Pelicans Host Online Charity Bobblehead Challenge

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The Myrtle Beach Pelicans are teaming up with Carolina Cool, WPDE, and Gator 107.9 to feature the Adam Dellinger vs. Ed Piotrowski Charity Bobblehead Challenge. Fans will have the opportunity to pick a bobblehead of their choosing for a $20 charitable donation. Both bobbleheads will be available through the team website and online store beginning Tuesday, October 13 at 10am EST. Complete details as well as a link to the bobbleheads are available at myrtlebeachpelicans.com/bobbleheadchallenge.

Proceeds from the Adam bobblehead will benefit the family of Maddie McKnight and proceeds from the Ed bobblehead will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation and The Salvation Army.

“The charity bobblehead challenge is certainly different than our traditional method of distributing bobbleheads,” stated Pelicans General Manager Ryan Moore. “But we’ve chosen this approach because we do not view this promotion as a giveaway but instead as a fundraiser designed to do the most good. We’re excited to be partnering with Adam and Ed and know that this wouldn’t be possible without their support.”

Maddie Mcknight was a young Seaside Elementary School Student who battled Rett Syndrome. Tragically, Maddie, a second grader at Seaside, lost her battle with the debilitating illness earlier this year. This rare, non-inherited genetic postnatal neurological disorder occurs primarily in girls and more rarely in boys. Rett syndrome leads to severe impairments, affecting nearly every aspect of the child’s life.

“I have the honor to be able to work with, and support several Grand Strand Charities. Many of these charities impact hundreds of folks, stated Adam Dellinger, host of the Gator Morning Show. “Sometimes though, it’s really great to be able to help one person or a single family. Maddie’s story hit close to home for me as the father of a young girl, and I’m thankful to be able to use the Charity Bobblehead Challenge to help her family during this unimaginably difficult time. Maddie’s family is hampered with medical expenses, and hopefully, through this fundraiser, we can work to ease their burden.”

The Salvation Army exists to meet human needs wherever, whenever, and however we can. Through programs that serve the mind, body, and soul, we alleviate the effects of poverty, then work to address root causes.

Every 34 minutes Make-A-Wish® grants the wish of a child diagnosed with a critical illness in the United States and its territories. They believe that a wish experience can be a game-changer. This one belief guides them in everything they do and inspires them to grant wishes that change the lives of the kids they serve.

“During the pandemic, everyone is struggling,” stated Ed Piotrowski. “I chose the Salvation Army as one of the beneficiaries because of the incredible work they do in our community helping people get their basic needs met. The other half of the proceeds will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. No child should ever have to deal with a life-threatening medical condition. By fulfilling their wishes, I hope to take their minds off their illness and bring joy to their lives. More importantly, I hope it gives them the strength and courage to battle and beat their illness.”

FredNats to Unveil New History Wall Inside Ballpark on Saturday, October 3rd

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The Fredericksburg Baseball History Wall Has Been Developed in Conjunction with Germanna Community College, the Fredericksburg Area Museum & Dovetail Cultural Resource Group

FREDERICKSBURG, VA – The Fredericksburg Nationals are excited to unveil their newest element of their ballpark to fans. Located behind the batter’s eye on the centerfield concourse, the “History of Baseball in Fredericksburg” Wall presented by Germanna Community College will be 80 feet long and 12 feet high showcasing some of Fredericksburg’s richest history ranging from the civil war to the present, including some lesser known baseball factoids.

Fans will be invited to the ballpark on Saturday, Oct. 3 to see the History of Baseball in Fredericksburg Wall for themselves followed by a free showing of a movie that is to be determined by a fan vote. Gates will open at 5 p.m. to the first 1,000 fans in order to properly social distance. A ceremony to “unveil” the Wall and hear about the project will begin at approximately 6:30 p.m. prior to the movie showing at 7 p.m.

The following is a sample of one panel of the display which shows the historical and educational elements of the Wall:

“The Fredericksburg Nationals are thrilled to introduce this unique element into the ballpark for baseball and history fans to enjoy.” Team Treasurer Seth Silber stated, “This project brings together the rich history of Fredericksburg and the rich history of our national pastime into one incredible display that will stand the test of time. It was only possible through the support, talents, and creativity of three incredible community partners, Germanna Community College, the Fredericksburg Area Museum, and Dovetail Cultural Resource Group – all of whom had the vision to help bring this dream to reality.”

“Baseball has mirrored social change in America and, at times, even played an important role, as it did when Jackie Robinson broke the game’s color line 73 years ago,” said Germanna President, Janet Gullickson. “We’re proud to be part of this five-year project chronicling the history of baseball in our area, along with the FredNats, Dovetail and the Fredericksburg Area Museum. And we are very happy to be working with the City and the Silber family. “

FAM President and CEO Sara Poore added: “The Fredericksburg Area Museum (FAM) is very excited to have participated in the creation of the History Wall in the FredNats ballpark. What a fun project it has been. The dedication and commitment to the history of our community has been a priority to the Silber family’s relocation of the team to Fredericksburg, as evidenced by the History Pavilion. We look forward to a History Day event in Spring 2021 where the Fredericksburg Museums Council, which includes Fredericksburg Area Museum, The George Washington Foundation, Washington Heritage Museums, James Monroe Museum and Memorial Library, and Gari Melchers Home & Studio, will have an opportunity to engage the public with hands- on activities that will further share the history of Fredericksburg.”

In addition to the history wall, the FAM’s future exhibition Playball! America’s Pastime will open in the museum in January. This exhibit will complement the History Wall with artifacts and stories that illustrate Fredericksburg’s long history with the game of baseball –from soldiers to sandlots to the gleaming ballfields of today!

“Dovetail Cultural Resource Group (Dovetail) is utterly thrilled to be a part of the team bringing the history of Fredericksburg baseball to the community,” Dovetail President Kerri Barile said. We began researching this topic back in 2013 when the City considered entering into a previous agreement to bring a team to town. The little bit of research we did blew us away. When the Fredericksburg Nationals began to explore Fredericksburg as their new home, Dovetail knew two things: the FredNats would be an incredible piece of our baseball story and we wanted to be a part of their adventure.”

“The teamwork on this project was incredible,” Barile said. “Dovetail took the lead on the research with FAM then creating a beautiful and monumental exhibit. Germanna backed the studies throughout the project and contributed the breathtaking History Minute videos that will be shown during the games. The FredNats, Seth Silber in particular, were the project glue. The guidance, support, and enthusiasm they provided throughout the project was infectious, and they kept the work on track despite the delays in our opening due to COVID. We hope we have succeeded in making their vision a reality!” said Barile from Dovetail.

Barile said the exhibit and videos track the legacy of baseball in the area as:

  • Union and Confederate soldiers watching each other play baseball games across the Rappahannock River. Abner Doubleday, who, according to baseball mythology, invented the game, was an officer in the Union camp and was said to have organized games there in Falmouth.
  • The beginnings of baseball teams and leagues in Fredericksburg in 1866, as troops who learned the game during the war brought it home to friends and families when hostilities ceased.
  • The world’s eyes turned to Fredericksburg in February of 1936 when Hall of Fame Washington Senators pitcher Walter Johnson recreated George Washington’s legendary silver dollar throw across the Rappahannock. In a brilliant publicity stunt, Johnson was brought to town and more than 4,000 people turned out to watch, with 90 radio stations across the country broadcasting the event live.

To view the previously released Fredericksburg Baseball History Minutes, use the following links.

The Fredericksburg Nationals are the high A affiliate of the Washington Nationals in the Carolina league. The FredNats brand new, state of the art stadium facility is located at Celebrate Virginia South on Carl D. Silver Parkway near the Fredericksburg Expo & Convention Center in Fredericksburg, VA. Stay up to date with the progress of the new ballpark facility and the team online at www.frednats.com and follow the Fredericksburg Nationals on Facebook (@FXBGNats), on Twitter (@FXBGNats), and on Instagram (@fxbgnats).

460 Battle Brings Communities Together

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

1. Bring back baseball locally and have some fun!

2. Unify communities with a little friendly competition!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*– END – *

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

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

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

Segra Stadium to Host 2nd Annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb

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FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The 2nd Annual Fayetteville 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb will be held on the morning of Saturday, September 12th at Segra Stadium. Opening ceremonies will begin at 8:45 a.m. and the climb will start at approximately 9:15 a.m.

The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb is a way to honor and remember the FDNY firefighters, police, and EMS who selflessly gave their lives on that tragic day. Each participant will pay tribute to those brave souls by climbing the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center. Your individual tribute not only remembers the sacrifice, but symbolically completes their heroic journey to save others. Through community participation we can ensure that each of the 343 firefighters, 60 police officers, and 10 EMS are never forgotten.

Registration fees are $30/per person and include your entry to the climb and a t-shirt. Anyone interested in climbing MUST REGISTER ONLINE by September 10th. We will not have walk-up registration this year to limit touch points at the entrance. Check-in for the event will begin at 7:45 a.m. All proceeds from the stair climb will benefit programs provided by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to support the families of your local fallen firefighters and the FDNY Counseling Services Unit.

To register, please visit the Fayetteville 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb Facebook page HERE.

DOWN EAST WOOD DUCKS TO HOST YOUTH SOFTBALL CAMP

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Kinston, North Carolina – The Down East Wood Ducks will host a Youth Softball Camp, Presented by Stallings Plumbing, Heating and A/C, on Monday, August 31st through Wednesday, September 2nd.

The Youth Softball Camp will offer daily sessions from 9am-1pm. The three day camp is $50 per participant for all three days. This camp will include instructions on infield, outfield, pitching, catching and hitting.

The instructors will include current and former team members from the Shockers travel softball team along with Head Coach Jody Turner. The Shockers teams have produced 104 D1 college athletes over the years and the current team will be sending one hundred percent of its senior class to play collegiate softball. “The Shockers are both honored and thrilled to partner with the DEWDS to bring fast pitch softball to historic Grainger Stadium. We cherish every opportunity to cultivate a young girl’s dream of playing a game that promotes integrity in all aspects of life” says head coach Jody Turner

As part of our COVID19 event protocol, each child is responsible for bringing their own equipment to the camp (i.e bat, glove, cap, catching equipment if applicable) as well as water or Gatorade. Limited concessions will be available daily. Each session will be limited in space to not only help with one on one instruction time but also for social distancing. Parents will be required to sign a waiver for the participant and themselves prior to entering the Grainger Stadium.

Parents may register their children by calling Jackson Cook at 252-686-5142 or email Jackson at [email protected].There is limited space so don’t delay, contact Jackson and register today as we expect the camps to fill up in advance.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

##

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

The Rick Herrema Foundation To Receive $10,000 Donation for Summer Camps

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FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Playing, learning, and growing: that’s what summer camp is all about at The Rick Herrema Foundation’s 50 acre green space called ‘Rick’s Place,’ located just minutes from Fort Bragg. The Fayetteville Woodpeckers are proud to give a donation of $10,000 to The Rick Herrema Foundation for camp participants to enjoy three weeks of activities, without the extra worry or burden of expenses and safety concerns due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Woodpeckers presented a check in the amount of $10,000 to The Rick Herrema Foundation from their primary outreach program of the club’s official team charity, The Community Leaders Program, which focuses on military and youth sports causes. This donation will sponsor the supplies and activities budget for the upcoming three weeks of summer camps. With the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Rick Herrema Foundation is elevating safety and sanitation measures to protect the campers and their well-being, while having fun in an outdoor, safety-conscious environment. The summer camps are specifically designed for children with military connections, ages 8 to 14 years old. This summer, campers will learn survival skills, land navigation, ax throwing, and wood working, as well as other fun, socially distant activities during their time at Rick’s Place. Additionally, The Community Leaders Program has sponsored scholarships to cover the cost for camp participants whose families may be financially challenged.

The Community Leaders Program is made possible through the generosity of our corporate partners: SEGRA, AEVEX, ASUS, The Walsingham Group, CarolinasDentist, and Blanton’s Air, Plumbing, and Electric.

For more information about Rick’s Place and The Rick Herrema Foundation, click HERE. You can find more information on The Community Leaders Program HERE.

Fredericksburg Nationals to Host Jackie Robinson Legacy Night July 14th

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WHAT: Jackie Robinson Legacy Night will include an award ceremony for the recipients of the Jackie Robinson Writing Contest that the FredNats created in conjunction with Germanna Community College. In honor of FredNats Owner, Art Silber’s 80th birthday, there will also be a free showing of the movie “42” on the video board for fans to view from the field. There will be concessions and FredNats merchandise available for purchase inside the ballpark.

WHO: Speakers for the scholarship award ceremony include Fredericksburg Mayor, Mary Katherine Greenlaw, Vice Mayor-Councilman Chuck Frye, Germanna Community College President, Janet Gulickson, FredNats Treasurer, Seth Silber, and FredNats Owner, Art Silber.

Due to regulations from the health department, there is a cap of 1,000 attendees for this event. Attendees will be admitted on a first come, first serve basis as there are no reservations or tickets.

WHY: The FredNats are hosting this event to celebrate the achievements of the Jackie Robinson Writing Contest winners and Art Silber’s 80th birthday, as well as treat members of their community to a free showing of the movie “42, The Story of Jackie Robinson.”

WHEN: The event will be held on Tuesday, July 14. The schedule of events is as follows:

  • 6:00 p.m. Gates Open
  • 7:15 p.m. Scholarship Award Ceremony Begins
  • 7:45 p.m. Free Showing of “42” (Runtime 2:08)

WHERE: The new Fredericksburg Nationals ballpark is next to the Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center located at 2371 Carl D. Silver Pkwy, Fredericksburg, VA 22401. The movie “42” will be displayed on the stadium’s video board and will be viewed from the field and seating will be properly spaced to ensure fan safety.

Fans will be invited to sit only on the dark green stripes of turf on the field and will be asked to sit 15 ft apart from other groups or families. FredNats blankets will be available for purchase but fans are invited to bring their own if they would like. No lawn chairs will be allowed on the field.

Masks will be strongly encouraged for this event. All members of the FredNats staff will be wearing masks for the entirety of the event.

CONTACT: To schedule any interviews before or at Jackie Robinson Legacy Night with members from the Fredericksburg Nationals, please contact Paige Honaker at [email protected].

The Fredericksburg Nationals are the High A affiliate of the Washington Nationals in the Carolina League. Their brand new, state of the art stadium facility is located at Celebrate Virginia South on Carl D. Silver Parkway near the Fredericksburg Expo & Convention Center in Fredericksburg, VA. Stay up to date with the progress of the new ballpark facility and the team online at www.frednats.com and follow the Fredericksburg Nationals on Facebook (@FXBGNats), on Twitter (@FXBGNats), and on Instagram (@fxbgnats).

Blue Rocks and Blue Coats Joint Campaign Raises $6,500

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Wilmington, DE – The Wilmington Blue Rocks and Delaware Blue Coats are proud to announce that their joint fundraiser generated $6,500 for ChristianaCare and Nemours Children’s Health System.

The two professional sports organizations in Delaware united on a co-branded “Delaware Together” t-shirt, with proceeds going directly to the facilities on the front line in the First State’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Fans purchased hundreds of the limited-edition shirts during the three-week initiative.

“It’s in these challenging times that the spirit of Delaware really shines,” said Blue Rocks managing partner Dave Heller. “First Staters have an unsinkable spirit and determination to help each other get through even the toughest times. Our two organizations were delighted to join forces to support our community’s heroes, and our fans generously embraced the cause and made this fundraiser a tremendous success. I couldn’t be more proud of the people of Delaware and the entire region.”

A limited supply of the co-branded “Delaware Together” t-shirts remain available for purchase online from The Quarry Team Store by clicking HERE. Delaware residents may select “Stadium Pick-up Only” and collect their purchases with contact-less pick-up at Frawley Stadium. In-store shopping is available, but due to State of Delaware COVID-19 guidelines is currently limited to Monday-Friday by appointment only. For in-store shopping hours & to make an appointment, call (302) 888-2015 or email [email protected].

The Wilmington Blue Rocks are the Advanced-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and the 2019 Mills Cup champions. The Delaware Blue Coats are the G League affiliate of the Philadelphia 76ers.

Fredericksburg Nationals Sell Over 1,001 Community Initiative T-Shirts

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FREDERICKSBURG, VA – The Fredericksburg Nationals are proud to announce that they reached their goal of more than 1,001 We Are FXBG t-shirts sold as of Monday, June 29. The team announced that they would be launching the We Are FXBG t-shirts back in May with the promise to donate two tickets to local frontline healthcare workers with the purchase of each t-shirt.

FredNats General Manager and Executive Vice President Nick Hall added an extra incentive to fans by promising to get a tattoo of the team’s official mascot, Gus, if more than 1,001 We Are FXBG t-shirts were sold.

The 1,001 t-shirt was sold to a fan attending the third day of the Open House at the ballpark in the afternoon of Sunday, June 28.

“We’re really excited to make that tattoo real and have Gus enshrined on my body for life! Now if you’ll excuse me, I have to go apologize to my wife” said Hall, following the purchase of the 1,001 shirt.

To help the team push themselves further towards their goal, they tie-dyed hundreds of We Are FXBG t-shirts with fans at their Open House at the Ballpark on June 21, June 27 and June 28. Thanks to the support from their fans, the FredNats sold almost 500 We Are FXBG t-shirts in the three days of their Open House.

We Are FXBG t-shirts are still available for purchase in red, blue, grey, and white on the team’s online store at https://fredericksburgnationals.milbstore.com/products/we-are-fxbg-shirt.

The Fredericksburg Nationals are the high-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals in the Carolina League, originally set to begin play in 2020 at a brand new, state of the art stadium facility, located at Celebrate Virginia South on Carl D. Silver Parkway near the Fredericksburg Expo & Convention Center in Fredericksburg, VA. Stay up to date with the progress of the new ballpark facility and the team online at www.frednats.com and follow the Fredericksburg Nationals on Facebook (@FXBGNats), on Twitter (@FXBGNats), and on Instagram (@fxbgnats).

$2,790 Raised For Second Harvest Food Bank Through CommUNITY First Initiative

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FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – The Fayetteville Woodpeckers are pleased to announce the results of their month-long participation in the MiLB CommUNITY First campaign. The national initiative, developed by Minor League Baseball in conjunction with Feeding America, encouraged participating teams and their fans to raise funds for local food banks and to honor individuals risking their lives on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With a grand total of $2,790 raised, the Woodpeckers placed first in fundraising in the Carolina League and second nationally out of more than 100 participating teams throughout Minor League Baseball. Fans donated $1,145 from April 28th through May 31st. The Fayetteville Woodpeckers Fund, the team’s official charity, matched the total amount raised. As one of the top five teams in fundraising through this initiative, MiLB Charities added an additional $500 donation.

The proceeds from this fundraiser will benefit the Woodpeckers’ local food bank, Second Harvest Food Bank of Southeast North Carolina, located in Fayetteville. In southeast North Carolina, 1 in 6 people face hunger; 1 in 4 of these are children. Second Harvest Food Bank is the leading hunger relief oganization in the southeastern region of the Tar Heel state; serving Bladen, Cumberland, Duplin, Harnett, Hoke, Robeson, and Sampson counties.

CommUNITY First not only addressed food insecurity, the initiative also aimed to honor those on the front lines fighting COVID-19. For every $10 raised, the Woodpeckers pledged to donate one ticket to a future home game this season or in 2021 to a local hero of the pandemic. The Woodpeckers will work with local partners to distribute 279 tickets to front-line workers in our community.
Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY First campaign collectively raised $54,070 for Feeding America food banks around the country. As a result, participating teams will donate over 5,400 tickets to heroes fighting COVID-19.

 

Brandywine Valley SPCA To Host Second Drive-thru Pet Food Pantry at Frawley Stadium

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Wilmington, DE – The Brandywine Valley SPCA (BVSPCA) has teamed up with Terra Technical Services again to hold a second drive-thru pet food pantry at Frawley Stadium to help families financially impacted by COVID-19.

Free pet food will be distributed at Frawley Stadium’s drive-thru pet food pantry as follows:

Friday, June 12 – 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Daniel S. Frawley Stadium
801 Shipyard Dr.
Wilmington, DE

The Brandywine Valley SPCA has held six drive-thru pet food pantries to date, helping more than 1,200 families. The drive-thru format requires participants to arrive in a vehicle, where they should remain while BVSPCA staff requests, from a 6-foot distance, information on the household pets then loads the pet food into the trunk or hatchback. Food will be available for cats and dogs while supplies last. Food storage and transport has been generously provided by Terra, along with collaboration on pantry logistics.

“The number of families struggling financially right now is staggering,” said Adam Lamb, BVSPCA CEO. “They need their family pets now more than ever, so we’re providing free pet food at our shelters and drive-thru pantries to alleviate some of that financial pressure and do all we can so families don’t have to give up the cat or dog they love simply because they can’t afford food.”

The Wilmington Blue Rocks are proud to support the efforts.

“Our community continues to come together in a time of great need, and the Blue Rocks are very proud of our role in that process,” said Blue Rocks General Manager Andrew Layman. “Anything we can do to assist in the prevention of suffering for anyone or anything is our top priority, and this event is going to help a lot of wonderful pets and their families. We are grateful to all who can help as well as the Brandywine Valley SPCA for the hard work they’ve poured into making these pet food pantries possible.”

The Brandywine Valley SPCA has distributed more than 70,000 pounds of pet food since the start of the pandemic. The 35 tons of food has been distributed at drive-thru pet food pantries as well as expanded pet food pantry hours at their shelters (Tuesday-Friday 12pm-6pm, Saturday-Sunday 11am-5pm).

The Brandywine Valley SPCA welcomes donations from the community to continue to supply pet food to families in need. Those donations will be matched by a generous grant from the Petco Foundation up to $25,000 through June 30 when made at the following link: https://bvspca.org/petcomatch/

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Kayla Knotts Named Blue Rocks Teacher of the Year

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Wilmington, DE – In honor of National Teacher Appreciation Week the Wilmington Blue Rocks named Kayla Knotts the organization’s Teacher of The Year on Friday. Knotts, who teaches math and science at John Bassett Moore Intermediate School in Smyrna, received more online nominations than any other candidate.

Her students describe Knotts as an incredibly patient teacher, who is willing to pour extra time into any student that needs help. She makes difficult concepts like fractions and decimals seem simple thanks to her teaching style and Knotts’ students also appreciate her ability to make them feel at ease inside the classroom.

“A quality education is such an important part of any child’s development, and no one impacts that more than teachers,” said Blue Rocks director of community affairs Kevin Linton. “The Blue Rocks take great pride in our close working relationship with this community’s schools through programs like Rocky’s Reading Challenge and Outstanding Student. Those initiatives would not be possible without passionate support from teachers like Kayla Knotts. We salute her outstanding work in the classroom along with the rest of her invaluable peers.”

Knotts was named the winner by a committee compiled of Blue Rocks front office workers, who reviewed online nominations submitted by fans. Students were asked to nominate the teacher who had the biggest impact on their pupils during the 2019-20 school year and to explain what that impact was.

Knotts will receive a complimentary suite to a future Blue Rocks game, where she will be honored on the field before the contest and throw out a first pitch when baseball returns to The Riverfront. Wilmington mascot Rocky Bluewinkle will also pay Knotts and her students a future visit at John Bassett Moore Intermediate School to present her with the award.

Brandywine Valley SPCA Drive-thru Pet Food Pantry to be Held Next Week at Frawley Stadium

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Wilmington, DE – The Brandywine Valley SPCA (BVSPCA) has teamed up with Terra Technical Services again to hold a second drive-thru pet food pantry at Frawley Stadium to help families financially impacted by COVID-19.

Free pet food will be distributed at Frawley Stadium’s drive-thru pet food pantry as follows:

Thursday, June 12 – 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Daniel S. Frawley Stadium
801 Shipyard Dr.
Wilmington, DE

The Brandywine Valley SPCA has held four drive-thru pet food pantries to date, helping nearly 1,000 families. The drive-thru format requires participants to arrive in a vehicle, where they should remain while BVSPCA staff requests, from a 6-foot distance, information on the household pets then loads the pet food into the trunk or hatchback. Food will be available for cats and dogs while supplies last. Food storage and transport has been generously provided by Terra, along with collaboration on pantry logistics.

“No one should ever have to give up the cat or dog they love simply because they can’t afford food,” said Adam Lamb, BVSPCA CEO. “With the unprecedented spike in unemployment during this pandemic, we want to be sure to families financially impacted can keep their pets by their side during this stressful time.”

“Communities are suffering tremendously as a result of COVID-19’s economic impact, and this is just one way we can use our resources to provide support for families in need.” Conrad Muhly, CEO of Terra Technical Services, LLC.

“Wilmington cares very much about animals and their owners, so we are very happy to co-sponsor this FREE drive-thru pantry event to help make sure that everyone’s companion animal can be properly fed during the current COVID-19 crisis,” said Wilmington Mayor Mike Purzycki. “This is a difficult time for everyone, of course, but we want to make sure that our pets don’t get overlooked in the daily struggle to adjust to the changes we have all had to make in our daily routines. The Brandywine Valley SPCA does a tremendous amount of work regarding pet care, adoption, and education, and I hope everyone continues supporting their efforts.”

“Our community continues to come together in a time of great need, and the Blue Rocks are very proud of our role in that process,” said Andrew Layman, General Manager, Wilmington Blue Rocks. “Anything we can do to assist in the prevention of suffering for anyone or anything is our top priority, and this event is going to help a lot of wonderful pets and their families. We are grateful to all who can help as well as the Brandywine Valley SPCA for the hard work they’ve poured into this to make it possible.”

“Riverfront Wilmington is thrilled to work with the Brandywine Valley SPCA on this event,” said Joe Valenti, Marketing Manager, Riverfront Development Corporation of Delaware. “During this difficult time, we are proud to do what we can to help pet owners provide for their animals, as well as keep as many pets out of shelters as possible.”

Since the start of the pandemic, the Brandywine Valley SPCA has distributed more than more 60,000 pounds of pet food to families in need and sent five truckloads of pet food to other shelters for their pantries. In addition to the drive-thru pantries, the BVSPCA has expanded its standard pet food pantry to be accessible anytime during shelter open hours: Tuesday – Friday 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., Saturday – Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Donations to help the BVSPCA continue to supply pet food to families in need can be made at: https://bvspca.org/covidresponse/

About the Brandywine Valley SPCA

Founded in 1929, the Brandywine Valley SPCA is the first open admission no-kill shelter in Pennsylvania and Delaware. In 2019, the BVSPCA cared for more than 13,000 stray, owner-surrendered, wayward owned, and abused and neglected animals while achieving a 96% live release rate. The BVSPCA provides animal protective services for Chester County and much of Delaware County in Pennsylvania, and it holds a five-year contract with the Delaware Office of Animal Welfare to provide state-wide animal services for dogs. Animals are placed through four adoption centers: Dover Campus, Georgetown Campus, New Castle Campus, and West Chester Campus. In addition, the BVSPCA provides families with safety net and low-cost veterinary services at its four clinic locations: the Malvern Animal Health Center, the New Castle Animal Health Center, and the Georgetown Animal Health Center. The BVSPCA also operates the Animal Rescue Center (ARC), a facility dedicated to helping animals with additional needs prior to being ready for adoption, such as cruelty cases, disaster victims, and infants. Visit bvspca.org.

About Terra Technical Services

Founded in 1993 by Conrad E. Muhly IV, Terra Technical Services, LLC with local headquarters based in Downingtown, Pennsylvania. They are an industry leader specializing in commercial and industrial demolition projects throughout the United States. Terra provides turnkey solutions to clients while managing projects with safe, high quality, cost-effective services day in and day out with a focus on 100% client satisfaction while completing projects within budget and on time.

As a “Best in Class” Environmental Remediation and Demolition Full-Service Company some of Terra Technical’s projects include complex decontamination and dismantlement of industrial and chemical manufacturing facilities. Terra’s expertise also includes the completion of many multi-faceted environmental remediation, demolition and recycling projects for a vast array of institutional clients including hospitals, universities, municipalities, retailers, and educational institutions along with government entities.

Conrad Muhly served as Brandywine Valley SPCA Chairman for over seven years, and he continues to hold a Board position. Conrad, along with several of Terra’s executive leaders, serves a number of voluntary board positions both locally and on a national level to promote community outreach and support.

More info: www.goterra.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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