12 Aug 2014

MICHAEL FELIZ NAMED MIDWEST LEAGUE PITCHER OF THE WEEK

By Marco LaNave

Top-ranked Quad Cities prospect allows just one run and six hits with 14 strikeouts in 13 innings to earn honor

DAVENPORT, Iowa. (August 11, 2014) - Quad Cities River Bandits right-handed pitcher Michael Feliz has been named the Midwest League Pitcher of the Week for August 4-10. The top-ranked prospect on the Quad Cities roster, Feliz made two starts totaling 13 innings, giving up a run on six hits with no walks and 14 strikeouts. His eight-inning start Aug. 5 against Burlington was the longest by a River Bandit since Kyle Hald tossed a complete game on June 4, 2012, in a 6-2 win over Burlington.

Ranked in midseason by MLB.com as the Houston Astros' seventh-best prospect and No. 98 in all of baseball, Feliz is the first Quad Cities Pitcher of the Week since Boone Whiting won for Aug. 20-26, 2012. Feliz becomes the third River Bandit to win a weekly honor from the Midwest League this season, as shortstop Thomas Lindauer was the Player of the Week for April 21-27, and outfielder Ronnie Mitchell was the league's Player of the Week for May 26-June 1.

A native of Azua in the Dominican Republic, Feliz helped snap a six-game Quad Cities losing streak for the second time in three weeks by firing eight shutout innings with a season-high nine strikeouts Tuesday in a 4-0 victory over Burlington. The 6-foot-4-inch, 228-pound right-hander followed that performance Sunday by limiting the Beloit Snappers to a run on three hits with four strikeouts in five innings to help the River Bandits earn a series split with a 6-1 win.

Signed by the Astros as a non-drafted free agent on May 19, 2010, Feliz spent the 2010 season with the Dominican Summer League Astros before pitching for the Gulf Coast League (GCL) Astros in 2011. He split the 2012 season with the GCL Astros and Rookie-level Greeneville Astros before pitching with Short Season Class A Tri-City last season.

In his first Midwest League season, Feliz is 8-4 with a 3.70 ERA. He has tossed 82 2/3 innings over 21 games, including 15 starts, fanning a team-high 94 batters against 31 walks with only 71 hits allowed and a .231 opponents' batting average. He pitched for the World Team in the 2014 SiriusXM All-Star Futures Game on July 13 at Target Field in Minneapolis.

UP NEXT: A Fireworks Friday kicks off the next homestand, with a 7 p.m. game on City of Davenport Night and Global Cultural Night presented by Tyson Fresh Meats. When gates open at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, the first 1,500 fans receive a Trevor Rosenthal Bobblehead courtesy of DHCU and FOX18. Sunday's 1:15 p.m. game is a Celebration and Appreciation of Senator Tom Harkin for 40 years of service with a bobblehead giveaway for the first 1,000 fans when gates open at noon. Tickets are available at www.riverbandits.com.

12 Aug 2014

Food News and Results from the 2014 Iowa State Fair

By Lori Chappell

Best Bacon Dessert Cook Crowned at Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/11/2014)(readMedia)-- Cristen C. Clark of Runnells proved that when sweet and savory meet good things are bound to happen, as she won first place and a $1,000 cash award in the Beeler's Bacon Dessert competition judged Thursday at the 2014 Iowa State Fair.

Anita Van Gundy of Des Moines claimed second place and $500. Norita Solt of Bettendorf earned third place and $250.

Entries were judged on taste, bacon's contribution to the dessert and originality.

The Iowa State Fair Food Department is the largest of any state fair in the country. There are 226 divisions, 883 classes and over 10,500 entries at this year's Fair. Food judging is held in the Elwell Family Food Center sponsored by Blue Bunny.

Funnel Cake Sticks Win Iowa State Fair Value-Priced Food Contest

DES MOINES, IA (08/12/2014)(readMedia)-- The Funnel Cake Sticks took top honors in the New Food Contest at the 2014 Iowa State Fair. The tasty new treat bested four other value-priced finalists after receiving nearly 40 percent of the votes. The winning dish will be available throughout the Fair, August 7-17.

The champion treat is just $3 and offers a new twist on a Fair classic with funnel cake batter fried to golden perfection, served on-a-stick and topped with chocolate, strawberry or vanilla glaze. Fairgoers can find the sweet snack at Arnold's Concessions on Grand Avenue across from Hy-Vee Health and First Aid.

Arnold Blewer will receive an official Iowa State Fair plaque and a year's worth of bragging rights for his winning entry.

The four other finalists are also $3 and will remain available throughout the Fair at their respective locations:

  • Brownie Blitz: available at Bauders Ice Cream on the southwest side of the Agriculture Building
  • Caprese Salad On-a-Stick: available at the Salad Bowl in the Agriculture Building and Cultural Center Courtyard
  • Smoked Brisket and Bacon Mac N Cheese: available at the Rib Shack in Walnut Square
  • Three Buck Bowl: available at Steer N Stein on the Grand Concourse

Entries in the New Food Contest were limited to value-priced items for $3 or less. Prior to the start of the Fair, five finalists were chosen based on taste/flavor, presentation/appearance, value and creativity/originality. Fairgoers were invited to vote for their favorite finalist during the first four days of the Fair.

Mount Pleasant Pumpkin Grower Wins Iowa State Fair Contest

DES MOINES, IA (08/11/2014)(readMedia)-- The state's best giant pumpkin growers squared off in the Big Pumpkin competition judged Friday at the 2014 Iowa State Fair.

Martin Schnicker of Mount Pleasant won first place and a $1000 cash award for his 1,131-pound pumpkin.

Don Young of Des Moines earned second place and a $650 cash award with his 780-pound entry.

David Miller of Riverside received third place and a $450 cash award with his 768-pound pumpkin.

Marc Peterson of Clinton was awarded fourth place and a $250 cash award for his 715-pound pumpkin.

Jennifer Heeren of Allison received fifth place and a $150 cash award for her 414-pound entry.

The State Fair record of 1,323-pounds was set in 2010.

The winning entries will be on display outside the John Deere Agriculture Building throughout the Fair.

"Nothing Compares" to the 2014 Iowa State Fair, August 7-17. The Fairgrounds are located at East 30th and East University Avenue, just 10 minutes east of downtown Des Moines, and are open 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. each day of the Fair. Exhibit hours may vary. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit iowastatefair.org.

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12 Aug 2014

Iowans Carve Out Honors in Wood Projects Contest at Iowa State Fair

By Lori Chappell

DES MOINES, IA (08/11/2014)(readMedia)-- Woodcarvers from all around Iowa gathered to showcase their skills in the Wood Projects contest held prior to the start of the 2014 Iowa State Fair.

The contest is divided into two divisions: Woodcarving and Woodworking. Randy Hansen of Des Moines earned Best of Show honors in the Woodcarving division. Clark Weaver of Grinnell grabbed second-place Best of Show honors, and Sue Orth of Plainfield received third. Judy Simmons of Windsor Heights snagged fourth.

First place in the Best of Show category for Woodworking went to Tom Brumback of Alleman. Second and third places were given to Bernie Kluesner of New Vienna. LeRoy G. Monson of Waukee received fourth.

Additional results below:

WOODCARVING

Animals Domestic - Realistic

1) Sue Orth, Plainfield

2) None Awarded

3) None Awarded

Honorable Mention) Randall Freeman, Clive

Animals Domestic - Caricature

1) Roger Beane, Oskaloosa

2) Roger Beane, Oskaloosa

Human Figures - Realistic

1) None Awarded

2) Sharon L. Powell, Urbandale

Human Figures - Caricature

1) Linda Medhus, Gilman

2) Roger Beane, Oskaloosa

3) None Awarded

Honorable Mention) Walter Smith, New Sharon

Abstract - Non-Objective

1) Perry Schaeffer, Ankeny

Stylized - Human Figure

1) Perry Schaeffer, Ankeny

Stylized - Animal

1) Perry Schaeffer, Ankeny

Stylized - Other

1) Perry Schaeffer, Ankeny

2) None Awarded

3) Ray Layton, Ankeny

Honorable Mention) Darrell Brown, Des Moines

Miscellaneous - Signs, Canes & Gunstocks

1) Sue Orth, Plainfield

2) Roger Beane, Oskaloosa

3) None Awarded

Honorable Mention) Randy Pleva, Urbandale

Miscellaneous - Chip Carving

1) Linda Medhus, Gilman

Miscellaneous - Woodburning

1) Nole Blair, Auburn

2) Nole Blair, Auburn

3) Kelsie Adams, Fruitland

Honorable Mention) Paula Eichinger, Slater

Miscellaneous - Miniatures

1) Roger Beane, Oskaloosa

2) Hazel Bohardt, Waukee

3) Denny Neubauer, Rockford, Ill.

Honorable Mention) Denny Neubauer, Rockford, Ill.

Miscellaneous - Decorated Functional Frames & Clocks

1) Nedra Herr, Newton

2) None Awarded

3) Rex Kepford, Des Moines

Honorable Mention) Denis Johansen, Knoxville

Miscellaneous - Bark Carving & Cyprus Knees

1) Judy Simmons, Windsor Heights

2) Robert Frisk, Des Moines

3) Robert Frisk, Des Moines

Honorable Mention) Roger Beane, Oskaloosa

Miscellaneous - Seasonal Decorative

1) Roger Beane, Oskaloosa

2) Roger Beane, Oskaloosa

3) David Cretors, Grimes

Honorable Mention) Hazel Bohardt, Waukee

Whittled Pieces - Chains, Balls & Cages

1) None Awarded

2) David Lammers, Sioux Center

Decoys - Ducks & Geese Floating

1) Randy Hansen, Des Moines

2) Tom Swale, Clive

3) Harvey Blanchard, Hartford

Decoys - Shore Birds

1) Richard Peterson, Callender

Decoys - Other Waterfowl

1) Richard Peterson, Callender

2) Don Van Ekeren, Hartford

3) Tom Swale, Clive

Decoys - Working Decoys

1) None Awarded

2) None Awarded

3) Robert Sellers, Council Bluffs

Wild Fowl - Birds of Prey

1) Clark Weaver, Grinnell

2) Randy Hansen, Des Moines

3) Richard Peterson, Callender

Honorable Mention) Jim Chittenden, Ames

Honorable Mention) Robert Sellers, Council Bluffs

Wild Fowl - Song Birds

1) Randy Hansen, Des Moines

2) Randy Hansen, Des Moines

3) Clark Weaver, Grinnell

Wild Fowl - Upland Game Birds

1) Harvey Blanchard, Hartford

2) Tom Swale, Clive

3) Tom Swale, Clive

Wild Fowl - Miniature Birds

1) Clark Weaver, Grinnell

Wild Fowl - Birds (group or pair)

1) Randy Hansen, Des Moines

2) Richard Peterson, Callender

Novice Adult - 1st Year Carver, Age 18 & Over

1) None Awarded

2) None Awarded

3) Jim Evans, Knoxville

Youth - Age 12 & Under

1) Ian Landers, West Des Moines

2) Emma Landers, West Des Moines

Wildlife - Realistic Predators

1) None Awarded

2) Harvey Blanchard, Hartford

3) None Awarded

Honorable Mention) John Ver Steeg, Runnells

Honorable Mention) Clarion Lofte, Des Moines

Wildlife - Caricatures

1) Perry Schaeffer, Ankeny

Wildlife - Other Animals

1) None Awarded

2) None Awarded

3) None Awarded

Honorable Mention) Clarion Lofte, Des Moines

Wildlife - Fish/Sea Mammals

1) None Awarded

2) None Awarded

3) Harvey Blanchard, Hartford

Honorable Mention) Harvey Blanchard, Hartford

Religious Carving - In the Round

1) Hazel Bohardt, Waukee

2) Stephen Bennett, Pella

3) Hazel Bohardt, Waukee

Religious Carving - Relief

1) None Awarded

2) Don Van Ekeren, Hartford

Relief Carving - Nature Scenes

1) None Awarded

2) None Awarded

3) Leroy Orth, Ames

Honorable Mention) Ray Layton, Ankeny

Relief Carving - Natural History

1) Robert Sellers, Council Bluffs

2) Denny Lind, Colfax

3) Don Van Ekeren, Hartford

Honorable Mention) Leroy Orth, Ames

Relief Carving - Scene (other than nature)

1) Sue Orth, Plainfield

2) Denis Johansen, Knoxville

3) Sharon L. Powell, Urbandale

Relief Carving - Human Subject

1) Roger Beane, Oskaloosa

2) Roger Beane, Oskaloosa

3) Dwayne Mortenson, Knoxville

Honorable Mention) Denis Johansen, Knoxville

Group Carvings

1) None Awarded

2) Philip Kohler, Ankeny

3) Philip Kohler, Ankeny

Instructor Assisted - Birds

1) None Awarded

2) None Awarded

3) Denny Lind, Colfax

Instructor Assisted - Human

1) Roger Beane, Oskaloosa

2) Roger Beane, Oskaloosa

3) Denny Lind, Colfax

Honorable Mention) Darrell Brown, Des Moines

Instructor Assisted - Wildlife

1) Dorcas (Dee) Wolfe, Des Moines

2) Darrell Brown, Des Moines

3) Darrell Brown, Des Moines

Honorable Mention) Dorcas (Dee) Wolfe, Des Moines

Roughouts - Human

1) Roger Beane, Oskaloosa

2) James Hogue, Winterset

3) Dwayne Mortenson, Knoxville

Honorable Mention) Dorcas (Dee) Wolfe, Des Moines

Roughouts - Other

1) Harry Pringnitz, Urbandale

2) Harry Pringnitz, Urbandale

WOODWORKING

Turned Wood - Bowl

1) Dick Meuler, Runnells

2) James Hogue, Winterset

3) LeRoy G. Monson, Waukee

Turned Wood - Box

1) James Hogue, Winterset

2) James Hogue, Winterset

3) James Hogue, Winterset

Turned Wood - Hollow Vessel

1) Robert Beattie, Des Moines

2) Robert Wallace, Ames

3) Jack Rolison, Ottumwa

Turned Wood - Household Item

1) Robert Beattie, Des Moines

2) Robert Beattie, Des Moines

3) Jeremiah S. Murphy, Mount Ayr

Turned Wood - Jewelry

1) LeRoy G. Monson, Waukee

2) Dick Meuler, Runnells

3) Dick Meuler, Runnells

Turned Wood - Pen, Pencil, Seam Ripper, etc.

1) Dick Meuler, Runnells

2) Chuck Spitler, Des Moines

3) Nate Gibson, Indianola

Turned Wood - Seasonal

1) Dick Meuler, Runnells

2) Walter Smith, New Sharon

3) Walter Smith, New Sharon

Turned Wood - Segmented Bowl or Vessel

1) Walter Smith, New Sharon

2) Ben Swartz, Clive

3) Pete Holden, Traer

Turned Wood - Stylized

1) Jack Rolison, Ottumwa

2) Jack Rolison, Ottumwa

3) Daniel Henderson, Waukee

Turned Wood - Any Other

1) LeRoy G. Monson, Waukee

2) Robert Beattie, Des Moines

3) Peggy Smith, New Sharon

Other Techniques - Luthier Class

1) Roger D. Anderson, Marengo

2) Larry DaRos, Ankeny

3) Roger D. Anderson, Marengo

Other Techniques - Wood Inlay or Intarsia

1) Dave Rabe, Ottumwa

2) Russell Hansen, Collins, Iowa

3) Dick Meuler, Runnells

Honorable Mention) Sue Orth, Plainfield

Other Techniques - Furniture Item

1) Tom Brumback, Alleman

2) Tom Whalley, Urbandale

3) John Twedt, Ankeny

Other Techniques - Table

1) Stephanie Riva, Norwalk

2) John Twedt, Ankeny

3) Tom Brumback, Alleman

Other Techniques - Model

1) Bernie Kluesner, New Vienna

Other Techniques - Clocks

1) Dave Rabe, Ottumwa

Other Techniques - Household Item

1) John Twedt, Ankeny

2) John Cinnamon, West Des Moines

3) Lee Nepple, Clive

Honorable Mention) Steve Dishman, Pella

Other Techniques - Wood Toy

1) Tom Whalley, Urbandale

2) Shawn Brown, Urbandale

3) John Cinnamon, West Des Moines

Honorable Mention) Tom Whalley, Urbandale

Other Techniques - Scroll Saw

1) Bernie Kluesner, New Vienna

2) Lynn Clary, West Des Moines

3) Todd Olstad, West Des Moines

Senior Citizen Project

1) Robert Beattie, Des Moines

2) Ben Swartz, Clive

3) Dwayne Mortenson, Knoxville

Honorable Mention) Russell Hansen, Collins, Iowa

"Nothing Compares" to the 2014 Iowa State Fair, August 7-17. The Fairgrounds are located at East 30th and East University Avenue, just 10 minutes east of downtown Des Moines, and are open 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. each day of the Fair. Exhibit hours may vary. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit iowastatefair.org.

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12 Aug 2014

FFA Winners and Results from the 2014 Iowa State Fair

By Lori Chappell

Nelson Wins Iowa State Fair Breeding Sheep Show

DES MOINES, IA (08/11/2014)(readMedia)-- Chansea Nelson of Exira showed the Champion Commercial Ewe in the FFA Breeding Sheep show Friday at the 2014 Iowa State Fair. Nelson's ewe topped 266 sheep exhibited by 112 other competitors.

Kaci Keitzer of Mediapolis was awarded Reserve Champion Commercial Ewe.

Additional results below:

Champion Suffolk Ram: Kolton Werner, Grinnell

Reserve Champion Suffolk Ram: Kayte Werner, Grinnell

Champion Suffolk Ewe: Ashleigh Metzger, State Center

Reserve Champion Suffolk Ewe: Kayte Werner, Grinnell

Supreme Champion Suffolk Individual: Ashleigh Metzger, State Center

Champion Dorset Ram: Logan Wilson, Colfax

Reserve Champion Dorset Ram: Blake Miller, Atlantic

Champion Dorset Ewe: Zach Vermillion, Pleasant Hill

Reserve Champion Dorset Ewe: Daren Chambers, Indianola

Champion Other Meat Breeds Ram: Rebecca Martin, Dewitt

Reserve Champion Other Meat Breeds Ram: Faith Reiners, Muscatine

Champion Other Meat Breeds Ewe: Payge Edwards, Monroe

Reserve Champion Other Meat Breeds Ewe: Blake Miller, Atlantic

Champion Commercial Ewe Lamb: Chansea Nelson, Exira

Reserve Champion Commercial Ewe Lamb: Kaci Keitzer, Mediapolis

Champion Commercial Yearling Ewe: Tara Gray, Toledo

Reserve Champion Commercial Yearling Ewe: Jaxon Kampen, Humboldt

No Horsing Around for FFA Competitors at Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/11/2014)(readMedia)-- Elyse Buysse of West Liberty was named High Point Exhibitor at the FFA Horse Show judged Thursday during the 2014 Iowa State Fair.  Katie Rinkert of Prole showed the High Point Horse.

Additional results below:

Champion Barrel Racing: Melissa Lindley, Creston

Reserve Champion Barrel Racing: Sydney Dornbier, Wesley

Champion Flag Race: Jannell Huebbe, Maquoketa

Reserve Champion Flag Race: Morgan Quick, Redding

Champion Draft Breeds: Ethan Bair, Keswick

Reserve Champion Draft Breeds: Ethan Bair, Keswick

Champion Draft Showmanship: Ethan Bair, Keswick

Reserve Champion Draft Showmanship: Kim Blackford, New Virginia

Champion Trail Class: Abbey Smith, Adel

Reserve Champion Trail Class: Elyse Buysse, West Liberty

Champion Draft Horse Single Pleasure Driving: Kim Blackford, New Virginia

Champion Light Horse/Pony Pleasure Driving: Lauren Faas, Williamsburg

Champion Heavy Hitch Draft Team: Ethan Bair, Keswick

Champion English Pleasure: Elyse Buysse, West Liberty

Reserve Champion English Pleasure: Katie Rinkert, Prole

Champion English Equitation: Katie Rinkert, Prole

Reserve Champion English Equitation: Jessica Hanrahan, Prole

Champion Hunter Hack: Jessica Ackerson, Indianola

Reserve Champion Hunter Hack: Amy Turner, Knoxville

Champion Two-to-Five Year Old Walk Trot: Amber Hammes, Ankeny

Reserve Champion Two-to-Five Year Old Walk Trot: Elyse Buysse, West Liberty

Champion Pony Western Pleasure: Jane Hoffmann, Deloit

Reserve Champion Pony Western Pleasure: Amy Turner, Knoxville

Champion Junior Western Pleasure (two and three-year-old): Elyse Buysse, West Liberty

Reserve Champion Junior Western Pleasure (two and three-year-old): Wade Wuebker, Jefferson

Champion Junior Western Pleasure (four and five-year-old): Shania Roush, Newton

Reserve Champion Junior Western Pleasure (four and five-year-old): Jessica Hanrahan, Prole

Champion Senior Western Pleasure: Brittany Nicholson, Ellsworth

Reserve Champion Senior Western Pleasure: Meredith Williams, Hudson

Champion Western Equitation: Brittany Nicholson, Ellsworth

Reserve Champion Western Equitation: Katie Rinkert, Prole

Champion Reigning: Danielle Nemmers, Earlham

Reserve Champion Reigning: Deven Heitland, Sheffield

Champion Bareback Pleasure: Brittany Nicholson, Ellsworth

Reserve Champion Bareback Pleasure: Elyse Buysse, West Liberty

Champion Ranch Horse Pleasure: Deven Heitland, Sheffield

Reserve Champion Ranch Horse Pleasure: Danielle Nemmers, Earlham

Champion Pony Breeds: Jane Hoffmann, Deloit

Reserve Champion Pony Breeds: Alexandra Cleverley, Newton

Champion Mule: Bailey Brummel, Peru

Champion Other Light Breeds: Leslie Marvin, Bellevue

Reserve Champion Other Light Breeds: Caley Jacobsen, Clinton

Champion Western-Type Horse: Katie Rinkert, Prole

Reserve Champion Western-Type Horse: Larissa Volz, Norway

Champion Showing: Crystal McGarry, Bryant

Reserve Champion Showing: Brittany Nicholson, Ellsworth

Premier Exhibitor

1) Amy Turner, Knoxville

2) Jarret Horn, Newton

3) Meghan Mills, Janesville

FFA Members Flock for Ribbons at Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/11/2014)(readMedia)-- Fifty-seven FFA members exhibited 329 birds in the FFA Poultry Show judged Thursday at the 2014 Iowa State Fair.  Emily Martins of Fairbank showed the Grand Champion Market Broiler. Hannah Sikkink of Decorah claimed the Reserve Champion Market Broiler title.  Payton Rivera of Durant won the Grand Champion Breeding Birds title while Nathaniel Foell of Forest City claimed the Reserve Champion Breeding Birds banner.

Breed division winners in the FFA Poultry Show included:

Champion American: Payton Rivera, Durant

Reserve Champion American: Emily Meerdink, Hawarden

Champion Asiatic: Nathaniel Foell, Forest City

Reserve Champion Asiatic: Emily Meerdink, Hawarden

Champion Continental: Zach Redmond, Long Grove

Reserve Champion Continental: Madalyn Boehm, Elgin

Champion Mediterranean: Alaina Martensen, Onslow

Reserve Champion Mediterranean: Darcey Tjaden, Wyoming

Champion English: Emily Meerdink, Hawarden

Reserve Champion English: Emiy Meerdink, Hawarden

Champion Miscellaneous: Darcey Tjaden, Wyoming

Reserve Champion Miscellaneous: Josh Sunberg, Red Oak

Champion Bantams, Old English Game: Hunter Britton, Muscatine

Reserve Champion Bantams, Old English Game: Hunter Britton, Muscatine

Champion Bantams, Rose Comb, Clean Legged: Cami Maurer, Wilton

Reserve Champion Bantams, Rose Comb, Clean Legged: Jay McCoskey, Jewell

Champion Bantams, Any Other Comb, Clean Legged: Natasha Klocke, Rockwell City

Reserve Champion Bantams, Any Other Comb, Clean Legged: Natasha Klocke, Rockwell City

Champion Bantams, Feather Legged: Alaina Martensen, Onslow

Reserve Champion Bantams, Feather Legged: Rease Morris, Maxwell

Champion Bantams, Single Comb, Clean Legged: Jay McCoskey, Jewell

Reserve Champion Bantams, Single Comb, Clean Legged: Cami Maurer, Wilton

Champion Ducks, Market: Kenzie St. Germain, Gilbert

Reserve Champion Ducks, Market: Braeden Vandervoort, Wilton

Champion Ducks, Breeding: Nathaniel Foell, Forest City

Reserve Champion Ducks, Breeding: Bradlee Hank, Wapello

Champion Geese, Breeding: Bradlee Hank, Wapello

Reserve Champion Geese, Breeding: Bradlee Hank, Wapello

Champion Turkeys, Breeding: Noah Gronewold, Calamus

Reserve Champion Turkeys, Breeding: Noah Gronewold, Calamus

Champion Egg Production: Madalyn Boehm, Elgin

Reserve Champion Egg Production: Natasha Klocke, Rockwell City

FFA Exhibitors Compete for Supreme Honors at the Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/11/2014)(readMedia)-- Drew Norris of Corydon exhibited the Supreme Female Champion in the FFA Breeding Beef show held Thursday at the 2014 Iowa State Fair.

James Gradert of Sibley won the Reserve Supreme Female title.

Additional results below:

Champion Angus Heifer: Drew Norris, Corydon

Reserve Champion Angus Heifer: Chayse Jaspering, Washington

Champion Charolais Heifer: Joni Erwin, Crawfordsville

Reserve Champion Charolais Heifer, Matthew Schroeder, Radcliffe

Champion Chianina Heifer: James Gradert, Sibley

Reserve Champion Chianina Heifer: Makayla Smith, Charter Oak

Champion Hereford Heifer: Colton Black, Chariton

Reserve Champion Hereford Heifer: Hunter Wilkening, State Center

Champion Limousin Heifer: Bailey Walrod, Moorland

Reserve Champion Limousin Heifer: Anna Radcliff, Davenport

Champion Appendix Maine-Anjou Heifer: James Gradert, Sibley

Reserve Champion Appendix Maine-Anjou Heifer: Cody Fausch, Cambridge

Champion Shorthorn Heifer: Jacob Darbyshire, Morning Sun

Reserve Champion Shorthorn Heifer: Mikaela Boss, Manchester

Champion Simmental Heifer: Paige Reck, Blakesburg

Reserve Champion Simmental Heifer: Katlyn Ruth, Iowa City

Champion Foundation Simmental Heifer: Cendra Sebolt, Seymour

Reserve Champion Foundation Simmental Heifer: Kennedy Wohlford, Geneva

Champion All Other Breeds Heifer: Mallory Bormann, Algona

Reserve Champion All Other Breeds Heifer: Parker Frey, Earlham

Champion Commercial Heifer: Jaden Compton, Tipton

Reserve Champion Commercial Heifer: Jordan Crall, Albia

Champion All Other Breeds Bull: Katelyn Holmes, Benton

Reserve Champion All Other Breeds Bull: Morgan McDermott, Wiota

Champion All Other Breeds Cow-Calf: Sadie Simatovich, State Center

Reserve Champion All Other Breeds Cow-Calf: Rachel Maloy, Ottumwa

FFA Ag Mechanics Competition Revs-Up Its Engine at the Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/11/2014)(readMedia)-- Restored tractors and metal working topped off the Ag Mechanics competition judged Friday at the 2014 Iowa State Fair.

Entries were judged on the basis of workmanship, design, usefulness, appearance and safety.

Complete results below:

Restored Tractor 1958 & Prior: Tayler Jones, Eddyville

Restored Tractor 1959 & Later: Jacob Miller, Dixon

Restored Tractor by First Year Exhibitor: Parker Kray, Monticello

Restored Tractor by Group: North Scott FFA, Eldridge

Metal Working (small): Natalie Johnson, Murray

Metal Working (medium): Riley Rowold, Wheatland

Metal Working (large): Brett Roquet, Fremont

Restored Farm Equipment: Kyle Huber, Wellman

Computer Designed: Logan Mesenbrink, Gilbert

Woodworking (indoor): Taylor Lee, Sumner

Woodworking (outdoor): Addison Crow Schrader, Marion

Overall - First Year: Parker Kray, Monticello

"Nothing Compares" to the 2014 Iowa State Fair, August 7-17. The Fairgrounds are located at East 30th and East University Avenue, just 10 minutes east of downtown Des Moines, and are open 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. each day of the Fair. Exhibit hours may vary. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit iowastatefair.org.

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12 Aug 2014

Milo Hamilton Named to Iowa Sports Hall of Fame

By Glen Dias

Marks sixth Hall of Fame for the long-time Astros broadcasting icon

HOUSTON, TX - The Des Moines Sunday Register announced today that Houston Astros radio broadcasting great Milo Hamilton has been inducted into their Iowa Sports Hall of Fame.

Hamilton, who grew up in Fairfield, Iowa, is the 215th inductee into this Hall of Fame as he joins the likes of Major League Baseball great Bob Feller, Olympic gold medalist Bruce Jenner, former NFL greats Alex Karras, Emlen Tunnell, Roger Craig and Kurt Warner and legendary University of Iowa football coach Hayden Fry.

This marks the sixth Hall of Fame for Hamilton, whose 59 seasons as a Major League broadcaster are second all-time to Vin Scully's record of 65 seasons in the booth. Hamilton served as the radio voice of the Houston Astros from 1985-2012, and in that span, called some of the greatest moments in franchise history. For the past two seasons (2013-14), he has joined the Astros radio broadcasts during home Sunday games for his "Milo's Memories" feature. Hamilton will be on the air in the sixth inning of this afternoon's Astros-Rangers game.

"Congratulations to Milo on another well-deserved honor," said Astros President of Business Operations Reid Ryan. "He truly is a broadcasting  icon that has been a part of Astros baseball for decades. This is  another fitting honor for one of baseball's broadcasting greats."

Globally, Hamilton is best-known for his radio call of Hank Aaron's historic 715th home run on April 8, 1974, while serving as the Atlanta Braves play-by-play announcer. Hamilton and Aaron have a special bond that remains today. When the Astros honored Hamilton's career with a special night in 2012, Aaron made the trip to Houston to speak at the event.

Other highlights from Hamilton's illustrious career include calling 11 no-hitters, Nolan Ryan's 4,000th career strikeout and Craig Biggio's 3,000th hit. In addition to the Astros and Braves, Hamilton also had stints with the Pirates, including their 1979 World Championship season, and with the White Sox, Cubs and Cardinals.

In 1992, Hamilton received the industry's highest honor, receiving the Ford C. Frick Award from the National Baseball Hall of Fame. In 2009, in honor of his 25th season in Houston, a street outside Minute Maid Park was renamed Milo Hamilton Way. Later that year, Hamilton was named "King of Baseball" by Minor League Baseball at the Annual MLB Winter Meetings.

HALLS OF FAME FOR "THE CAPTAIN" MILO HAMILTON

--National Baseball Hall of Fame (Ford C. Frick Award) - 1992

--Texas Baseball Hall of Fame -1994

--Radio Hall of Fame - 2000

--Texas Radio Hall of Fame - 2005

--Iowa High School Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame - 2011

--Des Moines Sunday Register's Iowa Sports Hall of Fame - 2014

12 Aug 2014

Bandit Results from the weekend

By Marco LaNave

BANDITS QUIET SNAPPERS AGAIN TO EARN SPLIT

Bobby Boyd has two hits in Quad Cities debut, while A.J. Reed hits first career triple among two hits

DAVENPORT, Iowa. (August 10, 2014) - Quad Cities right-hander Michael Feliz limited the Beloit Snappers to a run on three hits in the first five innings, and left-hander Chris Lee and Chris Cotton combined for four scoreless relief innings to conclude a second straight 6-1 River Bandits win in front of 3,996 at Modern Woodmen Park Sunday night.

Feliz (8-4) was perfect with four strikeouts through the first three innings, while his teammates built an early 6-0 lead for the second straight game off Snappers right-hander Joey Wagman (1-1). In the first inning, River Bandits center fielder James Ramsay hit a one-out single, and scored when designated hitter Chase McDonald's single went past left fielder Snappers left fielder Justin Higley. First baseman A.J. Reed singled to put runners at first and third bases with one out, but Wagman retired the next two batters.

In the second inning, Wagman walked second baseman Jose Fernandez. A groundout by shortstop Thomas Lindauer moved Fernandez to second base, and left fielder Bobby Boyd singled to left field in his first Midwest League at-bat to move Fernandez to third base. Right fielder Ryan Bottger's sacrifice fly to center field scored Fernandez to give Quad Cities (25-24 second half, 60-58 overall) a 2-0 lead.

In the third inning, Wagman allowed a one-out walk to McDonald, and Reed laced a ground ball down the first-base line that scored McDonald and put Reed at third base for his first career triple. Third baseman J.D. Davis doubled to left field to scored Reed, and with two outs, Fernandez singled Davis home to end Wagman's outing after 2 2/3 innings. Lindauer walked against right-hander Hunter Adkins, and Boyd singled to right field to score pinch runner Dayne Parker for a 6-0 lead. Boyd finished 2-for-3 in his River Bandits debut.

Quad Cities managed two hits and a walk from the fourth through eighth innings. Adkins scattered three hits and a walk with one strikeout in 4 1/3 innings, before right-hander Tyler Vail walked a batter in a scoreless eighth inning. In the four-game series that the teams split, Beloit starters allowed all 15 River Bandits runs in 20 1/3 innings for a 6.64 ERA, while Beloit's bullpen worked 13 2/3 scoreless innings.

Trailing 6-0, Beloit (17-31, 47-71) got its first baserunner when shortstop Melvin Mercedes led off the fourth inning with a home run to right field against Feliz, who yielded his first home run since June 5 and first earned run in 17 innings against Beloit. All five Midwest League home runs against Feliz have been hit by left-handed batters leading off an inning. Feliz allowed two more hits but no more runs, as he became the season-high eighth straight River Bandits starter to pitch at least five innings. He allowed three hits without a walk and struck out five batters. In 19 innings over four starts against Beloit, Feliz is 2-0 and has allowed two runs - one earned - for a 0.47 ERA. The Snappers have eight hits, two three walks and 22 strikeouts while hitting for a .125 average against Feliz this season.

After Feliz, left-hander Chris Lee struck out four batters in three perfect innings in his first relief outing since July 17. Left-hander Chris Cotton pitched the ninth inning, allowing a one-out single by center fielder B.J. Boyd but also striking out two batters to finish a 6-1 win and a split of the four-game series with Beloit. With a 6-1 win Saturday, the River Banidts have won back-to-back games by the same score on two occasions in the last 16 days. They also won consecutive 9-2 finals July 26-27 at Bowling Green.

After its final scheduled off day of the regular season Monday, Quad Cities opens a three-game series at Kane County at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday in Geneva, Ill. River Bandits right-hander Kevin Comer (1-3) is scheduled to face Cougars right-hander Jen-Ho Tseng (6-1).

UP NEXT: A Fireworks Friday kicks off the next homestand, with a 7 p.m. game on City of Davenport Night and Global Cultural Night presented by Tyson Fresh Meats. When gates open at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, the first 1,500 fans receive a Trevor Rosenthal Bobblehead courtesy of DHCU and FOX18. Sunday's 1:15 p.m. game is a Celebration and Appreciation of Senator Tom Harkin for 40 years of service with a bobblehead giveaway for the first 1,000 fans when gates open at noon. Tickets are available at www.riverbandits.com.

BANDITS STRIKE BACK IN SIMS' SHUTOUT START

James Ramsay swats grand slam for first home run of the season, Chase McDonald hits 14th in 6-1 win

DAVENPORT, Iowa. (August 9, 2014) - Quad Cities left-hander Blaine Sims pitched six shutout innings for the first time in three years, left fielder Chase McDonald hit his team-high 14th home run, and center fielder James Ramsay hit a grand slam for his first home run in nearly a year, helping the River Bandits to a 6-1 win over the Beloit Snappers in front of 6,971 at Modern Woodmen Park Saturday night.

After losing the first two games of a four-game home series, Quad Cities (24-24 second half, 59-58 overall) defeated Beloit (17-30, 47-70) for the 11th time in 15 meetings this season. The River Bandits had averaged three runs per game while starting August 2-6, but they posted their highest single-game run total of the month by the end of the second inning Saturday.

After Sims (3-4) worked around a pair of one-out singles in the first inning, Ramsay hit a one-out single in the bottom of the first inning off Snappers right-hander Junior Mendez (2-7). McDonald then smacked a two-run home run to the Modern Woodmen Berm down the left-field line for a 2-0 lead - the River Bandits' first of the series. McDonald drove in his team's first five runs in the series against Beloit, and with a team-best 11 home runs in the second half, he is the first River Bandit with 14 home runs since 2012.

In the bottom of the second inning, second baseman Jose Fernandez drew a one-out walk, Mendez hit catcher Brett Booth with a pitch, and shortstop Thomas Lindauer lined a single to left field to load the bases. With two outs, Ramsay hit an 0-1 Mendez offering that cleared the ribbon board in right field for Ramsay's first career grand slam and first home run since he homered for short-season Class-A Tri-City Aug. 25, 2013. It was the River Bandits' fifth grand slam of the season - each by a different player - and gave Ramsay a career-high four RBIs.

With a 6-0 lead, Sims limited the Snappers to lone singles in the third and fourth innings, and lone two-out doubles in the fifth and sixth innings. He did not allow a baserunner to reach third base and pitched six shutout innings for the first time since June 13, 2011, when he did so for Atlanta Braves Class-A Advanced affiliate Lynchburg in the Carolina League. As the River Bandits' seventh straight starter to pitch at least five innings, Sims scattered six hits and struck out a season-high six batters without a walk for the first time this season.

Mendez allowed only two hits after the second inning but left after 4 2/3 innings, allowing six earned runs on six hits, one walk and three hit batters with three strikeouts. After Mendez, the Snappers bullpen pitched scoreless baseball for the third straight game. Right-hander Trevor Bayless struck out two batters while allowing one hit in 2 1/3 shutout innings, and right-hander Joel Seddon struck out all three batters in a perfect eighth inning. Beloit relievers have allowed three hits and no runs in 8 1/3 innings the last three games.

Ramsay singled in the fourth inning for his first three-hit game since the All-Star Break, and McDonald added a single in the seventh inning for his second hit. Third baseman J.D. Davis in the third inning to extend a three-game hitting streak.

After Sims, right-hander Andrew Walter struck out all three batters in a perfect seventh inning. Right-hander Keegan Yuhl walked two batters and allowed a hit for Beloit's only run in the eighth inning. Right-hander Frederick Tiburcio pitched a perfect ninth inning.

Quad Cities seeks a split of the four-game series with Beloit at 5 p.m. Sunday at Modern Woodmen Park. River Bandits right-hander Michael Feliz (7-4) is scheduled to face Snappers right-hander Joey Wagman (1-0) in the seven-game homestand finale.

12 Aug 2014

Clay County's Elizabeth Glover Crowned 2014 Iowa State Fair Queen

By Lori Chappell

DES MOINES, IA (08/09/2014)(readMedia)-- Elizabeth Glover, 17, of Clay County was crowned the 2014 Iowa State Fair Queen by Alan Brown, president of the Fair Board. This year's ceremony, which marked the 50th anniversary of the contest, took place on Saturday evening at the Anne and Bill Riley Stage sponsored by Pepsi.

The daughter of Louis and Lois Glover of Spencer, Elizabeth was chosen out of the 102 contestants who participated in this year's competition. All had been crowned queen of their respective county fairs prior to the State Fair.

Megan Andersen, 18, of Grundy County was named first runner-up. She is the daughter of Eric and Darla Andersen of Cedar Falls. Second runner-up was Amber Neisius, 19, of Cherokee County. She is the daughter of Bruce Rainboth and Betty Neisius of Marcus. Emily Pattee, 19, of Shelby County was named third runner-up. She is the daughter of Cindy Pattee of Harlan.

Brooklyn Plagge, of Franklin County, was given the Outstanding Leadership Award. The 17-year-old is the daughter of John and Anne Plagge of Hampton. Lydia Grace Dawley, 17, of Winneshiek County was given the Personality Plus Award. She is the daughter of Nathan and Jacque Dawley of Decorah.

Queen Elizabeth, who will reign for the next year, receives a $2,800 scholarship from the Iowa State Fair in addition to her crown, sash and trophy. She also receives a floral bouquet from Boesen the Florist, a $600 gift card to Jordan Creek Mall and a pair of diamond earrings from B. Shannon Designs.

The first runner-up earns a $1,300 scholarship and $300 gift card to Jordan Creek Mall; the second runner-up wins $700 in scholarship money and a $250 Jordan Creek Mall gift card; and the third runner-up receives a $500 scholarship and $200 Jordan Creek Mall gift card. The Outstanding Leadership recipient wins an $800 Scholarship and a $250 Jordan Creek Mall gift card. The Personality Plus winner receives a $500 scholarship and a $200 Jordan Creek Mall gift card. All members of the Royal Court receive a plaque from the State Fair and a floral bouquet from Boesen the Florist. An anonymous donor graciously provided the Jordan Creek gift cards for the Royal Court.

Judging is based on personality, attitude, awareness, leadership, citizenship, contribution to community, overall appearance, charm and poise.

"Nothing Compares" to the 2014 Iowa State Fair, August 7-17. The Fairgrounds are located at East 30th and East University Avenue, just 10 minutes east of downtown Des Moines, and are open 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. each day of the Fair. Exhibit hours may vary. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit iowastatefair.org.

11 Aug 2014

Governor Quinn Kicks-Off 2014 Illinois State Fair

By Grant Klinzman

Annual Family-Friendly Agricultural Showcase Features Entertainment and Activities for Everyone

SPRINGFIELD - Governor Pat Quinn today was joined by families and officials from across the state to kick-off the 2014 Illinois State Fair. The annual 10-day agricultural celebration features a wide variety of family-friendly activities including food, racing, music and carnival rides. This year's fair theme is "Making Memories."

"The Illinois State Fair is a great place to make memories and have some good old-fashioned family fun," Governor Quinn said.  "Last year nearly one million people from around the world visited the fair to celebrate what Illinois' capital city has to offer, and I hope we can top that mark this year."

New features at this year's fair include American Idol tryouts on August 8 and 9, a Civil War encampment and demonstrations and "Looking for Lincoln" activities on the fairgrounds. Returning favorites include harness and auto racing, Conservation World, carnival rides, hundreds of food selections and the world-famous Butter Cow.

This year's Grandstand concert lineup includes Pitbull on August 9; Florida Georgia Line, August 10; Million Dollar Quartet, August 11; Boston, Sweet and April Wine on August 12; Hunter Hayes, August 13; Emblem 3, MKTO and Midnight Red on August 14; Steely Dan, August 15; Jake Owen, August 16; and Robin Thicke on August 17. The fair also offers a wide variety of free entertainment - from magic shows to musical acts - on 14 stages throughout the fairgrounds.

The state of Illinois has prepared the fairgrounds with more than $15 million in capital improvements over the last several years, including an extensive upgrade of the aging electrical distribution systems providing power to the various buildings and vendors at the fairgrounds. The most recent $4.1 million electrical upgrade project began in March and was completed late last month.

The Governor's Tent theme this year is "A Portrait of Illinois," featuring numerous ways the people of Illinois and the attractions we offer are depicted and remembered. Abraham Lincoln will be in the Governor's Tent from 11 a.m. to noon each day for photographs with visitors. Two computers will be logged in to a family history research website so fairgoers can trace their family genealogy. Backdrops will allow children and families to "Picture Yourself in the Past," and an assortment of related interactive games and puzzles will be offered. A different Illinois-filmed movie will play in the tent throughout each day of the fair. Illinois Main Street will be back, and they have invited local Illinois bands to play music outside the tent each day.

Last year the Illinois State Fair was attended by a total of 961,142 people, the fair's highest attendance since 2002, when an estimated 1.2 million people visited the fair.  Last year's State Fair saw an increase of 5 percent - or 42,707 visitors - from 2012. Fairgoers provide a significant boost to the local economy each year.

For a complete listing of daily activities at the 2014 Illinois State Fair, visit StateFair.Illinois.gov or call (217) 782-6661. The state fair runs from Aug. 7-17, 2014

###


11 Aug 2014

BANDITS TO HOST CELEBRATION & APPRECIATION OF SENATOR TOM HARKIN FOR 40 YEARS OF SERVICE TO IOWA

By Marco LaNave

Bobblehead giveaway Sunday Aug. 17, with first pitches by Senator Harkin, Davenport Mayor Gluba

DAVENPORT, Iowa. (August 7, 2014) - The Quad Cities River Bandits will give away a bobblehead of U.S. Senator Tom Harkin at Modern Woodmen Park at their 1:15 p.m. game Sunday, Aug. 17, which will be a Celebration and Appreciation of Senator Tom Harkin for 40 years of Service to Iowa in Congress. The day will be sponsored by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Gates open at noon on Sunday, Aug. 17, and the first 1,000 fans to the ballpark will receive a bobblehead of Senator Tom Harkin, who has announced he will retire following his fifth term as Senator from Iowa and 40th year serving in Congress for Iowa. Senator Harkin and Davenport Mayor Bill Gluba will be on hand Aug. 17 to throw out ceremonial first pitches before the River Bandits' 1:15 p.m. game. Senator Harkin will also be available before the game to personally autograph the bobbleheads made in his likeness.

"Senator Harkin epitomizes all that's good about public service, and his bipartisan leadership will be sorely missed," said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. "From the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act to protecting workers' pensions to promoting biofuels and energy independence, Senator Harkin has been a leader on issues that directly affect the people of Iowa and our nation. We are proud to honor and celebrate his forty years of service in the U.S. Congress."

"In Iowa, baseball is important and is part of our local economy and part of our history," said Harkin. "As a fan, I'm honored to throw out the first pitch at the ballpark considered the best minor league stadium in America - Modern Woodmen Park - and join the fans of the Quad Cities River Bandits to enjoy a day along the beautiful Davenport riverfront."

Sunday, Aug. 17, is also a Family Sunday presented by KWQC and B100 and Pirates and Princesses Theme Day. River Bandits players will sign pregame autographs, fans can bring their dogs to the ballpark for Bark in the Park, and Kids Run the Bases following the game.

UP NEXT: Back-to-back Fireworks nights and two bobbleheads in three days both begin on Thursday. The first 700 fans to Modern Woodmen Park when the gates open at 5:30 p.m. Thursday will receive a Craig Biggio Bobblehead courtesy of Prairie Farms and FOX18. The first 500 fans who wear red to the ballpark will receive a koozie from HAVlife, which will also present a special postgame fireworks show on a Thirst-Day with $2 drink specials presented by the River Cities' Reader. Friday is the Autism Awareness Night, the award-winning promotion and the third annual photo jersey auction presented by KWQC, with Friday Fireworks presented by Smart Toyota of the Quad Cities, WQAD and WLLR. The Roger Clemens Bobblehead giveaway presented by Ruhl & Ruhl Insurance, West Bend and the Quad-City Times is Saturday, and the homestand continues through Sunday. Tickets are available at www.riverbandits.com.

11 Aug 2014

MCDONALD, MINNIS WIN ASTROS' JULY HONORS

By Marco LaNave
Former Bandits Ruiz and Hader take home Lancaster accolades while Scribner and Melendez grab Tri-City and GCL awards
DAVENPORT, Iowa (August 7, 2014) - First baseman Chase McDonald is the Quad Cities River Bandits Player of the Month for July, and left-handed pitcher Albert Minnis is the team's Pitcher of the Month, the Houston Astros announced on Wednesday.
The Houston Astros Player Development Department named a Pitcher and Player of the Month at each of their four full-season affiliates, three short-season affiliates and two Dominican Summer League affiliates. These awards are chosen every month by the field staff of each team. Former River Bandits infielder Rio Ruiz and left-handed pitcher Josh Hader took home the honors at Class-A Advanced Lancaster, with Hader winning for the second time in three months. Current River Bandits outfielder Alexander Melendez was named the Gulf Coast League Astros Player of the Month. Current River Bandits right-handed pitcher Troy Scribner won Short-Season Class-A Tri-City's Pitcher of the Month for his second career honor; he also won Pitcher of the Month in July 2013 for the Gulf Coast League Astros.
McDonald, Houston's 12th-round pick in the 2013 First-Year Player Draft, won his second career monthly award and first since winning rookie-level Greeneville's Player of the Month in August 2013. In July, McDonald batted .362 with six home runs in 26 games. He clubbed nine doubles and six home runs with 19 RBIs, a .434 on-base percentage, .649 slugging percentage and 1.083 OPS. The Greenville, N.C., native launched a three-run walk-off home run July 21 to complete a sweep of Lake County and leads all current River Bandits on the season (minimum: 70 at-bats) in batting average (.278), on-base percentage (.358), slugging percentage (.473), OPS (.832), home runs (12) and RBIs (51).
Minnis, Houston's 25th-round pick in 2013, went 1-0 with a 1.72 ERA and 15 strikeouts in six July appearances covering 15 2/3 innings. The southpaw from Lawrence, Kan., was promoted to Quad Cities from the rookie-level GCL Astros on July 4. He responded with five straight scoreless outings, including three of at least three innings out of the bullpen. Minnis is 2-1 with a 4.15 ERA in 20 games this season. He has fanned 27 against 10 walks in 34 2/3 innings.
Below is a list of the Players and Pitchers of the Month this season for Quad Cities:
April
Player: Brett Phillips
Pitcher: Gonzalo Sanudo
May
Player: Brian Holberton
Pitcher: Jandel Gustave
June
Player: Tyler White
Pitcher: Evan Grills
July
Player: Chase McDonald
Pitcher: Albert Minnis
UP NEXT: Back-to-back Fireworks nights and two bobbleheads in three days both begin on Thursday. The first 700 fans to Modern Woodmen Park when the gates open at 5:30 p.m. Thursday will receive a Craig Biggio Bobblehead courtesy of Prairie Farms and FOX18. The first 500 fans who wear red to the ballpark will receive a koozie from HAVlife, which will also present a special postgame fireworks show on a Thirst-Day with $2 drink specials presented by the River Cities' Reader. Friday is the Autism Awareness Night, the award-winning promotion and the third annual photo jersey auction presented by KWQC, with Friday Fireworks presented by Smart Toyota of the Quad Cities, WQAD and WLLR. The Roger Clemens Bobblehead giveaway presented by Ruhl & Ruhl Insurance, West Bend and the Quad-City Times is Saturday, and the homestand continues through Sunday. Tickets are available at www.riverbandits.com.
ABOUT THE BANDITS: Having just been named Ballpark Digest's winner of Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the River Bandits ownership recently made one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 105 feet over the playing field, opened May 24, and Space Camp opened June 20; the newly expanded 300-foot long zip line has also reopened. In 2013, the team unveiled a new 220-foot long dual zip line, a rock climbing wall, and a number of new bounce houses. Last season, the team's major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, saw all six of its affiliates reach the playoffs - the first time in a decade any MLB team can claim such success. The River Bandits were one of three affiliates to reach the championship round and one of two to win their league championship.

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