Cardinal Valley Elementary & Legends partner on new mural

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Whitaker Bank Ballpark is about to get more colorful and art-filled thanks to the students in Art Club at Cardinal Valley Elementary School, part of Fayette County Public Schools on Thursday, April 27 from 1:00pm to 5:30pm.

Led by teacher and local muralist Michelle Armstrong, approximately twenty Cardinal Valley Elementary Art Club students are showcasing their artistic talents by bringing a Kentucky and Legends themed mural to life at the ballpark on the three electrical boxes found in the parking lot of Whitaker Bank Ballpark. Students spent two to three weeks preparing by researching designs and practicing how their visions would translate onto a unique outdoor canvas.    These designs were then submitted to the Legends, with the decision landing on an all-encompassing three-piece theme, highlighting the Commonwealth, Legends players in branded uniforms, as well as various Legends logos and baseball images.

“I’m excited to bring my students to Whitaker Bank Ballpark to create something for the Lexington community” states Armstrong. “These students are thrilled to be able to share their talent and transform utility boxes into something magical and inspiring” Armstrong continued.

Andy Shea, Legends President and CEO added to Michelle Armstrong’s sentiments by stating “the Legends are no stranger to the wonderful world of art. We welcome the chance to work with students in our community and could not be more pleased to have these remarkable students contribute a third unique mural to Whitaker Bank Ballpark.”

Media is welcome to attend the mural painting session on the electrical boxes, which again takes place Thursday, April 27, 2017 from 1:00pm to 5:30pm in the parking lot of Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

For more information, about the Cardinal Valley Elementary Art Club mural project, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859 422-7855.  The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, continue a seven game homestand at 7:05pm Thursday, April 27, 2017 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Hagerstown Suns, an affiliate of the Washington Nationals.  For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit lexingtonlegends.com.

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

BlueClaws Collecting Art Supplies at Sunday’s Game

The BlueClaws will be collecting new art supplies at Sunday’s game.

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The Camden Schools Foundation will be at FirstEnergy Park on Sunday collecting new art supplies to benefit students in the district. Anyone that donates will receive two general admission tickets for a BlueClaws game between May 22nd and 28th.

There will be a table on the concourse behind home plate where fans can drop of their supplies.

For more on the Camden Schools Foundation, click here.

Sunday’s game, which starts at 1:05 pm, is also Buster’s Birthday. Buster’s mascot friends will be on hand to celebrate the big day. Plus, like every Sunday:

  • Kids Eat Free thanks to ShopRite
  • Kids Run the Bases thanks to Investors Bank
  • Barks and Beers – Fans are encouraged to bring their dogs and the BlueClaws have $2 Coronas available (21/older) at the game.

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

– BlueClaws –

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

MBF Exceeds $1 Million in Grant Donations

MIDLAND, Mich. – The Michigan Baseball Foundation is pleased to announce that after awarding grants for the 2017 cycle, MBF has exceeded $1 million donated to non-profit organizations since 2008. This month, MBF distributed 26 grants totaling $104,515 across seven counties in the Great Lakes Bay Region this past year.

“Giving back to our local youth has been something we have taken pride in since MBF started awarding grants,” Michigan Baseball Foundation vice president Paul Barbeau said. “It’s an important part of what we do at Dow Diamond, not just providing fun entertainment during the baseball season, but also supporting the communities that surround us.”

MBF has awarded 283 grants totaling $1,022,761 to deserving non-profit organizations across 14 counties in the Great Lakes Bay Region over the past 10 years.

This year the Friends of Hoyt Park Foundation in Saginaw received $6,600 for dugout benches and a tractor. Midland Center for the Arts received a grant in the amount of $6,250 to upgrade the permanent microscope exhibit in the museum’s “Hall of Ideas.” The Bay Community Tennis Center will install net posts, while Gladwin Community Schools will use $3,000 to upgrade their athletic building and batting cages.

The Foundation began its annual grant process in April 2016 and solicited grant applications from non-profit organizations throughout the region. All applicants were required to meet one or more of the following guidelines, which reflected the purposes for which the Michigan Baseball Foundation was organized:

•   The organization contributes to regional economic development.
•   The organization is based in Mid-Michigan and serves young people.
•   The organization promotes amateur sports and fitness

The Michigan Baseball Foundation considers funding mid-Michigan non-profit organizations that use the grant money to fund projects; the grants are not intended to fund day-to-day operations. Primary consideration will be given to organizations in the Midland, Bay, Saginaw, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Genesee, Isabella, Tuscola, Huron, Arenac, Ogemaw, Sanilac and Iosco counties.

The 2018 grant process is currently in the planning stage. Updates will be communicated once the plans are finalized for the next cycle. For more information contact Carol VanWert at 989.837.6144, or at cvanwert@loons.com.

The Michigan Baseball Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit public charity that was founded in 2006 to create regional economic development through creative partnerships, and to enhance the efforts of regional organizations that serve young people. The Michigan Baseball Foundation owns and operates Dow Diamond, home of the Great Lakes Loons, a Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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

Garrard student wins Hit the Books design contest

Aubree McIntosh accepts the framed poster of her winning bookmark design from the Lexington Legends’ Big L. (Lexington Legends)

  (WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK, Lexington, Ky.) Aubree McIntosh, a seventh-grade student at Garrard Middle School, was the winner of a bookmark design contest that is part of the Lexington Legends Hit the Books reading incentive program sponsored by Waffle House.

Aubree received a Legends prize pack, including Legends merchandise and a framed Hit the Books poster featuring her artwork. She also will be invited to throw a ceremonial first pitch at a 2017 Legends game. Bookmarks featuring her artwork will be distributed to students at every school that participates in the Hit the Books program. More than 48,000 students from 119 central Kentucky schools are expected to take part in the program, which runs through April 1.

                Runners-up in the bookmark design contest were Des Hanley, a fifth-grade student at Stonewall Elementary School in Lexington;  Wesley Sizemore, a third-grade student at Hazel Green Elementary in East Bernstadt; and Paisley Gay, a fifth-grade student at Stanford Elementary School.

  “Hit the Books has been an important part of the Legends’ education and community outreach programs since 2001,” said Sarah Bosso, Legends Vice President of Business Development. “The bookmark contest adds an element of fun and competition, and it’s really great to see the students do even more reading as a result of the Hit the Books program with the ticket incentive.”

            In Hit the Books, a baseball diamond is used to record credit for 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 during the 2017 season.

  The 2017 season is the 17th for Legends baseball, and also marks the 17th year that the Legends have been associated with Hit the Books. About 285,000 students have participated.

  The Legends, a class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, open the home season Thursday, April 13 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the West Virginia Power, an affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. For more information, visit www.lexingtonlegends.com.

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

“Dancing with the Students” comes to Lexington

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Students at Crawford Middle School will put on their dancing shoes and take a new approach to Physical Education as well as Arts and Humanities curriculum through a new community partnership with the not for profit “Dancing with the Students,” based out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Dancing with the Students comes to Lexington via Lexington Legends Secretary and Principal Sue Martinelli Shea, as she founded the non-profit organization in 2005. The students involved will be at the sixth, seventh and eighth grade levels and will compete in 10 weeks of dance class; 9 weeks of instruction with the 10th week culminating in a grand finale competition. The students will be taught by Arthur Murray trained dancer teacher Rae Mickelwait and will learn four dances: Waltz, Tango, Merengue, and Swing. “My dream is to have these talented students dance at Whitaker Bank Ballpark during a Legends’ game this summer” says Martinelli Shea. “Mickelwait was also Andy’s dance partner for Dancing with the Stars-Lexington, so it’s wonderful to have this community partnership come full circle!”

Andy Shea, President and CEO of the Lexington Legends, is just as vested in this partnership as his Mother. “I am so proud and honored of what my Mother has created and her ambition to begin Dancing with the Students classes in Lexington. There are so many life lessons that are learned through ballroom dancing and not to mention, it’s so much fun!”

This partnership would not have been possible without the support of Crawford Middle School Principal Mike Jones. Jones readily accepted by stating “I’m excited about this new and unique partnership with “Dancing with the Students.” Some of our Crawford Middle School students are going to be given the opportunity to learn four different ballroom dances as well as the etiquette that goes along with this art form. The 10-week program will be incorporated into 2 different Physical Education classes. The movement requirements used in dance can be found in PE as well as Arts and Humanities curriculum. I want to personally thank Andy Shea and Sue Martinelli Shea for allowing us to partner with the program. We hope to build it to include more students in the future.”

For more information, about Dancing with the Students, visit www.dancingwiththestudents.org or contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859 422-7855.

The Legends, a class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, will open the season Thursday, April 13 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the West Virginia Power, an affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit lexingtonlegends.com.

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

Shorebirds Celebrate Hit the Books Bookmark Contest Winner

 (David Maull- Indian River School District)

SALISBURY, Md. — The Delmarva Shorebirds, Class A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, along with Dr. James M. Crouse at The Brace Place, presenting sponsor of the Hit the Books program, honored Carley Topper of Selbyville Middle School for winning the 2017 Hit the Books Bookmark Design Contest.

Her winning design was featured on bookmarks that were distributed to over 50,000 students at 100 area schools that participate in the Hit the Books program.

Hit the Books encourages elementary and middle school students on the Delmarva Peninsula to read outside of their regular classroom assignments. Students that complete their reading goals receive two free ticket vouchers to a Shorebirds home game during the 2017 season.

Topper’s winning design features a Shorebirds player at bat while an opposing player pitches the ball. In the outfield, Sherman joins a great crowd for the game. It also shows the Dr. James M. Crouse at The Brace Place logo in the background. For her efforts, she was rewarded with a surprise visit at school from Sherman and representatives from the Delmarva Shorebirds and The Brace Place on Tuesday, January 17. She will also get the opportunity to throw out a first pitch before her school’s Hit the Books date at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium this spring.

“Her design was absolutely fantastic. Carley showed just how much fun baseball is, all in one picture,” Kathy Damato, Shorebirds Community Relations Manager, said. “We look forward to rewarding all the kids who go through with the program with a great time at a Shorebirds game this spring.”

The initiative, which is one of the biggest and longest-running reading programs in the region, officially kicked off on Tuesday, Jan. 17 and will run through Feb. 24.

“Reading books is a great pastime of mine and it is extremely important for young people to recognize the importance of reading,” Dr. James M. Crouse said. “Our partnership with the Shorebirds Hit the Books program is a perfect fit for us at The Brace Place.”

Participating schools will be notified in March about their game date at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in 2017, and students will be honored as part of a pregame parade around the field. For more information, contact the Delmarva
Shorebirds at 410-219-3112.

Season ticket and group outing packages are currently on sale for the 2017 season. The Shorebirds offer full season tickets, half season tickets, a 22-game plan and a 12-game plan along with a number of opportunities for groups to enjoy a night out at the ballpark. To secure your seat(s), call 410-219-3112.

Delmarva Shorebirds
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The Delmarva Shorebirds are the Class “A” Affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles. The Shorebirds are owned by
7th Inning Stretch, LLC, the same company that owns the Stockton Ports of the California League and the Everett AquaSox of the Northwest League.

The Shorebirds celebrated their 20th season in 2015, and have entertained nearly five million fans since beginning play at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury, Md. in 1996. The team has captured South Atlantic League titles in 1997 and 2000 while successfully hosting the South Atlantic League All-Star Game in 1999 and 2011.

For more information on the Shorebirds, call 410-219-3112 or visit theshorebirds.com

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

Aces reach community impact records in 2016

RENO – Since the Reno Aces Baseball Club’s inception in 2009, the club has maintained a dedicated focus on making a positive impact in Reno and the surrounding Northern Nevada region. The Aces posted record-breaking charitable donations in 2016, thanks to overwhelming support from Aces fans and the community.

“In return to our great fans and wonderful community, we strive to impact Reno and Northern Nevada through a variety of programs and charitable donations,” said Reno Aces and Reno 1868 FC president Eric Edelstein. “Our vision builds on making Greater Nevada Field more than just a sporting venue, but a center for community empowerment and celebration.”

The Aces and their staff focused on four key components to the club’s overall community impact: baseball development, community events at Greater Nevada Field, community outreach and in-game fundraising and awareness.

BASEBALL DEVELOPMENT

In 2016, the Aces showed their continued support to baseball at all levels locally by hosting youth baseball camps and high school games at Greater Nevada Field.

105: In partnership with Gamer Baseball, the Aces served 105 campers over three separate youth baseball camps. The camps provided instruction on the fundamentals of baseball, along with speed, agility and strength training to make Northern Nevada youth successful baseball players in the future. Each camper received a free Reno Aces t-shirt, Aces Team Card set, two tickets to an Aces game and an Aces batting practice viewing session.

4,767: The Reno Aces partnered with multiple Northern Nevada and California little league and softball leagues to provide on-field inspiration and once-in-a-lifetime experiences through Reno Aces Youth Baseball & Softball Days. Youth baseball and softball teams attend a Reno Aces game and parade around the field pre-game. In 2016, three Youth Baseball & Softball Days were held with over 4,767 participants.

$15,000: The Aces and University of Nevada baseball team played their annual exhibition game in early April, with $15,000 of the ticket sales proceeds being donated to the Nevada Dugout Club.

$54,000: For a seventh consecutive season, the Aces invited local high schools to play regular season games at Greater Nevada Field. To participate in the program, high schools committed to purchasing 500 tickets (good for any Aces regular season home game) to sell to local community supporters, with the proceeds benefiting their respective school’s athletic program. Twelve high school baseball programs participated in 2016, and a total of 4,500 tickets were sold, equating to $54,000 in donations.

COMMUNITY EVENTS AT GREATER NEVADA FIELD

In 2016, the Aces and Greater Nevada Field hosted 56 programs and events, ranging from the Biggest Little Startup Fair to Trick-or-Suite prior to Halloween. A few major events are highlighted below:

30: Biggest Little Startup Fair, benefiting the Northern Nevada Community – Greater Nevada Field hosted the Biggest Little Startup Fair for a third consecutive year. The fair is a cooperative effort between 30 Reno startup companies, the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada, the University of Nevada and Truckee Meadows Community College. Students from across Northern Nevada were given the opportunity to meet potential employers and find out about volunteer opportunities, internships and job openings.

500+: Christmas on the Corridor, benefiting the Northern Nevada Community – For the first time, Greater Nevada Field hosted the Washoe County Sheriff’s Department annual Christmas on the Corridor event. This event provided coats, toys, child I.D. and the opportunity to meet Santa for children living along the 3rd, 4th and 5th Street corridors of Reno. Families and children that attended also received the opportunity to meet the Aces mascot, Archie, and got a voucher to skate at the Reno Ice Rink. Over 500 families attended the 20th anniversary of the corridor event.

$550 + 1,077 = 898: Trick-or-Suite, benefiting the Food Bank of Northern Nevada – The Aces and Greater Nevada Field hosted the fourth annual Trick-or-Suite to provide a safe trick-or-treat environment for children in the Northern Nevada community. Aces community partners decorated suites along the suite level and passed out candy to provide youth in Reno-Sparks a unique and fun trick-or-treating experience. Admission to Trick-or-Suite was $3 or 3 canned food items, with all proceeds and food benefiting the Food Bank of Northern Nevada. A total of $550 and 1,077 pounds of canned and boxed foods were donated, equaling 898 meals.

11,032: Slaughter House, benefiting the Washoe County School District Children in Transition Program – Slaughter House returned to Greater Nevada Field for its third year in 2016. Slaughter House is Reno’s largest and longest running haunted house, and has become the most attended and highly anticipated Halloween attraction in Northern Nevada. Slaughter House donated a portion of all proceeds to the Washoe County School District Children in Transition Program after a total of 11,032 people visited in 2016.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

The Aces’ heightened focus on community outreach paid dividends in 2016.

20′: Sierra Arts Foundation Partnership, benefiting the Northern Nevada Community – The largest community relations initiative the Aces and Greater Nevada Field advocated for in 2016 was the inclusion of local artwork at the Field. The initiative stemmed from seeing other ballparks’ inclusion of local artwork, and the fact that Reno has the most public artwork per capita than any other city in the world. Two 20-foot murals were painted at Greater Nevada Field’s home plate gate, and the Nevada Appeal Luxury Suite level featured local artwork along the hallway and in each suite. The Aces and Greater Nevada Field plan to continue this partnership with Sierra Arts into 2017 with another ballpark mural and new artwork in the suite level.

$1,355: Nevada Humane Society – In the fall of 2014, the Aces fostered Princess, a pit bull from the Nevada Humane Society, in effort to get her adopted and begin the organization’s goal to be ambassadors for not only pit bulls, but all animals in need of a home. After five months of no potential adopters, the organization officially adopted Princess and crowned her the “Princess of the Field.” This past year, the Aces started selling Princess Plush toys in the Team Shop. All proceeds from those sales benefited the Nevada Humane Society. In 2016, 231 Princess plush toys were sold and $1,355 was donated.

$151,175: In-Kind Donations/Donation Requests, benefiting various Northern Nevada and California Communities, Organizations, Schools and Non-profits – Throughout the year, the Reno Aces donated tickets, memorabilia, mascot appearances, merchandise and ice skating admissions to as many organizations in the Northern Nevada and California communities as possible. Donated items are used for members of those organizations to raise funds for their cause, provide awards and spread the love of baseball. The Aces donated to 532 organizations, resulting in a monetary value of $151,175.

IN-GAME FUNDRAISING AND AWARENESS

The Aces hit a home run with their in-game fundraising and awareness in 2016, with fundraising totals reaching $190,434.

$12,406: Jersey Auction Totals, benifiting Veterans Guest House, American Red Cross of Northern Nevada, Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation, Artown, Special Olympics and Omicron Alumni Association (NAK) – The Aces hosted six jersey theme nights in 2016, with the jersey tops being auctioned off as an in-game fundraiser. Each theme night was dedicated to one of the organizations listed above. The six theme nights are listed with their corresponding jersey auction totals in parentheses: Star Wars Night ($3,690), Artown ($2,924), D-backs Affiliation Night ($2,385), Going for the Gold Night ($2,325), Heroes Night ($555) and Los Aces Night ($527).

42,500: JAKKS Pacific Home Run for the Holidays, benefiting various Northern Nevada organizations – For the fifth consecutive year, the Reno Aces partnered with JAKKS Pacific, Inc., and Reno 1868 FC to donate toys to help less-fortunate children living in Northern Nevada. This holiday season, 3,000 toys were donated to organizations in the Reno-Sparks/Carson community assisting at risk and in need youth. Since 2011, JAKKS Pacific has donated over 42,500 toys to the Northern Nevada community.

$123,271: Non-Profit Ticket Fundraising Program presented by Greater Nevada Credit Union, benefiting Northern Nevada Non-Profits – The Non-Profit Ticket Fundraising presented by Greater Nevada Credit Union program returned for the third consecutive season, with 106 organizations participating in 2016. Available to non-profit organizations, schools, sports teams, special causes and community organizations, the Aces provided tickets and fundraising materials for groups to sell game tickets at an increased price in effort to make the organization the most money possible. Groups also receive a variety of benefits to spread awareness about their cause during their game, depending on the number of tickets sold. In 2016, non-profit organizations raised a total of $123,271 through the program.

2016 monetary donations: $36,015.00

The Aces open their 2017 season on Thursday, April 6 at 7:05 p.m. against the Fresno Grizzlies at Chukchansi Park. The home opener is set for Tuesday, April 11 at 6:35 p.m. against the Albuquerque Isotopes at Greater Nevada Field. Season memberships are on-sale now at www.renoaces.com or by calling (775) 334-4700. For up-to-date news and notes throughout the offseason, follow the club on Twitter (@aces) or like the team on Facebook.

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

Shuckers Hit Home Run with Community Contributions and Initiatives in 2016

BILOXI, MS – During the Biloxi Shuckers second season, the team continued to give back to the community. The Shuckers have become a resource for local organizations including non-profits and schools by helping to raise funds and awareness through various methods.

The Shuckers and its concessionaire, Spectra Food Services & Hospitality raised over $178,000 for local nonprofits and donated over $30,000 of in-kind contributions. Through Shuckers initiatives including the Ticket Fundraising Program, In-Stadium Auctions and Spectra NFP Fundraising Program which benefits qualified local 501 (c) (3) nonprofit groups through concessions, the club led the ten-member Southern League for In-Stadium Fundraising.

Among the highlights of the organization’s 2016 charitable work included providing a platform for: Habitat for Humanity, Biloxi Miracle League, Mississippi Center for Autism and Related Learning Disabilities, Jackson County Animal Shelter, Memorial Hospital Foundation and Favre 4 Hope, Special Olympics, Salvation Army of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, ALS Association, American Cancer Society and Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art.

“We give back to our community because we believe we have a responsibility to do so,” stated Shuckers Community Relations and Promotions Coordinator Jenifer Truong. “Whether it’s local schools or non-profits, the Shuckers offer not only a chance to raise funds for your organization, but also awareness to a large audience.”

In addition to the organization’s charitable contributions, Shuckers’ season ticket holders donated just over 1,500 tickets to local non-profits, military personnel and their families, and first responders. The organization also made frequent mascot and player appearances in the community and members of the Shuckers front office also joined forces to record over 200 hours of community service in 2016.

Spectra’s NFP program seeks to provide qualified nonprofit groups and civic organizations a unique fundraising opportunity. Groups provide volunteers to assist with concession stand operations as cashiers, vendors, and stand workers. Those organizations work to reach fundraising goals while providing great service to fans.

“Involving area nonprofit organizations in our operation has helped us hit a home run with the community and Shuckers’ fans,” said Spectra General Manager Mike Brulatour. “Since the opening of MGM Park in June 2015, thousands of volunteers have raised over $300,000 for their respective charities. The commitment and dedication of these volunteers has enabled us to provide a consistent level of exceptional customer service to our patrons while supporting the Mississippi Gulf Coast communities which we serve. Spectra Food Services and Hospitality strives to be a strong partner with the Biloxi Shuckers and a valued member of the Gulf Coast business community.”

Organizations interested in partnering with Spectra or the Shuckers may contact Mike Brulatour at mike_brulatour@comcastspectacor.com or Jenifer Truong at jtruong@biloxishuckers.com.

The Biloxi Shuckers are the Double-A Affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The Shuckers play at MGM Park in Biloxi, Mississippi. For more information please visit biloxishuckers.com and follow us on Twitter @biloxishuckers and at facebook.com/biloxishuckers.com.

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

Blue Rocks Announce 2016 Holiday Card Contest Winner

Wilmington, DE – The Wilmington Blue Rocks are excited to announce the winner of the 15th Annual Holiday Card Contest. Thousands of entries were received, but unfortunately, there could be just one winner. After a tough decision process, Rocky Bluewinkle, Mr. Celery and the rest of the Holiday Card Contest Committee decided that the overall winner was Vasiliki Gouvias, a 4th Grader from Loomis Elementary School in Broomall, PA. Her artwork will be featured on the cover of the Wilmington Blue Rocks Holiday Card. Vasiliki will be rewarded with a team-autographed baseball, a ceremonial first pitch and 10 tickets to a 2017 Blue Rocks game.

The Blue Rocks also selected honorable mention recipients, whose artwork will be displayed on the back of the Holiday Card. The art teachers of the winner and honorable mention designers will be contacted by a Blue Rocks representative in the next week. Those garnering honorable mentions honors are:

Dante Fortebuono
Kindergarten
St. Pius X School
Broomall, PA

Kaitlyn Aleardi
1st Grade
Villa Maria Academy
Immaculata, PA

Olivia Hardy
2nd Grade
Assumption B.V.M. School
West Grove, PA

Italia Fortebuono
3rd Grade
Loomis Elementary School
Broomall, PA

Samantha Dale
4th Grade
Mannington Township School
Mannington, NJ

Ariyah Davis
5th Grade
Major George S. Welch Elementary
Dover, DE.

Entries were received from students in Kindergarten thru 5th grade from Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey. The Wilmington Blue Rocks would like to thank all those who entered and wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season.

Each entrant will be rewarded with 2 tickets to a Blue Rocks game in 2017 as a thank you for participating. The tickets will be mailed to the participating teachers by February.

The Blue Rocks will celebrate their 25th season in 2017 and have plenty of fun in store for their fan base. Season seats, mini plans and group packages for the upcoming campaign are on sale now. The team’s annual holiday packages are on sale now through December 22. For more information, please see the team’s website at BlueRocks.com.

 www.bluerocks.com

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

BlueClaws Charities Completes Grant Program With Grants to 35 Local Partner Organizations

LAKEWOOD, NJ – BlueClaws Charities, the official 501c3 organization of the Lakewood BlueClaws, handed out grants to 35 partner organizations as part of their 8th annual grant distribution.

BlueClaws Charities Community Partner organizations, all 501c3s that work with the BlueClaws throughout the year, were eligible to apply for a grant and all organizations that applied for a grant received one.

Each applicant was asked to detail a specific use for the grant, with the requirement that all money received from BlueClaws Charities stays in Ocean & Monmouth Counties. A complete list can be found below.

“BlueClaws Charities is excited to support such a wide variety of outstanding, local, non-profit organizations,” said Jim DeAngelis, BlueClaws Charities Executive Director. “These organizations are on the ground working with the underserved in our communities, doing spectacular work. It is an honor for BlueClaws Charities to be able to assist.”

BlueClaws Charities, a registered 501c3 organization, raises money at all 70 BlueClaws home games. A 50/50 raffle, special jersey auctions, and miscellaneous programs are used to raise money during games. The annual “Phillies Winter Banquet,” “ALS Celebrity Waiter Event,” “Bowling With the BlueClaws,” and the “BlueClaws Charities Nine & Dine Golf Outing” are additional fundraising initiatives conducted by BlueClaws Charities.

“Our fans and donors have been tremendously supportive of BlueClaws Charities over the years, and this year was no exception,” said DeAngelis. “We look forward to another successful season in 2017!”

Below, find a list of organizations and programs supported through the annual BlueClaws Charities grant program:

  • ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia – For patient care services to help the 50 ALS patient families living in Monmouth & Ocean Counties.
  • American Heart Association – For their Heart Walk, a community event that encourages physical activity to help lower risk factors that can lead to heart disease.
  • Arc of Ocean County – For their mission of helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities be accepted and valued as citizens of the community.
  • Ashley Lauren Foundation – For assisting children with cancer and their families through direct financial assistance.
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ocean County – For providing group mentoring activities to children on their waiting list of 180 children, enabling them to be involved with the agency.
  • Boot Campaign – For raising awareness and assistance for military families and personnel especially relating to the unique challenges they face during and post-service.
  • Caregiver Volunteers – For defraying the cost of criminal background checks completed on volunteers prior to assignments.
  • Cheer Dream Scoliosis Foundation – For assisting children with medical needs in their facility.
  • Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation – For improving the quality of life for children and adults affected by the diseases.
  • Daniela’s Wish – For granting wishes to sick children in the community.
  • Dottie’s House – For providing safe housing for women and their children through a program that empowers them to become self-sufficient and free from violence.
  • Easter Seals New Jersey – For installing a new ram and deck to an existing residential home for Easter Seals program participants.
  • Exit 82 Theatre Company – For funding their 2017 production season with selected shows.
  • Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund – For providing scholarships for Brick Township High Schools.
  • Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore – For supporting their summer outreach initiative Girls Are Great, which sends underserved girls to camp.
  • Go4TheGoal – For helping kids with cancer in the program achieve their goals.
  • Interfaith Hospitality Network – For supporting their mission of providing emergency shelter and other urgently needed services to a growing number of homeless families in Ocean County.
  • Kids Need More – For enhancing the lives of children, families, and young adults coping with cancer and life-threatening illness.
  • LADACIN Network – For enhancing the program offerings at their Adult Day Habilitation program with a new horticulture gardening and farming experience.
  • Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund – For aiding their mission of aiding and assisting our wounded warriors and their families.
  • Mary’s Place By the Sea – For supporting the oncology massage program for women with cancer.
  • NJ Tears Foundation – For promoting pregnancy and infant loss awareness and support in Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
  • Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity – For assisting in building a home for a single mother and two children in Ocean County.
  • Ocean County Family Support Organization – For assisting in their spring camping trip for youth partnership.
  • Ocean Partnership for Children – For assisting needy youth families during the holiday season.
  • Ocean County Shrine Club – For the Shriners Hospital’s Surgical Navigation System for Children’s Spine Injuries.
  • Ocean County YMCA – For helping kids, families, and seniors in the community find the assets they need in YMCA programs and memberships regardless of incomes and backgrounds.
  • Ocean’s Harbor House – For supplementing the salary of a Life Skills counselor working with homeless youths in their Transitional Living Program.
  • Opportunity Knocks – For assisting in long-term community placement of the disabled.
  • Parents of Autistic Children – For providing a challenger sports league designed to offer a socialization opportunity for disabled students and developing peers in Ocean and Monmouth Counties.
  • Piece of the Puzzle – For technology to help students with autism learn and practice vocational skills.
  • Raising Hope for Others – For assisting the organization with financial costs for organizing and running their major fundraising events.
  • Salvation Army – For funding their feeding program for local underserved.
  • St. Vincent DePaul Society – For helping to fund temporary sheltering of local homeless.
  • United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties – For acquiring hats, coats, gloves, and scarves to help keep children warm this winter.

BlueClaws Charities, in addition to the grant program, supports hundreds of non-profit organizations with gift package donations, golf outing hole-in-one sponsorships, and specialty organizations such as OCEAN, Inc., a federal program that assists the less fortunate in the community. The “Tickets for Kids Program,” another BlueClaws Charities initiative, donates over 2,000 tickets to under-served youths in Lakewood and elsewhere in Ocean County.

Organizations that would like to become Community Partners can call Jim DeAngelis at 732-901-7000 ext 114. Community Partners raise money through a BlueClaws fundraiser outing and have the opportunity to volunteer in the FirstEnergy Park concession stands to raise additional funds. These organizations also receive exposure through on-field presentations, table displays, and on BlueClaws.com, plus they have special opportunities to hold events, such as charity walks, at FirstEnergy Park.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League and New Jersey in attendance in each year of existence and will reach the 7-million fan plateau in 2017.

– BlueClaws Charities –

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

Gwinnett Braves Award March Grant to Kidsplosion Nation Corp.

Organization receives $1,000 “Salute to the Arts” themed grant

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA – The Gwinnett Braves have announced the recipient of their $1,000 grant for the month of March. Kidsplosion Nation Corp. has been awarded the “Salute to the Arts” themed grant, aimed at funding an organization that supports art programs or education.

Kidsplosion Nation enables youth to “Discover, Develop, and Display” their gifts and talents at camps throughout economically challenged areas of Gwinnett County. The organization provides afterschool and summer programs that include courses in dance, karate, comedy, music, art, cooking, acting and more.

Those activities provide children with an opportunity to discover what they enjoy, develop those talents through instruction and display their gifts through shows at the end of camps or afterschool programs. The organization partners with Gwinnett Parks and Recreation and Gwinnett County Schools to offer camps in their facilities. It also provides breakfast, lunch and snacks for free.

The $1,000 grant awarded by the Gwinnett Braves will be used for the purchase of snacks and Kidsplosion T-shirts to give campers, as well as website hosting and upkeep costs.

“We are so completely excited to be March’s grant recipient,” Kidsplosion Founder and CEO Carlena Evans said. “This grant will help us purchase summer camp shirts for about 200 students, which makes for a lot of happy campers. We thank the Gwinnett Braves on behalf of Kidsplosion staff, parents and campers.”

About Kidsplosion Nation Corp.: Kidsplosion Nation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization started in 2010 by Carlena Evans. The organization offers camps and afterschool programs for economically disadvantaged children in Gwinnett County areas with the highest need for affordable youth programming. Those programs enable youth to “Discover, Develop, and Display” their gifts. Kidsplosion also provides free breakfast, lunch and snacks for its campers. Kidsplosion partnered with Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation in 2013 and expanded into Gwinnett County Schools in 2014 with a desire to reach all children. For more information, visit www.kidsplosion.com.

For more information on the Gwinnett Braves Grant Program, including details on how your organization can apply for future grants, call Community Relations Coordinator Alison Atkins at 678-277-0346 or email Alison.Atkins@braves.com.

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The Gwinnett Braves are the Triple-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. Follow the G-Braves at GwinnettBraves.com, facebook.com/GwinnettBraves1 and twitter.com/GwinnettBraves. Tickets are on sale now at the Coolray Field Ticket Office, call 678-277-0340.

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

Scout Program Includes June 7th Jersey Auction

BlueClaws to hold four Scout Nights in 2015

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – Calling all Scouts! The BlueClaws will again hold an extensive Scout program in 2015 and kick it off in style, wearing special Boy Scout Jerseys at their first Scout Day game on Sunday, June 7th.

The special scout jerseys are presented by the Jersey Shore Council of Boy Scouts. They will be auctioned off at the 1:05 pm game and the proceeds from the auction will benefit the Jersey Shore Council of Boy Scouts.

The BlueClaws Scout Program includes four days – June 7th (1:05), July 25th (7:05), August 8th (7:05), August 17th (7:05). July 25th and August 8th are both Scout Night Sleeporvers presented by Camping World, where scouts can camp out on the field after the game. June 7th and August 17th are Kids Eat Free days where scouts 12 and under will receive a free hot dog, bag of chips, and a soda.

Each participating boy or girl scout will receive a Scout Patch. This year’s patch was designed by Grace Beeler of Girl Scout Troop 114 in Hazlet. She was the winner of the annual BlueClaws Scout Patch Design contest.

Scout patches from each of the BlueClaws 15 seasons of Scout Nights are available in the Claws Cove.

All scout groups receive value-priced tickets and a pre-game parade, as well as additional fun.

For more information about the BlueClaws Scout Program, call Kyle Volp at 732-901-7000 ext 142 or click here for a Scout Program flyer.

– BlueClaws –

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

MBF Announces 2015 Grant Recipients

22 organizations are part of 2015 grant class

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MIDLAND, Mich. – The Michigan Baseball Foundation (MBF) is pleased to announce that 22 organizations are part of its 2015 grant class. The 2015 grant total is $108,477.

At Olson Park in Saginaw County, Heritage High School Athletics will install two scoreboards with an $8,000 grant. The Mt. Pleasant School District in Isabella County received $6,900 for construction of a press box at their athletic complex. Improvements to the horse arena at the Bay County Fair and Youth Expo received 6,858 this year. In Tuscola County, the Reese High School softball program received $5,000 to build batting cages for their teams to use.

Since 2008, the Michigan Baseball Foundation has awarded 231 grants to deserving non-profit organizations across 14 counties, bringing the grant program’s total to $829,491 since its inception.

The Foundation began its eighth annual grant process in April 2014 and solicited grant applications from non-profit organizations throughout the region. All applicants were required to meet one or more of the following guidelines, which reflected the purposes for which the Michigan Baseball Foundation was organized:

•   The organization contributes to regional economic development.
•   The organization is based in Mid-Michigan and serves young people.
•   The organization promotes amateur sports and fitness

The 2016 grant session begins Monday, April 20, 2015 and applications will be accepted until February 19, 2016. For more information, contact Eric Ramseyer at 989.837.6166, or at eramseyer@loons.com.

The Michigan Baseball Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and public charity, which was formed in 2006 to generate regional economic development and to enhance the efforts of regional organizations that serve young people through creative partnerships and grants. The Michigan Baseball Foundation owns and operates Dow Diamond, home of the Great Lakes Loons, a Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Foundation received its initial funding from The Dow Chemical Company Foundation, The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation, The Dow Corning Corporation, The Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation, The Charles J. Strosacker Foundation and The Bill and Linda Stavropoulos Foundation.

Full list of grant recipients (by county):

Bay County

Bay City Central High School – $5,000
Bay City Northeast Little League – $3,770
Bay County Fair and Youth Expo – $6,858

Gratiot County

Breckenridge Little League Association – $1,755

Isabella County

Mt. Pleasant School District – $6,900

Midland County

Chippewa Nature Center – $4,900
Edenville Township – $2,834
FRC Team 2619 – $1,900
HH Dow H.S. All Sports Booster Club – $4,550
Midland Center for the Arts – $4,764
Midland Public Schools; Midland High School – $4,000
Midland Speed Skating Club – $5,000
Momentum Midland – $20,000
Sanford Youth League – $4,900

Saginaw County

Carrollton Township Recreation – $4,800
Hemlock Boosters – $1,763
Heritage High School Athletics – $8,000
Mid‐Michigan Children’s Museum – $1,200
Saginaw Community Foundation – $2,583
Swan Valley Little League – $5,000
YMCA of Saginaw – $3,000

Tuscola County

Reese High School Softball – $5,000

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

Spinners Partner on “The Art of Baseball”

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Concord Museum exhibit opens Friday, April 17

LOWELL, MASS. – The Lowell Spinners, Class A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, are pleased to announce their partnership with the Concord Museum on The Art of Baseball, which opens to the public Friday, April 17 and runs through Sunday, September 20.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Concord Museum on this wonderful exhibition which really captures the essence of why baseball is the national past time,” said Spinners President and General Manager Tim Bawmann. “From the actual artwork to the program of events scheduled, this exhibition will be a great way to further the relationship of the game with baseball fans.”

The exhibition includes nearly 50 works of fine and folk art from The Gladstone Collection of Baseball Art, a private New York collection that has been gathered over the past 40 years, as well as Boston Red Sox artifacts from the National Baseball Hall of Fame and historian, Concord resident and lifelong baseball fan Doris Kearns Goodwin is the Honorary Curator.

Included amongst the display items includes a Ted Williams glove from the 1946 season and World Series on loan from the National Baseball Hall of Fame plus artifacts from the 2013 World Series season.

Among the programs and events scheduled include a meet & greet with local author, Matt Tavares, on June 4, Vintage Baseball games with the Lowell Base Ball Club (1877-78) and Lynn Live Oaks on May 2 and July 18, a special Sports Memorabilia Appraisal Day with Leila Dunbar and more.

“These events are a fantastic opportunity for baseball fans young and old to experience the history of the game,” said Bawmann. “We are honored to be a part of this great exhibition.”

The Concord Museum is where all of Concord’s remarkable past is brought to life through an inspiring collection of historical, literary and decorative arts treasures, including the 1775 Revere lantern and Henry Thoreau’s Walden desk. The Art of Baseball exhibit will be open to the public beginning Friday, April 17 with admission $10 for adults, seniors and students $8 and youth (6-18) $5. Kids six and under are free.

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

The Scrappers Host “POPS at the Ballpark” Featuring the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra

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The Mahoning Valley Scrappers and the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra are excited to host one of the Valley’s premiere summer events, POPS at the Ballpark, presented by the Chevy All-Stars and 21 WFMJ on Saturday, September 19, 2015 at Eastwood Field. The Scrappers have partnered with Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley for this year’s concert with $2.00 being donated back to the hospital with each full price ticket purchased.

The Youngstown Symphony Orchestra will perform a selection from their repertoire which will culminate in a spectacular fireworks finale synched to Star Wars Main Titles and Stars and Stripes Forever. Other song performance highlights in the program include: “O Susannah”, “They’re Coming to America”, “Superman Main Titles”, “Philadelphia Freedom”, “This Land Is Your Land” and more.

Tickets for POPS at the Ballpark are on sale now and start at just $20. A dinner buffet option is also available. Tickets are available at the Eastwood Field Box Office, online or by calling the Scrappers at 330-505-0000.

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