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We sit down with GM Caleb Whittimore to unpack how an all‑Australian roster, a fresh brand, and a $10 million renovation will turn Zebulon’s park into a fan‑first summer home. From turf and new concessions to playgrounds and concerts, we map the vision and the work underway.

• why a blank‑slate franchise unlocks bold choices
• Caleb’s path from scouting and coaching to GM
• the five team name finalists and what they signal
• the case for an all‑Australian roster in the CPL
• recruiting through Osball and valuing culture fit
• renovations that cut capacity and boost comfort
• turf, new bathrooms, premium refresh, video board
• a year‑round playground for families
• Aussie food concepts from meat pies to kangaroo
• plans for concerts, boxing and community events
• long‑term district development around the stadium

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I sit down with owner Dave Heller to explore how a minor league team can put community first, build smarter partnerships, and use brand identity to invite more people into the ballpark. Kelly Robinson then drops a rapid tour of Quad Cities sports history from early leagues to Modern Woodmen Park.

• why the team serves the community, not the other way around
• free flu shots, NICU funding, Camp Hope, and Family Connects support
• Bandit Scholars program as the largest scholarship effort in MiLB
• daily fan engagement and greeting every guest at the stairs
• deep partnership with the Kansas City Royals and upgraded facilities
• Copa identities and the success of Mr. Celery and Señor Apio
• rebrand lessons from Modesto: listening sessions and local designers
• the rise of multiple identities to reach new fan segments
• vision to build a ballpark from scratch with new ideas
• rapid-fire favorites: walk-offs, fireworks, and a candy-drop helicopter
• Kelly’s history segment: Tri-Cities teams, NBA and NFL roots, and Babe Ruth at Browning Field

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We trace how a bruised franchise became a community beacon: a Ferris wheel inside the gates, a fan-led return to River Bandits, and partners who bet on a big vision. Dave Heller shares the mascot check fiasco, the bridge-in-the-logo story, and why family-first design wins.

• why an amusement-park mindset belongs in a ballpark
• the lockout scare and earning back trust
• Modern Woodmen partnership and local sponsors
• fan vote restoring River Bandits name
• Francis Santaquilani’s logo suite and bridge arches
• merch surge after rebrand and color debates
• letting kids roam safely while parents watch
• critiques of the Swing era and Copa identity
• pride in a naturally retro park by the river
• next week’s focus on Quad Cities baseball history

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Make sure to follow the Dad Hat Chronicles: https://linktr.ee/TheDadHatChronicles