Blue Wahoos Earn Southern League Community Service Award

MARIETTA, Ga., – The Southern League of Professional Baseball Clubs has announced the Pensacola Blue Wahoos winners of the Community Service Award. The Blue Wahoos racked up four individual awards including the Woman of Excellence Award, Groundskeeper of the Year, Trainer of the Year and Sports Media Award.

In conjunction with the Studer Community Institute, the Blue Wahoos have ignited a fire within the community to help raise awareness about the importance of Early Childhood Education. By improving early childhood education, we hope to move in a positive direction the metrics for graduation rates, a reduction in crime and juvenile delinquency, an improvement in the number of families living below the poverty line, and attracting employers to Pensacola. The Blue Wahoos’ Community Relations team are helping with early childhood education by providing schools with a Blue Wahoos-focused program, “Kazoo’s Grand Slam Reading Program,” which includes kick-off or “launch” parties wherein Kazoo and our Flight Squad (entertainment group) visit elementary schools and perform “Kazoo Makes the Team.” Once classes have fully-participated in the reading requirements of “Kazoo’s Grand Slam Reading Program,” they are entered in a raffle to win a trip for their class to a Blue Wahoos game. Year over year, participation in our reading program continues to grow.

To further support our commitment to Early Childhood Education, we provide an in-stadium fun fact test that asks children to identify colors, numbers, traits and characteristics of the Blue Wahoos and our stadium. Children complete the test and return with it to Fan Assistance where they are rewarded with a Blue Wahoos promotional giveaway item of their choice.

Ray Sayre, Director of Sports Turf Management for the Blue Wahoos, is this year’s Groundskeeper of the Year, as selected by the league’s field managers and umpires. This is the fifth consecutive year Sayre has won this award. Sayre has been with the Wahoos since the team’s inaugural season. Growing up in Lexington, Kentucky, he began his turf career working on the athletic fields for the University of Kentucky. Before making the move to Pensacola, Sayre worked for several minor league teams including the Louisville Bats, the Greenville Drive and the Bowling Green Hotrods.

Donna Kirby, Vice President of Operations, is this year’s Woman of Excellence Award Winner. Kirby has been a leader with the Blue Wahoos since our inaugural season and has been instrumental in putting Pensacola on the map as leaders in the field of exemplary customer service. Kirby’s core responsibility is to create an environment focused strongly on extraordinary customer service. As a direct result of Kirby’s work with customer service, representatives from local companies, universities newspapers and other baseball teams all wanted to learn how to take their organizations to the next level with customer service.

Bill Vilona, Senior Sports Columnist at the Pensacola News Journal, is honored with the Southern League’s Sports Media Award. Covering the team since the inaugural season, Vilona has covered games, practices, events and offseason activities. Vilona continues to go over and beyond in his coverage by producing positive off-the-field stories to show the positive impact of the Blue Wahoos. Vilona was inducted to the Pensacola Sports Hall of Fame in 2015 as one of only three media members inducted in the hall. He was also inducted into the 2016-17 University of West Florida Athletics Hall of Fame.

Tyler Moos, athletic trainer for the Blue Wahoos, is this years’ Southern League Trainer of the Year. Moos just completed his second year with Pensacola and his second year with the Cincinnati Reds. He joined the Reds following three seasons in the Mariners organization.

As the winner of the Southern League Community Service Award, Pensacola will be nominated for MiLB’s John Henry Moss Award. Sayre will be nominated for the Sports Turf Managers Association classification winner. Kirby is nominated for MiLB’s Woman Executive of the Year Award.

2017 Southern League Awards

Southern League Community Service Award: Pensacola Blue Wahoos

Groundskeeper of the Year: Ray Sayre, Pensacola Blue Wahoos

Woman of Excellence Award: Donna Kirby, Pensacola Blue Wahoos

Sports Media Award: Bill Vilona, Pensacola News Journal

Trainer of the Year: Tyler Moos, Pensacola Blue Wahoos

Don Mincher Organization of the Year: Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp

Southern League Patriot Award: Montgomery Biscuits

Jimmy Brogan Executive of the Year: Harold Craw, Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp

Outstanding Employee of the Year: Ari Rosenbaum, Mobile BayBears

Southern League Promotion Trophy: Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp

Radio Broadcaster of the Year: Chris Harris, Biloxi Shuckers

Best Visiting Clubhouse Attendant: Shawn Jenkins, Tennessee Smokies

Bayboy of the Year Award: Wesley Sullivan, Mobile BayBears

The Pensacola Blue Wahoos are the Double-A Affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and a member of the Southern League. Follow the Pensacola Blue Wahoos at BlueWahoos.com, facebook.com/PensacolaBlueWahoos and twitter.com/BlueWahoosBBall.

–www.bluewahoos.com–

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

Lexington Legends named 2017 Community Service Organization of the Year by South Atlantic League

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends have been named the 2017 Community Service Organization of the Year by the South Atlantic League, which recognizes a club’s outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, philanthropy and leadership within their community. The award is one of the league’s Outstanding Achievement Awards, which are announced annually following the conclusion of the regular season. In the five seasons in which the award has been given, the Legends have won twice, previously winning the inaugural award in 2013.

Throughout the 17 years of their history, the Legends contributed a total of more than $13 million to hundreds of charitable organizations in central and eastern Kentucky. The 2017 season donation total tops close to $1.1 million, a 21% increase in community support from the 2016 season. The Legends Community Organization of the Night program puts a charitable organization in the spotlight at every home game, and numerous special events and fund-raisers are held at Whitaker Bank Ballpark throughout the year.

 

In addition, the Legends have established partnerships with Chambers of Commerce in central and eastern Kentucky and have supported and welcomed youth baseball teams and coaches, religious organizations and other non-profit entities throughout the region.

 

“Being involved in the community is not only part of the Lexington Legends philosophy and mission statement, but it is also a part of the life of each individual that works 12 months a year representing the Legends,” said Legends President and CEO Andy Shea. “Every single employee works diligently with the community to provide a one of a kind, clean, safe, and family-oriented experience at Whitaker Bank Ballpark. It’s an honor to be recognized by our peers in the South Atlantic League for this prestigious award.”
Each of the 14 South Atlantic League teams, along with field managers and umpires, participated in the voting for the South Atlantic League Outstanding Achievement Awards. The Legends will now be nominated for the Minor League Baseball John Henry Moss Community Service Award, which honors the founder of the South Atlantic League for his dedication and charitable service to baseball and his community during his 50-year tenure as a league president. Moss founded the South Atlantic League and presided over it from 1959-2008. The winner of the award will be announced at the Baseball Winter Meetings this December.

For more information, please contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Single-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, recently completed their 17th season in Lexington, Kentucky at Whitaker Bank Ballpark. They open the 2018 season on Thursday, April 5, 2018 against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees. For ticket information, call 859-422-7867 or visit www.LexingtonLegends.com.

BlueClaws Staffer Jamie Stone To Be Recognized By Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore

BlueClaws staff member Jamie Stone will be recognized as part of the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore’s Phenomenal Women Under 40 event on Thursday, September 14th at Park Pavilion in Seaside Park.

Stone serves as the BlueClaws Marketing, Events, Promotions, and Partnership Activation Manager, a role that she has held since 2015. She has previously worked as a Group Sales Manager and Food & Beverage Assistant with the BlueClaws.

In her role with the BlueClaws, Jamie is responsible for all entertainment at the ballpark, including the BlueClaws promotional schedule, giveaways, on-field promotions, and theme nights/events, among many tasks.

She helped the BlueClaws win a Golden Bobblehead Award in 2015 for the Ball Brawl on-field promotion, and helped the BlueClaws get nominated for another Golden Bobblehead Award in 2016 for Harry Potter Night, which was recognized as the Minor League Baseball promotion of the Month for May of last year.

“I am truly honored to be recognized by the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore,” said Stone. “There are so many great young women doing awesome work at the Jersey Shore and it is very humbling to be a part of the group.”

A native of Barnegat, NJ, Jamie graduated from Southern Regional High School in 2006 before attending Johnson & Wales University in Providence, RI where she earned her degree in Sports/Entertainment & Event Management.

“When our Girl Scouts look to the community for role models, we want to show them young women professionals who are making a difference today,” said Susan H. McClure, chief executive officer, Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore. “Our Phenom Award recipients are fearless and daring leaders who set an example in everything they do. Their drive and determination make them excellent examples of women who aren’t afraid to try new things and who do whatever it takes to get the job done.”

Stone and nine others will be recognized as Phenomenal Women Under 40 by the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore on September 14th. Tickets for the event, which begins with a 6:00 pm cocktail hour, are available online at JerseyShoreGirlScouts.org.

– BlueClaws –

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

South Bend Cubs Host Fallen Heroes Day on Saturday, August 27

SOUTH BEND, IN – On Sunday, August 27, the South Bend Cubs will honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the community on Fallen Heroes Day presented by Midland Engineering. In addition to the recognition, the club will announce the 2017 Corporal Paul Deguch Community Service Award recipient.

The Corporal Paul Deguch Community Service Award is presented annually to a South Bend Cubs player who demonstrates outstanding service to the Michiana community. The award is in honor of Corporal Paul Deguch, a City of South Bend police officer, who was killed in the line of duty in August 1997. Members of the Deguch family will be on hand to present the award.

“We are honored to keep the memory of Corporal Deguch alive with this community service award,” said South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. “Everyday police officers, firefighters, EMT’s and service volunteers put their lives on the line to serve and protect, some of which give the ultimate sacrifice. This day is to remember all who lost their lives protecting our community.

Members of the South Bend Police Department will line the field in their squad cars to honor their fallen brother and participate in the award ceremony.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. This year, Four Winds Field, home of the Cubs, was named Ballpark Digest’s Best Single-A ballpark. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

Pink Ribbon Girls to be Honored as Community All-Star

The Dragons and Vectren will honor the Pink Ribbon Girls organization during the unique “Community All-Stars” program on Thursday, August 24, at 7:00 p.m. when the Dayton Dragons take on the Bowling Green Hot Rods at Fifth Third Field.

The Dayton community is a great place to live, work and play. But what makes Dayton truly great are the people that call Dayton home. We have great people and great organizations in our community that do incredible things each and every day. Throughout the season, the Dragons and Vectren will honor five “All-Stars” with a special inning break tribute in recognition of their service.

Pink Ribbon Girls Story

Pink Ribbon Girls is an organization founded by breast cancer survivors who have a passion for supporting and empowering others who are currently in the fight against breast and women’s reproductive cancers. The organization is currently in its sixth year and serves women in Dayton, Cincinnati, and Columbus.

Women that are diagnosed with breast cancer are given information about Pink Ribbon Girls before they even leave the hospital. The organization focuses many of their efforts on those who are dealing with the initial shock and uncertainty of this diagnosis.

Pink Ribbon Girls not only offers services to provide support for the family member with cancer, but also their entire family. Thanks to partnerships with Scratch Event Catering and Rush Transportation, the organization provides three meals per week for the entire family, housecleaning services, rides to and from treatment, and peer support.

The organization serves all women who are suffering from breast or women’s reproductive cancer and their families. There is no income base or age requirement.

President and CEO Heather Salazar has been impressed with the incredible support of the people in this area, “What this community is doing to change the lives of women and families facing the hardest battle of their lives is really, truly what a community should be about and Dayton has raised the bar in that regard.”

Pink Ribbon Girls hosts many events throughout the year, but “Ignite the Fight” is the organization’s signature event and is coming up on Saturday, October 21. Those interested in signing up to volunteer at events or fundraisers can visit the Pink Ribbon Girls Facebook page or visit https://www.pinkribbongirls.org/ for more information.

The Dragons Community All Star program, made possible by the generous support of Vectren, showcases amazing citizens and organizations that have gone above the call of duty to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley all summer long. To nominate someone or learn more, visit daytondragons.com/communityallstar.

More Information: The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling (937) 228-2287, by email at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com.

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

Drive Announce Bob Hughes as 12th Annual Green Day Honoree

Greenville, SC – The Greenville Drive announced today that Bob Hughes, Chairman of Hughes Development Corporation, has been selected as the honoree for the team’s annual Green Day event. The 12th annual Green Day celebration presented by TD Bank will be held Tuesday, August 1st at Fluor Field when the Drive host the Asheville Tourists at 7:05 PM.

Each year, the Drive pay tribute to an individual who has helped make Greenville one of the most dynamic regions in the country. Hughes has been chosen as the 2017 honoree due to his significant role in the renaissance of Downtown Greenville through real estate and mixed-use development, and he has been one of Greenville’s primary visionaries in the continuing growth of the local community.

“Bob is an individual that has devoted his personal and professional life to making Greenville a very special place – to make Greenville a place of note for its design, its offerings, its opportunities and its energy. A place where people gather, and a place where people feel welcome, and it was only appropriate for us the Greenville Drive to recognize his leadership as we celebrate Green Day,” said Craig Brown, Drive Owner and Team President. “Our organization has seen firsthand the impact that Bob has made on Greenville, and the impact he has made will be felt for generations.”

“Bob personifies the culture of Greenville. He is extremely generous with his time with each and every one of us, and we are all grateful for everything he does for this city and this community,” added Greenville Mayor Knox White. “He is responsible for some of Greenville’s building blocks that make our city a special place, and the envy of other cities in this region. He is very much deserving of being this year’s Green Day honoree.”

Hughes’ vision has produced some of Greenville’s most recognizable buildings. Among the projects Hughes has overseen include Riverplace, the NEXT Building, and the ONE Building, all of which host both establishing and emerging businesses in Downtown Greenville.

While Hughes’ developments are all architecturally stunning, they have also been lauded for their impressive sense of community. Each of these projects are graced with plazas that serve as inviting entrances and large gathering places, which tie into Hughes’ belief that these developments should bring friends and families together. Hughes has seen Greenville as an ideal place to raise a family, and his projects have taken that to heart.

“I want to thank the Drive for this incredible honor, as well as my co-workers, my family, and the previous Green Day honorees for all of their support,” said Hughes. “The continued success of Greenville is a collaborative effort, and I’m extremely fortunate to be a part of it. It is very special to be a part of this group of honorees that have done so much for this great place we call home, and I am proud to accept this on behalf of what we’ve accomplished, but also for what we’re going to continue to do in the future.”

Hughes joins an acclaimed group of Green Day honorees, including former Greenville Mayor Max Heller and his wife, Trudy (2006); Greenville City Councilwoman Lillian Brock Flemming and Greenville County Councilwoman Xanthene Norris (2007); former Greenville Technical College President Dr. Tom Barton (2008); businessman and philanthropist C. Dan Joyner (2009); civic leader, judge and attorney Merl Code (2010); former S.C. Governor and U.S. Secretary of Education Dick Riley (2011); South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities Founder Dr. Virginia Uldrick (2012); environmentalist and attorney Tommy Wyche (2013); philanthropists Hayne and Anna Kate Hipp (2014); Centennial American Properties CEO David Glenn (2015); and Erwin Penland Co-Founder Joe Erwin (2016).

In honor of Greenville’s 186th birthday, Drive players will wear special green uniforms and caps on Green Day, and fans are encouraged to create a “green out” by sporting green as well. First pitch is at 7:05 PM, and the first 2,000 adults who enter when the gates open at 6:00 will receive a commemorative Green Day T-shirt, while the first 1,000 kids at Fluor Field will receive a commemorative Green Day superhero cape, all courtesy of TD Bank. Following the game, fans are invited to stick around for a spectacular fireworks show in celebration of Greenville.

To purchase tickets for Green Day on Tuesday, August 1st, go to the Main Street Box Office, call (864) 240-4528 or CLICK HERE. 

About the Greenville Drive

The Greenville Drive, the South Atlantic League affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, is in its 12th season at award-winning Fluor Field in downtown Greenville. Since 2006, more than 400,000 fans a year have been welcomed to Fluor Field for both Drive games and additional community events. In 2012, the Drive was honored with the prestigious Freitas Award, presented by Baseball America and given to an organization which exemplifies excellence in operations, franchise stability and community engagement. 69 Drive alumni have gone on to play at the major-league level, 13 of which were members of the Red Sox 2013 World Series Championship Team.

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

Fort Wayne TinCaps To Honor Esurance Rising Star Students Program Winner During On-Field Ceremony

FORT WAYNE, Ind. –The Fort Wayne TinCaps, Esurance and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana will recognize Addam Ray, a local high school senior and one of 14 Esurance Rising Star Students program winners, during a pregame presentation at Friday’s game versus the Dayton Dragons. The Esurance Rising Star Students program, which highlights and celebrates Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) participants for their outstanding service to their local communities, awards select high school students a $5,000 college stipend each, courtesy of Esurance.

Ray plans to attend Ivy Tech and become a computer programmer. He aspires to start his own company and use it as a platform for doing good in the world. Addam credits his “Big” from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana for “showing him right from wrong, good from bad, laugh in the good times, and talk in the bad times.”

The Esurance Rising Star Students program submissions included unique and inspirational stories, academic accolades, college and career plans and more, emphasizing why each individual was a 

“Rising Star” in his or her community. To be eligible, nominees were required to be “Bigs” or “Littles” in Big Brothers Big Sisters.  

“With the help of Esurance and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, we can recognize a Rising Star Student in our community getting ready for his or her own call-up to college, and honor the student with a unique ballpark celebration,” said Mike Nutter, President of the Fort Wayne TinCaps. 

Last June, Esurance and Minor League Baseball announced a multi-year partnership making it the exclusive home and auto insurance partner of Minor League Baseball. Together, they created the Esurance Call-Up Worthy platform, which launched exclusively on MiLB.com and MiLB team websites. The platform celebrates the iconic moment in Minor League Baseball when a player is called up to Major League Baseball®, highlighting his journey through shareable digital and social content, such as virtual trading cards, video highlights and the Esurance Farm Report.

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

Spear Presented with Troubh Community Service Award

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs are proud to announce that the 2017 recipient of the William Troubh Community Service award is Howard Spear. Spear was presented the award by Sea Dogs’ President Charlie Eshbach and members of Mr. Troubh’s family including wife Nancy in a pre-game ceremony at Hadlock Field on Sunday, May 7th when the Sea Dogs hosted the Reading Fightin Phils.

The “William Troubh Community Service Award” was established in 2015 to honor a local citizen who is making a positive impact within the city of Portland. Mr. Troubh was a lifelong resident of the city of Portland who dedicated his life to making Portland a great place to live and work. He served multiple terms on the Portland City Council and was Mayor of the city in 1974 and 1975 and again in 1983 and 1984. Mr. Troubh was instrumental in bringing the Portland Sea Dogs to the city in 1994. He also played a major role in the development of the Portland Waterfront, Cumberland County Civic Center and the Portland Ice Arena, now named in his honor. His contributions will be enjoyed by residents and visitors of the city for generations to come.

Howard Spear has served as the co-race director of the Sea Dogs’ Mother’s Day 5K road race for 17 years and for the eight-year run of the Father’s Day 5K. The races have helped raise more than $300,000 for local charities to fight breast cancer and prostate cancer. Spear also served as race director of the Maine Marathon for 18 years, retiring this past October. During his time the race raised more than $4 million for local children’s charities and also accentuated healthy living. He is a longtime member of the Maine Track Club Board of Directors and longtime volunteer at many other community events.

“Spear truly exemplifies what Mr. Troubh tried to achieve by making Portland a great place to live and work,” stated Sea Dogs Executive Vice President and General Manager Geoff Iacuessa. “It is an honor to present the 2017 William Troubh Community Service Award to Howard Spear.”

Past recipients of the award include Roger Goodoak, the Executive Director of the Maine Homeless Veteran’s Alliance in 2016 and John Menario in 2015.

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

Shuckers to salute Navy Sailor of the Year tonight in pregame ceremony

BILOXI, MS – Prior to tonight’s 6:35 pm contest against the Montgomery Biscuits, the Shuckers will recognize Naval Construction Battalion Center’s Sailor of the Year, Petty Officer 1st Class (SW/AW) Terrance L. Pringle.

Petty Officer Pringle is from Mobile, Alabama and joined the Navy in the Delayed Entry Program in April 1994. He received recruit training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes IL.

Petty Officer Pringle’s personal awards include Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievements Medal (7), Flag Letters of Commendations (3), Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Expert Pistol and Rifle, and various unit and campaign medals.

Upon graduation from boot camp, he reported to Airman Training School in Great Lakes, IL. Following training school, he reported onboard USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63), North Island, CA, in December 1994 where he was assigned to Fuels Division as an undesignated airman.

He reported to Operation Specialist “A” School in Dam Neck, VA. After graduation, he transferred to his first command in June 2002, USS Taylor (FFG-50), Mayport FL where he advanced to Petty Officer 3rd class and Petty Officer 2nd class and earned the Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist designator.

In September 2004, Petty Officer Pringle crossed decked to the USS Philippine Sea (CG-58), Mayport FL after graduating from Anti-Submarine/Surface Tactical Air Controller “C” School, Norfolk, VA. As one of three ASTAC’s onboard, he logged over 720 hours of live and 130 synthetic control hours.

Following his tour on the Philippine Sea, he transferred to Commander, Navy Region South East Jacksonville, FL in July 2007. While at CNRSE he was assigned to the Regional Operational Center (ROC) and qualified as an Assistant Regional Watch Officer, Staff Career Counselor, and as the Building Manager. During this tour, he advanced to Petty Officer First Class.

In May 2010, Petty Officer Pringle transferred to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 70, Jacksonville, FL where he was converted to Navy Counselor and assumed the duties as the Administration Department Leading Petty Officer and earned the Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist designator.

In June 2014 Petty Officer Pringle reported to Naval Construction Battalion Center, Gulfport, MS to work as the Command Career Counselor.

He is married to Stacey of Jacksonville, FL and has two sons Mehkel (15) and Jayden (12), and resides in Gulfport, MS.

Every Saturday home game this season, fireworks will light up the sky over MGM Park and downtown Biloxi. Experience the best fireworks show on the Mississippi Gulf Coast! This show will have a Country music theme! The homestand will wrap up on Sunday with Family Fun Day and an appearance by Breakin’ BBoy McCoy. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance at any Ticketmaster outlet or at biloxishuckers.com.

ABOUT THE BILOXI SHUCKERS:

The Biloxi Shuckers are the Double-A Southern League 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.

Fightin Phils Honored as People’s Choice Leader

(Reading, Pa) – The Reading Fightin Phils, double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, have been presented the People’s Choice Leader Award in Family Entertainment and Local Sports Team by Berks County Living and Lamar Advertising. The awards were presented at the 12th Annual Berks County People’s Choice Who’s Who in Business Luncheon on Friday, April 28th at the Reading Country Club.

Berks County Living works alongside independent marketing firm Polk-Lepson of York to find which local businesses are tops among county residents each year through months of research and e-mail surveys with consumers about whom they saw as the leading companies in various business categories.

For nearly a half century, the Fightin Phils have been recognized, both nationally and locally, for their tradition of affordable family entertainment.

In 2016, Minor League Baseball released a study that found that average cost for a family of four to enjoy a Minor League Baseball game was $64.97. The average cost was calculated by using the prices of two adult tickets, four hot dogs, two sodas, two beers, a program and parking.

A comparable package in Reading costs $53.00, nearly $11 less than the national average. All of Reading’s prices fall under the national average, including parking and programs, which are both free of charge all year long.

Berks County Living is the only regional magazine dedicated to highlighting all that is unique about the Greater Reading/Berks area. The monthly lifestyle magazine continues to inform readers about what makes Berks County an exceptional place to live.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2017 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

LIFELINK® OF GEORGIA HONORING AUGUSTA GREENJACKETS

AUGUSTA, GA – (April 25, 2017) –    In recognition of the Augusta GreenJacket’s outstanding support of organ, eye and tissue donation, LifeLink of Georgia has partnered with Donate Life America (DLA) to present the team with a Donate Life Champion award. Donate Life Champion awards are given to well-known athletes, teams and other role models within the sports community who have demonstrated remarkable support for donation and inspire others to give the Gift of Life. Previously awarded Donate Life Champions include the Arizona Diamondbacks, Chris Klug, Family of Paco Rodriguez, Washburn University, Ma’ake Kemoeatu, Detroit Tigers, David Eckstein, New Hampshire Fishercats, Michael Jordan, Memphis Redbirds among many others.

Augusta GreenJackets received this award because they continue to support donation through a yearly Donate Life Night to highlight organ donation and put the spotlight on recipients in the CSRA who are able to enjoy a night at the ballpark because of their transplants, as well as organ donors and their families who make renewed life possible.

“Our team is honored to work with LifeLink of Georgia to educate GreenJackets fans on the importance of organ donation. We are humbled to be recognized as a Donate Life Champion for the commitment our team has to this community,” says Tom Denlinger, General Manager Augusta GreenJackets, “One fan can potentially save and improve the lives of seventy-five people by being an organ and tissue donor. Today, the GreenJackets organization encourages everyone to take action to save lives.”

We each have the opportunity to help make a lifesaving difference for critically ill patients, simply by registering as organ and tissue donors online at www.DonateLifeGeorgia.org or during a driver license transaction while at your local driver license office. Contact LifeLink of Georgia for more information on organ and tissue donation at (800) 544-6667 or visit www.LifeLinkFoundation.org.

Join the GreenJackets and LifeLink of Georgia at Lake Olmstead Stadium on Friday, April 28th as the Greenville Drive (Red Sox) come to town for Donate Life Night with a 7:05pm first pitch. The first 1,000 fans will receive a LifeLink of Georgia Car Flag Giveaway. Fans will have the opportunity to register to become organ donors on the concourse as well as learn more about organ donation throughout the game. Post-game kids can run the bases.

The 29th consecutive season of professional baseball in Augusta is underway. All GreenJackets Ticket Packages, including Full, Half, and Weekend Packages, and single game tickets are on sale now for the 2017 Season. For more information, including pricing and benefits on all plans, visit www.GreenJacketsBaseball.com or contact the GreenJackets Front Office at (706) 922-WINS (9467).

LifeLink of Georgia is a non-profit community service organization dedicated to the recovery of organs and tissues for transplantation. To register as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.DonateLifeGeorgia.org.

Donate Life America is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit alliance of national organizations and state teams across the United States committed to increasing the number of donated organs, eyes and tissue available for transplant to save and heal lives. Learn more at www.DonateLife.net.

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

Sea Dogs Now Accepting Nominations for William Troubh Community Service Award

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs are now accepting nominations for the “William Troubh Community Service Award.” The award recognizes a local citizen who is making a positive impact within the city of Portland. It may be a public employee or private citizen who, through their efforts, makes Portland a great city to live and or work in.

The Sea Dogs established the award to honor Mr. Troubh in April of 2014. Mr. Troubh was a lifelong resident of the city of Portland, who dedicated his life to making Portland a great place to live and work. He served multiple terms on the Portland City Council and was Mayor of the city in 1974 and 1975 and again in 1983 and 1984. Troubh was instrumental in bringing the Portland Sea Dogs to the city in 1994. He also played a major role in the development of the Portland Waterfront, Cumberland County Civic Center and the Portland Ice Arena, now named in his honor. His contributions will be enjoyed by residents and visitors of the city for generations to come.

Additionally, Mr. Troubh was a passionate baseball fan. He stayed involved after his key role in helping to bring the Sea Dogs to Portland, serving as the team’s legal counsel and served six years as President of the Eastern League from 1997 through 2002. On most summer nights Troubh could be found at Hadlock Field enjoying a Sea Dogs game with family and friends. He was inducted into the Portland Sea Dogs Hall of Fame in 2010.

Nominations must be received by Friday, March 17th. Online nomination forms are available at www.seadogs.com. On the nomination form, people will be asked to describe the actions their nominee takes to make Portland a great place to live and work. Nominations may also be mailed to:

Portland Sea Dogs
ATTN: William Troubh Community Service Award
271 Park Avenue
Portland, ME 04102

When submitting a nomination please also include your contact information.

The winner will be announced and honored in a pre-game ceremony on Saturday, May 6th when the Sea Dogs host the Reading Fightin Phils at 1:00 PM at Hadlock Field.

Past winners include John Menario in 2015 and Roger Goodoak from the Maine Maine Homeless Veteran’s Alliance in 2016.

RiverDogs Support Recognized as Charleston is Among ADC’s “Great American Defense Communities”

CHARLESTON, SC – In part thanks to the Charleston RiverDogs’ support of the local military, the Charleston Region was among the honorees recognized as “Great American Defense Communities” by the Association of Defense Communities (ADC).

The RiverDogs were cited among the many reasons for Charleston’s recognition of the honor with the support provided by the club to military families and their loved ones helping Charleston to be tabbed as one of the eight communities included in the 2017 class. Joining Charleston were the following seven communities:

·         The Alamo – San Antonio Region, TX

·         Christian County, KY

·         The Fort Hood – Central Texas Region

·         Hampton Roads, VA

·         Maricopa County, AZ

·         Sierra Vista, AZ

·         The Governments of Southeastern Connecticut

“All eight in the 2017 class of honorees truly embody the ideals this initiative was designed to celebrate – making host communities for our nation’s military installations ‘Great Places to Call Home,'” said ADC President Mike Cooper.

“We are honored to be recognized for our efforts as the Charleston community receives this important distinction,” said RiverDogs President and General Manager Dave Echols. “The Charleston community has always done an excellent job of supporting local military and their loved ones and the RiverDogs are proud to be a part of this tradition.”

Over the next six months, each community will host a local event recognizing its selection and celebrating the hard work and creativity of the individuals and organizations making their communities great places for service members and their families to live. These events will culminate in a special reception and a congressional breakfast during the Defense Communities

National Summit in Washington, DC, June 19-21, 2017.

In 2016, the RiverDogs continued to go beyond paying their respects to the Lowcountry’s strong military family and were recognized with Minor League Baseball’s inaugural Charles K. Murphy Patriot Award for their outstanding support of military members.

In addition to hosting several Military Appreciation Nights, the RiverDogs honored a Military Family of the Game with the featured veteran at each home game receiving complimentary tickets, food, and merchandise along with an in-game recognition of their service.

Additionally in 2016, the RiverDogs strengthened their ties with the local military community through the hiring of Alfonso Rogers, a recent sport management graduate of The Citadel and current member of the Air Force Reserves. The club also hired five retired military veterans to their gameday cleanup crew.

The Great American Defense Communities program, developed in conjunction with the House

and Senate Defense Communities Caucuses was designed to highlight the unique contributions of cities, counties and regions that host installations make to improve quality of life for service members, veterans and their families. This 2017 class of communities was selected by a panel of defense community advocates and experts from dozens of nominees based on the broad range of efforts each area carries out on behalf of military personnel and their families, considering factors such as education, job opportunities, housing, family support during deployments and community appreciation. This year’s program is made possible through generous support from USAA and the National Math + Science Initiative.

ADC is a national nonprofit organization that is the connection point for leaders from communities, states, the military and industry on community-military issues and installation management to enhance knowledge, information sharing and best practices. With nearly 300 communities, states, regions and affiliated industry organizations, ADC represents every major defense community/state in the nation.

RiverDogs season tickets, half-season ticket packages and mini plans are now available for the 2017 campaign. The RiverDogs, the Class-A affiliate of the 27-time world champion New York Yankees, begin the season on April 6 when they host the Lexington Legends at Joseph P Riley, Jr. Park. Single-game tickets and the full promotional schedule will become available in March. Ticket information can be secured by contacting the box office at (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or online at www.riverdogs.com.

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RiverDogs, MiLB Make Contribution to SC Based Warrior Surf Foundation

CHARLESTON, SC -Military families and baseball go hand-in-hand. For their continued efforts to support the local military community, the Charleston RiverDogs will have a contribution to the Warrior Surf Foundation donated on their behalf from Minor League Baseball after receiving the inaugural Chuck Murphy Patriot Award at the Baseball Winter Meetings.

“On behalf of Minor League Baseball Charities, it is an honor to present this donation on behalf of the Charleston RiverDogs to the Warrior Surf Foundation,” said Minor League Baseball President & CEO Pat O’Conner. “The Warrior Surf Foundation was created by veterans for veterans and provides some of America’s true heroes the opportunity to reintegrate themselves back into life after serving our country. They are a worthy organization and I commend them on their efforts to better the lives of Armed Forces veterans.”

As part of their recognition for the newly minted award, MiLB will contribute $2,500 in the RiverDogs’ name to the South Carolina-based nonprofit that serves veterans dealing with post-combat mental health issues.

“On behalf of the Warrior Surf Foundation we would like to thank the Charleston RiverDogs and Minor League Baseball for their donation.   Our program can only succeed with the help of our community. We are honored to have been chosen and feel great joy that RiverDogs entrusted us with the donation and truly support our cause,” said Andy Manzi, President and Co-Founder of the Warrior Surf Foundation “We are a small organization and every dollar counts. Warrior Surf will invest the received donation on our surf program which includes surf boards, wet suits, rash guards, and safety equipment. All of which is costly but necessary for our veterans and their families to succeed in the water.”

Founded in Folly Beach in May 2015, the Warrior Surf Foundation is committed to bringing warriors and their families together to promote mental and physical well-being by exposing them to the unique experience of surfing. In just their first year, the WSF provided services to more than 90 veterans and active duty service members through their weekend surf camps.

“We’re thrilled to have a contribution made in our name to this worthy cause,” said RiverDogs President and General Manager Dave Echols. “The fact that this donation comes as part of our recognition of the Patriot Award is a testament to Minor League Baseball’s commitment to serving veterans.”

As the South Atlantic League’s nominee for the Patriot Award, the RiverDogs continued to go beyond paying their respects to the Lowcountry’s strong military family in 2016. The club hosted three Military Appreciation nights during the season, continued their support of the Wounded Warrior Corps on “Red Shirt Fridays” where fans wore red in their support of the military, and honored a military family of the game each night at The Joe. Also in 2016, the RiverDogs hired five homeless military veterans for their stadium clean-up crew in the wake of the dissolution of Charleston’s Tent City, and hired a current Air Force reservist as a member of the sales staff. The RiverDogs employ more than 30 military veterans on their gameday operation.

The Patriot Award is named in honor of the longtime Florida State League president and U.S. Army veteran who passed away Feb. 21, 2015, at the age of 83. Murphy retired as a Lieutenant Colonel after 21 years in the U.S. Army, broke into professional baseball in 1975 and led the Florida State League from 1990 until his passing. He received the Warren Giles Award for outstanding service as a league president in both 2011 and 1991, and the Friends of Baseball Chapel Award in 1994.

RiverDogs season tickets, half-season ticket packages and mini plans are now available for the 2017 campaign. The RiverDogs begin the season on April 6 when they host the Lexington Legends at Joseph P Riley, Jr. Park. Ticket information can be secured by contacting the box office at (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or online at www.riverdogs.com.

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RiverDogs Honored with Inaugural Charles K. Murphy Patriot Award from MiLB

CHARLESTON, SC – With a vibrant military community right in their backyard, the Charleston RiverDogs have consistently expressed their gratitude to the service men and women in the Lowcountry. Through their continued efforts, the RiverDogs have been awarded the inaugural Charles K. Murphy Patriot Award recognizing an individual or club for its outstanding support of the military branches and engagement with veterans as announced by the Minor League Baseball office.

As the South Atlantic League’s nominee for the newly minted award, the RiverDogs continued to go beyond paying their respects to the Lowcountry’s strong military family in 2016. The club hosted three Military Appreciation nights during the season where all active and retired service members enjoyed complementary tickets. The club also continued their support of the Wounded Warrior Corps on “Red Shirt Fridays” where fans wore red in their support of the military along with a portion of the ticket proceeds benefitting the nonprofit.

“With the strong military community that we have in Charleston, recognizing both veterans and active service members has always been a focal point for us as an organization,” said RiverDogs President and General Manager Dave Echols. “This award is as much recognition of our efforts as it is to the fantastic support we have had from the Charleston community to show solidarity with our men and women in uniform.”

In addition to hosting several Military Appreciation Nights, the RiverDogs also honored a Military Family of the Game with the featured veteran at each home game receiving complimentary tickets, food, and merchandise along with an in-game recognition of their service.

The RiverDogs were also an instrumental part in the founding of the Palmetto Military Support Group, a civilian organization focused on the backing of the extended military family in the Lowcountry. Echols currently serves as the Vice President on the PMSG board.

“It is exciting to see the RiverDogs nationally recognized for their outstanding support to our military. It comes as no surprise to those of us who serve at Joint Base Charleston who have been the focus of their support. I’m glad to see it recognized by others,” said Colonel Robert Lyman, Commanding Officer of Joint Base Charleston and the 628th Air Base Wing. “The RiverDogs have continuously supported our Joint Base Charleston active duty, reservists, retirees and their families. We are grateful, and excited to see them recognized.”

Service men and were also frequent performers of the National Anthem at The Joe and the club had honorary commander participation to the annual “Citadel Night” where the famed Summerall Guards perform and the Cadet Chorale sings “The Star Spangled Banner.”

Additionally in 2016, the RiverDogs strengthened their ties with the local military community through the hiring of Alfonso Rogers, a recent sport management graduate of The Citadel who previously earned an associate’s degree in Aviation / Airway Management and Operations from the Community College of the Air Force in 2014, as a sales executive. Rogers also served as president of the Student Veterans of America while at the Military College of South Carolina.

The Patriot Award is named in honor of the longtime Florida State League president and U.S. Army veteran who passed away Feb. 21, 2015, at the age of 83. Murphy retired as a Lieutenant Colonel after 21 years in the U.S. Army, broke into professional baseball in 1975 and led the Florida State League from 1990 until his passing. He received the Warren Giles Award for outstanding service as a league president in both 2011 and 1991, and the Friends of Baseball Chapel Award in 1994.

RiverDogs season tickets, half-season ticket packages and mini plans are now available for the 2017 campaign. The RiverDogs begin the season on April 6 when they host the Lexington Legends at Joseph P Riley, Jr. Park. Ticket information can be secured by contacting the box office at (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or online at www.riverdogs.com

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