River Bandits know how to throw a birthday party

By Karen Peacheé, Davenport | Sunday, July 20, 2008

Picture this: 12 boys celebrating a 10-year-old’s birthday on a lovely summer night. One by one they arrive at the newly improved, gorgeous ballpark. Children, noisy and hyper, are greeted by professional, caring and friendly staff members. Wristbands are given to the children to enjoy activities galore. Delicious ballpark treats are delivered to our special party table for parents and children alike.

Just before the game, the birthday boy is escorted to the dugout and plays catch with a ballplayer in a professional uniform. Then they direct the boy to the pitcher’s mound. He is honored by throwing the first ball. A very strong throw is delivered across home plate and the crowd cheers!

The birthday party is then escorted to amazing seats just behind home plate. Parents enjoy watching their children, many with gloves in hand, hoping to catch that elusive foul ball.

The players’ talent is proven by the number of professional scouts seated next to us, which only adds to the excitement. Before we know it, the birthday boy is on top of the dugout with the stadium singing “Happy Birthday.” His smile shows only one thing: This night will live in his memories forever.

We didn’t have to travel to the big city or go broke trying to pay for this evening. It was all right here in our very own backyard.

Congratulations to the new direction this club has taken on offering affordable fun for Quad-Citians of all ages.

Karen Peacheé

Davenport