Midwest League – Page 30

Cougars Announce Charity Partnerships For 2015 Season

March 19, 2015

Partnerships with multiple organizations to positively impact local causes in 2015

The Kane County Cougars have announced a community outreach partnership for the 2015 season in which four organizations will receive a portion of the in-game 50/50 raffle proceeds through Ozzie’s Outreach Foundation, the Cougars’ charitable arm. Those four organizations are Project Backpack (April/May), DuPage Pads (June), Northern Illinois Food Bank (July) and Family Shelter Service (August/September). Also, the Cougars through their partnership with Acres Group, have announced that the Gateway Foundation Alcohol & Drug Treatment Centers will be the recipient of the charitable proceeds from this season’s “Pitch In For Charity” promotion in which fans, following select games, purchase and throw numbered tennis balls onto a target in order to win a prize.

Project Backpack (project-backpack.org) is a community-based initiative led by Elgin Community College that benefits local students who are in need of necessary school supplies.

DuPage Pads (dupagepads.org) has the solution to end homelessness with housing coupled with support services and employment which leads to improved health and economic sustainability.

Northern Illinois Food Bank (solvehungertoday.org) works with 800 community food pantries and feeding programs across 13 counties to solve hunger in northern Illinois by providing nutritious food to more than 71,000 people at risk of hunger each week. Volunteers can assist at one of their three centers including their west suburban location in Geneva.

Family Shelter Service (familyshelterservice.org), founded in 1976 and located in nearby Wheaton, transforms lives by offering help and hope to those affected by domestic violence.

Gateway Foundation Alcohol & Drug Treatment Centers (recovergateway.org) have provided the answers that individuals and their families need about drug and alcohol treatment. The organization has several treatment centers throughout Illinois, including nearby Aurora.

“Since the franchise’s inaugural season in 1991 and continuing through our upcoming 25^th anniversary season, the Cougars’ organization has strived to be the best possible neighbor by giving back to the community in many ways,” said Cougars Vice President/General Manager Curtis Haug.

“Through these types of initiatives, fans can see how deep our commitment is as an organization towards helping others in need,” said Cougars owner Dr. Bob Froehlich.

Added Cougars owner Cheryl Froehlich: “We are reminded more than ever when these milestone seasons occur, that the Cougars organization is aware of how much support that has been shown to us over the years and how critically important it is to give back.”

For more information on the Kane County Cougars and the organization’s upcoming 25^th anniversary season which begins on April 9, fans can visit kccougars.com. Fans are also encouraged to ‘like’ the Cougars on Facebook while following the team via Twitter and Instagram at kccougars.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Kane County Cougars. Click here to view the original story.

2015 Timber Rattlers Golf Outing to be held on July 27

March 17, 2015

wisconsintimberrattlers_2015-03-17 — The Timber Rattlers Golf Outing is unlike any other golf outing. The 2015 event will be held on July 27 at Shamrock Heights in New London. (Wisconsin Timber Rattlers/Ann Mollica)

Charity outing at Shamrock Heights Golf Course to benefit The Miracle League of the Fox Valley

The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers will be teeing off for a good cause at their annual Golf Outing on Monday, July 27. The day of fun and golf will be held at Shamrock Heights Golf Course in New London and benefit The Miracle League of the Fox Valley.

A foursome may register for $350. Foursomes have the opportunity to play with a Timber Rattlers player, but that chance is based on a first come, first serve RSVP. Individuals may register for $100.

The outing tees off with registration beginning at 8:00am and a shotgun start at 9:00am. Lunch is included with registration and will be served at the turn. Snacks will be available after the round of golf from 2-4pm. A raffle drawing and awards presentation will conclude the event.

If you wish to participate in the 2015 Wisconsin Timber Rattlers Golf Outing, please contact Hilary Bauer at (920) 733-4152 or hbauer@timberrattlers.com by Monday, July 20. Registration forms are also available at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium and online at timberrattlers.com.

Persons unable to golf, but looking for a way to contribute may consider a hole sponsorship package at $100 or an in-kind donation toward raffle/hole prizes.

The Miracle League of the Fox Valley, an organized baseball league for children aged 4-19 with physical and/or cognitive disabilities, was formed in 2008 by Fox Valley parents Lisa and Mark Robbins. Registration is open now through March 30 for players and volunteers for the 2015 Miracle League of the Fox Valley season, which starts on June 8. The league plays their games at the John Wollner Fox Cities Miracle Field in Appleton’s Memorial Park.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers. Click here to view the original story.

Cougars Announce 2014-15 Ozzie’s Scholars

March 16, 2015

Winners and their families to be recognized at July 19 game

The Kane County Cougars have designated a total of eight Chicagoland youth as “Ozzie’s Scholars” for the 2014-2015 school year. The Cougars’ reading scholarship program encouraged current and former members of Ozzie’s Reading Club to submit a brief essay explaining how their love for reading was furthered through the Cougars’ reading incentive program.

Since the program’s inception 20 years ago, more than 2 million Chicagoland youth have participated in Ozzie’s Reading Club, which tracks the progress of a students’ reading around the bases of a baseball diamond. Each participating teacher may determine his or her own reading requirements. Students completing the program’s requirements “hit a home run” and earn a free ticket to a Cougars game designated by their school, along with a pre-game parade, Cougars drawstring bag and food voucher.

The following winners have been awarded a scholarship to be used for educational purposes from Ozzie’s Outreach Foundation, the charitable arm of the Cougars organization.

Kayla S. (Ontarioville Elementary, Hanover Park)
Sean L. (Our Lady of Peace School, Darien)
Matthew E. (Newark HS)
Mitchell B. (Batavia HS)
Zachary L. (Hawthorne Elementary, Wheaton)
Paige U. (Meadow Glens Elementary, Naperville)
Olivia G. (Lord & Savior Lutheran School, Crystal Lake)
Logan C. (Clinton Elementary School, South Elgin)

Winners and their families will be recognized on the field before the Sunday, July 19^th Cougars game.

“Congratulations to all of our 2014-15 Ozzie’s Scholars applicants and winners as once again this year, we were encouraged by how many of our young fans have credited their participation in Ozzie’s Reading Club as an important part of their reading development,” Cougars Ozzie’s Reading Club Coordinator Amy Mason said. “We are looking forward to recognizing our winners, along with their families on July 19^th.”

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Kane County Cougars. 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.

Dragons Expand School MVP Program to 5 Counties

February 24, 2015

The Dayton Dragons today announced the expansion of their elementary school MVP Program into two additional counties, taking the program to more than 1,100 classrooms in 2015. A total of 274 classrooms in 34 schools in Miami and Warren counties have been added to the program, which already included 842 classrooms in Montgomery, Greene, and Clark counties.

Click here for the Dayton Daily News story regarding the Dragons School MVP Program.

In 2015, the program will include 1,116 fourth and fifth grade classrooms in 183 schools over 48 school districts. About 34,000 children will participate (up from 26,000 in 2014). The program will enter its 10th year in 2015. Due to the support of the participating sponsors, the program is completely free of charge to the schools.

How does the Dragons School MVP Program work? The teacher in each of the 1,116 classrooms over the five-county area will select five MVP’s based on the teacher’s judgment of performance, effort, citizenship, and improvement. The five MVPs selected by their teacher in each classroom will get four tickets to a Dragons game, tickets to a special Field Day event at the stadium during the season, an MVP certificate and a Dragons MVP hat. Dragons players and mascots will visit selected classrooms over the course of the season.

Additionally, MVPs are highlighted throughout the season. They record their own radio commercials that play during Dragons broadcasts. Their story is also featured in our PlayBall game program and in a 30-second commercial on Dayton’s CW.

Twelve Dragons games during the season are designated as “MVP Game Nights.” On those nights, one MVP gets to throw out the ceremonial first pitch to the game, another does an on-air interview during the Dragons game broadcast on Fox Sports 980 AM, and another participates in an entertainment skit during the Dragons game. Two times each season, all classroom MVP’s are invited to attend the Dragons MVP Field Day at Fifth Third Field and interact with Dragons players.

The Dragons MVP Program is also promoted via Facebook and Twitter, daytondragons.com, and in advertisements in the Dayton Daily News.

“The Dragons MVP Program has become a tradition in the Miami Valley and we are thrilled to expand it to two new counties,” said Robert Murphy, Dragons President. “The program represents a significant partnership between the Dragons and the community and has impacted thousands of children over the last nine years. We look forward to another successful year with this program in 2015.”

Dragons School MVP Program 2015 Summary (All five counties)

School Districts: 48 in 2015 (30 in 2014)

Schools: 183 in 2015 (149 in 2014)

Classrooms: 1,116 in 2015 (842 in 2014)

What this means…
Number of kids reached with program: over 34,000 in 2015 (26,000 in 2014)

Number of MVP winners: 5,580 in 2015 (4,210 in 2014)

The Dragons MVP Program presented by Bob Evans is also made possible by the generous support of Sinclair Community College, WDTN TV and Dayton’s CW Television.

The Dragons open their 16th season in the Midwest League on April 9 at West Michigan and open the home season at Fifth Third Field on April 12 vs. South Bend.

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

Help for the Homeless Drive at Neuroscience Group Field on March 7

February 23, 2015

Donate to The Family's Help for the Homeless Drive at Neuroscience Group Field on Saturday, March 7. (Wisconsin Timber Rattlers) — Donate to The Family’s Help for the Homeless Drive at Neuroscience Group Field on Saturday, March 7. (Wisconsin Timber Rattlers)

Rattlers team up with 91.9 & 91.5 The Family to aid area homeless and crisis programs

The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers will take donations for 91.9 & 91.5 The Family’s Help for the Homeless Hygiene Drive at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium on Saturday, March 7 from 10am to 3pm. The drive is to help stock the shelves of 79 homeless and crisis programs in 13 Wisconsin communities in our listening areas. The goal of Help for the Homeless is to supply a year’s worth of product to each agency.

The most needed items for the drive include:

Cleaning Supplies
Hair Care
Laundry Soap
Feminine Needs
Deodorant
Garbage Bags
Bathroom Tissue
Dental Care
Paper Towels
Diapers/Baby Care
Body Lotion
Face/Bath Soap

Individual game tickets for the 2015 season and Whiffer’s Birthday party will also be going on at the stadium from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm on Saturday, March 7. Fans who bring a donation to the Help for the Homeless Hygiene Drive to the event will receive an ice cream treat from Dairy Queen while supplies last.

If you cannot make it to the event at the ballpark on March 7, donations to the drive can be dropped off at boxes in area Shopko stores, Festival Foods, and Walgreen’s now through March 15. All donations will remain in the community with area homeless and crisis programs.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers . 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.

2015 Nick Adenhart Memorial Scholarship

February 16, 2015

Application deadline is Friday, April 17.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fundraising with the Kernels

February 6, 2015

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

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

Kernels 4-Pack Ticket Fundraiser

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

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

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

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

Stadium Alcohol Purchase Wristbanding

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

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

Post-Game Stadium Cleanup

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

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

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

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

MBF Grant Application Deadline is Feb. 13

January 22, 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

– The funded project promotes amateur sports and fitness.

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

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

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

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

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

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

January 20, 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ballpark Hospitality
Ushers
Parking Attendant

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

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

Merchandise
Retail Store Employees

Promotions
“Street Team” in-game entertainment staff

Video Production
Video production interns

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cougars To Host Coaches Clinic On January 31

January 8, 2015

Youth baseball and softball coaches can attend free event, receive professional instruction from Cougars and Arizona Diamondbacks

The Kane County Cougars will host a free Coaches Clinic on Saturday, January 31^st that features professional instructors from the Cougars and Diamondbacks organizations including new Cougars manager and former Major Leaguer Mark Grudzielanek, Cougars pitching coach Doug Bochtler, Cougars hitting coach Vince Harrison and Diamondbacks hitting coordinator Chris Cron. The clinic will take place from 9-11:30 a.m. inside Fifth Third Bank’s upper deck level. Attendees are asked to RSVP by calling the Cougars at (630) 232-8811 or emailing sfreed@kanecountycougars.com. The clinic is provided free-of-charge to participants as a community service from the Cougars and Diamondbacks organizations.

Although open to the public, the clinic’s purpose is to specifically instruct coaches. Therefore, the clinic is intended for adult coaches rather than youth players. Coaches are encouraged to bring video recorders and note pads for their convenience, and will have the opportunity to visit each station and learn valuable pointers in specific areas of on-field execution, practice techniques and coaching style. Donuts and coffee will be provided for attendees.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Kane County Cougars. 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.

Hot Rods’ Holiday Home Run for Kids Set for December 14

December 3, 2014

Hot Rods’ Holiday Home Run for Kids Set for December 14

The holidays may not occur during baseball season, but the Bowling Green Hot Rods are not allowing a simple calendar fact get in the way of celebrating them. The Hot Rods are pleased to introduce the inaugural Holiday Home Run for Kids. Not only will there be fun and entertainment for kids, but families can help the Hot Rods help those in need in South-Central Kentucky by contributing to the Toys for Tots drive. This free event will take place on Sunday, December 14, and it will run from 2-4 p.m. CT.

“We experienced outstanding support from the community with the Spring Rev-Up and most recently with Funner-Ween, and we hope to top both of them while helping a great cause,” said Hot Rods Assistant General Manager Ben Hemmen. “By contributing a toy to the Toys for Tots Drive, families can help their neighbors in need while also securing a discount in the team store. It’s a great chance for kids to meet Santa at the ballpark, and with prizes for everyone, it’ll be fun for all ages.”

Santa will be present and taking kids’ Holiday wishes. Holiday Home Run for Kids will take place in The Body Shop at Bowling Green Ballpark, and is loaded with free items. In addition to free entry, free cookies, candy canes, and hot chocolate will be handed out. The donation of unwrapped toy(s) to Toys for Tots will net the donor 10% off their entire purchase in the team store.

Fans who attend will also be eligible to win a number of presents, including free entry to a 2015 club at Bowling Green Ballpark, game-worn jerseys, 2014 prize packs, and even a 2015 Owners Experience Night, which features a free game inside the spacious Owner’s Suite for a 2015 Hot Rods regular-season game. The Body Shop will feature a large collection of clearance items, along with game-used merchandise. Fans will have the opportunity to purchase holiday packs, FUNNER cards, season-ticket packages, and more.

All are encouraged to keep checking the Hot Rods social media accounts every day, as a new deal and offer is revealed during the club’s 25 Days of Christmas. Daily offers include discounts on tickets, merchandise, and more. The Hot Rods can be found on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and even Pinterest.

Season tickets for the 2015 season are available now, and they can be purchased for as little as $90. While Opening Night is set for Saturday, April 18, the Hot Rods will host Western Kentucky University in an exhibition game on Tuesday, April 7. Plans offer numerous exclusive benefits and provide the greatest flexibility. For more information on the club and to secure your seats for the 2015 season, fans can logon to BGHotRods.com, call 270-901-2121, or visit the Bowling Green Ballpark box office.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Bowling Green Hot Rods. 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.