C’s and Safeway bring holiday cheer to The Salvation Army

Members of the C's front office staff join Safeway Canada and Salvation Army staff to celebrate another Canadians Thanksgiving in Downtown Vancouver.
Members of the C’s front office staff join Safeway Canada and Salvation Army staff to celebrate another Canadians Thanksgiving in Downtown Vancouver.

Vancouver-CanadiansThe Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club in cooperation with Safeway Canada handed out 100 family-sized turkeys on Thursday afternoon to local families in need at The Salvation Army located at 3221 Fraser Street.

The Canadians and Safeway Canada have taken pride in working together for the past seven years to continue this community initiative that brings families from all across Vancouver together with a family-sized centerpiece in tie for the holiday weekend.

Salvation-Army“We are fortunate to have a partner like Safeway Canada who generously donates these family-sized turkeys to families in need. Through the efforts of The Salvation Army, we are able to reach those families from all across Vancouver who would benefit most from this kind of effort,” states Vancouver Canadians Director, Community Relations Jeff Holloway.

Since its inception in 2008, the Canadians along with Safeway Canada have donated more than 800 turkeys along with basting trays and cooking instructions to families from all across Vancouver.

The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club wishes to thank both Safeway Canada and The Salvation Army for making another ‘Canadians Thanksgiving’ possible and wish everyone a festive holiday weekend.

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

C’s Support Raise-A-Reader

Vancouver-CanadiansThe Canadians Front Office staff set the alarm clock to ‘early’ this past week to wake up and hit the streets of downtown Vancouver in support of the Vancouver Sun’s annual Raise-A-Reader program supporting Children’s literacy.

“This is a program that helps countless families from all across Canada and it is one of the events that we very much enjoy supporting,” states Canadians Community Relations Director Jeff Holloway.

“The Vancouver Sun is a publication that supports us on a number of levels well beyond covering the outcome of our games.  Our working relationship, combined with the support this charity provides to families makes this a ‘can’t miss event’ for our organization”.

Once a year, the Canadians join a number of other teams and supporters on the streets of Vancouver selling Vancouver Sun newspapers by donation to those heading into work. This program has raised millions in support of children’s literacy and once again, despite soggy conditions, was once again a great success.

The Vancouver Canadians wish to thank Rose Isla and her staff at the Vancouver Sun for their support and efforts regarding the Raise-A-Reader program. Congratulations!

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

C’s in the Community

Canadians mascots enjoy annual Umbrella Decorating Challenge at Safeway

(Vancouver, B.C.) – The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club took part in Safeway Canada’s latest community initiative by partnering with Easter Seals Canada and Special Olympics Canada to launch a fundraising and awareness building campaign in support of Canadians with physical and intellectual disabilities.

Through the month of April, Canada Safeway will be asking their shoppers to help support both Easter Seals and Special Olympics across Canada through a number of awareness campaigns.

On Tuesday, the Vancouver Canadians were able to help Safeway Canada with their annual Umbrella Decorating Challenge.  Located at Safeway in downtown Vancouver, C’s mascots Bob Brown Bear, Chef Wasabi and Ms. BC Roll joined a number of local celebrities including B.C. home building icon Shell Busey to decorate a number of bright and fun umbrellas.

“Helping our neighbours living with a diverse range of abilities has long been a Safeway priority,” siad Canada Safeway President and COO Chuck Mulveena.

“When we were asked to join in this community ‘call to action’, for the Vancouver Canadians, it was for certain that we would be here to help,” added Canadians Manager, Community Relations Jeff Holloway.

Last year, over $1.6 million was raised during the annual campaign which sent hundreds of children with disabilities to Easter Seals camps and provided support for local programs offered through Special Olympics.

The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club is proud to support a number of local businesses including Canada Safeway who are committed to making our communty a better place. This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

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

Mission Accomplished! C’s Mini-League Makes A Difference

Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation ends up helping more than 300 local children this past summer

C's RHP Bryan Longpre was game to share some cake and ice cream with members of our new Mini-League this past Friday.
C’s RHP Bryan Longpre was game to share some cake and ice cream with members of our new Mini-League this past Friday.

(Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium – Vancouver, BC) – In partnership with the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Coast BC, the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation (VCBF) has successfully concluded its first-ever mini league in North America.

This first-of-its kind initiative introduced well over 200 local kids in need to the game of baseball over a seven-week period at the historic Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium.

Based on coach feedback and player results, the mini league didn’t just teach kids about the game of baseball but also valuable life skills including self-confidence, teamwork, how to win, how to lose and how to have fun.

Randy Castellarin a volunteer coach for the mini-league, agrees wholeheartedly.

“These kids are amazing. They’re so eager to learn and to be part of the game. Their progress in terms of baseball is incredible, but what’s really amazing is their attitude. They’ve become eager, engaged and confident. I’m really proud of what they have achieved.”

According to Carolyn Tuckwell, President and CEO of the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Coast BC, the summer mini league has been enthusiastically received by both participants and their parents.

“The kids are not only excited to have learned a new skill set but also thrilled to have played baseball at Nat Bailey Stadium, where the professionals play. It has been amazing to watch them develop their physical, social and personal skills over the past seven weeks.”

Di, an 11-year old playing in the “Coach-Pitch” division says,” The coaches made it really fun. They showed me that if I really tried, I could hit a ball, throw and catch. When I first started, I was scared I wasn’t good enough to play, but now I know I am.”

Jeff Mooney, who co-chairs the Foundation with business partner Jake Kerr, is passionate about the power of baseball to inspire local youth.

“Most of these kids don’t have a lot of opportunities through circumstances beyond their control, but when you give them something they run with it. Sometimes all it takes is one person to show an interest and that makes all the difference. The VCBF is thrilled to be making a real impact with this program and changing the lives of these kids by giving them an opportunity they may not have had otherwise.”

Though the first season of the VCBF mini league officially came to a close on Friday August 17th, one thing is certain, the kids that participated have learned lessons and made memories that will last a lifetime.

The mini league consisted of two divisions: “T-Ball” ages 6-8 and “Coach-Pitch” ages 9-11.

The dates of the 2013 mini league will be announced early next year.

About the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation:

The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation (VCBF) was founded on the vision of helping youth in need find self-confidence, hope, improved health, and a skill set that will help not just on a baseball diamond, but in life. Its programs include; the mini summer league, UBC scholarships, a premiere league event as well as additional events and fundraisers. From helping a young child onto a baseball diamond perhaps for the first time, right through to helping a bright minded student find a way to continue their post-secondary education, the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation is committed to our community and to helping redefine a child’s perspective on the game of baseball.

About Boys and Girls Clubs of South Coast BC:

Boys & Girls Club of South Coast BC has been a vital support for children, youth and their families since 1936, providing a wide range of social, health, educational and recreational services to assist young people in their growth and development. Each program creates safe, supportive places where children and youth can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships and develop the confidence and skills they need for successfully leading their lives and their communities. Learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs at www.bgc-gv.bc.ca
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Vancouver Canadians. Click here to view the original story.

Bob Brown Bear goes ‘Dreamin’ at the Aquarium

Canadians Mascot cheers on kids as they get special night after hours at Vancouver Aquarium

Bob Brown Bear was more than happy to enjoy a night at the Vancouver Aquarium. (Alex Dachis)
Bob Brown Bear was more than happy to enjoy a night at the Vancouver Aquarium. (Alex Dachis)

(Vancouver, BC) – Vancouver Canadians mascot Bob Brown Bear was thrilled to get a chance to attend ‘Dreamnight’, which is an annual event organized by the Vancouver Aquarium to share their facility with children that have life threatening illness.

These brave young children along with their families got the opportunity to visit the Aquarium past regular hours and connect with the aquatic animals and exhibits.

The night welcomed over 500 children and their families where they got to meet Bob, learn all about aquatic environments and animals as well as managed to see the famous Vancouver Aquarium dolphins and much more.

Many of the children were from BC Children’s Hospital and would not have had the opportunity to visit the Aquarium during regular hours due to their situation in the hospital.

The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club is proud to support local initiatives that give children the opportunity to enjoy life to the fullest.

Our thanks and admiration to all involved for giving so many children the chance to create a new and exciting memory as they fight to stay healthy and positive.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Vancouver Canadians. Click here to view the original story.

Thrill of a Lifetime

Canadians fan Andrew Von Rosen helps our Foundation by enjoying the Blue Jays in Toronto

The Blue Jays supplied Andrew Von Rosen with a team autographed jersey!
The Blue Jays supplied Andrew Von Rosen with a team autographed jersey!

(Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium – Vancouver, BC) – When Andrew Von Rosen heard the word ‘sold’ at the 2nd Annual Scotiabank Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation Hot Stove Luncheon back in February, he knew he was about to get the experience of a lifetime.

One of the Canadians live auction items that was in place to help raise funds for the newly-formed Vancouver Canadians Baseball League was a trip for two to Toronto to see the Blue Jays welcome the Texas Rangers.

The series itself did not disappoint with Andrew getting the chance to see Langley, B.C. native Brett Lawrie hit a game-winning, walk-off home run in the bottom of the 9th inning on May 1st against the defending American League champions.

“Without question that was one of the highlights,” says Andrew who is a lifelong baseball fan.

On the field, Andrew and his guest got to see Rangers pitching sensation RHP Yu Darvish who outpitched Blue Jays arm RHP Kyle Drabek in a hard fought 4-1 victory for Texas.

The next night the Blue Jays fell behind 5-0 early before Toronto fought back with Lawrie’s heroics capping off a 7-6 victory.

Andrew’s final day saw Rogers Centre open up the roof to reveal piercing sunshine and an offensive explosion for the Jays and they topped the Rangers 11-5 to take the three-game series.

“To get to see the dome both open and closed was great. It is like two completely different stadiums”.

Aside from Toronto and the Rangers exchanging pleasantries on the field, Andrew got to see the Blue Jays organization from behind the scenes including a tour of Rogers Centre, a meet and greet with broadcasters Pat Tabler and Buck Martinez as well as dinner at the exclusive VIP Club located right behind home plate.

The total package included flight, accommodation, tickets to all three games vs. Texas, dinner at the VIP Club and a team autographed Blue Jays jersey along with all the ‘behind the scene’ elements which included a viewing of the 1992 and 1993 World Series trophies.

Andrew’s hotel room overlooked the field at Rogers Centre while one of his highlights was getting a tour of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation’s National Headquarters just steps away from Rogers Centre.

The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation would like to thank Andrew Von Rosen for bidding on this exciting trip. Thanks to his generosity, more than 20 local children will have the chance to play baseball this summer out at historic Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium in the Vancouver Canadians Baseball League.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Vancouver Canadians. Click here to view the original story.

Community Kudos: Bob Brown Bear

C’s mascots Bob Brown Bear made stops in Burnaby and Richmond this weekend

Bob Brown Bear joined Burnaby Minor Softball on Saturday for a little action on the diamond.
Bob Brown Bear joined Burnaby Minor Softball on Saturday for a little action on the diamond.

(Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium – Vancouver, BC) – The Vancouver Canadians and mascot Bob Brown Bear made a pair of community appearances on Saturday making stops in Burnaby and Richmond.

Bob was ready to roll up his sleeves and help our friends at Developmental Disabilities Association as they celebrated Earth Day out at the Vancouver Regional Recycling Facility. Taking care of the environment is very important to Bob Brown Bear as he has help the Canadians install new energy efficient lighting out at Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium.

Did you know the Canadians will turn the lights off out at Scotiabank Field nine times this summer to help promote our BC Hydro Powersmart ‘Nooners at The Nat. Talk about saving energy!

Shortly after helping out in Richmond, Bob zipped over to ring in another Opening Day, this time out on the diamond cheering hard for our pals within Burnaby Minor Softball Association.

Softball (fastpitch) is one of Canada’s fastest growing sports with more than 100,000 kids from coast-to-coast playing games that are just as competitive and enjoyable as baseball.

The Vancouver Canadians and mascots Bob Brown Bear, Ms. BC Roll, Mr. Kappa Maki and the dreaded Chef Wasabi are proud to be a part of your community. To learn more about how you can have one of our mascots or representatives at your next community appearance, call the C’s at 604.872.5232 or get in touch with Community Relations Manager Jeff Holloway at jholloway@canadiansbaseball.com

The Vancouver Canadians open up the 2012 home schedule out at Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium on Wednesday, June 20th at 7:05pm as the C’s welcome the Tri-City Dust Devils in a re-match of last year’s Northwest League Championship.

Tickets to Canadians Baseball are available today by calling 604.872.5232, visiting the Nat Bailey Stadium Box Office at 4601 Ontario Street in Vancouver, BC or by scrolling to the top of this story and clicking on our many ticket options.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Vancouver Canadians. Click here to view the original story.

C’s Community Corner

Have you seen Bob Brown Bear or Chef Wasabi lately?

From pipe bands to first pitches, its been a busy week for C's mascot Bob Brown Bear!
From pipe bands to first pitches, its been a busy week for C’s mascot Bob Brown Bear!

(Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium – Vancouver, BC) – With spring in the air and kids from all across the Lower Mainland kicking off their Little League seasons, the Vancouver Canadians are out and about cheering on our future stars of the diamond.

This past weekend, the C’s were out in full force including stops at Vancouver Minor, South Vancouver, Trout Lake, Little Mountain, White Rock, Forest Hills and New Westminster. As well the Canadians were thrilled to cheer on our little sluggers with Challenger Baseball and out at the Children Hearing and Speech Centre.

“It’s a busy time of the year but we couldn’t be happier to get out into the community and see the excitement on all these kid’s faces,” says Vancouver Canadians Manager of Community Relations Jeff Holloway.

You can follow the Canadians around the clock at www.facebook.com/vancouvercanadians as well as on twitter at www.twitter.com/vancanadians.

If you’ve got a great photo from one of your Little League games or events, send it to us through our social media and we’d love to share it with our great fans!

The Canadians open up the 2012 home schedule on Wednesday, June 20th as we host the Tri-City Dust Devils at 7:05pm.

For ticket information, give us a call at 604.872.5232 or click on the ticket options at the top of this story.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Vancouver Canadians. Click here to view the original story.

C’s In The Community

The Canadians and Bob Brown Bear were busy in our local community this past week

VancouverCanadians_2012-02-20

(Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium – Vancouver, BC) – From diamonds to dining, it was another busy week for Vancouver Canadians mascot Bob Brown Bear who made stops at Mission Possible as well as registration day out at Trout Lake Little League.

Mission Possible was founded over 20 years ago and has become one of Canada’s most respected street-level initiatives helping a number of local families in need with both compassion and a loving heart on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.

Bob Brown Bear’s presence at Mission Possible brought a number of smiles to young children’s faces as they enjoyed a warm meal along with their families. The Vancouver Canadians wish to congratulate everyone associated with this effort for a job well done.

Our mascot was also happy to hand out high-fives and a few hugs out at the registration for Trout Lake Little League’s upcoming season.

Since 1953, Trout lake Little League has been giving local children the opportunity to play organized baseball. With divisions for kids four through 12, Trout Lake Little League is based out of John Hendry Park (Vancouver) and is a league run completely by local volunteers.

The Canadians were proud to be out making new friends within the league and wish to thank the organizing committee for allowing us the chance to share in the excitement of the upcoming season.

Discovered in 2008, Bob Brown Bear has become one of the most recognizable faces on the Vancouver sports circuit making nearly 1,000 community appearances. If you would like to have the official mascot of the Vancouver Canadians at your upcoming event, feel free to contact us at 604.872.5232 to learn more about Bob Brown Bear’s availability.

The Vancouver Canadians return to Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium on Wednesday, June 20th to face the Tri-City Dust Devils in a re-match of last season’s Northwest League Championship. Tickets to Vancouver Canadians Baseball are available by calling 604.872.5232, or by visiting the Vancouver Canadians Box Office located at 4601 Ontario Street, Vancouver, B.C.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Vancouver Canadians. Click here to view the original story.

“An unforgettable moment”

Local kids steal the show at 2nd Annual Scotiabank Hot Stove Luncheon

Scotiabank's David Poole gives a high-five to a future baseball star. (Paul Yates)
Scotiabank’s David Poole gives a high-five to a future baseball star. (Paul Yates)

(Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium – Vancouver, BC) – When nearly 30 young, bright-eyed children began running through the aisles at the 2nd Annual Scotiabank Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation Hot Stove Luncheon, the show had officially been stolen.

Friday afternoon, the Canadians hosted their annual Hot Stove Luncheon which featured Toronto Blue Jays President and CEO Paul Beeston who was overwhelmed by the support shown by the sold out crowd all tucked inside the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel in downtown Vancouver.

“I’m speechless,” said Beeston who’s keynote address tipped largely toward his organization’s support of the Vancouver Canadians.

“What Jake, Jeff and Andy have done here in Vancouver is unbelievable. The way Vancouver has supported this team is something that should become a blueprint for other teams at any level of baseball”.

The afternoon program kicked off with Canadians owner Jake Kerr giving the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation membership his ‘State of the Franchise’ address which included his praise to the Toronto Blue Jays for delivering on their promise to make Vancouver a Northwest League Champion.

Kerr was followed by longtime friend and co-owner Jeff Mooney who gripped the sold out venue with a stirring story and introduction of the newly-formed Vancouver Canadians Baseball League, a 28-team, eight-game season built for kids between the ages of 5-10. Mooney announced that the Canadians through their Foundation would support nearly 300 local children in need each summer.

Included in the commitment is league fees, transportation, food and all equipment covered by both the Canadians and a host of corporate sponsors including Scotiabank, BC Hydro and The Sports Exchange. A number of local supporters also worked to give these children a summer to remember including Al DeGenova and the Mooney Family. Jeff Mooney and Suzanne Bolton donated $50,000.00 toward the Foundation to kick-off the afternoon.

Just before Mooney wrapped up his request to help support the VCBF, he trotted out 28 bright-eyed, excited children in full uniform all there to give our guests a high-five and ask for their support this summer.

Smiles filled the room as the kids from The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Vancouver dazzled with plenty of energy to spare and high-fives to go around to each and every guest. It was one of the most talked about elements of the afternoon.

The stage then became Paul Beeston’s who promised to keep building back in Toronto and committed to tell the story of the Vancouver Canadians who had ‘blown him away’ with what they had been able to accomplish within the community.

The afternoon wrapped up with a Live Auction that exceeded the hopes of the Canadians organization thanks to the generous support of our membership.

The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club, Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation and Scotiabank would like to thank each and every person associated with the Foundation for a fantastic afternoon that ensured more than 300 children from our own community got the chance to play baseball this coming summer.

For more information, please visit our Foundation page right here at canadiansbaseball.com
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Vancouver Canadians. Click here to view the original story.