Wings’ jersey’s journey to Afghanistan

Rochester, N.Y. to Afghanistan — 6,673 miles.

That’s the distance between Rochester and Afghanistan. That distance would take you from New York to L.A. and back to Des Moines, Iowa.

Jose Berrios has memorabilia that resides there, but he doesn’t know it.

On the Fourth of July a season-high 11,574 spectators filed into Frontier Field as the Wings dropped a 5-2 decision to Buffalo. That night Rochester donned patriotic threads that were silent auctioned following the game to benefit the Veteran’s Outreach Center in Rochester.

Gracious fans raised $3,380 on Independence Day to lay claim to the unique game worn Wings artifacts. Many of the jerseys can be seen worn by fans around the park while others have them framed in their homes.

Jose Berrios’ jersey won’t be seen by anybody for quite some time because his is currently 6,673 miles away in Afghanistan.

Danny Cashman has been in the military since 2005 where he joined as a military police officer and was sent to Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri for one station unit training. Later that year he was sent to Fort Benning in Georgia where he participated in jump school as a paratrooper in the 82nd airborne. He was then stationed in Fayetteville, North Carolina before being stationed in Afghanistan for 15 months from 2007-08.

There is not a lot to do in down time while overseas. One day Cashman was sent a baseball and he went out in the field with the guys and played with it. Soldiers were sent soccer balls and they played with those. Practically anything over there could be used to goof off and have a good time.

Now, Cashman sends whatever he can get his hands on overseas. Upon his return in 2008 he has been collecting game-used baseballs, bats, and a game-used base from a Red Wings game that hangs in the dining hall of his former base. He’s also sent over basic supplies like socks and T-shirts because at the end of the day he knows anything is appreciated.

“The baseball stuff (we received) was a surprise and it was like ‘Hey this is awesome!’ Stuff like that sent to any solider packages would be utilized and it was nice. Unless you have a family member or friends sending you things it can be tough and you don’t know what you are going to get. Being able to keep their morale up is huge.”

Jose’s jersey was sent over to a good friend of Cashman not only because of the patriotic colors of the jersey, but also because of the number.

The duo both thoroughly enjoy the movie The Replacements and quarterback Shane Falco sports #16 in the film so the number has stuck for the two men.

So while the $3,380 is going to help war veterans in Rochester, the jerseys themselves are having an impact themselves over 6,000 miles away.

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

WTTW Readers are Leaders Event Travels to Cougars, August 14

GENEVA, Ill. – The WTTW Kids Readers are Leaders event is coming to Fifth Third Bank Ballpark on Sunday, August 14 before the Cougars take on the Cedar Rapids Kernels for Back to School Night at 1 p.m. To purchase tickets, visit www.kccougars.com.

Gates for the event will open at 11 a.m. with festivities beginning in the Music Garden, presented by the Acres Group, at 11:15 a.m. Each person with a ticket for that day’s game will be allowed entry into the ballpark for the free, family-friendly event. Featuring sing-along songs and interactive stories with Miss Lori’s CAMPUS, the event is geared towards young children and their families to help support literacy development throughout the summer.

Click here for more information about Readers are Leaders.

In addition, WTTW and the Cougars will be holding a book exchange. Fans are encouraged to bring a gently used book to the ballpark where they can exchange it for a new book to take home and enjoy.

Illinois Senator McConnaughay will be on hand to provide fun activities for kids and their families in the Cougars KidZone area, presented by Rainbow Play Systems, as well as raffling off backpacks full of school supplies to help kids as they head back to the classroom this fall.

The game is also a Sunday Funday, presented by Dave & Buster’s, which includes free entertainment and discounts for kids in the KidZone area. Activities include pre-game Catch on the Field and an autograph session with Cougars players. The deals don’t stop there as Sunday is Kids Eat Free at the Cougars with all children between the ages of 3 and 10 receiving a voucher at the gate for a free hot dog and small soda.

Following the game, fans of all ages will be able to run the bases.

To purchase tickets for Back to School Night, and participate in the WTTW Kids Readers are Leaders event, contact the Cougars box office at 630-232-8811 or visit www.kccougars.com.

For updates throughout the season on ticket and promotions follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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 144 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.

Round Rock Express Backs the Blue This Sunday

ROUND ROCK, Texas – For 72 games a year, the Round Rock Express rely on the help of local law enforcement, the Round Rock Police Department, to keep Dell Diamond and their fans, staff, players and coaches safe.

With the recent attacks on law enforcement and the shooting of Round Rock citizen and Travis County Sheriff Deputy Sgt. Craig Hutchinson, the Express are backing the blue this Sunday, July 31 and encouraging fans to wear blue in a stand of solidarity with local law enforcement. The Express will raffle off a team-autographed blue jersey with all proceeds from raffle ticket sales going to the family of Sgt. Hutchinson and local law enforcement agencies.

“These officers protect us every single day at the ballpark and in the community,” Express Manager Jason Wood said. “They’ve become family and when one of our family members is attacked, we rally around them. We want them to know that we stand with them and appreciate the work they do in putting on that uniform every day.”

The Express players and coaches will also wear blue uniforms on Sunday in a show of support as they take on the Memphis Redbirds at 7:05 p.m.

For more information on the Express, visit www.RoundRockExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter!

Seneca County Chamber of Commerce honors Doubledays

(Romulus, NY) – The Seneca County Chamber of Commerce recently presented its 2016 Small Business of the Year Award to the Auburn Doubledays Baseball Club during a ceremony at the Chamber’s Annual Membership BBQ event held at Knapp Vineyard Winery and Restaurant.

The Doubledays were among five finalists for the membership award, which also included: the Glove House (Waterloo), Jessica & Company (Waterloo), Main Street Drivers (Seneca Falls) and the Seneca County House of Concern (Seneca Falls).

Founded in 1958, the Auburn Doubledays Baseball Club is currently a Class “A” Short Season Affiliate for Major League Baseball’s Washington Nationals. Under the direction of new General Manager Mike Voutsinas, the organization experienced a 22% increase in home game attendance over the last two years (most of any team in the league). New community partnerships and regional collaborations were formed with a special focus on providing opportunities for children in neighboring little leagues, schools, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.

Corporate sponsorships have nearly tripled, allowing the organization to make several needed infrastructure improvements to Falcon Park and added amenities related to fan experience. The net result was the first operating profit for the franchise in more than five years.

“We congratulate the Auburn Doubledays on their noteworthy achievements and significant contributions to our regional quality of life,” said Chamber President Jeff Shipley. “Despite limited staff and resources, small businesses such as the Auburn Doubledays play a vital role in the health and well being of our local communities.”

More than 200 Chamber members and guests attended the event, sponsored by Generations Bank. The award was developed by the Chamber in 2007 to recognize and celebrate the impact that small businesses have on local communities. Small businesses account for nearly 98 percent of all businesses in New York State – providing nearly 4 million jobs and contributing over $190 million in payroll.

For more information about this event or for details about Chamber membership, benefits and programs, please call (315) 568-2906 or visit www.senecachamber.org.

Military Mom Surprises Children With Special Homecoming At Cougars Game

Technical Sgt. Ashley Reese embraces her three children Luke (10), Micah (6) and Leia (3) following a seven-month deployment in Qatar. Luke and Micah each threw out a first pitch before the Cougars game on July 14 followed by their mom coming out of the dugout to surprise them with her homecoming (Kane County Cougars – Donnell Collins)

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars had the privilege of assisting Technical Sergeant Ashley Reese with surprising her three children before the game on Thursday evening against the West Michigan Whitecaps. Ten-year old Luke and six-year old Micah each threw out a first pitch while their three-year old sister Leia looked on in excitement. Immediately following the first pitches, Cougars on-field MC Sam Ostrowski, informed the crowd that a special guest was on hand as Ashley made her way out of the Cougars dugout to embrace her children as well as her parents, Diana and Mike, for the first time in seven months. The special moment brought more than 8,800 fans to their feet to give the family a standing ovation.

Ashley, who grew up in Wayne, Ill. returned home this week following a seven month deployment in Qatar with the National Guard. As her husband Michael Hommowun also serves in the military, grandparents Diana and Mike Reese, residents of Elgin, Ill. help with childcare when both are deployed or must report for military drills. Sgt. Reese and her husband, who reside in Bristol, Tenn. with their three children, have planned a family camping trip to Dollywood.

Video Courtesy of NBC 5 Chicago – Regina Waldroup

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

Cougars To Host Peanut-Free Night on July 13

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced that Wednesday, July 13 will be Peanut-Free Night when they host the West Michigan Whitecaps in a 6:30 p.m. game at Fifth Third Bank Ballpark. The game will not include the sale of peanuts or any peanut-related products to allow fans with peanut allergies the opportunity to safely attend a Cougars game.

Beginning in 2007, the Cougars have hosted their annual Peanut-Free Night for the last nine years for families of children with peanut allergies. Peanut allergies are one of the most common food allergies and can cause a severe and potentially fatal allergic reaction. In addition to peanuts, the following items will also not be available for fans to purchase on July 13: Dippin’ Dots, Oberweis ice cream, Oreo churros, Cracker Jacks, candy including plain and peanut M&M’s, as well as cookies and brownies.

Fans are asked to visit Guest Services located on the third base concourse with questions regarding the food and the ingredients they contain in relation to Peanut Free Night.

Tickets for Peanut-Free Night are available now by calling 630-232-8811 or by ordering online at www.kccougars.com.

Other promotions throughout the night include Half-Price Hump Day, presented by The GFS Store with specials on reserved and lawn tickets plus regular-size sodas, burgers, pizza, nachos, popcorn and select souvenirs as well as the opportunity for fans of all ages to run the bases after the game.

For updates throughout the season on ticket and promotions follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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 144 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.

Baysox Host Equipment Collection

BOWIE, Md. – The Bowie Baysox announce today that the Oriole Advocates will collect new and used sports equipment at Prince George’s Stadium Saturday, August 27, as the Baysox take on the Binghamton Mets at 6:35 p.m. The organization collects the equipment for its Cardboard To Leather program, which provides equipment to underprivileged children in developing countries.

The Cardboard To Leather program accepts donations of all baseball and softball equipment: bats, balls, gloves, uniforms, bags and spikes. Baseball gloves, duffle bags and useable helmets are the hardest items for Cardboard to Leather to acquire.

If fans are unable to make it to the game, they can bring donations to the Baysox office during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Since the program’s inception, more than 50 tons of baseball equipment have been sent to children in developing countries.

The 2016 Bowie Baysox season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. The Baysox 2016 season is underway. Don’t miss a minute of the action as the Baysox defend their 2015 Eastern League Championship. Single game tickets are now on sale at www.baysox.com.

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

Cutters Offer MedReturn at Wednesday Games

Lycoming County District Attorney’s office has teamed up with the Williamsport Crosscutters to give fans the opportunity to safely dispose of unwanted or expired household medication.

Officials will be in attendance with the MedReturn box to collect medication at every Cutters Wednesday home game. Collection dates are June 22, July 13, August 3, August 10 and August 31.

Lycoming County District Attorney Eric Linhardt stated, “The best way to avoid the risks of prescription drug abuse, especially for children and teenagers, is to safely dispose of medications when they are unused or expired. The Pennsylvania MedReturn drop boxes offer the public a safe, accessible, and convenient alternative to keeping prescription drugs that aren’t being used in the home where they can get in the wrong hands or be disposed of in landfills or down the drain where they can end up in the water supply.

All fans turning in medication will receive a coupon for a free hot dog and soda, courtesy of the District Attorney’s office, redeemable at any Cutters home game during the 2016 season.

“We are pleased to assist the D.A’s office in helping get as many unused prescriptions as possible out of homes and safely disposed,” stated Gabe Sinicropi, Cutters Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations.

MedReturn is committed to providing a safe, simple, secure and environmentally friendly way to help law enforcement agencies and communities collect unwanted or expired household medication, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs and unused pharmaceuticals in locations throughout the U.S.A.

For more information on the program, call the Williamsport crosscutters at (570) 326-3389.

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

Tame your mane at Fifth Third Field: Sunday, July 17

Are split ends throwing you a curve? The Great Clips Charity Cuts event aims to help you tame that mane while enjoying great baseball action at Fifth Third Field! On Sunday, July 17, Great Clips stylists will be providing free haircuts on the Main Concourse during the game, with donations being accepted to benefit Children’s Miracle Network.

The Hens will take on the Columbus Clippers at 6:05 p.m. For tickets, call 419-725-HENS or order online.

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

BLOOD ASSURANCE AND ROME BRAVES PARTNER TO BRING A LIFESAVING CAUSE TO HOME PLATE

– With baseball season under full swing, non-profit regional blood center Blood Assurance is partnering with the Rome Braves to host a blood drive on Friday, May 13, from noon until 6 p.m. at the team’s stadium located at 755 Braves Blvd. All community members who make a blood donation will receive an “American Blood Donor” t-shirt, and the first 25 donors will receive a complimentary general admission ticket to any Rome Braves game this season.

“Donors are pivotal to our mission, saving three lives with just one blood donation,” said Mindy Quinn, marketing manager for Blood Assurance. “With that in mind, every donation truly has a revolutionary impact, and we encourage those who are able to donate to please come out to our Rome Braves blood drive and be the force that might save your neighbor’s life.”

Blood Assurance believes in giving back to the communities in which it serves. Blood donations stay local, but, when local supplies are insufficient to meet needs, the organization has a Blood Assurance network of 15 regional donation centers and 13 mobile centers available to help.

“We could think of no better way to give back to the Rome community than by partnering with Blood Assurance and joining in their mission to literally save lives across the region,” said Michael Dunn, general manager for the Rome Braves. “We know this mission will speak to the hearts of many in our area, and we hope you all take just half an hour to be the difference in someone’s life.”

While donors are not required to make appointments, they are encouraged to easily book a time slot at www.bloodassurance.org/romebraves. To be eligible to donate blood, you must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh 110 pounds or more and be in good health. Donors are asked to drink plenty of fluids- avoiding caffeine-and eat a meal that is rich in iron prior to donating. For questions about donating blood, please call (423) 756-0966. For more information on Blood Assurance, donating blood or hosting a blood drive, please visit www.bloodassurance.org.

About Blood Assurance

Blood Assurance is a non-profit, full-service regional blood center serving 51 counties and more than 75 health care facilities in Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina and Virginia. Over 540 volunteer blood donors are needed every day in order to adequately supply these hospitals. Founded in 1972 as a joint effort of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society, the Chattanooga Area Hospital Council, and the Chattanooga Jaycees, the mission of Blood Assurance is to provide a safe and adequate supply of blood and blood components to every area patient in need. Blood Assurance is based in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

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

51s Present Hometown Heroes Night (Friday, May 13)

                LAS VEGAS: The Las Vegas 51s professional baseball team of the Pacific Coast League (PCL), Triple-A affiliate of the 2015 National League Champion New York Mets, will open a brief four-game homestand on Tuesday, May 10 against the El Paso Chihuahuas, Triple-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres, at Cashman Field. All games on the homestand from Tuesday-Friday, May 10-13 will begin at 7:05 p.m.

The 51s, under fourth-year manager Wally Backman, are currently playing a stretch of 16 out of 20 games on the road from May 2-22. Las Vegas is 3-3 on the eight-game road trip (2-2 vs. El Paso; 1-1 vs. Sacramento). The trip will conclude in Northern California on Monday evening against the Sacramento River Cats, Triple-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants.

The 51s organization have the proud distinction of being the longest enduring franchise in the history of professional sports in the state of Nevada.

2016 ATTENDANCE: In 14 dates, Las Vegas’ total is 76,788 for an average of 5,485. The season-high “home crowd” was an overflow sellout of 11,726 vs. Tacoma on April 28 for Fireworks/Star Wars Night. The Las Vegas franchise has reached the 300,000 plateau in “home” attendance in all 33 seasons (1983-2015). The all-time attendance total now stands at 11,054,517. The Las Vegas franchise welcomed the 11-millionth fan (Brian Johnson) during the opening homestand on April 14 vs. Sacramento.

HOMETOWN HEROES NIGHT – FRIDAY, MAY 13

               8 News Now Viva Las Vegas Fireworks (post-game show),” presented by The Orleans & Gold Coast will be featured on Hometown Heroes Night.

The GUNS AND HOSES will play a preliminary game at 5 p.m., pitting local police agencies, against local firefighters. All ticket holders will be able to come inside and watch the first responder showdown, and then stay for the rest of the festivities. At 6 p.m., there will be a static display of emergency service and patrol vehicles parked in front of Cashman Field for attendees to tour and learn about the types of vehicles and technology used to keep our community safe. A K-9 unit will also be on hand for a brief demonstration.

The 51s organization will conduct a special pre-game ceremony dedicated to recognize, support and to thank our emergency service providers including the police, fire and emergency medical providers of Southern Nevada. The “Color Guard Ceremony” will feature members of the Police and Fire Departments and including ceremonial first pitches for individuals who will be honored for their acts of heroism.

Individual police officers, firefighters and emergency personnel who have dedicated their lives to helping others will be acknowledged during the pre-game ceremony.

The 51s will have a special “thank you” announcement for the families of our local Hometown Heroes.

“The 51s organization is excited to present the annual Hometown Heroes Night at Cashman Field,” 51s President/COO Don Logan said. “We are honored to have all of the departments & organizations with ties to First Responders at the ball park for this special evening.

“We are privileged to acknowledge the members of the police, fire and emergency medical providers and for all of the important jobs that they all serve for the safety of our entire community.”

The following is the Departments & Organizations with ties to First Responders who will be at Cashman Field:

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department; City of North Las Vegas Police Department; City of Henderson Police Department; Nevada Department of Public Safety – Highway Patrol Division; Crime Prevention and Community Relations – Clark County School District Police Department; Friends of Las Vegas Metro Police Department Foundation; Clark County Fire Department; City of Las Vegas Fire Department; City of North Las Vegas Fire Department; City of Henderson Fire Department; Henderson Firefighters Benevolent Association; Special Olympics; Operation FireHEAT; Save the Fire Truck.

Budweiser Dollar Beer Night will also be presented on Thursday, May 12 in game three of the four-game series against El Paso. Dollar Beer Night will be featured at every Thursday home game during the 2016 season. Proper identification and wristbands are required for dollar beer night.

El Paso’s roster features two of the top 10 prospects in the Padres organization, according to Baseball America: Top prospect: outfielder Manuel Margot (No. 2) and outfielder Hunter Renfroe (No. 3).

Former Las Vegas 51s first baseman James Loney is also a member of the El Paso roster. Loney played two seasons for Las Vegas (2006-07, Triple-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers) and was the 2006 PCL Batting Champion with a .380 average (98 games, 139-for-366, 33 doubles, 8 HR, 67 RBI). The .380 average is a Las Vegas single-season franchise record.

Four Las Vegas players in franchise history (1983 – present) have recorded PCL Batting Titles: John Kruk (.351, 1985); Loney in 2006; Terry Tiffee (.378, 2008); David Cooper (.364, 2011).

Loney has enjoyed a successful 10-year Major League career with the Dodgers (2006-12), Boston (2012) and Tampa Bay (2013-15). He has appeared in 1,343 career ML games and has a career .285 average (1,334-for-4,680) with 251 doubles, 99 home runs and 635 RBI. He was originally selected in the first round (19th overall) by the Dodgers of June 2002 First-Year Player Draft.

The 51s will broadcast all games on Lotus Broadcasting on NBC Sports Radio AM 920 ‘THE GAME’, which will carry live all 144 regular season games. Also, all games will be available on the 51s website (Major League Baseball Advanced Media, MLBAM) at www.LV51.com. Russ Langer, the 10-time Nevada Sportscaster of the Year by the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association (NSSA), is in his 17th season behind the microphone calling 51s baseball.

All 51s games (home & away) will also be broadcast on MiLB.TV via LV51.com.

Following the homestand, Las Vegas will start a stretch of 16 straight games against the American Conference from May 14-30, beginning in Oklahoma City, Okla., against the Dodgers, Triple-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The four-game series will conclude on Tuesday, May 17. The next scheduled off day for the PCL is Wednesday, May 18. The 51s will then continue the eight-game road trip at Colorado Springs, Colo., on Thursday, May 19 against the Sky Sox, Triple-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The four-game series will conclude on Sunday, May 22.

Tickets for all 51s home games can be purchased at the America First Credit Union Box Office at Cashman Field. The box office is open Monday-Friday (non-game days) from Noon to 4:30 p.m. Tickets can also be purchased through Ticketmaster (1-800-745-3000, www.ticketmaster.com). Ticketmaster outlets are located at selected Smith’s Food & Drug.

The individual game tickets for the 72-game home season are priced at $11.00 (reserved, $12.00-Day of Game); $14.00 (plaza, $15.00-Day of Game) and $16.00 (field, $17.00-Day of Game) & the blue dugout seats at $30.00. The traditional $2.00 discount for Military personnel is offered on plaza, field and reserved seats throughout the season except for the “Fireworks Extravaganza” on Monday, July 4 (all seats priced at $16.00-presale & $17.00-Day of Game for this special event).

Season tickets and mini-plan packages (11, 22, 36-game plans) are available by calling the 51s office at (702) 798-7825.

Official licensed 51s team merchandise is available on the “Team Shop” section of the website.

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

Charitable Tuesdays Bigger and Better in 2016

For the third consecutive season, the Williamsport Crosscutters will present Charitable Tuesdays. The program, presented by Woodlands Bank, gives local non-profit organizations a no-cost opportunity to have a presence at BB&T Ballpark, for the purpose of educating fans about their organization.

One organization will be featured at every Tuesday home game and receive;

  • A display table in the stadium to display and distribute promotional literature and materials
  • A live on-field interview before the game
  • Ceremonial 1st pitch honors for the organization
  • The opportunity to be a guest on the Crosscutters radio broadcast for one inning
  • A $250 donation to the organization courtesy of Woodlands Bank and the Crosscutters presented during an on-field ceremony

“When approached by the Crosscutters with the idea to partner with them for Charitable Tuesdays, it was an immediate yes”, stated Jon P. Conklin, President & CEO of Woodlands Bank. “Woodlands Bank is defined by its commitment to the local community. Daily, we work, live, and give in Lycoming and Clinton County. The Cutters are a great organization that shares the same values as we do, which I know will lead to giving to great and worthy local non-profits this season.”

Interested organizations should submit an application, available online at crosscutters.com or at BB&T Ballpark. Applications must be received by June 3, 2016. More information is available by contacting the Cutters Director of Community Relations, Sarah Budd at (570) 326-3389 or email sarah@crosscutters.com

The Crosscutters 2016 season opens on June 17 when they host the State College Spikes. The full schedule can be found at crosscutters.com.

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

Lake Monsters and Five Guys Team Back Up In 2016 For May Days Fundraising Program

BURLINGTON, VT — The Vermont Lake Monsters are excited to announce the continued partnership with Five Guys Burgers and Fries during the annual May Days fundraiser to benefit non-profits from across the state of Vermont.   “Five Guys May Days” fundraiser will launch May 1st as a month-long program devoted to helping raise funds and awareness for state wide non-profits.

Support of local non-profits has demonstrated the strong commitment both the Lake Monsters and Five Guys have to the greater Burlington community. The goal of this program is not only to provide the opportunity for organizations to raise money, but also raise awareness for their programs while providing a chance for supporters to come together at the ballpark.

The Howard Center is just one of the many local non-profits who has benefitted from participating in Five Guys May Days and will continue the tradition this year. “Throughout the year, we benefit from the generous support of the Lake Monsters.” said Catherine Shahan, Director of Community Friends Mentoring at the Howard Center. “We appreciate our community partnership as it provides opportunities for many of our clients to enjoy an afternoon or evening of baseball, hot dogs, and fun!” Thank you, Lake Monsters for giving back and ensuring the whole community has access to your programs.”

Participating non-profits will have the entire month of May to promote and sell $6 Lake Monsters tickets through a specific URL link designated to their organization for a specific game during the season. After the month of May is completed, the Lake Monsters will donate half of the proceeds back to the organization. Following the selling period, Five Guys will donate up to $500 to match the amount raised by the highest selling non-profit in the program. Organizations will then be recognized on field with a check presentation at a Lake Monsters game this season.

This opportunity is an easy way to fundraise for non-profits, simply by reaching out to your employees, supporters, volunteers, and sponsors with the URL link. For more information or if your non-profit is interested in participating contact Zach Betkowski at 802-655-4200 or zach@vermontlakemonsters.com.

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

NYPL Announces 2016 Scholarship Contest

AUBURN, NY – The Class-A Short-Season New York-Penn League and its member clubs are proud to announce that the league’s philanthropic arm, the NYPL Charitable Foundation, will once again award over $10,000 in scholarships this summer to deserving high school graduates from the league’s 14 markets.

Now in its eighth year, the 2016 NYPL Scholarship Contest is open to any graduating senior from a public or private high school within the league’s footprint. Any student who has been accepted at a two- or four-year college or university, vocational school, or technical education institution is eligible. Applicants will be judged based on academic performance, volunteer and extracurricular activities, and the impact their local NYPL club and Minor League Baseball have had on their lives.

The scholarship contest will consist of two stages – a local round and a league round. In the local stage, students will apply directly to their local NYPL team, with one applicant chosen by each of the 14 teams to advance to the league/final round. The 14 finalists will then be judged by league representatives. Three pplicants will be selected to receive the top prize of a $2,500 scholarship. All other finalists will receive a $250 book award.

“The New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation and our 14 member clubs are pleased to have the opportunity to assist outstanding high school seniors within our league’s footprint for the eighth consecutive season,” said Ben J. Hayes, President of the New York-Penn League. “This program will again recognize those seniors who not only meet and exceed traditional scholarship criteria, but demonstrate the positive community impact and lifelong memories fostered by their local NYPL clubs throughout the year.”

Local High school seniors interested in entering the 2016 Scholarship Contest can download the application by clicking here.

The deadline to submit applications to the nearest NYPL team is May 20, 2016. Each club’s winner, including the three $2,500 scholarship recipients, will be selected in mid-June.

The New York-Penn League and its 14 member clubs created the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation, a 501(c) (3) charitable organization, in 2003. The mission of the Foundation is to provide focus and support for the collective and individual charitable and community efforts of the New York-Penn League, its Clubs, and their staff.

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

6th Annual Cutters 5K to Benefit CDC

The Williamsport Crosscutters, in partnership with the Children’s Development Center, will be holding the 6th Annual Cutters 5K on Saturday, June 25th at 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. Since its inception, almost $60,000 has been raised for the CDC through this event.

“Hope Enterprises and its Children’s Development Center strive every day to accomplish its mission of serving children and their families in this area. Due to the tremendous community support Hope has received over the years, we are able to meet the very specific needs of those we serve. As an example of that support, we are extremely proud and fortunate to partner with the Williamsport Crosscutters and their 5K run” stated Hope Enterprises President, Jim Campbell.

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

“We are proud to partner with the CDC annually on this event. It just keeps growing every year”, 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), and a ticket to the July 1st Crosscutters vs. Batavia MuckDogs game at 7:05pm. Registration forms and more information are available online at crosscutters.com, 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 2016 season on June 17 against the State College Spikes at BB&T Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field. The full schedule, along with detailed information on ticket packages, 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.