“Dancing with the Students” comes to Lexington

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 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 open the season Thursday, April 13 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the West Virginia Power, an affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

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.

Cougars Support Local Military Organizations Through Grant Donation

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced they were selected as a grant recipient from Highland Capital Management, located in Dallas, Tex. The grant, designated to the Cougars through the “Highland Salutes” program, will be donated to support two local charities, Operation Support Our Troops and SALUTE Inc., which are focused on supporting both active duty military and veterans.

Operation Support Our Troops, based out of Naperville, Ill., provides comfort and care at home and away for active duty military, veterans and their families. They accomplish this through care packages that contain items not readily available during deployment as well as personal letters and notes of encouragement from the surrounding community.

Founded in 2003 by a military family from Arlington Heights, Ill., SALUTE, Inc. was born from their desire to give back to other military families faced with the many hardships experienced during a deployment. Through their efforts, SALUTE, Inc. provides financial, physical and emotional support for military members, veterans and their families.

“We are humbled that Highland Capital Management has chosen the Kane County Cougars Foundation as the recipient of this grant through the ‘Highland Salutes’ program,” said owner, Dr. Bob Froehlich. “The entire Cougars organization is dedicated to giving back and supporting the men and women of our military who have sacrificed so much. Through this grant, we are able to continue those efforts to support local organizations that carry out that same mission.”

“Highland is delighted to support the Kane County Cougars Foundation and the local initiatives that serve our veterans and their families,” said Brad Ross, President of Highland Capital Management Fund Advisors.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date promotional information.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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

PMSG, RiverDogs Team Up for Red Shirt Fridays to Raise Funds for Local Military Community

CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Charleston RiverDogs have partnered with the Palmetto Military Support Group (PMSG) on Red Shirt Fridays at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, donating a portion of each of the nights’ proceeds to the local military support group focused on aiding Charleston area military members and their families.

“We have always admired the RiverDogs’ commitment to our military community,” said Peter Wertimer, president of the PMSG. “Our mission is to help make Charleston become the single most supportive community of its military in the country. All that the ball club provides will go right back to our war fighters and their families in the form of worthy investments in their various activities.”

For all 11 Fridays at The Joe this year, the RiverDogs will once again wear specialty red uniforms in honor of the military. Fans are encouraged to wear red as well, and save a dollar off their ticket purchase at the gate with the option to donate that dollar to the PMSG.

“The Palmetto Military Support Group is doing great things for military families in the Lowcountry, and we are excited to further team up with this worthy organization,” said RiverDogs President and General Manager Dave Echols, the current VP on the board of the PMSG. “The RiverDogs have been a proud partner of the PMSG since their inception, and they are a natural fit to be a part of our military appreciation efforts each Friday this year.”

The recipient of Minor League Baseball’s inaugural Patriot Award last season, the RiverDogs continued to strengthen their ties to the Lowcountry’s strong military family. The club hosted three Military Appreciation nights during the season where all active and retired service members enjoyed complementary tickets, and honored a military family of the game at each home contest. Service men and women were also frequent performers of the National Anthem at The Joe, and the club hired five homeless military vets to their ballpark cleanup crew.

The Palmetto Military Support Group is a membership organization comprised of Lowcountry citizens and companies that support the goal of the Charleston region becoming known as the most supportive of our military community in the country. The PMSG organizes command visits and social get-togethers with military personnel for its membership and conducts a number of fundraisers (with an emphasis on FUN) throughout the year.

RiverDogs season tickets, half-season ticket packages, mini plans, and group tickets are now available for the 2017 campaign, including options for the all-new Riley Park Club. The RiverDogs, the Class-A affiliate of the 27-time world champion New York Yankees, begin their season on April 6 when they host the Lexington Legends at The Joe. Single-game tickets are now available online and will be solid in person at the box office and by phone starting on March 15 at 9am. Ticket information can be secured by contacting the box office at (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or online at www.riverdogs.com.

–RIVERDOGS–

South Bend Cubs to offer Peanut-Free Suite on May 7

SOUTH BEND, IN – A day at Four Winds Field should be a fun, exciting experience, but that may be a challenge if you have a peanut allergy. On Sunday, May 7, the South Bend Cubs will offer a peanut-free area in the Old National Bank Home Plate Suite to coincide with Food Allergy Awareness Month.

Food Allergy Awareness Month helps educate the public about food allergies, a potentially life-threatening medical condition. An estimated 15 million Americans suffer from food allergies, according to Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE). Peanut allergies are among the most common food allergies and according to studies funded by FARE, the number of U.S. children with peanut allergies more than tripled between 1997 and 2008.

“There are quite a few baseball fans that do not get to experience a day at the ballpark due to their peanut allergy,” said Team President Joe Hart. “In order to provide a sterile, peanut free environment, our staff follows a strict cleaning process that removes all allergens from the Old National Bank Home Plate Suite to ensure our fans with peanut allergies can enjoy the game.”

Tickets are only $19.00 and include a seat in the peanut-free Old National Bank Home Plate Suite, South Bend Cubs hat, and a ballpark buffet of hot dogs, hamburgers, chips and soft drinks. Space is extremely limited with only 40 tickets available. To order, visit the South Bend Cubs Box Office at Four Winds Field or call (574) 235-9988.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

D-Braves, Planet Fitness partner for 5K

DANVILLE, Va. – The D-Braves are excited to announce that the organization’s first ever 5K race will take place during the 2017 season. The Danville Braves 5K presented by Planet Fitness will be held on Saturday, July 15, 2017. The race will benefit God’s Storehouse, a non-profit food pantry serving Danville and Pittsylvania County.

“We’ve been looking to host a 5K for a number of years now, and we’re excited to be able to make it happen in 2017,” said D-Braves Community Relations & Sales Manager Betsy Haugh. “We’re looking forward to working with our friends at Planet Fitness, as well as our other race sponsors, to make this a great community event in Danville.”

The race will begin on the concourse at American Legion Post 325 Field in Dan Daniel Memorial Park, home of the Danville Braves, and conclude on the field’s warning track. Winners of each age group will be recognized in an on-field ceremony prior to the D-Braves game against Bluefield Blue Jays later on race day, and the overall male and female winners will have the opportunity to throw out a first pitch before the 7pm start.

Registration for the Danville Braves 5K is now open and can be completed online at dbraves.com/5K or in person at the Danville Braves offices at 302 River Park Dr. Runners may also mail in a registration form and payment to Danville Braves 5K, P.O. Box 378, Danville, Va 24543. Brochures are available at all sponsor locations, including Planet Fitness, HomeTrust Bank (Riverside Dr. location), The Brick Running & Tri Store, and God’s Storehouse.

The registration fee is $20 ($25 after July 1) and includes a performance race t-shirt and a Blue Reserved ticket to the D-Braves game vs. Bluefield at 7pm on race day. For more information, visit dbraves.com/5K or call the D-Braves at 434.797.3792.

Quick Facts for the Danville Braves 5K presented by Planet Fitness
Sponsored by: Planet Fitness, HomeTrust Bank, The Brick Running & Tri Store
Benefiting: God’s Storehouse
When: Saturday July 15, 2017. Race day registration begins at 7:15 am, race begins at 8 am
Where: Danville Braves Stadium (American Legion Post 325 Field in Dan Daniel Memorial Park at 302 River Park Dr.)
Registration Link: http://bit.ly/5Kreg2017

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

Hops become first Anchor Sponsor for HSD

March 10, 2017, Hillsboro, OR -The Hillsboro Hops (@HillsboroHops) and Hillsboro School District (HSD) announced a new partnership today where the Hops will help fund athletics and activities at HSD’s four high schools: Century, Glencoe, Hilhi, and Liberty, through an Anchor Sponsor arrangement. The District will offer five Anchor Sponsor spots for local businesses who want to make a difference in the lives of students by providing them greater access to extracurricular athletics and activities.

There are approximately 3,500 students participating in athletics and activities at the four high schools. Recent budget cuts have made it a challenge for the high schools fully support these students in their extracurricular endeavors, and to expand offerings to other students.

“The Hillsboro School District is so grateful for our generous community partners, and in particular the Hillsboro Hops,” said Rian Petrick, director of extracurricular programming and community outreach. “Through their willingness to partner as an Anchor Sponsor, the Hops will generate $24,000 toward extracurricular activities in our district during the 2017-18 school year. Research shows that students who participate in athletics and activities for multiple years in high school achieve graduation rates exceeding 95%. This partnership will help us stabilize existing programs and expand opportunities to enhance student engagement with the goal of improving graduation rates.”

Petrick goes on to explain that a district committee composed of various school-based personnel will oversee the distribution of funds based on general budget information and data analysis.

Hops chairman Mike McMurray adds: “The ownership of the Hillsboro Hops is proud to partner with the Hillsboro School District to provide opportunities for a well-rounded educational experience to local students. The Hops’ president KL Wombacher has made support of school athletics a key element of the team’s operation from day one, and this is an important manifestation of that commitment to our community.”

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

FSL Partners with Florida Prepaid for Second Season

CLEARWATER, Fla. – The Florida State League will be partnering with the Florida Prepaid College Board for a second consecutive season, the League Office announced this week.

The Florida Prepaid College Program was created by Florida Legislature in 1987 to provide Florida families with an affordable means to save for their child’s college education. The Florida Prepaid College Board manages the Stanley G. Tate Florida Prepaid College Program and the Florida 529 Savings Plan.

“We are very excited to continue our great relationship with the Florida Prepaid Program. They have been great partners and we hope to continue our relationship for many years to come,” said FSL President Ken Carson.

Florida Prepaid began working with the FSL in 2015 on a five-team basis. The 2017 season will mark the second consecutive year of a league wide partnership, with all 12 teams participating in the Florida Prepaid partnership.

Florida Prepaid sponsored the league’s Baseball Buddies program in 2016. The Baseball Buddies program allowed young fans to take the field with their favorite FSL team, sing the National Anthem, and receive a complimentary ticket to the game, along with a logo baseball courtesy of the Florida Prepaid College Board.

New in 2017 is the Florida State League promotional code. By using promo code “FSL1617”, customers will receive 50% off the application fee when enrolling in a Prepaid Plan this year. Additionally, this summer, fans will have the opportunity to enter a sweepstakes for a chance to win a $2,500 contribution to a Florida 529 Savings Plan. The link to the website will be announced at a later date. There will also be secondary prize winners selected from those that enter the sweepstakes.

Florida Prepaid is the largest, longest running, and most successful prepaid plan in the nation with more than 1.8 million plans purchased.

“Our mission, since our founding in 1987, has been to open the door to college for more Floridians by providing easy and affordable options to save. By partnering with the Florida State League, we can reach Florida families to educate them about the importance of saving early for college,” said Kevin Thompson, Executive Director of the Florida Prepaid College Board.

For more information on the Florida State League, you can visit floridastateleague.com.

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

Donald Driver Charity Softball Game Returns One Last Time!

GRAND CHUTE, WI – Green Bay Packers All-Time Leading Receiver and Super Bowl Champion Donald Driver is going into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame this year and one of the ways he will say, “thank you” to fans for the memories, is by holding a charity softball game at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium on Sunday, August 13, 2017. Game time is 1:05pm.

“When I first retired from the Green Bay Packers, I talked about touring the state of Wisconsin saying ‘thank you’ to fans for the incredible love and support during my career. This softball game holds a special place in my heart and I am excited to thank fans for all of their love and support while also raising money for charity,” said Donald Driver.

“As I look back on my 14-year career with the Packers, and the huge part of my life that included marriage to my beautiful wife and birth of 3 amazing children, this game will be a fun time to reflect and celebrate with family, friends and fans that we have connected with over nearly 20 years,” Donald added.

The game will raise money for the Donald Driver Foundation. The mission of the Donald Driver Foundation is to display Strong Hands, Strong Minds, and Loving Hearts to serve as a hand up, not a hand out.

Donald and Peta Murgatroyd, who won a Mirror Ball Trophy with Donald as her dance partner on Dancing with the Stars, will each draft a team of All-Stars to compete in the softball game. Green Bay Packers Legends, NFL Legends, celebrities, media personalities, Betina Driver and other surprise guests will participate in the game. Specific players will be confirmed in future media releases.

Tickets for the softball game are $40 for a front row box seat, $30 for a standard box seat, $20 for a reserved bleacher seat, and $10 for a general admission grass seat. There are also a limited number of patio tables – which seat four – available at $200. The patio tables will include one autographed item signed by Donald Driver.

There are 69 All-You-Can-Eat seats available for this game for $80 per seat. This ticket includes admission to the game, an all-you-can-eat picnic for 90 minutes, and two beverages (beer, soda, or water).

Fans may begin to purchase tickets for the Donald Driver Game at 10am on Wednesday, March 22. If you have already purchased tickets to the Jordy Nelson Charity Softball Game, there is an opportunity to purchase tickets for the Donald Driver Charity Softball Game before the general public starting at 10am on Wednesday, March 15. Online purchasers of tickets to the Jordy Nelson game will be emailed a code to allow access to the presale. If you bought Jordy Nelson tickets in person or over the phone, please contact the Timber Rattlers Ticket Office between March 15 and March 21 to order.

Tickets to the Donald Driver Charity Softball Game are available in one of the following ways: Over the phone at 800-WI-TIMBER or (920) 733-4152; in person at the Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office; or through the internet at www.timberrattlers.com.

The Timber Rattlers will begin the 2017 season at Quad Cities on Thursday, April 6. Wisconsin’s home opener is Saturday, April 8 at 4:05pm against the Quad Cities River Bandits.

Full season, 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. Groups of 20 or more may order tickets over the phone or in person. Individual game tickets for the 2017 season go on sale Saturday, March 11. The Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.

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

Cougars Donate Foundation Funds to Benefit Local Community Programs

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced the three local organizations that will be receiving a monetary donation on behalf of the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. in conjunction with the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation. Focusing on the three pillars and areas of need in which the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation was built on, the Cougars will be donating to organizations involving children’s programs, homelessness and indigent healthcare.

“The Cougars would like to thank the Arizona Diamondbacks for their generosity,” said owner Cheryl Froehlich. “As we continue to grow our charitable initiatives through the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. we are constantly looking for additional areas where we can make a difference. This donation from the D-backs will enable us to expand our community service programs.”

In the area of children’s programs, the Cougars will be making a contribution to the Kane Excellence in Education Partnership (KEEP). The KEEP program supports and assists the academic and social emotional needs of children throughout the Kane County area. Through collaborations with districts, businesses, government agencies and education organizations, KEEP provides scholarships, educational activities, at-risk programming and necessary educational services to schools in Kane County.

To assist homeless families in the area, the Cougars will make a donation to Bridge Communities located in Glen Ellyn, Ill. The mission of Bridge Communities is to help transition homeless families into a life of self-sufficiency by providing mentoring, housing and supportive services.

Community Nurse Health Center, in LaGrange, Ill. will be receiving the final portion of the donation to help assist the healthcare needs of the local community. Since 1921, Community Nurse Health Center has served residents of the western suburbs by providing direct medical and dental care as well as health education including medical preventive services, chronic disease management, acute illness services, prenatal case management and oral health treatments for low income children and adults.

“The Kane County Cougars are a true asset to their community and share similar values to us at the Arizona Diamondbacks,” said D-backs President and CEO Derrick Hall. “We are extremely proud of their efforts and know that initiatives such as this help teach young players the importance of giving back. In doing so, it is our hope that when they do reach the Major Leagues, their approach is aligned with ours. We applaud the efforts of Dr. Bob and Cheryl Froehlich as well as the entire Cougars front office.”

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date promotional information.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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

Sky Sox and Domino’s Announce Charity Spotlight

The Sky Sox are proud to announce that they will be partnering with Domino’s to showcase local charities in Colorado Springs during the 2017 season. The joint venture, named the “Charity Spotlight”, is designed to help charities in the Colorado Springs area who are working harder than ever to meet budgets to support the ever increasing demand for their services. Domino’s will provide these charities with an opportunity to market themselves and raise awareness for their causes at Security Service Field during the 2017 Sky Sox season free of charge.

“At Domino’s, we recognize the importance of the many charities here in Colorado Springs and we are proud to once again team up with the Colorado Springs Sky Sox to spotlight local non-profits while providing them with a night of fun at the ballpark”, said Domino’s Franchisee Craig Williams.

Throughout the season, Domino’s will provide 30 charities with the following marketing package at one of 30 individual Sky Sox home games:

  1. A marketing table in the main concourse to showcase their organization
  2. Four tickets to the game, parking & two medium Domino’s pizzas
  3. Public address announcement and live in-game scoreboard recognition
  4. A ceremonial first pitch
  5. On-air interview during the Sky Sox broadcast on AM 1300 “The Animal”

Spots for the Charity Spotlight will be filling up quickly so please call Tricia Metzger at 719-304-5612 for additional assistance. Any charity wishing to be considered for the “Charity Spotlight” must download the form linked here, and email the completed form to Tricia Metzger at tmetzger@skysox.com.

“The Sky Sox are proud to continue this partnership with Domino’s while assisting area non-profit organizations with their marketing efforts”, said Sky Sox President and General Manager Tony Ensor. “Colorado charities survive on bringing awareness to their organizations and the services they provide. Our local Colorado Springs charities are an integral part of this community and we are proud to lend a helping hand in their effort.”

The 30th season of Sky Sox Baseball begins April 6, 2017. For information about the Sky Sox and the 2017 season at Security Service Field, please call (719) 597-1449 or email info@skysox.com. Get the latest Sky Sox news on Facebook or follow the team on Twitter at @skysox.

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

Cougars and Mueller Team Up to Provide Memorial Scholarship Fund

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars and Mueller: Certified Public Accountants have announced a new scholarship that will benefit deserving accounting college students in honor of Al Mueller, founding partner of the accounting firm Mueller & Co., LLP now known as Mueller.

Alfred “Al” E. Mueller passed away last March, but left a lasting legacy for his employees, clients and the local community through his many civic and philanthropic endeavors.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Kane County Cougars organization to launch the Al Mueller Memorial Scholarship Fund,” said David J. Nissen Managing Partner at Mueller. “Al would have been pleased to hear of these efforts to support and encourage students to pursue their education in the field of accounting and would be so honored to hear that the scholarship was in his name.”

The Al Mueller Memorial Scholarship Fund will provide five scholarships to deserving accounting college students at Mueller. Each of the honored students will receive $1000 towards their education.

“Mueller has been a tremendous supporter of the Kane County Cougars organization,” said owner Dr. Bob Froehlich. “We are thrilled to be able to contribute to the continued education of these hardworking students in honor of our dear friend Al Mueller.”

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date information on tickets and promotions.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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

Nominations Being Accepted for Most Valuable Teacher Program

The BlueClaws honor Most Improved Students every year, but this year, the BlueClaws and the NJEA are partnering to honor Most Valuable Teachers at the game on Tuesday, May 23rd.

Teachers can be nominated by students, parents of students, fellow teachers, principals, or other administrators.

How to Nominate: Click here to fill out a nomination form. Plus, the BlueClaws encourage nominators to email videos to MVT@blueclaws.com. Video submissions, where the student talks about why their teacher is a Most Valuable Teacher, could be used on the BlueClaws video board the day of the ceremony.

“Teachers are the bedrock of our education system and we want to recognize their achievements this spring,” said BlueClaws General Manager Chris Tafrow. “This event, honoring the top teachers at the Jersey Shore, is extra special since we are taking the nominations and videos from the students and parents themselves.”

Upon nomination, teachers will be contacted through their schools. Each teacher will receive a complimentary ticket to the BlueClaws game on May 23rd and will be recognized in a pre-game ceremony.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League and New Jersey in attendance in all 16 years of existence.

Ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale for the 2017 season by calling 732-900-7000 option 3.

– BlueClaws –

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

Valent and Spidale to host Baseball Camps

(Reading, Pa) – The Reading Fightin Phils have announced that 2016 Reading Baseball Hall of Famer Eric Valent and 2017 Reading Baseball Hall of Fame Inductee Mike Spidale will host baseball camps at FirstEnergy Stadium for youth baseball players this season. Fightin Phils players will assist Valent and Spidale in hosting the camps.

Spidale will host camps for kids ages 7-14. Valent will host camps for kids 4-8. Here are the details:

Spidale Camp for Kids Ages 7-14:

The Fightin Phils Baseball camp hosted by 2017 Reading Baseball Hall of Fame Inductee, and two-time Fightins Team MVP Mike Spidale gives kids the chance to interact and play with Fightin Phils players with three days of instruction by Fightin Phils players and leading baseball coaches from around the area. In addition to the chance to work on their baseball skills on the perfectly manicured field here at America’s Classic Ballpark, each participant will also receive a Fightins Baseball Camp T-shirt and two tickets for a Fightin Phils game. At that game, the campers will be honored on the field before the Fightins game. There will also be an autograph session with Fightin Phils players as part of the camp.

You can sign up as an individual, or you can sign up as a group. If you sign up as a group (group can be as small as two campers), not only do you receive a group discount, but you also guarantee that your group will be bundled together as they move from station to station throughout the camp. Bring the whole team, or a group of friends, and the Fightins will guarantee that you are in the same bundle of campers for the entire camp!

The Spidale Fightins camp is limited to 125 campers and boys and girls from the ages of 7-14 can attend. The camp will run from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. each day.

The first Spidale Fightins camp will be from Tuesday, June 20th through Thursday, June 22nd. Campers who attend this session will receive two tickets for the Reading Fightin Phils game on Thursday, June 22th at 7:05 p.m., and will be honored on the field prior to the Fightins game.

The second Spidale Fightins camp will be from Tuesday, August 1st through Thursday, August 3rd. Campers who attend this session will receive two tickets for the Reading Fightin Phils game on Thursday, August 3rd at 7:05 p.m., and will be honored on the field prior to the Fightins game.

Cost:    10 or more players: $70/camper
6-9 players: $80/camper
2-5 players: $90/camper
1 player: $100/camper

Valent Camp for Kids Ages 4-8:

For the seventh straight year, former major leaguer and Reading Baseball Hall of Famer Eric Valent will be hosting the Reading Fightin Phils Fun & Fundamentals Baseball Camp The camp is designed for YOUNG players to have Fun, and learn some Fundamentals. During the camp, kids will receive on-field instruction from Eric Valent and Fightin Phils players, participate in fun baseball activities followed by a medal ceremony, autograph session and pizza party lunch with Fightin Phils players. Campers will also have access to Phunland following camp as well. Each camper will receive two tickets to attend the Fightin Phils game on their final day of camp. The Valent Fun and Fundamentals Camps are one-day camps, but please feel free to sign up for both days if you would like.

The first camp will be Thursday, July 20th. Boys and girls ages of 5-8 can attend this session. The camp will run from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

The second camp will be Friday, July 21st. Boys and girls ages of 4-6 can attend this session. The camp will run from 9:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.

Like the Spidale Camp, with the Valent Camp you can sign up as an individual, or you can sign up as a group. If you sign up as a group (group can be as small as two campers), not only do you receive a group discount, but you also guarantee that your group will be bundled together as they move from station to station throughout the camp. Bring the whole team, or a group of friends, and the Fightins will guarantee that you are in the same bundle of campers for the entire camp!

Cost:    10 or more players: $35/camper
6-9 players: $40/camper
2-5 players: $45/camper
1 player: $50/camper

For more information regarding the camps, parents can contact Stephen Thomas by emailing him at sthomas@fightins.com or by calling 610-375-8469 ext. 213. Parents can purchase tickets by going here: http://fightinphils.milbstore.com/store.cfm?dept_id=1390&store_id=96&parentID=1390

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2017 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.

Family Campout Night Announced for August 25

For a second straight year we’ve got a FAMILY CAMPOUT NIGHT planned at Frontier Field on Friday, August 25 presented by Dunkin’ Donuts and Meyer’s RV Superstores! 

Any fan with a ticket to the game on Friday, August 25 can CAMPOUT under the stars at Frontier Field that night! Following the game we will be showing the movie “Little Big League” on the videoboards. Popcorn, soda and water will be available for purchase from one of the Red Wings concession stands before and during the movie.

 In the morning, Dunkin’ Donuts will be here with FREE coffee and donuts for all those who camped out!

Campout in Style: One lucky campout group will be upgraded to spend the night in an RV on the field, courtesy of Meyer’s RV Superstores. For your chance to spend the night in the RV, use promo code CAMPOUT when purchasing tickets online and you will automatically be registered for the upgrade experience. We’ll announce the guest upgrade before the movie begins. Don’t have a tent but want to camp out? The staff from Meyer’s will be here selling discounted tents and supplies.

In an effort to keep track of how many fans we’ll have sleeping over on August 25, please use promo code: CAMPOUT (all caps) when purchasing tickets online if you plan on staying over. To order tickets over the phone, please call Mike Ewing at (585) 454-1001 EXT. 3036.

PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE HERE (Be sure to use the promo code)

We can’t think about a Campout Night without remembering TENT BOY! In the Summer of 2002, with the Wings mired in a long losing streak, Wings GM Dan Mason took to a tent in the Red Wings bullpen…

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

Cougars Rebrand Annual 5K To Honor Local First Responders

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced the 6th annual 5K Run/Walk will take place on Saturday, June 3 at Northwestern Medicine Field beginning at 8 a.m. The charitable event will take on a new look from years past as the Cougars organization continues to grow their charitable outreach. Renamed the Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders, presented by Planet Fitness, a portion of the proceeds from the race will benefit the TriCity (Batavia, Geneva and St. Charles) Police and Fire Departments, the Kane County Sheriff’s Office and the Forest Preserve District of Kane County Police Department.

Registration is now open for the event at kccougars.com as well as raceroster.com.

“Planet Fitness is very excited to be sponsoring this year’s Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders,” said Mike Horan, Managing Partner at Planet Fitness. “We would like to thank First Responders for all they do in our community. Planet Fitness is looking forward to promoting health and fitness throughout the community.”

The Cougars 5K, which features chip timing, will take on a new course along both Kirk Road and Fabayan Parkway. Additional course details will be announced at a later date.

This year’s event will also include the “Cougars Inside the Park Dash” for children through age 12. The roughly half-mile fun run, held inside the ballpark, will take place at the conclusion of the Cougars 5K Run/Walk for just $5 per child.

For the first time in the history of the Cougars annual 5K event, Kane County Board Chairman, Chris Lauzen, will be serving as the Official Starter for the Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders.

“We’re very excited about the new direction that the Cougars 5K has taken on,” said Cougars owner, Dr. Bob Froehlich. “The additional element of honoring first responders continues to expand our charitable outreach throughout the community while allowing us to continue the Cougars tradition of hosting family-friendly events.”

Open to both competitive runners and recreational walkers, the Cougars host one of the most unique 5K events in the Chicagoland area. The finish line, located at home plate, allows participants to be seen on the ballpark’s videoboard through a live-feed camera while also receiving high-fives from Ozzie and Annie T. Cougar down the final stretch of the race course. Families with children are encouraged to participate as strollers are permitted on the course with a special discounted rate for participants between the ages of 5-18 years old.

Those registered by May 24 are guaranteed a commemorative race t-shirt featuring the new Cougars 5K logo while all participants will receive a complimentary ticket voucher valid for any game during the 2017 season. The top three male and female finishers in 14 age groups will receive a custom race medal featuring the Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders logo, courtesy of Image Awards, Engraving & Creative Keepsakes, Inc. of Geneva.

Following the race, participants can enjoy a variety of refreshments including a complimentary hot dog, brat and beer for those 21 and older.

Individuals who register by March 24 can take advantage of early bird pricing with a special $28 fee. Following the early bird registration, pricing will increase to $33 until May 31 and then $38 until race day on June 3.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for up to date information regarding tickets and promotions.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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