Finales Announced: “Dancing with the Students” comes to Crawford Middle School via the Legends

Update: Finales for both classes of Dancing with the Students at Crawford Middle School have been set for Tuesday, May 16, 2017 from 1:13pm-2:00pm and 2:08pm-2:55pm.  Two-time Dancing with the Lexington Stars Champion and President & CEO of the Lexington Legends Andy Shea will be serving as the Guest Judge for the finales. Media is welcome to attend the finales for photographs and interviews with students.  

From the original release in March:

(WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK) Lexington, KY – Students at Crawford Middle School will put on their dancing shoes and take a new approach to Physical Education as well as Arts and Humanities curriculum through a new community partnership with the not for profit “Dancing with the Students,” based out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Dancing with the Students comes to Lexington via Lexington Legends Secretary and Principal Sue Martinelli Shea, as she founded the non-profit organization in 2005. The students involved will be at the sixth, seventh and eighth grade levels and will compete in a 10 weeks of dance class; 9 weeks of instruction with the 10th week culminating in a grand finale competition. The students will be taught by Arthur Murray trained dancer teacher Rae Mickelwait and will learn four dances: Waltz, Tango, Merengue, and Swing. “My dream is to have these talented students dance at Whitaker Bank Ballpark during a Legends’ game this summer” says Martinelli Shea. “Mickelwait was also Andy’s dance partner for Dancing with the Stars-Lexington, so it’s wonderful to have this community partnership come full circle!”

Andy Shea, President and CEO of the Lexington Legends, is just as vested in this partnership as his Mother. “I am so proud and honored of what my Mother has created and her ambition to begin Dancing with The Students classes in Lexington. There are so many life lessons that are learned through ballroom dancing and not to mention, it’s so much fun!”

This partnership would not have been possible without the support of Crawford Middle School Principal Mike Jones. Jones readily accepted by stating “I’m excited about this new and unique partnership with “Dancing with the Students.” Some of our Crawford Middle School students are going to be given the opportunity to learn four different ballroom dances as well as the etiquette that goes along with this art form. The 10-week program will be incorporated into 2 different Physical Education classes. The movement requirements used in dance can be found in PE as well as Arts and Humanities curriculum. I want to personally thank Andy Shea and Sue Martinelli Shea for allowing us to partner with the program. We hope to build it to include more students in the future.”

For more information, about Dancing with the Students, visit www.dancingwiththestudents.org or 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, will return home to Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Greensboro Grasshoppers, an affiliate of the Miami Marlins, on May 10, 2017 at 12:35pm. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit lexingtonlegends.com.

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

Spear Presented with Troubh Community Service Award

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs are proud to announce that the 2017 recipient of the William Troubh Community Service award is Howard Spear. Spear was presented the award by Sea Dogs’ President Charlie Eshbach and members of Mr. Troubh’s family including wife Nancy in a pre-game ceremony at Hadlock Field on Sunday, May 7th when the Sea Dogs hosted the Reading Fightin Phils.

The “William Troubh Community Service Award” was established in 2015 to honor a local citizen who is making a positive impact within the city of Portland. 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. Mr. 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.

Howard Spear has served as the co-race director of the Sea Dogs’ Mother’s Day 5K road race for 17 years and for the eight-year run of the Father’s Day 5K. The races have helped raise more than $300,000 for local charities to fight breast cancer and prostate cancer. Spear also served as race director of the Maine Marathon for 18 years, retiring this past October. During his time the race raised more than $4 million for local children’s charities and also accentuated healthy living. He is a longtime member of the Maine Track Club Board of Directors and longtime volunteer at many other community events.

“Spear truly exemplifies what Mr. Troubh tried to achieve by making Portland a great place to live and work,” stated Sea Dogs Executive Vice President and General Manager Geoff Iacuessa. “It is an honor to present the 2017 William Troubh Community Service Award to Howard Spear.”

Past recipients of the award include Roger Goodoak, the Executive Director of the Maine Homeless Veteran’s Alliance in 2016 and John Menario in 2015.

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

Rattlers and Elite Smiles Dental Make an Oral Health Challenge to Children 12 and Younger

GRAND CHUTE, WI – Elite Smiles Dental and the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers want your children to have healthy teeth and gums. That is why they are asking children 12 years of age and younger to take the Oral Health Challenge. Each participant who successfully completes the challenge will receive two free tickets to a Timber Rattlers game.

Here is how the challenge works:

Once a participant has turned in a completed form, the participant will receive two reserved seat tickets to one of four Oral Health Days at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium. Those days are Thursday, May 18; Monday, June 12; Monday, July 24; and Tuesday, August 8.

Completed forms will be accepted until August 1, 2017.

Challengers may also want to come to the game on Friday, June 9 when the Rattlers and Elite Smiles Dental will be giving away a toothbrush holder to the first 1,000 fans. Game time is 7:05pm.

Partial season and group ticket packages are currently available for the 2017 season. Tickets packages are available online, over the phone at (920) 733-4152 or (800) WI-TIMBER, and in person. Individual game tickets for this season are also on sale now.   Groups of 20 or more may order tickets over the phone or in person. The Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and from 10:00am to 3:00pm on Saturdays.

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

Shuckers to salute Navy Sailor of the Year tonight in pregame ceremony

BILOXI, MS – Prior to tonight’s 6:35 pm contest against the Montgomery Biscuits, the Shuckers will recognize Naval Construction Battalion Center’s Sailor of the Year, Petty Officer 1st Class (SW/AW) Terrance L. Pringle.

Petty Officer Pringle is from Mobile, Alabama and joined the Navy in the Delayed Entry Program in April 1994. He received recruit training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes IL.

Petty Officer Pringle’s personal awards include Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievements Medal (7), Flag Letters of Commendations (3), Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Expert Pistol and Rifle, and various unit and campaign medals.

Upon graduation from boot camp, he reported to Airman Training School in Great Lakes, IL. Following training school, he reported onboard USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63), North Island, CA, in December 1994 where he was assigned to Fuels Division as an undesignated airman.

He reported to Operation Specialist “A” School in Dam Neck, VA. After graduation, he transferred to his first command in June 2002, USS Taylor (FFG-50), Mayport FL where he advanced to Petty Officer 3rd class and Petty Officer 2nd class and earned the Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist designator.

In September 2004, Petty Officer Pringle crossed decked to the USS Philippine Sea (CG-58), Mayport FL after graduating from Anti-Submarine/Surface Tactical Air Controller “C” School, Norfolk, VA. As one of three ASTAC’s onboard, he logged over 720 hours of live and 130 synthetic control hours.

Following his tour on the Philippine Sea, he transferred to Commander, Navy Region South East Jacksonville, FL in July 2007. While at CNRSE he was assigned to the Regional Operational Center (ROC) and qualified as an Assistant Regional Watch Officer, Staff Career Counselor, and as the Building Manager. During this tour, he advanced to Petty Officer First Class.

In May 2010, Petty Officer Pringle transferred to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 70, Jacksonville, FL where he was converted to Navy Counselor and assumed the duties as the Administration Department Leading Petty Officer and earned the Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist designator.

In June 2014 Petty Officer Pringle reported to Naval Construction Battalion Center, Gulfport, MS to work as the Command Career Counselor.

He is married to Stacey of Jacksonville, FL and has two sons Mehkel (15) and Jayden (12), and resides in Gulfport, MS.

Every Saturday home game this season, fireworks will light up the sky over MGM Park and downtown Biloxi. Experience the best fireworks show on the Mississippi Gulf Coast! This show will have a Country music theme! The homestand will wrap up on Sunday with Family Fun Day and an appearance by Breakin’ BBoy McCoy. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance at any Ticketmaster outlet or at biloxishuckers.com.

ABOUT THE BILOXI SHUCKERS:

The Biloxi Shuckers are the Double-A Southern League Affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The Shuckers play at MGM Park in Biloxi, Mississippi. For more information please visit biloxishuckers.com and follow us on Twitter @biloxishuckers and at facebook.com/biloxishuckers.com.

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

SMOKIES PLAYERS AND COACHES TO INSTRUCT YOUTH CLINIC

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies announced that they will host a Youth Clinic, presented by Rocky Top Customz on Sunday, May 7. The Clinic will feature multiple stations on the field where clinic attendees can receive instruction and tips from the 2017 Smokies players and coaching staff.

The Youth Clinic will begin at 12:00 pm with gates opening at 11:30 am. The clinic is free of charge, and each child in uniform participating in the clinic will receive free berm admission to the Smokies game following the event. In addition, discounted meal vouchers will be available for purchase the day of the clinic.

“We love to be able to host events like this each year,” Stated Smokies President and COO Chris Allen. “Getting kids involved in the game of baseball is something we are glad to be a part of. Baseball is a game that we take very seriously, but ultimately baseball is a game, and should be enjoyed by children alike.”

Fans can call 865-286-2300 to receive more details about this year’s Youth Clinic, presented by Rocky Top Customz. The game is set for a 2:00 pm first pitch against the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp on Sunday, as it is the last game of the homestand before the Smokies leave for a road series against the Jackson Generals.

The Smokies continue their home series at Smokies Stadium today on Friday, May 5, 2017 against the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp. The full schedule for this season and information regarding single-game tickets, season tickets, and mini plans can be found online at smokiesbaseball.com, or by calling the Smokies Ticket Office at 865-286-2300.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com

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

Marauders Partner with Jake Taraska Foundation

Bradenton, Fla. – The Bradenton Marauders will raise funds and awareness for the battle against cancer on Friday, May 12. The team has partnered with the Jake Taraska Foundation, a Sarasota-based charity helping those afflicted with pediatric cancer. JTF founder Jake Taraska is a pediatric cancer survivor. The Marauders host the Palm Beach Cardinals at 6:30 p.m. Gates open at 4:30 p.m.

The Jake Taraska Foundation is a 501(c)3 non profit organization that is committed to provide hope and smiles to all families who are affected with pediatric cancer. The goal of the foundation is to encourage and uplift the children and the family who are going through pediatric cancer. Every dollar that is donated to the Jake Taraska Foundation goes directly to helping kids and their families. Jake Taraska uses his passion for sports to help children take their minds off of their daily struggles with pediatric cancer. JTF has teamed up with the Bradenton Marauders to raise money and awareness to strike out pediatric cancer.

“Baseball is a game near and dear to my heart,” Taraska said. “I’m excited to partner with the Marauders to continue my life’s mission of helping pediatric cancer patients and their families.”

The Marauders will wear white jerseys with purple sleeves symbolic of the fight against pediatric cancer. The letters and numbers on the jerseys will feature the multi-colored ribbons associated with other various forms of cancer. The jerseys will be available for silent auction to raise money for JTF. Winning bidders will be invited onto the field post-game to receive the jersey and have it autographed by the player or coach that wore it.

“Cancer has affected everyone at some time or another,” Marauders General Manager Rachelle Madrigal said. “We all know someone that has had their life altered or tragically cut short because of cancer. We are proud to be partnering with a local charity that has done such tremendous work for children and their families in the fight against pediatric cancer.”

The LECOM Park box office hours are Tuesday-Friday non-gamedays from 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. On gamedays the box office will be open on weekdays from 11:00 a.m. until the end of the game and on Saturdays from 3:30 until the end of the game. The box office will open two hours prior to Sunday games and 10:30 a.m. games.

For more information about the Bradenton Marauders, please call 941-747-3031, visit www.BradentonMarauders.com, or email MaraudersInfo@pirates.com.

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

Curve expanding partnership with Miracle League of Blair County

CURVE, Pa. – The Altoona Curve, Double-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates, will be expanding their relationship with the Miracle League of Blair County, beginning this summer.

This year, Curve players, staff and mascots will be doing more appearances with the Miracle League of Blair County than any previous year, beginning with the league’s Opening Day on Saturday, May 6.

“The Miracle League is a real gift to our community,” said Tobi Rispoli, Miracle League of Blair County volunteer and board member.” The Curve have always been supportive, including contributions, baseball camps and a presence throughout the year. This year will prove to be even more exciting for the kids and their families.”

Tweet from @Pirates: Thanks to the @AltoonaCurve & all who came out for today’s Miracle League of Blair County Fantasy Camp for Kids. pic.twitter.com/UJk30MDCCP

The Miracle League of Blair County is a charitable organization that provides children and youth with mental and/or physical challenges an opportunity to play baseball as a team member in an organized league, giving them an opportunity to suit up in a uniform, step up to the plate and enjoy the game of baseball in the purest form.

“Working with the Miracle League of Blair County has been truly amazing,” said Curve Director of Community Relations Emily Rosencrants. “The Miracle League of Blair County has always had a great relationship the Curve and we are excited to strengthen the partnership even more this year.”

Curve mascots will be on hand this Saturday to hang out with the Miracle League players between games.

On Saturday, June 10, Curve players will join the Miracle League Curve team for their game against the Orioles. On Saturday, June 24, Curve players will be back for the Pirates Fantasy Camp clinic with all of the Miracle League players.

“Having the Curve players involved is always great, and this year the Pirates are bringing back the Fantasy Camp, which is always one of the best days of the year,” said Rosencrants. “We are looking forward to the 2017 partnership and for the years to come.”

The Curve will also continue their postgame ball launch after weekend home games, where fans can win great prizes with all proceeds benefiting the Miracle League of Blair County.

Tweet from @AltoonaCurve: A great morning helping out at Miracle League of Blair County’s Opening Day! pic.twitter.com/9ze5rRWUFt

“We certainly hope that an increased Curve presence will generate more exposure of the Miracle League so the organization can encourage more families, players and volunteers to sign up for a Miracle League team,” said Rispoli. “The Miracle League is certainly our other ‘Hometown Team!'”

The Miracle League removes the physical barriers that keep children with mental and physical disabilities off the baseball field and lets them experience the joy of America’s favorite pastime. Miracle League teams play on a custom-designed, rubberized turf field that accommodates wheelchairs and other assertive devices while helping to prevent injuries.

For more information on the Miracle League of Blair County, visit PAMiracleLeague.com.

-CURVE-

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

Star Wars jersey auction benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Eastern NC

The Mudcats will pay homage to Princess Leia with special Star Wars game jerseys on Friday, May 5. The jerseys are available via online auction with the net proceeds benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Eastern North Carolina.

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

United States Navy Parachute Team Performing at AutoZone Park on Armed Forces Night

BUY TICKETS

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – The United States Navy Parachute Team, “The Leap Frogs,” will be jumping into AutoZone Park on Friday, May 12, as part of the Armed Forces Night celebration that evening.

Fans are encouraged to arrive in their seats no later than 6:45 p.m. to be able to see The Leap Frogs put on their spectacular show. Game time is set for 7:05.

Also on Armed Forces Night, the Navy Brass Quintet will be performing in the Plaza before the game, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The Plaza will also feature displays, equipment, and interactive exhibits.

On Armed Forces Night, and every other night at AutoZone Park, active-duty and retired military personnel can receive a discount on up to two game tickets at the Box Office. A valid military ID is required.

About “The Leap Frogs”

The United States Navy Parachute Team, “The Leap Frogs,” is the official parachute demonstration team of the United States Navy and part of the United States Naval Special Warfare Command. The team is made up of active-duty Navy SEALs, Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewmen (SWCC), and support personnel. A typical Leap Frogs performance consists of six jumpers leaping out of an aircraft at an altitude of 6,000 feet. After freefalling, sometimes using smoke or streamers, The Leap Frogs fly their canopies together to build canopy-relative work formations. After performances, The Leap Frogs make themselves available to the public to answer questions about the Navy and the Naval Special Warfare community, as well as to sign autographs.

For information on upcoming promotions, visit www.memphisredbirds.com/promotions. For more information on single-game tickets and ticket mini-memberships, visit www.memphisredbirds.com/tickets.

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

OKC Dodgers to Honor Esurance Rising Star Students Program Winner

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers, Esurance and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma will recognize Nate Peters, a senior at Union High School in Tulsa, Okla. and one of 14 Esurance Rising Star Students program winners, during a pregame presentation at tonight’s 7:05 p.m. game against the Colorado Springs Sky Sox at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. The Esurance Rising Star Students program, which highlights and celebrates Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) participants for their outstanding service to their local communities, awards select high school students a $5,000 college stipend each, courtesy of Esurance.

Peters plans to major in sports business at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College and go on to play football at a Division I school. Balancing academics and football was a challenge for the Tulsa, Okla. native, but he maintained his grades and made the honor roll. Nate credits his “Big” from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma for giving him “many life lessons, most importantly, how to be a man.”

The Esurance Rising Star Students program submissions included unique and inspirational stories, academic accolades, college and career plans and more, emphasizing why each individual was a “Rising Star” in his or her community. To be eligible, nominees were required to be “Bigs” or “Littles” in Big Brothers Big Sisters.

“With the help of Esurance and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, we can recognize a Rising Star Student in our community getting ready for his own call-up to college, and honor the student with a unique ballpark celebration,” said Michael Byrnes, OKC Dodgers President/General Manager.

Last June, Esurance and Minor League Baseball announced a multi-year partnership making it the exclusive home and auto insurance partner of Minor League Baseball. Together, they created the Esurance Call-Up Worthy platform, which launched exclusively on MiLB.com and MiLB team websites. The platform celebrates the iconic moment in Minor League Baseball when a player is called up to Major League Baseball®, highlighting his journey through shareable digital and social content, such as virtual trading cards, video highlights and the Esurance Farm Report.

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

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Tortugas Seeking Nominations for Military Heroes Card Set

DAYTONA BEACH, FL – The Daytona Tortugas are seeking nominations for their first annual Military Heroes baseball card set. The card set will represent each branch of the military and honor those who are currently serving our country, veterans who have served in the past but are no longer active, and those who bravely fought for our country, but have since passed away.

The card set will be given away to the first 500 fans at Jackie Robinson Ballpark as part of our Military Appreciation Day on Saturday, May 27th. Nominations will be taken until Monday, May 15th.

Please email nominations to info@daytonatortugas.com

– Military Title
– First & Last Name
– Military Branch
– Years of Service
– Born
– Hometown
– Contact number person doing the nominating
– Email address person doing the nominating
– Short Bio/Resume (75 words or less)
– Photo (300 DPI, Minimum resolution of 750 pixels x 1050 pixels)

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

U.S. Cellular and Timber Rattlers Bring Back Little League Takeovers!

GRAND CHUTE, WI – Everyone had so much fun last year, they wanted to do it again! U.S. Cellular and the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers are taking over Appleton Little League at the Scheels USA Youth Sports Complex on Monday, May 8.

Next Monday will be the first of several “Little League Takeovers” sponsored by U.S. Cellular and the Timber Rattlers. Fang’s Fanatics and the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers promo crew along with staff from the Timber Rattlers and volunteers from U.S. Cellular will bring their high energy and fun in-game promotions to a girls’ softball game at 5:00pm and a baseball game that will follow the conclusion of the softball game.

“We’re focused on making connections that serve our local community,” said Eric Larson, U.S. Cellular’s area sales manager in Northern Wisconsin. “By teaming up with the Timber Rattlers, we will bring additional excitement and fun for the whole family to Appleton’s Little League Monday night games. Maybe in a few years, we’ll see these young athletes playing for the Timber Rattlers or the Brewers.”

Timber Rattlers public address announcer Joey D. will announce kids’ names prior to each at-bat and the team’s production staff will provide walk-up songs as well. The team will bring the Bratzooka!, the Bubble Ball Battle, and the Sub Race Characters and have an array of t-shirt tosses and other in-game surprises. U.S. Cellular volunteers will be distributing customized t-shirts and will also hand out complimentary hot dogs to fans throughout the games.

A highlight video of the day’s festivities will be produced and shown on the Timber Rattlers video board during Appleton Little League’s night at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium on June 8.

“The Timber Rattlers are excited to once again team up with U.S. Cellular and local youth baseball and softball leagues to provide some fun-filled entertainment and lasting memories,” said Timber Rattlers Assistant General Manager, Jerrad Radocay. “These three leagues already do a great job of providing an awesome experience for these kids, so for us to be involved in bringing our on-field promotions, PA announcer Joey D., and world famous Bratzooka! is a win-win for everyone.”

U.S. Cellular and the Timber Rattlers have scheduled two other Takeovers this summer: June 14 at Plamann Park for Grand Chute Baseball and July 29 at O’Hauser Park for Suburban Athletics.

“We’re looking forward to the Timber Rattlers and U.S. Cellular again knocking our Takeover Event out of the park, as we dedicate our fields at Scheels USA Youth Sports Complex to the Kratzer and Gromer families, and unveil many great field improvements,” said Appleton Little League President Kevin Kostelecky.

Partial season and group ticket packages are currently available for the 2017 season. Tickets packages are available online, over the phone at (920) 733-4152 or (800) WI-TIMBER, and in person. Individual game tickets for this season are also on sale now.   Groups of 20 or more may order tickets over the phone or in person. The Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and from 10:00am to 3:00pm on Saturdays.

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

7th Annual Cutters 5K Race to Benefit CDC

The Williamsport Crosscutters, in partnership with the Children’s Development Center, will be holding the 7th Annual Cutters 5K on Saturday, June 24th at the newly renovated BB&T Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field.

The race, through Williamsport’s West End, begins at 9am with registration open at 8am. The course has runners starting outside the ballpark entrance with the final sprint inside the stadium finishing at home plate. Both runners and walkers are encouraged to take part in the event.

All proceeds from the event benefit the Children’s Development Center of Williamsport. Since 1923, the CDC has been providing services to children with special needs from birth to 21 years of age. Last year’s event attracted almost 200 participants.

Hope Enterprises Children’s Development Center is honored to be the beneficiaries of the Cutters 5K race since its inception. The 5K not only promotes awareness of the services we provide but has raised over $68,000 in the 6 years of the event. Hope is grateful for the continued partnership with the Williamsport Crosscutters and their dedication to enhancing the lives of children and their families that we serve” stated Hope Enterprises President, Rob Labatch.

Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in seven male and female age categories for runners. In addition to the prize awards, the top male and female runners will throw out ceremonial first pitches at the Williamsport Crosscutters game on June 30th. Prizes will also be awarded to the top three male and female walkers. The event will also feature the always entertaining Kids Fun Run, free for children age 10 and under. All children participating will receive an award.

“We are proud to partner with the CDC annually on this fun event. The money raised goes to such an important and worthy cause”, said Cutters Vice-President of Marketing Gabe Sinicropi.

Registration is $15 in advance and $20 on race day. All participants receive a race t-shirt (while supplies last). Entry forms are available for download HERE, register online at PARunners.com by CLICKING HERE, or pick up an entry form at the Crosscutters offices at BB&T Ballpark or the CDC offices located at 625 W. Edwin St.  Sponsorships of the event are also still available.

The Crosscutters open the 2017 season on June 20 against the State College Spikes at the newly renovated BB&T Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field. The Cutters schedule and all ticket ordering information is available at www.crosscutters.com or by calling the Cutters at (570) 326-3389.

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

Shorebirds to Support Veterans with 4th of July Game

SALISBURY, Md. — The Delmarva Shorebirds, Class-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, will host a home game this year on the 4th of July. The Shorebirds will host the Lakewood BlueClaws with first pitch scheduled for 6:05 PM. The team will wear special Patriotic jerseys that will be auctioned off during the game with the proceeds benefitting the Department of Maryland VFW Military Assistance Program. This program does many things including bringing wounded warriors from 5 area military hospitals and their families to Ocean City every June for a nice getaway. The program also helps military personnel with housing and financial management.

The Patriotic jerseys that the Shorebirds will wear will resemble an American Flag and will include military camouflage in the design. The auction set for the Patriotic jerseys on Tuesday, July 4th will be ran by Operation We Care. There will be information tables for Operation We Care where fans can give donations and receive more information about their organization.

Operation We Care is a local, all volunteer non-profit organization dedicated to supporting our military and first responders. Operation We Care has been sending care packages & supporting our military, law enforcement, and Fire/EMS departments since 2007.

“Operation We Care is a great organization that helps out the people that work so hard to protect our freedom. We are really excited to partner with them this season,” said Chris Bitters, Shorebirds General Manager. “Come on out to the game on July 4th at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium as we celebrate our country’s independence with baseball, fireworks, and helping out the ones that fought so hard for our freedom.”

The Shorebirds will host the Lakewood Blue Claws, affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, on Tuesday, July 4th with first pitch scheduled for 6:05 PM. Gates will open at 5:00 PM. After the game, the Patriotic jerseys will be awarded to the person with the highest bid and the Shorebirds will host their largest fireworks show of the season. Tickets can be purchased on www.theshorebirds.com, by calling 410-219-3112, or by stopping by the Shorebirds box office.
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The Delmarva Shorebirds are the Class “A” Affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles. The Shorebirds are owned by
7th Inning Stretch, LLC, the same company that owns the Stockton Ports of the California League and the Everett AquaSox of the Northwest League.

The Shorebirds celebrated their 20th season in 2015, and have entertained nearly five million fans since beginning play at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury, Md. in 1996. The team has captured South Atlantic League titles in 1997 and 2000 while successfully hosting the South Atlantic League All-Star Game in 1999 and 2011.

For more information on the Shorebirds, call 410-219-3112 or visit theshorebirds.com.

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

River Cats set to salute Armed Forces during homestand

The Sacramento River Cats are back for a four-game homestand against the Reno Aces (Arizona Diamondbacks) starting Saturday, May 6. The homestand may be brief, but includes the annual fan-favorite Salute to Armed Forces celebration as well as the return of the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team (WWAST) for a special softball match against the Sacramento All-Stars.

Saturday, May 6 – River Cats vs. Reno Aces

  • WWAST: The Wounded Warriors Amputee Softball Team will take on the Sacramento All-Stars at 3:30 pm. Tickets for tonight’s River Cats game also include the exhibition softball game. Gates open at 3 pm.
  • Game Time: First pitch for the River Cats game is at 7:05 p.m. Raley Field gates will open to all fans at 3 p.m.
  • Broadcast: Today’s game will be broadcast live online at rivercats.com and on River Cats radio affiliate ESPN 1320.
  • Salute to Armed Forces: The celebration will include a flyover, National Anthem by Band of the Golden West (Travis AFB), and a special recognition of a WWII veteran who survived Pearl Harbor.
  • Armed Forces Specialty Jerseys: The River Cats will take the field in specialty jerseys which feature images of local active and retired service members, all submitted by fans. These game-worn jerseys will be available via auction and all proceeds will benefit Women’s Veterans Alliance
  • Saturday Night Fireworks: Enjoy themed fireworks shows after every Saturday game, courtesy of Sutter Health.

Sunday, May 7 – River Cats vs. Reno Aces

  • Game Time: First pitch is at 1:05 p.m. Raley Field gates will open to all fans at 11 am.
  • Broadcast: Tonight’s game will be broadcast live online at rivercats.com and on River Cats radio affiliate ESPN 1320.
  • Sunday Funday: K-LOVE Sunday Funday features pregame player autographs, face painters, and Kids Run the Bases after the game.
  • Little League Day: Pregame Little League parade presented by California Family Fitness.

Monday, May 8 – River Cats vs. Reno Aces

  • Game Time: First pitch is at 7:05 p.m. Raley Field gates will open to all fans at 6 p.m.
  • Broadcast: Tonight’s game will be broadcast live online at rivercats.com and on River Cats radio affiliate ESPN 1320.
  • Baseball Bingo Monday: Each play on the field corresponds to a square on your Bingo card, presented by Cache Creek Casino Resort.

Tuesday, May 9 – River Cats vs. Reno Aces

  • Game Time: First pitch is at 12:05 p.m. Raley Field gates will open to all fans at 9:30 a.m.
  • Broadcast: Today’s game will be broadcast live online at rivercats.com.
  • Toyota Family Value Tuesdays: Fans can enjoy $1 hot dogs and ice cream cups every Tuesday, presented by Toyota.
  • AAA School Day: Students from across the Sacramento Region can enjoy a pregame AAA Assembly, courtesy of the Division of Boating and Waterways.

Tickets are still available for all games and can be purchased online at rivercats.com or over the phone by calling (916) 371-HITS (4487) or by visiting the Round Table Pizza Ticket Office at Raley Field.

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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.

– CLAWS UP –

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