clubphilanthropy.com – Page 215 – Charity begins at home [plate]

Summer Reading All-Stars Celebrated Sunday

July 30, 2014

Participants from Greenville, Pickens and Anderson County Library Systems

On Sunday, August 3rd at 4:05, the Drive, in partnership with Michelin, will honor the Upstate’s Summer Reading All-Stars! The Drive’s Reading All-Stars program was designed to encourage students as they “learn to read and read to learn”.

The library systems of Greenville, Pickens, and for the first time, Anderson County, have put together summer reading programs for kids of all ages. The Drive have sent Reedy Rip’ It and some of the Drive players to make appearances at schools, summer camps and libraries to emphasize the importance of reading.

The Drive are proud to have those who have completed the libraries’ top reading challenges at Sunday’s game! These kids will get to participate in a pregame Parade of Champions, receive a commemorative Reading All-Stars t-shirt, the chance to meet Reedy, participate in BlueCross BlueShield Kids Run the Bases and much more!

Even though school is out, education doesn’t stop, so be sure to come out and acknowledge all these children have accomplished in their summer reading programs!

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

RiverDogs GM Agrees to Prostate Exam at Saturday’s Game

July 30, 2014

Fans need to help “Fierce Fallon” Facebook page reach 13,000 likes to make Echols do “Two-Knuckle Challenge”

Earlier this month, Myrtle Beach Pelicans Vice President and General Manager Andy Milovich received an in-game prostate exam as he sang “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” during the seventh-inning stretch at a recent Pelicans home game. Milovich accepted the challenge to support Fallon Emery, a nine-year-old girl from Carolina Forest, SC who is fighting brain cancer and receiving her treatments at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. Now, Milovich has challenged the Charleston RiverDogs to become the latest team to join this initiative.

RiverDogs Executive President and General Manager Dave Echols has agreed to participate in the “Two-Knuckle Challenge” on Saturday, August 2 when the RiverDogs host the Hagerstown Suns at 6:05 pm. If fans can push the “Fierce Fallon” Facebook page to 13,000 likes by Saturday’s contest, Echols will get a prostate exam as he sings “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” during the seventh-inning stretch.

“Joining the ‘Two-Knuckle Challenge’ in support of Fallon Emery is a unique way to back this important cause,” Echols said. “As a Minor League Baseball franchise, multi-tasking is nothing new for us, but a prostate exam while signing during the seventh-inning stretch is definitely a distinctive endeavor. I just hope that once we get enough likes for ‘Fierce Fallon’ that I can pull through this exam with a clean bill of health.”

Fans are encouraged to like “Fierce Fallon” on Facebook (www.facebook.com/fiercefallon) and learn about her battle against brain cancer. The “Fierce Fallon” page needs 13,000 likes to guarantee that Echols will receive in his in-game prostate exam during the seventh-inning stretch. For more information about Fallon Emery, visit www.fiercefallon.com.

Echols was officially challenged by Milovich on Tuesday afternoon in a special YouTube message. Echols will follow Milovich and Lake Elsinore Storm Owner and President Dave Oster as the third Minor League Baseball executive tabbed for the “Two-Knuckle Challenge” as part of the larger Play It Forward initiative. Echols may nominate the next participant following Saturday’s event.

Play It Forward is a community building program that encourages others to help create a positive movement through grass roots activities and sports. The program is the brainchild of Oster. Play It Forward for sports teams all over the country help generate more local outreach programs that will help build positive energy throughout society. The concept is to get sports teams throughout the world to implement this positive energy program in their community, as well as encourage other businesses within their area to do the same. Sports teams can then Play It Forward to other teams in other communities.

Ed Randall’s Bat for the Cure, an organization that raises awareness for prostate cancer, will also be at Saturday’s game. There will be a silent auction of team-signed memorabilia to raise money for the fight against prostate cancer.

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

Support the Vs. Cancer Foundation on August 23

July 29, 2014

Join Senators’ players in shaving your head for cancer

The Harrisburg Senators are thrilled to announce that they are teaming up with the Vs. Cancer Foundation for a major fundraising event on Saturday, August 23 at Metro Bank Park. The event will take place before, during and after the Senators game that evening against the Trenton Thunder.

Several Harrisburg Senators’ players are shaving their heads to show solidarity including Colin Bates, Robert Benincasa, Mitch Canham, Brian Dupra, Tyler Herron, Scott McGregor, Derek Self and John Simms. As a way to encourage fans to donate, the players will have their heads shaved at the conclusion of the game on August 23, on the field, in full view of everyone to watch it happen.

Fans will also have the opportunity to have their heads shaved thanks to Polished Salon & Spa. They are donating their time that night and fans can have their heads shaved for charity during the game for a donation of just $10.

All of the proceeds benefit charity with half benefitting childhood cancer research and half given to the Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital. Harrisburg Senators’ players and front office members are creating fundraising pages, as well as a one Senators team page, where fans can donate. For more information about the Senators’ event, or to donate, please visit senators.vs-cancer.org.

Teams participating from all over the country consist of youth, high school, college and minor league baseball organizations.

In 2013, the Vs. Cancer Foundation helped 40,663 kids battling cancer. That number is expected to grow this year.

The Vs. Cancer Foundation was founded by Chase Jones, who played baseball at the University of North Carolina. Before his career could be a success, he left practice one day in 2006 with a terrible headache. After getting checked, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 brain cancer.

In a move of solidarity, his teammates shaved their heads to support Jones at the time. Now a cancer survivor, Jones started the non-profit organization dedicated to saving the lives of children by funding international cancer research projects and supporting local children’s hospitals. Jones played for the Tar Heels from 2007-11 and started the foundation in 2012. So far since 2012, the organization has raised more than $1 million.

Tickets are available on game days 9:00 a.m. until the end of the game, and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until the end of the game. Box office hours on non-game days are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tickets are available via telephone during the same hours as the box office hours. Tickets are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, online at www.senatorsbaseball.com.

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

RiverDogs Partner with Palmetto Goodwill for Goodwill Hunting

July 28, 2014

Scavenger hunt to be conducted in select tri-county Goodwill stores, August 4-10

The Charleston RiverDogs and Palmetto Goodwill have teamed up to host Goodwill Hunting, a tri-county scavenger hunt that runs Monday, August 4 through Sunday, August 10 at select Goodwill stores. Participants can win tickets to a RiverDogs game at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park and a chance to win a daily prize pack.

“We have been very pleased to partner with Palmetto Goodwill throughout this season, and this fun and exciting promotion enhances that partnership,” said RiverDogs General Manager Dave Echols. “We welcome all of our fans to participate in this scavenger hunt, and we wish everyone the best of luck.”

Starting August 4, scavenger hunt items will be placed in select Goodwill retail stores in Berkeley, Dorchester and Charleston counties. Clues leading to the Goodwill store where the item is located and a picture of each day’s Goodwill Hunting item will be released on the Palmetto Goodwill and Charleston RiverDogs Facebook pages daily starting at 9 am.

Once fans visit the correct Goodwill store and locate that day’s item, they should snap a picture with their cell phone and show the picture at checkout. If they do not have a cell phone, they can identify the Goodwill Hunting code on the item and let the cashier know the code at checkout. In return they will receive two tickets to a RiverDogs home game. If the participant uploads the photo to Facebook and tags Palmetto Goodwill and the RiverDogs, he or she is automatically entered into a drawing for a daily prize pack.

Daily grand prizes include gift certificates to Joe Pasta, Triangle Char & Bar, McDonald’s, Brixx Pizza, Bootjack, Monster Music & Movies, Shem Creek Bar & Grill, CDs and more.

There is no purchase necessary to play, but participants must follow Palmetto Goodwill and the Charleston RiverDogs on Facebook.

For more information about the Goodwill Hunting Scavenger Hunt, visit palmettogoodwill.org

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

CYCLONES TO HONOR 25 OFFICERS ON NYPD NIGHT

July 27, 2014

Here’s a full list of the Police Officers who will be honored for their service in a special pre-game ceremony:

BROOKLYN NORTH

73 Pct. SGT. Danielle Roventini
75 Pct. P.O. Jamil Sarwar
77 Pct. P.O. Sacha Pierre Louis
79 Pct. P.O. Christopher Vickery
81 Pct. P.O. Ryan McArdle
83 Pct. P.O. Damarys Franco
84 Pct. P.O. Lee Mazzarella
88 Pct. P.O. Eanna McCabe
90 Pct. SGT. Ahmed Kessba
94 Pct. P.O. Michael Safoschnik
PBBN P.O. Christopher Smyth

BROOKLYN SOUTH

60 Pct. Lieutenant Peter O’Neill
61 Pct. P.O Thomas Teehan
62 Pct. P.O. Carmelo Vendra
63 Pct. P.O. Thomas Podd
66 Pct. P.O. Joseph Vitella
67 Pct. P.O. Joseph Zeolla
68 Pct. P.O. Frank Cinalauro
69 Pct. P.O. Eton White
70 Pct. P.O. Jerry Ortiz
71 Pct. P.O. Justin Smith
72 Pct. P.O. Martin Kristopher
76 Pct. P.O. Richie Hample
78 Pct. P.O. James Dawes
B.S.T.F. P.O. Robert Whelan

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

James Dietrich Award Scholarship by FSL and Marlins

July 25, 2014

Dietrich receives $1,500 for his studies at St. Petersburg College

The Florida State League Scholarship Committee has awarded twelve (12) $1,500 educational scholarships to applicants from each team in the League. The Bradenton Marauders are proud to announce that James Dietrich has been selected as a scholarship recipient.

The scholarship winners will be guests of the Miami Marlins in pre-game ceremonies on Sunday, August 3 at 1:10 PM.

The Committee awarded the scholarships after a review of applications submitted by each candidate. The award is based both on financial need and grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Students eligible for this award must be an employee of, or the child or grandchild of an employee of the participating club and must be at least a high school junior by the 2014 Fall Term.

The scholarship will aid Dietrich during his senior year at St. Petersburg College, where he is majoring in Mass Communications. After completing his associate degree this fall, Dietrich plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in journalism at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His goal is to work in international journalism. Dietrich has been employed with the Marauders since 2012, working as a seller in the ticket office and as a front desk receptionist at Pirate City.

The Miami Marlins have sponsored this program for 15 years and have contributed a total of $148,500. Florida State League President Chuck Murphy stated, “This program is one of the great things we do in the League and I again congratulate the Directors and General Managers on their dedication and enthusiasm in administering this program.” The purpose of the program is to send a message that an education is key to success in life.

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

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

Chasers in the Community July 29-August 5

July 25, 2014

SPOTLIGHT

Third Annual Peanut Free Night at Werner Park

Hosted by the Omaha Storm Chasers and the Asthma and Allergy Center

On Tuesday, July 29^th, Werner Park will open its gates to fans with peanut allergies who cannot generally attend baseball games and other sporting events. For the entire week leading up to July 29^th, Werner Park will be sanitized and cleaned to rid of all peanut dust and allergens. There will be no peanuts, tree nuts, or sunflower seeds sold or present in the stadium. Children involved will have an opportunity to form a “Peanut Free Field of Dreams Team” and run on the field with the players prior to the game. Ticket packages also include first pitch opportunities, a meet and greet with an Omaha Storm Chaser player, and a pre-game parade.

Community Involvement Outside of the Game

VA Hospital Player Appearance – Omaha Storm Chasers staff and players will visit the VA Hospital on July 30th at 4101 Woolworth Avenue in Omaha, Nebraska.
Taste of Plattsmouth – OSC staff members and mascots will be at the Taste of Plattsmouth Business Expo on August 1^st from 5pm – 9pm located at the Entertainment Plaza on the corner of 4^th and Main Street in downtown Plattsmouth. For more information visit http://www.business.plattsmouthchamber.com/Events/details/cruizin-main-14
Science of Ice Cream – OSC staff members and Kernel Kobb will be attending the Science of Ice Cream event on August 1st from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm at 6015 Binney Street in Benson.
Flash Ticket Giveaway – Sizzle will be at the AT&T store at 7640 Towne Center Pkwy, Suite 119 in Papillion giving away Omaha Storm Chasers tickets! For more information contact Kasen Dudley at 402-738-5138.
Reading to Kids – Stormy and OSC staff will be attending the End of Summer Reading Party on August 2^nd, at the Florence Recreation Center at 2920 Bondesson Street in Florence, Nebraska from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm.
Healthy Kids Carnival – OSC staff members and mascots will be at the Healthy Kids Carnival at the Boys Town Medical campus on 139^th and Pacific streets in Omaha from 11 am – 2 pm. Activities include bounce houses, obstacle courses, healthy snacks, a basketball station, and fitness demonstrations. For more information visit http://www.boystownpediatrics.org/aboutus/Calendar/Pages/Healthy-Kids-Carnival.aspx
Walk to Cure Diabetes – OSC staff members and mascots will be attending the JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes on August 2^nd from 8:30 am – 11:00 am at Lewis and Clark Landing. For more information, visit http://www2.jdrf.org/site/TR?fr_id=3941&pg=entry
Zane’s Wish – Omaha Storm Chasers staff will help grant a wish by decorating a playhouse with Omaha Storm Chasers merchandise.

Community Involvement Inside of the Game

Tuesday, July 29 – Memphis Redbirds vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – AIRE Nebraska joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about AIRE Nebraska visit www.airenebraska.org
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Wednesday, July 30 – Memphis Redbirds vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Ralston Community Night – Members of the Ralston community are invited to join the Omaha Storm Chasers for their community night featuring 1 cent wiener Wednesday. Tickets are available at group discounted rates. For information on tickets, contact Alex Beck at 402-738-5112.
Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Community 360 joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about Community 360 visit http://www.community-360.org/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Thursday, July 31 – Memphis Redbirds vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Weeping Water Community Night – Members of the Weeping Water community are invited to join the Omaha Storm Chasers for their community night featuring Thirsty Thursday. Tickets are available at group discounted rates. For information on tickets, contact Danielle Jelensperger at 402-738-2181.
Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Muscular Dystrophy Association joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about MDA visit http://mda.org/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Friday, August 1 – Memphis Redbirds vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands visit http://www.dsamidlands.org/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Saturday, August 2 – Iowa Cubs vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Autism Action Partnership Jersey Auction – The Omaha Storm Chasers will be hosting a jersey auction benefitting Autism Action Partnership on Autism Awareness night. Fans will be able to bid on jerseys from all Omaha Storm Chasers players and receive the jersey post-game.
Fremont Community Night – Members of the Fremont community are invited to join the Omaha Storm Chasers for their community night. Tickets are available at group discounted rates. For information on tickets, contact Danny Dunbar at 402-738-5132.
Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Autism Action Partnership joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about Autism Action Partnership visit http://www.autismaction.org/contact/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Sunday, August 3 – Iowa Cubs vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 5:05pm

Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Omaha Public Library joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about Omaha Public Library visit http://www.omahapubliclibrary.org/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Monday, August 4 – Iowa Cubs vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Omaha North HS Presentation – Coach Eric Janecek and 7 members of his Omaha North High School varsity baseball team that partnered with the Omaha Storm Chasers and CVS for the Chasers FUNdamentals program will come to enjoy the game and take place in a pregame recognition.
Gretna Community Night – Members of the Gretna community are invited to join the Omaha Storm Chasers for their community night featuring a Player Puzzle and Picture Giveaway to the first 1500 fans. Tickets are available at group discounted rates. For information on tickets, contact Andrew Madden at 402-738-5135.
Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Sophisticated Hearts of Omaha joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about Sophisticated Hearts of Omaha visit http://www.sophisticatedheartsofomaha.com
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Tuesday, August 5 – Iowa Cubs vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 12:05pm

Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – EducationQuest Foundation joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about EducationQuest Foundation visit http://www.educationquest.org/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Omaha Storm Chasers. Click here to view the original story.

Utah Military Members Celebrated at The Principal Financial Dreams Tour

July 25, 2014

Utah Military Members Celebrated at The Principal^® Financial Dreams Tour

Come to the ballpark August 7 for a Night to Remember

The Principal Financial Group and the Salt Lake Bees will honor members of the military and the outstanding contributions they make to our country and communities during the 2014 Principal^® Financial Dreams Tour. The Tour will make 18 stops from coast-to-coast and will provide attendees with information to help them plan for a brighter financial future for themselves and their families.

The first 2,000 fans through the gate on event day will receive a Replica Bees Batting Helmet souvenir.

Since 2004, The Principal^® has brought more than 450 events to minor league ballparks, attracting nearly two million fans. Past tours have given fans the chance to meet some of baseball’s biggest stars, including Steve Garvey, Dave Stewart, Tommy John, Rollie Fingers and Lee Smith, among others.

Additionally, at the Dreams Tour event, The Principal will make a $1,000 contribution to the Wounded Warrior Project veteran’s charity supporting veterans employment programs.

“We’re thrilled to support hometown heroes.” said Steve Whitty, vice president of corporate marketing at The Principal. “We know these brave men and women are strong pillars of the community, and we’re honored to be able to give back to them through The Principal Dreams Tour, since they’ve already given us so much.”

“We are excited to be partnering with Principal Financial. Over the years we have seen a lot of success with the Principal Financial event and we are happy to continue that relationship,” Salt Lake Bees General Manager Marc Amicone said. “We appreciate their commitment to hiring our Veterans and helping give back to such a vital piece of our country.”

This year’s Tour will feature MLB All Star Aaron Boone as the Tour’s Social Media Ambassador. During his career Boone played for the Cincinnati Reds, New York Yankees, Cleveland Indians, Florida Marlins, Washington Nationals and Houston Astros. He is best known for his walk-off home run in the 11th inning during Game 7 of the 2003 ALCS, which gave the New York Yankees a 6-5 victory over the Boston Red Sox. He is currently employed by ESPN as a game analyst and contributor to Baseball Tonight. Aaron will share Tour activities, media interviews and messages with his social media following throughout the tour to keep fans in the loop and part of the action.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Salt Lake Bees. Click here to view the original story.

Dragons and Vectren Present 2014 Community All-Stars

July 25, 2014

Trisha Baxter to be Honored at Fifth Third Field on July 25

Vectren Corporation and the Dayton Dragons will host Trisha Baxter during the unique “Community All-Stars” program on Friday, July 25, at 7 p.m. when the Dayton Dragons take on the Quad Cities River Bandits at Fifth Third Field.

The Dayton community is a great place to live, work and play. But what makes Dayton truly great are the people that call Dayton home. We have great people and great organizations in our community that do incredible things each and every day. Throughout the season, the Dragons and Vectren will honor 35 “All-Stars”-anyone from firefighters to first responders, non-profit organizations to Good Samaritans-and their families with a VIP treatment at a Dragons game in recognition of their service.

Trisha’s Story

A good night’s sleep is essential to re-energize for the day to come, especially for children. Teacher Trisha Baxter learned just how necessary sleep is in her classroom of six and seven-year olds several years ago.

“I was giving a math test and one little girl in my class turned her test in blank,” Trisha explained. “I asked her why she didn’t do it and the girl told me it was because she was too tired and wasn’t sleeping well. When I asked why, she told me because it is cold on the floor.”

Trisha went around her whole class that day, asking each child the same question. She discovered over half of her classroom was sleeping on the floor each night. She knew she had to help.

Trisha founded Snuggled Up, an organization that donates kits of bedding to children in the area without a place to sleep. Included in a snuggle kit is an air mattress, sheets, pillow, and a blanket. Snuggled Up has now given close to 450 kits to children in need.

“My mission is to keep giving children like that first little girl snuggle kits so they are no longer dreaming on a floor,” Trisha said.

For helping provide bedding to hundreds of children in need, Trisha has been selected as a Dragons Community All-Star. The Dragons Community All-Stars Program honors individuals and organizations who have gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley.

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program is made possible by the generous support of Vectren. For more information on the program or to read about the All-Stars we have honored in 2014, visit daytondragons.com.

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

Dayton Police, Dayton Fire to Take Part in Battle of the Badges

July 25, 2014

Charity Softball Game at Fifth Third Field to Raise Money for the Humane Society of Greater Dayton

The Dayton Police Department and the Dayton Fire Department have teamed up with the Dayton Dragons to host “Battle of the Badges,” a charity softball game, on July 27, 2014 to benefit the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. The Dragons host the Cedar Rapids Kernels at 2 p.m. that afternoon and the softball game between Dayton’s finest will follow.

The Humane Society of Greater Dayton is the largest, most-established “no-kill” animal welfare agency in the Dayton region. As a 501(c)(3) organization, they receive no government funding and rely solely on donations to run their programs and services. Each year, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton saves the lives of thousands of animals and ensures that all animals are valued and loved within the Dayton community.

“As first responders we have an obligation and duty to assist the citizens of Dayton,” said Officer Nathan Speelman, Captain of the Dayton Police softball squad. “As a team, we strive to further assist and support local charities in the Miami Valley. We feel this is a great opportunity to raise money to help support The Humane Society of Greater Dayton.”

“On behalf of the Dayton Fire Department and Local 136, we would like to thank the Dayton Dragons organization and the Dayton Police Department for allowing us to participate in the Battle of the Badges Softball Game again this year,” noted Scott Davis, Captain of the Firefighter team. “The proceeds from this year’s charity game will go to help the animals at the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. Come out and support your local police officers and firefighters as they square off in a softball game for a great cause!”

Tickets can be purchased at http://daytondragons.com/badges using the special offer code, “Dragons”. Each purchased ticket earns one person admission to the Dragons game at 2 p.m. vs. Cedar Rapids as well as the Battle of the Badges contest. Tickets must be purchased by the end of the day on Saturday. There are a limited number of tickets available.

“The Humane Society of Greater Dayton is honored to be working with the Dayton Police and Dayton Fire Departments for this year’s Battle of the Badges,” said Brian Weltge, President & CEO of the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. “All of our organizations are in the business of saving lives. To be in the company of these heroic men and women who risk their lives each day for the community is a true privilege.”

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

Crawdads Help Out NC Boys Academy

July 25, 2014

‘Dads players/coaches help prepare campus for grand opening

The Hickory Crawdads recently teamed up with the newly formed North Carolina Boys Academy, with several ‘Dads players and coaches helping to prepare the NCBA’s Lake Hickory campus for its first ever class of boys this fall.

The entire Crawdads team spent time on July 17^th helping to paint several buildings on the campus. The ‘Dads also had a chance to showcase their skills in a whiffle ball game with the boys from Camp David, NCBA’s corresponding summer camp.

“We were more than happy to spend our time helping out such a good cause,” said Crawdads Manager Corey Ragsdale. “It was good for our guys to be a part of something like that. We also learned that they’re all better baseball players than painters.”

The North Carolina Boy’s Academy is a therapeutic Christian boarding school for teenage boys struggling with life-controlling problems. The program exposes students to godly male roles models in a 12-15 month process that includes 3 phases, P1- Wilderness, P2 – Advanced, P3 -Leadership.

The NCBA’s campus was originally opened as a leadership-training center for Duke Power Co. in 1959. The Boy’s Academy purchased the facility in December of 2013, with the inaugural class scheduled to start this September. The Campus contains 12 buildings and 28 lodging rooms spread across a 16-acre campus on Lake Hickory.

For more information regarding the North Carolina Boys Academy, visit their website at ncboysacademy.org, or contact camp facilitator John Steigerwald at (828) 256-2126.

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

Dragons and Ford Present Honor Them Program

July 24, 2014

All season long, the Dayton Area Ford Dealers will be honoring Miami Valley veterans and telling their service stories at Dayton Dragons games. Please join us on Sunday, July 27 as they recognize local veteran Shawn Brunello.

Veteran Shawn Brunello’s Story

Dayton native Shawn Brunello has spent nearly half of his life in the U.S. Marines. From mapping convoy routes between bases and criminal investigation to escorting entertainers, Brunello, now a Chief Warrant Officer, has served in many ways while deployed.

Brunello joined the Marines after high school, following his twin brother into the service. He was first deployed to Iraq in 2003 and again in 2005. In 2011, Brunello was deployed to Afghanistan and worked as a convoy commander. He facilitated the transport of food and equipment from a primary base to outlying bases. Every couple weeks, he would map out the routes for convoys which could include from 20 up to 270 vehicles. The destinations never changed, but the road they traveled always had to be different to avoid enemy detection and ensure as safe of a passage as possible.

One of the biggest changes Brunello found across his earlier deployments was communication, both with his family and with the vehicles in the convoys. During his early deployments in Iraq, his convoys had to rely on maps and two-way radio to communicate as they drove across the Iraqi deserts. While from a personal standpoint, he was only able to call home every couple of weeks.

By his 2011 deployment to Afghanistan, technology had progressed enough where he was able to talk to his family every day and could track vehicle convoys, as well as enemy locations through satellites.

Brunello currently lives in Washington Township with his family and is a system engineer for LexisNexis. He is still part of the Marine Reserves, and commits one weekend a month to his service, training and teach other Marines.

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

Birds rally on Prostate Cancer Awareness Night

July 24, 2014

Pelicans GM gets prostate exam while serenading the fans

Myrtle Beach Pelicans General Manager Andy Milovich during his prostate exam while singing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame." (Graham Jenkins / Myrtle Beach Pelicans) — Myrtle Beach Pelicans General Manager Andy Milovich during his prostate exam while singing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” (Graham Jenkins / Myrtle Beach Pelicans)

The Myrtle Beach Pelicans, Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers, won the series finale with the Frederick Keys 5-4 on Thursday night at TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. Pelicans Vice President and General Manager Andy Milovich sang “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” while receiving a prostate exam during the seventh inning stretch in front of a sellout crowd of 6,599 to raise awareness of the need for annual prostate exams.

The Pelicans (18-17, 62-41) struck first in the bottom of the first inning. With one out, Chris Garia singled and advanced to second on a Nick Williams walk. In the next at-bat, Royce Bolinger scored Garia with an RBI single to center field. Pelicans led 1-0 after the first.

In the bottom of the fourth the Birds increased their lead to 2-0. After Edwin Garcia grounded out, Christopher Bostick singled to center field. With two outs, Luis Mendez drove a double to center field, allowing Bostick to score from first. Mendez was thrown out trying to advance to third on the hit by right fielder Chih-Hsien Chiang to end the inning.

The Keys (16-17, 48-52) scored two runs in the top of the fifth to tie the game. After Joel Hutter walked and Tucker Nathans doubled to begin the inning, Johnny Ruettiger scored Hutter and advanced Nathans to third base with an RBI fielder’s choice. Two batters later, Trey Mancini hit an infield single to the shortstop, scoring Nathans. Pelicans starter Luis Parra walked Chiang to put runners on first and second with two outs, but escaped the inning when Chiang was thrown out in the ensuing play. Jason Esposito singled on a line drive to left field, but Chiang was caught in between second and third base when Garia’s throw came to Mendez, who ran and tagged Chiang trying to retreat back to second.

Frederick took the lead in the sixth inning. With two outs, and Wynston Sawyer and Nathans on base, Ruettiger lined a triple down the right field line, scoring Sawyer and Nathans to give the Keys a 4-2 lead.

Myrtle Beach answered with a run of its own in the bottom half of the sixth on an RBI infield single by Mendez.

In the bottom of the seventh the Pelicans took the lead for good, scoring all of their runs with two outs. After Garia and Williams flew out, Bolinger and Preston Beck walked to put runners on first and second. In the next at-bat, Garcia slammed a 1-0 pitch off the left field wall, scoring Bolinger and Beck. The Pelicans took a 5-4 lead.

After pitching a scoreless eighth, Pelicans reliever Abel De Los Santos (8) came back out for the ninth to complete the two-inning save.

Cody Ege (4-1) allowed the go-ahead runs in the sixth but earned the win in relief. Keys reliever Jimmy Yacabonis (0-3) took the loss, allowing the go-ahead double from Garcia in the seventh.

Andy Milovich passed his prostate exam with no problems.

Video of the event, including his rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” is available on YouTube.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Click here to view the original story.

“Peanut Free Night” at Werner Park July 29

July 23, 2014

3rd annual night includes “Peanut Free Experience” Ticket Package

Next Tuesday, the Omaha Storm Chasers will kick off their eight-game homestand with “Peanut Free Night” in association with the Asthma and Allergy Center, allowing fans affected by various allergies to visit Werner Park worry free in the third annual event.

“Peanut Free Night with the Omaha Storm Chasers is fast becoming one of our most unique, community events,” said Martie Cordaro, President and General Manager for the Omaha Storm Chasers. “Our ballpark operations staff, led by Brett Myers and Matt Owen, work tirelessly to make sure that Werner Park is safe for all those that would otherwise not be able to attend a professional baseball game.”

For this special night, Werner Park will not serve any peanut-related items including sunflower seeds, tree nuts and of course peanuts. The process of deep-cleaning Werner Park for any peanut residue started immediately after Omaha’s game this past Sunday and will continue up until Tuesday. Werner Park also features gluten-free and vegetarian options at the Heartland Healthy Cart and other areas throughout the park.

In addition to welcoming fans affected by these various allergies that would not usually be able to attend a game, the Storm Chasers are taking it one step further by offering the “Peanut Free Experience” Ticket Package. The $10 package (with an option to add on a $3 Centris Family Fun Zone Wristband) includes:

Meet and Greet, Autograph session with two Omaha Storm Chasers Players (to be determined)
Pre-Game Peanut Free Parade on the field
Opportunity to be on “Peanut Free Field of Dreams Team” and chance at throwing out a first pitch
Deadline to purchase “Peanut Free Experience” Ticket Package is July 25

“We are excited to see all the allergic families come out to the baseball game in a peanut-free environment. We’ve heard from parents telling us how much they appreciate this opportunity to have their children experience one of America’s past-times,” said Dr. Gregory Daniel Brooks of The Asthma and Allergy Center. “Peanut Free Night gives everyone a chance to raise awareness about food allergies and learn about new products, research and education. The Asthma & Allergy Center is proud to be a sponsor of Peanut Free Night and to help provide this night of baseball for all the allergic community. ”

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Omaha Storm Chasers. Click here to view the original story.

Golf alongside Future Giants on August 6 at Copper River C.C.

July 22, 2014

Fresno Grizzlies players and coaches will join the field

The Grizzlies Community Fund will be hosting the third annual Grizzlies Golf Tournament on August 6th at the Copper River Country Club located on 2140 E. Clubhouse Drive in Fresno, California. One of the marquee events put on by the Grizzlies Community Fund, the golf tournament places participants right alongside Future Giants as teams compete in a four-man scramble for various prizes. All proceeds from the event directly benefit the Grizzlies Community Fund, which seeks to continue making a lasting and positive impact in the Central Valley. In 2013, tournament proceeds aided in the ability to support over 500 community and non-profit groups throughout the Central Valley.

Foursome packages are still available for interested participants, along with individual and team options. To register for the tournament, a downloadable registration form can be found here. Participants are encouraged to register as soon as possible as there are a limited number of foursomes remaining.

Registration includes: A pre-tournament breakfast, a bucket of range balls, team photo, sponsored giveaway items, free beverages (provided at holes 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15), and a post tournament mixer that will include drinks and hors d’oeuvres.

Golf attire is required. Collared shirts and slacks or shorts are preferred (no steel spikes are allowed on the course). Check-in for the tournament begins at 7:30 a.m. and a breakfast will be provided before the shotgun start at 9:00 a.m.

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