Archives for June 2014

Fans Invited to Participate in Bee Healthy Week at Smith’s Ballpark June 19-21

June 16, 2014

Highlights Include Bee Healthy Challenges, Clinics, Giveaways and More

The Salt Lake Bees will present Bee Healthy Week June 19-21 at Smith’s Ballpark as part of the team’s ongoing commitment to health and wellness. During the games those evenings, fans of all ages will be invited to participate in a variety of interactive Bee Healthy Challenges featuring special prizes. In addition, Bees players will host baseball clinics throughout the week to show local youth ways to stay active while having fun.

In collaboration with Intermountain LDS Hospital, SelectHealth and the Utah Department of Health, six Bee Healthy Challenges will line the concourse of Smith’s Ballpark during games June 19-21. Fans who complete at least four of the six challenges will receive a Bee Healthy T-shirt and entry into a drawing to win autographed Bees items, including a mini-helmet, jersey, bat or baseball. Designed to educate and inspire fans to embrace healthy living, the Bee Healthy Challenges will include:

LiVe Well Operation Game, a life-size version of the board game “Operation”
Blood pressure checks
Health-based social media contests
Chair yoga
Body fat analysis
Healthcare Wheel of Misfortune, a game featuring a large spinning wheel to help educate fans about healthcare reform

As part of the Bees organization’s ongoing efforts to encourage youth to stay active and live a healthy lifestyle, players will also lead five clinics during Bee Healthy Week, two of which will be open to Knothole Club members. The clinics will provide youth with a chance to interact with Bees players during a series of baseball drills, along with autograph and photo opportunities.

During the Bee Healthy homestand, All-Star Catering will debut a variety of individual salads and fruit plates as part of its “Fresh Express” menu for fans. Concessionaries will continue to offer healthy choices such as vegetable trays, baked chips and bean and rice burritos at Smith’s Ballpark. On Friday, June 20, when the team takes on the Memphis Redbirds, attendees will also receive Bee Healthy water bottles to help them stay hydrated while on the go.

The Bees will host the Memphis Redbirds and the Nashville Sounds during its eight-game homestand June 17-24. Tickets are available at the Smith’s Ballpark box office from 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., as well as at all Smith’sTix outlets and Smith’s Food & Drug Stores. Tickets may also be purchased online with no additional fees at www.slbees.com or by phone at 801-325-BEES (2337).

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

Bandits announce record 3 scholarship winners

June 15, 2014

Scholars Program to pay first years of tuition for two at University of Iowa, one at Western Illinois University

QuadCitiesRiverBandits_2014-06-15 — Left to right: Andrew Chesser, Jennifer Lucier, Nidia Villalpando, Dave Heller, Jordan Raso, Bryce Allison, Bob Herrfeldt. PHOTO BY: Sean Flynn

The Quad Cities River Bandits awarded their annual scholarships at their game Sunday afternoon, announcing three winners for the first time in the history of the Bandit Scholars Program. River Bandits owners Dave Heller and Bob Herrfeldt, along with Jennifer Lucier, announced Bryce Allison as the winner of the Bandit Scholarship, Nidia Villalpando as the winner of a second Bandit Scholarship for the University of Iowa, and Jordan Raso as the winner of the Keith Lucier Memorial Scholarship.

Allison, an East Moline native and United Township High School graduate, will attend both Black Hawk College and Western Illinois University through their Linkages Program. Villalpando, a Rock Island native and Rock Island High School graduate, and Raso, a Davenport native and Bettendorf High School graduate, are entering the University of Iowa. Each scholarship ensures the students’ first year of tuition will be covered at no expense to them or their families.

“Giving out these scholarships is the single most enjoyable thing I do as owner of the River Bandits, and I am so proud, on behalf of the organization and the Quad Cities community, to present these scholarships to a record three very-deserving recipients,” said team owner Dave Heller. “Bryce, Nidia and Jordan have demonstrated incredible talent, hard work, dedication and a passion for community service, and I am confident they will be outstanding representatives of our Bandit Scholars Program and the Quad Cities in their immensely promising futures.”

The Bandit Scholars Program was founded in 2009 by the Quad Cities River Bandits’ team owners Dave Heller and Bob Herrfeldt; the program pays the entire first year of college tuition for Quad Cities area students through the Keith Lucier Memorial Scholarship and the Bandit Scholarship. The Keith Lucier Memorial Scholarship is named in honor of the late Keith Lucier, who passed away in 2009. The Bandit Scholars Program and, in particular, the Lucier Scholarship, honors Keith’s strong belief in higher education and celebrates his love for sports, learning, charitable endeavors and the Quad Cities community. Lucier graduated from Bettendorf High School and the University of Iowa. He was the River Bandits’ Assistant General Manager in 2008.

The scholarships are administered by the non-profit Community Foundation of the Great River Bend, and recipients are selected by a committee made up of Lucier’s family, friends, River Bandits’ staff, CFGRB volunteers and area community leaders. Awarded annually to a Quad Cities area high school senior, each scholarship includes a summer internship with the River Bandits following the winner’s first year of college. Tax-free donations to the scholarship fund can be made through the CFGRB web site.

“I am honored to have been selected by the scholarship committee to be part of history within the Bandit Scholars Program,” Allison said. “This scholarship will help both me and my family as I continue my education.”

Allison hopes to pursue an accounting degree, attending both Black Hawk College and Western Illinois University. He has been involved in National Honor Society, baseball, golf, Link Crew, the Living Lands and Waters XStream Cleanup and Million Trees Project, the River Bandits Fan Club, and the John Deere Classic, among other activities with local organizations.

“This scholarship represents a great honor, and I am grateful to receive it and represent my family,” Villalpando said. “This scholarship also demonstrates the hard work required to exceed expectations, and a reminder of what will be necessary to achieve my future goals.”

Villalpando hopes to pursue a pre-medical curriculum and biology degree to become a pediatrician. In high school, she has been involved with Student Ambassadors, Student Council, National Honor Society, Key Club, the Spanish and French Clubs, varsity cheerleading, softball, the Quad City Minority Program Partnernship, Trinity Health Academy, and Mini-Medical Academy, while also working at McDonald’s as a crew trainer and hospitality ambassador.

“I have enjoyed coming to River Bandits games for years, and it is a thrill to have the River Bandits be part of supporting my future,” Raso said. “I am excited to begin paying this forward, applying what I learn, and bringing the benefits of my education back to the Quad Cities.”

Raso hopes to pursue a double degree in Business Management and Mass Communication and Journalism. In high school, she has been involved in Raising Student Voice and Participation, the student newspaper and yearbook, drama club, Thespian Society, choir, and National Honor Society, and she volunteered in several school and community projects, performances and events.

The scholarships are funded by fan donations and fund-raising efforts by the River Bandits and the team’s ownership. Fundraising events include the annual Frost Fest, Bandits Race to Home 5K and Bandit Scholars Home Run Derby, set for July 26-27 this season. 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 visit the Bandit Scholars Program page on the team’s website, www.riverbandits.com, and follow a link to the Bandit Scholars page on the Foundation’s website. Beginning with the next scholarship application cycle in 2015, 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 – will be eligible for the scholarships.

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

“Pink the Park” is Back for the Second Straight Year!

June 14, 2014

Jammers and WCA Hospital will team up to raise awareness for Breast Cancer June 20th.

Next Friday (June 20th), WCA Hospital and the Jamestown Jammers will team up to host the second annual Pink the Park baseball game at Russell E. Diethrick Park. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. followed by the first pitch at 7:05 p.m. as the Jammers begin their two-game series against the State College Spikes.

In addition to decorating the park in pink, the Jamestown Jammers players and coaches will be donning pink socks and wrist bands (courtesy of the Jamestown Cycle Shop), and are asking fans to join them as they Pink the Park by also wearing pink.

In addition to raising awareness for good breast health and promoting annual mammograms, WCA and the Jammers will pay tribute to breast cancer survivors just before the ceremonial first pitch. All breast cancer survivors are invited to gather near the Jammers dugout along the third base line at 6:45p.m. before being honored on the field.

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

Free kids clinic on Wednesday, June 18

June 13, 2014

Legends for Youth baseball clinic at Principal Park

Kids will have an opportunity to play with their big-league heroes at the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association Legends for Youth baseball clinic series on Wednesday, June 18, at Principal Park. The free clinic features former major-league baseball players who will teach baseball skills, drills and life lessons for kids ages 6-16.

Players scheduled to attened include Don Wengert, Dwight Siebler, Don Eddy, Curt Kaufman and Matt Wagner.

The clinic will take place at Principal Park from 9-11 a.m. Players will train at stations including pitching, catching, base running and life skills. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. The morning will conclude with an autograph session for children in attendance.

To register for this clinic, please visit www.baseballalumni.com. Registration is required.

For more information regarding the clinic, please contact Nikki Warner, Director of Communications, at (719) 477-1870, ext. 105 or visit www.baseballalumni.com.

About The Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association (MLBPAA)
MLBPAA was founded in 1982 with the mission of promoting baseball, raising money for charity and protecting the dignity of the game through its Alumni players. The MLBPAA is headquartered in Colorado Springs, CO with a membership of more than 6,900, of which approximately 5,300 are Alumni and active players. Alumni players find the MLBPAA to be a vital tool to become involved in charity and community philanthropy. Follow @MLBPAA for Twitter updates.

About Legends for Youth Clinics
MLBPAA’s Legends for Youth clinics impact more than 15,000 children each year, allowing them the unique opportunity to interact with and learn from players who have left a lasting impact on the game of baseball. The MLBPAA has reached children across America and internationally in Australia, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, the United Kingdom and Venezuela, through the Legends for Youth clinic series. To donate to this program, visit baseballalumni.com/donate. The official hashtag of the Legends for Youth clinic series is #LFYClinic.

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

Golf Classic Raises more than $56,000 for CAC

June 12, 2014

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats and the Fisher Cats Foundation announced today the second annual Fisher Cats Foundation Charity Golf Classic raised more than $56,000 for Child Advocacy Centers of New Hampshire. The tournament was held Monday, June 2, at Stonebridge Country Club in Goffstown, N.H.

“This event once again demonstrates the generosity of our partners and friends, who joined us for an enjoyable day that raised money for such an important cause,” said Art Solomon, Fisher Cats owner and the chairman of the Fisher Cats Foundation board. “We are very proud to be able to present this money to the Child Advocacy Centers of New Hampshire as they continue their work to support and advocate for the victims of child abuse throughout New Hampshire.”

The main event sponsors, Elliot Hospital and Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, were joined by dozens of generous partners and golf foursomes to support the work of CAC divisions throughout the state. In addition to sponsorship and golf entry fees, additional funds were raised through raffles, which featured a wide array of donated prizes. The event also featured a lobster-and-steak lunch preceding the awards ceremony.

On the course, the team from Brady Sullivan Properties came in first place overall with a score of 61. Individual prize winners included Matt Healey, who hit the longest drive, and Joe Morrison, who took home closest-to-the-pin honors.

About the Child Advocacy Centers

The Child Advocacy Centers of New Hampshire are nationally accredited programs providing forensic interviews and coordinated support services to child victims of crime and their families free of charge. Since opening their doors, the Child Advocacy Centers (CAC) throughout New Hampshire have provided services to thousands of children. In addition, family advocacy services are provided, children and families are connected to community resources, and the CAC remains a support to families as the criminal case moves through the legal system. The CAC in partnership with multidisciplinary team members ensures a less traumatic investigative process, family connection to community resources, and higher prosecution rates.

About the Fisher Cats Foundation

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats established the Fisher Cats Foundation to be a catalyst for the betterment of communities statewide by supporting youth programs that encourage education and promote healthy living. Through the generous support of players, employees, sponsors, and fans, the Fisher Cats Foundation continuously works to make a positive impact throughout New Hampshire and north central Massachusetts. The Fisher Cats Foundation supports a wide variety of non-profit organizations and coordinates several fundraising programs and events. Efforts are focused on two cornerstone initiatives, hosting the Granite State Baseball Dinner benefitting the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD), and providing scholarship to college bound New Hampshire and Massachusetts students in partnership with the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation. Since its inception in 2006, the Fisher Cats and the team foundation have provided more than $3.5 million in monetary and in-kind donations to over 4,000 non-profit organizations.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Slugging ALS Night at Dell Diamond June 20

June 12, 2014

2014 Marks 75th Anniversary of Lou Gehrig’s Inspiring Speech at Yankee Stadium

A pitcher can’t strike out just anyone, but Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as ALS, can. The Round Rock Express, along with the ALS Association Texas Chapter and MJ’s Army, will co-host Slugging ALS Night at Dell Diamond on Friday, June 20 as the Express take on the Sacramento River Cats. The event will further raise awareness about the disease that knows no racial, ethnic or socioeconomic boundaries in hopes of finding a cure.

Express players and coaches will wear commemorative pinstripe jerseys with the name Gehrig on the back and a #4 patch on the sleeve. This year marks the 75^th anniversary of Lou Gehrig’s heart wrenching retirement speech at Yankee Stadium that brought this disease to the medical forefront. In 1941, following his death from ALS, the disease became more commonly known as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease.” The game-worn, commemorative pinstripe jerseys will be auctioned off as part of a special silent auction during the game with proceeds benefitting the ALS Association Texas Chapter and MJ’s Army. The auction will also include one-of-a-kind autographed baseball memorabilia.

To further raise awareness with a focus on Gehrig’s iconic jersey number, general admission/berm tickets are available at a discounted price of $4 for this special game.

“We are thrilled to host Slugging ALS night at Dell Diamond,” Express Sr. Vice President of Marketing Laura Fragoso said. “Bringing attention to this disease and keeping the fight started by Lou Gehrig alive is something that we are proud to be a part of.”

MJ’s Army will also be hosting the inaugural Slugging ALS Texas Timber Wood Bat Baseball Tournament from June 20-22 in the greater Austin area to generate more support for ALS research. The event is open to any amateur team wishing to play with divisions starting as young as age eight and 100% of the tournament’s proceeds will go towards MJ’s Army.

For more information on the Express, visit www.RoundRockExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook and Twitter!

About ALS
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Early symptoms of ALS often include muscle weakness that gradually becomes worse over time. Most who are diagnosed with ALS are only given between 3-5 years of life expectancy.

About MJ’s Army
Shortly after being diagnosed with ALS in June of 2011, Michael Jaillet (MJ) formed MJsARMY.org with the help of family and friends. MJ’s Army is a non-profit organization based out of Austin,TX whose mission is threefold: 1) to raise awareness about ALS, 2) to volunteer locally to assist families affected by ALS and 3) to raise much needed research dollars to fund treatments, and ultimately, a cure for ALS.

About the ALS Association
The ALS Association is the only national not-for-profit health organization dedicated solely to the fight against ALS. ALSA covers all the bases – research, patient and community services, public education, and advocacy – in providing help and hope to those facing the disease. The ALS Association (National Office and the Texas Chapter) operates under a shared mission: to help people living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and to leave no stone unturned in search for the cure.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Round Rock Express. Click here to view the original story.

Phanatic, Military Appreciation Night June 19th

June 12, 2014

First of two Phanatic visits this year

The BlueClaws welcome the Phillie Phanatic to FirstEnergy Park on Thursday, June 19th, and at the game, they will hold their annual Troop Supply and Care Package Drive.

The Phanatic, the world’s most famous mascot, makes the first of two trips to the ballpark this summer and between innings, he will entertain fans like only he can. The Phanatic’s appearance is presented by OceanFirst Bank.

Tickets – For tickets, call 732-901-7000 option 2 or click here.

Boxes will be set up for the Troop Supply and Care Package Drive in the front of the ballpark and fans are encouraged to donate razors, snacks, baby wipes, shampoo, soap, non-chocolate candies and sweets, sun block with SPF 40+, lip balm, writing utensils, silly string, deodorant, tissues, q-tips, white socks, batteries, insect repellent, and flashlights.

The BlueClaws will also be collecting, as always, gently used cell phones at the NJNG Information Booth to benefit Cell Phones for Soldiers.

This supply and care package drive is in conjunction with the Monmouth-Ocean Central Labor Council Military Committee, Monmouth-Ocean Building Trade Council, National Guard, Toms River Armory, A.R.M.S, and IBEW Local 400 Military Committee.

“Military Appreciation Night here in Lakewood has been a great event these last nine years,” said Pat O’Keefe of the IBEW Local 400 Military Committee. “It’s great to see the local community come out and support the event and our Troops overseas.”

The Troop Supply and Care Package Drive takes place on Military Appreciation Night, where military groups will take in the game and there will be various pre-game ceremonies honoring military members.

For more in Military Appreciation Night, call Jim McNamara at 732-901-7000 ext 176.

Thirsty Thursday – This is also a 66MVP Thirsty Thursday, with dollar beer and soda plus 50-cent wings in the Coors Light WRAT Trap.

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

Little Lake Monsters Program Announced

June 12, 2014

The Vermont Lake Monsters and Northwestern Urgent Care are teaming up to reward nine kids in the community with a once in a lifetime experience with a new community program called the “Little Lake Monsters” Community All-Star Team.

Both organizations believe strongly in doing the right things and living a healthy lifestyle. From June 16th – July 6th, kids (between the ages of 5 to 12 years old) will be allowed to register online and submit their answers to three (3) questions for their chance to be selected as one of this years Little Lake Monsters.

Children will be asked to submit answers to questions focusing on sportsmanship, healthy lifestyles, and community. A committee will select the nine children based on their answers and experiences that they have written about.

Each of the nine children selected will be rewarded with an experience that will show what it is like to live the day in the life of a professional baseball player. Each of the nine children will be rewarded and anointed the “Little Lake Monsters” and on August 22nd experience the opportunity of a lifetime where they will:

* Be announced at a press conference where they will be presented with their own custom Vermont Lake Monsters jersey (name and number) and official cap

* Be signed to a one-day promotional contract with the Vermont Lake Monsters

* Take a limousine from the press conference to historic Centennial Field

* Have the chance to take batting practice with the Vermont Lake Monsters

* Be introduced to the crowd, recognized for their community efforts, and presented with their pay for they day, which will in turn be donated to a charitable organization

* Throw out a ceremonial first pitch on August 22nd

* Run out on the field for the National Anthem with the Vermont Lake Monsters team

* Have the chance to sit in the dugout with the team for an inning during the game

* Be presented with their very own Vermont Lake Monsters baseball card, which will also be the giveaway for that evening’s game

“All of the things that we are rewarding the kids with are things that we in the business take for granted,” said Nate Cloutier, Lake Monsters General Manager. “Things like throwing out a first pitch or getting up close and personal with the team, may not mean much to some of us, but these are experiences that can change the lives of kids and create lifelong memories. We are trying to create an association with being rewarded for doing the right things. We are thrilled to have found a partner in Northwestern Medical Center, who believes in the same values that we do.”

“Northwestern Medical Center is pleased to team up with the Vermont Lake Monsters to celebrate kids’ efforts to be healthy and encourage families to adopt healthier lifestyles,” said Jill Berry Bowen, NMC’s Chief Executive Officer. “By improving health in Vermont, we all win.”

Free Press Media is a proud media sponsor for both the event and program.

Click here to register for the chance to be a part of this year’s Little Lake Monsters Community All Star Team

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

Naturals Community Highlights: June

June 12, 2014

Summer is heating up in Northwest Arkansas and two things the Ozarks region can always count on are Naturals’ baseball and that Strike and the Northwest Arkansas Street Team will be front and center in the community. Check out the schedule below to see where you can see Strike out and about in Northwest Arkansas.

Friday, June 13: Just around the corner, Strike will put on his walking shoes for the Relay for Life event held by the American Cancer Society in Rogers, Ark. The Naturals’ mascot will join participants in walking around the track and mingle about the event. Additionally, Strike will show off his good side and take pictures throughout the day. The American Cancer Society Relay for Life movement symbolizes hope and the shared goal to end a disease that threatens the lives of so many people

Saturday, June 14: Strike is excited to follow Friday with another event in the great outdoors on Saturday at the Johnson Days Festival in Johnson, Ark. He will put his rugged feet to use for the second straight day walking around and lending his big fury hands for high fives. Never shy of the camera, Strike will spend time taking pictures at the festival as kids enjoy various activities.

Saturday, June 14: The fun does not end for Strike at the Johnson Days Festival on Saturday for Stirke. He will embark on a trip to Bella Vista to join Rapha House for an event in the Allens Foods parking lot. Northwest Arkansas’ one and only Strike will join folks for a car show with food and family fun starting at 5:00 p.m. with 100% of the proceeds going to Rapha House and the fight against child trafficking in Cambodia, Thailand and Haiti.

Monday, June 16: It will be the Girl Scout Diamonds opportunity to enjoy some time with Strike during a day camp beginning at 8:00 A.M. Strike is already geared up for this one as the event’s theme, that is put on by the girl scouts, is one of his favorite words, sports. Additionally, it’s opening day for the girl scouts day camp, another one of Strike’s favorite things, whether it’s for the promise of the unending possibilities of baseball season or the beginning of summer fun for the Girl Scout Diamonds.

Friday, June 20: Strike will join the United Methodist Church for its annual conference at the Rogers Convention Center. He will help celebrate a feat that has Strike excited as the church has raised over $1 million dollars for malaria in Africa.

Saturday, June 21: It’s time for Strike to don his fleetest of footwear again for the Cancer Challenge at Orchard Park in Bentonville. Strike will be there to help hand out metals at the end of the race. Since its inception in 1993, the Cancer Challenge has invested over $10 million dollars in local cancer programs serving over 300,000 of its Northwest Arkansas friends and neighbors.

Friday, June 27: Arvest Ballpark will open itself to the Springdale Police Department as it will bring a group of kids from a troubled background to the home of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals for a tour.

Saturday, June 28: Strike will walk around and give high fives at the All American Freedom Festival at the Pinnacle Hills Promenade in Rogers for the Camp Alliance Event. Strike will accompany one his favorite activities at the event, skeeball.

If you would like to have Strike appear at your event, email streetteam@nwanaturals.com or fill out the form on the Naturals’ website, located by clicking on the Community tab at the top of the webpage, then clicking the appearances link. Those interested in participating in the Naturals ticket fundraising program should call 479-927-4900 or email groups@nwanaturals.com.

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

Staten Island Yankees to Host Megan’s Lemonade Stand to Support Wounded Warriors Project

June 11, 2014

On Sunday, June 15, the Staten Island Yankees are partnering with the Ajello’s to host a fundraising event at the Richmond County Bank Ballpark at St. George. All funds generated will go to the Wounded Warriors Project.

Megan’s Lemonade Stand will start when the gates at Richmond County Bank Ballpark open at 3 p.m. Staten Island Yankees fans will be able to donate to the lemonade that is prepared by Megan Ajello to raise money for the Wounded Warriors. Also, the first 2,500 fans in the ballpark will receive a “Megan’s Lemonade Stand” souvenir cup.

About Megan’s Lemonade Stand

The lemonade stand for charity started over five years ago in the Ajello driveway. It was the idea of Megan’s sister, Erin. Erin decided the first lemonade stand would benefit West Shore Little League, which was the first Staten Island Little League to include physically disabled children, the Challengers. The 2008 Megan’s Lemonade stand went to the Strong Kids Campaign for the YMCA. The Ajello family, including parents Linda and Danny, has been members of the South Shore YMCA since 2000. The lemonade stands continued to make thousands of dollars for charities over the years. In 2011, Linda Ajello nominated Megan as a HOPE Week nominee as part of the New York Yankees HOPE Week initiative. The New York Yankees were impressed with Megan’s determination. Megan has cerebral palsy, has a seizure disorder, cannot walk, and has gone for more than five major operations, including a spinal fusion which placed metal rods and over 37 screws in her spine. Megan has never let that stop her, and she is always smiling. The New York Yankees not only picked Megan as their nominee for July 28, 2011, they made Megan’s Lemonade Stand for charity famous. The generous New York Yankees built a lemonade stand that is truly accessible for Megan, supported the Special Olympics and also the Seton Foundation for Education.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Staten Island Yankees. Click here to view the original story.

SKY SOX LOOKING FOR LOCAL HEROES TO BE HONORARY MANAGERS

June 11, 2014

Nominate Your Hometown Hero for the 2014 Heroes Classic on Saturday, June 21

The Colorado Springs Sky Sox will be hosting the 2014 Heroes Classic Charity Softball Game on Saturday, June 21 with Hall of Famer Brooks Robinson in attendance along with many other former Major League players. Despite the many former players that will be on hand to play along side members of the Colorado Springs Police and Fire Departments as well as injured service members, the Sky Sox are still in need of one important position to fill out each roster, the manager.

In order to fill the all important manager position for each squad, the Sky Sox are asking the Colorado Springs community to nominate local citizens who have performed heroic acts right here in the Front Range region. If you know someone that deserves special recognition for a selfless act please go to www.skysox.com/heroes and fill out the online form created by Verizon Wireless to nominate that individual. The Sky Sox will be taking nominations all this week and will announce the two selected winners on Tuesday, June 17 at 5:00 PM.

The winners will be invited to the game as special VIP guests to serve as the honorary manager for one of the two teams. They will be in uniform in the dugout for the game and will be asked to enjoy the day with their players and work with Sky Sox staff to manage the various events going on throughout the game. Each hometown hero will also be recognized on the field during the game.

About the Heroes Classic: The event will raise funds for three outstanding charities, the Colorado Springs Fire Protective Association, The Police Foundation of Colorado Springs, and the Wounded Warrior Project. For each ticket purchased for the event, five dollars will go towards raising funds for these very worthy organizations. In addition, as part of the game day activities, the teams will don custom made uniforms and these unique, game worn jerseys will be auctioned off during and after the game with 100% of the proceeds benefitting the selected charities. To date, this event has raised close to $40,000 for charity.

During the game, there will be a special silent auction of all the players’ jerseys which will be held in the concourse at the main entrance of the stadium. Following the game, a live auction will be held on the Sky Sox dugout that will feature a select number of jerseys including Brooks Robinson’s. All jerseys will be autographed by the player that wore them and will be accompanied with a certificate of authenticity. The MLBPAA will also auction off a variety of baseball memorabilia during the game with a portion of the proceeds benefitting all three charities.

The two teams playing the game will consist of members of the Colorado Springs Police and Fire Departments as well as injured service members who will represent the Wounded Warrior Project.

In addition, each team will also include several former Major League baseball players, local media members and local dignitaries. Highlighting the former Major League players who will be attending the event is Hall of Fame third baseman Brooks Robinson who will be signing autographs for fans throughout the game. The night will culminate with a tremendous fireworks display following the game.

Tickets for the event come in two different options and can be purchased online at www.skysox.com, in person at the Sky Sox box office or by calling (719) 591-SOXX. Five dollars from each ticket purchased will be donated to and split evenly amongst the Colorado Springs Fire Protective Association, The Police Foundation of Colorado Springs, and the Wounded Warrior Project.

A limited number of special VIP package tickets are available for $30 and include:
- An Upper Reserved ticket to the game.
- Access to a special VIP autograph session before the game with the former Major League players, including Brooks Robinson
- Membership in the MLBPAA
- Upgrade to a box seat for just $3 more
Regular game tickets to the game will be $10 for Upper Reserved and $13 for Box Seats
Group tickets can be purchased in advance for groups of 20 or more through the Sky Sox group sales department for $7 each.

Former Major League players that will be participating in the game include:

Brooks Robinson: Hall of Fame third baseman, American League MVP in 1964, World Series MVP in 1970, 14-time All-Star, 16-time Gold Glove winner, played 23 seasons with the Baltimore Orioles, won two World Series with Baltimore 1966 & 1970.
Bob Knepper: Two-time All-Star, pitcher played 15 seasons with San Francisco & Houston, won 146 games in his career including six season with 10 or more wins.
Mark Knudson: A member of the Rockies inaugural 1993 team, pitcher played in eight seasons with Houston, Milwaukee & Colorado.
Gary Krug: Mitchell High School grad and current Pine Creek JV Baseball Head Coach played for the Cubs in 1981, former Head Baseball Coach at Cheyenne Mountain High School.
Brian Fisher: A 2^nd round draft pick of the Atlanta Braves in 1980, the righty won 36 games in seven seasons with the Yankees, Pirates, Astros and Mariners.
Bobby Johnson: A catcher & first baseman who played three season with the Texas Rangers. He is also the nephew of Hall of Famer Ernie Banks.

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

Memorial Children’s Hospital and Your South Bend Silver Hawks Partner for Home Run for Life

June 11, 2014

Memorial Children’s Hospital and your Silver Hawks will celebrate Aileen Corona during a special celebration ceremony, Home Run for Life, on Friday, June 13^th.

The celebration will take place in the middle of the 3^rd inning at Four Winds Field. Your Silver Hawks, along with the Lake County Captains, will line the field to join in on the ceremony as Aileen rounds the bases. Upon completing the celebratory home run, Silver Hawks’ Manager, Mark Haley will present her with a personalized Silver Hawks jersey. Home Run for Life celebrates and honors children who have battled serious medical conditions. Each child is honored and takes a home run lap around the bases during a Silver Hawks home game.

At the closing of the celebration staff and volunteers from Memorial Children’s Hospital will pass around donation buckets. Please consider giving a donation to help enhance the care children can receive right here in your community.

Aileen’s Story

When Aileen Corona first arrived at Memorial Children’s Hospital after a diagnosis of Osteosarcoma (bone cancer), she was sad, shy, uncertain and unable to cope with being apart from her mom during long hospital stays.

“Aileen would shed many tears the nights her mom, Noemi, couldn’t be with her,” says Julie Kowalenko, a charge nurse for Pediatrics and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. “At times we would have to call mom at work so Aileen could talk with her. I began to notice how Aileen always had her nails done, and to help make her more comfortable and at ease, I would comment on how nice they looked.”

Julie, known in Pediatrics as an “Ambassador of Fun,” suggested setting up a nail salon for Aileen.

“I told Aileen – ‘You could really do something for us because nurses notoriously have the worst nails and our nails need your help!'”

Aileen’s eyes sparkled at the suggestion. With the help of Child Life Specialist Liz Eash, a pink and purple glittery sign announced Aileen’s Nail Salon was open for business on the sixth floor of MCH.

The first of its kind, nurses and patients regularly visit the salon to have their nails painted by the budding nail expert. But first, they have to obtain a ticket from the reception area.

“The tickets have a purpose,” Julie says. “For every five tickets, Aileen gets to pick out a prize.”

Thanks to the salon’s customers and repeat customers, Aileen has earned plenty of tickets and taken home some real goodies, including an MP3 player.

“I’ve painted a lot of nails and picked out several prizes,” Aileen says. “I walk the halls and know everyone by name and what their favorite nail color is. The children’s hospital is a happier place to me because the nurses have helped me feel at home.”

Since the nail salon opened, Aileen’s tears and fears have been replaced with joy, as well as newfound perseverance because of a lengthy course of treatment that comes with Osteosarcoma.

“Despite having to endure dozens of chemo treatments, she has actually blossomed into our little social butterfly on the floor,” Julie says. “She is an amazing, wonderful girl. I think she has done more for me than I’ve done for her.”

When Aileen was first diagnosed, her dad, Alejandro, took the news especially hard since he recently battled and overcame Leukemia.

“It was really hard because I knew what was ahead of her,” he says. “But we have an incredible thing in Memorial Children’s Hospital. The nurses have done more than we could have hoped for to keep our daughter’s energy and spirits up. MCH keeps kids strong.”

With three more treatments to go, Aileen excitedly anticipates a shopping trip with her family to Mall of America to celebrate an intense cancer journey and her victory over the disease.

Aileen will leave MCH with an experience that has given her more than a nail salon and prizes, but expert care and memories that inspire her to become a pediatric nurse one day.

“I love kids and love being around kids, so I want to become a nurse,” she says. In the meantime, Aileen has a colorful childhood left to enjoy, painting nails along the way.

Please join Memorial Children’s Hospital and your Silver Hawks in cheering on Aileen as she completes her Home Run for Life at Four Winds Field on June 13^th . For more information about Memorial Children’s Hospital and Pinwheel Heroes like Aileen, visit qualityoflife.org/childrenshospital .

This article originally appeared on the official website of the South Bend Cubs. Click here to view the original story.

Vs. Cancer Foundation Night to be held on June 17

June 11, 2014

Cardinals players and staff join fight against childhood cancer

Roger Dean Stadium has partnered with the Vs. Cancer Foundation to raise money to help the fight against childhood cancer. On Tuesday, June 17th, Roger Dean Stadium will host the Vs. Cancer Foundation Fundraiser Night at the Ballpark. Members of the Palm Beach Cardinals and the Jupiter Hammerheads will get their heads shaved on the dugouts following the 6:35 p.m. game between the two clubs.

Prior to the event, players and staff members from both the Cardinals and Hammerheads will be collecting donations via fundraising pages to support the cause. Donations can be made by visiting Cardinals.vs-cancer.org or Jupiter.vs-cancer.org.

The Vs. Cancer Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to saving kids’ lives by empowering athletes and communities to fund lifesaving childhood cancer efforts.

The founder of the Vs. Cancer Foundation is Chase Jones, a former UNC-Chapel Hill baseball player. Chase was diagnosed with Stage IV Brain Cancer at the age of 18. With the help of national research and community support, Chase is six years cancer-free and has now dedicated himself to helping children with childhood cancer through his foundation.

Half of all proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit national childhood cancer research, and the other half will help Alliance for Kids, a division of Palm Beach Children’s Hospital. The goal of the Vs. Cancer Foundation is to invest in our kids of tomorrow while also helping kids just be kids even while battling cancer.

Roger Dean Stadium’s merchandise manager Linda Hanson will be one of several players and staff members participating in the event. If she receives $2,500 on her fundraising page or in money donated in the Team Store, she will also take part in the head shaving following the game.

Gates will open at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday night for the 6:35 p.m. game. You can still purchase tickets at the Roger Dean Stadium ticket office from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. or by calling (561) 630-1828. For more information on the event, visit www.PalmBeachCardinals.com or call (561) 775-1818.

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

M-Braves schedule ALS Awareness Nights

June 10, 2014

Braves to host several upcoming awareness nights to help ‘Strikeout ALS’

The Mississippi Braves baseball team is proud to announce three upcoming ALS Awareness Nights, benefiting The ALS Association: July 3, July 12 and August 22. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, has no known cause or cure and progressively paralyzes its victims, attacking nerve cells and pathways in the brain or spinal cord.

We’re honored to have the Mississippi Braves’ support,” said Brandi Nickles, Care Services Director of the Louisiana-Mississippi Chapter of The ALS Association. “These events at Trustmark Park will bring a tremendous amount of awareness to the disease, as well as provide a fun event for those living with ALS and their families. In addition, the dollars raised from these events will provide much needed funding for research for finding a treatment and ultimately a cure for ALS.

Minor League Baseball is a major supporter of The ALS Association because of baseball’s connection to Lou Gehrig,” said Steve DeSalvo, M-Braves General Manager. “This year marks the 75th anniversary of Lou Gehrig’s farewell speech. We’ve gotten behind the efforts of the Louisiana-Mississippi Chapter and plan to put on a lot of various events at Trustmark Park so we can help them not only find a cure but also a treatment for this fatal disease.

Since the M-Braves are not home on July 4, the anniversary of Gehrig’s famous speech, the Double-A Braves will honor Gehrig’s legacy and raise money for the fight against ALS on July 3. The Braves will also hold a charitable Tennis Ball Toss following the game prior to the Supersized Fireworks Show Independence Day Celebration. All proceeds will go to the fight against ALS.

On July 12, M-Braves players will wear special military/camouflage jerseys with ALS patches on the sleeves. The jerseys will be auctioned off during the game. Players will sign their respective jerseys after the game before handing them over to the highest bidders. 100% of the auction proceeds go to the ALS Association. The Braves will also donate $2 to the ALSA for every ticket purchased to the game.

On August 22, M-Braves players will wear special military/camouflage caps with the ALS and Mississippi Army National Guard logos incorporated on them. Similar to the jerseys, each cap will be signed by the player and auctioned off with 100% of the proceeds going to the ALS Association. The first 1,500 fans through the gates will get one of the free replica caps. Once again, the Braves will donate $2 to the ALSA for every ticket purchased to the game along with 100% of that night’s proceeds from the post-game Tennis Ball Toss.

As previously announced, the annual Walk to Defeat ALS has been relocated to Trustmark Park with the M-Braves commitment as presenting sponsor. The walk is scheduled for Saturday, September 27. The Walk to Defeat ALS is The ALS Association’s signature event in which all funds directly support cutting-edge research, programs and patient care. All interested walkers should call 800-891-3746, or register online at http://web.alsa.org/Jackson2014.

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

Dragons to Honor Community All-Stars Tuesday

June 9, 2014

Vectren Corporation and the Dayton Dragons will host Scott Hannah and Tyler Gregory during the unique “Community All-Stars” program on Tuesday, June 10, at 7 p.m. when the Dayton Dragons take on the Bowling Green Hot Rods at Fifth Third Field.

The Dayton community is a great place to live, work and play. But what makes Dayton truly great are the people that call Dayton home. We have great people and great organizations in our community that do incredible things each and every day. Throughout the season, the Dragons and Vectren will honor 35 “All-Stars”-anyone from firefighters to first responders, non-profit organizations to Good Samaritans-and their families with a VIP treatment at a Dragons game in recognition of their service.

Scott and Tyler’s Story

Scott Hannah and Tyler Gregory were unlikely friends. Rivals on their high school cross country team, the two often competed against each other. When their coaches suggested they start running together, Scott and Tyler became fast friends and discovered they had more than just running in common. The teens shared a desire to make a change.

Bullying had become commonplace amongst the students at the school Scott and Tyler attended. While it was something many talked about, no one seemed to be doing anything about it. Scott and Tyler decided to take a stand. The two made an anti-bullying video that included over 70 students at their school. The video was submitted to “The Great American NO BULL Challenge” and was a top 15 finalist.

“When we put the video together, we tried to think about everyone from those being bullied to those doing the bullying and even those that were bystanders and how we could speak to each one,” Scott explains. “After showing the video at our school, students started apologizing to those they had bullied in the past. Bullying became the weird thing to do.”

Scott and Tyler started speaking to schools around the Dayton area about their experiences being bullied and they themselves being the bully which propelled them to team up with “The NO BULL Challenge” as national spokespeople.

“We’ve been to over 25 states and have spoken to over 35,000 students,” Tyler said. “Most students we talk to can say they have been bullied. What is really unique is when students admit they themselves have been a bully. We want to reach everyone and truly change the atmosphere of the schools we visit.”

For taking a stand and making an impact on schools around the nation, Scott and Tyler have been selected as Dragons Community All-Stars. The Dragons Community All-Stars Program honors individuals and organizations who have gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley.

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program is made possible by the generous support of Vectren. For more information on the program or to read about the All-Stars we have honored in 2014, visit daytondragons.com. To learn more about the No Bull Guys and how you can help, visit www.thenobullguys.com.

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