Drive Set to Host Two Marquee Community Events at Fluor Field

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GREENVILLE, S.C. – The Greenville Drive is pleased to announce two upcoming marquee community events at Fluor Field. A new event, the Green Monster Mash (October 17), and a community favorite, the Upstate Veterans Salute (November 8), will offer free, family fun and a chance for the Upstate to once come together at Fluor Field – our community’s ideal outdoor social distancing venue.

Named after Fluor Field’s iconic Green Monster in left field, the first-ever Green Monster Mash Fall Festival will offer trick-or-treating, hayrides, a pumpkin patch, Halloween and fall-themed arts and crafts and a screening of the movie “Goosebumps” (rated PG). Trick-or-treating and other activities will run from 3-5 p.m., with the movie starting at 5 p.m. Movie seating is available on the field and in stadium seats, so bring a blanket and prepare to get spooky. Admission to The Green Monster Mash is free, but reservations are required and must be staggered to ensure social distancing. Reserve your spot today by clicking here

For the 5th straight year, the Upstate Veterans Salute, founded originally by the Drive & long-time community partners Michelin, General Electric, & Prisma Health, honors & recognizes our community’s Veterans & active military heroes. This year’s event will feature emotional & powerful Military focused programming, Military vehicle displays at the stadium gates, an aerial flyover by the vintage Warbirds Flyover Team, and a concert by up-and-coming country artist Filmore. South Carolina Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette will provide the keynote address, and the salute will conclude with a patriotic fireworks display. Gates open at 3 p.m., with Filmore set to begin at 4:30pm. Socially distanced seating will be available both in stadium seats as well as in first come, first served “pods” set up on the field itself. As always, admission to the Upstate Veterans Salute is free but a ticket reservation is required. Reserve your tickets today at UpstateSalute.com.

“Despite the challenges of the last 7 months, the Drive’s commitment to the Upstate community is stronger than ever & we’re excited to announce our upcoming Halloween & Veterans Day events”, said Drive Vice President of Marketing, Jeff Brown. “We’ve all missed out on a lot this year, so, with these events, the Drive is thrilled to bring back some of the joy and fun we are accustomed to providing our community each year. We encourage everyone to come out and enjoy themselves in the safe and welcoming environment that is Fluor Field.”

SC Counts Day of Action at Fluor Field on Saturday

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The Greenville Drive are joining in on Lt. Governor Pamela Evette’s “2020 Census Day of Action Challenge”. This Saturday, September 26th from 9 AM to 2 PM, Fluor Field will serve as Greenville County’s location – joining 23 additional counties across the state – in a last-ditch effort to increase census participation before the September 30th deadline.

Additional important services will be provided at Fluor Field, including:

  • COVID-19 Testing
  • Flu Vaccinations
  • Voter Registration
  • SC DMV Read ID

Those wishing to take advantage of any and all of these services, will enter the ballpark through the Main Street Gate. A MASK MUST BE WORN TO ENTER FLUOR FIELD.

A limited edition “Vote. Baseball.” T-shirt, featuring the Greenville Drive logo, will also be available for purchase at the Greenville Drive Team Store, located outside of the Main Street Gate. The Team Store will open at 11 AM on Saturday.

South Carolina is currently lagging behind in the 2020 Census self-response rate. A complete county is critical for local governments to receive their fair share of resources from any federal and state programs for the next 10 years. In 2016, South Carolina received more than $12 billion from federal spending programs guided by data derived from the 2010 Census. South Carolina can’t afford to miss out!

460 Battle Brings Communities Together

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Roanoke, VA, September 10, 2020 – There’s nothing like a battle to bring people together for a greater purpose. Blue Eagle Credit Union, the Lynchburg Hillcats, and the Salem Red Sox have planned a rivalry baseball game to:

1. Bring back baseball locally and have some fun!

2. Unify communities with a little friendly competition!

3. Recognize some of the key ‘players’ in making our communities a great place to live, work, and PLAY!

“We are thrilled to partner with Blue Eagle Credit Union to rekindle the 460 Rivalry with the Hillcats and the city of Lynchburg. This inaugural game will be a bright spot in 2020 and something that we can continue each year to honor these two great communities.” Allen Lawrence, General Manager, Salem Red Sox

The game is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Friday, October 9, 2020 at the Salem Memorial Ballpark. Gates will open at 5:30 p.m. The teams are being drafted currently and will be announced soon. Teams will be made up of local ‘celebrity MVPs’.

Admission is free, thanks to Blue Eagle Credit Union’s sponsorship, but limited to the first 1,000 fans. Don’t miss the action, reserve your tickets early by going online to https://www.milb.com/salem/events/blue-eagle-460-battle. Donations will be accepted at the gate to benefit the American Red Cross and the United Way (in both Lynchburg and Roanoke). Both of these organizations have local programs instrumental in supporting the financial, medical, family, safety, and education aspects of our communities. “Elevating awareness and support for the Red Cross and United Way is a big part of the game – and we’re hoping we hit a home run for them both with donations.” shared Laurissa Grubb, Director of Marketing for Blue Eagle Credit Union.

Andrew Alegre, Brand Ambassador for Blue Eagle Credit Union added “We’ve partnered with the Hillcats and Red Sox for years. We choose to do so because we share common values and a desire to see our communities prosper. We love finding unique and fun ways to get the job done!”

Though this inaugural game will be held in Salem, there’s talk that the game would rotate between the two cities. Matt Klein, Assistant General Manager for the Lynchburg Hillcats comments “We couldn’t be more excited to ramp up the 460 rivalry with The Salem Red Sox and The Lynchburg Hillcats all in the name of “Community”. A wonderful opportunity to connect two great cities, collaborate with Blue Eagle Credit Union, and compete on the “diamond” by celebrating members of each community that play a vital role in making our cities “move and shake!”

Game Day Bonus – The first 500 fans in the gate will receive a limited edition 460 Community Battle t-shirt! Visit the Blue Eagle Credit Union table on game day for additional giveaways (while supplies last). Not a Blue Eagle Credit Union member yet? See what they have for you on game day! You won’t want to miss it.

*– END – *

Blue Eagle® Credit Union is a local not-for-profit financial cooperative serving the greater Roanoke and Lynchburg areas, since 1948. Blue Eagle® Credit Union’s Google review rating averages 4.9 out of 5 stars_, a direct result of their commitment to improving the financial picture of their members and the communities they serve. Blue Eagle® Credit Union wants you to see banking differently! Insured by NCUA. _

_The Salem Red Sox are the Advanced-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox and call Salem Memorial Ballpark in Salem, Virginia home. The team was founded in 1968 and purchased by Fenway Sports Management in December of 2007. _

_The Lynchburg Hillcats are the Advanced-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. The Hillcats are eight-time Carolina League Champions, having most recently won the Mills Cup Championship in 2017. The Hillcats play their home games in Lynchburg, VA which has been home to Minor League Baseball since 1940. Visit the Hillcats online at Lynchburg-hillcats.com, and follow the Hillcats on Twitter (@LynHillcats), Instagram (@LynHillcats) and Facebook (Lynchburg Hillcats). _

Pawtucket Red Sox and PawSox Foundation to hold first-ever Fall Golf Classic

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Event takes place on Tuesday, October 6th at Pawtucket Country Club.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.

PAWTUCKET, RI – In an effort to raise more funds to help the community through this unprecedented year, the Pawtucket Red Sox will hold their inaugural PawSox Foundation Golf Classic presented by Navigant Credit Union on Tuesday, October 6, 2020, at Pawtucket Country Club. Proceeds from the event will help the PawSox Foundation support the charities of Rhode Island and the many community partners who have relied upon the ballclub’s support for the past five decades. The course sponsor is LiUNA! Local 271.

The club is celebrating its 50th Anniversary by providing “50 Acts of Kindness” throughout the Ocean State for the second straight year, and this outing will help augment the impact of those acts.

Co-chairmen of the event are PawSox Hall of Famer Mike Tamburro and longtime PawSox executive Mike Lyons.

“This community has been our home for over 50 years,” Tamburro said. “And, with your help, our organization will continue to operate the PawSox Foundation and continue the partnerships and relationships right here in the years to come. We look forward to an afternoon of good friends and good golf.”

The October 6th PawSox Foundation Golf Classic will begin with registration from 11:00 am – 12:00 noon followed by a 12:15 pm shotgun start and then scramble play. A BBQ lunch will be served on the course. Registration includes green and cart fees (18 holes) as well as lunch and dinner (at 5:30 pm). Guests will also receive a complimentary PawSox gift bag upon arrival.

The entry fee is $200 per person or $800 per foursome. Tee Box Signs are available for $200. Click here to register now.

Fans can visit pawsox.com for more information or contact Tamburro at [email protected] or Lyons at [email protected].

The Pawtucket Country Club is committed to providing precautions and ensuring everyone’s safety. The PawSox Foundation thanks PCC owners David Rampone and Gary Reis, along with general manager Jacki Doyle and golf professional Mike Gelinas.

Sea Dogs Virtual Sell Out to Help Strike Out Cancer in Kids

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Portland, Maine– Throughout the month of September, which is National Childhood Cancer Awareness month, the Sea Dogs are asking fans to help virtually sell out Hadlock Field to raise money for the Sea Dogs’ official charity- Maine Children’s Cancer Program.

The Sea Dogs and Maine Children’s Cancer Program are hoping to sell 7,368 virtual seats, representing the capacity of Hadlock Field, at $10.00 per seat, with all the money generated benefitting Maine Children’s Cancer Program.

Fans can purchase their virtual seats and contribute to the fundraiser at seadogs.com. The virtual sell out fundraising campaign will run from September 1st -30th.

Everyone who purchases a ticket will be entered to win a Sea Dogs prize pack. Winners will be drawn weekly throughout the fundraising campaign.

“Unfortunately, we were not able to sell out any games this season at Hadlock Field,” stated Sea Dogs President & General Manager Geoff Iacuessa. “We have the best fans in baseball and we know that they will help us achieve the most meaningful sell out of them all, the one that helps children and their families in Maine battling cancer.”

During a normal season, the Sea Dogs’ Strike Out Cancer in Kids program, raises money through fan pledges per strikeouts thrown by Sea Dogs pitchers. In 25 seasons of the program, more than 5 million dollars has been raised for Maine Children’s Cancer Program. With the cancellation of the 2020 Minor League Baseball season, the virtual sell out, is a crucial program for the Sea Dogs to still be able to deliver the fundraising that Maine Children’s Cancer Program counts on us and our fans on to provide so that they can help strike out cancer in kids.

“Unfortunately, childhood cancer does not let up during a pandemic, which is why support from community members like you remains as vital as ever,” stated Maine Children’s Cancer Program Philanthropy Manager Ashton Hunter-Sildve. “For 25 years, the Portland Sea Dogs have made it their mission to “go to bat” for local children battling cancer. The funds raised through Strike Out Cancer in Kids over the last 25 years has helped our team at MCCP provide world-class cancer care in a closer to home setting, support services for the entire family through their journey with childhood cancer and research opportunities that continue to bring us closer to a cure! Join the Portland Sea Dogs as they virtually sell out Hadlock Field to continue making a difference in the lives of Maine’s youngest cancer fighters.”

Public Education Partners and Greenville Drive Announce My Drive to #Teach864 Campaign

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GREENVILLE, S.C. – Public Education Partners (PEP) and the Greenville Drive announced today that they will continue their support of Greenville’s public school teachers through the My Drive to #Teach864 campaign. The annual #Teach864 Night between the two organizations is a celebration of teachers across all Greenville County Schools, and is one of the most highly anticipated events at Fluor Field each year.

However, Covid-19 and the cancellation of the Drive’s 2020 baseball season prevented the event from taking place in its usual format this year – but that’s not stopping the team from going to bat for teachers.

As school doors reopen, PEP and the Drive will be launching a two-week community fundraising effort – My Drive to #Teach864 – to support programming focused on teacher health and wellbeing, appreciation, and access to professional development for the 2020-21 school year. These programs represent one of PEP’s three strategic priorities – Elevating Teachers – which is focused on recruitment, retention, and morale initiatives that cultivate increased teacher satisfaction.

In celebration of PEP’s 35th anniversary and the Drive’s 15th anniversary, the organizations are committed to raising $35,000 from August 24th through September 7th by asking individuals to pledge $8.64 a month or make a one-time gift of $100, $50, or $25 in support of Greenville County’s teachers. Corporate sponsorships ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 are also available in support of the campaign.

Pledges to the campaign, as well as more information on PEP’s programming, can be made online at www.pepgc.org.

“Statewide data shows that teachers are leaving the classroom earlier in their careers than ever before. In Greenville County, 40% of teachers leaving the profession did so within the first five years,” stated Catherine Schumacher, PEP CEO & President. “Understanding that teachers are facing more hurdles than ever as they return to school this fall, PEP is doubling down on our commitment to teacher retention and morale. We are lucky to have community partners like the Greenville Drive that also recognize the importance of this moment and are joining us in thinking innovatively about how we support teachers.”

“While we may not be able to hit home runs at Fluor Field this season, that will not prevent us from hitting them in the classroom with PEP and Greenville County Schools,” Craig Brown, Greenville Drive Owner & President. “During our first 15 years our mission has always been, and will continue to be, a part of the fabric of the Upstate Community. Despite not having a Drive baseball season this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we have doubled-down on that support, which includes our support of Greenville County Schools and Public Education Partners. We look forward to watching this campaign deliver valuable resources and opportunities to teachers.”

In addition the Drive, significant financial pledges have been made to the My Drive to #Teach864 campaign by Greenville Federal Credit Union, and others.

Salem Red Sox to Host “The Last Inning” – High School Senior Baseball Game

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Salem Red Sox to Host The Last Inning – High School Senior Baseball Game

Salem Red Sox to host senior baseball game featuring 63 players from 21 local high schools on August 1st

SALEM, Va. – On Saturday, August 1st, Salem Memorial Ballpark will open its’ gates to welcome 63 local high school senior baseball players along with their friends and family during The Last Inning. Comprised of 4 teams, sponsored by Coke, American National Bank, Kroger, & Guelich Capital Management, The Last Inning features players from 21 local area high schools.

“This game means a lot to me, being able to play with the other seniors in the valley one last time is going to be exciting,” said North Cross Senior, Nick Carey. “I am so thankful for everyone that organized this event. Not getting to play my senior year was very disappointing but this game is giving all of the seniors a chance to play that final game and have closure on our high school baseball career.”

Gates will open at 1:30p with Game 1 starting at 3p. “Senior Day” player recognition will occur in between games, with Game 2 beginning at 6:30p. The evening’s event will conclude with post-game fireworks. Players will receive the full-game experience with announcements, head shots, and jerseys provided by the Salem Red Sox.

“I personally have so many friends involved in this event. From coaches to parents of the seniors, each are super excited to have the opportunity to play in the game with their teammates and on Salem Memorial Field,” said Gary Walthall, retired William Byrd High School, Athletic Director. “The players are thankful for the chance to play and excited to see their friends again.”

Admission is free and concessions will be available for purchase. No outside food or beverage will be permitted. All social distancing guidelines and CDC recommendations will be followed. Masks are encouraged.

“We wanted to make the most of an unfortunate situation and hope to replicate their Senior Day while giving them one last game to play together,” said General Manager, Allen Lawrence. “Our staff is excited to be a part of this memorable event and we encourage the community to join as we applaud their hard work.”

Teams will hold practice at Salem Memorial Ballpark next Tuesday and Wednesday at 4:30p and 6p. Gates will be open for spectators and media. To view The Last Inning roster, please visit SalemSox.com.

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The Salem Red Sox are the Advanced-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox and call Salem Memorial Ballpark in Salem, Virginia home. The team was founded in 1968 and purchased by Fenway Sports Management in December of 2007.

Greenville Top Fundraiser in MiLB’s CommUNITY First Campaign

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GREENVILLE, S.C. — The Greenville Drive, along with long-time corporate partners Trehel Corporation, Duke Energy, and Spinx, recently participated in Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY First campaign during the month of May, helping raise critical funds and resources for those most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of this effort, the Drive along with its partners aimed to maximize community impact and dollars raised; ultimately raising over $7,200 – the highest amount raised of all Minor League Baseball teams in the country!

“We’ve always worked tirelessly in both good and challenging times to position the Drive as the ‘Front Porch Of The Community’ so it’s a great privilege for us to take part in Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY First Campaign and give back to those who need it most,” said Craig Brown, President and Owner of the Greenville Drive. “To raise the most funds across all of Minor League Baseball, and to do so with the great help of our long-time friends and partners at Trehel, Spinx, and Duke Energy, is humbling and speaks to the generosity and collaborative spirit of our partners and the Upstate community. COVID-19 has impacted nearly every aspect of daily life and we’re grateful for the help of our partners and the opportunity to use our platform to help those impacted the most.”

These critical funds will be distributed locally to Harvest Hope Food Bank and throughout the Upstate to help those most in need. In addition, as part of this effort, the Drive has also committed to donating 750 tickets to an Opening Week game during the 2021 season to be utilized by local heroes and frontline workers battling COVID-19. In total, because of the great work done by the Drive and its partners, as well as all Minor League Baseball teams across the country, over 550,000 meals will be donated to families through Feeding America’s nationwide network, and over 5,500 MiLB tickets will be provided to heroes and frontline workers across the nation.

“The Greenville Drive are a shining example of a team bringing together its local community and corporate partners to help individuals most impacted by COVID-19,” said Courtney Nehls, Director of Community Engagement of Minor League Baseball. “We are grateful to the Drive for putting forth such an extraordinary effort throughout the entire MiLB CommUNITY First initiative, and in turn, donating the most funds and tickets to the national campaign.”

For more information and details on the success and impact of the CommUNITY First Program, please visit GreenvilleDrive.com/commUNITYFirst.

Drive Named Greenville County Schools Partner of the Year

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Superintendent Dr. Burke Royster today announced the Greenville Drive as the 2020 Greenville County Schools Partner of the Year. This award was created to recognize and affirm organizations, groups, or individuals who are making a significant positive impact on our ability to fulfill the school district’s mission. This impact is seen through volunteer time, financial contributions, in-kind donations, or other collaborative supports to students, schools or the district as a whole.

“Recognizing the Greenville Drive as our Partner of the Year is the result of a multifaceted partnership between the Drive and Greenville County Schools,” said Superintendent Dr. Burke Royster. “We are fortunate to have a strong partnership that recognizes our athletes for their academic achievement, that recognizes our employees and helps recruit teachers into the profession and to our district, and that brings recognition and awareness of the various careers in manufacturing and health care to our students.”

The Greenville Drive has been a longtime champion of Greenville County Schools’ students and staff. Employee support is evident in the Drive’s annual GCS Appreciation Night to honor all employees. Every employee receives a complimentary ticket to the game and a ballpark food voucher. Employees are celebrated and recognized with between-inning games, great prize giveaways, and teacher recognition.

The Drive teams up with Public Education Partners for #Teach864 Night to celebrate teachers and promote the teaching profession. GCS teachers received a complimentary ticket, free t-shirt, and food voucher, and are honored on the field throughout the game.

The Reading All-Stars Program is aimed at promoting reading and academic success for students in second through eighth grades. Students who complete the reading program receive a ticket voucher as well as Reading All-Stars merchandise, a book for their personal library, and participation in the pre-game parade or Meet-the-Player event.

Since 2015, the Greenville Drive has sponsored the Drive for Excellence academic awards, presented annually to high performing athletic teams and athletic departments. Under normal circumstances, student athletes are recognized at a spring Greenville Drive baseball game. Recognition includes gift bags, snacks and guest speakers during a reception and the winning schools’ principal and athletic director are recognized and receive the trophy during the game. Each of the winning sport teams are recognized between innings on the field, and all teams with an average GPA of 4.0 are recognized on the message board. Due to this year’s COVID-19 pandemic, the awards were presented on-field, but the Drive highlighted GCS winners during the #BetheLight recognition.

Another partnership between the Greenville Drive and LaunchGVL gives high school students the opportunity to participate in a paid internship. The Greenville Drive also sponsors programs such as Manufacturing Night and Health Careers Night for students to learn about careers and certifications in these fields.

Fans Can Post Messages to McCoy’s Videoboard to Raise Funds for COVID-19 Relief

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“Scoreboard Surprises…at Home Edition” can commemorate graduations, celebrations, Father’s Day, and more.

PAWTUCKET, RI – PawSox fans may send in customized messages to be displayed and photographed on McCoy Stadium’s videoboard to benefit the COVID-19 relief efforts. With a donation of any amount to the PawSox Foundation, fans receive a high resolution, digital photo of their message via email.

Fans can visit pawsox.com (and gowoosox.com) starting at noon tomorrow (Thursday, May 14) to submit messages, which can include photographs and artistic images as well.

“We recognize that so many in our community have had to miss celebrations, graduations, and family events because of the pandemic,” said PawSox President Dr. Charles Steinberg, “So we are seeking to help create commemorative cards and photos that are unique and reflective of the sentiments friends and family still wish to share.

“When our friends at the Boston Red Sox recently started a similar program, we recognized that we too could help families enjoy their moments while helping those impacted by this unprecedented phenomenon.”

Taking the idea a step further, the PawSox will also provide recorded Public Address messages from McCoy Stadium PA Announcer Ben DeCastro. Fans can submit their messages at pawsox.com.

The club will post messages of gratitude to front line heroes, first responders, and dads for Fathers Day, as well as for birthdays, anniversaries, and graduations. Proceeds go to the Pawtucket Red Sox/James J. Skeffington Foundation to benefit organizations in need due to the effects of this coronavirus.

The PawSox Foundation continues to support non-profits throughout Rhode Island and the greater PawSox region as it strives to maintain operations during these challenging times.

New PawSox T-Shirts to Benefit COVID-19 Relief Effort

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PAWTUCKET, RI — The Pawtucket Red Sox are creating a new official line of t-shirts for adults and children to benefit the COVID-19 relief effort. Bearing the messages, “Hands…Washing Hands,” “Wash Your Paws,” and “Safe at Home,” the club is selling the garb now, at pawsox.com and gowoosox.com.

Sales will benefit those impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.

“As we simply seek more ways to help our community during these times,” said PawSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg, “we have turned to light-hearted expressions on colorful t-shirts that we hope will lift spirits while helping those impacted.

“We hope these t-shirts will help us support the front line heroes, the hungry, those encountering hardships, and our children striving to learn at home.”

The PawSox will begin to ship shirts to fans beginning next week. Purchasers can choose from Adult sizes SM – XXXL and Youth sizes of XS – XL.

Pulaski Yankees, Salem Red Sox join forces for MiLB CommUNITY First campaign

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Pulaski Yankees, Salem Red Sox join forces for MiLB CommUNITY First campaign

PULASKI, Va./SALEM, Va. – The Pulaski Yankees and Salem Red Sox today announced the two Minor League Baseball teams are joining forces for a national community initiative in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In partnership with Feeding America®, Minor League Baseball ™ (MiLB™) is launching the MiLB CommUNITY First campaign to raise funds for local food banks while also honoring local heroes who are risking their lives on the front lines of the pandemic.

“We are excited to put the Red Sox/ Yankees rivalry aside and partner with our friends in Pulaski on this great initiative,” said Salem Red Sox General Manager Allen Lawrence. “Our food banks need our assistance now more than ever so we need to come together as one, as we are all in this together.”

School closures, rising unemployment and rising poverty due to quarantine and extended stay-at-home orders have disproportionately impacted people already at risk of hunger and could result in an estimated additional 17.1 million people experiencing food insecurity in the next six months, according to Feeding America. As the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization with a network of more than 200 affiliates, Feeding America has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.

Contributions from Red Sox and Yankees fans and Minor League Baseball will help ensure families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic are fed and cared for during these uncertain times. Additionally, one ticket for a future MiLB game will be donated to a local first responder, healthcare worker, or grocery store worker per $10 donation.

To make a donation, fans can visit MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and will have the option to select either the Pulaski Yankees or the Salem Red Sox as their favorite team, with the funds and tickets routed back to each community. The campaign will conclude on May 31, 2020.

“We are excited to work with our friends in Salem on this initiative and look forward to seeing Yankees fans and Red Sox fans come together to support our communities during this time,” said Pulaski Yankees General Manager Betsy Haugh. “Our local heroes are working so hard to keep us all safe and healthy during this pandemic, and this is a great way for us all to show our appreciation for their tireless efforts.”

More than 100 Minor League Baseball teams are participating in the MiLB CommUNITY First initiative across the United States, and the MiLB national office has committed a $5,000 donation from MiLB Charities, equaling 50,000 meals provided through Feeding America. To join the national campaign by donating or for more information, visit MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst and use #MiLBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

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The Pulaski Yankees are the Advanced Rookie affiliate of the New York Yankees, competing in the Appalachian League. The team plays at Motor Mile Field at Calfee Park, which was renovated for the team’s first season as a Yankees affiliate in 2015.

The Salem Red Sox are the Advanced-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox and call Salem Memorial Ballpark in Salem, Virginia home. The team was founded in 1968 and purchased by Fenway Sports Management in December of 2007.

Feeding America® is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs, we provide meals to more than 40 million people each year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Individuals, charities, businesses and government all have a role in ending hunger. Donate. Volunteer. Advocate. Educate. Together we can solve hunger. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

Salem Red Sox Raise Over $1700 for Non-Profits

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Salem, Virginia (April 9, 2020) – The Salem Red Sox raised over $1700 during the recent “I Miss Baseball” fundraising campaign. Partnering with local vendor Press Press Merch, the collaboration included the development of a limited edition “I Miss Baseball” Salem Red Sox t-shirt. The efforts focused on supporting non-profits in Southwest Virginia, during the COVID-19 crisis.

“The Salem Red Sox wanted to find a way to give back to our local community in this time of need,” said Group Sales Manager, Alex Michel. “While we do not have the daily escape that sports gives us, we felt we wanted to spread positivity by creating a t-shirt that helps give to our local non-profit organizations that we partner with and support.”

Over 130 t-shirts were purchased during the campaign, with 2019 Salem Red Sox outfielder Tyler Esplin purchasing 30 for the Lake Bluff U12 travel baseball team in his hometown of Lake Bluff, Illinois. With each purchase, fans received one t-shirt and two undated tickets for the 2020 season, with proceeds going to the non-profit of their choice. Additionally, the Red Sox announced a matching campaign in which every donation made, the team would provide two complimentary tickets for healthcare workers at Carilion and other healthcare facilities. Esplin chose to donate his tickets and proceeds to Carilion Children’s.

“We were excited to partner with the Salem Red Sox during this initiative”, said Greg Szechenyi, owner of Press Press Merch. “This was a fun and engaging way to connect with our communities and local non-profits, all while supporting our local professional baseball team.”

While the Salem Red Sox season is currently postponed, the Red Sox continued to develop unique ways to stay connected to the fans near and far away. Follow the Salem Red Sox on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay up-to-date on daily activities and information.

The Salem Red Sox are the Advanced-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox and call Salem Memorial Stadium in Salem, Virginia home. The team was founded in 1968 and purchased by Fenway Sports Management in December of 2007.

 

Maine Teams Join on Food Fundraiser

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Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs along with the Maine Mariners and Maine Red Claws are joining forces with Evergreen Credit Union to help Mainers in need of food. The “Fans for Food” campaign benefits Maine’s Good Shepherd Food Bank and associated local food pantries.

Good Shepherd Food Bank’s President Kristen Miale states the help is needed and appreciated. “On a normal day, we provide more than 68,000 meals. With the COVID-19 public health crisis, those numbers will climb and resources to fight hunger will be stretched. Mainers need our support now and will continue to need our help as we emerge from this crisis.”

Working together, campaign organizers encourage their fans and followers to donate on-line through a website managed by Good Shepherd.

The campaign link is https://www.gsfb.org/donate/vfd/4604

In these uncertain times, Adam Goldberg, Vice President of Business Operations, believes, “we don’t want our neighbors in the community wondering where their next meal is coming from. We are thankful to Evergreen and Good Shepherd Food Bank for creating this virtual food drive. Help those in need, be kind and stay safe.”

Dajuan Eubanks, Maine Red Claws President, added, “It is the least we can do to help our community and our fans who have supported us.”

All three local teams have seen their seasons either cancelled or postponed due to the Covid-19 virus, so they share in the economic stress shared by so many businesses and families. Sea Dogs President Geoff Iacuessa stated, “The Portland Sea Dogs are happy to support such an important cause during this challenging time we all face.”

Jason Lindstrom, CEO of campaign co-sponsor Evergreen Credit Union, believes Fans for Food demonstrates the value of businesses working together for the common good. “We are always looking to work with our community partners to better our community and this food drive is so needed at this time.’ He concluded, “We knew our partners would jump at the chance to work with us and provide help to our neighbors in need.”

WooSox Foundation Pledges $10,000 to “Worcester Together”

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WORCESTER, MA – The WooSox Foundation today pledged a donation of $10,000 to “Worcester Together” to help those impacted by the coronavirus outbreak and to aid charities in the longterm recovery of the city from this pandemic.

Worcester Together, a central fund uniting the United Way of Central Massachusetts and the Greater Worcester Community Foundation, is distributing donated funds to both meet acute needs and to help the city recover from the impact of the virus. The effort began last week as an initiative of the two charities in conjunction with the leaders of the City of Worcester.

“We are eager to do our part as members of this compassionate community,” said Dr. Charles Steinberg, President of both the Worcester Red Sox and the WooSox Foundation. “Larry Lucchino has often said that Polar Park will be more than a ballpark, and that the WooSox will be more than a ballclub. We hope this donation helps the people of our adopted city in this time of real need; and, we congratulate Tim Garvin, Barbara Fields, and City Manager Ed Augustus for their important collaboration on this major charitable effort.”

The Worcester Red Sox established the WooSox Foundation on January 28, 2020, when it announced donations to the Worcester Public Library Foundation and the WooSox Scholars program to benefit students in the Worcester Public Schools.

If you can, please donate to the “We Care Fund” today: https://bit.ly/2J4o8OV