Wind Surge Fundraising Program

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If you are a non-profit, sports team, or charity looking to raise money for your organization, the Wind Surge Fundraising Program is for you! The Fundraising program requires just three simple steps. The first one is picking a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Sunday game you would like to attend. Next, you purchase a certain number of tickets based on your organization’s needs and sell them for $15 each. Lastly, your organization can receive up to $6 for each ticket sold. This is a great opportunity for your organization to raise money while having fun and earning up to 40% on every ticket you sell!

There are three different ticket options and different benefits that come with each option. Ticket Option one consists of selling 50-90 tickets and earning $4 for every ticket sold. Ticket Option two includes selling 100-199 tickets and earning $5 back for every ticket sold. The third Ticket Option will consist of selling 200+ tickets and earning $6 for every ticket sold.

To learn more and the benefits of each ticket options visit here or contact [email protected]

Wind Surge Re-launches Reading Program in Partnership with Credit Union of America

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The Wind Surge are excited to finally relaunch the Wichita Wind Surge Reading Program, in partnership with Credit Union of America.

The mission of the four-week reading program is to improve literacy while rewarding students for making time outside of the classroom to read. Sports promote health through physical activities, the brain is a muscle that needs exercise. Reading stimulates language skills and helps them to engage better with peers and educators.

We love to see children who participate gaining rewards while goals are met. After a student meets a goal, they get a “HIT.” Each “HIT” collects new prizes from sponsors – Whole Foods, Red Robin and Chick-Fil-A. Children must complete each base goal before moving forward.

Participating schools will have the option to host a kick-off assembly. A member from the office and Windy the mascot will come and explain the program’s process while getting children excited about receiving a free ticket.

All classrooms will be given a poster to track each student’s progress throughout the program and teachers will determine each week’s reading goal to fit their own lesson plans.

There are no additional requirements, only prizes for students. Prizes will be delivered to the school by Wind Surge staff members.

“We’re just really excited to help the teachers,” Director of Fan Experience Bob Moullette said. “It’s been a long two-and-a-half years for educators. Anyway, we can incentivize the reading goals already set in the classrooms to help them out and reward all the kids to come out to the ballpark, is a win win for everyone. We’re excited to get those schools out here representing.”

Visit windsurge.com to learn more! If you have any questions or are interested in signing your school or class up. Please contact Neleigh Higgins at [email protected] or 316-221-800.

Kernels to Hold Job Fair February 24th and 26th

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Kernels to hold Job Fair

For Immediate Release:

Contact: Jessica Fergesen (319) 896-7608

Cedar Rapids, IA – The Cedar Rapids Kernels are hosting a two-day job fair to hire part-time employees for the 2022 season. Mark your calendars for Thursday, February 24th from 3-7pm and Saturday, February 26th from 8-11am at Veterans Memorial Stadium.

Candidates will complete the application and interview at the job fair in the Kernels conference room and suites. The Kernels are looking for people who are reliable, hard-working, and passionate about pleasing our fans. All employees must be at least 16 years of age or older to work at the Kernels. The Kernels are an equal opportunity employer.

Applications will be available at the job fair or apply online! Visit www.kernels.com to learn more about the positions we are hiring.

The Kernels Opening Night for 2022 is Friday, April 8th at 6:35 PM vs. Beloit. Single-game tickets will go on sale Monday, March 14th. Our full promotional schedule with theme nights and daily specials will be released on March 1st.

To keep up to date on information regarding the Kernels 2022 season please visit www.kernels.com or follow our Facebook and Twitter feeds and subscribe to our Kernels email newsletter.

Wind Surge to Hold Job Fair on Wednesday 5-7 PM, Club Seeks Candidates for Seasonal Food and Beverage Positions

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Wind Surge to Hold Job Fair on Wednesday 5-7 PM

Club seeks candidates for seasonal food and beverage positions

WICHITA, Kansas –The Wichita Wind Surge 2022 baseball season is on the horizon and the team is looking for additional team members!

A job fair to recruit seasonal food and beverage personnel will be held on Wednesday from 5 to 7 PM at Riverfront Stadium.

The Wind Surge are seeking candidates for the following positions:

  • Concessions Lead
  • Concessions Floor Supervisor
  • Warehouse Coordinator
  • Suite Attendant
  • Concessions Attendant
  • Cook
  • Bartender
  • Warehouse Worker
  • Vending Hawker
  • Kitchen Utility
  • Kitchen Lead

Interested applicants can find full position descriptions and an application form at www.windsurge.com. The direct link for application: https://form.jotform.com/SyndeoHRO/Windsurgeapplication2022

Anyone wishing to interview for the above positions should bring a completed application along with a resume to the job fair. Please dress appropriately. Potential employees are subject to a background check and a drug test.

Applicants may enter through the Food and Beverage Department entrance at 300 S Sycamore.

Open positions are for seasonal employment only, who are interested in working Wind Surge home games and any additional stadium events. Training will be provided.

The Wichita Wind Surge are an equal opportunity employer.

The Wind Surge kick off the 2022 season on Friday, April 8th at 7:05 p.m. against the Tulsa Drillers at Riverfront Stadium. Group, season and mini-plan tickets are available now at windsurge.com, with single game tickets going on sale in early March.

Saints, American Red Cross, And Regions Hospital Team Up For Blood Drive On February 18

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ST. PAUL, MN (February 11, 2022) – Community involvement is a staple for the St. Paul Saints beginning before they played their first game in 1993. Whether it’s off-season or in season, the Saints team up with their partners for the greater good. The American Red Cross Blood Drive, hosted by the Saints in partnership with Regions Hospital on Friday, February 18, brings three of the more recognizable names in the Twin Cities together for one worthy cause.

The American Red Cross is facing its worst blood shortage in over a decade, posing concerning risk to patient care. With less than a one-day supply of critical blood types in recent weeks, doctors have been forced to make difficult decisions about who receives blood transfusions and who will need to wait until more products become available.

This is the time to take care of one another, and blood donation is essential to ensuring the health of the community. Blood donations can help the type of patients seen at Regions Hospital including trauma and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and those battling cancer.

Mayor Melvin Carter, CEO of HealthPartners, Andrea Walsh, and Regions Hospital Surgeon and MN Red Cross Board Chair, Dr. Hamlar, will join in on celebrating the outpouring support for the Twin Cities.

For more information contact the Saints at 651-644-6659 or visit saintsbaseball.com.

Blood drive safety precautions

To protect the health and safety of Red Cross staff and donors, individuals who do not feel well or who believe they may be ill with COVID-19 should postpone their donation.

Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions – including social distancing and face coverings for donors and staff – have been implemented to help protect the health of all those in attendance. Currently all available spots are filled and walk-up appointments aren’t available. Those donating and are required to wear a face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention public guidance.

About blood donation

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Donors may still donate after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Knowing the name of the manufacturer is critical in determining blood donation eligibility.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

Top Black Players in Cedar Rapids Kernels History

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In celebration of Black History Month, throughout February, teams across Minor League Baseball are taking a look back at six of the best Black players to suit up for their club.

While some of these standout performers went on to long and illustrious Major League careers, others simply had great Minor League careers or, in some cases, just one incredible season that went down as “a year for the ages.”

Here is a look at six of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for the Cedar Rapids Ball Club.

Eric Davis:

Drafted in the 8th round of the 1980 MLB draft by the Cincinnati Reds. Eric Davis played in 111 games for the Cedar Rapids Reds in 1982. Eric hit .277 with 15 home runs, 56 RBIs, and stealing 53 bases.

Eric debuted with the Cincinnati Reds in 1984. Eric became a member of the 30/30 club in 1987, hitting 37 home runs and stealing 50 bases. Eric was a key member of the Reds 1990 World Series Championship team. Over his 17-year career Eric was a .269 hitter with 282 home runs and 349 stolen bases. The two-time All-Star also won three Gold Gloves.

Reggie Sanders:

The Cincinnati Reds used their 7th round pick in the 1987 draft on Outfielder, Reggie Sanders. Reggie played for Cedar Rapids in 1990, playing in 127 games. Reggie hit .285 with 17 home runs, 63 RBIs and 40 stolen bases.

Reggie debuted with the Reds in the 1991 season playing in just 9 games. In the 1992 season Reggie finished 4th in the Rookie of the Year voting. Reggie was part of the 2001 Arizona Diamondbacks team that would win the World Series. In total Reggie played for 8 big league teams over 17 seasons. A career .267 hitter with 305 home runs and 983 RBI’s. Reggie has 1666 career hits and 304 Stolen Bases.

Howie Kendrick:

The Anaheim Angels drafted Howie Kendrick in the 10th round in 2002. Howie played 75 games for the Cedar Rapids Kernels in 2004 and he did not disappoint. Howie hit an incredible .367 over those 75 games.

Howie would make his MLB debut in 2006 and would enjoy a 15-year career. His only All-Star appearance came in 2011, but his best season was in 2019 when he helped lead the Nationals to the Franchises first World Series title. The NLCS MVP hit a career high .344 in 121 games with 17 home runs during the regular season. Howie recently retired after the 2020 season, as a career .294 hitter with 1747 career hits to his name.

Reggie Jefferson:

Reggie Jefferson was a first baseman out of Lincoln High School in Tallahassee, Florida. The Reds would draft him in the 3rd round in 1986, he would play 15 games in Cedar Rapids in 1987 and would return for a full season in 1988. Reggie blasted 18 home runs and drove in 90 runs during the ’88 season.

Reggie Debuted with the Reds in 1991 but would only play in five games before being traded to Cleveland. Over his 9-year big league career Reggie would average 17 home runs 71 RBIs. He finished his career with a batting average of exactly .300. Reggie would also spend some time playing in Japan, as well as coaching in the Minor Leagues and College level.

Chili Davis:

Born in Jamacia, Chili Davis was drafted in the 11th round by the Giants out of High School in 1977. He would play in 124 games for the Cedar Rapids Giants in 1978. That year Chili hit .281 with 16 home runs, 73 RBIs and 15 stolen bases. He was a Midwest League All-star and named the team MVP.

In 1981 Chili made history, being the first Jamaican born player to reach the big leagues. He would finish 4th in the Rookie of the Year votes in 1982 and would spend 19 years as a player in the big leagues playing for 5 teams. Chili would be on three World Series Championship teams (Minnesota 1991, New York Yankees 1998-99). A .274 career hitter with 2380 hits and 350 home runs. After retiring as a player Chili would go on to be a coach making stops in Oakland, Boston, Chicago (Cubs), and New York (Mets).

John Roseboro:

John played for the Cedar Rapids Raiders (Brooklyn Dodgers) in 1955 where he played in 55 games. John hit .235 that year but was better known for his defense.

He would make his MLB debut in 1957, playing in 35 games. The next season he would take over full time catching duties for the Dodgers after Roy Campanella was seriously injured in a car accident. John made his first of six All-Star teams that year. John was known as one of the best defensive catchers in baseball during his 14-year career. He would win two Gold Gloves and win 3 World Series titles. Following his retirement John would coach for the Senators, Angels, and Dodgers in both the Major and Minor Leagues. John passed away in 2002 at the age of 69.

Top Five Black Players In St. Paul Saints History

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In celebration of Black History Month, throughout February, teams across Minor League Baseball are taking a look back at five of the best Black players to suit up for their club.

_While some of these standout performers went on to long and illustrious Major League careers, others simply had great careers for the Saints or, in some cases, just one incredible season that went down as “a year for the ages.” _

Here is a look at five of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for the St. Paul Saints.

ROY CAMPANELLA

April 15, 1947 is an historic day in baseball history. Jackie Robinson became the first African American in Major League Baseball. Just three months later, on July 5, 1947, Larry Doby became the first African American in the American League. Those two men set the stage for other leagues to follow suit. On May 18, 1948, Roy Campanella broke the color barrier in the American Association with the St. Paul Saints. The Saints were the Triple-A affiliate of the Brooklyn Dodgers. After being buried on the Dodgers bench for the first month of the season, the Dodgers sent Campanella to St. Paul.

While there is debate on why Campanella was sent to the American Association, in his autobiography, “It’s Good To Be Alive,” Campanella said that Dodgers owner Branch Rickey, who integrated the Major Leagues with Robinson, wanted to also be responsible for integrating the American Association. His arrival was a cultural phenomenon in the primarily black Rondo neighborhood in Saint Paul. Four days after he was sent to Saint Paul, future Hall of Fame Dodger manager Walter Alston, wrote Campanella into the lineup on May 22, 1948. It was a short stay for Campanella as he destroyed American Association pitching. Despite getting off to a slow start over his first few games, Campanella went on a tear for a month hitting ,325 with 13 home runs and 39 RBI in 35 games. By early July, Campanella was in Brooklyn where he would stay until his career ended in 1957.

DARRYL STRAWBERRY

His home runs have become legendary. Some grow 10 feet in length as each year goes by, none more so than the one he hit in Duluth. He put one organization on his back and they finished off what he started by winning a championship. He was the shot in the arm another organization needed and helped them win a World Series. What Darryl Strawberry did in 1996 is the perfect Hollywood script.

Following the 1994 season, Strawberry was sentenced to 60-days home confinement after being indicted on federal tax evasion plus a 60-day suspension by Major League Baseball for a positive cocaine test. When the Yankees signed him in June of 1995, he hit just three home runs in 32 games with the big club. After not being offered a contract in 1996, Strawberry signed with the St. Paul Saints. It was, and still is, the biggest signing in franchise history. Fans came from all over, both at home and on the road, to watch this “man among boys.” In 29 games for the Saints, Strawberry hit .435 with 18 home runs and 39 RBI, a .538 on base percentage, and a 1.000 slugging percentage.

That would be more than enough for the New York Yankees who elected to re-sign Strawberry on the 4th of July. The Saints would go on to win a championship that season, giving Strawberry his first ring of 1996. While with the Yankees, he hit .262 with 11 home runs and 36 RBI in 63 games while winning his second championship of the season, a World Series title with the Yankees. But it’s what he did over that memorable month of baseball with the Saints that helped him resurrect his career. As Strawberry said on more than one occasion, “St. Paul reminded me how much fun baseball was.”

LEON DURHAM

Don’t mess with the bull or you’ll get the horns. In the case of Leon “Bull” Durham, if you’re a pitcher you could expect a big, powerful swing that more than likely did extreme damage. Durham was out of baseball in 1992, but then something happened in 1993. A brand new Independent Professional Baseball League was formed known as the Northern League. This six-team league in the Midwest and Canada was a first chance, second chance league. First chance for guys who were never drafted out of college and second chance for guys who were released from Major League organizations.

The St. Paul Saints began their first year of existence in 1993 and were managed by former 10-year Major Leaguer, Tim Blackwell. Blackwell had been teammates with Durham with the Chicago Cubs and placed a call to his former teammate inquiring if he was interested in getting back into the game. Durham was interested and the league had its first marquee signing, helping put the Northern League, and the Saints, on the map.

Durham didn’t disappoint, hitting .292 with 11 homers and 59 RBI in 65 games. He led the Saints to a 42-29 record, best in the Northern League, and they would go on to win the first Northern League Championship. Durham would come back in 1994 hitting .241 with eight homers and 26 RBI in 52 games. He turned his time with the Saints into a contract in Mexico later that year and would finish his career in 1996 with the California Angels Triple-A affiliate in Vancouver. But it was his time in St. Paul that perhaps put more eyes on Independent Professional Baseball helping it stay successful nearly 30 years later.

DAMON POLLARD

No one knew what to expect when the St. Paul Saints played their first season in 1993. How good would the baseball be? Would the team last past the Fourth of July? Would anyone show up? It didn’t take long to find out the baseball was high quality, the Saints would not only finish the season, but win a championship, and the fans came out in droves. That first team set the tone for the next 28 seasons as 11 players had their contract purchased by Major League organizations, a franchise record that stood each season the organization was an independent franchise. It included the first African American in Saints history to have his contract purchased, pitcher Damon Pollard.

The 5’8, 165 right-hander wasn’t big in stature, but he was a giant at the end of games. The former 14th round pick by the Kansas City Royals in 1990 out of the University of Southern Mississippi, reached High-A in 1992 before being released. He signed with the Saints in 1993 and was instrumental in the back end of the bullpen. He went 2-2 with a 2.27 ERA and 14 saves in 29 games (25 games finished). Across 31.2 innings he struck out 35. Not only that, but he fanned the final batter in the Championship Series as the Saints went on to defeat the Rochester Aces three-games-to-one and claim the first ever Northern League title.

Following the season, Pollard had his contract purchased by the Montreal Expos and spent the 1994 season with the Expos and Milwaukee Brewers Minor League affiliates before going back to the Expos organization in 1995.

While he will always be remembered as the pitcher that finished off that 1993 championship season, Pollard will also be remembered as the first African American to have his contract purchased by a Major League organization from the Saints.

CHARLIE NEAL

One season is all it took for Charlie Neal to make his mark. He showcased the talents that would lead him to the Major Leagues and an eventual World Series ring just two years after playing in the American Association in 1954. As a 23-year-old, Neal played for the Triple-A Saints and had an incredible season hitting .272 with 18 home runs and 66 RBI across 146 games. He led the team in hits, with 159, doubles (25), triples (13), and extra-base hits with 56. On top of that he swiped a team-leading 20 bases.

Following the 1954 season the Boston Red Sox reportedly inquired about purchasing Neal from the Dodgers for $100,000. The Dodgers turned it down, but had the deal gone through there was a legitimate chance that Neal would have become the first African American player in Red Sox history.

Neal made the Major Leagues in 1956 with the Brooklyn Dodgers, making the move to Los Angeles with the franchise in 1958. Just one year later Neal helped the Dodgers win their second title, and first in Los Angeles. He was a Gold Glove second baseman in 1959 and helped tie the Milwaukee Braves by the close of the 154-game season. He played a key role in helping the Dodgers sweep the Braves in the tie-breaker series with five hits in 12 at bats. He hit .370 in a six-game series victory over the Chicago White Sox in the World Series. Overall, Neal played eight seasons in the Major Leagues for the Dodgers, New York Mets, and Cincinnati Reds.

Minor League Baseball Announces “The Nine,” a New Initiative to Celebrate, Engage, and Welcome Black Fans

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NEW YORK, NY, Feb. 1, 2022 — Minor League Baseball® (MiLB™) today announced the launch of “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport, provide new opportunities for youth baseball and softball participation, further diversify the business of baseball, and embrace millions of passionate fans throughout MiLB’s 120 communities nationwide.

Named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946, The Nine will connect MiLB teams’ existing, Black-community focused development efforts with new national programming and future special events in a coordinated and centralized campaign. The new inclusion initiative follows MiLB’s Copa de la Diversión Latino fan engagement platform introduced in 2017 that included 76 MiLB teams in 2021.

The Nine will recognize and honor numerous Black pioneers and trailblazing civil rights leaders in all 120 MiLB communities, ensuring the heroes of the past and their contributions continue to be celebrated through ceremonies and events at MiLB ballparks and in the community. Recent tributes and celebrations have included Negro Leagues commemorative games honoring the Austin Black Senators in Round Rock (TX), the Bradenton (FL) Nine Devils, and Page Fence Giants near Lansing (MI). Additional tribute games are being planned for the 2022 season and beyond.

“The Nine will shine bright spotlights on these successful initiatives and transform them into national campaigns reaching more fans and communities, further showcasing our teams’ commitment to representing, honoring, and welcoming all fans to MiLB’s unique brand of fun,” said Kurt Hunzeker, MLB’s Vice President of Minor League Business Operations. “The Nine is just the latest example of MiLB teams being true community champions.”

In addition to player- and team-related content, The Nine will focus heavily on creating new opportunities for youth participation among young Black boys and girls, particularly in communities where youth baseball and softball programming is either nonexistent or difficult to access.

Central to this youth-focused push is a planned expansion of Major League Baseball’s Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) Program throughout MiLB’s national footprint. New competitions in MLB’s Pitch, Hit & Run and Junior Home Run Derby event series will also debut in MiLB markets beginning in 2022.

MiLB teams will continue to build relationships with local Black-owned and operated businesses, local artists and entertainers in an effort to embrace Black culture and make MiLB ballparks a hub for culturally relevant concerts, shows, and community events.

With several MiLB teams having a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in their community, opportunities will be provided for those schools to start internship and mentorship programs with their local team, creating opportunities for on-the-job experience for students prior to entering the job market. Additionally, MiLB recently partnered with TeamWork Online to create a more inclusive virtual job fair and ongoing talent pipeline that aims to recruit and position qualified and ready-for-hire candidates from across the country for potential management- and executive-level roles within MiLB team front offices.

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*About Minor League Baseball *

Minor League Baseball consists of 120 teams across four classification levels (Single-A, High-A, Double-A and Triple-A) that are affiliated with Major League Baseball’s 30 teams. Fans flock to MiLB games to see baseball’s future stars and experience the affordable family-friendly entertainment that has been a staple of MiLB since 1901. For more information, visit MiLB.com. Follow MiLB on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Team Rubicon and Alight with the St. Paul Saints and Two Men and a Truck to Host Donation Drive for Afghan Families

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ST. PAUL, MN (January 27, 2022) –

WHAT: Team Rubicon, a veteran-led disaster response nonprofit organization, and Minneapolis-based global humanitarian organization, Alight, will be hosting a donation drive for Afghan families who are transitioning off bases and into communities across Minneapolis and the surrounding area. As families move into homes, furniture, household goods, and other necessities are needed now more than ever. Team Rubicon and Alight are working with community partners to collect these items and help to set up homes and move in Afghan families.

The St. Paul Saints have generously offered the Plaza Entrance at CHS Field for the donation drive. The first 50 fans to make a donation will receive a voucher to redeem 2 free tickets to a select Saints home game in April.

In addition to assisting both organizations in moving Afghan families into homes, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK will be providing support and transportation to move all collected items to the warehouse. The first 100 fans to make a donation will receive a free coffee gift card from Two Men and a Truck.

WHO: Korey Schroeder, Sr. Associate of Operations and Resettlement Lead, Team Rubicon

Annie Nolte-Henning, Program Director for the Americas, Alight

Sean Aronson, VP of Broadcasting & Media Relations, St. Paul Saints

Sally Flinck, Director of Marketing and Communications, Two Men and a Truck

WHEN: Saturday, February 5 from 10am-1pm

**Interviews are available ahead of drive

WHERE: CHS Field- Plaza Entrance (between 5th and 6th St)

360 N Broadway St

St. Paul, MN 55101

Drive-up donations are requested from Wall Street turning East on 5th Street (towards CHS Field) and North on Broadway between 5th and 6th Streets. All community members, please stay in your vehicles as volunteers will greet you and help you remove items from your vehicles on Broadway between 5th and 6th Street.

LIST OF ITEMS REQUESTED

· Couch/Sofa (new)

· Pillows (new)

· Bedding (new)

· Mattress – twin and full (new)

· Comforter set, twin & full (new)

· Bath towel set (new)

· Car seats (new)

· Pressure cooker

· Tea pots

· Coffee carafe

· Dresser

· Pots & pans

· Toys

· Diapers (all sizes)

**All donated items should be new

**Due to warehouse space limitations, only items on the list will be accepted.

RSVP & INTERVIEW REQUESTS:

Joy Moh | **joy.moh@teamrubiconusa.org** | 626-552-6558

Chris Kindler | **ChrisK@WeAreAlight.org** | 651-428-5955

*About Team Rubicon *

Team Rubicon serves communities by mobilizing veterans to continue their service by leveraging their skills and experience to help people prepare, respond, and recover from disasters and humanitarian crises. Founded following the Haiti earthquake in 2010, the organization has grown to almost 150,000 volunteers across the United States and has launched over 800 operations both domestically and internationally. Amidst the COVID-19 outbreak, Team Rubicon has not only pivoted to be able to continue to deliver disaster response and rebuild services in core mission areas but has also expanded their scope of missions to meet community needs brought about by COVID. Visit www.teamrubiconusa.org for more information.

To donate to the Afghan families as they transition into communities, please visit the Amazon wishlists which is being updated daily to meet the needs of the families or visit https://teamrubiconusa.org/resettlement for more information.

ABOUT ALIGHT

Based in Minnesota since 1978, Alight is an international humanitarian organization, working to create conditions for refugees, migrants, asylum seekers, trafficked and displaced people to build full, meaningful lives. Providing health care, clean water, shelter, protection and economic opportunities to more than 3.5 million people in over 20 countries each year. Alight believes in the incredible creativity, potential and ingenuity of the displaced and works to shine a light on their humanity, the tremendous amount of good that’s already happening and the possibilities to do more. In 2020, Alight received the prestigious 4-Star Rating from Charity Navigator for the tenth consecutive year, celebrating a decade of impactful work.

Wind Surge Give Back 2021

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2021 was a year full of firsts for the Wichita Wind Surge. In addition to bringing affiliated baseball back to Wichita, the inaugural season was also an opportunity for the Wind Surge to give back to a community that has rallied so much support around the new stadium and new team. Various programs and partnerships were put in place to help support several non-profit and philanthropic organizations around the Wichita and Sedgwick County community.

Cancer Awareness Night

The first of many valuable partnerships involved the Wind Surge joining forces with Central Kansas Cancer Center and McPherson College. This alliance was aimed at raising funds and awareness for the battle against cancer. The Wind Surge designed a unique Cancer Awareness Jersey that was worn by each player during the 2021 Cancer Awareness Night at Riverfront Stadium. After the game, these game- worn jerseys were auctioned off to raise money for the American Cancer Society. We were happy to donate $4,375 to the American Cancer Society to aid in their fight to find a cure for cancer.

Schwechheimer Family Foundation

The Schwechheimer Family Foundation also made its debut during the 2021 season. A 501(c)(3) organization, the Schwechheimer Family Foundation aims to support and foster underserved community members and bring the history of Wichita baseball back to life. The corporation seeks to provide opportunities for the general public to increase their understanding of Wichita’s baseball history and community pursuits. Fundraising efforts for the foundation included a 50/50 raffle during all home games, auctioning off specialty military appreciation jerseys, and the sale of 2021 inaugural season patches which featured late managing general partner, Lou Schwechheimer.

Home Runs for Charity

During the 2021 season, Wind Surge fans also witnessed our collaboration with Fidelity Bank and League 42 in our Home Runs for Charity fundraising sponsorship. League 42 is a non-profit organization, founded in July 2013, that has a goal of ensuring that urban children can have an opportunity to play baseball without the exorbitant costs of playing in organized leagues. Through this sponsorship, each time a Wind Surge player hit a homerun during a Wind Surge home game, Fidelity Bank and the Wind Surge would donate $100 to League 42. During the 2021 season, Fidelity Bank and the Wichita Wind Surge proudly donated $6,900 to League 42 in order to assist the organization in fulfilling their mission.

Outside the Ballpark

Our passion for giving back to the community did not stop with the end of the baseball season in late September. During the off season, many members of the Wind Surge front office continue to volunteer their time and efforts in the community. Staff have participated in many ways, including volunteering with the Kansas Food Bank, Salvation Army, Toys for Tots and Operation Holiday Wearhouse.

Planning for the 2022 season is well underway, and that includes the integration of community partnerships and collaboration. The 2022 season will feature many new community partnerships, and we are looking forward to continuing our mission of giving back to Wichita and surrounding communities.

To learn more about our community initiatives email Our Community Engagement Coordinator at [email protected] Want to request a Wind Surge donation gift for your next charity event? Click here to fill out a request!

Sherman Johnson Awarded With Twins Harmon Killebrew Award For Community Service

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ST. PAUL, MN (October 1, 2021) – The Minnesota Twins today announced the 2021 Harmon Killebrew Award winners for outstanding minor league community service. Following the Hall of Famer’s death in 2011, the Twins have annually recognized a player from each of the organization’s full-season affiliates. Each player is nominated by their respective general manager for their service within the affiliate’s community. A plaque is awarded, in addition to an on-field presentation during spring training. Though opportunities for community involvement were limited in 2021 due to COVID restrictions, this year’s winners made the best of the circumstances to make an impact in their respective cities.

Infielder Sherman Johnson has been named the winner of the award representing Triple-A St. Paul. Johnson is passionate about reading and promoting literacy, and was active in the Saints’ Reading Tree program this past season. The program took place on the outfield grass prior to Sunday home games and featured a Saints player and a local author/illustrator reading books to kids. Johnson, 31, signed a minor league contract with the Twins on May 12 and began the season at Double-A Wichita, before being transferred to St. Paul on June 1. He batted a combined .202 (45-for-223) with 10 doubles, two triples, five home runs, 33 RBI, 36 runs scored and 46 walks in 75 games for the Saints and Wind Surge.

Right-handed pitcher Hector Lujan has been named the winner of the award representing Double-A Wichita, his third time earning the honor (2014 – Cedar Rapids and 2019 – Pensacola). The 27-year-old was recognized by the Wind Surge front office as the first player to reach out about community engagement opportunities, despite the limits imposed by the pandemic. Lujan was also quick to engage and interact with fans by signing autographs, and was always willing to assist the front office whenever needed. He went 3-2 with a 3.62 ERA (32.1 IP, 13 ER), nine walks and 33 strikeouts in 18 games for the Wind Surge, missing time due to injury.

Catcher Alex Isola has been named the winner of the award representing Single-A Cedar Rapids. Isola volunteered with the local Meals on Wheels chapter during the 2021 season, delivering meals to those in need in his free time and encouraging his teammates to do the same. The 23-year-old also spent significant time signing autographs for fans whenever possible, using the bullpen area as his base. Isola spent the entire 2021 season with the Kernels, his first full professional campaign, hitting .243 (88-for-362) with 15 doubles, 17 home runs, 52 RBI, 47 runs scored and 53 walks in 98 games.

Catcher Jeferson Morales has been named the winner of the award representing Single-A Fort Myers. Morales was recognized by the Mighty Mussels front office as a player who went above and beyond regarding fan interaction during the season, noting his constant willingness to interact with fans and sign autographs whenever he could. The 22-year-old split the 2021 minor league season between Fort Myers and Cedar Rapids, batting a combined .255 (84-for-329) with 24 doubles, 12 home runs, 53 RBI, 12 stolen bases and 54 runs scored in 96 games.

Upcoming COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics at Riverfront Stadium

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Wind Surge to Host Series of COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics

Sedgwick County Health Department to Administer Vaccines August 6, 28, and September 18.

Wichita, KS – The Wichita Wind Surge announced that they will again partner with the Sedgwick County Health Department to host a series of COVID-19 vaccinations at their home games on August 6, August 28, and September 18. Vaccinations are free, with no proof of insurance required, and will be available to anyone age 12 or older attending the game on any of the respective dates.

“The Sedgwick County Health Department is happy to once again partner with the Wichita Wind Surge to host these Covid-19 vaccine clinics,” said Carter James, Sedgwick County Health Department Vaccine Planning Manager. “Our community has embraced the Wind Surge throughout this pandemic, and we appreciate these additional opportunities to get vaccines out into our community so we can all take part in activities like a Wind Surge ballgame.”

Vaccinations will be administered by SCHD staff in the Wind Surge administrative building located in right field, from the time gates open – 90 minutes before game time – to 90 minutes after the game starts. Those who receive their vaccination will also receive a voucher good for two tickets to a future Wind Surge game.

“Vaccinations are a huge reason our community is able to gather again, including at Riverfront Stadium,” said Wind Surge CEO Jordan Kobritz, “With Covid-19 numbers once again on the rise, we are proud to partner with Sedgwick County Health Department in their efforts to keep our community healthy, safe, and open.”

Responses to Frequently Asked Questions

  • Anyone aged 12 and older is eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine
  • Individuals can receive their first or second shot of the Pfizer vaccine (for people aged 12 or older), or one-dose Johnson and Johnson (for people aged 18 or older)
  • No ID or insurance is required
  • Minors wishing to get the shot will need parent or guardian consent
  • After receiving your dose, there is a 15-minute observation period (30-minutes for those with allergies)
  • Vaccinations are free

If you are unable to attend one of the Wind Surge clinics, visit https://www.sedgwickcounty.org/covid-19/ to find an upcoming vaccination clinic near you. For tickets to all Wind Surge games, please visit windsurge.com.

Wind Surge to Host COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic

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Wichita, KS – The Wichita Wind Surge announced that they will be partnering with the Sedgwick County Health Department to host COVID-19 vaccinations at their Healthcare Heroes game on Friday, July 9th. Vaccinations are free and will be available to any fan attending the game.

“Vaccinations are a huge reason that our community is able to gather again, and that Riverfront Stadium can finally host fans this season,” said Wind Surge CEO Jordan Kobritz, “We’re happy to partner with Sedgwick County Health Department in their efforts to keep our community healthy, safe, and open.”

Vaccinations will be administered by SCHD staff in the Wind Surge administrative building, located in right-field, from the time gates open at 5:30pm on Friday, until 8:00pm. Those who receive their vaccination will also receive a voucher good for two tickets to a future Wind Surge game.

Responses to Frequently Asked Questions

  • Anyone aged 12 and older is eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine
  • Individuals can receive their first or second shot of the Pfizer vaccine (for people aged 12 or older), or one-dose Johnson and Johnson (for people aged 18 or older)
  • No ID is required
  • Minors wishing to get the shot will need parent or guardian consent
  • After receiving your dose, there is a 15-minute observation period
  • Vaccinations are free

If you are unable to attend Friday’s game, visit https://www.sedgwickcounty.org/covid-19/ to find an upcoming vaccination clinic near you. For tickets to all Wind Surge games, please visit windsurge.com.

Wind Surge and Fidelity Bank Partner for Home Runs for Charity

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$100 Donation for each Wind Surge home run hit at Riverfront Stadium in 2021

The Wichita Wind Surge and Fidelity Bank will partner for the Home Runs for Charity program in 2021, benefitting local non-profit organization League 42. For each home run hit at Riverfront Stadium by the Wind Surge this season, Fidelity Bank and the team will donate $50 each to League 42.

“We are so excited to be a part of this partnership, and work with both Fidelity Bank and League 42,” said Wind Surge general manager Jared Forma. “Baseball gives us the opportunity to give back to the community in many different ways, and when we can support an organization like League 42 who fosters the love of baseball in the youth of our community, it is such a wonderful fit.”

The Wind Surge kick off their home season on Tuesday, May 11th vs. the Amarillo Sod Poodles. Every home run hit by the Wind Surge during their 60 home games this season will count towards the Home Runs for Charity program, and the donation from both the Wind Surge and Fidelity Bank will be totaled up and made at the end of the 2021 season.

“Baseball is more than America’s Pastime,” said Aaron Bastian, president and CEO of Fidelity Bank. “Playing the game helps develop the mind and the body, imparting life lessons along the way. League 42 not only understands this, but they also believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to get out and play. We’re proud that League 42 will benefit from Home Runs for Charity. Together with the Wind Surge, we are honored to help share the love of the game.”

League 42 was founded in July 2013, to fill a void so that Wichita’s urban children could have an opportunity to play baseball without the exorbitant costs of playing in organized or even recreational leagues. From 16 teams with 200 players the first season, League 42 has blossomed to more than 500 kids and 44 teams in 2020.

“League 42 is honored to be chosen as the recipient for Fidelity Bank’s Home Runs for Charity promotion this season at Riverfront Stadium,” said Bob Lutz, Executive Director of League 42, “Thanks to the Wichita Wind Surge for also acknowledging the work we’re doing with more than 550 kids in the Wichita area as we continue with our 2021 season. We’re hoping the ball flies this season — and that it does most of its flying for the Wind Surge in their inaugural season. Those of us involved with League 42, like so many others, are thrilled to have this great organization and this spectacular stadium in our city.”

To keep track of the Home Runs for Charity program all season long, visit milb.com/wichita/community/homerunsforcharity.

Now Hiring Cooks & Cashiers: Apply Today!

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

To apply for a job today, fill out the application here and email it to General Manager Judd Loveland and [email protected].

The Fort Myers Mighty Mussels food and beverage department is now hiring for the 2021 season.

The Mussels are looking for cooks and cashiers right now!

To apply for a job today, fill out the application here and email it to General Manager Judd Loveland and [email protected].