NEST, Chasers Launch 16th Annual Essay Contest

The Nebraska Educational Savings Trust (NEST) and the Omaha Storm Chasers have officially begun the 16th annual “Why I Want to Go to College” essay contest, as announced by Nebraska State Treasurer Don Stenberg.

Seventh and eighth grade students from around the country may submit their entries leading up to the March 2 deadline Essays must be 750 words or less, describing the student’s educational goals and dreams for the future. Entries are required to be typed and double-spaced on 8 1/2 by 11″ paper and must be the student’s original work. Each essay must also be accompanied with the required cover sheet, which can be found here: http://bit.ly/2018ContestCoverSheet.

Winners will receive prizes ranging from $500 to $2,000 toward a NEST College Savings Plan. First, second and third place winners will be honored from each of Nebraska’s three Congressional districts, in addition to out-of-state entries. Entries will be judged by students and faculty at Midland University in Fremont.

All winners hailing from the state of Nebraska will be notified in April. Winners will also receive four box seat tickets to the Storm Chasers’ game on May 6, in addition to being recognized prior to that day’s contest for their achievements.

Complete rules and information on the essay contest may be viewed here: http://bit.ly/2018ContestRules.

Entries must be postmarked by March 2 and sent to:

Omaha Storm Chasers
Attn: Becki Frishman
12356 Ballpark Way
Papillion, NE 68046

Following the Royals Exhibition Game presented by SAC Federal Credit Union on March 26, the Storm Chasers begin 2018 regular season Pacific Coast League play at Werner Park on Thursday, April 5. The Omaha Storm Chasers have been the Triple-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals since the franchise’s first game on April 18, 1969, and is the longest-running Triple-A affiliation in Minor League Baseball.

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

Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. Releases Annual Report for 2017

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE 2016 ANNUAL REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. is proud to present the third Annual Report to the Community detailing the charitable outreach completed in 2017. The report lists the extensive accomplishments of the foundation and the notable programs coordinated by the Cougars.

Five new foundation programs were added in 2017 including the Al Mueller Memorial Scholarship Fund, the D-backs Give Back partnership, AmazonSmile, Highland Salutes and the Es Divertido Ser Un Fan campaign which saw the Cougars selected as one of four teams out of 160 Minor League Baseball teams to participate in this historic Hispanic outreach program.

The annual 5K Run/Walk hosted by the Cougars was re-branded in honor of First Responders. A total of $2,000 was donated to local departments including Geneva Police and Fire, St. Charles Police and Fire, Batavia Police and Fire as well as the Kane County Forest Preserve Police and the Kane County Sheriff’s Department.

Ozzie’s Reading Club was also re-branded, with the addition of our new mascot Annie, to the Cougars Reading Club. Each year the program encourages over 130,000 local area students to meet reading goals with incentives such as game tickets, food vouchers and a drawstring backpack. In-kind donations for the Cougars Reading Club totaled $646,190 in 2017.

The 50/50 Raffle, presented by Bret Brizzolara your local Country Financial representative and the Acres Group Pitch-In for Charity are two in-game programs from which a portion of the proceeds benefit specific charities selected by the Kane County Cougars Foundation. In 2017, these two programs generated over $29,000 to support local causes including Fox Valley Wildlife Center, Food for Greater Elgin, Holiday Heroes, Naperville Alive and DuPage PADS.

For every home run that was hit by a Cougars player at home, Paramount Fence made a donation to Emmanuel House which was then matched by the Cougars through the Home Run for Charity program. In 2017, the donation totaled $2,400.

Through a variety of military organizations including the Illinois National Guard, Operation Support Our Troops, Rolling Thunder and the Veteran Tickets Foundation, the Kane County Cougars Foundation presented in-kind donations for Military Recognition totaling $16,844 in 2017.

Various in-kind donations, community appearances, high school seminars, clinics and events show the Cougars on-going commitment to the surrounding community through programs such as the Library Summer Reading Program, senior citizen half-price tickets and food vouchers, the Winter Coat Drive and a partnership with Two Men and a Truck to collect items through the Movers for Moms program.

“Each year we strive to find new ways to give back to local organizations,” said Cougars owner Cheryl Froehlich. “With the additional programs added under the Kane County Cougars Foundation we were able to assist the surrounding community in more ways than we ever have before.”

“We’re dedicated to creating a legacy for the Kane County Cougars that goes far beyond the game of baseball,” added Cougars owner Dr. Bob Froehlich. “The Cougars are committed to making Kane County and the surrounding area a better place to live and work through the efforts of the Kane County Cougars Foundation.”

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 161 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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

Cedar Rapids Kernels release 2017 Community Report

Cedar Rapids, IA – The Kernels have released their second annual report showcasing how the organization supported the Cedar Rapids community in 2017.

The eleven page report features new community programs “Catch with a Cop” and “Home Run for Hunger” while also breaking down the $256,000 in charitable donations contributed by the Kernels organization. Other highlights include a recap on the thriving “Kernels Summer Reading Program” and a page dedicated to The Kernels Foundation in their efforts in supporting recreational activities for the youth in Eastern Iowa.

“The work we do in Cedar Rapids and surrounding communities is something we are very proud of.” says Ryne George, Kernels Director of Community Relations. “Back in 2016 we started the “Take the Lead” community relations initiative to help brand our efforts and today it has really grown into a way of thinking here at the ballpark and pushes us to do more.”

The 2017 Cedar Rapids Kernels Community Report can be viewed by clicking here.

The Cedar Rapids Kernels are the Midwest League affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. For more information, visit www.kernels.com and follow the Kernels on social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

The Cedar Rapids Kernels are the Midwest League affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

PawSox Infielder Mike Miller Refurbishes Field in Hawaii with “More Than A Game”

When the grueling “every day” grind of a baseball season finally comes to an end, rarely do players opt to spend more time away from their families, and impact communities that they often have no connection to. After going back to his home in California at the conclusion of the 2017 PawSox season, Mike Miller began preparing for a new venture in Hawaii, where plans to refurbish a field on the Big Island would soon come to fruition.

Miller was awarded with the PawSox’ Sullivan Tire Community Spirit Award in 2017, an award given to a PawSox player who goes above and beyond in the Rhode Island Community. His most notable community efforts came over the All-Star Break when his comrades from “More Than A Game” flew to Pawtucket, and together refurbished Pawtucket’s Fairlawn Little League Field with PawSox Front Office members.

Also known as MTAG, More Than A game is an organization that uses baseball to impact lives domestically and around the world through field construction, equipment donation, and instructional clinics. The project executed in Hilo, Hawaii was their sixth community service project of the year, including the group’s efforts in Pawtucket.

“Mike continues to exemplify what ‘More Than A Game’ is all about,” said Marshall Murray, Miller’s longtime friend, and President/CEO of More Than A Game. “His leadership and inspiration impacts the game of baseball and communities no matter where we go.”

Miller and his team rolled up their sleeves in Hilo, Hawaii, and got back to work this November. Placing down new field turface, installing a new practice mound, and donating a beautiful new set of bleachers were all some of the more notable changes made to the field on the Big Island. Their efforts concluded with a Youth Clinic put on for over 50 kids from the Big Island’s Boys and Girls Club— Kids who will all be able to enjoy the newly conditioned field for years to come.

“Mike Miller is one of the most community-minded baseball players I have had the pleasure to meet,” said PawSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “Mike’s love of the game, and his desire to attract young people to our game, was illustrated when he spent his All-Star Break physically fixing a field in Pawtucket, and now he’s spending precious off-season days refurbishing a diamond in Hawaii. He embodies the organization to which he is dedicated: ‘More Than a Game.’ He has our admiration, respect, and gratitude.”

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

Legends sponsor University of Kentucky students to attend 2017 Winter Meetings and PBEO Job Fair

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – For the third consecutive year, the Lexington Legends are sponsoring a group of students, both at the undergraduate and graduate level, who will attend the Winter Meetings, an annual event held each December, that includes seminars, a trade show and a job fair at The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort in Orlando, Florida. The 2017 Winter Meetings mark the first year the Legends have partnered with students from the University of Kentucky.

 

Over the last several months, the Legends have developed a partnership with the UK Chapter of the national student group MANRRS (Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences), led by faculty advisor Dr. Quentin Tyler, Assistant Dean & Director for Diversity at the University of Kentucky.

 

“The Legends are pleased to be able to partner with this UK student group and provide guidance for this first step towards their career,” said Legends President/CEO Andy Shea. “We appreciate the students’ interest, and we think they will really enjoy the opportunity to learn first-hand from experts about a variety of careers in baseball.”

 

The 2017 Winter Meetings began December 10th in Orlando, and will continue through December 14th. The Winter Meetings are an annual gathering of representatives of all 30 Major League Baseball teams and their 160 Minor League Baseball affiliates. Personnel from all teams convene for four days to discuss league business and conduct off-season trades and transactions. Some of Major League Baseball’s biggest player trades and free agent signings occur at Winter Meetings, but much of the agenda at the minor league level concerns the off-the-field business of professional baseball.

 

The PBEO Job Fair, which the UK students will attend, provides connections and opportunities for those who would like to work in baseball in a variety of areas, including promotions, ticket sales, community relations, media relations, broadcasting and others.

 

The students will also have an opportunity to attend the Business of Baseball seminars and workshops, which have been part of the winter meetings for more than 20 years and cover a wide range of baseball business topics. Students will also attend the Trade Show, which features hundreds of vendors from various aspects of the baseball industry.

 

In addition to entry fees, the Legends are supporting the students also through a one-year subscription to PBEO.com (Professional Baseball Employment Opportunities), the official employment service of Minor League Baseball.

 

The UK students who are attending the meetings are: Drexler Blue, Montreale Jones, Jericho Curry, Mia Farrell, Ty’Asia Jones, Jahqtehea Johnson and Aerin Mitchell. The students are being accompanied by Dr. Tyler.

 

The Legends are excited to expand upon their growing partnership with the University of Kentucky through this hands-on educational program.

Keys Contribute More Than $200,000 to Local Community in 2017

FREDERICK, MD-With the holiday season upon us, the Frederick Keys are excited to look back on 2017 as another outstanding year for community involvement. This year, the Keys worked hand-in-hand with a myriad of groups on community initiatives and assisted in countless fundraising efforts.

In 2017, the Keys contributed more than $200,000 to the local community. This benefited non-profits, local schools and libraries, the military and other worthy causes. The Keys also donated over $150,000 in in-kind gifts and raised over $20,000 for local non-profit organizations through in-stadium fundraising. This supported local non-profit groups including the United Way, Heartly House, Habitat For Humanity, Blessings in a Backpack and The Police Activities League. Funds were also raised for victims of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.

Throughout the season, the Keys work with different organizations to benefit local non-profits and other worthy causes. For the third straight season, BGE Home and the Keys partnered on “Make a Difference Monday.” During each Monday game, a different 501 (c) (3) organization was given 25 tickets to see the Keys play to go along with a pre-game interview, a ceremonial first, a marketing table on the concourse and a :20 public address announcement. Among the groups who participated were the Team Up for 1 Foundation and the Frederick County Humane Society.

Other year-long programs which benefited local non-profits included Walks for a Cause and Pack the Park. Each time a Keys player walked, Keeney and Basford Funeral Homes donated $10 to Frederick Keys Care. Another staple of the Keys community involvement, Pack the Park enables charities to raise funds through ticket sales as well as a 50/50 raffle. Pack the Parks take place on Fridays and Saturday’s to maximize the organization’s exposure. Other benefits include a first pitch and a chance to speak on the field before the game.

Some groups have specific nights where their cause is recognized. These included Strike Out Stroke Night, Deaf & Hard of Hearing Night, Knock Tobacco Out of the Park Day and Cancer Awareness Night. Through working with Frederick Memorial Hospital’s Stroke & Chest Pain Division, the Keys were able to spread awareness of strokes, how to avoid them and be alerted to when someone could be having one.

For Deaf and Hard of Hearing Night, the Keys worked with the Maryland School for the Deaf to promote ways to communicate with individuals who are deaf or hearing impaired. Students from the school also created special sign language videos with Keys players. Knock Tobacco Out of the Park Day included a pre-game presentation about tobacco use, as well as a video and slates throughout the game explaining the dangers of using tobacco. For this night, the Keys partnered with the Tobacco Free Coalition.

Each season the Keys join forces with the American Cancer Society to recognize cancer survivors and to remember those who have lost their battle with cancer. Survivors receive a free ticket to the game, while ACS sells t-shirts and luminaries as part of a unique fireworks show. This includes a photo montage on the video board of cancer fighters, in conjunction with the organization’s Cancer Has a Face Program. Keys Players and Coaches also donned special lavender jerseys with words of encouragement such as hope, faith and love. These were auctioned off during the game, with proceeds benefiting ACS.

To promote educational and wellness initiatives, the Keys work frequently with the Frederick County Public School System. In 2017, the team introduced the Report Card Program. Children who received A’s, A equivalents or improved grades on their report cards received two complimentary tickets to a Keys game in April as well as a bumper sticker showing their accomplishments.

Meanwhile, this past season just under 2,000 sixth grade students filled Nymeo Field for STEM Day. Each student attendee received an assignment packet with questions based on game action, information from concourse vendors and videos featuring Keys mascot Keyote and players. The Keys and FCPS also work together on Family Fitness Weekend. Children who are active for one hour a day receive a voucher to a Keys weekend game.

Once again the Keys and Frederick County Public Libraries worked together in 2017. The team provided local libraries in Frederick and in surrounding counties with nearly 70,000 summer reading vouchers. Students who complete their summer reading assignments receive a voucher to attend a game in either July or August and receive recognition during a pre-game parade.

A long-standing goal of the Keys has also been to give back to active and retired military members. One way this is accomplished is through Fort Detrick Night. A US Army Medical Command Installation based in Frederick, Fort Detrick is the city’s largest employer. The Keys work closely with the base to put on a night for military members and their families. Tickets are provided at a discounted rate, while Fort Detrick brings out an anthem singer, color guard and military VIPs to give on-field presentations.

The Keys will be celebrating their 30th anniversary in 2018. For more information about ticket plans, fans can contact the Keys groups department at 301-815-9900. The Frederick Keys kickoff their home schedule on Thursday, April 12 against the Potomac Nationals at 7:00 p.m. To follow the Keys all offseason, fans can visit frederickkeys.com.

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

Fightins and Rip it Batting Cages Announce Baseballtown Baseball Classic

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils are excited to announce a new partnership with Rip It Batting Cages and Baseball Skill Training and the 2018 Baseballtown Baseball Classic.

The 2018 Baseballtown Baseball Classic will welcome the most amateur baseball games to America’s Classic Ballpark in the stadium’s long history! The collection of games will be known as the 2018 Baseballtown Baseball Classic, and will give the Citizens of Baseballtown an unprecedented opportunity to not only enjoy 70 Fightins home games, but also many terrific amateur games at the historic ballpark. Thanks to Rip It’s sponsorship, the Fightins will host the following amateur baseball games at FirstEnergy Stadium:

  • Wilson High School vs. Governor Mifflin High School – Sunday, April 29th at 6:00pm
  • Albright College vs. Kutztown University, Date TBD
  • Baseballtown BCIAA High School Semi-Finals (2) – Tuesday, May 15th
  • Baseballtown BCIAA High School Championship – Thursday, May 17th
  • PIAA District 3 High School Championship Games – Thursday, May 31st
  • Baseballtown High School All Star Game, Date TBD
  • Additional High School Game Dates are Available!
  • More game dates will be announced at a later time.

The most exciting aspect about Rip It’s sponsorship is that it gives additional area high schools the opportunity to play at America’s Classic Ballpark! The high school games are designed to be a gathering for the two competing towns, as is the case with the Wilson vs. Governor Mifflin game on April 29th. In that example, both the Wilson Youth Baseball and Softball program, and the Mifflin Area Youth Baseball Association, have partnered for what guarantees to be an amazing event. Before the high school game, every youth baseball player in the Mifflin Youth Baseball program, along with every member of the Governor Mifflin Middle School and High School teams (Freshman, JV and Varsity) will be introduced on the field. Following that, every youth baseball and softball player in the Wilson Youth Baseball and Softball program, along with every member of the Wilson West Middle School, Wilson Southern Middle School and Wilson High School baseball and softball teams (Freshman, JV and Varsity) will be introduced on the field. In addition, both the Mifflin Area Youth Baseball Association and the Wilson Youth Baseball and Softball Program will host their player photo sessions at FirstEnergy Stadium that day. The event guarantees that every baseball and softball player from both school districts will be introduced, and then watch the Wilson High School vs. Governor Mifflin High School baseball game that evening. Other area High School baseball teams, and youth organizations, are encouraged to contact Stephen Thomas at the Reading Fightin Phils to schedule their High School game, and youth photo day! Stephen can be reached at sthomas@fightins.com, or at 610-370-BALL, ext. 213. A limited number of game dates are still available, and Rip It Batting Cages and Baseball Skill Training underwrites much of the cost.

“We can’t thank Rip It Batting Cages and Baseball Skill Training enough”, said Scott Hunsicker, General Manager of the Reading Fightin Phils. “Thanks to their sponsorship, the 2018 Baseballtown Baseball Classic looks to welcome literally thousands of high school and youth baseball and softball players to FirstEnergy Stadium. We have this wonderful baseball facility, and the thought was how we can open the field up to even more area baseball and softball players. We sincerely hope many more high schools and youth baseball and softball programs will partner together, like Wilson and Mifflin have.”

Rip It Batting Cages and Baseball Skill Training is located at 1037 MacArthur Road in Reading, PA, near Reading Airport (it is the former home of Grand Slam USA). The facility is owned and operated by Mike Spidale and Eric Valent, two Baseballtown Hall of Famers who played for the Reading Fightin Phils. As part of Rip It’s sponsorship of the 2018 Baseballtown Baseball Classic, youth baseball and softball players that attend the games will also receive free hitting tokens for the Rip It batting cages. More information about Rip It Batting Cages and Baseball Skill Training can be found at ripit.org.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2018 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Tickets Purchased This Holiday Season To Benefit Area Non-Profits

The 13th annual Trenton Thunder Gift of Baseball program begins today, giving fans the chance to share the experience of their hometown team with underprivileged families in our community. For each Season Ticket, Pic-A-Plan and Mini Plan purchased before January 2, the Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, will provide tickets for families in the Holiday Gift Outreach program run by the Children’s Home Society of New Jersey as well as other area non-profits to a 2018 Thunder game.

“As we prepare for our 25th season here at ARM & HAMMER Park, we wanted to continue to provide an opportunity for families to share in the family fun atmosphere of a Thunder game,” said Thunder GM/COO Jeff Hurley. “I thank the Children’s Home Society of New Jersey and all of our area non-profit partners for the great work they do and we’re thrilled to give back to our community this holiday season.”

In the first 12 years of the Gift of Baseball program, the Thunder have donated 8,824 tickets to the Children’s Home Society of New Jersey.

“Trenton Thunder continues to be a strong and caring community partner,” praised Donna Pressma, President & CEO of CHSofNJ. “The Children’s Home Society of New Jersey is honored to have the opportunity through their generosity of offer the Gift of Baseball to so many of our children and families. The emphasis on family values that the Thunder and CHSofNJ shares has remainined a high priority for both organizations throughout our partnership.

“Family outings are often too rare for our children,” said Pressma. “Spending a day at the ballpark watching our home team play with determination and heart gives hope and makes memories that our children will keep for the rest of their lives. Thank you Trenton Thunder and all of your caring fans who make this possible.”

2018 Mini Plans are on sale now. Mini Plans include five to ten of the most popular games on the schedule, free food at each game, savings off game-day pricing, and complimentary tickets to Opening Night, and start as low as $60. More information about Mini Plans can be found here: MINI PLANS.

Pic-A-Plans allow fans to choose any ten or more games that best fit their schedule. This flexible plan includes a savings off game-day pricing, a free food option, and complimentary tickets to Opening Night. More information can be found here: PIC-A-PLANS.

Season Tickets are available as either a full (70 games) or half (35 games) and include added value like early entry, a picnic with players, bus trips and more. More information about Season Tickets can be found here: SEASON TICKETS.

All plan holders will have the opportunity to purchase tickets to the 2018 Eastern League All-Star Celebration before they go on sale to the general public.

The Children’s Home Society of New Jersey provides at-risk children and their families with a range of services that empower them to achieve their potential. They are child-oriented, family focused, community based and outcome-oriented.

Your Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, will begin the 2018 season, the 25th in franchise history, on Thursday, April 5 when they host the Richmond Flying Squirrels (San Francisco Giants). Season tickets, Pic-A-Plans, Mini Plans and Group Tickets are on sale now at www.TrentonThunder.com and by phone at 609-394-3300.

BlueClaws Charities Hands Out Grants to 40 Community Partner Organizations

BlueClaws Charities completed their grant program, handing out grants to its Community Partner organizations.

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – BlueClaws Charities, the official 501c3 non-profit organization of the Lakewood BlueClaws, completed its 2017 grant program, handing out grants to 40 Community Partner organizations.

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

“BlueClaws Charities is proud to be able to support such a wide-variety of organizations in our communities,” said Jim DeAngelis, the BlueClaws Vice President of Community Relations and Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities. “These organizations have pledged to keep all funds in Ocean & Monmouth Counties and they are doing spectacular work to assist the underserved. It is our pleasure to be able to lend financial support.”

BlueClaws Charities raises money throughout the year through special events like the Nine & Dine Golf Outing and Phillies Winter Banquet, through jersey and other specialty merchandise auctions, and a 50/50 raffle at each BlueClaws home game.

“Our fans and donors have been tremendously supportive of BlueClaws Charities over the years, and this year was no exception,” said DeAngelis. “We look forward to another successful season in 2018!”

The following organizations received a grant from BlueClaws Charities.

  • ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia to subsidize their Chapters Care Services Program for ALS patient families in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Alzheimer’s Association of Greater New Jersey to offset costs for a fundraising event to benefit New Jersey residents.
  • The Arc, Ocean County Chapter to subsidize costs associated with their major fundraising event, The Arc Walkathon.
  • The Ashley Lauren Foundation to assist children with cancer and their families through direct financial assistance.
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ocean County to provide group mentoring activities which enables children on their waiting list to become involved with the agency.
  • Boy Scouts of America, Jersey Shore Council to provide program support for their ScoutReach Cub Scout Pack at Clifton Elementary School in Lakewood.
  • Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey to help defray costs of criminal background checks on volunteers prior to assignments.
  • Cheer Dream Xplosion Foundation to purchase equipment for their special needs program.
  • Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation to improve the quality of life of those affected by the disease in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Daniela’s Wish to grant wishes to ill children in their communities.
  • David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation to support families in Ocean & Monmouth counties affected by a cancer diagnosis.
  • Dottie’s House to help funding their transitional housing program designed to provide survivors of domestic violence with tools, guidance and support to achieve financial and emotional independence.
  • Easter Seals New Jersey to provide individuals with disabilities and special needs the training and skills needed to independently work within their communities.
  • Emiliana’s Hope to spread cheer to pediatric cancer patients in the area.
  • Exit 82 Theatre Company to help fund their 2018 production season.
  • Family Options Adoptions to provide funding for birth parent scholarships and supplies for birth mothers that decide to parent.
  • Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore to help offer over 200 underserved girls from Lakewood the opportunity to attend the Girls Are Great summer day camp.
  • Go4TheGoal to help kids with cancer achieve their goals.
  • HABcore to help fund the supportive services program component of HABcore’s Rapid Re-Housing program in Ocean County.
  • Holiday Express to help provide a unique interactive holiday musical program, led by volunteer professionals, to individuals who are often forgotten by society and in need of kindness.
  • JAR of Hope to help fund research to eliminate Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
  • Kids Need More to enhance the lives of children, families, and young adults coping with cancer and life threatening illness.
  • LADACIN Network to support their integrated Child Care program to empower children with and without disabilities to work together to succeed in their future education.
  • Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund to assist the organization in its mission to aid wounded warriors and their families.
  • Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanities for repairs for the 21 Easter Seals group homes.
  • Ocean County Family Support Organization to help offset the costs of trips for our Youth Partnership program.
  • Ocean County Shrine Club to support the hospital’s MAGEC System, an adjustable magnetic growing rod used in a non-invasive, non-surgical manner to brace a child’s spine during childhood growth to minimize the progression of scoliosis.
  • Ocean County YMCA to help kids, families, and seniors in the community find assets in YMCA programs and memberships regardless of incomes and backgrounds.
  • Ocean’s Harbor House to provide for the fundamentals of setting up a household after youth graduate from the Transitional Living Program.
  • Ocean Partnership for Children to provide needy children and teens served by Ocean Partnership with winter attire, including hats, coats, boots, mittens, and gloves.
  • Piece of the Puzzle to purchase a computer desk and stool for their offices.
  • Parents of Autistic Children to provide a challenger sports league designed to offer a socialization opportunity through athletic participation between disabled students from different high school and middle schools in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Raising Hope for Others to assist with financial cost of organizing and running its major fundraiser.
  • RJM Sportsgroup to provide scholarships to Jackson Township graduates.
  • Saint Vincent DePaul Society to help pay for temporary sheltering for the homeless.
  • The Salvation Army of Ocean County to provide funding to their Feeding Program.
  • The Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide to help their Youth Council seeking to engage ambassadors in the prevention process.
  • The TEARS Foundation to provide assistance to families who have lost a child due to pregnancy or sustained the sudden loss of an infant or child in Monmouth & Ocean Counties.
  • Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund to provide a scholarship to graduating seniors.
  • United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties to purchase warm clothing for lower income children.

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

Organizations that would like to become Community Partners can call Jim DeAngelis at 732-901-7000 ext 114. Community Partners raise money through a BlueClaws fundraiser outing and have the opportunity to volunteer in the FirstEnergy Park concession stands to raise additional funds. These organizations also receive exposure through on-field presentations, table displays, and on BlueClaws.com, plus they have special opportunities to hold events, such as charity walks, at FirstEnergy Park.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They crossed the 7-million fan plateau in 2017.

2018 BlueClaws ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com.

– BlueClaws Charities –

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

Andy Shea and Lexington Legends to receive prestigious distinguished philanthropist award

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – (November 7, 2017) – The Association of Fundraising Professionals – Bluegrass Chapter presents the Distinguished Philanthropist Award to an individual, corporation, or foundation that has made a significant contribution to our community through their acts of kindness and charitable giving. “Over the years, only a select few have received this special recognition and this year’s recipient is definitely worthy of this honor,” said Patrick Robinson, AFP President.

 

On Friday, November 10, during the National Philanthropy Day Luncheon at the Marriott Griffin Gate, Andy Shea and the Lexington Legends will receive the 2017 Distinguished Philanthropist award.

 

In 2017, the Legends donated over $1.1 million to hundreds of charitable organizations in eastern and central Kentucky. One hundred percent of the Legends staff is currently involved in the community outside of the workplace.

 

President/CEO Andy Shea is the driving force behind all of the Legends’ community initiatives and philanthropic accomplishments. He sets an example of empathy, kindness and selflessness for everyone he meets and encourages others to utilize their unique talents and passions in order to serve others.

 

Shea serves on the boards for LexArts and Junior Achievement. He has built relationships with 10 little brothers through Big Brothers Big Sisters, three of whom were groomsmen in his wedding this past October. He was also the 2013 and 2015 champion of Dancing With The Lexington Stars, which supports the Rotary Club Endowment Fund and Surgery on Sundays. In 2016, Andy won the American Diabetes Association’s Kiss-A-Pig Campaign Individual Winner award for his fundraising efforts towards curing and preventing diabetes. This year, he was humbled to provide the lead gift towards Midway University’s new baseball stadium, which will increase the university’s athletic merit and offer Midway student-athletes the opportunity to compete in state-of-the-art collegiate facilities for the first time.

 

“It’s clear that Andy Shea and the Lexington Legends make a huge impact in our community,” adds Robinson. “AFP – Bluegrass Chapter is pleased to give this prestigious award to both an individual and a team who are touching many lives through their philanthropy.”

(The National Philanthropy Luncheon will be held on Friday, November 10, from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at the Marriott Griffin Gate in Lexington. The Distinguished Philanthropist Award will be presented between 12:45 p.m. and 1:15 p.m.)

For more information about the Legends, 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, will return home to 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

 

Jordy Nelson Charity Softball Game Scheduled for June 2, 2018

GRAND CHUTE, WI – The 2018 Jordy Nelson Charity Softball Game will be held at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium at 12:05pm on Saturday, June 2. Individual tickets for the game will go on sale Tuesday, November 21 at 10:00am. Fans can get tickets a week ahead of that date by purchasing a special four-game ticket package that includes tickets to the softball game and vouchers good for any three Wisconsin Timber Rattlers home games (except Opening Day) during the 2018 regular season.

“My charity softball game will be better than ever because we are going to mix up the teams,” said Nelson. “It’s possible that Randall Cobb and I could be going head-to-head! The only guarantee is that my team will win on the field and Young Life will win most of all!”

In the 2017 game, the offense jumped out to a huge 18-3 lead before switching scores with the defense. The offense rallied from their own deficit for a 27-25 win in front of 8,228 fans.

The four-game ticket package will be available to fans on Wednesday, November 15 at 10:00am through the Timber Rattlers Ticket Office by calling (800) WI-TIMBER, (920) 733-4152, or in person at the Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office. These ticket packages will also be available online through TimberRattlers.com.
Prices for the four-game packages are:
Premium Box Seat: $108
Box Seat: $87
Reserved Seat: $59

The first two rows of the seating bowl at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium are the premium box seat option in this ticket package. Vouchers for the Timber Rattlers games must be redeemed at the box office and are based on availability.

Individual tickets for the Jordy Nelson Charity Softball Game, which includes the sponsor game at 10:00am and the Home Run Derby at 11:00am, go on sale Tuesday, November 21 at 10:00am. Tickets for the softball game are $69 for a premium box seat, $48 for a box seat, $29 for a reserved bleacher seat, and $14 for a general admission grass seat. There are also a limited number of patio tables available at $255. Patio tables seat four people and include waitstaff service and an autographed item from Jordy Nelson.

All You Can Eat Seats are available for $87 for the softball game only. These seats are located on the first base side of the stadium and include a ticket to the Jordy Nelson Charity Softball Game and an all-you-can-eat picnic.

If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities, please contact Lammi Sports Management at (414) 727-3600.

The Jordy Nelson Charity Softball game benefits Young Life, an organization for middle, high school and college students that pairs them with adults focused on the things that matter most to kids – fun, adventure and friendship. The 2017 game raised $130,000 for Young Life. Founded in 1941, Young Life has more than 3,000 staff and 30,000 volunteers reaching more than 1,000,000 kids annually.

The Timber Rattlers box office is open from 9am until 5pm Monday through Friday.

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

4th Annual Line Drive Canned Food Drive

AUGUSTA, GA – The Augusta GreenJackets, Single-A Affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, in conjunction with Platinum Sports and Complete Game are excited to announce the 4th Annual Line Drive Canned Food Drive FREE Baseball Clinic in memory of Terry Childers Senior on Saturday, November 4th from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm.

“We invite the CSRA to come out to Lake Olmstead Stadium, receive professional instruction and support a great cause”, stated GreenJackets Vice President Tom Denlinger. “Help us gather lots of canned goods and receive professional instruction from Platinum Sports and Complete Game.”

In memory of Terry Childers Sr., families across the CSRA are invited to come and take part in this FREE clinic benefiting Golden Harvest Food Bank. Families are encouraged to bring canned goods and other non-perishable food items to be donated to Golden Harvest Food Bank who will be on site to collect.

You can also bring items anytime between now and Nov. 4th to the Platinum Sports & Complete Game facility at 3855 Washington Rd. You do not have to participate in the clinic to bring food donations! Over the past three years, 1,209 meals have been raised with 1,449lbs of Donated goods! Come join us for this awesome event for our community!

Register online at www.playpscg.com. Go to camps/clinics for your free registration.

Matt Childers Quote “We look forward to seeing everyone at this Great event at Lake Olmstead Stadium. This is a great way to give back to our community and provide a wonderful FREE baseball clinic to the public and at the same time come together and support our local food bank through Golden Harvest. This event is held in Memory of Terry Childers Sr. who grew up just blocks away from Lake Olmstead Stadium and went to Richmond Academy and coached the Baseball Team at Augusta College and was a great influence on countless people. We thank the Augusta GreenJackets, the entire staff and especially Vice President Tom Denlinger for his outstanding leadership and partnership during this event.”

Event Details:

  • Saturday, November 4th from 11am-1:00pm
  • Lake Olmstead Stadium, 78 Milledge Road, Augusta, GA 30904
  • Giving back to the community with a FREE baseball clinic – beginning to experienced players welcome
  • Professional instruction from Platinum Sports & Complete Game
  • Bring canned food items and non-perishable food items to benefit Golden Harvest Food Bank
  • Opportunity to support the community together and have some FUN
  • Register in advance or onsite the morning of

About the Platinum Sports and Complete Game

Platinum Sports & Complete Game is the CSRA’s Home to an Amazing Indoor Sports Facility. We have recently added 8,000sq ft. of field Turf to our gym area for additional batting cages, pitching lanes for baseball & softball, a fielding area, workout area, Soccer & Lacrosse areas and much more. We have state of the art batting simulators for baseball & softball that give batters a realistic experience of the pitcher pitching the ball. Our Cosmic Birthday Parties have taken off! An amazing Birthday, Team function, or group Event held under the Black Lights with Music! Check us out at 3855 Washington Rd. Martinez, Ga. 30907 or at our website www.playpscg.com We Take Reservations every day for parties and group Events!

About the Augusta GreenJackets

The Augusta GreenJackets kick off the Inaugural Season at SRP Park on April 12th against the Lexington Legends (Kansas City Royals). SRP Park is the anchor piece of Riverside Village, a live, work, “playball” development which includes apartment living, senior living, retail, restaurants, class “A” office space, and a Crowne Plaza Hotel and Conference Center. Deposits are currently being accepted for Full Season Seats for the GreenJackets 2018 season. To learn more and for a 360-degree view of SRP Park and Riverside Village, visit www.greenjackets2018.com.

 

To stay up to date all season long, sign up for the ‘Jackets Buzz e-newsletter by visiting www.GreenJacketsBaseball.com/thebuzz/.

 

– GreenJackets

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

PawSox Foundation to Unveil Second Class of PawSox Scholars this Friday Afternoon at McCoy Stadium

For the second straight year, the PawSox Foundation has selected a pair of local middle schoolers, each of whom will receive a college scholarship of $10,000. One child is from Joseph Jenks Middle School in Pawtucket and the other from Calcutt Middle School in Central Falls.

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

PawSox Welcome Families and Children for Second Annual Trick or Treat at McCoy Stadium on Halloween

For the second straight year, the Pawtucket Red Sox invite families and children to Trick or Treat on Halloween at McCoy Stadium from 3-6 p.m.  The free event on Tuesday, October 31, includes candy, visits with Paws and Sox, as well as the music and décor of the season.

Families can enter through the Main Gate, visit the Halloween version of the PawSox’ Hall of History, and even take pictures at the field on the warning track.

“Halloween is a special day for children, and we at the PawSox are eager to contribute to their joy,” said PawSox President, Dr. Charles A. Steinberg.  “Whether it’s a piece of their favorite candy or a hug from an embraceable polar bear, we hope to provide a smile-inducing environment with some magical memories for the little ones in our neighborhood.”

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

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Fireflies Reading Program Receives National Recognition

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The American Association of School Librarians (AASL) has awarded the Columbia Fireflies Reading Program – an incentive-based literacy initiative presented by Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital – a certificate of commendation as an outstanding program deserving of recognition at the national level.

The Reading Program was created to encourage and enhance literacy among the youth of the Midlands. The program is completely free to students and educators. During the academic year, the program is run through schools, and, during the summer months, the program continues through local libraries. Students are required to reach goals set by educators while they “Read Around the Bases,” creating a customizable incentive-based program to encourage children to read. Each student’s progress is tracked, and once they make it to “Home Plate” (complete the program), students are rewarded with a complimentary ticket to a Fireflies game, a voucher for a free meal, a special gift from the Fireflies and a free ticket to EdVenture Children’s Museum.

“The Columbia Fireflies are proud to have been honored with this formal commendation for our efforts to enhance literacy through our Reading Program,” said Fireflies team President John Katz. “Our partnership with Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital has been instrumental in our ability to grow so rapidly and to impact the lives of so many children.”

In just the second year of the program, the Fireflies reached over 65,000 students from 153 schools during the spring session, and nearly 25,000 more this summer through 4 county libraries, the YMCA and other child-centric organizations.

Kyle Williamson, the Fireflies Reading Program Manager, works closely with educators and librarians to provide children across the Midlands with incentives to hit their reading goals, develop a love for reading and for the use of information technologies. After summer break, the Reading Program had been implemented across the region in Richland, Lexington, Oconee, Newberry, Fairfield, Lancaster, Kershaw, Florence, Williamsburg, Calhoun, Sumter, Orangeburg, Beaufort, and Barnwell Counties.

“Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital firmly believes in the importance of literacy. Reading is a strong component of children’s ability to grow and understand the world around them. Forming a partnership with the Fireflies reading program is another way of being an advocate for children and their overall well-being that helps our entire community,” said Diane Bagnal-Moody, administrative director of Children’s Hospital.

Delegates of the AASL Affiliate Assembly nominate specific programs across the country, and the South Carolina Association of School Librarians delegate, Cindy Symonds, brought the Fireflies’ efforts to the national stage.

The Fireflies kicked off the program at the local schools and libraries with Mason, the team’s mascot, making an appearance to get the children excited about reading. Fireflies players joined in after the season began and would head out in their uniforms and read with students at various schools.

The mission of AASL is to empower leaders to transform teaching and learning. Audrey Church, president of AASL, explained that this group works to ensure that all members of the school library field collaborate to connect learners with ideas and information to prepare students for life-long learning and informed decision-making.

Enrollment for the 2018 Fireflies Reading Program begins on Friday, October 27th at 9am. Visit ColumbiaFireflies.com for more details.

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