Charitable Tuesdays Returns in 2017

One organization will be featured at every Tuesday home game and receive;

  • A display table in the stadium to display and distribute promotional literature and materials
  • A live on-field interview before the game
  • Ceremonial 1st pitch honors for the organization
  • The opportunity to be a guest on the Crosscutters radio broadcast for one inning
  • A $250 donation to the organization courtesy of Woodlands Bank and the Crosscutters presented during an on-field ceremony

“Woodlands Bank is excited to, once again, sponsor Charitable Tuesdays with the Crosscutters.”, stated Jon P. Conklin, President & CEO of Woodlands Bank. “Our team of employees are passionate about volunteering their time and efforts in giving back to the communities we serve. Our partnership with the Crosscutters just reiterates the commitment that we have to our local communities and to the charitable organizations that do so much for them.”

Interested organizations should submit an application, available for download HERE or in-person at BB&T Ballpark. Applications must be received by June 2, 2017. More information is available by contacting the Cutters Director of Community Relations, Sarah Budd at (570) 326-3389 or email sarah@crosscutters.com

The Crosscutters 2017 season opens on June 20 when they host the State College Spikes. The full schedule can be found HERE.

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

Lake Monsters and Five Guys Team Back Up In 2017 For May Days Fundraising Program

BURLINGTON, VT — The Vermont Lake Monsters are excited to announce the continued partnership with Five Guys Burgers and Fries during the annual May Days fundraiser to benefit non-profits from across the state of Vermont. “Five Guys May Days” fundraiser will launch May 1st as a month-long program devoted to helping raise funds and awareness for state wide non-profits.

Support of local non-profits has demonstrated the strong commitment both the Lake Monsters and Five Guys have to the greater Burlington community. The goal of this program is not only to provide the opportunity for organizations to raise money, but also raise awareness for their programs while providing a chance for supporters to come together at the ballpark.

The Howard Center is just one of the many local non-profits who has benefitted from participating in Five Guys May Days and will continue the tradition this year. “Throughout the year, we benefit from the generous support of the Lake Monsters.” said Catherine Shahan, Director of Community Friends Mentoring at the Howard Center. “We appreciate our community partnership as it provides opportunities for many of our clients to enjoy an afternoon or evening of baseball, hot dogs, and fun!” Thank you, Lake Monsters for giving back and ensuring the whole community has access to your programs.”

Participating non-profits will have the entire month of May to promote and sell $6 Lake Monsters tickets through a specific URL link designated to their organization for a specific game during the season. After the month of May is completed, the Lake Monsters will donate half of the proceeds back to the organization. Following the selling period, Five Guys will donate up to $500 to match the amount raised by the highest selling non-profit in the program. Organizations will then be recognized on field with a check presentation at a Lake Monsters game this season.

For more information, please email our Box Office Manager, Frank Fanning, at:

frank@vermontlakemonsters.com.

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

Rattlers and Thrivent Financial Team Up for Make-A-Difference Mondays

GRAND CHUTE, WI – The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers and Thrivent Financial are getting together to present Make-A-Difference Mondays at the ballpark this season. There will be four special Monday games over the remainder of the 2017 season to aid local non-profit organizations.

Fans who choose to donate to the non-profit will receive a discounted box seat ticket for $10 (normally $14) to these special Monday games. Additionally, $5 of the $10 for the ticket will be donated to the non-profit scheduled to be a partner for that game.

To purchase discounted tickets for Make-A-Difference Mondays in advance, visit TimberRattlers.com and use the promo code: thrivent. Fans will receive a discounted ticket on the day of the game by donating items to the non-profit organization at the time of purchase.

“Thrivent Financial is a financial services organization that helps Christians be wise with money and live generously. For more than a century we’ve helped our more than 2 million member-owners make wise money choices that reflect their values, and we provide opportunities for them to be even more generous where they live, work and worship,” said Jenny Rohan, Community Engagement Leader for Thrivent Financial. “Our partnership with the Timber Rattlers is an opportunity for our members and the community to see what living our mission looks like and will make an impact for churches and non-profit organizations in our community.”

The schedule for the four Make-A-Difference Mondays and the non-profit organizations and the most-needed items they need for donations on those days are:

May 15: Feeding America

  • Canned Fruits (preferably low sugar)
  • Peanut Butter
  • Canned Meats (such as tuna, chicken, etc.)
  • Cereal (hot & cold)
  • Grains (such as rice, pasta, etc.)
  • Soups (or other “heat & eat” meal-like items)

June 12: Building for Kids

  • Brightly Colored Paper Plates, Cups, and Napkins
  • 9″ Balloons
  • Small Bottles of White Glue
  • Glue Sticks
  • Gallons of Vinegar

June 26: Center for Veterans Issues, LLC

  • Pre-packaged snacks (granola bars, pudding, oatmeal, etc.)
  • Canned Goods
  • Personal Hygiene Items (toothbrush, toothpaste, travel size shampoo/conditioner, deodorant)

August 7: Homeless Connections

  • Size 5 diapers
  • Napkins
  • Coffee (ground or Kcups)
  • Alarm clocks
  • Dryer sheets
  • Cans of Fruit
  • Bike Locks
  • Bike Helmets: youth and adult
  • Nuks for babies

The Timber Rattlers are currently on the road. They will return home to begin a seven-game homestand on Thursday, April 20 with a game against the Peoria Chiefs.

Partial season and group ticket packages are currently available for the 2017 season. Tickets packages are available online, over the phone at (920) 733-4152 or (800) WI-TIMBER, and in person. Individual game tickets for this season are also on sale now.   Groups of 20 or more may order tickets over the phone or in person. The Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and from 10:00am to 3:00pm on Saturdays.

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

Staybridge Suites/Missoula Independent Community Corner Returns

The Missoula Osprey announced today that the Staybridge Suites/Missoula Independent Community Corner that recognizes the impact of local non-profits in Western Montana will return for the 2017 season.

For every regular season home game, Staybridge Suites, the Missoula Independent and the Osprey team-up to donate 20 tickets to qualified non-profit organizations.

The tickets can be used by volunteers, sponsors, staff, or those that benefit from the organization’s efforts.

The Missoula Osprey announced today that the Staybridge Suites/Missoula Independent Community Corner that recognizes the impact of local non-profits in Western Montana will return for the 2017 season.

For every regular season home game, Staybridge Suites, the Missoula Independent and the Osprey team-up to donate 20 tickets to qualified non-profit organizations.

The tickets can be used by volunteers, sponsors, staff, or those that benefit from the organization’s efforts. Due to the popularity of the program, Community Corner tickets are only available on a first come, first served basis. “The Community Corner is one of the many programs we offer to non-profit organizations,” said Osprey Vice President/General Manager Jeff Griffin. “With the help of our corporate partners, we are able to recognize the work of local non-profits in our community. These efforts are one of the many things that make Missoula such a special place.”

To reserve a Community Corner spot, non-profit organizations must make a request in writing on the organization’s letterhead. Requests may be mailed to 140 N. Higgins, or e-mailed to jgriffin@missoulaosprey.com.

The 2017 Osprey home opener is slated for Friday, June 23 against the Great Falls Voyagers.

Ticket packages are available for purchase by contacting an Osprey ticket representative at 543-3300, at the MSO Hub, or on the web at MissoulaOsprey.com.

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

Cougars Announce 2017 Charitable Partners

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced a community partnership for the 2017 season in which four local organizations will receive a portion of the in-game 50/50 raffle proceeds through the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. The four organizations will be Alive Naperville (April-May), Holiday Heroes (June), Fox Valley Wildlife Center (July) and Food for Greater Elgin (August-September). In addition, through a partnership with Acres Group, the Cougars have announced that DuPage PADS will be the recipient of the charitable proceeds from this year’s Pitch-In for Charity promotion in which fans can purchase and toss numbered tennis balls at a target on the field to win a prize following select games.

Alive Naperville (alivenaperville.com) – Alive is a teen-led, teen-driven center that works to empower local youth to become leaders through after school and summer programs, classes and events that build confident and resilient teens.

Holiday Heroes (holiday-heroes.org) – In partnership with hospitals and businesses throughout the Chicagoland area, Holiday Heroes works to provide parties and celebrations for children who are suffering from critical or chronic illnesses.

Fox Valley Wildlife Center (fvwc.org) – Located in Elburn, Ill. the Fox Valley Wildlife Center serves the sick, injured or orphaned animals throughout Kane County and the surrounding areas.

Food for Greater Elgin (www.foodforgreaterelgin.org) – The largest client-choice food pantry in the areas of Elgin, South Elgin and East Dundee, Food for Greater Elgin strives to combat hunger by providing fresh and nutritious food for their clients.

DuPage PADS (dupagepads.org) – Committed to the promise of ending homelessness in the local community, DuPage PADS is the largest provider of interim and permanent housing as well as support services to assist individuals who are working towards a life of self-sufficiency.

“The Cougars organization has consistently strived to give back to our surrounding community and these initiatives allow not only our organization, but our fans to give back in multiple ways,” said owner Dr. Bob Froehlich.

Added owner Chery Froehlich, “We have been very fortunate with the support that the community has shown us for the last 27 years and it’s important that we continue to show our thanks by contributing to these wonderful organizations.”

For more information about the 2017 season, which begins on April 6 against the Clinton LumberKings, visit kccougars.com.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date promotional information.

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 152 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.

Sky Sox and Domino’s Announce Charity Spotlight

The Sky Sox are proud to announce that they will be partnering with Domino’s to showcase local charities in Colorado Springs during the 2017 season. The joint venture, named the “Charity Spotlight”, is designed to help charities in the Colorado Springs area who are working harder than ever to meet budgets to support the ever increasing demand for their services. Domino’s will provide these charities with an opportunity to market themselves and raise awareness for their causes at Security Service Field during the 2017 Sky Sox season free of charge.

“At Domino’s, we recognize the importance of the many charities here in Colorado Springs and we are proud to once again team up with the Colorado Springs Sky Sox to spotlight local non-profits while providing them with a night of fun at the ballpark”, said Domino’s Franchisee Craig Williams.

Throughout the season, Domino’s will provide 30 charities with the following marketing package at one of 30 individual Sky Sox home games:

  1. A marketing table in the main concourse to showcase their organization
  2. Four tickets to the game, parking & two medium Domino’s pizzas
  3. Public address announcement and live in-game scoreboard recognition
  4. A ceremonial first pitch
  5. On-air interview during the Sky Sox broadcast on AM 1300 “The Animal”

Spots for the Charity Spotlight will be filling up quickly so please call Tricia Metzger at 719-304-5612 for additional assistance. Any charity wishing to be considered for the “Charity Spotlight” must download the form linked here, and email the completed form to Tricia Metzger at tmetzger@skysox.com.

“The Sky Sox are proud to continue this partnership with Domino’s while assisting area non-profit organizations with their marketing efforts”, said Sky Sox President and General Manager Tony Ensor. “Colorado charities survive on bringing awareness to their organizations and the services they provide. Our local Colorado Springs charities are an integral part of this community and we are proud to lend a helping hand in their effort.”

The 30th season of Sky Sox Baseball begins April 6, 2017. For information about the Sky Sox and the 2017 season at Security Service Field, please call (719) 597-1449 or email info@skysox.com. Get the latest Sky Sox news on Facebook or follow the team on Twitter at @skysox.

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

Sea Dogs Community Week March 6th-10th

Portland, Maine- The Portland Sea Dogs have designated the week of March 6th-10th as Sea Dogs Community Week. Throughout the week, the Sea Dogs will donate a portion of the ticket sales to local non-profit organizations.

The Sea Dogs have teamed-up with five local non-profit organizations for the week. Each day throughout the week will benefit one of the five non-profit organizations. The Sea Dogs will be donating $3.00 from every ticket sold to that day’s selected non-profit organization.

Tickets can be purchased at the Hadlock Field ticket office, by phone at 207-879-9500, or online at www.seadogs.com. Individual tickets, group tickets, and new season tickets are all eligible as part of the offer, but must be paid in full that day.

“This is an excellent opportunity for our fans to get tickets and support a local charity at the same time,” stated Sea Dogs Executive Vice President & General Manager Geoff Iacuessa. “The Sea Dogs are committed to being an integral part of the community and are happy to give back to those organizations that do so much to help the communities in which we live.”

The Sea Dogs open the 2017 season on Thursday, April 6th at 6:00 PM at Hadlock Field against the Reading Fightin Phils.

PawSox Introduce “Paws for a Cause” Community Initiative

The PawSox today announced a 2017 community initiative to give Rhode Island charities the opportunity to raise awareness at the club’s home games.

“Paws for a Cause” invites area nonprofits to be featured on the field in pre-game ceremonies, to have their key message delivered over the stadium’s communications system, and to have their spokesperson visit the PawSox broadcast booth for an inning during the game. The club plans to welcome a charity at each of its 71 home games.

Mascots Paws and Sox will also participate, and where applicable, will wear the clothing and logos of the charity. The organizations are also invited to distribute literature and address fans’ questions at a table on the Main Concourse at McCoy Stadium.

“We enjoy discovering new ways for baseball to provide a service to our community,” said PawSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “And as we encounter so many charities that seek to raise awareness, we are pleased to shine our spotlight on them at PawSox Baseball games.”

All accredited 501(c)3 organizations in the PawSox community are welcome to apply. The slots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Requests can be submitted to the PawSox’ head of community relations, Joe Bradlee. His email is jbradlee@pawsox.com.

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

RAISE MONEY THROUGH A NATURALS FUNDRAISER

SPRINGDALE, Ark. – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are releasing information about their popular fundraising programs for Season 10 of Naturals Baseball scheduled to begin at Arvest Ballpark on Thursday, April 6 against the San Antonio Missions at 6:25 p.m. for Opening Day. The Naturals fundraising programs surpassed the $100,000 mark in terms of amount raised in each of the past six (6) seasons and is available to all non-profits, sports teams, school organizations, civic groups, and churches.

Fundraising programs at Arvest Ballpark are offered for a pre-determined Sunday-Thursday home game. Participating groups will resell 1B/3B Reserved tickets for their selected game for $8, which is $1 less than the day of game price. No deposit is required after the date is scheduled; however, the Naturals ask that a member of the fundraising group informs their designated Account Executive 10-14 days before the game with the exact amount of tickets that will be needed for their game so that there is ample time to get the tickets to the group. The percentage of the money that the organization will receive back is based upon the total amount of tickets sold for the pre-determined game and can be up to an even 50/50 split.

The Naturals encourage large groups to participate in the fundraising program as there is no maximum to the amount of tickets that can be sold. As an incentive and a reward, the Naturals will offer prizes to all groups as well as their top sellers. There are different levels based on the size of the group but prizes can include a Pre-Game or Post-Game photo on the field for your group, 10 person VIP Tour of Arvest Ballpark before or during the game, undated vouchers that can be used for tickets to a future Naturals game, an autograph baseball, and one (1) ceremonial first pitch at your designated fundraising date.

The Naturals will also provide ticket forms and promotional materials to assist with the effort. In addition, a free Strike the Sasquatch mascot appearance is offered to groups to help promote their scheduled fundraiser at the ballpark.

During the 2016 season a total of 125 groups took advantage of the Naturals fundraising programs and sold 29,170 tickets, which raised a collective $114,125. Those 125 groups consisted of 29 Community Partners, 67 performance groups, and an additional 29 groups that comprised of high school baseball teams, sports organizations, school groups, and churches.

The fundraising flyer is currently available and can be found on our website at www.nwanaturals.com under the Groups & Events tab or by emailing us at groups@nwanaturals.com. To check date availability or if you have any questions about the Naturals fundraising programs, call us at (479) 927-4900 or visit our Administrative Offices located at Arvest Ballpark.

Non-profit groups seeking more exposure for their cause can inquire about the Community Partner Program that offers free marketing exposure for participating groups to go along with the standard benefits of our ticket fundraising program.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The Naturals play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark in Springdale, Ark. For more information, including statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

-Naturals-

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

Legends’ donations for 2016 top $1,000,000

Big L and the Legends welcomed Girl Scouts to Whitaker Bank Ballpark for a campout May 6. More than 330 girls spent the night at the ballpark. The Girl Scouts were one of many organizations who received support from Legends’ community programs in 2016.

             (WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK, Lexington, Ky.) The Lexington Legends made donations totaling $1,000,763 in 2016 to a variety of non-profit organizations serving central Kentucky.

In its 16-year history, the Legends organization has donated close to $15 million to the region.

“The Legends are proud to be part of this community and region,” said Legends President/CEO Andy Shea. “We will continue to provide support to these great organizations that do so much good work.”

Among the organizations and causes who benefited from events and programs in 2016 were:

Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts:  Overnight campouts for Boy Scouts (August 18) and Girl Scouts (May 6) were held following Legends games at Whitaker Bank Ballpark. The scouts sold nearly 1,000 donated game tickets to raise funds for their organizations. About 700 scouts participated in the campouts.

                Breast Cancer Research and Awareness: The Legends held Breast Cancer Awareness Night at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on July 9. Funds raised through an auction of pink jerseys and pink bases used during the Legends game that night, along with t-shirt sales, benefited Kentucky Cancer Link, which serves breast cancer patients on a personal basis by reducing or eliminating barriers to screening, diagnosis and treatment; The Markey Cancer Center, established in 1983 as a Comprehensive Cancer Center; and Susan G. Komen, the world’s largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer. The Legends and LBX held a celebration lunch, with proceeds going to those same three organizations.

                Military Appreciation Night: The Legends’ Military Appreciation night was held on June 25. It included an auction of jerseys to benefit Military Missions, a local non-profit organization that supports troops in a variety of ways, including the sending of care packages with personal items and snacks to military personnel.

                Bark in the Park: The Legends held 12 “Bark in the Park” nights during the 2016 season. Dog owners were invited to bring their dogs to the game, and a two-dollar “admission” charge for each dog was donated to the Scott County Humane Society.

Guns and Hoses Softball Game:  The Legends provide the setting for the Guns and Hoses game, which matches the Lexington Police Department against the Lexington Fire Department in a softball game and home run derby. The winning team takes home a trophy, and the loser receives a toilet seat as the runner-up prize. More than 2,000 people attended the 2016 game.

Community Organization of the Night:  The Legends provide an opportunity for a local non-profit organization to step into the spotlight at a Legends home game. Organizations may set up an information table on the concourse, and a representative is interviewed on the field before the game and on radio during the game.    Organizations who purchased discounted tickets for re-sale as a fundraiser also received 25% of the proceeds from that night’s 50-50 raffle. (The Legends Charitable Fund also received 25%, and the fan holding the winning ticket received 50%.)

                Hit the Books Reading Program: Geared toward elementary schools, the Legends’ Hit the Books Reading Program is designed to encourage students to read, both in school and away from school.    The Legends gave away 33,000 Hit the Books bookmarks to students in central Kentucky in 2016. (A winning bookmark design is selected from students’ entries.) Those who complete the Hit the Books reading program are awarded two tickets to a Legends home game.

Field of Dreams: The Paul Miller Ford Field of Dreams program allows youth baseball and softball players to be part of pre-game festivities. Members of the youth teams are introduced to the fans and take the field along with the Legends starters. Teams are selected at random from registrations received at Field of Dreams sponsor locations.   Team members receive complimentary admission to the game. The Legends hosted 80 Field of Dreams teams in 2016.

           Legends Character Award at William Wells Brown Elementary:   Every nine weeks during the school year, 19 students from William Wells Brown Elementary School in Lexington are selected to receive the Legends Character Award. The award is designed to motivate students to demonstrate good behavior and a great attitude. The students are nominated by their classroom teachers. Winners are publicly recognized and personally congratulated by the Legends’ Big L.

Kids Area:   At every Legends home game in 2016, Lafayette High School cheerleaders volunteered to work in the Aetna Kids Play Area to raise money for their cheer program. The Legends made a $7,500 donation to the program.

Go Red Night: The American Heart Association and St. Joseph Health Care System sponsored a “Go Red” Night June 3 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark, where fans received information on the dangers and risks of heart disease. Free blood pressure checks and presentations of information were provided throughout the game.

Donation requests:  The Legends donate tickets, memorabilia or merchandise to as many organizations as possible. Tickets are used by members of the non-profit organizations or for auctions to raise funds for those organizations. The Legends fulfilled more than 300 donation requests in 2016.

  United Way of the Bluegrass:  Donors to the annual United Way of the Bluegrass campaign receive two free box seat tickets to a Legends home game. In 2016, the Legends donated 23,333 tickets for use by the United Way.

St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Scholarship Program: At the end of every baseball season, the Legends hold a silent auction for the jerseys worn by the players during home games. Proceeds go to the St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Scholarship Program.

                Fundraising tickets:   The Legends offer schools, teams and other organizations an opportunity to buy tickets at a discounted price and raise funds by selling the tickets at the regular price. More than 5,000 tickets were purchased at the discount rate for fundraising in 2016.

For more information on the Legends’ community programs, contact Sarah Bosso at 859-422-7847 or sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com

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

Shuckers Hit Home Run with Community Contributions and Initiatives in 2016

BILOXI, MS – During the Biloxi Shuckers second season, the team continued to give back to the community. The Shuckers have become a resource for local organizations including non-profits and schools by helping to raise funds and awareness through various methods.

The Shuckers and its concessionaire, Spectra Food Services & Hospitality raised over $178,000 for local nonprofits and donated over $30,000 of in-kind contributions. Through Shuckers initiatives including the Ticket Fundraising Program, In-Stadium Auctions and Spectra NFP Fundraising Program which benefits qualified local 501 (c) (3) nonprofit groups through concessions, the club led the ten-member Southern League for In-Stadium Fundraising.

Among the highlights of the organization’s 2016 charitable work included providing a platform for: Habitat for Humanity, Biloxi Miracle League, Mississippi Center for Autism and Related Learning Disabilities, Jackson County Animal Shelter, Memorial Hospital Foundation and Favre 4 Hope, Special Olympics, Salvation Army of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, ALS Association, American Cancer Society and Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art.

“We give back to our community because we believe we have a responsibility to do so,” stated Shuckers Community Relations and Promotions Coordinator Jenifer Truong. “Whether it’s local schools or non-profits, the Shuckers offer not only a chance to raise funds for your organization, but also awareness to a large audience.”

In addition to the organization’s charitable contributions, Shuckers’ season ticket holders donated just over 1,500 tickets to local non-profits, military personnel and their families, and first responders. The organization also made frequent mascot and player appearances in the community and members of the Shuckers front office also joined forces to record over 200 hours of community service in 2016.

Spectra’s NFP program seeks to provide qualified nonprofit groups and civic organizations a unique fundraising opportunity. Groups provide volunteers to assist with concession stand operations as cashiers, vendors, and stand workers. Those organizations work to reach fundraising goals while providing great service to fans.

“Involving area nonprofit organizations in our operation has helped us hit a home run with the community and Shuckers’ fans,” said Spectra General Manager Mike Brulatour. “Since the opening of MGM Park in June 2015, thousands of volunteers have raised over $300,000 for their respective charities. The commitment and dedication of these volunteers has enabled us to provide a consistent level of exceptional customer service to our patrons while supporting the Mississippi Gulf Coast communities which we serve. Spectra Food Services and Hospitality strives to be a strong partner with the Biloxi Shuckers and a valued member of the Gulf Coast business community.”

Organizations interested in partnering with Spectra or the Shuckers may contact Mike Brulatour at mike_brulatour@comcastspectacor.com or Jenifer Truong at jtruong@biloxishuckers.com.

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.

50-50 raffle adds to Community Org program

               The Lexington Legends 50/50 raffle at home games in 2016, a new feature of the long-standing Community Organization of the Night program, not only made winners of some lucky fans, it also raised $3,642.62 for 40 charitable organizations.

In the raffle, which will be offered again in 2017, fans can buy chances to win for five dollars each through the first seven innings of each Legends home game. In the eighth inning, a winning ticket is drawn, and the fan holding that ticket receives 50 percent of the proceeds.   One fan at the 2016 South Atlantic League All-Star game took home $265.

The remainder goes to the Legends Charitable Fund, through which the Legends give to a wide variety of charitable organizations around the region, and to the Legends’ Community Organization of the Night, if that organization has chosen to participate by re-selling discounted fundraiser tickets.

The Community Organization program, sponsored by Dean Dorton Allen Ford Inc. in 2016, has been a part of Legends baseball throughout the team’s 16-year history. It offers non-profit organizations a chance to raise awareness of their work through information distribution at Whitaker Bank Ballpark during a home game as well as on-field and radio interviews at that game.   More than 100 different organizations have participated in the program over the last two seasons, and many organizations return year after year.

“The Community Organization of the Night is one of our favorite programs, as it educates fans about all the wonderful non-profit organizations that work diligently to give back to our community,” said Legends Vice President of Business Development Sarah Bosso. “The 50/50 raffle is a great added component for fans to show their support for these non-profits and also have the chance to leave the ballpark with some unexpected spending money. It’s a win-win, and we’re excited to be able to offer this fundraising opportunity again for the 2017 season.”

Interested organizations should contact Jillian Waitkus at jwaitkus@lexingtonlegends.com or (859) 422-7847 or visit the Legends website, www.lexingtonlegends.com (under the “Community” tab), to sign up for the Community Organization of the Night program for 2017.

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

Biscuits to Host Charities Night on August 26

MONTGOMERY, Ala.- The Montgomery Biscuits will celebrate Charities Night on Friday, August 26 when they take on the Birmingham Barons at 7:05 p.m. Charities Night will recognize and honor the Biscuits Charity Partners of the 2016 season, including River Region United Way, Family Sunshine Center, Easter Seals Central Alabama, Magic Moments and the YMCA of Greater Montgomery. The evening will conclude with a MAX Fireworks Show!

“Charities Night is an important night that allows us to profile the organizations, chosen by the staff each year to support and move forward the Biscuits Charities mission to support youth. They auction is an effective fundraiser, but the celebration of awareness of all charities and their causes is a very honored privilege for us as well,” Biscuits Owner, Sherrie Myers, said.

Charities Night will also include a Jersey Auction in which the Biscuits will auction off their game-worn, home jerseys with proceeds benefitting the River Region United Way.

The auction will begin online, Monday, August 22, at noon and run through noon on Friday, August 26. Fans can bid on the game-worn jerseys by visiting http://biscuitsbaseball2016.eflea.ca/. The auction will pick back up in-park as a silent auction beginning when gates open at 5:50 p.m. and run through the end of the fourth inning. The starting bid for the jerseys online is $120; the starting bids for the in-park auction will start where the online auction concluded.

“The River Region United Way is honored to be included as one of the Montgomery Biscuits’ charity partners,” River Region United Way President and CEO, Jimmy Hill, said. “We are grateful for the Biscuits’ continued support and their commitment to benefit youth in the greater Montgomery community. Charities Night with the Jersey Auction is one of the highlights of our year.”

This year’s auction will feature player jerseys worn by nine of the Tampa Bay Rays Top-30 prospects, including the top three players, shortstop Willy Adames, pitcher Brent Honeywell and first baseman Jake Bauers. Adames, the Rays number one prospect, leads the Southern League in runs. At only 20 years old, the Dominican Republic native earned a starting spot on the Southern League All-Star roster and represented the World team at the SiriusXM All-Star Futures Game at the MLB All-Star Game. Honeywell, who was promoted to the Biscuits in July and is ranked as the Rays number two prospect, was drafted in the second round of the 2014 Draft. In 2015, Honeywell was named as Best Pitching Prospect by Baseball America. Bauers, the Rays number three prospect, is a versatile player, spending time in both right field and first base this season with the Biscuits. Bauers, a mid-season All-Star, leads the team in hitting.

Jersey auction winners will be announced following the game in a special on-field ceremony that includes a photo opportunity with the player whose jersey was won.

Payment for auction items is due at the Biscuits Box Office the night of the auction. All bids, online and at the game, must be held with a credit card but can be paid by credit card or cash following the auction. Jerseys will be available for pick-up at the Biscuits Administrative Office approximately one week after the last game of the regular or playoff season.

To purchase tickets to Charities Night or to learn more information visit the www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call 334-323-2255.

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Charitable Tuesdays Bigger and Better in 2016

For the third consecutive season, the Williamsport Crosscutters will present Charitable Tuesdays. The program, presented by Woodlands Bank, gives local non-profit organizations a no-cost opportunity to have a presence at BB&T Ballpark, for the purpose of educating fans about their organization.

One organization will be featured at every Tuesday home game and receive;

  • A display table in the stadium to display and distribute promotional literature and materials
  • A live on-field interview before the game
  • Ceremonial 1st pitch honors for the organization
  • The opportunity to be a guest on the Crosscutters radio broadcast for one inning
  • A $250 donation to the organization courtesy of Woodlands Bank and the Crosscutters presented during an on-field ceremony

“When approached by the Crosscutters with the idea to partner with them for Charitable Tuesdays, it was an immediate yes”, stated Jon P. Conklin, President & CEO of Woodlands Bank. “Woodlands Bank is defined by its commitment to the local community. Daily, we work, live, and give in Lycoming and Clinton County. The Cutters are a great organization that shares the same values as we do, which I know will lead to giving to great and worthy local non-profits this season.”

Interested organizations should submit an application, available online at crosscutters.com or at BB&T Ballpark. Applications must be received by June 3, 2016. More information is available by contacting the Cutters Director of Community Relations, Sarah Budd at (570) 326-3389 or email sarah@crosscutters.com

The Crosscutters 2016 season opens on June 17 when they host the State College Spikes. The full schedule can be found at crosscutters.com.

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

Lake Monsters and Five Guys Team Back Up In 2016 For May Days Fundraising Program

BURLINGTON, VT — The Vermont Lake Monsters are excited to announce the continued partnership with Five Guys Burgers and Fries during the annual May Days fundraiser to benefit non-profits from across the state of Vermont.   “Five Guys May Days” fundraiser will launch May 1st as a month-long program devoted to helping raise funds and awareness for state wide non-profits.

Support of local non-profits has demonstrated the strong commitment both the Lake Monsters and Five Guys have to the greater Burlington community. The goal of this program is not only to provide the opportunity for organizations to raise money, but also raise awareness for their programs while providing a chance for supporters to come together at the ballpark.

The Howard Center is just one of the many local non-profits who has benefitted from participating in Five Guys May Days and will continue the tradition this year. “Throughout the year, we benefit from the generous support of the Lake Monsters.” said Catherine Shahan, Director of Community Friends Mentoring at the Howard Center. “We appreciate our community partnership as it provides opportunities for many of our clients to enjoy an afternoon or evening of baseball, hot dogs, and fun!” Thank you, Lake Monsters for giving back and ensuring the whole community has access to your programs.”

Participating non-profits will have the entire month of May to promote and sell $6 Lake Monsters tickets through a specific URL link designated to their organization for a specific game during the season. After the month of May is completed, the Lake Monsters will donate half of the proceeds back to the organization. Following the selling period, Five Guys will donate up to $500 to match the amount raised by the highest selling non-profit in the program. Organizations will then be recognized on field with a check presentation at a Lake Monsters game this season.

This opportunity is an easy way to fundraise for non-profits, simply by reaching out to your employees, supporters, volunteers, and sponsors with the URL link. For more information or if your non-profit is interested in participating contact Zach Betkowski at 802-655-4200 or zach@vermontlakemonsters.com.

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