.   Groups of 20 or more may order tickets over the phone or in person. The Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and from 10:00am to 3:00pm on Saturdays.

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

U.S. Cellular and Timber Rattlers Bring Back Little League Takeovers!

GRAND CHUTE, WI – Everyone had so much fun last year, they wanted to do it again! U.S. Cellular and the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers are taking over Appleton Little League at the Scheels USA Youth Sports Complex on Monday, May 8.

Next Monday will be the first of several “Little League Takeovers” sponsored by U.S. Cellular and the Timber Rattlers. Fang’s Fanatics and the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers promo crew along with staff from the Timber Rattlers and volunteers from U.S. Cellular will bring their high energy and fun in-game promotions to a girls’ softball game at 5:00pm and a baseball game that will follow the conclusion of the softball game.

“We’re focused on making connections that serve our local community,” said Eric Larson, U.S. Cellular’s area sales manager in Northern Wisconsin. “By teaming up with the Timber Rattlers, we will bring additional excitement and fun for the whole family to Appleton’s Little League Monday night games. Maybe in a few years, we’ll see these young athletes playing for the Timber Rattlers or the Brewers.”

Timber Rattlers public address announcer Joey D. will announce kids’ names prior to each at-bat and the team’s production staff will provide walk-up songs as well. The team will bring the Bratzooka!, the Bubble Ball Battle, and the Sub Race Characters and have an array of t-shirt tosses and other in-game surprises. U.S. Cellular volunteers will be distributing customized t-shirts and will also hand out complimentary hot dogs to fans throughout the games.

A highlight video of the day’s festivities will be produced and shown on the Timber Rattlers video board during Appleton Little League’s night at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium on June 8.

“The Timber Rattlers are excited to once again team up with U.S. Cellular and local youth baseball and softball leagues to provide some fun-filled entertainment and lasting memories,” said Timber Rattlers Assistant General Manager, Jerrad Radocay. “These three leagues already do a great job of providing an awesome experience for these kids, so for us to be involved in bringing our on-field promotions, PA announcer Joey D., and world famous Bratzooka! is a win-win for everyone.”

U.S. Cellular and the Timber Rattlers have scheduled two other Takeovers this summer: June 14 at Plamann Park for Grand Chute Baseball and July 29 at O’Hauser Park for Suburban Athletics.

“We’re looking forward to the Timber Rattlers and U.S. Cellular again knocking our Takeover Event out of the park, as we dedicate our fields at Scheels USA Youth Sports Complex to the Kratzer and Gromer families, and unveil many great field improvements,” said Appleton Little League President Kevin Kostelecky.

Partial season and group ticket packages are currently available for the 2017 season. Tickets packages are available online, over the phone at (920) 733-4152 or (800) WI-TIMBER, and in person. Individual game tickets for this season are also on sale now.   Groups of 20 or more may order tickets over the phone or in person. The Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and from 10:00am to 3:00pm on Saturdays.

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

Loons to Host Pride Night on May 31

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.

TinCaps Seek Nominees for Military Salutes in 2017

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Fort Wayne TinCaps, along with OmniSource Corporation and Steel Dynamics Inc., will salute our military throughout the 2017 season and need your help.

All those who serve our country, or have served, deserve to be saluted. The TinCaps are looking for nominations of active or veteran military personnel to honor at games. If you have a friend or family member you’d like to see honored at Parkview Field, then let the team know.

Selected nominees will be rewarded with VIP treatment at Parkview Field. This includes tickets to the game for them and their family, and recognition on the field before that night’s fireworks show.

The TinCaps ask that you submit a short essay explaining why the community should know about your hero’s story. Submissions should be sent to TinCaps Vice President David Lorenz (lorenz@tincaps.com). You can also call David at 260-407-2815.

“Honoring the men and women that currently serve or have previously served our country is the least we can do,” TinCaps President Mike Nutter said. “We’re glad to have this special opportunity at Parkview Field to give these heroes the spotlight and thank them from all that they have done and continue to do.”

Through the generosity of the OmniSource Corporation and Steel Dynamics Inc., and caring individual donors, the TinCaps also invite all members of the military and their families to attend Military Appreciation Night on Tuesday, June 27 (7:05 p.m.) when the TinCaps host the South Bend Cubs. Complimentary tickets for that game can be requested at TinCapsMilitary.com.

The TinCaps will wear special patriotic jerseys on Military Appreciation Night presented by OmniSource and Steel Dynamics and on the Fourth of July. The jerseys will be auctioned off on the Fourth with all proceeds benefitting Honor Flight Northeast Indiana.

Tickets are available online at TinCapsTickets.com, by calling 260-482-6400, or visiting the Parkview Field Ticket Office.

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

Operation Support Our Troops Concert Moves to Northwestern Medicine Field

GENEVA, Ill. – Operation Support Our Troops – America has announced that Rockin’ for the Troops, the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year, will take place at Northwestern Medicine Field – home of the Kane County Cougars – on Saturday, July 22. Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.kccougars.com.

Visit www.RockinForTheTroops for additional information about the concert including FAQ’s, volunteer opportunities and more.

Both OSOT-America and the Cougars are excited to announce Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Lynyrd Skynyrd as the headlining band. Motown tribute band, The Voices, will also perform along with Ayla Brown and Empty Pockets. Brown will perform patriotic inspired songs and country music while Empty Pockets rounds out the lineup with rock and roll. Gates will open at 2 p.m. with stage entertainment beginning at 2:30 p.m. Following the concert, there will be a fireworks display, courtesy of Melrose Pyrotechnics. Attendees are encouraged to bring donation items for Christmas stockings that will be sent to troops serving overseas.

Fans can purchase various ticket package options including a Meet & Greet for $300 which comes with one premium box seat ticket, an exclusive preshow meet & greet with Lynyrd Skynyrd, specially designed Lynyrd Skynyrd tour shirt, collective tour lithograph and more. The Free Bird VIP package is also available for $150 and includes multiple perks such as one premium box seat ticket, exclusive Free Bird trucker hat as well as a Lynyrd Skynyrd koozie and bottle opener set.

“The Cougars organization is honored that Northwestern Medicine Field will be the site of this year’s Rockin’ for the Troops,” said Vice President and General Manager of the Kane County Cougars, Curtis Haug. “We are constantly striving to find ways to support both active duty military and veterans so we are thrilled to be hosting an event that not only benefits OSOT-America, but features such an iconic performer in Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Proceeds from each ticket will help support the programs of OSOT-America.

“This is an exciting year for OSOT-America with moving Rockin’ for the Troops to Northwestern Medicine Field in Geneva, along with a different main act,” said Jamie Nelson, Executive Director of OSOT-America. “We are hard at work to continue with the tradition of a day of support for our Military Community. Rockin’ for the Troops helps us to raise the necessary funds to continue our mission of providing comfort and care for deployed troops. These funds are critical to our mission to cover the cost of shipping our comfort and care packages, provide one-time grants to veterans under financial stress and help our families of the fallen. We appreciate the continued support of our local communities.”

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

About Operation Support Our Troops – America

The mission of OSOT America is to support the morale and well-being of American forces by providing comfort, resources and education to all involved both while deployed and the soldier’s return. As a volunteer-based non-profit organization, OSOT-America provides the opportunity for community members to express their appreciation and also offer support for our troops. Engaged in the longest war of our country’s history, and with our servicemen and women completing multiple tours of duty, OSOT-America is committed to showing them that “We Have NOT Forgotten.” Volunteer opportunities are available. Visit www.osotamerica.org for more information.

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

Dragons Continue Heater’s Recycling Bin Initiative

The Dayton Dragons and Montgomery County Environmental Services encourage fans to participate in Heater’s Recycling Bin Initiative (RBI), a free educational program for the entire family. All participants will receive up to four Dragons lawn tickets for special RBI Nights and be eligible to win great prizes.

Fans that would like to take part in the program can download a tracking form at www.daytondragons.com/rbi. Track two weeks of recycling at home and submit your final numbers at www.daytondragons.com/rbi. Tracking forms can also be sent to the Dragons via mail, e-mail, fax, or by dropping it off at the stadium. When the Dragons receive the tracking form, participants will be sent four lawn tickets to one of two new “RBI Nights”. Those nights are Thursday, June 15th and Thursday, August 3rd.

In addition to the tickets, participants will receive an exclusive RBI water bottle, a special RBI recycling bin, and group recognition at the game. Participants will also have a chance to win the opportunity to throw out a first pitch at a Dragons game, a special VIP Dragons game experience, and a luxury suite with catering, VIP parking passes, and Dragons hats.

About Montgomery County Environmental Services

Montgomery County Environmental Services is more than 300 men and women who provide high-quality drinking water, solid waste, recycling, and wastewater reclamation services to the citizens of Montgomery County. We work to preserve public health, foster economic development, and protect the environment and our natural resources for future generations. We aim to be leaders and trusted stewards of the environment focused on service, collaboration, innovation, and financial responsibility.

We also offer educational programs to local schools, community organizations and businesses that want to learn more about conservation and sustainability in the Miami Valley region.
More Information: The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling (937) 228-2287, by email at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com

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

Rattlers and Thrivent Financial Team Up for Make-A-Difference Mondays

GRAND CHUTE, WI – The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers and Thrivent Financial are getting together to present Make-A-Difference Mondays at the ballpark this season. There will be four special Monday games over the remainder of the 2017 season to aid local non-profit organizations.

Fans who choose to donate to the non-profit will receive a discounted box seat ticket for $10 (normally $14) to these special Monday games. Additionally, $5 of the $10 for the ticket will be donated to the non-profit scheduled to be a partner for that game.

To purchase discounted tickets for Make-A-Difference Mondays in advance, visit TimberRattlers.com and use the promo code: thrivent. Fans will receive a discounted ticket on the day of the game by donating items to the non-profit organization at the time of purchase.

“Thrivent Financial is a financial services organization that helps Christians be wise with money and live generously. For more than a century we’ve helped our more than 2 million member-owners make wise money choices that reflect their values, and we provide opportunities for them to be even more generous where they live, work and worship,” said Jenny Rohan, Community Engagement Leader for Thrivent Financial. “Our partnership with the Timber Rattlers is an opportunity for our members and the community to see what living our mission looks like and will make an impact for churches and non-profit organizations in our community.”

The schedule for the four Make-A-Difference Mondays and the non-profit organizations and the most-needed items they need for donations on those days are:

May 15: Feeding America

  • Canned Fruits (preferably low sugar)
  • Peanut Butter
  • Canned Meats (such as tuna, chicken, etc.)
  • Cereal (hot & cold)
  • Grains (such as rice, pasta, etc.)
  • Soups (or other “heat & eat” meal-like items)

June 12: Building for Kids

  • Brightly Colored Paper Plates, Cups, and Napkins
  • 9″ Balloons
  • Small Bottles of White Glue
  • Glue Sticks
  • Gallons of Vinegar

June 26: Center for Veterans Issues, LLC

  • Pre-packaged snacks (granola bars, pudding, oatmeal, etc.)
  • Canned Goods
  • Personal Hygiene Items (toothbrush, toothpaste, travel size shampoo/conditioner, deodorant)

August 7: Homeless Connections

  • Size 5 diapers
  • Napkins
  • Coffee (ground or Kcups)
  • Alarm clocks
  • Dryer sheets
  • Cans of Fruit
  • Bike Locks
  • Bike Helmets: youth and adult
  • Nuks for babies

The Timber Rattlers are currently on the road. They will return home to begin a seven-game homestand on Thursday, April 20 with a game against the Peoria Chiefs.

Partial season and group ticket packages are currently available for the 2017 season. Tickets packages are available online, over the phone at (920) 733-4152 or (800) WI-TIMBER, and in person. Individual game tickets for this season are also on sale now.   Groups of 20 or more may order tickets over the phone or in person. The Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and from 10:00am to 3:00pm on Saturdays.

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