Archives for August 2017

South Bend Cubs Host Fallen Heroes Day on Saturday, August 27

SOUTH BEND, IN – On Sunday, August 27, the South Bend Cubs will honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the community on Fallen Heroes Day presented by Midland Engineering. In addition to the recognition, the club will announce the 2017 Corporal Paul Deguch Community Service Award recipient.

The Corporal Paul Deguch Community Service Award is presented annually to a South Bend Cubs player who demonstrates outstanding service to the Michiana community. The award is in honor of Corporal Paul Deguch, a City of South Bend police officer, who was killed in the line of duty in August 1997. Members of the Deguch family will be on hand to present the award.

“We are honored to keep the memory of Corporal Deguch alive with this community service award,” said South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. “Everyday police officers, firefighters, EMT’s and service volunteers put their lives on the line to serve and protect, some of which give the ultimate sacrifice. This day is to remember all who lost their lives protecting our community.

Members of the South Bend Police Department will line the field in their squad cars to honor their fallen brother and participate in the award ceremony.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. This year, Four Winds Field, home of the Cubs, was named Ballpark Digest’s Best Single-A ballpark. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Lindsay Dennis to Celebrate Home Run For Life Saturday with OKC Dodgers

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS conclude the 2017 “Home Run for Life” series Saturday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark by recognizing Lindsay Dennis, who sustained severe head and spinal cord injuries in a May 2016 car accident.

Dennis broke vertebrae at the top of her neck – an injury many people are unable to survive – and also suffered broken vertebrae in her middle back, fractured her ribs, endured swelling on her brain and experienced paralysis in her lower body.

She returned to teaching this month, about 15 months after her accident. Dennis currently relies on a wheelchair for mobility, but took her first steps after the accident this spring and continues her recovery thanks to the care she receives at Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation at INTEGRIS Southwest Medical Center.

“Home Run For Life” recognizes individuals in the Oklahoma City community who have overcome a significant medical event with the help of their families, physicians and health care professionals. To symbolize the end of their battle against adversity, honorees take a home run “lap” around the bases during an in-game ceremony.

“We are proud to continue the Home Run For Life Series this season and honor some remarkable individuals in our community who have battled exceptional challenges with their health,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “Their resolve and courage offer great inspiration for us all and we are pleased to join with INTEGRIS to recognize their triumphs.”

Lindsay Dennis and her family were traveling from Moore to Shawnee in celebration after the last day of the school year in May 2016.

Dennis had recently accepted a teaching position in Shawnee and wanted to purchase a T-shirt from her new school and show her family where she would be working the following school year.

But her family of four never made it to Shawnee that day. The Dennis family minivan was stopped in traffic on the interstate when they were rear-ended by another vehicle traveling approximately 70 miles per hour.

The accident sent Dennis, her husband Daniel and their two young sons Parker and Noah to the hospital. Dennis remained in the hospital from May 20 until early June. The first time she regained consciousness after the accident was June 3. She awoke in a brace that enveloped her body in rigid plastic from her head to her waist and she learned her lower body was paralyzed.

She had to relearn how to do everything from sitting up to getting dressed. She also had to learn how to swallow, eat and drink once again.

When Dennis arrived at Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation at INTEGRIS Southwest Medical Center in June 2016, she was wearing the immobilizing brace over the top half of her body, had a tube in her stomach, faint voice and was completely dependent on others for her care.

“Being at Jim Thorpe they had so many resources and so many people that all you had to do was ask,” Dennis said. “I think they’ve seen just about everything. They really made it seem not so overwhelming because you could get lost in all of the feelings that you have to go through to get through something like this. They make it manageable.”

She stayed at INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation as an inpatient through July 2016 and has since returned on a regular basis as an outpatient. The first time she took a step after her accident was in March 2017.

“I try not to let it get to me so much, but it was the first time ever at the end of therapy that I broke down in tears – and they were happy tears,” she said. “When all of this happened, you think it’s not going to be a possibility, and then it was a good possibility.”

Her focus recently has been on resuming her career and working full time as a high school English and journalism teacher – something she has been looking forward to for more than a year. She returned to the classroom earlier this month.

“It has been an interesting journey to say the least,” Dennis said. “You learn to appreciate a lot of small things that you really take for granted in the long run. You can focus all on the negative and all on the bad, but we’ve had a lot of blessings and a lot of amazing people and opportunities like this, that it makes you see the good in people.”

To read Dennis’ full story, visit okcdodgers.com.

The Dodgers open their final homestand of the 2017 regular season tonight at 7:05 p.m. against the Omaha Storm Chasers at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on a $2 Thursday featuring $2 soda, water and beer from a line of Pepsi and Budweiser products. The series against Omaha continues at 7:05 p.m. Friday with Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night presented by RSM and Folds of Honor. Fireworks presented by Francis Tuttle are scheduled to follow the game.

Watch Lindsay Dennis complete her “Home Run for Life” following the third inning of Saturday’s 7:05 p.m. game against Omaha. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the first 1,000 fans will receive a Cody Bellinger T-shirt. The OKC Disc Dogs will also perform and fans will have the opportunity to bid on game-used, game-worn autographed OKC Dodgers memorabilia during the Clubhouse Collectibles silent auction presented by The Oklahoman. Sunday’s 6:05 p.m. game against Omaha falls on a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday.

The homestand then continues with a four-game series against the New Orleans Baby Cakes beginning at 7:05 p.m. Monday. The regular season concludes at 7:05 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 31 against New Orleans on a $2 Thursday and special Throwback Thursday. Oklahoma City will take the field in Oklahoma City 89ers gear and the players’ and coaches’ jerseys will be auctioned off to benefit the OKC Dodgers Baseball Foundation.

A very limited number of tickets remain for Friday and Saturday nights, but tickets for all of the other remaining home games of the regular season are available through the OKC Dodgers ticket office located on South Mickey Mantle Drive, by phone at (405) 218-1000, or by visiting okcdodgers.com.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

OKC Dodgers to Host Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night Friday

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers will honor the service and dedication of local military members and their families Friday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night, presented by RSM and Folds of Honor.

The Dodgers play the Omaha Storm Chasers at 7:05 p.m. Friday, and special festivities will be held throughout the evening, culminating with postgame fireworks presented by Francis Tuttle.

“Our second Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night of the season provides us with the opportunity to show our local service men, women and their families how grateful the Oklahoma City community is for their service,” said OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes. “These nights of recognition in June and August allow us to honor the sacrifices and commitments made by these devoted individuals and offer our appreciation first-hand.”

A swearing-in ceremony of new Air Force recruits will take place on the field prior to the game. Folds of Honor Major Ed Pulido and Colonel Gavin Marks, Vice Commander, 552 Air Control Wing from Tinker Air Force Base, will throw out ceremonial first pitches. Chief Master Sergeant Mark Hurst, Command Chief, 552 Air Control Wing will deliver the lineup card.

The Tinker Air Force Base Honor Guard will present the colors during the singing of the national anthem performed by Senior Airman Froy Lockhoff-Taylor, 552 Maintenance Squadron, Tinker Air Force Base. Lockhoff-Taylor will also perform “God Bless America” during the game.

Representatives from RSM and Folds of Honor, each branch of the military as well as other military and veteran organizations will be available on the concourse throughout the evening to share information with fans.

The Dodgers open their final homestand of the 2017 regular season at 7:05 p.m. Thursday against the Omaha Storm Chasers at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on a $2 Thursday featuring $2 soda, water and beer from a line of Pepsi and Budweiser products. The series against Omaha continues at 7:05 p.m. Friday with Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night presented by RSM and Folds of Honor and postgame fireworks presented by Francis Tuttle.

On Saturday, gates open at 6 p.m. and the first 1,000 fans will receive a Cody Bellinger T-shirt. The OKC Disc Dogs will perform throughout the 7:05 p.m. game and fans will also have the opportunity to bid on game-used, game-worn autographed OKC Dodgers memorabilia during the Clubhouse Collectibles silent auction presented by The Oklahoman. Sunday’s 6:05 p.m. game falls on a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday.

The homestand continues with a four-game series against the New Orleans Baby Cakes beginning at 7:05 p.m. Monday. The regular season concludes at 7:05 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 31 against New Orleans on a $2 Thursday and special Throwback Thursday. Oklahoma City will take the field in Oklahoma City 89ers gear and the players’ and coaches’ throwback jerseys will be auctioned off to benefit the OKC Dodgers Baseball Foundation.

A very limited number of tickets remain for Friday and Saturday nights, but tickets for all of the other remaining home games of the regular season are available through the OKC Dodgers ticket office located on South Mickey Mantle Drive, by phone at (405) 218-1000, or by visiting okcdodgers.com.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Pink Ribbon Girls to be Honored as Community All-Star

The Dragons and Vectren will honor the Pink Ribbon Girls organization during the unique “Community All-Stars” program on Thursday, August 24, at 7:00 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 five “All-Stars” with a special inning break tribute in recognition of their service.

Pink Ribbon Girls Story

Pink Ribbon Girls is an organization founded by breast cancer survivors who have a passion for supporting and empowering others who are currently in the fight against breast and women’s reproductive cancers. The organization is currently in its sixth year and serves women in Dayton, Cincinnati, and Columbus.

Women that are diagnosed with breast cancer are given information about Pink Ribbon Girls before they even leave the hospital. The organization focuses many of their efforts on those who are dealing with the initial shock and uncertainty of this diagnosis.

Pink Ribbon Girls not only offers services to provide support for the family member with cancer, but also their entire family. Thanks to partnerships with Scratch Event Catering and Rush Transportation, the organization provides three meals per week for the entire family, housecleaning services, rides to and from treatment, and peer support.

The organization serves all women who are suffering from breast or women’s reproductive cancer and their families. There is no income base or age requirement.

President and CEO Heather Salazar has been impressed with the incredible support of the people in this area, “What this community is doing to change the lives of women and families facing the hardest battle of their lives is really, truly what a community should be about and Dayton has raised the bar in that regard.”

Pink Ribbon Girls hosts many events throughout the year, but “Ignite the Fight” is the organization’s signature event and is coming up on Saturday, October 21. Those interested in signing up to volunteer at events or fundraisers can visit the Pink Ribbon Girls Facebook page or visit https://www.pinkribbongirls.org/ for more information.

The Dragons Community All Star program, made possible by the generous support of Vectren, showcases amazing citizens and organizations that have gone above the call of duty to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley all summer long. To nominate someone or learn more, visit daytondragons.com/communityallstar.

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 story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Shorebirds to Auction Off Maryland Pride Jerseys Aug. 24th

SALISBURY, Md. — The Delmarva Shorebirds, Class-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, will be auctioning off the Maryland Pride Jerseys that the team has worn every Thursday home game during the 2017 season on Thursday, August 24th during their game against the Hickory Crawdads.

The Shorebirds started embracing fans’ love for the Maryland State Flag this year by implementing Maryland Pride Thursday for every Thursday home game by wearing jerseys that model the Maryland State Flag.

The auction will be on the second level concourse and will last until the first pitch of the sixth inning, when it will turn into a live auction.

All proceeds will go to the Shorebirds’ Fly Together Fund. The Fly Together Fund is used to help fund local community projects, with a focus on youth centers and youth sports.

First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 PM on Thursday, August 24th with gates set to open at 6:00 PM.

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The Shorebirds celebrated their 20th season in 2015, and have entertained over five million fans since beginning play at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury, Md. in 1996. The team has captured South Atlantic League titles in 1997 and 2000 while successfully hosting the South Atlantic League All-Star Game in 1999 and 2011.

For more information on the Shorebirds, call 410-219-3112 or visit theshorebirds.com.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Mayor James A. Diossa teams up with PawSox for “PLAY BALL SUMMER” Initiative

Central Falls, RI – Mayor James A. Diossa and the Pawtucket Redsox will host Central Falls Youth youth in various baseball activities as part of the United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) continued support of the “PLAY BALL SUMMER” initiative, which focuses on the fun nature of baseball and encourages an active and healthy lifestyle for kids in all communities. During the Summer of 2017 mayors are implementing the initiative throughout cities with the goal of strengthening the connection of communities with the National Pastime.

The National Mayor’s Play Ball initiative will at Higginson Avenue Sports Complex will take place from 10am-12pm. PawSox players will be out running drills and competitions for youth of all ages including a baseball game and home run derby.

Mayors across the country are hosting similar activities to engage citizens, families, and city departments to organize individual and community events (such as playing catch, running bases in the backyard, family gatherings, park and recreation activities, business-supported activities, etc.). These activities will be focused on exposing children to the sport of baseball and providing a fun opportunity to remain active throughout the summer.

“Baseball is America’s favorite past time and a great way to engage our youth, especially in urban communities like Central Falls,” stated Mayor James A. Diossa. “There is no better way to do so than together with the Pawtucket Red Sox. I’d like to thank the U.S. Conference of Mayors for this initiative.”

“The PawSox are happy to be teaming up with Mayor Diossa on this exciting and worthy initiative,” said PawSox Executive Vice President & General Manager, Dan Rea. “It’s our job to keep our local youth excited about baseball and we hope they have some fun with our ballplayers on Wednesday.”

Per Milb: “On May 18, MLB announced that baseball and softball combined to rank as the most participated team sports in the United States in 2016 (25 million participants), according to the annual Topline Participation Report produced by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). Overall baseball participation increased by 7.7 percent and slow-pitch softball participation increased by 8.1 percent in 2016, with casual participation in both baseball and slow-pitch softball showing the highest growth. In 2016, casual participation in baseball rose by 18.1 percent and slow-pitch softball increased by 12.4 percent. Casual participation in baseball and slow-pitch softball is up 34 percent over the last five years. When combined, baseball and softball (fast-and slow-pitch) have more casual participants than any other sport (10.25 million).”

The PLAY BALL initiative with the USCM focuses on recruiting cities to promote and support PLAY BALL through the use of baseball-related activities. Primary targets are cities with Major League and Minor League Baseball clubs, although the initiative toolkit and self-reporting strategy will be electronically distributed to hundreds of cities across the country with the assistance of Major League Baseball.

Local leaders and citizens will report their activities to PLAYBALL.org via usmayors.org. The site provides parents, coaches and kids with information on how to get involved with PLAY BALL activities as well as how to join community baseball leagues. Coaching tips and video tutorials from Major League Baseball players and coaches are also a prominent component of the site.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Thunder Team Up with AUVI-Q® (Epinephrine Injection, USP) to Host a Peanut-Free Game This Season

 TRENTON, NJ – It’s hard to imagine a baseball game without peanuts, but in a new collaboration between Minor League Baseball® (MiLB™) and AUVI-Q® (epinephrine injection, USP), fans that suffer from peanut allergies can enjoy America’s national pastime with less concern.

On Friday, Aug 25, the Trenton Thunder will be hosting a peanut-free game, sponsored by AUVI-Q. The game will feature no in-park sales of peanuts or products containing peanut ingredients. Throughout the game, in-park messaging and informational displays will be available for fans to learn more about AUVI-Q.

“With the help of AUVI-Q supporting our commitment to fans, we can create an environment where fans with peanut allergies can come to the ballpark and enjoy a game to its fullest,” said Jeff Hurley General Manager/COO of the Thunder. “We hope to see many new faces experiencing their first Minor League Baseball game because of our peanut-free night.”

Earlier this month, Minor League Baseball and AUVI-Q announced a multi-year agreement, making AUVI-Q the “Official Epinephrine Auto-Injector (EAI) of Minor League Baseball,” where a number of MiLB teams across the country will host “Peanut-Free Game Days” this season and next season. AUVI-Q is an FDA-approved prescription medicine used to treat life-threatening allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, in people who are at risk for or have a history of serious allergic reactions. AUVI-Q is the first and only EAI with an auto-retractable needle and includes innovative features such as voice instructions. AUVI-Q is not a substitute for emergency medical treatment. AUVI-Q, manufactured by kaléo, is available by prescription nationwide. To learn more about AUVI-Q, please visit www.auvi-q.com.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

SUNDAY: Back to School Day features Celery Lunch Bag Giveaway

Kids, we know you don’t like to see summer come to an end. All that homework… getting up early every day… yuck!

But listen, we’ve got one more awesome afternoon for you at the ballpark. And we’ll even give you something that can make all your friends jealous at lunch time!

The Bisons will host Back to School Day at the ballpark on Sunday, August 20 with a 1:05 p.m. game against the Gwinnett Braves. Get to the ballpark early though as the first 3,000 fans through the Inspire Dental Gate at Swan St. will receive a very cool Celery Lunch Bag Giveaway, compliments of New York’s 529 College Savings Program (Gates 12:00 p.m.).

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Sunday’s game is also the final Kids Club Sunday of the season. One last chance to enjoy a beautiful afternoon at the ballpark! It’s also the final time kids get to Run the Bases postgame, compliments of Tim Horton’s.

Time is running out on the summer. So, before you have to hit the books, get to the ballpark for Back to School Day and snag yourself a Celery Lunchbag!

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Four Young Community Stars Named Staten Island Yankees/Con Edison Kids

NEW YORK- Four Staten Island youths who demonstrate leadership and concern for their community are the 2017 Staten Island Yankees/Con Edison kids.

The students were honored Thursday at the first Staten Island Yankees/Con Edison Kids recognition night at Richmond County Bank Ballpark at St. George. The ceremony took place before the game against the Connecticut Tigers.

The honorees are: Julia Hart, 15, Isaiah Terry, 15, Triniti Jackson, 11, and Sean Gomez, 13.

“This program honors young people who excel in the classroom by getting good grades and in the community by donating their time for good causes,” said Will Smith, president and operating partner for the Yankees. “We thank Con Edison and look forward to honoring elite young Staten Islanders for years to come.”

The ballpark crowd acknowledged the winner with applause as their images flashed on the screen in center field while they stood on the field. The children and their parents then watched the game – a 4-0 Yankees victory – from a luxury suite.

“I think it is a pretty big accomplishment, and I’d like to thank Con Edison for naming me a 2017 Staten Island Yankees/Con Edison Kid,” said Sean Gomez. “I feel like I accomplished something significant and it has me feeling proud.”

Community organizations from across the Island nominated youths who exhibit leadership, sportsmanship, and volunteerism. The nominees also had to have a grade point average of B or better.

“Having quality volunteers like Julia and Isaiah is critical for our organization to sustain our mission,” said Heather Butts, executive director and co-founder of Health, Education, Academics, Life Skills, Training, and Help (HEALTH) for Kids. “Volunteering is important to the kids because the opportunity to beautify their enviroment gives them gratification.”

Additional information about the impressive honorees:

  • Julia Hart is a volunteer with HEALTH for Youth. As part of a gardening project this summer, she designed a model for an irrigation system.
  • Sean Gomez is a vice president with the Staten Island NAACP Youth Council and has represented the council at three state and two national conventions. Sean has won gold, silver and bronze medals in track and bowling while representing Staten Island at regional and state Special Olympics competitions.
  • Triniti Jackson is a leader of the NYC Parks Staten Island Recreation Robotics Team, inspiring her teammates, who participated in their first robotics competition this past year.
  • Isaiah Terry also volunteers with HEALTH for Youth. He has participated in park clean-ups and gardening projects. He takes his passion for volunteerism to school, where he participates in community service projects.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Over a thousand local students will train in one day at Four Winds Field to save lives

SOUTH BEND, Ind. – Andrew T. Berlin and the executive team for the South Bend Cubs will host an event to train over a thousand local students from South Bend Community School Corporation and School City of Mishawaka in the life-saving technique of hands-only CPR. The idea, led by enFocus and a volunteer task force, began as one of several strategies intended to improve survival outcomes from sudden cardiac arrest in the community. The region’s first CPR mass training event is sponsored by the South Bend Cubs, Saint Joseph Health System, Beacon Health System, IOI Payroll Services, the University of Notre Dame and other anonymous donors. Volunteers and support have been provided by Fire Departments across the county, Indiana University South Bend, Saint Mary’s College, Papa Vino’s Italian Kitchen, Unity Medical & Surgical Hospital, and the American Heart Association. With the assistance of 200 volunteers, the mass training will take place on Four Winds Field in South Bend from 9 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 27.

“This training will have an immediate impact by educating our students and empowering them to teach others” said Dale Lobo, Senior Fellow and Project Manager for enFocus. “We’ve been planning this for a long time, and as of the afternoon of September 27th, there will be 1,600 more people throughout the community trained to save lives. All 1,600 students will be given a training kit, complete with inflatable manikin and an instructional DVD that they can use to train their own family and friends. We know that greater bystander intervention is correlated with increased survival. In conjunction with our other initiatives, by training an additional 10% of the population in the next 3-5 years, we anticipate an increase in bystander intervention and survival from sudden cardiac arrest.”

“We knew immediately this would be good for everyone in St. Joseph County,” said Joe Hart, President of the South Bend Cubs. “And this is a perfect place to do something of this magnitude. We have parking for school buses; the training video can be shown on our giant video screen; and we’re used to hosting thousands of people every day. We’re happy to be part of something that will impact our community for years to come.”

“The national survival rate for victims of sudden cardiac arrest is only 10%,” added Lobo. “It’s a sobering statistic. But here in St. Joseph County, the survival rate is even lower at only 5%. By training so many people in CPR all at once, we can make a big difference right away. And that difference will continue to grow as kids teach other people how to do it.”

More than 1,600 8th graders from Mishawaka and South Bend will arrive at Four Winds Field in 30-40 buses. The training, which takes place on the playing field, will be supplemented with information on how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) and testimonies from survivors.

Media are invited to attend. For more information please visit www.savealifesjc.org.

About enFocus
Founded in 2012, enFocus is a local non-profit that brings together recent college graduates with organizations in need of fresh energy, innovative solutions and creative collaboration. Fellows are paired with community volunteers, business owners and political leaders who provide mentorship and guidance. With a board of mentors, advisors and successful entrepreneurs, enFocus creates a culture in which entrepreneurship is “caught” as well as taught. Fellows receive preparation for success in a diverse array of industries and fields. Their talents and gifts are helping to reshape northern Indiana as an innovative community. More information is available at www.sbenfocus.org.

About the South Bend Cubs
The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Stars & Stripes jerseys up for auction Aug. 25

KANNAPOLIS, N.C. (August 17, 2017) – The Kannapolis Intimidators will host a jerseys-off-our-backs silent auction on Friday, August 25, featuring the team’s Stars & Stripes jerseys which have been worn at all Friday home games during the 2017 season. The silent auction begins when gates open at 6:00 p.m. for the 7:05 p.m. game against the Lakewood BlueClaws, and bidding ends with the final out of the sixth inning. Auction proceeds will go to benefit local veterans groups, including the VFW Post 8989 in Kannapolis.

**Order game tickets online**

The Intimidators’ Stars & Stripes uniforms feature a camo body and Mount Rushmore motif with red and white stripes down the left sleeve and a white stars on a blue background down the right sleeve. Winners of the jersey-off-our-backs silent auction will have the opportunity to go down onto the field following the game and have their jersey autographed by the Intimidators player who wore it during the game.

Tickets are still available for the team’s final regular season Friday on August 25, which will also feature Get Healthy Kannapolis where fans can earn Ballpark Bucks for healthy snacks by taking a physical challenge at the ballpark. Tickets are available through the F&M Bank Box Office by calling (704) 932-3267 or by visiting IntimidatorsBaseball.com.

About the Intimidators
The Intimidators are currently playing the 23rd season of professional baseball in Kannapolis and 17th season as a Chicago White Sox affiliate. Since the team’s inception in 1995, a total of 92 players have gone from Kannapolis to the Major Leagues. The team plays at Intimidators Stadium supported by Carolinas HealthCare System located off I-85, Exit 63 in Kannapolis. Single-game tickets are available by calling the F&M Bank Box Office at (704) 932-3267 or by visiting IntimidatorsBaseball.com.

Wellness With the BlueClaws Clinic on August 31st

The BlueClaws, led by Strength & Conditioning Coach Jacob Bunce, will host a Baseball Wellness Clinic on August 31st.

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – The BlueClaws will host a special Wellness with the BlueClaws clinic at FirstEnergy Park on Thursday, August 31st from 10 am until 12 pm.

The camp will feature Speed & Quickness Base-Running Techniques, baseball agility drills, as well as obstacles and relay races and is for players of all ages and ability levels. They will learn the best techniques, exercises, and treatments to keep in prime athletic condition to maximize on-field production.

Jacob Bunce CSCS, CEP, USAW, the BlueClaws Strength and Conditiong Coach, will run the event, which will also feature BlueClaws players.

“In addition to showing various drills and techniques, this is going to be a fun clinic with BlueClaws players,” said Bunce, in his third year with the Phillies and first with the BlueClaws. “It’s a great opportunity for young players and athletes to learn to train like professional baseball players.”

Registration is just $10 and 100% of the proceeds will benefit BlueClaws Charities and their Community Partners Program. BlueClaws Charities works with 40 Community Partner organizations throughout the Jersey Shore and this event will support the end-of-season grant program.

To sign up, call Kevin McNellis at 732-901-7000 ext 164.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League and New Jersey in average or overall attendance in all 16 years of existence.

– BlueClaws –

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Sounds, Partners Collaborate To Support Breastfeeding

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Nashville Sounds, in conjunction with several Metro Nashville departments, community partners, and the Tennessee Titans, have collaborated on a Public Investment Plan (PIP) to purchase two mobile lactation units which will be used at Sounds games, Titans games and events, and other Metro events beginning in late August.

The groups will host a ribbon cutting ceremony for the pods prior to the Sounds’ game on Tuesday, August 29 at First Tennessee Park. Speakers from the Mayor’s Office, Metro Public Health Department, and Metro Sports Authority will participate in the program.

This event is open to the public but they must purchase a Sounds ticket, as the pod is located on the concourse of First Tennessee Park.

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WHO: Mayor’s Office of Special Events, Metro Sports Authority, Metro Public Health Department, Nashville Sounds, Tennessee Titans, Baby + Co., Southern Blood Services, Nashville Breastfeeding Coalition

WHAT: Ribbon-cutting for new Mamava pod (mobile lactation unit) at First Tennessee Park; this project was one of the funded Metro Public Investment Plans (PIPs) for FY2018. Another pod is joining later this year at Nissan Stadium; during sports off-seasons, pods will travel to some community events.

WHEN: Tuesday, August 29, 2017

6:15 pm – Open House / Media Interviews

6:30 pm – Ceremony Begins

7:00 pm – Ceremonial First Pitch

WHERE: First Tennessee Park, 19 Junior Gilliam Way, Nashville, TN 37219

WHY: The purpose of this Public Investment Plan is to provide a supportive environment for breastfeeding women visiting Nissan Stadium, First Tennessee Park, and Metro-sponsored special events.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

ACES TO HOST FAYE ELLIOT IN SAINT MARY’S “HOME RUN FOR LIFE” CEREMONY

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces will host Saint Mary’s “Home Run for Life” ceremony for Faye Elliot, who was diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the third leading cause of death in the United States. The ceremony will occur on Friday, August 18 when the Aces take on the Sacramento River Cats at 7:05 p.m. at Greater Nevada Field.

After days of finding it difficult to breathe, Elliott was admitted into Saint Mary’s when it was discovered she had pneumonia followed by a diagnosis of COPD, a chronic disease that causes constriction of the airways. Weeks later, Elliot suffered a heart attack and her Saint Mary’s Cardiology providers inserted a stent to aid in healing.

Though there is no cure for the chronic illness, Elliot wants everyone to know that though the diagnosis has made her life different, life has not stopped; rather, it has shifted gears. She has quit smoking, and now practices yoga, a positive attitude, and breathing techniques to try to not be limited by the need of her oxygen tank.

Elliot explained, “You are only limited by what you decide you are going to do. It takes work and determination but it pays off in the end. I improve every day and I won’t stop at just a little improvement; I will keep working at being the best I can be.”

Since 2014, the Aces and Saint Mary’s have been partnered to showcase the “Home Run for Life” program. Once a month, a brave individual in the Northern Nevada community is honored by taking a ceremonial trip around the bases with each team lining the baselines. The ceremony tells the story of a battle against adversity. Individuals honored have overcome or are fighting a significant medical event in their life with the help of Saint Mary’s personnel.

Elliot will round the bases commemorating her “Home Run for Life” in the middle of the second inning Friday night. The Aces and River Cats players and staff will be lined up along each baseline to greet Elliot as she makes her way toward home plate while her story of adversity and triumph is publicly announced to the stadium crowd.

Greater Nevada Field gates open at 6:05 p.m. on Friday, August 18. Tickets are on-sale now at www.renoaces.com or by calling (775) 334-4700. Follow the club all season long on Twitter (@Aces) or like the team on Facebook.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

D-Braves make donation to Danville Veterans Memorial

DANVILLE, Va. – As part of the Minor League Baseball CommUNITY initiative and in support of the Danville community, the Danville Braves made a donation of $1,455 to the Danville Veterans Memorial Fund. The D-Braves raised the donated money through mystery ball and mystery bobblehead sales/auctions held during two games this season.

“We’re proud to continue to support the Danville Veterans Memorial in honor of the sacrifices of the men and women of our nation’s military,” said Danville Braves General Manager David Cross.

2017 marks the sixth consecutive year the Danville Braves have contributed to the Danville Veterans Memorial Fund. For more information about the Veterans Memorial at Dan Daniel Memorial Park, visit http://www.danville-va.gov/1288/Veterans-Memorial.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

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