Agriculture Zone to be built inside Chukchansi Park

Fresno Grizzlies and Gar Tootelian, Inc. enter into new partnership

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FRESNO, Calif – Gar and Esther Tootelian Charitable Foundation and Gar Tootelian, Inc. have partnered with the Fresno Grizzlies to become the official sponsor of a new Agriculture Zone at Chukchansi Park. The zone, which will be completed by 2014 Opening Day, will be named the Gar Tootelian Agriculture Zone and will promote the Grizzlies Community Fund’s (GCF) Farm Grown program that supports Central San Joaquin Valley agriculture, education, sustainability, and health and wellness. The sponsorship agreement includes the 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017 baseball seasons.

“Baseball and Farming are true Americana traditions and have shared many fields – so, it is only natural that Gar Tootelian, Inc. and their Charitable Foundation partner with the Grizzlies to cultivate agricultural awareness and educate fans and consumers of all ages on the value and importance of agriculture,” stated Karen Musson of GAR.

The Gar Tootelian Agriculture Zone will feature a farm-themed setting on the outfield concourse behind left field. The Ag Zone will include displays and signage boards that will highlight the Central Valley’s agriculture business, as well as partners of the Farm Grown program. The larger-than-life interactive zone will also feature an oversized baseball and bat, making it one of the more unique stadium elements in the United States.

“We believe Central Valley farmers and the Ag industry as a whole should be recognized for their commitment in feeding the nation and being a major contributor to the world economy,” said Grizzlies Director of Corporate Partnerships and Community Fund Jerry James. “The dedication GAR and their foundation have shown to raise awareness for agriculture and sustainability is precisely what our Farm Grown program has been established for. We’re excited to break ground on a signature feature inside Chukchansi Park that educates and highlights our area’s past, present, and future.”

GAR joins the growing list of Farm Grown partners and supporters working to promote agriculture in the Central San Joaquin Valley.

ABOUT FARM GROWN

Established in 2012, the Grizzlies Community Fund’s (GCF) Farm Grown program promotes the agricultural heritage and philanthropic vitality of the Central San Joaquin Valley through the building of meaningful partnerships in support of education and healthy living. Farm Grown has been a central component to the GCF’s Wild About Reading program, in which 100,000 students annually receive a Farm Grown magazine that serves as a call to action for reading outside of the classroom.

ABOUT GAR AND ESTHER TOOTELIAN CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

Founded in 2003, the Gar and Esther Tootelian Charitable Foundation was established to recognize the achievement of their founders and as a tribute to the vast contribution Central Valley Agriculture makes to the health and freedom of our communities and nation. Over the last 10 years, the Foundation, with the assistance of Gar Tootelian, Inc., has given $1 Million in gifts. The Foundation’s gifts are focused on scholarships, promoting Agricultural literacy, and showing appreciation and respect for the value of agriculture.

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

San Jose Giants Release 2013 Community Report

Report showcases organization’s impact in the South Bay

SAN JOSE, CA– The San Jose Giants released today their 2013 Community Report. From charitable donations to mascot appearances to community-centered evening’s at Municipal Stadium, the San Jose Giants were a consistent presence throughout the South Bay in 2013. The report is a complete detail of the organization’s community involvement and contributions in the past calendar year.

“I want to personally thank all of our fans and partners for their tremendous support of the team and its place in the community”, said Daniel Orum, San Jose Giants President and CEO. “With over $450,000 raised for charitable causes, 2013 was another record-breaking year for the organization.”

The 2013 Community Report showcases the variety of charitable efforts the San Jose Giants are involved with both at and away from Municipal Stadium. Highlights of the report include hundreds of appearances made by San Jose Giants personnel, events in partnership with the Giants Community Fund to help underserved youth and in-kind donations to more than 650 local and national organizations totaling over $450,000.

“It is extremely exciting to see how this organization has grown in the community since our first report in 2006,” said Juliana Paoli, San Jose Giants Chief Marketing Officer. “It is an extraordinary privilege to be able to touch as many lives as we do every season and we look forward to raising the bar again in 2014.”

For more information on the San Jose Giants and how to get your organization involved in 2014, call (408) 297-1435 or visit sjgiants.com.

Read 2013 San Jose Giants Community Report

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Jose Giants. Click here to view the original story.

Ports annual Pink Night scheduled for August 23

Fireworks show will conclude a night of charitable giving

STOCKTON, Calif.-The Stockton Ports have once again partnered with St. Joseph’s Medical Center in support of their Breast Health Services. Over the past six seasons, the Ports have supported St. Joseph’s through the annual Pink Night and have raised over $30,000 with help from the Stockton community.

Prior to the Ports hosting the Visalia Rawhide at 7:05 p.m. the 4th annual “Home Run-a-Thon” will take place on the field at Banner Island Ballpark at 5:35 p.m. Area television, radio and community celebrities will take their swings in the event. The gates will open at 5:05 p.m. Throughout the home run-a-thon fans are encouraged to make pledges for each home run hit. The home run event was established in 2010 when then Ports manager Steve Scarsone was closely affected by the disease. Scarsone’s wife, Becki, was battling with breast cancer. She is now doing well and is cancer free.

The Stockton community plays a big part in making Pink Night a success. The biggest fundraising component of the night is one dollar from every ticket sold will go back to St. Joseph’s Hospitals Breast Health Services. In addition to the funds raised through ticket sales and the donations from the home run-a-thon, a number of other activities will take place during the Ports game. There will be a player memorabilia raffle, Pink t-shirts available, a Pink game-worn jersey auction during the game as well as a huge fireworks show. Local businesses also have a chance to participate by purchasing business booths, group tickets, and donating raffle prizes.

“The Ports are proud to team up with St. Joseph’s Medical Center for our 7th annual Pink Night. The night would not be possible without the generosity and support of the Stockton community” said Ports Community Relations Manager Kellie Ryan.

If you would like to be a part of this event and help support St. Joseph’s Medical Center Breast Health Services, please call the Ports front office at 209.644.1900.

For promotions and ticket information, visit www.stocktonports.com

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

San Jose Giants Summer Clinic August 10-11 at Municipal Stadium

New Dates For Summer Clinic Announced, Second Session Nearly Sold Out

SAN JOSE, CA – The San Jose Giants announced today new dates for their final summer clinic at Municipal Stadium. The two-day session, originally scheduled for August 17-18, will now take place August 10-11 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the home of the San Jose Giants. Participants will not only have the chance to play on the same field as future Major Leaguers, but also be coached by current San Jose Giants players. Interested participants should contact San Jose Giants Account Executive and Camp Coordinator Taylor Wilding at (408) 380-4502 or email TaylorWilding@sjgiants.com.

“This two-day clinic is a truly unique opportunity for aspiring ballplayers to learn from current San Jose Giants,” said Wilding. “It will be a rare chance for boys and girls alike to learn from current professionals and improve their abilities while having fun playing baseball.”

In addition to the clinic, very limited spots remain for the San Jose Giants second summer camp session at Municipal Stadium Monday, August 5 through Thursday, August 8. The session will run from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM each day and will focus on teaching and refining baseball skills for campers ages 8 through 14. The camp session will feature a strong instructional staff filled with current and former collegiate baseball players. Fitness specialists from Crossfit Moxie, speed and vision trainers from Sensory Speed and nutrition personnel from Gatorade will also be on hand to coach and improve participants’ skills and health. Click here to reserve your spot before it is sold out!

For more information about the summer clinic or summer camp, please visit sjgiants.com or contact Taylor Wilding at (408) 380-4502 or email TaylorWilding@sjgiants.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Jose Giants. Click here to view the original story.

Cancer Awareness Night with a Jersey Silent Auction Aug. 10th

The High Desert Mavericks are proud to announce the Cancer Awareness night with a silent jersey auction on August 10th. There will be a pre game survivor walk at 5:30PM followed by the Mavericks game against the Lancaster Jethawks with first pitch at 6:05PM. During the game there will be a silent auction for the game worn, player autographed, jerseys with proceeds going to the American Cancer Society that will end at the completion of the 7th inning. Following the game there will be a luminaria ceremony with a post game fireworks display.

For more information and to get your tickets call the Mavericks Box Office at 760-246-6287.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the High Desert Mavericks. Click here to view the original story.

LoanMart and Quakes to Award College Scholarships!

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Rancho Cucamonga, CA – The Rancho Cucamonga Quakes and their Stadium Naming Rights Partner, LoanMart, will come together here in 2013 to name three (3) $1000 scholarship winners, as part of the LoanMart Scholarship Program.

Any student in the graduating class of a local high school, who is a citizen of the United States of America, and resident within the specific area of San Bernardino County, may file an application to be considered to receive one of the three scholarships to be awarded in August of 2013.

“LoanMart is committed to helping local students within the Rancho Cucamonga Community, by awarding these scholarships to encourage the pursuit of education and hard work,” said LoanMart Director of Marketing Colby Estes. “We want to show the people of San Bernardino Country that we are committed to the community on and off the field.”

“The Quakes are proud to team up with LoanMart to reward three students with thousand dollar scholarships and help out future leaders of our community,” said Quakes Vice President / General Manager Grant Riddle.

Scholarship, leadership, community involvement, and character are criteria by which applicants will be judged. Only students of outstanding merit, who show an appreciation of the value of an education and community involvement, have a chance to win this award.

All applications are due by Friday, August 16th, with winners to be announced and recognized in a special pre-game ceremony at LoanMart Field before the end of the 2013 season.

To view and download the Scholarship Application, please click here.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes. Click here to view the original story.

San Jose Giants Summer Camps at Municipal Stadium

First Summer Camp Session July 10-13

SAN JOSE, CA – Wednesday, July 10 through Saturday, July 13 the San Jose Giants will host the first of three summer camp sessions at Municipal Stadium. The session will run from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM each day and will focus on teaching and refining baseball skills for campers ages 8 through 14. The camp is filling quickly so interested participants should contact San Jose Giants Account Executive and Camp Coordinator Taylor Wilding at (408) 380-4502 or email TaylorWilding@sjgiants.com.

The first summer camp session will feature a strong instructional staff filled with current and former collegiate baseball players. Fitness specialists from Crossfit Moxie, speed and vision trainers from Sensory Speed and nutrition personnel from Gatorade will also be on hand to coach and improve participants’ skills and health.

“I am extremely excited to get another season of San Jose Giants summer camps under way”, said Wilding. “The camps will be a great way for boys and girls alike to learn from some of the best instructors in the area and improve their abilities while having fun playing baseball.”

San Jose Giants Summer Camps are held on the field of historic Municipal Stadium, home to San Francisco Giants prospects for the past 26 seasons. During each session, players will move through hitting, throwing, catching, pitching, fielding and strength and conditioning drills to improve their level of play. On the camp’s final day, campers will have the opportunity to play an exhibition game on the field. For more information about summer camp sessions, please visit sjgiants.com or contact Taylor Wilding at (408) 380-4502 or email TaylorWilding@sjgiants.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Jose Giants. Click here to view the original story.

San Jose Giants, KRTY and Sutter Home Partner for Breast Cancer Awareness Night

Giants game dedicated to the cause on June 28 at Municipal Stadium

SAN JOSE, CA- Come out and join the San Jose Giants, Team KRTY and Sutter Home for Avon Walk for Breast Cancer Night at Municipal Stadium. The San Jose Giants, KRTY and Sutter Home are teaming up for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer to raise funds and bring Breast Cancer Awareness to Municipal Stadium on Friday, June 28 at 7:00 PM against the Stockton Ports.

“The San Jose Giants are honored to once again be part of such a great and important cause,” said Juliana Paoli, Chief Marketing Officer of the San Jose Giants. “Partnering with KRTY and Sutter Homes offers our organization a wonderful opportunity to raise money and bring awareness to a disease that has affected countless number of lives.”

San Jose Giants, Team KRTY and Sutter Home will partner together to raise money and awareness for the ongoing struggle to find a cure for breast cancer. The first 1,500 fans to the game will receive Sutter Home for Hope Buttons. In addition, the San Jose Giants will be donating a portion of the Sutter Home wine sales on June 28 to Team KRTY for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. Proceeds will be used to provide people with breast cancer screening and treatment, as well as support leading-edge research teams across the country.

Fans that wear their Pink gear to the Friday night game will receive two FREE future game tickets. Gates open at 6:00 PM and fans can visit the Team KRTY booth on the third base side at anytime throughout the game for more information and an opportunity to visit with Indiana Al. In addition, the Giants will also be hosting a silent auction of limited edition game-worn players and coaches pink jerseys. The highest bidder will be able to go on the field following the game and receive their new autographed jersey right off the respective San Jose Giant’s back.

Team KRTY is selling special fundraising tickets for the game at krty.com or by visiting their offices at 750 Story Road, San Jose, CA 95122. All proceeds of the Team KRTY tickets will go to the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer.

The First Half North Division Champion San Jose Giants return to Municipal Stadium for the start of the second half as they host the Modesto Nuts and Stockton Ports in a seven game homestand starting Monday, June 24. Wednesday, June 26 will be the first A Wild West Afternoon at Municipal Stadium. Fans who wear their country gear to the 12:35 PM game will receive two free future game tickets. Then, on Saturday, June 29 the sky will light up with Postgame Fireworks courtesy of IBEW 332. Throughout the season, single game tickets will be available at the Box Office and over the phone at (408) 297-1435 from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday, and Saturdays from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Tickets are also available online at sjgiants.com

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Jose Giants. Click here to view the original story.

Ports To Host Challenger Little League Game May 29

STOCKTON, Calif.-Before the Ports face the Inland Empire 66ers in the final game of the three-game homestand, they will participate in the third annual Challenger Little League game starting at 5:30 p.m. Participating in the game will be Challenger little leaguers from the California District 8 Little League who play on Western Little League’s field in Stockton. The game will give all Challenger participants the chance to take some swings on the field at Banner Island, as well as interact with Ports players.

The Challenger Division was established in 1989 as a separate division of Little League to enable boys and girls with physical and mental challenges, ages 4-18, or up to age 22 if still enrolled in high school, to enjoy the game of baseball along with the millions of other children who participate in this sport worldwide. Today more than 30,000 children participate in more than 900 Challenger Divisions worldwide.

Contact the Stockton Ports (209)644-1900 with any further questions.

Fans can purchase tickets at the Ports ticket office, online at www.stocktonports.com or by phone at (209) 644-1900. The Ports ticket office is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday throughout the season.

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

66ers Announce Protect & Serve Night

Inland Empire Will Honor Local Police and Sheriff July 20, 2013

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San Bernardino, CA – The Inland Empire 66ers have partnered with the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner’s Department and local police departments for a special Protect and Serve Night, presented by Toyota and Scion of Redlands, honoring the brave men and women of local law enforcement. Proceeds from ticket sales for the game and bids from the silent auction of team jerseys will benefit the MacKay and Collins families, both affected during the recent Big Bear manhunt.

“The Inland Empire’s law enforcement was tested recently, and they showed the nation their strength and resolve under pressure,” said Inland Empire 66ers General Manger Joe Hudson. “We look forward to honoring our brave local men and women who protect us every day, and especially the two families who were most deeply affected during the recent tragedy.”

“The Protect and Serve Night is a wonderful event that brings together the community and law enforcement,” said San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner John McMahon. “We will be honoring two of our very own heroes, Detective Jeremiah MacKay and Deputy Collins. A generous amount of the proceeds will benefit both families as they embark on new challenges and the process of healing.”

Twenty percent of all ticket revenue will be donated to the families of fallen officer Detective Jeremiah MacKay as well as his seriously wounded partner, Deputy Alex Collins. In addition, sheriff’s-inspired jerseys worn by the team and coaches for the night will be auctioned after the game to benefit the families as well.

“Toyota of Redlands and the Tom Bell Auto Group are honored to host this special event to benefit the families of fallen Detective MacKay as well as injured Detective Collins, and all law enforcement,” said Paul Smith, General Manager of Toyota and Scion of Redlands. “These individuals put their lives in jeopardy every day to protect and serve the people, property and businesses in our areas. We are glad to have a part in this event to help relieve the families of financial burdens, faced when tragic events occur out of their control.”

Tickets should be in high demand since Saturday, July 20, is also Mark Trumbo bobblehead night, presented by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Inland Empire fans can purchase group packages for this or any other Inland Empire 66ers home game. To purchase tickets or for more information about the Inland Empire 66ers, please contact Adam Franey at (909) 495-7633. Additional information is available online at www.66ers.com.

 

Please click here to purchase tickets.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Inland Empire 66ers. Click here to view the original story.

River Cats to Honor Valley High School Baseball Team

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 15, 2013

RIVER CATS TO HONOR VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL TEAM

On-field recognition ceremony scheduled for Friday, May 17

WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The Sacramento River Cats will honor the heroic act of the Valley High School baseball team this Friday, May 17, with an on-field ceremony, in addition to treating the entire team to a night of baseball at Raley Field.

The Valley High School team received national attention recently for pulling a car off a young girl and saving her life on Tuesday, May 7. According to the Sacramento Bee, players from Valley High’s varsity and JV baseball teams heard a girl screaming and came to her aid, pulling a sedan off her and allowing their coaches to pull her from underneath the car.

In addition to the on-field recognition prior to Friday’s 7:05 p.m. game, the Cats are treating both teams and their coaches to complimentary tickets to Friday’s game against the Oklahoma City RedHawks.

Valley High School co-head coach Brett Sawyer said that his team is “beyond ecstatic” for the opportunity to take his players to Raley Field this weekend.

“John Wooden once said, Sports don’t build character, they reveal it,” Sawyer said. “The Valley baseball team exuded character in the truest form that day, and the school, administration, community and coaching staff are proud of each and every one of them.”

The Cats open an eight-game homestand beginning Thursday, May 16, at 7:05 p.m. During the homestand, fans will be treated to two nights of fireworks, two Miller Lite Thirsty Thursdays, and the first of nine bobblehead giveaways of the season, scheduled for Sunday, May 19, when 2,500 fans will receive Barry Zito bobbleheads. Tickets are available at rivercats.com, ticketmaster.com, Raley Field’s Round Table Pizza Ticket Office, or by calling (916) 371-HITS.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Sacramento River Cats. Click here to view the original story.

San Jose Giants to Host Second Annual Strikeout Violence Night

Country singer Matt Kennon returns to lead Junior Giants in Peace Pledge Ceremony

SAN JOSE, CA– On Friday, May 31, the San Jose Giants will present the second annual Strikeout Violence Night at Municipal Stadium. The evening will once again center on an anti-bullying message. The San Jose Giants are excited to welcome back country artist Matt Kennon who performed at the inaugural Strikeout Violence Night. Festivities will include a pregame performance by Kennon, presented by KRTY, and a Junior Giants Peace Pledge Ceremony. Following the pregame events, the San Jose Giants will take on the Stockton Ports at 7:00 PM.

Country rocker Matt Kennon is best known for his Top 20 hit “The Call,” shining a spotlight on the conversation to help prevent suicide. Since performing at last year’s inaugural Strikeout Violence Night, Kennon began a “Stop the Bull” campaign. This effort has taken him to six states and 55 schools, where he has impacted the lives of over 100,000 children. His single, “You Had to Pick On Me” was inspired when Matt ate lunch at the school where his sister works as a teacher’s aid and saw a young boy having a tough time. This experience led Kennon to take a stand against bullying. As part of this campaign, Kennon is available to attend one school in the San Jose area on May 31, prior to performing at Municipal Stadium. For more information, please contact Juliana Paoli, San Jose Giants Chief Marketing Officer, at (408) 380-4505 or email juliana@sjgiants.com.

“We are honored to be bringing Matt Kennon back to Municipal Stadium for the second annual Strikeout Violence Night,” said Paoli. “Kennon’s message last year not only impacted the hundreds of students in attendance, but spread through the community. It also spawned his ‘Stop the Bull’ campaign that has brought national attention to the preventable tragedy of bullying. This night is about driving home the message that the rules we learn on the field can be applied to all of our lives and we are excited to have Kennon be part of the evening.”

Junior Giants, the flagship program of the Giants Community Fund, is a free, non-competitive and innovative baseball program for boys and girls ages 5-18 years old. Beyond baseball, Junior Giants focuses on the Four Bases of Character Development – Confidence, Integrity, Leadership and Teamwork – and offers programs in Education, Health and Violence Prevention. Each of the 20,000 Junior Giants in the program take the Junior Giants Peace Pledge vowing to Strikeout Violence in their communities by preventing bullying, standing up for what is right, praising people and helping others. Prior to the May 31 game, Junior Giants will take the Peace Pledge on the field and receive Strikeout Bullying wristbands. For more information, please visit jrgiants.org.

Friday, May 31 will also be a KRTY Family Friday at the ballpark. On May 30, Matt Kennon will perform An Evening of Music that Matters, with special appearance by Morgan Frazier, at Club Rodeo in San Jose. Country artist Morgan Frazier is a 19 year-old who has been performing since the age of five, sold her first CD when she was nine and signed a record deal at 16. Her not yet released single “Hey Bully”, was inspired by her experience as a bullied child. She is a People’s Choice Award winner who is best known for her debut single, “Yellow Brick Road”, which she released on Curb Records’ sister label, Sidewalk Records. For tickets and more information on this performance please visit krty.com. All fans who purchase a ticket will also receive free admission to the Strikeout Violence Night game on May 31.

Great seats are still available for Strikeout Violence Night. For tickets, visit the Municipal Stadium Box Office, call (408) 297-1435 or visit sjgiants.com. The game will also be broadcasted live on Comcast Hometown Network Digital Channel 104.

 

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Jose Giants. Click here to view the original story.

Second Annual Golf Tournament set for June 5

Golf with Grizzlies players and coaches, help support the Grizzlies Community Fund

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FRESNO, Calif. – The Fresno Grizzlies will host their second annual golf outing on Wednesday, June 5th at Copper River Country Club. The event, presented by Jani-King International Inc., will benefit the Fresno Grizzlies Community Fund (GCF). This is a chance for golfers to play alongside select Grizzlies players and coaches and benefit a worthwhile cause. The field is limited to 144 golfers and there are a limited number of Fresno Grizzlies players and coaches participating, so it is recommended interested golfers register early.

The second annual Fresno Grizzlies Golf Tournament will have a 12:30 pm shotgun start, with lunch provided before the tournament begins. Registration includes a bucket of range balls, team photo, sponsored giveaway items, free beverages provided at five different holes, and a post-tournament mixer with drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Golf attire is required. Check-in is at 10:30 am on the day of the tournament.

Registration options include:

  • Individual Player Registration – $150
    • Single player green fees & cart
  • Foursome Pack – $600
    • One team of four golfers
    • Two Grizzlies ticket vouchers per player
  • Grizzlies Team Pack – $800
    • One team of four golfers
    • Hole Sponsor
    • Four Grizzlies ticket vouchers per player
  • Grizzlies Gold Pack – $2,500
    • Two teams of four golfers
    • Hole Sponsor
    • Four The CRU Club game tickets per player
  • Grizzlies Platinum Pack – $3,000
    • Three teams of four golfers
    • Hole Sponsor
    • $250 in Pro Shop Credit
    • One Luxury Suite night for a 2013 home game (1 per group)
  • Grizzlies Diamond Pack – $3,500
    • One team of three golfers teamed with a Fresno Grizzlies player or coach
    • Hole Sponsor
    • $350 in Pro Shop Credit
    • One Owner’s Suite night for a 2013 home game (1 per group)

Golfers can enjoy a round with friends, co-workers, and business associates while supporting the Fresno Grizzlies Community Fund, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The Fresno Grizzlies Community Fund manages several community programs, including Wild About Reading, Farm Grown, and Junior Grizzlies. The Fresno Grizzlies Community Fund impacts many lives throughout the Central San Joaquin Valley through its own programs or by partnering with other local organizations. For example, Wild About Reading enrolled 101,000 Central Valley students in 2013, challenging each student to read 10 books over five books with two free tickets to a Grizzlies game as an incentive.

Additional sponsorship opportunities are available, such as tee box sponsor, green sponsor, longest drive, closet to the pin, and more. To register or seek more information, please contact Jerry James or Whitney Campbell of the Fresno Grizzlies front office at (559) 320-HITS.

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

GCF raises money for CAF’s Boston Marathon Fund

Funds to help procure adaptive equipment for victims

FRESNO, Calif. – The Fresno Grizzlies Community Fund (GCF) raised $784 for the Challenged Athletes Foundation’s Boston Marathon Fund during the Grizzlies’ game at Chukchansi Park on Saturday, April 20th. The GCF raffled off an autographed bat, which was signed by the entire Fresno Grizzlies team, during the game.

“The tragedy during the Boston Marathon affected the entire nation, and we felt it was necessary for our community of Grizzlies fans to do our part,” said Team President Chris Cummings. “As a native of New England, I am proud of the Grizzlies and the Grizzlies fans for their donation to a worthy cause with the Challenged Athletes Foundation.”

Challenged Athletes Foundation started the Boston Marathon Fund in response to last week’s bombings at the Boston Marathon on April 15th.

Challenged Athletes Foundation supports athletes with physical challenges by providing the appropriate adaptive equipment, hosting clinics, and connecting mentors and mentees. In addition to helping victims procure adaptive equipment, they are hosting a running clinic in Boston in October. They are also inviting the Boston Marathon bombing victims to CAF’s San Diego Triathlon Challenge, which features more than 250 physically challenged athletes in October.

Challenged Athletes Foundation is still accepting donations for its Boston Marathon Fund. For those that are interested, they can donate to the grant fund here.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Fresno Grizzlies. Click here to view the original story.

Wild About Reading reaches goal of 100,000 students

Program finishes its 10th year by reaching new heights

Fresno-GrizzliesWild About Reading wrapped up its 10th year with over 100,000 students enrolled in the program, the Fresno Grizzlies Community Fund announced. The 100,000+ students enrolled is the highest number of students registered in a single year for the program. Wild About Reading, presented by Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino, Educational Employees Credit Union (EECU), and PG&E, challenges students to read 10 books over five weeks with the incentive of two free tickets to a 2013 Grizzlies game at Chukchansi Park for those that reach the 10-book goal.

“Thank you to all the students and schools that helped us reach our goal,” said Grizzlies Community Fund Manager Whitney Campbell. “We are happy to have been able to reach 100,000 students with the Wild About Reading program in 2013. The educational experience of reading and reward of attending a Fresno Grizzlies baseball game will have an impact on numerous Central Valley students for years to come.”

Fresno-Grizzlies-Community-Fund-logoWild About Reading utilizes baseball to promote reading in and outside the classroom. There are 10 Grizzlies games this season in which Wild About Reading students that reached their goal are assigned to attend. The GCF will also be giving away Kindle Fires to lucky readers at Grizzlies games as well as two laptops to the school with the highest game attendance percentage.

EECU-logoThis year’s program featured a new Farm Grown magazine that was given to each student enrolled in the program. The Farm Grown magazine, published by the Grizzlies Community Fund and Farm Progress, included the program’s main story “Parker Goes To The Farm,” which teaches readers the importance of the farming industry to the Central Valley region and how food goes from farm to plate. The Farm Grown magazine also has games and puzzles with farming themes for grades K-8.

From December of 2012 to March 2013, Parker, Eddie the Owl from EECU, and the Grizzlies front office staff visited over 150 schools in the Fresno, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, and Merced counties to perform over 250 Wild About Reading kickoff assemblies.

Information about the Wild About Reading program for 2014 will be available after the Grizzlies’ 2013 season.

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