Archives for May 2018

Riders Foundation raising funds for Boys & Girls Club of Collin County Bus Fund

FRISCO, Texas (May 11, 2018) – The Frisco RoughRiders Foundation has announced a season-long, multi-faceted initiative to raise funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County Bus Fund. The foundation’s goal is to help purchase a 72-passenger bus to aid the organization’s mission.

“With the addition of at least one new full-size bus in each club in Frisco, McKinney and Plano, we will be able to add over 300 new members, impacting these young lives with great programs in a safe, nurturing environment, where we concentrate on academic success, character and leadership as well as health and life skills,” said Mike Simpson, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County. “New buses are the vehicles to great futures for more kids.”

A portion of the proceeds from following events will be earmarked for the Bus Fund:

* Riders Classic golf tournament (July 10)

* RoughRiders Baseball Academy (all summer)

* RoughRiders Foundation in-game fundraisers

* Riders 50/50 Raffle (Wednesday-Sunday raffles)

* Auctioned autographed items and sports memorabilia

“It’s important for the Frisco RoughRiders to make memories for our community in and out of the stadium,” said Breon Dennis, Executive Director of the RoughRiders Foundation. “The 72-passenger bus will let children at the club know that the future is now and we support them. I hope the entire North Texas community will join in this campaign to make a difference together.”

To participate in the fundraising efforts, join us at Dr Pepper Ballpark all season. Tickets are available online at RidersBaseball.com, by phone at (972) 731-9200 or at the Dr Pepper Ballpark box office.

About the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County has been meeting the needs of children in Collin County and North Texas for 50 years since 1968. BGCCC’s mission is to “Enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens“. The organization currently serves over 9,300 children each year through its after-school, summer and outreach programs.

BGCCC serves 71 schools in Collin County and has 21 buses and vehicles which must transport the children to the Clubs. The organization has branches in McKinney, Plano and Frisco and currently operates an on-site school program at Shepton High School in Plano.

Visit the BGCCC website at: http://www.bgccc.org

About the RoughRiders Foundation

The mission of the RoughRiders Foundation is to enhance the community we serve through charitable contributions, grants, and programming initiatives. The RoughRiders Foundation supports programs and organizations in our community that motivate and reward children and families in the areas of education, good health and community services activities.

For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders Foundation, contact Breon Dennis at breon@ridersbaseball.com or at community@ridersbaseball.com.

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play their games at beautiful Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance in each of the last 13 seasons (2005-2017). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg. Since then, the new ownership group, together with the City of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise enhancements, investing over $8 million in a wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including a state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store and the world’s largest water feature in a sports facility, the massive Choctaw Lazy River. These enhancements earned the Riders and the City of Frisco Ballpark Digest’s prestigious “Best Ballpark Renovation” award for two consecutive years (2015 and 2016). More than 140 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball, including All-Stars Chris Davis, Adrian Gonzalez, Ian Kinsler and Neftali Feliz, as well as current Rangers stars Elvis Andrus, Rougned Odor and Nomar Mazara. For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders and Dr Pepper Ballpark, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact Ryan Rouillard at RRouillard@RidersBaseball.com.

MILITARY APPRECIATION NIGHTS HIGHLIGHT SKY SOX UPCOMING HOMESTAND

The Colorado Springs Sky Sox will begin their third homestand – an eight-game stretch – beginning on Saturday, May 12, when they host the Oklahoma City Dodgers -Triple-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers – for four games with game one scheduled for 6:00 p.m. at Security Service Field. Following Oklahoma City, the Sky Sox welcome the St. Louis Cardinals highest affiliate, the Memphis Redbirds, to town for a four-game set beginning Thursday, May 17.

Highlighting the Sky Sox homestand are the first two Military Appreciation Nights of 2018 and two fan giveaways. Throughout the 2018 season, the Sky Sox will host a total of six nights dedicated to honoring the men and women of our armed forces. For these nights across the entire season, military bases across the local Colorado Springs area are provided with thousands of FREE tickets to come out to these games.

To kick off the week of events, Security Service Field will feature “Air Force Appreciation Night” presented by USAA & Pioneer Landscape Centers on Saturday, May 12, which is dedicated to the men and women in the Air Force and features Post-Game Fireworks. The night will feature a special pre-game parachute drop-in by the United States Air Force Parachute Team, Wings of Blue, to deliver the game ball. The team will be wearing special patriotic American flag jerseys that will be auctioned off on the final Military Appreciation Night of the season on August 23rd.

On Friday, May 18, the Sky Sox will hold “Fort Carson Appreciation Night” presented by USAA & Pueblo Motorsports Park, which is dedicated to the men and women at Fort Carson. This night’s pre-game ceremonies will feature Howitzer Cannons as well as a Mounted Color Guard team to present the colors during the National Anthem. The team will be wearing our special throwback, replica Sky Sox jerseys from the 1950’s Sky Sox era. The night will also feature Post-Game Fireworks.

On back-to-back days, the Sky Sox will be holding giveaways when gates open. On Saturday, May 19, the first 1,000 fans through the gates will get a 2018 Sky Sox Team Cap presented by Prodigy Salon/Paul Mitchell School. The next day, on Sunday, May 20, a Kids Sky Sox Jersey Giveaway presented by U.S. Forest Service will take place and will be given to the first 1,000 kids who are 12 & Under through the gates at Security Service Field.

Also featured in the homestand is 50-cent Hot Dog Sunday presented by Safeway, $2 Tuesday presented by Boost Mobile, $3 Thirsty Thursday presented by Coors, and two dates where the team will be celebrating “Cheers to 45 More Years” with the 1950’s Colorado Springs Sky Sox era while the players wear throwback replica jerseys from that period (May 18-19).

Details of each game date are below:

Saturday, May 12 vs. Oklahoma City – 6:00 p.m.

  • Gates open at 5:00 p.m.
  • Air Force Appreciation Night with Post-Game Fireworks presented by USAA & Pioneer Landscape Centers

Sunday, May 13 vs. Oklahoma City – 1:30 p.m.

  • Gates open at 12:30 p.m.
  • 50-Cent Hot Dogs presented by Safeway

Monday, May 14 vs. Oklahoma City – 6:40 p.m.

  • Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
  • Community Ticket Monday Presented by NOVA Home Loans

Tuesday, May 15 vs. Oklahoma City – 6:40 p.m.

  • Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
  • $2 Tuesday presented by Boost Mobile
    • $2 Tickets, $2 Parking, and $2 Coors Light drafts

Thursday, May 17 vs. Memphis – 6:40 p.m.

  • Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
  • $3 Thirsty Thursday presented by Coors
    • $3 Parking, $3 Upper Reserve Tickets, $3 Craft Beers

Friday, May 18 vs. Memphis – 6:40 p.m.

  • Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
  • Fort Carson Appreciation Night with Post-Game Fireworks presented by USAA & Pueblo Motorsports Park
  • “Cheers to 45 More Years” 1950’s Sky Sox Celebration with players wearing throwback replica 1950’s Sky Sox jerseys

Saturday, May 19 vs. Memphis – 6:00 p.m.

  • Gates open at 5:00 p.m.
  • 2018 Sky Sox Team Cap Giveaway (First 1,000) presented by Prodigy Salon/Paul Mitchell School
  • “Cheers to 45 More Years” 1950’s Sky Sox Celebration with players wearing throwback replica 1950’s Sky Sox jerseys

Sunday, May 20 vs. Memphis – 1:00 p.m.

  • Gates open at 12:00 p.m.
  • Kids Jersey Giveaway presented by U.S. Forest Service (first 1,000 kids 12 & Under)
  • 50 Cent Hot Dogs presented by Safeway
  • Bark in the Park! – Bring your favorite companion to the game!

For more information for military members on how to get game tickets on Military Appreciation Nights, please visit or contact your base information center.

For more information on promotions and ticket options, please call (719) 591-7699 or email info@skysox.com. Get the latest Sky Sox news online at www.skysox.com, like us on Facebook or follow the team on Twitter at @skysox.

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

Redbirds, Ford Bring “Mid-South Heroes Weekend” to AutoZone Park

MEMPHIS, Tennessee — The Memphis Redbirds have partnered with Ford to honor heroes during the team’s games May 25-27 at AutoZone Park as part of “Mid-South Heroes Weekend presented by Ford,” where firefighters and EMS, military, and police will be celebrated each day during Memorial Day Weekend.

Mid-South Heroes Weekend presented by Ford
– Friday, May 25: firefighter and EMS recognition
– Saturday, May 26: military recognition and postgame fireworks
– Sunday, May 27: police recognition and postgame fireworks

Each day features recognition of these groups of heroes, and equipment, displays, and interactive experiences in the Plaza and around the stadium.

Fans are also invited to come to the ballpark early on Sunday the 27th for the second annual Shelby County Sheriffs versus Memphis Police Department softball game. Gates open at 3:45 for the softball game, which runs from 4:15-5:30. The winner will be presented with the Sheriff’s Cup on the field.

“This is shaping up to be one of the marquee weekends of the season at AutoZone Park,” Redbirds President/General Manager Craig Unger said. “We are pleased to partner with Ford to honor the heroes of the Mid-South all weekend long. These events are just a small token of the gratitude we have for these heroes who do so much for each and every one of us.”

“The Mid-South Ford Dealers are proud to honor our Mid-South Heroes through our sponsorship of the Memphis Redbirds,” Don Kitchens, Chairman of the Mid-South Ford Dealers said. “We appreciate those who ‘Go Further’ every day for our country and Mid-South communities. We invite everyone to come out to the ballpark over the Memorial Day Weekend and support our Military, Veterans, First Responders, and Memphis Redbirds.”

Special ticket pricing is available for firefighters, EMS, military, and police by contacting the Redbirds at (901) 721-6000, compliments of Ford.

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

Matthew Mattocks to Celebrate “Home Run For Life” Friday with OKC Dodgers

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS continue the 2018 “Home Run For Life” series Friday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark by recognizing Matthew Mattocks, who suffered a massive brain stem stroke and a rare neurological disorder called locked-in syndrome at age 29.

Mattocks experienced a cerebral infarction that blocked the supply of blood and oxygen to his brain in July 2016. He survived the massive brain stem stroke, which many people are unable to do, but suffered from locked-in syndrome. He was conscious, but unable to move for nearly a month.

After the care he received at INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation, Mattocks continues to push toward his ultimate goal of walking once again.

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

“For the eighth straight year, we are proud to partner with INTEGRIS to recognize some amazing Oklahomans who have faced extraordinary adversity with their health,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “Their perseverance and courage are great examples and we are pleased to have the opportunity to honor their hard work in overcoming these challenges.”

Mattocks was a talented young musician who played several instruments by ear, loved theatre and performed in several productions and plays. But on July 6, 2016, the body that had provided him with so many talents and gifts, turned into a personal prison.

With locked-in syndrome, “there is complete paralysis of all voluntary muscles except for the ones that control the movements of the eyes,” according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders website. Cognitive function is typically unaffected and individuals with locked-in syndrome are conscious and awake, but are unable to produce movements or to speak, according to the website.

Once he was deemed strong enough, Mattocks moved to INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation for 30 days.

“When Matt first got here, he wasn’t able to do much,” Occupational Therapist Dani Voight said. “His arms were very tight. His legs were very tight. He was kind of just stuck.”

Therapists at INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation used Mattocks’ passion for music to build their sessions together.

He used a harmonica to help with his breathing and speech.

“It was neat to really incorporate his love for music into speech and make it something he enjoyed doing,” Speech Therapist Halley Bailey said.

Voight also used music to help in Mattocks’ sessions.

“I saw his guitar and I handed it to him and I said I need you to play this for me,” she said. “I mean, I’m sure it was frustrating for him because it wasn’t the big beautiful pieces that he used to play, but he just lit up.”

Mattocks’ brother David Dobson said his brother was on a clear plan from his first day at INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation with a vision for what he was going to go accomplish throughout the month.

“He went from someone who could barely stand up at all, to somebody who stood up with pride,” Dobson said. “He went from somebody who could barely get a word out, to somebody who could say a sentence.

“That’s a lot for somebody who was never supposed to move.”

Mattocks kept fighting and smiling despite his initial bleak prognosis.

“He didn’t just make this miraculous recovery that happened overnight where he got up and walked out of here – that didn’t happen,” Voight said. “But despite all the challenges, he had a smile on his face.”

Now Mattocks continues to push toward his ultimate goal thanks to the care he received at INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation.

“I will walk again,” Mattocks said. “Never give up. Never.”

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

The OKC Dodgers continue their series today against Memphis at 11:05 a.m. at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on a Field Trip Day. Tomorrow the Dodgers and Memphis play at 7:05 p.m. on a $2 Thursday, featuring $2 Pepsi products, bottled water and select beer.

Watch Mattocks complete his “Home Run for Life” following the third inning of Friday’s 7:05 p.m. game against Memphis at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. Fireworks are scheduled to follow the game, presented by True Sky Credit Union.

Tickets are available through the OKC Dodgers ticket office located on South Mickey Mantle Drive, by phone at (405) 218-2182, or by visiting okcdodgers.com.

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

Tarpons to Host Annual Cancer Survivor Event on Saturday, May 12th

The Tampa Tarpons have teamed up with BayCare to host their annual Cancer Survivor Event on Saturday, May 12th at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Survivors in the Tampa community will be honored and are offered free tickets to see the Tarpons battle the Florida Fire Frogs at 6:30 p.m.

To receive free tickets, survivors must register online. A food voucher and an exclusive gift will be included while supplies last. Additional tickets may be purchased at a discounted rate. To register, visit www.BayCareCancerSurvivorEvent.org.

Gates will open at 5:30 p.m. and fans can meet select Tarpons players during an autograph signing between 5:40-6:00 p.m. Players will wear custom jerseys for the event and select jerseys will be available for bid in a silent online auction with the proceeds benefiting BayCare. To bid on the jerseys, click here.

“BayCare is a leading not-for-profit health care system that connects individuals and families to a wide range of services at 15 hospitals and hundreds of other convenient locations throughout the Tampa Bay and central Florida regions. Our mission is to improve the health of all we serve through community-owned, health care services that set the standard for high-quality, compassionate care.” – BayCare.org.

Following the game, all fans are invited to watch a fireworks extravaganza and enjoy a postgame concert by the country music artists Smithfield.

The Tampa Tarpons are the Single-A Advanced Affiliate of the New York Yankees. For more information about the Tampa Tarpons, call (813) 673-3055 or visit TarponsBaseball.com.

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

Blue Wahoos Show Gratitude with Military Mascots

Pensacola, Fla. – To kick off Military Appreciation Month, the Pensacola Blue Wahoos have unveiled five new mascots representing each branch of the United States Military. The mascots participate in an on-field race between innings during every home game at Blue Wahoos Stadium.

“We thought it would be so wonderful to honor the military and we thought we could have a lot of fun with fans rooting on who can win each night,” said team owner Quint Studer.

A blue falcon with a flight helmet represents the Air Force, the Army is depicted by a mule, a bulldog for the Marines, the Coast Guard is depicted by a bear and the Navy is a goat. The mascots represent the appreciation the Blue Wahoos have collectively as an organization for the men and women who serve our country, in particular, those assigned to our many bases around the Pensacola area.

“We started this last August, so it has been over a year in planning between design and the finished product,” said Blue Wahoos President Jonathan Griffith. “We got a lot of feedback from the military community. We wanted to make sure we represented the military right.”

The Blue Wahoos will launch a naming contest for each of the mascots later in the summer. Fans will be given the opportunity to submit creative names for each of the mascots. The names will be ceremoniously chosen to conclude the contest.

 

– Pensacola Blue Wahoos – 

The Pensacola Blue Wahoos are the Double-A affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds. The 2018 season is underway at beautiful Blue Wahoos Stadium on Pensacola Bay. Group packages, season tickets, mini plans and single-game tickets are available for the 2018 season by calling (850) 934-8444 or online. Follow the Blue Wahoos at bluewahoos.com, facebook.com/PensacolaBlueWahoos, and twitter.com/BlueWahoosBBall

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

Dragons and Wright State to Honor Top Teacher

Dayton, Ohio – The Dragons and Wright State University’s College of Education and Human Services will honor Missy Nix as a Dragons MVP Program Top Teacher on Tuesday, May 8 at 7:00 p.m. when the Dayton Dragons take on the Cedar Rapids Kernels at Fifth Third Field.

The Dragons MVP Program Top Teacher Award honors teachers for their outstanding accomplishments in his or her classroom and community.

Missy Nix- Top Teacher Award Honoree

Missy Nix is a 4th grade teacher at Shawnee Elementary. She is a proud Wright State University alum, earning both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees there.

She grew up thinking she would be an accountant, but the further along she went in life, she knew she was being called to something different. That something different was a career as a teacher.

“I believe God put me in the teaching position I am in,” Missy said. “I receive strength and joy from this direction he gave me.”

Missy also knows that teaching our children is definitely a team effort. “A lot of recognition belongs to the parents of these MVPs. They have instilled the values necessary for student success academically, behaviorally, and personally.”

Of many great stories Missy has, one student sticks out from the rest. Six years ago, Missy had a student who was struggling to improve his reading level from one year to the next. That summer, Missy was determined to help him improve his reading level. Every week the pair would get together and Missy would challenge him with progressively difficult passages to read. They would even talk each day on the phone so he could read the passage out loud to her. By the end of that summer, the student had made huge strides and caught up with his peers.

Missy has been using the Dragons MVP Program since the beginning. Her favorite part of the program is being able to give her students the power to nominate their peers for recognition as a Dragons MVP winner.

For her dedication to go above and beyond for her classroom and all of the students at Shawnee Elementary, Missy Nix is being honored as a Dragons MVP Program Top Teacher. This award is made possible by Wright State University’s College of Education and Human Services.

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

Dragons Players and Mascot to Visit Schools in Two Counties This Week

DAYTON, Ohio – Dayton Dragons players and one of the team’s mascots, Gem, will visit schools in Montgomery and Greene County this week. The visits are part of the Dragons MVP program and members of the local media are invited to cover them. The players will introduce themselves to the students, answer questions, and are available for pictures. Each student will also receive a school folder and a Dragons pencil. The following schools are listed with an address, date, and time of visit:

Tuesday, May 8, 2018

10:00am-10:45am

Edison Elementary

228 N. Broadway St.

Dayton, OH 45402

Phone: 937-542-4540

11:15am-12:00pm

Pathway School of Discovery

173 Avondale Dr.

Dayton, OH 45404

Phone: 937-235-5498

Wednesday May 9, 2018

10:00am – 10:45am

Valley Elementary

3601 Jonathon Dr.

Dayton, OH 45434

Phone: 937-429-7597

11:15am – 12:00pm

Blairwood Elementary

1241 Blairwood Ave.

Dayton, OH 45417

Phone: 937-263-3504

Members of the media may contact schools individually at the numbers listed above if they intend to attend and cover the visits.

The Dragons MVP Program, a tool for teachers, uses the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Baseball as an educational tool for fourth and fifth grade teachers, helping them motivate and reward students for success both in and out of the classroom. The Dayton Dragons MVP Program presented by Bob Evans Farms is also made possible by CollegeAdvantage, Sinclair College, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW. For more information on the Dragons MVP Program, contact the Dayton Dragons or visit www.daytondragons.com/mvp.

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 at (937) 228-2287, emailing 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.

M-Braves Announce 2018 Baseball Camp

PEARL, MS – The annual Mississippi Braves Baseball Camp is scheduled for July 25-26. The two-day event takes place at Trustmark Park from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm each day and offers boys and girls between the ages of 5 and 14 the opportunity to work with professional baseball players and the M-Braves staff.

The cost of the camp is $100 per child or $75 for 2018 M-Braves season ticket holders. All participants must pre-register. Each camper receives individualized instruction on the fundamentals of baseball, a Mississippi Braves baseball and other merchandise, as well as a certificate of achievement at the completion of camp. Lunch will be served daily at approximately noon. Campers also receive two tickets to the Mississippi Braves game each night.

On the final day of camp, participants may obtain autographs from Mississippi Braves players and staff during an organized autograph session. Due to limited space, the camp is limited to 200 participants and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Each camper is required to bring his or her own glove. For more information, call 888-BRAVES4 or click the link below for the registration form.

2018 M-Braves Baseball Camp Registration Form

The Mississippi Braves are the Double-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. Since the inaugural 2005 season, 132 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.

Blue Rocks and JPMorgan Chase & Co. Partner for Military Monday Promotion

Wilmington, DE — The Wilmington Blue Rocks are excited to announce a partnership with JPMorgan Chase & Co. on a 2018 Military Monday promotion. At each Monday home game, every active or retired military member-and their entire immediate family-can receive tickets for just one dollar.

“The Blue Rocks have always had a fantastic relationship with the military, and now thanks to Chase, that connection has been taken to an entirely new level,” said Blue Rocks general manager Andrew Layman. “With all of the sacrifices the men and women serving our country make for us, we are happy to partner with Chase to provide an opportunity for both active and military veterans to enjoy some family time at Frawley Stadium.”

The new partnership is one of many initiatives benefiting military members from Chase. The firm established an Office of Military and Veterans Affairs in 2011 to drive veteran-focused efforts around three strategic pillars: employment, development of veteran talent, and small business and strategic initiatives. Since then, Chase has hired more than 12,000 veterans and service members-nearly 700 of them in Delaware. Last year, the firm donated $175,000 to the USO at a Blue Rocks game.

“All of us at JPMorgan Chase have a longstanding commitment to supporting military members and their families,” said Tom Horne, Delaware Market President for JPMC. “We’re proud to be able to continue that work on a local level right here in Wilmington.”

Nationwide more than 400,000 veterans have been hired since 2011 by 235+ members of the Veteran Jobs Mission, an employer coalition led by JPMC with the ultimate goal of hiring 1 million veterans. Additionally, Chase has deeded more than 950 mortgage-free homes to military families through nonprofit partners as a part of the firm’s 1,000 Home Awards Program-an investment of more than $160 million.

The Blue Rocks play Monday home games on May 7, May 28, June 25, July 2, July 16, August 20 and September 3. Tickets for this promotion must be purchased at the Blue Rocks ticket office and a valid Military ID must be presented to receive the special rate. Tickets for any other game in 2018 are available now at BlueRocks.com.

BlueRocks.com

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

Roswell Park to help Bisons fans protect their skin with free sunscreen at games

Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Buffalo Bisons are teaming up to help Bisons’ fans protect themselves from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can burn and damage the skin. Damaged skin cells can lead to skin cancer, the most common cancer in the U.S.

Throughout the Bisons’ 2018 season, sunscreen will be provided to game attendees to make it as easy as possible to protect their skin, even on cloudy days when the sun can still do damage. Six sunscreen dispenser stations will be available throughout Coca-Cola Field in downtown Buffalo.

“Always protect your skin by wearing sunscreen, and choose one that has an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher. Be sure to reapply it every 1-2 hours,” says Ilene Rothman, MD, Interim Chair of Dermatology and Associate Professor of Oncology in the Department of Dermatology at Roswell Park. “Many people think that because we’re in Buffalo, their risk of developing skin cancer is low, but skin cancer is the most common cancer even in Buffalo. Plenty of sun damage occurs on a cloudy day, and just one sunburn causes significant harm to your skin.”

“There’s nothing better than sitting back and enjoying a warm, sunny day at the ballpark. Thanks to our great partnership with Roswell Park and the installation of these free sunscreen dispensers throughout Coca-Cola Field, our fans will be able to easily protect themselves while cheering on the Bisons throughout the season,” said Mike Buczkowski, Vice President/General Manager of the Buffalo Bisons.

Skin cancer awareness days will also be held thoughout the season, kicking off with Melanoma Monday on Monday, May 7. Roswell Park representatives will be on hand to educate fans about the signs and symptoms of skin cancer, prevention and early detection. Monday, May 7, 2018, is Melanoma Monday. The national awareness day focuses on melanoma, which is the deadliest type of skin cancer.

Friday, May 25 is Don’t Fry Day. It’s part of the national effort to encourage sun safety awareness. The public will have an opportunity to learn more about skin cancer and get sunscreen samples during both events.

About Roswell Park Cancer Institute
Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center is a community united by the drive to eliminate cancer’s grip on humanity by unlocking its secrets through personalized approaches and unleashing the healing power of hope. Founded by Dr. Roswell Park in 1898, it is the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in Upstate New York. Learn more at www.roswellpark.org, or contact us at 1-800-ROSWELL

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

Dragons and Vectren Present 2018 “Community All-Stars”

Dayton, Ohio – The Dragons and Vectren will honor Olivia Velez during the unique “Community All-Stars” program on Tuesday, May 8 at 7:00 p.m. when the Dayton Dragons take on the Cedar Rapids Kernels at Fifth Third Field.

The Dayton community is a great place to live, work and play. But what makes Dayton truly great are the people that call Dayton home. We have great people and great organizations in our community that do incredible things each and every day. Throughout the season, the Dragons and Vectren will honor five “All-Stars” with a special inning break tribute in recognition of their service.

Olivia’s Story: “Little Girl, Big Heart”

At the age of 5, Olivia Velez’s life flipped upside down. She was uprooted from her home and sent to live with her grandma, but these moments never stopped her caring soul. She told her grandma, Tina, that she wanted to help kids in similar or worse situations. After brainstorming, they started collecting get-well-cards to send to children. These cards were full of googly eyes, funny jokes, and encouragement. Though she already brought smiles to hundreds of kids’ faces, she realized she could do more.

At the age of 7, Olivia started “Project Local Hugs”- an organization that takes donated goods and delivers them to those in need. Olivia and her grandma started collecting purses and included items like hair brushes, hand sanitizer, body wash, toothbrushes and toothpaste. Once completed, these purses are given to the local Young Women’s Christian Associate for women who are seeking a safe shelter from domestic violence or drug abuse.

Continuing to grow their organization, Olivia started collecting backpacks full of notebooks, pens and crayons to deliver to kids in situations similar to what she experienced. “It makes me feel better that I’ve done something good” Olivia said. “We should always be kind and think about others.”

As a 10-year-old, Olivia recently won the Domestic Violence Prevention Project awarded Montgomery County, and continues to shine throughout the Dayton Community. To learn more about Project Local Hugs, you can visit www.facebook.com/projectlocalhugs

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program is made possible by the generous support of Vectren. For more information or to nominate an All-Star in your life, visit www.daytondragons.com/communityallstar.

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

Fifth Third Bank Donates Dragons Tickets to over 100 Local Organizations

Dayton, Ohio-The Dayton Dragons announced today that Dragons stadium naming rights partner Fifth Third Bank has donated more than 100 Dragons season ticket packages to local charitable organizations for the 2018 season. Additionally, Fifth Third Bank has donated the use of a luxury suite at Fifth Third Field for numerous Dragons games this season to host charitable organizations serving the Dayton region.

Fifth Third Bank will donate tickets to more than 100 non-profit organizations in the Dayton area this season. Each organization will receive four tickets to 17 different Dragons games. The list of recipients includes March of Dimes, the Ronald McDonald House, Special Olympics of Greater Dayton, American Heart Association, Boys & Girls Club, Pink Ribbon Girls, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, the Alzheimer’s Association, Habitat for Humanity, Daybreak, Fisher House, and many others.

Dragons Team President, Bob Murphy, commented “Fifth Third Bank recognizes that these organizations are the heart of our region. These groups usually have small professional staffs and limited resources. These ticket packages are a great tool that they can use to recognize the amazing volunteers, thank donors, and use in other ways to support their cause.”

Fifth Third Bank’s Senior Vice President, Doug Compton, also commented, “We are proud to partner with the Dayton Dragons to provide season tickets to organizations that are serving members of our local community and are meeting some of their most important needs. We understand the value that these companies provide to our region and how impactful they are to our area.”

Fifth Third Bank has been a longtime corporate partner of the Dayton Dragons and the entire Dayton community. The Dragons are proud to work with Fifth Third Bank on this initiative.

More information: Fifth Third Bank can help provide professional banking solutions for your organization, staff, and clients. Should you need to reach out to Fifth Third Bank to inquire how they can assist your organization, please contact Mr. Scott Mumpower. Scott can be reached at Scott.Mumpower@53.com, or via phone at 937-227-6032.

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

U.S. Cellular and Timber Rattlers Present Youth Baseball Takeovers!

GRAND CHUTE, WI – U.S. Cellular and the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers are taking over area youth baseball again this season. This is the third year in a row the Rattlers and U.S. Cellular are teaming up to make a special day for future Rattlers. The first of the scheduled U.S. Cellular Takeovers will be Saturday, May 5 at Memorial Park for Opening Day for Appleton Little League.

Fang’s Fanatics and the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers promo crew along with staff from the Timber Rattlers and volunteers from U.S. Cellular will bring their high energy and fun in-game promotions to Memorial Park for Appleton Little League’s Opening Day at Memorial Park on Saturday, May 5 at 11:30am.

“We are committed to creating a positive impact in the communities where our associates live and work,” said Eric Larson, U.S. Cellular’s area sales manager in Northern Wisconsin. “By once again teaming up with the Timber Rattlers, we are bringing additional excitement and family fun to three area Little League games. Maybe in the future, we’ll see these young athletes playing for the Timber Rattlers or the Brewers.”

Timber Rattlers public address announcer Joey D. will announce kids’ names prior to each at-bat and the team’s production staff will provide walk-up songs as well. The team will bring the Bratzooka!, the Bubble Ball Battle, and the Sub Race Characters and have an array of t-shirt tosses and other in-game surprises. U.S. Cellular volunteers will be distributing customized t-shirts and will also hand out complimentary hot dogs to fans throughout the games.

“We are excited to once again team up with U.S. Cellular to bring our game day experience to these great Youth Baseball Organizations,” said Seth Merrill of the Timber Rattlers. “This is a small way to show our gratitude to the countless Youth Baseball Volunteers and Players in the Fox Valley. Our staff always has a great time at these events and we are excited to keep this tradition going.”
U.S. Cellular and the Timber Rattlers have scheduled two other Takeovers this summer: June 21 at Plamann Park for Grand Chute Baseball and July 27 at O’Hauser Park for Suburban Athletics.

“As Appleton Little League celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2018, we’re pumped about the excitement and energy the U.S. Cellular Takeover and Wisconsin Timber Rattlers will bring to our Opening Day celebration, propelling us into our next 60 years,” said Appleton Little League President Kevin Kostelecky.

Partial season, group ticket packages, and Individual game tickets for the 2018 season are on sale now. Tickets are available online, over the phone at (920) 733-4152 or (800) WI-TIMBER and in person. Groups of 20 or more may order tickets over the phone or in person. The Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and from 10:00am to 3:00pm on Saturdays.

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

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Crawdads’ Battle of the PTOs Raises Over $2,500

Hickory, NC- The Hickory Crawdads are proud to have hosted their annual Battle of the PTOs presented by Denise Clay: Edward Jones last Friday night. This year twelve schools participated in the fundraiser and combined to raise over $2,500 that was all donated to back to PTOs.

Local schools signed up to participate in the fundraiser to raise money for their respective PTO. Each school received vouchers to the game. For each voucher turned in at the Crawdads box office, the school’s PTO received a donation of $4. The schools competed to win an extra $250 for having the most vouchers redeemed.

Ray Childers Elementary had the most vouchers turned in on Friday night and will receive $922. Snow Creek Elementary and Dudley Schoals Elementary tied for second place and will receive $125 in addition to the money raised from their vouchers.

“The Crawdads were very excited to be a part of raising money for our local PTOs again this season,” said Crawdads Executive Director of Sales and Merchandise Douglas Locascio. “We were happy to see so many families come out to help support their schools and raise over $2,500 for the PTOs.”

The other schools participating this year were: Kings Creek School, Bonoak Elementary, Jenkins Elementary, Mountain View Elementary, George Hildebran Elementary, Clyde Campbell Elementary, Startown Elementary, Pumpkin Center Primary, and St. Stephens Elementary.

The Crawdads return to the Frans on Wednesday, May 9th and will be home through Tuesday, May 15th. On Thursday May 10th, the ‘Dads will be hosting Dunder Mifflin Night and Thirsty Thursday. On Friday Night, Crawmoms weekend will kick off and will include a post-game fireworks show. Throughout the weekend, the ‘Dads will be playing as the Crawmoms and will wear special caps and jerseys. On Saturday, the first 1,000 fans will receive a replica Crawmoms jersey thanks to Pepsi. The weekend will wrap up on Sunday with a special Mother’s Day celebration. The first 100 moms will get a rose courtesy of Whitfield’s Flowers and More. Wine and Design will also be at the stadium for a Crawmoms themed class on the picnic deck.

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