PawSox Welcome Families and Children to Trick or Treat at McCoy Stadium on Halloween

The Pawtucket Red Sox invite families and children to Trick or Treat on Halloween at McCoy Stadium from 3:30-6:30 p.m. The free event on Monday, October 31, includes candy, the opportunity to meet Paws and Sox, as well as the music and décor of the season.

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

“This gesture is one small way to say ‘Thank-you’ to our neighbors,” said PawSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “We are pleased to provide a clean, safe, place for children to dress up, meet their favorite mascots, and receive their precious treats-without any tricks. We may even have a prize or two for exceptionally-creative costumes.”

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

Dream League Field comes to Berks County

Reading, Pa., Oct. 26, 2016 – Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League, a non-profit organization based in Reading, Pa., raised more than $650,000 towards building Berks County’s first baseball field for special needs players at their kick off Diamonds and Dreams Dinner Under the Stars event hosted by the Reading Fightin Phils at FirstEnergy Stadium on Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016.

At the Diamonds and Dreams Dinner Under the Stars event, the 300 community and business leaders in attendance were introduced to 11 of the leagues’ future players and treated to meals from four of the area’s finest chefs including: Chef Brad Fisher from Berkshire Country Club, Chef Tim Twiford from the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Chef Dave Brennan from Panevino, and Chef Devin Schwartz & Owner Operator George Zeppos from Willoughby’s on Park. Proceeds from the event will help build the Baseballtown Dream League’s Savage 61 Field of Dreams complex custom-designed for those with physical and developmental disabilities.

“Parents of special needs players in the Miracle League in Lehigh County tell us how their children live for the days when they’re playing baseball. But for many families, the distance to the Lehigh County fields is inaccessible,” said Chuck Domino, president of Baseballtown Charities. “We’re thrilled to partner with the Reading Fightin Phils and community leaders to be able to support the first special needs field in Berks County that can serve families in Greater Reading and surrounding areas.”

Baseballtown Charities was established in 2002 and has since raised more than $1 million to build Gordon Hoodak Stadium, a field of dreams in the heart of inner-city Reading, which has provided more than 1,000 boys and girls who otherwise might not have had the opportunity with a chance to participate in the game. Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League recently expanded its campaign to give those with physical and developmental disabilities the same chance to experience the magic of baseball and thrill of playing on the diamond through custom-designed, turf fields that accommodate wheelchairs and other assertive devices while helping to prevent injuries.

The Savage 61 Field of Dreams is slated to open Fall 2017. Baseballtown Charities will continue to raise funds to support the Baseballtown Dream League complex. Baseball town is also recruiting community members to serve as volunteer “angels” to assist Dream League players at every game.

Parents and community members interested in signing up children, volunteering or donating can email Baseballtown Charities at baseballtown@fightins.com for more information.

About Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League

Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in Reading, Pa. that focuses on making dreams come true one pitch at a time. The Savage 61 Field of Dreams will be constructed at Relevant Sports Complex in Temple, Pa. Since 2002, Baseballtown Charities has worked to build inclusive baseball diamonds as well as bonds between players, teammates and supportive communities. For more information, visit www.baseballtowndreamleague.com.

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

Delmarva’s Largest Safe & Free Trick-or-Treat Event is Back for 10th Year

SALISBURY, Md. (October 18, 2016) – The 10th annual Trick-or-Treat Street, Delmarva’s largest safe and free trick-or-treating event, returns to Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury on Sunday, October 23, 2016 from Noon to 3:00 PM. The event is hosted by local radio stations Froggy 99.9, Q105, KISS 95.9, and Magic 98.9 in partnership with Delmarva Dental Services, Easter Seals Children’s Therapy Services, Farmer’s Bank of Willards, Sherwood of Salisbury, and Spicer Brothers Construction, Inc.

Families and children under 12 are invited to come out in costume for a fun and safe trick-or-treating experience in a non-threatening environment. Candy is provided for the trick-or-treaters courtesy of Candy Kitchen. Children are welcome to bring their own pumpkin to collect goodies; however, some bags are available courtesy of Easter Seals.

In addition to the free trick-or-treating and candy area, the event will also host a free fall-themed photo area, moon bounce, and other family-friendly activities. A Dunkin’ Donuts Community Cruiser vehicle will also be on-site during the event offering samples of their hot and iced coffees.

Trick-or-Treat Street was first created by station employees as a way to provide Delmarva residents with a safe, family-friendly outlet for Halloween fun. The free event has grown to almost 5,000 annual participants.

For more event information, please visit www.froggy999.com.

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About iHeartMedia Salisbury-Ocean City

iHeartMedia Salisbury-Ocean City owns and operates WWFG, WQHQ, WKZP, WSBY, WTGM and WJDY. With over a quarter of a billion monthly listeners in the U.S. and over 85 million social followers, iHeartMedia has the largest reach of any radio or television outlet in America. It serves over 150 markets through 858 owned radio stations, and the company’s radio stations and content can be heard on AM/FM, HD digital radio, satellite radio, on the Internet at iHeartRadio.com and on the company’s radio station websites, on the iHeartRadio mobile app, in enhanced auto dashes, on tablets and smartphones, and on gaming consoles. iHeartMedia is a division of iHeartMedia, Inc. (OTCBB: IHRT). Visit iHeartMedia.com for more company information.

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

Nashville Sounds Foundation to Host 2nd Annual “Suites-N-Treats” Event October 26

The Nashville Sounds Foundation will host its second annual “Suites-N-Treats” event on Wednesday, October 26 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at First Tennessee Park.

The pre-Halloween event is designed as an opportunity for underprivileged youth in the greater Nashville area to trick-or-treat in a safe and fun environment. Children can walk the Club Level at First Tennessee Park and visit each uniquely decorated suite to collect treats.

Other activities for children include decorating their own trick-or-treat bags, face-painting, complementary food provided by Centerplate and drinks provided by Coca Cola. Each child will have the opportunity to meet and take pictures with Sounds mascot Booster.

The Sounds have teamed with several non-profit organizations to invite children to the private event. Close to 600 children will participate with the help of the following organizations: Big Brothers Big Sisters, First Steps, Dreams and Wishes, and the Martha O’Bryan Center.

“The Sounds organization is very thankful for the support from these tremendous non-profit organizations,” said Adam Nuse, Sounds General Manager and COO. “With their help, our goal of providing a safe and memorable trick-or-treating experience for these children will be made possible.”

“Suites-N-Treats” will take place on the Club Level with the help of the Sounds’ suite holders, who were invited to decorate their suite so the children could experience a true Halloween-based trick-or-treat experience. The Sounds’ front office staff will also decorate select suites and dress up as part of the festivities.

The mission of the Nashville Sounds Foundation is to positively impact the thriving Middle Tennessee community through various programs and initiatives. The Nashville Sounds Foundation supports programs that energize and influence youth through education, physical development and by maximizing community service. For more information on the Nashville Sounds Foundation and its initiatives, please visit www.nashvillesounds.com and click on the Community tab.

The 2017 season will be the Sounds’ 40th in franchise history and their third as the Oakland Athletics’ top affiliate. Season ticket memberships are available now by calling (615) 690-4487 or by visiting www.nashvillesounds.com.

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

3,142 Vaccinations Administered at PRMC’s Drive-Thru Flu Clinic

Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC) would like to extend its thanks and gratitude to 3,142 people on Delmarva who were vaccinated against the flu during the Medical Center’s 2016 Drive-Thru Flu Clinic on October 13 at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

PRMC appreciates the community making sure they “live well” through annual vaccinations against the flu. We also thank the Delmarva Shorebirds for our long-standing partnership and the use of the ballpark to host the Medical Center’s largest and best attended annual community healthcare event.

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

Drive-Thru Flu Clinic Returns Thursday Oct. 13

Peninsula Regional Medical Center’s Live Well “Drive-Thru” Flu Clinic is returning on Thursday, October 13, 2016, but as a single day event at Arthur W. Perdue (Shorebirds) Stadium at the intersection of Route 50 and Hobbs Road in Salisbury, MD. Vaccinations will be administered to individuals 13 years of age or older. A physician’s order is not necessary. A donation of $10.00 per vaccination is requested (cash only; exact amount is appreciated). This year’s shot is quadrivalent, meaning it protects against four strains of the virus.

PRMC’s Live Well Drive-Thru Flu Clinic will be held from 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. only this one day, Thursday Oct. 13. Flu vaccinations are encouraged for persons over the age of 65, people with heart or lung disorders, immunosuppressant diseases or diabetes. Participants are encouraged to wear a short sleeved shirt that will provide easy access to the upper arm.

For additional information, please visit the PRMC website at www.peninsula.org and click the Drive-Thru Flu Clinic homepage story/banner. English and Spanish flu shot consents forms for PRMC’s Live Well Drive-Thru Flu Clinic are available on the site and may be filled out in advance and brought with you to the event.

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

Whitecaps named Midwest League’s John Henry Moss Community Service Award Nominee

COMSTOCK PARK, MI – The Midwest League of Professional Baseball Clubs has named the West Michigan Whitecaps as its 2016 nominee for Minor League Baseball’s post-season John Henry Moss Community Service Award.

The John Henry Moss Community Service Award is presented to a club that demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within their local community and within the baseball industry.

Since the Whitecaps’ inaugural season in 1994, the team has been committed to operating as a community-based organization focused on providing affordable family friendly entertainment to the West Michigan region. And since that time, the Whitecaps’ success as an organization has been closely linked to the outstanding support received from the community. Giving back to that community has always been a pillar of the Whitecaps’ operating philosophy, and in 2013 the Whitecaps Community Foundation (a 501c (3)) was founded to focus the Whitecaps’ commitment to, and leadership of, charitable support of West Michigan kids and their families.

Some of the Whitecaps’ and Whitecaps Community Foundation’s 2016 highlights and community impacts are detailed below:

Ted Rasberry Field

Thanks to the efforts of the Whitecaps Community Foundation and its community partners, a $54,000 grant was secured from the Baseball Tomorrow Fund (a partnership with Major League Baseball). In just four months’ time one of Grand Rapids’ most historic inner city fields was completely revitalized. Use of the new field is primarily for the Inner City Youth Baseball and Softball program and surrounding Grand Rapids community neighborhoods.

Orchestrating the revitalization of a field named in honor of a historic Negro League owner/player and Grand Rapids native was an easy decision for the Whitecaps Community Foundation’s Board of Directors. When all was said and done, the Ted Rasberry Field renovations included: new bleachers, improved infield and playing surface, new equipment storage facility, reseeded outfield and an enhanced irrigation system.

Inner City Youth Baseball & Softball Program

The primary recipient of the Whitecaps’ and Whitecaps Community Foundation’s charitable efforts every year is the Inner City Youth Baseball and Softball program (ICYBS). This program is perhaps the Whitecaps’ best example of stability and sustainability as this season marked its 22nd year of providing free baseball to Grand Rapids inner city kids. The program is a collaborative effort between the Whitecaps Community Foundation, the Whitecaps and other community partners. Since 1995, more than $250,000 has been pledged to the program by the Whitecaps and the Whitecaps Community Foundation, allowing more than 27,000 children the opportunity to participate in organized baseball for free within the inner city.

In 2016, the ICYBS added a focus on nutrition and fighting childhood hunger and provided 9,600 post-game meals for the program participants. In total, the 2016 season stat line reads as follows: 1,400 children participated with 68 volunteers serving as coaches, drivers, and scorekeepers who donated a total of 1,758 hours of their time. Equipment was also provided for free with the West Michigan community donating more than 300 gloves and various pieces of equipment through the Whitecaps Community Foundation’s annual equipment drive.

Reading Program & Book Donation

The Whitecaps Community Foundation Reading Program is in its 12th year of helping area school children enjoy Whitecaps baseball while promoting reading. Children from area elementary schools who read a total of 450 minutes, or 15 minutes a day, in the month of March (known nationally as Reading Month) receive two tickets to any Whitecaps game in April-June. The Foundation delivers all support materials, such as bookmarks and posters, to all participating schools at no cost. The 2016 Reading Program had involvement from 75,000 K-6 area children from 268 schools ranging from public schools to home schooled. More than 20,000 complimentary tickets were given this season to children and their families in West Michigan.

To create even more excitement during the month of March and to encourage reading after the program had finished, the Whitecaps Community Foundation donated a book to every child at Dickinson Elementary School in Grand Rapids. Dickinson Elementary is considered a high-need school within Grand Rapids and received a total of 300 books.

Pinch Hitter Program

The Pinch Hitter Program is designed to give groups in need the opportunity to experience a Whitecaps game at no cost. Non-Profit organizations are matched with program donors and receive tickets allowing those groups to attend a Whitecaps game when they otherwise would not have been able to meet the financial obligation. In 2016 the Whitecaps Community Foundation was able to match 20 groups with corporate donors and as a result donated 500 tickets to groups in need. Michigan area.

Player Community Service Award

Since 1994, community involvement has been a pillar of how the Whitecaps operate, and this does not stop at the clubhouse door. West Michigan Whitecaps players are given the opportunity to volunteer throughout the community each season and in 2016, 30 players volunteered over 500 hours during the season. Players visited schools to encourage reading, Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Veteran’s home as well as other locations in the West Michigan area. This season three players won the Inaugural Whitecaps Community Service Award, given to players who had the most impact within the community: Pitcher Sandy Baez, Outfielder Rashad Brown and Infielder Will Allen. Each of these players volunteered more than 50 hours of their time from April through August.

50/50 Program

Throughout the 2016 season, The Whitecaps Community Foundation helped non-profits raise funds by using the West Michigan Whitecaps facilities. Twelve non-profits raised $29,175 over the course of the season participating in the 50/50 raffle program. Non-profits took half of the $29,175 to use at their own discretion, while the winner took the other half. The Whitecaps Community Foundation had 13 of its own 50/50 raffles and managed to raise $30,760 for its programs in 2016.

The final line for 2016: With donations and fundraising efforts, the Whitecaps Community Foundation was able to give out more than $552,716 to local children and their families in 2016. All of these programs were considered by the Midwest League in choosing the West Michigan Whitecaps as its John Henry Moss Community Service Award winner and MiLB nominee.

Winners of all five of MiLB’s post-season awards, including the Charles K. Murphy Patriot Award, the John Henry Moss Community Service Award, the Larry MacPhail Award, the John H. Johnson President’s Award, and Rawlings Woman Executive of the Year Award, will be announced at the Baseball Winter Meetings in Washington, D.C. in December.

The Whitecaps open the 2017 season at home on Thursday, April 6 at 6:35 p.m. against the South Bend Cubs. Season tickets and mini plans will go on sale October 25 and can be purchased by calling the Whitecaps at 616-784-4131. Tickets for groups of 20 or more, including private party areas, will go on sale in November.

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

Trick-Or-Treat with Mason this Halloween!

COLUMBIA, SC – The costume is picked out. The candy bag will soon be over-flowing. Now, don’t miss your chance to enjoy the trick-or-treating with Mason! Fireflies Kids Club members (Not a Kids Club member? Sign up now) who submit an essay of 100 words or less titled, “Why I Want to Trick-or-Treat with Mason,” will have the chance to go door-to-door on Halloween with Columbia’s most adored Firefly.

Mason will join the winning youngster and his or her family and friends for a fun-filled hour of trick-or-treating on October 31. Essays can be dropped off at Spirit Communications Park, mailed or emailed to Mason:

Mason@ColumbiaFireflies.com

Attn: Mason

Spirit Communications Park

1640 Freed Street

Columbia, SC 29201

All submissions must be received by October 19 at 5:00 p.m. and Kids Club members are urged to include their names and contact information in their essays. Winners will be notified on October 24th.

Happy Halloween from Mason and the Fireflies!

Not a Kids Club member? Sign up now. It’s free to join and open to all kids 12 and younger.

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About the Columbia Fireflies

The Columbia Fireflies are the South Atlantic League affiliate of the New York Mets. The Fireflies play games across the southeast and mid-Atlantic regions, including against in-state rivals Charleston and Greenville. The team partnered with the city of Columbia and Hughes Development to construct Spirit Communications Park, a multi-use outdoor sports and entertainment venue at the center of the Commons at BullStreet development. The Columbia Fireflies are owned by Hardball Capital, owners of the Fort Wayne TinCaps of the Midwest League and the Chattanooga Lookouts of the Southern League. For more information, visit www.ColumbiaFireflies.com, or follow the Fireflies on Twitter (@ColaFireflies), Facebook (facebook.com/columbiafireflies) and all popular social media platforms.

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

Missing Child From 51s Stadium Signage Found

          

LAS VEGAS: The Las Vegas 51s professional baseball team, Triple-A affiliate of the New York Mets, announced today that a missing child seen on 51s signage at Cashman Field this past season has been found and returned home safely.

            Stephanie Swanson was safely located in Henderson, Nev., on September 21, 2016. The BairFind signage location was at the front entrance of the ballpark.

            The BairFind Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to finding missing children. The Foundation points out that the number one proved method to finding missing children is to have as many eyes as possible “looking.” If you or someone you know has any information on the whereabouts of a missing child, please call 1-800-THE-LOST and the website is www.BairFind.org

The 51s will open their 35th season in the Silver State on Thursday, April 6 at El Paso, Texas against the Chihuahuas, Triple-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres. The 2017 home opener is on Tuesday, April 11 against the Fresno Grizzlies, Triple-A affiliate of the Houston Astros, at Cashman Field at 7:05 p.m.

2017 season tickets and mini-plan packages (11, 22, 36-game plans) are available by calling the 51s office at (702) 943-7200. Individual game tickets for the 71-game home schedule will go on sale in March.

Official licensed 51s team merchandise is available on the “Team Shop” section of the website.

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

Miracle League Baseball Field and Inclusive Playground Initiative Planned in Eastlake near Classic Park

(Eastlake, OH) – A collaboration of leaders in Lake County have put together a fundraising task force and campaign to create an exciting project geared toward children and adults with developmental disabilities. The project is planned at the corner of Route 91 and Vine Street in Eastlake, adjacent to Classic Park, and will include construction of a Miracle League baseball playing field and a large, inclusive playground which will provide play opportunities for individuals with all abilities. An official press conference will be held with members of the community and media at Classic Park on Thursday, September 29 at 1 PM.

There are over 2,000 residents in Lake County alone who will be able to utilize these new facilities which will be open year-round to residents across northeast Ohio. The project will cost approximately $1.2 million to develop and build the Miracle League field and playground. This initiative will be 100% financed through private contributions and donations. The group spearheading this project has already received support from the Lubrizol Foundation, CT Consultants, members of the Cleveland Building and Construction Trades Council, the Lake County Captains, Captains Charities, and the Deepwood Foundation.

The Miracle League is a nationwide program with over 270 fields across the country. Their goal is to provide opportunities for children with physical and intellectual disabilities to play baseball and be part of a team. The Miracle League’s website is www.miracleleague.com for more detailed information on the league.

The team of leaders initially putting together this initiative includes the Lake County Commissioners, City of Eastlake Mayor Dennis Morley, Lake County Ohio Port and Economic Development Authority Executive Director Mark Rantala, Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities/Deepwood Superintendent Elfie Roman, Deepwood Foundation Executive Director Rikke Coach, Lake County Educational Service Center Superintendent Brian Bontempo and Lake County Captains General Manager Neil Stein.

Commissioner Judy Moran, in announcing the creation of the task force said, “I am proud to be a part of the group that has been assembled for this very special Miracle League project. The field and playground will be a place for kids and young adults to come from all over the county and the City of Eastlake to enjoy the things we all do every day. It is a heart-warming project that will put a smile on the faces of everyone involved. The Miracle League Field and Playground will enhance this County as a wonderful place for special needs individuals and their families.”

Lake County residents with special needs already recognize the high quality of community support through Deepwood and the Lake County school systems. Elfie Roman from Deepwood said, “This project epitomizes the inclusive spirit of our Lake County community, and reinforces that all our citizens, of differing abilities, can live, work, and play together!” Eastlake Mayor Dennis Morley commented, “I believe this is a great project for our community. This is not just for Eastlake but for all of Lake County and the surrounding area. I am honored to work with everyone on this task force to bring this project together for the very special group of kids and adults. This will be a special place for everyone to enjoy.”

The funds will be collected by the Deepwood Foundation and Executive Director, Rikke Coach, and will be tax deductible. The fundraising campaign will be led by fundraising Campaign Chairman Morris Beverage III and will begin in September with a goal of having the funds raised by the end of March in 2017. LCOPEDA Director, Mark Rantala said, “This is a very special project and we look forward to making this happen. Community resources like this enhance the County’s ability to attract a quality workforce. The Commissioners’ commitment recognizes that quality of life items are important to the attractiveness of the community. I am confident we can raise the funds.”

For more information on how to get involved with the project contact Mark Rantala at 440-357-2290 x232 or via e-mail at MRantala@lcport.org. Organizations interested in making a financial contribution to the project can contact Rikke Coach with the Deepwood Foundation at 440-350-5208 or Rikke.Coach@lakebdd.org.

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

Hot Rods to Host Annual Halloween Event

Bowling Green, KY – The Bowling Green Hot Rods announced on Wednesday that the team will once again celebrate Halloween at the ballpark by hosting the newly branded Hot RodderWeen event on Sunday, October 23. The free event will take place from 2-4 p.m., and will include a new haunted clubhouse tour, trick or treating, photo booth, costume contests, and more.

“Our Halloween event has become a staple on our offseason calendar and we love hosting this free event for the community,” said Hot Rods General Manager Eric C. Leach. “In addition to the costume contest and trick or treating, we are adding in a haunted clubhouse tour, which will be a lot of fun for both kids and adults.”

The Hot RodderWeen event will begin at 2 p.m. on Sunday, October 23 and will run until 4 p.m., rain or shine. Attendees are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes, as there will be a costume contest for both children and adults. The event is also dog-friendly (they must be on a leash) as the Hot Rods will have a special costume contest for all dogs in attendance.

Attendees will be able to trick or treat at various locations throughout the ballpark, including the Graves Gilbert Carousel and Van Meter Insurance Axle’s Adventureland playground. A photo booth will be set-up for families to document their outing at the ballpark. And the Body Shop, official merchandise store of the Hot Rods, will be open so fans can stock up on their favorite orange Hot Rods apparel. Hot dogs, popcorn, and soda will all be available for $1.00.

The Hot Rods welcome any community organization or business that would like to hand out candy at the event. If interested, please contact Jennifer Johnson at 270-901-2121 or by email via jjohnson@bghotrods.com.

The Hot Rods open their ninth season in South Central Kentucky on Thursday, April 6th against the Fort Wayne TinCaps. Mini-plans and season tickets are now available for the 2017 season at the Hot Rods front office and online at BGHotRods.com.

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Hot Rods Baseball – #FanDriven

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

66ers Honored with California League’s Award for Community Service

San Bernardino, CA – On Friday the California League announced the 2016 Front Office Awards and named the Inland Empire 66ers the winner of the Excellence in Community Service Award. The award, which was voted on by the other organizations in the California League, was given to the 66ers due to their outstanding and on-going commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within the local community.

The Sixers received high praise from the league for their efforts and commitment to the community following the tragic events on December 2nd. A day after the incident, thousands came to San Manuel Stadium to attend a candlelight and prayer vigil. Victim’s families and friends, civic leaders and the community at large started healing the healing process together. On this night “SB Strong” came into existence and an organic fundraising opportunity happened after multiple attendees asked where they could buy tee shirts with the SB Strong logo on them. The fundraiser was a great success as over 2,000 shirts were purchased with 100% of the proceeds heading to the San Bernardino United Relief Fund. Following the vigil the club would go on to host a luncheon for the first responders, a SB Strong Charity Picnic and Blood Drive and the team’s SB Strong Night Game. During this game the Sixers and the visiting San Jose Giants wore specialty SB Strong jerseys that went up for auction to raise funds for the cause. In total, $74,115.26 was raised for the victims and their families through events held at San Manuel Stadium.

The 66ers continued their excellence in community service by closely working with local schools in several ways. The team’s reading program, which provided tickets for children and their families for reading, saw an increase in participation by over 30%. In addition, the club introduced the Breakfast with a Book Program in which students were rewarded for their academic efforts by receiving breakfast and a new book courtesy of the club. The commitment to the area didn’t stop there as the 66ers worked with over 200 local partners that had an impact of over $400,000 in donations during the 2016 Season.

About the Inland Empire 66ers

The Inland Empire 66ers are the California League Affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels and play their home games at San Manuel Stadium. The club is one of eight Elmore Sports Group owned franchises and one the six Minor League Baseball clubs in the group. Other Elmore Sports Group baseball franchises include the Colorado Springs Sky Sox (Pacific Coast League), The San Antonio Missions (Texas League), Lynchburg Hillcats (Carolina League), Eugene Emeralds (Northwest League), and the Idaho Fall Chukars (Pioneer League). The 66ers franchise will play their 30th season in San Bernardino during the 2017 season which starts on Thursday, April 6th.

Follow the 66ers on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @66ersbaseball

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

B-Mets Issue Reading Challenge To Binghamton Schools

BINGHAMTON, NY – On Wednesday, September 21, 2016 the Binghamton Mets issued a reading challenge to all of the elementary schools within the Binghamton Central School District. The grand prize – the winning school will assist the Double-A Mets Affiliate with the announcement of their new team name in November.

It was important for the organization to partner with the local Binghamton Central School District elementary schools as a way of furthering our ties to the local Binghamton community. At the end of the day, the Double-A Mets Affiliate will proudly say “Binghamton” right across the chest of the jerseys. Therefore, we are proud to partner with Calvin Coolidge, Benjamin Elementary, Horace Mann, MacArthur, Theodore Roosevelt, Thomas Jefferson, Woodrow Wilson, and St. John’s for this friendly challenge amongst the Binghamton schools.

From September 21st through October 21st the Binghamton Mets are looking to see which of the eight schools can read the most combined minutes per student. Each student within the district has been provided with an Independent Reading log to track his or her progress. For the entire month (as well as the entire school year) students will keep track of all their time spent reading within the classroom and outside the classroom. On October 24th all schools will submit their final data for the Binghamton Mets staff to review. After all of the data is reviewed the Binghamton Mets will announce the winners of the reading challenge that same week.

The winning school will then be bused and provided lunch at NYSEG Stadium in November for the unveiling of the new team.

For more information please call 607.723.METS or email eddie@bmets.com.

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

Fifth Third Field to Host AHA Walk/Run on Saturday

Dayton, Ohio – Fifth Third Field will host the American Heart Association’s Greater Dayton 5K Heart Walk/Run on Saturday, September 24th from 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon. A signature event of the American Heart Association, the Heart Walk/Run promotes physical activity and healthy living in an environment that’s fun for the whole family. All proceeds will go toward funding research and education involving the reduction of heart disease and stroke. Individuals or teams can register online at heart.org/daytonwalk or by calling Kim Doherty at (937) 853-3110.

The Walk/Run is specifically designed for children and adults of all ages and abilities. Day-of registration starts at 7:30 a.m., which is also when the gates open at Fifth Third Field. Before the event begins, families can roam the concourse or enjoy a fun and interactive health and wellness fair on the plaza. Sponsors will give out a heart-healthy snack and allow attendees to check blood pressure and help figure out body mass index (BMI). There will be inflatable games for children to enjoy, and Dragons mascots Heater and Gem will roam the concourse and take pictures with those in attendance.

Heart disease and stroke survivors are also encouraged to visit the survivor area, created especially for the “honored guests” of the Heart Walk. Special gifts will be available to survivors at the walk.

The third annual Kids Fun Run/Walk will begin shortly after 8:30 a.m. Opening ceremonies begin at 9:00 a.m. The 5K Race and Heart Walk is scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m.

Registration is quick and easy if you visit heart.org/daytonwalk. Once you click “Register,” you can join a team, join as an individual, or start your own team. After you complete registration, you can personalize your site and invite friends and family to participate or sponsor your efforts.

ABOUT THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION OF GREATER DAYTON

Located in Kettering, the American Heart Association of Greater Dayton covers 12 counties in the area and is committed to fighting heart disease and stroke throughout Ohio. The mission of the American Heart Association is to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Currently, the American Heart Association is funding $660,000 of experimental research at Wright State University’s Boonshoft School of Medicine. For more information, visit heart.org/dayton.

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

Register for Fang’s Reading Club

GRAND CHUTE, WI – The 2017 edition of Fang’s Reading Club is open for enrollment now! The club is presented by Learning Rx and is an incentive-based rewards program that encourages reading development in children from grades K through 5. Teachers and reading coordinators have until Friday, November 18 to get involved in this popular Timber Rattlers program.

Personnel at participating schools have the flexibility to design the program to meet the needs of their students. The Timber Rattlers and various sponsors will provide students with incentive prizes as they reach goals within the program. Students who meet all of their goals for the program are rewarded with a FREE ticket as part of their school’s Family Night at a Timber Rattlers game in 2017.

The Timber Rattlers and the sponsors of Fang’s Reading Club will provide:

  • An introductory letter to be sent to parents at the start of the program.
  • Baseball related verification aids to help parents and teachers track the progress of participants.
  • Incentive prizes for students as they reach each goal set by the coordinator.
  • A FREE ticket to a 2017 Timber Rattlers game with a hot dog & soda voucher for students who complete the program.
  • Information to aid schools in setting up their Family Night at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium.

Please head to Fang’s Reading Club page at the Timber Rattlers website for full details, including a sample timeline, dates for Reading Club games, and how your school can schedule a visit from Fang.

The sponsors of Fang’s Reading Club in 2017 are Learning Rx, Badger Sports Park, and Feeding America.

Contact Dayna Baitinger at dbaitinger@timberrattlers.com, (800) WI-TIMBER, or (920) 733-4152 if you have any questions or would like to register your class or school for this year’s club.

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