Sounds, Partners Collaborate To Support Breastfeeding

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Nashville Sounds, in conjunction with several Metro Nashville departments, community partners, and the Tennessee Titans, have collaborated on a Public Investment Plan (PIP) to purchase two mobile lactation units which will be used at Sounds games, Titans games and events, and other Metro events beginning in late August.

The groups will host a ribbon cutting ceremony for the pods prior to the Sounds’ game on Tuesday, August 29 at First Tennessee Park. Speakers from the Mayor’s Office, Metro Public Health Department, and Metro Sports Authority will participate in the program.

This event is open to the public but they must purchase a Sounds ticket, as the pod is located on the concourse of First Tennessee Park.

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WHO: Mayor’s Office of Special Events, Metro Sports Authority, Metro Public Health Department, Nashville Sounds, Tennessee Titans, Baby + Co., Southern Blood Services, Nashville Breastfeeding Coalition

WHAT: Ribbon-cutting for new Mamava pod (mobile lactation unit) at First Tennessee Park; this project was one of the funded Metro Public Investment Plans (PIPs) for FY2018. Another pod is joining later this year at Nissan Stadium; during sports off-seasons, pods will travel to some community events.

WHEN: Tuesday, August 29, 2017

6:15 pm – Open House / Media Interviews

6:30 pm – Ceremony Begins

7:00 pm – Ceremonial First Pitch

WHERE: First Tennessee Park, 19 Junior Gilliam Way, Nashville, TN 37219

WHY: The purpose of this Public Investment Plan is to provide a supportive environment for breastfeeding women visiting Nissan Stadium, First Tennessee Park, and Metro-sponsored special events.

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

NYPL Charitable Foundation Awards Scholarship to Local Student

The New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation has announced the recipients of over $10,000 in scholarships this summer to deserving high school graduates from the league’s 14 markets.

The Williamsport Crosscutters are proud to announce that Williamsport High School graduate Kara Hershey has been awarded a $2,500 scholarship. Kara will be attending Clarion University this fall, majoring in Chemistry.

Also receiving $2,500 scholarship awards were Akash Mishra (Connecticut Tigers) and Noah Land

(Mahoning Valley Scrappers). Ten other students from various league markets received $250 awards.

Now in its ninth year, the 2017 NYPL Scholarship Contest is open to any graduating senior from a public or private high school within the league’s footprint. Any student who has been accepted at a two- or four-year college or university, vocational school, or technical education institution is eligible. Applicants are judged based on academic performance, volunteer and extracurricular activities, and the impact their local NYPL club and Minor League Baseball have had on their lives.

 

“The New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation and our 14 member clubs are pleased to have the opportunity to assist outstanding high school seniors within our league’s footprint for the ninth consecutive season,” said Ben J. Hayes, President of the New York-Penn League. “This program recognizes those seniors who not only meet and exceed traditional scholarship criteria, but demonstrate the positive community impact and lifelong memories fostered by their local NYPL clubs throughout the year.”

The New York-Penn League created the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation, a 501(c) (3) charitable organization, in 2003. The mission of the Foundation is to provide focus and support for the collective and individual charitable and community efforts of the New York-Penn League, its Clubs, and their staff.

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

RCS Pinellas and the Threshers Hit a Home Run for Families in Need

CLEARWATER, Fla. – RCS Pinellas and the Clearwater Threshers are teaming up to serve families and those in need in Pinellas County. On Monday, August 14, Threshers players will be volunteering at the RCS Food Bank in Clearwater in support of the RCS mission to feed the hungry, help families facing homelessness return to self-sufficiency, and empower survivors of domestic violence.

“How incredibly generous and kind of the Threshers to take time away from their busy season to join us in our daily fight against hunger in our community,” said Kirk Ray Smith, BHS, MHS President and CEO, RCS Pinellas. “Here at RCS Pinellas, we depend on the help of over 2,500 volunteers each year to accomplish our mission. Without individuals and groups like the Threshers there would be no RCS. The real home run is seeing children and families run home with a bag full of groceries!”

As members of the Philadelphia Phillies minor-league system, Threshers players participate in the Step Up Community Service Program – which provides opportunities to volunteer and encourages the young athletes to give back to their local communities. The partnership of RCS and the Threshers represents the service-minded goals of both organizations.

The programs at RCS Pinellas include:

RCS Food Bank – provides nutritious food to our Pinellas County neighbors who need help stretching their grocery budget.

RCS Grace House – helps individuals and families facing homelessness return to self-sufficiency. We provide families with 8 weeks of apartment style housing and other wrap-around services.

RCS Thrift Store – provides high quality shopping experiences for our community and program participants at little or no cost.

The Haven of RCS – provides safety, security and support for women and children facing domestic abuse.

Find out more about RCS Pinellas at rcspinellas.org.  

South Bend Cubs announce 2017 college scholarship winners

SOUTH BEND, Ind. – Five college-bound high school softball and baseball players from across northern Indiana and southwestern lower Michigan have each earned a $5,000 scholarship from the South Bend Cubs.

To be considered for the scholarship, senior applicants had to graduate in spring 2017, be an active participant in an organized softball or baseball program and live in one of the 11 counties surrounding Four Winds Field in downtown South Bend.

When announcing the scholarship opportunity in the spring, South Bend Cubs Chairman and Owner Andrew T. Berlin said the scholarships demonstrate support not just of softball and baseball, but also the team’s commitment to the future leaders of the region. The application process opened in April.

“After a good amount of deliberation over a stellar applicant pool, today we can finally announce this year’s list of winners,” Berlin said. “These athletes represent the best in our region. They not only have the characteristics needed to succeed in softball and baseball, they’re making an impact off the field. It’s our hope that these scholarships will help them become the bright leaders of our future.”

The 2017 South Bend Cubs Scholarship winners:

  • Nikolos Kavadas , Penn High School
  • Halle Meredith, John Adams High School
  • Samantha Luzadre, Buchanan High School
  • Mattie Reese, John Glenn High school
  • Andrew Samuelson, LaPorte High School

“These five students are proven leaders,” said Joe Hart, President of the South Bend Cubs. “For this application process, we asked them to submit an essay, demonstrating why they deserved this. The answers blew us away. Some were deeply personal, others were motivational. Truly these are all great young people who we’re proud to award scholarships.”

All five scholarship winners will be recognized at the South Bend Cubs home game at Four Winds Field on Saturday, August 12.

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

Five August Promotions Added to Impact Community

Bear Up on Missouri State Bears Night – Saturday, August 19

The Cardinals are excited to “Bear Up” this year and are excited to host Missouri State Bears Night on Saturday, August 19 to help get everyone ready for the fall sports schedule.

As part of Missouri State Bears Night, the Cardinals are going to show their MSU support by wearing Missouri State Bears Specialty Cardinals Jerseys during that night’s game against the Corpus Christi Hooks. Not only a first-time co-branded and game-worn collectible item, the specialty jerseys will be auctioned off during the game to benefit the Foundation for Springfield Public Schools.

Cardinals and Bears fans can also show their Springfield sports pride with the Missouri State Bears Theme Ticket. Rescheduled from the rained out game on April 29, the Cardinals and Bears Theme Ticket includes one seat to the 6:10pm game on August 19 and a co-branded Cardinals cap with the Bears logo on the back, all for only $15.

For more information on Missouri State Bears Night at Hammons Field on Saturday, August 19, call the Cardinals Front Office at (417) 863-0395.

Click here to order your Missouri State Bears Theme Ticket right now.

Get Four Free Tickets with Cardinals Kids Fun & Fit Day, presented by Anthem – Saturday, August 19

In an effort to promote the fun of a fit and healthy lifestyle among young Cardinals fans throughout the Ozarks, the Springfield Cardinals are excited to partner with Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield to present the Cardinals Kids Fun & Fit Day on Saturday, August 19.

Cardinals Kids Fun & Fit Day, presented by Anthem, will run from 9 – 11am on Saturday, August 19. All kids are welcome to come to Hammons Field during that time to participate in a fun fitness course on the field.

All kids that complete the fitness course will receive four free tickets to their choice of one game from a list of select 2017 Regular Season games. All kids that participate will also receive a complimentary Springfield Cardinals Cap and more.

There is no charge for kids to participate in the Cardinals Kids Fun & Fit Day on Saturday, August 19. For more information, call the Cardinals Front Office at (417) 863-0395.

St. Louis Cardinals Ticket Voucher Giveaway & Matt Gifford Day – Sunday, August 20

To celebrate the contributions and impacts that former Springfield Cardinals Vice President / General Manager Matt Gifford made at the ballpark and throughout the community, the Springfield Cardinals are excited to host Matt Gifford Day on Sunday, August 20.

The first Vice President / General Manager in team history, Matt guided the Springfield Cardinals to 12 and a half years of excellence on and off the field before being promoted by the St. Louis Cardinals to Vice President of Stadium Operations at Busch Stadium on June 20, 2017.

The Sunday, August 20 game will also feature an added giveaway to the Promotional Schedule – the St. Louis Cardinals 2018 Ticket Voucher Giveaway (2,000), giving fans the opportunity to see Matt at Busch Stadium next year.

With so many relationships developed throughout the years, Sunday, August 20 will celebrate Matt and give fans the chance to wish him luck in his new role at Busch Stadium. Leading up to Matt Gifford Day, fans are welcome to sign a “Thank You, Matt” banner at the ballpark during every game throughout the August 15 – 20 Homestand. Then on Sunday, August 20, the 2:10pm game will be preceded by special ceremonies at Hammons Field to recognize Matt’s contributions to the Springfield community.

For more information on Matt Gifford Day at Hammons Field, call the Cardinals Front Office at (417) 863-0395.

Family 4-Pack is back for Sunday, August 20

After great response in July, the Cardinals are excited to bring back the Family 4-Pack for the Sunday, August 20 game, providing a new way for families to make memories at Hammons Field.

Available right now for the Sunday, August 20 game, the Family 4-Pack includes:

-4 Seats for the Sunday, August 20 game
-4 Hot Dogs
-4 Cardinals Caps
-4 Sodas
-All for just $44!

Add-ons to the 4-Pack are just $11 for those with more than four fans in their families. Family 4-Packs for Sunday, August 20 are available right now by clicking the link below or calling the Ticket Office at (417) 863-2143. Sunday, August 20 is also Matt Gifford Day with the St. Louis Cardinals 2018 Ticket Voucher Giveaway for 2,000 fans. That Sunday is also a Hiland Dairy Ice Cream Sunday with free ice cream for kids before the game and Kids Run the Bases after the game. First Pitch is 2:10pm with gates opening at 1:10pm.

Click here to order your Family 4-Pack for Sunday, August 20 right now.

Newborns in Need Baby Supplies and Diaper Drive – Sunday, August 27

For their third charitable drive of the month, the Springfield Cardinals are excited to partner with Newborns in Need to host the Baby Supplies and Diaper Drive at Hammons Field.

Running right now through the Sunday, August 27 game at Hammons Field, the Cardinals are seeking donations of new baby supplies and diapers. All fans that donate from the list of needed baby supplies below may purchase a discounted $1 ticket to the August 27 game for each item donated.

Below is a list of needed baby supplies for the Newborns in Need Drive:

-Diapers
-Pacifiers
-Bottles
-Baby Lotion
-Baby Shampoo
-Baby Wash
-70-80 count Baby Wipes
-Baby Socks
-Newborn or Preemie sized Onesies
-Baby Board Books

To donate, please bring your new baby supplies from the above list to the Cardinals Ticket Office at Gate 1 at Hammons Field. The Ticket Office is open from 9am – 5pm, Monday – Friday, and from 9am through the game on gamedays.

First Pitch on Sunday, August 27 is 2:10pm with gates opening at 1:10pm. That Sunday is also a Hiland Dairy Ice Cream Sunday with free ice cream for kids before the game. All kids can then run the bases after the game.

For more information, call the Front Office at (417) 863-0395 or visit SpringfieldCardinals.com.

1987 National League Championship Replica Rings, Charlie Brown Bobbleheads, Friday Night Fireworks and more during August 15 – 20 Homestand

The Cardinals kick off the road trip in San Antonio at 7:05pm on Tuesday night. Catch all the action live on Jock 98.7 FM and SpringfieldCardinals.com, and tune in 15 minutes early for the Coyote’s Sports Cafe Pregame Show.

Springfield then returns home for the next fun-filled homestand from Tuesday, August 15 – Sunday, August 20. Don’t miss any of the upcoming fun, including:

-Tuesday, August 15, 6:30pm – Great Southern Bank $1 Dog Day. Gates open at 5:30pm.

-Wednesday, August 16, 6:30pm – Wednesday Night Baseball vs. San Antonio Missions. Gates open at 5:30pm.

-Thursday, August 17, 7:10pm – St. Louis Cardinals Replica 1987 National League Championship Ring Giveaway (2,000) and Klement’s “Buck a Brat” Night. Gates open at 6:10pm.

-Friday, August 18, 7:10pm – AM Pyrotechnics Friday Night Fireworks highlighting 20th Anniversary of 1997 Hits. Gates open at 6:10pm.

-Saturday, August 19, 6:10pm – St. Louis Cardinals Charlie Brown & Peanuts 50th Anniversary Bobblehead Giveaway (2,000). Gates open at 5:10pm.

-Sunday, August 20, 2:10pm – Matt Gifford Day with the St. Louis Cardinals 2018 Ticket Voucher Giveaway (2,000), Hiland Dairy Ice Cream Sunday and Kids Run the Bases. Gates open at 1:10pm.

For information about becoming a Season Ticket Holder, organizing a Group Outing, booking a Birthday Party or ordering Individual Game Tickets right now, call the Front Office at (417) 863-2143 or visit SpringfieldCardinals.com.

Click here for the complete 2017 Promotional Schedule and to order your tickets right now.

Escape to Cardinals Baseball!

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

Summer Reading All-Stars Celebrated on Sunday

This weekend’s homestand at Fluor Field concludes on Sunday afternoon as the Drive and Michelin, N.A. host the Summer Reading All-Stars Celebration Game!

First pitch between the Drive and Rome Braves is set for 4:05 PM, and the fun for Reading All-Stars begins when the gates open at 3:00. Summer Reading All-Stars from the library systems of Greenville, Anderson and Pickens Counties will receive a complimentary t-shirt as they arrive, and they will be celebrated with a pregame parade around the warning track at 3:30.

Following the game, all children, including Reading All-Stars, are invited to join in for BlueCross BlueShield Kids Run the Bases!

Be sure to come out on Sunday to celebrate these students for continuing their reading programs during the summer. To purchase tickets, head to the Main Street Box Office, call (864) 240-4528 or CLICK HERE.

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

Muckdogs Announce Youth Baseball Clinic

Join us at Dwyer Stadium August 30th for our youth baseball clinic!

Kids ages 6-14 will receive a day of on-field instruction from the Muckdogs players and coaches on August 30th from 9 am – 1 pm. Children will learn from the pros in the areas of hitting, fielding, pitching, catching, base running and bunting. Then later that evening, campers will be able to come back to Dwyer for a private autograph signing with the team 30 minutes before the gates open (5:30 pm) and then be recognized on the field prior to the Muckdogs game vs. the Mahoning Valley Scrappers (Cleveland Indians affiliate).

Campers will also receive a special t-shirt not available in the team store, a clinic photo, two tickets to the August 30th game, as well as lunch, all for only $40. Registration forms are available at Dwyer Stadium and online at muckdogs.com. Space is limited and all registrations and payments must be turned in by Monday, August 21st. 

Download registration form here. 

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

Tampa Yankees Announce HOPE Week 2017

TAMPA, Fla. – The Tampa Yankees will participate in HOPE Week (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) from Tuesday, August 8th through Saturday, August 12th, 2017.

HOPE Week is a community program, created by the New York Yankees in 2009, designed to bring to light five remarkable stories intended to inspire individuals into action in their own communities. The initiative is based on the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope and encouragement to more than the recipient of the gesture. Visit www.hopeweek.com for more information.

Throughout HOPE Week, the Tampa Yankees will reach out to individuals, families and organizations worthy of recognition and support, surprising honorees with a day celebrating their accomplishments.

Tuesday, August 8th – The Tampa Yankees will attend the Lighthouse Center for Creative Learning (a school for children with autism) and hang out with kids, including playing catch and reading, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Students and families from the center are invited to attend the 7:00 p.m. game vs. the Clearwater Threshers and take the field with the T-Yanks as part of the Baseball Buddies Program.

The Lighthouse Center for Creative Learning has been “helping students find their way for more than 15 years!” For more information, visit www.come2lighthouse.com.

Wednesday, August 9th – The Tampa Yankees will visit A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay and hang out with the kids, playing games from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

“A Kid’s Place provides residential services to children from birth to age 18, who have been removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect or abandonment and to provide a variety of services which meet the social, educational, medical, and psychological needs of the child.” – www.akidsplacetb.org.

Thursday, August 10th – The Tampa Yankees plan to visit Trinity Café and assist in serving lunch from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Trinity Café opened in 2001. Its mission is “to restore a sense of dignity to the homeless & hungry while serving a nutritious meal. We faithfully treat all of God’s children with dignity, compassion, love, and respect.” – www.trinitycafe.org.

Friday, August 11th – The Make-A-Wish Foundation will attend the 7:00 p.m. game between the Tampa Yankees and St. Lucie Mets and accept donations. The foundation will also participate in the Baseball Buddies Program, giving kids the opportunity to go on the field and meet players. A representative from the Make-A-Wish Foundation will throw out the ceremonial first pitch. More information about the Make-A-Wish Foundation can be found at www.wish.org.

Saturday, August 12th – HOPE Week will conclude with the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation’s “Cut for a Cure” campaign as well as “Blue’s Back to School Party.”

Tampa Yankees players, staff and fans will be able to help pediatric cancer research by having their heads shaved, beginning at 5:00 p.m. Pediatric cancer survivors will be on hand to shave the heads of participants and will then get to participate in the Baseball Buddies program prior to the 6:30 p.m. game vs. the St. Lucie Mets. Click here for more information and to donate to “Cut for a Cure.”

Fans are also invited to join Blue for a back-to-school party. The first 1,000 kids 14-and-younger will receive a T-Yanks drawstring bag, courtesy of OneMain Financial. The night will end with a post-game fireworks show.

To purchase single game tickets, fans can visit the George M. Steinbrenner Field Box Office or go online to www.tybaseball.com. Tickets start at $5 for upper reserved seating, $8 for lower reserved seating, and parking is always free.

The Tampa Yankees are the Single-A Advanced Affiliate of the New York Yankees. For more information, call (813) 673-3055 or visit www.tybaseball.com.

Tides to renovate youth field in the fall

The Norfolk Tides today announced the return of a contest in which a local youth field will be renovated by Tides groundskeepers and front office staff. Proudly presented by Orkin, this field makeover will include an upgrade to the playing surface and an improvement to existing dugouts, with the recipient of the makeover being determined by a fan vote on the Tides’ Facebook page.

“We’re thrilled to be able to add an additional field renovation to our schedule this year” said Tides General Manager Joe Gregory. “We’ve had such phenomenal success with this program in the spring that we decided to add another field makeover in the fall, and our entire organization is looking forward to helping out another worthy community.”

Those interested in having the Tides make over their facility should submit a picture of their field to Heather McKeating at HMckeating@norfolktides.com. 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 August 18, with online voting taking place on the Tides’ Facebook page from August 21-25.

2017 is the sixth year the Tides have renovated a local youth field. Since the program was introduced in 2012, the Tides have renovated nine 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) and Surry County Pony Baseball (Surry).

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.

Volunteers from Safelite AutoGlass will join the Tides staff in assisting with the field renovation efforts, which will take place in late September.

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

Florida State League/Miami Marlins Scholarship Winners Announced

FORT MYERS, Fla. (August 1, 2017) – The Fort Myers Miracle, Advanced-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins, are proud to announce Mason Wilbanks as their 2017 Florida State League/Miami Marlins Scholarship Award winner. This is the eighteenth (18) straight year for the program, and it is funded by the Miami Marlins and the Florida State League. Each scholarship has a monetary value of $1,500 and is presented to a student employee, child or grandchild of an employee. A total of 216 scholarships have been awarded to qualified applicants since the inception of the program.

“This program is intended to encourage and reward our college summer interns by reinforcing to them that education is key to success in life with or without baseball,” stated Miracle Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer Ben Hemmen. “We thank the Miami Marlins for providing a generous contribution to the Florida State League scholarship program and hope to see this partnership continued for many years to come.”

A rising senior at Florida Gulf Coast University, Mason came to Hammond Stadium each day with a smile on his face and a willingness to help the team in every way possible throughout the summer. He has been a part of the intern team since 2015 when he worked during the Twins’ Spring Training season. The native of Fleming Beach, Florida and graduate of Fleming Beach High School is expected to graduate from FGCU in the spring of 2018 with a degree in Business Management with a Sports Concentration.

“I am blessed and grateful for the opportunities the Fort Myers Miracle have given me,” said Wilbanks. “I would like to thank the Florida State League and the Miracle for selecting me for such a prestigious award. It has truly been a beneficial experience that will be useful as I pursue future endeavors.”

All winners were guests at Marlins Park on July 30, 2017 and were recognized in an on-field pregame introduction before the Miami Marlins took on the Cincinnati Reds. Wilbanks was joined by the following 2017 winners from around the Florida State League:

Bradenton Marauders: Joseph Schneider

Charlotte Stone Crabs: Mackenna Stella Radunz

Clearwater Threshers: Cameron Soltau

Daytona Tortugas: Cameron Wood/Anderson Rathbun

Dunedin Blue Jays: Kelsey McIntosh

Fort Myers Miracle: Mason Wilbanks

Jupiter Hammerheads: Feliciano Grimaldo

Lakeland Flying Tigers: Lexi Hicks

Palm Beach Cardinals: Kyle Nagy

St. Lucie Mets: Mario Pietroluongo

Tampa Yankees: Lyndsay Kane

To stay up to date on upcoming promotional nights, follow the Miracle online at Miraclebaseball.com or through social media; Twitter: @MiracleBaseball, Instagram: fortmyersmiracle, Facebook: Fort Myers Miracle, Snapchat: ftmyersmiracle. To purchase tickets, visit MiracleBaseball.com/tickets. For information or questions regarding the 2017 25th Anniversary Season, call the Miracle offices at (239) 768-4210.

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

Florida State League Announces Annual Scholarship Winners

Tampa, FL. – The Tampa Yankees, in conjunction with the Florida State League and the Miami Marlins, are pleased to announce Lyndsay Kane as their 2017 scholarship award winner. The Florida State League Scholarship committee award 12 individuals with educational scholarships. The committee approved the awards after a review of the applications submitted by all the Florida State League teams.

Lyndsay Kane is currently enrolled at the University of South Florida where she is pursuing a degree in Nursing and has a 3.7 GPA. She previously attended Palm Harbor University in the medical magnet program for High School and then went to St. Petersburg College for one year. This is Lyndsay’s 5th season working the Tampa Yankees.

Lyndsay was honored at the Tampa Yankees home game on July 15th at George M. Steinbrenner Field. In addition, she was introduced during a pre-game ceremony at the Miami Marlins game on Sunday, July 30th along with the other Florida State League teams’ award winners.

The Miami Marlins/Florida State League scholarship program is awarded to students that are an employee of, or the child or grandchild of an employee of the participating club and must be at least a high school junior by the 2018 fall term. The Miami Marlins have sponsored this program for the past seventeen years and have contributed over $160,000 to the Florida State Program.

The Tampa Yankees are the Single-A Advanced affiliate of the New York Yankees. For more information on the Tampa Yankees visit www.tybaseball.com or call (813) 673-3055.

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

Ashley HomeStore Donates 50 Mattress Sets

CORPUS CHRISTI — Ashley Furniture HomeStore’s “A Hope to Dream” program is donating 50 Tempur-Pedic mattress sets to local children in need during August. The furniture retailer’s goodwill project is in collaboration with the Corpus Christ Hooks Baseball Club.

Each mattress set is comprised of a mattress, foundation, and comforter.

Local partnerships with The Food Bank of Corpus Christi, KIII-TV3, KRIS-TV, The Beach 96.5, Hot Z95, Post Acute Medical, Colon and Rectal Associates of South Texas, the American Red Cross, and others are providing other donated items for 50 children to help them prepare for the 2017-18 school year.

Youngsters selected to receive a new bed will be treated to an evening at Whataburger Field and special night with the Hooks on Saturday, August 12.

“This event will be our largest single-day donation with our “A Hope to Dream” program,” said Paige Streiff, Owner of the Corpus Christi Ashley Furniture HomeStore. “As a mother of two young children, I witness first-hand what having a bed of their own and a quality night’s sleep can do for these developmental years. Obtaining a great night of sleep promotes a healthy lifestyle and is an excellent way to start out everyone’s day.”

Said Dr. Craig Bennett, M.D. of Ashley’s Wellness Center: “An estimated 30 to 50 percent of children have trouble sleeping well. Getting a good night’s sleep is more important than most people realize. It helps ensure a healthy lifestyle by lowering stress and reducing the risk for illness and depression, while improving cognitive and physical performance. A good night’s sleep is especially important to help children focus academically and grow socially.”

Ashley Furniture HomeStore’s “A Hope to Dream” program was created to provide mattress sets to children with a demonstrated need.

A Hope to Dream

Ashley Furniture HomeStore believes that every child deserves a good night’s sleep. Founded in 2010 on that guiding principle, Ashley Furniture HomeStore’s “A Hope to Dream” program provides mattress sets to less fortunate children in our area. A portion of the proceeds for every mattress purchased at the Ashley Furniture HomeStores in Victoria and Corpus Christi helps pay for a mattress set for a child in need. To date, Ashley Furniture HomeStores throughout the U.S. have together provided underprivileged children with approximately 13,000 beds. Those wishing to nominate a child can visit http://www.ashleyfurniturehomestore.com/events/ahopetodream.html or request an electronic application by emailing AHopeToDream@ashleyfurniture.com. In-store applications are also available at participating locations.

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

Boy Scout Night at Fluor Field on Wednesday

The final game of the homestand is on tap for Wednesday at 7:05 PM as the Drive host Boy Scout Night presented by Duke Energy.

The fun begins with a pregame parade on the field for Upstate Boy Scout troops at 6:30 PM. The Boy Scouts will be recognized for their hard work this past year with a special commemorative patch, and they will get to participate in between-inning games and entertainment. Following the game, Boy Scouts will be invited to camp out in the outfield.

Be sure to come out to Fluor Field on Wednesday to celebrate the Boy Scouts for their outstanding accomplishments this year and cheer on the Drive! Purchase your tickets at the Main Street Box Office, by calling (864) 240-4528 or by CLICKING HERE.

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

SUNDAY: $5 OFF tickets, Merchandise discount with ‘Say Yes’ Dorm Room Drive Donations

Senator Tim Kennedy (D-Buffalo) joined representatives from Say Yes Buffalo, the Buffalo Bisons, and local community leaders at Coca-Cola Field Friday to announce a new partnership designed to equip Buffalo’s neediest scholars with necessities to succeed as they pursue higher education. As part of the Bisons’ Sunday afternoon game against Louisville fans are encouraged to bring school supplies to donate to Say Yes’ Dorm Room Drive; for every donation made, attendees will receive $5 off each ticket purchased, along with a voucher for 20% off merchandise in either of the two Bisons gift shops.

The Bisons game against the Louisville Bats will begin at 1:05 p.m. on Sunday. Fans wishing to make a Say Yes donation can do so starting at 11:30 a.m. outside the ticket office.

Kennedy partnered with Say Yes to launch the drive in 2016 after learning that despite receiving free access to higher education, many Say Yes scholars can’t sustain enrollment due to a lack of tools needed to succeed, including school supplies, bedding, and other basic toiletries. According to Say Yes, approximately 50% of scholars have a combined family income below $25,000, and 70% are below $55,000, leaving many facing extreme poverty. Kennedy, Say Yes, and the Buffalo Bisons are hopeful Sunday’s gameday drive will help send scholars into their first semesters fully prepared.

“Say Yes has been a fantastic advocate for the students of Buffalo who do not have the means to attain a higher education. Last year, our Dorm Room Drive was met with an incredible response from the community, with hundreds of people stepping up to help our students who need it most. I’m thrilled that the Buffalo Bisons have joined our drive this year, demonstrating once again their commitment to Buffalo’s youth,” said Senator Kennedy. “The City of Good Neighbors has lived up to its name time and time again, and when it comes to supporting our students, I know this drive will be no different. Please come out and enjoy a great game of baseball with family and friends this weekend, and know that your donation will go a long way towards helping Buffalo’s next generation succeed.”

“The Bisons organization is proud to support the vital work that Say Yes Buffalo is doing to keep the future bright for so many young scholars in our area. Bisons fans have always stepped to the plate when it comes to giving back to the community and we’re looking forward to a fantastic afternoon at Coca-Cola Field on Sunday,” said Mike Buczkowski, Vice President/General Manager of the Buffalo Bisons.

“We are grateful for Senator Kennedy’s leadership in mobilizing our community to respond to the needs of our scholars,” said David Rust, Say Yes Buffalo Executive Director. “The needs of our students go beyond tuition and we are thankful to everyone who participates and donates to this drive.”

“I applaud the efforts of Mayor Brown, Senator Kennedy, Say Yes to Education and the Buffalo Bisons. They recognized an existing gap with our scholars as it relates to room and board, toiletries, and other personal items and are working to eliminate it. While unable to physically be there today, I am very supportive of this drive and have a donation collection basket outside of my office. Thank you to our sponsors and congratulations to our students,” said Assemblywoman Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes.

The Dorm Room Drive is currently underway across WNY, and extends beyond school supplies. A full list of the type of essentials needed is included below:

Laundry Kit – Laundry soap, hangers, fabric softener, laundry bag, and laundry basket.

Personal Care Kit – Shampoo, conditioner, razors, shaving cream, soap, brush, towels, washcloths, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shower shoes, and shower caddy.

Dorm Room Bedding Kit – Bed in a Bag set (for a male or female) that includes fitted sheet, flat sheet, comforter, and pillowcases plus a mattress cover and pillow. Please note: sheet size must be Twin XL to fit a standard dorm room mattress.

School Supplies Kit – Pens, pencils, notebooks, folders, binders, USB cord adapters, printer paper, index cards, post-it notes, dividers, and a heavy-duty backpack.

Donations can also be dropped off at the following locations:

· Senator Tim Kennedy’s Office – 2239 South Park Ave.
· Say Yes Buffalo’s Office – 712 Main St.
· City Hall (Lobby & Basement) – 65 Niagara Square.
· Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes’ Office – Compass East Building Lobby 425 Michigan Ave.
· Senator Chris Jacobs‘ Office – 65 Court Street, Rm 213
· Erie County Legislator Barbara Miller-Williams’ Office – 427 William St.
· North Buffalo Community Center – 203 Sanders Rd.
· Rich Products Corporation – 1 Robert Rich Way
· Larkin Square, Main Lobby – 726 Exchange St.
· CAO: Masten Resource Center – 1423 Fillmore Ave.
· Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo – 726 Exchange St.
· Buffalo Urban League – 15 Genessee St.
· Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church – 400 Northampton St.
· St. Paul’s, Clarence – 4275 Harris Hill Rd., Williamsville
· Cazenovia Neighborhood Library – 155 Cazenovia St.
· Child & Family Services – 844 Delaware Ave.
· The Resource Council of WNY – 347 E. Ferry St.

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

Muse Machine Named 2017 Community All-Star

The Dragons and Vectren will honor Muse Machine during the unique “Community All-Stars” program on Monday, July 24, at 7:00 p.m. when the Dayton Dragons take on the Burlington Bees at Fifth Third Field.

The Dayton community is a great place to live, work and play. But what makes Dayton truly great are the people that call Dayton home. We have great people and great organizations in our community that do incredible things each and every day. Throughout the season, the Dragons and Vectren will honor five “All-Stars” with a special inning break tribute in recognition of their service.

Muse Machine’s Story

Muse Machine is an arts education organization that uses the arts to enrich the educational experiences of children in 109 schools. The organization was founded by Suzy Bassani in 1982, after she noticed that the audience at most performances in theaters and other similar venues lacked young people

Participating schools receive multiple performances in their schools and discounted tickets to shows in Dayton and around the country. Students at Muse schools have the opportunity to audition for the organization’s productions and to attend workshops with well-known performers. Teachers from Muse-participating schools can attend year-round professional development programs offered by Muse.

Mary Campbell Zopf, the executive director of the organization since 2014, explained that the program always aims for the highest quality of work, while never forgetting about the capacity for arts to bring joy to children. “Muse Machine opens the door to artistic experiences and the power they can have on someone’s life,” said Campbell Zopf.

Later this summer, the Suzy Bassani Theater Off Third will open inside the newly renovated downtown branch of the Dayton Metro Library. This addition will make Muse Machine programming available to local children with a library card, making it easier for kids to get arts-related experiences outside of school.

Initially, the program was part of 22 schools in the Dayton area. Now in its 35th year of existence, Muse Machine serves more than 72,000 preschool through high school students in 12 counties across Central and Western Ohio, and now also in Kentucky. For more information on the program visit www.musemachine.com.

For making a difference in the community, Muse Machine has been selected as a Dragons Community All-Star. The program honors those that have gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley.

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program is made possible by the generous support of Vectren. For more information or to nominate an All-Star in your life, visit daytondragons.com/communityallstar.

More Information: The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling (937) 228-2287, by email at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com.

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