Fireflies Announce Holiday Lights Community Initiative 

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies today announced that they will host Six Weeks of Giving during Fireflies Holiday Lights. Six Weeks of Giving is a series of holiday drives benefitting six local community organizations. Each organization will host a week-long drive that guests can support by bringing donation items with them to Fireflies Holiday Lights to help aid those in need this holiday season. For the inaugural Six Weeks of Giving, the Fireflies have partnered with Toys for Tots, Oliver Gospel Mission, Epworth Children’s Home, Harvest Hope, Edventure and Pawmetto Lifeline.

“Christmas and the holidays are a season of giving, and we wanted to make sure that we kick off the Fireflies Holiday Lights tradition with a way for our community to give back to those in need,” said Fireflies Team President, Brad Shank. “Our team always wants to serve our community in everything that we do, and we are excited to partner with these six great organizations to provide an opportunity for our guests to be able to give while they are out enjoying this amazing light show.”

The schedule for the drives is as follows:

  • November 21-27: Toy drive benefitting Toys for Tots
  • November 28-December 4: Clothing drive benefitting Oliver Gospel Mission
  • December 5-11: Cleaning supplies drive benefitting Epworth Children’s Home
  • December 12-18: Canned food drive benefitting Harvest Hope
  • December 19-24: Book drive benefitting Edventure Children’s Museum
  • December 26-31: Pet food drive benefitting Pet Soup from Pawmetto Lifeline

Detailed lists of items needed for each drive can be found on Fireflies social media channels and on FirefliesHolidayLights.com.

Holiday Lights attendees can also expect to hear bells ringing as they approach Segra Park every evening as the Fireflies have partnered with the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign to be a kettle host site during all 42 nights of lights this holiday season.

Fireflies Holiday Lights starts at Segra Park November 19 and run through December 31. The lights will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Tickets for all 42 nights of lights are on sale now. For tickets or more information about the event, including ticket pricing and promotions, visit FirefliesHolidayLights.com.

Good Deed Day Set for July 30th

(Trenton, NJ) – The Trenton Thunder are calling on their fans to support five local community organizations as part of the 12th Annual Good Deed Day at Trenton Thunder Ballpark on Saturday, July 30th. Good Deed Day is Day 3 of Cloudman’s Heroes Week

Good Deed Day will feature collection tables on Times Square (the area outside the ballpark) for the following non-profit organizations:

  • United Way of Greater Mercer County – School Supplies
  • HomeFront – Personal care items such as shampoo, soap, toiletries, etc
  • Mercer Street Friends – Non-Perishable Food Items
  • Pet Rescue of Mercer – Pet Food & Supplies
  • Trenton Thunder/Grand Slam We Care Foundation – Gently-Used Baseball Equipment

The United Way of Greater Mercer County will be collecting school supplies out front of the ballpark. For almost 100 years, United Way has been involved in our local community connecting people with resources, propelling individuals and families to reach their fullest potential. The Thunder have also been partnering with United Way of Greater Mercer County as an official collection site for non-perishable food items during the month of July.

HomeFront, an organization that helps families break the cycle of poverty, will collect personal care items such as shampoo, conditioner, lotion, bandaids, bar soap, toothpaste tubes and other toiletry items that will be put to use in their Family Preservation Center and other residences.

Mercer Street Friends Food Bank will be collecting non-perishable food items. The Mercer Street Friends Food Bank, established in 1987, leads the community response to hunger in Mercer County. Its mission is to alleviate hunger through food distribution, nutrition education and assistance, weekend and summer meals for children, advocacy and outreach. The Food Bank distributes 2.6 million pounds of food annually and helps to feed over 25,000 low-income children, adults and seniors at-risk for hunger.

Pet Rescue of Mercer will be at the ballpark collecting pet food and supplies. Pet Rescue of Mercer is an all volunteer non-profit group that rescues neglected, abused, and abandoned animals and finds quality homes for them. Adoptable dogs and cats are placed in foster homes until they can be found permanent homes.

On Saturday, July 30th, the Thunder will host the Williamsport Crosscutters at 6:30 pm. It’s also Thunder’s Faith & Family Night with fireworks after the game. Stick around after the fireworks for a Postgame Concert from members of the Hamilton Square Presbyterian Church.

All Thunder tickets are available by calling 609-394-3300, opt 4 or online at trentonthunder.com/tickets.

Chihuahuas Launch “Fetch the FUNdraiser” with ADP to Benefit Humane Society of El Paso

EL PASO – June 28, 2022 – The El Paso Chihuahuas have partnered with ADP to launch “Fetch the FUNdraiser,” benefiting the Humane Society of El Paso. Fetch the FUNdraiser runs now through July 18.

The Chihuahuas and ADP are asking fans to donate a minimum of $5. Donations are being collected via text-to-donate by texting “FETCH” to 844-311-5007.

“We are proud to partner with ADP to raise funds for the Humane Society of El Paso,” said Brad Taylor, MountainStar Sports Group Senior Vice President and Chihuahuas General Manager. “The care the Humane Society provides is important to the lives of these local animals.”

Funds from the Fetch the FUNdraiser program will go towards purchasing blankets, toys, and supplies requested by the Humane Society. For every $5 raised, the El Paso Chihuahuas will donate an additional toy or leash.

“The generous donations of our community impact our shelter in many ways. With over 150 dogs, cats, puppies and kittens currently residing at our facility, we rely on donors to help support our animals and programs providing enrichment and care,” said Tayler Quintana, Humane Society Community Engagement and Volunteer Coordinator.

Fans who make a monetary donation of $5 or more will be entered-to-win one of five Chihuahuas Prize packs. For every $5 donation, a fan will receive one enter-to-win ($10=2 entries, $15=3 entries, etc.).

Along with the Fetch the FUNdraiser program, the Chihuahuas Volunteer Pack, presented by Helen of Troy, will volunteer at the Humane Society alongside ADP employees on Friday, July 22.

The Humane Society of El Paso (HSEP) is a no-kill animal shelter in El Paso operating for the purpose of building a better community for all animals through adoptions, education, foster care, volunteer work, and community events according to the website.

“Without the help of our community, we would not be able to do what we do,” said Quintana. “Our community is an integral part of helping to rehabilitate and rehome the animals under our care.”

The 501(c)(3) non-profit does not receive local or federal government funding and is solely dependent on adoption and service fees, fundraising activities, grants, and donations from the community. HSEP is not associated with any national organizations.

A complete list of shelter needs can be found by CLICKING HERE.

The Chihuahuas return to action tonight versus the Oklahoma City Dodgers (Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate). The series includes three nights of Fireworks Spectacular as part of the GECU Independence Day Celebration. For ticket information CLICK HERE.

FETCH THE FUN!

About the Humane Society of El Paso

The Humane Society of El Paso (HSEP) is the oldest and largest no-kill animal shelter in the City and County of El Paso, Texas and have remained in continuous operation for more than 70 years for the purpose of building a better community for all animals through adoptions, education, foster-care, volunteer work and community events. The organization is a private, 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and does not receive any funding from the City or County of El Paso, the State of Texas or the federal government. In 2021, HSEP cared for nearly 2,000 shelter animals, and our adoption counselors placed 1,698 dogs and cats into loving homes. Our volunteer foster families cared for an additional 1,217 animals. In addition, more than 3,000 cats and kittens were spayed/neutered through our Mary Speer Program for Community (feral) Cats.

Hooks Fans Donate Nearly $65,000 in 2021

 

CORPUS CHRISTI – Via the Astros Foundation Share2Care 50/50 Raffle, Whataburger Field patrons donated $64,840 to seven Coastal Bend organizations during Hooks games this past season.

USO South Texas, Amos Rehabilitation Keep, Mosaic Project of South Texas, Je’Sani Smith Foundation, Goodwill Industries of South Texas, Corpus Christi Police Officers Association and Corpus Christi Professional Firefighters Association were beneficiaries of the 2021 50/50 raffle.

“Thank you Hooks fans for joining us at the ballpark and helping out these great causes,” Hooks General Manager Brady Ballard said. “We were excited to bring the Astros Foundation Share2Care Raffle to Whataburger Field, and it’s become a highlight of the gameday experience.

“Our partners, members and fans have stepped up during these challenging times. We are incredibly grateful for their support and, during this week of Thanksgiving, want affirm our commitment of being an active and positive participant in the community.”

USO South Texas serves NAS Corpus Christi and NAS Kingsville, connecting military service members to family, home and country. Amos Rehabilitation Keep, or ARK, rehabilitates marine turtles and marine birds from the coastal zone of Mustang Island and St. Joseph Island. The Mosaic Project of South Texas remembers victims of hate crimes and violence, and advocates for the civil rights of LGBTQ Americans. The mission of the Je’Sani Smith Foundation is to save lives by providing education, awareness, and water skills training on beach safety, rip currents and other coastal hazards.

Goodwill Industries of South Texas provides job training, placement services, and other Coastal Bend-based programs for people who have barriers to their employment. The Corpus Christi Police Officers Association and Corpus Christi Professional Firefighters Association advocate for the safety and well-being of first responders and citizens through community action and support of local non-profit organizations.

Portland Sea Dogs And Arcadia Team Up For “Dog Of The Day” Program 

 

Portland, Maine —The Portland Sea Dogs are thrilled to announce today that Arcadia, a technology company that gives customers easy access to clean energy options for their homes, businesses, and communities, has joined as a 2021 Season Sponsor. As part of their sponsorship, they will be supporting a giveback program titled “Dog of the Day” to facilitate the adoptions of Maine’s rescue, shelter, and humane society dogs. New members who sign up for Arcadia with the code SEADOGS50 will also receive $50 toward their power bills.

The “Dog of the Day” program will take place at every Sunday home game this season, where Arcadia and the Sea Dogs will partner to showcase a dog that is up for adoption through a local shelter or humane society. The program will kick off this Sunday when the Sea Dogs host the New Hampshire Fisher Cats at 1:00 PM.

“The Sea Dogs are proud to partner with Arcadia to once again support the great work of animal shelters throughout the state of Maine,” said Sea Dogs President & General Manager Geoff Iacuessa. “The program has a track record for finding forever homes for our four-legged friends. We look forward to another successful season thanks to our new partners at Arcadia.”

“As a life-saving organization, the ARLGP greatly appreciates Arcadia’s commitment to helping people – and pets – across our great state,” said Jeana Roth, Director of Community Engagement at the ARLGP.

Arcadia helps Maine residents hit a home run every day by connecting them to local solar farms so that they can help create clean energy for their communities and save money on their power bills. Community solar programs, developed by states like Maine to encourage more renewable energy, provide residents, especially those who don’t own their homes, many of the same benefits as installing solar panels on their roof — without any installation, change in utility company, or extra cost to sign up. Arcadia’s mission around energy inclusion and giving back to local communities.

Come meet Arcadia and learn about community solar and their other smart energy services at this Sunday’s game at Hadlock Field, where we profile our first “Dog of the Day”. Arcadia is also offering new members a $50 credit on their power bills**. They’ll be located** to the right of the main gate inside the concourse at Hadlock Field. To learn more about Arcadia, please visit: https://www.arcadia.com

###

About Portland Sea Dogs:

The Portland Sea Dogs are the Double-A Northeast 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 have been awarded two of Minor League Baseball’s most coveted awards, the John H. Johnson President’s Trophy, Minor League Baseball’s most prestigious award, and the Bob Freitas Award, which is presented by Baseball America for long-term success. The Sea Dogs’ “Strike Out Cancer in Kids” program has raised over 5 million dollars for the Maine Children’s Cancer Program. Over 300 Sea Dogs players have played in the Major Leagues including some of today’s Red Sox stars including 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.

About Arcadia

Arcadia gives customers a simple, easy, and affordable way to choose renewable energy, connecting their homes and communities to the highest standards of clean energy. Founded in 2014, Arcadia’s platform technology connects with utilities in every state, manages 4.5 terawatt-hours of residential energy demand, and is the largest manager of residential community solar subscribers in the US. Join us in achieving our vision of a 100% renewable energy future at www.arcadia.com.

Bring Your Dog to the Park this Summer Thanks to Humane Pennsylvania

 

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils are excited to have our furriest fans out at FirstEnergy Stadium this summer during our Bark in the Park nights thanks to Humane Pennsylvania. There will be five Sunday Bark at the Park nights at America’s Classic ballpark where fans can bring their dogs along with them to enjoy the game.

Dog tickets are available for just $5 at these select games. Pups have their own seat so they have just as great of a view as you do! Humane Pennsylvania will have an information table set up in the VIST Bank Plaza at all Bark in the Park games.

“Humane Pennsylvania has been partnering with the Reading Fightin Phils for quite a few years now, and this year we’re more excited than ever to bring people and their pups back to the ballpark!” shared Lauren Henderson, Director of Development for Humane Pennsylvania.

Bark in The Park days in 2021:

Sunday, June 27 – 5:15pm vs Binghamton Rumble Ponies (Mets)

-Belated Father’s Day T-Shirt Giveaway, Post-game Catch on Field -RC Theatres / Reading Movies 11 & IMAX, 69 News Berks Edition & ROG Orthodontics

Sunday, July 11 – 5:15pm vs Harrisburg Senators (Nationals)

-All Fans Run the Bases – 69 News Berks Edition, ROG Orthodontics

Sunday, August 1 – 5:15pm vs Somerset Patriots (Yankees)

-20th Anniversary R-Phils Mascot Band T-Shirt – Redner’s Warehouse Markets

Sunday, August 15 – 5:15pm vs Akron RubberDucks (Indians)

-All Fans Run the Bases – 69 News Berks Edition, ROG Orthodontics

Sunday, September 12 – 5:15pm vs New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Blue Jays)

-Carpenter MEGA BLAST Fireworks Show!

All Sunday home games are also Berks Packing Sunday Family Fun Days, presented Classic Harley-Davidson, with four tickets, four hot dogs, and four sodas available for only $50 when purchased in advance.

“It’s our favorite games of the year, which is no surprise, but it allows us the opportunity to share our mission and message with the community, and it allows the community to bring their dogs out for a game.”

Individual game tickets, season tickets and mini plans for the 2021 season are on sale now at the Weidenhammer Ticket Office at FirstEnergy Stadium, online at rphils.com or by calling 610-370-BALL. The Weidenhammer Ticket Office is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

The R-Phils are blessed to play in a beautiful OUTDOOR venue and we look forward to hosting you and your family for R-Phils baseball games this season. There is absolutely nothing better than sitting OUTSIDE with family and friends in the summer sun with a cold drink and a fresh hot dog. Join us at America’s Classic Ballpark to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Humane Pennsylvania is an innovative national leader in animal welfare, with adoption centers, accredited non-profit veterinary hospitals, emergency animal rescue services, community pet assistance programs, an animal focused charitable foundation, and a free, public dog park. The Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving is a brand-new state-of-the-art facility right here in Reading on 11th Street is open and ready to serve you and your pet’s needs!

The 2021 season is presented by Pepsi.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region and was voted the #1 stadium in all of Double-A by MiLB’s Ben Hill. Follow the R-Phils at rphils.com, on Twitter and TikTok at @ReadingFightins, on Instagram @fightins, and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins for all information.

Segra Stadium To Host Pet Adoption Event April 24

 

The Fayetteville Woodpeckers are partnering with local animal rescues and pet vendors to host an adoption event at Segra Stadium on Saturday, April 24th from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. This event is free to the public and will coincide with the first opportunity for fans to purchase tickets for May Woodpeckers home games.

While inside the ballpark, fans can meet available dogs and cats from each rescue and fill out an application if interested in adopting. All patrons entering Segra Stadium must fill out a waiver upon entrance. The Woodpeckers will also be collecting items for attending rescues. Anyone who donates an item ($5 value or greater) from the list below will receive 10% off in The Birds’ Nest Team Store. Items being requested are:

• Cleaning Products (Paper towels, disinfectant spray or wipes, etc.)

• Peanut Butter (JIF)

• Canned or Dry Dog & Cat Food

• Dog or Cat Treats

• Puppy Pads

Participating rescues and vendors are Operation Healing Whiskers, Mutts 2 Majesty Rescue, Caring Hearts for Canines, Lending Paws a Hand, Freedom German Shepherd Rescue, Fayetteville Animal Protection Society, Riverbark Veterinary Hospital and Pet Retreat, and Naturally Unleashed. Any rescues or vendors interested in participating, please contact the Woodpeckers front office at 910-339-1989 or by emailing us at [email protected].

Pets are not allowed at this event except for dogs and cats with each respective rescue. The Birds’ Nest Team Store will be open and concessions will be available for purchase. Masks are required when entering the ballpark.

The Woodpeckers will release their daily promotions and promotional calendar for the month of May prior to tickets going on sale. The home opener is scheduled for Tuesday, May 11th against the visiting Kannapolis Cannon Ballers with first pitch at 6:30 p.m.

Brandywine Valley SPCA To Host Second Drive-thru Pet Food Pantry at Frawley Stadium

 

Wilmington, DE – The Brandywine Valley SPCA (BVSPCA) has teamed up with Terra Technical Services again to hold a second drive-thru pet food pantry at Frawley Stadium to help families financially impacted by COVID-19.

Free pet food will be distributed at Frawley Stadium’s drive-thru pet food pantry as follows:

Friday, June 12 – 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Daniel S. Frawley Stadium
801 Shipyard Dr.
Wilmington, DE

The Brandywine Valley SPCA has held six drive-thru pet food pantries to date, helping more than 1,200 families. The drive-thru format requires participants to arrive in a vehicle, where they should remain while BVSPCA staff requests, from a 6-foot distance, information on the household pets then loads the pet food into the trunk or hatchback. Food will be available for cats and dogs while supplies last. Food storage and transport has been generously provided by Terra, along with collaboration on pantry logistics.

“The number of families struggling financially right now is staggering,” said Adam Lamb, BVSPCA CEO. “They need their family pets now more than ever, so we’re providing free pet food at our shelters and drive-thru pantries to alleviate some of that financial pressure and do all we can so families don’t have to give up the cat or dog they love simply because they can’t afford food.”

The Wilmington Blue Rocks are proud to support the efforts.

“Our community continues to come together in a time of great need, and the Blue Rocks are very proud of our role in that process,” said Blue Rocks General Manager Andrew Layman. “Anything we can do to assist in the prevention of suffering for anyone or anything is our top priority, and this event is going to help a lot of wonderful pets and their families. We are grateful to all who can help as well as the Brandywine Valley SPCA for the hard work they’ve poured into making these pet food pantries possible.”

The Brandywine Valley SPCA has distributed more than 70,000 pounds of pet food since the start of the pandemic. The 35 tons of food has been distributed at drive-thru pet food pantries as well as expanded pet food pantry hours at their shelters (Tuesday-Friday 12pm-6pm, Saturday-Sunday 11am-5pm).

The Brandywine Valley SPCA welcomes donations from the community to continue to supply pet food to families in need. Those donations will be matched by a generous grant from the Petco Foundation up to $25,000 through June 30 when made at the following link: https://bvspca.org/petcomatch/

Read More:

Brandywine Valley SPCA Drive-thru Pet Food Pantry to be Held Next Week at Frawley Stadium

 

Wilmington, DE – The Brandywine Valley SPCA (BVSPCA) has teamed up with Terra Technical Services again to hold a second drive-thru pet food pantry at Frawley Stadium to help families financially impacted by COVID-19.

Free pet food will be distributed at Frawley Stadium’s drive-thru pet food pantry as follows:

Thursday, June 12 – 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Daniel S. Frawley Stadium
801 Shipyard Dr.
Wilmington, DE

The Brandywine Valley SPCA has held four drive-thru pet food pantries to date, helping nearly 1,000 families. The drive-thru format requires participants to arrive in a vehicle, where they should remain while BVSPCA staff requests, from a 6-foot distance, information on the household pets then loads the pet food into the trunk or hatchback. Food will be available for cats and dogs while supplies last. Food storage and transport has been generously provided by Terra, along with collaboration on pantry logistics.

“No one should ever have to give up the cat or dog they love simply because they can’t afford food,” said Adam Lamb, BVSPCA CEO. “With the unprecedented spike in unemployment during this pandemic, we want to be sure to families financially impacted can keep their pets by their side during this stressful time.”

“Communities are suffering tremendously as a result of COVID-19’s economic impact, and this is just one way we can use our resources to provide support for families in need.” Conrad Muhly, CEO of Terra Technical Services, LLC.

“Wilmington cares very much about animals and their owners, so we are very happy to co-sponsor this FREE drive-thru pantry event to help make sure that everyone’s companion animal can be properly fed during the current COVID-19 crisis,” said Wilmington Mayor Mike Purzycki. “This is a difficult time for everyone, of course, but we want to make sure that our pets don’t get overlooked in the daily struggle to adjust to the changes we have all had to make in our daily routines. The Brandywine Valley SPCA does a tremendous amount of work regarding pet care, adoption, and education, and I hope everyone continues supporting their efforts.”

“Our community continues to come together in a time of great need, and the Blue Rocks are very proud of our role in that process,” said Andrew Layman, General Manager, Wilmington Blue Rocks. “Anything we can do to assist in the prevention of suffering for anyone or anything is our top priority, and this event is going to help a lot of wonderful pets and their families. We are grateful to all who can help as well as the Brandywine Valley SPCA for the hard work they’ve poured into this to make it possible.”

“Riverfront Wilmington is thrilled to work with the Brandywine Valley SPCA on this event,” said Joe Valenti, Marketing Manager, Riverfront Development Corporation of Delaware. “During this difficult time, we are proud to do what we can to help pet owners provide for their animals, as well as keep as many pets out of shelters as possible.”

Since the start of the pandemic, the Brandywine Valley SPCA has distributed more than more 60,000 pounds of pet food to families in need and sent five truckloads of pet food to other shelters for their pantries. In addition to the drive-thru pantries, the BVSPCA has expanded its standard pet food pantry to be accessible anytime during shelter open hours: Tuesday – Friday 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., Saturday – Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Donations to help the BVSPCA continue to supply pet food to families in need can be made at: https://bvspca.org/covidresponse/

About the Brandywine Valley SPCA

Founded in 1929, the Brandywine Valley SPCA is the first open admission no-kill shelter in Pennsylvania and Delaware. In 2019, the BVSPCA cared for more than 13,000 stray, owner-surrendered, wayward owned, and abused and neglected animals while achieving a 96% live release rate. The BVSPCA provides animal protective services for Chester County and much of Delaware County in Pennsylvania, and it holds a five-year contract with the Delaware Office of Animal Welfare to provide state-wide animal services for dogs. Animals are placed through four adoption centers: Dover Campus, Georgetown Campus, New Castle Campus, and West Chester Campus. In addition, the BVSPCA provides families with safety net and low-cost veterinary services at its four clinic locations: the Malvern Animal Health Center, the New Castle Animal Health Center, and the Georgetown Animal Health Center. The BVSPCA also operates the Animal Rescue Center (ARC), a facility dedicated to helping animals with additional needs prior to being ready for adoption, such as cruelty cases, disaster victims, and infants. Visit bvspca.org.

About Terra Technical Services

Founded in 1993 by Conrad E. Muhly IV, Terra Technical Services, LLC with local headquarters based in Downingtown, Pennsylvania. They are an industry leader specializing in commercial and industrial demolition projects throughout the United States. Terra provides turnkey solutions to clients while managing projects with safe, high quality, cost-effective services day in and day out with a focus on 100% client satisfaction while completing projects within budget and on time.

As a “Best in Class” Environmental Remediation and Demolition Full-Service Company some of Terra Technical’s projects include complex decontamination and dismantlement of industrial and chemical manufacturing facilities. Terra’s expertise also includes the completion of many multi-faceted environmental remediation, demolition and recycling projects for a vast array of institutional clients including hospitals, universities, municipalities, retailers, and educational institutions along with government entities.

Conrad Muhly served as Brandywine Valley SPCA Chairman for over seven years, and he continues to hold a Board position. Conrad, along with several of Terra’s executive leaders, serves a number of voluntary board positions both locally and on a national level to promote community outreach and support.

More info: www.goterra.com

Aces’ Reliever Damien Magnifico Encourages Adopting, Not Shopping

 

When he’s not pumping 100 MPH gas on the mound, Aces pitcher Damien Magnifico spends his time fostering animals. The 28-year-old reliever enters his second season in the D-Backs’ organization, but has become a full-time stay at home dog dad while he waits for baseball to come back.

Fostering animals is not new for the right-hander, he’s been doing it for eight years now. And while adopting is always important, it takes on a new level under the current circumstances according to Magnifico.

“It is always better to adopt but it is more important at the moment, because rescues and shelters aren’t able to have events showing off the animals to the public,”

Magnifico said. “Most shelters are still open but by appointment only. Some are able to promote online but not all of them have the resources to promote the animals and not everyone has the access to that technology.”

While Magnifico encourages adoption, especially now, he stresses the importance of preparing for the commitment of housing animals.

“Each rescue or shelter is a little different, but you basically just let the dog (or cat or rabbit) live with you until it finds its forever home. Many organizations make it free to you to foster by providing medical care. We’ve had fosters that stay a few days with us; to ones that stay with us months and months, and one that was with us for over a year,” he said.

“Do your homework – ask what they do/don’t cover so you know before you agree to get the pet into your home. There are a lot of ways to get involved: you can be temporary foster, medical foster, you can transport, and you can even pick the sizes/temperaments/breeds/medical conditions you feel most comfortable with,” he added.

A pitcher that strikes fear in hitters’ eyes by touching triple-digits on the radar gun, Magnifico has spent time in the Major Leagues with the Milwaukee Brewers and Los Angeles Angels. In 2019, the reliever was 3-1 over 53.0 innings pitched out of the bullpen split between Double-A Jackson and Triple-A Reno to go with a 3.74 ERA and 68 strikeouts.

All things considered; it may be odd to hear that the fierce competitor has such a soft spot for animals but he described the difference of his personality on and off the field the best way he could.

“The two are on opposite ends of the spectrum. Easiest way to explain it is to compare on-duty Sully and off-duty Sully from Monsters Inc.”

For information about how to adopt or become a foster parent, contact SPCA of Northern Nevada by calling 775-324-7773 or by visiting SPCANevada.org. Or get in touch with the Nevada Humane Society at (Reno: 775-856-2000), (Carson City: 775-887-2171) or by visiting Nevadahumansociety.org.

—

 

Bring Your Dog to the Park this Summer Thanks to Humane Pennsylvania

Fightin Phils to Host Five Bark in the Park Games this Season

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils will welcome canine companions at five Bark in the Park games this summer at FirstEnergy Stadium, thanks to Humane Pennsylvania.

Dog tickets are available for just $5 at these select games. Humane Pennsylvania will have a table set up in the VIST Bank Plaza at all Bark in the Park games, featuring information and raffles.

All Sunday home games are also Berks Packing Sunday Family Fun Days, presented by Bojangles’ and Classic Harley-Davidson, with four tickets, four hot dogs, and four sodas available for only $50 when purchased in advance.

Bark in the Park days in 2020:
Sunday, June 14th
Sunday, June 28th
Sunday, July 26th
Sunday, August 2nd
Sunday, August 9th

The first Bark in the Park day is June 14th, when the R-Phils host the Hartford Yard Goats at 5:15 p.m. The first 2,000 kids in attendance take home a Screwball “Snowman” Bobblehead, and there will be a “Frozen” and Princess tribute with sing-alongs and photos at 3:30 p.m.

June 28th is “The Office Night” with first pitch at 5:15 p.m. against the Bowie Baysox. The evening will feature a special appearance from Kate Flannery, who played “Meredith Palmer” on the hit show. It’s also Belated Father’s Day with a post-game catch on the field, plus a Minions photo session at 3:30 p.m.

July 26th features a Rhys Hoskins & Crazy Hot Dog Vendor Hamper giveaway and free hot dog for the first 2,000 kids when the R-Phils battle the New Hampshire Fisher Cats at 5:15 p.m. Plus, $1 hot dogs are available for all fans. It’s also the Crazy Hot Dog Vendor’s birthday party, where he’ll read “Green Eggs & Ham” to kids at 4 p.m. and sign autographs during the game, and a Kids Magic Show will take place at 3:30 p.m.

On August 2nd, the first 2,000 kids receive a Scotty Jetpacks Spaceman Bobblehead as the Fightins take on the Binghamton Rumble Ponies at 5:15 p.m. There will be a First Responders autograph session and vehicle display, and a photo session with “Toy Story” characters “Woody” and “Buzz Lightyear” at 3:30 p.m.

The final Bark in the Park day will be on August 9th, when Reading battles the Erie SeaWolves at 5:15 p.m. The first 2,000 kids take home a 20th Anniversary Mascot Band t-shirt, and the mascot band will perform a pregame concert. It’s also “Bring Your Camera” Photo Day for kids featuring a photo session with R-Phils players and the Crazy Hot Dog Vendor at 3:30 p.m.

Humane Pennsylvania represents the region’s largest partnership of animal welfare organizations, combining the efforts and resources of managed intake and adoption guarantee animal shelters, adoption centers, non-profit veterinary hospitals and clinics, equine rescue, emergency animal service organizations, animal welfare management services, an animal focused charitable foundation, and even a free public dog park.

Humane Pennsylvania empowers the people in our communities to increase their capacity to care for animals so that all animals are healthy, safe, and treated humanely.

Cardinals C.A.R.E. Pet Supply Drive Wednesday, $1 tickets for donations

The Cardinals are partnering with C.A.R.E. Animal Rescue and Purina for Wednesday’s Pet Supply Drive. All fans that donate one or more of the following items any time between now and Wednesday night can purchase a discounted $1 ticket to Wednesday’s Cardinals vs. Travelers game for each item they donate:

– Kitten/Puppy Formula
– Syringes, Feeding Tubes
– Kitten/Cat Food (dry or wet)
– Cat Litter (HUGE need)
– Puppy and Kitten Collars
– Grain-Free Cat Food (dry or wet)
– Air Freshener
– Rubber or Latex Gloves
– 39-Gallon Trashbags
– Hoof Chews and Rubber “KONG” Dog Toys
– Wet/Baby Wipes

Wednesday is also a Woof Wednesday, where all Baseball Loving Dogs are invited to sit back, relax and watch the game they love with their best friend for Purina Woof Wednesday. One owner ticket=free entry for your Very Good Boy/Girl!

The Cardinals will provide kiddie pools for your dogs to drink out of throughout the ballpark. Dogs are encouraged to enjoy the game from the outfield grass/General Admission areas. For more information, call the Front Office at 417-863-0395.

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

RiverDogs Get in Holiday Spirit with “Season of Giving” Initiative

CHARLESTON, S.C. – It’s the “season of giving,” and the Charleston RiverDogs are getting in the holiday spirit. The club has pledged to donate a dollar to one of four local Lowcountry charities for each ticket sold as part of a group outing at The Joe for the upcoming 2018 season, through Friday, December 22.

For every group ticket plan of 25 or more, picnics of 50+, suite rental, and Riley Park Club group of 10+ sold by the 22nd, the RiverDogs will donate a dollar per ticket to either the Lowcountry Food Bank, Charleston Animal Society, the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, or the Palmetto Military Support Group at the choice of each customer.

In the same spirit of giving, the RiverDogs will also be offering holiday flex plan deals during the month of December. Packages start at just $50 and included five undated grandstand vouchers, good for almost any game during the 2018 season, along with the choice of a RiverDogs hat, shirt, or the option to donate $10 to one of the four charities. A package that includes ten undated vouchers will run at $85.

Ticket information on season tickets and groups, including the Riley Park Club, can be found on riverdogs.com/tickets and reserved with a sales representative by contacting the club at 843-723-7241.

RiverDogs season tickets, half-season ticket packages, and flex plans are now available for the 2018 campaign. The RiverDogs begin the season on April 12 when they host the Kannapolis Intimidators at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, preceded by a weeklong road trip to open the year and an exhibition contest against Myrtle Beach at The Joe on April 3. Ticket information can be secured by contacting the box office at (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or online at www.riverdogs.com/tickets.

–RIVERDOGS–

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

Nine Dogs Adopted Through Diamond Dog Program in 2017

BOWIE, Md. – 2017 proved to be a successful year at Bowie Baysox games for the Diamond Dog of the Game as a total of nine dogs found new homes over the course of the season.

This marked the second year of the program and a total of 14 dogs have now been adopted over those two seasons.

The focus of the Diamond Dog of the Game program is to find suitable homes for dogs in the area that are in need and also to raise more awareness regarding pet adoption.

The Baysox partnered with seven local organizations to bring different canines out to the ballpark on a nightly basis: Chesapeake Cats & Dogs, Humane Society of Calvert County, Partnership for Animal Welfare, PG County Shelter, SPCA of Anne Arundel County, SPCA/Humane Society of Prince George’s County and Bowie CLAW.

Below is a list of the dogs that were brought home by various families during the 2017 season:

Belle-Keeshound                                            Humane Society of Calvert County

Bugs-Greyhound & Dutch Shepard Mix        SPCA/Humane Society of PG County

Emmy-Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever   Partnership for Animal Welfare

Murphy-Older Mixed Breed Dog                   Bowie CLAW/Black Dogs & Co.

Harry-Beagle                                                   Bowie CLAW/Beagle Rescue of So. Maryland

Zack-Black Lab                                              Bowie CLAW/LRCP

Rosie-Beagle                                                   Humane Society of Calvert County

Luna-Beagle Mix                                            SPCA/Humane Society of PG County

Matilda-Redbone Coonhound                         Chesapeake Cats & Dogs

The Bowie Baysox season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. The 2017 Baysox season has ended, but the team will return in 2018 to celebrate its 26th Season. The team’s 2018 home opener will be Thursday, April 5 against the Harrisburg Senators at 6:35 p.m. To keep up with Baysox news during the offseason, visit www.baysox.com.

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

June 23: Puppy Rescue Mission Comes to Whataburger Field

CORPUS CHRISTI – This Friday, the Corpus Christi Hooks and their fans have a unique opportunity to bless U.S. military service men and women and stray dogs and cats worldwide through the Puppy Rescue Mission’s Mystery Ball Fundraiser.

“The Puppy Rescue Mission builds on the bond our soldiers, sailors, and officers have already established with stray animals when deployed to war zones and impoverished countries,” Hooks Director of Fan Engagement JD Davis explained. “Our military personnel love and care for the cats and dogs, and their four-legged friends reciprocate with love, comfort, and encouragement during what can be extremely perilous circumstances. Many formerly deployed military members desire to give the strays forever homes. That’s the purpose of Puppy Rescue Mission.”

To raise much-needed funding for the non-profit, Jill Borkowski, wife of Hooks pitching coach Dave Borkowski, is coordinating the sale of “Mystery Balls” on the Whataburger Field concourse this Friday before and during the Corpus Christi-Frisco game at 7:05. Bags containing autographed “Mystery Balls” cost $20 each. Inside, contributors to the Puppy Rescue Mission will find an official Major League or Texas League baseball signed by a past or present Hooks player, Astros player, Hall-of-Famer (Jeff Bagwell or Craig Biggio), or MLB star.

Autographed “Mystery Balls” for sale on Friday include:

Jose Altuve

Jeff Bagwell

Carlos Beltran

Craig Biggio

Adam Everett

Dallas Keuchel

Brian McCann

Lance McCullers

George Springer

Mark Buehrle

Adrian Beltre

Nomar Mazara

Yu Darvish

Elvis Andrus

Joey Gallo

Rougned Odor

Rogelio Armenteros

J.D. Davis

Jacob Dorris

Drew Ferguson

Jack Mayfield

Antonio Nunez

Jon Singleton

Cy Sneed

Garrett Stubbs

Kyle Tucker

The Puppy Rescue Mission is a Texas-based non-profit making it possible for our brave service men and women to bring their “battle buddies” home. The Puppy Rescue Mission currently has over 40 rescues in the works at an average cost of $2,500 to $3,500 per animal.

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