Archives for April 2022

Scrappers Announce Partnership with the Fairhaven Foundation and Trumbull County Board of DD for Specialty Team Jersey Auction

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are excited to unveil the fourth in a series of five specialty jersey nights during the 2022 season. The Scrappers have partnered with the Fairhaven Foundation and Trumbull County Board of DD to create a specialty jersey that the Scrappers players will wear for Developmental DisABILITIES Awareness Night on Friday, June 24th against the Williamsport Crosscutters. The jersey design was inspired by the artwork of three individuals served by the Trumbull County Board of DD. Artists will be recognized at the June 24th Scrappers game. Game-worn jerseys will be auctioned off in person at the game and also online at mvscrappers.com and LiveSource. Jersey proceeds will benefit the Fairhaven Foundation.

“We are so thankful for our partnership with the Mahoning Valley Scrappers as they join us in helping to create an experience where families and the community can come together to celebrate all abilities. The Fairhaven Foundation transforms the lives of those eligible for services through the Trumbull County Board of DD by providing choices, opportunities, and resources that enable children and adults to fully reach their potential as members of the community”, states Stephanie Champlin, Director of Community Relations and Resource Development, Trumbull County Board of DD and Executive Director, Fairhaven Foundation.

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are set to open the 2022 season at Eastwood Field on Thursday, June 2 against the West Virginia Black Bears. Opening Night will also feature fan favorites postgame fireworks and Buck Night. Scrappers ticket packages and sponsorship opportunities are on sale now. To stay up to date with the Scrappers in the off-season, or for more information, visit mvscrappers.com or contact the front office at 330-505-0000.

Major Composting Effort Highlights Cannon Ballers Earth Day Initiatives

 

 (KANNAPOLIS, N.C.) – Expanding the team’s commitment to making Atrium Health Ballpark one of the “greenest” venues in Minor League Baseball, the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers have announced new composting efforts aimed at reducing gameday waste.

During each Cannon Ballers home game, fans will now see green composting receptacles located throughout the ballpark concourse. Although locations for trash and recycle still exist, the green bins provide an opportunity for fans to dispose of compostable items which will transform into nutrient-rich soil within a few months. Since their inaugural season, the team had already taken strides to ensure all food waste from kitchen preparations were properly composted.

Concessions at sporting events traditionally create massive amounts of waste each year. As a result, the Cannon Ballers set out to focus their efforts on utilizing more environmentally friendly products in all concession and food service areas. Partnering with Colorado-based Eco-Products, the team has migrated the majority of their food packaging to new items made out of compostable materials. Such items include food containers, beer and soda cups, straws and lids, utensils, napkins, and plastic bags. Along with any leftover food, all of these items can be diverted from landfills and redirected to composting facilities.

“We have been working diligently with all of our vendors to utilize as many compostable products as possible,” said Chris Beasley, Director of Food & Beverage at Atrium Health Ballpark. “Team leadership is deeply committed to a sustainable future and I am confident that our efforts will lead to long term impacts.”

Another key contributor to the Cannon Ballers initiative is locally based Crown Town Compost. Once items are properly placed in the composting receptacles, they are delivered to Crown Town’s Charlotte location for sorting and then redirected to their composting facility that creates soils, mulches, and other landscaping materials from the compost.

Over the course of the season, the team will be educating fans and building awareness on the impact of composting and why it is important for the environment. “Our goal is to educate the community while making it fun at the same time,” remarked Cannon Ballers General Manager Matt Millward. “We will be creating videos with our players that will be shown each night, as well as doing some interactive in-game promotions that bring awareness to what items are compostable.”

In addition to waste diversion, LED field lights and motion sensor lighting assist with energy conservation at Atrium Health Ballpark. The Cannon Ballers also have plans to further reduce their carbon footprint by focusing on strategies aimed at water conservation.

 

Segra Stadium To Host Inaugural ‘Jackie Robinson Showcase’ 

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The Fayetteville Woodpeckers *will host an inaugural “Jackie Robinson Showcase” on Thursday, May 5th at *Segra Stadium. The showcase will feature three high school baseball teams, including E.E. Smith, Westover and 71st High School. Game times are set for 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

The showcase aligns with Minor League Baseball’s new initiative, “The Nine.” Launched in 2022, the initiative is a Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport, provide new opportunities for youth baseball and softball participation, further diversify the business of baseball.

Named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946, The Nine will connect MiLB teams’ existing, Black-community focused development efforts with new national programming and future special events in a coordinated and centralized campaign. The new inclusion initiative follows MiLB’s Copa de la Diversión — the Latino fan engagement platform introduced in 2017 that included 76 MiLB teams in 2021.

All costs for the showcase will be funded by the Woodpeckers Foundation. Admission is free and open to the public. Food and beverage will also be available on this day. For more information, please visit www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com.

Rattlers Host Career in Sports Night on May 5

GRAND CHUTE, WI – The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers will host a Career in Sports Night in the Fox Communities Credit Union Fox Club for fans looking to learn about job opportunities and receive tips and information on starting a career in sports on Thursday, May 5. The event will feature representatives from the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Bucks, Milwaukee Brewers, and more with a panel discussion and a networking/career fair prior to the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers game against the Fort Wayne TinCaps that night.

Fans interested in attending the Career in Sports events that night may order through this link using the promo code ‘sports’ and receive a box seat ticket to the game and admission to the panel discussion, the networking fair, and a tour of the stadium. Order prior to May 1 and the cost is just $15 per ticket. Any order after May first is $20 per ticket.

The schedule for the event is:

Gates for Event Open: 4:15pm
Panel Discussion: 4:30-5:30pm
Networking/Career Fair: 5:30-6:30pm
Stadium Tour #1: 6:00pm
Stadium Tour #2: 6:15pm
Game Time: 6:40pm

Confirmed attendees for the event include:

Green Bay Packers
Milwaukee Brewers
Milwaukee Bucks
Milwaukee Admirals
Wisconsin Timber Rattlers
Fond du Lac Dock Spiders
Green Bay Gamblers
Wisconsin Herd
Wausau Woodchucks
Lakeshore Chinooks
Green Bay Rockers
Wisconsin Rapids Rafters

Full-season, half-season, mini-ticket, flex packages, and individual games for the 2022 season are available online through timberrattlers.com, over the phone at (920) 733-4152, or in person at the Timber Rattlers Box Office located at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium now! The box office is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and at 10:00am on Saturdays and Sundays when the Rattlers have a scheduled home game.

Dragons to Recognize “Hometown Heroes” Honoree During Game on April 22

Dayton, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons will recognize the Miami Valley Young Marines as a “Hometown Heroes” honoree during a special inning break of the Dragons game on Friday, April 22 against the West Michigan Whitecaps at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. The game will start at 7:05p.m.

The Dayton Dragons shine the spotlight on the military, past and present, through the Hometown Heroes program. This program hosts military families at every Dragons game, recognizing outstanding military organizations and individuals.

Young Marines is a national non-profit education and service program for boys and girls, ages eight through high school. The organization promotes mental, moral, and physical development of its members, upholding the Marine Corps’ core values, as well as the Young Marines’ core values of leadership, discipline, and teamwork.

The Miami Valley unit participates year-round in community projects and events that focus on character building and leadership. Their mission is to nurture and develop its members into responsible citizens who enjoy and promote a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.

One of their major initiatives is called “Drill Heroes,” a drill competition held to raise money to complete the Miami Valley Veterans Museum. With multiple age-based competitions, this event brings friends, families, co-workers, and other members of the community together to compete in the largest knockout drill competition ever assembled.

Furthermore, the unit has partnered with Wreaths Across America to lay remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country’s heroes at the Dayton Memorial Park Cemetery. This local unit has also been awarded the Fulcrum Shield Award for excellence in youth anti-drug programs from the Department of Defense twice – a distinction that no other unit has achieved.

The Miami Valley Marines are always looking for new members, volunteers, education opportunities, and donations. For more information about the Miami Valley Young Marines and how you can support their mission, visit miamivalleyyoungmarines.com.

This is the first of five special Hometown Heroes events at Dragons games this season. Additional tributes are scheduled for May 17, June 12, July 4, and August 13. The Dayton Dragons Hometown Heroes program is made possible by the generous support of the Dayton Development Coalition, Reynolds & Reynolds, and the Dayton Dragons. For more information, please visit daytondragons.com/hometownheroes.

GO Blue For CASA Event Set For May 5

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, have teamed up with CASA for a child advocate event at TD Bank Ballpark on Thursday, May 5 for the 6:35 p.m. game against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Toronto Blue Jays).

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy declared April 2022 as CASA Child Advocate Month in celebration of the work CASA volunteers do on behalf of the state’s most vulnerable children.

The Patriots will host GO Blue for CASA Night and encourage fans to wear blue to the game as part of the event designed to build awareness around child abuse.

There will be 139 lawn signs located in front of TD Bank Ballpark to represent all the children served in foster care in 2021.

“We’re so excited to team up with the Somerset Patriots to celebrate our CASA Child Advocate volunteers as well as build awareness around child abuse and the impact within our communities,” said Ellen Davis Director of Development CASA SHaW.

CASA is selling tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the game as part of their fundraising efforts. To purchase tickets or partner with the organization, please visit https://bit.ly/GoBlue4CASASHAW.

The game’s 50/50 raffle will also benefit the work of CASA as advocates of children in need.

About CASA

CASA SHaW provides well-trained, trauma-informed volunteers to serve as advocates in court for children living in foster care. Our goal is to ensure that every child served has a safe, permanent home and the resources and services needed to thrive and not just survive adverse childhood experiences. We are committed to educating ourselves and the community about the causes and impacts of child abuse and neglect, the need for racial equity in a disproportionate system, and how to best advocate for and meet the needs of children in foster care in Somerset, Hunterdon, and Warren Counties.

About the Somerset Patriots
The Somerset Patriots are the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate and develop today’s top minor league talent into the pinstriped superstars of tomorrow for MLB’s winningest team. The Patriots compete in the Double-A Northeast League and play their home games at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ, where fans of all ages and levels of baseball fandom get to enjoy the unique experience that is minor league baseball.

To learn more, visit: www.somersetpatriots.com

Danville Otterbots announce ballpark sensory room, expand inclusivity efforts

The Danville Otterbots will host a ribbon cutting ceremony for their new Ballpark Sensory Room, presented by The Hughes Center, on Friday, April 29, 2022, at 10 a.m. Since the club’s inception in January 2021, the Otterbots have been dedicated to providing a welcoming and inclusive ballpark for every member of the community. The sensory room will provide opportunities for children with sensory sensitivities and their families to be able to enjoy Otterbots games and non-baseball ballpark events all year long.

While some fans look forward to the sights, sounds and smells of being at the ballpark, those who are averse to the traditional hustle and bustle of baseball games will now have the opportunity to cheer on the Otterbots all season long. Located on the concourse in the right field Kids Zone, the Otterbots ballpark sensory room is equipped with cuddle swings, fidget boards, soft LED lights, wall-to-wall padding, uniquely textured rugs, sound-deadening headphones, comfortable chairs, sensory-friendly fidget toys and a blackout curtain. The curtain can be opened to reveal a window overlooking the Kids Zone, so parents can maintain a view of non-sensory averse siblings or friends during their time in the sensory room.

“Since our first day in Danville, our goal has been to build a product and atmosphere that provides entertainment for every single member of our community, and every visitor to Danville and the Southside Virginia region,” said Otterbots general manager Austin Scher. “We took tremendous strides towards reaching that goal in our inaugural season, but we knew we still had work to do. By constructing a sensory room on the concourse, we are now able to provide opportunities for children and families with sensory aversions to enjoy the ballpark and have a space dedicated to ensuring that their enjoyment is comprehensive.”

The ballpark sensory room is presented by The Hughes Center, who partnered with the Otterbots to outfit the space with appropriate activities and infrastructure to accommodate all levels of need. Materials were provided in-part by Columbia Forest Products, and construction was completed by Otterbots spring ballpark operations intern, United States military veteran and civil engineer, Luca Cicilese. The Otterbots prioritize their community, and could not be more grateful to these community partners for their support in bringing the sensory room to life.

“The Hughes Center is excited to partner with the Otterbots to create this awesome addition to the baseball stadium,” said Alison Waymouth, director of business development for The Hughes Center. “The sensory room will be another piece of inclusion added to the park that welcomes and supports everyone in our local community while also extending a warm welcome to surrounding areas. Our goal is to have an outlet for all to have a positive, relaxing and accommodating experience. The noise and excitement at a game can be overwhelming, but the sensory room offers a place to reset and make it more enjoyable and accessible for everyone.”

Danville’s American Legion Field will be the first park in the Appalachian League to have a dedicated sensory-friendly room inside the gates, and one of few in non-MLB ballparks. The Otterbots join the Brooklyn Cyclones, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and Rochester Red Wings as non-MLB ballparks to have a sensory room on-site.

All members of the media and the Southern Virginia community are invited to attend the sensory room ribbon cutting ceremony Friday, April 29, 2022, at 10 a.m. Parking is available in the main lot, and the ceremony will take place on the right field concourse in front of the sensory room. Please send all RSVPs and inquiries to [email protected].

As Opening Night on June 2 approaches, the Otterbots have more news on ballpark improvements and community programming set to be announced in the coming weeks. Single-game tickets will be available in early May.

Otterbots season tickets, flex packs, group outings and corporate partnerships are currently available for the 2022 season. For more information, call 434-554-4487, email [email protected], or stop by the front office.

South Bend Cubs and Legacy Heating & Air to Provide Free Tickets to United States Military

 

SOUTH BEND, IN – In what is always a marquee pair of days at Four Winds Field, the South Bend Cubs will once again host Military Appreciation Weekend on Saturday, May 28 and Sunday, May 29 as the Cubs face off with the Great Lakes Loons. As presented by Legacy Heating & Air, the organization will devote Memorial Day Weekend to honoring our heroes.

By displaying their Military Identification Card, active military members and veterans can receive two free tickets to either Saturday or Sunday’s game. Those wishing to head to the ballpark that weekend can pick up their tickets at the Four Winds Field Box Office.

“I speak for our entire front office when I say that Military Appreciation Weekend is one that we look forward to every season,” South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart said. “We wouldn’t be able to do what we do on the field and in the stands without these brave men and women serving to protect us all. The two complimentary tickets are just a small token of our appreciation, and we’ll look forward to appropriately honoring all of the active military and veterans that join us.”

“We are proud to partner with the South Bend Cubs in an effort to express our gratitude to those in uniform serving today and those who have served in the past,” Legacy Heating & Air President Tony Cook said. “We thank you for your time, bravery, and sacrifice for this country. It is the home of the free because of the brave.”

To join in thanking and honoring all military members at Four Winds Field on Memorial Day Weekend, purchase your tickets online by clicking here or calling 574-235-9988.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the High-A affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 34 years, the team has won four Midwest League titles, most recently in 2019, and has captured eight division titles. In 2019, the South Bend Cubs hosted the Midwest League All-Star Game. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill. More information is available at www.SouthBendCubs.com.

Community-Focused Nights Added to Cannon Ballers Schedule

 

(KANNAPOLIS, N.C.) – Community initiatives have remained a core focus for the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers and today the team announced a variety of additional highlights for the 2022 season.

This Saturday, April 23rd, the Ballers will host their inaugural HBCU Night at Atrium Health Ballpark. The night will highlight the impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities and feature a live pregame performance by the Livingstone College Marching Blue Thunder. High school students will also have the opportunity to meet with admissions representatives from Johnson C. Smith University, Winston-Salem State University, and many others.

The Cannon Ballers also announced their first ever Pride Night taking place on Wednesday, July 6th. Celebrating inclusion and support for members of the LGBTQ+ community, Pride Night will include in-game programming highlighted by Salisbury Pride, as well as live performances from the Charlotte Pride Band, One Voice Chorus, and Courtney Lynn & Quinn. Merchandise featuring the team’s rainbow-colored logo will also be available in the Cannon City Supply Co. Team Store.

On Friday, August 26th, the Cannon Ballers will host Women in Sports Night at Atrium Health Ballpark. The night will welcome special guest appearances from female athletes, coaches, front office, and media members that have made a profound impact within the sports industry. On the following day, Saturday, August 27th, the team will host their 2nd annual Starry Night benefiting the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. As part of a special on-field postgame ceremony, the team, players, and all in attendance will light up the ballpark with colored lanterns in support of finding a cure for childhood brain tumors.

The 2022 season also features a variety of theme nights focused on additional community groups such as Boy Scout Night (June 10th), Girl Scout Night (July 22nd), and Faith Night (June 24th). Celebrating heroes who serve our communities throughout the year, the Cannon Ballers will be hosting a special Armed Forces Night (May 21st) and First Responders Night (August 9th).

Group, season, and individual game tickets are currently available at the F&M Box Office, online at kcballers.com, or by phone at 704-932-3267. Fans are also encouraged to follow the Cannon Ballers social media pages and sign up to become an email “Insider” to receive exclusive team updates, promotions, and ticketing information to their inbox.

Cutters Seeking Anthem Performers 

The Williamsport Crosscutters are now accepting applications for National Anthem performers for the upcoming 2022 season.

All individuals and groups who are interested in being considered are asked to fill out the short application AVAILABLE HERE. Applicants are also required to provide a link or file of them performing the “Star-Spangled Banner”.

All performances should be 90 seconds or less in length, the traditional rendition and vocalists should sing a cappella. Applications are due by May 13. Each submission will be reviewed and selected performers will be contacted and scheduled to perform during the 2022 season between June 2 and September 1.

The Crosscutters open the 2022 season on Thursday, June 2 against the State College Spikes. MVP Club Season Tickets, Bonus Books and Mini-Plans are now available. To order, call (570) 326-3389 or visit www.crosscutters.com. Opening Night and single game tickets go on sale Tuesday, May 3 at 10am.

Fisher Cats Create Fund to Support Families of First Responders

Manchester, N.H. – The New Hampshire Fisher Cats, the Double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, and the Fisher Cats Foundation are proud to introduce a new charitable initiative to support the families of New Hampshire Police and Firefighters in need: The First Responders Fund.

The Fisher Cats were inspired by the bravery of Captain Steve DeRuisseaux as well as all firefighters, police, and EMS who work day and night to keep our communities safe. After reaching out to Captain DeRuisseaux to offer support following is heroic actions last November, the Captain suggested creating a way to support all First Responders and the parties worked together to create the Fisher Cats First Responders Fund.

The fund will officially launch as part of First Responders Night at Delta Dental Stadium on Thursday, August 11 at 7:05 p.m.

Fifty percent of the proceeds from the individual tickets sold on First Responders Night will benefit the fund, as well as the in-game 50/50 raffle and boot pass collection. The Fisher Cats Foundation will also make a $2,500 donation and contribute a portion of the funds from the annual Granite State Baseball Dinner to the cause.

The Fisher Cats are proud to have iHeartMedia as a promotional partner for the First Responders Fund.

“These men and women put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities,” Fisher Cats President Mike Ramshaw said. “As part of the First Responders Fund, we’ll work with local police and fire departments to identify families in need, and we’ll support those families through our fundraising efforts.”

“I would like to thank the Fisher Cats organization for their initiative in supporting the Greater Manchester First Responders,” Manchester Fire Chief Andre R. Parent said. “Fire, Police and EMS all serve our community unconditionally to provide emergency services to our citizens in their greatest times of need. Often times, First Responders find themselves in need of help also. This initiative will help our members overcome some unforeseen obstacles in their personal lives. Thank you very much for stepping up to the plate and being a valuable community partner.”

“On behalf of the Manchester Police Department, I would like to personally express our gratitude to the Fisher Cats Foundation First Responder Fund for their commitment and support of all First Responders in the greater Manchester area and New Hampshire,” Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg said. “The Fisher Cats organization has always been an excellent community partner and their commitment to all first responders has never wavered and for that we are grateful.”

“Every day, the men and women of the Manchester Police and Fire Departments put their lives on the line to keep our community safe,” Mayor Joyce Craig said. “The New Hampshire Fisher Cats are a fantastic partner with the City of Manchester, and I’m so thankful for their recognition of our local first responders and for their continued support of our community.”

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats established the Fisher Cats Foundation to be a catalyst for the betterment of communities throughout the region by supporting youth programs that encourage education and promote healthy living. Through the generous support of players, employees, sponsors, and fans, the Fisher Cats Foundation continuously works to make a positive impact throughout New Hampshire and north-central Massachusetts.

The Fisher Cats Foundation supports a wide variety of non-profit organizations and coordinates several fundraising programs and events. Efforts are focused on two cornerstone initiatives, hosting the Granite State Baseball Dinner benefiting the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD), and providing scholarships to college-bound New Hampshire and Massachusetts students. Since its inception in 2006, the Fisher Cats and the Fisher Cats Foundation have provided more than $5.8 million in monetary and in-kind donations to thousands of non-profit organizations throughout the region.

The Fisher Cats return home to Delta Dental Stadium to play the Reading Fightin Phils (Phillies affiliate) Tuesday, April 26 – Sunday, May 1. Tickets for the six-game homestand and all home games this season can be found at NHFisherCats.com, via email at [email protected], over the phone at (603) 641-2005, or in-person at the Fisher Cats box office at 1 Line Drive in Manchester.

RiverDogs 5K

Course

5K Run (3.1 Miles). Split times at each mile and water stations at the halfway point. The course starts in front of Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park and finishes at home plate (weather permitting)! Runners finishing after 5:15pm will be rerouted to the front entrance of the stadium.

Race-course online HERE.

Race Packets and Event Shirt

Race packets and bibs may be picked up on Friday, May 27th at Fleet Feet Sports in Mt. Pleasant from 12:00 to 6pm or on race day at the stadium from 1:00- 3:00 pm. Shirts will be issued with your registration and available while supplies last.

Benefits: MUSC Children’s Health.

Registration Includes

  • Entry in the race
  • Finishing the race at home plate
  • RiverDogs vs. Delmarva Shorebirds game e-ticket
  • Event Shirt
  • Awards ceremony (Age group and Overall awards will be awarded)

Rain/Additional Game e-Tickets

This event will be held as scheduled RAIN or SHINE! No refunds. No exceptions. Registrants will receive a free ticket that will be redeemed through a promo code which will be in the confirmation email. To redeem the free ticket, go to this link (https://www.milb.com/charleston/tickets/single-game-tickets) and enter the code into the Coupon box. Additional tickets can be purchased for family and friends while using the promo code.

Volunteers

Interested volunteers should reach out to Emily Lemmon elemmon@riverdogs.com

Annual Cutters 5K Race Set for June 11

The Williamsport Crosscutters, in partnership with Hope Enterprises, will be holding the Annual Cutters 5K on Saturday, June 11 at Muncy Bank Ballpark sponsored in part by; Eder’s Ice Cream, Hamilton Patriot, Horizon FCU, iHeart Media, Lamar, Muncy Bank & Trust, UPMC, the UPMC Health Plan, Williamsport Sun-Gazette, & Woodlands Bank.

The race, through Williamsport’s west end, begins at 9am with registration open at 8am. The course has runners starting outside the ballpark entrance with the final leg taking place inside the stadium. Both runners and walkers are encouraged to take part in the event. All proceeds benefit Hope Enterprise and The Hope Foundation

“Hope is humbled by the longstanding support the Williamsport Crosscutters provide year after year,” said Hope Enterprises CEO/President Rob Labatch. “The Cutter’s 5K gives our community the opportunity to support Hope’s mission while helping us to celebrate our 70 years of success.”

Prizes will be awarded for the top three runners in eight male and female age categories with the top male and female finishers having the opportunity to throw out ceremonial first pitches at the Williamsport Crosscutters game on June 18. Additionally, prizes will be awarded to the top three overall male and female walkers.

Cutters Vice-President of Marketing Gabe Sinicropi said, “We are proud that the Cutters 5K has generated well over $100,000 for Hope Enterprises and the Hope Foundation over the years. The Cutters are honored to lend a hand in helping Hope to provide much needed services and support to so many individuals in our community.”

Registration is $25 per person. All participants registering by May 27 are guaranteed a free a race t-shirt. Online registration is available HERE (click on Registration). Printable entry forms and more information can be found at Crosscutters.com or the Crosscutters offices at Muncy Bank Ballpark.

New this year is a Virtual Race option allowing racers to sign up and support Hope’s cause and walk or run when & where you like. All virtual racers will be mailed a free race t-shirt.

The Crosscutters open the 2022 season on Thursday, June 2 against the State College Spikes at Muncy Bank Ballpark. MVP Club Season Tickets, Bonus Books and Mini-Plans are now available. To order, call (570) 326-3389 or click HERE. Opening Night and single game tickets go on sale Tuesday, May 3.

About Hope Enterprises; Hope Enterprises, Inc. was founded in 1952 by physician Dr. Max E. Miller, and his wife, Leona, as well as other parents and community leaders in Williamsport, PA. The Hope Mission – Enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disABILITIES by providing them with caring support and responsive services.

Renegades launch 'Gades Give Back Ticket Program'

WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. (April 18, 2022) – The Hudson Valley Renegades, the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, have announced the Gades Give Back Ticket Program, a brand-new community initiative that honors and gives back to groups of individuals that help lead, educate, secure, care for and protect our communities and nation.

The Renegades have selected different groups of people whom will have the opportunity to receive two (2) free Valley Reserved tickets to a home game during their group’s honored month.

“We are always looking for ways to give back to the community and honor those who serve our communities,” said Steve Gliner, President and General Manager of the Renegades. “The ‘Gades Give Back’ program is just another way that we can say thank you to the people who help our communities and our nation on a daily basis.”

The selected groups for the 2022 season are as follows:

  • April – Government Employees (includes town/city employees, county employees, state employees and federal employees)
  • May – First Responders (includes EMS, firefighters, police, corrections officers and security personnel)
  • June – Education Staff (includes teachers, principals, school counselors and coaches, administrative staff, janitorial staff, and cafeteria staff)
  • July – Healthcare Workers (includes nurses, doctors, administrative staff, janitorial staff, etc.)
  • August/September – Military Personnel (includes active and retired military members of any branch)

To receive the two (2) free Valley Reserved tickets, fans must receive the tickets in-person at the Renegades Box Office and show a form of identification proving that you are part of one of the above honored groups. Tickets are limited to one game per individual during your honored month. Additional tickets beyond the two (2) free tickets will be subject to standard pricing for the selected ballgame.

For more information on the Gades Give Back Ticket Program, click here. The Gades Give Back Ticket Program, along with all Renegades Community Initiatives, are presented by Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth). For more on the Renegades Community Initiatives, click here.

ABOUT THE HUDSON VALLEY RENEGADES

The Renegades are in their second season as the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees. They have played their home games at Dutchess Stadium in Wappingers Falls, N.Y. since 1994. The Renegades open the 2022 season on Friday, April 8 at the Greenville Drive with a nine-game road trip before returning home for the hope opener at The Dutch on Tuesday, April 19 against the Brooklyn Cyclones. Single-game tickets are on sale now at https://www.milb.com/hudson-valley/tickets/single-game-tickets, by phone at (845) 838-0094 or at the ticket office at The Dutch.

ABOUT DIAMOND BASEBALL HOLDINGS

Diamond Baseball Holdings (DBH) is a subsidiary of Endeavor, the global sports and entertainment company. DBH was formed in 2021 to support, promote, and enhance Minor League Baseball through professional management, best practices, innovation and investment. (DiamondBaseballHoldings.com).

Negro Leagues Night a Tradition at Truist Field

Eddie G.G. Burton, pictured middle, helped launch the team’s Negro Leagues Night in 2014. (Laura Wolff/Charlotte Knights)

Since April 15, 2004, Major League Baseball has celebrated Jackie Robinson Day. Every year on that day, players from all around the majors — and countless other teams from around Minor League Baseball — honor the legacy of Jackie Robinson by wearing #42 on their jerseys. Even more so, they stand for what Jackie Robinson stood for when he broke the color barrier on April 15, 1947 — equality.

Now, as the 75th anniversary of Jackie’s debut is on the horizon, baseball is set to celebrate his achievements and the Knights are planning a big Negro Leagues Night this year at Truist Field.

CHARLOTTE KNIGHTS TRIBUTE TO THE NEGRO LEAGUES
In Charlotte, the Knights have honored the legacy of Jackie Robinson as well as the history of the Negro Leagues. Since 2014, the Knights have held a special Tribute to the Negro Leagues at the ballpark. At these games each season, all players on the Knights take the field in wear #42 on their jerseys and former players from the Negro Leagues come out to the ballpark to share their stories. In addition, a traveling museum is set up on the concourse by Ray Banks, a Negro Leagues historian. Local Negro Leagues historian, Michael Turner Webb, is also a part of the night to share the history of the Negro Leagues. It is truly a special game each year.

1ST NEGRO LEAGUES NIGHT IN 2014
The first Jackie Robinson Day celebration at Truist Field (then BB&T Ballpark) took place on April 15, 2014. As the Knights moved into their new Uptown Charlotte home just four days earlier, the ballpark was ready for new traditions. Thanks to the vision of Eddie G.G. Burton, a former player in the Negro Leagues and a Charlotte resident, the Knights began their yearly Tribute to the Negro Leagues tradition. With help from Eddie, the event grew each year. More celebrations, more players, and more important messages made it so special. I’m proud to say that it was because of Eddie’s tireless efforts that the event became one of the finest celebrations in all of Minor League Baseball.

Many legendary Negro Leagues players have been honored at the ballpark each year.
Laura Wolff/Charlotte Knights

A YEARLY TRADITION
Although the Knights have not always been home for a game on April 15, the team still always finds a date to honor Jackie and the Negro Leagues. The 2015 celebration took place on May 17 and it was the first time the team welcomed a total of four former players from the Negro Leagues. The 2015 celebration was also the first in which the Knights welcomed a traveling museum.

The Knights celebrated their 3rd Annual Negro Leagues Night on Jackie Robinson Day, April 15, 2016 and their 4th Annual Negro Leagues Night on April 18, 2017. Each of these celebrations featured former players such as Carl Forney, a star pitcher from Belmont, who played in the Negro Leagues with teams such as the Charlotte Black Hornets and Indianapolis Clowns. Other former players such as Luther “Luke” Atkinson, Sam Allen, and Bill Cathcart made it a yearly tradition to visit the Knights for these special tribute nights.

Sadly, Forney passed away on December 16, 2017 and the 5th Annual Negro Leagues Tribute Night, which took place on April 17, 2018, honored his memory. Carl’s grandson, Jordan, threw out the game’s ceremonial first pitch. In addition, the Knights received a tremendous honor when Jackie Robinson’s daughter, Sharon Robinson, made a special appearance at the ballpark. The Knights presented Sharon with a #42 Knights jersey during an on-field ceremony.

TRIBUTE TO EDDIE G.G. BURTON
Sadly, the 5th Annual Negro Leagues Night was the final one for its founder, Eddie G.G. Burton. On Monday, October 22, 2018, Burton passed away at the age of 88. There since the beginning in 2014, the tribute nights could not have taken place each year without the work of Eddie. On Saturday, November 10, 2018, the Knights held a memorial service at the ballpark for Eddie.

In 2019, with the memory of Eddie GG. Burton on all of our minds, the Knights held their 6th Annual Negro Leagues Tribute Night on April 9. On hand for this special tribute to the Negro Leagues and the memory of Eddie, were his wife, Gaile, and son, Keith. In an emotional ceremonial first pitch, Keith looked up to the heavens and threw out the pitch.

KEEPING THE HISTORY OF JACKIE AND THE NEGRO LEAGUES ALIVE
The Knights were scheduled to host their 7th Annual Negro Leagues Tribute during the 2020 season. With the 100th Anniversary of the Negro Leagues that year, the celebration was one many looked for to attending. The team had many big plans for the game. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the season was first postponed and then ultimately cancelled. In 2021, with restrictions and many protocols still in place, the night was not held for a second consecutive year. That all changes this year as the Charlotte Knights 7th Annual Negro Leagues Night is set for Friday, April 15 on the 75th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier.

Much like in past seasons, the Knights will continue to honor the memory of Jackie Robinson, Eddie G.G. Burton and all of the players who have paved the way.

APRIL 15 at TRUIST FIELD
Friday’s game will feature three former Negro Leagues players on-hand to meet fans and sign autographs. The three former players are Sam Allen, Wali Cathcart (Rock Hill, SC native) and Larry LeGrande. In addition, Johnson C. Smith University will have a table on the concourse to showcase the history of the school’s baseball program. Ray Banks, a Negro Leagues ambassador, will bring his customized historical museum from Baltimore for all fans to enjoy at the game. It features photographs, baseball gear and other artifacts. Michael Turner Webb, a local Negro Leagues historian, will also be on hand to share his knowledge with fans.

The evening will also serve as a tribute to former Negro Leagues player, Eddie G.G. Burton. Sadly, Burton passed away in 2018. He was a big part of putting this annual event together since 2014. His family will be honored during the pre-game festivities. In addition, former Major League Baseball pitcher and founder of the Carolinas Metro Reds, Morris Madden, will perform the National Anthem. The Knights players will wear #42 jerseys when they face the Memphis Redbirds at 7:04 p.m. at Truist Field.