Fort Wayne, IN (October 15, 2008) - Looking for a fun, affordable family activity this winter? Kids 12 and under are invited to join the Ants Army, the most powerful kids club in the NBA D-League! Registration is FREE thanks to ShindigZ, where the world comes to party.

The Mad Ants are proud to announce this partnership with ShindigZ, which makes the high-flying excitement of NBA basketball available to kids of all economic backgrounds. In this tight economy, ShindigZ and the Ants Army Kids Club make it possible and affordable for families to enjoy a fun night together as they cheer on the Mad Ants. Members will receive FREE upper level sideline tickets to weekday games (Mon-Thurs) and half off upper level sideline tickets on weekends (Fri-Sun), all thanks to our friends at ShindigZ.

ShindigZ is a prom and party supply store that has been a fixture in the local community since 1926. Founded originally as Stumps Printing Company, the store’s location in South Whitley, Indiana has served as an international distribution point for years. The company officially changed its name to ShindigZ in 2006 to symbolize the enjoyment it brings to both its customers and employees. With over 36,000 party decorations, costumes, and personalized products, ShindigZ strives for 100% customer satisfaction in every order. In 1999, ShindigZ was named “Entrepreneur of the Year" by Ernst and Young and was recognized as one of "Indiana's 100 Fastest Growing Companies" by the Indiana University Kelley School of Business. In 2000, Forbes Magazine named ShindigZ.com one of the "Top 400 Websites in America."

With the support of ShindigZ and other team partners, the Ants Army Kids Club membership cards will feature discounts at popular area stores and restaurants as well as 10% off Mad Ants merchandise. Kids will also be invited to post-game autograph sessions, exclusive Mad Ants’ events, and the Ants Army end of the year party at Lazer X.

For more information, kids should send their parents to the Ants Army Kids Club webpage, featured under the Entertainment tab at www.fortwaynehoops.com.

The Mad Ants tip off the 2008-09 NBA D-League season at home in the Allen Country War Memorial Coliseum against the expansion Erie BayHawks on Friday, November 28, and season tickets are now on sale for the team’s sophomore season. For ticket information on the 2008-09 season, please contact the Mad Ants office at (260)469-HOOP (4667).