Michael Chavis Headlines 2020 Sea Dogs Hot Stove Dinner

 

Tickets for the event will go on sale at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, November 13th. Individual tickets for the event are $80.00. Reserved tables of ten are available for $750.00. Tickets can be purchased through the Sea Dogs ticket office by calling 207-879-9500 or online at www.seadogs.com. The event is expected to sell out.

Doors open at 5:30 PM with the Silent Auction running from 5:30 to 7:00 PM. A buffet dinner will be served at 6:30 PM and the program will begin at 7:00 PM. The program will consist of conversations with each guest hosted by Sea Dogs’ radio broadcaster Mike Antonellis.

Chavis made his Double-A debut with the Sea Dogs in 2017, hitting .250 (62-for-248) with 14 homers and 39 RBI in 67 games. He was named the 2017 Red Sox Minor League Offensive Player of the Year after hitting .282 with 313 HR and 94 RBI between High-A Salem and Portland. Chavis made his Major League debut in 2019 and hit .254 (88-for-347) with 18 HR and 58 RBI in 95 games for the Red Sox. His 18 HR and 58 RBI are both the most by a Red Sox in their debut season since Ellis Burks had 20 HR and 59 RBI in 133 games in 1987. Boston drafted Chavis with the 26th overall pick in the 2014 June Draft out of Sprayberry High School in Marietta, Georgia.

All proceeds from the dinner and silent auction will benefit the official charity of the Portland Sea Dogs’; the Strike Out Cancer in Kids Program. The Strike Out Cancer in Kids Program was established in 1995 to raise money for the Maine Children’s Cancer Program. For every strikeout that a Sea Dogs’ pitcher throws money is raised through generous pledges of businesses and individuals. In the 25-year history of the program, nearly five million dollars has been raised.

Previous guests for this event have included Jackie Bradley Jr., Johnny Damon, Keith Foulke, Pedro Martinez, Trot Nixon, and Jason Varitek.

The Sea Dogs open the 2020 season on the road in Hartford, CT on Thursday, April 9th. The home opener is set for Thursday, April 16th at 6:00 PM against the Trenton Thunder (Yankees). Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased by calling the Sea Dogs Ticket Office at 207-879-9500 or online at www.seadogs.com. Book your nine-inning vacation!

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

BlueClaws Charities Announces 2019 Grant Recipients

 

BlueClaws Charities raises money throughout the year across various platforms such as special fundraising events like their Nine & Dine charity golf outing, BlueClaws jersey auctions, a nightly 50/50 raffle that is held at home games. At the conclusion of the season, money raised is distributed through a grant application process.

“We are very proud to support these outstanding Community Partner organizations,” said BlueClaws Charities Executive Director Jim DeAngelis. “Not only are these groups on the ground helping the underserved in our communities, but we are pleased that all grant money stays local here in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.”

Find the organizations and grant descriptions below:

American Cancer Society – To help fund rides to treatment for cancer patients, a free place to stay when a patient needs to travel for treatment, as well as free wigs for patients.

ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia – To help subsidize our Care Services Program that offers programs and services to families living with ALS at no cost and who live in the surrounding communities of BlueClaws Charities.

Alzheimer’s Association Greater New Jersey Chapter – To support youth in our area who are experiencing Alzheimer’s in their family.

The Arc, Ocean County Chapter – To support the general operating budget of the agency in order to continue to provide and support 1,500 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Ashley Lauren Foundation – To assist children with cancer and their families through direct family financial assistance.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ocean County – To fund current community mentorship programs.

Jersey Shore Council, Boy Scouts of America – To provide direct support to our Scoutreach (youth at risk) Cub Scout pack at the Clark Elementary School in Lakewood, New Jersey.

Brodie Fund – To financially assist families with pets fighting cancer.

Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey – To help defray the cost of criminal background checks completed on all volunteers prior to assignments.

David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation – To provide direct financial aid to New Jersey families affected by cancer during the holiday season.

Dottie’s House – To offset the cost of a backflow repair at the facility.

Easterseals New Jersey – To ensure the continuation of employment services programs featuring skills evaluation, resume building, interview skills in addition to placing our participants into jobs within the community.

Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore – To purchase a storage shed to allow the robotics team to store their robot and its components.

Go4theGoal – To support our Kart 4 Kids program in local hospitals that will bring smiles to kids battling cancer.

Guidinglight House Inc. – Fund housing and program services to female veterans transitioning out of the military.

HABcore Inc. – To help fund the supportive services program component of HABcore’s Rapid Re-Housing Program in Ocean County.

JAR of Hope – To bring awareness directed to finding a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

JF Party Dragon – To purchase food for those in need in Ocean County.

Kids Need More – To enhance the lives of children, families, and young adults coping with cancer and life-threatening illness.

LADACIN Network – To support our Child Care and Preschool program which integrates children with and without disabilities.

Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Fund – To assist our organization in its mission of aiding and assisting our wounded warriors and their families.

Mya Lin Terry Foundation – To support our Friends of Michael Campaign, sibling support of oncology children.

NJ TEARS Foundation – To provide assistance to families who have lost a child due to pregnancy or infant loss or sudden loss of a school-aged child in New Jersey with programs offered through our Center for Child Loss in Wall.

Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity – To support elderly neighbors in their progressing age and the infirmities that often come with it by providing safety-related maintenance (such as grab bars and wheelchair ramps) and other home repairs necessary to alleviate structural violations, serious health issues, and code violations.

Ocean County Family Support Organization – To offset the costs of trips for our Youth Partnership Program.

Ocean County Shrine Club – To purchase surgical hardware to scoliosis patients at Shriners Hospital for Children, Philadelphia, specifically, metal instrumentation including, but not limited to, surgical rods and cages used in spinal fusion implant procedures to straighten severe curvatures.

Ocean’s Harbor House – To provide housing for homeless, abused, neglected, and tossaway youth between the ages of 16 and 21, serving Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

Ocean Partnership for Children – To provide emergency fund for youth and famliies for immediate needs that cannot be secured at no cost or covered by Medicad or flex funds.

Piece of the Puzzle – To expand our special education curriculum for students with autism and developmental disabilities.

Parents of Autistic Children – To provide a challenger sports league designed to offer a socialization opportunity, through athletic participation, between disabled students and their typically developing peers.

Probation Association of New Jersey Education Fund – To foster and enhance educational/training opportunities for members of PA/NJ through the operation of an annual training conference.

Raising Hope for Others, Inc. – To offset costs of their August fundraiser.

RJM Sportsgroup – To provide support for students in the Jackson school districts with scholarships.

Salvation Army of Ocean County – To support our weekly soup kitchen, which serves 50-100 meals per week.

Seabrook Village – To support the Library at Seabrook Village.

Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide – To support our Ocean County Youth Wellness Summit. This summit is specifically designed to provide students, school administrators, and school staff with the necessary resources needed to encourage and support overall wellness, including the prevention of teen suicide and other upstream prevention measures.

Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund – To provide scholarships for graduating high school seniors.

United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties – To purchase warm clothing for lower-income children.

USO of Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey – To provide funding for 2020 activities and events in support of the annual Month of the Military Child Celebrations throughout April.

BlueClaws Charities unveiled their 2019 Community Impact Report earlier this week. You can view the report by clicking here.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 of the Lakewood BlueClaws. The organization supports its Community Partners in Monmouth and Ocean Counties with cash grants and other organizations with in-kind donations throughout the year.

The Lakewood BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. BlueClaws ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com. Opening Night of the 2020 season is on Thursday, April 16th.

– BlueClaws –

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

BlueClaws Charities Releases 2019 Community Impact Report

 

LAKEWOOD, NJ – The Lakewood BlueClaws and BlueClaws Charities have released their 2019 Community Impact Report including information on BlueClaws Charities, presented by DiFeo Kia, grant recipients and club community involvement throughout the year.

“BlueClaws Charities and the entire BlueClaws staff is proud to be a key part of the community throughout the year,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “From BlueClaws games themselves to events and fundraising around the area 12 months a year, to supporting a series of tremendous Community Partner organizations, being a leading member of the community is something that we take great pride in. We look forward to expanding our involvement further in 2020!

To read the 2019 Community Impact Report, click here.

BlueClaws Charities handed out cash grants to 39 Community Partners in 2019 and all organizations that applied received a grant. These organizations, ranging from local branches of national charities to smaller local organizations, each create a positive impact in the community in a different way.

“Our BlueClaws Charities Community Partner organizations are helping lead the way around the Jersey Shore in working with the underserved and underprivliged around the area,” said BlueClaws Vice President of Community Relations Jim DeAngelis, also the Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities. “We are proud to note that all grant money stays in Ocean & Monmouth Counties and is put to great use locally.

“We thank our great sponsor, DiFeo Kia, and everyone that supported BlueClaws Charities events and fundraising efforts to make these grants possible.”

Grant fundraising included special events, both in and outside the stadium, throughout the year.

In May, the BlueClaws hosted their 19th annual ALS Celebrity Waiter Event, benefiting the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, the principal charity of the Phillies. This year’s event was held at Quaker Steak & Lube in Brick. The Celebrity Waiter Event has raised over $120,000 for the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia in its history.

In August, BlueClaws Charities hosted their annual golf outing at Lakewood Country Club. The 10th annual event, a “Nine and Dine” format, includes golf, dinner, and special auctions plus appearances by BlueClaws players and coaches.

Additional funding came from the nightly 50/50 raffle which took place at all BlueClaws home games. Each pool total averaged over $2,000 with an average of more than $1,000 being returned to winners.

BlueClaws Charities also raised money through BlueClaws jersey auctions during the year. In 2019, the BlueClaws did the following jersey auctions for BlueClaws Charities: Players Day, Grateful Dead, Margaritaville Night at the Park, BruceClaws, Military Appreciation Night, and Pork Roll, Egg & Cheese. A special pink jersey auction on Breast Cancer Awareness Night benefitted the American Cancer Society. Fans were able to bid either online or through a mobile device, enabling bidding from all over the world. This process raised additional funds for BlueClaws Charities and their Community Partners.

The BlueClaws and BlueClaws Charities partner with OceanFirst Bank and OceanFirst Foundation on several programs that benefit area military personnel. The Home Runs for Heroes program, which just completed its 11th year, generates a donation from OceanFirst Foundation to a local military-based non-profit for each BlueClaws home run hit at FirstEnergy Park. In 2019, the program raised $38,000 for local organizations. Further, through the Vets Night Out program, presented by OceanFirst Bank, tickets are donated to military members through accredited channels.

Additional events during the year included a Challenger Clinic at which the developmentally disabled were able to learn baseball from BlueClaws players and Major League alumni. Troop and School Supply Drives were held at the ballpark during games and the 19th annual Breakfast With Buster holiday food and toy drive was held in December, collecting non-perishable food and unwrapped toys to benefit the Salvation Army of Ocean County.

Through the Phillies Step-Up Program, BlueClaws players participated in over 261 hours of community service during the year. This included events at the ballpark and around the community such as a free clinic put on by the Ocean County Parks Department featuring BlueClaws players.

BlueClaws staff members served on event committees for nine different area non-profit organizations. Staff members served on the Board of Directors of seven different non-profit organizations and five Chambers of Commerce.

The BlueClaws fundraising program also proved profitable for area organizations and event committees. In 2019, over $143,000 was raised through the BlueClaws fundraising program, through which organizations purchase BlueClaws tickets and re-sell them to their constituents to raise money. For additional information on that program, contact a BlueClaws representative at 732-901-7000 option 3.

In-Kind donations included ticket vouchers or other contributions to 924 organizations plus 65 additional packages including merchandise or hospitality outings.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 of the Lakewood BlueClaws. The organization supports its Community Partners in Monmouth and Ocean Counties with cash grants and other organizations with in-kind donations throughout the year.

The Lakewood BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. BlueClaws ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com. Opening Night of the 2020 season is on Thursday, April 16th.

– BlueClaws –

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

Braves Donate to United Way, Danville-Pittsylvania Cancer Association

DANVILLE, Va. – The Danville Braves donated over $2,600 to the United Way of Danville-Pittsylvania County and the Danville-Pittsylvania Cancer Association from fundraisers during the 2019 season.

In total, the Danville Braves have given over $48,000 in goods and services to Danville and the surrounding communities in 2019.

The Braves charitable contributions for the United Way came from the second annual D-Braves 5K, presented by HomeTrust Bank. The event had over 65 participants and the route of the race finished inside the Danville Braves stadium. In total, the Danville Braves were able to raise nearly $1,500 for the efforts of the United Way, who support 16 organizations across the greater Danville-Pittsylvania County area. For more information about the good work that the United Way does in Danville and surrounding areas, visit unitedwaydpc.org.

The donation for the Danville-Pittsylvania Cancer Association comes from the D-Braves Star Wars night on July 19, presented by Centra Health, where fans could purchase game-worn jerseys from Danville Braves players and coaches. On that date, Braves players touted special Han Solo jerseys. The proceeds of the sale totaled over $2,200. The Braves also sent over $1,100 to the Centra Foundation. In total, the Danville Braves have raised over $18,000 as a result of the jersey auction sales over the past nine seasons.

DPC provides financial, educational and emotional support to cancer patients in the Danville and Pittsylvania County area. Donations to the organization aim to defray the cost of cancer-related prescriptions, equipment, supplies, transportation reimbursement, nutritional supplements, as well as other special needs. For more information about the organization, visit www.danvillevacancer.org.

For more information about the Braves community initiatives or information about the 2020 season, visit dbraves.com or follow the Danville Braves on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

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

San Jose Giants Release 2019 Community Report

The San Jose Giants released today their 2019 Community Report. The report serves as an overview of the organization’s community outreach, charitable fundraising efforts, youth development, in-stadium service and community events hosted at Municipal Stadium as well as a ‘thank you’ to all fans, partners, players and staff members.

“We are extremely blessed to open the Excite Ballpark gates to the best fans and partners in all of Minor League Baseball. The passion and loyalty displayed by our community is the inspiration behind every San Jose Giants home game and community event.,” said Daniel Orum, San Jose Giants President and CEO. “We are eager to continue the momentum next year and are working hard to bring an even better experience to Excite Ballpark in 2020.”

 

The 2019 Community Report demonstrates the club’s activity in the community and overall pledge to giving back both inside and outside the stadium’s gates. Highlights of the report include information about Giants player and mascot appearances, staff volunteer efforts, Excite Credit Union Hometown Heroes, special fundraising programs, Minor League Baseball community initiatives, in-stadium service, San Jose Giants baseball and more. For the complete 2019 San Jose Giants Community Report, click on the link below.

For more information on the San Jose Giants and how to get your organization involved next season, call 408.297.1435 or visit sjgiants.com.

View 2019 Community Report

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

Fifth Third Field to Host Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk on Oct. 19

 

DAYTON, OHIO – The 2019 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk will take place at Fifth Third Field on Saturday, October 19. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. with a rolling start from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

This event is part of a national fundraising effort. In 2019 alone, over 1 million walkers across the country collected more than $60 million to help fight this disease.

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and it is estimated that over 40,000 lives will be lost to breast cancer in 2019. Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women (excluding skin cancer) and second only to lung cancer as a cause of cancer death in women.

You can help win the fight. The walk and donations go directly to the support, transportation, recovery, and other needs that arise with the diagnosis of breast cancer. The American Cancer Society also invests in groundbreaking breast cancer research to better understand, prevent, find, and treat the disease.

The Dragons website, www.daytondragons.com, and all Dragons social media pages (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram) will remain pink for the month of October to help draw attention to the efforts by Kettering Health Network to increase breast cancer awareness in the Miami Valley.

To register for the walk and get more information, please visit www.makingstrideswalk.org/Dayton.

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

Dragons Website Going Pink in Support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

 

DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons have gone pink during the month of October. In partnership with Kettering Health Network, the Dragons have turned their website pink to raise breast cancer awareness and support the upcoming Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk.

The Dragons website, www.daytondragons.com, and all Dragons social media pages (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram) will remain pink for the month of October to help draw attention to the efforts by Kettering Health Network to increase breast cancer awareness in the Miami Valley.

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and it is estimated that over 40,000 lives will be lost to breast cancer in 2019. And while the breast cancer diagnosis rate has increased, there has been a steady drop in the overall breast cancer death rate since the early 1990’s.

You can help win the fight. The walk and donations go directly to the support, transportation, recovery, and other needs that arise with the diagnosis of breast cancer. The American Cancer Society also invests in groundbreaking breast cancer research to better understand, prevent, find, and treat the disease.

The 2019 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk will be at Fifth Third Field on October 19 starting at 8:30 a.m. This event is part of a national fundraising effort. In 2019 alone, over 1 million walkers across the country collected more than $60 million to help fight this disease. To register for the walk and get more information, please visit www.makingstrideswalk.org/Dayton.

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

Season In Review | Ems Go Above And Beyond To Benefit Local Community

 

With another season of Emeralds baseball now officially in the rear-view mirror, we’re taking a look back at some of the special moments and memories created during the 2019 season. Today, we reflect on all the good that the Emeralds imparted throughout the Eugene/Springfield community.

Over the past decade, the Ems have made a concerted effort to ingrain the organization within the fabric of Eugene/Springfield through countless community efforts and initiatives. With almost too many donations, drives and events to keep track of, let’s go by the numbers to see exactly how the Emeralds made a positive impact in Lane County during the past season.

$7,451: Dollars raised to benefit local nonprofits through Good Karma Monday.

Good Karma Monday, presented by Yogi, is a weekly ticket promotion created in recent years with the goal of supporting local nonprofit organizations and initiatives. During every Good Karma Monday throughout the 2019 season, fans were able to purchase discounted box seat tickets ($10) with 50% of ticket sales directly benefitting a local nonprofit organization. All told, the Ems raised a combined $7,451 that together benefitted the Pearl Buck Center, Relief Nursery, A Family For Every Child, and Womenspace.

7: Community focus nights.

The Ems aim to use their influence to shine light on causes and efforts that are near and dear to the organization. During the 2019 season, a total of seven (7) different home games were used to highlight important (local) causes, efforts, and personalities: PRIDE, Climate Change, First Responders Appreciation, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics), League Of Her Own (Lois Youngen – former AAGPBL Player), Suicide Prevention, and Military Appreciation.

5: Community events.

Even when there aren’t ballgames happening at PK Park, the Emeralds are often still playing their part in helping support the local community. All told, the Emeralds hosted five (5) separate non-gameday events during the 2019 season to support local nonprofits and organizations: American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, Eugene Police’s National Night Out, Eugene Food Truck Fest benefitting Eugene Mission, Wham Bam Kendall Jam Car Show benefitting Relief Nursery, and the Boys and Girls Club‘s Field of Dreams.

$3,500: Dollars raised through specialty jersey sales during the 2019 season.

Every year, the Emeralds front office collaborates to design one-of-a-kind, specialty jerseys to be worn on a select night during the season. During each specialty jersey game, fans in attendance can bid on the game-worn jerseys via a silent auction, and the auction winners receive their jersey directly from the corresponding player immediately following the game.

Below, you can find the corresponding nonprofit beneficiary for each specialty jersey worn by the Ems this past season.

PRIDE – HIV Alliance

Climate Change – Our Children’s Trust

Star Wars – Children’s Miracle Network

Black Panther – Ems Community Fund

3: Collection drives hosted to benefit nonprofit organizations.

The Emeralds hosted three separate community collection drives during the past season: a book drive benefitting United Way, a cat/dog items drive benefitting Greenhill Humane Society, and a new socks/underwear drive benefitting Eugene Mission.

6,500: Tickets donated to local elementary school students and teachers through Sluggo’s Home Run Reading Challenge, presented by Oregon Medical Group and Wildish.

Year after year, Sluggo and the Emeralds staff spend the spring visiting countless Lane County schools in an effort to encourage reading among children. Participating schools and teachers decide on a reasonable reading goal for their students’ respective reading levels. Once the individual goal is reached by a student, they automatically receive two free tickets to one of the Emeralds Reading Program Redemption games.

This year, the Emeralds hosted a total of eleven (11) Reading Program Nights with more than 6,500 total tickets donated to local elementary school students and teachers.

6: Monarcas games at PK Park this past season.

Starting in 2018, the Emeralds proudly joined “Copa de la Diversión,” or “Fun Cup,” a season-long event series specifically designed to embrace the culture and values that resonate most with participating teams’ local U.S. Hispanic/Latino communities. As such, the Emeralds created their own unique identity as Los Monarcas de Eugene, using the Monarch butterfly as a subtle and beautiful symbol for the migrant community. Every Sunday home game, the Emeralds transformed into los Monarcas by donning specially designed uniforms while also incorporating Latin-themed food, music, and decorations all throughout PK Park.

$6,850: Dollars raised through the 50/50 raffle for Eugene Little League and Boys & Girls Club.

25: Emeralds player outings and efforts within the community totaling more than 175 hours of volunteer work.

5: Days Emeralds players hosted baseball clinics during the season.

1: Guide dogs that the Emeralds helped train this season.

Last but not least, fans at PK Park likely noticed a new four-legged friend roaming the concourse during the 2019 season. Vegas, the Emeralds service dog in-training, joined the organization earlier this year under the direction of Anne Culhane, the team’s Director of Community Relations. Since his arrival, Vegas has been a (rapidly growing) staple at the Ems office and at PK Park, and thanks to Culhane’s guidance he’s also continued to take major steps towards his goal of one day becoming a service dog.

To learn more about The Joys of Living Assistance Dogs visit joydogs.org.

Stay up to date with the Emeralds by following the team on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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

Spann presented with Troubh Community Service Award

Portland, Maine- The Portland Sea Dogs are proud to announce that the 2019 recipient of the William Troubh Community Service award is Gretchen Spann. Spann was presented the award by Sea Dogs’ President & General Manager Geoff Iacuessa along with members of Mr. Troubh’s family including wife Nancy in a pre-game ceremony at Hadlock Field on Friday, August 30th when the Sea Dogs hosted the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

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

Over the last 10 years, Spann our has gone above and beyond for an organization that is near and dear to her heart – the Maine Children’s Cancer Program (MCCP). Since 2012, Spann has served on the Board of Directors for the program and has been an integral part in raising vital funds and spreading awareness to support Maine’s youngest cancer fighters. For a decade, Spann has led Team MCCP, “running for Kids with cancer”, in the Maine Marathon, providing a space for patient families, supporters and friends of MCCP to challenge themselves and go to tremendous distances for children in Maine battling cancer. In ten years, Team MCCP has raised over $290,000, none of this possible without Spann’s leadership and dedication. Spann’s hard work, drive, and compassion towards Maine Children’s Cancer Program is one of the many reasons she has been nominated today. In addition to her work with MCCP she also volunteers with numerous other non-profits and with her children’s school.

Past recipients of the award include Marc Lamontagne (2018), Howard Spear (2017), Roger Goodoak (2016) and John Menario (2015).

The Sea Dogs will begin accepting nominations for the 2020 award in February.

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

IronPigs raise more than $26K on ‘Strike Out Cancer’ Night

The Lehigh Valley IronPigs in conjunction with Air Products, the Lehigh Valley Health Network Cancer Institute and the Lehigh Valley Cancer Community raised $26,100 while donating 450 IronPigs game tickets to those fighting cancer, or aiding the fight versus cancer, and their families for the special “Strike Out Cancer Night” game on Tuesday, August 20. All proceeds from the game were donated to the “Strike Out Cancer’ initiative.

For the second straight season, IronPigs fans, Air Products, the Lehigh Valley Health Network Cancer Institute, our sponsors and the entire Lehigh Valley Cancer Community made this night a memorable one”, said IronPigs President and General Manager Kurt Landes. “The entire community came out in such a strong way and we couldn’t be more thankful for the impact this night has made in the community and in helping to raise valuable funds for the fight against cancer.”

“Strike Out Cancer Night” has now raised just over $40,000 over the past two seasons combined. Last season, over $14,000 was raised in the first ever “Strike Out Cancer Night”.

Nine local organizations – Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley, Angel 34 Foundation, Life Always Facing Forward, Julia’s Grace Foundation, Cancer Support Community, Dream Come True, Boutique at the Rink, Women’s 5K Classic and the American Cancer Society were on-hand to help make this night memorable for the 8,551 fans who were in attendance on Tuesday evening. Each organization will share in the proceeds in helping to further their specific missions.

The highlight of the night, in the middle of the 5th inning, featured every fan in attendance standing in silence holding their “Strike Out Cancer” placard honoring their loved ones who are battling or have battled cancer.

All proceeds from the evening’s 50/50 raffle went towards the Strike Out Cancer initiative along with the proceeds from all Strike Out Cancer T-Shirt sales. The IronPigs donated $4 per ticket from the tickets purchased for the night through a special “Strike Out Cancer” link.

The team also hosted a raffle and sold a unique Purple Ribbon Drink Special throughout the game with all proceeds supporting “Strike Out Cancer.”

A list of additional sponsors who helped make this night possible: • Keystone Canna Remedies
• Olympus
• Buckno Lisicky & Company
• Bennett Toyota
• Joe’s Battery and Tire
• Diversified Refrigeration
• PALCS
• Clemens
• Apgar Oil
• Buzzi Unicem, USA
• Piramal Critical Care
• ASR Media
• KD & Son Heating
• Jean Roth
• Lehigh-Northampton Airport

The 2019 IronPigs season is the team’s 12th as the top affiliate for the Philadelphia Phillies and 12th at Coca-Cola Park. Follow the IronPigs on Twitter at @IronPigs and like them on Facebook via Facebook.com/LHVIronPigs.

The 2019 IronPigs season is presented by Capital BlueCross.

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

M-Braves blanked on Saturday in front of 5,473 fans for Pediatric Cancer Awareness Night

PEARL, MS – In front of a crowd of 5,473 at Trustmark Park on Saturday, the Birmingham Barons (55-66, 28-24) turned the tables on the Mississippi Braves (58-65, 25-29), tossing a one-hit shutout to win the rubber match of the series, 3-0.

The Mississippi Braves, in partnership with Gold Glove Charites, recognized local youth on Saturday by wearing the name of a child battling cancer on the back of each specially designed jersey. Those jerseys were sold via silent auction with funds going towards custom-designed, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for local children battling cancer.

Claudio Custodio  (L, 4-4) made his second-straight start for the M-Braves on Saturday, throwing a season-high 82 pitches, but suffering the loss. Over 3.2 innings, the 28-year-old gave up three runs on fives hits while striking out four and walking four.

Birmingham scored all three of their runs in the top of the third inning. Nate Nolan and former M-Brave Luis Valenzuela reached on singles to start the inning, but Custodio bounced back and sat down the next two batters. With two outs, Damek Tomscha, Gavin Sheets and Ti’Quan Forbes recorded three-straight RBI singles to give Birmingham the lead.

For the second time in three games, a Birmingham starter was perfect through 3.0 innings. Tanner Banks (W, 2-7) struck out five over 7.0 innings of one-hit baseball, notching his first win since June 6. Ray-Patrick Didder  led off the bottom of the fourth inning with a single, Mississippi’s lone hit on the night.

Once again the M-Braves’ bullpen was fantastic. Tyler Matzek  made his organizational debut on Saturday, and the former Rockies first-round pick (11th overall) in 2009 retired all seven batters, striking out five over the 2.1 innings. Matzek was signed by Atlanta on Wednesday and Mwas assigned to the roster on Friday. The California native was pitching for the Independent American Association’s Texas Airhogs.

Jason Hursh  made his first appearance since being activated from the IL on Wednesday and worked 2.0 innings of one-hit baseball, striking out two. Ben Rowen , the submarine right-hander, struck out two over a perfect top of the ninth inning. The three relievers combined for 5.1 innings of one-hit baseball, walking nobody and striking out nine.

Luis Ramirez (S, 4) came in for Banks in the eighth inning and pitched the final 2.0 innings to finish off the shutout.

The Barons clinched the season series, taking six of ten meetings in 2019 from the Braves.

The M-Braves begin the second-leg of the 11-game homestand on Sunday and welcome the Pensacola Blue Wahoos for six games in five days. RHP Connor Johnstone  (5-3, 4.23) will start for the M-Braves against RHP Jhoan Duran (1-3, 7.58) for the Wahoos. First pitch is set for 5:05 pm with coverage beginning at 4:50 pm on 103.9 WYAB, TuneIn Radio, First Pitch App. and MiLB.tv (subscription required).

Sunday’s Promotions:
Mugshots Sunday Family Fun Day – Take advantage of a ticket deal and bring out the entire family. Receive (1) Dugout Level seat, (1) hot dog, (1) 16 oz fountain soda, (1) small popcorn, (1) M-Braves cap, and (1) FREE Fun Zone wristband FOR ONLY $18. Additional tickets with extras are $18 each. (AVAILABLE AT THE BOX OFFICE ONLY).
Kids Run The Bases – After each Friday and Sunday home game, kids 14-and-under are invited run the bases like the M-Braves after the game!

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

M-Braves Honoring Local Kids Fighting Cancer on Saturday

All M-Braves players and coaches will wear specialty jerseys with each adorning the name of a child fighting cancer. These jerseys will be auctioned off on the stadium concourse during the game by Gold Glove volunteers via silent auction with proceeds funding custom-designed, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for local children battling cancer.

The children participating are mainly from Batson Children’s Hospital of Mississippi.

“The M-Braves are proud to team up with Mike Martin and Gold Glove Charities on this impactful event,” said Pete Laven, vice president, and general manager for the Mississippi Braves. “We are grateful to Children’s of Mississippi for bringing our organization together with these brave children and their families for an enjoyable night of baseball at Trustmark Park.”

“Gold Glove Charities is excited to partner with both Children’s of Mississippi and the Mississippi Braves,” added Mike Martin, founder of Gold Glove Charities. “Everyone involved has embraced this night to showcase and honor some amazing children who are fighting cancer. We look forward to a long partnership that will continue to provide custom-designed once-in-a-lifetime experiences to local kids who are battling cancer!”

There will be a meet and greet on-field before the game and photo shoot for a Gold Glove calendar with kids and players. The kids will be paired with the player that is wearing their name on the back of their jersey during introductions as they take the field and exit the third base dugout.

At the end of the fourth inning, a “Home Run for Life” will take place in which both teams will line up on each baseline as one child rounds the bases.

The silent jersey auction will conclude at the end of the seventh inning.

Saturday is also Princess Night at Trustmark Park with a pregame Daddy/Daughter Princess Parade and Post-Game Fireworks following the game. Anna and Elsa will be on hand to take pictures with fans. For tickets or more information, visit mississippibraves.com.

Breast Cancer Awareness Night a Home Run

The BlueClaws hosted Breast Cancer Awareness Night in conjunction with the American Cancer Society on Thursday night.

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – The BlueClaws and the American Cancer Society partnered on a successful Breast Cancer Awareness Night on Thursday at FirstEnergy Park. The event raised money through jersey and hat sales and included special ceremonies honoring survivors.

BlueClaws players and coaches wore special pink jerseys and caps that were auctioned off to benefit the American Cancer Society, netting almost $4,000.

There are a limited number of fitted hats and adjustable hats that are still available in the Claws Cove. All proceeds from these caps will benefit the American Cancer Society. These hats can be purchased online (fitted, adjustable).

PHOTO GALLERY – Click here to view a photo gallery.

“The American Cancer Society was thrilled to partner with the BlueClaws in helping to raise both money and awareness at the game on Thursday,” said Jennifer Lefthand, Senior Manager of Community Development for the American Cancer Society. “It was a special night, attended by many cancer survivors and we look forward to more events like this in the future.”

Video: Breast Cancer Awareness Night

Additionally, the BlueClaws honored several breast cancer survivors on the field before the game. These honorees were selected from a group of nominees submitted over the previous weeks through BlueClaws.com.

The crowd of 7,986 was the team’s third largest of the season and marked the 18th sell-out crowd of 2019.

The BlueClaws won the game 3-2 on a two-run walk-off home run by Ben Pelletier in the bottom of the ninth inning.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. The BlueClaws have fireworks following games on August 16th, 17th, and 29th with the home schedule running through August 29th. Tickets are available by calling 732-901-7000 option 2 or online at BlueClaws.com.

– BlueClaws –

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

Minor League Baseball, American Cancer Society “Cover Your Bases” Sun Safety Initiative Gets Underway This Memorial Day

 

Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) is partnering with the American Cancer Society for the third consecutive year on a nationwide initiative to promote sun safety measures and educate baseball fans about the dangers of overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. From May 27 to June 30, participating MiLB teams will provide free Blue Lizard Sunscreen samples to fans, players, staff and all other attendees at their games. The “Cover Your Bases” initiative is one of MiLB Charities’ annual campaigns.

“Minor League Baseball fans love to spend their summers watching games at our ballparks, and we, in partnership with the American Cancer Society, want to encourage them to be safe and #CoverYourBases when outdoors,” said Courtney Nehls, assistant director of community engagement for MiLB.

The annual campaign has impacted hundreds of thousands of individuals since its launch in 2017, not only providing sun protection, but also information on skin cancer and measures fans can take to help reduce their overall risk. More than 120 MiLB teams are participating in the 2019 initiative.

“Minor League Baseball has always provided opportunities to join impactful initiatives that bring awareness to our communities,” said Hunter Horenstein, director of fan engagement for the Myrtle Peach Pelicans. “With Myrtle Beach being the perfect destination for outdoor fun, the Pelicans look forward to joining MiLB’s ‘Cover Your Bases’ program each year to help educate our fans to take the necessary precautions when it comes to sun exposure.”

According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is by far the most common type of cancer in the U.S., and one of the best ways to help prevent it is by protecting the skin from excessive UV rays, including sun exposure and indoor tanning devices. ACS advises people to seek shade whenever possible, wear a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing, and use broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

“The American Cancer Society is proud to continue our work with Minor League Baseball,” said Sharon Byers, chief development marketing and communications officer for the American Cancer Society. “We deeply appreciate their support and the opportunity to share these important public health messages.”

Minor League Baseball Charities is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to giving back to and enhancing the communities MiLB teams call home. Through donations and support it receives from fans, teams and partners, MiLB Charities contributes to local organizations in times of need and supports causes that are important to the extended baseball family. For more information about MiLB Charities and the Minor League Baseball Charity Partners Program, visit www.MiLB.com.

Rockies Partner With Community Hospital For 2019 Jerseys

The Grand Junction Rockies are partnering up once again with Community Hospital for a 2019 jersey auction. This year’s theme is Breast Cancer Awareness. Fans can purchase space for the name of a loved one who is battling or has battled breast cancer. The signatures and names will be placed on the GJ Rockies players’ pink jerseys that will be worn Saturday, June 29, 2019 for Breast Cancer Awareness Night presented by Community Hospital’s Grand Valley Oncology. After the game, the jerseys will be auctioned off with all proceeds going to Grand Valley Oncology. Each name space is available for puchase at $20 each and will include four reserved tickets to the game on Saturday, June 29, 2019. More information is available by calling the Grand Junction Rockies at 970-255-7625. The deadline to purchase the name spaces is April 30th or until the name spaces are full.

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