Tides to renovate Shore Little League Wednesday

The Norfolk Tides organization will be renovating the Shore Little League field in Northampton County on Wednesday, April 24. Shore Little League was a participant in the 2012 Field Renovation Contest, with the Eastern Shore community garnering over 2,700 votes for the field.
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Phoebus Little League makeover photos

Members of the Tides front office staff, including head groundskeeper Kenny Magner, will take part in the field makeover, which will include an upgrade to the playing surface and an improvement to existing dugouts. The staff will spend 9 am – 4 pm Wednesday working on the field.

“We were extremely impressed by the number of votes Shore Little League field received in our inaugural Field Renovation Contest last year” said Tides General Manager Joe Gregory. “The outpouring of support the small community received was overwhelming, and we are very happy to do our part in helping city of Nassawadox have a field their children can be proud to call their own.”

Shore Little League, which is the only chartered league in the county of Northampton, is the fifth youth field the Tides have renovated since the beginning of 2012. The Tides helped to renovate three fields in 2012 – Ocean View Little League (Norfolk), Smithfield Recreation Association (Smithfield) and Bennett’s Creek Little League (Suffolk) – before renovating the Phoebus Little League field in Hampton last week.

The project is possible because of the 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.

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

RiverDogs Introduce “Healthy Challenge Tuesdays”

Charleston-RiverDogsThis season, the RiverDogs, the Class A affiliate of the 27-time World Champion Yankees, introduce the “Healthy Challenge Tuesday” as the club partners with the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) to make every Tuesday’s game at The Joe a night that is themed around living a healthier lifestyle.

“Tuesday night games will now be geared toward living and promoting a healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally,” said RiverDogs General Manager Dave Echols. “We all can do a better job of taking care of ourselves, and why not start doing it at a baseball game?”

MUSC-logoThe RiverDogs have teamed up with the MUSC Wellness Center to create an entire new line of healthy concessions options available throughout the season, many made from crops grown on the MUSC Urban Farm located in downtown Charleston. Each Tuesday game will feature a different item from these new healthy selections and be offered to fans at a discounted rate.

Additionally, the club’s renowned between-innings promotions will also be health and fitness oriented for Tuesday home games this year. MUSC Wellness staff will be heard from throughout the night on the video board providing quick, simple, healthy lifestyle choices ranging from exercise activities to snack options to general healthy lifestyle tips.

“The MUSC Wellness Center and Healthy Charleston Challenge are excited to partner with the RiverDogs to help promote healthy lifestyle habits for the whole family while enjoying America’s pastime,” said Janis Newton, Assistant Director of the MUSC Wellness Center. “Together we’ll offer families the opportunity to eat healthy and increase physical activity while having fun cheering on the RiverDogs in 2013.”

Reading All-Stars Celebrated Monday Night

Michelin, Drive set to recognize students from Greenville County elementary schools & Pickens County schools

GreenvilleDrive_2013-04-14

 

The Greenville Drive announced the successful completion of its 2013 Reading All-Stars program with plans to recognize students who accomplished the program’s reading goals during special celebration games at Fluor Field. Qualifying students from Greenville County elementary schools and Pickens County elementary and middle schools qualifiers will be recognized on Monday, April 15th, with Greenville County middle and Spartanburg Districts 2, 5, 6 and 7 elementary and middle schools qualifiers to be recognized on Sunday, May 19th.

Over 39,000 students from 103 elementary and middle schools across Pickens, Greenville and Spartanburg counties voluntarily took part in the Drive’s 6th annual reading incentive program which is designed to encourage leaning and education success through reading. Students were challenged to read a set number of extra-curricular books during February and March in order to receive free admission and special recognition at Drive games with other Reading All-Stars.

At the upcoming recognition games, more than 8,000 qualifying students will have the opportunity to parade on the field before the game and to participate in between innings entertainment events. In addition, students who take part in the pre-game ceremony will be recognized with a Drive – Michelin Reading All Star commemorative t-shirt.

Michelin North America has been the title sponsor of the Drive Reading All Stars Program since its inception in 2008. Herb Johnson, director of community relations for Michelin North America, noted, “This program provides a great way to help the young people of our community connect something as important as reading and education with an experience that is as cool as baseball and professional sports.” Johnson added, “Having the Drive players involved provides an added dimension of encouragement, motivation and fun to this reading challenge.”

Bobbie Bentley, Spartanburg District 5 Public Relations Director, added, “The program has been extremely well planned and executed each year, and our school district has been very pleased with the enthusiasm we’ve seen from our teachers in terms of their participation. Our students have clearly risen to the challenge and it is exciting to have this unique incentive to work with in our ongoing efforts to make reading a rewarding experience for them.”

Drive president and co-owner, Craig Brown commented on this year’s program’s results noting, “The participation and success we have seen with young readers across the Upstate has continued to increase each year and we are delighted with the positive impact the program is having.” Brown remarked on the significance of the Reading All-Stars Program, saying, “We know that reading skills are absolutely critical to a student’s ability to succeed and stay in school, and moving the needle here has a positive impact on both the quality of life and the economic prosperity the Upstate Community is so committed to sustaining.”

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

3 R’s Program With Charleston County Schools Returns

Charleston-RiverDogsThe Charleston RiverDogs and the Charleston County School District began their “Reading and Running With the RiverDogs” program in select Charleston County Schools in 2009 to emphasize the fun and benefits in daily reading and exercise activities.

This year, third graders from Pinehurst, Blaney, Lambs, Burns and North Charleston elementary schools will be involved. Twice a month, a RiverDog staff member will come to the assigned school for a “read aloud” in each third grade class. The staff member will spend 15-20 minutes with each third grade class and then rotate between classes for about an hour. There will be approximately eight visits per school from February to May.

Charleston-SC-3RshirtdesignStudents may earn points by reading and exercising beyond the school day. Students earn a point for every 20 minutes they read and/or exercise. If students conduct “works of kindness” (such as reading to a youngster, helping mom with housework, carrying groceries for an elderly person or helping in the yard) while exercising or reading, they may earn two points for each 20 minutes. Students will record the minutes they read and exercise on a log and their parents/guardians will verify activities by initialing the log. The logs are reviewed by the teacher on a weekly basis, and point totals are tallied monthly. Students are awarded monthly the following:

• 101+ points: Free meal ticket at the game-hotdog, chips, drink;
• 100 points: RiverDogs t-shirt and two tickets to the Charleston RiverDogs game on May 10 (additional tickets for family members may be secured at a reduced rate);
• 75 points: Book donated to school library in the student’s name;
• 50 points: RiverDogs souvenir drink cup;
• 25 points: “Top Dog” ribbon

Additionally, there will be competition among the schools as they will also compete against each other for the highest monthly total points and the top school will receive a trophy that will rotate among the participating schools.

“Our ongoing partnership with the RiverDogs supports our continued efforts with literacy and helps to sustain our district Vision 2016 for academic achievement of all students”, said Mary Ann Dieter, Curriculum Specialist for the CCSD Literacy Based Learning Division.

“This program is a win-win opportunity for all involved,” said RiverDogs General Manager Dave Echols. “We remain pleased to have this direct association with the Charleston County School District and it is our goal to make an impact with child development.”

For more information on this innovative “Reading and Running With the RiverDogs” program, please contact Lauren Allio at the RiverDogs at (843)577-DOGS (3647).

Scout Events At Victory Field

Schedule Includes Three Campouts and Circuit of Fun Night

Victory Field will host several exciting Scout Events during the 2013 season.
Victory Field will host several exciting Scout Events during the 2013 season.

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Indians are proud to announce the 2013 schedule of the annual Boy and Girl Scout events at Victory Field. This year’s slate will include three overnight campouts, as well as the Tribe’s first ever Circuit of Fun Scout Night on Saturday, May 11, which will include pre-game festivities and a post-game bases run.

Scout groups participating in the first annual Circuit of Fun Scout Night will be treated to free games in the PNC Plaza located in center field, and have the option of purchasing a discounted food and drink package during the pre-game party, scheduled from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Tribe’s award-winning mascot Rowdie will also be on hand to sign autographs and entertain patrons, as well as several players from the 2013 Indianapolis Indians squad. Tickets to the Circuit of Fun Scout Night include admission to the regularly scheduled Indians game, a special patch to commemorate the event and the opportunity to stick around after the evening’s contest to run the bases.

Victory Field will turn into an overnight camp ground for troops, dens and packs during the Tribe’s Boy and Girl Scouts Campout events. The fun-filled evening will begin with the regularly scheduled Indians game, followed by a fantastic fireworks show. Campout participants can remain in the ballpark after the game and are treated to popcorn and a movie on the videoboard. Scout groups will also have the opportunity to take to the Tribe’s outfield to set up their tents for the evening, with the grand event being capped off by breakfast on Saturday morning.

Overnight Boy Scout Campouts are set for Friday, June 7 when the Indians take on the Durham Bulls at 7:15 p.m., and Friday, June 28, as the Tribe battles the Rochester Red Wings at 7:15 p.m. The Girl Scout Campout is scheduled Friday, June 21 immediately following the 7:15 p.m. contest between the Tribe and the Charlotte Knights.

Reservations for the Boy and Girl Scout Campouts, which historically sell out, and the first annual Circuit of Fun Night can be made by clicking here or calling the Victory Field Box Office at (317) 269-3545.

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

2013 Baseball Camps SOLD OUT

Learn from the pros at FirstEnergy Park

LakewoodBlueClaws_2013-04-11

 

LAKEWOOD, NJ – Youth baseball players can learn the game from BlueClaws players right on the field at FirstEnergy Park at one of the team’s three Youth Baseball Camp sessions in 2013.

UPDATED – All sessions are SOLD OUT.

The camps are open to players ages 7-12 and will cover all aspects of the game, including pitching, hitting, base-running, fielding, and throwing.

Each session runs from 9 am – 12 pm over four days and includes lunch each day and an autograph session with BlueClaws players on the final day of camp.

2013 Youth Baseball Camp Sessions
Session 1 – July 9, 11, 12, 13 [SOLD OUT]
Session 2 – July 25, 26, 29, 30 [SOLD OUT]
Session 3 – August 20, 21, 22, 23 [SOLD OUT]

The objective of the BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camp is to instill the fundamentals of baseball, promote good sportsmanship and create an enjoyable learning atmosphere for all.

These camps sell out each year and parents interested in signing up their kids are encouraged to do so early.

Registration is $175 per session, or $475 for all three sessions. To sign up, call Maggie Devlin at 732-901-7000 ext 164 or return this order form.

– BlueClaws –

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

Gwinnett Braves Award March Grant to Aurora Theatre

Local Theatre is recognized for their commitment to the Fine Arts

Gwinnett BravesThe Gwinnett Braves have awarded their $1,000 grant for the month of March to the Aurora Theatre of Lawrenceville, GA. This month’s grant, intended to support organizations that promote art programs and education, will help Aurora Theatre in its purchase of a new portable sound system.

aurora-theater-logoIn 2011, the Aurora Theatre’s Academy and Conservatory launched an educational outreach program. With county schools cutting down music and art programs, the Aurora Theatre travels to local Gwinnett County Public Schools and educates through workshops and small traveling shows.   This season, the program will debut “Unnecessary Monsters,” an interactive play that will discuss the issue of bullying. With the help of the G-Braves, the play will reach a greater audience and avoid technical difficulties.

The program has grown exponentially since last fall.  Through their hard work and dedication, the Aurora Theatre program has provided the youth of Gwinnett County with more exposure to the arts.

“Our education program has many facets,” said the Director of Education Jaclyn Hofmann. “We have our Aurora Academy training program, learning library shows, in school workshops and other features. With this grant we can purchase a portable sound system, so that we can travel to any school or organization.”

The original story appeared on the Gwinnett Braves’ website, and can be viewed by clicking here.

Mets Hosting Field of Dreams Program

The St. Lucie Mets have announced they will be hosting the Field of Dreams program for all youth sports teams during the 2013 season at Tradition Field.

All little league baseball or youth sports teams can celebrate the end of their season with a party at Tradition Field.

The Field of Dreams program allows a team an opportunity to take the field with the St. Lucie Mets players prior to the national anthem.

The rookie package is $8 and provides each player a ticket to the St. Lucie Mets game, a Hot Dog and soda voucher, and on-field opportunity with the Mets.

Teams can also sign up for the All-Star package at a cost of $15. The package includes a ticket for each player to the St. Lucie Mets game, a pizza party, two reserved terrace tables, and an on-field opportunity with the Mets.

Teams are encouraged to reserve their party with limited spots available per game.

To reserve a spot with the Mets for the Field of Dreams program, contact Cassie Younce at 772-871-2100.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the St. Lucie Mets. Click here to view the original story.

Fisher Cats Team with Youk’s Kids, E&R Cleaners for Manchester Public Schools D

Organizations provided thousands of tickets for Manchester school children

MANCHESTER, NH – In a time when school budgets are being slashed and squeezed, often at the cost of educational field trips, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats partnered with two local foundations to provide thousands of Manchester school children with a school day at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium.  Youk’s Kids, the foundation of former Red Sox infielder Kevin Youkilis, and E&R Cleaners purchased tickets so that nearly five thousand students could enjoy a field trip to the ballpark-turned-classroom for Manchester Public Schools Day on Wednesday morning.

“Youk’s Kids and E&R Cleaners have been tremendously generous in providing their support for this initiative this year,” said Fisher Cats President Rick Brenner.  “Without them, it’s likely that these children would’ve missed out on a unique educational experience in what is undoubtedly one of largest and most fun ‘classrooms’ they will enjoy this year.”

In addition to enjoying the action on the field, the school children were introduced to a variety of learning elements throughout the ballpark.  The Fisher Cats invited several local attractions to provide learning stations that covered a wide range of subjects, including astronomy, wildlife, fire safety, financial education, and math and science.

“As a foundation, Youk’s Kids is constantly striving to provide opportunities that enhance the health and well-being of children in New England,” said Youk’s Kids Board Co-Vice President Tina Cantu.  “Teaming with the Fisher Cats for this special day game provides these students with an activity that is not only fun, but can lead to a greater interest in learning.”

“Being a family-run business that started here in Manchester, we know the value and importance in creating educational opportunities for the children in our city,” said E&R Cleaners President Rick Botnick.  “We hope that these students had a lot of fun and were able to experience something new at the ballpark for the very first time.”

In addition to the support provided by Youk’s Kids and E&R Cleaners, the following attractions and businesses provided booths and displays during Manchester Public Schools Day:

  • McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center
  • Carriage Shack Farm petting zoo
  • CU4 Reality Financial Education Program
  • Seacoast Science Center
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Manchester
  • Smokey the Bear
  • Aviation Museum of New Hampshire
  • The NHHEAF Network Organizations
  • New Hampshire Musculoskeletal Institute
  • Coca-Cola Recycling
  • The W.I.L.D Center & Zoological Park of New England
  • Manchester Fire Department
  • Manchester Police Department

The Fisher Cats open their next homestand on Thursday, April 18 against the Binghamton Mets (New York Mets).  The first game of the homestand features a fleece blanket giveaway for the first 1,000 fans courtesy of Heritage Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric.  For tickets, visit www.nhfishercatas.com, stop by the Box Office at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium, or call 603-641-2005.

The mission of Youk’s Kids is to create a community of support, increase awareness and advocate for the health and well-being of children.  Growing up surrounded by the precious gifts of family, friends, community and religion, Kevin Youkilis has long been passionate about giving back to the community. Over the years, he has sought opportunities to make a difference and has participated in a variety of philanthropic efforts. In 2007, he took his commitment to the next level and founded Youk’s Kids. Since its inception, Youk’s Kids has raised over $3 million to support more than 1,000 children.

E & R Laundry and Dry Cleaners was established in 1921 as a family owned and operated business and remains so today.  A commitment to our customer is what originally defined E & R as being “not your typical laundry and dry cleaner” and it has continued to distinguish us from the competition for over 75 years.  During that time, our family has established a foundation which continues to support the local communities we call home.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Sea Dogs Honor Over 1,200 Students for Reading

Frank Harrision Middle School, Dirigo Middle School, and Tremont Consolidated School Earn Financial Donations from the Sea Dogs Organization

Students that completed Slugger's Reading Challenge pose for a picture in front of the Maine Monster on April 7th.
Students that completed Slugger’s Reading Challenge pose for a picture in front of the Maine Monster on April 7th.

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs, Double-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, will honor over 1,200 students throughout Maine who have successfully completed Slugger’s 2013 Reading Challenge.

In the fall, Slugger the Sea Dog issued a reading challenge to Maine students to read five books above and beyond any required school reading.  Any student who successfully completed the challenge would receive a ticket to a Sea Dogs game where they would be honored in a pre-game ceremony.

Over 50 schools throughout Maine participated with 1,213 students completing the challenge.  Students will be honored at the following Sea Dogs games; Sunday, April 7th vs. Trenton, Tuesday, April 9th vs. Reading, and Wednesday, April 24th vs. Binghamton.

The Sea Dogs have also made a financial contribution to the three schools with the highest rate of students who successfully completed the challenge.  Frank H. Harrison Middle School in Yarmouth had the highest completion rate at 96.8% and received a $1000.00 donation from the Sea Dogs.  Dirigo Middle School ranked second with a 95% completion rate and will receive a $500.00 donation.  Rounding out the top three was the Tremont Consolidated School with a 76.8% completion rate and will receive a $250.00 donation from the Portland Sea Dogs.

Slugger’s Reading Challenge was presented by Maine’s Public Universities System.

“The Portland Sea Dogs are committed to promoting education and reading within our community,” stated Sea Dogs General Manager Geoff Iacuessa.  “We are proud that so many students successfully completed Slugger’s Reading Challenge, we look forward to honoring them at a game.”

Book your nine inning vacation.  Tickets for all 2013 Portland Sea Dogs’ home games are available and can be purchased by calling the Sea Dogs Ticket Office at 207-879-9500 or online at www.seadogs.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Portland Sea Dogs. Click here to view the original story.

Pirates Charities Presents Gift to Boys and Girls Clubs

$62,000 raised during Spring Training presented at Marauders opener

Bradenton-MaraudersPirates Charities, the official Philanthropic arm of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Bradenton Marauders, partnered with Bright House Networks to present a $62,000 donation to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Manatee County. Pirates Senior Director of Florida Operations, Trevor Gooby and Bright House Networks Florida Marketing Manager of Sponsorships, Events and Promotions, Amy Sumerlin presented the donation at the Bradenton Marauders home opener Friday night.

Money for the donation was raised during several Pirates Spring Training fundraising efforts. More than $15,000 was raised from ticket sales during Bright House Networks Night at McKechnie Field on March 8th. That game was attended by 6,353 fans, the most ever for a night game at McKechnie Field.

Boys-&-Girls-Club-&-Bright-HouseThe Boys and Girls Clubs of Manatee County have been supporting youths ages 5 through 17 that need it most for more than 67 years. The Boys and Girls Clubs have seven locations helping more than 6,000 children develop good character and citizenship and make progress towards graduating high school.

Pirates Charities was founded in 2006. It has contributed more than $3.1 million to the greater Pittsburgh, Bradenton and Manatee County, and Estorga, Dominican Republic communities.

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

Wild About Reading reaches goal of 100,000 students

Program finishes its 10th year by reaching new heights

Fresno-GrizzliesWild About Reading wrapped up its 10th year with over 100,000 students enrolled in the program, the Fresno Grizzlies Community Fund announced. The 100,000+ students enrolled is the highest number of students registered in a single year for the program. Wild About Reading, presented by Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino, Educational Employees Credit Union (EECU), and PG&E, challenges students to read 10 books over five weeks with the incentive of two free tickets to a 2013 Grizzlies game at Chukchansi Park for those that reach the 10-book goal.

“Thank you to all the students and schools that helped us reach our goal,” said Grizzlies Community Fund Manager Whitney Campbell. “We are happy to have been able to reach 100,000 students with the Wild About Reading program in 2013. The educational experience of reading and reward of attending a Fresno Grizzlies baseball game will have an impact on numerous Central Valley students for years to come.”

Fresno-Grizzlies-Community-Fund-logoWild About Reading utilizes baseball to promote reading in and outside the classroom. There are 10 Grizzlies games this season in which Wild About Reading students that reached their goal are assigned to attend. The GCF will also be giving away Kindle Fires to lucky readers at Grizzlies games as well as two laptops to the school with the highest game attendance percentage.

EECU-logoThis year’s program featured a new Farm Grown magazine that was given to each student enrolled in the program. The Farm Grown magazine, published by the Grizzlies Community Fund and Farm Progress, included the program’s main story “Parker Goes To The Farm,” which teaches readers the importance of the farming industry to the Central Valley region and how food goes from farm to plate. The Farm Grown magazine also has games and puzzles with farming themes for grades K-8.

From December of 2012 to March 2013, Parker, Eddie the Owl from EECU, and the Grizzlies front office staff visited over 150 schools in the Fresno, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, and Merced counties to perform over 250 Wild About Reading kickoff assemblies.

Information about the Wild About Reading program for 2014 will be available after the Grizzlies’ 2013 season.

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

Express to Honor Military on Opening Day with “Operation: Military Kids”

Children of Military Parents to Line Infield During Opening Ceremonies

ROUND ROCK, Texas – Opening Day in baseball is a time to celebrate America’s pastime and with that, the chance to honor the soldiers and their families that protect our freedom. The Round Rock Express is proud to salute our military and their families on Opening Day, Thursday, April 4 with “Operation: Military Kids.”

Over 100 children with one or both parents in the military and often times impacted by military deployments will line up around the infield during the special opening ceremonies. They’ll each hold an American flag in honor of their parents.

“We’re excited for these kids to have the opportunity to get recognized on a stage as great as the Express’ Opening Day,” said Brigid Mejia, program director of Texas “Operation: Military Kids.” “The children of our military members are sometimes overlooked for the sacrifices they make having a parent in the military.”

Texas “Operation: Military Kids” partnership is a shared initiative of the US Army Child, Youth & School (CYS) Services and funded by the Army National Guard and Army Reserve in collaboration with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. The goal of “Operation: Military Kids” is to connect military children and youth with local resources in order to achieve a sense of community support and enhance their well-being.

“Operation: Military Kids” is proud to support military youth.  April marks the nation’s “Month of the Military Child,” a time to honor youth impacted by deployment, making the timing of Opening Day that much more special.

Round Rock kicks off the regular season on Thursday, April 4 with a four-game series against the Omaha Storm Chasers followed by a four-game series against the Iowa Cubs. To reserve your Opening Day tickets and ticket plans, including full season, 20-game and flex plans, call the Express ticket office at (512) 255-2255 or visit www.RoundRockExpress.com. Keep up with the Express on Facebook and Twitter!

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Round Rock Express. Click here to view the original story.

BlueClaws, Horizon Open Healthy Plate Concession Stand

Puts Good Nutrition Right in Baseball Fans’ Strike Zone

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – As a nutrition-conscious America looks for more healthy menu options when dining out, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and the Lakewood BlueClaws are teaming up to bring smarter eating choices to America’s pastime.

Just in time for the BlueClaws 2013 baseball season, Horizon BCBSNJ is opening a new “Horizon Healthy Plate” concession stand at FirstEnergy Park, where fans at every game will be able to find nutritious alternatives to the traditional ball park fare.

“Good food and family fun are the great staples of a professional baseball game at any of New Jersey’s Minor League ballparks,” said Jonathan Pearson, Director of Corporate Philanthropy and Community Affairs for Horizon BCBSNJ.  “Healthy eating should be a part of the ballpark experience, too. That’s why Horizon BCBSNJ’s pitch to fans is to bring their appetites to the Horizon Healthy Plate concession, where menu options are both nutritious and delicious,” Pearson said.

“Enhancing our ballpark menu to offer a more healthy variety of food is something that we are excited to do this summer,” said BlueClaws General Manager Brandon Marano. “We thank Horizon BCBSNJ for their support and we think our fans will enjoy these new options.”

The Horizon Healthy Plate concession has received the support of the New Jersey Department of Health, which administers ShapingNJ, a public/private partnership for nutrition, physical activity and obesity prevention.

“The New Jersey Department of Health and the ShapingNJ  Partnership are pleased to collaborate with Horizon BCBSNJ to bring healthy concessions to places where our residents enjoy leisure-time activities,” said Peri L. Nearon, MPA,  Director of the Office of Nutrition & Fitness, NJ Department of Health. “It is so important to give families and individuals healthy choices, and to make healthy choices easier  for people to make not only for themselves, but for their children.”

The BlueClaws and Horizon BCBSNJ will officially open the Horizon Healthy Plate concession stand on Thursday night with a ceremony at 5:45 pm, before the 6:35 pm game.

The Horizon Healthy Plate menu was designed by certified dieticians under the direction of Glenn D. Pomerantz, MD, JD, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Horizon BCBSNJ.  The menu includes a long list of popular heart-healthy dining choices, such as a grilled vegetable sandwich, a turkey burger, and frozen yogurt topped with fruit. The  Horizon Healthy Plate menu also includes nutritional alternatives to the traditional ballpark fare, such as a veggie burger, a veggie hot dog and pop chips.  From entrees to appetizers; from side dishes to beverages; each affordably-priced item includes calorie and other nutritional information.

Click here to see a full menu.

“Making the right nutrition choices in every meal, including those enjoyed at leisure-time, is key to maintaining health and wellness,” Pearson said. “We encourage fans to take their smart eating habits out to the ball game this season by stepping up to the Horizon Healthy Plate concession at FirstEnergy Park.”

##

About Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, the state’s oldest and largest health insurer, is a tax-paying, not-for-profit health services corporation, providing a wide array of medical, dental, and prescription insurance products and services.  Horizon BCBSNJ is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, serving 3.6 million members with headquarters in Newark and offices in Wall, Mt. Laurel, and West Trenton.  Learn more at www.HorizonBlue.com.

About the BlueClaws

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League in attendance in all 12 years of existence.

– BlueClaws –

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

Muckdogs Announce “Hit the Books” Reading Program

The Batavia Muckdogs today announced a new reading program, designed to promote reading amongst the youth of the local communities. Along with the help of Smoke Free NOW, 2013 will mark the first year of the “HIT THE BOOKS with the Batavia Muckdogs” reading program.

As part of this program, the Muckdogs have provided various schools and libraries across local counties with customized bookmarks.  On the back of these bookmarks, children can have a parent, guardian, teacher, or librarian initial each time they complete a book. When a child completes 10 books, they can redeem the bookmark at the Dwyer Stadium box office for a FREE TICKET to any Sunday-Thursday (excluding July 3rd) Batavia Muckdogs’ game!  If a child reads 20 books, they will be entered into a drawing to win autographed memorabilia, opportunities to throw out a first pitch at a Muckdogs game and other great prizes.

Bookmarks will be made available to children at the following local libraries:

  • Richmond Library (Batavia)
  • Lee-Whedon Memorial Library (Medina)
  • Byron-Bergen Public Library
  • Stevens Memorial Community Library (Attica)
  • Haxton Memorial Library (Oakfield)
  • Perry Public Library
  • Holley Community Free Library
  • Hoag Library (Albion)
  • Pavilion Public Library
  • Warsaw Public Library
  • Woodward Memorial Library (LeRoy)
  • Wyoming Free Library

Any questions about the reading program, bookmarks, or redeeming for tickets can be answered by Mike Ewing, at 585-343-5454 x 1005.

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