Archives for November 2014

Living World War II Veterans to be Celebrated in 2015

November 11, 2014

Fightins’ Ceremonial Flag Service to now include WWII vets

Fightins General Manager Scott Hunsicker made the announcement regarding the Ceremonial Flag Service now honoring World War II veterans at the Veterans Day Ceremony.

Starting with the 2015 season, the Reading Fightins, Double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, will now be honoring living World War II veterans at each home game during the Savage61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Ceremonial Flag Service, the club announced at the Veterans Day Wreath-Laying Ceremony on Tuesday.

The World War II veterans will be honored, in addition to fallen veterans of all wars, nightly during a pre-game ceremony beside their family and friends. During the ceremony, the Fightins will tell each veteran’s story and present the veteran with a Ceremonial Flag as a token of appreciation for all that they have done in protection of the United States of America.

“When we announced the Ceremonial Flag Service last season, we had no idea how well our fans and the community would receive the nightly program and because of this, we wanted to allow living veterans of World War II to be celebrated alongside their families during the 2015 season,” said Fightins General Manager Scott Hunsicker. “This is the least we could do to give them proper respect and admiration for risking their lives in the line of battle. We thank Tim Profit and Savage 61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram for stepping up and underwriting this important program as well as all of our military programs.”

Last season, the Fightins honored fallen veterans of all wars during a pre-game ceremony by flying a Ceremonial Flag near the giant dog tags at the main entrance to honor a specific veteran each home game. Before each home game, the Fightins raised a ceremonial flag to tribute to their memory and welcomed their family to the game. The flag was then lowered and given to the family following the game.

Reservations for the Savage61 Ceremonial Flag Service will be taken for the 2015 season. Those interested can call 610-370-BALL ext. 293 to reserve a date. Anyone interested in paying tribute or honor to a veteran is asked to call that number with their preference of a game date. Available game dates are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Over the years, the Fightins have continued to discover new ways to honor Berks County’s veterans. Originally named Reading Municipal Memorial Stadium, FirstEnergy Stadium was completed in 1951 and named in honor of the servicemen and women who risked their lives in defense of their country. 48 years later in 1999, a statue in the form of giant dog tags was placed in front of FirstEnergy Stadium in a special rededication ceremony to honor the area’s veterans.

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

Sky Sox Partner For Holiday Turkey Drive

November 10, 2014

Security Service Field will serve as drop off for “Turkey Team” Community Turkey Drive

For the second year in a row, the Colorado Springs Sky Sox have partnered with Care and Share Food Bank, Springs Rescue Mission and Catholic Charities of Central Colorado’s Marian House as part of their region-wide community turkey drive for the 2014 holiday season.

“The Sky Sox are proud to partner with this incredible group of Colorado Springs community partners in an effort to make a significant impact this holiday season,” said Sky Sox President and General Manager Tony Ensor. “We are truly thankful to be a part of this community and this effort to help those most in need. We hope that the citizens of Colorado Springs will come out in large numbers to support this worthy cause and drop off their contributions as Security Service Field.”

Those interested in donating a frozen turkey can do so at Security Service Field on Friday, November 14 between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. The Sky Sox will also be providing one free ticket to Opening Night 2015 (Thursday, April 9) to anyone who donates a turkey at Security Service Field on November 14. Additional drop off locations include Springs Rescue Mission, Calvary Worship Center or Compassion International.

“It is only through collaborative community efforts can we accomplish a goal of feeding our neighbors in need,” said Lynne Telford, CEO Care and Share Food Bank. “By combining our efforts to meet the needs we hope to provide more turkeys, the Thanksgiving centerpiece, this holiday season.”

“We at Springs Rescue Mission are excited to continue our partnership with Care and Share, Catholic Charities, media partners, Panera Bread, and Sky Sox Baseball to help families through the 10,000 turkey effort,” said Springs Rescue Mission President & CEO Larry Yonker. “Our wonderful and caring community consistently shows its generosity and we believe that they will again display their goodwill and enable this partnership to exceed its goal.”

“Catholic Charities of Central Colorado is thrilled to join the collaboration with Care and Share, Springs Rescue Mission, and the many partners and community members who are instrumental in providing help and creating hope to those in our community who need it the most. Something as simple as providing a turkey means so much to those we serve. It allows many families and individuals to celebrate a traditional holiday, and all that goes with it, who otherwise would not be able to,” said Rochelle Schlortt, Catholic Charities Chief Communications Officer.

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

CT Tigers To Honor Veterans Day With A Special Offer

November 10, 2014

The Connecticut Tigers are proud to honor our military heroes once again this Veterans Day by offering a special “thank you” offer.

For the second straight year, any current or former military member who comes to the Dodd Stadium box office on Tuesday, November 11, 2014 between 9 am and 5 pm will receive two complimentary ticket vouchers redeemable for a premium box seat to any 2015 regular season Connecticut Tigers game. The offer is only valid in person at the Dodd Stadium box office and some form of military identification must be shown.

“We feel strongly as an organization that those that have served or are currently serving our country should be recognized and honored. That’s why we have a military discount on tickets for each and every one of our games and have a night dedicated to honoring these heroes each season,” said CT Tigers Vice President and General Manager Eric Knighton. “A pair of free tickets is just another small way that we can express our gratitude for all of the sacrifices they’ve made for us all.”

The Connecticut Tigers are the New York-Penn League affiliate of the Detroit Tigers and play a 76 game schedule that runs from mid June through early September. 2015 season tickets, and team merchandise are now on sale! The front office and box office is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday and can be accessed in person or by calling 860-887-7962.

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

San Jose Giants 2015 Military Trading Card Set Nominations Now Open

November 10, 2014

Operation: Care and Comfort will again sponsor giveaway based on fan submissions

Today the San Jose Giants announced and opened nominations for their second Military Trading Card Set, presented by Operation: Care and Comfort. The trading card set will again be made up entirely from fan nominations of current or former members of the military. Nominations will be accepted through Friday, December 19. All submissions must be accompanied by a photo of the nominee, in military uniform, sent to info@sjgiants.com. The sets will be given to the first 1,000 fans in attendance at the San Jose Giants Fourth Annual Salute to the Military Day on Saturday, April 18.

Last year’s 36 member set included honorees from every branch of the military as well as a number of notable honorees: local icon, turned national news story Joe Bell and courageous war hero Pat Tillman. Click here to submit your nomination for the 2015 Military Trading Card Set.

“The Military Trading Card Set was an extraordinary addition to our 2014 Salute to the Military Day. We are incredibly excited to again offer our fans and the community the chance to share their wonderful stories of the heroes among us,” said Juliana Paoli, San Jose Giants Chief Marketing Officer. “After receiving nearly 100 submissions last year, we hope that opening this year’s nomination process months in advance will allow even more people the opportunity to honor the brave men and women that serve our country.”

“Operation: Care and Comfort is proud to continue their partnership with the San Jose Giants and thrilled for our troops, veterans and their families to be honored through the second year of this set,” said Julie DeMaria, Operation: Care and Comfort President and Co-Founder. “The first Salute to the Military Trading Card Set was made up of a remarkable group of heroes. I hope that current military and veterans alike, throughout the Bay Area, will again be nominated and have the opportunity to be recognized.”

The San Jose Giants Fourth Annual Salute to the Military Day on April 18 will be part of the team’s 2015 opening homestand. The Giants will also host games at Municipal Stadium on Mother’s Day (May 10), Memorial Day (May 25), Father’s Day (June 21) and Independence Day (July 4). For more information on the 2015 season and ticket packages please visit sjgiants.com or call (408) 297-1435.

Submit Nomination for the Military Trading Card Set, presented by Operation: Care and Comfort

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

Gwinnett Braves Award October Grant to Project Paws Alive

November 6, 2014

Organization receives $1,000 “Four Legged Friends” themed grant

The Gwinnett Braves have announced the recipient of their $1,000 grant for the month of October. Project Paws Alive, Inc. has been awarded the “Four Legged Friends” themed grant, aimed at funding an organization that benefits animals.

Project Paws Alive was created in 2012 when the founders heard about a series of Police K-9 deaths that could have been prevented had the dogs been wearing protective ballistic vests while on duty. Since forming, the organization has worked to provide K-9 stab and bullet proof protective vests, as well as other vital K-9 equipment to Law Enforcement, Fire, Search and Rescue and Military K-9 units nationwide.

The $1,000 grant awarded by the Gwinnett Braves will help Project Paws Alive in their local mission, providing protective equipment to the nine dogs in the Gwinnett County Police Department’s K-9 unit. Their goal is to raise $16,000, which will provide each K-9 with a ballistic/spike protective vest as well as a K-9 trauma kit.

“We are absolutely honored to be the recipient of this grant so generously offered by the Gwinnett Braves,” said Cheryl Allen, Co-Founder and President of Project Paws Alive. “We are pleased to announce that this particular grant will be used to purchase protective equipment for our very own Gwinnett County Police K-9 Unit.”

About Project Paws Alive, Inc.: Based in Grayson, GA, Project Paws Alive is a nationwide 501(c) non-profit organization. They rely solely on donations and sponsors to provide life-saving K-9 equipment to Law Enforcement, Fire, Search and Rescue, EMS and Military units across the country. To learn how you can support Project Paws Alive, visit their website at projectpawsalive.org.

For more information on the Gwinnett Braves Grant Program, including details on how your organization can apply for future grants, call Community Relations Coordinator Alison Atkins at 678-277-0346 or email Alison.Atkins@braves.com.

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

Keys to Host Toys for Tots Drive

November 5, 2014

Fans Who Contribute New Toy to Receive Tickets and Hat

The holiday season is right around the corner, and for the third consecutive season the Keys will be partnering with Toys for Tots. The mission of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children.

Members of the Frederick community can drop off toys at Harry Grove Stadium starting on November 5, from 9-5 p.m, Monday to Friday. Anyone who donates a toy will receive two tickets to a 2015 Frederick Keys home game along with two Keys hats.

The Toys for Tots Drive concludes on Saturday, December 13, when the Keys host their annual holiday event in the Mattress Warehouse Club.

“We received tremendous support from the community during our toy drive last year,” said Director of Marketing Bridget McCabe. “The Keys love bringing smiles to the faces of local kids during the holiday season, and our annual partnership with Toys for Tots allows us to do just that.”

The Keys Holiday Event on December 13 will run from 10am-1pm. More details will be available at a later date. Ticket plans for the 2015 season are now available, and can be purchased by calling an account manager at 301-815-9900. Every plan comes with the choice of a Zach Britton or Kevin Gausman bobblehead.

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

VETERANS HONORED WITH SPECIAL TICKET PACKAGE

November 5, 2014

Includes 5 military-themed games

In honor of Veterans Day, the Sacramento River Cats are offering a special Veterans Day Ticket Package available only on Monday, November 10 and Tuesday, November 11 at Raley Field.

The package will include five military-themed River Cats games during the 2015 season including: Salute to Armed Forces (May 9), a Memorial Day matinee (May 25), Independence Eve Celebration (July 3), a doubleheader with the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Game (July 11), and a Labor Day matinee (September 7).

“The military presence around Sacramento including Beale and Travis Air Force Bases, the California National Guard units, and all the reservists, retired service members, and dependents shows the Sacramento region’s immense military presence” said River Cats General Manager, Chip Maxson. “We want to do our part to offer these exemplary citizens a unique and fun River Cats experience.”

Active, retired, and reserve military members can purchase this special package available only on November 10 and 11 at the Round Table Pizza Ticket Office at Raley Field open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Two seating options are available: Senate seats at $75, and Assembly seats at $50 for the 5-game package. Please be prepared to show a military ID upon purchase.

The River Cats will have a media area set up both days to interview local military personnel about their service history. Footage will be used throughout the season to honor our troops’ service at home and abroad.

For more information, please call the River Cats Ticket Hotline at (916) 371-HITS (4487) or email tickets@rivercats.com.

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

Frederick Keys Care Grants Awarded

November 4, 2014

Recipients of grants for 2014-2015 announced

It is with great pleasure that the Frederick Keys, Class A minor league affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, announce the recipients of Frederick Keys Care grants for 2014-2015. The Frederick Keys Care Fund is a component fund of the Community Foundation of Frederick County. Joel Stephens played in the Baltimore Orioles’ minor league system until he lost his courageous battle with colon cancer in 1998 at the age of 22. The fund was established as the Joel A. Stephen’s Memorial Fund in 2002 to continue his desire to reach out to youth in need with compassion and encouragement. In 2011 the fund’s name was changed, with the support of Joel’s family, to The Frederick Keys Care Fund in order to continue Joel’s legacy and to acknowledge the Frederick Keys commitment to furthering Joel’s fund.

Since its inception, The Frederick Keys Care Fund has awarded more than $53,000.00 to local youth organizations (including this year’s grant amount of $8,696.00). This year’s grant money will be divided among five projects for local nonprofit organizations.

Teen Enrichment Program, Project ALIVE of the Housing Authority of the City of Frederick is designed to serve up to 15 teens, focusing specifically on those with aspirations to attend college and will include college visits and a two-day retreat focused on character building and team building. ($2,024.00)

Child Therapy Supplies, Heartly House located in Frederick, Maryland provides, among other things, therapeutic counseling to children who have been the victims of abuse or who have witnessed violence in their homes. Funding is being provided to buy specific supplies to engage children in therapy and enable their recovery as well as provide food for family meals during a concentrated group program called Strengthening Family Coping Resources. ($2,024.00)

Lead4Life-First Chance 4U Young Men’s Group Project, in partnership with the Frederick County Department of Juvenile Justice offices, will expand services to males 12-18 years of age who are involved or at high risk of involvement with the criminal justice system through a positive youth development model that is designed to reduce youth recidivism of crime and delinquent behaviors as well as teach how to cope with crisis. ($2,024.00)

Blessings in a Backpack Frederick Schools, provides weekend nutrition to over 320 Frederick elementary school children who depend on the Free and Reduced Meal Program offered Monday through Friday in the schools. This grant will allow Blessings in a Backpack to help more students in need receive weekend nutrition. ($2,024.00)

Homeless Youth Activities, Advocates for Homeless Families, serves youth in the Advocates’ programs by providing them with scholarships to participate in extracurricular activities such as sports and clubs during the school year and the Boys and Girls Club of Frederick County’s summer “bridges” program that keeps youth actively engaged in learning and fun over summer vacation to prevent summer learning loss and ensure they are ready for the new school year. ($600.00)

The Frederick Keys Care Fund is part of The Community Foundation of Frederick County’s Universal Grant Application funding program that takes place in the fall of each year. Nonprofit organizations that provide direct services to our Frederick County youth and young adults may apply on behalf of their programs. Members of the organization(s) who receive funding through “Frederick Keys Care” are invited to attend the luncheon following the annual Frederick Keys Charity Golf Classic to be recognized as the current Fund recipients and again on the field at Harry Grove Stadium prior to a Frederick Keys game as well as other activities that may seem appropriate.

For more information on the grant process and/or how you can donate directly to The Frederick Keys Care Fund please contact The Community Foundation of Frederick County at www.frederickcountygives.org or 301-695-7660.

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

Drop off Toys For Tots at Zephyr Field

November 3, 2014

Zephyr Field an official holiday drop-off location for new toys

This holiday season, the New Orleans Zephyrs are again partnering with Toys For Tots, with Zephyr Field providing an official drop-off location for toys to be given to needy children in the community.

As sponsors of the Toys For Tots program, new, unwrapped toys can be dropped off at Zephyr Field through Friday, December 12. Those toys will be delivered to less fortunate children in the community as Christmas presents.

The Toys For Tots program accepts only new, unwrapped toys.

Toys For Tots campaigns are conducted by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve in approximately 500 communities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

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

Wells Fargo Donates $1,000 to Baseballtown Charities

November 3, 2014

Donation made possible through Community Connections Giving Program

Baseballtown Charities would like to thank Wells Fargo’s Community Connections Giving Program for their donation of $1,000.

Through the program, Wells Fargo’s retail banking stores explore the needs of their local communities and select a nonprofit organization to receive a grant. This year, Wells Fargo will award close to $300,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations and schools across Pennsylvania.

The grants are part of the company’s broader support of its communities. In 2013, Wells Fargo invested more than $14 million in nonprofit organizations and schools and team members volunteered more than 46,000 hours throughout Pennsylvania.

Baseballtown Charities, a non-profit 501 (c)(3) entity, was founded in 2002 in association with the Reading Fightin Phils in order to keep baseball alive in Reading through charitable donations to underprivileged youth who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to play baseball. The organization also pays tribute to Reading’s rich baseball history.

Since its inception in 2002, the Baseballtown trademark has played a necessary part in the baseball community of Berks County. Under the Baseballtown namesake, FirstEnergy Stadium has played host to the High School All-Star Game and the Olivet’s Boy’s and Girl’s Club Championship. Each year, the organization crowns the King or Queen of Baseballtown to honor the past by recognizing that individual’s accomplishments and contributions to baseball/softball.

Perhaps the biggest accomplishment the organization has overtaken was the construction of Gordon Hoodak Stadium at Lauer’s Park in 2006. Through contributions exceeding $900,000, the youth ballpark was built in a neighborhood that is quickly returning to its glory days. It sits on the grounds of Lauer’s Park Elementary School, named for the former stadium where Babe Ruth and Shoeless Joe Jackson both played. The original housed several professional teams and hosted barnstorming tours from 1907-1941. Reading’s own baseball legend, the late “Broadway” Charlie Wagner, former Red Sox pitcher and roommate Ted Williams, began his career there.

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

Annual Pancake Breakfast

November 3, 2014

Pancake Breakfast Saturday December 6th Fifty Percent off Sale Starting at 7AM

The Rome Braves will hold a pancake breakfast on Saturday December 6th to benefit the Braves Miracle Field of Rome. The event will take place at State Mutual Stadium from 7AM – Noon. Tickets are just $8 for all you can eat pancakes and sausage served in the Three Rivers Club.

The annual 50 Percent Off sale will take place from 7AM – 3PM with half off most everything in the Tradin’ Post.

Fans can also purchase season tickets for 2015 plus holiday ticket packages including the popular six and twelve pack plans – the perfect stocking stuffer. The ticket office will be open from 7AM – 3PM.

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