Archives for March 2018

Trustmark Park to become smoke-free in 2018

PEARL, MS – The Mississippi Braves have announced plans for a smoke-free Trustmark Park in 2018.

This initiative will be implemented with the support of Merit Health and The Mississippi Tobacco Quitline.

The smoke-free policy will prohibit smoking in the ballpark, including electronic devices and will apply to all Mississippi Braves staff, players and fans.

Trustmark Park becoming a smoke-free ballpark is part of a movement by the M-Braves to help exemplify a healthy environment and create a positive model for our youth to follow.

If you find you are ready to quit smoking, help is available. Merit Health and the MS Tobacco Quitline can provide resources to assist anyone that is ready to stop using tobacco.

Merit Health, a network of 9 hospitals and over 25 primary care clinics throughout the state of Mississippi, can provide medical assistance for smoking cessation. To schedule an appointment with a primary care provider near you, call 844-MSMERIT.

The Mississippi Tobacco Quitline is a telephone & online support service for any Mississippian who is ready to quit tobacco. If you or a friend or family member is ready to stop using tobacco, the Tobacco Quitline staff is available to help. Many Mississippians have contacted the Tobacco Quitline to take advantage of professional help to learn to be tobacco free. Information, referrals, and support are confidential, and support sessions are designed on a schedule that is convenient to the caller. You can reach the MS Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-784-8669 (1-800-QUITNOW). Services are free of charge.

The Mississippi Braves are the Double-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves and will open their 14th season on Thursday, April 5 against the Tennessee Smokies at Trustmark Park. Since the inaugural 2005 season, over 125 M-Braves have gone on to Major League Baseball. The M-Braves have made postseason play four times and went on to win the Southern League Championship in 2008. Stop by Trustmark Park or call 888-BRAVES4 Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. For the latest news and updates, visit mississippibraves.com or connect with @mbraves on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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

PawSox Announce Fundraiser with Emerson College to Benefit The Tomorrow Fund

Today Emerson College and the Pawtucket Red Sox have announced a joint project to benefit the Tomorrow Fund.

Department of Communication Studies Professor Cathryn Edelstein’s Nonprofit Fundraising Campaign class is partnering with the PawSox to host a game and activities entitled: “A Paw-fect Day for a Better Tomorrow.” The special game will take place on Sunday, April 22, with festivities starting at 10am. Tickets include breakfast, interactive entertainment, a tour of McCoy Stadium, a ticket to the game, and a $5 credit toward lunch.

“Emerson College students collaborating with the PawSox to benefit The Tomorrow Fund kids with cancer is a win-win-win!” said Professor Edelstein. “This year I’m so pleased we are working to not only raise money for The Tomorrow Fund, but help spread awareness about the incredible assistance they provide for kids with cancer and their families.”

“We are honored to work with these community minded students who are gaining invaluable experience in the world of philanthropy,” said Dr. Charles Steinberg, President of the Pawsox and Director of Sports Communication at Emerson College, “not only do we hope this experience is rewarding for them, we hope it will benefit the Tomorrow Fund- an organization we love deeply and admire so much.”

Up to 75 individuals attending the event can experience what it is like to hit a ball in a professional field, at our Home Run Derby which starts at 10:30am. Those who sign up will have the chance to participate to see who hit a ball the furthest. After purchasing tickets you can sign up for the derby at https://goo.gl/forms/VBZKcUrj3805Wx8n1.

Tickets for students are $15, and General Admission tickets are $25; tickets are on sale now at https://tinyurl.com/ybaynllx.

About the Tomorrow Fund 

The Tomorrow Fund is a non-profit organization located in Rhode Island. It provides daily financial and emotional support to children with cancer and their families who are treated in The Tomorrow Fund Clinic at Hasbro Children’s Hospital in Providence, RI. Kids can come from anywhere in the world. To date, more than 2,000 children and their families have received financial and emotional support from The Tomorrow Fund.

About Hasbro Hospital 

A division of Rhode Island Hospital, Hasbro Children’s Hospital is the region’s premier provider of pediatric clinical care. The hospital offers a broad spectrum of both routine care and specialty programs not available elsewhere. Hasbro Children’s has the only pediatric emergency department, Level 1 Trauma Center, pediatric critical care teams, and 24-hour ambulance in the region. Their approach to pediatric medicine makes parents, who know their children best, an essential part of the care team.

 

 

About Emerson College

Based in Boston, Massachusetts, opposite the historic Boston Common and in the heart of the city’s Theatre District, Emerson College educates individuals who will solve problems and change the world through engaged leadership

 

in communication and the arts, a mission informed by liberal learning. The College has approximately 3,780 undergraduates and 670 graduate students from across the United States and 50 countries. Supported by state of the art facilities and a renowned faculty, students participate in more than 90 student organizations and performance group. Emerson is known for its experiential learning programs at Emerson Los Angeles, located in Hollywood, and at its beautifully restored 14thcentury castle in the Netherlands. Additionally, there are opportunities to study in DC, London, China, the Czech Republic, Spain, Austria, Greece, France, Ireland, Mexico, Cuba, England, and South Africa. The College has an active network of 37,000 alumni who hold leadership positions in communication and the arts.

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

Legends Announce Partnership with UK HealthCare for Sensory Friendly Kits and Days at Whitaker Bank Ballpark

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends are proud to announce Sensory Friendly Days on Sunday, May 13 and Monday, June 11, 2018 in partnership with UK HealthCare. Along with special considerations around the ballpark before the games, the Legends will have Friendly Access Sensory Safety Kits provided by Life Is Washable Inc. available throughout the entirety of the season.

On the days of May 13 and June 11, fans with sensory sensitivities and their families will be able to enter the ballpark at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 13 and 5:00 p.m. on Monday, June 11 to take part in pre-game festivities they previously may have had to skip. There will be no loud music or public address announcements made during this time. Legends players will be available for autographs and the Toyota Triple Play Zone will be open, also. Legends mascots, Big L and Pee Wee will be on hand, but will not approach children. Instead, they will allow the children to come up to them for autographs and photographs as desired. When gates open for the public at 12:30 p.m. (Sunday, May 13) and 6:00 p.m. (Monday, June 11), children and their families can make their way to Guest Services to pick up one of the thirty Sensory Safety Kits for the remainder of their time at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

“This new partnership with UK HealthCare opens Legends games to children and adults who normally would not be able to attend due to sensory sensitivities,” said Legends President/CEO Andy Shea. “We always want to strive to make our games as accessible as possible and this is a huge step towards that. Families can come out and enjoy a game utilizing the new Sensory Safety Kits that will be available all season long.”

Included in the Friendly Access Sensory Safety Kits provided by Life is Washable Inc. and sponsored by UK HealthCare, are stickers, a wrist band, ID card, communication card, a sensory toy, anti-glare glasses, earmuffs and tissues. At the end of each night, fans will return the kits to Guest Services so they can be sanitized, restocked, and ready for the next event. With the partnership with UK HealthCare, there are certain items provided that the child can keep after the game.

“We are thrilled to join the Legends’ efforts to provide an opportunity for more of Kentucky’s kids to enjoy America’s favorite pastime. The sensory kits will allow children who would otherwise not be able to attend a baseball game due to loud noises and other environmental factors to enjoy a fun day at the ballpark, making lifelong memories,” said Scottie Day, Interim Chair, UK Department of Pediatrics.

Previously, minor league hockey teams have done similar nights, but the Legends are ensuring that fans can enjoy games for the entirety of the season by utilizing the Friendly Access Sensory Safety Kits. Thirty kits will be stocked in Guest Services to start the 2018 season, as interest and demand dictates, more kits can and will be added to inventory for fan use.

For more information about Sensory Friendly Day, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com.

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

Cougars Rank #6 in Charitable Giving Among All MiLB Teams

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have been ranked #6 among all 160 Minor League Baseball (MiLB) for their charitable giving throughout the 2017 season, per the MiLB Charities Report which was released last week by the league. Collectively, MiLB clubs reported nearly $40 million in cash and in-kind donations, the highest in MiLB Charities history.

“When you find yourself ranked #6 out of #160 that is special, no matter the category,” said Cougars owner Dr. Bob Froehlich. “Then when you realize the category in is charitable giving among all of Minor League Baseball, it becomes so special that no words can describe how proud we are of what our Foundation has meant to Kane County.”

Of the nearly $40 million, the Cougars contributed $949,926 among their various charitable campaigns throughout the season. The Cougars charitable giving is highlighted by many different programs throughout the year including the Al Mueller Memorial Scholarship Fund which awards local college students working to further their education, Paramount Fence Home Runs for Charity program, the Cougars Reading Club, as well as the Cougars Summer Reading Program, the Highland Salutes program supports both active duty military and veterans along with participation in MiLB’s inaugural “Es Divertido Ser Un Fan” initiative that aimed to connect Hispanic/Latino baseball fans with their local teams.

Click here to view the full MiLB Charities Report.

Moving towards the 2018 season, the Cougars are pledging to increase their charitable giving via the new history-making “A Million Smiles Campaign.” Announced on Monday, the Cougars are the first MiLB team to set a charity fundraising goal of this magnitude. Each dollar donated throughout the season will provide a much-needed smile for those in need. Fans are encouraged to participate in the charitable giving campaign throughout the year by purchasing 50/50 raffle tickets with proceeds benefitting various local charities, participating in the Pitch In for Charity promotion on fireworks nights, purchasing a Legacy Brick to be displayed at the main entrance of the ballpark, registering for the 7th Annual Cougars 5K on May 19 or selecting the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. as their favorite charity on AmazonSmiles.

For more information about A Million Smiles campaign, visit www.kccougars.com.

The Cougars 2018 season begins on Thursday, April 5 at 6:30 PM against the Clinton LumberKings. For more information, including the full schedule of theme nights, entertainment acts and giveaways scheduled, visit kccougars.com.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates on tickets and promotions.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 161 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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

Cougars Partner with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK ® to Help Moms In Need

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced that Northwestern Medicine Field will serve as a donation drop-off site for the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Movers for Moms® program through Friday, May 11.

Thousands of mothers across the country are overlooked each Mother’s Day due to circumstances that force them to live in shelters as a result of domestic abuse or homelessness. That’s where TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® steps in to ensure that these women receive the love and appreciation they deserve this Mother’s Day. Donations collected through the Movers for Moms® program will be provided to women staying Lazarus House in St. Charles, Ill.

Fans are encouraged to bring donations of the following essential care items: body spray, soaps, hair styling products, towels, make-up brushes, pajamas, large tote bags and umbrellas.

Click here for a full list of much-needed items.

A donation bin is located inside the atrium of the Cougars front office at Northwestern Medicine Field for fans that would like to drop off donation during regular business hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For every two items donated to the Movers for Mom® program, fans will receive one (1) undated reserved seat ticket voucher valid for a 2018 regular season Cougars game. There is a maximum of 10 complimentary ticket vouchers per fan. Donations will be accepted through Friday, May 11.

For more information about the Movers for Moms® program, visit twomenandatruck.com/moversformoms.

The 2018 season of Cougars baseball begins on Thursday, April 5 at 6:30 p.m. against the Clinton LumberKings. For more information, including a full 2018 schedule, visit kccougars.com.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date promotional information.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 161 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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

Fluor Field Hosts Blood Drive on Thursday, April 5th

The Greenville Drive and The Blood Connection are teaming up again in 2018 to hold blood drives at Fluor Field. The first blood drive of the season is scheduled for Thursday, April 5th. The Blood Connection buses will be set up outside the Main Street gates between 11:00 AM and 7:00 PM.

Fans who stop by Fluor Field and donate blood will receive a ticket voucher to a 2018 Drive game at Fluor Field, subject to availability, and a Blood Connection t-shirt. They will also be provided with a hot dog, chips and a drink after donating.

One lucky fan from The Blood Connection’s blood drives on April 5th at Fluor Field and April 6th at select locations will receive a Red Sox VIP Experience, which includes two pavilion reserved tickets to a Red Sox game, two nights in a Boston hotel, a VIP tour of Fenway Park, and a $500 airfare voucher.

For more information on The Blood Connection and donating blood, CLICK HERE.

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

Pelicans to host Horry County Special Olympics Spring Games on April 18

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (March 28, 2018) – The Myrtle Beach Pelicans will host the Horry County Special Olympics Spring Games on Wednesday, April 18, at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. Approximately 400 Special Olympic athletes from across Horry County will be joined with 400 “buddies” and volunteers to compete in various events. Athletes may also earn the opportunity to enter South Carolina’s Summer Games, held from May 11-13 in Columbia.

“The Special Olympics Spring Games gives athletes all over Horry with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to compete, receive medals and celebrate the bravery they have to be successful at anything,” said Horry County Special Olympics Area Director Erik Karney. “They show us every day that they are the true “heroes” in life, with their smiles of joy and determination to be the best they can be.”

Gates open to the ballpark at 8:30 a.m., and registration for all athletes and buddies will be at Gate 1, located near right field. Volunteers will register at Gate 2, down the first base line. The Horry County community is encouraged to join the Pelicans’ pep rally to welcome the athletes into the ballpark. The Games are open to the public at no charge, and all community members are welcome to cheer on the athletes and lend their support.

The day begins with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Torch Run at Myrtle Beach’s Fire Training Facility at 8:45 a.m. The torch will be lit on the field at 9:45 a.m., marking the third year the Games are being held at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark.

Events begin at 10:00 a.m., with athletes competing in the softball and tennis throws on the outfield grass, the 100m and 50m runs and walks on the outfield warning track and the young athletes’ events in foul territory down the left field line.

Members of the Special Olympics Youth Athletes (ages 2-7) will also take part in the festivities at the ballpark. Entertainment throughout the day, which concludes at 1:30 p.m., includes Olympic Town with a DJ, inflatables and local mascots.

In addition to the Horry County Spring Games, the Pelicans will also hold their annual Special Olympics Night on Saturday, April 21. The Birds will sport commemorative jerseys designed by Angelita Ponce of North Myrtle Beach Middle School. Ponce won the club’s jersey design contest, with students from both North Myrtle Beach Middle School and Ocean Bay Middle School submitting drafts. The jerseys will be auctioned off to fans throughout the 6:05 p.m. game, with the proceeds benefitting the Horry County Special Olympics. Gates open at 5 p.m. on Special Olympics Night.

The 2018 season will be the 20th season for the Pelicans franchise and fourth as the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. For tickets visit MyrtleBeachPelicans.com/tickets, call (843) 918-6000, or visit the Pelicans Box Office.

ABOUT THE PELICANS: The Myrtle Beach Pelicans are the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs and play their home games at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The park has ranked in the top eight in all of Minor League Baseball by Stadium Journey in six of the last seven seasons. The same publication also placed the Pelicans in the Top 100 Stadium Experiences and the best in the Carolina League for six of the past seven seasons as well. In June 2017, TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark won the 2017 TripAdvisor.com Certificate of Excellence award. The Pelicans have won four Mills Cup Championships, including claims to back-to-back titles in 1999 and 2000, and again in 2015 and 2016. The Pelicans have made 11 postseason appearances behind 13 half-season Southern Division championships, including the first half of the 2015 season, second half of 2016 and first half of 2017. For more information on the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, please contact the Pelicans at (843) 918-6000 or emailing Info@MyrtleBeachPelicans.com.

Bowling With The BlueClaws Returns April 15th

Bowling With The BlueClaws is back on Sunday, April 15th!

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – BlueClaws Charities is proud to announce its seventh annual Bowling With The BlueClaws fundraising event returns to Sea Girt Lanes on Sunday, April 15th. BlueClaws players will again be at the event, a great chance for kids to have a fun night out with players and Buster while raising money for a worthy cause.

The charitable bowling event takes place from 6-8pm. For just $15, participants will receive bowling shoes, a raffle ticket for a series of prizes, pizza and soda, and unlimited bowling games.

Raffles will be held throughout the night for limited edition autographed merchandise and other door prizes. In addition to prizes being given out, BlueClaws players will be there to hang out with you! All proceeds from the night will benefit BlueClaws Charities and their Community Partners.

“This has been a great event for BlueClaws Charities and the fans over the last seven years and we look forward to another great event,” said Jim DeAngelis, Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities. “Each fundraising event like Bowling With the BlueClaws benefits a wide variety of local organizations that we are proud to support and will continue to support.”

For more information or to reserve a spot, contact JoAnne Bell at 732-901-7000 ext. 100 or at jbell@blueclaws.com. Space is limited and those interested are encouraged to book early.

BlueClaws Charities, the official charity of the Lakewood BlueClaws, is a 501c3 dedicated to supporting the underpriveleged Ocean and Monmouth counties. BlueClaws Charities has donated over $250,000 over the past four years to community organizations, including donations in the form of grants to BlueClaws Charities Community Partners.

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

Opening Day for the 2018 season is Thursday, April 12th. Tickets are available by calling 732-901-7000 option 2 or online by clicking here.

– BlueClaws –

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

Autism Awareness Day Set For April 21

ROCHESTER, NY – The Rochester Red Wings have partnered with Autism Speaks to host an Autism Awareness Day at the ballpark on April 21st when the Red Wings host the Columbus Clippers at 1:05pm.

The Red Wings and Autism Speaks aim to create an environment that will allow families dealing with Autism to enjoy a day at Frontier Field, while also raising awareness for Autism, a disorder that affects 1 in 68 American Children.

Senior Coordinator of Autism Speaks, Jessica Joanis, explained the importance of an event like this. “For the ninth year, Autism Speaks will kick-off World Autism Month in April, and begin a month-long calendar of events and activities in support of the Autism community. Local partnerships such as Autism Awareness Day with the Rochester Red Wings helps us to increase support, understanding and acceptance of people with Autism across the spectrum and throughout the life span. We hope you will join us for the game on Saturday, April 21, as we light the world blue.”

Some components of Autism Awareness Day are as follows:

• Lower volume levels throughout the stadium along with other fan-friendly adjustments
• In-game production will be altered to minimize abrupt sound effects and video board displays
• Fans are asked to refrain from bringing “noise makers” that day
• Limited number of Blue pom-poms will be available at the Autism Speaks table to substitute for noise makers
• A Safe Zone located in the PERCH will be open all game long for children in need of a quiet reprieve from the game.
• Designated Autism Aware Section, reserved exclusively for guests with family members on the Autism spectrum. Tickets available now.

To purchase tickets in an exclusive Autism Aware Section contact: Mike Ewing at (585) 454-1001 ext. 3036 or MEwing@RedWingsBaseball.com.

-Or-

Visit www.TicketReturn.com and use the login: Username: Autism18 Password: Speaks

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

Cougars Make History With “A Million Smiles Campaign”

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars charitable arm, the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. has launched a historic fundraising goal known as “A Million Smiles Campaign” for the upcoming 2018 season. Today’s announcement makes the Cougars the first team in Minor League Baseball (MiLB) to set a charity fundraising goal.

This season, the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. will work towards reaching a donation total of one million dollars, with each dollar donated providing a much needed smile for those in need. As the first campaign of its kind in the history of MiLB, President and CEO Pat O’Connor is excited to see the charitable work that the team will accomplish this season.

“I am very proud of the lengths which our Minor League Baseball teams go to give back to their local communities, as the Kane County Cougars have now publicly pledged to do at an extraordinary level. Should the Cougars reach this ambitious goal, they will certainly be one of the most charitable of Minor League Baseball’s 160 teams and I commend them for their efforts.”

As members of the Midwest League, the Cougars are building upon the tradition of giving back that has been a part of the League for the last 72 years. “I applaud the initiative being taken by the Kane County Cougars to commit to this extraordinary philanthropy,” said Dick Nussbaum, President of the Midwest League. “It is consistent with the Midwest League’s leadership in Minor League Baseball. Proceeds from each ticket sold to our four million fans each year ends up as a charitable contribution by our Clubs. The collective power of this giving is consistent with the generosity shown by those of us who live in the Midwest and the Cougars are taking this tradition of giving to another level.”

One way fans can help provide a million smiles includes purchasing 50/50 raffle tickets with proceeds benefiting various local charities including Mutual Ground, Northern Illinois Food Bank, BraveHearts for Kids and CASA Kane County. Additional opportunities to contribute include participation in the Pitch In for Charity promotion, benefiting Loaves and Fishes CARES, on fireworks nights, purchasing a Legacy Brick to be displayed at the main entrance of the ballpark, selecting the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. as your favorite charity on AmazonSmiles as well as registering for the 7th Annual Cougars 5K on May 19 with proceeds benefiting Special Olympics Illinois.

“Kane County is proud to be represented by the Cougars as they embark on this awesome charitable campaign,” said Chris Lauzen, Chairman of the Kane County Board. “The community has benefitted greatly from having a team that is passionate about reaching families beyond just the baseball field.

Additional charitable opportunities will be announced throughout the year including collection of donation items for the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Movers for Mom® program, the annual Winter Coat Drive and the Es Divertido Ser Un Fan charitable jersey auction to benefit a local Hispanic organization.

“The City of Geneva could not ask for a better representative of what this town stands for than the Kane County Cougars,” said Kevin Burns, Mayor of Geneva. “This incredible charitable initiative will benefit our community in so many positive ways. We look forward to seeing the impact the Cougars will make this season.”

The 2018 season begins on Thursday, April 5 at 6:30 PM against the Clinton LumberKings. Follow the Cougars onFacebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates on all charitable initiatives as well as tickets and promotions.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 161 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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

“Wild About Reading” program reaches 1 million student milestone

FRESNO, Calif. – “Wild About Reading,” one of the hallmark community initiatives organized by the Fresno Grizzlies through most of the franchise’s history, is celebrating a milestone of over one million students reached through the program. With just shy of 100,000 (and counting) students participating during this school year at 156 schools, the literacy program has grown exponentially in the last six years.

Wild About Reading, which incentivizes students to read frequently beyond just their school curriculum, is now in its 15th year of operation. Reaching elementary schools in five counties (Fresno, Kings, Madera, Merced and Tulare), the program has increased the total number of books read by area students by reaching at least 97,000 students each school year since 2012. The program has surpassed 100,000 students in a year three times, and this offseason the total number of students enrolled reached over one million during the life of the program.

Over 160 schools have been involved in the program the last three years – most holding a “kick-off assembly” featuring Grizzlies Mascot Parker T. Bear and Eddie the Owl from EECU. During the 2017-2018 offseason, Parker, Eddie and the Grizzlies’ front office staff staged 205 total assemblies in the five-county area, sometimes doing multiple assemblies for a school. In addition to EECU, other presenting sponsors of Wild About Reading are Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino, PG&E, Savemart Supermarkets and Gar Tootelian.

Since its beginnings in 2004, Wild About Reading has now reached over one million students, with incentives that include:

  • Five Wild About Reading Grizzlies games during the 2018 season, with two (2) complimentary tickets for readers that participate in the program, for reading 10 additional books outside of school curriculum and turning in the bookmark which tracks that progress to the Chukchansi Park ticket office.
  • Outstanding reader awards presented at games to four top students (nominated by teachers).
  • Two students will win a tablet at each Wild About Reading game this season, drawn randomly by seat number.
  • The school with the highest ticket redemption percentage to the Wild About Reading games wins a $500 bonus.

“A couple of seasons ago, we realized the one-million-student milestone was within reach, and it’s a great credit to how excited kids in the Central Valley are about reading,” said Whitney Campbell, director of community engagement and events for the Fresno Grizzlies. “We love having the incentive of Grizzlies baseball to promote more reading, but the students truly put in the time to realize reading is fun, baseball is fun, and combining the two is even more fun.”

Special thanks is also owed to the follow partners in producing the annual “Farm Grown” magazine, the activity and info book that accompanies the program kickoff at each assembly: Fresno Chaffee Zoo, Sun-Maid, Gar Tootelian, Dave & Busters, Farm Credit and Port of Subs.

#Growlifornia 

ABOUT THE FRESNO GRIZZLIES
The Fresno Grizzlies, Triple-A affiliate of the Houston Astros, are a member of the 16-team Pacific Coast League and one of 30 clubs in the world playing the highest level of Minor League Baseball. The team plays at 12,500-seat Chukchansi Park in Downtown Fresno, which is also a year-round community gathering place, hosting myriad other special events beyond Grizzlies’ games, such as concerts, professional soccer and high school sporting events. The Grizzlies will enter the 2018 season – their 21st in Fresno – on the momentum of three consecutive winning seasons, including a PCL and National Championship in 2015. For information on 2018 Fresno Grizzlies season ticket and mini-plans, fans should call the Grizzlies’ ticket office at 559.320.TIXS between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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

Pulaski Yankees bring back Free Youth Outings Program for 2018 season

Pulaski, Va. – The Pulaski Yankees are excited to announce they will once again offer free admission to area youth groups during the 2018 season as part of the Calfee Park Free Youth Outings Program presented by Virginia529 and Shelor Motor Mile Growing the Future.

The program is open to all area youth groups, including sports teams, church groups, school groups, Boy and Girl Scouts, and child care centers. Each child in the group will receive one (1) free General Admission (GA) ticket. Youth group leaders accompanying the group will also receive one (1) free GA ticket. Parents, guardians, and other family members may join the group by purchasing GA tickets at a discounted rate of $5 per ticket.

“The youth in our community are an important part of Calfee Park,” said Pulaski Yankees General Manager Christina Edney. “We are grateful for our partners who help make this program possible, ensuring every child has the opportunity to enjoy a safe, fun, family-friendly event during the summer.”

Last year the Yankees distributed nearly 3,000 tickets through the free youth outings program, which has been in place since the 2015 season.

All youth group outings through the Calfee Park Free Youth Outings Program presented by Virginia529 and Shelor Motor Mile Growing the Future must be booked in advance. Interested groups can contact Yankees’ Assistant General Manager Betsy Haugh by email (bhaugh@pulaskiyankees.net) or by calling (540) 980-1070. For additional information, click here.

The Pulaski Yankees open the 2018 season on the road with a three-game series against the Danville Braves June 19-21. The Yankees will host the Greeneville Reds Friday, June 22 at Calfee Park in their 2018 home opener. Flex tickets and season tickets are available now by calling 540.980.1070. Individual game tickets will go on sale later this spring.

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

FREE YOUTH BASEBALL CLINIC ON SATURDAY, MAY 12

SPRINGDALE, AR – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are excited to partner with Mercy Kids on the eleventh annual FREE Youth Baseball Clinic that will take place at Arvest Ballpark from 2 p.m. until 3:45 p.m. on Saturday, May 12 in advance of that night’s 6:05 p.m. game against the Tulsa Drillers, the Double-A Los Angeles Dodgers.

The Naturals FREE Youth Baseball Clinic presented by Mercy Kids is open to children ages 6-12. Instruction during the clinic will be given by members of the Naturals’ team and coaching staff, which will cover basic fundamentals, including hitting, fielding, pitching, and base running. Following the clinic, an autograph session will occur on the concourse from approximately 3:45 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. before the ballpark is cleared in preparation for the game.

All participants will receive a complimentary 1B/3B Reserved Ticket to the Saturday, May 12 Naturals game at 6:05 p.m., featuring a Mike Moustakas Career Highlights Bobblehead Giveaway. Additional tickets for the game against the Tulsa Drillers will be available at Guest Services and the Arvest Ballpark Box Office, which will be open throughout the clinic. Participants that are attending the Naturals game must exit the ballpark once the clinic ends and re-enter when gates open to the general public for the game at 4:35 p.m. when the giveaway will be available.

There is a registration form titled YOUTH BASEBALL CLINIC BY MERCY KIDS located on the Naturals website, nwanaturals.com, under the TICKETS & PROMOTIONS tab that interested parents can fill out to register their son or daughter for the clinic. The FREE Youth Baseball Clinic is also open to local youth coaches and they can register their team by calling (479) 927-4900. The deadline to register for the event is Friday, May 4 but participants are encouraged to sign up quickly, as previous events have filled to capacity prior to the deadline. Check-in begins at Arvest Ballpark at 1:00pm on the day of the event so we ask that you arrive early as participation is limited to the first 400 children. Participants are asked to only bring their glove and wear proper baseball attire. Please leave all baseball bags in the car or in the seating bowl during the clinic as only a glove is needed while on the field.

The 2018 season of Naturals baseball at Arvest Ballpark will begin when Northwest Arkansas hosts the Corpus Christi Hooks, the Double-A Affiliate of the World Champion Houston Astros, on Thursday, April 5 at 6:25 p.m.

Follow the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Twitter @NWANaturals all throughout the year by using the hashtags #NaturalPastime and #CrowntoCrown for all of our up-to-date information on the 2018 schedule, tickets, group outings, promotions, roster, and Spring Training information as we prepare for the upcoming 2018 season.

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

-Naturals-

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

Fort Myers Miracle offer $15,000 in sponsorships to Little League, Cal Ripken organizations in Southwest Florida

The Fort Myers Miracle are donating $15,000 to sponsor 21 youth baseball and softball organizations across Southwest Florida.

The sponsorships will help area leagues pay for much-needed equipment, supplies and operational costs. In Southwest Florida, the spring season for Little League and Cal Ripken seasons began in January and runs through May, with all-star teams forming at season’s end. Some leagues also offer fall ball.

“Youth baseball and softball leagues strive to keep registration costs as low as possible, and many organizations are run entirely by volunteers, from the local governing boards down to coaches, umpires and concession stands,” said Chris Peters, president and general manager of the Fort Myers Miracle. “That’s why it is so important for businesses to take a leadership role in supporting youth sports. Every child deserves a chance to play ball.”

In addition to Little League and Cal Ripken sponsorships and frequent community appearances by players and staff, the Miracle also offer a variety of youth-oriented programs at the ballpark. The Achieva Credit Union Baseball Buddies program recognizes youth teams by allowing children to stand side-by-side with Miracle players during the National Anthem. On Family Sundays, children can play catch on the field before the game and run the bases after the game. At select home games, children can receive free tickets by showing their report cards or coming dressed in their team uniform.

“The Miracle have long been a supporter of youth sports in Southwest Florida, and we gladly welcome their teams and players at the ballpark,” said Jason Hochberg, founder and CEO of SJS Beacon, which owns the Miracle. “We hope to continue our partnership with area youth organizations for many years to come.”

Little League International is a nonprofit organization based in South Williamsport, Penn., and organizes baseball and softball leagues throughout the world. Programs are available for boys and girls ages 4 to 16. Cal Ripken Baseball is a division of the Babe Ruth League and headquartered in Hamilton, N.J. Its leagues are designed for players ages 4 to 12.

The Fort Myers Miracle, the Class-A Advanced Affiliate of the Minnesota Twins, begin the 2018 season on Thursday, April 5 against the Charlotte Stone Crabs. The 140-game regular season schedule runs through Sunday, Sept. 2.

For more information about the Fort Myers Miracle, visit MiracleBaseball.com or call 239-768-4210.

About the Miracle

The Fort Myers Miracle are the Class-A Advanced Affiliate of the Minnesota Twins, and have played home games at Hammond Stadium since 1992. Notable Miracle alumni include Joe Mauer, Miguel Sano, Byron Buxton and Torii Hunter. Follow the Miracle online at MiracleBaseball.com or through its social media channels: Twitter (@MiracleBaseball), Instagram (fortmyersmiracle), Facebook (Fort Myers Miracle) and Snapchat (ftmyersmiracle). Opening Night at Hammond Stadium is Thursday, April 5 against the Charlotte Stone Crabs. For questions or ticket information, call the Miracle at 239-768-4210.

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

Legends Stache Tank Program – Update 3/20

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends announce today the winning specialty food item from Crawford Middle School – Legends fans will be able to indulge in Uncle Ray’s Potato Chip Crusted Chicken Wraps all season long.

Teams of Crawford Middle School students presented their final presentations to a panel of community judges at Whitaker Bank Ballpark. Other finalists included the Panwich (renamed from the pancakerito; a breakfast sandwich made out of pancakes) and a Texas-toast sandwich with macaroni and cheese with barbeque chicken.

“Stache Tank was first started as part of our diversity and inclusion initiative, and we are beyond proud of how it has taken off. We have received tremendous support both locally and throughout the Minor League Baseball community,” said Legends President/CEO, Andy Shea. “The most challenging part of the entire program is selecting one winning group out of all the incredibly creative ideas these kids come up with!”

The wrap will include chicken tenders that will be breaded in Uncle Ray’s Potato Chips, the official Potato Chip of Minor League Baseball. The wrap will also include lettuce, tomatoes, onions and pickles. Fans will receive a side of French fries with three options of dipping sauces that include ranch, honey mustard and barbecue sauce. The Uncle Ray’s Potato Crusted Chicken Wrap will be available in the Kentucky Ale Taproom at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

The members of the winning group (picture attached) are: Hannah Cook (Team Lead), Madison Green, Alyssa Waugh, Nakita Epsy, and Annamarie Seamans.

“This year’s Stache Tank was a huge success! I am so proud of our students for their hard work and creativity. The food items were delicious and the presentations were excellent. I appreciate the Lexington Legends for allowing students from CMS this incredible opportunity,” said Crawford Middle School Principal, Mike Jones. “To see them use math, team work, technology, and other school related skills in a real-world setting makes me extremely proud.”

Northern Elementary students are working on their final presentations for their give-a-way item project that the first 1,000 fans will receive at a Legends home game during the month of August. The top three giveaway items that have moved on to the final round of judging are: Light-up bracelet, lunch bag, and PopSocket phone stand. Students will present their final presentations to a panel of community judges that include Kimberly Bussell of Whitaker Bank, Phil Holoubek of Lexington’s Real Estate Co, Jade Miles of Lexmark, Kellen Dargle of WKYT, 1st District Councilmen James Brown, Former UK Quarterback Patrick Towles of Traditional Bank, and James Webb of G& J Pepsion on Monday, March 26 at 10 a.m. in the boardroom at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

The Legends welcome media to the final round of Northern Elementary School presentations on Monday, March 26, 2018 at 10 a.m.

For more information about the Legends Stache Tank Program, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855.

The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com.

ORIGINAL RELEASE from 2/20/2018

 

 

Legends Stache Tank Program

Bryan Station High School Winners Selected; Middle and Elementary School Programs in Full Swing

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Lexington Legends announce the winning Opening Day plans from Bryan Station High School Stache Tank—Legends fans will see a “Tropical Electric” theme as they enter the gates for the first time April 5, 2018.

 

Teams of Bryan Station High School students competed to create themed event plans for the 2018 Opening Day game for the April 5 Legends home opener. Other ideas included “Slumber Sluggers” focusing around a large pajama party idea which involves bringing live sheep to the ballpark, a “Luau Day” for fans to imagine themselves on a tropical island or on Spring Break, playing fun tropical themed activities and potentially having fun taking whacks at an old junk car to help relieve stress, and a theme centered around everything “jumbo;” jumbo games, jumbo prizes, etc. However, in final presentations on February 6th, the panel of judges comprised of community members ultimately selected the “Tropical Electric” theme to reign supreme.

 

Fans can anticipate Tropical Electric Opening Day to include features such as: neon lights in the concourse, a photo booth with tropical themed props up front, inflatable palm trees, dog costume dress up contest in tropical attire for Bark in the Park presented by Pepsi, glow sticks distributed at fireworks time, Hawaiian flower balloons decorating the seating bowl and other tropical décor hanging from breezeways, Hawaiian flower designs on a Legends script staff tee, Bryan Station Academy booths with games/showcasing all academies (virtual reality, etc.), a hula dance cam on the video boards, an arm wrestling contest, and face painting for kids.

 

Tropical Electric winning group members (picture attached) are: Anna Hassloch, Drake Witt, Jade Finley,Stephen Lyal, Caden Tarry, Kate Jones, Joko Bojang, Ariana Rojas

 

“We are so excited to continue to strengthen the partnership between the Lexington Legends and Bryan Station High School and to once again be taking over Opening Day” said Heather Epply, Academy Coach at Bryan Station High School. “StacheTank is such an amazing opportunity for our students to apply their creativity and skills to a real world situation. Going through the process of idea generation, planning, presenting, accepting critical feedback, and polishing their presentations teaches them so much more than they would learn in a traditional classroom. Our students are so excited to see their hard work become a reality on April 5th!”

 

Crawford Middle School students are presenting their final presentations to a panel of community judges at Whitaker Bank Ballpark in the Executive Boardroom on Wednesday, February 28 at 11 a.m. The top three specialty food item presentations that have moved on to the second round of judging are: a Panwich (renamed from the pancakerito; a breakfast sandwich made out of pancakes), a sandwich wrap featuring chicken tenders battered in Uncle Rays Potato Chips (Uncle Rays is the official potato chip of Minor League Baseball), and a Texas-toast sandwich with macaroni and cheese with barbeque chicken.

 

Judges for round two for Crawford Middle School students are: Kimberly Bussell of Whitaker Bank, Councilwoman Angela Evans of the 6th District, Phil Holoubek of Lexington’s Real Estate Co., Former UK Quarterback Patrick Towles of Traditional Bank, Elizabeth Murphy of Lexington Clinic, Arthur Lucas of LFUCG, and Daryl Love of Valvoline.

 

The Northern Elementary students are working on their Stache Tank give-a-way item project that the first 1,000 fans will receive at the Legends home game later in the season during the month of August.   This group of students is completing research by doing some initial market surveys to see what would excite fans. As they progress through their project, they’ll incorporate speech writing, math skills and presentation techniques as they too will present to members of the Legends Front Office for round one of presentations on March 7 at 2 p.m. and then have final presentations to a panel of community members later in March.

 

The Legends welcome media to the Crawford Middle School presentations on Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 11 a.m.

 

For more information about the Legends Stache Tank Program, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com.

 

ORIGNIAL RELEASE from 2/2/18

 

 

Legends Stache Tank Program for 2018 in Full Swing: Gearing up for presentations

 

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Stache Tank is back. The Lexington Legends are holding another round of Stache Tank competition, as students on the elementary, middle and high school levels from Fayette County Public Schools compete on a variety of entrepreneurial business and event project designs connected to Legends baseball at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

 

Stache Tank follows a format similar to the popular television program “Shark Tank,” in which entrepreneurs present their ideas to a panel of potential investors. The Legends call the competition “‘Stache Tank” in recognition of the team’s mustache logo. Currently, teams of students at Northern Elementary, Crawford Middle School, and Bryan Station High School have been competing with each other at their schools to create and build the best ideas and presentations. The finalists will make presentations at Whitaker Bank Ballpark to a panel of judges made up of community leaders and Legends officials as their project timelines come to a close.

 

Teams of Bryan Station High School students are creating themed event plans for the 2018 Opening Day game for the April 5 Legends home opener. Ideas include “Slumber Sluggers” focusing around a large pajama party idea which involves bringing live sheep to the ballpark, a “Tropical Electric” neon light/glow stick experience for fans, a “Luau Day” for fans to imagine themselves on a tropical island or on Spring Break, playing fun tropical themed activities and potentially having fun taking whacks at an old junk car to help relieve stress, and a theme centered around everything “jumbo;” jumbo games, jumbo prizes, etc.

 

The Bryan Station High School teams will make their presentations in the executive board room at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on Tuesday, February 6 at 10 a.m. to a panel of judges comprised of community members. Judges on the panel include: Kimberly Bussell of Whitaker Bank, James Webb and Morgan Reaguer of G&J Pepsi, Laci Poulter of Lexington Clinic, Phil Holoubek of Lexington’s Real Estate Co., 1st District Councilman James Brown, Former UK Quarterback Patrick Towles of Traditional Bank, Sheri Evans Depp of Lexmark and Christina Briggs of Kentucky Children’s Hospital.

 

Crawford Middle School students are creating a specialty food item to be served in the Kentucky Ale Taproom restaurant throughout the 2018 season. Among the early contenders are items like: a pancakerito (a breakfast burrito made out of pancakes), a special take on a pretzel bun pulled pork sandwich, a sandwich wrap featuring chicken tenders battered in Uncle Rays Potato Chips (Uncle Rays is the official potato chip of Minor League Baseball), a hamburger hotdog, a donut burger with coleslaw, and a Texas-toast sandwich with macaroni and cheese with barbeque chicken.

 

“It’s been fun watching the wheels turn in the student’s minds,” said Crawford Principal Mike Jones. “I have been challenging them to think big, bigger than they ever have before. I feel as though sometimes we do not allow our students opportunities to think outside the box enough. I actually told our students, create a new box if you want. We just had our initial taste tests, and so far, the kids are impressed with their creativity. I also think the kids are excited they have an opportunity to present an idea to members of the community and hear their feedback” he added.

 

Crawford Middle School students will present their initial presentations to members of the Legends Front Office and then have final presentations to a panel of community members at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on February 28, 2018 at 11 a.m.

 

The Northern Elementary students are working on a give-a-way item that the first 1,000 fans would receive at the Legends home game later in the season during the month of August.   This group of students is beginning their research by doing some initial market surveys to see what would excite fans. As they progress through their project, they’ll incorporate speech writing, math skills and presentation techniques as they too will present to members of the Legends Front Office and then have final presentations to a panel of community members. Those presentation dates will be set at a later date.

 

The Legends welcome media to the Bryan Station High School presentations on Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at 10 a.m.

 

For more information about the Legends Stache Tank Program, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com.

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