Archives for February 2014

Blue Rocks & Bank of America To Donate $4 For Every All-Star Hitting Challenge Ticket

Money Will Help Support The More Than 25,000 Delaware Children Who Benefit From Boys & Girls Club

WilmingtonBlueRocks_2014-02-28

 

Wilmington, DE – The Wilmington Blue Rocks and Bank of America are proud to announce that the organizations will be donating $4 to the Boys & Girls Club of Delaware for every ticket sold to the 2014 California League/Carolina League Hitting Challenge at Frawley Stadium. Tickets for the Hitting Challenge, which is slated for 6:30 p.m. on June 16 and kicks off two days of All Star Festivities in the First State, go on sale Saturday, March 1 at the Blue Rocks Ticket Office.

“We have received a great deal of positive publicity regarding the special nature of this Hitting Challenge and Home Run Derby so we are expecting that buzz to lead to a huge crowd,” said Blue Rocks general manager Chris Kemple. “Thanks to our partnership with Bank of America we can make this event about more than just providing Delaware sports fans with a night to remember, but about raising money for an outstanding cause.”

The Blue Rocks are already set to become the first Minor League baseball club to host a Home Run Derby where players bat from the outfield and try to hit the ball into the stands behind where home plate normally resides. The hitting challenge will feature some of the best young prospects in baseball from both the Carolina League and California League competing in two events. First there will be a Hitting Contest featuring targets that players will have to hit in order to earn points. Then there will be a Home Run Derby. Fans will have the opportunity to catch any dingers off of these sluggers’ bats as the Blue Rocks will flip the field at Frawley Stadium. A new batting cage will be installed in center field and derby contestants will be awarded homeruns by hitting balls into the seating area.

Now a potential souvenir is not the only thing fans will be able to take home from the ballpark that night, they will also have the knowledge that half of their price of admission went directly toward the more than 25,000 children in all areas of the state who benefit from the work done by the Boys & Girls Club.

Boys & Girls Clubs are much more than just gyms. Each of the 18 Delaware sites offer a unique mix of quality programming focusing on educational enhancement, character and citizenship, physical education, health, and arts, for as little as $15 per child per year. Moreover, all Boys & Girls Club sites are certified as child care centers and licensed by the State of Delaware. In fact, more Delaware families trust their children to the care of the Boys & Girls Club than any other licensed provider in the state.

Kemple said that up to $28,000 can be raised and that none of it would be possible without the support of Bank of America.

“We’re excited to be working with the Blue Rocks on an event that will ultimately help support an organization that connects our youth to opportunities they may not otherwise have,” said Chip Rossi, Delaware president, Bank of America. “The bank has been a long-time supporter of the Boys & Girls Club. By combining the excitement of the hitting challenge with the ability to support families in Delaware – it will be opportunity for everyone to enjoy.”

Tickets for the 2014 Hitting Challenge are just $8 while All-Star Game tickets (June 17) are only $15. Individual tickets for both events go on sale March 1. For more information call 302-888-BLUE or visit bluerocks.com.

Blue Rocks Baseball = AffordaFUNability!
www.bluerocks.com

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Wilmington Blue Rocks. Click here to view the original story.

RiverDogs to Host 11th Annual “Run, Forrest, Run” 5K Race on April 19

Race Benefits MUSC’s Storm Eye Institute

Run Forrst Run 5K

 

CHARLESTON, SC – Fans of the Charleston RiverDogs may not be able to run forever like Forrest Gump, but they can lace up their running shoes and head to Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park for the 11th Annual “Run Forrest Run” 5K Race presented by Fleet Feet Sports on Saturday, April 19 at 4 pm before the RiverDogs game against the Rome Braves.

The course is TAC certified and features split times at each mile marker with chip timing for quick and accurate results.

Proceeds from the rain-or-shine event benefit the MUSC Storm Eye Institute.

“This race is fun for all ages and caters to every type of participant,” said RiverDogs Vice President of Special Events Melissa Azevedo. “Our 5K race begins in front of The Joe and finishes at home plate where runners are greeted by RiverDogs players and coaches.”

With the Cooper River Bridge Run just two weeks prior to April 19th, the top eight local finishers will be invited to participate in the Run Forrest Run 5K Race.

Pre-registration by April 17th cost for the race is $30, and includes a race packet, T-shirt, one ticket to that evening’s RiverDogs game against the Rome Braves (6:05 pm first pitch), an in-game awards ceremony and a post-race party with dinner provided by Bubba Gump Shrimp Company. Late registration and walk-up after April 17th is $35. T-shirts are available while supplies last.

Additional game tickets are $7 each and can be purchased at packet pick-up.

Race packets may be picked up on Friday, April 18th at Fleet Feet Sports in Mt. Pleasant from 12:00 noon until 6:00pm. On-site registration and packet pick-up on race day will open at 1:00pm at Joe Riley Park and close at 3:45pm before the 4:00 race begins.

Registration forms are available online at RileyParkEvents.com or active.com. For more information, please contact Kristen Wolfe at (843) 577-DOGS (3647).

–RIVERDOGS–

This article originally appeared on the official website of the 02/28/2014 9:35 AM ET. Click here to view the original story.

Nationals Donate Pfitzner Stadium Field Tarp to University of Mary Washington Baseball Program

Potomac Nationals Pay it Forward with Field Tarp Contribution to Division III UMW Baseball

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Woodbridge, VA-The Potomac Nationals have donated their Pfitzner Stadium field tarp to the University of Mary Washington Baseball program (Fredericksburg, Virginia) in an ongoing effort to bolster the resources of amateur and collegiate baseball in the Northern Virginia region.

The University of Mary Washington Eagles compete in the Division III Capital Athletic Conference at V. Earl Dickinson Stadium and will play 29 regular-season home games in 2014.

Dickinson Stadium holds a seating capacity of over 1,000 fans and is one of the finest facilities in all of NCAA Baseball.

“Any time the Potomac Nationals can positively impact another baseball program in our community, our club is going to jump at that opportunity. We are glad to donate our field tarp to the University of Mary Washington Baseball program, and we trust it will complement their terrific facility in a way that will minimize the amount of games postponed or lost due to the elements,” said Potomac Nationals Vice President/General Manager, Josh Olerud.

University of Mary Washington Baseball Head Coach, Wayne Riser reached out to the Nationals in advance of the Eagles’ home opener on February 15th to inquire about the availability of the Potomac Nationals’ field tarp.

“Everyone involved with our program is immensely appreciative of the generosity of the Potomac Nationals and especially the efforts of Mr. Olerud,” said UMW Head Coach, Wayne Riser.

“This tarp will benefit UMW Baseball student-athletes for years to come and is a great boost to our program.”

Riser coordinated with Olerud to arrange for members of the University of Mary Washington Baseball team to make the drive from Fredericksburg to Woodbridge to load the tarp on a flat-bed vehicle and haul it back to the Home of the Eagles.

“We are grateful to the Potomac Nationals for their recent donation of a tarp for our baseball facility,” said UMW Director of Athletics Ken Tyler.

“We appreciate the club’s generosity and engagement with UMW Athletics, and we hope our student-athletes and fans will support the Potomac Nationals this season.”

The University of Mary Washington Baseball team is off to a red-hot (4-1) start to the 2014 campaign and is riding a four-game winning streak as of February 28th.

Call the University of Mary Washington Athletics Ticket Office at 540-654-1039 for tickets to see UMW Baseball in action or head to www.umweagles.com for more information.

About UMW Baseball

One of the most successful NCAA Division III baseball programs in the nation, the University of Mary Washington has tasted nothing but success in its 26 year history, building a tradition as a power in the Middle Atlantic region and in the ultra-competitive Capital Athletic Conference. The Eagles are poised for success again in 2014, as second-year head coach Wayne Riser, who won more than 500 games at Shepherd University prior to coming to UMW, has the Eagles knocking on the door of national accolades.

The program has been among the elite in the region since its inception in 1988, winning 10 conference tournaments and advancing to 11 NCAA Division III Tournaments. In addition, 15 former Eagles have gone on to play professionally, with ’13 grad Mike Straub joining the group for the 2014 season, as he will pitch for Alpine in the Independent Pecos League.

The Potomac Nationals of the Carolina League play at Pfitzner Stadium in Woodbridge, Virginia, and are the Class-A Advanced affiliate of the Washington Nationals. P-Nats 2014 season tickets and mini plans are now on sale. Sponsorship opportunities for the 2014 season and beyond are available. Plan your corporate outing now for the 2014 season to see the future stars of the Washington Nationals at The Pfitz as the P-Nats offer discounted group rates and all-inclusive picnic options. Visit the P-Nats online at www.potomacnationals.com or call the Potomac Nationals Ticket Office at 703-590-2311 for more information!

 — Potomac Nationals —

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Potomac Nationals. Click here to view the original story.

Bandit Scholars Program expands, partners with Community Foundation of the Great River Bend

Applicants from eight counties to be included; donors can make tax-deductible, online contributions

QuadCitiesRiverBandits_2014-02-27

 

The Quad Cities River Bandits and the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend are new partners in supporting the expanding Bandit Scholars Program that awards two scholarships annually to Quad Cities-area high school seniors. River Bandits owner Dave Heller and Susan Skora, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend, announced the partnership at a press conference Thursday morning at Modern Woodmen Park.

Through the partnership with the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend, donors can make online, tax-deductible donations to the Bandit Scholars Program by going to www.cfgrb.org. Fans can also click on the team’s website, www.riverbandits.com, and be taken directly to the Bandit Scholars page on the Foundation’s website. The application deadline for 2014 has already passed, but beginning with the next scholarship application cycle in 2015, students will be able to submit their applications online through the Community Foundation’s website. Furthermore, students from eight Quad Cities-area counties – Henry, Mercer, Rock Island and Whiteside Counties of Illinois, and Cedar, Louisa, Muscatine and Scott Counties of Iowa – are eligible for the two scholarships.

“We are delighted to be able to partner with the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend to enhance and expand our Bandit Scholars Program,” Heller said. “It will now be easier than ever for fans and organizations to make tax-deductible donations to the program, easier than ever for talented students to apply, and easier for us to continue growing this unique scholarship program, which is one-of-a-kind in minor league baseball. The Community Foundation has an unmatched track record in supporting great causes throughout the region, and we are excited to continue making the dream of free college tuition real for more Quad Cities families!”

The Community Foundation of the Great River Bend has been active in the Quad Cities region for the past 50 years and helps donors support hundreds of local causes, including scholarship opportunities on both sides of the Mississippi River. The Community Foundation’s mission is simply stated: To better our community by connecting people who care with causes that matter. In 1994, the Davenport Area Foundation became the “The Community Foundation of the Great River Bend,” reflecting the growth as a regional resource for both charitable giving and civic engagement. As CFGRB celebrates its 50th anniversary, there is no longer one pooled fund. Instead, there are more than 900 distinct charitable funds, totaling more than $100 million in assets located in 13 affiliate community foundations that serve 17 counties in two states.

“The River Bandits are a vital part of this community. They bring excitement and family fun to the Quad Cities,” stated Susan Skora, President and CEO of the Community Foundation. “The Community Foundation is pleased to partner with them as they bring education and internship opportunities to area students.”

The Bandit Scholars Program annually awards two scholarships to deserving area high school seniors. Each scholarship pays for the winner’s entire first year of tuition and includes a summer internship with the River Bandits following the winner’s first year of college.

River Bandits owners Dave Heller and Bob Herrfeldt founded the Bandit Scholars Program in 2009. The scholarships benefit a Quad Cities-area high school senior entering the University of Iowa and has been awarded annually to one Quad Cities-area high school senior since its inception. The Bandit Scholars Program expanded in 2012 with the addition of a second scholarship for an incoming freshman on the Illinois side at either Western Illinois University or Black Hawk College. The two 2014 scholarship winners will be announced and honored at the River Bandits’ June 15 home game at Modern Woodmen Park.

The River Bandits are the only team in minor league baseball to give away two college scholarships each year paying a student’s entire first-year tuition. To help fund the scholarships, the River Bandits hold promotional events, including the annual Frost Fest and the Bandits Race to Home 5K, set for April 12. Race and Fun Run participants receive a registration discount through March 19 by visiting www.riverbandits.com/5k. Fans can also send donations for the scholarship fund to Modern Woodmen Park.

UP NEXT: Opening Day is April 3, so lock in your seats now to see the defending Midwest League Champions in 2014! To order any of the ticket plans – with new lower prices – call the River Bandits box office at 563-324-3000 or visit www.riverbandits.com to download the season ticket order form. Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $40. Call a River Bandits account representative today to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.

ABOUT THE BANDITS: Having just been named Ballpark Digest’s winner of Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the River Bandits ownership is making one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 110 feet over the playing field, is opening this spring, along with a carousel, a new ride called a “Drop and Twist,” an expanded 300-foot long zip line, and many other new games and attractions. In 2013, the team unveiled a new 220-foot long dual zip line, a rock climbing wall, and a number of new bounce houses. The team’s major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, just saw all six of its affiliates reach the playoffs – the first time in a decade any MLB team can claim such success. The River Bandits were one of three affiliates to reach the championship round and one of two to win their league championship.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Quad Cities River Bandits. Click here to view the original story.

Embrace Hospice to Title Sponsor Military Appreciation Program

Florence-based Hospice Center to be featured during 11 Pelicans Games

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (FEBRUARY 27, 2014) – The Myrtle Beach Pelicans are pleased to announce that Embrace Hospice has signed on as the title sponsor for the Pelicans inaugural Military Appreciation program titled “Embrace Veterans.” Military Appreciation Night headlines the program on Friday, June 6, 2014 when the Pelicans host the Frederick Keys at TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark.

Over 11 game dates during the season, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans will feature stories of WWII veterans as a part of a new program called Embrace Veterans, culminating in Military Appreciation Night, presented by Embrace Hospice, which falls on the 70th anniversary of D-Day. The program is working with several different veteran-related non-profit organizations in the Grand Strand to honor veterans who served during WWII.

In addition to their involvement in Military Appreciation Night, Embrace Hospice will be a partner for an additional ten game dates throughout the 2014 season. On each of these nights, the Pelicans will highlight veterans during the game at TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. This will include a video tribute of select veterans, produced by The Center for Military and Veterans Studies at CCU and presented by Embrace Hospice. A representative from Embrace Hospice will throw out the first pitch alongside a local Grand Strand veteran as well. Information on Embrace Hospice will be available in the concourse for each of these games. The game dates for the Embrace Veterans program are as follows: April 19; May 3, 17, 31; June 6, 7, 21; July 12, 19; August 2, 30.

On Military Appreciation Night, the Pelicans will give away a Veteran Card Set, presented by Embrace Hospice, featuring a variety of veterans from the Grand Strand. The Embrace Hospice name and Embrace Veterans logo will appear on all promotional materials and event details for the night and will also be featured throughout TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. Embrace Hospice will receive recognition on the Pelicans Radio Network, which can be heard locally on ESPN Myrtle Beach 1450 WRNN AM and globally on ESPNMyrtleBeach.com and TuneIn Radio, including an on-air, in-game interview highlighting their mission.

“We at Embrace Hospice are very proud to be partnering with the Pelicans in celebrating and honoring our veterans this year. [Many of us here are] veterans ourselves, so this has an extra special meaning to us and the many veterans we employ,” said Kevin McHugh, the CEO of Embrace Hospice. “Our veterans are one of this country’s greatest accomplishments. What they have done for our freedom makes going to a ballgame an everyday thing for Americans. We hope the community joins us this year at Pelicans ballgames to say thank you and to ‘Embrace a Veteran’.”

The Pelicans are currently accepting nominations of veterans to be featured on the video board and/or in the card set. To be highlighted on a particular game night with video board feature, the veteran must be a currently living veteran of WWII. Veterans of all U.S. conflicts, whether deceased or living, are eligible for the card set. The Pelicans will make selections for both the video tributes and the card set from the nominees; all decisions on these matters are final. To nominate a veteran, applications must be filled out and submitted to the Pelicans by e-mail to Katelyn Guild at KGuild@MyrtleBeachPelicans.com, by mail to the Pelicans Front Office located at 1251 21st Avenue North, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577, or in person at the same address, Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Applications are available at MyrtleBeachPelicans.com or in person at the Pelicans Front Office.

The Pelicans begin their season on April 3rd when the Salem Red Sox visit TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. Season Seats, Mini Plans, Flex Books, and single game tickets for the 2014 season are on sale now. For more information on tickets to see the Pelicans in 2014, please call (843) 918-6002, e-mail info@myrtlebeachpelicans.com, visit www.MyrtleBeachPelicans.com, or visit the Pelicans box office, which is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Click here to view the original story.

NEFCU/Lake Monsters “CHAMP Sightings”

Free CHAMP appearances offered to non-profit organizations

BURLINGTON, VT — New England Federal Credit Union and the Vermont Lake Monsters will be teaming up this year to actively support the community by offering free CHAMP appearances (called “CHAMP Sightings”) to non-profit organizations and other programs that share their commitment to enhancing the well being of the local communities.

“Over the past 20 years, CHAMP has become an integral part of the community, but there are still events each year that we have wanted to participate in but were unable to.” said Nate Cloutier, Lake Monsters’ General Manager. “We are very fortunate to have teamed up with such a wonderful community partner such as NEFCU, who shares our vision for giving back to the community and having fun while doing so.”

CHAMP, the mascot for the Lake Monsters since the team’s first season in the New York-Penn League back in 1994, has always been available for appearances in the community for a fee. But this new partnership between NEFCU and the Lake Monsters will give certain organizations and programs the opportunity to have CHAMP make an appearance at their event for no charge.

Organizations and programs interested in participating in the “CHAMP Sightings” program, and having CHAMP attend their event for free must submit a formal application that can be downloaded here from CHAMP Sightings page in Community section of website. Please note that depending on the event location, travel costs may apply. Interested parties should submit a formal application as soon as possible, as appearances are limited.

“The Vermont Lake Monsters and NEFCU share a deep commitment to supporting the community,” said Cindy Morgan, NEFCU Senior Marketing Executive. “We are pleased to help bring ‘CHAMP Sightings’ to organizations in our area.”

If an organization or program does not fit the requirements of the “CHAMP Sightings” program, regular CHAMP appearance requests can be made by calling (802) 655-4200 or downloading application here from CHAMP Appearances page in Kids Zone section of website. Regular rates do apply – $100 per hour, plus travel expenses.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Vermont Lake Monsters. Click here to view the original story.

San Jose Giants’ Announce Military Trading Card Set

Operation: Care and Comfort will sponsor giveaway based on fan nominations

San Jose, CA– On Sunday, April 13, the San Jose Giants will once again bring patriotism to Municipal Stadium with Salute to the Military Day, presented by Operation: Care and Comfort. This season the first 1,000 fans in attendance will receive a special Military Trading Card Set, courtesy of Operation: Care and Comfort. The trading card set will be made up entirely from fan nominations of current or former members of the military. Winners will be selected in mid-March and be unveiled during the season preview press conference at San Jose Giants FanFest on Monday, March 31. Nominations will be accepted until Wednesday, March 12 and all submission must be accompanied by a photo of the nominee, in military uniform, sent to info@sjgiants.com. Click here to submit your nomination. In addition, all fans showing a military ID at the Municipal Stadium Box Office will receive FREE admission to that day’s 1:00 PM game against the Bakersfield Blaze.

“The Military Trading Card Set, presented by Operation: Care and Comfort, is truly an extraordinary addition to our third annual Salute to the Military Day,” said Juliana Paoli, San Jose Giants Chief Marketing Officer. “The military holds a special place in the heart of our community and the trading card set gives people a unique opportunity to honor the brave men and women that serve our country. We want to encourage everyone to take this opportunity to share with our fans and the community the stories of the amazing heroes among us.”

Salute to the Military Day will be an entire afternoon dedicated to honoring the brave men and women defending our country as the pregame festivities will include a first pitch ceremony, color guard presentation and on-field recognition of individuals chosen for the Military Trading Card Set. The team will also wear special military themed jerseys. The team will don these jerseys again on Memorial Day, May 26 against the Visalia Rawhide, where they will be part of an in-game silent auction directly benefiting Operation: Care and Comfort. On May 26, each of the highest bidders will be able to go on the field following the game and receive their new autographed jersey right off the respective San Jose Giant’s back.

“Operation: Care and Comfort is so proud to add a new and exciting element to our partnership with the San Jose Giants and honor troops, veterans and their families with this Military Trading Card Set,” said Julie DeMaria, Operation: Care and Comfort President and Co-Founder. “Our first two Salute to the Military ballgames received a tremendous response and I hope that current military and veterans alike, throughout the Bay Area, will not only be nominated for the trading card set, but be able to join us on April 13.”

First pitch for the San Jose Giants home opener will take place at 7:00 PM on Thursday, April 10 against the Bakersfield Blaze. San Jose’s 2014 season begins on Thursday, April 3. The Giants will host games at Municipal Stadium on Mother’s Day (May 11), Memorial Day (May 26), and Independence Day (July 4).For information on the 2014 season and ticket packages please visit sjgiants.com, call (408) 297-1435 or visit the Municipal Stadium Box Office Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Download the 2014 Schedule online at sjgiants.com

Click Here to nominate for the Military Trading Card Set, presented by Operation: Care and Comfort

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Jose Giants. Click here to view the original story.

Return of Community Events

The Rome Braves announced today the return of two community wide special events at State Mutual Stadium, home of the Rome Braves. On Friday March 21st and Saturday March 22nd, the Rome Braves High School Invitational will be held for the third consecutive year. This year joining the Floyd County High Schools in competition will be Calhoun High School, Darlington School, Rome High School, and the defending GHSA-AAA State Champions, Cartersville High School. On Friday Armuchee High School will take on Calhoun High School at 6pm. The schedule for Saturday will feature Coosa High School vs. Darlington School at 11am, Model High School vs. Rome High School at 2:45pm, and Pepperell High School vs. Cartersville High School at 6:30pm. Gates will open 1 hour prior to the first schedule game each day. “We’re excited to announce the addition of these four baseball programs into our Invitational,” said Rome Braves General Manager, Michael Dunn. “It’s always a good day when we’re able to showcase and support local high school baseball.”

This two day Invitational directly benefits these local baseball programs based on their team’s ticket sales. Fans can purchase tickets directly from their favorite participating teams through March 14th and the team that sells the most tickets receives an additional donation from the Atlanta Braves Foundation for their baseball program. Tickets are $5 per person and seating is general admission for all games. After the 14th, tickets can be purchased through the box office at State Mutual Stadium.

Following the Invitational, in April, the Rome Braves will host the 2nd Annual No Excuses 5k and 10k in memory of Scott Hines. This yearly race benefits the Braves Miracle Field of Rome. Competition will take place on Saturday April 19th at 8am and is a part of the R.A.C.E. Rome series. In the inaugural race, almost 300 runners crossed the finish line at home plate to support baseball for disabled kids and adults in Northwest Georgia. Through programming at the Braves Miracle Field of Rome, over 100 athletes have suited up to play baseball during the first two seasons. A weekly school league is also available to special education classes in the area. No athlete is turned away due to the financial constraints. For more information contact Erin Elrod at 706-368-9388 or click here and sign-up online.

The Rome Braves 2014 home opener is Thursday April 10th at 7pm against the Savannah Sand Gnats, an affiliate of the New York Mets. Tickets go on sale Saturday March 8th at 9am.

 

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Rome Braves. Click here to view the original story.

Wilmore student wins Hit the Books contest

Runners-up from Wilmore, Menifee, Eastern elementaries

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Hit the Books bookmark design winner Lyla Lamb and her family celebrated with Big L. (Lexington Legends)

 

(WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK, Lexington, Ky.) A student at Wilmore Elementary School was the winner of a bookmark design contest that is part of the Lexington Legends Hit the Books reading incentive program.

Fourth grade student Lyla Lamb created the winning entry. She received a Legends prize pack, including Legends merchandise, a framed Hit the Books poster featuring her artwork and membership in the 2014 Little Legends Kids Club. She also will be invited to throw a ceremonial first pitch at a designated Legends game for her school. Bookmarks featuring her artwork will be distributed to students at every school that participates in the Hit the Books program. More than 27,000 students from 65 central Kentucky schools are expected to take part in the program, which runs through April 1.

Earning runner-up honors were Leah Olmstead, a fifth grade student at Wilmore Elementary; Kevin Spencer, a fifth grade student at Menifee County Elementary; and Samuel Jung, a third grade student at Eastern Elementary in Scott County.

Runners-up received a framed poster and Legends merchandise.

“Hit the Books has always been an important part of community outreach for the Legends,” said Sarah Bosso, the Legends’ director of community relations and special events. “We enjoy visiting the schools and meeting the students who are taking part in the program. Building literacy in childhood is a great cause. We’re glad to help develop good readers as well as good Legends fans.”

In Hit the Books, a baseball diamond is used to record credit for a student’s reading. For every book a student reads, a teacher places his or her initials on a base. When the student has all three bases and home plate initialed by the teacher, the student may bring a Hit the Books bookmark to the Legends’ box office at Whitaker Bank Ballpark to exchange it for two tickets to a Legends home game designated for their school.

The 2014 season is the 14th for Legends baseball, and also marks the 14th year that the Legends have been associated with Hit the Books. About 175,000 students have participated.

The Legends, a class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, open the home season Thursday, April 3 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the West Virginia Power, an affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. For more information, visit www.lexingtonlegends.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lexington Legends. Click here to view the original story.

Community Organization of the Game Program Returns

Now Presented by DePietro Pharmacy

Moosic, Pa. – One of the signature pieces of community outreach for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) a season ago is back and better than ever. The Community Organization of the Game program, presented by DePietro Pharmacy, is looking for NEPA community groups that wish to spread their word to the masses during the 2014 season.

“DePietro’s Pharmacy is locally owned and invested in the health of our community,” said owner Thomas DiPietro. “We are proud to stay involved in our community. Last year, we donated over $8,000 to local fundraisers and organizations. This year we are proud to be able to sponsor the Community Organization of the Game. Our commitment to our community clearly aligns with the RailRiders’ vision. There are many people who need assistance in our community. Community organizations are often underfunded, so they generally have a small budget for promotions and advertising. The RailRiders’ commitment gives organizations a unique opportunity to educate the public on their services. It also benefits the community, as many people don’t know what kind of help is out there.”

A total of 72 non-profit groups, one for each home game, will receive a tip of the cap and more throughout the 2014 campaign. The groups chosen will own a prime spot on the front porch of NEPA. In addition to receiving four free field reserve seats, the group will also have a concourse table allowing them to pass out information on their organization and cause. Beyond that personal face-to-face time, each group will be have a live pre-game interview on the field that will be shown to all in attendance on PNC Field’s state-of-the-art video board. The message will be further disseminated with a live in-game interview on the RailRiders’ radio broadcast.

The Community Organization of the Game receives other perks like a ceremonial first pitch, their logo getting some time to shine on the video board and most of all, the chance to interact with the very folks they touch with their efforts.

“We are honored to highlight the great organizations that benefit our community,” said team president/GM Rob Crain. “These people and their organizations do so much. If we can help get their message out in any way, we are humbly glad to do so.”

Community organizations that are interested in participating are invited to contact the team’s community relations manager Rachel Mark through e-mail at rmark@swbrailriders.com or by phone at 570-969-2255, ext. 3140.

The RailRiders’ 2014 season begins on Thursday, April 3 when the club kicks off a seven-game road trip at Syracuse against the Chiefs (Washington Nationals).The home slate commences a week later on Thursday, April 10 when the Chiefs visit PNC Field for a four-game series and homestand. For season ticket information or to book a ballpark group outing, call (570) 969-BALL (2255) or visit swbrailriders.com.

– SWB RailRiders – All Aboard! –

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Click here to view the original story.

Intimidators now accepting applications for ACN Charity Spotlight organizations

KANNAPOLIS, N.C. (Feb. 20, 2014) – The Kannapolis Intimidators have teamed up with ACN Inc. to host four Charity Spotlight Nights during the 2014 season in order to give local non-profit organizations a larger platform to raise money and awareness for their cause. Organizations can apply through the team website – IntimidatorsBaseball.com – under the “Fans” tab or by calling the front office at (704) 932-3267. Groups interested in applying are encouraged to do so now as consideration will be given on a first-come, first-served basis. ACN Charity Spotlight Nights will be Friday, April 18; Friday, May 17; Friday, July 18; and Thursday, August 28.

APPLY TODAY TO BE A SPOTLIGHTED CHARITY

Up to five area non-profits will be able to set up an information table on the stadium concourse to promote their cause to fans on each ACN Charity Spotlight Night, and organizations will also receive discounted ticket vouchers to distribute to their supporters throughout the community. The Intimidators will donate 50% of proceeds from these vouchers to the organizations.

About the Intimidators

The Intimidators are preparing for the 20th season of professional baseball in Kannapolis and 14th as the Class A Affiliate of the Chicago White Sox affiliate. Season tickets, mini-plans and select single-game seats are currently available by calling the F&M Bank Box Office at (704) 932-3267 or by visiting the team website at www.IntimidatorsBaseball.com.

About ACN Inc.

Headquartered in Concord, N.C., ACN is the world’s largest direct selling telecommunications company offering highly competitive services to consumers and small businesses in North America, Europe, Pacific and now Asia. The company’s outstanding product portfolio includes digital phone service with video phone, local and long distance services, internet, wireless, home security & automation, television, energy, ACN Mobile World, and ACN Premium Technical Support.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Kannapolis Intimidators. Click here to view the original story.

Naturals Reveal Scout Night Details for 2014 Season

Scout patch & post-game campout included in Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, & Cub Scouts event

SPRINGDALE, AR – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are excited to announce that we will once again be hosting two (2) Scout Nights during our upcoming 2014 season. The first event will take place on Saturday, May 10th with the second on Friday, August 8th. Both events are proudly sponsored by Camping World of Northwest Arkansas.

An annual fan favorite, scouts and their families can attend the Naturals game for a discounted group rate and enjoy a campout in the outfield overnight for no additional cost. In addition, all scouts and leaders in attendance will receive a commemorate 2014 Naturals’ Scout Patch and a kid-friendly movie will be shown on the videoboard after the game. Previously this off-season, the Naturals held a Patch Design Contest which was won by Robert Betterton of Cub Scout Pack 110. Tickets for the game, campout, and patch are only $8 per person if reserved in advance.

For those groups wishing to participate, the Naturals encourage one parent or leader in the group to collect RSVP’s and payment from each family that would like to attend. This ensures that all members of the group will be seated together during the night of the event. To reserve your group for one (1) of the Naturals two (2) Scout Nights in 2014, please visit click HERE to download the Scout Night flyer or contact Matt Fanning at (479) 927-4053.

The first Scout Night, being held on Saturday, May 10th, will also include a special Replica Naturals’ Baby Blue Jersey giveaway to the first 2,000 fans courtesy of Tyson Foods. While the second event, on Friday, August 8th, includes a special post-game Fireworks spectacular to celebrate Pink in the Park presented by Farm Rich.

Group tickets for all seventy (70) Naturals home games are now available. They can be pre-purchased for your event by calling our Administrative Offices at (479) 927-4900, emailing groups@nwanaturals.com, visiting our website at www.nwanaturals.com, or stopping by the Arvest Ballpark box office open Monday-Friday 10am-5pm.

The Seventh Season of Naturals Baseball begins Thursday, April 3, 2014 in Frisco, TX. The team opens at Arvest Ballpark on Thursday April 10, 2014 against the same Frisco RoughRiders.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The Naturals play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark in Springdale, AR. For more information including statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

 -Naturals-

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. Click here to view the original story.

BlueClaws Pitch In; Green Sustainability for Veterans

Team to sponsor solar array on roof of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post

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Lakewood, NJ – The Lakewood BlueClaws, a minor league baseball team that plays at FirstEnergy Park in Lakewood, has recently become the nation’s first sports team to join SolarCure’s “Adopt-a-Solar Panel” Program.

As part of the program, they sponsor a solar panel that will be installed as part of a complete solar array on the roof of a local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post thus truly making a lasting difference in the lives of Veterans. This solar panel installation will provide extra income through SRECs and generate free and clean energy for at least 25 years. The reduced or eliminated electricity bills will allow the VFW to allocate more funds towards their organization’s mission and re-invested back to Veterans.

This innovative program produces multiple beneficiaries: the environment, our economy, and military veterans.

The “Adopt-a-Solar-Panel” Program
Program participants demonstrate their patriotism and sustainability regarding economic and environmental issues by sponsoring part of a solar panel installation destined for a veteran based nonprofit organization.

The “Adopt-a-Solar-Panel” program reduces U.S. carbon emissions through the use of renewable solar energy by providing Veteran nonprofits with 100% free Solar Panel installations sponsored by private and public companies.

In addition to the bonus that non-profits can generate additional income through SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Credits), each solar installation also helps create new jobs for civilians and veterans in our country.

When asked what they found most interesting about the Adopt-a-Solar Panel program, Brandon Marano, BlueClaws General Manager said “We’re able to help the environment and the veterans at the same time with this great program. It was a unique situation for us and one that we are excited to be a part of.”

BlueClaws & The Military
The BlueClaws have made a choice to support America’s veteran organizations as a way of giving back to those that have served. In addition to their solar panel sponsorship, which is consistent with their dedicated support of military veterans, the BlueClaws also host a “Military Partners Program” and “We Salute You Wednesdays” through which the military is honored at Wednesday home games and companies donate tickets to local active and retired military members.

The BlueClaws have also partnered with OceanFirst Foundation on Home Runs For Heroes, and every time the BlueClaws hit a home run at FirstEnergy Park, a donation is made to a local military-based non-profit. Over $100,000 has been raised since 2009.

Other military initiatives include military discounts, appreciation nights that collect supplies and cell phones for our active troops, special nights dedicated to Veteran non-profits such as the Disabled American Veterans, VFW, and Joint-Base nights.

The BlueClaws are a member of 18 local Chambers of Commerce and staff members sit on boards of directors or event committees for over 75 different Chambers and non-profit organizations.

About SolarCure
SolarCure specializes in helping clients combine powerful messaging and promotion with legitimate, sustainable, renewable green energy practices – all while helping veterans. For more information on career opportunities or how your company can grow its business while helping veterans and the environment, please visit www.solarcure.us or email your questions to adopt@solarcure.us

– SolarCure / BlueClaws –

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lakewood BlueClaws. Click here to view the original story.

Charlotte Knights Announce Scholarship Programs for 2014

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(Uptown Charlotte, NC) – A year ago, the Charlotte Knights teamed up with Carolinas HealthCare System and announced an initiative to provide three high school seniors with a $1,000 scholarship each. With the success of Charlotte Knights HealthCare Scholarship Program, presented by Carolinas HealthCare System, the Knights and Carolinas HealthCare System are once again continuing their partnership for 2014. In addition, the Knights are pleased to announce a partnership with one of their founding partners – Piedmont Natural Gas – on another exciting scholarship program. Both scholarships will provide students with educational funding for college.

In an effort to improve educational funding for high school students who are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, the Charlotte Knights and Carolinas HealthCare System will provide three $1,000 college scholarships to local high school seniors. New for 2014, the Charlotte Knights along with Piedmont Natural Gas, will provide three $1,000 college scholarships to sophomore students attending college in Piedmont Natural Gas’ service territory. This scholarship is for college students who are interested in pursuing a career in Engineering, Business Administration and Environmental Science.

Last year at Knights Stadium, the Knights honored high school students John Dock Tallent, Gisele Bailey, and Stephanie Smith, as the inaugural recipients of the Charlotte Knights HealthCare Scholarship Program presented by Carolinas HealthCare System. This year’s winners will be honored before a game at BB&T Ballpark.

Applications for both the Charlotte Knights Healthcare Scholarship Program, presented by Carolinas HealthCare System, and the Piedmont Natural Gas Scholarship Program, are available at charlotteknights.com. All applications must be emailed to community@charlotteknights.com or mailed to Charlotte Knights Annual Scholarship at 324 South Mint St., Charlotte, NC 28202. All applications must be postmarked by April 4, 2014.

About Carolinas HealthCare System
Carolinas HealthCare System (carolinashealthcare.org), one of the nation’s leading and most innovative healthcare organizations, provides a full spectrum of healthcare and wellness programs throughout North and South Carolina. Its diverse network of care locations includes academic medical centers, hospitals, freestanding emergency departments, physician practices, surgical and rehabilitation centers, home health agencies, nursing homes and behavioral health centers, as well as hospice and palliative care services. Carolinas HealthCare System works to enhance the overall health and wellbeing of its communities through high quality patient care, education and research programs, and numerous collaborative partnerships and initiatives.

About Piedmont Natural Gas
Piedmont Natural Gas is an energy services company primarily engaged in the distribution of natural gas to more than one million residential, commercial, industrial and power generation utility customers in portions of North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee, including customers served by municipalities who are wholesale customers. Our subsidiaries are invested in joint venture, energy-related businesses, including unregulated retail natural gas marketing, and regulated interstate natural gas transportation and storage, and regulated intrastate natural gas transportation businesses. More information about Piedmont Natural Gas is available on the Internet at http://www.piedmontng.com/.

The Knights will open BB&T Ballpark on Friday night, April 11 at 7:05 p.m. against the Norfolk Tides. Season tickets, as well as group tickets and partial season ticket plans for the 2014 inaugural season at BB&T Ballpark, are on sale now and can be purchased by phone at (980) 207-0079 or by email at seasonseats@charlotteknights.com. For more information about Charlotte Knights Baseball, log on to www.charlotteknights.com. Uptown Knights are Better Than Ever!

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Charlotte Knights. Click here to view the original story.

Gwinnett Braves to Host High School Showcase II

Coolray Field set to host 22 of the premiere high school baseball teams in the area from Feb. 22 to March 15

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LAWRENCEVILLE, GA – The Gwinnett Braves will host the second annual High School Baseball Showcase at Coolray Field beginning on February 22. For four consecutive weekends from February 22 through March15, the home of the G-Braves will host 22 of the top high school baseball programs in the Atlanta metro area.

Last season, the Gwinnett Braves hosted a two-day event, and with the hard work of the front office staff and commitment of the high school baseball teams in the area, the G-Braves have expanded the showcase into a five-day, four-weekend event. The showcase will be jam-packed with talented squads, as 15 of the 22 participating teams earned postseason berths and accumulated winning marks in 2013.

“We are happy to continue this tradition of high school baseball at Coolray Field,” said Gwinnett Braves General Manager North Johnson. “The expansion of the game schedule shows the commitment of our staff in making these games available to all the schools in the Atlanta metro area. One of our goals at Coolray Field is to make these games accessible to all the schools in the area and we are very happy that schools from all across the area are taking part in this showcase.”

The event will kick off with North Gwinnett High School and Providence Christian High School, as they play at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 22. North Gwinnett features left-handed pitcher Tucker Baca, who is committed to Arizona State University and is ranked the No. 92 high school prospect according to Baseball America. Providence Christian is coming off a 15-win season and a playoff berth. The nightcap will feature Archer High School and Lanier High School at 4 p.m. Both schools are relatively new to the baseball fold, as their programs have been around for less than five years. Each school is quickly building into an elite power, including Lanier, who is coming off a school-best 18-win season in 2013.

On Saturday, March 1, Coolray Field will be loaded with baseball action, hosting four games from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Buford High School, who is coming off of a 21-12 season, will match up against Hebron High School at 11:30 a.m. Holy Innocents High School and Lambert High School, two teams that made it into the second round of the Georgia State playoffs in their respective regions last year, will face off at 1:30 p.m. South Forsyth High School and Dunwoody High School will meet at 4 p.m., and the day will conclude with a battle between Kennesaw Mountain High School and Northview High School at 6:30 p.m.

The showcase will continue the following weekend with three more games. On Friday, March 7 at 4 p.m., Peachtree Ridge High School will play North Forsyth High School. Last season, Peachtree Ridge finished second in the region with an 11-3 record, but fell in the second round of the 7-AAAAAA playoffs. North Forsyth won 12 games in 2013 and finished sixth in their division.

On Saturday, March 8, Mountain View High School and South Gwinnett High School will play each other for the second straight season at Coolray Field. Last year, the Comets won a tightly contested battle 7-6 over the Bears. Right after that game at 6:30 p.m., Norcross High School and Grayson High School will take the field. Both squads come into 2014 following stellar seasons, as each finished atop their respective conferences and qualified for the playoffs a year ago.

The showcase will conclude on Saturday, March 15 with another twin-bill starting at 11 a.m. The first contest will feature East Cobb Academy and the Home Plate Citadels, while the second game pits Johns Creek High School against Loganville High School at 1:30 p.m. Johns Creek went 18-7 last season, reaching the AAAAAA playoffs before losing to Norcross, while Loganville went 26-8 before falling in the quarterfinals of the AAAAA playoffs.

“This is a great opportunity for our players to play on the best playing surface in all of Triple-A baseball and to play in such a beautiful venue against a perennial high school power like Loganville,” said Johns Creek Head Baseball Coach Billy Nicholson. “Our whole baseball community is looking forward to a great day of baseball!”

Tickets will be available at the Coolray Field Ticket Office on the day of the games only. Adult tickets are $10 and student tickets with ID are $5 for the day. For more information about the event or how to purchase tickets, contact the Coolray Field Ticket Office at 678-277-0340 or visit gwinnettbraves.com.

The Gwinnett Braves will begin their sixth season of play on Thursday, April 3 at Durham. The G-Braves’ 2014 home opener at Coolray Field will take place on Friday, April 11 against the Durham Bulls. Season tickets for the 2014 campaign are on sale now by calling the Coolray Field Ticket Office at 678-277-0340. For more information on 2014 season ticket packages, visit gwinnettbraves.com/2014.

# # #

COUNTDOWN TO THE 2014 HOME OPENER (Friday, April 11, 7:05 PM vs. Durham): 52 Days

The Gwinnett Braves are the Triple-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. Follow the G-Braves at gwinnettbraves.com, facebook.com/GwinnettBraves1 and twitter.com/GwinnettBraves. For more information on 2014 Season Tickets, call the Coolray Field Ticket Office at 678-277-0340 or visit gwinnettbraves.com/2014.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Gwinnett Braves. Click here to view the original story.