PawSox conclude 2020 with $10,000 donation to The Tomorrow Fund

 

PAWTUCKET, RI – The PawSox Foundation wrapped up the holiday season by making a $10,000 donation to one of the club’s longtime community partners in the Tomorrow Fund, a Providence based organization that provides financial assistance to families with children battling cancer.

The donation was presented on a zoom call with PawSox Front Office members and a 13-year-old Tomorrow Fund patient named Cole Robinson from Warwick, RI. Also taking part in the call was Manager Billy McMillon, Red Sox Hall of Famer and Hitting Coach Rich Gedman, and Red Sox Pitcher Tanner Houck.

“I’m glad that we were able to conclude this challenging year by making such a positive impact,” said PawSox Vice President of Baseball Operations & Community Relations, Joe Bradlee. “We look forward to continuing our support for The Tomorrow Fund and children like Cole in 2021 and beyond.”

The donation came on the heels of the foundation’s inaugural golf tournament on October 15 at the Pawtucket Country Club, presented by Navigant Credit Union, where dollars were raised to support many of the foundation’s key programs, and longtime community partners like The Tomorrow Fund.

The contribution was also the PawSox’ fiftieth and final act of kindness in 2020, where the club conducted a wide range of good deeds in the community and supported those most affected by the pandemic. The PawSox Foundation will continue to remain active in Rhode Island and Southeastern Mass in 2021 as the club prepares for its inaugural season in Worcester.

Drive Set to Host Two Marquee Community Events at Fluor Field

 

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.”

Greenville Drive host civic-minded 'Day of Action'



After the 2020 Minor League season was officially canceled, the Greenville Drive began marketing themselves as their community’s “ideal social distancing venue.” The team’s home of Fluor Field has since played host to a diverse array of events. Nearly all areas of the ballpark, from the luxury suites to the picnic area to the concourse to the field, have been made available for use.

On Saturday, Sept. 22, the Drive hosted their most civic-minded event of the year. As part of South Carolina’s state-wide “Day of Action,” Fluor Field served as a one-stop location for a smorgasbord of government-provided services. The menu, such as it was, included voter registration, census completion, COVID-19 testing, flu vaccinations, and the opportunity to procure REAL ID drivers licenses and identification cards from the DMV. Additionally the Drive partnered with one of their sponsors, the Blood Connection, to host a ballpark blood drive.

Each of South Carolina’s 25 counties staged a Day of Action. The majority took place at schools, churches and community centers. Fluor Field, representing Greenville County, was the only professional sports venue to serve as a host site.

“It was a one-stop shop for all these different things,” said Drive general manager Eric Jarinko. “We opened our gates to five different organizations, all of whom brought their own employees or volunteers. It was perfect for people to go out and do all that they needed to do in one spot.”

The Drive, the Class A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, were asked to accommodate the event due to their previous interest in using Fluor Field as a polling site.

“We’re now seeing NBA arenas, a few NFL stadiums and a couple Major League ballparks all being used for that purpose,” said Jarinko. “We were thinking about the importance of voting, now more than ever. And at the same time, with COVID going on, this is a perfect venue. It’s outdoors and we can really space people out. … Unfortunately, even though we were still more than two months out, there just wasn’t enough time to get everything squared away. Just in terms of all the people you have to communicate with, that your polling location isn’t this elementary school or this church. Now it’s the ballpark. We thought it was a great idea, but the immediate impact of people going to a new place just didn’t seem doable.

“But that led to us being asked to be the Greenville County location for the South Carolina Day of Action,” he continued. “The Day of Action was spearheaded by the lieutenant governor [Pamela Evette]. She’s been to the ballpark many times for our Military Appreciation nights, among other things. Anything we can do to be part something like this, we’re for it. We think the ballpark should be part of the fabric of the community. [Fluor Field] is privately owned, but when it comes to things like that, we want to operate as a public service like if it was the city that owned it.”

State lieutenant governor Pamela Evette and Drive mascot Reedy Rip’It took part in Fluor Field’s Day of Action.

Fluor Field’s spaciousness has proven to be a big part of its event hosting appeal. The facility, which has the same dimensions as Fenway Park as well as its own Green Monster-style outfield wall, features a wide concourse that extends roughly from foul pole to foul pole.

“Obviously, with everything going on with COVID, we had to have an entry and exit plan for everyone,” said Jarinko. “We used the Main Street gate as a check-in location, checking people’s temps as they came in. The COVID testing station was just outside the gates. I don’t recall anyone going for COVID testing and then wanting to come in for other things. There was a temperature check at the gate. Everyone was in masks, and everything was spaced out on the concourse. Fans came in through third base and then went to whatever stations that they were there for and then exited other way. So we were able to maintain 6 feet of distance easily. The event went from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m., so were able to utilize our sound system and get ‘College GameDay’ on the videoboard.”

The Drive promoted Greenville County’s Day of Action via their social media channels, with local and state government spreading the word as well. Jarinko estimated approximately 500 people attended the event, which was fairly easy to oversee from the perspective of the team’s front-office staff.

“A lot of our staff had been busy with other events, so I said it was more important for them to come in if they needed to get any of that stuff done,” said Jarinko. “Honestly, I hadn’t got my REAL ID yet. I helped the DMV set up and then had them knock out mine before we opened up the gates. It was all pretty turnkey. I was there at 8, setting up tables. The volunteers arrived at 8:30, then we were ready to go at 9.”

From a larger perspective, the Drive’s participation in South Carolina’s Day of Action illustrates how Minor League ballparks can be utilized as spaces that support public health and foster the democratic process.

“Since day one, we’ve wanted people to understand that the Drive and Fluor Field stood for more than Minor League Baseball,” said Jarinko. “We’ve been creative with how we use the ballpark, and moving forward, we want to do more things like this.”

Benjamin Hill is a reporter for MiLB.com and writes **Ben’s Biz Blog**. Follow Ben on Twitter **@bensbiz**.


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SC Counts Day of Action at Fluor Field on Saturday

 

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

 

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

 

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

CLICK HERE TO DONATE

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.”

Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Night



There may not be any Drive baseball this year at Fluor Field, but that won’t stop us from continuing what has become the most anticipated event each year at the ballpark – Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering Day! Join us on Sunday, September 27th, as this year’s event is going VIRTUAL! Discover the exciting world of Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering in a completely unique and virtual environment, presented by BMW Manufacturing, Hubbell Lighting, and Greenville Technical College!

EVENT DETAILS

This event is completely FREE to students of all ages, and will be an interactive experience on the Greenville Drive’s Facebook page!

YOUNG INNOVATORS CLUB

Click HERE to register for the event. At the time of registration, you’ll also be able to submit questions for the interactive Q&A portion with each participating organization. If your question is selected, you’ll win a special prize!

VIRTUAL EXHIBITS

The following organizations will have awesome virtual exhibits on Sunday, September 27th:

  • BMW Manufacturing
  • Hubbell Lighting
  • Greenville Technical College
  • Michelin
  • Milliken
  • General Electric
  • Bosch Rexroth

PRIZES

Remember to submit questions to the participating organizations during the registration process. If you question is selected, you will win a special prize! Prizes include:

  • BMW Performance Driving School Experience (must be at least 16 years of age)
  • Drones
  • iDevices Home Package
  • VR Headsets
  • Greenville Drive Experience Packages for the 2021 Season

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

 

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

 

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.

##

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.

Drive continue to make impact in South Carolina



Summer nights at Fluor Field in Greenville, South Carolina, have the feel of a large neighborhood gathering with the beautiful 15-year-old facility serving as the “front porch” of the Greater Greenville and Upstate South Carolina area.

And while the coronavirus pandemic has prevented local fans from being able to support the Drive on the field in 2020, the team has not wavered from its commitment to the community, hosting the Underground Kitchen Community First Project, which provided nearly 1,000 free meals to those in need over three days in June.

For their efforts in the community, the Drive are the recipients of the Minor League Baseball Promotion of the Month Award for June.

“We’ve always prided ourselves on our work in the Greenville and Upstate area, but without baseball games this year, we really decided to double down on our efforts in the community and really try to wrap our arms around those who are struggling and help in any way we can,” said Drive General Manager Eric Jarinko. “We had to get creative and find ways where we could utilize our staff and really help as many people as we could.”

While the team had previously volunteered with FoodShare South Carolina, an organization that provides access to fresh produce to those in need, Jarinko said a conversation with volunteer Marylou Stinson got the ball rolling on what became a “no-brainer” of an event.

A suggestion by Stinson led the Drive and FoodShare South Carolina to combine forces with a Richmond, Virginia-based organization called the Underground Kitchen. The goal of the Underground Kitchen is to provide a diverse group of chefs, who are typically from places underrepresented in the culinary world, the opportunity to share their creative talents and tastes to create soups and meals for those in need.

“The Underground Kitchen had been looking to expand the scope of its program and FoodShare South Carolina has been expanding their efforts across the state so teaming up with the Drive was a perfect way to help a large number of people,” said Stinson. “The Drive were on board and had their entire staff leading the way. They were just tremendous.”

The Drive opened the kitchens at Fluor Field and the team’s Executive Chef, Wilbert Sauceda, himself a native of Honduras and a veteran of the restaurant business, helped coordinate efforts to produce nearly 1,000 free meals in just two days. Much of the food was donated by the Mill Village, a non-profit organization in Greenville that features food products from local farmers.

With the food preparation underway, the Drive relied on FoodShare South Carolina to spread the word of the opportunity to families who were known to be in need that meals made from scratch would be available free of charge.

“Wilbert took the lead in the kitchen, and the rest of our staff utilized other parts of the ballpark like our season ticket holder lounge to package the meals and prepare for a drive-thru distribution point in the Fluor Field parking lot,” said Jarinko. “The fact that we were able to host the pickup event on such a somber anniversary day in our state’s history was very uplifting to a lot of people.”

The meals were distributed on the fifth anniversary of the horrific shooting at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston that claimed nine lives. In honor of the Charleston Nine, meal recipients also received a white rose in their bag to signify forgiveness and rosemary to signify remembrance. The bags also came with a tag that included the names of the nine victims to serve as a reminder of the lives lost five years ago.

“I can’t say enough great things about the Greenville Drive and everyone there, including owner Craig Brown, as they have transformed the landscape in South Carolina of what it means to be a community partner and they push other organizations to do more,” said Stinson. “Their impact here has had a ripple effect across Upstate South Carolina, and we hold this team and its ownership group in the highest regard.”

For Jarinko, the event had an immediate impact that left the Drive staff motivated to do more.

“When all of the food had been distributed and the day was done, we all left saying this is an event we need to do every year and hopefully multiple times a year.”

With a record number of Americans struggling to make ends meet, the Drive continue to answer the call of those most in need. That is how you become the front porch of a community.

Jeff Lantz is Minor League Baseball’s Senior Director of Communications.


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Greenville Top Fundraiser in MiLB’s CommUNITY First Campaign

 

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

 

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

“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

 

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.