Charlotte Knights Announce Scholarship Programs for 2014

CharlotteKnights_2014-02-18

 

(Uptown Charlotte, NC) – A year ago, the Charlotte Knights teamed up with Carolinas HealthCare System and announced an initiative to provide three high school seniors with a $1,000 scholarship each. With the success of Charlotte Knights HealthCare Scholarship Program, presented by Carolinas HealthCare System, the Knights and Carolinas HealthCare System are once again continuing their partnership for 2014. In addition, the Knights are pleased to announce a partnership with one of their founding partners – Piedmont Natural Gas – on another exciting scholarship program. Both scholarships will provide students with educational funding for college.

In an effort to improve educational funding for high school students who are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, the Charlotte Knights and Carolinas HealthCare System will provide three $1,000 college scholarships to local high school seniors. New for 2014, the Charlotte Knights along with Piedmont Natural Gas, will provide three $1,000 college scholarships to sophomore students attending college in Piedmont Natural Gas’ service territory. This scholarship is for college students who are interested in pursuing a career in Engineering, Business Administration and Environmental Science.

Last year at Knights Stadium, the Knights honored high school students John Dock Tallent, Gisele Bailey, and Stephanie Smith, as the inaugural recipients of the Charlotte Knights HealthCare Scholarship Program presented by Carolinas HealthCare System. This year’s winners will be honored before a game at BB&T Ballpark.

Applications for both the Charlotte Knights Healthcare Scholarship Program, presented by Carolinas HealthCare System, and the Piedmont Natural Gas Scholarship Program, are available at charlotteknights.com. All applications must be emailed to community@charlotteknights.com or mailed to Charlotte Knights Annual Scholarship at 324 South Mint St., Charlotte, NC 28202. All applications must be postmarked by April 4, 2014.

About Carolinas HealthCare System
Carolinas HealthCare System (carolinashealthcare.org), one of the nation’s leading and most innovative healthcare organizations, provides a full spectrum of healthcare and wellness programs throughout North and South Carolina. Its diverse network of care locations includes academic medical centers, hospitals, freestanding emergency departments, physician practices, surgical and rehabilitation centers, home health agencies, nursing homes and behavioral health centers, as well as hospice and palliative care services. Carolinas HealthCare System works to enhance the overall health and wellbeing of its communities through high quality patient care, education and research programs, and numerous collaborative partnerships and initiatives.

About Piedmont Natural Gas
Piedmont Natural Gas is an energy services company primarily engaged in the distribution of natural gas to more than one million residential, commercial, industrial and power generation utility customers in portions of North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee, including customers served by municipalities who are wholesale customers. Our subsidiaries are invested in joint venture, energy-related businesses, including unregulated retail natural gas marketing, and regulated interstate natural gas transportation and storage, and regulated intrastate natural gas transportation businesses. More information about Piedmont Natural Gas is available on the Internet at http://www.piedmontng.com/.

The Knights will open BB&T Ballpark on Friday night, April 11 at 7:05 p.m. against the Norfolk Tides. Season tickets, as well as group tickets and partial season ticket plans for the 2014 inaugural season at BB&T Ballpark, are on sale now and can be purchased by phone at (980) 207-0079 or by email at seasonseats@charlotteknights.com. For more information about Charlotte Knights Baseball, log on to www.charlotteknights.com. Uptown Knights are Better Than Ever!

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Charlotte Knights. Click here to view the original story.

Gwinnett Braves to Host High School Showcase II

Coolray Field set to host 22 of the premiere high school baseball teams in the area from Feb. 22 to March 15

GwinnettBraves_2014-02-18

 

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA – The Gwinnett Braves will host the second annual High School Baseball Showcase at Coolray Field beginning on February 22. For four consecutive weekends from February 22 through March15, the home of the G-Braves will host 22 of the top high school baseball programs in the Atlanta metro area.

Last season, the Gwinnett Braves hosted a two-day event, and with the hard work of the front office staff and commitment of the high school baseball teams in the area, the G-Braves have expanded the showcase into a five-day, four-weekend event. The showcase will be jam-packed with talented squads, as 15 of the 22 participating teams earned postseason berths and accumulated winning marks in 2013.

“We are happy to continue this tradition of high school baseball at Coolray Field,” said Gwinnett Braves General Manager North Johnson. “The expansion of the game schedule shows the commitment of our staff in making these games available to all the schools in the Atlanta metro area. One of our goals at Coolray Field is to make these games accessible to all the schools in the area and we are very happy that schools from all across the area are taking part in this showcase.”

The event will kick off with North Gwinnett High School and Providence Christian High School, as they play at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 22. North Gwinnett features left-handed pitcher Tucker Baca, who is committed to Arizona State University and is ranked the No. 92 high school prospect according to Baseball America. Providence Christian is coming off a 15-win season and a playoff berth. The nightcap will feature Archer High School and Lanier High School at 4 p.m. Both schools are relatively new to the baseball fold, as their programs have been around for less than five years. Each school is quickly building into an elite power, including Lanier, who is coming off a school-best 18-win season in 2013.

On Saturday, March 1, Coolray Field will be loaded with baseball action, hosting four games from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Buford High School, who is coming off of a 21-12 season, will match up against Hebron High School at 11:30 a.m. Holy Innocents High School and Lambert High School, two teams that made it into the second round of the Georgia State playoffs in their respective regions last year, will face off at 1:30 p.m. South Forsyth High School and Dunwoody High School will meet at 4 p.m., and the day will conclude with a battle between Kennesaw Mountain High School and Northview High School at 6:30 p.m.

The showcase will continue the following weekend with three more games. On Friday, March 7 at 4 p.m., Peachtree Ridge High School will play North Forsyth High School. Last season, Peachtree Ridge finished second in the region with an 11-3 record, but fell in the second round of the 7-AAAAAA playoffs. North Forsyth won 12 games in 2013 and finished sixth in their division.

On Saturday, March 8, Mountain View High School and South Gwinnett High School will play each other for the second straight season at Coolray Field. Last year, the Comets won a tightly contested battle 7-6 over the Bears. Right after that game at 6:30 p.m., Norcross High School and Grayson High School will take the field. Both squads come into 2014 following stellar seasons, as each finished atop their respective conferences and qualified for the playoffs a year ago.

The showcase will conclude on Saturday, March 15 with another twin-bill starting at 11 a.m. The first contest will feature East Cobb Academy and the Home Plate Citadels, while the second game pits Johns Creek High School against Loganville High School at 1:30 p.m. Johns Creek went 18-7 last season, reaching the AAAAAA playoffs before losing to Norcross, while Loganville went 26-8 before falling in the quarterfinals of the AAAAA playoffs.

“This is a great opportunity for our players to play on the best playing surface in all of Triple-A baseball and to play in such a beautiful venue against a perennial high school power like Loganville,” said Johns Creek Head Baseball Coach Billy Nicholson. “Our whole baseball community is looking forward to a great day of baseball!”

Tickets will be available at the Coolray Field Ticket Office on the day of the games only. Adult tickets are $10 and student tickets with ID are $5 for the day. For more information about the event or how to purchase tickets, contact the Coolray Field Ticket Office at 678-277-0340 or visit gwinnettbraves.com.

The Gwinnett Braves will begin their sixth season of play on Thursday, April 3 at Durham. The G-Braves’ 2014 home opener at Coolray Field will take place on Friday, April 11 against the Durham Bulls. Season tickets for the 2014 campaign are on sale now by calling the Coolray Field Ticket Office at 678-277-0340. For more information on 2014 season ticket packages, visit gwinnettbraves.com/2014.

# # #

COUNTDOWN TO THE 2014 HOME OPENER (Friday, April 11, 7:05 PM vs. Durham): 52 Days

The Gwinnett Braves are the Triple-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. Follow the G-Braves at gwinnettbraves.com, facebook.com/GwinnettBraves1 and twitter.com/GwinnettBraves. For more information on 2014 Season Tickets, call the Coolray Field Ticket Office at 678-277-0340 or visit gwinnettbraves.com/2014.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Gwinnett Braves. Click here to view the original story.

Scrappers Host High School Valley All-Star Classic

Saturday, June 14

MahoningValleyScrappers_2014-02-11

 

NILES, OH – The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are excited to announce they will be hosting the second annual High School Valley All-Star Classic, presented by Baird Brothers Fine Hardwoods and media partners 21 WFMJ and WBCB, on Saturday, June 14, 2014 at Eastwood Field. The High School Valley All-Star Classic will feature elite high school players from the Mahoning Valley. 

Tickets for the High School Valley All-Star Classic will go on sale on March 1st and will be $5 for General Admission Seats. They will be available at the Eastwood Field Box Office, by calling 330-505-0000 or online at www.mvscrappers.com.

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are the Short Season Single A Affiliate of the Cleveland Indians and play all home games at Eastwood Field. Notable alumni include C.C. Sabathia, Vinnie Pestano, Jason Kipnis, and Victor Martinez. For more information about individual game tickets, ticket packages or group outings visit www.mvscrappers.com or call the front office at (330) 505 – 0000.  

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Mahoning Valley Scrappers. Click here to view the original story.

Sherman Visits McIlvaine Early Childhood

Hit the Books program is underway

Sherman is on the Hit the Books tour visiting with different schools
Sherman is on the Hit the Books tour visiting with different schools

Salisbury, MD – Sherman and the Shorebirds visited McIlvaine Early Childhood Center in Magnolia, Delaware on February 7 as a part of the school’s “I Love to Read” month festivities and to promote the Shorebirds Hit the Books program presented by Dr. James M. Crouse at The Brace Place.

The Hit the Books program reaches over 40,000 students from over 100 schools on the Eastern Shore.

Students that read four books outside of their normal classroom reading receive two free tickets to attend a Shorebirds game.

For more information about the Hit the Books program, contact Shawn Schoolcraft at 410-219-3112 ext. 168.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Delmarva Shorebirds. Click here to view the original story.

2014 Baseball Camp Sign-ups Now Underway!

Sign-up now: Each Camp is Limited to 110 Campers

LehighValleyIronPigs_2014-02-03

 

Sign-ups are now underway for the 2014 Youth Baseball Camp presented by Capital BlueCross! Make sure to sign up early because each camp is limited to 110 children and each is expected to sell out.

The camps will run from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for all days of the session. Boys and girls of all skill levels will have the chance to learn baseball and fundamentals from the future stars of the Philadelphia Phillies. Each day, members of the IronPigs coaching staff and select IronPigs players will teach the basics of the game and help all campers become better ballplayers!

In addition to meeting and playing with IronPigs players, each camper will receive a daily lunch, two tickets to a selected IronPigs game during the camp (Camp #1, June 19; Camp #2, July 23; Camp #3, July 31), on-field recognition prior to the IronPigs game and an official IronPigs Fantasy Camp T-shirt!

2014 Camp Dates:

  • Camp #1 ($160/camper): Ages 7-8 only (June 18-20) – Sign-up Online / Download Flyer
  • Camp #2 ($160/camper): Ages 9-10 only (July 22-24) – Sign-up Online / Download Flyer
  • Camp #3 ($110/camper): Ages 11-13 only (July 31-August 1). – Sign-up Online / Download Flyer. Please note that this is a two-day camp only and features individual instruction in one of four chosen positions (Pitcher, Catcher, Outfielder or Infielder).

For more information, please contact Kelly Gooley at (610) 841-1213 or kgooley@ironpigsbaseball.com. 2014 Youth Baseball Camp is presented by Capital BlueCross.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Click here to view the original story.

Modern Woodmen Park to host 2014 Davenport Little League Registration Feb. 8

River Bandits will also offer exclusive deal on 2014 Kids Club memberships for youth 14 and under

QuadCitiesRiverBandits_2014-01-30

For the sixth consecutive year, the Quad Cities River Bandits will host Davenport Little League baseball and softball registration indoors at Modern Woodmen Park. On Saturday, Feb. 8, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Little Leaguers from throughout the Davenport area will visit the ballpark to register for their upcoming season.

By centralizing the registration at Modern Woodmen Park, this event incorporates all the Davenport Little Leagues, regardless of age or level, into one central location and has greatly assisted organizers in streamlining the registration process the last five years.

“We welcome these young athletes and their families to the Modern Woodmen Park experience, which is all about families creating memories that last a lifetime,” said River Bandits co-owner Dave Heller. “Kids and parents alike love incorporating Modern Woodmen Park and professional baseball into the Davenport Little Leagues, and we are thrilled to continue our support of the Little League programs and youth sports in the Quad Cities.”

All the local leagues – including the North, Northwest, East, Southeast, West Softball, Emeis, East Softball, Pony, Colt and Challenger Leagues – will hold registration on Feb. 8. Registration is required even if the child has previously played. At least one parent or legal guardian must be present with proof of residence and an original or state-certified copy of the child’s birth certificate, which will be returned at the registration. Also, the leagues require a completed registration form, medical release form, and the fee for registration.

For children ages 14 and under attending the Little League registration, the River Bandits will also offer an exclusive, one-day special on 2014 Kids Club memberships. Normally $30 per child 14 and under, a Kids Club membership will be $25 at Modern Woodmen Park on Saturday, Feb. 8, only. A Kids Club Membership includes a free bleacher ticket good for all River Bandits 2014 regular season home games, a membership card, a T-shirt, a 10 percent discount off purchases in the team store, an email newsletter with exclusive special offers and much more.

The River Bandits will also have select merchandise available for purchase, as well as information about ticket plans and group outings at the ballpark this season. Families and individuals may also purchase or renew their season ticket packages for the 2014 season.

“As a community-based venue, Modern Woodmen Park is ideal for kicking off the little league year,” said Genearal Manager Andrew Chesser. “As added fun, kids will register at a professional ballpark within the same week the pros are reporting for spring training!”

Questions about the Feb. 8 registration can be directed to Brittany Carter in the River Bandits front office at 563-324-3000.

UP NEXT: Call today to reserve a Valentine’s Day dinner at Modern Woodmen Park for Friday, Feb. 14, or Saturday, Feb. 15. Couples can enjoy a gourmet four-course dinner in a private luxury suite or take in the spectacular views of the ballpark, Centennial Bridge, Mississippi River and downtown Davenport from a table in the glass-enclosed, climate-controlled Sky Deck. Reservations are due Thursday, Feb. 6, by calling 563-324-3000. To order ticket plans – with new lower prices – for next season, call the River Bandits box office at 563-324-3000 or visit www.riverbandits.com to download the season ticket order form. Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $40. Call a River Bandits account representative today to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.

ABOUT THE BANDITS: Having just been named Ballpark Digest’s winner of Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the River Bandits ownership is making one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 112 feet over the playing field, is opening this spring, along with a carousel, a new ride called a “Drop and Twist,” an expanded zip line, and many other new games and attractions. In 2013, the team unveiled a new 220-foot long dual zip line, a rock climbing wall, and a number of new bounce houses. The team’s major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, just saw all six of its affiliates reach the playoffs – the first time in a decade any MLB team can claim such success. The River Bandits were one of three affiliates to reach the championship round and one of two to win their league championship.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Quad Cities River Bandits. Click here to view the original story.

Indians Announce Youth Baseball

Pony, Babe Ruth, SYSA Form Spokane Indians Youth Baseball

Pony, Babe Ruth and divisions of SYSA have combined to form Spokane Indians Youth Baseball.
Pony, Babe Ruth and divisions of SYSA have combined to form Spokane Indians Youth Baseball.

SPOKANE, WA – The Spokane Indians are excited to announce the formation of Spokane Indians Youth Baseball, a non-profit youth baseball organization that will encompass all of Spokane Pony Baseball, Spokane Babe Ruth and the baseball and softball divisions of Spokane Youth Sports Association (SYSA).

“When discussing youth baseball with Spokane Pony Baseball, Spokane Babe Ruth and SYSA, it became clear that this was the right time to combine our efforts and form Spokane Indians Youth Baseball,” said Otto Klein, Senior Vice President of the Spokane Indians. “By bringing together the leagues and brands, we will be able to enhance the baseball experience for families and volunteers of the Inland Northwest. It’s an exciting time for all of us.”

“With one united organization, we will be able to clearly communicate information and simplify player registration and coordination of fields,” said Dana Richardson, President of Pony Baseball. “Having the Spokane Indians associated with youth baseball will increase the exposure for our league, and in turn increase the number of youth on the baseball diamond.”

In 2013, over 3,000 kids participated in Pony, Babe Ruth and SYSA baseball and softball across the Inland Northwest. The mission is to increase and promote participation and opportunities through a cohesive and unified marketing effort, while also creating a fund to facilitate future field development.

“The main component of this partnership is simple – it’s the common goal of doing this for the kids,” says Philip Helean, Executive Director of SYSA. “We want every child in the Inland Northwest involved so we can see them smiling as they take the field.”

Registration is now open for Spokane Indians Youth Baseball at www.SpokaneIndiansYouthBaseball.org, and city-wide draft evaluations will occur in March. Players can sign up individually for all skill levels, or as a full team in both recreational and competitive divisions. Teams in the younger divisions will be formed based on schools and neighborhoods.

Volunteer coaches are always needed! Coaches may register online, and must provide photo identification. Criminal background checks are conducted for all volunteers in Spokane Indians Youth Baseball.

Parents will have the option of registering online at www.SpokaneIndiansYouthBaseball.org, or by stopping by either of the SYSA offices, located Downtown at The Warehouse (800 North Hamilton, Suite 201) or in the Valley at the HUB Sports Center (19619 East Cataldo).

For more information please visit www.SpokaneIndiansYouthBaseball.org or call (509) 321-1999.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Spokane Indians. Click here to view the original story.

MVP Education Program returns for 2014 season

Dash organization rewards hard-working students in the Triad

Winston-SalemDash_2014-01-29

 

The Winston-Salem Dash have already partnered with more than 50 schools in eight counties throughout the Triad for their annual MVP Education Program, which will accept new schools leading up to Opening Day on April 3.

The Dash MVP Education Program is an incentive-based program that uses the analogy of advancing around the baseball diamond to encourage students to strive for academic excellence. The program can be used to enhance any school subject’s curriculum and encourage extracurricular participation.

As students achieve the goals established by their teachers, they will advance around the diamond. At each base, a student will receive a prize from the MVP Education Program’s sponsors: Airbound Trampoline Park, BB&T, Domino’s, Hanesbrands, Holiday Tours and the YMCA of Northwest North Carolina.

All participating schools receive 50 passes to the Dash’s free MVP Day at BB&T Ballpark on Saturday, May 17. The Dash also set up an outing with each school for a Dash home game. For these games, all students and their families are able to purchase tickets at a discounted price.

Schools from around the area can still participate in the MVP Education Program for the 2014 season. Interested schools can contact Paul Stephens at (336) 714-6878 or paul.stephens@wsdash.com for more information. Teachers can also fill out the form at this link to register for the program.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Winston-Salem Dash. Click here to view the original story.

Sky Sox Announce UCCS Sports Management Scholarship

New Scholarship Will Support Future Sports Professionals

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO – The Colorado Springs Sky Sox are proud to announce the creation of a new scholarship designated for students in the Sport Management Program at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs’ (UCCS) College of Business. The “Sky Sox Sports Management Scholarship” is the first of its kind within the Sport Management Program at UCCS and will be awarded to a rising Sophomore, Junior or Senior at the University.

“For the past six years the Sky Sox have provided UCCS Sport Management students with outstanding internship opportunities,” Eric Olson, director, Sport Management Program, said. “With this scholarship they have taken that support to a new level. It is a distinct privilege to work with organizations like the Sky Sox whose executives and managers take the time and effort to help prepare our students to become the next generation of sports business leaders.”

Eligible undergraduate students at UCCS will be able to apply for the $2,500 yearly scholarship beginning with the Fall Semester of 2014. In order to qualify for the scholarship, students must demonstrate financial need according to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), maintain a minimum of a 3.0 GPA, and submit a resume (or similar list of accomplishments), statement of future goals and an essay.

Sport Management students interested in applying for this scholarship should visit the UCCS Financial Aid & Scholarships website at www.uccs.edu/finaid/types/scholarships.html to find the criteria and application details. Students can access the application by using the scholarship search tool and inputting “Sky Sox Sport Mgmt.”

“We are extremely excited to partner with UCCS in creating this new scholarship for future sports professionals,” said Sky Sox President & General Manager Tony Ensor. “The sports industry is full of passionate people and we’re proud to be involved with our local students who are looking to follow their passion for sports.”

The UCCS Sport Management Program is a selective degree program designed for serious students who share a passion for sports and a desire to build careers in this face-paced industry. For more information visit www.uccs.edu/spm/.

The UCCS College of Business was established in 1965 and has more than 1,000 undergraduates and 350 MBA and distance MBA students. The College of Business and Administration awards the Bachelor of Science in Business and Bachelor of Innovation degrees. The Graduate School of Business Administration awards the Master of Business Administration degree. More than 8,000 alumni of the College of Business live and work around the world. For more information, visit www.uccs.edu/business.

The University of Colorado Colorado Springs, located on Austin Bluffs Parkway in Colorado Springs, is one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. The University offers 36 bachelor’s degrees, 19 master’s and five doctoral degrees. UCCS enrolls about 9,800 students on campus annually and another 2,000 in online programs. For more information, visit www.uccs.edu.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Colorado Springs Sky Sox. Click here to view the original story.

Baseballtown Charities Complete Baer Park Renovation

Eight month project reaches finish line thanks to generous donations from Colonial Oaks Foundation and Wyomissing Foundation

ReadingFightinPhils_2014-01-27

 

After close to eight months of fundraising and construction, Baseballtown Charities, in conjunction with the Reading Fightin Phils, has completed the Baer Park Renovation Project in the northwest section of the City of Reading. The project, first announced in May, was made possible through nearly $90,000 in donations from Colonial Oaks Foundation and the Wyomissing Foundation and private donors through Baseballtown Charities.

“Baseballtown Charities is very pleased with the completion of the renovations at historic Baer Park,” said President of Baseballtown Charities Chuck Domino. “We are anxious to see the kids and parents enjoy the improvements starting this spring. A special thanks to the Colonial Oaks Foundation and the Wyomissing Foundation as well as many other community minded donors who stepped up to the plate to allow Baseballtown Charities to continue our mission of improving the lives of our inner city youth through the sport of baseball.”

Construction on the field began in late summer after a joint cleanup effort from members of the Reading Fightin Phils and students at Alvernia University. The project included a total replacement of the bleachers, major field renovations, and the installation of a chain-linked fence that encompasses the entire facility.

The large scale renovations to Baer Park have earned the praise of city officials, including Mayor Vaughn Spencer.

“On behalf of the City of Reading, I would like to thank Baseballtown Charities, the Colonial Oaks Foundation, and the Wyomissing Foundation, as well as, the other donors,” said Mayor of Reading Vaughn Spencer. “The renovations at Baer Park will improve the lives of our city youth by providing them with a much improved facility.

The project was the first among several fields identified by Baseballtown Charities and the City of Reading Parks and Recreation Commission as area in dire need. Like Baer Park, most of the targets have fallen in repair since their heyday and will hopefully see a revival thanks to the non-profit organization.

“The Reading Recreation Commission is excited for the youth of Reading and the community to begin to enjoy the newly renovated Baer Park this spring,” said Reading Recreation Commission Executive Director Daphne Klahr. “The new turf, fencing, bleachers, and field improvements will be the catalyst for future baseball programming at the park and hopefully marks the beginning of the revitalization of the Northwest Reading community. A big thank you to Chuck Domino and Baseballtown Charities for seeing this project through to completion as well as [to] the Wyomissing Foundation, the Colonial Oaks Foundation and all of the individuals and businesses whose financial support made the project possible. The Reading Recreation Commission looks forward to continuing their partnership with Baseballtown Charities to help improve inner-city parks and ball fields for Reading youth.”

Baer Park was named after the 19th Century Reading Railroad magnate George Baer. Located in the 15th Ward of the City of Reading, the park features a lighted baseball field, tennis courts, basketball courts, a playground, a concession stand and a stone field house on its nine acres of land.

Today, Baer Park is a nerve center of activity in the 15th Ward. On any given day, hundreds of youth can be found using the various attractions or having fun by spending time with friends. Throughout the spring and summer, the park’s baseball field is home to numerous city baseball and softball organizations. It is also the home field for junior high teams from the Reading School District.

On top of donations from the Colonial Oaks Foundation and Wyomissing Foundation, funds were raised at Reading Fightin Phils home games in the summer of 2013. The centerpiece of the team’s fundraising efforts came late in the season when first baseman Jim Murphy donated his prized 1991 Jaguar XJ6 Sovereign for a raffle. Fans came out in droves to support the cause thanks to Murphy’s Jaguar and raised over $5,000 for Baseballtown Charities.

As an unconventional means of raising awareness and funds for a non-profit, the raffle helped cement Reading as the Eastern League’s nominee for the inaugural John Henry Moss Community Service Award presented by Minor League Baseball.

Baseballtown Charities, a non-profit 501(c)(3) entity, was founded in 2002 in association with the Reading Phillies in order to keep baseball alive in Reading through charitable donations to underprivileged youth who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to play baseball. The organization also pays tribute to Reading’s rich baseball history.

Since its inception in 2002, the Baseballtown trademark has played a necessary part in the baseball community of Berks County. Under the Baseballtown namesake, FirstEnergy Stadium has played host to the High School All-Star Game and the Olivet’s Boy’s and Girl’s Club Championship. Each year, the organization crowns the King or Queen of Baseballtown to honor the past by recognizing that individual’s accomplishments and contributions to baseball/softball.

Perhaps the biggest accomplishment the organization has overtaken was the construction of Gordon Hoodak Stadium at Lauer’s Park in 2006. Through contributions exceeding $900,000, the youth ballpark was built in a neighborhood that is quickly returning to its glory days. It sits on the grounds of Lauer’s Park Elementary School, named for the former stadium where Babe Ruth and Shoeless Joe Jackson both played. The original housed several professional teams and hosted barnstorming tours from 1907-1941. Reading’s own baseball legend, the late “Broadway” Charlie Wagner, former Red Sox pitcher and roommate of Ted Williams, began his career there.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Reading Fightin Phils. Click here to view the original story.

Squirrels to Host ASK Fun Walk & 5K

Event Will Take Place at The Diamond on Saturday, April 26th

RichmondFlyingSquirrels_2014-01-23

 

Richmond, Va. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels held a press conference on Thursday to announce a partnership with the ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation that will include the Squirrels hosting the 2014 ASK Fun Walk & 5K presented by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield at The Diamond. The Fun Walk & 5K will take place on the morning of Saturday, April 26th, and will precede the Squirrels’ game against the New Britain Rock Cats that evening.

The Fun Walk & 5K, which is the signature event on ASK’s fundraising calendar, will include a course that takes runners and walkers around the historic area and end at home plate at The Diamond. The 2013 ASK Walk & 5K attracted 2,500 participants from throughout the Greater Richmond area and raised over $150,000 to help local children with cancer and their families.

“We are continually looking for ways to do more within this community, and this was a huge opportunity to do just that,” said Flying Squirrels’ Vice President & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell. “Any time you have the chance to work with passionate people to benefit a tremendous cause, you jump at it. That’s what we have done here, and we can’t wait for April 26th.”

The event will begin with check-in and same-day registration at 7 a.m. The 5K Run & Family Fun Walk will begin at 9 a.m. To register in advance of the event or for more information, visit ASKWalk.org.

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with the Flying Squirrels on this year’s ASK Fun Walk & 5k presented by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield,” said ASK Executive Director Amy Godkin. “With their help, we hope to raise over $150,000 to help local children with cancer and their families.”

Since 2006, the Fun Walk & 5K has raised more than $890,000, with the goal of reaching the one-million-dollar mark at this year’s event.

The Flying Squirrels also used Thursday’s press conference as an opportunity to highlight additional upcoming community objectives. As the team prepares for its 5th Season Celebration in 2014 and the launch of the newly-minted Flying Squirrels Charities, they also pointed to numerous successes among their many community programs and events from the past.

“As we prepare for what we know will be a historic fifth season in Richmond, we spent some time reflecting back on all the wonderful opportunities we have had to impact this community,” added Parnell. “As we add another tremendous event and partner today, we thought it appropriate to recognize the countless people and organizations that have made our overwhelming success in the past possible.”

Additionally, the Squirrels announced plans to unveil the most comprehensive promotional schedule in their franchise history. The schedule will be announced in a series that will begin on Monday with the release of 2014 fireworks dates.

ASK is a local organization dedicated to making life better for children with cancer and their families. ASK provides direct support to young cancer patients and their families today, when they need it most. For more information on ASK, go to ASKWalk.org. For questions regarding the ASK Fun Walk & 5k, please contact Lexi Aman, ASK Development Director, at LAman@ASKCCF.org or (804) 402-2222.

Season ticket and mini-plan packages are currently available for the 5th Season of Flying Squirrels baseball. For more information or to purchase ticket packages, please visit either squirrelsbaseball.com or the Squirrels’ ticket office at The Diamond, or call (804) 359-FUNN (3866).

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Richmond Flying Squirrels. Click here to view the original story.

Gwinnett Braves Award December Grant to Parkwood Farms Therapy Center

“Season of Giving” themed grant will help fund therapeutic horseback riding program for disabled youth

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA – The Gwinnett Braves have awarded their $1,000 grant for the month of December to Parkwood Farms Therapy Center, Inc. of Snellville, GA. The “Season of Giving” themed grant is designed to assist organizations that benefit youth, education or sports programming.

Parkwood Farms Therapy Center, Inc. is a multi-discipline therapy center that offers non-traditional therapies for children with a variety of disabilities, including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome and intellectual disability. One of the key non-traditional therapies is therapeutic and recreational horseback riding lessons provided through the Parkwood Farms Equestrian Program. The Parkwood Farms grounds include nine acres of riding space, a handicap accessible arena, a large outdoor arena and a wooded sensory trail.

Parkwood Farms is also the training facility for the Gwinnett County Special Olympics Equestrian Team. The center hosts year-round equestrian and athletic training giving the riders opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of friendship with other Special Olympians.

The grant awarded to Parkwood Farms will be applied to the purchase of new equipment for the Equestrian Program, including new helmets, saddle blankets, saddles and other riding gear. This new equipment will help keep therapy riders safe and comfortable for years to come.

“The grant from the Gwinnett Braves has allowed us to purchase new equipment for the horses and to expand the riders’ lending closet,” said Dr. Marilyn Peterson, Director of Parkwood Farms Therapy Center, Inc. “The riding outfits offer our athletes a way to take pride in their appearance and make a respectable presentation of their athletic abilities. The farm maintains the lending closet so the riders can borrow what they need and no one is excluded because they can’t afford the uniform.”

About Parkwood Farms Therapy Center, Inc.:  Based in Snellville, GA and opened in May 2002, the Parkwood Farms Therapy Center is dedicated to enriching the lives of physically, emotionally and mentally challenged children and adults by offering a spectrum of therapeutic services in one safe and loving environment. To find out how you can donate your time or money to Parkwood Farms, call 678-344-6821 or visit www.parkwoodfarms.org.

For more information on the Gwinnett Braves Grant Program, including details on how your organization can apply, call Community Relations Manager Shay Marlowe at 678-277-0346 or email shay.marlowe@braves.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Gwinnett Braves. Click here to view the original story.

Just Drive Campaign Aims to Keep Teens Safe

Just Drive, an initiative by the Greenville Drive and several community partners to curb teen texting and driving, launched Jan. 22.

Top, from left to right: Greenville Drive Executive Vice President Nate Lipscomb, Greenville County Schools spokesperson Oby Lyles, Eastside High School Principal Mike Thorne. Bottom, from left to right: Bradshaw Automotive GM Wes Bradshaw, Michelin Community Relations Director Leesa Owens, and Verizon Wireless District Manager Thomas Brown. (Richard Shiro)
Top, from left to right: Greenville Drive Executive Vice President Nate Lipscomb, Greenville County Schools spokesperson Oby Lyles, Eastside High School Principal Mike Thorne. Bottom, from left to right: Bradshaw Automotive GM Wes Bradshaw, Michelin Community Relations Director Leesa Owens, and Verizon Wireless District Manager Thomas Brown. (Richard Shiro)

 

Greenville, SC – The Greenville Drive has renewed its commitment to making Greenville County’s roads safer by educating teens about the dangers of texting and driving. The Drive – along with community partners Michelin, N.A., Verizon Wireless and Bradshaw Automotive – have launched the Just Drive campaign for the second straight year to encourage students at all Greenville County high schools to sign the pledge to not text and drive.

“We are thrilled to bring back our Just Drive campaign for the 2014 season,” said Drive President and Co-Owner Craig Brown. “Automobile accidents are the number one killer of teenagers across the United States, and the Drive wants to continue to encourage teenagers to focus solely on driving when they are behind the wheel. We are excited to work once again with the Greenville School District and our Just Drive sponsors to bring awareness to the Just Drive campaign.”

The 2014 Just Drive campaign was announced at a press conference on Wednesday at Eastside High School, where the Drive unveiled several upcoming activities to engage students. The press conference featured representatives from the Greenville Drive, Michelin, N.A., Verizon Wireless, Bradshaw Automotive and the principal and student from Eastside. Special guests included representatives from Greenville County Schools, the City of Greenville, the City of Greenville Youth Commission and students from Eastside High School.

The press conference highlighted the Drive’s primary objectives for the Just Drive campaign, including the announcement that students will participate in a creative challenge to design a t-shirt logo for the campaign. In addition, the Drive announced plans for an invitational baseball game at Fluor Field and a Celebration Game during the Drive’s upcoming 2014 season, both of which will be open to students who have made the pledge.

“A person who texts behind the wheel is 23 times more likely to be involved in a collision than someone who chooses to maintain their full attention on the road,” said Leesa Owens of Michelin, citing a study by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute. “Michelin is glad to support the Greenville Drive in spreading this important message.”

“No text or email is worth the distraction behind the wheel,” said Jerry Fountain, Verizon’s President of the Carolinas/Tennessee Region. “Verizon is committed to partnering with community organizations that share our goal of ending distracted driving. We all have a responsibility to keep our roads safe.”

“We encourage students, and drivers of all ages, to please pull off the roadway in a safe location if you must send or respond to a text or place a voice call when you are behind the wheel,” said Wes Bradshaw, General Manager of Bradshaw Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac of Greer.

Greenville Drive employees are teaming with volunteers from Verizon Wireless to speak to students during school lunch hours about the dangers of distracted driving, and to encourage them to avoid texting, talking on the phone, eating and other distracted behaviors that pulls attention away from safe driving. Students will be asked to sign a pledge as a promise to the community to not text while driving.

“The Just Drive campaign spreads a powerful message to our students about the responsibilities they have while behind the wheel,” said Oby Lyles, spokesperson for Greenville County Schools. “The Greenville Drive has assembled a terrific team of community advocates to connect and engage new drivers in this very important initiative.”

To sign the pledge to Just Drive, please visit facebook.com/justdrivepledge.

About The Drive

The Greenville Drive, the South Atlantic League affiliate of the 2013 World Series Champion Boston Red Sox, just completed its 8th season at award-winning Fluor Field, located in Downtown Greenville. Since 2006, more than 400,000 fans a year have been welcomed to Fluor Field for both Drive games and additional community events. The Drive has received numerous awards, including Ballpark of the year in its Inaugural 2006 Season, the National Sports Forums Overall Award for Excellence for Sports Marketing in 2010 and 2011 and the prestigious Freitas Award in 2012, presented by Baseball Americaand given to an organization which exemplifies excellence in operations, franchise stability and community engagement. 31 Drive alumni have gone onto play at the Major League level, including Clay Buchholz, Xander Bogaerts, Brandon Workman, and Will Middlebrooks.

About Michelin, N.A.

Dedicated to the improvement of sustainable mobility, Michelin designs, manufactures and sells tires for every type of vehicle, including airplanes, automobiles, bicycles, earthmovers, farm equipment, heavy-duty trucks, motorcycles and the space shuttle. The company also publishes travel guides, hotel and restaurant guides, maps and road atlases. Headquartered in Greenville, S.C., Michelin North America (www.michelin-us.com) employs more than 22,300 and operates 19 major manufacturing plants in 17 locations.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless operates the nation’s largest and most reliable 4G LTE and 3G networks. The company serves 101.2 million retail customers, including 95.2 million retail postpaid customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with nearly 72,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, NASDAQ: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. For the latest news and updates about Verizon Wireless, visit our News Center at http://news.verizonwireless.com or follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/VZWNews.

About Bradshaw Automotive Group

Bradshaw Automotive began in 1979, when William Bradshaw and his wife, Annette, purchased a small Oldsmobile/Cadillac Dealership in Greer, South Carolina. While the organization has grown considerably, it is still a family-run operation. William is active in the day-to-day operations of all of the dealerships and is now aided by his son, Wes Bradshaw, and his son-in-law, Bill Donovan. The growth and success of Bradshaw Automotive can best be explained by William’s philosophy of treating employees and customers like family, and always respecting their needs.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Greenville Drive. Click here to view the original story.

Cutters Banquet raises over $5,000 for Special Olympics

Phillies manager Ryne Sandberg discussed his career and expectations for his 2014 squad at the Cutters Hot Stove Banquet
Phillies manager Ryne Sandberg discussed his career and expectations for his 2014 squad at the Cutters Hot Stove Banquet

With a star-studded guest list and a jam-packed Genetti Ballroom, the Williamsport Crosscutters 8th Annual Hot Stove Banquet was a great success while raising over $5,000 for charity.

On a cold winter night in Williamsport, Phillies manager Ryne Sandberg, third baseman Cody Asche, Phillies TV Field Reporter Gregg Murphy & Phillies front office personnel entertained attendees with stories and answered audience questions.

In talking about the 2014 Phillies, Sandberg stated, “”I think we have that talent. We do have some young players that have a chance to chip in. Ben Revere was going good last year when he got hurt. The young arms in the bullpen got a shot to get some work last year and did a good job for the final six weeks of the season. I think that’ll go a long way for us.” When asked what is goal was, he said, “I want to get to a World Series, and I want to get there more than once.”

The night, presented by Lycoming Mall, Woodlands Bank, WRAK Radio and the Williamsport Sun-Gazette, was also highlighted by live and Chinese auctions that featured a wealth of sports memorabilia including a bat and glove signed by Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz, a special breakfast with the Phillie Phanatic, jerseys signed by Sandberg and Asche and much more.

Other highlights of the event included the induction of R.D. Slingerland into the Bowman Field Hall of Fame. Slingerland has worked on the Bowman Field playing surface for more than 25 years including installing an entirely new playing surface and irrigation system in 1997.

A portion of the proceeds from the evening were donated to Lycoming County Special Olympics whose mission is to provide year-round sports training and competition in a variety of sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. At the conclusion of the festivities, Special Olympics was presented with a check for $5,150.

The Crosscutters open the 2014 season on June 13 at Susquehanna Bank Park at Historic Bowman Field. Season tickets, bonus books and group packages are currently available and can be purchased online or by calling the Cutters at (570) 326-3389.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Williamsport Crosscutters. Click here to view the original story.

Student Honored for Bookmark Design

Federalsburg Elementary student recognized

Linda Davila was honored by Shawn Schoolcraft and Sherman the Shorebird
Linda Davila was honored by Shawn Schoolcraft and Sherman the Shorebird

Salisbury, MD – The Delmarva Shorebirds and Sherman the Shorebird visited Federalsburg Elementary school on Wednesday, January 15 to honor Linda Davila as the 2014 Hit the Books Bookmark Design Contest winner. After careful review by Shorebirds staff members, Linda’s design was selected out of over 1,000 submissions.

Click here to see her winning entry.

Linda is a student at Federalsburg Elementary School.

Her bookmark design was printed and distributed to the over 40,000 students involved in the Shorebirds Hit the Books program presented by Dr. James M. Crouse at The Brace Place.

Congratulations Linda!

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Delmarva Shorebirds. Click here to view the original story.