clubphilanthropy.com – Page 216 – Charity begins at home [plate]

G-Braves Announce 2014 Baseball Buddies Camp

July 22, 2014

Camp is open to anyone ages 8 and up with special needs

Last year's Baseball Buddies Camp participants gathered for a group photo at Coolray Field. (Gwinnett Braves) — Last year’s Baseball Buddies Camp participants gathered for a group photo at Coolray Field. (Gwinnett Braves)

The Gwinnett Braves will host their 2014 Baseball Buddies Camp at Coolray Field on Saturday, August 30 from 9 AM to 12 PM. The camp is open to anyone ages eight and up with special needs.

For $20, each Baseball Buddies camp participant will receive hands-on instruction from Gwinnett Braves players and coaches. Each participant also receives a Camp T-shirt and lunch, as well as an opportunity to get autographs and take pictures with the G-Braves.

Each sign-up also includes one (1) Baseline Box ticket for the August 30 game against the Charlotte Knights at 7:05 PM. Camp participants will get to take the field for a special pre-game parade that night.

Spots for the 2014 Baseball Buddies Camp are limited and expected to fill up quickly. To register, download the form from GwinnettBraves.com and turn it in to the Community Relations Department at P.O. Box 490310, Buford, GA 30043. The form can also be faxed to 678-277-0338.

For more information, contact Gwinnett Braves’ Community Relations Trainee Alison Atkins by phone at 678-277-0313 or by email at alison.atkins@braves.com.

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

The Shade Tree Night – Friday, July 25

July 22, 2014

51s Team Up With Volunteers from The Venetian Hotel & Casino to Host Donation Drive for The Shade Tree!

The Las Vegas 51^s professional baseball team of the Pacific Coast League (PCL), Triple-A affiliate of the New York Mets & 2013 Pacific Southern Division Champions, will open an eight-game homestand on Friday, July 25 against the Salt Lake Bees, Triple-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, at 7:05 p.m. at Cashman Field.

The 51^s organization will team up with volunteers from the Venetian Hotel and Casino to present a donation drive for The Shade Tree. The Shade Tree’s Mission Statement: To provide safe shelter to homeless and abused women and children in crisis and to offer life-changing services promoting stability, dignity, and self-reliance.

“The Shade Tree is blessed to have such caring and compassionate partners as the Las Vegas 51^s and the Sands Corporation,” Erica Thompson, The Shade Tree Director of Fundraising & Major Gifts, said. “Guiding women and children on a path to self-sufficiency can be difficult at times. We know though that by combining our resources with the generosity of community leaders like the 51^s and the Sands Corporation, together we can provide help, healing and hope to those in need.”

“The 51^s recognize the importance to be a Community Partner and to team together with Las Vegas Sands to provide donated items from our great fans for such an outstanding organization like The Shade Tree,” 51^s President/COO Don Logan added.

Fans are encouraged to bring donated items to “The Shade Tree Booth” located inside Cashman Field and fans will receive two free 51^s hats for their generous donation.

The donated items requested by The Shade Tree include: women’s underwear (sizes 6-10), feminine hygiene products (tampons, sanitary pads, panty liners), bath towels, wash cloths, bed sheets, mattress covers, women’s shorts (sizes 5-22), hats, trash bags, bottled water, plus sized women’s clothing, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, body wash, diapers (all sizes), boy’s underwear (sizes 14-16), girl’s underwear (sizes 14-16), toilet tissue, paper towels, socks (for adults & children).

“Part of the mission of Sands Cares is to aid the causes that are most important to our team members in the Las Vegas community,” Stephanie MacDonald, Property Chair, Sands Cares Las Vegas, said. “The Venetian/The Palazzo and Sands Expo team recognized The Shade Tree as an organization that leads the way in providing support to the underserved women, children and pets in the city.

“We are proud to partner with them as they celebrate their 25^th anniversary and encourage Las Vegas 51^s fans to assist in our efforts by bringing a donation to the stadium on Friday night.”

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Las Vegas 51s. Click here to view the original story.

U.S. Bank Aces baseball camp set for Saturday

July 22, 2014

The 2014 U.S. Bank Reno Aces baseball camp is set for Saturday, July 26 and is accepting participants. Instruction will be led by Aces players and former Major League Baseball pitcher Roric Harrison.

The camp is open to children ages 7-14 and will be from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Campers will receive instruction in pitching, hitting, fielding, outfield defense and infield defense.

For just $99, campers will receive instruction, a camp t-shirt, catered lunch, camp photo and a ticket to Saturday night’s Aces game against the Albuquerque Isotopes at 7:05 p.m.

Space is limited and interested participants are encouraged to reserve their spot. To sign-up, contact Cody Lyford at (775) 334-7076 or clyford@renoaces.com. Click here for registration form.

Single-game tickets are on sale for the remainder of the 2014 season. For more information, or to purchase an Aces ticket plan, call (775) 334-4700. For up-to-date news and notes throughout the offseason, visit www.RenoAces.com, follow the club on Twitter (@aces) or like the team on Facebook.

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

Pig-Smooching Raises Nearly $40,000

July 21, 2014

Ten Local Leaders Bring Home the Bacon for Area Youth

The Richmond Flying Squirrels Charities, the non-profit foundation of the Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, are pleased to announce that the inaugural Smooch-A-Pig charity fundraising campaign raised nearly $40,000 for Richmond area youth athletics. Ten dedicated local business leaders and celebrities (listed below) executed vigorous fundraising campaigns for the honor of smooch Parker the Rally Pig at home plate during the Squirrels game on July 17^th. While all of the participants went “whole hog” in their tireless efforts, Dan Schmitt from RMC events brought in the most bacon and won the privilege to kiss Parker. Schmitt brought along chocolates and a rose to give the celebrity swine and the two shared a special moment at home plate (photos attached) prior to the game. All the proceeds raised will go directly to “Operation Renovation,” a dedicated community impact project to renovate 12 Richmond youth baseball facilities (details below).

The Smooch-A-Pig Participants:

Jon Bibbs, Richmond Prep School Administrator
Matt DiNardo, WRIC TV Meteorologist
Jack and Melissa, 103.7 Play
Cla Meredith, Former MLB Player
Barry Moore, Volvo of Midlothian
Kim Scheeler, Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce President & CEO
Dan Schmitt, RMC Events President
Latrell Scott,Virginia State University Head Football Coach
Norman Way, Puritan Cleaners Director of Operations
Lisa Watkins, Coca-Cola East Region Key Account Development Manager

“We can’t thank these ten leaders enough for their extraordinary efforts,” Flying Squirrels Chief Executive Manager Chuck Domino said. “These candidates share our vision for what Operation Renovation can do for the community. The money raised here is an important start of what will be an ongoing effort from Flying Squirrels Charities.”

The four phases for Operation Renovation are projected as follows:
Phase 1- build 24 dugouts on 12 designated youth baseball fields in Richmond
Phase 2 – improve these same playing fields
Phase 3 – develop the Henderson Complex into a Little League Complex, including the concessions building
Phase 4– recover and renovate unused fields as demands dictate.

Operation Renovation Youth Baseball Fields

Battery Park, 2000 Fendall Ave.
Bellemeade, 1800 Lynhaven Ave.
Bill Robinson, 701 N. 37^th St.
Blackwell, 16^th & Everett St.
Calhoun, 436 Calhoun St.
Chandler, 201 E. Brookland Park Blvd.
Hotchkiss (Two Fields), 701 E. Brookland Park Blvd.
Lucks Field, Rodgers & T St.
Powhatan, 5051 Northampton Ave.
Westover (Two Fields), 1301 Jahnke Rd.

Although the inaugural Smooch-A-Pig campaign is over, additional information and donations can still be made to Flying Squirrels Charities through the website www.smoochapig.com. Any individuals or business interested in getting involved with Operation Renovation and Flying Squirrels Charities can contact Squirrels Charity Liaison/Media Relation Manager Jay Burnham at 804-482-6791 or email at jay.burnham@squirrelsbaseball.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Richmond Flying Squirrels1. Click here to view the original story.

Spinners to welcome Boston Renegades, 7/27

July 21, 2014

Visually impaired athletes to play prior to game

LowellSpinners1_2014-07-21 — Brett Rudy/Boston Baseball

Leading national braille publisher, National Braille Press (NBP) announced today that it will participate in Braille Literacy Night hosted by the Lowell Spinners on Sunday, July 27^th. The evening will include awareness around the issue of braille literacy and its decline among the visually impaired community and will also feature an appearance from the famed beep ball team the Boston Renegades, a baseball team comprised of visually impaired athletes. The pre-game activities will take place before the Spinners take on the Brooklyn Cyclones at 5 p.m. at their home field at LeLacheur Park in Lowell, Mass.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with the Lowell Spinners on this event which we hope will raise awareness around the growing trend in the decline of braille literacy for the blind and visually impaired,” said Brian MacDonald, President of National Braille Press. “The fact that we are able to share this night with the Renegades, a group of truly remarkable and talented young men and women makes this even more special.”

National Braille Press will distribute complimentary braille alphabet cards to fans and attendees and also host a table where attendees can learn more about National Braille Press, braille literacy and the Boston Renegades.

Prior to the game, the Boston Renegades will provide attendees with an exhibition of “Beep Ball”, a form of baseball that includes a beeping ball and a buzzing base. The exhibition game will be played at 4pm along with other pre-game events including clips from the film The Renegades: A Beep Ball Story, which will air over the Spinner’s jumbotron and the team’s participation in the ceremonial throwing out of the first pitch.

“On behalf of the Boston Renegades, we’d like to thank the Lowell Spinners for welcoming us onto their field,” said Joe Quintanilla, 12 year member of the Boston Renegades and Director of Major Gifts and Planned Giving at National Braille Press. “It’s not every day we get to play in front of hundreds of baseball fans and we are excited to have this opportunity to showcase Beep Ball to such a large audience.”

ABOUT BOSTON RENEGADES

The Boston Renegades are a team of visually impaired athletes and volunteer coaches from the greater Boston area that compete in an adaptive form of baseball. This is a competitive team which is part of the NBBA and plays against opponents all over the country. The Boston Renegades are operated by the Association of Blind Citizens.

ABOUT NATIONAL BRAILLE PRESS

A non-profit braille publisher, National Braille Press promotes literacy for blind children through outreach programs and provides access to information by producing information in braille for blind children and adults. National Braille Press is the premier braille publisher in the US that specializes in producing original braille works written by blind authors expressly for blind people. www.nbp.org

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

Allstate’s Reality Rides visits LeLacheur Thursday

July 21, 2014

Distracted Driving Simulator brings entertainment, information

Distracted driving continues to be the number one cause for car collisions in the U.S. and summer is the deadliest time on the road for Americans. On July 24, Allstate’s “Reality Rides^SM” will stop off at the Lowell Spinners game on its tour of more than 40 American cities to bring a driving simulator that demonstrates the dangers of distracted driving. Allstate Insurance Company aims to bring awareness around distraction-free driving with this second annual campaign tour. The display will be set up on the entry plaza leading into the stadium.

Reality Rides consists of a driving simulator that utilizes a real – but stationary – vehicle equipped with virtual reality technology, including a curved LED television that displays an animated environment and reacts to the driver’s motions. Using the vehicle’s steering wheel, gas and brake pedals, the driver is tasked with driving while also attempting to text and talk on the phone.

“The Spinners are thrilled to partner with Allstate and the Reality Rides tour to bring this incredible demonstration on distracted driving to Lowell,” said Spinners spokesperson Jon Boswell. “This interactive demonstration will be both fun and informative for fans and we can’t wait for them to try it!”

These simulations demonstrate the potential consequences distracted drivers could face while on the road.

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

Blood Drive August 7

July 21, 2014

Join us at State Mutual Stadium on Thursday August 7 for a blood drive put on by the American Red Cross of Northwest Georgia. The Blood Drive will take place from 9am to 2pm in the Three Rivers Club at the ballpark.

All donors will receive an Atlanta Braves t-shirt, FREE admission to the Rome Braves game that night and your name will be entered in a drawing to win giveaways from local businesses.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please go to www.redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code: romebraves.

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

‘Recycling Pays’ Nights at The Pfitz to Demonstrate Importance of Recycling

July 18, 2014

The Potomac Nationals are excited to announce a pair of “Recycling Pays” nights at Pfitzner Stadium sponsored by the Prince William County Recycling Program. The first recycling appreciation night is scheduled for Friday, July 18th as the Nationals take on the Wilmington Blue Rocks (Kansas City Royals), and the second evening in which recycling will be in the spotlight is Friday, August 15th in a P-Nats contest against the Carolina Mudcats (Cleveland Indians).

P-Nats fans will get the opportunity to save money and the environment with these events thanks to Prince William County Solid Waste Division’s Recycling Program. All fans who show up to the Potomac Nationals Ticket Office on each game day with recyclables in hand will receive half-off general admission tickets. In addition, everyone who tweets or posts to Facebook a picture of themselves recycling inside the ballpark during the July 18th game will receive a ticket to the second recycling night on August 15th.

On August 15th, the P-Nats’ faithful may also bring recyclables to receive 50% off GA tickets for that evening’s game and can tweet or post to Facebook the act of recycling at The Pfitz to receive an undated ticket voucher for the 2015 season.

About PWC Solid Waste Division
The Prince William County Solid Waste Division (SWD) provides solid waste management, recycling, composting and waste resource education to over 400,000 residents. The division employs more than 50 people and operates the only active Extraordinary Environmental Excellence (E4) rated landfill in Virginia, the highest level of certification awarded by Virginia Department of Environmental Quality‘s (DEQ) Environmental Excellence Program (VEEP). In 2013, the SWD also earned the Governor’s Gold Award for Environmental Excellence for its Sustainability Program. The SWD is a part of the Prince William County Public Works Department, an accredited agency of the American Public Works Association.

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

Tigers To Host DUB4U Drive

July 18, 2014

The CT Tigers and Discreet Undergarment Banking For You will host a adult disposable brief collection drive on July 22^nd as the CT Tigers host Tri-City starting at 7:05pm at Dodd Stadium. Collection of disposable undergarments, briefs, and pads and financial donations will be accepted and educational material will be available for the treatment and symptoms of adult incontinence.

25 million older Americans are experiencing some form of urinary incontinence. Adult absorbent products cost upwards of $100.00 a month, and Social Security benefits averaging $710.00, purchasing these products are not possible for millions of adults. Currently there aren’t any programs that offer assistance to seniors in need of adult briefs or other incontinence products, making independent living unattainable “These are not luxury items but a necessity” items. Without these basic human needs met many healthy older Americans are trapped in their homes, fearful of joining social functions such as family birthday parties, visits with neighbors, or trips to the library.

Urinary incontinence is experienced by both men and women whether from an injury, illness, disability, or age. At this time, insurance does not cover the cost of disposable undergarments.

For more information please visit www.dub4u.org or call 860-383-2290

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

Naturals Partner with Toys for Tots for July 24 Game

July 17, 2014

Fans that donate a new toy will receive two (2) FREE Reserved tickets to Thursday’s game

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are excited to announce that they will be partnering with the NWA Marine Corps Toys for Tots again this year. Fans will have the opportunity to donate toys on Thursday, July 24 to benefit the Toys for Tots program that provides disadvantaged children in Benton and Washington counties with toys for Christmas.

The Naturals invite fans to bring new toys to the ballpark for donation on Thursday, July 24 when we celebrate Christmas in July at Arvest Ballpark. Fans that donate a new toy to the Toys for Tots program will receive two (2) FREE Reserved tickets to Thursday’s 7:05 P. M. game against the Springfield Cardinals, the Double-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Naturals’ staff, along with the NWA Marine Corps Toys for Tots volunteers, will be located near the ticket office and main gate to collect toys at the ballpark. All toys that are donated to the NWA Marine Corps Toys for Tots program will be distributed within the Northwest Arkansas community. In addition, any money that is collected will be used to purchase toys for local children.

On Thursday, July 24 the Naturals will celebrate Christmas in July at Arvest Ballpark on Buck Night on Thirsty Thursday presented by Brach’s. The event will feature a special Santa Hat giveaway for the first 1,000 fans in attendance and select items will be available for only a $1 at the Arvest Ballpark concession stands, including Farm Rich Mozzarella Sticks, peanuts, as well as small Coca-Cola fountain drinks as part of Buck Night while Thirsty Thursday will feature select 16oz. drafts for only $2.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. Click here to view the original story.

Cutters Dominican Dinner to Benefit A.C.E.S.

July 16, 2014

The Williamsport Crosscutters have teamed up with Advancing Communities by Educating and Serving (A.C.E.S.) North America in announcing the 2nd Annual Dominican Plate – An Evening of Dominican Dining and Entertainment with the Cutters.

The event will be held on Tuesday, August 5 in the Grand Ballroom of the Genetti Hotel, 200 W. Fourth St., Williamsport. Doors open at 5:30pm with hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar followed by a Dominican-style dinner served at 6:30pm.

The buffet dinner of traditional Dominican fare will be served by members of the Williamsport Crosscutters who hail from the Dominican Republic, along with some of their teammates.

Proceeds from the event will benefit A.C.E.S. North America, an organization working to create sustainable development projects in the Dominican Republic. The charity, founded in Williamsport in 2005, uses all-volunteer personnel for its operations.

A.C.E.S. Founder Linell Stabler stated, “Teaming up with the Crosscutters for this Dominican fundraiser is a fun match for our mission of helping people in the Dominican Republic.”

In addition, the night will feature live musical entertainment, Chinese and live auctions of sports memorabilia and other items plus a balloon bust wine raffle. Last year’s event raised almost $3,000 for the charity

“This event was such a success last year and it was a fun night for our players as well. This is a tremendous opportunity to help out a worthy charity that does outstanding work in an area of the world many of our players call home,” said Gabe Sinicropi the team’s Vice-President of Marketing and Public Relations.

The Genetti has again agreed to donate kitchen services and the Grand Ballroom for this charity event.

Advance tickets for The Dominican Plate are $20 for adults and $10 for children age 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased at the Cutters Sawmill Team Store at Susquehanna Bank Park or at the Genetti Hotel. Tickets are also available by phone at (570) 326-3389.

Business sponsorships are available for the event by calling (570) 326-3389. For more information on A.C.E.S., visit www.acesnorthamerica.org.

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

Express to Host 2nd Annual “Triple-A For a Day”

July 16, 2014

E-Train Brings Dell Diamond Experience to RBI Austin Championship Game

The Round Rock Express is taking the show on the road. For the second year, the Rangers Triple-A affiliate has partnered with RBI Austin for “Triple-A for a Day.” The Express promotional staff is turning Downs Mabson Field into Dell Diamond of the South for the RBI Austin Kid Pitch Championship game on Saturday, July 26.

Joining the Express promo crew will be Spike, the lovable mascot, Ballpark Rob and the Party Patrol. Every player and coach from both teams will be introduced as they stand on the foul lines for the singing of the National Anthem, a tradition seen at professional ballparks throughout the country. In between innings, fans will compete in a variety of games seen at Dell Diamond similar to the dizzy bat race and the Great Texas Chicken Race.

The Express hopes this game will provide RBI Austin Kid Pitch athletes, their families and the community the opportunity to watch baseball in a fun and unique setting they would not normally experience.

“We’re proud to partner with RBI Austin again this year for their championship game,” Express General Manager Chris Almendarez said. “It’s an absolute honor to be able to give these kids a memory they’ll never forget.”

Downs Mabson Field is located at 2812 E. 12^th St. in Austin. Pre-game activities will begin at 6:40 p.m. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. The championship will feature the 9 and 10-year-old age division. Admission to the game is free.

Click here to view last year’s “Triple-A For A Day.”

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

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Round Rock Express. Click here to view the original story.

Baseball Academy – Pitcher/Catcher Camp in August

July 16, 2014

For pitchers and catchers ages 8-14

BlueClaws Baseball Academy will host a Pitcher/Catcher Baseball Summer Camp at FirstEnergy Park on August 12th and 13th. The event will run from 7 pm – 8:30 pm each day.

This two-day program is designed to teach players ages 8-14 how to build their individual skills as a pitcher or catcher.

Pitchers will learn proper throwing mechanics to keep them healthy during the season, along with information on proper grips for fastball and off-speed pitches. This is a drill intensive camp that will give players a multitude of new ways to practice at home.

Catchers will learn in order of responsibilities of being a catcher (receiving, blocking, throwing, tag plays, bunts and pop-ups) while learning the most specialized position on the field. Catchers camp has by far been our most popular camp. Camp will take place under the lights at FirstEnergy Park.

Each camper will receive 2 days of advanced instruction, use of the Lakewood BlueClaws facilities at FirstEnergy Park, and a FREE 1-on-1 Lesson*

For more information about our programs visit our website at Blueclawsbaseballacademy.com, check us out on FACEBOOK at BlueClawsBaseballAcademy, or follow us on Twitter @BBA_Claws.

Registration is $110. To sign up, please contact Joe Agnello at 732-901-7000 x209 or jagnello@blueclaws.com.

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

Express to Host Military Appreciation Night

July 16, 2014

E-Train to Honor All Branches of Military during Express Game

On Thursday, July 17, the Round Rock Express will honor and support the brave men and women that serve or have previously served in the United States Armed Forces by hosting Military Appreciation Night at Dell Diamond, presented by Budweiser and USAA.

There will be special military-themed promotions and recognitions throughout the evening as the E-Train takes on the Iowa Cubs. Military vehicles will be on display outside of Dell Diamond for fans to observe as they enter the stadium.

Two generations of heroes will be involved in the night’s ceremonial first pitch. A veteran of World War 2, the Korean War and the Vietnam War, Rufus Dye Jr. will be joined by his son Colonel Michael Dye. Michael currently serves in the Texas Army National Guard as the Director of Army Aviation for Joint Forces Headquarters.

Joining the Express on the field for the National Anthem are the children of troops deployed from the 3^rd Calvary Regiment out of Fort Hood. The Anthem will be performed by country music artist Jenna McDaniel.

During the game, each branch of the military – Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard – will be recognized individually along with a Marine Corps swearing-in ceremony. Silver Star recipient SSG Matthew Kinney, Gold Star Mother Tami Sims and SGT Travis King, who is scheduled to deploy in the coming weeks, will be among those honored during the game. Express players and coaches will wear commemorative patriotic jerseys that will be auctioned off during the game with proceeds going to WISH for OUR HEROES. Additionally, there will be a wish granted during the game in conjunction with the Wish for Our Heroes initiative.

For the seventh-inning stretch, country music artist and songwriter Ryland Edwards will be on hand to sing “God Bless America”.

All military personnel receive half-price tickets to all Express games by presenting their military ID.

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

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Round Rock Express. Click here to view the original story.

Nominate a Military Hero: Military Card Set Giveaway, 8/30

July 16, 2014

Calling all local military families, friends…nominate today!

The Lowell Spinners, Class-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, are once again looking for local military veterans and active duty soldiers to salute in their second edition “Military Hero Baseball Card Set,” presented by Army ROTC and The Lowell Sun. 30 honorees will be selected to comprise the set, which will be given to the first 1,000 fans in attendance August 30.

“We are thrilled to be able to continue what we hope is an annual tradition with this special baseball card set,” said Spinners President and General Manager Tim Bawmann. “Last season’s game was perhaps one of the most emotional nights at the ballpark of my baseball career, not just for the honorees, but for everyone in attendance. We can’t wait to meet this year’s honorees.”

Following the first edition of the set, given away during the 2013 season where the Spinners honored 34 local veterans and active duty servicemen and women, the promotion was so popular it was awarded a Minor League Baseball Golden Bobble Head for “Best In-Game Promotion.” In addition, over 12 other organizations have implemented a similar promotion in their community this season.

“When they say imitation is the best form of flattery, they were not lying,” said Bawmann. “To have this promotion take off to the point where other communities are doing a similar theme to honor their local servicemen and women is so great to see.”

The non-traditional baseball card set will feature men and women from throughout the Merrimack Valley who have served our country. The 30 card set will be given away to the first 1,000 fans through the gate Saturday, August 30 with the families and heroes themselves in attendance.

“As we learned last year, the hardest part of the process is whittling the set down to 30 honorees,” said Bawmann. “There are so many heroes out there which is why we are so happy to have this as an annual promotion.”

The Spinners are calling on people throughout the Merrimack Valley to nominate their friends, family, co-workers and neighbors. Nominations can be made at www.lowellspinners.com/militaryhero now through Tuesday, August 12 and the “roster” will be released shortly thereafter.

For more information on nominating a member of the community for the set, visit www.lowellspinners.com or www.lowellspinners.com/militaryhero.

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