Archives for June 2022

Multidisciplinary Experts at INTEGRIS Health Guide Jeremiah Harrell Through Spine and Heart Challenges

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS Health continue the “Home Run For Life” series for an 11th season and will recognize Jeremiah Harrell prior to the Dodgers’ 7:05 p.m. game Saturday against the Round Rock Express at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

A multidisciplinary team of experts at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center performed life-saving emergency spinal surgery on Harrell while also accommodating his pre-existing heart conditions, including a left ventricular assistance device (LVAD), earlier this year. INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center is the only facility in the state offering a full-service advanced heart failure program including teams of board-certified heart failure, LVAD, heart and lung transplant, anesthesia, cardiothoracic and neurosurgical experts together at one facility.

“Home Run For Life” recognizes individuals in the 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 a pregame ceremony.

“Each month during the baseball season, we are proud to partner with INTEGRIS Health to honor the perseverance and courage displayed by these incredible Oklahomans,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “’Home Run For Life’ allows us to uniquely recognize their amazing and inspiring stories of triumph over significant health challenges.”

Harrell was referred to INTEGRIS Health’s cardiology team when he first moved to Oklahoma. He was born with a genetic heart condition that was deteriorating and he underwent a procedure to implant a left ventricular assistance device (LVAD) at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center in December 2021.

Life returned to normal for the Bluejacket, Okla., resident until he started to feel numbness and a burning sensation in his neck around Easter earlier this year.

Harrell’s wife rushed him to INTEGRIS Health in Oklahoma City where he met with Pal Randhawa, M.D., with INTEGRIS Spine and Neurological Surgery.

The medical team discovered a severe infection that eroded and destabilized his spine, causing it to begin to collapse and damage his spinal cord.

“Had he not come to the hospital that very day, he would have been permanently paralyzed,” Randhawa said.

A team comprised of LVAD, anesthesia, cardiothoracic and neurosurgical experts were all present during the surgery in case they needed to respond quickly to any potential complications.

INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center is the only facility in the state capable of offering all these teams together in one place.

The emergency surgery was successful, and Harrell underwent additional staged surgeries to stabilize his neck.

Harrell knows his surgeries were no small feat and is incredibly grateful for his caretakers.

“My doctors are amazing,” Harrell said. “They keep a big smile on my face because without them I wouldn’t be walking around now.”

To read Harrell’s full story, visit the OKC Dodgers’ “Beyond the Bricks” website at: medium.com/beyond-the-bricks.

The OKC Dodgers are in the midst of a six-game home series against the Round Rock Express at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark that continues tonight at 7:05 p.m. Upcoming promotional highlights include:

• Friday, June 24 – 7:05 p.m.: Gates open at 6 p.m. and the first 1,000 guests will receive an OKC Dodgers water bottle. Braum’s Friends & Family 4-Packs are available for the game that include four tickets, four hats and four Braum’s restaurant vouchers. Friday Night Fireworks are then scheduled to follow the game.

Additionally, the Dodgers are partnering with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to increase awareness on the topic of mental health in the community, focusing on education, advocacy and support to #StrikeOutTheStigma of mental illness. Oklahomans who are working to de-stigmatize the connotations that come with mental health struggles will be recognized throughout the season, including during Friday night’s game.

• Saturday, June 25 – 7:05 p.m.: Harrell will be honored for his INTEGRIS “Health Home Run For Life” prior to Saturday’s game. Also before the game, Oklahoma City Community College President Mautra Staley Jones, Ed.D. is scheduled to throw out a ceremonial first pitch. Jones began her tenure March 1, 2022 and is the first woman and also the first person of color to lead OCCC.

Saturday is a Future Dodgers Night and youth baseball and softball teams in uniform are invited to participate in a pregame parade on the field. Game tickets for groups of 10 or more include a souvenir OKC Dodgers hat. Saturday is also a Braum’s Friends and Family Night, allowing groups of 10 or more people to receive a game ticket, OKC Dodgers hat and a Braum’s restaurant voucher that can be redeemed at any Oklahoma Braum’s location, starting at just $13 each.

• Sunday, June 26 – 2:05 p.m.: Following the conclusion of the game, kids can take the field to run the bases like their favorite pros.

Tickets can be purchased through okcdodgers.com/tickets. For general information or inquiries, please visit okcdodgers.com or call (405) 218-2182. Live radio coverage of each OKC Dodgers game begins 15 minutes before first pitch on AM 1340 “The Game,” 1340thegame.com and through the free iHeartRadio or MiLB First Pitch apps. All OKC Dodgers games are also available streamed live on MiLB.TV with a subscription.

OKC Dodgers Aim to #StrikeOutTheStigma with Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers are partnering with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) this season to help #StrikeOutTheStigma and increase awareness on the topic of mental health in our community.

The partnership focuses on education, advocacy and support to help destigmatize the connotations that come with mental health struggles. Oklahomans who are working to do so will be recognized throughout the 2022 Dodgers baseball season.

The first honoree of 2022 is Tony Stelter, director of recovery support for ODMHSAS who leads the organization’s planning, development and administrative aspects of consumer advocacy and recovery support services. He also uses his personal experiences with recovery to help others facing similar battles. Stelter will be recognized during the Dodgers’ game against the Round Rock Express at 7:05 p.m. Friday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

“Through our partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, we want to help raise awareness on the topic of mental health by talking openly about the subject and providing educational resources,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “By sharing the personal stories of Oklahomans who have been impacted by, or work to provide, mental health services in our community, we want to help strike out the stigma and provide support to our fellow Oklahomans.”

Stelter, who lives in Moore, is a licensed professional counselor who also identifies as a person in recovery.

Stelter holds a master’s degree in human relations from the University of Oklahoma and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Central Oklahoma.

He credits his son Ethan with saving his life.

Before Ethan was born, Stelter became addicted to opiates. He saw it as an escape from encountering unwanted negative feelings that stemmed from major depressive disorder and low self-worth. With Ethan on the way, Stelter tried to quit unsuccessfully on numerous occasions.

The path of self-destruction continued until it reached his lowest point and Stelter attempted to overdose, taking painkillers and some over-the-counter medication. Luckily, he survived. He wanted to be a father for Ethan, but knew he had a way to go.

“When Ethan was born it was one of the best days of my life,” Stelter said. “I loved him oh so much, but I hadn’t learned to love myself.”

He went on to receive intensive outpatient treatment and later started working for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services in the Children’s Recovery Center.

“If it wasn’t for the services like we have at the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, I wouldn’t be here today,” he said.

The OKC Dodgers are in the midst of a six-game home series against the Round Rock Express at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark that continues tonight and Thursday at 7:05 p.m. Upcoming promotional highlights include:

• Friday, June 24 – 7:05 p.m.: Gates open at 6 p.m. and the first 1,000 guests will receive an OKC Dodgers water bottle. Stelter will be recognized on the field during the game.

Braum’s Friends & Family 4-Packs are available that include four tickets, four hats and four Braum’s restaurant vouchers. Friday Night Fireworks are then scheduled to follow the game.

• Saturday, June 25 – 7:05 p.m.: The third INTEGRIS “Health Home Run For Life” honoree of the season will be recognized prior to Saturday’s game. Also before the game, Oklahoma City Community College President Mautra Staley Jones, Ed.D., is scheduled to throw out a ceremonial first pitch. Jones began her tenure March 1, 2022 and is the first woman and also the first person of color to lead OCCC.

Saturday is a Future Dodgers Night and youth baseball and softball teams in uniform are invited to participate in a pregame parade on the field. Game tickets for groups of 10 or more include a souvenir OKC Dodgers hat. Saturday is also a Braum’s Friends and Family Night, allowing groups of 10 or more people to receive a game ticket, OKC Dodgers hat and a Braum’s restaurant voucher that can be redeemed at any Oklahoma Braum’s location, starting at just $13 each.

• Sunday, June 26 – 2:05 p.m.: Following the conclusion of the game, kids can take the field to run the bases like their favorite pros.

Tickets can be purchased through okcdodgers.com/tickets. For general information or inquiries, please visit okcdodgers.com or call (405) 218-2182. Live radio coverage of each OKC Dodgers game begins 15 minutes before first pitch on AM 1340 “The Game,” 1340thegame.com and through the free iHeartRadio or MiLB First Pitch apps. All OKC Dodgers games are also available streamed live on MiLB.TV with a subscription.

Missions to Host Senior Celebration on June 23rd 

80 Local High School Baseball Seniors Will Compete in Two Games at 4:30 and 7 p.m.

SAN ANTONIO – In a partnership with McCombs Ford West and the San Antonio Area Baseball Coaches Association, the San Antonio Missions Baseball Club will host a Senior Celebration on Thursday, June 23rd. The event will consist of 80 local high school baseball seniors broken into four teams.

“We are honored to be in partnership with the San Antonio Missions and McCombs Ford West, to be able to have the Senior Celebration, to showcase the best players in San Antonio and surrounding areas,” said Eric Forestier, President of SAABCA.

Tickets for this event will be available beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday. The general admission tickets can be purchased at the 1st Base Box Office at Nelson Wolff Stadium. Adult tickets will cost $11 while student tickets will cost $9.

“We at McCombs Ford West are thrilled to partner with the Missions and SAABCA and put on this showcase for so many talented ball players,” said McCombs Ford West General Manager Henry Finley. We are happy to provide these young men with a platform to showcase their talents.”

“It is an honor for us to be a part of the Senior Celebration,” said Missions team President Burl Yarbrough. “We are thrilled to host the finest baseball players in the area and allow them to showcase their talents here at Nelson Wolff Stadium.”

The Third Bate Gate will open at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday. The first game will begin at 4:30 p.m. and will showcase Team Freedom and Team Liberty. These teams will consist of players from the 4A level and below. Rosters for these two clubs can be seen below:

TEAM FREEDOM

Pitchers: Connor Zaruba (Yoakum), Ryne Kaiser (Blanco), Konner Harborth (Marion), Ethan Walker (La Vernia)

Catchers: Ethan Reyes (D’Hanis), Dylan LaRue (Blanco), Jake Burris (Marion)

Infielders: Tanner Schults (Canyon Lake), Jordan Brown (Davenport), Jake Nunn (Fredericksburg), James Sebera (Fredericksburg), Jesse Martinez (Goliad), Kallen Bek (Marion), Ryan Hendry (D’Hanis)

Outfielders: Luke Langfeld (D’Hanis), Jeremy Greene (Canyon Lake), Brandon Craig (La Vernia), Marcos Jimenez (Cedillo-Holy Cross)

At Large: Caleb Meyer (Blanco)

Coaches: Mike Salas (St. Anthony), Carlos De La Cerda (Fredericksburg), Todd Craft (D’Hanis)

TEAM LIBERTY

Pitchers: Joseph Telles (Pearsall), Kaleb Gauna (Hondo), Brody Ticer (Central Catholic)

Catchers: Ethan Stadler (Cole), Zach Moore (Poth), Ian Ruggierro (Wolverines)

Infielders: Nate Pesina (Central Catholic), Felipe Cuellar (Hondo), Sebastian Talamantes (Pearsall), Gabe Guajardo (Hondo), Ivan Hoyt (Cornerstone), Isayah Ramirez (Pearsall), Tony DeJesus (Central Catholic), Rob Reyes (Antonian)

Outfielders: Josh Corn (Somerset), Joshua Legaspe (Cole), Caleb Molina (Poth), Lorrenzo Montes (Somerset)

At Large: Gabriel Garza (Wolverines)

Coaches: David Collenback, Ray Talamantes, Scott Lake

The second game is scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. and will showcase Team Stripes and Team Stars. These teams will consist of players from the 5A and 6A levels. Rosters for these two clubs can be seen below:

TEAM STRIPES

Pitchers: Tim Arguello (Smithson Valley), Thomas Marquardt (Harlan), John Michael Ramirez (Brandeis), Jose Becerra (Stevens)

Catchers: Levi Castilleja (Churchill), Maddox Miesse (East Central), Jonas Ledesma (Roosevelt)

Infielders: Jack Kalisky (Marshall), Jose Rodriguez (John Jay), Jordan Owns (Stevens), Peyton Stolles (Steele), Cole Tabor (Reagan), Nolan Sauceda (Warren), Jonathon Pardo (San Marcos), Roger Rodriguez (Holmes)

Outfielders: Britton Moore (Reagan), Michael Burroughs (Judson), Caden Bosanko (East Central), Alex Perez (O’Connor), Aiden Bauman (New Braunfels)

At Large: Daniel Rodriguez (Taft)

Coaches: Ruben Covarrubias (John Jay), Jason Fox (Harlan), Roger Luna (Holmes), Chans Chapman (Reagan)

TEAM STARS

Pitchers: Sam Letz (Kerrville Tivy), DiAngelo Del Valle (Southwest Legacy), EJ Garcia (New Braunfels Canyon)

Catchers: Cory Mazzurana (Seguin), Eric Sanchez (Southwest Legacy), Chandler Banks (New Braunfels Canyon)

Infielders: Nate Gamez (Southwest), Jake Herb (Medina Valley), Ruben Pacheco (McCollum), Christian Garibay (Veterans Memorial), Victor Gutierrez (McCollum), JP Zuniga (Southwest), Joel Jimenez (Highlands), James Sobey (Alamo Heights)

Outfielders: Caleb Villareal (Highlands), Ryan Brandon (Boerne Champion), Blake Hollingshead (New Braunfels Canyon), Drew Barnett (Seguin), Arturo Parra (Brackenridge)

At Large: Cooper Marshall (Boerne Champion), Moses Gonzalez (Highlands)

Coaches: Aaron Carter (Veterans Memorial), Albert Olivarez (Kennedy), Joey Boyd (Alamo Heights), Jeff Sanford (Southwest Legacy)

For more information on this event, please contact the Wolff Stadium Box Office at 210-675-7275.

The San Antonio Missions are the Double-A affiliate for the San Diego Padres. This is the 120th professional season for the San Antonio Missions. Single game tickets are available now and can be purchased online or at the 1st Base Box Office. Season seat memberships are available now. For more information call 210-675-PARK (7275) or visit samissions.com.

Polar Park Celebrates Juneteenth, sponsors Black Music Festival

The Worcester Red Sox concluded their six-game series Sunday in an afternoon matinee against the Toledo Mud Hens. In addition to Father’s Day festivities Sunday, Polar Park played host to multiple celebrations of Juneteenth, the commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States on June 19, 1865.

A trio of local musicians, Charles Ketter, Lydia Fortune, and Miss Shirley Johnson, rocked along Summit Street to begin Juneteenth commemoration. Patrons enjoyed spirituals as well as jazz and blues stylings pre-game.

For the Heart of Worcester, fans welcomed Dr. Thomas Doughton, a senior lecturer for interdisciplinary and special studies at The College of the Holy Cross. Doughton was instrumental in the creation of Worcester’s Black History Trail. Alongside Doughton was another influential figure to the trail’s creation: Worcester City Councilor Khrystian King.

The trail encompasses a near 300-year history in Worcester through several landmarks of historical significance across the Heart of the Commonwealth. The display tells the unfiltered stories of those who lived in the city as far back as the 18th Century, and had its first five stops dedicated earlier this month.

Sunday’s Ceremonial First Pitch was delivered by Ernest Floyd, who was honored as the Hometown Hero. Floyd created and serves as executive producer of Unity Radio, 97.9 FM. Unity Radio helps create an avenue through which members of the Worcester community can help one another.

Before the performance of the national anthem, Polar Park raised the Juneteenth flag alongside the American flag, and heard a rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by 15-year-old Liyah McBridge. The Star-Spangled Banner was performed by P.E. James.

Social justice is one of the WooSox Foundation’s four areas of focus. To further strengthen the club’s commitment to supporting the local Black community, the Foundation announced its sponsorship of The Black Music Festival with a $1,500 contribution, which was dedicated before first pitch Sunday.

The festival will be hosted by the Uncommonwealth Group on Saturday, June 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Patrons can expect a full day of musical performances, entertainment, food, vendors, and building bridges to the community through music on the Worcester Common.

Sunday’s game was a victory for the WooSox on the back of Ryan Fitzgerald’s 5th inning three-run home run and Connor Seabold’s (5-1, 1.95) quality start.

Sunday concluded with a special Father’s Day Catch on the Field.

New Historical Baseball Display to be Unveiled at Eastwood Field on July 25

NILES, OH –Niles, OH – The Mahoning Valley Scrappers will debut a new display at Eastwood Field which will feature historic baseball figures with ties to the region. The unveiling will take place before a game on Monday, July 25, 2022, a date which will coincide with the National Baseball Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

The display has been funded by local baseball historian P. M. Kovach and will feature six individuals with ties to the area: Bud Fowler, the first African-American professional baseball player who began his career in New Castle, PA; Jimmy McAleer, a Youngstown native who played and managed in Cleveland in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and helped establish the American League; Elmer Flick, who played in the minors in Youngstown and went on to a Hall of Fame career; Red Ames of Warren who played in three World Series; Billy Evans who played baseball for Rayen HS in Youngstown and became the youngest MLB umpire at the age of 22 in 1906; George H. Burns, a Niles native who helped the Cleveland Indians beat Brooklyn in the 1920 World Series.

The Scrappers will take on the Fredrick Keys and the game will also feature the Peppers in Oil promotion and Niles Community Day with first pitch at 7:05pm. The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are one of six founding members of the MLB Draft League, joining the Frederick Keys, the State College Spikes, the Trenton Thunder, the West Virginia Black Bears and the Williamsport Crosscutters. For more information, visit mvscrappers.com or contact the front office at 330-505-0000.

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GRAND SLAM Home Run Readers Amass Nearly 3 Million Minutes

Reading Program Reaches Record Heights

Rockland County, NY (June 20, 2022) – With nearly 3 million minutes of reading in the books for this season, the New York Boulders’ “Home Run Readers” program continues to build its successful reputation – one book at a time.

In conjunction with NY529, the partnership with the Boulders has helped promote literacy in elementary and middle schools throughout the Lower Hudson Valley, the Bronx and Northern New Jersey. First started in 2013, this year’s program saw a record 38 schools participate with more than 3,500 students opening the books.

The challenge ran from April 25 and ended on May 15.

The rules were simple: only out of school reading counted.

Each school designated a coordinator to record each student’s reading times, as well as a total for their school.

When all was said and done, each reader fell into one of five prize categories:

  • Under 400 minutes earned you a single and a participation certificate
  • At least 400 minutes had you on second base with a double, a participation certificate and two tickets to a specified Boulders’ game this season.
  • Up to 800 minutes and you legged out a triple to go along with a participation certificate and four tickets to a specified 2022 Boulders’ game
  • 1300 minutes or more had you circling the bases with a home run, a participation certificate, four tickets to a specified game where you also had the privilege of throwing out the ceremonial first pitch.

The top reader for the year, Yankilvio Molina of the Highland Falls Intermediate School in Highland Falls, NY, will be rewarded with on-field recognition at a Boulders’ game, as well as an autographed baseball and a photo taken with manager T.J. Stanton and Boulder Bird.

Teachers who had their classes participate, along with their designated program coordinator and school principal were awarded five tickets to a future Boulders’ game, as well as a 10% discount at the team store located inside Clover Stadium.

This year’s top five reading schools were:

  1. Little Tor Elementary School in New City, NY
  2. Highland Falls Intermediate School in Highland Falls, NY
  3. Edgemont Elementary School in Montclair, NJ
  4. Greenwood Lake Middle School in Monroe, NY
  5. A. MacArthur Barr Middle School in Nanuet, NY

Each of the top five schools were awarded a suite to a 2022 Boulders’ home game for 14 staff members.

Information regarding season tickets and packages for the Boulders’ 2022 season are available by calling 845-364-0009 or sliding to www.NYBoulders.com.

Boulders to Award Six Scholarships to High School Grads

Rockland County, NY (June 20, 2022) – Are you heading to college this coming Fall and are leaning towards a career in Sports Management or Business? If you are, you should be applying for the NY529/New York Boulders University scholarship.

Sports Management is one of the fastest growing college majors in the country and Business is an essential component of the industry. A career in sports is also much more than playing or watching a game, there are a number of fields where people work behind the scenes such as facilities operations, public relations and marketing, corporate sponsorships, community relations, event presentation, in-game entertainment, sports medicine, graphics, control room operations, etc.

This summer, the Boulders will be donating six scholarships worth $529 apiece into a student’s NY529 account. The scholarships are open to graduating high school seniors who are seeking to pursue such careers.

To be eligible, a student must fill out and submit the scholarship application on the Boulders’ website at www.nyboulders.com. Applications need to be received by July 15, with the winners announced the week of July 25.

The winners will be honored with on-field recognition at a Boulders’ game the week of Aug. 1.

Submitted applications must include the student’s name, e-mail address, phone number, name of high school, projected college or university planning to attend beginning this fall and his/her projected major area of study.

Three questions need to be answered:

  1. What are you planning to study and why are you interested?
  2. What traits or skills do you possess that will transfer to a career in the sports or business industries?
  3. What experience have you had (aside from playing if you plan a career in sports) that you feel have prepared you for a future career in sports or business?

The completed applications should be submitted to Gail Gultz, Boulders’ Educational Director, at teach@nyboulders.com.

Information regarding season tickets and packages for the Boulders’ 2022 season are available by calling 845-364-0009 or sliding to www.NYBoulders.com.

Sea Dogs now offering sensory kits

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs in partnership with Saco Bay Kids Pediatric Therapy are now offering sensory kits for fans attending a game with sensory sensitivities.

The kits will help individuals comes to a game and enjoy themselves with accommodations. Each bag includes noise-reducing headphones to help block out crowd noise, antiglare sunglasses to help with lighting, a communication card, and fidgets to help focus on the game and less on the crowd around.

The bags are available at every Sea Dogs home game this season at Hadlock Field. Fans wishing to utilize a sensory kit may visit the Fidium Fiber Guest Services Desk in the concourse to check out a kit.

“We are happy to partner with Saco Bay Pediatric Kids Therapy to improve our ability to assist and accommodate guests with sensory needs,” said Sea Dogs President, Geoff Iacuessa. “Our objective is to provide an inclusive and seamless experience for all guests for all events including those with sensory needs.”

Sea Dogs tickets are available for all 2022 Sea Dogs games. Tickets can be purchased online at seadogs.com or by calling the ticket office at 207-879-9500. Tickets purchased in advance range between $11 and $13 for adults and between $8 and $12 for kids (16 and under) and seniors (62 and over).

Pink Ribbon Girls Survivor Celebration Night at the Ballpark

Dayton, Ohio – The Pink Ribbon Girls (PRG) and the Dayton Dragons will host a Survivor Celebration on Tuesday, June 21, at 7:00 p.m., when the Dayton Dragons take on the Lake County Captains at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District.

The Pink Ribbon Girls provide transportation to and from treatment, housecleaning kits, and peer support and education to breast and gynecological cancer patients at their greatest time of need. The organization has the mission of making sure “No one travels this road alone” and serves anyone regardless of their age, stage, or socio-economic status.

The Pink Ribbon Girls will be in attendance at the game to promote awareness and to celebrate the breast cancer and gynecological cancer survivors they have helped. Proceeds from the Dragons 50/50 for the entire week (June 21 to June 26) will go towards the services and programs of the Pink Ribbon Girls.

If you want to learn more about how you can help support The Pink Ribbon Girls, check out their website here at: pinkribbongirls.org

Joey Chiulli, 6-year-old cancer survivor, will celebrate his Anthem Home Run for Life at a Dragons Game

 

 

Dayton, Ohio—Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Ohio and the Dayton Dragons will host 6-year-old Joey Chiulli during the iconic Anthem Home Run for Life program on Wednesday, June 22, when the Dayton Dragons take on the Lake County Captains at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District.

The Anthem Home Run for Life program provides children in the Dayton region who are battling serious medical conditions with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Each honoree gets to take a lap around the bases at Day Air Ballpark during a Dragons home game while the crowd cheers them on.

Joey’s Story

In November of 2018, Joe Chiulli was experiencing extreme pain in his legs along with several respiratory infections. As he battled through the difficulties of breathing, the pain in his legs forced him to stop walking. His parents had exhausted all medical options to find a remedy to their son’s pain, but little help was found.

For six months, Joe continued to suffer intense pain until a nurse noticed severe bloating in his abdomen. The medical staff sent Joey into testing, and a biopsy confirmed Joey had acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), a type of cancer found in the bone marrow of children. He underwent nine blood transfusions, a lumbar puncture, and a bone marrow transplant.

The ‘induction’ phase of the cancer treatment journey was extremely tough on Joe. The medications and steroids created negative reactions physically, mentally, and emotionally. This four-year-old faced extreme anxiety, anger, and depression. His reaction led doctors to believe he was chemo resistant – less than 10% of cancer patients fall into this category. As a result, his medical team included Joey in a new medical study where doctors targeted cancer genetically.

As April 2019 rolled around, Joey’s thigh still hurt more than the rest of his body. A CT scan showed an abscess on this thigh; the infection was growing into his femur. Doctors immediately drained his bone three times to remove the disease. Finally, the road to recovery could begin, and Joey relearned how to walk.

Joey is in ‘long term maintenance’ having had his final spinal on June 17, 2022. Joey will be heading into first grade at Liberty Elementary and is wise beyond his years. He says, “if we all stay strong, everything will be ok.”

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons applaud all those who have been instrumental in Joe’s life, including his family, Dr. Dolé, and his entire medical team.

To learn more about Anthem Home Run for Life, please visit www.daytondragons.com/hrfl.

More Information:_ The Dayton Dragons are the affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 66-game home schedule at beautiful Day Air Ballpark_ in the heart of the Water Street District. 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 [email protected], or on the web at daytondragons.com.

 

Great Clips and Charlotte Knights Raise Over $30K to Support Children with Pediatric Brain Tumors

Over $30,000 has been raised this year. (Laura Wolff/Charlotte Knights)

CHARLOTTE, NC — Every day, 13 children are diagnosed with a brain tumor, the deadliest form of childhood cancer. Great Clips and the Charlotte Knights, Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, partnered for the eighth year in a row to help change that with a donation of $33,353 to Vs. Cancer. The contribution was the most of any year since the partnership started in 2015 and makes the total contribution of the partnership over $76,000.

As a signature fundraising campaign of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, Vs. Cancer gives sports teams, athletes and communities the platform to help children with cancer. Proceeds help fund child life programs in Levine Children’s Hospital and lifesaving pediatric brain tumor research.

“Brain tumors are the most common form of cancer in children up to age 14, so our mission is to cure all pediatric brain tumors and transform how children and their families are cared for,” said Dave Mays, senior campaign manager for Vs. Cancer. “Community support in donations like this one is incredibly important in the fight for healthier, happier futures for children with cancer. We’re grateful to Great Clips, the Charlotte Knights and the Charlotte community overall for their continued support.”

For the past several weeks, customers visiting their Charlotte-area Great Clips salons could donate to the effort and local Great Clips franchisees contributed. In addition, several members of the Charlotte Knights staff led supporting fundraisers and shaved their heads to encourage donations.

“This campaign makes it clear how contributions of any size can add up, said Jim Bullard, a Great Clips franchisee. “We’re honored that, through the generosity of Great Clips customers and franchisees, we’re able to continue to support Vs. Cancer and the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation in their efforts.”

A check presentation to Vs. Cancer was held at the June 17 Knights game.

“We are very pleased to continue this important partnership with Great Clips and the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation,” stated Dan Rajkowski, chief operating officer for the Charlotte Knights. “It’s always very fulfilling to see our staff and our fans come together to help raise money for such an important cause.”

Great Clips is the official hair salon of the Charlotte Knights. For more information about North Carolina Great Clips salons, visit www.greatclips.com.

About Great Clips, Inc.
Great Clips, Inc. was established in 1982 in Minneapolis. Today, Great Clips has over 4,400 salons throughout the United States and Canada, making it the world’s largest salon brand. Great Clips is 100 percent franchised, and salons are owned locally by more than 700 franchisees across the U.S. and Canada. Great Clips franchisees employ more than 25,000 stylists. Great Clips® franchised salons provide value-priced, high-quality haircare for men, women and children. Getting a great haircut at a Great Clips® salon is more convenient than ever with Online Check-In, ReadyNext**®* *text alerts* and *Clip Notes**®. To check in online, visit GreatClips.com or download the free app. For more information about Great Clips, Inc. or to find a location near you, visit GreatClips.com.

About the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
Every day, 13 children and teens are diagnosed with a brain tumor, the deadliest and most common form of cancer in kids under 15. Every day after, they are in a fight for their life. It’s a fight the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation is here to help families win. A leader in the brain tumor and childhood cancer communities, PBTF’s mission of Care. Cure. Thrive. reflects its commitment to curing all pediatric brain tumors and transforming how children and their families are cared for. In 2016 the Vs. Cancer Foundation merged with the PBTF and now is a signature fundraising campaign of the nonprofit. Since 1991, PBTF has provided strategic leadership and funding to accelerate the number of targeted therapies for children battling brain tumors today, while equipping families with the patient family education, financial relief, and emotional support they need to navigate their child’s journey. A world without childhood brain tumors is possible when we stand together to effect real, meaningful change. Learn more at www.curethekids.org.

About the Charlotte Knights Charities
Charlotte Knights Charities, Inc. is the philanthropic base of the Charlotte Knights that actively supports and strengthens community programs through baseball that will enhance and grow the quality of life in the Charlotte area. CKC is organized to provide financial assistance to charitable organizations with the goal of advancing education, care, and to promote recreational activities to disadvantaged and underprivileged adults and children. The Charlotte Knights and CKC want to inspire, grow, and embrace the Charlotte community to create and leave a lasting legacy.

Louisville Bats Celebrate Pride on June 23

The Louisville Bats will be partnering with the Louisville Pride Foundation, Queer KY, and Derby City Pride League to host the second-annual Pride Night at Louisville Slugger Field on Thursday, June 23.

The event will be sponsored by UAW Local 862 and fans can purchase tickets and support the fundraiser at the Louisville Bat Online Box Office – Pride Night. A portion of each ticket purchased through this link will go directly to the organizations supporting our community here in Louisville.

The evening will host a bundle of promotions including a Pride Koozie giveaway to the first 500 fans (Sponsored by UAW Local 862), a ceremonial first pitch from Chris Hartman from the Fairness Campaign, and a performance of the national anthem by the Louisville Gay Men’s Chorus.

On top of these activities, Thursday Night Louisville Slugger Field promotions will also be in effect, including Game Time Happy Hour, with $2 beers from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. throughout the ballpark (21 or older only).

Saturday: Join us as the Bisons host Native American Heritage Night (6pm)

GET MY TICKETS – Native American Heritage Night

The Buffalo Bisons are proud to partner with Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino to host Native American Heritage Night as the club faces the St. Paul Saints on Saturday, July 25. First pitch is at 6:05 p.m. with the Sahlen Field gates opening at 5 p.m. TICKETS

The night will be a celebration of the rich Native American culture here in Western New York and throughout the country. The Indigenous Spirit Dancers will perform on the field pregame as well as during the game while traditional music will be played throughout the night. The Bisons will feature trivia and educational messages on the scoreboard while additional information will be available inside the ballpark’s concourse.

Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino will also be handing out Free Sunglasses to the first 900 fans that stop at their concourse table. Seneca Nation of Indians President, Matthew Pagels, will throw out the night’s ceremonial first pitch while Layla Seneca will sing the anthems for the game.

Saturday’s game is also the club’s first Labatt-urday Night of the season, featuring $4 Labatt Blue and Blue Light from 5-7 p.m. in the concourse by Section 106. Be sure to enter pre-game as a fan 21 years or older could win ‘Beer for a Year’ if a Bisons player homers off the giant inflatable Labatt can beyond the right field wall. GET MY TICKETS

Blue Wahoos And Cox Honor Legacy Of Chappie James To End Homestand On Juneteenth 

The Blue Wahoos were unable to sweep their week-long series against the Tennessee Smokies.

But they won the day in other ways Sunday, following a 5-1 loss at Blue Wahoos Stadium on an unforgettable Father’s Day at Blue Wahoos presented by Cox Communications that coincided with Juneteenth, National Freedom Day.

In addition to their title sponsorship of the day’s festivities, Cox Communications provided 100 game tickets, hats, and food to children in the community and the opportunity for the kids to take the field with the Blue Wahoos!
Nino Mendez

Their lone loss in this six-game series with the Smokies still kept the Blue Wahoos on verge of clinching the first-half division race in the Southern League South Division. The other three South Division teams, including nearest chaser Biloxi Shuckers, all lost Sunday as well.

While bats were quieted, the Blue Wahoos still stirred crowd attention among the 4,123 who braved the hot afternoon.

For the first time, the Blue Wahoos wore specialty, all-blue jerseys which included four silver stars in honor of the Gen. Daniel “Chappie” James Jr., who rose from Pensacola to become in 1975 the first African-American four-star general in United States Armed Forces history.

James’ decorated legacy included tours of combat duty in the Korean War and Vietnam War, earning him rarefied placement in U.S. Air Force history prior to his death 1978.

His granddaughter, Britt James, who was attending her brother’s wedding in Washington state, provided a video tribute and local members of the Chappie James Flight Academy and Chappie James Memorial Bridge Foundation were recognized on the field.

Then moments before the National Anthem was played, an 11-year-old boy tossed a ceremonial first pitch to a man who been in a stepdad role. On the baseball were the words, “Let’s Make This Official.”

The two melted in each other’s arms with tears as paperwork was presented for the adoption to become official.

Happy Father’s Day, indeed.

There were also youth league teams across the field in pregame warmups as part of a sponsorship from Cox Communications, who provided 100 game tickets, hats, and food to children in the community. In what might be a team record, 10 different people threw out a first pitch.

The game itself fell in what seemed a familiar comeback scenario to the Blue Wahoos.

After trailing 4-0, they had the first two batters on base in both the seventh and eighth innings. Unlike previous home game, late-inning comebacks, the Blue Wahoos (33-25) could not follow with a big hit to extend a five-game winning streak.

As it turned out, however, win or lose Sunday, the Blue Wahoos position for a playoff-clincher would not have changed. Playing hours earlier, Biloxi fell 7-6 in 10 innings, on the road against the Chattanooga Lookouts, ending Biloxi’s four-game win streak.

The Blue Wahoos will travel to Biloxi on Tuesday to begin a six-game series with the Shuckers (30-31) that will end the first half schedule. The Blue Wahoos need just one win to wrap up first-place in the first half and gain a playoff spot for mid-September.

Because each team in the South Division has played a different number of games, winning percentage is what determines the first half winner.

Cody Mincey delivered a solid start Sunday for the Blue Wahoos, working six innings, giving up all three of his runs in the second inning, but not walking a batter in his outing. He had tough luck in the second when a potential double-play was botched with a wide throw, leading into Cole Roederer’s two run single.

The Blue Wahoos got their lone run in the seventh on Jan Mercado’s two-out single, but managed only six hits against three Smokies pitchers. Cobie Fletcher-Vance went 2-for-3 as the Blue Wahoos’ lone multiple-hit batter.

WHAT’S NEXT?

WHO: Blue Wahoos vs. Biloxi Shuckers

WHEN: Tuesday (June 21) through June 26.

WHERE: MGM Park, Biloxi, Miss.

GAMETIMES: Start times are 6:35 p.m. for games Tuesday through Saturday, then 5:05 p.m. on Sunday (June 26).

TICKETS: www.biloxishuckers.com/tickets.

RADIO: : ESPN-Pensacola (99.1 FM and 1330 AM and WYCT 98.7 HD4).

TV: YurView (check provider) and MILB.tv (streaming) through www.milb.com/live-stream-games with subscription discount using BLUE WAHOOS.

NEXT HOME SERIES: Begins on June 28 vs. the Montgomery Biscuits.

Missions Announce Amount Raised from Uvalde Jersey Fundraiser 

SAN ANTONIO – The San Antonio Missions Baseball Club is proud to announce that the Uvalde Jersey Fundraiser Event on Thursday, June 16th raised $50, 357. All of the money raised will go towards the Robb School Memorial Fund.

Donations began at 10 a.m. Thursday morning with the option of placing call-in bids. Beginning at 6 p.m., fans at Nelson Wolff Stadium were able to bid on the jersey and various items at an auction table inside the third base gate.

Bidding ended 15 minutes after the final out was recorded. The Missions also had options for individual donations throughout the game. During the third inning, a “Pass-the-Hat” occurred throughout the seating bowl, giving fans multiple opportunities to donate.

The San Antonio Missions hosted the Amarillo Sod Poodles for Thursday night’s game. The Missions defeated Amarillo 4-3 after a walk-off sacrifice fly in the bottom of the ninth inning.

A Robb School Memorial Fund is held locally at First State Bank to support the families and community affected by the tragedy. Donate at https://onestarfoundation.org/uvalde/ to support the local fund.

The San Antonio Missions are the Double-A affiliate for the San Diego Padres. This is the 120th professional season for the San Antonio Missions. Single game tickets are available now and can be purchased online or at the 1st Base Box Office. Season seat memberships are available now. For more information call 210-675-PARK (7275) or visit samissions.com.