Military Appreciation Night Returns on May 13th

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (May 3, 2017) – The Myrtle Beach Pelicans will host their fourth annual Military Appreciation Night at 7:05 p.m. on Saturday, May 13 at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. The evening features a military card set giveaway of 36 local veterans to the first 1,000 fans, presented by Embrace Hospice, distinctive military-inspired jerseys for the Pelicans and more.

In addition to the military card set giveaway courtesy of Embrace Hospice, the Pelicans will hold a special pregame ceremony to honor the 36 veterans featured in this year’s set. Throughout the game veterans and active military personnel will also be recognized. All veterans or active military members can obtain a free ticket to this contest with their military ID and their families can purchase tickets for just $10 courtesy of Steak and Shake.

The Pelicans will wear military-inspired jerseys in their game against the Lynchburg Hillcats. Forty-one jerseys will be raffled off to veterans and active military in attendance. Both veterans and current military personnel can show their ID at the jersey table on the first base concourse to receive a free raffle ticket to win a jersey. During the seventh inning, raffle winners will be announced, and the winning military members will be invited on the field postgame for a special meet-and-greet with Pelicans players and the club’s coaching staff. These game-worn jerseys are available to veterans and active military personnel through generous donations by friends and family of Embrace Hospice.

Military Appreciation Night is in conjunction with the city of Myrtle Beach’s Military Appreciation Days and is also a Locals Appreciation Night, meaning each fan with a local ID receives $3.00 off their ticket price courtesy of Sparks Toyota and WMBF News. Additionally, one local fan will have a chance to win up to $50,000 in the postgame Dice Roll Extravaganza courtesy of Sparks Toyota & HTC. The night will be capped with a Postgame Fireworks Extravaganza presented by East Coast Pyrotechnics Fireworks. 

The 2017 season is the 19th season for the Pelicans franchise and third as the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. For information on tickets to see the Pelicans in 2017, please call (843) 918-6000, e-mail info@myrtlebeachpelicans.com, or visit www.MyrtleBeachPelicans.com.

ABOUT THE PELICANS: The Myrtle Beach Pelicans are the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs and play their home games at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The park has ranked in the top eight in all of Minor League Baseball by Stadium Journey in each of the last six seasons. The same publication also placed the Pelicans in the Top 100 Stadium Experiences in all of sports in each of the last six years and the best in the Carolina League for six straight seasons as well. In May 2015, TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark won the 2015 TripAdvisor.com Certificate of Excellence award. The Pelicans are the two-time defending Mills Cup Champions, winning the title in 2015 and 2016 as well as 2000 and co-Mills Cup championship honors in the inaugural 1999 season. The Pelicans have made ten postseason appearances behind 12 half-season Southern Division championships, including the first half of the 2015 season and second half of 2016. For more information on the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, please contact the Pelicans at (843) 918-6000 or emailing Info@MyrtleBeachPelicans.com.

ALLERGY, ASTHMA & SINUS CENTER WILL HOST PEANUT FREE NIGHT AT SMOKIES STADIUM

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies have partnered with the Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center to host a Peanut-Free Night at America’s Friendliest Ballpark on Wednesday, May 3 as the Smokies take on the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp. The Peanut-Free Night allow fans with peanut allergies the chance to enjoy the game at Smokies Stadium.

“The Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center is excited to sponsor Peanut Free Night with the Tennessee Smokies for the sixth year in a row,” said Board Certified Allergist, Dr. Bob Overholt. “We are honored to be able to provide a peanut-free environment for all baseball fans, especially those who might not be able to normally attend, and we hope this event will help raise awareness in East Tennessee about food allergies.”

The Smokies will take anything containing peanuts off its concessions menu for the 7:00 p.m. contest. Additionally, the stadium will be cleaned and rinsed to remove as much peanut residue from the seats, concourse and other areas as possible.

“This is a night I look forward to every year,” said Smokies Vice President Jeremy Boler. “This is a night where many children and families with peanut allergies can actually come out and enjoy a Smokies game. I hope this game brings awareness to food allergies and we look forward to hosting Peanut Free Night for many more years to come!”

The Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center and the Tennessee Smokies team up for this event annually to raise awareness about food allergies, and to allow an enjoyable baseball experience for those with peanut allergies specifically.

The Smokies return home to Smokies Stadium on Wednesday, May 3, 2017 against the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp. The full schedule for this season and information regarding single-game tickets, season tickets, and mini plans can be found online at smokiesbaseball.com, or by calling the Smokies Ticket Office at 865-286-2300.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com

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

Now accepting Scholarship Applications

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (April 10, 2017) – The South Bend Cubs officially published eligibility rules and the application form for $5,000 scholarships dedicated to softball and baseball players in 11 counties surrounding Four Winds Field in downtown South Bend today.

“We make no small plans here at Four Winds Field. Nor should the young athletes in this region who compete in softball and baseball,” commented Andrew T. Berlin, Chmn./Owner of the South Bend Cubs. “These scholarships are a significant way to show our support of future leaders and the game we all love at the same time. They’re not just for current athletes who will go on to play on varsity teams in college. They’re for any high school senior athlete who intends to continue his or her education full time after high school-whether they continue competing at the varsity level or not.”

In 2016, the South Bend Cubs awarded five scholarships worth $5,000 each to high school seniors from Edwardsburg, MI, Bremen, LaPorte, South Bend and Walkerton, IN. Two of the recipients were softball players, three were baseball players.

Applications for the 2017 South Bend Cubs Scholarships will be accepted from April 10 through May 31. Up to five (5) $5,000 scholarships will be granted. A full set of rules, eligibility requirements and an application form can be found online at www.1stsourcebankperformancecenter.com

“We want to make sure people understand two things about these scholarships that are very important,” said Joe Hart, President of the South Bend Cubs. “These are not just baseball scholarships. There are over 1,600 colleges with softball programs in the United States, so we hope to see as many softball applicants as baseball. Also, we want people to know we’re doing our part to help build a new baseball and softball dynasty in this region. That’s what the 1st Source Bank Performance Center here at Four Winds Field is all about-year-round professional pitching, conditioning, fielding and at-bat training with professional instructors. The Chicago Cubs and every amateur player and coach in the region are excited about this facility-it’s one of the best in the country.”

Applications for the 2017 South Bend Cubs Scholarships cannot be made by e-mail or via any type of paid delivery or postal service. All applicants must deliver their applications in person to the 1st Source Bank Performance Center at the corner of South Street and Lafayette Boulevard in downtown South Bend.

About the South Bend Cubs
The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

South Bend Cubs to offer Peanut-Free Suite on May 7

SOUTH BEND, IN – A day at Four Winds Field should be a fun, exciting experience, but that may be a challenge if you have a peanut allergy. On Sunday, May 7, the South Bend Cubs will offer a peanut-free area in the Old National Bank Home Plate Suite to coincide with Food Allergy Awareness Month.

Food Allergy Awareness Month helps educate the public about food allergies, a potentially life-threatening medical condition. An estimated 15 million Americans suffer from food allergies, according to Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE). Peanut allergies are among the most common food allergies and according to studies funded by FARE, the number of U.S. children with peanut allergies more than tripled between 1997 and 2008.

“There are quite a few baseball fans that do not get to experience a day at the ballpark due to their peanut allergy,” said Team President Joe Hart. “In order to provide a sterile, peanut free environment, our staff follows a strict cleaning process that removes all allergens from the Old National Bank Home Plate Suite to ensure our fans with peanut allergies can enjoy the game.”

Tickets are only $19.00 and include a seat in the peanut-free Old National Bank Home Plate Suite, South Bend Cubs hat, and a ballpark buffet of hot dogs, hamburgers, chips and soft drinks. Space is extremely limited with only 40 tickets available. To order, visit the South Bend Cubs Box Office at Four Winds Field or call (574) 235-9988.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

Meijer Baseball Academy Registration Now Open

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

SOUTH BEND, IN – Four Winds Field, the home of the South Bend Cubs, will transform into a training ground for young baseball players this July when Cubs players and coaches become instructors for the 2017 Meijer Baseball Academy.

There will be two academy training sessions to help keep the camp size smaller and allow more interaction with the players and coaches. Session one will be held July 12 through July 14 and session two runs July 26 through July 28. Registration is open to children from 6 to 12 years of age. Instruction from players and coaches will be based on the age and skill level of each participant. Throughout the three-day session participants will learn about hitting, pitching, fielding (infield and outfield), catching, and base running.

“This is a great opportunity for young players,” South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart said. “We’re excited to provide an opportunity for aspiring players to learn from pro ball-players within the Cubs organization.”

The registration fee for one, three-day session is $125.00 per child. All attendees will receive a Meijer Baseball Academy t-shirt, a South Bend Cubs hat, lunch after each day of camp, and four (4) tickets to a South Bend Cubs game where all academy campers will participate in a pre-game recognition on the field.

“One of our team slogans is ‘The road to the World Series starts in South Bend,'” Hart said. “We want to bring that slogan to our Baseball Academy so hopefully one day we’ll see a few of these youngsters playing professional baseball.”

Check-in for the first day of each session will begin at 8:30 a.m. ET. Camps will run from 9:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., with lunch at 11:50 a.m.

To register, visit the Meijer Baseball Academy webpage and download the application form. Forms must be emailed to Marketing@SouthBendCubs.com and payment must be made at time of registration. For additional questions, call Stephen Cabe at (574) 235-9988 extension 262.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

South Bend Cubs to Host Polar Plunge in 2017

SOUTH BEND, IN – Four Winds Field will host the South Bend Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Indiana on Saturday, February 25, 2017. Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. with the plunge beginning at 12:00 p.m. followed immediately by the After Splash Bash in the Pepsi Stadium Club.

“Special Olympics Indiana is really looking forward to holding our first-ever Polar Plunge in South Bend,” said Special Olympics Indiana President and CEO Michael Furnish. “We’re extremely lucky to have a partner like the South Bend Cubs who knows how to bring the community together and create a positive atmosphere.”

“We are incredibly proud to host this event,” said Director of Media and Promotions Chris Hagstrom-Jones. “To help stimulate donations, the person who raises the most money for the South Bend Polar Plunge will receive four tickets to a South Bend Cubs home game and the opportunity to throw out the first pitch of that game.”

To participate in the 2017 Michiana Polar Plunge, individuals or groups must raise a “bear” minimum of $75 in pledges. All funds raised will benefit Special Olympics Indiana. Participants can register as an individual or gather friends, family members, co-workers, civic group or school group and register as a team.

Register by clicking here or visiting soindiana.org and clicking on the special events page. Funds raised by this event will help local athletes train and compete at local, area and state level.

About the Special Olympics Indiana

Special Olympics Indiana is a not-for-profit organization that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in more than 20 Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, reaching more than 12,000 athletes across Indiana. The organization receives no federal- or state-appropriated funds, is not a United Way agency and relies entirely on corporate, civic and individual donations. For more information about Special Olympics Indiana, call (317) 328-2000 or visit www.soindiana.org.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are a Class A minor league team affiliated with the Chicago Cubs. Over the past 28 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill. More information is available at www.SouthBendCubs.com.

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

Pelicans announce Military Appreciation Day

Team to auction custom camouflage jerseys, hold card set giveaway

myrtlebeachpelicans_2015-04-30

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (APRIL 30, 2015) – In commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, are pleased to announce Military Appreciation Day. The event, presented by Embrace Hospice, Hot Talk 99.5 FM, and Wave 104.1 FM, will take place on May 14 when the Pelicans host the Carolina Mudcats for a 7:05 p.m. ET first pitch at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. Gates to the ballpark will open at 5:30 p.m. ET to accommodate fans for the numerous pregame festivities.

Pelicans players will wear custom-made camouflage jerseys for the game. The jerseys, reflecting the familiar design of military uniforms from the Vietnam War era, will be auctioned during the game. Proceeds from the auction will benefit Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc., Chapter 925.

The first 1,000 fans through the gates will also receive a card set featuring the photos and stories of 36 Grand Strand veterans and active military personnel. The uniformed men and women from those cards will be represented that night, either by being in attendance themselves, or by members of their family.

The night will also have pre-game festivities aplenty. The Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc., Chapter 925 will hand out 5,000 miniature American flags to fans at the gates and will also honor the Pelicans franchise as a Purple Heart supporter team. There will be a pre-game colors dedication, as well as a ceremony held around the Missing Man Table. The veterans being honored on the card set will be introduced individually before the first pitch, and to wrap up the pre-game ceremonies, a paratrooper will parachute into TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark while holding an American flag.

Embrace Hospice joined the Pelicans as a partner in 2014 with “Embrace a Veteran,” one of the most popular programs from that season, in which veterans were asked to stand up at every home game and be recognized. Saturdays became Embrace Veterans Saturdays, where select Grand Strand veterans were highlighted and honored, and their stories were told in person and on the video board. A veteran and Embrace Hospice employee threw out a first pitch at these games as well.

Katelyn Guild, Pelicans Director of Business Development, pursued the expansion of Military Appreciation events after a positive reception last season.

“The game of baseball has incredible roots connected with the U.S. military, and we are thrilled whenever we can grow and diversify the way that we honor our veterans-especially our local ones,” Guild said. “Embrace Hospice agrees, and they were excited to partner with us on this as well.”

For Embrace Hospice, the cause is an important one, but also a personal one.

“Many of us are veterans ourselves, so this has an extra special meaning to us and the many veterans we employ,” said Kevin McHugh, CEO of Embrace Hospice. “Our veterans are one of this country’s greatest accomplishments. What they have done for our freedom makes going to a ballgame an everyday thing for Americans. We hope the community joins us once again this year at Pelicans ballgames to say thank you and to ‘Embrace a Veteran’.”

In addition to the card set and year-long program, the Pelicans have dedicated an empty seat at the ballpark, located near the Clark and Addison Grille and Hops Heaven. The seats remains unoccupied in honor of lost prisoners of war (POW) and service members who are pronounced missing in action (MIA).

Information on Embrace Hospice will be available on the main concourse at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark for each Embrace Saturday all year long. The dates for the remaining Embrace Veterans Saturdays in 2015 are as follows: May 23; June 6, 13, 20; July 11, 25; August 8, 15, 29.

The 2015 season marks the 17th season for the Pelicans franchise and first as the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. For information on tickets to see the Pelicans in 2015, please call (843) 918-6000, e-mail info@myrtlebeachpelicans.com, or visit www.MyrtleBeachPelicans.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Click here to view the original story.

TD Bank and Sparks Toyota team up for Community Corner program

Two companies to donate nearly 2,000 tickets to non-profits

myrtlebeachpelicans_2015-04-05

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (APRIL 6, 2015) – The Myrtle Beach Pelicans, Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, are pleased to announce that TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, will return as a partner in the Pelicans TD Bank Community Corner program for the 2015 regular season. Joining TD Bank this season is Sparks Toyota. The two organizations will provide approximately 1,750 tickets to local non-profit organizations in Horry and Georgetown counties.

The Community Corner program enters its fifth season, and this year, tickets will be provided for all 70 Pelicans home games. Each night, a non-profit organization will receive 25 tickets as part of the expanded program.

The groups will enjoy a unique night out at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark with tickets in the reserved box seating area. The group will have the name of their organization appear on the video board during the game as well.

“Every year it is such a pleasure to work with an organization that cares so much for its community,” said Scott Sharp, Regional Vice President, TD Bank. “The Community Corner Program is dedicated to giving back and providing a wonderful opportunity for its residents and we are thrilled to support such meaningful efforts.”

“We are proud to partner with the Myrtle Beach Pelicans and TD Bank to provide tickets for our local nonprofit organizations,” said Patrick Sparks, General Manager of Sparks Toyota. “Giving back to our community has been a cornerstone belief for Sparks Toyota for over 30 years and we are thrilled to have this opportunity.”

Non-profits interested in joining the TD Bank Community Corner program are encouraged to contact Becca Holtgreive, Pelicans Community Relations Assistant, by telephone at (843) 918-6003 or by e-mail at BHoltgreive@MyrtleBeachPelicans.com.

The 2015 season marks the 17th season for the franchise and first as the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. The Pelicans begin their defense of their 2014 Southern Division Championship on Thursday, April 9, when the team plays host to the Wilmington Blue Rocks at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark at 7:05 p.m. Season Seats, Mini Plans, Flex Books, and single game tickets for the 2015 season are on sale now For information on tickets to see the Pelicans in 2015, please call (843) 918-6000, e-mail info@myrtlebeachpelicans.com, or visit www.MyrtleBeachPelicans.com, or visit the Pelicans box office, which is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

About TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank®

TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is one of the 10 largest banks in the U.S., providing more than 8 million customers with a full range of retail, small business and commercial banking products and services at approximately 1,300 convenient locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Metro D.C., the Carolinas and Florida. In addition, TD Bank and its subsidiaries offer customized private banking and wealth management services through TD Wealth®, and vehicle financing and dealer commercial services through TD Auto Finance. TD Bank is headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J. To learn more, visit www.tdbank.com. Find TD Bank on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TDBank and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/TDBank_US.

TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is a member of TD Bank Group and a subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank of Toronto, Canada, a top 10 financial services company in North America. The Toronto-Dominion Bank trades on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges under the ticker symbol “TD”. To learn more, visit www.td.com.

About Sparks Toyota

Sparks Toyota works to provide each and every one of their customers with the best experience possible. For more than 33 years, Sparks Toyota has been proudly serving the Grand Strand with a continuous commitment to the community. Their loyal customers have made it possible for for them to donate over $500,000 to many local civic and charitable organizations.

The Spark Toyota team of highly qualified professionals knows there’s more to this industry than just selling cars; they value one-on-one relationships with every one of their customers and take the time to build them. Customers can trust that Sparks Toyota will find them the car or truck they want with professionalism and attention to their needs.

From new and used Toyota vehicles, to auto loans and OEM car parts, Sparks Toyota really is the one and only full-service dealership you need. Whether you need vehicle repair, financial assistance, a new car or anything else, their friendly and knowledgeable staff will point you in the right direction. Visit the newly expanded dealership and check out everything that Sparks Toyota has to offer at 4855 Highway 501 Myrtle Beach, SC 29579. They go the extra mile to make sure your car-buying and servicing experience is quick and hassle-free! Sparks Toyota-where the dealer’s always in.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Click here to view the original story.

Pelicans partner with Axelrod & Associates for $100K promotion

Every Pelicans home run at home earns donation to Make-A-Wish Foundation

myrtlebeachpelicans_2015-04-01

Myrtle-Beach-PelicansThe Myrtle Beach Pelicans, the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, in partnership with Axelrod & Associates, P.A., are glad to announce an exciting promotion around Pelicans home runs, benefiting the South Carolina Make-A-Wish Foundation during the 2015 season at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark.

For every home run hit by a Pelicans player during any 2015 home game, Axelrod & Associates will donate $100 to the South Carolina Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Make-A-WishAlso new to the ballpark this season will be a billboard in right-centerfield, which includes a caricature of Mr. Stuart M. Axelrod, donning a Chicago Cubs cap, extending his glove through the outfield wall, where his glove is ready to make a catch. If a home run ball by a Pelicans player goes through the cutout hole in the glove and into the accompanying net behind it, one lucky fan in attendance will be chosen at random to win $100,000. Fans must be present at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark to win. The winner will be selected based on the tickets scanned at the gates prior to the first pitch.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Click here to view the original story.

Smokies To Renovate Youth Fields Saturday

tennesseesmokies_2015-03-26

Club Teaming Up With U.S. Cellular To Pitch In For Local Community

Tennessee-Smokies-2015Members of the Tennessee Smokies front office will be teaming up with U.S. Cellular and other partners to help clean up and renovate two East Tennessee baseball fields on Saturday, March 28, including the Boys & Girls Club of Halls/Powell, and the Christenberry Ballfields. Volunteers from U.S. Cellular will be pitching in at both locations, working side-by-side with Smokies front office members on all tasks. In addition, U.S. Cellular will also be donating $1,000 dollars to each location for equipment upgrades.

“This is a very important project for us, and another way to truly make a difference in the East Tennessee community,” stated Smokies Team President Doug Kirchhofer. “We’re also very grateful to U.S. Cellular and our other partners for working together with us on this venture to ensure baseball is played safely and on a good field for years to come.”

“U.S. Cellular has long enjoyed its partnership with the Tennessee Smokies and the opportunity it gives us to connect with East Tennessee residents,” said Jack Brundige, director of sales for U.S. Cellular in Tennessee. “We are looking forward to rolling up our sleeves to help with the baseball field makeovers. Every young child should have the opportunity to play ball on a safe, well-maintained field.”

“Saturday is an important undertaking by all parties involved, and we’re very excited to be able to provide nice ballfields for kids and the community,” added Smokies General Manager Brian Cox. “Our hope is for this to become a yearly endeavor in which we continue to provide a place to play baseball and help the game flourish.”

Work to be done includes field clean-up and the creation of new dugouts, in addition to adding fencing at the Boys & Girls Club, as well as installing batting cages at Christenberry Ballfields, including new turf, placing padding behind home plate, and field clean-up among other tasks. The team will also be donating several items for use at those locations, including a home plate, bases, chalker, rakes and shovels.

This marks the second time the Smokies have teamed up with The Boys & Girls Club this month, after Smokies Stadium hosted a Pitch, Hit & Run Competition exclusively for club members on March 17 in association with the Boys & Girls Club of Tennessee Valley, and the Smoky Mountains. Additional partners assisting the Smokies with Saturday’s effort are Blalock Construction, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Jet’s Pizza.

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

Superhero jerseys highlight Pelicans Special Olympics Night

myrtlebeachpelicans_2015-03-18

Law Enforcement Torch Run aiming for growth in year three of partnership with Pelicans

Myrtle-Beach-PelicansThe Myrtle Beach Pelicans, the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, will host the third annual Special Olympics Night in conjunction with Superhero Night as part of “Geekend” on Saturday, April 25 at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. This season, the Pelicans will wear unique superhero-themed uniforms that will be auctioned off to benefit the Special Olympics as well.

This marks the second time that Special Olympics Night will overlap with Superhero Night, although it is the first time that the Pelicans will wear superhero-themed series on this night. “The superhero theme is a natural fit for Special Olympics Night,” remarked Pelicans Senior Director of Community Jen Borowski. “All the Special Olympics athletes are superheroes in my eyes.”

Special-OlympicsFans who wish to donate to the Special Olympics at the game will be able to do so at the Special Olympics table in the concourse or at the Guest Services booth. Proceeds from the jersey auction and 50/50 raffle will also benefit the Special Olympics.

Those that wish to bid on jerseys will be able to do so whether in attendance or not, as select jerseys will be available for bidding online. The game-worn jerseys will be autographed by the corresponding player or coach immediately following the game, and fans at the game will have the opportunity to take a photo with the player or coach as well.

Over the past two seasons, the Pelicans and the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) have helped raise over $23,000 for the Special Olympics of South Carolina through the proceeds from this event.

“This is a real passion for many of us here locally in law enforcement,” remarked Lance Corporal Felix Cruz, who is part of the LETR, which runs a handful of events in the area to raise money for Special Olympics. “We want to get as many people out there to the game as possible to help raise money for the Special Olympics. The money allows athletes locally, regionally, and nationally to train and compete in Special Olympics events, and without the financial support, many of the Special Olympics athletes would not be able to do so.”

In addition to raising money for the Special Olympics, the night also serves as a platform to highlight the Special Olympics athletes. The athletes will take part in a pre-game parade on the field, participate in a variety of on-field games and in-park promotions, and take the field with the Pelicans players at the start of the game.

Pelicans players and coaches will also hold a private meet-and-greet and autograph session with the Special Olympics athletes prior to first pitch.

The LETR runs a number of events in Horry county to help raise awareness and funds for the Special Olympics, including: Teacher on the Roof, Capture the Flag Tournament, Dip, Duck and Dive Dodgeball Tournament, Tip the Waiter, St. James Got Talent, a Fashion Show at St. James, and Krispy Kreme Cops on Doughnut Shop. The Pelicans help the LETR support a number of these programs and recognize Special Olympics athletes outside of Special Olympics Night as well, including an on-field ceremony during the 2014 Carolina League postseason, in which athletes participating in the 2014 Special Olympics USA games were recognized prior to the Pelicans game.

The 2015 season marks the 17th season for the Pelicans franchise and first as the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. For information on tickets to see the Pelicans in 2015, please call (843) 918-6000, e-mail info@myrtlebeachpelicans.com, or visit www.MyrtleBeachPelicans.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Click here to view the original story.

Myrtle Beach Herald Readers’ Choice Award goes to Pelicans

Pelicans named “Best Family Attraction” by readers

­­­­MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (FEBRUARY 27, 2015) – The Myrtle Beach Herald released its “Readers’ Choice Awards” on Friday, and the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, were named “Best Family Attraction.”

The award is one of many that the Pelicans have garnered over the past year. The Carolina League awarded the Pelicans the “Complete Franchise Award from the Carolina League” along with the “Marketing and Promotional Award;” the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce gave the Pelicans the “Community Service Award;” Ballpark Digest gave the Pelicans the “Promotion of the Year” award; and the Grand Strand Happening named the Pelicans “Best Family Outing.”

Stadium Journey Magazine also continued to recognize the Pelicans ballpark experience, giving it top honors in the Carolina League, a fourth-place spot in Minor League Baseball, and number 32 ranking in all of sports in their most recent rankings.

This is the first year that the Pelicans have won the Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Family Attraction.”

The Readers’ Choice Awards is an annual poll that was open to readers of the Myrtle Beach Herald using a new online voting system that helped create the largest number of voting entries in the newspaper’s history.

The Pelicans were one of twenty award winners in the “Entertainment” category. Other categories include: Auto; Beauty and Wellness; Food and Drink; Health and Medical; Home and Garden; Pets; Professional Services; Real Estate; Recreation, Leisure & Sports; and Shopping.

A full list of the winners can be found in a special supplement in the Myrtle Beach Herald in the February 27, 2015 edition and also available for online viewing at www.MyHorryNews.com.

The 2015 season marks the 17th season for the franchise and first as the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. For information on tickets to see the Pelicans in 2015, please call (843) 918-6000, e-mail info@myrtlebeachpelicans.com, or visit www.MyrtleBeachPelicans.com.

 

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Click here to view the original story.

Free kids clinic on Wednesday, June 18

Legends for Youth baseball clinic at Principal Park

IowaCubs_2014-06-13

 

Iowa-CubsKids will have an opportunity to play with their big-league heroes at the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association Legends for Youth baseball clinic series on Wednesday, June 18, at Principal Park. The free clinic features former major-league baseball players who will teach baseball skills, drills and life lessons for kids ages 6-16.

Players scheduled to attened include Don Wengert, Dwight Siebler, Don Eddy, Curt Kaufman and Matt Wagner.

The clinic will take place at Principal Park from 9-11 a.m. Players will train at stations including pitching, catching, base running and life skills. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. The morning will conclude with an autograph session for children in attendance.

To register for this clinic, please visit www.baseballalumni.com. Registration is required.

For more information regarding the clinic, please contact Nikki Warner, Director of Communications, at (719) 477-1870, ext. 105 or visit www.baseballalumni.com.

About The Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association (MLBPAA)
MLBPAA was founded in 1982 with the mission of promoting baseball, raising money for charity and protecting the dignity of the game through its Alumni players. The MLBPAA is headquartered in Colorado Springs, CO with a membership of more than 6,900, of which approximately 5,300 are Alumni and active players. Alumni players find the MLBPAA to be a vital tool to become involved in charity and community philanthropy. Follow @MLBPAA for Twitter updates.

About Legends for Youth Clinics
MLBPAA’s Legends for Youth clinics impact more than 15,000 children each year, allowing them the unique opportunity to interact with and learn from players who have left a lasting impact on the game of baseball. The MLBPAA has reached children across America and internationally in Australia, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, the United Kingdom and Venezuela, through the Legends for Youth clinic series. To donate to this program, visit baseballalumni.com/donate. The official hashtag of the Legends for Youth clinic series is #LFYClinic.

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

Chicken of the Sea Donates $10,000 to Kiwanis Miracle League

Christie Fleming (far right) from Chicken of the Sea presents the check for $10,000 to representatives from the Kiwanis Miracle League.
Christie Fleming (far right) from Chicken of the Sea presents the check for $10,000 to representatives from the Kiwanis Miracle League.

Iowa-CubsIn a special ceremony prior to tonight’s Iowa Cubs game at Principal Park, representatives from Chicken of the Sea made a $10,000 donation to the Downtown Kiwanis Miracle League. The donation will allow 50 kids to play the entire season with the Miracle League this summer in downtown Des Moines.

The donation was part of the Chicken of the Sea’s “Great American GratituMiracle-League-logode Tour.” In celebration of their 100th anniversary, Chicken of the Sea is touring the country to give back to local organizations and individuals who are doing great work in their communities. Chicken of the Sea will donate $1,000,000 by the end of their tour. Chicken of the Sea Vice President of Marketing Christie Fleming addressed the crowd and made the official presentation to several of the board members, parents, and players from the Miracle League on hand at Principal Park tonight. Fleming is a native of Oskaloosa, Iowa and a graduate of the University of Northern Iowa. She was joined on the field by Catalina, the mermaid mascot for Chicken of the Sea.

To find out more about the “Great American Gratitude Tour” and the organizations that have benefitted from these donations, visit chickenofthesea.com/100. For fans that received a gold coin at the game tonight, that’s also the place to enter your code to see if your coin is worth $10,000 or another prize from Chicken of the Sea.

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

Smokies & Remote Area Medical Join Forces

RAM Announced As Smokies’ “Charity Of Choice” For 2014 Season

TennesseeSmokies_2014-04-23

 

The Tennessee Smokies announced today the Remote Area Medical® (RAM®) as the team’s “charity of choice” for the 2014 season. Proceeds from jersey auctions and additional activities at Smokies games this year will benefit the non-profit organization financially and provide a platform for RAM® to make its mission better known in the community.

Remote-Area-MedicalRemote Area Medicial® was founded in 1985 by Stan Brock, who developed the idea for the organization after a medical ordeal in South America while being isolated from urgent care. After returning, it was Brock’s mission to establish the non-profit in order to help bring medical aid to those living in the isolated and underserved communities in the U.S. and abroad.

“We could not be more supportive of Remote Area Medical® and Stan Brock’s cause,” said Smokies President Doug Kirchhofer. “With this partnership we are focusing our efforts to help them achieve their vision.”

Brock starred on the popular television show Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom, with the program winning four Emmy Awards, and went on to create, direct and star in Stan Brock’s Expedition Danger for eight years. He has written three books on his experiences, scribed articles for Reader’s Digest and Outdoor Life, and featured in TIME Magazine.

“We are honored to team up with The Smokies to help restore hope and improve lives for underserved communities in our region,” said Brock. “The Smokies really care about their fans and want to take active steps to help children and their families in need of basic medical care.”

“Our partnership with the Smokies means more people can be helped who cannot afford healthcare and we thank them for their compassion for our community, state and region,” Brock continued. “We look forward to sharing life with the Smokies on this journey of a shared mission, and together we can make a real impact and footprint in our communities that will literally change the lives of thousands of people.”

According to the organization’s website, over 80,000 volunteers and healthcare professionals have helped deliver more than $75 million dollars of free quality medical services since RAM®’s founding in 1985.

Along with the focus on Remote Area Medical®, the Smokies will continue to be involved with other non-profit organizations and causes in the East Tennessee Community.

For more information on Remote Area Medical®, or to learn how to volunteer or donate to the organization, whose headquarters are located in Rockford, Tennessee, please visit them on the web at www.ramusa.org, or contact them by phone at (865) 579-1530.

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