Fireflies Seeking Stand Up To Cancer Warriors of the Inning Nominees

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COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies today announced that they are searching for Cancer Warriors of the Inning to be honored during Stand Up To Cancer Night at Segra Park Thursday, May 19. The Fireflies will recognize local Cancer Warriors: those who are survivors, currently fighting or who have lost their lives to the fight against cancer.

Fans can nominate Cancer Warriors online by sharing their Warrior’s story. Nominations must be submitted by midnight Sunday, May 8. The Fireflies will be recognizing eight warriors during the game on Stand Up To Cancer Night. Each warrior who gets selected will receive two complimentary tickets to the Fireflies game May 19 vs the Myrtle Beach Pelicans at 7:05 pm.

The Fireflies return home April 19 to face-off against the Down East Wood Ducks for the first time in franchise history! When the Texas Rangers affiliate comes to town, the Fireflies will host their first Trash the Poop Dog Day of Summer, pass out a t-shirt giveaway and will blast-off a spectacular fireworks display.

Tickets for the upcoming games next week, and all 2022 Fireflies home games, are on sale now and can be purchased online at FirefliesTickets.com, by calling the Fireflies Box Office at 803-726-4487 or by visiting the Fireflies Box Office in-person at Segra Park. Individual game ticket prices range from $5 to $12 and premium seating options are available starting at $14 per person. All tickets will be sold on a first come first serve basis and are based upon availability.

REGISTRATION UNDERWAY FOR DRAGONS 5K

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Dayton, Ohio – Registration is underway for the 12th annual Dragons 5K on Saturday, July 16, 2022 starting at 8:00 a.m. at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District with options to participate in-person or virtually. The event began in 2011 and has become a local tradition as one of the Miami Valley’s largest races with over 2,000 runners and walkers participating annually.

The Dragons 5K will continue offering a virtual option for those that prefer that method. Participants that sign up for the virtual option can complete the race on their own time, and then input their time online by July 16.

All race participants (including virtual) will receive a swag bag that includes a Dragons 5K T-shirt, Dragons 5K medal, Dragons hat, and four (4) lawn tickets to a future Dragons game. If participants sign up for the race in the first 30 days, they will receive two additional Dragons stadium tickets.

The registration fee is $30 for ages 18 and up and $20 for ages 17 and under. For the virtual race option, there is an additional charge of $10 for swag bag shipping. Fans can sign-up today to reserve their spot at www.daytondragons.com/dragons5ksignup.

The race will begin at 8:00 a.m. and participants may choose to run or walk the course. Baby strollers are permitted. The course will move through downtown Dayton and end back at Day Air Ballpark.

The top three male and female finishers will receive a specially-engraved baseball bat. The top three male and female runners in each age group will be awarded a Dragons Den e-gift card. Also, top finishing groups will receive great group prizes with the grand prize being a luxury suite at a Dragons game in 2023.

There will be fruit and water provided for participants after the race. Results will be provided to fans following the completion of the race. The winners of the top overall, individual age group, and group category will receive a notification from the Dragons via email by Monday, July 18. You can learn more about the Dragons 5K event at www.daytondragons.com/dragons5k.

The 2022 Dragons 5K is being presented by Orthopedic Associates. As the regional leader in comprehensive orthopedic care, our passion is helping Dayton’s families get back to doing what they love. We are proud to be the trusted orthopedic provider serving your Dayton Dragons for more than a decade. Learn more at www.BonesFixed.com_._

For more information on the Dragons 5K, go to http://www.daytondragons.com/dragons5k.

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Sea Dogs welcome first Sustainability Partner, Arcadia, as part of Club’s comprehensive sustainability strategy

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Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs welcome their first Sustainability Partner, Arcadia, as part of their refreshed and comprehensive approach to sustainability. This season, the club will build a sustainability strategy around the opportunities to create positive community impact, including through tactical solutions in the stadium and through fan engagement initiatives and game day activations within the Portland community.

As part of Arcadia’s Sustainability Partnership, they will be leading a program titled “Sustainable Sundays” to feature several local partners who are taking and inspiring sustainable action on an individual or organization level.

“We’re thrilled to support the Sea Dogs again and to bring fans Sustainable Sundays,” said Kate Henningsen, co-founder and COO of Arcadia. “We’re especially excited to highlight the phenomenal work that our partner organizations are doing across Maine. Together, we can help fans hit it out of the park with sustainable actions to make a lasting impact.”

Sustainable Sundays will showcase environmentally-focused themes throughout the baseball season, such as featuring the Bike Coalition of Maine during National Bike Month. “We are excited to partner with Arcadia and the Portland Sea Dogs for National Bike Month! Clean energy and active transportation go hand in hand!” said Jean Sideris, the Executive Director of the Bike Coalition of Maine.

In addition to Sustainability Sundays, fans should expect to see more sustainability-related promotional events throughout the season, starting with Earth Day in April.

“Sustainability isn’t new to us, but this new partnership helps us to put sustainability at the forefront. The time to take environmental action is now and a formal strategy will be important for helping us prioritize feasible solutions to take action. We’ll be announcing more about this later in the season,” said Geoff Iacuessa, Portland Sea Dogs President & General Manager.

To support this comprehensive sustainability strategy effort, the club has engaged Recipric as their Front Office Sustainability Agency, who will develop the club’s sustainability strategy and will provide tactical solutions for the club to take positive action. Recipric will engage the club throughout the season and fans can expect regular updates on the progress of those efforts.

– – – – – – – – –

*About Arcadia: *

Arcadia is a climate crisis–fighting technology company founded in 2014 and born out of a simple idea — everyone deserves access to clean energy. Arcadia breaks the fossil fuel monopoly by creating unprecedented access to energy data and renewable energy sources through its technology platform, Arc, and its community solar program. Arc fuels the renewable energy revolution by democratizing access to energy data from 125 utilities nationwide, covering more than 80% of US electric utility accounts. Arcadia also manages the nation’s leading community solar program, helping to tackle energy injustice while spurring economic growth with more than 700MW of solar under management. Join us in our mission and find out how you or your business can help achieve the vision of a 100% clean energy future at arcadia.com.

*About Recipric: *

Recipric is a Front Office Sustainability Agency, that represents the comprehensive sustainability strategy, partnership, athlete engagement and more for sports teams, leagues, and related organizations. Recipric is based in Maine but works with professional sports organizations across the US and around the world. Visit the website or contact Kristen Fulmer to learn more: [email protected]

*About Portland Sea Dogs: *

The Portland Sea Dogs are the Double-A Eastern League affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. In 28 seasons the Sea Dogs have welcomed over 10 million fans to Hadlock Field in Portland, Maine. The Sea Dogs provide family-friendly entertainment while actively contributing to a vibrant and inclusive community. The Sea Dogs’ “Strike Out Cancer in Kids” program has raised over 5 million dollars for the Maine Children’s Cancer Program. While over 300 Sea Dogs players have gone on to play in the Major Leagues including some of today’s Red Sox stars such as Xander Bogaerts, Rafael Devers, and Christian Vazquez. For more information on the Sea Dogs visit seadogs.com. Follow the Sea Dogs on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Cutters Looking to Fill Summer Positions

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The Williamsport Crosscutters, members of the MLB Draft League, are looking to fill dozens of part-time game day positions at Muncy Bank Ballpark for the 2022 season.

Interested individuals must apply in-person at one of two Cutters Job Fairs to be held Saturday, April 30 from 10am – Noon and Thursday, May 12 from 5-7pm at Muncy Bank Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field, 1700 W. Fourth St., Williamsport. Anyone aged 16 and over is encouraged to apply. The events will be held rain or shine.

Benefits include; wages starting at $10 per hour, flexible schedules, merchandise discounts, complimentary game tickets and a fun work environment.

Job descriptions for all available positions can be found at crosscutters.com. Positions include; food service workers, ticketing, stadium ushers, camera operators, wait staff, parking attendants, grounds crew members, game day internships and more. The Crosscutters season consists of 40 home games from June 2 until September 1.

To save time, those interested are encouraged to download and fill out an application AVAILABLE HERE prior to the job fair. Applications will also be available at the event. Applicants should have an outgoing personality and a willingness to work with the public. The Williamsport Crosscutters are an equal opportunity employer.

The Crosscutters open the 2022 season on Thursday, June 2 against the State College Spikes. MVP Club Season Tickets, Bonus Books and Mini-Plans are now available. Opening Night and single game tickets go on sale May 3.

Cutters Announce Military Salute for 2022 Season

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The Williamsport Crosscutters have announced a new program to honor active and retired military members during the 2022 season.

The program, Military Salute, is presented by EQT and will honor an active or retired member of the armed forces in pregame ceremonies at every Cutters home game this season.

Cutters Vice President of Marketing Gabe Sinicropi stated, “While our debt to those who have defended our freedom can never be repaid, we look forward to shining the spotlight on just some of the brave individuals from our area who are or have served our country. The Crosscutters are thrilled to be able to provide this well-deserved recognition to these men and women thanks to the support of our partner EQT.”

To nominate someone for the Military Salute program, simply fill out the short online nomination form AVAILABLE BY CLICKING HERE. Those chosen will receive;

  • 4 tickets to the selected Cutters game
  • A $25 Cutters gift card
  • Recognition on the field prior to the game
  • Ceremonial 1st pitch honors

Nominations will remain open until all 40 available spots have been filled.

The Crosscutters also support active and retired military with Thank You Thursdays presented by the Master Sgt. Sean Thomas Foundation and Hamilton Patriot. The program provides a free pair of tickets to any Thursday home game for those showing a military ID (active or veterans) at the box office.

The Crosscutters open the 2022 season on Thursday, June 2 against the State College Spikes. MVP Club Season Tickets, Bonus Books and Mini-Plans are now available. Opening Night and single game tickets go on sale May 3 at 10am.

About EQT: EQT Corporation is a leading independent natural gas producer with an evolutionary focus on the future. EQT has operations in Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio and is dedicated to responsibly developing our world-class asset base in the core of the Appalachian Basin. At EQT, our business is about more than just the innovative production of energy resources; it’s also about being a good neighbor. Just like the friends and neighbors in your community, we strive for a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with our customers, our partners, and residents in the regions where we do business.

Make-A-Wish HV announces World Wish Day celebration with Renegades

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TARRYTOWN, NY (April 12, 2022) – Having granted more than 3,000 wishes for children with critical illnesses since the chapter’s founding in 1986, Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley staff, volunteers and supporters know about the power of a wish and how it restores hope for local children battling with critical illnesses.

Every year, Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley – along with other chapters and affiliates worldwide – celebrate World Wish Day on April 29, the anniversary of the wish that inspired the founding of the organization 42 years ago.

In celebration of World Wish Day, Make-A-Wish supporters are invited to celebrate the power of a wish at Dutchess Stadium in Wappingers Falls, NY to rally around the tagline:

“Restore hope with a wish.”

In partnership with the Hudson Valley Renegades, the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, Make-A-Wish will host a local World Wish Day Ambassador, wish kid Bryan and his family, to represent the over 3,000 children who have had a wish granted by the chapter. Bryan will be throwing out the ceremonial first pitch and take part in on-field activities at the Renegades game that night. In addition, Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley President & CEO, Kristine Burton and Bryan will spend time in the radio broadcast booth to talk about the impact of a wish and how everyone has the power to restore hope with a wish.

Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.gadesgroups.com. The password is WISH. Tickets will be available for purchase through this link until Wednesday April 27th at 11:30pm, two days prior to the game.

Inspired by new research on the impact of a wish, World Wish Day 2022 focuses on how the hope that a wish provides can improve the emotional and mental well-being for children with critical illnesses, helping them to deal with, and overcome, their illness.

Today, Make-A-Wish is releasing new research in the form of the 2022 Wish Impact Study that provides quantitative data to lend credibility to the anecdotal feedback heard regularly from wish families. The powerful results of the Wish Impact Study add to a growing body of research demonstrating how wish-fulfillment promotes mental and emotional well-being for children and their families who are facing trauma stemming from a critical illness.

The online study surveyed three groups of individuals: parents of wish kids, wish alumni (i.e., former wish recipients) and doctors. The parents and alumni who were surveyed experienced a wish between 2009 and 2019, allowing them to look back and assess the lasting, long-term impact of the wish. In total, 3,411 people completed the survey.

Wish parents made up the majority of respondents with 93% of parents acknowledging that their family experienced traumatic stress due to their child’s critical illness. After their child’s wish was granted, 94% of parents recalled seeing improvements in their child’s emotional well-being, so much so that 91% of parents reported the wish gave their child a better chance of surviving their illness.

The wish alumni who completed the survey affirm the wish parents’ sentiments. 87% of alumni stated that they and their families experienced traumatic stress during their battle with a critical illness. Their wish played an integral role in counteracting the mental and emotional distress. More than 90% of the alumni agreed that the wish improved their quality of life, brought their family closer together, boosted their self-esteem and gave them hope for the future. Interestingly, 60% of the alumni indicated that they had fully recovered from their illness, helping to dispel the common misconception that children must have an end-of-life prognosis to be eligible for a wish.

Perhaps the most overwhelmingly positive feedback on the impact of a wish came from the pediatric doctors who participated in the study. More than 90% of the doctors said they witnessed their patients overcoming feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety and depression after their wish. Furthermore, 95% of the doctors reported the wish improved their patients’ emotional and physical well-being. 75% of the doctors went as far as to state that a wish could improve a child’s medical outcomes.

“At a time when families are dealing with unplanned hospital stays and uncomfortable treatments, a wish can provide children with the chance to reclaim a piece of their childhood and a sense of control,” said Dr. Shoba Sriktantan, MD, FAAP and chair of the Make-A-Wish National Medical Advisory Council. “After coming back from a wish, many of my patients exhibit a renewed sense of hope and greater compliance with their treatment, which is why I – and many of my peers – consider a wish to be an important part of a child’s treatment plan.”

To learn more about the Wish Impact Study and find out how you can get involved, visit hudson.wish.org.

About Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley

Make-A-Wish® Hudson Valley creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. We seek to bring every eligible child’s wish to life because a wish is an integral part of a child’s treatment journey. Research shows children who have received a wish are able to build the physical and emotional strength needed to fight critical illnesses. Since its inception in 1986, the Hudson Valley Chapter has granted wishes to over 3,000 children in the community it serves. The Chapter’s territory spans eight counties of the Hudson Valley, including Delaware, Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester. The Chapter is a Better Business Bureau Wise Alliance Accredited Charity, meeting the 20 Standards for Charity Accountability. Additionally, a recent independent audit of the chapter reported that 73% of all funds raised go to program services. For more information about the Hudson Valley Chapter visit hudson.wish.org.

About the Hudson Valley Renegades

The Renegades are in their second season as the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees. They have played their home games at Dutchess Stadium in Wappingers Falls, N.Y. since 1994. The Renegades opened the 2022 season on Friday, April 8 at the Greenville Drive with a nine-game road trip before returning home for the home opener at The Dutch on Tuesday, April 19 against the Brooklyn Cyclones. Single-game tickets are on sale now at https://www.milb.com/hudson-valley/tickets/single-game-tickets, by phone at (845) 838-0094 or at the ticket office at The Dutch.

About Diamond Baseball Holdings

Diamond Baseball Holdings (DBH) is a subsidiary of Endeavor, the global sports and entertainment company. DBH was formed in 2021 to support, promote, and enhance Minor League Baseball through professional management, best practices, innovation and investment. (DiamondBaseballHoldings.com).

The Blood Connection, Columbia Fireflies Partner to Increase Blood Donation in the Midlands

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COLUMBIA, S.C. – The Blood Connection and the Columbia Fireflies are proud to announce a new partnership in 2022 that will encourage blood donation in the Midlands and bring baseball fun to blood donors across the region. The Columbia Fireflies will now join the Lifesaver League – a group of minor league sports teams committed to serving their community through hosting blood drives and encouraging blood donation.

“We are proud to partner with The Blood Connection as part of the Lifesaver League to encourage Fireflies fans to help our local community by donating blood at one of the Blood Drives at the ballpark this summer,” said Ashlie DeCarlo, Director of Marketing for the Columbia Fireflies. “There is a critical need for blood donations right now and just one moment out of your day can help save a life.”

The Fireflies have called Columbia home for six years and were a perfect partner for The Blood Connection as the organization begins to service more hospitals in the Midlands region. The Blood Connection is the community blood center serving the Carolinas and Georgia, and supplies blood products to Prisma Health – Richland, MUSC Columbia, and Lexington Medical Center, along with more than forty others across South Carolina.

“Our Lifesaver League partnerships are a longstanding tradition within The Blood Connection, and we are excited to enter into this venture with the Columbia Fireflies,” said Delisa English, President and CEO of The Blood Connection. “We’re looking forward to reaching more potential blood donors across the Midlands by bringing our blood donation opportunities to Fireflies fans and Segra Park. Local hospitals certainly need their donations desperately.”

The Blood Connection and the Fireflies will hold three blood drives throughout the 2022 season:

– Thursday, April 14 from 2 p.m. – 7 p.m.

o All blood donors will receive a Raglan t-shirt, a clear bag, and two tickets to a future Fireflies game. All donors will also be entered for a chance to win a VIP Ticket package.

– Sunday, June 26 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

o All blood donors will receive a Lifesaver League hat, a Dri-Fit t-shirt, and two tickets to a future Fireflies game. All donors will also be entered for a chance to win a VIP Ticket package.

– Thursday, September 8 from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.

o All blood donors will receive a Dugout mug and two free tickets to a future Fireflies game.

All donors will also be entered for a chance to win a VIP Ticket package. Potential donors can make an appointment to donate blood with the Fireflies by going to thebloodconnection.org/fireflies. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome.

Home Runs For Heroes Reaches Half-Million in Donations

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – When DJ Stewart homered on Saturday onto the grass berm above the left field wall at ShoreTown Ballpark, it meant far more than the first BlueClaws home run of the year, and Stewart’s 16th professional home run. This particular blast brought OceanFirst Foundation’s donations to $500,000 in the history of the Home Runs for Heroes Program.

Home Runs for Heroes, which began in 2009, pairs military-based non-profit charities and charitable programs with each of the nine innings in a game. Each BlueClaws home run hit at ShoreTown Ballpark means a $1,000 donation for the corresponding organization(s). Since select innings have multiple organizations tied in, some home runs, including Stewart’s on Saturday, generate $2,000 in donations.

“OceanFirst Foundation is excited to be back for a 14th season of Home Runs for Heroes alongside our long-time partners – the Jersey Shore BlueClaws and Townsquare Media. This year, we have 14 amazing charity partners that serve our nation’s military heroes and veterans in times of need,” said Katherine Durante, Executive Director of the OceanFirst Foundation. “We are honored to be able to give back to our heroes through this program and wish the BlueClaws another record-breaking season!”

Stewart’s home run came in the fourth inning, raising $1,000 each for both Chariot Riders and the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund.

“On behalf of Townsquare Media and its shore radio stations (92.7 WOBM, 94.3 The Point, 105.7 The Hawk, Cat Country 96.7/104.1) as well as our Shore Sports Network we are honored to be part of this program again,” said Kevin Williams, Director of the Shore Sports Network. “Home Runs for Heroes not only provides financial support for these amazing organizations but it allows them to have a greater presence in the community so the public is aware of what they do for former and active duty military members and their families.”

Entering this year, OceanFirst Foundation had donated $499,000, including over $90,000 last year alone when the BlueClaws hit a franchise record 52 longballs at home

This year’s participating charities are as follows:

  • 1st Inning – American National Red Cross
  • 2nd Inning – Army Emergency Relief
  • 3rd Inning – Catholic Charities (Diocese of Trenton), Ma Deuce Deuce
  • 4th Inning – Chariot Riders, Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund
  • 5th Inning – Vetwork, Navy-Marine Corps Relief
  • 6th Inning – National Guard State Family Readiness Council, GI Go Fund
  • 7th Inning – Cape May Coast Guard Foundation, Jewish Federation of Southern Ocean County
  • 8th Inning – Deborah Hospital Foundation
  • 9th Inning (and Extras) – Homes for All

“Military organizations and programs are of such high importance to the BlueClaws, and we’re proud to be a part of this program,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “When the BlueClaws hit home runs here at ShoreTown Ballpark, they don’t just help our team win, but they provide material support to our military heroes. Here’s to a summer of home runs!”

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. Since their 2001 inception, they have drawn over 7.8 million fans. In 2018, the team added the Manasquan Bank Mini Golf course and boardwalk games to the offerings. They re-branded to the Jersey Shore BlueClaws heading into the 2021 season.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

Tarpons partner with Curemark on Sensory Safe Suite

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The Tampa Tarpons are excited to team up with Curemark, LLC this season.

Suite 4 will be available to one family per-game to experience the Tarpons game. The Curemark Suite will provide a comforting, relaxing, and less stimulating space for families with children on the autism spectrum and with special needs to experience a Tarpons game while still being fun and functional. This allows guests in the suite to decompress and enjoy baseball with their family away from the louder, hectic and often over-stimulating environment in other areas of the ballpark.

Families can request use of Suite 4 by filling out this request form.

For more information on the Curemark Sensory Safe Suite, please email [email protected].

Segra Stadium Earns Sensory Inclusive Certification

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The Fayetteville Woodpeckers will offer a sensory friendly environment at Segra Stadium beginning this season. The stadium earned sensory inclusive certification in February with 50% of the Woodpeckers front office completing a training through KultureCity, a national nonprofit that advocates for sensory needs. This new initiative will promote an accommodating experience for all guests and fans with a sensory condition.

The Woodpeckers Foundation supplied $1,000 to the initiative, which included the purchase of certification, five sensory bags and one weighted lap pad. Segra Stadium will have sensory bags available for check out at the guest services table behind section 125. Included in every sensory bag are headphones, fidget tools and verbal cue cards. Fans will also be able to check out a weighted lap pad for use.

Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD, and other similar conditions. One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to over simulation and noise. With its new certification, Segra Stadium is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible.

For more information on the Fayetteville Woodpeckers or the Woodpeckers Foundation, please visit www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com. The Woodpeckers open their third season of play in Kannapolis on April 8th and return for their home opener on April 12th against the Salem Red Sox.

Four Winds Field to Host Vaccination Clinic on April 10

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SOUTH BEND, IN – Beacon Health Systems and Saint Joseph Health Systems are teaming up with the South Bend Cubs to host a COVID-19 vaccination clinic at Four Winds Field prior to the game on Sunday, April 10.

Health officials will be on hand to administer the vaccine as well as 1st and 2nd booster shots. Anyone interested can pre-register for the vaccine by visiting www.coronavirus.in.gov/vaccine/. Pre-registration is advised but walk-ups are welcome. Everyone who receives the vaccine will receive a free ticket to the game on April 10 or a voucher that can be exchanged for any other game in April.

Those who sign up for the vaccine must report to the check in table located outside of Gate A on the 3rd base side of the stadium.

“We’re always trying to find ways to help serve and give back to the community and that’s why we’re happy to partner with Beacon Health Systems and Saint Joseph Health Systems to provide vaccine and booster shots this Sunday,” said South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. “It’s something we can do to help make sure the vaccine reaches as many people in Michiana as it can.”

This program is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of an award totaling $3,787,528.00 and 0% financed with non-governmental sources. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information, please visit HRSA.gov.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the High-A affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 34 years, the team has won four Midwest League titles, most recently in 2019, and has captured eight division titles. In 2019, the South Bend Cubs hosted the Midwest League All-Star Game. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

Hooks & Reliant Launch All-Star Educators Program to Recognize Outstanding Coastal Bend Teachers

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The Corpus Christi Hooks Baseball Club and Reliant have teamed up to reward outstanding local public-school teachers with a $1,000 grant for school supplies through the new All-Star Educators Program.

A panel of judges will award 15 educators based on STEAM curriculum, student impact and teaching style, as well as any unique challenges the educator has overcome. STEAM instructors develop strategies and techniques to educate students in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math.

School administrators can submit nominees for this program at cchooks.com/educators. The deadline for submissions is May 15.

“Teachers play an incredibly important role in building up the next generation, and Reliant is honored to help them achieve this noble goal,” said Elizabeth Killinger, president, Reliant. “We can’t wait to see how this new program benefits both educators and students in the Coastal Bend community.”

Each winner will receive $1,000 toward the purchase of school supplies and special on-field recognition at a Hooks game this summer.

“We want to thank Reliant for joining our Community Leaders Program and helping to make All-Star Educators possible,” said Brady Ballard, Hooks General Manager. “We know local teachers work hard to advance our community and continue to endure challenges, often including buying basic school supplies out of their own pocket. In partnership with Reliant, we hope to recognize some of the best educators in the Coastal Bend and help them make an even greater impact.”

Scrappers Announce Partnership with the Rich Center for Autism with Specialty Team Jersey Auction

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The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are excited to unveil the third of a series of five specialty jersey nights during the 2022 season. The Scrappers have partnered with the Rich Center for Autism to create a specialty jersey that the Scrappers players will wear for Autism Awareness Night on Saturday, June 11th against the West Virginia Black Bears. Game worn jerseys will be auctioned off in person at the game and also online at mvscrappers.com and LiveSource. Jersey proceeds will benefit the Rich Center for Autism.

“We are so thankful for our partnership with the Mahoning Valley Scrappers as they join us in promoting the awareness and acceptance of autism spectrum disorder through education,” states Dr. Gregory Boerio, Executive Director, Rich Center for Autism. “In addition to supporting the awareness and acceptance of ASD as a part of an upcoming baseball game, we are particularly excited and thankful for the vocational exploration opportunities being provided to students later this spring and summer. The Rich Center for Autism at YSU is proud to call the Mahoning Valley Scrappers a partner in the community!”

Mahoning Valley is one of six founding members of the MLB Draft League, joining the Frederick Keys, State College Spikes, Trenton Thunder, West Virginia Black Bears and Williamsport Crosscutters. The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are set to open the 2022 season at Eastwood Field on Thursday, June 2 against the West Virginia Black Bears. Opening Night will also feature fan favorites post-game fireworks and Buck Night. Scrappers ticket packages and sponsorship opportunities are on sale now. To stay up to date with the Scrappers in the off-season or for more information, visit mvscrappers.com or contact the front office at 330-505-0000.

Frisco launches RoughRiders Scholarship Program presented by InTouch

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FRISCO, Texas (April 1, 2022) – The Frisco RoughRiders and InTouch Credit Union are thrilled to announce that applications are now open for the RoughRiders Scholarship Program presented by InTouch for the class of 2022.

“Since 2009, InTouch has been an incredible partner of the Riders and we are ecstatic to continue to expand on our relationship,” said RoughRiders President and General Manager Victor Rojas. “InTouch’s commitment to the community directly led to their partnership with our scholarship program and their unwavering support of our organization has been phenomenal.”

“InTouch Credit Union is very excited to be the presenting sponsor of the scholarship program offered to area students, said Tim McCoy, SVP/CMO of InTouch Credit Union. “In fact, it was similarly shared community and family values that made it so easy for us to sign a new sponsorship agreement. We are proud to be a part of the program look forward to seeing winners named later this year.”

All students in the 2022 class currently pursuing a postsecondary education are invited to apply for one of 10 of the RoughRiders Foundation’s $1,000 scholarships.

To be considered, the student must have an overall GPA of 2.75 or greater (on a 4.0 scale) and must have graduated from a school in one of the following counties: Collin, Dallas, Denton, Rockwall and Tarrant. The application includes a personal essay (500 words or fewer), a copy of the most recent academic transcript and two letters of recommendation.

The deadline to apply is May 22, 2022 at 11:59 p.m. APPLY BY CLICKING HERE.

The RoughRiders will begin the 2022 season with Opening Day on April 8th at Riders Field. For tickets and more information about the Frisco RoughRiders, visit RidersBaseball.com or call 972.731.9200.

About InTouch Credit Union

InTouch Credit Union (ITCU) is a financial cooperative that has proudly served members since 1974. ITCU is committed to creating member value by placing the financial needs and delivery of exceptional service to the membership ahead of profit while maintaining fiscal responsibility. With branches in three states, and assets of more than $1 billion, ITCU serves more than 90,000 members in all 50 states and more than 20 countries around the world. Membership eligibility rules are available on ITCU.org. ITCU can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About the RoughRiders Foundation

The mission of the RoughRiders Foundation is to enhance the community we serve through charitable contributions, grants, and programming initiatives. The RoughRiders Foundation supports programs and organizations in our community that motivate and reward children and families in the areas of education, good health and community services activities.

For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders Foundation, contact Breon Dennis at [email protected] or at [email protected].

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance for 15 consecutive seasons (2005-2019). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg. Since then, the new ownership group, together with the City of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise enhancements, investing over $8 million in a wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including a state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store and the world’s largest water feature in a sports facility, the massive Lazy River. These enhancements earned the Riders and the City of Frisco Ballpark Digest’s prestigious “Best Ballpark Renovation” award for two consecutive years (2015 and 2016). More than 170 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball. For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact [email protected].

Tennessee Smokies Announce Smokies Trot 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run for June 18

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

SEVIERVILLE, TN – The Tennessee Smokies have announced the team will host its Smokies Trot 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run at Smokies Stadium on June 18, 2022 at 8:00am. Early packet pick-up will take place on June 17, 2022 from 4:00pm-7:00pm inside The Batter’s Box Bar + Grill.

The Smokies Trot 5K will begin at Smokies Stadium, continue onto roads surrounding the stadium, and finish with runners rounding the bases and crossing home plate.

Registration for the race will open at 9:00am on April 1 and will be $30. The registration fee will increase closer to the event. The fee for the 1 Mile Fun Run will be $25. Participants may register in teams or individually. Registrants will receive a Smokies Trot 5K t-shirt and a field level ticket voucher good for any June 2022 Smokies home game.

Age groups for the event will include 16U male, 16U female, 17-29 male, 17-29 female, 30-39 male, 30-39 female, 40-49 male, 40-49 female, 50-59 male, 50-59 female, 60+ male, and 60+ female.

The top three overall male and female winners will receive a custom Tennessee Smokies full size wood baseball bat. Age group winners in the 5K will receive a Smokies Trot medal.

During and after the event, beer and concessions will be available for purchase.

For full details on the Smokies Trot 5K please visit smokiesbaseball.com/5K. To register for the race, please go to https://runsignup.com/Race/TN/Kodak/SmokiesTrot5k . Please direct any questions to [email protected].

The full schedule for this season and season ticket information can be found online at smokiesbaseball.com, or by calling the Smokies Ticket Office at 865-286-2300.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the eight-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com.