Ashley HomeStore Donates 50 Mattress Sets

CORPUS CHRISTI — Ashley Furniture HomeStore’s “A Hope to Dream” program is donating 50 Tempur-Pedic mattress sets to local children in need during August. The furniture retailer’s goodwill project is in collaboration with the Corpus Christ Hooks Baseball Club.

Each mattress set is comprised of a mattress, foundation, and comforter.

Local partnerships with The Food Bank of Corpus Christi, KIII-TV3, KRIS-TV, The Beach 96.5, Hot Z95, Post Acute Medical, Colon and Rectal Associates of South Texas, the American Red Cross, and others are providing other donated items for 50 children to help them prepare for the 2017-18 school year.

Youngsters selected to receive a new bed will be treated to an evening at Whataburger Field and special night with the Hooks on Saturday, August 12.

“This event will be our largest single-day donation with our “A Hope to Dream” program,” said Paige Streiff, Owner of the Corpus Christi Ashley Furniture HomeStore. “As a mother of two young children, I witness first-hand what having a bed of their own and a quality night’s sleep can do for these developmental years. Obtaining a great night of sleep promotes a healthy lifestyle and is an excellent way to start out everyone’s day.”

Said Dr. Craig Bennett, M.D. of Ashley’s Wellness Center: “An estimated 30 to 50 percent of children have trouble sleeping well. Getting a good night’s sleep is more important than most people realize. It helps ensure a healthy lifestyle by lowering stress and reducing the risk for illness and depression, while improving cognitive and physical performance. A good night’s sleep is especially important to help children focus academically and grow socially.”

Ashley Furniture HomeStore’s “A Hope to Dream” program was created to provide mattress sets to children with a demonstrated need.

A Hope to Dream

Ashley Furniture HomeStore believes that every child deserves a good night’s sleep. Founded in 2010 on that guiding principle, Ashley Furniture HomeStore’s “A Hope to Dream” program provides mattress sets to less fortunate children in our area. A portion of the proceeds for every mattress purchased at the Ashley Furniture HomeStores in Victoria and Corpus Christi helps pay for a mattress set for a child in need. To date, Ashley Furniture HomeStores throughout the U.S. have together provided underprivileged children with approximately 13,000 beds. Those wishing to nominate a child can visit http://www.ashleyfurniturehomestore.com/events/ahopetodream.html or request an electronic application by emailing AHopeToDream@ashleyfurniture.com. In-store applications are also available at participating locations.

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

Kettering Health Network Presents Breast Cancer Awareness Day

Kettering Health Network presents Breast Cancer Awareness Day on Sunday, August 6 at Fifth Third Field when the Dayton Dragons host the Lansing Lugnuts at 2:00 p.m. All Dragons players, coaches, front office and game day staff will be wearing pink sweatbands during the game.

The Breast Cancer Awareness Event will take place on the plaza where Kettering Health Network will be passing out pink rally towels. Kettering Breast Evaluation Centers will also have a booth on the plaza. In addition, the American Cancer Society will have information on the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk which is being held at Fifth Third Field on Saturday, October 21.

Breast Cancer fighter Jennifer Michaels will throw out the ceremonial first pitch. Michaels had a routine mammogram done in July of 2013. Following, the mammogram, a biopsy was performed and she received a surgeon’s opinion. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in August of the same year.

Michaels stressed the importance of regular checkups and mammograms, “It’s better to catch it early then to wait for it to develop.”

Having undergone four years of treatment, Michaels continues her fight against breast cancer today. She sees Dr. Lavelle at the Kettering Cancer Center.

“Breast cancer is not discriminatory. It doesn’t matter if your family has a history of it,” Michaels explained. “It can even happen to the healthiest of people.”

As a part of a national fundraising effort, the 2017 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk will take place at Fifth Third Field on Saturday, October 21 starting at 8 a.m.

More Information: The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. 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 (937) 228-2287, by email at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com.

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

Donate to the Cardinals School Supplies Drive and get $1 tickets

Springfield, MO – The Springfield Cardinals are excited to partner with the Foundation for Springfield Public Schools to host the 2017 Stuff the Bus School Supplies Drive at Hammons Field.

Running right now through the Sunday, August 6 game at Hammons Field, the Cardinals are seeking donations of new school supplies. All fans that donate from the list of needed school supplies below may purchase a discounted $1 ticket to the August 6 game for each item donated.

Below is a list of needed school supplies for the Stuff the Bus School Supplies Drive:

-Washable Markers
-Mead Composition Books
-Portfolio Folders with Pockets
-Mechanical Pencils
-Pens
-Backpacks
-Tissues
-Anti-bacterial Wipes
-Colored Pencils
-Crayons
-Glue Sticks
-Scissors

To donate, please bring your new school supplies from the above list to the Cardinals Ticket Office at Gate 1 at Hammons Field. The Ticket Office is open from 9am – 5pm, Monday – Friday, and from 9am through the game on gamedays.

First Pitch on Sunday, August 6 is 6:10pm with gates opening at 5:10pm. Sunday also features the Sysco Foods Team Baseball Card Set Giveaway (2,000) and is a Hiland Dairy Ice Cream Sunday with free ice cream for kids before the game. All kids can also run the bases after the game.

For more information, call the Front Office at (417) 863-0395 or visit SpringfieldCardinals.com.

Route 66 Super Soft Shirts, Willie McGee Bobbleheads, Dance Party Fireworks and more during August 3 – 6 homestand

The Cardinals continue the road trip in Tulsa on Tuesday at 7:05pm. Catch all the action live on Jock 98.7 FM and SpringfieldCardinals.com, and tune in 15 minutes early for the Coyote’s Sports Cafe Pregame Show.

Springfield then returns home for the next fun-filled homestand from Thursday, August 3 – Sunday, August 6. Don’t miss any of the upcoming fun, including:

-Thursday, August 3, 7:10pm – Aaron Sachs & Associates Route 66 Super Soft Shirt Giveaway (2,000) and Klement’s “Buck a Brat” Night. Gates open at 6:10pm.

-Friday, August 4, 7:10pm – AM Pyrotechnics Friday Night Fireworks featuring Dance Party Music and a Specialty Jersey Auction to benefit the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri. Gates open at 6:10pm.

-Saturday, August 5, 6:10pm – Maria’s Mexican Restaurant Willie McGee Career Highlights Bobblehead Giveaway (2,000). Gates open at 5:10pm.

-Sunday, August 6, 6:10pm – Sysco Foods Team Baseball Card Set Giveaway (2,000), Hiland Dairy Ice Cream Sunday and Kids Run the Bases. Gates open at 5:10pm.

For information about becoming a Season Ticket Holder, organizing a Group Outing, booking a Birthday Party or ordering Individual Game Tickets right now, call the Front Office at (417) 863-2143 or visit SpringfieldCardinals.com.

Click here for the complete 2017 Promotional Schedule and to order your tickets right now.

Escape to Cardinals Baseball!

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

Prostate Cancer Awareness Night on Aug. 11

CLEARWATER, Fla. – Prostate Cancer Awareness Night on Friday, August 11, serves as a fundraiser for the Morton Plant Mease Foundation and Ed Randall’s Fans for the Cure. In addition to on-field ceremonies, in-game entertainment, and vendors on the concourse, there will be a silent auction. Guest may bid on the special blue, game-worn jerseys Threshers players and coaches will be sporting on the field that night. Winners of the jersey bidding may go on the field after the game to receive their autographed jersey in-person from the player. Other items in the auction include Phillies memorabilia and merchandise and gift cards from local businesses. Be sure to visit Ed Randall’s Fans for the Cure table for a chance to win a team-autographed bat.

Gates open at 5:30 p.m. for the 6:15 p.m. game with the Lakeland Flying Tigers. The first 1,000 men to arrive will receive a free Men’s Zipper Travel Bag courtesy of Academy Bus.

Stay after the game for a rocking concert by Stormbringer, part of the Threshers Summer Concert Series presented by Leinenkugel. From the band’s website, StormbringerBand.com:

“What band can perform the most iconic rock songs of all time? What band can play the most challenging hits that other bands would never dream to attempt? And what band has been thrilling local, national and international audiences for over 21 years? The answer is Tampa Bay’s Stormbringer band.

Boasting the very same members for the last 21 years, Stormbringer effortlessly delivers air tight renditions of hit songs like Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody, Pink Floyd’s The Wall and Bon Jovi’s Livin’ on a Prayer. A stunning concert act that also possesses a rockin’ catalogue of non-stop party and dance songs, the band provides crowd pleasing music to perfectly match any large event.

Stormbringer features soaring lead vocals, crisp four-part harmonies, thunderous drums, dramatic keyboards and crunching guitars in their hundred-plus song repertoire. But the band has another amazing distinction that sets them apart from the others. Stormbringer is employed by rock’s biggest artists to back them in concert when they don’t use their own band. Legendary Classic Rock heroes hire Stormbringer because the music is reproduced and performed with spot-on accuracy and jaw dropping precision.”

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

Kernels players and front office to take ALS Ice Bucket Challenge on Wednesday

Cedar Rapids, IA – Kernels players and members of the Kernels front office staff will take the Ice Bucket Challenge for ALS Awareness on Wednesday, August 2nd at 2:30 PM on the main concourse at Perfect Game Field right inside the main gates.

In 2014 the Facebook and other social media pages were filled with people accepting and fulfilling the Ice Bucket Challenge. The moto now of the ALS Association is “Every August until a Cure”. The Kernels staff and players are also making a cash donation to the ALS Association as a group.

The purpose of the challenge is to accept the challenge and pour a bucket of ice water over your head, make a donation to ALS or both. Donations can be made by visiting the ALS website at www.als.org.

The Kernels continue a seven-game home stand tonight at 6:35 PM vs. Clinton. Gates open at 5:30 PM and the current home stand continues through Friday, August 4th.

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

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

Castano, pink jerseys power Spikes to win

UNIVERSITY PARK, PA – Daniel Castano delivered 7 2/3 strong innings on the mound, and Tyler Lancaster homered to produce the eventual game-winning run as the State College Spikes defeated the Auburn Doubledays, 2-1, on Sunday night at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.

The Spikes (21-17) also helped the fight against breast cancer by donning Pink Boxing Robe Themed Jerseys as part of Paint the Park Pink Night, presented by Mount Nittany Health. The jerseys went up for bids in a Jersey-off-the-Back Auction that raised $3,500 for the Mount Nittany Health Foundation, with more to be raised through additional jersey auctions through MiLBAuctions.com and two more Spikes 50/50 Raffle drawings during the course of the season.

Castano (7-1) notched his league-leading seventh win as he yielded just two hits, two walks and a hit batsman while recording five strikeouts. The left-hander has now struck out 51 batters, most in the New York-Penn League, and walked just seven over 52 1/3 innings this season.

State College took the lead in the seventh as Yariel Gonzalez reached base on a two-base outfield error, then scored on Bryce Denton ‘s single to right. Denton was the lone Spike with multiple hits in the game.

Lancaster then gave the Spikes an insurance run as he slugged a 1-1 pitch from Auburn reliever Jeremy McKinney over the right-field wall for a solo homer, his second of the season. State College produced just three hits total on the night.

Auburn (15-24) threatened in the eighth by loading the bases, but could not score. The Doubledays then got within a run in the ninth when Jeyner Baez singled to the left side, but stranded runners on first and second to end the game.

Spencer Trayner (2) pitched the last 1 1/3 innings for the Spikes to earn the save. Trayner allowed a run on two hits and a walk, with his lone strikeout finishing the victory.

Doubledays starter Nick Raquet (0-1) was tremendous in his return home, as the State College Area High School alum allowed just one unearned run on two hits over a career-long five innings of work. The Nationals’ 2017 third-round draft choice also produced a strikeout in the effort, but took a tough loss.

Monday, the Spikes and Doubledays meet at 7:05 p.m. for the middle game of a three-game series at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park. 6’6″, 19-year-old Cuban righthander Johan Oviedo (0-0) will make his first start of the season for State College. Oviedo is currently rated as the 23rd-best prospect in the Cardinals organization by MLBPipeline.com.

Auburn is slated to send left-hander Yonathan Ramirez (2-2) to the hill for his second start of the year against the Spikes.

The fun continues with Monday Buck Night, presented by 95.3 FM 3WZ. Fans can get into the park with $1 Outfield Bleacher seats, then enjoy $1 hot dogs, $1 small sodas and $1 peanut boats throughout the game.

The homestand concludes on Tuesday with the annual Super Splash Day game at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, as Ike’s Kids Zone turns into the Splash Zone for kids of all ages. First pitch between the Spikes and Doubledays will be at noon, and fans can enjoy another $2 Walking Taco Tuesday, presented by B94.5.

Kids will also have the opportunity to run the bases after Tuesday’s game thanks to Wonderland Charter Schools.

Tickets for Monday and Tuesday’s games, as well as every game remaining on the Spikes’ 2017 home schedule, are currently on sale through the Spikes Ticket Office by calling (814) 272-1711 or by visiting in person. Fans can also buy and download single-game tickets by visiting StateCollegeSpikes.com.

Catch all of the action on Monday via the Spikes Radio Network, presented by Penn State Sports Medicine, Official Healthcare Provider of Penn State Athletics, at 6:35 p.m. with Spikes Live, presented by Mount Nittany Health, on the air from Medlar Field at Lubrano Park. The Spikes’ radio broadcast can also be heard worldwide through the “Listen Live” link on StateCollegeSpikes.com, provided by the club’s flagship radio home, Newsradio 1390 WRSC, as well as the TuneIn Radio app.

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

Boy Scout Night at Fluor Field on Wednesday

The final game of the homestand is on tap for Wednesday at 7:05 PM as the Drive host Boy Scout Night presented by Duke Energy.

The fun begins with a pregame parade on the field for Upstate Boy Scout troops at 6:30 PM. The Boy Scouts will be recognized for their hard work this past year with a special commemorative patch, and they will get to participate in between-inning games and entertainment. Following the game, Boy Scouts will be invited to camp out in the outfield.

Be sure to come out to Fluor Field on Wednesday to celebrate the Boy Scouts for their outstanding accomplishments this year and cheer on the Drive! Purchase your tickets at the Main Street Box Office, by calling (864) 240-4528 or by CLICKING HERE.

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

SUNDAY: $5 OFF tickets, Merchandise discount with ‘Say Yes’ Dorm Room Drive Donations

Senator Tim Kennedy (D-Buffalo) joined representatives from Say Yes Buffalo, the Buffalo Bisons, and local community leaders at Coca-Cola Field Friday to announce a new partnership designed to equip Buffalo’s neediest scholars with necessities to succeed as they pursue higher education. As part of the Bisons’ Sunday afternoon game against Louisville fans are encouraged to bring school supplies to donate to Say Yes’ Dorm Room Drive; for every donation made, attendees will receive $5 off each ticket purchased, along with a voucher for 20% off merchandise in either of the two Bisons gift shops.

The Bisons game against the Louisville Bats will begin at 1:05 p.m. on Sunday. Fans wishing to make a Say Yes donation can do so starting at 11:30 a.m. outside the ticket office.

Kennedy partnered with Say Yes to launch the drive in 2016 after learning that despite receiving free access to higher education, many Say Yes scholars can’t sustain enrollment due to a lack of tools needed to succeed, including school supplies, bedding, and other basic toiletries. According to Say Yes, approximately 50% of scholars have a combined family income below $25,000, and 70% are below $55,000, leaving many facing extreme poverty. Kennedy, Say Yes, and the Buffalo Bisons are hopeful Sunday’s gameday drive will help send scholars into their first semesters fully prepared.

“Say Yes has been a fantastic advocate for the students of Buffalo who do not have the means to attain a higher education. Last year, our Dorm Room Drive was met with an incredible response from the community, with hundreds of people stepping up to help our students who need it most. I’m thrilled that the Buffalo Bisons have joined our drive this year, demonstrating once again their commitment to Buffalo’s youth,” said Senator Kennedy. “The City of Good Neighbors has lived up to its name time and time again, and when it comes to supporting our students, I know this drive will be no different. Please come out and enjoy a great game of baseball with family and friends this weekend, and know that your donation will go a long way towards helping Buffalo’s next generation succeed.”

“The Bisons organization is proud to support the vital work that Say Yes Buffalo is doing to keep the future bright for so many young scholars in our area. Bisons fans have always stepped to the plate when it comes to giving back to the community and we’re looking forward to a fantastic afternoon at Coca-Cola Field on Sunday,” said Mike Buczkowski, Vice President/General Manager of the Buffalo Bisons.

“We are grateful for Senator Kennedy’s leadership in mobilizing our community to respond to the needs of our scholars,” said David Rust, Say Yes Buffalo Executive Director. “The needs of our students go beyond tuition and we are thankful to everyone who participates and donates to this drive.”

“I applaud the efforts of Mayor Brown, Senator Kennedy, Say Yes to Education and the Buffalo Bisons. They recognized an existing gap with our scholars as it relates to room and board, toiletries, and other personal items and are working to eliminate it. While unable to physically be there today, I am very supportive of this drive and have a donation collection basket outside of my office. Thank you to our sponsors and congratulations to our students,” said Assemblywoman Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes.

The Dorm Room Drive is currently underway across WNY, and extends beyond school supplies. A full list of the type of essentials needed is included below:

Laundry Kit – Laundry soap, hangers, fabric softener, laundry bag, and laundry basket.

Personal Care Kit – Shampoo, conditioner, razors, shaving cream, soap, brush, towels, washcloths, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shower shoes, and shower caddy.

Dorm Room Bedding Kit – Bed in a Bag set (for a male or female) that includes fitted sheet, flat sheet, comforter, and pillowcases plus a mattress cover and pillow. Please note: sheet size must be Twin XL to fit a standard dorm room mattress.

School Supplies Kit – Pens, pencils, notebooks, folders, binders, USB cord adapters, printer paper, index cards, post-it notes, dividers, and a heavy-duty backpack.

Donations can also be dropped off at the following locations:

· Senator Tim Kennedy’s Office – 2239 South Park Ave.
· Say Yes Buffalo’s Office – 712 Main St.
· City Hall (Lobby & Basement) – 65 Niagara Square.
· Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes’ Office – Compass East Building Lobby 425 Michigan Ave.
· Senator Chris Jacobs‘ Office – 65 Court Street, Rm 213
· Erie County Legislator Barbara Miller-Williams’ Office – 427 William St.
· North Buffalo Community Center – 203 Sanders Rd.
· Rich Products Corporation – 1 Robert Rich Way
· Larkin Square, Main Lobby – 726 Exchange St.
· CAO: Masten Resource Center – 1423 Fillmore Ave.
· Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo – 726 Exchange St.
· Buffalo Urban League – 15 Genessee St.
· Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church – 400 Northampton St.
· St. Paul’s, Clarence – 4275 Harris Hill Rd., Williamsville
· Cazenovia Neighborhood Library – 155 Cazenovia St.
· Child & Family Services – 844 Delaware Ave.
· The Resource Council of WNY – 347 E. Ferry St.

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

Paint the Park Pink, Super Splash Day on Spikes slate

The State College Spikes return home Sunday to begin a three-game homestand at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park that runs through Tuesday. Highlights of the trio of games include the annual Paint the Park Pink Night, presented by Mount Nittany Health on Sunday, as well as Super Splash Day at Tuesday’s noon game.

The Auburn Doubledays (Washington Nationals) will provide the opposition for all three games, starting with Sunday’s 6:05 p.m. as the Spikes and Mount Nittany Health will team up once gain to raise funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer on Paint the Park Pink Night.

The Spikes will take the field in special Pink Boxing Robe Themed Jerseys, to symbolize the fight against breast cancer an honor those who have engaged in the fight. These jerseys will then go up for bids in a Jersey-off-the-Back Auction to benefit the Mount Nittany Health Foundation, which supports the work done by the Breast Care Center at Mount Nittany Medical Center.

In addition, the first 1,000 fans through the gates when they open at 5 p.m. will receive a Pink Team Poster, featuring a photo taken with the Spikes’ Opening Day roster in the Pink Boxing Robe Themed Jerseys. Plus, the skies will light up with a Spike-tacular FIREWORKS show after the game.

The fun then continues with Monday Buck Night, presented by 95.3 FM 3WZ, as the Spikes take on the Doubledays at 7:05 p.m. Fans can get into the park with $1 Outfield Bleacher seats, then enjoy $1 hot dogs, $1 small sodas and $1 peanut boats throughout the game.

The homestand concludes on Tuesday with the annual Super Splash Day game at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, as Ike’s Kids Zone turns into the Splash Zone for kids of all ages. First pitch between the Spikes and Doubledays will be at noon, and fans can enjoy another $2 Walking Taco Tuesday, presented by B94.5.

Kids will also have the opportunity to run the bases after Sunday’s game, as well as a special chance after Tuesday’s game, thanks to Wonderland Charter Schools.

Tickets for all three games, as well as every remaining game on the Spikes’ 2017 home slate, can be purchased online at StateCollegeSpikes.com, by calling (814) 272-1711 or by visiting the Medlar Field at Lubrano Park Ticket Office. Ticket Office hours are 9 a.m. to the end of the game on game days Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to the end of the game on game days Saturday and Sunday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday on non-game days.Information on all Spikes single-game, season and group ticket packages is available at StateCollegeSpikes.com.

A complete list of promotions is below:

Sunday, July 30 – 6:05 p.m. vs. Auburn – TICKETS

  • Paint the Park Pink, Pink Boxing Robe Themed Jersey-off-the-Back Auction, Pink Team Poster Giveaway (First 1,000 Fans, All Ages), and FIREWORKS presented by Mount Nittany Health
  • Kids Day presented by First National Bank
  • Pre-Game Catch on the Field (5:00-5:30)
  • Post-Game Kids Run the Bases presented by Wonderland Charter School
  • Kids Eat & Play Free presented by Dairy Queen Grill & Chill (First 250 Kids, 12 & Under)

Monday, July 31 – 7:05 p.m. vs. Auburn – TICKETS

  • Monday Buck Night presented by 95.3 FM 3WZ

Tuesday, August 1 – 12:00 p.m. vs. Auburn – TICKETS

  • Super Splash Day
  • $2 Walking Taco Tuesday presented by B94.5
  • Post-Game Kids Run the Bases presented by Wonderland Charter School

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

Bandits, American Bank donate $1,500 to YMCA

DAVENPORT, Iowa – Furthering the commitment to giving back to the local community, the Quad Cities River Bandits have donated $1,500 to the Scott County YMCA and Two Rivers YMCA. The funds were raised from ticket sales during the July 10 game at Modern Woodmen Park, which was sponsored by American Bank. The River Bandits annually donate more than $300,000 back to the Quad Cities community.

Scott County YMCA on the Iowa side and Two Rivers YMCA in Illinois will split the donation of funds raised from ticket sales to the 2,095 fans attending the game on Monday, July 10. American Bank was the title sponsor of the game, helping to facilitate the fundraising.

This is the latest in a long line of community efforts by the River Bandits. Already in 2017, the River Bandits have created the Bill Edmond seats, which honor the late local leader and provide two free box seats to every River Bandits game to deserving, underprivileged members of the Quad Cities community; expanded the club’s Bandit Scholars program, already the largest in all of Minor League Baseball, by adding Eastern Iowa Community College to its list of recipients; and partnered with the Bechtel Trust to create the new Carousel Corporation, a nonprofit designed to donate 100% of the proceeds from four new rides at Modern Woodmen Park back to underprivileged youth in the Quad Cities area.

“Paying for our young people to attend college and donating back to this great community are two things that we are delighted to do,” said team owner Dave Heller. “The River Bandits are 100 percent committed to making the Quad Cities the best possible place to live, work and raise a family for everyone who calls this great area home.”

In addition to the financial donations of over $300,000 a year, the River Bandits staff also volunteers over 1,000 hours of collective community service with local organizations, including the local YMCAs. The two locations receiving this specific donation are free to spend the money however they see fit. For more information on the charitable contributions of the River Bandits, or to request donations, contact Director of Community Relations Crystal Bowen at (563) 333-2736 or crystal@riverbandits.com

River Cats, BloodSource reunite for annual Blood Drive

West Sacramento, CA – The Sacramento River Cats and BloodSource are teaming up yet again for the fifth annual Raley Field Blood Drive on Friday, August 4. Both parties are excited to continue this partnership into its fifth year and beyond.

The River Cats and BloodSource will be open in the Raley Field parking lot next Friday, August 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. In celebration of the fifth annual Raley Field blood drive, BloodSource is giving away great prizes all day. Every donor will receive two tickets to a River Cats game and an exclusive San Francisco Giants Blood Donor t-shirt.

Since August 2013, the River Cats and BloodSource have teamed up to register over 700 donors and collect more than 615 units of blood. Of those 700-plus donors, 315 of them have been new donors, donating blood for the first time at Raley Field.

“We have had incredible success partnering with the River Cats these last five years,” said Heather Sharp, BloodSource Account Manager. “Every year we are thrilled with and proud of the response from the West Sacramento and Sacramento communities. I know that I speak for the River Cats when I say we’re eagerly anticipating our fifth successful drive.”

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood and the summer can be a challenging time for BloodSource and other organizations to collect blood. High schools and colleges – where many blood drives are hosted – are on summer break, while many regular blood donors are on vacation and unavailable to donate. In addition, prospective donors often become deferred due to the effects of travel. Drives like the one at Raley Field provide an alternate location and opportunity for regular and new donors.

“This drive has become an important part of both the River Cats family and the Sacramento region,” added Greg Coletti, Vice President, Partner Services for the River Cats. “We’re proud to continue to partner with BloodSource to bring this drive to Raley Field year after year.”

***

BloodSource has been this area’s nonprofit community blood provider since1948, and serves patients in more than 40 hospitals throughout Northern and Central California. It is a Blood Systems blood center. Blood Systems is one of the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit community blood service providers, currently serving more than 1,000 hospital and healthcare partners across 28 states to provide comprehensive transfusion medicine services for patients in need.

The Sacramento River Cats are the Triple-A affiliate of the three-time World Champion San Francisco Giants. The team plays at Raley Field in West Sacramento, consistently voted one of the top ballparks in America. River Cats Season Tickets, Mini-Plans, and Flex Plans can be purchased for the 2017 season by calling the River Cats Ticket Hotline at (916) 371-HITS (4487). For more information about the River Cats, visit www.rivercats.com. For information on other events at Raley Field, visit www.raleyfield.com.

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

NATURALS FUNDRAISING PROGRAM SURPASSES $100,000 RAISED

SPRINGDALE, Ark – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are proud to announce that the popular Naturals Ticket Fundraising Program has surpassed the $100,000 raised mark. With 20 regular season home games left in 2017, the program has now raised a collective total of $100,140 for organizations throughout Northwest Arkansas and the surrounding communities.

Through 50 home games played at Arvest Ballpark, the Naturals organization has partnered with 126 groups from across the region and those groups have sold a combined 25,085 tickets. The result is a total amount of $100,140.00 raised for their respective causes, which marks the quickest that the program has accomplished the $100,000.00 feat. For comparison, during the entire 2016 season 125 groups participated in the program and sold 29,170 tickets, which raised a collective $114,125.

There are still spots available to involve an organization during home games in August and September; however, because of the popularity of the program and the amount of interest from groups, dates are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Groups in the program this year have consisted of school groups, sports teams, civic groups, non-profits, community partners, and numerous other community organizations. Families and supporters of the cause will get to come out to a Naturals game, have fun, and keep a large portion of the ticket sales. Depending on the final number of attendees, your group will get to keep anywhere from 25%-50% of the organization’s ticket sales. As an incentive and a reward, the Naturals will offer prizes to top sellers of groups and they include tours, autographs, game tickets, and First Pitch opportunities.

The fundraising flyer is currently available and can be found on our website at www.nwanaturals.com under the Groups & Events tab or by emailing us at groups@nwanaturals.com. To check upcoming date availability or if you have any questions about the Naturals fundraising programs, call us at (479) 927-4900 or visit our Administrative Offices located at Arvest Ballpark.

Non-profit groups seeking more exposure for their cause can inquire about the Community Partner Program that offers free marketing exposure for participating groups to go along with the standard benefits of our ticket fundraising program.

Follow the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Facebook and Twitter @NWANaturals all throughout the year by using the hashtag #NaturalPastime and #CrowntoCrown for all of our up-to-date information on Season 10 of Naturals baseball.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The Naturals play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark in Springdale, Ark. For more information, including statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

-Naturals-

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

Community Heroes Week Highlights Five-Game Homestand

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Birmingham Barons are set to welcome the Pensacola Blue Wahoos, Double-A affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds to Regions Field for a five-game homestand beginning on Sunday night. A jam packed schedule of promotions, events and giveaways are on tap for the home stand. In addition, The SwitchYard On 14th will be open before, during and after games all homestand for fans to enjoy a game of ping pong or bocce ball, as well as a drink from the Barstream, or some of the new menu items featured in the Foodstream. Here is the full schedule for the homestand.

Sunday, July 30, 6:00 p.m. – The Barons welcome the Pensacola Blue Wahoos to Regions Field on a Salute to Armed Forces Sunday presented by Marion Military Institute and NAPA. All active or retired military members can receive two dollars off a regular priced ticket by showing a valid military ID at the box office. It is also the beginning of Community Heroes Week in which the Barons will celebrate the community’s unsung heroes, presented by Fox 6. The executive entry opens at 4:30 p.m., with all gates opening at 5 p.m. The SwitchYard On 14th will open its doors at 4 p.m. and remain open following the game until 10 p.m.

Monday, July 31, 7:05 p.m. -Come enjoy Monday night baseball with the Barons as Community Heroes week continues at Regions Field, brought to you by Fox 6. The Barons will also be hosting a canned food drive as part of Bush’s Baked Beans Month, as the first 1,000 fans to donate canned goods will receive two dollars off their ticket courtesy of Bush’s Baked Beans The executive entry opens at 5:30 p.m., with all gates opening at 6 p.m. Fans can enjoy food and beverages at The SwitchYard On 14th which opens at 4 p.m. and will remain open until 10 p.m.

Tuesday, August 1, 7:05 p.m. – Join us for the fifth installment of T-Shirt Tuesday, free for the first 1,000 adults through the gates presented by Paycor. It is also 50-Cent Hot Dog Night sponsored by Kayem, Flowers Baking Co., MINI of Birmingham, Birmingham Zoo, CBS 42, and O’Charley’s. Community Heroes Week presented by Fox 6 also continues on Tuesday night. Be sure to enter the $1,000 Paycor Pay Day where one lucky fan will leave Regions Field with $1,000! The executive entrance opens at 5:30 p.m., with all gates opening at 6:00. The SwitchYard on 14th will be open at 4 p.m. prior to the game and will remain open after the game until 10 p.m.

Wednesday, August 2, 7:05 p.m. – Wednesday Night’s game is highlighted by AAA Wednesday brought to you by AAA of Alabama. Be sure to show your AAA card when purchasing tickets for a two dollar discount. Community Heroes Week presented by Fox 6 also continues to honor Birmingham’s local heroes. The executive entrance opens at 5:30 p.m., with all gates opening at 6:00. The SwitchYard on 14th will be open once again prior to the game at 4 p.m. and will remain open after the game for fans to enjoy until 10 p.m.

Thursday, August 3, 7:05 p.m. – The five-game series against Pensacola wraps up on Thirsty Thursday featuring two dollar beer, wine, and soft drink specials throughout Regions Field presented by Miller Lite, Woodbridge, and Buffalo Wild Wings. The executive entrance opens at 5:30 p.m., with all gates opening at 6:00. The SwitchYard on 14th opens at 4 p.m. prior to the game and will remain open after the game until midnight.

For ticket information, game schedule, promotions calendar or for additional information about Regions Field, call (205) 988-3200, or visit www.barons.com, www.facebook.com/birminghambarons or on Twitter: @bhambarons.

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

PawSox to Host 33-Inning Charity Baseball Game Featuring The Pawtucket Slaterettes August 19

The Pawtucket Red Sox are inviting the Pawtucket Slaterettes, one of the nation’s only women’s baseball leagues, to play 33 innings of baseball at McCoy Stadium on Saturday, August 19. Admission is only $5, and proceeds benefit the Slaterettes and the PawSox Foundation.

CLICK HERE TO ORDER TICKETS ONLINE

The special event pays tribute to the historic 33-inning game played in 1981 by the PawSox and the visiting Rochester Red Wings. The fundraiser is part of the club’s season-long celebration of the 75th anniversary of McCoy Stadium.

The marathon begins at noon and continues until all 33 innings are played.

“We are delighted to have been invited by the PawSox,” said Deb Bettencourt, Pawtucket Slaterettes Player Agent. “For our women of all ages to play hardball on this diamond where so many great players have played, and where the 33-inning game took place, is a dream-come-true.

“So many of our ballplayers were inspired by the movie, ‘A League of Their Own,’ and how it brought to light the story of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. The opportunity to pay tribute to these women, and to the PawSox, and to our beloved city of Pawtucket, is a thrill our players and their families will remember forever.”

The game will be played by members of various age divisions within the Slaterettes organization. The innings will be spread as follows:

  • Teeball (ages 3-6) – 2 innings
  • Minors (ages 6-10) – 4 innings
  • Juniors (ages 10-13) – 6 innings
  • Seniors (ages 13-18) – 7 innings
  • Women (ages 13 and up) – 7 innings
  • Alumni (all ages) – 7 innings

“It is a pleasure to produce an event that unites the people of Pawtucket,” said PawSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “We hope that women (and men) see that, here in Pawtucket, women have been playing baseball in ‘A League of Their Own’ for years. May this event inspire more young girls to realize that the doors to the wonderful world of baseball are wide open.

“Over the past two seasons, we have been blessed to welcome such players from the AAGPBL as Rhode Island’s own Wilma Briggs and California’s Maybelle “All the Way May” Blair and Shirley Burkovich. Part of this tribute is a tip of the cap to them.

“We also tip our caps to the actors, actresses, and crew who made the film, which this year celebrates its 25th anniversary. Megan Cavanagh, who memorably portrayed Marla Hooch, recently visited our park and inspired more young women with her stories-including the fact that she did all of her own hitting in the movie.

“Several women playing key positions in our front office have been lifelong ballplayers, and we are eager to show all who are watching that the opportunities to play baseball belong to everyone.”

All tickets are general admission, and concessions and merchandise will be on sale.

The Slaterettes comprise baseball players from age 5 to 55. The league, now in its 45th year, was created in 1973.

The PawSox Foundation, now in its 19th year, produces such programs as the PawSox Scholars, A Veterans Home Run, and fundraisers for the Tomorrow Fund. It also supports many charities in Pawtucket, in Rhode Island, and in the PawSox community.

More information is available at pawsox.com and slaterettes.com.

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

Saturday’s ‘Strike Out Cancer Night’ includes FREE TICKETS to all survivors

There are heroes all around us….fighters and survivors who have taken on cancer and won! There are also those that lost their battles…taken from us too soon, but with permanent places in our hearts and our memories.

On Saturday, July 29, the Bisons will honors those heroes that have won their battles and remember those that didn’t. As the team hosts the Louisville Bats (7:05 p.m.) at Coca-Cola Field, we ask your help to STRIKE OUT CANCER, presented by WNY Imaging Group with proceeds benefiting the Breast Cancer Network of WNY and the American Cancer Society.

CLICK HERE FOR GAME TICKETS

On STRIKE OUT CANCER night, we will honor ALL CANCER SURVIVORS with a FREE TICKET to the game. Just CLICK HERE by the end of the day on Friday, July 28 to register for your free ticket. One survivor will also be chosen at random to throw out the first pitch on Strike Out Cancer Night.

On Saturday, we will also encourage all fans to WEAR LAVENDER in support of the fight against all cancers. Anyone who does will receive a FREE RAFFLE TICKET for one of a number of great gift items. Additional raffle tickets will be available at the game. You could win one of over 50 gift cards or a great piece of sports memorabilia such as a signed Rasmus Ristolainen stick, a signed Marcell Dareus helmet or a Jim Kelly signed photo and book.

We’ll also honor all of the brave men, women and children who have fought, or are currently fighting against all forms of cancer, with a PLACARD MOMENT during the game. The entire ballpark will have the chance to stand up and show us who they’re fighting for by writing that person’s name on the placard.

CLICK HERE for even more information on Strike Out Cancer Night.

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