Brock Holt, Spinners to Run Baseball Camp

The Lowell Spinners, short season affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, are proud to announce a new collaboration with All-Star utility man Brock Holt on a new baseball camp experience for 2018.

“Brock Holt Camp with the Lowell Spinners” will be hosted at LeLacheur Park from Tuesday July 24 through Friday July 27. The camp includes instruction from Spinners players and coaches as well as an appearance from Brock Holt in which he will host a Q&A session and each camper will receive autographed memorabilia from Holt.

“We can’t wait for the kids to able learn from Red Sox personnel and to spend time with Brock, who is one of the most fundamentally sound players in the league.” said Spinners General Manager Shawn Smith. “This will be a unique new experience for our fans and their families and who better to learn from than a guy who plays all over the field at Fenway Park!”

In addition, campers will be provided with lunch, a customized Spinners jersey, and four tickets to the game on Friday, July 27th as the Spinners host the State College Spikes, affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. During the day, campers will participate in drills highlighting basic fundamentals while receiving instruction from professional baseball players, some of whom will one day be playing in the majors. Camp runs Tuesday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and is available for both boys and girls ages 6-13.

Registration is available now at lowellspinners.com or by calling the box office at (978) 459-1702.

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

Legends Stache Tank Program in Full Swing

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Lexington Legends announce the winning Opening Day plans from Bryan Station High School Stache Tank—Legends fans will see a “Tropical Electric” theme as they enter the gates for the first time April 5, 2018.

 

Teams of Bryan Station High School students competed to create themed event plans for the 2018 Opening Day game for the April 5 Legends home opener. Other ideas included “Slumber Sluggers” focusing around a large pajama party idea which involves bringing live sheep to the ballpark, a “Luau Day” for fans to imagine themselves on a tropical island or on Spring Break, playing fun tropical themed activities and potentially having fun taking whacks at an old junk car to help relieve stress, and a theme centered around everything “jumbo;” jumbo games, jumbo prizes, etc. However, in final presentations on February 6th, the panel of judges comprised of community members ultimately selected the “Tropical Electric” theme to reign supreme.

 

Fans can anticipate Tropical Electric Opening Day to include features such as: neon lights in the concourse, a photo booth with tropical themed props up front, inflatable palm trees, dog costume dress up contest in tropical attire for Bark in the Park presented by Pepsi, glow sticks distributed at fireworks time, Hawaiian flower balloons decorating the seating bowl and other tropical décor hanging from breezeways, Hawaiian flower designs on a Legends script staff tee, Bryan Station Academy booths with games/showcasing all academies (virtual reality, etc.), a hula dance cam on the video boards, an arm wrestling contest, and face painting for kids.

Tropical Electric winning group members (picture attached) are: Anna Hassloch, Drake Witt, Jade Finley, Stephen Lyal, Caden Tarry, Kate Jones, Joko Bojang, Ariana Rojas

“We are so excited to continue to strengthen the partnership between the Lexington Legends and Bryan Station High School and to once again be taking over Opening Day” said Heather Epply, Academy Coach at Bryan Station High School. “StacheTank is such an amazing opportunity for our students to apply their creativity and skills to a real world situation. Going through the process of idea generation, planning, presenting, accepting critical feedback, and polishing their presentations teaches them so much more than they would learn in a traditional classroom. Our students are so excited to see their hard work become a reality on April 5th!”

Crawford Middle School students are presenting their final presentations to a panel of community judges at Whitaker Bank Ballpark in the Executive Boardroom on Wednesday, February 28 at 11 a.m. The top three specialty food item presentations that have moved on to the second round of judging are: a Panwich (renamed from the pancakerito; a breakfast sandwich made out of pancakes), a sandwich wrap featuring chicken tenders battered in Uncle Rays Potato Chips (Uncle Rays is the official potato chip of Minor League Baseball), and a Texas-toast sandwich with macaroni and cheese with barbeque chicken.

 

Judges for round two for Crawford Middle School students are: Kimberly Bussell of Whitaker Bank, Councilwoman Angela Evans of the 6th District, Phil Holoubek of Lexington’s Real Estate Co., Former UK Quarterback Patrick Towles of Traditional Bank, Elizabeth Murphy of Lexington Clinic, Arthur Lucas of LFUCG, and Daryl Love of Valvoline.

 

The Northern Elementary students are working on their Stache Tank give-a-way item project that the first 1,000 fans will receive at the Legends home game later in the season during the month of August.   This group of students is completing research by doing some initial market surveys to see what would excite fans. As they progress through their project, they’ll incorporate speech writing, math skills and presentation techniques as they too will present to members of the Legends Front Office for round one of presentations on March 7 at 2 p.m. and then have final presentations to a panel of community members later in March.

 

The Legends welcome media to the Crawford Middle School presentations on Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 11 a.m.

 

For more information about the Legends Stache Tank Program, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com.

 

ORIGNIAL RELEASE from 2/2/18

 

Legends Stache Tank Program for 2018 in Full Swing: Gearing up for presentations

 

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Stache Tank is back. The Lexington Legends are holding another round of Stache Tank competition, as students on the elementary, middle and high school levels from Fayette County Public Schools compete on a variety of entrepreneurial business and event project designs connected to Legends baseball at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

 

Stache Tank follows a format similar to the popular television program “Shark Tank,” in which entrepreneurs present their ideas to a panel of potential investors. The Legends call the competition “‘Stache Tank” in recognition of the team’s mustache logo. Currently, teams of students at Northern Elementary, Crawford Middle School, and Bryan Station High School have been competing with each other at their schools to create and build the best ideas and presentations. The finalists will make presentations at Whitaker Bank Ballpark to a panel of judges made up of community leaders and Legends officials as their project timelines come to a close.

 

Teams of Bryan Station High School students are creating themed event plans for the 2018 Opening Day game for the April 5 Legends home opener. Ideas include “Slumber Sluggers” focusing around a large pajama party idea which involves bringing live sheep to the ballpark, a “Tropical Electric” neon light/glow stick experience for fans, a “Luau Day” for fans to imagine themselves on a tropical island or on Spring Break, playing fun tropical themed activities and potentially having fun taking whacks at an old junk car to help relieve stress, and a theme centered around everything “jumbo;” jumbo games, jumbo prizes, etc.

 

The Bryan Station High School teams will make their presentations in the executive board room at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on Tuesday, February 6 at 10 a.m. to a panel of judges comprised of community members. Judges on the panel include: Kimberly Bussell of Whitaker Bank, James Webb and Morgan Reaguer of G&J Pepsi, Laci Poulter of Lexington Clinic, Phil Holoubek of Lexington’s Real Estate Co., 1st District Councilman James Brown, Former UK Quarterback Patrick Towles of Traditional Bank, Sheri Evans Depp of Lexmark and Christina Briggs of Kentucky Children’s Hospital.

 

Crawford Middle School students are creating a specialty food item to be served in the Kentucky Ale Taproom restaurant throughout the 2018 season. Among the early contenders are items like: a pancakerito (a breakfast burrito made out of pancakes), a special take on a pretzel bun pulled pork sandwich, a sandwich wrap featuring chicken tenders battered in Uncle Rays Potato Chips (Uncle Rays is the official potato chip of Minor League Baseball), a hamburger hotdog, a donut burger with coleslaw, and a Texas-toast sandwich with macaroni and cheese with barbeque chicken.

 

“It’s been fun watching the wheels turn in the student’s minds,” said Crawford Principal Mike Jones. “I have been challenging them to think big, bigger than they ever have before. I feel as though sometimes we do not allow our students opportunities to think outside the box enough. I actually told our students, create a new box if you want. We just had our initial taste tests, and so far, the kids are impressed with their creativity. I also think the kids are excited they have an opportunity to present an idea to members of the community and hear their feedback” he added.

 

Crawford Middle School students will present their initial presentations to members of the Legends Front Office and then have final presentations to a panel of community members at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on February 28, 2018 at 11 a.m.

 

The Northern Elementary students are working on a give-a-way item that the first 1,000 fans would receive at the Legends home game later in the season during the month of August.   This group of students is beginning their research by doing some initial market surveys to see what would excite fans. As they progress through their project, they’ll incorporate speech writing, math skills and presentation techniques as they too will present to members of the Legends Front Office and then have final presentations to a panel of community members. Those presentation dates will be set at a later date.

 

The Legends welcome media to the Bryan Station High School presentations on Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at 10 a.m.

 

For more information about the Legends Stache Tank Program, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com.

Isotopes, Cumulus Media to hold “Pack the Van” Clothing Caravan

The Albuquerque Isotopes and Cumulus Media Albuquerque are partnering to help Locker #505 provide clothing to Bernalillo County students in grades K-12 in need.

The “Pack the Van” Clothing Caravan’s goal is to collect new or gently used clothing for the Locker #505 program. There is a need for clothing in a variety of sizes for children in grades K-12, with an emphasis on hoodies, winter gloves, winter coats, winter hats and new socks. Donations for the Caravan will be accepted from Feb. 20 through Mar. 2. The Clothing Caravan of Isotopes and Cumulus vans to Locker #505 will take place on Saturday, Mar. 3.

“Our eight radio stations are dedicated to serving New Mexico,” said Cumulus Albuquerque Market Managers Jeff Berry. “We’re proud to work with our long-time partner, the Albuquerque Isotopes and Locker #505, whose mission is so noble and critical in helping clothe the students of Bernalillo County.”

Isotopes Vice President and General Manager John Traub stated, “This is a great opportunity for everyone to help the kids of our community. We look forward to working with Cumulus over the next two weeks, bringing in as much clothing as possible for the youth of Albuquerque.”

Donations can be dropped off at Isotopes Park or at a number of Cumulus radio remotes throughout Albuquerque over the Caravan’s two week duration. Collection sites for “Pack the Van” include Isotopes Park (Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm) and the Burlington Coat Factory East and West side locations on Feb. 23 and Mar. 2, 4pm – 6pm.

Locker #505 is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that has established a student-focused facility where children can try on and choose outfits that they feel good about wearing. Having appropriate school clothing allows children to concentrate on their school work, not their clothing. It also helps keep children, who might not go to class because of their clothes, stay in school.

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

Sign Up For 2018 BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camp

Young players can learn the game from the BlueClaws players at one of three Youth Baseball Camp Sessions this summer.

—

LAKEWOOD, NJ – Learn the game from BlueClaws players each day as part of the BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camp at FirstEnergy Park. The BlueClaws will hold three sessions this summer, with each session including three days of instruction from a variety of BlueClaws players.

Camp each day runs from 9 am – 12 pm and includes lunch from 12 pm – 12:30 pm, an autograph session with BlueClaws players on the last day of camp, BlueClaws merchandise, and one ticket to the September 1st BlueClaws game with a pre-game parade on the field.

The camp will cover all aspects of the game, with emphasis on hitting, base running, fielding, throwing, pitching, and position work. The objective of the camp is to instill the fundamentals of baseball, promote good sportsmanship, and create an enjoyable learning atmosphere for all.

2018 Youth Baseball Camp Sessions
Session 1: July 12 – 14
Session 2: July 24, 26, & 27
Session 3: August 16-18

Each session is just $140.

BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camp sessions typically sell out and those interested are encouraged to book their spot as soon as possible.

How to Sign Up: Sign up online by clicking here, return this order form, or call Kevin McNellis at 732-901-7000 ext 164.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment.

– BlueClaws –

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

OKC Dodgers and Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Announce Formation of OKC Dodgers Rookie League

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation have joined forces to create the OKC Dodgers Rookie League in order to help bolster youth baseball participation in the community as well as foster an environment that emphasizes leadership, teamwork and sportsmanship, the organizations announced today.

Last year, Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation was forced to cancel its baseball league due to low participation. The OKC Dodgers have stepped in to provide Dodgers-branded jerseys and hats for all players, in addition to other resources, thereby reducing participation costs and making the game more accessible.

“It was heartbreaking to learn Parks and Rec could not host a league last spring, and over the last few months we realized this was an opportunity for our organization to pitch in for our community,” said OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes. “The game of baseball had an impressionable effect on so many of us at a young age. The Rookie League will provide further opportunities for our community’s youth to be active and to learn skills such as teamwork and leadership.”

The OKC Dodgers Rookie League will consist of four baseball divisions to accommodate boys and girls in multiple skill levels and age groups. A goal of six to eight teams will compete in each division: 4U T-Ball, 6U T-Ball, 8U Coach Pitch and 10U Kid Pitch. Registration is now open and the deadline to sign up is March 19. Those interested in having their children participate in the OKC Dodgers Rookie League can visit okc.gov/parksignup and use the event code 13205. Registration is also available by calling (405) 297-3882. The cost is $55 per child and is necessary for operation expenses, such as umpires and field maintenance.

The OKC Dodgers Rookie League will also host a registration event at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on March 10, with further details to be announced in the future.

Practices will be held once per week starting the week of March 26. Game play starts April 7 and runs through May 26. The season schedule consists of eight games played at either Wheeler Park (1120 S. Western Ave.) or Stars and Stripes Park (3701 Lake Hefner Dr.).

“What better place than here in Oklahoma City – the very heart of America – to develop a partnership that will make it possible to preserve and protect and breathe new life into the all-American pastime of baseball,” said Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Director Douglas Kupper. “We truly love having the Dodgers organization here and we greatly appreciate the OKC Dodgers’ support of our efforts to bring baseball to our youth.”

The OKC Dodgers Rookie League is currently in need of coaches and volunteers. To volunteer, or for more information, please call (405) 297-1489 or email christopher.lucas@okc.gov.

MISSION STATEMENT OF THE OKC DODGERS ROOKIE LEAGUE

The OKC Dodgers Rookie League is committed to enriching the lives of our youth and fostering a love of the game. The league provides a developmental, fun and safe environment for the enjoyment of the game of baseball. The OKC Dodgers Rookie League intends to help youth to set and work towards common goals, and to build the citizens of tomorrow though character, leadership ability and confidence.

Additionally, the OKC Dodgers Rookie League emphasizes four core values through P.L.A.Y.

Participation

Leadership

Accessibility

Youth Education

To learn more about the OKC Dodgers Rookie League, contact Grant Hansen with Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation by calling (405) 297-1591 or by emailing grant.hansen@okc.gov. The OKC Dodgers can be reached at (405) 218-1000 and more information is available at okcdodgers.com/rookieleague.

2018 Meijer Baseball Academy Registration Now Open

SOUTH BEND, IN – With Major League Baseball Spring Training right on the horizon, the South Bend Cubs are excited to open registration for the annual Meijer Baseball Academy. The South Bend Cubs will welcome young baseball players to Four Winds Field to participate in the Academy for two three-day sessions that run from July 11 through July 13, and again from July 25 until July 27.

The two academy training sessions are to help keep the camp sizes smaller and to allow more interaction with the South Bend Cubs players and coaches. 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 experience, participants will learn about hitting, pitching, fielding (infield and outfield), catching, and base running.

“The Meijer Baseball Academy is an event we look forward to every year,” South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart said. “It’s a chance for young boys and girls who are just getting into the sport to learn proper baseball fundamentals and for the more advanced players to improve their game with the help from the players and coaches in the Chicago 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.

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. Do not wait to register, there is a limit of 85 players per session with the registration deadline set for June 11. To sign up, download the application form at www.SouthBendCubs.com/BaseballAcademy and email it to Marketing@SouthBendCubs.com. Payments can be mailed or dropped off at the South Bend Cubs main office at Four Winds Field. Registration is not complete until payment has been received.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 30 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. This year, Four Winds Field, home of the Cubs, was named Ballpark Digest’s Best Single-A ballpark. 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.

Legends Stache Tank Program for 2018 in Full Swing: Gearing up for presentations

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Stache Tank is back. The Lexington Legends are holding another round of Stache Tank competition, as students on the elementary, middle and high school levels from Fayette County Public Schools compete on a variety of entrepreneurial business and event project designs connected to Legends baseball at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

 

Stache Tank follows a format similar to the popular television program “Shark Tank,” in which entrepreneurs present their ideas to a panel of potential investors. The Legends call the competition “‘Stache Tank” in recognition of the team’s mustache logo. Currently, teams of students at Northern Elementary, Crawford Middle School, and Bryan Station High School have been competing with each other at their schools to create and build the best ideas and presentations. The finalists will make presentations at Whitaker Bank Ballpark to a panel of judges made up of community leaders and Legends officials as their project timelines come to a close.

 

Teams of Bryan Station High School students are creating themed event plans for the 2018 Opening Day game for the April 5 Legends home opener. Ideas include “Slumber Sluggers” focusing around a large pajama party idea which involves bringing live sheep to the ballpark, a “Tropical Electric” neon light/glow stick experience for fans, a “Luau Day” for fans to imagine themselves on a tropical island or on Spring Break, playing fun tropical themed activities and potentially having fun taking whacks at an old junk car to help relieve stress, and a theme centered around everything “jumbo;” jumbo games, jumbo prizes, etc.

 

The Bryan Station High School teams will make their presentations in the executive board room at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on Tuesday, February 6 at 10 a.m. to a panel of judges comprised of community members. Judges on the panel include: Kimberly Bussell of Whitaker Bank, James Webb and Morgan Reaguer of G&J Pepsi, Laci Poulter of Lexington Clinic, Phil Holoubek of Lexington’s Real Estate Co., 1st District Councilman James Brown, Former UK Quarterback Patrick Towles of Traditional Bank, Sheri Evans Depp of Lexmark and Christina Briggs of Kentucky Children’s Hospital.

 

Crawford Middle School students are creating a specialty food item to be served in the Kentucky Ale Taproom restaurant throughout the 2018 season. Among the early contenders are items like: a pancakerito (a breakfast burrito made out of pancakes), a special take on a pretzel bun pulled pork sandwich, a sandwich wrap featuring chicken tenders battered in Uncle Rays Potato Chips (Uncle Rays is the official potato chip of Minor League Baseball), a hamburger hotdog, a donut burger with coleslaw, and a Texas-toast sandwich with macaroni and cheese with barbeque chicken.

 

“It’s been fun watching the wheels turn in the student’s minds,” said Crawford Principal Mike Jones. “I have been challenging them to think big, bigger than they ever have before. I feel as though sometimes we do not allow our students opportunities to think outside the box enough. I actually told our students, create a new box if you want. We just had our initial taste tests, and so far, the kids are impressed with their creativity. I also think the kids are excited they have an opportunity to present an idea to members of the community and hear their feedback” he added.

 

Crawford Middle School students will present their initial presentations to members of the Legends Front Office and then have final presentations to a panel of community members at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on February 28, 2018 at 11 a.m.

 

The Northern Elementary students are working on a give-a-way item that the first 1,000 fans would receive at the Legends home game later in the season during the month of August.   This group of students is beginning their research by doing some initial market surveys to see what would excite fans. As they progress through their project, they’ll incorporate speech writing, math skills and presentation techniques as they too will present to members of the Legends Front Office and then have final presentations to a panel of community members. Those presentation dates will be set at a later date.

 

The Legends welcome media to the Bryan Station High School presentations on Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at 10 a.m.

 

For more information about the Legends Stache Tank Program, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com.

Chasers Charities, The Weitz Company Awarding Jackie Robinson Athletic Scholarships

Chasers Charities, the charitable arm of the Omaha Storm Chasers, is proud to announce the eleventh annual Jackie Robinson Athletic Scholarship contest presented by The Weitz Company. The program honors two local African-American students in an effort to commemorate the baseball legend that broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier in 1947.

One male and one female student in the Omaha area will be awarded a $1,000 dollar scholarship from Chasers Charities. Each student will be chosen based upon their work in the classroom, involvement within the community, athletic achievement and other qualities.

“We remain committed in continuing the legacy of Jackie Robinson by offering these scholarships for the eleventh year, and we are thankful to The Weitz Company for partnering with us once again,” said Storm Chasers President and General Manager Martie Cordaro. “Every year we receive many deserving applications, and we expect this year to be no different.”

“”The Weitz Company is excited to partner with the Omaha Storm Chasers again this year to provide opportunities to the next generation.” said Weitz Company Business Development Manager Hilary Thien.

Interested applicants must submit their application by March 23. The winners will be honored at the Storm Chasers’ contest against the Memphis Redbirds on April 18. To be eligible for the Jackie Robinson Athletic Scholarship, students must meet the following criteria:

  • United States citizen or permanent resident
  • Resident of Sarpy, Douglas, Cass, Lancaster or Pottawattamie County
  • Minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
  • African-American (male or female), and a high school student participating in athletics
  • High school senior or graduate planning to enroll in a full-time undergraduate course of study at an accredited postsecondary institution

More information on the application process for the Jackie Robinson Scholarship can be found online by clicking here. Completed applications should be sent by March 23, 2018 to:

Chasers Charities
c/o Omaha Storm Chasers
Attn: Kathleen Ezell
12356 Ballpark Way
Papillion, NE 68046
KathleenE@omahastormchasers.com
(402) 738-5111

About Chasers Charities. Created in 2010, the mission of Chasers Charities is to support the community through charitable contributions that benefit sports and recreational activities with a focus on youth. The foundation accomplishes this mission through financial donations, as well as in-kind support, including memorabilia, tickets and publicity.

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

Shorebirds Celebrate Hit the Books Bookmark Contest Winner

SALISBURY, Md. — The Delmarva Shorebirds, Class A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, along with Dr. James M. Crouse at The Brace Place, presenting sponsor of the Hit the Books program, honored Emma Adams of Mardela Middle School for winning the 2018 Hit the Books Bookmark Design Contest.

Her winning design was featured on bookmarks that were distributed to over 50,000 students at 100 area schools that participate in the Hit the Books program.

Hit the Books encourages elementary and middle school students on the Delmarva Peninsula to read outside of their regular classroom assignments. Students that complete their reading goals receive two free ticket vouchers to a Shorebirds home game during the 2018 season.

Adams’ winning design features an aerial view of Arthur W. Perdue Stadium during a Shorebirds game with “Hit the Books!” on the video board along with Sherman pointing to the Dr. James M. Crouse logo while Sherman says “Get your braces here!” For her efforts, she was rewarded with a surprise visit at school from Sherman and representatives from the Delmarva Shorebirds and The Brace Place on Wednesday, January 17. She will also get the opportunity to throw out a first pitch before her school’s Hit the Books date at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium this spring.

“Emma’s design was great! Sherman was drawn in so much detail and she showed how much fun Shorebirds games are,” Kathy Damato, Shorebirds Community Relations Manager, said. “We look forward to rewarding all the kids who go through with the Hit the Books program by hosting them at a Shorebirds game this spring.”

The initiative, which is one of the biggest and longest-running reading programs in the region, officially kicked off on Tuesday, Jan. 17 and will run through Feb. 24.

“Reading is a great pastime of mine and it means a lot to me. The Hit the Books program does a great job of showing these children how important reading really is ,” Dr. James M. Crouse said. “Our partnership with the Shorebirds Hit the Books program is a perfect fit for us at The Brace Place.”

Participating schools will be notified in March about their game date at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in 2018, and students will be honored as part of a pregame parade around the field. For more information, contact the Delmarva
Shorebirds at 410-219-3112.

Season ticket and group outing packages are currently on sale for the 2018 season. The Shorebirds offer full season tickets, half season tickets, a 22-game plan and a 12-game plan along with a number of opportunities for groups to enjoy a night out at the ballpark. To secure your seat(s), call 410-219-3112.

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

Dragons Mascots, Green Team at Area Schools

Dayton, Ohio-Opening night for the 2018 baseball season is 10 weeks away, but Dayton Dragons mascots Heater and Gem along with the Dragons Green Team are already bringing the excitement of baseball season to local elementary schools. For the sixth straight year, the Dragons entertainment team is performing assemblies at Miami Valley elementary schools. The program continues into April.

Each 30-minute interactive, fun, high-energy performance includes a visit by Heater or Gem and members of the Green Team, the Dragons signature group that facilitates skits, contests, and sing-a-longs during Dragons games at Fifth Third Field. Each assembly in 2018 focuses on “Teamwork.” The performances, typically held in the school gymnasium, include some of the same entertainment skits seen at the ballpark, plus some new material designed specifically for the schools.

All Dragons assemblies are performed free of charge for schools that sign up. Participating elementary schools on board so far stretch from Springboro to Sidney.

The assemblies provide an introduction to the Dayton Dragons School Program, an incentive-based school fundraiser that provides prizes to students and allows the schools to keep a portion of ticket sales to Dragons games.

The Dragons are providing prizes as part of the program including team merchandise, an invitation to a Donatos Pizza Party with Dragons players, and the grand prize, a Google Chromebook.

The Dragons 19th Opening Night is set for Saturday, April 7 at 7:00 p.m. at Fifth Third Field against the Bowling Green Hot Rods. The Dragons will officially open the 2018 Midwest League season on the road on Thursday, April 5 against the Hot Rods in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

###

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

2018 Nick Adenhart Memorial Scholarship applications now being accepted

Cedar Rapids, IA – Applications are being accepted through The Kernels Foundation for the eighth annual Nick Adenhart Memorial Scholarship.

Nick Adenhart was a bright young pitcher who played for the Cedar Rapids Kernels in 2006, and was a rising star in the Los Angeles Angels organization. Only hours after Nick’s 2009 season debut on the mound for the Angels, a drunk driver tragically killed him on April 9, 2009 at age 22.

Nick’s family and the Kernels Foundation would like to honor him by awarding two $1,000 scholarships in his memory. The Kernels Foundation is privileged to administer the scholarship on behalf of Nick’s family.

The deadline for submitting applications for this scholarship is Friday, April 13, 2018. Applicants must be a graduating high school senior from an area high school and attend a two or four-year accredited college or university and take 12 or more hours per semester. The applicant must have played an organized sport in the last two years, must be a great teammate, must demonstrate hard work and determination, and must have a clear vision of their career goal.

Scholarship applications are available through area schools guidance offices, or may be downloaded from the Kernels website by clicking here.

For more information, please contact Doug Nelson at 319-363-3887 or email at doug@kernels.com.

2018 season ticket packages and 10-game coupon books are on sale now at the stadium, or by calling the Kernels at (319) 363-3887. Individual game tickets go on sale Monday, March 19th at 10 AM. The Kernels open the 2018 Midwest League season at Quad Cities on Thursday, April 5th. The home season begins on Saturday, April 7th vs. Quad Cities at 5:05 PM.

AquaSox Release 2017 Community Relations Report

Everett, WA – The Everett AquaSox Community Fund launched in 2009 to help fund many community projects, with a focus on education, youth programming and youth sports. Since its inception, the Community Fund has donated over $100,000 in grants to Little Leagues, Boys & Girls Clubs and other local organizations.

In 2017, the Everett AquaSox Community fund donated $21,307 in monetary donations to several non-profit organizations and foundations in the area. The Community Fund raises money primarily through auctions at the ballpark. The season featured six different auctions with the first auction being the Relay for Life jersey. In addition to the Relay for Life jersey, there were Pink in the Park hats, 4th of July hats, FrogStock jerseys, Star Wars jerseys and the fan favorite, FROGS faux-throwback jerseys.

Hit-a-Home-Run in Reading Program increased its enrollment to nearly 23,000 students between Snohomish, King, Island and Skagit counties. Students who read “around-the-bases” received a coupon from Alfy’s pizza, Woodland Park Zoo and a ticket to a game with their school.

The AquaSox continued supporting the Challenger League by hosting two games in 2017. Each game allowed every player in the Challenger League to show off their skills at the plate, in the field and on the mound. All the AquaSox players participated in both events after their game.

Webbly and staff participated in multiple events throughout the season. This included Camp Erin, Socktoberfest, Celebrate Schools 5K, National Adoption Day and more! If your organization has an event you would like Webbly or the AquaSox staff to attend, contact Ashlea LaPlant at (425) 258-3673 or at ashleal@aquasox.com.

Click here to vew the complete 2017 Community Relations Report.

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

Sounds Scholarship Program Continues in 2018

For the third consecutive year, the Nashville Sounds Foundation will award four scholarships worth $2,500 each to graduating high school seniors who plan to attend college in fall of 2018.

The program, which began in 2016, has awarded $20,000 in scholarships and is designed to help deserving Nashville and Middle Tennessee students help pay for college tuition during their freshman year.

“This program is one of the most rewarding initiatives our community relations team has accomplished,” said Sounds General Manager Adam Nuse. “With support from our fans through our fundraising efforts during the 2017 season, we’re able to help students pursue their dreams of a college education.”

Interested seniors must complete the application process at www.nashvillesounds.com. The process includes submitting a two to three-page essay answering the following prompt: “With today’s social climate, diversity and inclusion are more important now than ever. Using your own life experiences, explain why inclusion is so significant in bridging the divide.”

In addition to the essay, each submission must include at least two letters of recommendation from teachers and/or coaches, and an official high school transcript. The scholarship will be awarded based on the culmination of the student’s school work, extracurricular activities and involvement in the community.

Each winner will receive tickets to a select 2018 Nashville Sounds game of their choice and a special surprise from the Nashville Sounds Foundation. The deadline to be considered for the 2018 scholarships is Friday, February 16, 2018. Scholarship winners will be notified no later than March 23, 2018.

Winners from 2017 include Juanita Aguirre of Pearl-Cohn Entertainment Magnet High School (Middle Tennessee State University), William Bell of Battle Ground Academy (Princeton University), Aijalon Carter of Goodpasture Christian School (Belmont University) and Asher Curnutte of Montgomery Bell Academy (Georgetown University).

The 2018 season will be the Sounds’ 41st in franchise history and fourth as the Oakland Athletics’ top affiliate. Opening Day is set for Thursday, April 5 when the Sounds begin the season in New Orleans. Opening Night at First Tennessee Park is scheduled for Tuesday, April 10 when the Sounds host the Iowa Cubs at 6:35 p.m. Season ticket memberships are available now by calling (615) 690-4487 or by visiting www.nashvillesounds.com.

About the Nashville Sounds Foundation:

The mission of the Nashville Sounds Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, is to positively impact the thriving Middle Tennessee community through various programs and initiatives. The Nashville Sounds Foundation supports programs that energize and influence youth through education, physical development and by maximizing community service.

The Nashville Sounds Foundation is funded through monetary donations, private entities, memorabilia auctions and in-game custom public address announcements.

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

Tides to continue Youth Field Renovation Project

The Norfolk Tides today announced the return of The Youth Field Makeover Project presented by Orkin, a contest in which a local youth field will be renovated by Tides groundskeepers and front office staff. This field makeover will include an upgrade to the playing surface, an improvement to existing dugouts, and pest prevention services courtesy of Orkin. The recipient of the makeover will be determined by a fan vote on the Tides Facebook page in late February.

“Our entire organization is excited for this contest to return, and we’re very appreciative of the folks at Orkin for helping to make this project a reality,” said Tides General Manager Joe Gregory. “Baseball is such an integral part of the Hampton Roads community, and we’re happy to do our part in helping children play the game in facilities they can be proud of.”

Those interested in having the Tides make over their facility should submit a picture of their field to Heather McKeating. Along with the photo, fans are asked to include a brief description of why their league’s field should receive this enhancement. The deadline to submit this information is February 16, with online voting taking place on the Tides Facebook page from February 19 to February 23.

Since the inaugural renovation in 2012, the Tides have renovated 10 local fields: Ocean View Little League (Norfolk), Smithfield Recreation Association (Smithfield), Bennett’s Creek Little League (Suffolk), Phoebus Little League (Hampton), Shore Little League (Nassawadox), Cradock Little League (Portsmouth), Little Creek National (Norfolk), Gloucester Youth Baseball (Gloucester), Surry County Pony Baseball (Surry) and Deer Park Youth Field (Newport News).

The project is made possible thanks to the Tides Youth Baseball Fund, a program established by the Tides in 1990 as a way to raise money for youth baseball and softball programs in Hampton Roads. In addition to assisting with field renovations, the Youth Baseball Fund also helps local teams and leagues with travel expenses. The Youth Baseball Fund is partially financed by scoreboard announcements at Harbor Park throughout the season, and those wishing to make a donation directly to the Youth Baseball Fund can do so via norfolkides.com under the “community” section.

The Tides will open the regular season on Friday, April 6th with a 7:05 p.m. contest vs. Gwinnett. Season tickets, group tickets, picnics and patios are currently available for the 2018 season. For pricing and additional information, visit the Harbor Park box office, call (757) 622-2222 or visit NorfolkTides.com.

For more information about Orkin’s pest control services, visit Orkin.com.

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

Ports Release 2017 Community Relations Report

STOCKTON, Calif.- Through the organization’s non-profit sector, the Anchor Fund, the Ports gave $32,464 in monetary donations and nearly $240,000 of in-kind donations to local non-profits within the San Joaquin community in 2017. Through various fundraisers held at Banner Island Ballpark, the Ports were able to raise almost $11,000 with the help of generous fans.

The revenue-leading event was the eleventh annual Pink Night, in which $5,493 benefited Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Medical Center. Additional fundraisers included Root Beer Float Day and Youth Baseball Camps presented by Amy L. Scriven, DDS., and Anchor Fund Weekend.

The Ports also had over 50,000 individuals participate in community programs such as Silver Sluggers presented by SCAN Health Plan, Amy L. Scriven, DDS. Kids’ Club, Baseball by the Books courtesy of Smack Pie Pizza, and the Summer Reading Program in partnership with San Joaquin County Libraries. Additionally, the Ports teamed up with Valley First Credit Union for this year’s Community Corner. Valley First donated 625 tickets to the Anchor Fund, and the Ports matched that donation for tickets to be distributed in the community.

Through these outreach programs, the Ports were able to provide people of all ages with donated or discounted tickets.

New to the 2017 season, the Ports partnered with Sutter Gould Medical Foundation to create a program called “Community Person of the Month,” in which select members of the local community were recognized in a monthly pre-game ceremony and a $500 donation was made to a non-profit organization of each recipient’s choice.

Finally, the Ports’ mascot, members of the front office, and Ports players were out in the community approximately 180 days out of the 2017 calendar year for events such as Little League Opening Ceremonies, school and library visits, grassroots events, and more.

“We are proud of the impact the Ports Community Department has made in the city of Stockton and beyond, in conjunction with the many people and organizations in our market,” said President Pat Filippone. “Over the 10 years since we’ve established the Anchor Fund, the Ports have remained committed to supporting the community and we look forward to growing upon this season’s success in the upcoming year.

The Stockton Ports’ Anchor Fund was established in early 2007 and has helped support many community projects, with a primary focus on youth centers and youth sports. The charitable fund reflects and reaffirms the Ports’ commitment to strengthening the community using baseball and entertainment as a backdrop, with 457 non-profit organizations receiving donations in 2017.

To view the Community Relations Report and receive ticket information on the 2018 season, please visit www.stocktonports.com.

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