Flying Squirrels, Brown Distributing, CBS 6 looking to honor heroes on July 4

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels, Brown Distributing and CBS 6 will recognize military personnel and veterans with Honoring Our Heroes presented by Brown Distributing on July 4 at The Diamond.

As part of Honoring our Heroes presented by Brown Distributing, five military personnel and veterans will receive a VIP experience at The Diamond and will be featured during CBS 6’s live broadcast of the July 4 fireworks celebration.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO NOMINATE

The winners will be announced on Wednesday, July 1 between 6:30 and 7 a.m. on “CBS 6 This Morning.”

“Brown Distributing is proud to be a part of this event and honoring our heroes,” Brown Distributing Company Co-President Dave Sorokowski said. “Our team of over 250 employees are proud supporters of the community we work in and look forward to bringing Richmond together on July 4.”

Selected honorees will also receive a swag pack of Flying Squirrels gear, CBS 6 merchandise, gift cards and more.

“Brown Distributing has been a great partner since the Squirrels arrival in Richmond,” Flying Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “Their desire to join this unique television event, honor military personnel and help the Richmond citizens through these times speaks volumes about their commitment to this community.

The live broadcast of the Fourth of July fireworks at The Diamond will air on CBS 6 on Saturday, July 4 from 9-10 p.m.

 

In an effort to practice safe social distancing and best ensure the health and of the Flying Squirrels family, the team’s front offices and team store are currently closed. Fans looking to reach out to the Flying Squirrels front office can find information here and are encouraged to interact on social media through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Additionally, COVID-19-related updates and resources from the Flying Squirrels can be found here.

Flying Squirrels, Brown Distributing, CBS 6 looking to honor heroes on July 4

Submissions being accepted to recognize local military personnel and veterans during Independence Day celebration

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels, Brown Distributing and CBS 6 will recognize military personnel and veterans with Honoring Our Heroes presented by Brown Distributing on July 4 at The Diamond.

As part of Honoring our Heroes presented by Brown Distributing, five military personnel and veterans will receive a VIP experience at The Diamond and will be featured during CBS 6’s live broadcast of the July 4 fireworks celebration.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO NOMINATE

The winners will be announced on Wednesday, July 1 between 6:30 and 7 a.m. on “CBS 6 This Morning.”

“Brown Distributing is proud to be a part of this event and honoring our heroes,” Brown Distributing Company Co-President Dave Sorokowski said. “Our team of over 250 employees are proud supporters of the community we work in and look forward to bringing Richmond together on July 4.”

Selected honorees will also receive a swag pack of Flying Squirrels gear, CBS 6 merchandise, gift cards and more.

“Brown Distributing has been a great partner since the Squirrels arrival in Richmond,” Flying Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “Their desire to join this unique television event, honor military personnel and help the Richmond citizens through these times speaks volumes about their commitment to this community.

The live broadcast of the Fourth of July fireworks at The Diamond will air on CBS 6 on Saturday, July 4 from 9-10 p.m.

In an effort to practice safe social distancing and best ensure the health and of the Flying Squirrels family, the team’s front offices and team store are currently closed. Fans looking to reach out to the Flying Squirrels front office can find information here and are encouraged to interact on social media through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Additionally, COVID-19-related updates and resources from the Flying Squirrels can be found here.

Flying Squirrels looking for All-Stars in the community

Squirrels partnering with Elephant Insurance to recognize individuals in the area making a positive difference

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels and Elephant Insurance have launched the Community All-Star of the Week program, and they are turning to fans for help in finding nominees. The Flying Squirrels want to recognize members of the local community, such as healthcare workers, first responders and teachers, helping to ease the impacts of COVID-19.

The program is open to nominations of anyone who is making a positive impact around the greater-Richmond community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATION

“While there is no action on the field at the moment, there are plenty of All-Stars working in our community keeping us safe and healthy,” Flying Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “We appreciate Elephant Insurance joining in our program to showcase these Community All-Stars with this great program. Stay positive and we hope to be back together soon physically. In the meantime we will continue to do all we can to bring our fans and community together any way we possibly can.”

“We really value our partnership with the Flying Squirrels and we are proud to support the team’s efforts to recognize our local heroes and support local businesses during this time,” said Alberto Schiavon, CEO of Elephant Insurance. “This is a fun way that we can work together to give back to deserving community members and we’re looking forward to the weeks ahead.”

The selected Community All-Stars will be recognized across the Flying Squirrels’ social media channels, and they will be presented with a gift card to a local restaurant as well as a Flying Squirrels prize pack.

About Elephant Insurance

Elephant is a consumer-focused car insurance company headquartered in Richmond, VA with the aim to put its customers at the center of all efforts. Elephant Insurance is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Admiral Group, plc., one of the U.K.’s leading insurers with a presence in eight countries and over 6 million customers worldwide. More information is available at www.elephant.com.

In an effort to practice safe social distancing and best ensure the health and of the Flying Squirrels family, the team’s front offices and team store are currently closed. Fans looking to reach out to the Flying Squirrels front office can find information here and are encouraged to interact on social media through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Flying Squirrels looking for All-Stars in the community

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Squirrels partnering with Elephant Insurance to recognize individuals in the area making a positive difference

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels and Elephant Insurance have launched the Community All-Star of the Week program, and they are turning to fans for help in finding nominees. The Flying Squirrels want to recognize members of the local community, such as healthcare workers, first responders and teachers, helping to ease the impacts of COVID-19.

The program is open to nominations of anyone who is making a positive impact around the greater-Richmond community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATION

“While there is no action on the field at the moment, there are plenty of All-Stars working in our community keeping us safe and healthy,” Flying Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “We appreciate Elephant Insurance joining in our program to showcase these Community All-Stars with this great program. Stay positive and we hope to be back together soon physically. In the meantime we will continue to do all we can to bring our fans and community together any way we possibly can.”

“We really value our partnership with the Flying Squirrels and we are proud to support the team’s efforts to recognize our local heroes and support local businesses during this time,” said Alberto Schiavon, CEO of Elephant Insurance. “This is a fun way that we can work together to give back to deserving community members and we’re looking forward to the weeks ahead.”

The selected Community All-Stars will be recognized across the Flying Squirrels’ social media channels, and they will be presented with a gift card to a local restaurant as well as a Flying Squirrels prize pack.

About Elephant Insurance

Elephant is a consumer-focused car insurance company headquartered in Richmond, VA with the aim to put its customers at the center of all efforts. Elephant Insurance is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Admiral Group, plc., one of the U.K.’s leading insurers with a presence in eight countries and over 6 million customers worldwide. More information is available at www.elephant.com.

 

In an effort to practice safe social distancing and best ensure the health and of the Flying Squirrels family, the team’s front offices and team store are currently closed. Fans looking to reach out to the Flying Squirrels front office can find information here and are encouraged to interact on social media through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

“Opening Day” Fundraisers, Flying Squirrels Charities to donate $40,000 to local COVID-19 relief

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

April 16 fundraising efforts to benefit organizations assisting families and individuals across the Richmond region

RICHMOND, Va. – Last week’s “500 Bases of Love” and “Bring it Home” fundraisers by the Richmond Flying Squirrels and Sports Radio 910 The Fan raised more than $30,000 for COVID-19 relief. With an additional $10,000 contribution from Flying Squirrels Charities, more than $40,000 will be distributed to local organizations combating needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including Holli Fund, The Community Foundation, Robins Foundation’s Family Crisis Fund through RVA Strong, Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation, Nourish Henrico and Chesterfield Food Bank.

On Thursday, April 16, the date originally scheduled as the team’s home opener, Flying Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell walked 125 laps around the basepaths at The Diamond, touching 500 bases, as part of the “500 Bases of Love” fundraiser. Each lap and each base touched were representative of donations made to the fundraiser. Parney’s walk totaled more than 8.5 miles.

Later on Thursday afternoon, Parney joined Wes McElroy on Sports Radio 910 The Fan for “Bring it Home,” a four-hour live fundraiser with celebrity guests and prize opportunities for donors.

The double-header of events resulted in more than $30,000 raised.

On Wednesday, the team announced that Flying Squirrels Charities will be contributing an additional $10,000.

“We miss our fans terribly, so the ‘500 Bases of Love’ was a great way for us all to connect positively, raise some money to fight COVID-19 and tell our fans we appreciate them, love them and can’t wait to make memories again soon,” Parney said. “Each of these organizations will work diligently to make sure this money helps people in need because of this pandemic. We pray we can be together soon in safe and happy surroundings.

The money from the fundraisers will be distributed to organizations assisting families and individuals impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic as well as groups helping those who are combating the outbreak.

Holli Fund offers grants to individuals in the food service industry experiencing an economic crisis. Grants help pay for rent, transportation, mortgage payments, and/or utilities. Holli Fund supports individuals in the Richmond-area food service industry who are experiencing an economic crisis such as injury, illness, death of an immediate family member, loss of income due to coronavirus restrictions, or other emergency.

The Community Foundation is a leading partner and advocate for philanthropy and service in the Richmond region. Founded in 1968, they’ve built a strong legacy of helping people and institutions give back with passion and purpose.

“You can always count on Parney and the Flying Squirrels organization not only to entertain us, but also to give back in meaningful ways,” Community Foundation CEO Sherrie Armstrong said. “At a time when many of our community members are particularly hard hit by this crisis, a donation to the Central Virginia COVID-19 Response Fund will directly support local organizations that are working hard to fulfill basic needs such as food, healthcare and shelter. Their generosity also sends a powerful statement that we can do more good when we come together.”

The Robins Foundation in partnership with the City of Richmond launched The Family Crisis Fund earlier this month to assist families with children in direct and immediate need of support due to job loss from the COVID-19 pandemic. The program has partnered with Family Independence Initiative to work with families across Richmond, Chesterfield and Henrico.

Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation is a non-profit organization that partners with the school district to improve student learning and achievement in preparation for success in college, career, and community. Their role is to seek private sector philanthropy to support new and existing evidence-based programs and enrichment activities.

“We are incredibly grateful for this donation from the Flying Squirrels,” Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation Executive Director Ty Toepke said. “At a time when so many of our local businesses are facing their own challenges related to the COVID-19 crisis, their generosity towards the students of Richmond Public Schools is inspiring.”

Nourish Henrico supports locally owned restaurants in Henrico by buying meals for police officers, firefighters and other county employees who are working the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the county’s program, 700 to 900 employees are eligible to receive meals valued at $15 or less from about 100 approved restaurants. In addition to its own support, Henrico welcomes contributions from the community. Donations for Nourish Henrico may be made through the Henrico Police Foundation and the Henrico Firefighter Foundation.

“The Nourish Henrico Program is about giving back – giving back to one of the most impacted industries and to our frontline employees,” Henrico County Manager John Vithoulkas said. “This effort has also shown me how strong and supportive our community is during times of difficultly, and the Flying Squirrels are an integral part of our community.”

Chesterfield Food Bank strives to stop families in the community from going to bed hungry every night. They proudly serve a variety of neighbors, a majority of whom do not qualify for government assistance. In cooperation with local Social Services, they locate and help those families and individuals that would not have been helped otherwise and serve 1,800 people a week.

In an effort to practice safe social distancing and best ensure the health and of the Flying Squirrels family, the team’s front offices and team store are currently closed. Fans looking to reach out to the Flying Squirrels front office can find information here and are encouraged to interact on social media through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Celebrity guests, prize giveaways with Wes McElroy and Parney to raise funds for local COVID-19 support

 

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels and Sports Radio 910 The Fan have partnered for the “Bring It Home Funn-raiser,” which will take place on Thursday from 2-6 p.m., in an effort to bring the Richmond community closer together and to help those fighting on the front lines against COVID-19 in the region. The radio fundraiser will include celebrity guests and prize giveaways.

Following Flying Squirrels’ VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell’s 500 Bases of Love fundraiser on Thursday morning, he will join Wes McElroy from 2-6 p.m. on Sports Radio 910 The Fan and on FM at 105.1. Throughout the program, listeners are encouraged to make donations at TheFanRichmond.com.

Each $11 donation, in honor of the Flying Squirrels’ 11th season in Richmond, will enter the donor for a chance to be a “Squirrels Player for a Day.” The prize winner will attend a Flying Squirrels game and receive a jersey and a hat, take batting practice on the field, shag fly balls in the outfield, have a special autograph and photo session with players, sit in the dugout before the game and meet with the media afterwards (must be 18 or older to win).

There will be other prize giveaways throughout the show, including:

  • Help set off fireworks at a Flying Squirrels game
  • Throw out a ceremonial first pitch
  • Dinner & drinks with McElroy and Parney at Hurley’s Tavern with three invited guests (must be 21 or older)
  • Pizza party for 15 people at your home or office with Nutzy
  • 2019 Eastern League All-Star Game jersey
  • Matt Cain autographed baseball
  • Michael Robinson autographed football and a Meet & Greet in the studio at Sports Radio 910 The Fan
  • Three pairs of VCU basketball tickets with gift cards to Home Team Grill for a pre- or post-game meal

The show will feature special celebrity guests, including:

  • Former MLB manager Bruce Bochy
  • Six-time MLB All-Star Will Clark
  • ESPN commentator Karl Ravech
  • Former NASCAR driver Elliott Sadler
  • VCU men’s basketball head coach Mike Rhoades
  • University of Richmond men’s basketball head coach Chris Mooney
  • Richmond Kickers sporting director & head coach Darren Sawatzky
  • Richmond Raceway track president Dennis Bickmeier
  • VCU Vice President & Director of Athletics Ed McLaughlin
  • Flying Squirrels president & managing general partner Lou DiBella
  • VCU baseball head coach Shawn Stiffler
  • Former MLB pitcher & co-owner of Center of the Universe Brewing Company Chris Ray
  • Former Flying Squirrels pitcher Daryl Maday

Donations can be made beginning at noon on Thursday at TheFanRichmond.com. The show can be heard at on Sports Radio 910 The Fan, on FM at 105.1, online at TheFanRichmond.com or on the Radio.com app.

In an effort to practice safe social distancing and best ensure the health and of the Flying Squirrels family, the team’s front offices and team store are currently closed. Fans looking to reach out to the Flying Squirrels front office can find information here and are encouraged to interact on social media through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Parney to walk ‘500 Bases of Love’ for COVID-19 relief on Apr. 16

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Flying Squirrels VP & COO to circle the bases in effort to raise funds for local coronavirus relief

RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond Flying Squirrels’ VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell will walk the bases at The Diamond on Thursday, April 16 to help raise help raise funds for Richmond-area organizations assisting with COVID-19 relief efforts.

Beginning at 6:35 a.m. on the day that was originally scheduled to be the Flying Squirrels’ home opener, Parney will begin walking the basepaths at The Diamond. The event will be streamed live on the Flying Squirrels’ YouTube channel.

“As we strive to stay positive during this time, we thought a great way to bring the community together and to help raise money to support those fighting on the front lines against COVID-19 would be to ‘touch ‘em all,’” Parney said. “We miss our fans terribly and think this is a good way for all of us to join forces on a day that would have been another special Opening Day in Richmond, and we can still make it special in a different way.”

The Flying Squirrels are collecting donations of $25 for each base Parney hits and $100 for each lap, with proceeds going to Flying Squirrels Charities for distributing to Richmond-area organizations helping with coronavirus relief efforts. Donations can be submitted by texting BasesOfLove to 76278 or online at BasesOfLove.givesmart.com.

On his walk, Parney will circle the bases 125 times, totaling a distance of more than 8.5 miles.

In an effort to practice safe social distancing and best ensure the health and of the Flying Squirrels family, the team’s front offices and team store are currently closed. Fans looking to reach out to the Flying Squirrels front office can find information here and are encouraged to interact on social media through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Chris Ray selected as recipient of 2020 Paul Keyes RBI Award

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RICHMOND, Va. – Former MLB pitcher and co-founder of Center of the Universe Brewing Chris Ray has been named the recipient of the 2020 Paul Keyes RBI Award, the Richmond Flying Squirrels announced on Thursday.

Ray will be presented with the award during the Flying Squirrels’ annual Hot Stove Banquet on Wed., Jan. 22 at the Siegel Center. Tickets, tables and sponsorship packages for the annual Charity Hot Stove Banquet are available now here.

The Paul Keyes RBI (Richmond Baseball Impact) Award is given annually in memory of the late VCU baseball coach Paul Keyes to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the game of baseball within the Richmond community or from the Richmond community.

“I am honored to be this year’s recipient of the Paul Keyes RBI Award and to be part of such an amazing group of previous winners that can only aspire to be good representations of who Paul Keyes was and what he stood for,” Ray said.

After playing collegiately at the College of William & Mary, Ray was selected in the third round of the 2003 MLB Draft by the Baltimore Orioles. He went on to play six seasons in the majors with the Orioles, Texas Rangers, San Francisco Giants and Seattle Mariners. Ray was part of the Giants’ World Series title run in 2010.

Ray made 283 appearances in the majors, going 18-19 with a 4.10 ERA and 51 saves, including a career-high 33 saves as the Orioles’ closer in 2006.

“Chris Ray is a success story all throughout his life, at William & Mary, as a professional baseball player, as a business owner and now in the Richmond region while he raises his family and is involved actively in many things,” Flying Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “Chris is the total package and a perfect choice for this year’s Paul Keyes Richmond Baseball Impact Award.”

Following his playing career, Ray returned to Virginia and partnered with this brother, Phil, to open Center of the Universe Brewing Company (COTU) in Ashland in 2012. Since its founding, Center of the Universe has donated over $200,000 to various charitable organizations throughout Virginia.

Ray also co-founded Hops for Heroes, a nationwide craft brewery effort that raises money for Soldiers’ Angels through the production and sale of Homefront IPA.

In the Ashland community, Ray is on the board of directors for the Ashland Theatre, serves on the board of directors for the Downtown Ashland Association, helps organize community events in Ashland and serves annually as a volunteer coach and sponsor with Ashland Little League.

Ray and his wife of 15 years, Alice, have two children, Virginia (9) and Thomas (7).

Paul Keyes RBI Award Recipients

2011 – Eddie Kasko

2012 – Johnny Grubb

2013 – Gene Alley

2014 – Tracy Woodson

2015 – Sam Ayoub

2016 – Cla Meredith

2017 – Shawn Stiffler

2018 – Tony Beasley

2019 – Ray Hedrick

2020 – Chris Ray

The Flying Squirrels’ annual Hot Stove Banquet will be held on Wed., Jan. 22 at the Siegel Center. The event includes special guest Brian Jordan, a former two-sport star for the Richmond Spiders prior to his career in the National Football League and Major League Baseball. Tickets, tables and sponsorship packages are available now at SquirrelsBaseball.com.

-SQUIRRELS-

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

Turn Left Golf Classic October 22nd

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Funnville – The Richmond Flying Squirrels, Richmond Raceway and the Dominion Energy Charity Classic are excited to announce that the 5th Annual Turn Left Golf Classic presented by Cranemasters will be held on Monday, October 22 at The Country Club of Virginia, James River Course. This year the event that benefits Flying Squirrels Charities and Richmond Raceway Cares has been aided by the Dominion Energy Charity Classic as participants can play the tournament course in the same condition and with the same pin placements as the PGA TOUR Champions pros did on Sunday during the Dominion Energy Charity (Oct. 19-21). Tickets for the Turn Left Golf Classic can be purchased here.

“It is great that three major sports entities here in town can come together for the benefit of our community,” said Richmond Raceway President Dennis Bickmeier. “Since we started this tournament, so many of our partners and friends have this event circled on their calendar. We look forward to raising money for charity and delivering another quality event to our guests.”

The Turn Left Golf Classic is a shotgun start a at 11 a.m. Prizes will be allotted to the top three foursomes and a post-event dinner on the back lawn is included with the registration price. The event was created in 2014 to benefit both Flying Squirrels Charities and Richmond Raceway Cares, two 501 (c) 3 non-profit organizations. 2018 will be the first year it is hosted by the Dominion Energy Charity Classic the day following the tournament (More info on the Charity Classic below.)

“We are excited to extend the Flying Squirrels and Richmond Raceway partnership to our great friends at the Dominion Energy Charity Classic,” said Flying Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney Parnell. “We look forward to being with them over the weekend and then celebrating their success with our Turn Left Golf Classic on Monday.”

ABOUT FLYING SQUIRRELS CHARITIES

Flying Squirrels Charities is dedicated to partnering and connecting the Flying Squirrels brand with the Greater Richmond Community in an effort to optimize results from fun and versatile fundraising campaigns to benefit the Richmond community. The Initial focus of Flying Squirrels Charities has been deemed “Renovating Richmond’s Recreation” an impactful community project in the process of renovating 14 Richmond City youth baseball facilities. Renovating Richmond’s Recreation is intended to create safe, community-minded spaces that are dedicated to Richmond’s youth.

The Initial renovation projects have already been completed at Blackwell Field (16th & Everett St.) and Westover Field (1301 Jahnke Rd.). The initial renovations include brand new covered dugouts and field maintenance. The Flying Squirrels raise money year-round for Operation Renovation through events such as the Turn Left Classic, The Charity Hot Stove Banquet and various jersey auctions.

ABOUT RICHMOND RACEWAY CARES

Richmond Raceway Cares is the community arm of Richmond Raceway. Through partnerships with hundreds of organizations in Central Virginia, we host special events and have strategic alliances that allow us to give a great deal of financial support to well-deserving groups in the Richmond area.

ABOUT THE DOMINION ENERGY CHARITY CLASSIC

The Dominion Energy Charity Classic is the first of three PGA TOUR Champions season-ending playoff events to determine the annual Charles Schwab Cup Champion. The 2018 tournament is scheduled for October 18-21 at The Country Club of Virginia, James River Course. A field of 72 professionals will compete for a share of the $2 million purse and a spot in the 54-player field the following week. All three rounds of the event will be broadcast on Golf Channel and aired in more than 180 countries around the world (2:30 p.m. -5:00 p.m. EDT Friday through Sunday). For information about corporate sponsorship opportunities, to become a volunteer or for ticket information, please visit the official tournament website at www.deccgolf.com, see our pages on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@DECCGolf) or call the Tournament Office at 804-234-8840.

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

Squirrels to Host 5th Annual Guns & Hoses Softball Game

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Funnville – The Richmond Flying Squirrels, Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, will celebrate the culmination of National Police Week (May 13-19) and the beginning of National EMS Week (May 20-26) with a First Responders Day at The Diamond on Sunday, May 20. The day will feature the fifth annual Guns & Hoses charity softball game between the Richmond Police Department and Richmond Fire Department following the Flying Squirrels’ 1:05 p.m. contest against the Harrisburg Senators.

Pregame activities for First Responders Day at The Diamond are scheduled to include a Touch-A-Truck-style event with fire trucks, law enforcement and EMS vehicles parked outside the front gates of the ballpark beginning at noon. Richmond Sheriff Antionette Irving and members of her staff will participate in Catch with a Cop in the outfield from 12:15-12:35 p.m.

“We’re committed to the greater Richmond community, and a day like this gives us an opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to the men and women who serve and protect our community every day,” said Flying Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell. “The competitive spirit between the Richmond police and fire departments is a lot of fun to watch and we encourage our fans to come out and support both on the field as well as their charitable causes.”

Both the Richmond police and fire departments are selling fundraiser tickets to Sunday’s game. Proceeds from the Richmond police fundraiser will benefit the Bike for Blue campaign while Richmond fire proceeds support the Muscular Dystrophy Association summer camp. Both organizations will also be selling T-shirts during Sunday’s game as an additional fundraiser to benefit the respective charities they are supporting.

To purchase tickets to support the Richmond Police Department fundraiser, click here: https://groupmatics.events/Richmondpolice

To purchase tickets to support the Richmond Fire Department fundraiser, click here: https://groupmatics.events/Richmondfire

As part of every Sunday home game, kids ages 14 and younger can run the bases after the game presented by Richmond Family Magazine. The Guns & Hoses softball game will begin immediately after kids run the bases.

For more information regarding First Responders Day, call 804-359-FUNN (3866). To learn more about upcoming events in Funnville and to purchase tickets, visit www.squirrelsbaseball.com.

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

Flying Squirrels Announce Hurricane Relief Efforts

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RVA – The Richmond Flying Squirrels, Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, have teamed up with the American Red Cross, VCU & Hilldrup Moving & Storage in an effort to help raise funds and items for those affected by Hurricane Harvey. Flying Squirrels Charities, a nonprofit 501 (c)3, will be leading off the efforts with a $2,000 donation on behalf of Flying Squirrels fans. This donation, along with any cash donations received from fans at The Diamond to the American Red Cross Thursday-Sunday, will be matched by Minor League Baseball Charities (up to $10,000).

Additionally, Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., The Diamond will be a donation center for items needed in Houston-area shelters (specific items listed below). VCU Head Basketball Coach Mike Rhoades, a former Houston-resident, is spearheading the relief efforts. Rhoades and his family will be on hand to assist in taking donations at The Diamond, Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. VCU basketball players as well as Flying Squirrels players, will accompany Rhoades at the park in rotating shifts.

“I know RVA will once again come through for those that need our help,” said VCU Head Basketball Coach Mike Rhoades. “We need you to contribute and assist all those in the Houston-area who were decimated by this terrible storm. This initiative will directly make it better for those that need it. My family, our team and our VCU community will be actively involved at The Diamond.”

The Red Cross will be at The Diamond from Thursday-Sunday and will be accepting cash donations. Fans can also donate to the American Red Cross through the coded link provided here to receive a matching contribution from MiLB Charities. The Flying Squirrels will also donate the proceeds from Saturday’s raffle and Launch-A-Ball to the relief effort. A silent auction will also be a contributor during Saturday’s game.

“Obviously, our hearts go out to all involved in Texas,” said Flying Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell. “We have several players and front office staff who we care deeply about, who have families and friends deeply affected by this and we always want to do what s right and lead here in Richmond, so we were happy to be involved in this with our partners at VCU and Hilldrup Moving and Storage.”

VA Blood Services will also be at The Diamond on Saturday from 1-4 p.m., for those who wish to give blood. Blood is a much a needed commodity in the relief effort. A financial contribution wiull be made on behalf of each participating donor

SPECIFIC ITEMS NEEDED

Please only bring new items listed below. Hilldrup Moving & Storage will be on site at The Diamond to collect the items from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 2. Items will be delivered to the Salvation Army in Houston.

  • Diapers
  • Baby Formula
  • Blankets
  • Toiletries
  • Towels / paper towels
  • Non-Perishable Food Items
  • Work Gloves / latex & non-latex gloves
  • Protective footwear / boots
  • Mops / brooms
  • Plastic garbage bags
  • Extension cords
  • Socks / Underwear

“The devastation from Hurricane Harvey is nothing short of heartbreaking, and the thoughts and prayers of everyone at Hilldrup go out to all those who’ve been affected,” said Charles W. McDaniel, President and CEO of Hilldrup. “We thank everyone in the Richmond community for their generosity and are honored to help the victims by getting these donations to those in need.”

Richmond continues the last homestand of the season at The Diamond on Wednesday at 6:35 p.m. Wednesday is a Wine Up Wednesday with wine specials from 5:30-7:30 p.m. A full rundown of the season’s final promotions can be found here. Tickets and additional details can be found at www.squirrelsbaseball.com.

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

Flying Squirrels to Salute TAPS with Patriotic Digi-Camo Jerseys

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RVA – The Richmond Flying Squirrels, in conjunction with The Good Feet Store – Richmond, present a “Salute to TAPS” on Flag Day, June 14, at The Diamond. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and first pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m.

The event will feature pregame skydivers from No Limits Skydiving and in-game will honor families supported by the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), which “offers compassionate care to all those grieving the loss of a loved one who died while serving in (the United States) Armed Forces or as a result of his or her service.”

The Flying Squirrels will also wear patriotic Flag Day jerseys with red, white and blue digi-camo numbers and lettering. The game-worn jerseys will be auctioned during the game with proceeds of the event going to benefit TAPS.

“The military members that we will be honoring and remembering on Flag Day gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms,” Flying Squirrels VP and COO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “This event is a way for us and the community to show our gratitude and support to them and their families.

“The Squirrels have never worn digi-camo jerseys like these before, so that’s one reason to bid on them. But even more so, the TAPS organization provides an important and necessary resource to the loved ones of our fallen heroes.”

Founded in 1994, TAPS is a national peer support network and connection to grief resources for surviving family members and loved ones of fallen servicemen and servicewomen at no cost.

“Every day that we open The Good Feet Store with peace and safety is cause for thanks,” said Jonathan Cotten, owner of The Good Feet Store – Richmond. “Those who have given the ultimate sacrifice deserve our thanks and recognition. June 14, Flag Day, seemed a logical day for our ‘Salute to TAPS,’ and we are glad to partner with the Flying Squirrels to invite these special families so we can all say thanks.”

The game also features Wine Up Wednesday wine specials from 5:30-7:30 p.m. presented by Mix 98.1. There will also be live pregame entertainment by Ragged Edge on the Elephant Insurance Fan Zone main stage.

Flying Squirrels individual tickets, mini plans and group packages are on sale by contacting the Richmond box office at 804-359-FUNN or online at www.squirrelsbaseball.com

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

Local Military Members Honored In Squirrels Card Set Giveaway

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Richmond-Flying-SquirrelsThe Richmond Flying Squirrels, Double-A affiliate of the World Champion San Francisco Giants, are excited to announce they are currently accepting nominations for their inaugural Military Card Set Giveaway on May 26th presented by Verizon. The trading card set will be comprised solely of current or former members of the military that have been nominated by fans. Nominations will be accepted through April 10th online at www.squirrelsbaseball.com or at any Verizon Wireless Store in Central Virginia. Military card sets will be distributed to the first 2,000 fans on May 26th at The Diamond. Gates open on May 26th at 5:30PM and a pre-game ceremony to honor all Military members will take place before the first pitch against Harrisburg. SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATIONS HERE

“We have always had strong a place in our heart for our Military personnel and all they do to protect our freedom and allow us to do what we do for and in our community,” Said Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell. “We could not be more pleased to highlight these heroes in this commemorative and limited edition card set.

Any questions regarding the Military Card Set Giveaway can be directed to erin.mcdonald@squirrelsbaseball.com. The Flying Squirrels 2015 season begins on Thursday, April 9th. Single-Game tickets are currently on sale at The Diamond, over the phone and online. Opening Night April 9th will feature the Squirrels first eve dueling fireworks and dueling piano show. For a full list of the 2015 season promotions, visit www.squirrrelsbaseball.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Richmond Flying Squirrels. Click here to view the original story.

Squirrels Nominated For John Henry Moss Community Service Award

Richmond Tabbed by Eastern League for Award in 5th Season

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Richmond-Flying-SquirrelsThe Richmond Flying Squirrels, Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, are pleased to announce that the organization has been nominated by the Eastern League of Professional Baseball Clubs for the 2014 John Henry Moss Community Service Award. The league nominates just one team for the award, presented annually by Minor League Baseball.

The John Henry Moss Community Service Award is bestowed upon a club that demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within their local community and within the baseball industry.

Community impact has been a foundational focal point for the Squirrels since their inception in 2010. The Squirrels’ nomination comes following a season in which they continued to expand many of their community aims. That included the launch of the Squirrels’ new non-profit arm, Flying Squirrels Charities, created with the goal of growing opportunities for local children. The first major fundraising campaign for Flying Squirrels Charities was “Smooch-a-Pig,” which included the involvement of 10 local celebrities and benefitted “Operation Renovation.” The campaign, which endeavored to rebuild 12 little league fields for the Richmond City Department of Parks & Recreation, raised over $60,000.

“There are many awards that the Squirrels as an organization would be delighted to receive,” said Flying Squirrels’ Vice President & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell. “However, this nomination is of particular significance to us. Community service is the bedrock of the Squirrels’ organization, and it is gratifying that our sustained effort continues to have a profound impact.”

The Squirrels continue to be one of the most active teams in professional sports within their community. Among their other programs and highlights:

  • “Go Nuts for Reading Program (39,000 student participants)
  • Flying Squirrels Art Contest (5th Year)
  • Score an “A”, Score a Ticket Program
  • Kroger Squirrels Tails Kids Club (24,000 Members)
  • In-Season Youth Camps
  • Drives (Food, Books, School Supplies, Blood)
  • Mustaches for Kids Program
  • Ed Randall’s Bat for the Cure
  • Charitable Events (Turn Left Golf Classic, Hot Stove Banquet, Nutzy’s Rotary Funn Run, Squirreloween, Puritan Cleaners Coats for Kids Drive, etc.)
  • 450 Mascot Appearances Annually (Local Schools, Businesses, Non-Profits, Festivals, etc.)
  • 30 Player and Coaches Appearances During the 2014 Season (200+ Hours of Community Service)
  • Executive Speaking Engagements (100+ in 2014)
  • ASK Fun Walk & 5K (Ask Foundation – 9th Annual)
  • Camp Warrior
  • Flying Squirrels Regional Youth Baseball Tournament
  • Monetary Gifts & Gifts In-Kind ($150,000)

The John Henry Moss Community Service Award is named after the longtime, former South Atlantic League president, who founded the SAL and presided over it for a half-century (1959-2008).

The John Henry Moss Community Service Award will be presented at the Baseball Winter Meetings, which will be held in San Diego, CA, from December 7-11.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Richmond Flying Squirrels. Click here to view the original story.

Pig-Smooching Raises Nearly $40,000

Ten Local Leaders Bring Home the Bacon for Area Youth

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Richmond-Flying-SquirrelsThe Richmond Flying Squirrels Charities, the non-profit foundation of the Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, are pleased to announce that the inaugural Smooch-A-Pig charity fundraising campaign raised nearly $40,000 for Richmond area youth athletics. Ten dedicated local business leaders and celebrities (listed below) executed vigorous fundraising campaigns for the honor of smooch Parker the Rally Pig at home plate during the Squirrels game on July 17th. While all of the participants went “whole hog” in their tireless efforts, Dan Schmitt from RMC events brought in the most bacon and won the privilege to kiss Parker. Schmitt brought along chocolates and a rose to give the celebrity swine and the two shared a special moment at home plate (photos attached) prior to the game. All the proceeds raised will go directly to “Operation Renovation,” a dedicated community impact project to renovate 12 Richmond youth baseball facilities (details below).

Richmond-Flying-Squirrels-CharitiesThe Smooch-A-Pig Participants:

Jon Bibbs, Richmond Prep School Administrator
Matt DiNardo, WRIC TV Meteorologist
Jack and Melissa, 103.7 Play
Cla Meredith, Former MLB Player
Barry Moore, Volvo of Midlothian
Kim Scheeler, Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce President & CEO
Dan Schmitt, RMC Events President
Latrell Scott,Virginia State University Head Football Coach
Norman Way, Puritan Cleaners Director of Operations
Lisa Watkins, Coca-Cola East Region Key Account Development Manager

“We can’t thank these ten leaders enough for their extraordinary efforts,” Flying Squirrels Chief Executive Manager Chuck Domino said. “These candidates share our vision for what Operation Renovation can do for the community. The money raised here is an important start of what will be an ongoing effort from Flying Squirrels Charities.”

The four phases for Operation Renovation are projected as follows:
Phase 1- build 24 dugouts on 12 designated youth baseball fields in Richmond
Phase 2 – improve these same playing fields
Phase 3 – develop the Henderson Complex into a Little League Complex, including the concessions building
Phase 4– recover and renovate unused fields as demands dictate.

Operation Renovation Youth Baseball Fields

Battery Park, 2000 Fendall Ave.
Bellemeade, 1800 Lynhaven Ave.
Bill Robinson, 701 N. 37th St.
Blackwell, 16th & Everett St.
Calhoun, 436 Calhoun St.
Chandler, 201 E. Brookland Park Blvd.
Hotchkiss (Two Fields), 701 E. Brookland Park Blvd.
Lucks Field, Rodgers & T St.
Powhatan, 5051 Northampton Ave.
Westover (Two Fields), 1301 Jahnke Rd.

Although the inaugural Smooch-A-Pig campaign is over, additional information and donations can still be made to Flying Squirrels Charities through the website www.smoochapig.com. Any individuals or business interested in getting involved with Operation Renovation and Flying Squirrels Charities can contact Squirrels Charity Liaison/Media Relation Manager Jay Burnham at 804-482-6791 or email at jay.burnham@squirrelsbaseball.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Richmond Flying Squirrels1. Click here to view the original story.