BlueClaws Charities Announces 2018 Grant Recipients

BlueClaws Charities announced the 39 different organizations to receive a grant as part of their 2018 grant distribution.

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – BlueClaws Charities completed their 10th annual grant distribution by handing out grants to 39 area organizations, it was announced on Monday.

BlueClaws Charities Community Partner organizations, all 501c3s that work with the BlueClaws throughout the year, were eligible to apply for a grant and all organizations that applied for a grant received one.

Each applicant was asked to detail a specific use for the grant, with the requirement that all money received from BlueClaws Charities stays in Ocean & Monmouth Counties. A complete list can be found below.

“We are very proud to be support such a wide variety of local organizations that do tremendous work as part of the non-profit community around the Jersey Shore,” said Jim DeAngelis, BlueClaws Charities Executive Director. “These organizations are on the ground working with the underserved in our communities, doing spectacular work.

“Further, it is important that all of the grant money donated by BlueClaws Charities stays here in Ocean and Monmouth Counties,” said DeAngelis. ” It is an honor for BlueClaws Charities to be able to assist these great groups doing their work in our local community.”

The following organizations received grants:

– ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia – to subsidize the cost of services for people living with ALS who reside in Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
– Alzheimer’s Association – to provide services to people living with Alzheimer’s and their families.
– The Arc, Ocean County Chapter – to provide funding to the Arc programs that support 1,500 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in residential, vocational, and recreation services throughout the community.
– The Ashley Lauren Foundation – to assist children with cancer and their families through direct family financial assistance.
– Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Ocean County – to continue community mentorship programs in Ocean County.
– Boy Scouts of America, Jersey Shore Council – to provide direct support to the Scoutreach Cub Scout pack at the Clark Elementary School in Lakewood.
– The Brodie Fund – to continue their mission of offering financial assistance to families that have pets fighting cancer.
– Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey – to help defray the cost of criminal background checks completed on all volunteers prior to assignments.
– Cheer Dream Scoliosis Foundation – to enhance the equipment for their special needs team.
– David’s Dream and Believe Cancer Foundation – to offer financial assistance and wellness services to families affected by a cancer diagnosis.
– Dottie’s House – to provide essential counseling to families to become self-sufficient in their futures.
– Easterseals New Jersey – to teach individuals living with disabilities and special needs and their families about health, nutrition, and exercise education.
– Exit 82 Theatre Company – to assist in their 2019 production season.
– Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore – to fund the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore’s outreach program in Ocean County.
– Go 4 The Goal – to support the Kart 4 Kids, a kart stocked with snacks, gift cards, toys, activities, and electronics to entice kids of all ages.
– Guidinglight House – to provide funding for program services for homeless female veterans.
– HABcore, Inc – to help fund the supportive services program component of HABcore’s Rapid Re-Housing Program in Ocean County.
– JAR of Hope – to fund research in the hope of eliminating Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
– Kids Need More – to enhance the lives of children and their families dealing with a diagnosis of cancer or life threatening illness.
– LADACIN Network – to support their Child Care and Preschool Program which integrate children with and without disabilities.
– Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund – to provide funds to assist in aiding and assistant wounded warriors and their families.
– The Mya Lin Terry Foundation – to support their Holiday Gifting Campaign to benefit pediatric cancer warriors.
– Northern Ocean County Habitat for Humanity – to provide necessary repairs and modifications to a senior’s home through their Aging in Place program.
– Ocean County Family Support Organization – to offset the costs of trips for their Youth Partnerships Program.
– Ocean County Shrine Club – to expand and upgrade the hospital’s Walk-in and Urgent Pediatric Fracture Clinic.
– Ocean County YMCA – to support kids, families, and seniors through the Y-Cares Financial Assistance Program such that they will be able to benefit from membership regardless of their financial resources.
– Ocean’s Harbor House – to replace aging computers in their Emergency Youth Shelter.
– Ocean Partnership for Children – to provide needed equipment for the agency’s consulting psychiatrist to use with the youth being seen, as well as to provide books, sensory materials, and toys for the waiting room and psychiatrist’s meeting space.
– Piece of the Puzzle – to produce a Corner Cafe vocational curriculum for students with autism.
– Parents of Autistic Children – to provide a challenger sports league designed to offer a socialization opportunity between disabled students along with typically developing peers from across Ocean and Monmouth Counties.
– Probation Association of New Jersey Education Fund – to enhance education training opportunities through the operation of their annual training conference.
– Raising Hope for Others – to offset the cost of their August fundraiser.
– RJM Sportsgroup – to help raise money for scholarships for students who belong to the Jackson School District.
– The Salvation Army of Ocean County – to help fund their weekly soup kitchen meal, which serves 50-100 meals each week.
– Seabrook Village – to provide scholarships to eligible student employees who graduate high school and are participating in a form of higher education.
– Society for Prevention of Teen Suicide – support Ocean County Youth Council programming for the 2018-19 academic year by engaging youth ambassadors in the prevention process and working on suicide prevention projects.
– The TEARS Foundation – to provide assistance to families who have lost a child due to pregnancy or infant loss in Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
– Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund – to provide scholarships to graduating seniors residing in Brick Township.
– United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties – to purchase warm clothing for low-income children.

Money is raised for BlueClaws Charities throughout the year including through a nightly 50/50 raffle at all BlueClaws home games, special jersey auctions, and events like the Nine and Dine golf outing.

BlueClaws Charities, in addition to this grant program, supports hundreds local organizations and fundraising events with gift package donations, golf outing hole-in-one sponsorships, and specialty organizations such as OCEAN, Inc., a federal program that assists the less fortunate in the community. The “Tickets for Kids Program,” another BlueClaws Charities initiative, donates over 2,000 tickets to under-served youths in Lakewood and elsewhere in Ocean County.

Other events hosted by BlueClaws Charities include a Challenger Clinic for the developmentally disabled, a food & toy drive during the holiday season, a school supply drive leading into the fall, and baseball camps for the underserved in conjunction with the MLB Players Association.

Organizations that would like to become Community Partners can call Jim DeAngelis at 732-901-7000 ext 114. Space in the program, which includes both fundraising and promotional opportunities, is limited and those interested are encouraged to contact the BlueClaws as soon as possible.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. In 2018, the team debuted a brand-new nine-hole Family Mini Golf Course, Biergarten, and Home Run Pavilion (boardwalk game area) as part of a major renovation to FirstEnergy Park.

2019 ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 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.

Braves Present Gift to Danville-Pittsylvania Cancer Association

DANVILLE, Va. – The Danville Braves continued their community-focused efforts to local non-profits, most recently with a donation to the Danville-Pittsylvania Cancer Association (DPC).

The Braves charitable contributions come from their Cancer Awareness night on August 11, presented by Centra Health, where fans could purchase game-worn jerseys from Danville Braves players and coaches. On that date, D-Braves players touted special Danville 97s jerseys, commemorating the 20th anniversary of the year Danville had two minor league affiliated teams. The proceeds of the sale totaled over $1,000. In total, the Danville Braves have raised over $16,000 as a result of the jersey auction sales over the past eight 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.

Keep close tabs on dbraves.com and the D-Braves social media accounts for upcoming information on the Danville Braves 2019 season.

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

D-Braves Offer Donation to God’s Storehouse

DANVILLE, Va. – The Danville Braves presented a donation to local non-profit God’s Storehouse on Tuesday morning.

The Braves donation comes from a mystery ball sale held in mid-July, where fans could purchase autographed baseballs collected from minor and major league teams across the country. The proceeds of the sale totaled to $1,000.

God’s Storehouse is a non-profit food pantry that seeks to collect and distribute food resources to those in need throughout the Danville and Pittsylvania County communities.

For more information on God’s Storehouse and their upcoming initiatives, visit www.godsstorehouse.org.

Keep close tabs on dbraves.com and the D-Braves social media accounts for upcoming information on Danville Braves 2019 Season Memberships.

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

Yankees present donation to Pulaski County 4-H

PULASKI, Va. – The Pulaski Yankees today presented the Pulaski County 4-H with a donation of nearly $3,000 in funds raised from the team’s Agriculture Night presented by Farm Credit of the Virginias on August 22. The theme night featured two fundraising opportunities – a raffle to win a live cow and the auction of game-worn specialty cow jerseys. Through these efforts, the organization raised $2,906 to benefit the local 4-H in Pulaski County.

“Our Agriculture Night was a huge success both for the ballpark and the community,” said Pulaski Yankees General Manager Betsy Haugh.
“We were thrilled by the fan support we received for this promotion and are excited to make this donation to the 4-H to help support agriculture and youth development in our area.”
The Pulaski County 4-H is 100 percent community funded, with money raised going back into local operations.
“We’re appreciative of this partnership and the opportunity to use the funds to put back into our local program,” said Senior 4-H Extension Agent Chris Lichty.
In addition to the cow raffle and the specialty jerseys, Agriculture Night – sponsored by Farm Credit of the Virginias – featured a petting zoo at Motor Mile Field at Calfee Park and a plush mascot giveaway of the Yankees’ mascot, Calf-E, for the first 250 children in attendance. The winner of the cow raffle, Adam Phillips, was given the choice of accepting the cow living or after processing, provided by Thompson’s Meats.
“We appreciate the opportunity to participate in this,” said Farm Credit of the Virginias Branch Manager Brian Repass. “We enjoyed it and thought it was very beneficial. We’re glad we were able to help out the local 4-H, which is part of our mission.”
The Pulaski Yankees, Pulaski County 4-H, and Farm Credit of the Virginias plan to partner together again in 2019 for another Agriculture Night promotion. Information about season tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the 2019 Pulaski Yankees season will be available in the coming weeks at pulaskiyankees.net or by calling the team’s front office at (540) 980-1070.

The Pulaski Yankees are the Rookie level affiliate of the New York Yankees playing in the Appalachian League. Pulaski is celebrating its 53rd season in the Appalachian League in 2018. Calfee Park has won league championships in 1948, 1969, 1986, 1991 and 2013. Calfee Park opened in 1935 and was renovated for the team’s first season as a Yankees affiliate in 2015. For more information, please visit www.pulaskiyankees.net. This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

AquaSox Receives NWL Community Service Nomination

Everett, WA – The Everett AquaSox have been selected as the Northwest League nominee for Minor League Baseball’s John Henry Moss Community Service Award. The John Henry Moss Community Service Award is awarded to a club that demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within their local community and within the baseball industry.

Throughout the season the AquaSox tied theme and promotional nights to the community by partnering with multiple local organizations. This season the AquaSox partnered with Braden Bishop, former Everett AquaSox outfielder and currently Seattle Mariners prospect with his 4MOM Foundation for Local Heroes Night. Braden’s mother, Suzy, was diagnosed in September 2015 with early-onset Alzheimer’s. The night originally was planned to be a Braden Bishop bobblehead giveaway, Everett Fire versus Police Department Home Run Derby and a donation drive for the 4MOM Foundation. Due to a season-ending injury, Braden was able to join the AquaSox for his very own bobblehead giveaway. With his appearance, the AquaSox and fans raised $2,500 for 4MOM Foundation.

“We love supporting the Everett community and beyond year after year,” said General Manager Danny Tetzlaff. “Being recognized for all our efforts by our peers in the Northwest League is very fulfilling.”

Providence Regional Medical Center and the AquaSox worked together annually for Pink in the Park. This event raises money for the Providence Comprehensive Breast Center. Proceeds from the night along with a Star Wars jersey auction on Star Wars Night, June 23 allowed the AquaSox to donate over $5,600 to the Providence Foundation. In addition to Pink in the Park, the AquaSox supported Hilinski’s Hope during Coug Night raising $1,503. Hilinski’s Hope is a foundation geared toward mental health awareness in memory of Tyler Hilinski, who was the Washington State Cougar Quarterback that ended his life earlier this year.

After the August 12 game, the AquaSox hosted a Challenger Miracle League game in which fans of any age and disability come onto the field to play a few innings with our AquaSox players and coaches. It easily one of the best, and most humbling experiences one can have on a field.

“In my first year with the AquaSox, I am proud to be a part of an organization that supports the community and one the community supports,” Director of Community Relations & Merchandise Ashlea LaPlant said. “I look forward to the continued growth of our community outreach.”

Away from the ballpark Webbly and the staff were involved with multiple events including Little Leagues, National Night Out, non-profits, school visits and a welcoming fair for the newest crew to join the Everett Naval Base.

The AquaSox made many new connections, fostered growth with current partnerships and set a new standard for our relationship with the Everett community. We look forward to even more growth in the 2019 season!

About the Everett AquaSox
The Everett AquaSox, Seattle Mariners affiliate since 1995, continue to offer the most affordable family entertainment in the Pacific Northwest. To stay up to date on everything Everett AquaSox, follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/EverettAquaSox or visit www.AquaSox.com

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

Cougars Nominated for MiLB Community Service Award

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have been nominated by the Midwest League for the John Henry Moss Community Service Award.

The award is presented to a Minor League club which demonstrates a commitment to charitable service as well as support and leadership within their local community and the baseball industry.

Community impact has been one of the pillars of the Cougars organization since 1991, but prior to the 2018 season the Kane County Cougars Baseball Foundation, Inc. launched a historic fundraising goal known as “A Million Smiles Campaign.” The first campaign of its kind in the history of MiLB, the Foundation worked towards reaching a donation total of one million dollars with each dollar donated providing a welcome smile for those in need. Reaching above and beyond that milestone this season marks the first time in the Cougars 28 year history that the one million dollar donation total has been achieved with the expansion of various programs including:

• Country Financial 50/50 Raffle
• Acres Group Pitch in for Charity
• Paramount Fence Home Runs for Charity
• Legacy Brick Program
• D-backs Give Back Program
• Cougars Reading Club
• Ozzie and Annie Reading Scholars
• Cougars 5K
• Tangled Roots Give Back Pledge
• Al Mueller Memorial Scholarship Fund
• AmazonSmile
• Highland Salutes
• Movers for Mom
• Holiday Turkey Giveaway

Nominees from all leagues are reviewed by the MiLB Awards Committee and recommendations are presented to the President and Executive Vice President of MiLB for the final decision. The winner will be announced at the Winter Meetings in December.

For the latest ticket and promotional information, follow your Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 171 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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

Staten Island Yankees Raise Over $8,000 Through Special Breast Cancer T-Shirt and Jersey Sales on Behalf of GM Jane Rogers

This past season, Jane Rogers, GM of the Staten Island Yankees was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. The Staten Island Yankees have supported their amazing General Manager by raising money and awareness this season. The Staten Island Yankees distributed “Rogers 99” t-shirts with a $15 donation and the team wore pink pinstriped jerseys on August 29th which were auctioned during the game. At that game, Jane Rogers was honored on the field and spoke to the crowd. Additionally, male members of the front office staff shaved their heads, along with players, and team staff to raise further awareness.

The “Rogers 99” shirts have the Staten Island Yankees primary logo on the front, the number 99 with “Rogers” on the back. The donations from these t-shirts have generated over $5,500 so far. This, along with game -used pink jersey auction and other donations helped the Staten Island Yankees raise a total of $8,061.58 for New York Penn League Charities per Jane Rogers’ wishes.

These specialty shirts are still available for a minimum donation of $15.00. To donate, please contact T.J. Jahn at TJJahn@siyanks.com.

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The Staten Island Yankees are the Single A-Short Season Affiliate of the New York Yankees and play at Richmond County Bank Ballpark at St. George. The Staten Island Yankees are six-time New York-Penn League Champions (2000, 2002, 2005, 2006, 2009 and 2011). For more information, visit siyanks.com and pizzaratsbaseball.com.
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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Halfway To Mardi Gras Raises Over $5,000 For K&J Foundation

Prior to their South Divisional Playoff game on September 5, the Biloxi Shuckers presented a check to Brian and Yvette Pearse of the K&J Foundation for $5,399.56. The funds were raised from the Shuckers “Halfway to Mardi Gras” jerseys.

“Brian is a part of the Shuckers family, and when an opportunity presented itself to help out the K&J Foundation, we were thrilled to do what we could to help out,” said Shuckers General Manager Hunter Reed. “We want to thank Matt Stebly for designing another eye-grabbing jersey for the Shuckers, and we hope that the money raised helps Brian and Yvette continue their work to increase seatbelt safety awareness.”

Founded by Brian and Yvette, the K&J Foundation is committed to raising teen seatbelt safety awareness as a legacy to their children, Kiara and Jameel. During their game on August 18, the Shuckers wore special jerseys for “Halfway to Mardi Gras” night designed by local artist Matt Stebly. The game worn jerseys were featured on ESPN’s SportsCenter that morning and were auctioned off during the game. Fans were able to meet Shuckers players on the field and receive their jersey after the game concluded.

The Shuckers remain committed to community involvement and proactively seeking ways to improve the quality of life along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. This season, the Shuckers have raised over $13,400 through jersey auctions, special events and sponsorship that have benefited organizations throughout the greater Biloxi area.

Playoff tickets for the Biloxi Shuckers 2018 Postseason can be purchased at the MGM Park box office or over the phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Group outings are also available and can be reserved by calling 228-233-3465 or visiting www.biloxishuckers.com.

ABOUT THE BILOXI SHUCKERS:

The Biloxi Shuckers are the Double-A Affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The Shuckers play at MGM Park in Biloxi, Mississippi. For more information please visit biloxishuckers.com and follow us on Twitter @biloxishuckers and at facebook.com/biloxishuckers.com.

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

Blue Jays Minor’s Top Contributor In “Team Up Against Hunger” Food Drive

Minor League Baseball and BUSH’s Beans announced on Tuesday that the Dunedin Blue Jays were the top contributing team in the “Team Up Against Hunger” July food drive initiative. Blue Jays fans donated 1,126 pounds of non-perishable food items at Dunedin’s annual Hometown USA celebration, the largest donation of nearly 80 participating Minor League teams from across the country. In recognition of the generosity of Dunedin fans, BUSH’s Beans and MiLB Charities will match the Blue Jays’ donation to the Dunedin Cares, Inc. Food Pantry to help local families in need in Pinellas County.

Over five tons of food was collected during the 2018 food drive throughout the Minor Leagues, which will help provide over 9,000 meals to families in need in 35 states. The food items donated by Blue Jays fans and the matching donation from BUSH’s Beans/MiLB Charities will go to Dunedin Cares, Inc., a local food pantry that has distributed over 85,000 pounds of food to over 6,500 local residents since 2015.

Blue Jays staff, mascot DJay, and players Riley Adams and Connor Eller visited the Dunedin Cares, Inc. Food Pantry to deliver the team’s donation and help sort and distribute the food to local families in late July. At the Blue Jays July 3rd Hometown USA event, $595 was raised for Dunedin Cares through an in-game 50/50 raffle in addition to the donation of non-perishable food items.

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

Mariachis Jersey Auction to Benefit AHCC Education Excellence Scholarships

The Albuquerque Isotopes announced today an online jersey auction to benefit the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce (AHCC) Foundation’s Education Excellence Scholarships program.

The auction will be held exclusively online at abqisotopes.com. Bidding will start this Sunday at 5:00 pm and will conclude at noon on Wednesday, Aug. 22.

In addition to the players’ autographed, game-worn jerseys, two other items will be up for auction; a team-signed Mariachis de Nuevo México jersey and a unique Coco-themed, team-signed guitar.

Members of the AHCC’s own Board of Directors collectively raised $2000 to purchase the first Mariachis jersey, which will be on display inside the Chamber’s board room.

“The Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce Foundation does phenomenal work and provides terrific services and opportunities to students through these scholarships,” said Isotopes Vice President / General Manager John Traub. “Like all great causes, this program needs funding, and that’s what we hope to do through this auction.”

“John Traub said it best when he said that Mariachi is the soundtrack to our lives,”

said AHCC Vice President Jim Garcia. “We appreciate our partnership with the Mariachis de Nuevo México and are grateful that they have chosen to give back to our community with this generous gift to our Foundation.”

The AHCC Foundation is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes which support, benefit or carry out the purposes of the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce.

AHCC’s Education Excellence Scholarships program strives to empower future leaders by providing an average of 100 students annually with college access, financial aid awareness and scholarships.

BIDDING LINK WILL BE POSTED SOON

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

MILITARY APPRECIATION NIGHT, XBOX GIVEAWAY AND FIREWORKS HIGHLIGHT SKY SOX HOMESTAND

The Colorado Springs Sky Sox third-to-last homestand of the 2018 season begins on Thursday, August 9, when the team hosts the Nashville Sounds -Triple-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics – for four games and the completion of a suspended game from May 3 at Security Service Field.

On Thursday, August 9, the Sky Sox will amp up another Military Appreciation Night presented by Colorado Military Academy with a pre-game 21-gun cannon salute from members of Fort Carson while the team shows support in Military-style uniforms, which will be auctioned near the end of the month. In addition, it is another $3 Thirsty Thursday presented by Coors which features $3 Colorado Native Amber Lager craft beers, $3 parking, and $3 upper-reserve tickets.

On Friday, August 10, the Sky Sox will be continuing the “Cheers to 45 More Years” campaign as the team will debut and wear replica “Socko” Colorado Springs Sky Sox Jerseys from the 2000’s era, which will be auctioned off at the end of August at SkySoxJerseys.com. Following the 6:40 p.m. scheduled game, there will be 2000’s music themed Friday night post-game fireworks presented by Divine Roofing. To start the day, the Sky Sox and Sounds will be resuming a suspended game from May 3 at 5:00 p.m. with gates opening at 4:30 p.m.

Saturday, August 11 features X-Box Giveaway Night. On this night, the Sky Sox will be giving away an Xbox every inning. All fans have to do is register at the front gates. A winner will be picked and announced each inning to go home with a free Xbox. Following the conclusion of the game, there will be post-game fireworks presented by Pepsi & Colorado Springs Utilities.

The homestand’s last day, on Sunday, August 12, will feature a special Sky Sox “Peak Performers” giveaway presented by Pioneer Landscape Centers – a Mount Rushmore-like collectible that includes a player from different seasons of Sky Sox Baseball – which will be given to the first 1,000 fans through the gates . Additionally, fans can enjoy the ever-popular 50-cent hot dogs presented by Safeway available at all concessions throughout the game.

Tickets for all event dates are on sale now at www.skysox.com/tickets.

An outline of details for each game date is below.

For more information on promotions and ticket options, please call (719) 591-7699 or email info@skysox.com. Get the latest Sky Sox news online at www.skysox.com, like us on Facebook or follow the team on Twitter at @skysox.

Thursday, August 9 vs. Nashville – 6:40 p.m.

  • Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
  • $3 Thirsty Thursday presented by Coors
    • $3 Colorado Native Amber Lager Craft Beer, $3 Parking and $3 Upper-Reserve Tickets
  • Military Appreciation Night presented by Colorado Military Academy
    • Sky Sox wearing special, on-field Military Jerseys
    • Pre-game cannon 21-gun salute by members of Fort Carson

Friday, August 10 vs. Nashville – 6:40 p.m.

  • Gates open at 4:30 p.m.
  • Completion of Suspended game from May 3 with 5:00 p.m. start followed by regularly scheduled 6:40 p.m. game
  • Early 2,000’s themed Friday night post-game fireworks show presented by Divine Roofing
  •  “Cheers to 45 More Years” team debut of 2000 replica Sky Sox “Socko” jerseys

Saturday, August 11 vs. Nashville – 6:00 p.m.

  • Gates open at 5:00 p.m.
  • X-Box Giveaway Night with post-game fireworks presented by Pepsi & Colorado Springs

Sunday, August 12 vs. Nashville – 1:30 p.m.

  • Gates open at 12:30 p.m.
  • Sky Sox “Peak Performers” giveaway presented by Pioneer Landscape Centers (first 1,000 fans)
  • 50-cent hot dogs presented by Safeway
  • YMCA Kids Run the Bases post-game

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

Fireflies Launch Campaign to Retire SC Veteran Medical Debt

COLUMBIA, SC – In advance of Independence Day, the Columbia Fireflies today announced a campaign to retire the medical debt of veterans across the state. More than 700 veteran families have a combined $800,000 in medical debt in South Carolina, and the team and its fans will have the opportunity to help in this community-wide effort.

“Columbia is known as the ‘Most Military Friendly Community in America’ for many reasons,” said Fireflies team president John Katz. “Every American can appreciate the sacrifices our military heroes have made, and now we have an opportunity to pay it forward.”

The kickoff for the campaign will begin on July 4th, as the Fireflies celebrate Independence Day at Spirit Communications Park. Specially-designed red, white and blue jerseys – first worn by the team on Fort Jackson Night, June 5th – will be auctioned off during the game. 100% of the proceeds from the auction will benefit our veterans in need.

RIP Medical Debt, a nationally-recognized not-for-profit 501(c)(3) charity, was established in 2014 to locate, purchase and forgive unpaid and unpayable medical debt. Our campaign, which will be funded by events such as the jersey auction, will provide RIP Medical Debt the funds to buy South Carolina veteran medical debt and abolish it, with no strings attached for the beneficiaries.

This program provides debt relief for those in our military community that need it most. To qualify, veteran medical debt has been identified for people who meet the following criteria: 1) people who make less than 2x the Federal poverty level; 2) people with financial hardship – a debt that is 5% or more of their annual income; and 3) people who are insolvent.

In addition to the jersey auction on July 4th, fans will have additional opportunities to give:

July 4 – July 9: The Fireflies will be holding a “Text to Give” campaign at Spirit Communications Park during the week of Independence Day, where fans will have the opportunity to text a donation.

Additional opportunities will be announced later this season.

Tickets for the July 4th Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks Extravaganza are on sale now. Visit FirefliesTickets.com, the Spirit Communications Park ticket office or call (803) 726-4487 for more information.

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About the Columbia Fireflies

The Columbia Fireflies are the South Atlantic League affiliate of the New York Mets. Winners of Ballpark Digest’s Best New Branding and Logo Award in 2016, the Fireflies play games across the southeast and mid-Atlantic regions, including against in-state rivals in Charleston and Greenville. The team partnered with the city of Columbia and Hughes Development to construct Spirit Communications Park, a multi-use outdoor sports and entertainment venue at the center of the BullStreet development. The Columbia Fireflies are owned by Hardball Capital, owners of the Fort Wayne TinCaps of the Midwest League and the Chattanooga Lookouts of the Southern League. For more information, visit ColumbiaFireflies.com, or follow the Fireflies on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

About Spirit Communications Park

Spirit Communications Park, the 2016 Ballpark Digest Ballpark of the Year, is a 365-day per year multi-use sports and entertainment venue located in the heart of downtown Columbia, SC. Spirit Communications Park is the home ballpark for the Columbia Fireflies, the South Atlantic League affiliate of the New York Mets. Designed for baseball, concerts, football, soccer and a host of other activities, the venue seats approximately 9,000 for sporting events and up to 15,000 for major outdoor concerts. With 16 luxury suites and a 7,000 square-foot Club Level Lounge, Spirit Communications Park can also host everything from business meetings to wedding receptions, and everything in between. The venue is open 365 days a year and serves as a public park with the wrap-around concourse representing 1/3 of a mile for walkers and joggers. For more information, visit SpiritCommunicationsPark.com.

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

Alzheimer’s Night Jerseys Unveiled for June 29 game

MOOSIC, PA (June 26, 2018) – The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, will host the Pawtucket Red Sox this Friday, June 29, on Alzheimer’s Awareness night. The RailRiders will wear custom jerseys during the game that will be auctioned off to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.

Gates will open at 6:00 p.m. on Friday with the first 2,500 fans receiving the Shelley Duncan bobblehead giveaway, presented by DLP. Duncan’s bobblehead will be added, in seven-foot form, to the SWB Bobblehead Hall of Fame.

During the game, the RailRiders will wear custom jerseys. These tops will be autographed and the proceeds from the night’s jersey auction will benefit the Alzheimer Association.

Register and bid online by clicking here.. By registering, fans will receive notifications when the jersey numbers and names are uploaded.

After the final out, ShurSave Supermarket is the presenting sponsor of a post-game fireworks extravaganza.

For tickets or more information on Friday’s festivities, please visit swbrailriders.com or call (570) 969-BALL.

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

Alliant Energy Foundation to match a portion of Harry Potter Jersey silent auction proceeds this Friday

Cedar Rapids, IA – Alliant Energy, the sponsor of the Harry Potter Jersey Night set for this Friday, June 22nd, and the Alliant Energy Foundation have announced they will match a portion of the total money raised from the jersey silent auction at the game.

The Alliant Energy Foundation will match up to $5,000 of the total amount raised by the jersey silent auction that will take place during Friday’s game between the Kernels and Wisconsin Timber Rattlers. Both teams will be wearing special Harry Potter Jerseys and the proceeds from the silent auction will benefit HACAP’s Operation Backpack.

Gates open at 5:30 PM on Friday, June 22nd with first pitch scheduled for 6:35 PM. Tickets may be purchased online at www.kernels.com or by calling the Kernels Ticket Office at (319) 896-7560.

The Kernels are currently enjoying the MWL All-Star Break through June 20th. They begin the second half of the MWL season by hosting the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers on Thursday, June 21st at 6:35 PM, which kicks off a seven-game home stand that continues until Wednesday, June 27th.

Chris Kleinhans-Schulz and Morgan Hawk bring you all of the play-by-play on the radio home of Kernels baseball, 1450 KMRY AM and 93.1 KMRY FM. Fans may listen on-line at www.kmryradio.com, or www.kernels.com. Fans may also stream all 70 Kernels home game and selected road games via a MiLB.TV subscription. Visit MiLB.TV for subscription information.

Tickets may be purchased on-line at www.kernels.com, or by calling the Kernels Ticket Office at 896-7560. Ticket office hours are 10 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday.

The Hope Foundation & the Scrappers Partner to Help Raise Funds for Kids

NILES, OH – The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley and the Mahoning Valley Scrappers have joined together to help raise funds for chronically/terminally ill children in our community throughout the 2018 season. “We are excited about teaming up with the Mahoning Valley Scrappers in an effort to spread our mission to educate and help chronically and terminally ill children of the Mahoning Valley,” states Tony Spano, Founder and Executive Director of The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley.

Saturday, July 7th has been designated as The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley Awareness Night at the Scrappers at Eastwood Field in Niles. In addition, when fans purchase tickets online for the July 7th game or any other game this season, The Hope Foundation will receive a portion of the sale, when they type the word “HOPE” in the Special Offer Code box. The HOPE code is valid for all online tickets, including game day purchases up to 4:00pm the day of the game. The offer is not valid with the purchase of tickets at the window or by phone or for July 4th or buck nights.

The Hope Foundation will also fundraise with jersey auction for the Scrappers game worn Star Wars jerseys, which will be worn the Friday, June 22nd game against the Auburn Doubledays, sponsored by Liberty Comics and Middlefield Bank.

The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley (H.F.M.V.), a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization, was founded in 2007 after the increasing success and popularity of the Game of Hope Charity Basketball Classic. Our unpaid staff, volunteers and supporting individuals and organizations are committed to our mission. They provide charitable and financial support to local charities that share our goal of improving the lives of chronically/terminally ill children. With money raised from donation and our signature fundraisers, The Foundation provides grants of up to $5,000. For more information about The Foundation please visit the website at www.HopeMV.org.

Tickets for the Scrappers 2018 season are now on sale. For more information, contact the Scrappers Front Office at (330) 505-0000 or visit mvscrappers.com for a complete schedule.

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