Archives for April 2018

Take a Deep Breath, Legends To Host Yoga on the Field Presented by Bourbon on Rye

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Fans can breathe deep on May 12 at 10 a.m. when the Lexington Legends host Yoga on the Field Presented by Bourbon on Rye. This complimentary community event is open to yogis of all ages and allows fans to do yoga on the same field as the Legends.

Beginning at 10 a.m. Brooke Williams will lead a 60-minute Vinyasa Flow. Bend and zen alongside the Legends players and Big L in this practice designed for beginners to advanced yogis. Following yoga, fans can indulge in $2.00 post-yoga mimosas.

“We are excited to host Yoga on the Field again this year. This is a great opportunity to get outside and exercise with our players and Big L. You don’t have to be a professional athlete to enjoy yoga, so we encourage fans of all yoga levels to come out to Whitaker Bank Ballpark,” said Legends President/CEO, Andy Shea.

Please use this link to RSVP for the event. Special thanks to our partner, Athleta, for helping to make this possible!

The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and member of the South Atlantic League, play all home games at Whitaker Bank Ballpark in Lexington, Kentucky. 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.

South Bend Cubs accepting applications for college scholarships from regional softball and baseball athletes

SOUTH BEND, Indiana – The South Bend Cubs are pleased to announce beginning today applications will now be accepted from college-bound softball and baseball players from the 11 counties surrounding Four Winds Field in downtown South Bend seeking one of several $5,000 scholarships. Eligibility rules and an application form for the annual scholarship were posted today on the 1st Source Bank Performance Center website.

“These $5,000 scholarships are a significant way to emphasize our support of future leaders and the game we all love,” said Andrew T. Berlin, Chairman and Owner of the South Bend Cubs. “They’re not just for current athletes who will go on to play in college. They’re for any high school senior athlete who intends to continue his or her education full time after high school.”

In 2017, the South Bend Cubs awarded five scholarships of $5,000 each to high school seniors from LaPorte, Mishawaka, South Bend and Walkerton, IN and Buchanan, MI. Two of the recipients were softball players, three were baseball players.

Applications for the 2018 South Bend Cubs Scholarships will be accepted from April 27 through May 31. Up to five (5) $5,000 scholarships will be granted. A full set of rules, eligibility requirements and an application form can be found online at 1stSourceBankPerformanceCenter.com.

“This scholarship offers a tremendous opportunity for our college-bound athletes,” said Joe Hart, President of the South Bend Cubs. “We understand the drive it takes to be an athlete and look forward to helping several of them pursue their post-secondary education.”

Applicants for the 2018 South Bend Cubs Scholarships must deliver their applications in person to the 1st Source Bank Performance Center at the corner of South Street and Lafayette Boulevard in downtown South Bend. E-mailed, paid delivery or postal service applications will not be accepted.

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 30 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.

RiverDogs Host Run Charlie Run 5K

CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Charleston RiverDogs will host the 15th annual Run Charlie Run 5K presented by Fleet Feet Sports on Saturday, May 19. The event starts at 4 p.m. at Joe Riley
Park and culminates with a home plate finish.

A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit the Campaign for MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital.

“We’re excited to once again welcome our hundreds of runners to our annual 5K for a memorable run and ballgame later that night,” said RiverDogs Director of Special Events Lisa Dingman. “It’s a great way to spend a Saturday with the run and a RiverDogs game while benefitting a great cause.”

Early registration for the event is $30 and includes entry to the race, a ball cap, a post-race dinner and beer, and a ticket to the night’s game against the Columbia Fireflies. Runners can register to the event by following the link HERE.

RiverDogs single-game tickets, including options to the Riley Park Club, are now available for the 2018 campaign, the club’s 25th season as the RiverDogs and their “175th season in dog years.” Ticket information can be secured by contacting the box office at (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or online at www.riverdogs.com/tickets.

–RIVERDOGS–

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

Nominations Being Accepted for Most Valuable Teacher Program

Most Valuable Teacher Night is Friday, June 15th.

—

The BlueClaws honor Most Improved Students every year, but this year, the BlueClaws and the NJEA are partnering to honor Most Valuable Teachers at the game on Friday, June 15th.

Teachers can be nominated by students, parents of students, fellow teachers, principals, or other administrators.

How to Nominate: Click here to fill out a nomination form. Plus, the BlueClaws encourage nominators to email videos to MVT@blueclaws.com. Video submissions, where the student talks about why their teacher is a Most Valuable Teacher, could be used on the BlueClaws video board the day of the ceremony.

“Teachers are the bedrock of our education system and we want to recognize their achievements this spring,” said BlueClaws General Manager Joe Ricciutti. “This event, honoring the top teachers at the Jersey Shore, is extra special since we are taking the nominations and videos from the students and parents themselves.”

Upon nomination, teachers will be contacted through their schools. Each teacher will receive a complimentary ticket to the BlueClaws game on June 15th and will be recognized in a pre-game ceremony.

The Friday, June 15th game also includes post-game fireworks thanks to New Jersey Natural Gas.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable family entertainment. Ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale for the 2018 season by calling 732-900-7000 option 3.

– BlueClaws –

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

Express Donate K-9 Unit to Round Rock Police Department

ROUND ROCK, Texas – The Round Rock Express are proud to announce that the team has donated a 22-month-old Belgian Malinois K-9 unit named Vada to the Round Rock Police Department. Express Owners Don and Bret Sanders purchased Vada from Slovak Working Dogs overseas, brought her to the United States, and facilitated the donation on behalf of the team.

The gesture comes less than a year after beloved RRPD K-9 Dega passed away following the discovery of an inoperable tumor. Dega was honored for her service at the Round Rock Express game on April 10, 2017, less than a month before her passing.

“We are incredibly proud to present Vada to the Round Rock Police Department on behalf of the Round Rock Express,” Bret Sanders said. “After my Dad and I heard of Dega’s passing, we wanted to help. This is just a small token of our appreciation for everything that RRPD does to keep not only Dell Diamond, but the entire City of Round Rock safe on a daily basis.”

Vada began her career in the K-9 patrol division but is quickly working up the ranks. This spring, she was certified by the National Narcotics Detector Dog Association to detect the odor of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, ecstasy and methamphetamines. In fact, on her way home from being certified by NNDAA, Vada assisted in the arrest of an individual carrying illegal narcotics.

The RRPD is currently training Vada in the disciplines of article searching and tracking. Vada will soon be able to follow and track human odor and the disruption of the vegetative state to the source.

The Sanders Family are no strangers to generosity when it comes to animals and law enforcement. Don is the founder of the Houston Police Foundation and previously served as Director of the Houston Police Pension System. He also financed a state-of-the-art shelter and facility at the Friends for Life animal shelter, a no-kill animal rescue and adoption shelter in Houston. The Sanders Family also previously donated two K-9 units and a police horse to the Houston Police Department.

“We are very thankful and appreciative of the Sanders Family and the Round Rock Express ownership group.” RRPD Officer Robert Ramos said. “Vada has been an amazing addition to the Round Rock PD family, as well as my family at home. She has surpassed my expectations and I could not be happier with her performance and where we are as a K-9 team.”

Fans will have their first chance to meet Vada on Sunday, May 6 during Bark in the Park at Dell Diamond. Vada will be honored alongside Officer Ramos before the 1:05 p.m. game against the Iowa Cubs. Fans are encouraged to bring their own four-legged friends to the game as well. More information about Bark in the Park at Dell Diamond can be found here.

Single-game tickets, season memberships and flex plan ticket packages are on sale now. For more information on the Express, visit RoundRockExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter!

Pelicans host fundraiser for Windsor Green victims

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (April 25, 2018) – In the wake of the fire at Windsor Green Apartments in Carolina Forest earlier this month, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans are raising funds for the displaced residents. The team is holding a ticket sales fundraiser in which fans can purchase a ticket to May 1 and 2 online at myrtlebeachpelicans.com/tickets using the promo code “WG”. $5.00 from every ticket purchased with that promo code will be donated to those affected by the fire. The team will also donate proceeds from the 50/50 raffle on those nights. Additionally, anyone wishing to make a donation to the affected residents can do so at the ballpark that evening.   Donations are being accepted in the form of cash, gift cards and toiletries. It has been asked that no clothes be donated.

In addition to the fundraising elements, the team is offering a free ticket and meal to those affected by this tragedy on Tuesday, May 1, and Wednesday, May 2. To claim the free ticket and meal voucher, displaced residents simply need to stop by the Pelicans Box Office.

Gates will open at 6:00 p.m. for a 7:05 p.m. first pitch on both nights. Other promotional offers include $2 tacos and tallboys until 8pm on Tuesday, and BOGO hot dogs on Wednesday. The 2018 season is 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.

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Purple Heart Saturdays Honor Local Veterans

Every Saturday home game during the 2018 season is a Purple Heart Saturday where local Purple Heart recipients are honored on the field! Plus, Stone Crabs players wear special purple jerseys that will be auctioned off online during the season.

On Opening Night, the Stone Crabs brought twenty Purple Heart recipients to the field during the middle of the 7th inning for recognition. As part of the celebration the Military Order of the Purple Heart, U.S.A Chapter 759 honored the Stone Crabs with a special recognition award and made a Proclamation declaring the Stone Crabs as an official Purple Heart Minor League Baseball Team.

Fans will also have the opportunity to honor veterans that they know by posting pictures and information on Stone Crabs social media. These photos will then be displayed on the video board during Saturday games. For more information on how to submit a veteran, please email Ashley Stephenson at astephenson@stonecrabsbaseball.com

To purchase tickets for a Purple Heart Saturday or any other game this season, fans can go online or call 941-206-HITS. Fans can also purchase tickets in person at the FCB Box Office Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

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RECAP: 8th Annual ‘4 in 24’ Youth Field Renovations!

The Tri-City ValleyCats, along with their corporate partners BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets, undertook the 8th Annual ‘4 in 24’ youth field renovation project on Wednesday, April 11.

The project’s mission is to assist local youth leagues with the maintenance and upkeep of their playing fields, allowing for a safe place for children to learn and play the game baseball and softball.

Each year since 2011, the ValleyCats and their partners simultaneously renovate four youth fields on one day in April, prior to the opening of the youth baseball season.

This year, the chosen leagues were American Little League in Albany, Cairo-Durham Little League, Scotia-Glenville Girls Softball, and Round Lake Malta Youth Baseball.

Tweet from @ValleyCats: Today is the day! #4in24! American Little League in Albany, Cairo-Durham Little League, Scotia-Glenville Girls Softball, and Round Lake Malta Youth Baseball will all receive brand new infields!! Thank you to our major sponsors, @BSNENY & @Hannaford!! pic.twitter.com/LRHMhXHaeD

Upon completion, over 30 fields have now been revamped thanks to this program, which has positively effected thousands of youth ball players in the ValleyCats’ community.

“When we first embarked on this ambitious project in 2011, we felt that it would have an enormous positive impact on many youth ballplayers within the Capital Region,” said ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan. “Now in its eighth year, and 30 plus leagues later, the need and project scope continues to grow exponentially. We are incredibly thankful to BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets who have been instrumental in keeping the program going strong.”

Tweet from @JohnCraigWNYT: A team on a #fieldofdreams #AlbanySouthEnd @ValleyCats @BSNENY @Hannaford @WNYT pic.twitter.com/blkv8CWpJ9

Both longtime supporters of this important community initiative, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets have aided in supplying the necessary resources and volunteer commitment to complete these renovations.

Tweet from @BSNENY: We���re kicking off #4in24 at Albany American Little League field! pic.twitter.com/0zYM939noF

Tweet from @BSNENY: The #4in24 renovation crew gathered for a press conference at the American Little League field in Albany. Thank you to the @TCValleyCats and all of the volunteers! pic.twitter.com/5U4AiWdAUA

“BlueShield knows how important programs like ‘4 in 24’ are to ensuring children in our community have access to healthy activities,” said Dr. Kirk Panneton, Vice President, Regional Executive and Medical Director, BlueShield of Northeastern New York. “Through our partnership with the Tri-City ValleyCats, our company and employees have helped transform over 30 fields and we are thrilled to be a part of this community initiative again this year.”

Tweet from @CBS6Leanne: #NOW: Renovations are beginning at the American Little League field in Albany. Four fields across the region are being renovated today as part of the @ValleyCats “4 in 24” project. https://t.co/kcMOJCzdwM pic.twitter.com/8fZ2fOtwJP

“Active kids make for healthy communities, which is why youth sports are so important. Hannaford is pleased to once again partner with the Tri-City ValleyCats to provide young people with wonderfully improved facilities for healthy play and growth,” said Hannaford Supermarkets Community Relations Specialist Brian Fabre. “We look forward to seeing kids throughout the greater Capital Region rush the field this spring as they learn the values of teamwork and dedication.”

The efforts were also assisted by Profile Products and Turface Athletics, who contributed some of the necessary equipment and materials. In order to complete the entire project, 300+ clay bricks, 23 tons of infield mix, and 3600 square feet of sod are needed. Additional support comes from ‘Cats Care, the ValleyCats’ arm of the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation.

Tweet from @ValleyCats: Thank you, @Turfaceproducts!! #4in24 pic.twitter.com/MnCqvF658x

Tweet from @WTEN: ValleyCats team up to renovate 4 little league fields in 24 hours. https://t.co/LZ3gjx1hyz

It was an early morning for ValleyCats Media Relations Manager Chris Chenes, who arrived at American Little League in Albany at 5:00am for the morning news coverage. Each of the local TV stations went LIVE from the ballpark to talk about the ambitious project.

Crew call for the four renovation teams was 7:30am, and consisted of over a dozen volunteers at each of the four fields being renovated.

Each field had their old infield grass replaced with brand new sod (minus Scotia-Glenville Girls Softball), the pitcher’s mound and home plate areas completely rebuilt, infield surface leveled, graded and raked, baselines measured and cut to the correct specifications, and all new bases, a pitching rubber and home plate installed.

Tweet from @ValleyCats: We’re almost ready to lay new sod at @AmeLeagueAlbany! GM Matt Callahan making progress with the new home plate! #4in24 @BSNENY @Hannaford pic.twitter.com/E8JiZRdqP4

Tweet from @ValleyCats: Work is also progressing well at Round Lake Malta!! #4in24 @BSNENY @Hannaford pic.twitter.com/fCJ1PYBbAc

Tweet from @ValleyCats: About to begin laying new sod at Cairo-Durham Little League! #4in24 @BSNENY @Hannaford pic.twitter.com/jfnY3CNab3

Tweet from @SMLorey: Thank you @ValleyCats 4 in 24! Scotia Glenville girls softball field progressing pic.twitter.com/plS3YhBgl8

The temperature was unseasonably cold for spring, especially early in the morning, as frost covered the tips of the grass. That didn’t slow down the progress, though!

Tweet from @SPECNewsAlbany: While it may not feel like the start of baseball season outside, volunteers are upgrading the American Little League field in #AlbanyNY as part of the annual #4in24 project. https://t.co/nDHmQvZsqU via @JorjaRoman @ValleyCats pic.twitter.com/DSU5tQ9zWN

At 9:00am, the crew at American Little League in Albany paused for a brief ceremonial press conference to officially kick off the renovations. New York Senator Neil Breslin was in attendance, and praised the work of the program.

Tweet from @JohnCraigWNYT: Former #littleleague player @NeilBreslin44 during #4in24 @ValleyCats field renovation #AlbanySouthEnd #KrankPark @BSNENY @Hannaford. Story at noon @WNYT pic.twitter.com/exZtZm3mzg

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan talked about the impact the renovations have on the local youth ballplayers.

Tweet from @JohnCraigWNYT: During a break #4in24 @ValleyCats @Hannaford @BSNENY #albany #KrankPark @AlbanyCityHall. Story at noon @WNYT pic.twitter.com/xDKZFzeq0K

The ValleyCats were presented with a citation from both the New York State Senate and Assembly, recognizing this 8th annual community project.

 

MiLB.com’s Benjamin Hill ranks this ValleyCats community initiative as one of the best in Minor League Baseball.

Tweet from @bensbiz: One of Minor League Baseball’s best annual philanthropic endeavors. https://t.co/zBhh7qHkFA

The ValleyCats recognize that one of the major roles they play within their community is to be ambassadors for the game of baseball. Each year their staff, corporate partners and volunteers put a ton of work into making sure these renovations are a success.

ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan has served as the foreman for the project, and is now an expert at the installation of new home plates and pitching rubbers!

Tweet from @JohnCraigWNYT: The international field in American #LittleLeague #albany #southend gets home plate lined up. #4in24 @ValleyCats GM Matt Callahan @Hannaford @BSNENY @WNYT pic.twitter.com/dwVkVA9Wxu

Tweet from @CBS6Leanne: Fresh sod has arrived & home plate is close to being set! It’ll be a full day worth of work to renovate American Little League field. https://t.co/kcMOJCzdwM pic.twitter.com/7dVlbEnRyy

While the mound and home plate are being worked on, volunteers are busy removing the old sod from the infield, adding topsoil to level the playing surface, and then laying down brand new grass! (This was the first order of the year for Saratoga Sod here in upstate New York!)

 

And now, prepare to be amazed, as we check out the before and after photos from each field!

American Little League, Albany

League statement:

“The Albany American Little League would like to thank the Tri-City ValleyCats and their partners for their timeless efforts, support, and commitment to Little League Baseball. The renovation of our field will help our players develop into young athletes, provide our youth a safe and structured environment where they can grow to become productive caring members of our communities. The work that the ValleyCats will do for our field will add value to the community and place smiles on the faces of our little leaguers.”

Sentaria Depass-Murray, President

Before:

 

After:

Cairo-Durham Little League

League statement:

“During the past several years, little league participation has been falling, which has affected our ability to help afford all things needed to improve the conditions for the kids. Last year we focused on getting our kids all new catching equipment and renovating our girls softball field (all new dirt, excavation and a new drainage system). This year is on new bats and our main field really needs attention. Your help with our field will help improve the main baseball field, not just cosmetically but in functionality as well. This huge gift will allow us to focus on buying a machine to pull our rascal in order to maintain the 5 fields we play on.

It truly is an honor and a gift to be chosen and I am beyond grateful for your generosity. Look forward to seeing this all come together. Thank you again!”

Jesse Walz, President

Before:

After:

Round Lake Malta Youth Baseball

League statement:

“We are absolutely thrilled to be selected for the ValleyCat’s 4 in 24 Field Renovation project. The native soil at our field is particularly challenging to maintain and this overhaul will bring both the financial investment and expertise that we lack to make a lasting improvement to the ball field. The ValleyCat’s commitment to youth baseball programs is truly impressive. You make the kids feel like all-stars when they visit the stadium and I know they are going to feel like they made the big leagues when they step on to their newly renovated field! Thank you for supporting our players and the countless volunteers across the Tri-City area who work to bring a positive youth baseball experience to our children!”

Lori Sievers, President

Before:

After:

Scotia-Glenville Girls Softball

League statement:

“On behalf of Scotia Glenville Girls Softball League, our board of directors and our girls, we would like to thank the Tri-City ValleyCats organization as well as their sponsors, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford for awarding us the 4 in 24 field renovation for 2018. As a small community and league, we rely on volunteers for all field maintenance and fundraising. We appreciate the ValleyCats commitment to our local communities and the betterment of our area youth sports programs. Our secondary field was in dire need of renovation. Fixing this field will ensure that all of our girls share the same great, and more importantly safe, softball experience!

Lisa DiSorbo, League President

Before:

After:

The response from the community was tremendous, and many voiced their opinions on social media.

Tweet from @NYNick1127: The Cats are Champs on & off the field! Well done! We are lucky to call @ValleyCats our own can���t wait for the season!������ @CBS6Leanne @CBS6Albany https://t.co/XFHOMAvzhH

Tweet from @NLL_Albany: Congratulations to our friends at @AmeLeagueAlbany, and thank you to the @ValleyCats for this great program in giving back to the community! https://t.co/gLN3LFVY3j

Tweet from @hooseyadaddy: That���s awesome and definitely much needed! Thank you @ValleyCats for helping out my hometown!

Tweet from @LydiaOn10: 👍🎉Great job by the @ValleyCats “4 in 24 Baseball Field renovations” https://t.co/289Qf8oEpZ

Tweet from @dfleming16: Nassau���s kids benefited greatly from this program. Love the @ValleyCats ! https://t.co/VSx2A4AlZ2

Tweet from @CDSFSportandFit: 4 in 24 is a great initiative by the @ValleyCats to renovate four local youth baseball and��� https://t.co/yu8aGB6maN

Additionally, here are some of the stories from the Capital Region media outlets:

Tweet from @WTEN: ValleyCats team up to renovate 4 little league fields in 24 hours. https://t.co/LZ3gjx1hyz

Times Union: https://www.timesunion.com/7dayarchive/article/Volunteers-begin-marathon-4-in-24-effort-to-12824757.php

Hudson Valley 360: https://www.hudsonvalley360.com/article/cairo-durham-little-league-receives-facelift

Your Clifton Park: https://yourcliftonpark.com/2018/04/11/round-lake-baseball-field-gets-some-tlc-from-valleycats/

That concludes this recap, but be sure to join the ValleyCats on Friday, June 22 for their Youth Baseball Celebration! On that night the ‘Cats will recognize the 2018 ‘4 in 24’ renovations, while also inviting Capital Region youth baseball teams to come to the game and participate in a pregame parade on the warning track.

For all softball leagues out there, don’t you worry! Softball Night is on Thursday, July 5, and the same pregame parade will be taking place on that night.

Be sure to visit tcvalleycats.com for ticket information, or call 518-629-CATS.

If your league would like to apply for a renovation, visit the ValleyCats Community Grounds Crew page at tcvalleycats.com/fieldrenovations.

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

Drive Celebrate Reading All-Stars on Sunday

The Drive’s homestand concludes on Sunday afternoon with a Reading All-Stars Celebration Game for students in Spartanburg, Anderson and Pickens Counties. Be sure to congratulate these hard-working students for their efforts throughout the day!

First pitch is at 4:05 PM, and the pregame festivities begin at 3:00 PM. In addition to receiving a t-shirt, participating in a pregame parade at 3:30 and a book fair, these students will be participating in fun on-field games and presentations throughout the day, and they will get a chance to meet Drive players prior to the game as well.

Stick around after the game for BlueCross BlueShield Kids Run the Bases!

Tickets for Sunday’s game are available now by stopping by the Main Street Box Office, by calling (864) 240-4528 or by CLICKING HERE. 

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

Reading All-Stars Celebrated on Wednesday

The Reading All-Stars Celebration Game for Greenville County elementary and middle school students will be made up at Fluor Field on Wednesday.

The doubleheader begins at 4:00 PM, and game two would start no earlier than 7:00 PM. Both games are scheduled for seven innings in length.

The Reading All-Stars celebration is scheduled to begin at 6:00 PM, where elementary school students will receive their t-shirts for completing the Reading All-Stars program, and middle school students will receive caps and an opportunity to meet Drive players in between games. All students will receive a complimentary book from Public Education Partners and get to participate in an in-game book fair.

Purchase tickets for Wednesday at Fluor Field at the Main Street Box Office, by calling (864) 240-4528 or by CLICKING HERE. 

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

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Dancing with the Students Returns to Crawford Middle School During 2018 Arts Night

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends are proud to conclude another successful year of “Dancing With The Students” with Crawford Middle School students during 2018 Arts Night. The finale will be held in the gymnasium of Crawford Middle School on Friday, April 27 at 6 p.m. Media is welcome to attend the finales for photographs and interviews with the students.

Dancing with the Students is a non-profit organization based out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania originally founded in 2005 by Lexington Legends Secretary and Principal Sue Martinelli Shea. The program came to Lexington after Legends President and CEO, Andy Shea, won the Dancing with the Stars of Lexington Competition with Arthur Murray Dance Instructor, Rae Mickelwait. “As an Arthur Murray ballroom dance instructor, I am so excited to be participating in my third Dancing with the Students Grand Finale with Crawford Middle School! A big thank you to the Lexington Legends for sponsoring such a wonderful program, that uses ballroom dance, my career and passion, to teach life-skills, respect, positive self-image and teamwork,” said Mickelwait.

“I am so honored that the Legends and Crawford Middle School have partnered up for another year of Dancing with the Students. I am very proud of my Mother and the program she has helped to create. I cannot wait to see the finale and all the hard work the students have put into their dances!” said Legends President and CEO, Andy Shea.

Students involved in the competition are in sixth, seventh and eighth grade and focus on not only ballroom dancing, but other skills such as respect, manners and positive self-image. Through a partnership between their Physical Education class as well as Arts and Humanities, students learn four dances: Waltz, Tango, Merengue and Swing while also learning the history behind the social dances and cultures. Local Arthur Murray Trained dance instructor, Mickelwait, trains the students on all aspects of ballroom dancing. “I am so thrilled with the partnerships among the Lexington Legends, Dancing with the Students and Crawford Middle School,” said Legends Secretary and Principal, Sue Martinelli Shea. “The students are the winners every time!”

In Margaret Van Hook Stevens’ Arts and Humanities course, students learn the history behind ballroom dancing and how it can have positive impacts in their lives. Van Hook Stevens’ grandfather was a farmer from Winchester, Kentucky who won a Waltz competition which earned him an invitation to dance at MGM Studios in the 1930’s. In her classroom, she says she “stresses the importance that your hobby or your extracurricular activity you participate in could one day provide open door opportunities or extra income because of skills learned. Dance provided extra income for my grandfather and his family in the 1930’s and dance provides additional income for my family today.”

Also during 2018 Arts Night will be the CMS Art Gallery Walk. Students have spent the past 18 days creating 57 different sketches in their Arts and Humanities Class which can be viewed throughout the event, as well.

For more information about Dancing with the Students, visit www.dancingwiththestudents.org or contact Jillian Waitkus at jwaitkus@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7847.

The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, will return home to Whitaker Bank Ballpark to face the West Virginia Power on April 27, 2018 at 7:05 pm. 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.

The EMPIRE GIVES BACK on May the Fourth

MOOSIC, PA. (April 24, 2018) – On May the Fourth, in a ballpark not too far away, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders embrace the rebellion as the Empire Gives Back at PNC Field. In conjunction with their annual Star Wars Night, the RailRiders will host the Pawtucket Red Sox at 6:35 p.m. and will work with two tremendous organizations to raise funds and awareness.

The first 2,500 fans through the gates will get a Chance Adams bobblehead, presented by Geisinger. The RailRiders will wear custom Star Wars-themed jerseys, which will be auctioned off to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network.

Before the PawSox’s plans for the weekend become fully operational, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre is also pleased to partner with Tyler Austin, a former RailRider and current New York Yankee. Austin was diagnosed with testicular cancer at age 17, and, thanks to early detection and after several surgeries, he is now cancer-free. In April, which is Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, Austin created a fundraiser for the Sean Kimerling Testicular Cancer Foundation. Sean Kimerling, the Emmy Award-winning anchor of WB 11 Sports in New York and pre-game announcer for the Mets. Sean died from testicular cancer on September 9, 2003, at 37 years young.

In addition to the jersey fundraiser benefiting the Children’s Miracle Network, a limited number of t-shirts from Austin’s April fundraiser will be for sale with all proceeds benefitting Tyler Austin’s effort for the Sean Kimerling Testicular Cancer Foundation.

All fans who purchase a “Ball Out” t-shirt that evening will be entered into a raffle at PNC Field. One autographed Tyler Austin baseball will be given away every inning, and, at the end of the game, one fan will win four tickets to an upcoming Yankees game and will have the chance to meet Austin.

In honor of Austin’s jersey number 26, the RailRiders will also donate 26% of all walk-up ticket sales to his fundraising effort.

The RailRiders will also have a dunk tank set up on the concourse at PNC Field featuring Darth Vader. All proceeds from the dunk tank will be included in the donation to the to the Sean Kimerling Testicular Cancer Foundation.

“There is nothing evil about this empire,” stated Josh Olerud, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders Team President and General Manager. “We have the chance to be leaders on many different levels, and the ability to partner with Geisinger, the Children’s Miracle Network as well as Tyler Austin’s fundraising efforts for the Sean Kimerling Testicular Cancer Foundation, shows that the force of good is strong in Northeast Pennsylvania’s Minor League Baseball club.”

The RailRiders are committed to cancer research, fundraising and awareness through the SWB Pinstripes Foundation. On April 18, the club began a text-to-donate campaign, benefitting Stand Up To Cancer. Fans can make a $5.00 donation by texting SWBRR to 40202.

Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, the Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, will host the Pawtucket for a two-game series beginning on May 3 and 4 prior to a two-game set at McCoy Stadium in Rhode Island beginning May 5. For more information on all the events scheduled on May 4 at PNC Field, please contact the RailRiders front office at (570) 969-BALL.

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

Heater’s Recycling Bin Initiative

Dayton, Ohio – The Dayton Dragons and Montgomery County Environmental Services are once again teaming up for Heater’s RBI Program (Recycling Bin Initiative). It’s a free, fun and educational program for kids and families to learn about household recycling and its benefits to the earth. It only requires two weeks of tracking recycling to participate, but families are encouraged to keep up the good work after.

This is the 8th year for the RBI program and tens of thousands of cans, glass, cardboard and plastic have been saved from the landfill thanks for the recycling efforts of participants. The best part is, all participants will receive up to four Dragons lawn tickets for an exclusive RBI Night and be eligible to win other great prizes. Visit www.daytondragons.com/rbi to get more information and participate.

The RBI kickoff event will be after the Dragons game on Sunday, April 29 when the Dragons take on the Fort Wayne Tin Caps at 2:00 p.m. Fans can pick up a 10-gallon recycling bin (1 per household while supplies last), hang out with Curby the Cardinal and get more information on the RBI program upon leaving the game. Montgomery County Commissioner, Deborah Lieberman, will also be in attendance to throw out the ceremonial first pitch and encourage the recycling efforts for the RBI program.

About Montgomery County Environmental Services

Montgomery County Environmental Services is more than 300 men and women who provide high-quality drinking water, solid waste, recycling, and wastewater reclamation services to the citizens of Montgomery County. They work to preserve public health, foster economic development, and protect the environment and our natural resources for future generations. They aim to be leaders and trusted stewards of the environment focused on service, collaboration, innovation, and financial responsibility.

Montgomery County Environmental Services also offers educational programs to local schools, community organizations and businesses that want to learn more about conservation and sustainability in the Miami Valley region.

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.

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

JOHNSON CITY CARDINALS TO HOST JOB FAIR

JOHNSON CITY- The Cardinals have announced that they will be hosting their annual job fair on Friday, April 27 from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 28 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. The job fair will take place at the Senior Center – 510 Bert Street, Johnson City TN 37601.

The job fair will have 15 different categories of part-time, seasonal positions available within the Cardinals organization. Among the jobs that will be displayed are: press box positions, mascot, on-field crew, ticket taker, group area/picnic attendant, stadium hawker, concession stand worker, concession stand manager, concession stand runner, bartender, cook, game day porter, kids zone operator, retail store associate, and usher.

Most TVA Credit Union Ballpark positions require a person to stand and walk for extended periods of time, as well as run, sit, navigate stairs, kneel or crouch. Prospective employees may also be asked to occasionally lift and/or move up to approximately 25 pounds and be exposed to various weather conditions and noise levels.

Potential employees will be asked to fill out their top three job choices on their interview questionnaire, which will be provided at the job fair. All persons seeking employment may not be able to work in their area of choice, as jobs will be offered by strength of application and/or resume.

The Cardinals will commence their 2018 home campaign against the Kingsport Mets on Friday, June 22, 2018. The full schedule for this season and season ticket information can be found online at jccardinals.com, or by calling the Cardinals Ticket Office at 423-461-4866.

ABOUT THE JOHNSON CITY CARDINALS

The Johnson City Cardinals are the Rookie affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. Members of the ten-team Appalachian League, Cardinals baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 50 years. To learn more about the Johnson City Cardinals, visit www.jccardinals.com

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

SeaWolves To Host Inaugural Diamond Dinner

The Erie SeaWolves, Double-A Affiliate of the Detroit Tigers, are partnering with MECA, Inc, to raise funds to build the first barrier-free baseball field in Erie County. The project, known as a Miracle League Field, will enable individuals with physical and mental disabilities to safely play baseball on a cushioned, wheelchair-accessible playing surface.

On Thursday, August 16, the SeaWolves Community Fund will host its first ever Diamond Dinner fundraiser on the infield at UPMC Park from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. with proceeds benefitting the Miracle League of Erie County. The Diamond Dinner will include live entertainment, raffle prizes, a live auction, catering from top local restaurants and cocktails from area breweries and wineries. Attendees will have the chance to meet SeaWolves players, Detroit Tigers guests and the stars of Erie’s own Miracle League.

“The nearest Miracle League Field is about 100 miles away,” SeaWolves Team President Greg Coleman said. “With the support of the community, we can enhance a neighborhood park and create a safe and welcoming environment where kids and adults can play ball, develop skills, and build friendships.”

Tickets for the Diamond Dinner are $85 each. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. In addition, the Diamond Dinner committee is seeking a wide array of raffle prizes and live auction items.

For more information about the Miracle League Project and to purchase Diamond Dinner tickets visit MiracleLeagueErie.com.

The SeaWolves return to UPMC Park on Friday, April 27 as they host Tim Tebow and the Binghamton Rumble Ponies (New York Mets) at 6:05 p.m. Friday, the first 1,000 fans will receive a SeaWolves fleece blanket courtesy of Pepsi. For tickets, visit the UPMC Park ticket office (M-F, 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.) or visit SeaWolves.com.

ABOUT THE SEAWOLVES COMMUNITY FUND

The SeaWolves Community Fund is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to improving the lives of children and adults in the greater Erie region. The SeaWolves Community Fund places a special emphasis on supporting youth programs focused on baseball, education, and wellness by developing partnerships with those who share in our mission.

ABOUT MECA, INC

MECA, Inc. is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) and has been in the community serving children and adults with any disability and their families. They run an adaptive baseball program and assist the senior citizen population through the J.O.Y. Senior Center. MECA’S Representative Payee Program provides financial management services for individuals identified by the Social Security Administration as needing help managing their Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Fiduciary services are also provided to Veterans. Through these programs we service over 260 clients and their families in the community.

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