Archives for June 2018

2018 Nick Adenhart Memorial Scholarship winners: Mackenzie Redmond and Logan Hadsall

Cedar Rapids, IA – The Cedar Rapids Kernels and Kernels Foundation are pleased to announce Mackenzie Redmond and Logan Hadsall as the winners of the 2018 Nick Adenhart Memorial Scholarships. They were recognized in an on-field ceremony before the Kernels game with Peoria on Sunday, June 17th.

Mackenzie Redmond will be graduating from Marion High School and plans on attending Mount Mercy University to major in Nursing. Logan Hadsall will be graduating from Center Point-Urbana High School and plans on attending Kirkwood Community College, pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice. Both winners are members of the National Honor Society at their respective high schools.

Nick Adenhart was a bright young pitcher who played for the Cedar Rapids Kernels in 2006 and was a rising star in the Los Angeles Angels organization. Only hours after Nick’s 2009 season debut on the mound for the Angels, a drunk driver tragically killed him on April 9, 2009 at age 22.

Nick’s family continues to honor him with the awarding of two $1,000 scholarships in his memory. The Kernels Foundation is privileged to administer the scholarships on behalf of Nick’s family.

The Kernels are currently enjoying the MWL All-Star Break through June 20th. They begin the second half of the MWL season by hosting the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers on Thursday, June 21st at 6:35 PM, which kicks off a seven-game home stand that continues until Wednesday, June 27th.

Chris Kleinhans-Schulz and Morgan Hawk bring you all of the play-by-play on the radio home of Kernels baseball, 1450 KMRY AM and 93.1 KMRY FM. Fans may listen on-line at www.kmryradio.com, or www.kernels.com. Fans may also stream all 70 Kernels home game and selected road games via a MiLB.TV subscription. Visit MiLB.TV for subscription information.

Tickets may be purchased on-line at www.kernels.com, or by calling the Kernels Ticket Office at 896-7560. Ticket office hours are 10 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday.

The Hope Foundation & the Scrappers Partner to Help Raise Funds for Kids

NILES, OH – The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley and the Mahoning Valley Scrappers have joined together to help raise funds for chronically/terminally ill children in our community throughout the 2018 season. “We are excited about teaming up with the Mahoning Valley Scrappers in an effort to spread our mission to educate and help chronically and terminally ill children of the Mahoning Valley,” states Tony Spano, Founder and Executive Director of The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley.

Saturday, July 7th has been designated as The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley Awareness Night at the Scrappers at Eastwood Field in Niles. In addition, when fans purchase tickets online for the July 7th game or any other game this season, The Hope Foundation will receive a portion of the sale, when they type the word “HOPE” in the Special Offer Code box. The HOPE code is valid for all online tickets, including game day purchases up to 4:00pm the day of the game. The offer is not valid with the purchase of tickets at the window or by phone or for July 4th or buck nights.

The Hope Foundation will also fundraise with jersey auction for the Scrappers game worn Star Wars jerseys, which will be worn the Friday, June 22nd game against the Auburn Doubledays, sponsored by Liberty Comics and Middlefield Bank.

The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley (H.F.M.V.), a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization, was founded in 2007 after the increasing success and popularity of the Game of Hope Charity Basketball Classic. Our unpaid staff, volunteers and supporting individuals and organizations are committed to our mission. They provide charitable and financial support to local charities that share our goal of improving the lives of chronically/terminally ill children. With money raised from donation and our signature fundraisers, The Foundation provides grants of up to $5,000. For more information about The Foundation please visit the website at www.HopeMV.org.

Tickets for the Scrappers 2018 season are now on sale. For more information, contact the Scrappers Front Office at (330) 505-0000 or visit mvscrappers.com for a complete schedule.

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

Fightin Phils to raise awareness of Spotted Lanternfly on June 26th

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils, proud double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, have announced they will be hosting Agricultural Appreciation Night to stop the Spotted Lanternfly on Tuesday, June 26th at 7:15 p.m. at FirstEnergy Stadium. The first 2,000 adults will receive a Fightin the Spotted Lanterfly T-Shirt courtesy of Anewalts Landscape Contracting and Clover Hill Vineyards and Winery.

Since 2014, the Spotted Lanternfly has threatened the state’s grape, fruit tree and logging industries. Adult lanternflies have a black head and grayish wings with black spots and their body seems to glow red. They have been a threat to the local wine industry because of their negative impact on grapes.

“Growing quality grapes are the first crucial step into making premium wine,” said Kari Skrip, owner of Clover Hill Vineyards and Winery. “The Spotted Lanternfly has the ability to cause major damage to our vines and as a result to Clover Hill Vineyards and Winery. It is imperative that we find solutions to this pest for our vines, wines and our livelihood.”

“Although beautiful, the spotted lanternfly can do immeasurable damage to our local and greater community,” said Lori Anewalt, owner of Anewalt’s Landscape Contracting. “It is our duty to be on the cutting edge of what a lanternfly can do and to treat it with great urgency. We are deeply concerned about the future of the fruit industry, especially that of Clover Hill Winery being that they are close family of the Anewalt’s.”

At the game, State Sen. Judy Schwank will have a table with informational flyers about the spotted lanternfly.

“The spotted lanternfly is a serious problem and is having a huge impact on our communities and on our farmers,” Schwank said. “Everybody needs to be engaged on this issue. Come out on June 26 to learn more.”

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has three steps to help eradicate the spotted lanternfly:

1.      Kill them

2.     Scrape the eggs off your trees

3.      If you are in a new area report it to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) by emailing badbug@pa.gov or call the Invasive Species Hotline at 1-866-253-7189

For individual tickets visit fightins.com/tickets or call 610-370-BALL.

For group outings, please reach out to Director of Groups Sales Jon Nally at jnally@fightins.com or Assistant Director of Group Sales at bwells@fightins.com

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Individual and season tickets for the 2018 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Free Chevy Youth Baseball Clinics at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville June 29 & 30

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Local Chevrolet dealers are teaming up with the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp to provide an instructional clinic for boys and girls, baseball and softball players of all skill levels between the ages of 6 and 14. Registration is open for two sessions of the 2018 Chevy Youth Baseball Clinic that will take place Friday, June 29, and Saturday, June 30, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville.

Each session is limited to 200 players, and registration is required for each participant online at youthsportsclinics.com. For online registration, select “Market” as “Jacksonville CYB Clinics,” and click “Go!”. Enter the registration code “24389” and click “Submit.” Complete the registration form, starting with parent/guardian information, then adding clinic participant information. In addition to registering before the event, participants are required to present a completed waiver form (available to download here) at the registration table on the day of the clinic.

On the day of the event, check-in will begin one hour prior to each clinic at the Home Plate Gate of the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Participants should wear athletic apparel and bring their own glove, water bottle, and bat if available. Metal cleats will not be allowed; only closed-toed, lace-up athletic shoes and rubber cleats will be permitted. Family members are strongly encouraged to attend the entire clinic and park in lots around the Sports Complex. Clinic organizers recommend bringing a cooler with refreshments, as concessions may not be available. Immediately following the clinic, a snack will be provided for all participants.

Visit youthsportsclinics.com/faq to view a list of FAQs or contact CYB Coordinator, Jen Stoltz at (678) 313-2470 or jstoltz@gmdealerprograms.com.

UP NEXT: The Jumbo Shrimp continue their series with Jackson at 7:05 p.m. Friday. Fans may visit any participating NAPA AutoCare Center to get a FREE general admission ticket (reserved seat upgrade available at the box office) for the game that concludes with NAPA AutoCare Family Fireworks. The Jumbo Shrimp wear red “Bold City” jerseys to support the military on Red Shirt Friday, when fans who wear red can save $1 per ticket at the box office or donate the $1 to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. Friday Night Lites Miller Lite Happy Hour offers $1 12-oz. Miller Lite and $1 off craft beer specials in the Craft Cave by the third-base gates until 7:30 p.m. Awkward Family Photo Night includes a photo booth set up at the Budweiser Tiki Terrace with great props and costumes. The game is presented by 96.1 WEJZ.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are beginning a new era of affordable family fun with the 2017 season presented by Community First Credit Union at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. With a new lineup of ticket and group options, there is a reason for everyone to get part of the action by calling the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visiting www.jaxshrimp.com.

Thunder HOPE Week Honors Outstanding Organizations and Individuals

The Thunder, Double-A Affiliate of the New York Yankees, completed their HOPE Week during the most recent homestand. HOPE Week, helping others persevere and excel, is a New York Yankees initiative aimed at honoring outstanding organizations and individuals who do good in the local community.

Tuesday, June 5 – Dan Sczweck, Miracle League of Mercer County

Dan Sczweck, the Executive Director of the Miracle League of Mercer County, earned his recognition for the work he’s done running the Miracle League of Mercer County. To watch the HOPE Week Ceremony honoring Dan and MLMC Athletes, click here.

 

Wednesday, June 6 – Just Fight Foundation

The Thunder honored the Just Fight Foundation on June 6 as part of HOPE Week. On December 8th, 2015 in Abington, PA, a seven year old girl, Allyson Turner, was found unconscious in her bathtub. Her parents rushed to the scene and immediately began to perform CPR on Allyson until the EMT’s arrived. This was crucial to her survival as Allyson was immediately rushed to Abington Hospital and then flown to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. While Allyson was being treated by multiple doctors, her parents would say to her: “Just Fight!”

Her older brother Liam decided to take initiative and print Just Fight on t-shirts and began to sell them to friends and community members to support Allyson. The Just Fight Foundation was born to promote emergency preparedness in the community and educate the public on life saving techniques and provide support for families facing life-altering events due to illness or injury and spread the message: ‘Just Fight.’

To view the ceremony honoring the Just Fight Foundation, click here.

Thursday June 7 – Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton provides a network of comprehensive healthcare services which includes hosptial care, prevention and wellness, primary and specialty medical services and diagnostic & treatment services in the community. Thunder players and coaches visited patients and RWJ, to view the ceremony, click here.

 

Friday June 8 – Radiology Affiliates Imagaing and Breast Cancer Awareness

RAI (Radiology Affiliates Imaging) is a team of medical diagnostic imaging professionals dedicated to providing superior, integreated management and radiology imaging support services to the medical practices that we serve for the purpose of providing optimal patient care.

The Thunder welcomed over 50 breast cancer survivors to the ballpark for a pre-game pink rose ceremony where Thunder players honored individual survivors on the field at ARM & HAMMER Park. To view the ceremony, click here.

Saturday, June 9 – Isles Youth Institute and F.I.E.L.D. Renovation

Isles Youth Institute is a community development and environmental organization based in Trenton, New Jersey. With a mission to foster self-reliant families and healthy, sustainable communities, designs and develops effective services that support this mission and share what they learn with others who can make a difference. Beyond its central New Jersey base, Isles works to influence policy and practices that support healthy, self-help agendas.

Isles and members of the Thunder came together to renovate the field at North Trenton Little League as part of the F.I.E.L.D. Program. To view the ceremony honoring Isles and the F.I.E.L.D. Program, click here.

Sunday, June 10 – Thea’s Star of Hope

Thea’s Star of Hope was founded in 2012 in honor of Thea Danze, a child who had undergone continuous treatment for her brain tumor since 2007. The organization is the embodiment of Thea’s positive outlook and a testament to the indelible spirit so many diagnosed with pediatric brain cancer. The Thunder welcomed Thea and other patients for a special on-field ceremony, to view the ceremony, click here.

In addition to the HOPE Week honors this past week at ARM & HAMMER Park, Thunder players and staff participated in the United Way of Greater Mercer County Strike Out Hunger event. For video on that event, click here.

Your Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, are in the midst of their 25th season in franchise history. For the latest information on Thunder baseball or to purchase tickets, visit

Generals announce 2018 Baseball Skills Camps

JACKSON, TENN. – The Jackson Generals will hold their annual Baseball Skills Camps for Jackson-area youth baseball players on Friday, July 13, and Thursday, July 26, 2018.

The two one-day camps, which will feature instruction in hitting, pitching, and defense from current Jackson Generals players, will run from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at The Ballpark at Jackson for kids ages 9 to 14 years old.

Parents and coaches who are interested in signing up their children for Baseball Skills Camps can register by filling out the attached flyer and returning it with payment to Promotions Manager Robbie Perry at 4 Fun Place, Jackson TN, 38305. The cost to attend a one-day skills camp is $50 per child, plus tax. Campers who participate in both one-day skills camps will be charged a discounted rate of $45 plus tax for each day.

2018 Generals Baseball Skills Camps Flyer

In addition to receiving instruction from current professional baseball players, campers will be given an exclusive Baseball Skills Camp t-shirt, as well as a private autograph session. Sack lunches will be provided to campers, and each camper will also receive a ticket and food passport to the Generals’ game occurring on either July 13 or July 26.

Feedback and questions about the Jackson Generals Baseball Skills Camps can be directed to Robbie Perry by email at rperry@jacksongeneralsbaseball.com or by phone at 731.988.5299.

UPCOMING GENERALS HOMESTAND

June 21-26 vs. Pensacola Blue Wahoos

…featuring Sarge’s Carnival Weekend (June 22-23)

and a Sarge Doll Giveaway on Saturday, June 23rd!

Dial 731-988-5299 for tickets to see Jackson Generals Baseball,

OR log on to JacksonGeneralsBaseball.com!

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

Emily Rose Hollins to Celebrate “Home Run For Life” Saturday with OKC Dodgers

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS continue the 2018 “Home Run For Life” series Saturday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark by recognizing Emily Rose Hollins, who was born nearly four months premature and spent 156 days in the INTEGRIS Children’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Hollins was born at 25 weeks and six days on Feb. 8, 2017, weighing a mere 12.7 ounces at birth. After spending more than five months in the NICU after her birth, Hollins left INTEGRIS as the hospital’s smallest surviving baby ever.

Hollins is thriving today thanks to the care she received at INTEGRIS. Her weight was approaching 15 pounds in April and Hollins was on the verge of both talking and walking.

“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.”

About two years ago, Melanie Hollins didn’t believe she would be able to have children. The now-43-year-old Bethany resident had been diagnosed with diabetes, high blood pressure and end-stage kidney failure – all hereditary traits in her family tree.

Melanie’s kidneys were functioning at just 13 percent and she was going through the approval process to be placed on the kidney transplant list when she and her husband Alex found out she was pregnant with Emily Rose.

“We were both excited and horrified at the same time,” Melanie said. “Here I was dealing with my own major medical problems and asking myself ‘am I even going to be physically capable of carrying this child?'”

She said everything progressed fine with her pregnancy until about six months in when during a scheduled check-up her doctor said Emily Rose was very small and not growing like she needed to be. Melanie’s kidney function also dropped to 11 percent. Then one night in early February, Melanie experienced strong stomach pains and went to the emergency room.

“They told me, she’s coming today,” Melanie recalled. “That freaked me out.”

At 6:22 p.m., Emily Rose was delivered by Cesarean section and entered the world weighing barely more than a can of soda and less than one pound.

Being born so early, Emily Rose’s body was extremely underdeveloped. She was not able to breathe on her own. She couldn’t physically take a bottle until she was three months old. NICU nurses fed her through a tube to keep her alive.

After a five-month stay in the hospital, Emily Rose weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces and was released as a healthy baby girl.

Melanie is so thankful to the medical staff at INTEGRIS for their faith, tenacity and willingness to help her daughter against the odds.

“They gave her a chance, and them giving her a chance made all the difference in the world,” Melanie said.

Melanie works today to balance maintenance of her own health with caring for Emily Rose and the rest of her family, including 10-year-old daughter Jacari. Melanie is on dialysis and continues to wait on the kidney transplant list. She said Emily Rose constantly gives her strength thanks to her daughter’s vivacity.

“She’s a little firecracker,” Melanie said. “Full of energy.”

To read Hollins’ full story, visit: milb.com/oklahoma-city/tickets/home-run-for-life-emily-rose-hollins.

The Dodgers continue their homestand at 7:05 tonight on a $2 Thursday featuring $2 Pepsi products, bottled water and select beer. Fireworks are slated to follow Friday’s 7:05 p.m. matchup against Salt Lake, presented by Oklahoma Blood Institute.

The Dodgers open a four-game home series against the Las Vegas 51s at 7:05 p.m. Saturday on Marvel Super Hero Night. Fans who come out to Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark can meet Iron Man and Thor during the game and watch Hollins complete her “Home Run For Life” following the third inning.

Sunday’s 6:05 p.m. game falls on a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday, featuring pregame player autographs, a mascot meet-and-greet, face painters, inflatables and postgame kids run the bases. Five hundred OERB Player of the Month posters, featuring May winner Joe Broussard, will be available to children ages 12 and under as they exit the ballpark Sunday. The posters will showcase an action shot of Broussard, who was selected as the May winner through a social media poll, as well as informational OERB graphics about well site safety.

The series against Las Vegas continues at 7:05 p.m. Monday and wraps up with an 11:05 a.m. game Tuesday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on a Summer Field Trip Day. Camps and day cares are encouraged to come out Tuesday for a summer field trip. An OKC Dodgers game ticket, hat and sack lunch are included for the price of $13 per person for groups of 10 or more.

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.

Thursday is LGBT Pride Night

The Lehigh Valley IronPigs are celebrating their first ever LGBT Pride Night presented by Air Products during Thursday’s game against the Pawtucket Red Sox. This theme night will feature a cap giveaway, a special appearance from former Major Leaguer Billy Bean, and great performances.

To kick off the event, Air Products is sponsoring a Pride Night Cap giveaway featuring the IronPigs logo and the LGBT community’s rainbow of colors for 3,000 guests 18 and older. The plaza gates are set to open early for an extended pre-game happy hour from 5-7 p.m. featuring $1 Berks hot dogs and $2 domestic drafts.

Bean, MLB’s Director of Inclusion, will be in attendance to promote the message of inclusion and diversity. Bean was the first openly gay Major League Baseball and now serves as a resource for all 30 big league clubs.

LGBT Pride Night will highlight some special entertainment including a National Anthem performance by the Lehigh Valley Gay Men’s Chorus and a God Bless America performance by the B.A.S.I.C. Choir.

All fans who decided to donate a portion of their ticket proceeds to the Bradbury Sullivan LGBT Community Center through a special ticket package can pick up their complimentary gameday T-Shirt sponsored by Air Products in the TD Bank Plaza.

“We’re happy to host the first of what we hope is an annual, inclusion-themed evening at Coca-Cola Park,” said IronPigs President and General Manager Kurt Landes when the night was announced in March. “We’d like to thank our partners, Air Products and Bradbury-Sullivan, as well as Billy Bean, for partnering with us to help promote diverse and prejudice-free environments.”

Here are some other fun things happening this weekend at Coca-Cola Park:

6/15 (7:05 p.m.): Scout Sleepover | Will Smith Friday Night Fireworks presented by Coors Light

6/16 (6:35 p.m.): Zac Brown Band Saturday Night Fireworks presented by AT&T

6/17 (1:35 p.m.): Father’s Day | Tube 6-pack cooler bag giveaway for 2,000 men 18 and older | Post game Kids Run the Bases presented by Lehigh Valley Children’s Hospital | IronPigs Charities Father’s Day bases and bat raffle

Single-game tickets for all home IronPigs contests are available here, or by calling (610) 847-PIGS (7447).

The 2018 IronPigs baseball season is presented by Capital BlueCross.

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

OKC Dodgers and Kimray Partner to Create Kimray Kids Program

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and Kimray, Inc. have partnered this season to create a new program called Kimray Kids to benefit foster care and family service organizations in the Oklahoma City area.

Three Kimray Kids Nights will take place during the OKC Dodgers’ season, starting Saturday, allowing foster care and family service organizations to bring children and families out for a night of fun and baseball at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

“We are pleased with the opportunity to partner with Kimray to feature these wonderful organizations and the families they serve,” said Michael Byrnes, OKC Dodgers President/General Manager. “Kimray is a great community partner and the opportunity to match their passion for these organizations with the experience and atmosphere the Dodgers provide, makes for a unique experience for these families.”

The first Kimray Kids Night of the season will take place during Saturday’s 7:05 p.m. Dodgers game against the Las Vegas 51s and will feature participants selected by Sunbeam Family Services. Individuals from Lilyfield will participate in the Saturday, July 7 Kimray Kids Night and individuals from FaithWorks of the Inner City will participate in the Saturday, Aug. 18 Kimray Kids Night.

Each night’s participating Kimray Kids group members will receive a T-shirt and voucher for a meal at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. They will enjoy a complete, behind-the-scenes tour of the ballpark, followed with a private meet-and-greet with an OKC Dodgers player, including a Q&A session, photos and autographs. Participants will then enjoy that night’s game from a designated Kimray Kids section in the ballpark.

During Kimray Kids Nights, the OKC Dodgers Team Store and all concession stands will have an optional “Add A Dollar” feature, allowing fans to donate to that night’s featured organization. The OKC Dodgers will then match up to $500 in donations.

Kimray, Inc. is a world-class manufacturer of control equipment used extensively in oil and gas production around the world with the mission of “making a difference in the lives of those we serve.”

“We are so excited to partner and support local organizations that are making a difference in the lives of so many who need an advocate and loving care!” said Shad Glass, Executive Vice President of Kimray, Inc. “One of Kimray’s core values is to ‘strengthen the family,’ and organizations like Sunbeam Family Services, Lilyfield, and FaithWorks of the Inner City are doing just that. Investing in tomorrow’s future gives hope for today and hope for things to come. When you support Kimray Kids Night at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, you are helping to make a difference in the lives of children and families across this great state.”

Sunbeam Family Services seeks to meet the growing needs of central Oklahoma’s most vulnerable citizens, providing help, hope and the opportunity to succeed to people of all ages. They offer real solutions, aiming to strengthen individuals, families and communities through a continuum of programs: early childhood, foster care, counseling and senior services.

“Sunbeam Family Services is absolutely honored to be a recipient of the Kimray Kids program,” said Erin Engelke, Chief External Relations Officer for Sunbeam Family Services. “The money raised through this wonderful event will help hundreds of children and their families across Oklahoma City from our Foster Care, Early Childhood and Grandparents Raising Grandchildren programs.”

Lilyfield is a faith-based, nonprofit organization that has been providing adoption and foster care plan-based services to Oklahoma City and the surrounding areas since 2000 and in Tulsa since 2014. Lilyfield focuses on five program areas: adoption; foster care; specialized counseling for those impacted by adoption and foster care; independent living services for former foster youth; and a prevention program that serves children and families at-risk of involvement with the foster care system.

“Lilyfield is proud and excited to be a part of Kimray Kids,” said Robert Elliot, Director of Development for Lilyfield. “We are so grateful to Kimray and the OKC Dodgers for this wonderful opportunity that honors the very special families that we serve.”

Many children and families from underserved areas of Oklahoma City never have the opportunity to take advantage of resources within reach of their neighborhoods. This is true for families in the Shidler-Wheeler community of southeast OKC assisted by FaithWorks. Through the Kimray Kids program, families can attend an Oklahoma City Dodgers game, and visit the ballpark located within walking distance of their community.

“FaithWorks is so excited to be a part of creating a new experience for our children and their families,” said Sally Goin, Executive Director of FaithWorks. “We love providing opportunities for families to come together to enjoy what our city has to offer. Unfortunately, sometimes those opportunities have a ‘price’ that is out of reach for families. FaithWorks is grateful to Kimray for a kids’ night for some very special kids and their families.”

The Dodgers open a seven-game homestand today with a three-game series against the Salt Lake Bees at 7:05 p.m. at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. The series continues at 7:05 p.m. on a $2 Thursday featuring $2 Pepsi products, bottled water and select beer. Fireworks are slated to follow Friday’s 7:05 p.m. matchup against Salt Lake, presented by Oklahoma Blood Institute.

The Dodgers open a four-game home series against the Las Vegas 51s at 7:05 p.m. Saturday on Marvel Super Hero Night. Fans who come out to Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark can meet Iron Man and Thor during the game.

Sunday’s 6:05 p.m. game falls on a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday, featuring pregame player autographs, a mascot meet-and-greet, face painters, inflatables and postgame kids run the bases. Five hundred OERB Player of the Month posters, featuring May winner Joe Broussard, will be available to children ages 12 and under as they exit the ballpark Sunday.

The series against Las Vegas continues at 7:05 p.m. Monday and wraps up with an 11:05 a.m. game Tuesday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on a Summer Field Trip Day. Camps and day cares are encouraged to come out Tuesday for a summer field trip. An OKC Dodgers game ticket, hat and sack lunch are included for the price of $13 per person for groups of 10 or more.

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.

TinCaps to Honor Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Rising Star Student

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Fort Wayne TinCaps and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana will recognize Amaya Williams, a local high school senior and one of 20 national Rising Star Students program winners, with an on-field check presentation and a ceremonial first pitch on Friday, June 22 when the team plays the West Michigan Whitecaps at Parkview Field at 7:05 p.m.

The TinCaps and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana surprised Amaya with the invitation to Parkview Field at the Big Futures Graduation on Tuesday night (June 12).

 

Williams will receive a $500 college stipend as part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Rising Star Students program. The award honors high-achieving students involved in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America mentorship program who are preparing for college.

 

Amaya, who just graduated from North Side High School in Fort Wayne, plans to attend Ivy Tech and major in Early Childhood Education. Williams wants to impact those around her and always looks for an opportunity to make a difference in her community and within herself. With the influence of her Big Sister, Domini, Amaya feels confident that she’s fully prepared for her future in college and in the workplace.

 

Nominees for the honor were required to provide submissions describing their academic and personal achievements, college and career goals, and how their involvement in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program has impacted them.

 

“Big Brothers Big Sisters does amazing work in our community and around the nation,” said TinCaps President Mike Nutter. “Amaya and Domini are a perfect example of how BBBS can develop young people into our future leaders. We can’t wait to honor Amaya at Parkview Field.”

 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America has been an MiLB Charity Partner since the program’s inception in 2004. The mission of the Minor League Baseball Charity Partners Program is to provide national exposure for participating charities, expand current relationships between clubs and local chapters and to foster new relationships where none exist. In 2017, charitable giving by Minor League Baseball teams and MiLB Charities totaled nearly $40 million.

 

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of America:

Big Brothers Big Sisters provides children facing adversity with strong, enduring, professionally supported oneto-one mentoring relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. Big Brothers Big Sisters ensures that the children in its program achieve measurable outcomes, including educational success, avoidance of risky behaviors, higher aspirations, greater confidence, and better relationships. This mission has been the cornerstone of the organization’s 114-year history. With nearly 300 affiliates across the country, Big Brothers Big Sisters has served more than 2 million children (“Littles”) in the past 10 years.

 

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

P-Nats to Host Military Appreciation Night with Camo Koozie Giveaway on Saturday, June 16th

Woodbridge, VA– The Potomac Nationals are proud to host Military Appreciation Night, presented by Honor Brewing, at Northwest Federal Field at Pfitzner Stadium on Saturday, June 16th. It will be the second game of a four-game series against the Buies Creek Astros (Houston).

Complimentary tickets for active and retired military members and their families will be available in advance of Military Appreciation Night, but tickets must be secured before the game at various locations around Woodbridge and in Northern Virginia.

For free tickets in advance of Military Appreciation Night, active and retired military members are encouraged to contact Potomac Nationals Ticket Operations Manager, Matt LeBlanc, at 703-590-2311 ext. 225 or via e-mail at mleblanc@potomacnationals.com.

The P-Nats will wear their Military Appreciation Jerseys during their game against Buies Creek. The jerseys are presented by Reality Realty, and are worn to recognize the local military members and their families to thank them for all that they do for our country. These jerseys will be auctioned off on the final Sunday home game of the season to benefit various military-based charities.

The first 2,000 fans through the gates on Saturday night will receive a Camo Koozie, presented by Virginia Department of Social Services: Virginia Birth Father Registry.

Saturday, June 16th is also Orthopedic Night, presented by Sentara. Fans can stop by Sentara’s table on the main concourse and look out for their t-shirt giveaway during the game.

As a part of another Super Saturday, fans can watch the best fireworks show in the area, presented by Floor & Decor and WTOP.

After the fireworks, kids will have a chance to participate in Kids Run the Bases, presented by Glory Days Grill.

First pitch between the P-Nats and the Buies Creek Astros is at 6:35pm. Gates to the ballpark will open at 5:00pm.

For more information on 2018 Potomac Nationals single game tickets, please contact Director of Season Ticket and Group Ticket Sales, Alec Manriquez, by phone at 703-590-2311, ext. 221, or via e-mail at amanriquez@potomacnationals.com. Fans with questions may also contact Potomac Nationals’ Ticket Operations Manager, Matt LeBlanc, by phone at 703-590-2311, ext. 225, or via e-mail at mleblanc@potomacnationals.com.

P-Nats’ 2018 ticket plans and group outings are currently available for purchase. For more information, or to purchase any of these plans, contact Potomac Nationals Director of Season Ticket and Group Ticket Sales, Alec Manriquez, by phone at 703-590-2311, ext. 221, or via e-mail at amanriquez@potomacnationals.com.

The Potomac Nationals of the Carolina League play at Northwest Federal Field at Pfitzner Stadium in Woodbridge, Virginia, and are the Carolina League affiliate of the Washington Nationals. The Potomac Nationals have claimed five Carolina League Championship titles (1982, 1989, 2008, 2010, and 2014) and nine CL Northern Division Championships. Sponsorship opportunities for the P-Nats’ 2018 season and beyond are available, as well as all-inclusive corporate picnic outings to watch the future stars of the Washington Nationals at The Pfitz. 2018 Potomac Nationals season tickets and mini plans are now on sale. For more information on Potomac Nationals 2018 season tickets, mini plans, group outings, picnic packages, fundraisers, and all things Red, White, and Blue, visit the P-Nats online at www.potomacnationals.com, follow the P-Nats on Facebook (@PotomacNationals), Twitter (@PNats42), and Instagram (@pnats42), or call the Potomac Nationals’ Extreme Custom Collision Ticket Office at 703-590-2311.

— Potomac Nationals —

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

First Responders Night with Fireworks on June 23

CLEARWATER, Fla. – The Threshers are honoring local emergency personnel on Saturday, June 23, with First Responders Night at Spectrum Field. The day features community police and fire departments playing softball on Spectrum Field in the afternoon and a huge fireworks show after the game, plus recognition of the heroes in attendance during the game.

Gates open at 5:00 p.m. for the 6:15 p.m. game with the Dunedin Blue Jays. The fireworks are presented by Banquet Masters.

For a group tickets, or tickets for the afternoon softball games, call Bobby at 727-712-4408.

Tickets on ThreshersBaseball.com

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

Save Lives with the Reno Aces and United Blood Services (UBS)

Reno, Nev. –  Reno Aces fans can join their favorite ballclub in saving lives this summer at several United Blood Services blood drives throughout our community. During these select drives, blood donors can receive Aces merchandise including T-shirts, hats, water bottles and more. Photo opportunities with Aces mascot Archie and/or the street team will also be available.

“We couldn’t be more excited to partner with United Blood Services this summer,” said Communications Manager Jackson Gaskins. “My life was saved because of blood donors and through these drives, the Aces and United Blood Services have the opportunity to save many more in our Northern Nevada Community.”

“The summer is a very challenging time to collect blood due to many reasons so we are thankful for the tremendous support from the Reno Aces to help boost our community’s blood supply together,” said Scott Edward, Donor Marketing and Communications Director for United Blood Services. “Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood, so these blood drives are a big part of our efforts to meet patient needs.”

To schedule a donation appointment, please visit bloodhero.com or call 1-800-696-4484. Donors can search for blood drives at bloodhero.com using the sponsor codes provided below. Walk-ins are also welcome.

Reno Aces Summer Series Blood Drives

June 12                

Sparks United Methodist Farmers Market

– 1231 Pyramid Way

– 8:30 – 11:00 a.m.

– Sponsor Code: SparksUMC

June 17

Little Flower Catholic Church

– 875 East Plumb Lane

– 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

– Sponsor Code: N1730

July 5

Walmart Damonte Ranch

– 155 Damonte Ranch Pkwy.

– 3:30 – 6:30 pm

– Sponsor Code: DamonteWalMart

July 25

Fernley Farmers Market

– 605 Silverlace Blvd., Fernley

– 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

– Sponsor Code: FernleyFarmer

August 9

BJ’s Restaurant

– 13999 South Virginia St.

– 1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

– Sponsor Code: BJReno

– 425 Sparks Blvd.

– 1:30 – 3:30 pm

– Sponsor Code: BJSparks

August 15

Reno Battle of the Badges at Greater Nevada Field

– 250 Evans Ave.

– 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 pm

– Sponsor Code: RenoBattle

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

OKC Dodgers and OHSO Aim to ENDUI with “Road to the Show” Promotion

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office are partnering on the “Road to the Show” this season to give away a trip for two to watch the Los Angeles Dodgers play the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium in September by encouraging fans to share why they want to end ENDUI.

Starting Wednesday, June 13, fans can enter the “Road to the Show” promotion by sharing their thoughts on social media about why they want to end impaired driving, using the hashtag #ENDUIOK with their post on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

The final day to enter the promotion via social media posts is Saturday, Aug. 18 and fans can enter an unlimited number of times from June 13-Aug. 18. One lucky winner will be randomly selected from the entries to receive a trip for two to attend a Los Angeles Dodgers game in September, including roundtrip airfare for two, a two-night stay in a downtown Los Angeles hotel, as well as two game tickets. For a full list of rules and regulations for the “Road to the Show” promotion, visit okcdodgers.com or call (405) 218-2106.

ENDUI is a statewide campaign to end impaired driving. The mission of the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office (OHSO) is to combat the number and severity of traffic crashes by developing and supporting educational, enforcement and engineering programs.

 

The Dodgers open a seven-game homestand Wednesday with a three-game series against the Salt Lake Bees at 7:05 p.m. at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. The series continues at 7:05 p.m. on a $2 Thursday featuring $2 Pepsi products, bottled water and select beer. Fireworks are slated to follow Friday’s 7:05 p.m. matchup against Salt Lake, presented by Oklahoma Blood Institute.

The Dodgers open a four-game home series against the Las Vegas 51s at 7:05 p.m. Saturday on Marvel Super Hero Night. Fans who come out to Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark can meet Iron Man and Thor during the game.

Sunday’s 6:05 p.m. game falls on a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday, featuring pregame player autographs, a mascot meet-and-greet, face painters, inflatables and postgame kids run the bases. Five hundred OERB Player of the Month posters, featuring May winner Joe Broussard, will be available to children ages 12 and under as they exit the ballpark Sunday. The posters will showcase an action shot of Broussard, who was selected as the May winner through a social media poll, as well as informational OERB graphics about well site safety.

The series against Las Vegas continues at 7:05 p.m. Monday, June 18 and wraps up with an 11:05 a.m. game Tuesday, June 19 at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on a Summer Field Trip Day. Camps and day cares are encouraged to come out June 19 for a summer field trip. An OKC Dodgers game ticket, hat and sack lunch are included for the price of $13 per person for groups of 10 or more.

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.

Cardinals C.A.R.E. Pet Supply Drive Wednesday, $1 tickets for donations

The Cardinals are partnering with C.A.R.E. Animal Rescue and Purina for Wednesday’s Pet Supply Drive. All fans that donate one or more of the following items any time between now and Wednesday night can purchase a discounted $1 ticket to Wednesday’s Cardinals vs. Travelers game for each item they donate:

– Kitten/Puppy Formula
– Syringes, Feeding Tubes
– Kitten/Cat Food (dry or wet)
– Cat Litter (HUGE need)
– Puppy and Kitten Collars
– Grain-Free Cat Food (dry or wet)
– Air Freshener
– Rubber or Latex Gloves
– 39-Gallon Trashbags
– Hoof Chews and Rubber “KONG” Dog Toys
– Wet/Baby Wipes

Wednesday is also a Woof Wednesday, where all Baseball Loving Dogs are invited to sit back, relax and watch the game they love with their best friend for Purina Woof Wednesday. One owner ticket=free entry for your Very Good Boy/Girl!

The Cardinals will provide kiddie pools for your dogs to drink out of throughout the ballpark. Dogs are encouraged to enjoy the game from the outfield grass/General Admission areas. For more information, call the Front Office at 417-863-0395.

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