Maxwell Elementary student wins the Legends ‘Hit the Books’ Reading Program Bookmark Design Contest

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Legends announce 10 year old LeQuon Greer, a 5th grader at Maxwell Elementary in Lexington, as the overall winner of the bookmark design contest that is part of the Lexington Legends Hit the Books reading incentive program sponsored by Waffle House.

Greer (picture with graphics attached) received a Legends prize pack that included Legends merchandise, a framed Hit the Books poster featuring his artwork, and membership in the 2018 Kids Club. He also will be invited to throw a ceremonial first pitch at a designated Legends game for his school. Bookmarks featuring his artwork will be distributed to students at every school that participates in the Hit the Books program. More than 43,000 students from over 110 Central Kentucky schools take part in the program, which runs through April 1 with bookmark redemption nights throughout the season.

In Hit the Books, a baseball diamond is used to record credit for a student’s reading. For every book a student reads, a teacher places his or her initials on a base. When the student has all three bases and home plate initialed by the teacher, the student may bring a Hit the Books bookmark to the Legends Box Office at Whitaker Bank Ballpark to exchange it for two (2) tickets to a Legends home game designated for their school.

“Hit the Books will continue to be an important part of community outreach for the Legends,” said Dominique Neel, the Legends Hit the Books coordinator and Account Executive. “We enjoy going out to the schools, meeting with students and providing an incentive for their efforts in reading. It’s great to be part of a program that has a positive impact in the educational development of so many students.”

Runners-up in the design contest were Tiffany Setters, 3rd grader at Bourbon Central Elementary in Paris, Kentucky and Audrie Kind, 8th grader at Garrard Middle School in Lancaster, Kentucky. Both of these students (pictures also attached) also received Legends prize packs and opportunities to represent their schools at a game with a ceremonial first pitch opportunity.

The 2018 season is the 18th for Legends baseball in Lexington, and will also mark the 15th year that the Legends have been associated with Hit the Books. Over the course of the program, over 350,000 students have participated in the reading program sponsored by Waffle House.

For more information about the Hit the Books reading program, contact Dominique Neel at dneel@lexingtonlegends.com or (859) 422-7851. The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com. All individual game tickets are now on sale.

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

Deadline Approaching For Area Teachers to Sign Up For MVP Program

OKLAHOMA CITY – Third- and fourth-grade teachers in the Edmond, Mid-Del, Norman, Oklahoma City and Putnam City school districts may sign up through March 31 to participate in the second year of the Oklahoma City Dodgers MVP Program: Encouraging STEM Education presented by Devon Energy.

More than 100 metro-area teachers have already signed up, impacting 150 classrooms and allowing more than 3,700 students to participate in the free program that rewards area elementary students’ achievements in science and math. Approximately 1,000 third- and fourth-grade students in Oklahoma City Public Schools benefited during the program’s first year in 2017.

“Devon Energy is committed to helping communities inspire young people to pursue an interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) subjects by working with schools and community organizations to enhance access to STEM education,” said Christina Rehkop, manager of community affairs for Devon Energy. “Partnering with the OKC Dodgers for the MVP Program provided an ideal opportunity to further this goal.”

 

The MVP Program encourages area students and their teachers to participate in STEM curriculum. Top-performing MVP students will receive tickets to an OKC Dodgers game and a commemorative MVP baseball hat.

 

The second year of the program culminates May 19 with MVP Field Day at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark – an exclusive event for MVP students and teachers, as well as their families. STEM activities will be available throughout MVP Field Day and OKC Dodgers players will be on hand, helping with hitting and throwing instruction, as well as signing autographs.

“We are proud to have the chance to reward MVP Program students and teachers for their hard work during the school year and encourage future participation in STEM education throughout the greater Oklahoma City area,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “We received an incredible response from teachers and students during the program’s first year and we look forward to furthering the program’s impact in its second year.”

Teachers seeking additional information about the OKC Dodgers MVP Program and how to participate may contact Katy White at katy.white@okcdodgers.com or (405) 218-2105.

Group and season ticket packages are currently available for the 2018 OKC Dodgers season. The Dodgers’ home opener is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. Tuesday, April 10 against the Round Rock Express at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. For additional information, please call (405) 218-1000 or visit okcdodgers.com.

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

Baysox Partner With Michael’s Desserts of Bowie To Offer Delicious Ticket Package & Help Area Homeless

BOWIE, Md. – Do you love baseball and dessert? If the answer is yes, then you are in luck with the Pie in the Park Ticket Pack from the Bowie Baysox!

The most delicious ticket package in all of Minor League Baseball has arrived in Bowie again this season! As part of this limited time offer, purchasers will receive eight (8) undated box seat ticket vouchers that are valid to be used any combination of 2018 regular season home games, a collectible bobble head of your choice (Options include: Trey Mancini, Dylan Bundy, Zach Britton, Kevin Gausman or Babe Ruth) as well as a freshly baked homemade pie from Michael’s Desserts of Bowie. The pie choices include apple, mixed berry or peach and a member of the Bowie Baysox staff will personally deliver the whole package (within a 25 mile radius of Bowie.)

Michael’s Desserts is operated by Michael Platt, a 12-year-old Bowie resident who recently appeared on the Food Network’s “Kids Baking Championship”. Michael’s culinary interests are in the forefront of helping those less fortunate and the Baysox are excited to partner up with him for our annual Pie in the Park Package tradition.

For each Pie in the Park Ticket Package ordered, Michael’s Desserts will also bake and deliver a homemade pie to area homeless.

This limited time offer ends on Friday, March 23, 2018.

The Pie in the Park Ticket package is currently available for purchase at baysoxshop.com or by contacting Chris Rogers at 301-464-4813 or at crogers@baysox.com.

The Baysox annual “Pi Day” Ticket Sale is coming on Wednesday, March 14 when the Baysox offer a one-day discount on select April home games with prices starting at $3.14 (plus online web fees).

The Bowie Baysox 2018 season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. Season ticket packages are on sale now at baysoxshop.com. The team’s 2018 home opener will be Thursday, April 5 against the Harrisburg Senators at 6:35 p.m. To keep up with Baysox news during the offseason, visit baysox.com and be sure to follow the Baysox on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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

Whitecaps Community Foundation to Donate 5,000 books

COMSTOCK PARK MI, – The Whitecaps Community Foundation is celebrating “March is Reading Month” in a big way this year, by donating 5,000 books to local Grand Rapids elementary schools. The book donations will benefit the students of 15 Grand Rapids Public Schools recommended for the program based on their needs and their potential for impacting as large a student group as possible.

The Whitecaps Community Foundation started their book donation program two years ago when 300 books were donated to one school in need and since then the program has blossomed. Each school receiving books will host an assembly recognizing the importance of reading where the books will be distributed to students. Two of the donations will occur in April where West Michigan Whitecaps players will be on hand to help distribute books. Those are April 11 at Ridgemoor Park Montessori and on April 19 at Sherwood Park Global Studies Academy. Both of those are scheduled to start at 10:30 a.m.

The book donations are a key part of the Whitecaps Community Foundation’s Reading Program, which helps area school children enjoy Whitecaps baseball while promoting reading and literacy. Kids who read 15 minutes a day, during the month of March, can attend a Whitecaps game for free in April, May or June. The Whitecaps Community Foundation provides participating schools with all support materials, such as reading tracking calendars and posters, at no cost. Last year’s Reading Program had more than 67,000 K-6 children participate from over 260 West Michigan schools. Nearly 16,000 complimentary tickets were donated to students who completed the challenge.

The Whitecaps Community Foundation, the nonprofit extension of the West Michigan Whitecaps, is a 501c3 organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children and their families by providing them with access to social, educational and recreational programs that will have a positive impact on their futures. With the help and generosity of community partners and members, the Whitecaps Community Foundation continues to strive to make the West Michigan area a better place to grow, learn, and thrive.

In 2017, through a combination of donations and fundraising efforts, the Whitecaps Community Foundation gave more than $530,000 to local children and their families. For details on the Whitecaps Community Foundation’s programs and how to participate in the Reading Program please visit us at www.whitecapscommunityfoundation.org or call the Whitecaps front office at 616.784.4131.

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

Students wanted to design Fightins’ Energy Conservation Jersey

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils have announced an Energy Conservation theme jersey design competition for secondary students presented by Reading Area Community College during the Energy Conservation Go Green Night sponsored by Fromm Electric Supply. The game is scheduled for Wednesday, June 27th at 7:05 p.m. when the Fightin Phils host the Erie SeaWolves.

The Fightin Phils are accepting jersey design concepts from local students with an Energy Conservation theme tied into the jersey. Students may draw their design or use computer software programs to design the jerseys. Designs may be submitted via mail or email in the following format: .jpg, .pdg, .eps, or .ai.

The jersey will be printed in full sublimation. Artwork of the jersey requires one of the Fightin Phils logos on the left chest or center chest. Students will receive a sample template that they may use to design the jersey.

Over 400 jersey designs were submitted during the inaugural jersey design competition last season. The Fightin Phils decided instead of rewarding just one student artist, artwork and concepts were incorporated from five students in the final jersey design from the 2017 competition.

Entries may be submitted to Todd Hunsicker, Director of Promotions. His email is thunsicker@fightins.com. Entries are due by Friday, March 30th.

Each student that submits an entry will receive two free tickets to the game on Wednesday, June 27th at 7:05 p.m. The student with the winning submission will receive a Go Green Jersey, four reserved seats with all you can eat buffet, a $50 gift card to the Fightin Phils Merchandise Store and a ceremonial first pitch prior to the game on June 27th.

The specialty themed jerseys worn by the Fightin Phils will be auctioned during the game and proceeds will go to the Berks Conservancy. Tickets are available for purchase online at fightins.com or can be purchased in person at the Fightin Phils Box Office at FirstEnergy Stadium.

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

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

Sounds Expand “Hometown Hero” Program, Add Puckett’s as Presenting Sponsor

The Nashville Sounds Baseball Club is proud to announce an expansion of its “Hometown Hero” program presented by Puckett’s. At all Saturday and Sunday games at First Tennessee Park in 2018, the Sounds and Puckett’s will honor active members of the armed forces, veterans, paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers and firefighters.

Selected heroes will receive complimentary tickets to a Sounds game, a $50 Puckett’s gift card and swag. Additionally, the hero will be recognized on the iconic guitar scoreboard during a special in-between inning feature.

Nominations for heroes are now being accepted at www.nashvillesounds.com. All nominees must be, or have been, a paramedic, emergency medical technician, police officer, firefighter, or a member of the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard.

The Sounds offer military family ticket discounts for every Sunday-Wednesday game at First Tennessee Park. A $2 discount on single-game ticket prices is available for any Reserved section seat – based on availability. The offer is valid for up to four tickets per government-issued military I.D. presented at the Sounds Ticket Office.

Additionally, the Sounds salute the troops every Sunday by wearing special military jerseys.

The 2018 season will be the Sounds’ 41st in franchise history and fourth as the Oakland Athletics’ top affiliate. Opening Day is set for Thursday, April 5 when the Sounds begin the season in New Orleans. Opening Night at First Tennessee Park is scheduled for Tuesday, April 10 when the Sounds host the Iowa Cubs at 6:35 p.m. Season ticket memberships are available now by calling (615) 690-4487 or by visiting www.nashvillesounds.com.

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

Sea Dogs now accepting applications for part-time jobs

The Sea Dogs are looking to fill a variety of game day positions including Ticket Operations, Security, Mascot Services, Souvenirs, Concessions, Batboys, and Camera Operators.

Concession positions available include:
•   Area Supervisors
•   Concession Stand Workers
•   Grill & Fry Cooks
•   Prep Cook
•   Pizza Makers
•   Beer Pourers
•   Sky Box Waitstaff

Interested applicants can print the job application and drop it off at Hadlock Field. Applications are also available at Hadlock Field.

Applicants must have availability on nights, weekends, and holidays. All applicants must be at least 16 years of age as of April 13, 2018, to apply for a position. The Portland Sea Dogs are an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Sea Dogs request no phone calls.

“The Sea Dogs are committed to providing affordable, family-friendly entertainment and we are seeking personnel that will excel in enhancing the fan experience with outstanding customer service,” stated Sea Dogs Executive Vice President & General Manager Geoff Iacuessa.

The Sea Dogs open the 2018 season on Thursday, April 5th in Binghamton, New York. The home opener is scheduled for Friday, April 13th at 6:00 PM against the Binghamton Rumble Ponies.

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

Brock Holt, Spinners to Run Baseball Camp

The Lowell Spinners, short season affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, are proud to announce a new collaboration with All-Star utility man Brock Holt on a new baseball camp experience for 2018.

“Brock Holt Camp with the Lowell Spinners” will be hosted at LeLacheur Park from Tuesday July 24 through Friday July 27. The camp includes instruction from Spinners players and coaches as well as an appearance from Brock Holt in which he will host a Q&A session and each camper will receive autographed memorabilia from Holt.

“We can’t wait for the kids to able learn from Red Sox personnel and to spend time with Brock, who is one of the most fundamentally sound players in the league.” said Spinners General Manager Shawn Smith. “This will be a unique new experience for our fans and their families and who better to learn from than a guy who plays all over the field at Fenway Park!”

In addition, campers will be provided with lunch, a customized Spinners jersey, and four tickets to the game on Friday, July 27th as the Spinners host the State College Spikes, affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. During the day, campers will participate in drills highlighting basic fundamentals while receiving instruction from professional baseball players, some of whom will one day be playing in the majors. Camp runs Tuesday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and is available for both boys and girls ages 6-13.

Registration is available now at lowellspinners.com or by calling the box office at (978) 459-1702.

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

Legends Stache Tank Program in Full Swing

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Lexington Legends announce the winning Opening Day plans from Bryan Station High School Stache Tank—Legends fans will see a “Tropical Electric” theme as they enter the gates for the first time April 5, 2018.

 

Teams of Bryan Station High School students competed to create themed event plans for the 2018 Opening Day game for the April 5 Legends home opener. Other ideas included “Slumber Sluggers” focusing around a large pajama party idea which involves bringing live sheep to the ballpark, a “Luau Day” for fans to imagine themselves on a tropical island or on Spring Break, playing fun tropical themed activities and potentially having fun taking whacks at an old junk car to help relieve stress, and a theme centered around everything “jumbo;” jumbo games, jumbo prizes, etc. However, in final presentations on February 6th, the panel of judges comprised of community members ultimately selected the “Tropical Electric” theme to reign supreme.

 

Fans can anticipate Tropical Electric Opening Day to include features such as: neon lights in the concourse, a photo booth with tropical themed props up front, inflatable palm trees, dog costume dress up contest in tropical attire for Bark in the Park presented by Pepsi, glow sticks distributed at fireworks time, Hawaiian flower balloons decorating the seating bowl and other tropical décor hanging from breezeways, Hawaiian flower designs on a Legends script staff tee, Bryan Station Academy booths with games/showcasing all academies (virtual reality, etc.), a hula dance cam on the video boards, an arm wrestling contest, and face painting for kids.

Tropical Electric winning group members (picture attached) are: Anna Hassloch, Drake Witt, Jade Finley, Stephen Lyal, Caden Tarry, Kate Jones, Joko Bojang, Ariana Rojas

“We are so excited to continue to strengthen the partnership between the Lexington Legends and Bryan Station High School and to once again be taking over Opening Day” said Heather Epply, Academy Coach at Bryan Station High School. “StacheTank is such an amazing opportunity for our students to apply their creativity and skills to a real world situation. Going through the process of idea generation, planning, presenting, accepting critical feedback, and polishing their presentations teaches them so much more than they would learn in a traditional classroom. Our students are so excited to see their hard work become a reality on April 5th!”

Crawford Middle School students are presenting their final presentations to a panel of community judges at Whitaker Bank Ballpark in the Executive Boardroom on Wednesday, February 28 at 11 a.m. The top three specialty food item presentations that have moved on to the second round of judging are: a Panwich (renamed from the pancakerito; a breakfast sandwich made out of pancakes), a sandwich wrap featuring chicken tenders battered in Uncle Rays Potato Chips (Uncle Rays is the official potato chip of Minor League Baseball), and a Texas-toast sandwich with macaroni and cheese with barbeque chicken.

 

Judges for round two for Crawford Middle School students are: Kimberly Bussell of Whitaker Bank, Councilwoman Angela Evans of the 6th District, Phil Holoubek of Lexington’s Real Estate Co., Former UK Quarterback Patrick Towles of Traditional Bank, Elizabeth Murphy of Lexington Clinic, Arthur Lucas of LFUCG, and Daryl Love of Valvoline.

 

The Northern Elementary students are working on their Stache Tank give-a-way item project that the first 1,000 fans will receive at the Legends home game later in the season during the month of August.   This group of students is completing research by doing some initial market surveys to see what would excite fans. As they progress through their project, they’ll incorporate speech writing, math skills and presentation techniques as they too will present to members of the Legends Front Office for round one of presentations on March 7 at 2 p.m. and then have final presentations to a panel of community members later in March.

 

The Legends welcome media to the Crawford Middle School presentations on Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 11 a.m.

 

For more information about the Legends Stache Tank Program, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com.

 

ORIGNIAL RELEASE from 2/2/18

 

Legends Stache Tank Program for 2018 in Full Swing: Gearing up for presentations

 

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Stache Tank is back. The Lexington Legends are holding another round of Stache Tank competition, as students on the elementary, middle and high school levels from Fayette County Public Schools compete on a variety of entrepreneurial business and event project designs connected to Legends baseball at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

 

Stache Tank follows a format similar to the popular television program “Shark Tank,” in which entrepreneurs present their ideas to a panel of potential investors. The Legends call the competition “‘Stache Tank” in recognition of the team’s mustache logo. Currently, teams of students at Northern Elementary, Crawford Middle School, and Bryan Station High School have been competing with each other at their schools to create and build the best ideas and presentations. The finalists will make presentations at Whitaker Bank Ballpark to a panel of judges made up of community leaders and Legends officials as their project timelines come to a close.

 

Teams of Bryan Station High School students are creating themed event plans for the 2018 Opening Day game for the April 5 Legends home opener. Ideas include “Slumber Sluggers” focusing around a large pajama party idea which involves bringing live sheep to the ballpark, a “Tropical Electric” neon light/glow stick experience for fans, a “Luau Day” for fans to imagine themselves on a tropical island or on Spring Break, playing fun tropical themed activities and potentially having fun taking whacks at an old junk car to help relieve stress, and a theme centered around everything “jumbo;” jumbo games, jumbo prizes, etc.

 

The Bryan Station High School teams will make their presentations in the executive board room at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on Tuesday, February 6 at 10 a.m. to a panel of judges comprised of community members. Judges on the panel include: Kimberly Bussell of Whitaker Bank, James Webb and Morgan Reaguer of G&J Pepsi, Laci Poulter of Lexington Clinic, Phil Holoubek of Lexington’s Real Estate Co., 1st District Councilman James Brown, Former UK Quarterback Patrick Towles of Traditional Bank, Sheri Evans Depp of Lexmark and Christina Briggs of Kentucky Children’s Hospital.

 

Crawford Middle School students are creating a specialty food item to be served in the Kentucky Ale Taproom restaurant throughout the 2018 season. Among the early contenders are items like: a pancakerito (a breakfast burrito made out of pancakes), a special take on a pretzel bun pulled pork sandwich, a sandwich wrap featuring chicken tenders battered in Uncle Rays Potato Chips (Uncle Rays is the official potato chip of Minor League Baseball), a hamburger hotdog, a donut burger with coleslaw, and a Texas-toast sandwich with macaroni and cheese with barbeque chicken.

 

“It’s been fun watching the wheels turn in the student’s minds,” said Crawford Principal Mike Jones. “I have been challenging them to think big, bigger than they ever have before. I feel as though sometimes we do not allow our students opportunities to think outside the box enough. I actually told our students, create a new box if you want. We just had our initial taste tests, and so far, the kids are impressed with their creativity. I also think the kids are excited they have an opportunity to present an idea to members of the community and hear their feedback” he added.

 

Crawford Middle School students will present their initial presentations to members of the Legends Front Office and then have final presentations to a panel of community members at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on February 28, 2018 at 11 a.m.

 

The Northern Elementary students are working on a give-a-way item that the first 1,000 fans would receive at the Legends home game later in the season during the month of August.   This group of students is beginning their research by doing some initial market surveys to see what would excite fans. As they progress through their project, they’ll incorporate speech writing, math skills and presentation techniques as they too will present to members of the Legends Front Office and then have final presentations to a panel of community members. Those presentation dates will be set at a later date.

 

The Legends welcome media to the Bryan Station High School presentations on Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at 10 a.m.

 

For more information about the Legends Stache Tank Program, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com.

Isotopes, Cumulus Media to hold “Pack the Van” Clothing Caravan

The Albuquerque Isotopes and Cumulus Media Albuquerque are partnering to help Locker #505 provide clothing to Bernalillo County students in grades K-12 in need.

The “Pack the Van” Clothing Caravan’s goal is to collect new or gently used clothing for the Locker #505 program. There is a need for clothing in a variety of sizes for children in grades K-12, with an emphasis on hoodies, winter gloves, winter coats, winter hats and new socks. Donations for the Caravan will be accepted from Feb. 20 through Mar. 2. The Clothing Caravan of Isotopes and Cumulus vans to Locker #505 will take place on Saturday, Mar. 3.

“Our eight radio stations are dedicated to serving New Mexico,” said Cumulus Albuquerque Market Managers Jeff Berry. “We’re proud to work with our long-time partner, the Albuquerque Isotopes and Locker #505, whose mission is so noble and critical in helping clothe the students of Bernalillo County.”

Isotopes Vice President and General Manager John Traub stated, “This is a great opportunity for everyone to help the kids of our community. We look forward to working with Cumulus over the next two weeks, bringing in as much clothing as possible for the youth of Albuquerque.”

Donations can be dropped off at Isotopes Park or at a number of Cumulus radio remotes throughout Albuquerque over the Caravan’s two week duration. Collection sites for “Pack the Van” include Isotopes Park (Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm) and the Burlington Coat Factory East and West side locations on Feb. 23 and Mar. 2, 4pm – 6pm.

Locker #505 is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that has established a student-focused facility where children can try on and choose outfits that they feel good about wearing. Having appropriate school clothing allows children to concentrate on their school work, not their clothing. It also helps keep children, who might not go to class because of their clothes, stay in school.

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

Sign Up For 2018 BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camp

Young players can learn the game from the BlueClaws players at one of three Youth Baseball Camp Sessions this summer.

—

LAKEWOOD, NJ – Learn the game from BlueClaws players each day as part of the BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camp at FirstEnergy Park. The BlueClaws will hold three sessions this summer, with each session including three days of instruction from a variety of BlueClaws players.

Camp each day runs from 9 am – 12 pm and includes lunch from 12 pm – 12:30 pm, an autograph session with BlueClaws players on the last day of camp, BlueClaws merchandise, and one ticket to the September 1st BlueClaws game with a pre-game parade on the field.

The camp will cover all aspects of the game, with emphasis on hitting, base running, fielding, throwing, pitching, and position work. The objective of the camp is to instill the fundamentals of baseball, promote good sportsmanship, and create an enjoyable learning atmosphere for all.

2018 Youth Baseball Camp Sessions
Session 1: July 12 – 14
Session 2: July 24, 26, & 27
Session 3: August 16-18

Each session is just $140.

BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camp sessions typically sell out and those interested are encouraged to book their spot as soon as possible.

How to Sign Up: Sign up online by clicking here, return this order form, or call Kevin McNellis at 732-901-7000 ext 164.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment.

– BlueClaws –

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

OKC Dodgers and Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Announce Formation of OKC Dodgers Rookie League

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation have joined forces to create the OKC Dodgers Rookie League in order to help bolster youth baseball participation in the community as well as foster an environment that emphasizes leadership, teamwork and sportsmanship, the organizations announced today.

Last year, Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation was forced to cancel its baseball league due to low participation. The OKC Dodgers have stepped in to provide Dodgers-branded jerseys and hats for all players, in addition to other resources, thereby reducing participation costs and making the game more accessible.

“It was heartbreaking to learn Parks and Rec could not host a league last spring, and over the last few months we realized this was an opportunity for our organization to pitch in for our community,” said OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes. “The game of baseball had an impressionable effect on so many of us at a young age. The Rookie League will provide further opportunities for our community’s youth to be active and to learn skills such as teamwork and leadership.”

The OKC Dodgers Rookie League will consist of four baseball divisions to accommodate boys and girls in multiple skill levels and age groups. A goal of six to eight teams will compete in each division: 4U T-Ball, 6U T-Ball, 8U Coach Pitch and 10U Kid Pitch. Registration is now open and the deadline to sign up is March 19. Those interested in having their children participate in the OKC Dodgers Rookie League can visit okc.gov/parksignup and use the event code 13205. Registration is also available by calling (405) 297-3882. The cost is $55 per child and is necessary for operation expenses, such as umpires and field maintenance.

The OKC Dodgers Rookie League will also host a registration event at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on March 10, with further details to be announced in the future.

Practices will be held once per week starting the week of March 26. Game play starts April 7 and runs through May 26. The season schedule consists of eight games played at either Wheeler Park (1120 S. Western Ave.) or Stars and Stripes Park (3701 Lake Hefner Dr.).

“What better place than here in Oklahoma City – the very heart of America – to develop a partnership that will make it possible to preserve and protect and breathe new life into the all-American pastime of baseball,” said Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Director Douglas Kupper. “We truly love having the Dodgers organization here and we greatly appreciate the OKC Dodgers’ support of our efforts to bring baseball to our youth.”

The OKC Dodgers Rookie League is currently in need of coaches and volunteers. To volunteer, or for more information, please call (405) 297-1489 or email christopher.lucas@okc.gov.

MISSION STATEMENT OF THE OKC DODGERS ROOKIE LEAGUE

The OKC Dodgers Rookie League is committed to enriching the lives of our youth and fostering a love of the game. The league provides a developmental, fun and safe environment for the enjoyment of the game of baseball. The OKC Dodgers Rookie League intends to help youth to set and work towards common goals, and to build the citizens of tomorrow though character, leadership ability and confidence.

Additionally, the OKC Dodgers Rookie League emphasizes four core values through P.L.A.Y.

Participation

Leadership

Accessibility

Youth Education

To learn more about the OKC Dodgers Rookie League, contact Grant Hansen with Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation by calling (405) 297-1591 or by emailing grant.hansen@okc.gov. The OKC Dodgers can be reached at (405) 218-1000 and more information is available at okcdodgers.com/rookieleague.

Hooks Direct Harvey Funds to Area Youth

CORPUS CHRISTI – The Corpus Christi Hooks plan to distribute $113,000 to Little League and youth programs in Rockport, Port Aransas, Refugio, Ingleside, and Aransas Pass.

The resources, generated by the team’s #CoastalBendStrong campaign and Minor League Baseball, will aid the funding of scholarships which cover entry fees and uniform expenses. Monies are also earmarked for new scoreboards and a spring break camp hosted by the Port Aransas Parks and Recreation Department.

In addition to cash donations at Whataburger Field, money was raised online at YouCaring.com/CoastalBendStrong.

The Hooks designated a portion of the proceeds from their final homestand of 2017 for Hurricane Harvey relief. During the Labor Day weekend series, fans were offered free parking and “Pay What You Can” seating. Hooks players dedicated their season-long home run dollar earnings to the recovery effort. An autographed Corpus Christi game-worn jersey auction, and the sale of Coastal Bend Strong t-shirts contributed to the initiative.

Ainsworth Trucking also assisted in the collection of critical supplies.

The Akron RubberDucks, Biloxi Shuckers, Lansing Lugnuts and Fort Wayne TinCaps joined the relief effort by sending clothes, toiletries, and other essential items.

“It’s overwhelming when you look at what our neighbors and Minor League Baseball have done to help those greatly affected by the storm,” Hooks general manager Wes Weigle said. “Now is the time to put those funds to good use. We want to lend a hand in making sure kids, who’ve had their world turned upside down, take the field this spring and summer.”

During the offseason, Hooks front-office staffers volunteered in Aransas Pass, Port Aransas, and Rockport, clearing downed trees and debris.

Teams across Minor League Baseball rallied to raise over $300,000 in the aftermath of Harvey and Hurricane Irma. Funds went to the Coastal Bend Disaster Recovery Group and other relief organizations, including the Red Cross, Salvation Army, and United Way Worldwide.

This announcement also coincides with the launch of the Hooks’ Community Leaders Program. The club is currently seeking to team with corporate partners and civic leaders to support local youth sports initiatives.

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

Media Advisory: RailRiders University Community Series starts April 2

MOOSIC, PA (February 13, 2018) – The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are pleased to announce the
RailRiders University Community Series, presented by Geisinger. Each spring, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre
RailRiders welcome local collegiate, high school, little league and special needs teams onto PNC Field to
showcase their talents where the professionals play.

2018 RailRiders University Community Series

April 2- Holy Cross High School vs. Mid Valley High School- 4:30 p.m.
April 4- Holy Redeemer High School vs. Hanover Area High School- 6:00 p.m.
April 8- Lakeland High School vs. Dunmore High School- Immediately after the RailRiders game
Bill Howerton Strike Out Cancer Weekend-
April 14- Scranton High School vs. Crestwood High School- 11 a.m.
Holy Cross High School vs. Holy Redeemer High School- 1:00 p.m.
April 15- Lackawanna College vs. Harford Community College- 12:00 p.m. (doubleheader)
April 22- Lackawanna County Little League games- Times TBD
Northwest Lehigh High School vs. Northern Lehigh High School- Immediately after the RailRiders game
April 28- Lackawanna College vs. Rowan College- 12:00 p.m. (doubleheader)

May 5- Abington Heights High School vs. North Pocono High School- 2:30 p.m.
Scranton High School vs. West Scranton High School- 4:30 p.m.
May 6- Lackawanna Trail High School vs. Mountain View High School- 1:00 p.m.
Valley View High School vs. Honesdale High School- 3:00 p.m.
May 13- Western Wayne High School vs. Carbondale High School- Immediately after the RailRiders game
May 27- PIAA District 2 Championships- 6:00 p.m.
May 28- PIAA District 2 Championships- 6:00 p.m.
May 29- PIAA District 2 Championships- 5:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
May 30- PIAA District 2 Championships- 5:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

The RailRiders are also proud to host the Wyoming Valley Challenger League as part of the Community
Series at 10 a.m. on May 13, June 10, July 15, 29 and August 5. Additional dates, camps and clinics will be added as the 2018 season approaches.

The RailRiders University Community Series is presented by Geisinger as part of their continued commitment to Northeast Pennsylvania. For more information, please contact the RailRiders front office at (570) 969-BALL.

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

Sea Dogs Now Accepting Nominations for William Troubh Community Service Award

The Sea Dogs established the award to honor Mr. Troubh in April of 2014. Mr. Troubh was a lifelong resident of the city of Portland, who dedicated his life to making Portland a great place to live and work. He served multiple terms on the Portland City Council and was Mayor of the city in 1974 and 1975 and again in 1983 and 1984. Troubh was instrumental in bringing the Portland Sea Dogs to the city in 1994. He also played a major role in the development of the Portland Waterfront, Cumberland County Civic Center and the Portland Ice Arena, now named in his honor. His contributions will be enjoyed by residents and visitors of the city for generations to come.

Additionally, Mr. Troubh was a passionate baseball fan. He stayed involved after his key role in helping to bring the Sea Dogs to Portland, serving as the team’s legal counsel and served six years as President of the Eastern League from 1997 through 2002. On most summer nights Troubh could be found at Hadlock Field enjoying a Sea Dogs game with family and friends. He was inducted into the Portland Sea Dogs Hall of Fame in 2010.

Nominations must be received by Friday, March 16th. Online nomination forms are available at www.seadogs.com. On the nomination form, people will be asked to describe the actions their nominee takes to make Portland a great place to live and work. Nominations may also be mailed to:

Portland Sea Dogs
ATTN: William Troubh Community Service Award
271 Park Avenue
Portland, ME 04102

When submitting a nomination please also include your contact information.

The winner will be announced and honored in a pre-game ceremony on Saturday, April 28th when the Sea Dogs host the Reading Fightin Phils at 1:00 PM at Hadlock Field.

Past winners include John Menario (2015), Roger Goodoak (2016), and Howard Spear (2017).