The Dash–ahem–The Tobacco Beetles invite you to be their pest on Friday, Aug. 9 for the team’s Salute to North Carolina game, presented by Ray’s Pest Control and Wildlife Removal.

Why the name change? We’ll try not to bug you with all of the details.

The rebrand aims to highlight the state's agriculture industry and raise awareness of the impact tobacco beetles have on crops + the livelihoods of local farmers.

The team will wear special jerseys and caps for the event, and fans can purchase their very own Winston-Salem Tobacco Beetles gear. Pro tip: Grab merch ahead of the game at the Dash Team Store.

For every ticket purchased, $1 will be donated to North Carolina agriculture education.

🪲 Why the tobacco beetle?

While you typically wouldn’t think to name your home team after a pest, the tobacco beetle represents the various challenges local farmers face.

Insects, worms, diseases, and unexpected weather events can wreak havoc on local agriculture.

“It’s kind of a never-ending gauntlet,” says Frank Scott, Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Tobacco Farm Life Museum. “Every day is a surprise.”

Scott, a ninth-generation tobacco farmer, says he relies on resources like machinery and chemicals to protect his crops and keep his family farm running. He hopes to pass the family farm down to his children one day.

The Tobacco Beetles will play the Greenville Drive on Friday with the first pitch at 7 p.m. Stick around for fireworks after the game, presented by Trécé Inc.

🎟️ Secure your seat

Exclusive ticket packages, that include Tobacco Beetles merchandise, are available for a limited time:

Tips Package | Includes a single game ticket, a Tobacco Beetles logo T-shirt, and cap | $55
Cutters Package | Includes a single game ticket and a Tobacco Beetles logo cap | $35
Leafs Package | Includes a single game ticket and a Tobacco Beetles logo T-shirt | $35
Lugs Package | Includes a single game ticket | $12

Get gear + tickets.

Poll

https://6am-city.typeform.com/to/WGKAkCVm