One of the many joys of our job is giving away experiences to our listeners. It’s even more special when it’s a first time experience, as was the case for 5 year old Cade.

His dad, Tony, picked up tickets from us to enjoy our Mix 96.5 $1 Dog Friday with the Asheville Tourists. It was to be Cade’s first baseball game ever, and we were so excited to get to meet him.

When they arrived at the Mix tent, Cade rushed up and wrapped his little arms around me and said, “Thank you for my tickets Ms. Tammy!”. Game over. That’s it. My heart positively melted!

We talked to the powers that be and decided that Cade’s first game should include the chance to throw out the first pitch. “What’s a pitch?” he wanted to know. And “What are those white things out there (the bases)?”

The Asheville Tourists players were so kind, giving him fist bumps and words of encouragement. How wonderful to have our “adopted” player, Coco Montes, catching the ball for Cade.

What makes baseball at McCormick Field even better? Teddy Tourist of course! Cade ran up to him and gave him a big hug and of course we had to snap some pictures.

Part of Cade’s experience included sitting in the Bojangles Suite Seats, right behind home plate. When I left them, his dad and granddad were explaining the game to the little guy while perusing the menu options.

We’re so grateful to the Asheville Tourists for helping us create these special experiences for listeners. And I am grateful for the opportunity to see little faces light up with excitement.