In Partnership with Augusta Technical College, SRP park to Host September 2nd

Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Technology night announced

In Partnership with Augusta Technical College, SRP Park to Host September 2nd

North Augusta, SC – The Augusta GreenJackets, Single-A Affiliate Carolina League of the Atlanta Braves, in partnership with Augusta Technical College and the WORC Grant are excited to announce the 2nd Annual Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Technology Night at SRP Park. Students and families are encouraged to join us on Friday, September 2nd as the GreenJackets kick off Fan Appreciation Weekend against the Salem Red Sox (Red Sox). Gates open at 6:00pm and the first 1,000 fans will receive a collector’s Cup Giveaway presented by Augusta Technical College as well as access to the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Technology Fair on the main concourse.

The Inaugural Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Technology Night was a success and we look forward to building on the momentum with this year’s event! This evening provides K-12 students throughout the CSRA and their parents a unique look into the world of STEM education and opportunities. Participating exhibitors will allow students to receive a hands-on experience with virtual and augmented reality, robotics, 3D animation and printers, and so much more! To see the full rundown visit: https://www.milb.com/augusta/community/atcmen

The evening festivities will kick off at 6 pm. Upon arrival at SRP Park, students are invited to check in at the Young Innovator’s Club table to receive a checklist to visit each vendor set up on the concourse. As students and parents visit and experience each exhibitor at SRP Park, they’ll sign your checklist. Upon completion, turn-in your checklist at Guest Relations Booth – located by the main entrance on the concourse (next to the Beestro) – and they will receive a collector’s T-shirt.

“We are excited to partner with Augusta Technical College to build upon the success of this event from last season,” stated GreenJackets Vice President Tom Denlinger. “We invite K-12 students and parents to come and check out the many great exhibitors on the main concourse while enjoying the last weekend of GreenJackets Baseball.”

Throughout the game, guests will be able to see the amazing technology, talent and work experiences that make up the exciting new world of Advanced Manufacturing in the CSRA. All the activities and exhibits are being planned to share that story, and the evening programming and entertainment will be designed to open the eyes of young people who represent the future manufacturing workforce.

Educators and manufacturers supporting this event include: Amazon, Augusta Technical College Augusta Economic Development Authority, Bridgestone, Carole Fabrics, Ingevity, SRNS, Technical Training Aids, Textron and others will be on hand with exhibits.

Click the link to learn more and to purchase discounted tickets available for K-12 students: https://www.milb.com/augusta/community/atcmen

Stay up to date on all things GreenJackets and Events at SRP Park by following us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and sign up for the ‘Jackets Buzz e-newsletter today by visiting https://atmilb.com/3yr4mrw

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About Augusta Technical College

Augusta Technical College, a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, is a public post secondary academic institution that provides technical education, customized business and industry training, continuing education, student support, economic development, and adult education services to its service area (Burke, Columbia, Lincoln, McDuffie, and Richmond Counties) at a competitive financial value. Associate of Science Degrees, Associate of Applied Science Degrees, diplomas, and technical certificates ofcredit are provided through traditional and distance delivery methods. For more information, visit augustatech.edu.

About SRP Park/Augusta GreenJackets

The Augusta GreenJackets are the Single-A Carolina League Affiliate of the Atlanta Braves playing in the state of the art SRP Park located in North Augusta, SC. 2022 Augusta GreenJackets season seat memberships and individual tickets are on sale now. To learn more about the benefits and to get in on the action, visit www.gjmembers.com or call (803) 349-WINS (9467). SRP Park is the anchor piece of Riverside Village, a live, work, “playball” development which includes apartment living, retail, restaurants, class “A” office space, and a Crowne Plaza Hotel and Conference Center. To learn more about SRP Park and hosting events and availability, visit www.thesrppark.com.

-GreenJackets –

Patriots Welcomed Young Heart Patient As Part Of Yankees’ HOPE Week

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, welcomed four-year-old Nathaniel Montaque to TD Bank Ballpark as part of a Yankees’ HOPE Week event on Wednesday, August 24.

The Yankees’ HOPE Week initiative (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) is rooted in the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope and encouragement to more than just the recipient of the gesture. New York’s affiliates are encouraged to participate in the program as well and plan special events at their given ballparks and community.

“It was our first time going to a baseball game so we didn’t know what to expect but the experience was amazing,” said Nathaniel’s mother Natalie. “He is officially a baseball kid now and we are now lifelong Somerset Patriots fans.”

Nathaniel was born prematurely with ASD (atrial septal defect), a hole in the wall of his heart that divides the upper chambers, at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center at 31 weeks. His condition eventually required surgery to repair the hole in his upper heart, which was performed in March of 2021 at the Children’s Heart Center at Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility.

Thanks to pediatric cardiologist, Dr. Mark Michael, pediatric nurse practitioner, Kelly Thibault, the expert medical teams at both Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, and his incredible family support system, Nathaniel is healthy, active and doing great.

Organized by RWJBarnabas Health, the Official Health Care Provider of the Patriots, Nathaniel was joined by his parents, brother and aunt as he came to the ballpark to watch batting practice and meet the players and coaches of the 2022 team. Manager Dan Fiorito, top prospects Anthony Volpe, Everson Pereira, Austin Wells, Elijah Dunham and many others greeted the family, took pictures, and signed for the kids.

“Days like these are special for our team and organization,” said Fiorito. “It was great meeting Nathaniel and his family and being able to give him this unique experience. We know he is a special kid and everyone here wishes him continued health and even more brighter days ahead.”

In addition to the team autographed baseballs, Pereira gave Nathaniel a special bracelet that he wears for good luck as a gift. The luck continued on the field, as Pereira’s sixth inning triple started a rally that put Somerset up in the team’s 3-2 win over the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

Prior to the game, the Montaque family took a tour of TD Bank Ballpark and then were escorted down on the field where Nathaniel threw out a ceremonial first pitch joined by Dr. Michael and Kelly Thibault.

“It was a privilege to join Nathaniel for the ceremonial first pitch,” said Dr. Michael, pediatric cardiologist at the Children’s Heart Center at Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility. “He’s such an inspirational young boy and thanks to the Somerset Patriots, the entire family enjoyed an incredible gameday experience.”

Added Natalie,”Nathaniel enjoyed throwing the first pitch and even still wears the bracelet he received from Everson. The fireworks at the end was the cherry on top for him.”

About the Somerset Patriots

The Somerset Patriots are the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate and develop today’s top minor league talent into the pinstriped superstars of tomorrow for MLB’s winningest team. The Patriots compete in the Double-A Eastern League and play their home games at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ, where fans of all ages and levels of baseball fandom get to enjoy the unique experience that is minor league baseball.

To learn more, visit: somersetpatriots.com.

Redden named Appalachian League Humanitarian of the Year 

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The Appalachian League announced that Bluefield’s Parker Redden (Delaware) was named the Humanitarian of the Year. The Humanitarian of the Year award is given to the Appalachian League player that has been judged to have made the most notable contributions in his community during the season through active participation in community service projects.

Redden works closely with Freedom Farms, a nonprofit, faith-based organization for at-risk youth in West Virginia. When the Ridge Runners were in town, Redden drove approximately 35 miles each way to help with meal preparation, maintenance, agricultural activities and his mentoring opportunities. Redden also delivered leftover food to Freedom Farms as quantities allowed so that waste was minimized. Baseball and softball lessons are an integral part of his focus with the youth. Redden and his family have also worked to establish a 4H club as an outlet for the kids from their day-to-day trials.

“Parker unselfishly gives of himself to others and conducts himself in such a way that you know that he understands that the game will end but his mission in life will continue,” said Ridge Runners general manager Rocky Malamisura. “Parker is the epitome of what we cherish most in athletes and what baseball teaches those who pay attention. We are so proud to have had such a young man as a member of the Ridge Runners.”

During the 2022 season, Redden volunteered for each of the Ridge Runners community service projects that were scheduled. The projects included working at local food pantries, stadium walkabouts with fans and autograph sessions. Redden also worked both kids camps as an instructor, mentored several local at-risk children and provided baseball lessons for numerous little league children.

“Parker was a catalyst in helping our organization educate and encourage the attitude and spirit of giving back,” said Bluefield manager Mike Weatherford. “Once his teammates recognized Parker’s contributions in Bluefield and the surrounding communities, it became enjoyable for our players to routinely volunteer. Parker was a leader in getting teammates involved off the field and that dedication to others followed him on the field.”

The 20-year-old catcher from Shady Spring, W.V., is heading into his sophomore year at the University of Delaware. Redden played in 15 games for the Ridge Runners this summer after he played for the Burlington Sock Puppets in 2021.

Sky Carp to host Women in Baseball Luncheon

BELOIT — The Beloit Sky Carp and First National Bank and Trust (FNBT) are excited to announce they will be hosting a free Women in Baseball Luncheon on Wednesday, August 31 at ABC Supply Stadium.

The luncheon, which will be prepared by Sky Carp Sous Chef Amorin Thomas, will feature a panel of Marlins, Sky Carp and First National Bank and Trust women, speaking on their experiences as women in male-dominated industries and their paths to success. Doors will open at 11:30, with the panel beginning at noon.

The women on the panel, which will be moderated by Sky Carp Vice President of Entertainment Maria Valentyn, come from a variety of backgrounds and work in vastly different roles within baseball and banking.

The panel features:

MARIA VALENTYN, Beloit Sky Carp: A native of the Milwaukee area, Valentyn has been with the Sky Carp since April of 2021, and has been working in the baseball industry in various roles since 2015.

GRACEY MCDONALD, Beloit Sky Carp: A native of Pensacola, Fla, Gracey is the Event Sales Manager for the Sky Carp and has been with the Studer Family of Companies since 2019, previously working for the Pensacola Blue Wahoos.

JESSICA COOK, Miami Marlins: Jessica is the Sky Carp’s athletic trainer. A graduate of the University of North Georgia, this is Jessica’s first season with the Marlins organization.

COLLEEN MITCHELL, Miami Marlins: Colleen serves as the Manager of Player Care and Service for the Marlins and has been employed with the organization since 2018. She currently oversees the creation and implementation of a professional development curriculum covering a range of subjects, including social media, financial literacy, domestic violence, diversity, equity inclusion and social justice.

JESSICA HERNANDEZ, First National Bank and Trust. A graduate of Northern Illinois University, Jessica serves as Vice President, Cash Management Officer for First National. She is skilled in sales, team building, employee training and project implementation.

“The Beloit Sky Carp are thrilled to be partnering with, First National Bank and Trust on this event,” says Sky Carp President, Zach Brockman. “It’s a tremendous way for the broader community to see the incredible work the women in our organizations do to bring about our success.”

“First National Bank and Trust is proud to be a founding partner of the ABC Supply Stadium and the exclusive bank of the Beloit Sky Carp,” said David McCoy, President and CEO of FNBT. “This event recognizes contributions that women have made over the years to the baseball industry as well as banking, all in an effort to support our community family, making the Stateline area a great place to live, work, and raise our families.”

The luncheon is welcome to anyone interested, but an RSVP prior to Friday, August 19 is required. Those wishing to register may visit: https://www.milb.com/beloit/events/luncheon.

The Beloit Sky Carp are the High-A Affiliate of the Miami Marlins and play their games at ABC Supply Stadium — the heart of the Riverbend District.

Get tickets at SkyCarp.com or call the Box Office at 608-362-2272.

Follow the Sky Carp on Twitter at @BeloitSkyCarp, on Instagram at @BeloitSkyCarp, and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/SkyCarpBaseball

Dragons to Recognize Community All Stars Recipient During Game on August 10

Dayton, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons will recognize Crayons to Classrooms as a “Community All-Stars” recipient during a special inning break of the Dragons game on Wednesday, August 10 against the Lansing Lugnuts at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. The game will start at 7:05 p.m.

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program honors individuals who have gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley. They could be firefighters or police officers, doctors, or good Samaritans. It could be a first responder or a volunteer. The Dragons are going to highlight these Community All-Stars at games all summer long.

As we enter the “Back to School” season, the search for new school supplies is an exciting time for many students across the Miami Valley. But for some families, it becomes an added stress as they don’t have the resources to afford items like that.

In 2006, a group of concerned citizens decided to level the playing field for all students in the Miami Valley. They wanted to provide resources in the form of free school supplies to students and teachers in need. The organization we’re honoring today, Crayons to Classrooms, grew from this vision. They opened their doors in 2009 to local teachers to provide school supplies for at-risk students in their classrooms to help them engage, learn, and grow.

Crayons to Classrooms has thrived with the help of national partners, funding through grants, and the generous nature of the Dayton community.

Each year, Crayons to Classrooms resources impact 125 schools in the Miami Valley, 47,000 students, and 2,000 teachers with nearly $3 million in merchandise distributed to area schools. For every $1 received Crayons to Classroom can distribute $7 in school supplies so that teachers are relieved of the stress of paying from their pocket.

Their staff is small and mighty, but with the help of over 600 volunteers they’re able to bring their mission of a fair education for all students a reality.

For all their efforts to transform the education experience for local students Crayons to Classrooms is being honored as a Dragons Community All Star.

If you want to learn more about how you can help support Crayons to Classrooms check out their website at crayonstoclassrooms.org.

If you know other great individuals or organizations that are going above and beyond for our community, tell us about them! You can nominate an All-Star by telling us about them at daytondragons.com/communityallstar

This event is the fourth of five special Community All-Stars spotlights at Dragons games this season. Community All-Stars is presented Flying Ace Express Carwash. The last tribute of the season is scheduled for September 1 and will focus on another organization that has gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley.

The Dragons play at beautiful, downtown Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District and are scheduled to play 11 more home games during the regular season. Game times are 7:05 p.m. for Tuesday through Saturday games and 1:05 p.m. on Sundays. No Monday games are scheduled at this time. Gates open one hour prior to game time. Single-game tickets for all Dragons 2021 home games are available at www.daytondragons.com or by phone at (937) 228-2287.

Baseball Clinics with Homer Bush & Players Aug 18 & 25

The Scrappers Announce two Baseball Clinics at Eastwood Field with MLB Player and World Series Champion, Scrappers Manager Homer Bush. All ages are welcome! Participants will be grouped by age.

HITTING CLINIC – AUGUST 18th from 9am to noon

  • Hitting Clinic run by Mahoning Valley Scrappers Coaching Staff, including Manager Homer Bush and players
  • Lunch with the players and coaches after the clinic

PITCHING CLINIC – AUGUST 25th from 9am to noon

  • Pitching Clinic run by Mahoning Valley Scrappers Coaching Staff, including Manager Homer Bush and players
  • Lunch with the players and coaches after the clinic

$35 for one clinic or $60 for both!

BUY HITTING CLINIC – AUG 18

BUY PITCHING CLINIC – AUG 25

BUY BOTH CLINICS

DOWNLOAD ORDER FORM HERE

Second Annual “WooSox Foundation Golf Classic” Presented by Hanover Insurance, scheduled for Monday, August 29

WORCESTER, MA — The Second Annual “WooSox Foundation Golf Classic,” presented by Hanover Insurance, is scheduled for Monday, August 29, at the Haven Country Club in Boylston, MA. Worcester Red Sox players and coaches will attend, and proceeds will directly benefit the many programs run by the WooSox Foundation, the charitable arm of the WooSox.

The registration donation of $1,200 per foursome includes greens, cart fees for 18 holes, lunch, dinner, and a complimentary WooSox swag bag. In addition, tee box signs are available for $1,000. Two raffles and a live auction will provide opportunities for special gifts, memorabilia, and exclusive experiences.

Attendees can register now at woosoxfoundation.org/golf.

Day-of registration will open at 9:30 a.m. August 29, with golf beginning at 11 a.m. with a shotgun start in a Texas Scramble tournament format. Each golfer tees off, then plays their own ball from the location of the foursome’s best drive until each golfer holes out. The lowest score in the foursome is counted toward the team’s score.

The Haven Country Club, located at 369 Cross Street, is a private country club featuring a gorgeous 18-hole, par-72, 6,800-yard course.

Comprising four pillars—Education, Social Justice, Conquering Cancer, and Diamond Sports—the WooSox Foundation funds many programs that benefit the community.

  • The WooSox Scholars program annually awards a $10,000 college scholarship to four exceptional eighth grade students in Worcester Public Schools.
  • The “WooSox Most Valuable Teachers” program, presented by Country Bank, awards stipends to nominated teachers in the area.
  • Created in the loving memory of Paxton Little Leaguer Tyler Trudell, “Tyler’s Teammates” helps aspiring ballplayers afford the registration fees and equipment required to play organized baseball and softball.
  • The WooSox Familia honors the loving memory of Officer Manny Familia by supporting the Manny 267 Foundation.
  • Foundation volunteers take the WooSox Foundation Care-A-Van, presented by Bank of America, out into the community to provide various services and resources.

To learn more about the Foundation’s programs and initiatives, visit woosoxfoundation.org.

Thunder to Team Up With Vs. Cancer Foundation on August 17th

(Trenton, NJ) – Your Trenton Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, has once again joined forces with the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation’s Vs. Cancer program to defeat childhood brain cancer – the deadliest disease affecting children in the United States.

Started by a pediatric brain cancer survivor and former collegiate athlete, Vs. Cancer empowers any sports team, any athlete, and any community to help kids with cancer. As a signature fundraising campaign of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, Vs. Cancer proceeds help fund local hospital programs for children battling brain tumors and other cancers, financial assistance and critical resources for patient families nationwide, and groundbreaking research to cure pediatric brain tumors – the deadliest form of pediatric cancer.

“The Thunder are proud to partner again with the Vs. Cancer Foundation,” said Thunder President and General Manager Jeff Hurley. “I can’t wait to see everyone at the ballpark on Wednesday, August 17th when we’ll shave our heads during the game to raise money for this important cause.”

In partnership with Vs. Cancer, and thanks to the generous support of friends, family and fans, the team is on its way to meeting their fundraising goal. You can contribute by making a donation here: FUNDRAISING PAGE

Dave Mays, the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation’s Senior Vs. Cancer Campaign Manager understands how vital these athletes are to the nonprofit’s mission. “Vs. Cancer athletes are changing the game for children with cancer. Brain cancer is the deadliest and most common form of cancer in children under 15, but each Vs. Cancer game gets us one step closer to a cure. Together we are fighting for healthier, happier futures.”

About the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation

Every day, 13 children and teens are diagnosed with a brain tumor, the deadliest and most common form of cancer in kids under 15. Every day after, they are in a fight for their life. It’s a fight the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation is here to help families win. A leader in the brain tumor and childhood cancer communities, PBTF’s mission of Care. Cure. Thrive. reflects its commitment to curing all pediatric brain tumors and transforming how children and their families are cared for. Since 1991, PBTF has provided strategic leadership and funding to accelerate the number of targeted therapies for children battling brain tumors today, while equipping families with the patient-family education, financial relief, and emotional support they need to navigate their child’s journey. The Vs. Cancer Foundation merged with the PBTF in 2016 and now is a signature fundraising campaign of the nonprofit. A world without childhood brain tumors is possible when we work together to put kids first. Learn more at www.curethekids.org. To get involved with Vs. Cancer, visit www.vs-cancer.org.

New Jersey’s Baseball Team | Big League Futures. Major League Fun.

The Trenton Thunder have drawn over 10 million fans over 28 years and have won the three major awards that Minor League Baseball teams can win; the Johnson Trophy for the “Nation’s Best Franchise”, the Larry MacPhail Trophy for Outstanding Club Promotion, and the Bob Frietas Award for Long-Term Success (Given by Baseball America). The team has given back over $7.5 million worth of goods, services, and monetary donations through Trenton Thunder Charities, under the Grand Slam We Care Foundation umbrella. The Thunder can be found online at trentonthunder.com, facebook.com/trentonthunder, twitter.com/trentonthunder, and on youtube.com/AATrentonThunder.

Senators and First National Bank Partner for “Homefield Makeover” Initiative

The Harrisburg Senators and First National Bank, the largest subsidiary of F.N.B. Corporation (FNB), are pleased to announce the start of their “Homefield Makeover” initiative which gives one local youth baseball or softball league an updated field. The renovation will consist of $10,000 in goods and services from the Senators and FNB.

The goal of the initiative is to provide a safe, playable field for a local youth sports league. The field makeover will take place this fall so the field is ready for the upcoming youth baseball and softball season. Members of the Senators front office and FNB employees are donating their time to help with the field renovation. The renovation will tentatively take place in October with a grand opening slated for the 2023 season.

One youth baseball or softball league will be chosen for the field makeover based on an application process. The nature of the renovation will be based on the needs of the field chosen and could vary from fencing to supplying new infield dirt. Field equipment, such as rakes and shovels, will be donated to the league for upkeep of the field, along with a professional consultation with the Harrisburg Senators Grounds Crew team. Leagues can apply on the Senators website (www.senatorsbaseball.com). Leagues may apply beginning Tuesday, August 2 and applications close Tuesday, August 16.

“This is an idea that was part of a brainstorming session with our partners at First National Bank,” said Senators President Kevin Kulp. “We are always wanting to collaborate on community initiatives together and this is one that we plan on starting this year. To be able to help provide our kids a safer and more professional place to play baseball or softball is very exciting. The plan is that this is something that will be done annually so that we can touch more parts of our community over the years.”

“First National Bank is proud to continue to partner with the Senators on new community outreach projects that drive change in our region,” said Tony Sacco, Regional Market Executive and President of FNB’s Capital Region. “The Homefield Makeover initiative is representative of our commitment to improving the communities we serve and will create better places for local teams and their families to play.”

The Senators offices are open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. Tickets for any game this season are available online 24 hours a day or in person at the box office or over the phone during normal business hours. For information about Sensylvania Club Season Memberships please call the Senators at 717-231-4444 or visit the Senators online at www.senatorsbaseball.com. You can find the Senators on Facebook at facebook.com/senatorsbaseball or @hbgsenators on Twitter.

“BREAKING BAD/BETTER CALL SAUL” AUCTION RAISES $100,790 FOR CHARITY

 

The Albuquerque Isotopes “Breaking Bad/Better Call Saul” silent auction raised $100,790. All of the proceeds will be split between the New Mexico Veterans Integration Centers and Children’s Cancer Fund of New Mexico.

Top three selling items:

Salamanca Cousin Boots – $10,600

Walter White Life-Size Bust: $7,000

“Better Call Saul” Pilot Script: $6,500

Thirteen of the 37 packages sold for $4,000 or more.

 

Blue Wahoos Help Make My Wish Experience Memorable For 10-Year-Old Boy, Ailing Mother 

Victor Victor Mesa, the favorite player for 10-year-old Hudson Furness, joins with his mother, Mandi Furness, during batting practice Wednesday. (Daniel Venn)

When you have been battling an illness so long that hospital visits have been routine since childhood, it becomes a lot simpler to identify the good days when they come.

On a not-too-hot Monday afternoon, 38-year-old mother Amanda “Mandi” Furness had a good day.

She looked on as her 10-year-old son, Hudson, played a game of baseball with his friends on the field of Blue Wahoos stadium as her father, Herb, secured the pitching mound. Her wheelchair was pulled up to the fence in the dugout, her family laughing and cheering beside her. With tears welled underneath her sunglasses, she was acutely aware and grateful for every second.

Furness spent many days and nights in the hospital throughout her childhood, but it wasn’t until 2009 that doctors diagnosed her illness as lupus. She received a multiple sclerosis diagnosis in 2020.

Her mobility is now limited and her vision comes and goes. But she still decks herself out in pink, from her bright, painted toenails up to a chunky, pastel necklace. With each new round of treatment, she has been taken in and cared for by her sister,

Christin Keeney, and her sister’s husband, Thomas, who is more like a brother than a brother-in-law. Her mom and dad have continued to be her support system since she was a little girl. Her mother still only leaves the hospital to shower, a routine dating back to the days before Furness ever received a diagnosis.

“(Dad) is my hero, my mother is my best friend,” she said. “I struck the lottery.”

When she decided she had had enough of hospital admissions two months ago, Furness was told by doctors it was time to prepare to say goodbye to her family.

It was a task she felt prepared for, even writing letters to her son to be delivered at life milestones she may not be around to witness. When Furness was given a wish by the Covenant Care Foundation, she decided to do something not for herself, but for her son, and wished for him and his friends to be able to play baseball at Blue Wahoos Stadium.

For people surprised by her decision to spend the once in a lifetime wish on a child’s baseball game, she simply replied, “That’s just because you’ve never seen my son play baseball.” Aaron West, vice president of the Covenant Care Foundation, said the nonprofit health care organization has granted 2,600 wishes for seriously or terminally ill people like Furness since they launched the My Wish program in 2018.

With the help of community donors and partners, they have helped veterans into planes for their final flight, sent patients out on fishing expeditions and have even organized baptisms and weddings.

“We add life to days when days are limited in life,” West said. With her son Hudson’s help, lately Furness has been feeling a renewed zest for life, even training to walk across the Pensacola Bay Bridge. Though she is not ready yet, each day she gets a little stronger.

With each step she practices at home, Hudson will chime in and say, “That’s one step closer to walking that bridge,” she said.

Despite her looming diagnosis she continues to make progress “The doctors cannot explain it, but I’m getting better,” Furness said. “Science only goes so far. Then comes God.”

She watched with each fielded ball or run that Hudson scored as all his fears disappeared for a moment and he could focus on having fun. “That is a really cool wish for a mama, because she could have wished for just about anything,”

Angela Bottesini, senior director for My Wish said. “She wanted to create an environment as if they were one of the real-deal players.”

Furness’ father, Herb Westphal, thought back on the days when he would watch his daughter play softball in Germany as he coached.

“She was a tough little girl,” he recalled. Now he warms up with his grandson out on the baseball diamond, who has been following in his mother’s footsteps for as long as he can remember. Watching the two worlds collide hit home. “My daughter has been sick for a very long time,” he said. “For some reason, she’s here now. … It means the world.”

West said each wish averages out to have an impact on 13 people when it is granted. Hudson’s baseball team looked on as he was presented with a baseball autographed from every Blue Wahoos player, and every eye turned as the boy folded into his mother, one hand gripping the signed baseball and other looped around his mom’s neck.

“Nothing. You know what’s better than this? Nothing,” he told his mom

Spokane Indians and Les Schwab Tires Team Up to Restore Fairchild AFB Softball Fields

The Spokane Indians and Les Schwab Tires teamed up in support of our Armed Forces and restored a pair of softball fields at Fairchild Air Force Base on Tuesday, July 19th as part of the team’s Community Fields Project presented by Les Schwab Tires.

“We always enjoy supporting baseball and softball at a grassroots level in our community and getting the chance to do it for our friends at Fairchild was especially meaningful,” said Otto Klein, Spokane Indians Senior Vice President. “We’re grateful for the sacrifices they’ve made and hope they enjoy utilizing these refurbished fields.”

Indians front office staff and members of the grounds crew as well as volunteers from Les Schwab removed weeds and rocks, added new sod to the infield skirt, spread field conditioner, installed new mounds and bases on both fields, and striped and prepped the fields.

“Les Schwab is proud to invest time and resources into events and organizations that promote responsibility, hard work and serving the community – values our company believes in,” said Chris Zimmerman, Airway Heights Les Schwab Store Manager. “We are happy to have the opportunity to support our friends at Fairchild.”

Additional supplies and materials for the project were made possible by supporting sponsors AAA and Bulldog Rooter.

Previously restored fields include War Veterans Memorial Field in Wellpinit, Washington in 2021 and Glover Field (now Redband Park) in Peaceful Valley in 2017.

Through the Community Fields Project, the Indians and partners have pledged to restore a minimum of one baseball/softball field in the Spokane region each year. Suggestions for new fields to be included in the program can be submitted to: [email protected].

Greenville Drive Announce Dr. Burke Royster as Organization’s 16th Annual Green Day Honoree

Greenville, S.C. – The Greenville Drive, the High-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, announced today that Dr. Burke Royster has been selected as the honoree for the team’s annual Green Day celebration, presented by TD Bank, this year to be held on Wednesday August 10th at Fluor Field when the Drive host the Hickory Crawdads.

Each year, the Drive pays tribute to an individual who has helped make Greenville one of the most livable, desired, and thriving cities in the country. Throughout his tenure leading Greenville County Schools, Dr. Royster has helped not only to improve the district’s overall report rating but also to deliver enhancements across the board in instructional delivery, student engagement, and rigor while achieving a double-digit increase in the county’s high school graduation rate. He has also helped to create innovative public/private partnerships and curriculum changes like the Graduation Plus program that have resulted in developing a more prepared area workforce. The Drive are excited and honored to recognize Dr. Royster as this year’s Green Day honoree.

“As long-standing supporters of our public schools, the Drive organization knows that there is no more direct and tangible impact on the future than education,” said Greenville Drive President and Owner Craig Brown. “As we celebrate Green Day this year, we’re honored to recognize and celebrate Dr. Royster for his efforts in empowering and educating all of our community’s young people and preparing them for an even brighter tomorrow.”

“I greatly appreciate this recognition, and I’m deeply honored to serve alongside the 11,000 employees within Greenville County Schools who are working to inspire, support and prepare our students each and every day,” said Dr. Royster. “We cannot do what we do without the leadership of the GCS Board of Trustees and significant community partnerships like the one we have with the Greenville Drive. I appreciate the opportunity to celebrate on Green Day all that Greenville County Schools and this community have accomplished, and I look forward to being a part of the continued progress as we make sure that Greenville County remains one of the best places in the country to live, learn, and work.”

Royster joins an acclaimed group of Green Day honorees, including Mayor Max Heller and his wife, Trudy (2006); Greenville City Councilwoman Lillian Brock Flemming and Greenville County Councilwoman Xanthene Norris (2007); former Greenville Technical College President Dr. Tom Barton (2008); businessman and philanthropist C. Dan Joyner (2009); civic leader, judge and attorney Merl Code (2010); former S.C. Governor and U.S. Secretary of Education Dick Riley (2011); South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities Founder Dr. Virginia Uldrick (2012); environmentalist and attorney Tommy Wyche (2013); philanthropists Hayne and Anna Kate Hipp (2014); Centennial American Properties CEO David Glenn (2015); Erwin Penland Co-Founder Joe Erwin (2016); Hughes Development Corporation Chairman Bob Hughes (2017); Spinx Chairman Stewart Spinks (2018); Southernside Neighborhood President Mary Duckett (2019) and Mayor Knox White (2021).

In honor of Green Day and Greenville’s birthday celebration, Drive players will wear special green uniforms and caps on Green Day, and fans are encouraged to create a “green out” by sporting green, as well. First pitch is set for 7:05pm against the Hickory Crawdads. The first 2,000 fans through the stadium gates will receive a commemorative Green Day t-shirt, and the first 1,000 kids will receive a commemorative Green Day cape, all courtesy of TD Bank. Dr. Royster will be honored on the field just prior to the first pitch and again during the game. Following the game, the Drive invites fans to stick around for a spectacular birthday firework show in celebration of Greenville’s birthday.

To purchase tickets for Green Day on Wednesday, August 10th, go to the Main Street Box Office, call (864) 240-4528 or *[CLICK HERE](https://gd1.glitnirticketing.com/gdticket/web/stadiumgb_svg.php?status_id=2&event_id=98&tfl=Greenville_Drive_Single_Game_Tickets-tickets-na-single_game_tickets-x0-unknown-unknown&ga=2.182487334.1289177350.1658498356-458190560.1646148210&refresh=1658850205). *

Louisville Bats Partner with Louisville Sports Commission to Collect Sports Equipment

LOUISVILLE, KY- The Louisville Bats have partnered with the Louisville Sports Commission (LSC) and Humana to host a drive to collect new and outgrown youth baseball and softball equipment to support the LSC’s Playing It Forward program. Items collected will be distributed later this year to youth in Louisville’s marginalized areas.

The program’s goal is to help eliminate the cost of equipment as a barrier for kids to participate in organized sports. The equipment collection will help Louisville-area kids take part in sports in their own neighborhoods as a means to getting and staying active.

The event will take place tomorrow night, Tuesday, July 26 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. at Louisville Slugger Field before the Louisville Bats host game one of a six game series with the Columbus Clippers (Triple-A Affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians).

Collections will be taking place at all four of the primary entrances into the ballpark. Fans who donate sports equipment will receive a voucher good for a free hot dog, small popcorn and small Pepsi.

Fans can purchase tickets to tomorrow night’s game via the following link:

[LSC’s Playing It Forward Program]

**More About the Louisville Sports Commission**

The Louisville Sports Commission (LSC) is a Louisville, Kentucky-based 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to create a legacy of economic and social vitality through sports. The LSC attracts and hosts sporting events and activities that have a positive economic impact on Louisville, enhance the area’s image as a premier sports destination, promote healthy lifestyles and improve the quality of life for community members of all ages. More information is available online at www.louisvillesports.org, www.facebook.com/louisvillesportscommission and @SportsinLou on Twitter and Instagram.

Woodpeckers Launch First Ability Inclusive Themed Game

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The Fayetteville Woodpeckers, in partnership with ServiceSource, Miller’s Crew, Bravery Kids Gym and the Vision Resource Center, will host its first-ever “Ability Awareness Day” at Segra Stadium. “Ability Awareness Day” will take place during the Woodpeckers game on Sunday, August 14th at 2:05 pm vs the Down East Wood Ducks. The goal of the initiative is to promote inclusion and celebrate the abilities of all people within Fayetteville and Cumberland County.

The day will kick off with a free baseball skills clinic for Special Olympics Cumberland County athletes. Prior to the first pitch, the Fayetteville Parks and Recreation Buddy Sports baseball team will take the field with the Woodpeckers for starting lineups and the national anthem. Throughout the game, the Woodpeckers will hold a Houston Astros autographed baseball auction, with all proceeds benefitting ServiceSource, Miller’s Crew, Bravery Kids Gym and the Vision Resource Center. In addition, fans can purchase food at the Miller’s Crew food truck outside the front gates.

The Woodpeckers will transform a room inside the stadium into a sensory friendly space for those who may feel overwhelmed by the crowd, noise or other factors. Sensory friendly stations provided by Bravery Kids Gym will be set up around the concourse. Fans can also check out sensory friendly bags that include headphones, fidget toys and cue cards (available at the guest services table during every Woodpeckers game).

Fans can purchase tickets for the “Ability Awareness Day” game at fayettevillewoodpeckers.com/tickets or by visiting the Truist Box Office at Segra Stadium. For more information on “Ability Awareness Day,” please visit www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com.