Archives for April 2014

6th Annual Autism Awareness Night April 19th

April 15, 2014

With 1 in 110 children in the United States diagnosed with some form of Autism, the Hillcats are lending a hand to offer awareness and support to this cause in 2014. The 6th Annual Autism Awareness Night presented by Physicians Treatment Center is scheduled for Saturday, April 19th and will raise money for Commonwealth Autism Services.

As many as 75,000 in Virginia are affected with this developmental disability and Commonwealth Autism Services is an organization that strives to enrich the lives of those in Virginia with autism, throughout their entire lifespan through statewide services. GA tickets are $10 and two dollars of each ticket sold for April 19th’s game will be donated to this organization.

This year’s Autism Awareness Night presented by Physicians Treatment Center is slated for 6:05pm when the Hillcats will take on the Potomac Nationals at City Stadium. Plus, the first 1,000 fans through the gates that evening will receive a free commemorative t-shirt! Along with donating a portion of the ticket costs, proceeds from a silent auction, 50/50 raffle and sponsor donations will also be donated during an in-game check presentation. Last year’s Autism Awareness Night raised $11,000!

The Hillcats thank the following Autism Awareness Night Sponsors:

Physicians Treatment Center as the title sponsor; Lynchburg Project Lifesaver, Inc; Sam’s Club; After Hours Plumbing; Appalachian Orthodontics of Lynchburg; Central Virginia Autism Action Group; Courtyard by Marriott; Developmental Pediatrics; Flowers Baking Company; Gary’s Garden Center; High Peak Sportswear; Kroger; Larry’s Tire & Auto Repair; Laslie’s Auto Body; Piedmont Eye Center; Rehab Associates of Central Virginia; 97.9 FM The Planet; Servpro; Star Country/Q99/K92/WLNI; T.J. Maxx; Winoa USA; WIQO/ESPN Radio; WKDE; Wooldridge Heating, Air & Electrical; WYYD.

Fans will also have the chance to give back to great local causes with the 3rd Annual Paint the Park Purple Night presented by Gastroenterology Associates of Central VA, Relay for Life & The American Cancer Society on Friday, May 2nd at 6:05pm as well as with the 8th Annual “Swing for a Cure” Breast Cancer Awareness Night presented by Centra’s Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Society on Saturday, May 17th at 6:05pm.

To purchase tickets to Autism Awareness Night, Paint the Park Purple Night, Breast Cancer Awareness Night or any other game, fans can call the box office at (434) 528-1144 or online. Ticket purchases can also be made in person at the Lynchburg City Stadium Ticket Office (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm). So don’t miss your chance to give back to the community with the Lynchburg Hillcats this season!

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

BlueClaws Baseball Academy Open Tryout on May 4th

April 15, 2014

BBA will run three teams this summer based at FirstEnergy Park

LAKEWOOD, NJ – BlueClaws Baseball Academy will hold an open tryout on May 4th at FirstEnergy Park with registration starting at 9 am and the tryouts starting at 10 am.

Coming off an extremely successful Fall and Winter season with their two 17-under teams, the BBA Claws will be adding a freshman team (for players that are currently high school freshman). Last year’s roster included players from 11 high schools and three counties. In all, the organization will have three teams consisting of 40 players at both the 17u and 16u levels.

Anyone that is currently in 9th, 10th or 11th grade and interested in trying out must contact Joe Agnello at 732-901-7000 ext 209 or email jagnello@blueclaws.com to register. There is a $20 tryout fee though any player that makes a team will have the money credited towards their registration.

The BBA Claws will begin practicing in June in order to be ready for the start of the Summer season. The team will participate in Perfect Game Super 25 Mid-Atlantic Regional qualifier, Diamond Nation 18u World Series, and BlueChip Prospects Showcase at Maple Zone Sports Institute, their own BBA College Showcase, weekly practices, and take part in a pre-game ceremony before a Lakewood BlueClaws game.

The schedule will also consist of games played against local teams at FirstEnergy Park and other local fields. The roster will be made up of Shore-area players and compete at both the 16u and 17u age level. The team will again be run by Joe Agnello, the director of the BlueClaws Baseball Academy, whose resume consists of nine years of coaching at the collegiate level, and for Major League Baseball player development in Southeast China.

BBA has also teamed up with Turn 2 Sports Consulting of Tinton Falls to help players and parents with the recruiting process. This exclusive partnership will educate, coach, and train families on how the recruiting details, NCAA academic and eligibility requirements, effective marketing strategies, and basic phone and interview preparation.

BlueClaws Baseball Academy is a year-long instruction-based program for youth players at the Jersey Shore. They run clinics througout the year and in 2013, ran two 17-under travel teams based out of FirstEnergy Park. It is believed to be the first time that a Minor League Baseball team sponsored and hosted youth travel teams from their own facility.

With any questions about BlueClaws Baseball Academy, contact Joe Agnello at 732-901-7000 ext 209.

– BlueClaws Baseball Academy –

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

G-Braves Partner with Fifth Third Bank on “Strike Out Hunger” Food Drive

April 15, 2014

Local Bank Aims to Collect Enough Food Donations to Feed 5,300 Families to Help Celebrate “Fifth Third Day”

Kennesaw, Ga. – Today, Fifth Third Bank (Georgia) announced it is going to bat with the Gwinnett Braves – to launch Strike Out Hunger! This community food drive will run from April 18 through May 3 (“Fifth Third Day” on 5/3) and is aimed at collecting enough products to feed 5,300 families in the Atlanta Metro area.

Members of the community are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items – such as canned fruits and meats, peanut butter and boxed cereal – to participating Fifth Third Bank financial centers. While supplies last, the bank will give baseball game tickets to those who make a contribution to the food drive, courtesy of the Gwinnett Braves.

“We believe that a continual investment in our community can make a meaningful impact. Each year, the bank recognizes its employees, customers and the communities it serves on the third day of the fifth month – or 5/3 on the calendar,” said Randy Koporc, president of Fifth Third Bank (Georgia). “We’re proud to be working with top-notch organizations like the Gwinnett Braves, Kennesaw State University, the Augusta GreenJackets, the Atlanta Community Food Bank and the Golden Harvest Food Bank to help families and children in need throughout the Atlanta area.”

After the month-long food drive, the bank will deliver food donations to the Atlanta Community Food Bank, which will in turn feed thousands of families.

“The need for food in our community continues to increase, and the donated items will directly help people here in our own backyards,” said Bill Bolling, Founder and Executive Director of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. “Each year, we distribute more than 45 million pounds of food to help feed the food insecure through our network of more than 600 partner agencies throughout metro Atlanta and north Georgia. We are humbled that Fifth Third Bank has once again focused on contributing to our efforts to fight hunger and provide hope.”

“The Gwinnett Braves are proud to team up with Fifth Third Bank to help answer a vital need of our community,” said North Johnson, General Manager of the Gwinnett Braves. “The Atlanta Community Food Bank does a tremendous job in providing food to hungry children and families, and we are glad to do our part in helping keep those food banks stocked.”

To take part in fighting hunger and receive tickets to the Gwinnett Braves vs. Lehigh Valley Ironpigs on Saturday, May 3, 2014 at 7:05 p.m., residents can drop off food donations at financial centers in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Duluth, Lawrenceville, Loganville, Roswell, and Norcross from April 18 through May 3.

** Disclosure: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Offer available only at participating Fifth Third locations. Offer valid April 18, 2014 – May 3, 2014. Donations may be made during regular business hours. Limit one ticket per donated item with a maximum of four tickets per person. Offer good only while supplies last.

Food collection bins are set up at all 32 Fifth Third financial centers in the following counties: Columbia, Richmond, Fulton, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Walton, and Cobb. Location addresses are available at 53.com.

About Fifth Third Bank: Fifth Third Bancorp is a diversified financial services company headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Company has $130 billion in assets and operates 17 affiliates with 1,320 full-service Banking Centers, including 104 Bank Mart® locations, most open seven days a week, inside select grocery stores and 2,586 ATMs in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Florida, Tennessee, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Georgia and North Carolina. Fifth Third operates four main businesses: Commercial Banking, Branch Banking, Consumer Lending, and Investment Advisors. Fifth Third also has a 25% interest in Vantiv Holding, LLC. Fifth Third is among the largest money managers in the Midwest and, as of December 31, 2013, had $302 billion in assets under care, of which it managed $27 billion for individuals, corporations and not-for-profit organizations. Investor information and press releases can be viewed at www.53.com. Fifth Third’s common stock is traded on the NASDAQ® Global Select Market under the symbol “FITB.” Fifth Third Bank was established in 1858. Member FDIC.

About the Atlanta Community Food Bank: The Atlanta Community Food Bank (ACFB) began operating in 1979 from a small space at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. ACFB now distributes over 45 million pounds of food and grocery products each year from a 129,600 square-foot facility in N.W. Atlanta. The product is accessed by more than 600 partner nonprofits that provide food assistance to families and individuals in 29 counties across metro Atlanta and north Georgia. ACFB leads seven distinct projects that reinforce its mission to fight hunger by engaging, educating and empowering our community: Atlanta Prosperity Campaign, Atlanta’s Table, Community Gardens, Hunger 101, Hunger Walk/Run, Kids In Need and Product Rescue Center.

ACFB is a member of Feeding America, the national network of more than 200 food banks. For more information on the Food Bank, visit www.acfb.organd for more information on Feeding America visit www.feedingamerica.org.

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

F&M Bank High School Baseball Classic opens on Wednesday with new format

April 15, 2014

Opening round, winners bracket held at CMC-NorthEast Stadium

KANNAPOLIS, N.C. (April 15, 2014) – The annual F&M Bank High School Baseball Classic returns to CMC-NorthEast Stadium, home of the Kannapolis Intimidators, with a new format in 2014. The eight-team field will compete in a bracket-style tournament from April 23-25 with all opening round and winners’ bracket games taking place at CMC-NorthEast Stadium. Consolation bracket games will be held at nearby A.L. Brown High School in Kannapolis. Tickets are only $6 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and children 3 and under will be admitted free.

This year’s field includes A.L. Brown, Carson, J.M. Robinson, Mt. Pleasant, North Rowan, Northwest Cabarrus, Salisbury, and South Rowan.

The F&M Bank High School Baseball Classic schedule is as follows:

Wednesday, April 23
Games 1-4 at CMC-NorthEast Stadium
Game 1: 11:00 AM – Carson vs. Salisbury
Game 2: 1:30 PM – J.M. Robinson vs. NW Cabarrus
Game 3: 4:00 PM – Mt. Pleasant vs. A.L. Brown
Game 4: 6:30 PM – North Rowan vs. South Rowan

Thursday, April 24
Games 5 & 6 at A.L. Brown
Game 5: 11:00 AM – Loser Gm 1 vs. Loser Gm 2
Game 6: 1:30 PM – Loser Gm 3 vs. Loser Gm 4

Games 7 & 8 at CMC-NorthEast Stadium
Game 7: 4:00 PM – Winner Gm 1 vs. Winner Gm 2
Game 8: 6:30 PM – Winner Gm 3 vs. Winner Gm 4

Friday, April 25
Games 9 & 10 at A.L. Brown
Game 9: 11:00 AM – Loser Gm 5 vs. Loser Gm 6
Game 10: 1:30 PM – Winner Gm 5 vs. Winner Gm 6

Games 11 & 12 at CMC-NorthEast Stadium
Third-Place Game:
Game 11: 4:00 PM – Loser Gm 7 vs. Loser Gm 8

Championship Game:
Game 12: 6:30 PM – Winner Gm 7 vs. Winner Gm 8

The Kannapolis Intimidators are in the 20th season of professional baseball in Kannapolis and the team’s 14th as the Class A Affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. Since the team moved to Kannapolis in 1995, 77 players that have played in Kannapolis have gone on to the Major Leagues. This year’s team is managed by Pete Rose Jr. CMC-NorthEast Stadium is located off I-85 at exit 63. For ticket information, please contact the F&M Bank Box Office at (704) 932-3267 or visit www.IntimidatorsBaseball.com.

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

RoughRiders announce Women Rock Day at Dr Pepper Ballpark

April 15, 2014

FRISCO, TEXAS (APRIL 15, 2014) – The Frisco RoughRiders, Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, announced a promotion worthy of rock star status today as they unveiled Women Rock Day at Dr Pepper Ballpark in conjunction with Women Rock, Inc. The two organizations will rock out together on Saturday, May 10 as the RoughRiders battle the Corpus Christi Hooks at 7:05 p.m.

The event will mark the third time the RoughRiders have teamed up with the not-for-profit Breast Cancer awareness group. As in the past, Women Rock Day will amp up the game day experience at Dr Pepper Ballpark.

For just $25, fans receive a limited edition RoughRiders hat, a prime seat behind the ‘Riders dugout and a souvenir PlayBall! game program. For two hours, fans with an appetite can enjoy unlimited hot dogs, brats and nachos, and quench their thirst with unlimited Dr Pepper products.

Five dollars from every ticket purchased will be donated to Women Rock, Inc. In turn, Women Rock, Inc. plans to use a portion of the night’s proceeds to fund medicals costs for breast cancer warrior, A.J. Atherton. Ms. Atherton will be present at the game to throw out the first pitch.

Women Rock Day also coincides with the Pink in the Park jersey auction at Dr Pepper Ballpark on May 9 and 10. A portion of all proceeds from the silent auction will benefit Women Rock, Inc.

For more information on Pink in the Park, contact LaShawn Moore at 972-334-1978 or lmoore@ridersbaseball.com

Women Rock Day occurs at the end of an eight-game RoughRiders homestand that begins on May 3 at 7:05 p.m. against the Midland Rock Hounds.

For information on tickets to see the RoughRiders in 2014, please call (972) 731-9200, e-mail Info@RidersBaseball.com or visit www.RidersBaseball.com.

For additional information on Women Rock, Inc., visit http://www.womenrockinc.org/. Women Rock, Inc. can also be found on:

Twitter: @womenrockinc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WomenRockInc

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/WomenRockInc

About Women Rock, Inc.

Women Rock, Inc, is a not for profit organization that is on a mission to save lives through increasing awareness and the early detection of breast cancer in North Texas and Southern Oklahoma. We will Leave No Stone Unturned!

Women Rock Inc.’s vision is to spread breast cancer awareness and education, and increase early detection procedures and participants, in order to maximize breast cancer detection while focusing on women who suffer disproportionately due to socioeconomic circumstances. We will take education to people in the communities of Northeast Texas with a mobile teaching setup. Our government funds programs that provide screening exams for women that qualify, but for every five women that qualify, only one is being assisted! Many women are getting left out! Every woman should have the opportunity to have a screening mammogram, and a chance at early detection. It’s that simple. Early detection saves lives! Women Rock wants to close the gap and provide mammograms to those women that are slipping through the proverbial cracks.

About Frisco RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A Affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play their games at beautiful Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas. The team has finished first among all Double-A minor league teams in attendance each season from 2005 – 2013, drawing more than half-a-million fans each year since the team was founded in 2003. More than 100 former RoughRiders have gone on to play in the Major Leagues, including All-Stars Ian Kinsler, Elvis Andrus, Chris Davis, C.J. Wilson, Adrian Gonzalez, Neftali Feliz and Matt Harrison The RoughRiders are owned by Mandalay Sports Entertainment, winners of the “Baseball Organization of the Year” in 2008 by Ballpark Digest.

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

Help the Senators Paint the Park Pink

April 15, 2014

Special night is Saturday, August 9th

Harrisburg, PA – The Harrisburg Senators, in conjunction with the American Cancer Society, are proud to announce details for their annual Paint the Park Pink night presented by Pennsy Supply. On Saturday, August 9th the Senators will Paint the Park Pink with balloons, jerseys, t-shirts and more, with all the proceeds from this special night going to the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk.

The players will once again be wearing pink jerseys but this year 200 names of cancer survivors will be on the jersey. These jerseys, which the players will wear during the game, will be auctioned off after the game that night.

“On behalf of the cancer patients the American Cancer Society serves, I want to thank the Harrisburg Senators for this wonderful and unique opportunity to raise funds for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer,” said Darlene Blantz, 2014 Volunteer Event Chair. “The American Cancer Society provides emotional support, day to day help and information to 1 in 2 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients that call us for help. Because of generous organizations like the Harrisburg Senators, the American Cancer Society is making a difference every day in the lives of those touched by cancer.”

“We’re really excited to be partnering with Pennsy Supply and the American Cancer Society on our Paint the Park Pink Night this season on Saturday, Aug 9th,” said Senators’ President Kevin Kulp. “We hope to raise a lot of money as well as honor those that have battled breast cancer. It should really be one of the most special nights of our season.”

Starting today, and extending through April 28th, fans will be able to submit an entry with the names of anyone who has battled breast cancer. Following the submission period, 200 names will be randomly chosen and will be printed onto the Senators pink jerseys, which will be worn by the team for the annual Paint the Park Pink Night.

That evening the Senators will also invite all women in attendance that are survivors and are currently fighting onto the field to take part in a pregame ceremony. The women on the field will create a human ribbon in the outfield during the National Anthem. There will also be a banner on display that evening with every name of every survivor from the submissions.

For more information about Paint the Park Pink Night, please visit the Senators website or click here.

The Senators box office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tickets are available via telephone during the same hours as the box office hours. Tickets are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, online at www.senatorsbaseball.com..

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

Dragons Players and Mascot Visit Local Schools

April 15, 2014

DRAGONS PLAYERS AND MASCOT TO VISIT CLARK COUNTY SCHOOLS THIS WEEK

Heater will join players as part of Dragons MVP Program

Dayton, Ohio – Dayton Dragons players and one of the team’s mascots, Heater, will visit two Clark County school classrooms this Tuesday. The visits are part of the Dragons MVP program and members of the local media are invited to cover them.

Two Dragons players will join Heater on visits six local schools this week, beginning on Tuesday, April 15th. The players will introduce themselves to the students, answer questions, sign autographs and take pictures. Each student will also receive a Dragons cap and pen.

Visits for Tuesday, April 15

10am to 10:45am

Rockway Elementary

3500 W. National Road

Springfield, OH, 45504

Phone: 937-328-5385

11:15 to 12pm

Northwestern Elementary

5610 Troy Road

Springfield, OH

Phone: 937-964-3240

Visits for Wednesday, April 16

10am to 10:45am

Kenwood Elementary

1421 Nagley St.

Springfield, OH, 45505

Phone: 937-505-4220

11:15 to 12pm

Warder Park-Wayne Elementary

2820 Hillside Ave.

Springfield, OH, 45503

Visits for Thursday, April 17

10am to 10:45am

Orchard Park Elementary

600 E. Dorothy Ln.

Kettering, OH, 45419

Phone: 937-499-1910

11:15-12pm

East Dayton Christian School

999 Spinning Rd.

Dayton, OH, 45431

Phone: 937-252-5400

Members of the media may contact schools individually at the numbers listed if they intend to cover the visits.

The Dragons MVP Program, a tool for teachers, uses the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Baseball as an educational tool for fourth and fifth grade teachers, helping them motivate and reward students for success in and out of the classroom. The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is sponsored by Bob Evans and is also made possible courtesy of Sinclair Community College, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW Television. For more information on the Dragons MVP Program contact the Dayton Dragons or visit www.daytondragons.com.

More Information: The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com.

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

Amateur Baseball Returns to Dow Diamond in 2014

April 14, 2014

Great Lakes Loons home will host teams from around the region, state

MIDLAND, Mich. – Dow Diamond will once again host amateur baseball this season, featuring teams from the Great Lakes Bay Region as well as from around the state who will play during April and May when the Great Lakes Loons are out of town.

The schedule kicks off this Tuesday when Freeland and Reese square off for a 5 p.m. game. It will be the first of 13 amateur dates and 26 games scheduled for the home of the Great Lakes Loons.

Listed below is a full schedule of games. All dates are and times are subject to change.

Tuesday, April 15 Freeland vs. Reese 4:30 p.m. gates / 5:00 first pitch

Wednesday, April 16 Hale vs. Marion 3:30 p.m. gates / 4:00 first pitch

Thursday, April 17 Meridian vs. St. Charles (JV/V) 3:30 p.m. gates / 4:00 first pitch

Monday, April 28 Freeland vs. Reese (makeup) 4:30 p.m. gates/5 p.m. first pitch

Tuesday, April 29 Bay City Western vs. Clio 4:00 p.m. gates / 4:30 first pitch

Wednesday, April 30 Standish-Sterling vs. Tawas (JV/V) 4:30 p.m. gates / 5:00 first pitch

Thursday, May 1 Birch Run vs. Flint Kearsley 4:30 p.m. gates /5:00 first pitch

Sunday, May 4 Oscoda vs. Kingsley 12:30 p.m. gates / 1:00 first pitch

Friday, May 9 Vassar vs. Mlllington 4:30 p.m. gates/ 5 p.m. first pitch

Saturday, May 10 Midland Dow vs. Grosse Pointe South 10:30 a.m. gates / 11:00 first pitch

Sunday, May 11 Swartz Creek vs. Montrose Hill-McCloy 2:30 p.m. gates / 11:00 first pitch

Tuesday, May 20 BC John Glenn vs. Ogemaw/Ann Arbor Skyline 4:30 p.m. gates / 5:00 first pitch

Wednesday, May 21 Midland vs. Bullock Creek 4:30 p.m. gates / 5:00 first pitch

Tuesday, May 27 Coleman vs. Gladwin (JV/V) 3:30 p.m. gates / 4:00 first pitch

“One of our goals is to make Dow Diamond available for as many community events as we can,” said Great Lakes Loons President Paul Barbeau. “We’re excited to host a large number of amateur teams once again this year and allow some of the area’s younger baseball talent to enjoy the ballpark.”

Centrally located in downtown Midland, beautiful Dow Diamond is the home field for the Great Lakes Loons and is one of the region’s premiere special events facilities. Dow Diamond is owned by the Michigan Baseball Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity and non-profit corporation.

The Great Lakes Loons are an eighth-year Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. For more information about Dow Diamond and the Loons, visit loons.com or call 989-837-BALL.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Great Lakes Loons. Click here to view the original story.

Five Guys Team Up With Lake Monsters For Annual “May Days” Fundraising Campaign

April 13, 2014

BURLINGTON, VT — The Vermont Lake Monsters are excited to announce Five Guys as a partner with their annual May fundraiser to benefit non-profits from across the state of Vermont. “Five Guys May Days” fundraiser will launch May 1st as a month-long program devoted to helping raise funds and awareness for state wide non-profits.

“We at Five Guys are very excited to get a chance to support Vermont charities.”, said local Five Guys franchisee owner Greg Vasey. “It’s even more fun when we can show that support while cheering on the Lake Monsters. We’re flattered by the welcome we have received since opening a couple years ago, and this a great way to give something back.”

Support of local non-profits has shown both the Lake Monsters and Five Guys strong commitment to the greater Burlington community. The goal of this program is not only to provide the opportunity for organizations to raise money, but also raise awareness for their programs all while providing a chance for supporters to come together on their night at the ballpark.

Dragonheart VT is just one of the many local non-profits who have made coming out to the ballpark a yearly event for their supporters.

“This program is a chance for Dragonheart Vermont members to get together and support the Lake Monsters as well as the Lake Monsters supporting us”, said Judy Kinner of Dragonheart Vermont. “We have done this program the past two years are grateful for the opportunity to raise money for breast cancer and supporters dragon boating teams, we will certainly be doing the program again this upcoming season.”

Participating non-profits will have the entire month of May to promote and sell $6 Lake Monsters tickets through a specific URL link designated to their organization for a specific game during the season. After the month of May is completed, the Lake Monsters will total the tickets sold by the non-profit and donate half of the proceeds back to that particular organization. Following the selling period Five Guys will also donate up to $500 to match the amount raised by the highest selling non-profit in the program. When the particular game which the non-profit had been selling for arrives during the season, that organization will be recognized on field and presented a check worth the amount of money which they have raised.

This opportunity is an easy way to fundraise for non-profits, simply by reaching out to your employees, supporters, volunteers, sponsors and spreading the URL link. For more information or if your non-profit is interested in participating contact Adam Matth at 802-655-4200 or download this confirmation form and send to adam@vermontlakemonsters.com.

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

Bandits Race to Home 5K doubles participants, raises over $13K for Bandits Scholars Program

April 12, 2014

More than 600 participants get unique experience of finishing at home plate inside Modern Woodmen Park

Participants await the start of the second annual Bandits Race to Home 5K presented by Palmer Chiropractic Clinics. (Sean Flynn Photography)

More than 600 runners and walkers competed in the second annual Bandits Race to Home 5K and Fun Run presented by Palmer Chiropractic Clinics and finishing inside Modern Woodmen Park on Saturday morning, helping raise more than $13,000 toward the Bandit Scholars Program.

Participation doubled from the inaugural race of 2013, and funds raised increased by 160% for the Bandit Scholars Program, which annually awards the Bandit Scholarships. Each scholarship pays the entire first-year college tuition for two Quad Cities-area students.

“We want to thank the people of the Quad Cities for embracing the annual Bandits Race to Home 5K with outstanding participation and support of the Bandit Scholars Program,” said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. “All of the participants, volunteers, staff and spectators made this year’s Bandits Race to Home 5K a memorable and unique community event to celebrate the Quad Cities and the start of another fun-filled season at Modern Woodmen Park!”

The fastest male and female finishers in each of the 10 age groups – 19 & under, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59 and 60-plus – were awarded trophies courtesy of Crown Trophy, while the second and third place finishers received medals. Additionally, the top three male and female runners were awarded with trophies.

Below is a full list of the winners in their respective age group.

The Bandits Race to Home 5K began on River Drive and Gaines Street in downtown Davenport, Iowa, crossed the Centennial Bridge to Rock Island, Ill., headed over to the Rock Island Arsenal, then back across the Arsenal Bridge before finishing at home plate inside Modern Woodmen Park.

The Fun Run featured young contestants racing the River Bandits’ mascot Rascal from outside the left field wall of the stadium and finishing just inside the gate of Modern Woodmen Park. Each contestant was awarded a Fun Run ribbon to commemorate his or her victory over Rascal.

Additional sponsors for the Bandits Race to Home 5K and Fun Run were Electronic Communication Systems, Inc., ORA Orthopedics, HyVee, Pepsi, One Step, Great River Brewery, The National Bank, Sam’s Club, Massage Envy and Power Grafx.

UP NEXT: The River Bandits open a six-game homestand with Markdown Monday presented by 97X for the 7 p.m. game April 14 against the West Michigan Whitecaps. Fans can purchase $2 bleacher and berm tickets, as well as $2 beer, soda, hot dogs, peanuts, popcorn at nachos. Tickets are available online at www.riverbandits.com. To order any of the ticket plans – with new lower prices – call the River Bandits box office at 563-324-3000. 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 in May, 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.

Bandits fans can put names on jerseys for Breast Cancer Awareness Night

April 10, 2014

Deadline April 23 to submit signatures; pink jersey auction proceeds will go to Genesis Center for Breast Health

Quad Cities River Bandits fans were the first in the country to be able to purchase photos on the back of player jerseys for professional sports jersey auction for charity, and this season they will have another unique opportunity to support a cause while honoring loved ones. Through April 23, fans can purchase space for a signature or name to appear on pink jerseys the team will wear for its first-ever pink jersey auction on Breast Cancer Awareness Night presented by Genesis Health Systems and the Quad-City Times on Friday, June 13.

“The entire region has made River Bandits jersey auctions hugely successful events to benefit Quad Cities-area charities, and this summer’s Breast Cancer Awareness Night and jersey auction is another fantastic opportunity for Quad Citians to make a big impact right here in our community,” said team owner Dave Heller. “With the support of our great fans, the pink jerseys will be a memorable tribute to all the women and their families who have bravely battled breast cancer, as well as a strong sign of unwavering support for those who continue to battle breast cancer.”

Fans can purchase space for the signature or name of a loved one who is battling or has battled breast cancer. The signatures and names will be placed on the River Bandits players’ pink jerseys that will be worn Friday, June 13, for Breast Cancer Awareness Night presented by Genesis Health Systems and the Quad-City Times. After the game, the jerseys will be auctioned off, with all the proceeds benefitting the Genesis Center for Breast Health. Each signature or name space is available for purchase at $25 each, with every single dollar raised going to the Genesis Center for Breast Health. More information is available by calling Alexandria Sheffler at (563) 333-2741. The deadline to purchase the signature spaces is April 23.

“We are grateful to the Quad Cities community that makes all of these local charity events possible, and we are thrilled to partner with Genesis Health Systems and the Quad-City Times for Breast Cancer Awareness Night,” said General Manager Andrew Chesser. “The pink jersey auction will benefit a great cause and raise awareness for women and their families whom we are humbled to support with this night at Modern Woodmen Park.”

This year will also mark the fourth annual Camo Jersey Auction presented by the Iowa Army National Guard on May 24, as well as the third annual photo jersey auction Friday, Aug. 8, on Autism Awareness Night presented by KWQC and the Quad Cities Autism Center. The River Bandits were the first U.S. professional sports team to auction photo jerseys for local cancer charities in 2012, and the 2013 Autism Awareness Photo Jersey Auction earned a Golden Bobblehead Award from Minor League Baseball for the Best Charity Promotion in the nation.

UP NEXT: The second annual River Bandits Race to Home 5K and Kids Fun Run presented by Palmer Chiropractic Clinics is Saturday at 8 a.m. Thursday is the last day to register using the link at www.riverbandits.com. All proceeds benefit the Bandit Scholars Program. To order any of the 2014 ticket plans – with new lower prices – call the River Bandits box office at 563-324-3000. 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.

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

Eight Local High Schools to Play at Fifth Third Field this Weekend

April 10, 2014

Double-headers scheduled for Friday and Saturday

Dayton, Ohio- Fifth Third Field and the Dayton Dragons will host high school baseball for the ninth straight season in 2014 with the action starting on Tuesday, April 8 at 4:30 p.m. Overall this spring, 30 high schools will play regular season games at the home of the Dragons.

High school baseball at Fifth Third Field also serves as a fundraiser for the participating schools. This year’s series of games will raise approximately $30,000 for the schools to help with the cost of uniforms, equipment, and bus transportation.

All games are sponsored by MAC Athletics, experts in athletic facility planning, design, construction, and equipment acquisition. Go to macathletix.com for more information on their services.

Friday’s twin bill features St. Henry and Coldwater at 5:00 p.m., followed by Coldwater and Marion Local at 7:30 p.m.

The St. Henry Redskins are off to a 3-1 start on the year and are only one-half game out of first place in the Midwest Athletic Conference standings. They will square off with a very young Covington Buccs squad, which will turn to OF Justin Williams, 3B Dain Peters and 1B Jake Albright for leadership this season. The Buccs are 2-3 so far this year.

The Coldwater Cavaliers and Marion Local Flyers will play under the Friday night lights in a Midwest Athletic Conference showdown. Coldwater went 22-5 last year and returns seven starters to the field, including senior pitcher Grant Muhlenkamt and junior RF Brady Hoyne. Marion local is 4-1 on the season, good for first place in the league standings. They are led by sophomore Aaron Niepfeld, who hit .426 last season, and lone senior Austin Albers. The Flyers are led by first year head coach Dustin Woods.

Saturday afternoon features two more outstanding matchups. Lehman Catholic will battle Fairborn at 1:00 p.m. and Greenon hosts Northeastern at 4:00 p.m.

Lehman Catholic, members of the Northwest Central Conference, had a solid season last year and returns a number of key players in 2014. Drew Westerheide is the squad’s lone senior, while juniors Greg Spearman and AJ Hemmelgarn anchor the left side of the infield. Head coach Dave King recently picked up his 500^th career coaching victory. Fairborn is led by Ryan Profitt and Ty Boedicker, who each have a hit in five of their first 11 at bats this spring. Brent Grody (1-0) has nine strikeouts through five innings pitched.

The Greenon Knights will battle the Northeastern Jets in the final game of the weekend. Greenon returns seven players from last year’s squad and has started the season with excellent pitching, thanks to Dustin McReynolds and James Schroeder.

The Dayton Dragons have been hosting the Miami Valley’s best baseball teams since 2006 and are proud to continue the tradition for a ninth year. A complete list of high school baseball games scheduled to be played at Fifth Third Field can be found at daytondragons.com.

All games are free to attend and the media are invited to cover them. Gates will open one hour prior to the first game played that day. High schools may provide their own PA announcers, cheer squads, and national anthem singers. Some even bring their own radio broadcasters to the ballpark. Participating high schools sell Dragons tickets to help raise money for their programs.

–See remaining schedule below–

Day	Date	Time	Home Team	Away Team
Friday	4/11	5:00 PM	St. Henry	Covington
Friday	4/11	7:30 PM	Coldwater	Marion Local
Saturday	4/12	1:00 PM	Lehman Catholic	Fairborn
Saturday	4/12	4:00 PM	Northeastern	Greenon
Monday	4/21	7:00 PM	Arcanum	Franklin-Monroe
Thursday	4/24	4:30 PM	Lebanon	Piqua
Thursday	4/24	7:00 PM	Sidney	Wayne
Friday	4/25	4:30 PM	Dayton Christian	Troy Christian
Friday	4/25	7:00 PM	Vandalia-Butler	West Carrolton
Saturday	4/26	11:00 AM	Valley View	Greenville
Saturday	4/26	4:00 PM	Beavercreek	Miamisburg
Sunday	5/4	4:00 PM	Fort Loramie	New Knoxville

More Information: The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling (937) 228-2287, by email at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com

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

Bisons and United Way South Niagara team up to benefit South Niagara residents

April 9, 2014

Special Flex Tickets Sold in South Niagara to benefit United Way

Baseball fans in Niagara have even more of a reason to head across the river to watch the Buffalo Bisons. Not only are the Bisons the Triple-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, but in 2014, proceeds of Bisons Flex Tickets purchased at the United Way South Niagara will benefit the South Niagara region.

“We are thrilled that the Bisons are helping us out here in South Niagara,” says Tamara Coleman-Lawrie, executive director of United Way South Niagara. “There are a lot of baseball fans in our region, and when tickets are ordered through our office, our whole community will benefit.”

Bisons Flex Tickets give baseball fans the ultimate flexibility when planning for the 2014 season. Each ticket purchased at the United Way South Niagara costs just $12 and is undated, meaning it can be redeemed at any time at the Coca-Cola Field Box Office for any 2014 game (excluding special events). Plus, each ticket purchased will benefit the United Way South Niagara.

“The Buffalo Bisons are the top minor league team in the Toronto Blue Jays system and these players represent the bright future of the Blue Jays.” said Coleman-Lawrie. “Getting to see so many of the great young stars while also benefitting the United Way South Niagara is a perfect combination.”

For more information or to order tickets for the Buffalo Bisons, please contact deanna@southniagara.unitedway.ca, or call 905-735-0490.

-the herd-

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

“Yes we Can”-ned Food Drive

April 8, 2014

In conjunction with the Salvation Army of Beloit and the Salvation Army of Janesville the Snappers are proud to announce our “Yes We Can” food drive. The Snappers invite fans to bring canned or non-perishable food items to the ballpark for any of the games April 14^th -18^th and fans will receive a ticket voucher for the Snappers game on Wednesday May 14^th! All food donated will be split between the food pantries at the Salvation Army of Beloit and the Salvation Army of Janesville.

“We are so excited to have this new promotion at the ballpark this season. The work done at the Salvation Army in both Beloit and Janesville is a vital part of our community and we are happy to be a part of it” said Snappers President Dennis Conerton.

Tami Prochazka of the Salvation Army in Janesville said, “The Salvation Army appreciates this partnership with the Beloit Snappers and the community in ensuring food pantry shelves are stocked and ready to assist families in need during difficult times. The Yes We Can food drive is a win-win for The Salvation Army, food pantry families and avid baseball fans.”

The Snappers will be taking on the Great Lakes Loons Monday April 14^th-16^th all games starting at 6:30 pm with gates opening at 5:30 pm. April 17^th-18^th the Snappers will take on the Lansing Lugnuts with both games starting at 6:30 pm gates opening at 5:30 pm. For tickets visit the Snappers Box Office or call 608-362-2272.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Beloit Snappers. Click here to view the original story.

The 9th annual Special Needs Camp is Saturday, April 26

April 8, 2014

Miracle, Dave Clark Foundation team up or special day at the ballpark

Click here to download registration form. Click here to download medical release form.

FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 8, 2014) – The Fort Myers Miracle are proud to team with Dave Clark Foundation for the ninth annual Special Needs Baseball camp on Saturday, April 26 at 10 a.m. at Hammond Stadium. The baseball camp is open to the first 25 individuals, with a physical or mental challenge, age 18 and under.

The entire Miracle team and coaches will teach kids the baseball skills of hitting, throwing, catching and fielding. The camp affords the opportunity for campers to experience the feeling of being a professional baseball player for a day.

Cape Coral resident Dave Clark hosts the camp. Suffering from the effects of Post Polion Syndrome (PPS), 61-year old Clark amassed over 600 wins during a 30-year baseball career that began in the early 1970s. Currently, Clark focuses his energy on public speaking, organizing disability events and is an envoy international coach for Major League Baseball.

As part of the Disability Dream & Do activities, Clark will present the “Pulling Each Other Along Award” prior to the 6:05 p.m. Miracle game versus the Palm Beach Cardinals on Saturday, April 26. The award is presented to an unsung hero(s) whose selfless acts have helped those with a disability. For more information about D3 or to nominate a worthy candidate, visit www.daveclarkfoundation.org or email: award@daveclarkfoundation.org.

“There are two types of dreamers. Dreamers that dream and dreamers that Dream & Do,” said Clark, the only professional baseball player to pitch from crutches. “D3 Baseball with the Fort Myers Miracle gives the youth a wonderful chance to do both, Dream & Do.”

There is no cost associated with the camp. To register a child, please call (239) 768-4210 or send an email to aadams@miraclebaseball.com. Include your name, the child’s full name, full address, phone number, email address and any special needs for your child.

“This day always leaves an impression on all of our players, coaches, and our entire front office staff. To see the joy on the faces of the kids and our players while the camp is taking place is just priceless. This is one of the best events that we do all year long,” said Miracle President Steve Gliner.

Kids are asked to bring their own baseball gloves and one adult chaperone is required to be in attendance with each child attending the camp. Each participant will receive four tickets for the Miracle game that evening at 6:05 p.m. Lunch will also be provided following the camp activities.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Fort Myers Miracle. Click here to view the original story.