Strategy: With the acquisition of Mid-America Bank, National City became the 4th largest bank in Chicago. Given the new market position, the company sought to re-introduce the brand to the market.

Tactics: Paragon developed Play Ball, Chicago! as an opportunity for National City to re-launch the brand to the Chicago market and showcase the company's commitment to the community. National City is a long time supporter of Chicago baseball, enjoying relationships with the Chicago Cubs and various minor league teams so baseball seemed a natural fit. Working with the Mayor's Office of Special Events, Paragon was able to develop an event catered to all baseball fans that honored the heritage of Chicago baseball while celebrating the start of a new season.

Details: Play Ball, Chicago! took place on April 8^th at Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago. Representatives from the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Windy City Thunderbolts, Joliet Jackhammers and Schaumburg Flyers were onsite to participate. Event highlights included appearances by Mayor Daley, Joe Crede of the Chicago White Sox, Billy Williams, former player for the Chicago Cubs, the Chicago Cubs band, giveaways, a photo booth, baseball themed food, interactive activities and mascot appearances. The pre-event media campaign included advertising on the CTA, streetpole banners, home plate signage at Chicago Cubs games, a dedicated website hosted by National City and the Mayor's Office and advertisement on the National City branch windows at 1 N. Franklin. Radio advertising was also included through relationships with Univision Chicago and CBS Radio. Both stations provided live remotes on the Plaza, during the event as well as pre-event tags. The Score also conducted an online trivia contest to find the best Cubs and Sox fan. Event attendance was estimated at over 15,000. National City achieved over 55 million impressions across all media. Media partners included WGN, CLTV, WFLD, Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun Times, WJMK-FM and Metromix.com