The Scrappers Host “POPS at the Ballpark” Featuring the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra

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The Mahoning Valley Scrappers and the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra are excited to host one of the Valley’s premiere summer events, POPS at the Ballpark, presented by the Chevy All-Stars and 21 WFMJ on Saturday, September 19, 2015 at Eastwood Field. The Scrappers have partnered with Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley for this year’s concert with $2.00 being donated back to the hospital with each full price ticket purchased.

The Youngstown Symphony Orchestra will perform a selection from their repertoire which will culminate in a spectacular fireworks finale synched to Star Wars Main Titles and Stars and Stripes Forever. Other song performance highlights in the program include: “O Susannah”, “They’re Coming to America”, “Superman Main Titles”, “Philadelphia Freedom”, “This Land Is Your Land” and more.

Tickets for POPS at the Ballpark are on sale now and start at just $20. A dinner buffet option is also available. Tickets are available at the Eastwood Field Box Office, online or by calling the Scrappers at 330-505-0000.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Mahoning Valley Scrappers. Click here to view the original story.

Michigan Blood Celebrates Milestone at Dow Diamond

Employee of The Dow Chemical Company is 10,000th blood donor

Michigan Blood opened a donation center at Dow Diamond prior to the 2012 season. It's open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Michigan Blood opened a donation center at Dow Diamond prior to the 2012 season. It’s open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 

SAGINAW, Mich. – The nation’s first blood donation center inside a sports stadium opened in April 2012 and three years later, 10,000 donors have walked through its doors.

The Dow Diamond Donor Center is the result of a partnership between The Dow Chemical Company, the Michigan Baseball Foundation, the Great Lakes Loons baseball franchise, and Michigan Blood. Thanks to a generous donation from The Dow Chemical Company to support renovations, the Dow Diamond Donor Center replaced a long-time location at Dow.

“The Dow Diamond Donor Center is a continuation of the rich history of blood donation in Midland. It’s an honor for Michigan Blood to be a part of this legacy,” said Bill Rietscha, CEO and president of Michigan Blood. “We are pleased to have a center right in the heart of the Great Lakes Bay Region that offers donors another opportunity to help support the needs of our partner hospitals throughout Michigan.”

Todd Sloggett of Midland and an employee of The Dow Chemical Company was the 10,000th person through the doors of the Michigan Blood donation center at Dow Diamond.

“Donating blood allows others to get back to good health. My daughter had to get several pints of blood last year for a surgery. Now my son is donating at Dow High School as a junior which really makes me proud of him and the other students that are starting this process young in life,” said Sloggett who has donated over 6 gallons of blood.

In recognition of the 10,000th donor and three years of operations at Dow Diamond, Michigan Blood will present representatives of The Dow Chemical Company, Michigan Baseball Foundation, and the Great Lakes Loons with its Ruby Award, which recognizes people or organizations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to saving lives of patients in Michigan hospitals.

“We are very grateful for the ongoing and generous support of these fine organizations,” said Carleen Crawford, Director of Community Relations and Marketing for Michigan Blood. “They, along with hero donors like Todd, help Michigan Blood ensure that our partner hospitals and their patients have this precious blood resource when needed. The MB Ruby Award is our way of recognizing this valuable contribution.”

Besides the Dow Diamond Donor Center, Michigan Blood collects blood donations at other donation centers in the Great Lakes Bay Region including one at MidMichigan Medical Center-Midland. Michigan Blood is the exclusive provider to MidMichigan Health, Covenant HealthCare, and St. Mary’s of Michigan, as well as over 40 other hospitals throughout the state.

Any healthy person 17 or older (or 16 with parental consent) who weighs at least 110 pounds may be eligible to give blood every 56 days. Blood donors should bring photo ID (or two forms of non-photo ID). Appointments are preferred. Individuals can schedule appointments by visiting www.miblood.org or calling 1-866-MIBLOOD (642-5663).

About Michigan Blood

Founded in 1955, Michigan Blood is an independent, nonprofit, blood bank that provides blood for hospitals across Michigan. Michigan Blood is committed to serving the needs of Michigan hospitals first. Besides blood donation at permanent donation sites, Michigan Blood conducts more than 3,700 mobile blood drives each year. Other related services include Michigan’s first public cord blood bank, blood stem cell (marrow) program, transfusion medicine consultation, transplant center support, and other services. For more information, visit www.miblood.org.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Great Lakes Loons. Click here to view the original story.

Spokane Indians Kick Off Reading Challenge

Molina Healthcare proud to sponsor learning program

The Spokane Indians Front Office Staff inform children and OTTO the Mascot about the Reading Challenge presented by Molina Healthcare. (James Snook)
The Spokane Indians Front Office Staff inform children and OTTO the Mascot about the Reading Challenge presented by Molina Healthcare. (James Snook)

SPOKANE, Wash – The Spokane Indians are excited to announce the Spokane Indians Reading Challenge, presented by Molina Healthcare. The reading challenge will encourage and empower local children to learn through reading. The challenge started today at Sheridan Elementary!

Click here to see a photo gallery!

“The Spokane Indians are always working on new ways to give back to the community,” said Otto Klein, the Indians Senior Vice President. “With the help of Molina Healthcare, we were able to bring the Reading Challenge to life.”

Each child at Sheridan Elementary will be given a reading log to keep track of their progress. For every 150 minutes read, each child can earn a new prize as they make their way around the bases:

  • 150 Minutes (1st Base): An autographed OTTO or Doris baseball card
  • 300 Minutes (2nd Base): A free book courtesy of Molina Healthcare
  • 450 Minutes (3rd Base): Special edition Spokane Indians bookmark
  • 600 Minutes (Home Run): Two tickets to a Spokane Indians game

The challenge will run for six weeks, ending on Friday, May 29th. If each child reads just 20 minutes five days a week, they will hit a home run! The classroom with the most minutes logged will win a pizza party with OTTO the Mascot!

“It’s important for kids to begin living a healthy lifestyle at a young age,” said Erica Newton, Community Engagement Coordinator for Molina Healthcare. “Molina Healthcare promotes the exercise of both the body and mind that will ultimately lead to a healthy lifestyle.”

About the Indians

The Indians are the Short Season Class “A” affiliate for the Texas Rangers. Ticket Packages and Group Areas for the 2015 Spokane Indians season are now available! Click here to view the 2015 schedule. For more information, please visit www.spokaneindians.com or call (509) 343-6886 (OTTO). Parking at all Spokane Indians games is FREE!

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Spokane Indians. Click here to view the original story.

Valley Children’s patient to join team for Good Karma Night on Wednesday, April 15

Grizzlies host the Salt Lake Bees Monday through Thursday at Chukchansi Park with all games starting at 6:35 PM

Jackson Standifer takes questions from the media after being signed to a one-day contract on Tuesday, April 7th at Valley Children's Hospital
Jackson Standifer takes questions from the media after being signed to a one-day contract on Tuesday, April 7th at Valley Children’s Hospital

FRESNO, Calif. – The Fresno Grizzlies are allowing fans to pay whatever they want for any available seat to their Wednesday, April 15th home game that begins at 6:35 p.m. The promotion, called Good Karma Night, has the Grizzlies donating half of the proceeds from each ticket purchased to Valley Children’s Hospital. Fans can choose their own price point at the Chukchansi Park Box Office or by calling 559.320.TIXS. If a fan wants to purchase tickets for the game online, there are three price points listed for each available seating section.

            The unique promotion also has the Grizzlies adding an additional player to the roster. Jackson Standifer, 12, is a Valley Children’s patient who recovered from Burkitt’s Stage-4 Lymphoma this past January and signed a one-day contract with the team last week. Standifer is expected to enter the ballpark at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, head to the Grizzlies clubhouse, take the field with the team for warmups, and throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Details for the remaining four games of the current homestand – All games begin at 6:35 PM (Gates open 5:35 PM to general public)

Monday, April 13th vs. Salt Lake Bees at 6:35 PM – Must Catch Monday, presented by The Fresno Bee

Grizzlies General Manager Derek Franks made a point to ensure that weekday games (Monday through Thursday) during the school year ended earlier than in years past. Although the front office can’t control the length of a baseball game, they made a point to move first pitch up 30 minutes from previous years in order to allow families to watch an entire game and get home before 10:00 p.m. The April 13th Monday game also marks the first of a new $20 Must Catch Monday promotion, presented by The Fresno Bee, that includes two Field Level Reserve game tickets, two Fresno Chaffee Zoo vouchers, two Blackbeard’s Mini Golf vouchers, and two John’s Incredible Pizza Company vouchers.

Pitching Matchup: Salt Lake RHP Zach Stewart vs. Fresno RHP Brady Rodgers

Tuesday, April 14th vs. Salt Lake Bees at 6:35 PM – $2 Tuesday

Tuesday home games are designed for every Central Valley resident who is looking for a midweek escape from the grind of their daily life, but doesn’t want to break the bank by doing so. Therefore, on Tuesday the Grizzlies offer fans $2 Dos Equis drafts (21+), $2 Hot Dogs, $2 Sodas, and $2 Power Alley Tickets (available day of game only). If that wasn’t enough, all Field Box and Phoenix Club tickets are 2-for-1. Beer, Hot Dog, and Soda specials last through the end of the fifth inning

Pitching Matchup: Salt Lake RHP Garrett Richards vs. Fresno RHP Brad Peacock (Both starters are on MLB Rehab Assignments)

Wednesday, April 15th vs. Salt Lake Bees at 6:35 PM – Everybody Wins-Day

There’s no need to think about the price of the ticket, because fans get to decide what they want to pay for any available seat in the ballpark. Whether they pay $1 for a Super View seat, or $20 for a ticket in the Phoenix Club, it’s entirely up to them. In what’s being dubbed Good Karma Night at Chukchansi Park, fans choose their own price point, with half of the proceeds from each ticket purchased benefiting Valley Children’s Hospital. For more information on this event, please call the box office at 559.320.TIXS. The game also marks the first Everybody Wins-Day, giving fans six free wings at Swiggs Bar and Restaurant if the Grizzlies win, or a ticket voucher to the following Wednesday home game if the Grizzlies lose. Offer only valid at Swiggs six days from the date of the Grizzlies Wednesday win. Dine-in only.

Pitching Matchup: Salt Lake LHP Andrew Heaney vs. Fresno RHP Jake Buchanan

Thursday, April 16th vs. Salt Lake Bees at 6:35 PM – Tecate Thursday

The first Tecate Thursday, presented by Tecate and Tecate Light, meets the first of five Season of the Throwdown food matchups. The April 16th game features a Tri-Tip Throwdown, featuring Dog House Grill and Duke’s, along the third base concourse. The two will battle for fan votes, with the winner earning bragging rights for the best tri-tip in the Valley. Fans 21 and over can purchase $2 24-ounce Tecate and Tecate Light through the end of the fifth inning, while $1 12-ounce sodas are available all game long.

Pitching Matchup: Salt Lake RHP Nick Tropeano vs. Fresno RHP Dan Straily

 

ABOUT THE FRESNO GRIZZLIES

The Fresno Grizzlies are the Triple-A Baseball affiliate of the Houston Astros and compete in the 16-team Pacific Coast League. Home games are played Chukchansi Park in Downtown Fresno, with tickets available at the box office off H Street, over the phone at 559.320.TIXS, or online at FresnoGrizzlies.com. The team is in the midst of an eight-game homestand that runs through Thursday, April 16th. For more information, click here, or follow the Grizzlies on Twitter (@FresnoGrizzlies) and Instagram (@instagrizz_fg)

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Fresno Grizzlies. Click here to view the original story.

College Fair Night Returns on May 6th

High school students get free ticket, early entrance to meet with over 40 colleges

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – A BlueClaws game can be more than just a fun night out! The BlueClaws annual College Fair Night is back on Wednesday, May 6th when the BlueClaws take on the Augusta GreenJackets (Giants).

High school students get into the game for free. To register and to reserve additional tickets for family members, call Kyle Volp at 732-901-7000 ext 142.

Plus, the first 1,500 fans will receive a BlueClaws Drawstring Backpack, perfect for high school students to take to college with them in the next few years!

While the gates open at 5:30 pm for the general public, high school students receive early entrance at 5:00 to begin meeting with representatives from all of the colleges at the event.

Fans are also encouraged to wear the shirt and/or hat of their alma mater, and fight songs will be played throughout the night.

Participating Schools: Kean University, University of Saint Joseph, Ocean County College, Monmouth Univeristy, Five Towns College, DeSales University, Saint Joseph’s University, East Stroudsberg Univeristy, Brookdale Community College, Johnson & Wales University, SUNY Cortland, Mount St. Mary’s College, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Fordham University, Kings College, Ramapo College, Saint Francis University, Delaware Valley College, Dowling College, Goldey-Beacom College, William Patterson University, Univeristy of Arizona, Caldwell College, Vanderbilt University, Montclair State University, College of New Jersey (additional schools could still be added).

– BlueClaws –

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lakewood BlueClaws. Click here to view the original story.

YMCA Night on Tuesday

Game begins at 7:05 PM; Pregame parade kicks off at 6:30

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The Greenville Drive and the YMCA of Greenville will team up for YMCA Night at Fluor Field on Tuesday night. First pitch for the game against the Lexington Legends is set for 7:05.

A pregame parade featuring five YMCA of Greenville branches with exercise instructors, teams, families and more begins at 6:30 PM, followed by in-game fun highlighting the exciting programs and benefits available at the Y. You won’t want to miss all the Zumba dance-off, the Beast Mode Challenge, the Y Baby Toddler Race, plus a special tip of the hat to the Y Open Doors Program and Donors.

To purchase tickets, stop by the Main Street Box Office, call (864) 240-4528, or click here.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Greenville Drive. Click here to view the original story.

Record-setting Race to Home 5K raises $15K

Third annual event brings all-time fundraising total to more than $33,000 for the Bandit Scholars Program

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Nearly 700 runners and walkers set a new record for participation in the annual Bandits Race to Home 5K and Fun Run presented by Palmer Chiropractic Clinics on Saturday morning. In its third year, the unique bi-state race that ends inside Modern Woodmen Park helped raise more than $15,000 – also a new event record – for the Bandit Scholars Program.

Since the inaugural year in 2013, the event has more than doubled its annual participants – to 695 this year – and more than tripled its annual proceeds for the Bandit Scholars Program, which annually awards two Bandit Scholarships to cover the entire first year of college tuition for Quad Cities-area students. In three years, the event has raised more than $33,000 for the Bandit Scholars Program.

“We are tremendously grateful to all of the participants, sponsors, volunteers, staff and spectators who made the Bandits Race to Home 5K presented by Palmer Chiropractic Clinics the most successful yet,” said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. “As one of the largest fundraisers for the Bandit Scholars Program, this event makes an impact in the lives of Quad Cities-area students, and it is a unique community celebration that is the perfect way to kick off another River Bandits season at Modern Woodmen Park!”

The top three overall female and male finishers received a medal and an engraved, game-used baseball bat. The top three finishers in each of the 13 age groups – (14 and under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70 and above), were awarded medals, and all Fun Run participants received ribbons. All participants also received a free T-shirt and a free ticket to a 2015 River Bandits home game.

Danielle Berndt of Bettendorf, Iowa, became the event’s first repeat overall winner Saturday, leading all female participants by finishing in 19:09 – setting the female record for the Bandits Race to Home 5K. She led all females with a 20:21 finish in 2014.

Jerry Lack of East Moline, Ill., was the top male finisher at 17:48. It was his second race title, as he led all males in the inaugural race in 2013 with an 18:01 finish. He was third in 2014 with an 18:02 mark.

Here is a link to full race results; and below is a list of the winners in their respective age group.

Female 1st Place Time 2nd Place Time 3rd Place Time
Overall Danielle Berndt; Bettendorf, IA 19:09 Morgan Casey; Davenport, IA 20:16 Danielle Blocker; Davenport, IA 20:50
14 & U Kaitlyn Powell; Blue Grass, IA 24:53 Lydia Wood; Davenport, IA 25:32 Karsyn Kuffler; Moline, IL 28:36
15-19 Jadwin Woodall; Bettendorf, IA 26:42 Christine Hultquist; Davenport, IA 33:21 Ashley Walters; Clinton, IA 33:33
20-24 Hannah Schoening; Davenport, IA 24:16 Faith Raaen; Moline, IL 25:19 Burgus Brittany; Bettendorf, IA 26:19
25-29 Lauren Vasicek; Davenport, IA 24:24 Chelsea Masterson; Davenport, IA 24:58 Katie Mayer; Le Claire, IA 25:16
30-34 Ashley Spain; Dewitt, IA 22:53 Kathryn Monroe; Davenport, IA 24:14 Teresa Thoensen; Silvis, IL 24:25
35-39 Nicole Callahan; Moline, IL 22:10 Bethany Wood; Davenport, IA 25:33 Allison Kopp; Osco, IL 25:59
40-44 Melissa Braddock; Dewitt, IA 23:12 Cheryl Allen; Wellman, IA 23:47 Jennifer Burris; Davenport, IA 24:50
45-49 Christina Martinez-Mcdowell; East Moline, IL 24:37 Jeanette Dawson Rhodes; East Moline, IL 29:37 Shari Connell; Macomb, IL 29:48
50-54 Kathleen Jensen; Davenport, IA 24:17 Kathy Evanchyk; Davenport, IA 25:17 Denise Gonzales; Davenport, IA 27:24
55-59 Cheryl Bivens; Moline, IL 25:24 Carol Brockway; Bettendorf, IA 25:29 Jolene Vipond; Aledo, IL 29:53
60-64 Karen Nelson; Le Claire, IA 28:25 Sarah Schafer; Sherrard, IL 30:07 Kathy Loomis; Davenport, IA 30:30
65-69 Marianne Schroeder; Bettendorf, IA 26:24 Amy Prusa; Sherrard, IL 35:18 Jeanne Carton; Atkinson, IL 35:29
70-plus Judith Teeple; Davenport, IA 33:55 Barbara Donald; Bettendorf, IA 44:40 Only 2 Finishers
Male 1st Place Time 2nd Place Time 3rd Place Time
Overall Jerry Lack; East Moline, IL 17:48 Jay Whitmore; Donahue, IA 18:30 Mitchell Hines; Davenport, IA 18:32
14 & U Christopher Guise; Davenport, IA 19:28 Ben Rhodes; East Moline, IL 22:36 Trent Doty; Port Byron, IL 24:52
15-19 Andrew Sattler; Clinton, IA 20:18 Logan Rathjen; Bettendorf, IA 23:15 Timothy Schwartz; Moline, IL 25:37
20-24 Noah Forbes; Rock Island, IL 22:10 Mark Steinhauser; Bettendorf, IA 22:55 Kyle Kiel; Davenport, IA 23:42
25-29 Luke Anderson; Moline, IL 19:58 Zach Knobloch; East Moline, IL 20:04 Jacob Clark; Davenport, IA 20:51
30-34 Jacob Knobloch; East Moline, IL 18:59 Travis Lynch; Rock Island, IL 19:41 Chris Massie; Eldridge, IA 19:57
35-39 Billy Butler; Moline, IL 20:11 Kurt Haiar; Davenport, IA 21:16 Matthew Holst; Davenport, IA 21:23
40-44 Joel Madden; East Moline, IL 20:27 Kory Kuffler; Moline, IL 20:41 Kirby Winn; Davenport, IA 21:12
45-49 Stephen Rhodes; East Moline, IL 18:44 Andy Feliksiak; Rock Island, IL 23:27 Rob Woodall; Bettendorf, IA 24:37
50-54 Mark Taghon; Bettendorf, IA 19:14 Scott F Caldwell; Moline, IL 21:17 Mark Schmidt; Blue Grass, IA 22:27
55-59 Michael Oberhaus; Rock Island, IL 23:36 Brian Kopf; Davenport, IA 24:19 Dave Craddick; Moline, IL 24:50
60-64 Steve Vipond; Aledo, IL 24:39 Gary Nelson; Le Claire, IA 25:46 Craig Foster; Davenport, IA 26:06
65-69 Tom Miller; Bettendorf, IA 26:17 Tony Schiltz; Davenport, IA 26:44 James Knorr; Milan, IL 29:10
70-plus Dave Zimmer; Long Grove, IA 25:47 Arthur Tate; Blue Grass, IA 34:04 John C Gardner; Bettendorf, IA 34:52

The Bandits Race to Home 5K began on 2nd Street in Davenport, Iowa, in front of the YMCA. The five-kilometer route crossed the Centennial Bridge into Rock Island, Ill., and the Rock Island Arsenal Bridge back into Davenport before ending at home plate inside Modern Woodmen Park. The quarter-mile Fun Run for kids began outside the party plaza and ended inside the playing field.

Additional sponsors for the 2015 Bandits Race to Home 5K were Triumph Community Bank, ECS, Inc., Aramark, Hy-Vee, Sam’s Club, Pepsi, 7G Distributing & Michelob Ultra.

UP NEXT: Gates open for the home opener at 12:15 p.m. Sunday, when the first 1,000 fans receive a Mediacom River Bandits pennant, and the first 2,000 fans receive a Mediacom River Bandits magnet schedule. River Bandits players will sign autographs on the field at 12:30 p.m. The Nintendo Wii-ster Egg Hunt is at 12:45 p.m., with three Wii-U systems to be given away. Family Sunday presented by B-100 and ESPN 93.5 means Bark in the Park on the Modern Woodmen Berm and postgame Kids Run the Bases presented by Prairie Farms. Individual tickets are on sale at the River Bandits box office and online at riverbandits.com. Ticket plans of 12 to 70 games – which include free parking, reserved seats, merchandise discounts, and guaranteed giveaways – are available by calling 563-324-3000.

ABOUT THE BANDITS: The River Bandits ownership in 2014 made one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 105 feet over the playing field, opened May 24, Space Camp opened June 20; the new Drop’N Twist debuted in July; and the newly expanded 300-foot long zip line also reopened.

 

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Quad Cities River Bandits. Click here to view the original story.

7th Annual Autism Awareness Night is April 18th

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With 1 in 110 children in the United States diagnosed with some form of Autism, the Hillcats are lending a hand to offer awareness and support to this cause in 2015. The 7th Annual Autism Awareness Night presented by Physicians Treatment Center is scheduled for Saturday, April 18th and will raise money for Commonwealth Autism Services.

As many as 75,000 in Virginia are affected with this developmental disability and Commonwealth Autism Services is an organization that strives to enrich the lives of those in Virginia with autism, throughout their entire lifespan through statewide services. GA tickets are $11 and two dollars of each ticket sold for April 18th’s game will be donated to this organization.

This year’s Autism Awareness Night presented by Physicians Treatment Center is slated for 6:30pm when the Hillcats will take on the Potomac Nationals at City Stadium. Plus, the first 1,000 fans through the gates that evening will receive a free commemorative t-shirt! Along with donating a portion of the ticket costs, proceeds from a silent auction, 50/50 raffle and sponsor donations will also be donated during an in-game check presentation. Last year’s Autism Awareness Night raised over $12,000!

The Hillcats thank the following Autism Awareness Night Sponsors:

Physicians Treatment Center (Title Sponsor); Lynchburg Project Lifesaver, Inc; Sam’s Club; After Hours Plumbing; Developmental Pediatrics; Flowers Baking Company; Gary’s Garden Center; High Peak Sportswear, Inc; Larry’s Tire & Auto Repair; Laslie’s Auto Body; Mortgage Atlantic; New Covenant Schools; Piedmont Eye Center; Rehab Associates of Central Virginia; Thompson-Brooks Insurance; Winoa USA; Wooldridge Heating, Air & Electrical, Inc; 105.5 KD Country; 93.7 & 106.9 KHF; WIQO/ESPN Radio; and WYYD.

Fans will also have the chance to give back to great local causes with the 4th Annual Paint the Park Purple Night presented by Gastroenterology Associates of Central VA, Relay for Life & The American Cancer Society on Friday, May 1st at 6:30pm as well as with the 9th Annual “Swing for a Cure” Breast Cancer Awareness Night presented by Centra’s Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Society on Saturday, May 23rd at 6:30pm.

To purchase tickets to Autism Awareness Night, Paint the Park Purple Night, Breast Cancer Awareness Night or any other game, fans can call the box office at (434) 528-1144 or online. Ticket purchases can also be made in person at the Lynchburg City Stadium Ticket Office (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm). So don’t miss your chance to give back to the community with the Lynchburg Hillcats this season!

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lynchburg Hillcats. Click here to view the original story.

Dragons Players and Mascots to Visit Schools in Three Counties This Week

Heater will join players as part of Dragons MVP Program

DAYTON, Ohio – Dayton Dragons players and one of the team’s mascots, Heater, will visit schools in three different counties across the Miami Valley this week. The visits are part of the Dragons MVP program and members of the local media are invited to cover them. The players will introduce themselves to the students, answer questions and take pictures. Each student will also receive a Dragons pen. The following schools are listed with an address, date and time of visit:

Tuesday, April 14

10am-10:45am

Cox Elementary

506 Dayton Avenue

Xenia, OH, 45385

Phone: 937-372-9201

 

11:15am-12pm

Main Elementary

2942 Dayton-Xenia Rd.

Beavercreek, OH, 45434

Phone: 937-429-7588

 

Wednesday, April 15

9:45am – 10:30am

Perrin Woods Elementary

431 West John Street

Springfield, OH, 45506

Phone: 937-505-4310

 

11:15am – 12pm

Rolling Hills Elementary

2613 Moorefield Rd.

Springfield, OH, 45502

Phone: 937-399-2250

 

Friday, April 17

10am-10:45am

Salem Christian

6500 Southway Rd.

Clayton, OH, 45315

Phone: 937-836-9910

 

11:15am-12pm

Dayton Leadership Academies

1416 W. Riverview Ave.

Dayton, OH, 45402

Phone: 937-567-9426

Members of the media may contact schools individually at the numbers listed if they intend to cover the visits.

The Dragons MVP Program, a tool for teachers, uses the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Baseball as an educational tool for fourth and fifth grade teachers, helping them motivate and reward students for success in and out of the classroom. The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is sponsored by Bob Evans, WDTN-TV, Dayton’s CW Television, and Sinclair Community College. For more information on the Dragons MVP Program contact the Dayton Dragons or visit www.daytondragons.com.

More Information:  The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com.

—end–

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Dayton Dragons. Click here to view the original story.

Virginia529 Good Report Card Day is April 19th

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Lynchburg-HillcatsThe Lynchburg Hillcats and Virginia529 College Savings Plan have teamed up to reward high academic achieving students in the local area. All K-8 students with a report card with all A’s and B’s or better, can come to the Lynchburg Hillcats Box Office to earn two free GA tickets for the game on Sunday, April 19 at 2:00pm. Simply fill out this form and bring it along with your report card to the Hillcats Box Office prior to the event anytime Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, or the day of the game to earn your free ticket.

Virginia529Good Report Card students may also participate in a parade on the field before the game! To participate, register at the Virginia529 table on the concourse between 1-1:30pm. The parade will begin at 1:35pm. Plus, all students who turn in the form will be entered into a drawing for a “Hillcat for a Day” Prize Pack!

Virginia529 College Savings Plan is the Official College Savings Plan of the Lynchburg Hillcats. Virginia529 offers four flexible, affordable and tax advantaged programs to help you save in advance for higher education. Visit www.Virginia529.com to learn how you can get started with as little as $25.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lynchburg Hillcats. Click here to view the original story.

Wings to Honor First Responders, Military on Opening Day

Amy Pierson to throw out 1st pitch

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For Opening Day on Saturday, April 11 the Rochester Red Wings will honor local police, fire fighters, emergency medical responders, military branches and their families for all they do serving this community. Over 2,000 of these local men and women will be in attendance thanks to the generosity of over 50 local businesses and individuals who donated tickets to our local heroes. Game time is 1:35 p.m. and the gates will open to fans at noon.

Red Wings players and field staff will wear commemorative hats on Saturday in honor of fallen Rochester Police Department Officer Daryl Pierson. The game-used hats will be autographed and auctioned off during the game with 100 percent of the proceeds benefitting the Rochester Police Foundation which will benefit Officer Pierson’s wife, Amy, and children; Christian and Charity. Amy will be in attendance to throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

“Opening Day is always a special day and this year figures to be no different,” General Manager Dan Mason said. “We are thrilled to host so many of our local heroes and their families at Opening Day. We look forward to honoring Officer Pierson with our commemorative cap and raising money for his family.”

Rochester opens the 2015 season in Buffalo on Thursday at 2:05 p.m.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Rochester Red Wings. Click here to view the original story.

Barons, Children’s of Alabama Host Superhero Night

Barons to wear superhero-themed jerseys

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Barons are partnering with Children’s of Alabama Friday, April 24 to bring Superhero Night to Regions Field. The Barons will wear superhero-themed jerseys to be auctioned off with proceeds benefiting ill and injured children treated at the state’s only freestanding hospital.

“This will be a fun, exciting night for such a great cause,” Barons General Manager Jonathan Nelson said. “Visible just beyond the right field wall, Children’s of Alabama is such an important part of our city, and it is always very fulfilling to give back. We will have a few patients at the game, but even those who can’t make it can still enjoy the fireworks from just a couple of blocks away.”

Fans are encouraged to dress as their favorite superhero, and a special fireworks show set to the theme music of superhero movies is to follow. The Barons also welcome many specials guests with representatives from Children’s to serve as honorary bat boy, throw out the first pitch and cue the start of the game by yelling “play ball!”

Artist Patrick Giles will also be on-hand to entertain fans on the concourse. Fans have the opportunity to purchase original comic sketches and have themselves drawn as superheroes by Patrick, whose resume includes work with Topps, Upper Deck and Conan O’Brien. His recent projects include creating trading cards featuring characters from Star Wars, Batman, X-Men and Guardians of the Galaxy.

The jersey auction is also set to take place on the concourse throughout the game as a silent auction. After the game, jerseys will be signed by the player and awarded to the highest bidder.

“Children’s of Alabama is thrilled to partner with the Birmingham Barons for Superhero Night,” Children’s Coordinator of Community Development Shane Autrey said. “We think this theme is ideally suited for the families we treat right down the street from Regions Field, because all of our patients are superheroes to us.”

To order tickets, visit Barons.com or call (205) 988-3200. For more information, visit us at www.barons.com, www.facebook.com/birminghambarons or on Twitter: @bhambarons.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Birmingham Barons. Click here to view the original story.

San Jose Giants’ Unveil 2015 Salute to the Military Trading Card Set

Willie Mays headlines group of honorees that include every branch of the military

San Jose, CA– The San Jose Giants unveiled today their 2015 Salute to the Military Trading Card Set, presented by Operation: Care and Comfort. All branches of the United States Military are represented in the set. In addition, the trading cards include current military personnel, individuals killed in action as well as veterans from World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and Gulf Wars. Included in the set are San Francisco Giants Hall of Fame outfielder Willie Mays, who served in the Army during the 1950’s, as well as heroic Navy Seal, and author of the book Lone Survivor, Marcus Luttrell. The following is a complete list of all selections for the 2015 San Jose Giants Military Trading Card Set:

Willie Mays, Marcus Luttrell, Harold E. Adams, Alvaro G. Alvarado, Andrews Family, Vanessa Barquero, Nicholas P. Barthel, Ernest Bizzozero, Joseph Bojo, Paris Cervantes, Tomas Cortez, Donald Crawford, Milan Dungjen, Peter Filice, Miguel Gastelo, Gary Ginestra, Michael R. Gomez, Mike C. Gomez, Keffer Family, Rob Knepper, Travis Layfield, Edward Moss, Nick Nardolillo, Robert Orum, Earl Orum, Jerimy Y. Pickering, John G. Rally, Jimmie C. Ruiz, Romeo Delos Santos, Tipi Soli, Louis P. Swan and Brothers, Garrett C. Unruh, Teryl G. Vogler, James R. West and Henry Zatarain.

“It is truly an honor to have San Francisco Giants legend Willie Mays and national hero Marcus Luttrell join these amazing brave men and women in our 2015 Salute to the Military Trading Card Set, presented by Operation: Care and Comfort,” said Juliana Paoli, San Jose Giants Chief Marketing Officer. “For the second straight year, we received an incredible number of stories of the heroes among us and we want to thank everyone who submitted a nomination. We feel privileged to have each of the honorees in our set and hope that they will help remind people of all the brave men and women who have protected and are still protecting our country.”

The sets will be given away to the first 1,000 fans through the gates on Salute to the Military Night on April 18. The game will be an entire evening dedicated to honoring the brave men and women defending our country. The pregame festivities will include a first pitch ceremony, color guard presentation and on-field recognition of the individuals chosen for the 2015 Military Trading Card Set. The team will also wear special military themed jerseys and don these jerseys again on Memorial Day, May 25, where they will be part of an in-game silent auction directly benefiting Operation: Care and Comfort. On May 25, each of the highest bidders will be able to go on the field following the game and receive their new autographed jersey right off the respective San Jose Giant’s back.

“It is a privilege for Operation: Care and Comfort to be a part of this promotion and we want to thank our partners BAE Systems, USAA and the San Jose Rotary Club Military Care Package Committee for helping make the set possible,” said Julie DeMaria, Operation: Care and Comfort President and Co-Founder. “The trading card set is a memorable way to honor the brave men and women who serve our country and the individuals who make up this set not only span generations, but are a tremendous representation of the heroes in our community.”

First pitch for the San Jose Giants home opener will take place at 7:00 PM on Thursday, April 16 against the Bakersfield Blaze. Opening Night festivities include postgame fireworks presented by State Farm, magnet schedule giveaway to the first 4,000 fans, San Francisco Giants World Champion Affiliate Flag Raising Ceremony and a historic first pitch that Giants fans will not want to miss! The Giants will host games at Municipal Stadium on Mother’s Day (May 10), Memorial Day (May 25), and Independence Day (July 4). For information on the 2015 season and ticket packages please visit sjgiants.com, call (408) 297-1435 or stop by the Municipal Stadium Box Office Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Jose Giants. Click here to view the original story.

EDUCATION THROUGH BASEBALL – MAY 21st

On Thursday, May 21st the Brooklyn Cyclones will host their 3rd Annual Education Through Baseball Day at MCU Park.  This event is specifically designed for schools to attend, and focuses on educational components using the game of baseball as the tool.  Learn math, science, history, and language arts all while enjoying a day at the ballpark.  For more information, or to reserve tickets, contact Craig Coughlin at 718 – 382 – 2601.

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This article originally appeared on the official website of the Brooklyn Cyclones. Click here to view the original story.

Kela Robinson Celebrates “Home Run For Life” Opening Night with the OKC Dodgers

Young Mother is First Oklahoman to Benefit from New INTEGRIS ECMO Life Support Program

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS Health proudly begin the 2015 “Home Run for Life” series on Opening Night Thursday, April 9 during the Dodgers’ game against the Round Rock Express at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. The Dodgers and INTEGRIS will recognize Shaquile “Kela” Robinson, a young mother who became the first patient in the state of Oklahoma to undergo a new specialized life support program at INTEGRIS that utilizes extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

“Home Run For Life” recognizes people in the Oklahoma City area who, with the help of their families, physicians and health care professionals, have overcome a significant medical event. Honorees are recognized during a Dodgers’ game and take a home run “lap” around the bases, symbolizing the end of their battle against adversity.

“We are so pleased to continue the ‘Home Run For Life’ series with our partner INTEGRIS Health,” Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “Throughout the season, ‘Home Run For Life’ allows us to feature several extraordinary individuals from the local community who summoned a great deal of tenacity and courage to get where they are today.”

Robinson, 21, began experiencing chest pains shortly after the birth of her son in June 2014. Breathing became difficult and she fatigued so easily she was unable to hold her newborn baby.

Doctors soon discovered her heart was working at just 10 percent capacity. Her condition continued to worsen, despite the implantation of a defibrillator. She developed pneumonia and coughed up blood. Her heart and lungs were shutting down and Robinson’s life was in immediate danger.

A newly created specialized life support program at INTEGRIS Health saved the Oklahoma City resident’s life.

INTEGRIS became the first hospital in Oklahoma to establish an ECMO program for adults facing imminent death caused by heart or respiratory failure. Robinson was the first patient to benefit from the INTEGRIS program.

“I had no idea what ECMO was, but I know it saved my life,” Robinson said.

The last-resort lifesaving technique provides both cardiac and respiratory support oxygen to patients whose heart and/or lungs are so severely diseased or damaged they can no longer serve their function, such as after a heart attack, cardio surgery, pulmonary embolism, near drowning or lung-related issues like flu or pneumonia.

ECMO therapy continually pumps blood from the patient via a tube to a membrane oxygenator that imitates the gas exchange process of the lungs, removing carbon dioxide and adding oxygen before returning the blood to the patient.

The therapy aims to allow the heart and lungs to rest and recover while the machine does the work. Once the heart and or lungs have healed, and can function on their own, the support of the ECMO machine is gradually removed.

Doctors told Robinson’s family that if they didn’t try the ECMO therapy, death was the only alternative.

“Given those odds, we chose life,” Robinson’s mom, Kerri Harkey, said.

ECMO technology has traditionally been used to support underdeveloped hearts and lungs in premature babies. Medical adaptations and advancements have led to increased, and extended, adult usage.

Robinson was on the ECMO device for seven days. Once her heart and lungs were strong enough to tolerate the medications she needed to stabilize her condition, she was removed from the therapy. She then received a left ventricular assist device, known as a heart pump.

ECMO saved Robinson’s life, and the new INTEGRIS therapy gave her the chance to move forward with her now 10-month-old son, Thomas.

Come see Shaquile “Kela” Robinson complete her “Home Run For Life,” following the third inning of the OKC Dodgers’ Opening Night game Thursday, April 9 against the Round Rock Express. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Oklahoma City Dodgers. Click here to view the original story.