Missing Child Found with Spinners Help

LOWELL, MA – The Lowell Spinners, short season affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, are proud to announce that Edward Vasquez, a missing child whose picture was prominently displayed at LeLacheur Park this season, has been safely located in Springfield, MA.

Vasquez, in addition to three other missing children, had his picture posted on a sign from the BairFind Foundation, an organization dedicated to locating missing children, at LeLacheur Park this season. He was reported missing in April and was found in his hometown of Springfield. The three other missing children from the sign, Skyelee Housman, Derrick DeSouza, and Charlotte Lowell, have all been found as well. This marks the second season in a row that the BairFind Foundation and the Spinners have teamed up in an effort to find missing local children. For more information on the BairFind Foundation, visit bairfind.org.

“We could not be happier that all four children pictured in LeLacheur Park have been located and are now safe, sound and reunited with their families,” said Spinners’ owner Dave Heller. “The more eyes that are looking for a child, the more likely that child will be found, and the support this great community has given to the Bair Foundation and our outstanding law enforcement authorities has been overwhelming — and has produced real results for four families. This is a grand-slam day for Lowell!”

“BairFind is proud to partner with the Lowell Spinners, as they joined in the search for Edward Vasquez and three other missing children since opening day.” said BairFind founder Dennis Bair “It feels great to know that those children have been located safely this summer. The Spinners have made LeLacheur Park a powerful resource for their community in the search for missing kids.”

The Spinners recently concluded their 2016 season with the winningest season in team history and a Stedler Division title. The team will return for the 2017 season in June.

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

D-Braves nominated for Charles Murphy Patriot Award

DANVILLE, Va. – The Appalachian League announced its nominations for the Minor League Baseball Annual Awards Wednesday afternoon, with the Danville Braves earning the league’s nomination for the Charles Murphy Patriot Award. The award is presented to a team who demonstrates “outstanding support of and engagement with the United States Armed Forces and veterans, both at the ballpark and in the community.”

The D-Braves placed a strong focus on recognizing and honoring the military throughout the month of July during the 2016 season, with each Friday game and the team’s July 3rd contest being dubbed Military Appreciation Night presented by Angus Heating and Air and Blue Ridge Beverage. The Braves’ wore special military-themed jerseys on each of the Military Appreciation Nights, with the game-used jerseys being auctioned off to benefit the Danville Veterans Memorial and the Fort Bragg Fisher House.

Additionally, the D-Braves welcomed members of the Dan River High School J-ROTC for the National Anthem prior to each game on Military Appreciation Nights.

“We are honored to represent the Appalachian League for this award,” said D-Braves General Manager David Cross. “The U.S. Military and their families have provided more than we can ever repay, and honoring them in the ways we have is the least we can do.”

This year’s Charles Murphy Patriot Award will be presented at the 2016 Baseball Winter Meetings to be held in National Harbor, Maryland from December 4-8.

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

Hops For Hospice Beer Festival Oct. 1

The Clearwater Threshers will be hosting the 8th Annual Hops For Hospice Beer Festival at Bright House Field on Saturday, October 1, from 4-8 p.m. The fundraiser event benefits Empath Health and the Suncoast Hospice Foundation. Over 100 different beers will be available for sample on the concourse from JJ Taylor, Great Bay Distributors and local breweries.

Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Tickets are limited and often sell out. Every attendee will receive a complimentary miniature beer mug for samples.

Tickets may be purchased at the Bright House Field ticket office, online at HopsforHospice.com or by phone at 727-467-4457.

You must be 21+ years old with a valid photo ID to attend the festival. Parking at Bright House Field and Joe DiMaggio Field is $5 the day of the event.

*Presale of tickets and online sales end at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, Sep. 30. After this time, the TICKETS link below will be inactive. The Bright House Field box office will open at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 1, for day-of sales.* 

TICKETS 727-467-4457

Hops For Hospice website

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

Missing children from D-Braves’ BairFind sign found

DANVILLE, Va. – The Danville Braves are pleased to announce that two of the missing children featured on the BairFind sign at Legion Field have been found. Maria de los Angeles Avendano Ramos and Peter Van der Linden have both been located and returned home safely after their pictures were featured on signage at the D-Braves’ stadium throughout the 2016 season.

The search continues for Samantha Clarke and Shimeaka Gibson, the two remaining missing children featured on the D-Braves’ BairFind sign in 2016. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of a missing child is encouraged to call 1-800-THE-LOST.

The BairFind Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to locating missing children that has partnered with Minor League Baseball to promote its efforts. The organization works with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children to feature missing children specific to an MiLB team’s geographic location on signage at ballparks across the country.

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

Local field wins makeover from Dash, Flow Chevrolet

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (Sept. 13, 2016) – The Winston-Salem Dash and Flow Chevrolet have announced that Northwest Forsyth American Little League (NWFALL) has won the 2016 Diamond in the Rough Ballpark Renovation program. Therefore, NWFALL’s field will receive a Major League makeover this fall.

The Diamond in the Rough Ballpark Renovation contest, which ran throughout the month of July, invited area Little Leagues and softball leagues to submit videos to the Dash on social media to show why their field is in need and deserving of a makeover. NWFALL’s submission emerged victorious from a group of impressive finalists.

This marks NWFALL’s 52nd year of operation, and more than 400 players participated in spring activities in 2016. The little league added a Challenger Division for children with physical or mental challenges this season. NWFALL also hosts several district and state tournaments in baseball and softball.

“NWFALL is thrilled to be the recipient of the Diamond in the Rough renovation,” said Chris Swink, President of NWFALL. “The renovations and upgrades so generously provided by Flow Chevrolet and the Dash will have a big impact on all of our players. We want to thank both Flow Chevrolet and the Dash for their support of Little League Baseball in our community.”

The Flow Chevrolet Diamond in the Rough Ballpark Renovation program will be transforming its third facility. Last year’s winner was Winston-Salem National Little League, while South Little League was the inaugural recipient in 2014. The program follows similar baseball and softball field renovation programs that exist in both Major League Baseball and Minor League Baseball.

For more information on the renovation program or the Dash, call (336) 714-2287.

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

Shorebirds Present Toy Donation To Brooke’s Toy Closet

Pictured: Top; Eric Sichau, Shorebirds Director of Community Relations; Ann DeMarco, PRMC Foundation Board Member; Sherman the Shorebird; Denise Billing, President – PRMC Foundation. Bottom; Joel Olive, Mojo’s Co-Owner & Executive Chef; Stacey McMichael, Fundraising Coordinator – PRMC Foundation; Kellie Noonan, Brooke Mulford Foundation Board Member; Rob Mulford, Owner – Market Street Inn & Mojo’s, Father of Brooke Mulford; Emilia Chrzaszcz, Manager at Market Street Inn; and Sharrell Callaway, Office Manager – Market Street Inn & Mojo’s.

SALISBURY, MD – The Delmarva Shorebirds are proud to announce in conjunction with partners at Market Street Inn, Mojo’s, and the Peninsula Regional Medical Center, the results of the Brooke’s Toy Closet Toy Drive, held on July 23rd at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

In total, 151 items were donated by Shorebirds fans, with the Shorebirds presenting the donation to Brooke’s Toy Closet at the Peninsula Regional Medical Center recently, along with members from Market Street Inn, Mojo’s, and the Peninsula Regional Medical Center Foundation, which oversees and maintains Brooke’s Toy Closet.

Toy Donations ranged from activity books, to stuffed animals, to interactive toys. All these items will be extremely beneficial to replenishing Brooke’s Toy Closet, and very much appreciated from members of the Peninsula Regional Medical Center Foundation and staff from the Emergency Department and Pediatrics Unit.

“This was a fantastic partnership with Market Street Inn, Mojo’s, PRMC, and the Shorebirds. All parties were extremely excited with the results.” said Shorebirds Director of Community Relations Eric Sichau. “We appreciate the support from the local community and Shorebirds fans, and encourage those to donate to the Toy Closet year round to keep it replenished.” “We look forward to continuing the Toy Drive during the 2017 Season!”

Brooke’s Toy Closet was started in 2014 by Brooke Mulford, a local girl who was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, an aggressive form of cancer, in 2009, when she was 4 years old. The closet is a special cabinet filled with toys, coloring books and other goodies that PRMC’s Emergency Department and Pediatrics Unit can give to children who are hospitalized. The recipients of these gifts will be able to use them when they’re in the hospital, and take them home to enjoy when they are feeling better. For more information on the Peninsula Regional Medical Center Foundation and Brooke’s Toy Closet, contact the PRMC Foundation at 410-543-7140.

For more information on the Delmarva Shorebirds Community Relations efforts, contact the Shorebirds at 410-219-3112 or visit theshorebirds.com.

Delmarva Shorebirds
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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.

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

Fifth Third Field to Host MVDSA Buddy Walk

Dayton, Ohio-The 14th Annual Miami Valley Down Syndrome Association (MVDSA) Dayton Buddy Walk® will take place at Fifth Third Field on Saturday, September 17th beginning at 8:30 a.m. More than 2,000 people are expected to attend the event, which is one of over 250 Walks across the country this fall to raise awareness and funds for programs that benefit people with Down syndrome and their families.

The National Buddy Walk® Program welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. The goals of the program are to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome and to positively influence local and national policy and practice. Last year alone, Buddy Walk® events raised nearly $13 million to benefit national advocacy initiatives, as well as local programs and services. All funds raised through the National Buddy Walk® Program support both local and national programs.

The MVDSA Dayton Buddy Walk® will feature something fun for everyone – exhibitors, activities, inflatables, a basket raffle, a 50/50 raffle, silent auction, and more! Activities around the ballpark begin at 8:30 a.m. The Entertainment Fun Zone will be open with face painters and a photo booth. Dragons mascots Heater and Gem will roam the concourse and take pictures with those in attendance. Individuals with Down syndrome will receive a medal as they complete the walk. To learn more, visit www.DaytonBuddyWalk.org, or contact the MVDSA at office@mvdsa.org or 937-222-0744.

About the Miami Valley Down Syndrome Association: The MVDSA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing life enriching opportunities, as well as information, resources and support, for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and their communities. The MVDSA serves the Miami Valley of Ohio, including the following 11 counties: Auglaize, Champaign, Clark, Darke, Greene, Logan, Mercer, Miami, Montgomery, Preble and Shelby. Learn more at www.mvdsa.org.

Contact: Jenna Stites

Executive Director

Miami Valley Down Syndrome Association

Phone: (937) 222-0744

Email: office@mvdsa.org

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

PawSox Fans Donate Record 71 Pints in Inaugural 9/11 Blood Drive

On the 15th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, members of the PawSox community set a club record by donating 71 units of blood for the Rhode Island Blood Center at McCoy Stadium. PawSox blood drives in past years garnered less than a dozen units. Yesterday’s Day of Remembrance Blood Drive was the first on this date in PawSox history.

In previous years, a blood mobile visited McCoy Stadium before a game. An average of five-to-seven fans participated. Yesterday’s total, more than 10 times more, far exceeded the expectations of the Rhode Island Blood Center.

“To see a sports franchise so committed to the well-being of its community is a real source of pride for Rhode Island,” said Eric St. Peter, Account Manager/Public Relations Coordinator at the Rhode Island Blood Center. “We should be proud to have such a great club with such great fans who understand the importance of life-saving blood donations here in our state.”

“We are pleased that the PawSox could play such a meaningful role on such a special day of remembrance,” said PawSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg, who was instrumental in the creation of the Boston Red Sox’ Annual Blood Drive that has taken place at Fenway Park each September 11 since 2002. “This inspiring show of support is a tribute to the people of Pawtucket, who demonstrated their heart in record numbers.”

The PawSox and the Rhode Island Blood Center intend to hold their Second Annual Day of Remembrance Blood Drive on September 11, 2017.

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

Louisville Slugger Field to host Miracle League Kick-Off Event

Rendering of the future Miracle League of Louisville field located in Fern Creek

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The Miracle League and the Louisville Bats organization have partnered together for a special event at Louisville Slugger Field. This event is for all to meet and greet current Louisville Bat Jermaine Curtis and learn more about the Miracle League. Curtis will be meeting and signing autographs at the FREE Miracle League kick-off event at Louisville Slugger Field from 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 11.

The Miracle League is a baseball complex for children with physical, cognitive and/or emotional disabilities to play in an organized baseball league. The event will have raffle drawings along with a free hat giveaway to all veterans and first responders as the Miracle League will recognize their service on September 11.

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

OKC Dodgers to Host Free Car Seat Check Saturday

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers, the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, and Safe Kids Oklahoma are teaming up to sponsor a free car seat check from 9 a.m. – noon Saturday, Sept. 10 at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

Child Passenger Safety Week runs Sept. 18-24, but organizations such as the Dodgers are hosting events throughout the month of September to benefit the campaign, which is dedicated to helping parents and caregivers make sure their children ride as safely as possible, every trip, every time.

Certified technicians will be on hand to install car seats and booster seats, and to check previously installed seats, at no charge. Car seats will also be available for $10 for those who can provide proof of government assistance. To receive a car seat check or be eligible to receive a car seat, the child must be present and an expectant mother must be within six weeks of delivery.

“The Dodgers are pleased to have the opportunity to partner with the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office and offer free car seat checks to the Oklahoma City community,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “OHSO is among the leaders in communicating important safety measures to the public, and their partnership with Safe Kids in organizing these events further shows what an asset they are to our state.”

Technicians will be stationed just east of Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark in the Joe Carter Lot, located at the northeast corner of the intersection of Joe Carter Avenue and East Reno Avenue, on Saturday.

“It’s our job to keep our children safe,” Devon Sisson, director of Safe Kids Oklahoma, said. “Get your car seats checked. Make certain they’re installed correctly, that your kids are in the right seats and are buckled in correctly. Even if you think your child is safe, check again, so you can be sure that your child is the safest he or she can be while traveling.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends keeping children in rear-facing seats as long as possible. Once the child outgrows the rear-facing seat size limits, the child is ready to travel in a forward-facing car seat with a harness and tether. After outgrowing that type of seat, children should be placed in booster seats until they are the right size to use seat belts safely.

For more information about car seat safety or to locate a certified technician, visit: safercar.gov/parents.

The OKC Dodgers continue play in the American Conference Finals against the Nashville Sounds at 7:05 p.m. today at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. Nashville leads the best-of-five series, 1-0. Today is a $2 Thursday featuring $2 soda, water and select draft beer. For tickets, please call (405) 218-1000 or visit: okcdodgers.com.

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

PawSox to Host “Night Nation Run” 5k Music Festival Saturday Evening, September 24, to Support Stand Up to Cancer

McCoy Stadium will play host to its first “Night Nation Run” on Saturday, September 24, a 5K Music Festival. The innovative run is a pioneer among running music festivals, which combine exercise with live music and lights. The event supports Stand Up to Cancer.

Gates open Saturday at 4:30 pm, with the first DJ performance at 6 pm, and the first wave of runners at 7 pm.

Throughout the illuminated racecourse, participants will experience on-course DJ performances, interactive light shows, selfie stations, and glow gear giveaways. After the race, which takes place at the stadium and adjacent Pariseau Field, participants can enjoy a post-party in center field with a headliner DJ to be named later, as well as celebrity guests.

“We are pleased to help play host to this innovative event that blends running with electronic dance music,” said PawSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “We salute its creators for creating a community event that supports the wonderful work being performed by our friends at Stand Up to Cancer.”

The Night Nation Run Pick-Up Party takes place the previous day, Friday, September 23, from 4-8 pm, when participants can pick up their race information and gear.

An “Early Bird” registration fee of $29 is in effect until 11:59 p.m. tonight. Thereafter, the full fee is $60. For more information, including ticket purchases, visit www.nightnationrun.com.

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

PBC Winners: Two scholarships awarded

Chuck the Power Mascot and Chelsie Kelley of Subway Development of WV with scholarship winner Tori Ward.

Charleston, WV (September 6, 2016) – On Saturday, September 3, the West Virginia Power, in conjunction with Subway Development of West Virginia and Greg Hammond, announced the first winners of the Power Baseball Charities Scholarships. Tori Ward and Greg Lail were selected as the first recipients of the reoccurring scholarships.

In May of this season, Power Baseball Charities unveiled a new scholarship program, underwritten by Subway Development of West Virginia and Greg Hammond. Power Baseball Charities, a 501c3, accepted applications from local high school baseball and softball players for two reoccurring $1,000 scholarships.

Any graduating senior residing in Kanawha or surrounding counties who would be attending any post-secondary institution on a full-time basis this fall and had participated in either varsity baseball or softball was eligible to apply for the scholarship. Applications were received and reviewed by a three-member panel, who determined the scholarship winners based on a variety of criteria, including outstanding citizenship, a demonstrated role in bettering the community and on the merit of their academic and athletic achievements.

Tori Ward is a graduate of Poca High School. She was a three-year member of the National Honor Society, a four-year member of the Poca varsity softball team, a member of the varsity cheerleading squad. Miss Ward is currently attending Glenville State College, where she is continuing her softball career and majoring in behavioral science.

Greg Lail is a graduate of Van Junior-Senior High School and is also attending Glenville State College. He graduated from high school with a 4.0 grade point average and at the top of his class. Mr. Lail is playing both football and baseball for the Pioneers while majoring in business management with intentions on going to dental school after college.

For more information on the Power Baseball Charities Scholarship Program, underwritten by Subway Development of West Virginia and Greg Hammond, please contact the West Virginia Power front office at 304-344-2287.

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

Miracle, Keep On Playing host last clinic of 2016

FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 1, 2016) – The Fort Myers Miracle and Keep on Playing are teaming up for the fourth and final baseball clinic with the Fort Myers Boy’s and Girl’s Club for 2016 on Saturday, September 3 at 10 a.m. at Shady Oaks.

The Miracle, Keep On Playing and the Boy’s and Girl’s Club have held three previous baseball clinics with excellent turnout. The Miracle and Keep On Playing have donated baseball equipment to the Boy’s and Girl’s Club and players have delivered one-on-one personal instruction to the local youth throughout the course of the summer. At each clinic, current members of the Miracle roster have worked with kids to help develop a passion for the game of baseball. 2016 Florida State League All-Star and team home run leader Trey Vavra has been at every session.

Fort Myers Mayor Randy Henderson has proclaimed September 3 as MiLB Keep On Playing Day.

“It’s extraordinary to watch the kids pick up a baseball and glove and they don’t stop smiling and laughing,” said Marnie Schneider, Founder of Keep On Playing. “The special gift of choosing what to plays is what Keep On Playing and our amazing teammates give the children. By bringing the wonderful game of baseball to the kids, we give them more options and teach them about our national pastime!”

Keep On Playing and the Miracle support the Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities, or RBI program, at the Boy’s and Girl’s Clubs located in Fort Myers. In addition to baseball skills, clubs ensure participants receive educational components to help foster academic achievement while attending the clinics.

The Keep On Playing mission is to enrich the lives of youth through play. When kids keep on playing, their experiences are enhanced exponentially. Keep On Playing strives to build confidence, increase motivation and enhance self-esteem by jump-starting participation in sports. The Keep On Playing core values are: Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, Perseverance, Excellence, Sportsmanship and Academic Achievement.

“I think the most important thing for people to know about Keep On Playing is its ability to change lives,” said Donja Massop, Director of Operations for the Boy’s and Girl’s Clubs of Lee County. “It’s not just about baseball. It’s more about opportunities and providing kids with new experiences.”

“We are thrilled to be able to work with Keep On Playing to bring a positive message about teamwork and being involved in sports to the kids at the Boy’s and Girl’s Club in Lee County,” said Miracle Chief Operating Officer Steve Gliner. “Being a part of these baseball clinics has been a great experience for our players and staff.”

The Miracle, Keep On Playing and the Boy’s and Girl’s Club have already scheduled clinics for the summer of 2017. For more information on the final Keep On Playing clinic in Fort Myers, contact the Miracle offices at (239) 768-4210.

Meet Ashley Thompson: Birmingham’s Rising Star Student

Student: Ashley Thompson

MiLB: Birmingham Barons

Agency: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Birmingham

College: University of Montevallo

Little Sister Ashley didn’t have an easy childhood. She was quiet and shy. She was raised by her grandparents, without her parents. She was held back in school. But she has refused to let those things define her. She was matched with her Big Sister eight years ago. Together, they visited book stores, went to the movies, and cheered on their favorite baseball teams.

Now, she is heading to the University of Montevallo with an academic scholarship. Her Big Sister could not be more proud. “I have watched Ashley develop into an intelligent, dependable, caring, and hardworking young woman,” she says. “She excelled academically in high school, joined the band, found her passion for art, and worked part-time.”

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

Yoga in the Outfield on Saturday

Fluor Field will host a special “Yoga in the Outfield” event on Saturday, September 10th. Gates open at 9:00 AM, and a special yoga class will begin at 10:00 AM.

Tickets for the yoga class are available now for just $15 by CLICKING HERE, and they will be $20 at the field on September 10th. Portions of the ticket proceeds will go to Meals on Wheels and the Set Free Alliance.

Kids are also invited to take part in a complimentary mini-yoga session on the berm by the Main Street Gate.

Even if you don’t take part in the yoga classes, anyone can enter with complimentary admission to the Mindful Market located on the concourse with healthy snacks, drinks and cocktails from some of Greenville’s most mindful vendors.

For more information, go to yogaintheoutfield.com or CLICK HERE.

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