Arts Appreciation

Jeffrey Osborne Celebrity All-Star Softball Classic – Sunday, August 10 at McCoy Stadium

June 17, 2014

Featuring Post-Game Fireworks

The Pawtucket Red Sox are pleased to announce that they will host The Jeffrey Osborne Celebrity All-Star Softball Classic, featuring Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, at McCoy Stadium on Sunday, August 10 at 6:05 pm. Gates will open at 4:30 pm and the game, between the Magic Johnson/Jeffrey Osborne All-Stars and the New England Patriots Alumni Celebrity All-Stars, will be played at 6:05 pm. All ticket proceeds will benefit the Jeffrey Osborne Foundation and the Pawtucket Red Sox Charitable Trust. Post-Game Fireworks presented by T-Mobile, Elmwood Sports Center, and Barrington Printing.

Expected to attend and play in this charity game are NBA Hall of Famers Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, along with other former Los Angeles Lakers star James Worthy. Others from the world of entertainment who plan to be in attendance include Smokey Robinson, Claudia Jordan, and several others. The West team will face a “who’s who” of former Patriot and Red Sox players who will comprise the East team led by former Patriots standout QB Steve Grogan and center Pete Brock, Ty Law, Roland James, Jermaine Wiggins, Patrick Pass, and Sammy Morris. Former Red Sox pitcher and Oil Can Boyd are slated to take part. Providence College head basketball coach Ed Cooley will be there. Further additions to the list of those appearing include NFL Hall of Famer Marcus Allen and current LA Clipper and former Boston Celtics coach Doc Rivers with more sure to be added. Please see complete updated list of expected attendees below.

Tickets for the event are on sale at the PawSox Box Office at McCoy, on-line at www.pawsox.com, or over the phone by calling (401) 724-7300. All tickets will be priced the same as regular-season PawSox tickets which are $12 for reserved box seats and $8 for general admission ($5 for children aged 12 & under and senior citizens). There will also be a special deal to include a pre-game meet and greet barbecue with the celebrity All-Stars and a ticket to the game for a donation of $50.

Those planning to attend the event (as of July 29, 2014)….

Jeffrey Osborne Grammy-nominated R & B musician, singer-songwriter, and lyricist born and raised in Providence, RI

Magic Johnson NBA Hall of Famer, 5-time NBA Champ, 3-time NBA MVP, 3-time Finals MVP, NCAA Champ, currently head of ownership group for the LA Dodgers

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar NBA Hall of Famer, 6-time NBA Champ, 6-time NBA MVP, 2-time Finals MVP, NCAA Champ, all-time NBA leading scorer (38,387 points)

James Worthy Current basketball commentator, television host, and analyst. “Big Game James” was a seven-time NBA All-Star, a three-time NBA champion and the 1988 NBA Finals MVP

Otis Thorpe NBA All-Star (1992) and NBA Champion (1994), Providence College star (1980-84), 1st round pick of KC Kings

Michael Carter Williams Barrington, RI Native, currently plays for NBA Philadelphia 76ers, NBA Rookie of the Year (2014)

Dave Stewart He currently works as a sports agent in San Diego. A 20-game winner for four consecutive years, Major League Baseball All-Star pitcher, Three-Time World Series Champion, 1989 Word Series MVP

Smokey Robinson R & B and pop singer-songwriter, record producer, Rock n’ Roll Hall of Famer (1987)

Perry “Tiny” Tavares started performing in 1959 in the band Chubby and the Turnpikes. In 1973, they had changed their name to Tavares and scored their first R&B Top 10 (Pop Top 40) hit with “Check it Out” that same year, along with other hits such as: “Heaven Must Be Missing an Angel” (1976), “Don’t Take Away the Music” (1976), and “Whodunit.”

Earl Bryant has enjoyed a long career in the music business with a good many years related to artists within the Motown family. As a concert manager, Earl has worked with Smokey Robinson for many years

Cedric the Entertainer is an American actor, comedian, director, and game show host. He was originally the host on It’s Showtime at the Apollo. He is best known for co-starring with Steve Harvey on the sitcom The Steve Harvey Show and starring as Eddie in Barbershop

Sinbad is an Americanstand-up comedian and actor. He became well known in the 1990s from being featured on his own HBO specials, appearing on several television series, and starring in the films Necessary Roughness, Houseguest, First Kid,Jingle All the Way and Good Burger.

Salli Richardson is an American television and film actress. Richardson is best known for her role as Dr. Allison Blake on the Syfy comedy-drama series Eureka.

Claudia Jordan Providence-born and raised TV and radio personality, Miss Rhode Island 1997, model on Deal or No Deal and appeared on Seasons 2 & 6 of Celebrity Apprentice

Steve Grogan New England Patriots Hall of Fame Quarterback (1975-1990), uniform #14 retired

Pete Brock Played every position on New England Patriots offensive line (1976-87), President of NE Patriots Alumni

Garin Veris Former New England Patriot defensive end (1985-91), member of Patriots Super Bowl XX team

Roland James Former New England Patriot defensive back and punt returner, played entire career with Pats (1980-90) after being a 1st round pick out of the University of Tennessee (#14 overall)

Steve Nelson was selected by the Patriots in the 2nd round of the 1974 NFL Draft and missed only three games during his 14-year NFL career in which he was named team MVP twice. He was selected to the Pro Bowl three times in 1980, 1984, and 1985 and his #57 jersey was retired by the Patriots. He is credited with helping the Patriots reach Super Bowl XX versus the Chicago Bears.

Jim Bowman was drafted in the second round of the 1985 draft by New England and stayed with the team through the 1989 season. On Sundays when the Patriots are playing at Gillette Stadium, he is the NFL Uniform Program Representative.

Jermaine Wiggins New England Patriots tight end (2000-01) and member of Super Bowl XXXVI champions, East Boston, MA native is now a member of Boston sports media

Patrick Pass New England Patriots running back (2000-06, 2009) and Three-time Super Bowl champion (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX)

Joe Andruzzi New England Patriots offensive guard (2000-2004) and Three-time Super Bowl champion (XXXVI,XXXVIII, XXXIX)

Ty Law He was drafted by the New England Patriots 23rd overall in the 1995 NFL Draft. Law is a two-time All-Pro, a five-time Pro Bowl selection, a Pro Bowl MVP, and has won three Super Bowl Championships with the Patriots (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX). His 53 career interceptions rank 22nd all-time. He is also widely regarded as one of the best Patriots defensive backs of all time.

Sammy Morris He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the fifth round of the 2000 NFL Draft. Played for Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, Dallas Cowboys.

Dennis “Oil Can” Boyd Boston Red Sox pitcher from 1982-89, Montreal Expos (1990-91), and Texas Rangers (1991)

Ed Cooley Current Head Coach of the Providence College Men’s Basketball team. In his third season at Providence in 2013-2014, Coach Cooley led the Providence Friars to their second Big East Tournament Championship

Tim Welsh Former Providence College Men’s Basketball Coach and current analyst for ESPN and Comcast Sports NE

Joe Hassett Former Providence College basketball star, NBA Champ (1979), NE Basketball Hall of Famer, current PC basketball radio analyst

Kevin Stacom Former Providence College basketball star, played six seasons (1974-1979; 1981-1982) in the NBA as a member of the Boston Celtics, Indiana Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks.

Jim Garrick Led the UCLA Bruins to the NCAA Division 1 Championship in 1995. Coached the University of Rhode Island Men’s Basketball team for two seasons

Johnny Gill Singer, songwriter, actor and member of R & B group New Edition

Jay Harris ESPN SportsCenter anchor since 2003

Doris Burke Sideline reporter for NBA on ESPN and ABC, Color Analyst for ESPN College Basketball

Frank Carpano joined NBC 10 in 1980. He has been sports director and primary sports anchor since 1984. Carpano is a 10-time National Association of Sportscasters and Sportswriters “Sportscaster of the Year” winner.

Joe Kayata is a native of Cumberland and graduated from Cumberland High School. Currently the Sports Anchor/Reporter at WJAR-TV NBC 10 Providence.

Patrick Little anchors Eyewitness News This Morning on WPRI and FOX Providence and is also the co-host of the Rhode Show on Fox Providence.

Roland Martin is an American journalist and syndicated columnist with Creators Syndicate and author. He is a commentator forTV One and the host of News One Now, a one-hour weekday morning news show on the network.

Demetruis “Boo Boo” Andrade Providence-born professional boxer, U.S. Olympian in 2008, World Boxing Organization Light Middleweight Champion

Eddie Levert Lead vocalist of soul/funk/R & B group The O’Jays

Bobby Farrelly Cumberland, RI native, film director, screenwriter, producer, There’s Something About Mary, Dumb & Dumber

Mike Tollin is an American film director and film/television producer. His career highlights included Radio, Coach Carter and Varsity Blues.

Tiny Tavares Lead singer of Tavares (Tavares Brothers)

Mike Woodson Former NBA guard/forward, Head Coach of Atlanta Hawks (2004-2010) and New York Knicks (2012-14)

Rick Barry NBA Hall of Famer, 8-time NBA All-Star, NBA Champ & Finals MVP (1975), only player to ever lead NCAA, ABA and NBA in scoring in a season Seema Sadekar Professional Golfer (LPGA Symetra Tour) and Fashioniste. Cast member of Big Break Sandals Resort on Golf Channel

Michelle Kwan Two-time Olympic figure skating medalist (silver in 1998 and bronze in 2002), 5-time World Champion, 9-time U.S. Champion

Seema Sadekar LPGA Golf Professional, started playing golf at the age of 11 years old.

John Tudor Pitched for the PawSox from 1977-80 and the Red Sox from 1979-83, Went 21-8 with a 1.93 for St. Louis in 1985 leading the Cardinals to the World Series, was a World Series champ with the LA Dodgers in 1988

Tom Songin Norwood, MA native who played hockey for Mount Saint Charles, Boston College, and the Boston Bruins (1978-81)

Dondre Whitfield was featured on the sitcom The Cosby Show as Robert Foreman. Since then, he has appeared in many television series, including The Jamie Foxx Show, Martin and Girlfriends

Jeffrey Osborne is a Grammy-nominated R& B musician, singer-songwriter, and lyricist who was born and raised in Providence. He became close friends with Magic Johnson during the Lakers’ glory days when Jeffrey was often a “good luck charm” as the national anthem singer before Lakers’ games at the Forum and later at the Staples Center.

“The PawSox welcome Jeffrey Osborne and his star-studded guests to the city of Pawtucket and McCoy Stadium for a great cause,” said PawSox president Mike Tamburro. “We know our fans will be excited to see many of the legends who will appear at this charity event and we look forward to everyone enjoying a memorable evening at McCoy.”

“I’m truly blessed to have so many close friends and colleagues who have joined me in support of the Celebrity Softball Game at McCoy Stadium as well as the Jeffrey Osborne Celebrity Classic,” said Jeffrey Osborne. “It is through these efforts that we can continue to provide support to music and the arts, as well as to non-profits who provide a safe-haven for families in need.”

“The Patriots Alumni are extremely excited about being part of this special event to raise funds for charities throughout Rhode Island,” said Pete Brock a member of the New England Patriots Alumni Club. “We are especially pleased to be associated with the Jeffrey Osborne Foundation and the PawSox Charitable Trust.”

“It is an honor and pleasure to come back to Rhode Island to help out my good friend Mr. Jeffrey Osborne at McCoy Stadium in his Celebrity Softball Game where we will have tons of fun,” said Magic Johnson. “So come on out and hang with the Magic Man!”

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

The Gwinnett Braves have announced the recipients of their $1,000 grants for the months of March and April.

June 4, 2014

Grace Faith Ministries, GLUE Foundation receive $1,000 monthly grants

The Gwinnett Braves have announced the recipients of their $1,000 grants for the months of March and April. Grace Faith Ministries has been awarded March’s “Salute to the Arts” themed grant, aimed at assisting organizations that support art programs and education. GLUE Foundation has received April’s “Take me out to the Ballgame” themed grant, intended to promote youth athletics and activities in the community.

Grace Faith Ministries, the March recipient, started as an open “Jam Session” within a small group of high school and middle school-aged artists, but quickly evolved into a weekly program in Norcross. The goal of the ministries is to encourage and teach youth how to impact the community through creative arts.

Since its inception in 2012, the program has grown in size and has collaborated with Heir of Excellence Inc., to launch a school-based program. The program is growing and becoming an influential presence in the community.

The grant awarded by the Gwinnett Braves will fund the purchase of after-school snacks and equipment for the program, as well as contribute to an end-of-semester youth showcase.

“We understand the importance of youth development as well as the obvious impact and influence of media as an intricate element in the lives of young people,” said Lloyd George, Youth Coordinator at Grace Faith Ministries. “Therefore, our ministry utilizes media arts to reach and engage youth – meeting them where they are. Our overarching vision is to create dynamic, socially relevant programs wherein our youth can constructively communicate with their community and the world around them in them new exciting ways. With this grant from the Gwinnett Braves Foundation, we will be able to expand our youth initiatives and student-media projects.”

GLUE Foundation, recipient of the April grant, has served the city of Lawrenceville for over 10 years. The foundation provides athletes with the necessary resources to become well-rounded contributors to society.

Founded in 2003 by Rishal Stanciel, GLUE, which is an acronym for Giving Love Unites Everyone, is a faith-based non-profit that is designed to work with middle school and high school student-athletes as they pursue academic and athletic excellence. GLUE facilitates workshops for student-athletes and their parents to prepare them for the transition to college.

GLUE will use the grant awarded by the Gwinnett Braves to support quarterly workshops and to provide ACT exam fees, college application fees, as well math and writing tutoring fees.

About Grace Faith Ministries: Grace Faith Ministries was founded in 2011 by Pastor Lloyd George Sr. The mission of Grace Faith Ministries is to love God, to love others, and to magnify the name of Jesus Christ. The vision of our church is to glorify our God and Savior, Jesus Christ, to make true disciples throughout all the nations by means of missionary activity and support, to minister the ordinances, to edify believers, and to do all that is sovereignly possible and biblically permissible to magnify the name of Jesus. For more information about the program and the church please contact their youth coordinator Lloyd George Jr at lloydg072@gmail.com.

About GLUE Foundation: GLUE, which is an acronym for Giving Love Unites Everyone, is a faith-based non-profit that is designed to work with middle school and high school student-athletes as they pursue academic and athletic excellence. After spending over 15 years in corporate America in marketing and sales, Rishal Stanciel founded GLUE as a non-profit organization to reach today’s youth with a life transforming message. GLUE facilitates workshops for student athletes and their parents to prepare them for the transition to college. Some of the workshop topics include NCAA Eligibility Center guidelines, Seven Success Strategies for Transition to college, ACT/SAT Prep, Taking Care of your body, Academic Excellence Must be Pursued, Math is Necessary, and Understanding the Finances of college. Stanciel is a college Career Coach for MLT, and also co-authored “Coached For a Success,” a book to help students experience success in college. The book is available on Amazon.com. For more information about the program please contact Stanciel at rishal21@hotmail.com.

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

Over 12,000 Students to Fill Smith’s Ballpark for Prevention Dimensions Day

May 16, 2014

The Salt Lake Bees, in conjunction with the Utah State Office of Education, will host Prevention Dimensions Kids’ Day at the Bees vs. Albuquerque Isotopes game on Tuesday, May 20 at 10:35 a.m. The Bees will welcome more than 12,000 students to this 11th annual event at Smith’s Ballpark which promotes drug and alcohol prevention. Preventions Dimensions Day is sponsored Questar and MedOne.

The fifth and sixth grade students in attendance will be treated to an opening ceremony on the field before State of Utah First Lady Jeanette Herbert presents State of Utah Superintendent Martell Menlove with a declaration declaring the day as Prevention Dimensions Day in Utah. The National Anthem will be performed pregame by the One Voice Children’s Choir, a non-profit organization that provides children with the opportunity to cultivate an appreciation for music and share their talents while delivering a positive message.

Prevention Dimensions is Utah’s Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities lesson set, which supports the Utah State Office of Education pre-kindergarten through 12th grade health core. The program strives to give students a strong foundation of effective violence and substance abuse prevention skills. The program began in 1982 as a joint effort between the Utah State Division of Substance Abuse, Utah State Department of Health, Utah State Office of Education, and Utah State PTA, and has been revised several times since.

Prevention Dimensions Kids’ Day is part of the Bees organization’s ongoing commitment to community outreach, health and wellness and youth development. The next eight-game homestand at Smith’s Ballpark begins on Monday, May 19 when the Bees take on the Albuquerque Isotopes at 6:35 p.m. Monday is Smith’s Family Night where four tickets and four hot dogs can be purchased for just $20 at all Smith’sTix locations.

Bees tickets are available at the Smith’s Ballpark box office from 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., as well as at all Smith’sTix outlets and Smith’s Food & Drug Stores. Tickets may also be purchased online with no additional fees at www.slbees.com or by phone at 801-325-BEES (2337).

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

‘Dads Reveal Winning Cover Design

March 28, 2014

Sawmills Elementary’s Nathan Connor creates winning artwork

Hickory, NC – The Hickory Crawdads are proud to announce the winner of this year’s Cover Design Contest, with Nathan Connor of Sawmills Elementary creating the winning entry. Nathan’s artwork will appear on the cover of the first edition of the Crawdads Chronicle, the ‘Dads game day program.

Nathan’s artwork depicting Crawdads mascots Conrad and Candy was chosen from nearly 2,000 total entries from area schools. The winning picture also incorporates the ‘Dads All-Star logo and a bright yellow banner with the Crawdads alternate claw logo.

“Nathan’s picture really stood out to us,” said Crawdads Director of Community Relations & Events Megan Meade. “I always love going through all the artwork and this year really gave us some great ones to choose from. In the end though, Nathan’s was the one that won us over.”

The Crawdads will honor Nathan at the ‘Dads April 15th home game against Kannapolis. Nathan and his family will receive 4 free tickets to the game, where the 4th grader will also throw out the first pitch as part of his VIP treatment for the night.

The remaining 24 finalists submissions in the Crawdads Cover Design Contest will be displayed in the stadium concourse for the game. All of the children who submitted artwork, along with their families, will be recognized in a pre-game parade around the outfield.

Now in its 4th year, the Crawdads annual Cover Design Contest allows children from all area elementary and middle schools to submit their unique artwork for consideration. The Crawdads select the top 25 covers from nearly 2,000 total submissions. The winning artwork is then voted on by the ‘Dads staff.

Sawmills Elementary will receive $200 from the Crawdads thanks to Nathan’s winning art, while St. Stephen’s Elementary in Hickory will also receive a $200 prize for having the most participants in this year’s contest.

The Crawdads open the season on Thursday, April 3 in Greensboro before playing their home opener at the newly renovated Crawdads Stadium on Thursday, April 10. Tickets are now on sale for all 70 ‘Dads home games, as well as the South Atlantic League All-Star Game on June 17. Tickets may be purchased online, over the phone, or in-person at the Crawdads Ticket Office.

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

Scrappers Announce Return of Scout Night and Introduce Patch Design Contest

March 13, 2014

NILES OH – The Scrappers are excited to announce the return of Scout Night to Eastwood Field during the 2014 season. Both Boy and Girl Scouts are invited to register for the August 8th Scrappers Game. The Scrappers are offering a $15 Overnight Ticket Package and a $5 Game Ticket Only Package for the event.

In addition to the pregame parade, meeting the team, and the opportunity to join the team on the field for the National Anthem, the Scrappers are introducing a Patch Design Contest. Scouts of all ages who have registered for Scout Night are invited to create a patch. All patches must be 3.25 inches in diameter or smaller, and contain nine or fewer colors. Patches will be judged based on creativity, integration of baseball and the Scrappers logos, and overall esthetic appeal. Designs must be submitted by Friday, June 13, 2014.

The winning patch will be selected by the Scrappers front office and distributed to all scouts attending the 2014 Scout Night. The creator of the patch will also have the opportunity to throw out a first pitch at a 2014 Scrappers home game.

Interested Scouts can download the form on www.mvscrappers.com and create their patch in one of the two shapes provided. All forms should be completed and faxed to (330) 505-9696 or mailed to:

Mahoning Valley Scrappers

111 Eastwood Mall Blvd.

Niles, OH 44446

Attn: Scout Patch Contest

For more information about the August 8th Scout Night please visit www.mvscrappers.com or contact Group Sales Manager Chris Sumner at (330) 505-0000.

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

Quilting to honor local Veterans

March 3, 2014

Saturday, March 8th

Cedar Rapids, IA – Quilts are being made on Saturday, March 8^th to honor Eastern Iowa Veterans and will be presented to local Veterans during a Cedar Rapids Kernels game this summer.

The quilting event will be held at Veterans Memorial Stadium on Saturday, March 8^th from 9 am until 4:30 pm. All interested quilters are welcome to come to the stadium to create a quilt that will be given away to veterans on July 5th. Kits and fabric are available for purchase at Connie’s Quilt Shop, or use up some of your red/white/and blue “stash”.

To register for the quilting event on March 8^th, call Connie’s Quilt Shop at (319) 373-9455 by Wednesday, March 5^th. Those sewing during the quilting event will receive a free ticket to attend the Kernels game on July 5^th and those donating a completed quilt for a Veteran by June 2, 2014, will receive a 20% off coupon from Connie’s Quilt Shop (one coupon per person).

In addition to making the quilts, Connie’s Quilt Shop and machine quilter Jennifer McRae, are providing a quilt to be raffled off with the drawing to be held during the game on July 5^th. All proceeds from the raffle will be donated to the Linn County Veterans Affairs.

For more information or to register for the quilting event on March 8^th, call Connie’s Quilt Shop at (319) 373-9455.

The 2014 Kernels arrive in Cedar Rapids on Monday, March 31^st and the first chance to meet the new team is on Tuesday, April 1^st as part of “Meet the Kernels Night’ from 5:00 to 7:30 pm. The Kernels open the 2014 MWL season on Thursday, April 3^rd when they host the Clinton LumberKings at 6:35 pm.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Cedar Rapids Kernels. Click here to view the original story.

Wilmore student wins Hit the Books contest

February 24, 2014

Runners-up from Wilmore, Menifee, Eastern elementaries

LexingtonLegends_2014-02-24 — Hit the Books bookmark design winner Lyla Lamb and her family celebrated with Big L. (Lexington Legends)

(WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK, Lexington, Ky.) A student at Wilmore Elementary School was the winner of a bookmark design contest that is part of the Lexington Legends Hit the Books reading incentive program.

Fourth grade student Lyla Lamb created the winning entry. She received a Legends prize pack, including Legends merchandise, a framed Hit the Books poster featuring her artwork and membership in the 2014 Little Legends Kids Club. She also will be invited to throw a ceremonial first pitch at a designated Legends game for her school. Bookmarks featuring her artwork will be distributed to students at every school that participates in the Hit the Books program. More than 27,000 students from 65 central Kentucky schools are expected to take part in the program, which runs through April 1.

Earning runner-up honors were Leah Olmstead, a fifth grade student at Wilmore Elementary; Kevin Spencer, a fifth grade student at Menifee County Elementary; and Samuel Jung, a third grade student at Eastern Elementary in Scott County.

Runners-up received a framed poster and Legends merchandise.

“Hit the Books has always been an important part of community outreach for the Legends,” said Sarah Bosso, the Legends’ director of community relations and special events. “We enjoy visiting the schools and meeting the students who are taking part in the program. Building literacy in childhood is a great cause. We’re glad to help develop good readers as well as good Legends fans.”

In Hit the Books, a baseball diamond is used to record credit for a student’s reading. For every book a student reads, a teacher places his or her initials on a base. When the student has all three bases and home plate initialed by the teacher, the student may bring a Hit the Books bookmark to the Legends’ box office at Whitaker Bank Ballpark to exchange it for two tickets to a Legends home game designated for their school.

The 2014 season is the 14^th for Legends baseball, and also marks the 14^th year that the Legends have been associated with Hit the Books. About 175,000 students have participated.

The Legends, a class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, open the home season Thursday, April 3 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the West Virginia Power, an affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. For more information, visit www.lexingtonlegends.com.

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

Sky Sox around the Community in February

February 6, 2014

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO – Spring Training is right around the corner and as baseball season approaches, you can find the Colorado Springs Sky Sox at several events throughout the community. At each event you will be able to pick up your 2014 pocket schedule and speak to a representative in person about the variety of events going on throughout the preseason and into the season. 2014 ticket packages also will be available to purchase.

Here’s a quick list of where you can find your hometown team:

Friday, Feb. 7 – Downtown Olympic Celebration – As the Winter Olympics in Sochi kick off, Sox the Fox will join some of the Sky Sox staff to celebrate with the rest of Colorado Springs at the Downtown Celebration. We will be located just north of Orchard Oven’s Bakery near the Bijou intersection.

Friday, Feb. 7 – American Heart Association Fashion Show at Chapel Hills Mall – The Sky Sox will also be at the Chapel Hills Mall on Friday supporting the AHA as they raise awareness for heart health during Heart Month.

Saturday, Feb. 8 – Bourbon Brothers Grand Opening with Goose Gossage – Along with baseball Hall of Famer Goose Gossage, you can find the Sky Sox at the Grand Opening of Bourbon Brothers located at 13021 Bass Pro Drive.

Friday, Feb. 14 – Sunday, Feb. 16 – Sports and RV show at Penrose Event Center – Sox the Fox will be out of his den once again as he visits the Sports and RV Show on Saturday, Feb. 15 from 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 15 – Colorado College Hockey Game – The Sky Sox are fans of all local sports teams, join us for a great night of hockey and have a chance to win prizes by spinning our prize wheel. The Tigers will take on Western Michigan at 7:07 p.m. at World Arena.

Saturday, Feb. 22 – Galaxy Fest – Colorado Springs’ Premier Multimedia Multi Genre Convention will run from Jan. 21-Jan. 23 at Antlers Hilton, 4 S. Cascade Ave., but you can also visit with Sky Sox baseball about all your needs on Saturday, Feb. 22.

Saturday, March 1 – Mascot Race 5k for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society – Here’s your chance to cheer on your favorite mascot to help out a great cause for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Saturday, March 1 – Air Force Basketball – Join us when the Air Force Academy takes on UNLV at 2 p.m. at Clune Arena.

Friday, March 7 – Colorado College Hockey Game – We will be back at Colorado College to support the Tigers when they take on St. Cloud State University at 7:07 p.m. at World Arena.

Saturday, March 8 – National Anthem Tryouts at Chapel Hills Mall – If you would like a chance to show off your talent in front of thousands of Sky Sox fans, join us on March 8 for 2014 National Anthem tryouts.

Saturday, March 8 – Air Force Basketball – We’ll be back supporting Air Force basketball in the season finale against Boise State at noon at Clune Arena.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Colorado Springs Sky Sox. Click here to view the original story.

Student Honored for Bookmark Design

January 16, 2014

Federalsburg Elementary student recognized

Linda Davila was honored by Shawn Schoolcraft and Sherman the Shorebird

Salisbury, MD – The Delmarva Shorebirds and Sherman the Shorebird visited Federalsburg Elementary school on Wednesday, January 15 to honor Linda Davila as the 2014 Hit the Books Bookmark Design Contest winner. After careful review by Shorebirds staff members, Linda’s design was selected out of over 1,000 submissions.

Click here to see her winning entry.

Linda is a student at Federalsburg Elementary School.

Her bookmark design was printed and distributed to the over 40,000 students involved in the Shorebirds Hit the Books program presented by Dr. James M. Crouse at The Brace Place.

Congratulations Linda!

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

Grand Junction wins Moss Award

November 7, 2013

Rockies affiliate captures inaugural community service honor

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Minor League Baseball announced Thursday that the Grand Junction Rockies are the winners of the first John Henry Moss Community Service Award for their ongoing commitment to charitable service and their support and leadership within the Grand Junction community and the baseball industry.

Hickory Crawdads to host first Art at the Park event!

July 31, 2013

Calling All Artists!

Hickory Crawdads to host first Art at the Park event

The Hickory Crawdads have announced their first ever Art at the Park event to take place August 13th-15th. All artists are invited to submit their best rendition of their favorite scenes from around the ballpark and have their work voted on by the fans over the three-game home stand.

The event will take place the third week in August as the ‘Dads play host to the Asheville Tourists for a three game series of 7pm games. Artists from around the area are encouraged to submit their original two-dimensional artwork depicting their favorite ballpark scene to the Crawdads Front Office by Monday, August 12th for entry into the competition. All submitted works will be displayed on the main concourse of Crawdads Stadium throughout the home stand for Crawdads fans to view and submit votes for the piece they believe should take home the grand prize. At the conclusion of the home stand, ballots will be counted and the artist whose piece gets the most votes will receive a FREE Luxury Suite for a ballgame.

In addition to the chance to win the grand prize, all participants will receive one free grandstand ticket good for any of the three games during the home stand. All fans and artists are welcome to participate as long as their submissions are within the guidelines. The fan-favorite voting contest will begin when the gates open on Tuesday, August 13th, and will remain open until the conclusion of the game on Thursday, August 15th. The winner will be announced on Friday, August 16th.

For more information on the Hickory Crawdads and their Art at the Park event, visit www.hickorycrawdads.com or contact Quinn Gruber at (828)322-3000, or e-mail qgruber@hickorycrawdads.com.

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Crawdads Front Office:

2500 Clement Blvd. NW

Hickory, NC 28601

Crawdads Mailing Address:

PO Box 1268

Hickory, NC 28603

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

Dow Diamond and Michigan Blood to Host Blood Drive

July 25, 2013

Loons and Midland Center for the Arts partner for Blood Drive Challenge

MIDLAND, Mich. – The Great Lakes Loons have partnered with Midland Center for the Arts (MCFTA) to see who can donate more blood to Michigan Blood from July 22 through August 16. Donations can be made at Michigan Blood’s Dow Diamond facility and its MidMichigan Medical Center donation facility, along with a one-time blood drive at Midland Center for the Arts.

“We are ready for the blood drive challenge with Midland Center for the Arts,” said Loons President & General Manager Paul Barbeau. “I have already donated and I hope that other Loons employees and fans will as well. MI Blood and those in need of blood will be the real winners of this competition.”

Michigan Blood’s Dow Diamond donation center is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Its MidMichigan Medical Center donation facility is open Tuesdays from noon to 7 p.m., Fridays from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Saturday, August 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Additionally, MCFTA will also host an on-site blood drive on Tuesday, August 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

When signing in, donors must mention they are donating for the Great Lakes Loons or Midland Center for the Arts. Each participating donor will be included in a drawing to win a prize package of Loons and MCFTA items, including four Loons vouchers, a first pitch opportunity, four tickets to see “Dracula: the Musical” on October 5, an autographed poster from the cast, four drink vouchers for the Saints & Sinners Lounge, and a private dinner for four at Dow Diamond prior to the show.

Results of the contest will be announced at Dow Diamond during MCFTA’ s Salute to the Arts Night on August 20, with the President of the organization that tallies less donors participating in an on-field contest.

Midland Center for the Arts, Inc. is a non-profit, tax-exempt corporation formed under the laws of the State of Michigan incorporating six groups: Alden B. Dow Museum of Science and Art, Center Stage Choirs, Center Stage Theatre, MATRIX:MIDLAND, Midland County Historical Society, and Midland Symphony Orchestra. Activities at Midland Center for the Arts are supported in part by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. For the latest Center news, visit our web site at www.mcfta.org.

The Great Lakes Loons are a seventh-year Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. For tickets and more information about the Loons, visit Loons.com or call 989-837-BALL.

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

Gwinnett Braves Award March Grant to Aurora Theatre

April 10, 2013

Local Theatre is recognized for their commitment to the Fine Arts

The Gwinnett Braves have awarded their $1,000 grant for the month of March to the Aurora Theatre of Lawrenceville, GA. This month’s grant, intended to support organizations that promote art programs and education, will help Aurora Theatre in its purchase of a new portable sound system.

In 2011, the Aurora Theatre’s Academy and Conservatory launched an educational outreach program. With county schools cutting down music and art programs, the Aurora Theatre travels to local Gwinnett County Public Schools and educates through workshops and small traveling shows. This season, the program will debut “Unnecessary Monsters,” an interactive play that will discuss the issue of bullying. With the help of the G-Braves, the play will reach a greater audience and avoid technical difficulties.

The program has grown exponentially since last fall. Through their hard work and dedication, the Aurora Theatre program has provided the youth of Gwinnett County with more exposure to the arts.

“Our education program has many facets,” said the Director of Education Jaclyn Hofmann. “We have our Aurora Academy training program, learning library shows, in school workshops and other features. With this grant we can purchase a portable sound system, so that we can travel to any school or organization.”

The original story appeared on the Gwinnett Braves’ website, and can be viewed by clicking here.

Nine Innings for Nature on April 21st

April 5, 2013

Includes Recycled Art Contest, plus Kids Eat Free

LAKEWOOD, NJ – “Go Green” with the BlueClaws and New Jersey Natural Gas and celebrate Nine Innings for Nature on Sunday, April 21st at the team’s 1:05 pm game.

The sixth annual event, a celebration of environmental education thanks to New Jersey Natural Gas, will include several vendors displaying information about going green and energy efficiency.

Plus, 1,000 fans will receive a tree sapling on their way out of the ballpark.

Leading up to this year’s Nine Innings for Nature, fans can participate in a new Recycled Art Contest, with the winner receiving one night in a BlueClaws SkyBox for 20 people.

About the Contest

Entries must use recycled content – either recycled materials or items which can be recycled. Materials may include metals, paper, clothing, rubber, glass and plastic. Permitted use of non-recyclable fasteners, such as glue or tape.
There are no limitations on size or format. However, we do ask that it be safe – no rough edges and it must be sturdy.

Eligible Participants

Kids grades K-8

Deadline:

All entries must be received by April 17^th (delivered to FirstEnergy Park). Judging and prizes will be completed during the game.

Each Entry Must Include:

Contestant’s First and Last Name
Home Address
Home Phone Number
E-Mail Address
Materials Used to Construct Artwork

Among those that will have tables at the event: New Jersey Natural Gas, The Save Green Project, Jenkinsons, EZNERGY, Sea Bright Solar, Barnegat Bay Blitz DEP, Sustainable Jersey, and United States Green Building Council.

Free Tickets: Fans can earn a free ticket to the game in a number of ways. Anyone that rides their bike to the ballpark will get a free ticket, as will everyone whose last name is Green or Greene (must show ID at the sales window).

In addition, because the game is on a Sunday, regular BlueClaws Sunday promotions will be in place too. Kids Eat Free thanks to ShopRite and Kids Run the Bases after the game thanks to TD Bank.

Dr Bernard’s Kids Zone will be open, for free, courtesy of New Jersey Natural Gas from noon (when the gates open) to 1 pm.

To order tickets, call 732-901-7000 option 2 or click here to order online.

– BlueClaws –

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

Liberty Elem. student wins Hit the Books contest

February 27, 2013

"Hit the Books" contest winner Maya Chamberlain, a student at Liberty Elementary School in Lexington, held her framed poster as she celebrated with her family, along with the Legends' Big L and the Chick-fil-A cow. At right is a photo of her winning entry. — “Hit the Books” contest winner Maya Chamberlain, a student at Liberty Elementary School in Lexington, held her framed poster as she celebrated with her family, along with the Legends’ Big L and the Chick-fil-A cow. At right is a photo of her winning entry.

(WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK, Lexington, Ky.) A student at Liberty Elementary School in Lexington has won a bookmark design contest as part of the Lexington Legends/Chick-fil-A “Hit the Books” reading incentive program.

Fifth grade student Maya Chamberlain created the winning entry. She received a Legends prize pack, including Legends merchandise, a framed “Hit the Books ” poster featuring her artwork and a free membership in the 2013 Little Legends Kids Club. She also will be invited to throw a ceremonial first pitch at a designated Legends game for her school. Bookmarks featuring her artwork will be distributed to students at every school that participates in the “Hit the Books” program. More than 21,000 students from 52 central Kentucky schools are expected to take part in the program, which runs through April 1.

Samuel Jung, a second grade student at Eastern Elementary in Scott County; Grace Kim, a fourth grade student at Wilmore Elementary; Leah Olmstead, a fourth grade student at Wilmore Elementary; and Allison Steele, a fifth grade student at Stonewall Elementary in Lexington all received honorable mention for their designs. They received framed posters and Legends merchandise.

In “Hit the Books,” a baseball diamond is used to record credit for a student’s reading. For every book a student reads, a teacher places his or her initials on a base. When the student has all three bases and home plate initialed by the teacher, the student may bring a “Hit the Books” bookmark to the Legends’ box office at Whitaker Bank Ballpark to exchange it for two tickets to a Legends home game designated for their school.

The school with the most bookmarks redeemed on its designated night will win a luncheon assembly provided by the Lexington Legends and Chick-fil-A.

The 2013 season is the 13th for Legends baseball, and also marks the 13th year that the Legends have been associated with “Hit the Books.” About 150,000 students have participated.

The Legends, a class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, open the home season Monday, April 8 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Asheville Tourists, an affiliate of the Colorado Rockies. For more information, visit www.lexingtonlegends.com.