(Fort Wayne, IN, Oct. 26, 2007) – No can of bug spray was big enough, no magnifying glass powerful enough to stop this invasion! Janitors shook and exterminators trembled when this creature walked down the halls of Lutheran Children’s Hospital on Thursday, October 25.

But there was no need to call the city’s board of health – the insect in question was The Mad Ant, the six-foot big brother of the common Camponotus herculeanus, or carpenter ant. Young patients joined the Mad Ant invasion and became some of the first to meet this kid-friendly mascot of Fort Wayne’s NBA Development League basketball team. For those who do not speak Ant, a translator was on hand to ensure that every child was able to communicate with the giant insect.

Keep an eye out for more Mad Ant appearances throughout the community by following the pheromones to a team event near you! Up next: The 2007 NBA D-League Draft Party at Crazy Pinz next Thursday, November 1. See www.fortwaynehoops.com or call 260-469-HOOP (4667) for more information.