OKC Dodgers and ODMHSAS to Honor Edie Nayfa Saturday As She Works to #StrikeOutThe Stigma

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers are partnering with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) this season to help #StrikeOutTheStigma and increase awareness on the topic of mental health and substance use in our community.

The partnership focuses on education, advocacy and support to help destigmatize the connotations that come with mental health and substance use struggles. Oklahomans who are working to do so will be recognized throughout the 2022 Dodgers baseball season.

The third honoree of 2022 is Edie Nayfa, CEO of Catalyst Behavioral Services. Catalyst began as a nonprofit substance use clinic in 1973 and has now grown to one of the largest behavioral health agencies in Oklahoma thanks to Nayfa’s 23 years of dedication to the organization.

“If somebody is in need of treatment, we’re always here,” she said

Nayfa will be recognized during the Dodgers’ game against the Tacoma Rainiers at 7:05 p.m. Saturday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

“Through our partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, we want to help raise awareness on the topic of mental health by talking openly about the subject and providing educational resources,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “By sharing the personal stories of Oklahomans who have been impacted by, or work to provide, mental health and substance use services in our community, we want to help strike out the stigma and provide support to our fellow Oklahomans.”

Nayfa understands that addiction and substance use can be daunting, but she also knows there’s always hope. Catalyst offers programs in both Oklahoma City and Enid and on any given day is helping up to 400 people as help is offered to all Oklahomans regardless of where they live in the state.

“We want people to know there are ample opportunities and different varieties of treatment we can do to help the individual,” she said. “We just want to give them hope.”

Catalyst is part of a statewide treatment system offering a variety of mental health and substance use prevention, treatment and recovery options. The organization’s work to advance innovative approaches in treatment allows those they serve to receive advanced care and speed the process of recovery. In fact, Catalyst was an integral part in bringing medication assisted treatment services to Oklahoma and worked with other providers to expand availability.

Catalyst and other providers in the system receive funding from the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) allowing persons to receive care regardless of ability to pay. Nayfa is beyond thankful for the relationship.

“We are beyond blessed to have them as support,” she said. “We couldn’t do it without them.”

She knows there’s long been a stigma associated with addiction and substance use and Catalyst focuses on trying to change that stigma, while also helping those struggling with addiction.

“We need to have compassion, mercy and tolerance,” she said.

She knows everyone is capable of transformation and it’s what she loves most about her job.

“To see them on the other side of that is truly a blessing,” she said.

To read Nayfa’s full story, visit the OKC Dodgers’ “Beyond the Bricks” website at: medium.com/beyond-the-bricks. Photos of Nayfa are attached for use (credit: OKC Dodgers).

The OKC Dodgers host ¡Celebración Cielo Azul! this week at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark and their home series against the Tacoma Rainiers continues tonight at 7:05 p.m. Fireworks are scheduled to follow Friday night’s 7:05 p.m. game and the series continues at 7:05 p.m. Saturday with the Clubhouse Collectibles online auction, presented by The Oklahoman. The auction features game-worn, game-used and autographed Dodgers memorabilia that will be available for fans to bid on from 6-11 p.m. at milbauctions.com to benefit the Foundation for Oklahoma City Public Schools. Following Sunday’s 2:05 p.m. series finale, kids can run the bases.

Dodgers players and coaches will wear Cielo Azul jerseys throughout the series and the gameday environment during ¡Celebración Cielo Azul! will feature Latin music, festive concourse decorations, unique entertainment, live performances and a Spanish-speaking public address announcer for select games. Specialty concession items and Cielo Azul merchandise will be available for purchase. In addition to the game action on the field, Clips N Hips will perform during Friday night’s game and Yúmare Mexican Folkloric Dancers, Inc., are set to perform Saturday and Sunday.

Since 2018, the Dodgers have participated in MiLB’s Copa de la Diversión, or Fun Cup, which is a season-long event series designed to embrace the culture and values that resonate most with participating teams’ local U.S. Hispanic/Latino communities, including creating unique on-field personas and gameday experiences. The name Cielo Azul translates to “Blue Sky.”

Tickets can be purchased through okcdodgers.com/tickets. Tickets purchased here include a $5 donation to the Latino Community Development Agency. The LCDA’s mission is to improve the quality of life in the Latino community through education, leadership, service and advocacy. For more information, please visit okcdodgers.com or call (405) 218-2182.

Live radio coverage of each OKC Dodgers game begins 15 minutes before first pitch on AM 1340 “The Game,” 1340thegame.com and through the free iHeartRadio or MiLB First Pitch apps. OKC Dodgers games are also available streamed live on MiLB.TV with a subscription.

Lugnuts and Disability Rights Michigan to host Accessible Day Sunday

LANSING, Mich. – The Lansing Lugnuts and Disability Rights Michigan (DRM) have partnered to host an Accessible Day at Jackson® Field™ on Sunday, September 11th. This partnership hopes to raise awareness about the need for full inclusion, so individuals with disabilities feel empowered within the community.

Ballpark gates open at 12 noon, with first pitch at 1:05 p.m. between the Lugnuts and the visiting Dayton Dragons. This is the final scheduled game in the Lugnuts’ season.

Accessible Day at the ballpark will include ASL interpreters, menus in braille, sensory kits, quiet room, “get your wiggles out” station and a host of other accommodations. Fans can learn about advocacy organizations in the area and what assistive technology is available to them.

“Disability Rights Michigan would like to thank the Lansing Lugnuts for celebrating the beauty of inclusion,” said Executive Director Michelle Roberts. “To have an experience where everyone feels welcomed and included brings together a community. Baseball is for everyone, and we are excited to be part of this day.”

“We’re proud to partner with Disability Rights Michigan, whose values we share,” said Lansing Lugnuts general manager Tyler Parsons. “This is about celebrating inclusivity, extending not only through all Lugnuts fans but also through our staff. This will be an outstanding afternoon to connect, empower and root together at the ballpark.”

Disability Rights Michigan and Michigan Disability Rights Coalition will be present on the concourse providing information and awareness around the services they offer. Autism Alliance of Michigan will be providing sensory kits and the Bureau of Elections will showcase the Voter Assist Terminals available in the upcoming November election.

About Disability Rights Michigan
Disability Rights Michigan (DRM) is the independent, private, nonprofit organization designated by the governor of the State of Michigan to advocate and protect the legal rights of people with disabilities in Michigan. www.drmich.org.

About the Lansing LugnutsThe High-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics, the Lansing Lugnuts have won over 1,800 games and two league championships, hosted four All-Star Games, and produced 171 Major Leaguers in 26 seasons. Over 8,000,000 fans have attended Lugnuts games, including over 250,000 this season. For more information, call (517) 485-4500.

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Rochester Red Wings, RIT/NTID, and Rochester School for the Deaf partner for Deaf Culture Day

ROCHESTER, NY – The Rochester Red Wings, in partnership with Rochester Institute of Technology’s National Technical Institute for the Deaf and Rochester School for the Deaf, will host the third Deaf Culture Day at Frontier Field, on Friday, September 16. The 6:05 p.m. game is against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs.

Interpreters from Interpretek will be on site during the game at Frontier Field to assist fans at the Ticket Office, concession stands, guest services, Team Store, and various other locations around the ballpark. The 7th inning will be a “silent inning,” without public address announcements or music, to raise further awareness about deafness. Portions of the game will be captioned on the videoboard.

The National Anthem and God Bless America will be performed in sign language by NTID’s traveling performance troupe Sunshine 2.0.

The Red Wings will don American Sign Language jerseys which will be auctioned off to benefit NTID and RSD. The game-worn jerseys will be auctioned off online at RedWingsBaseball.com/Auction.

Rochester Red Wings General Manager Dan Mason said:

“Based on the popularity and success of our first event in 2019, we are proud to partner with NTID for our third annual Deaf Culture Day at Frontier Field. It’s been such a unique event, and we look forward to making this a true celebration of the Deaf community and the important impact that deaf citizens have had in Rochester. We look forward to hosting many deaf members of the Rochester community and their families, as well as members of the RIT/NTID student body, while educating all fans about Deaf culture.”

RIT/NTID President Gerry Buckley added:

“RIT/NTID is thrilled to be working with the Red Wings on our third Deaf Culture Day. We are grateful for the organization’s commitment to Rochester’s Deaf community—one of the largest per capita in the nation—and know that Sept. 16 will be a great night for our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the rest of the Rochester area.”

RSD will be collecting school supplies during the game. Fans donating school supply items will receive $2 off their ticket. The discount only applies to in-person purchases at the Ticket Office. Fans will show their supply and drop it off at Guest Services the day of the game. Items that RSD is in need of are listed here.

For more information regarding your ticket purchase, e-mail [email protected] or visit the Rochester Red Wings website.

Woodpeckers to host Alzheimer's Awareness Night at Segra Stadium

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – AUGUST 3, 2022 – The Alzheimer’s Association – Eastern North Chapter is teaming up with the Fayetteville Woodpeckers for Paint the Park Purple — Alzheimer’s Awareness Night on Friday, August 12 at Segra Stadium.

Proceeds from Paint the Park Purple will support the Association’s 2022 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Fayetteville taking place on October 29 —to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

The game against the Down East Wood Ducks begins at 7:05 p.m., with gates opening at 6 p.m. The game will conclude with fireworks. Fans are encouraged to wear purple and the first 1,000 fans through the gates will take home a custom purple hat sponsored by Edward Jones Cumberland County featuring the Woodpeckers signature logo.

The Woodpeckers will take the field wearing purple jerseys in honor of all who have been impacted by Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. A jersey auction will take place both in-game and online with the proceeds benefiting the Fayetteville Walk.

Those wishing to learn more about Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Fayetteville are invited to come early and stop by the Walk Kickoff Tent to learn more, meet the local committee, register for the Walk and pick up information and team captain resources. The tent will be located outside next to the stadium’s box office from 1 – 3 p.m.

The inaugural Paint the Park Purple took place in 2019 and has since raised over $16,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association.

“We appreciate the Fayetteville Woodpeckers support over the last several years to raise funds and awareness for a world without Alzheimer’s,” said Lisa Roberts, executive director for the Alzheimer’s Association – Eastern North Carolina Chapter. “Alzheimer’s Association Awareness Nights like this provide the opportunity for us to talk about the impact Alzheimer’s and all other dementia has and the care and support the Association can provide to local families in Cumberland County and surrounding areas.”

To purchase tickets for Paint the Park Purple — Alzheimer’s Awareness Night click here.

More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In North Carolina alone, there are more than 180,000 people living with the disease and 356,000 caregivers.

To sign up as a walker or Team Captain or to learn more about becoming a sponsor of Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Fayetteville, visit act.alz.org/fayettevillenc or call 800-272-3900.

The Alzheimer’s Association hosts 17 walks across North Carolina including: Alamance County, Asheville, Charlotte, Gaston/Cleveland/Lincoln Counties, Fayetteville, Guilford County, Henderson County, Iredell County, Jacksonville, Moore County, Mount Airy, New Bern, Rowan-Cabarrus Counties, Triangle (Raleigh and Durham), Unifour (formerly Hickory), Wilmington and Winston-Salem. To register and receive the latest updates on any of this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit: alz.org/walk.

Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association® mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk®; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s Association®

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit alz.org or call (800) 272-3900.

About the Alzheimer’s Association – Eastern North Carolina Chapter

The Eastern North Carolina Chapter provides patient and family services, information and referral, education, and advocacy in 51 eastern North Carolina counties. It offers opportunities to get involved and to make a difference, in addition to a variety of services including: a 24/7 Helpline, support groups, educational programs, and MedicAlert®. For more information about Alzheimer’s disease, or the Alzheimer’s Association, Eastern North Carolina Chapter, visit alz.org/nc or call 800-272-3900. For the latest news and updates, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Deaf Awareness Night Returns to Pelicans Ballpark

The night, which is presented by Young Talkers, marks the 4th annual event for the team

August 12th will mark the return of Deaf Awareness Night to Pelicans Ballpark presented by Young Talkers. To increase awareness and raise funds for the deaf community, the Pelicans will wear specially-designed jerseys, courtesy of Young Talkers, that replace the traditional Myrtle Beach script with American Sign Language (ASL). The back of the jersey will also feature the “I Love You” sign in ASL, a strong symbol within the deaf community. The club will auction off the commemorative jerseys with proceeds benefiting the Pelicans Organization for the Deaf.

In an effort to create an inclusive experience for members of the deaf community, sign language interpreters will be infused into the Pelicans’ game day experience. Interpreters have been assigned to special sections within Pelicans Ballpark for the evening. Fans needing an interpreter for the game on August 12 should purchase tickets online at myrtlebeachpelicans.com using promo code DA2022. The dedicated interpreter sections for the evening will be 107 and 208. Additionally, the first 500 fans through the gates will receive a gift bag courtesy of Young Talkers.

Gates will open at 6 PM for the 7:05 PM game against the Columbia Fireflies (affiliate of the Royals). For tickets and additional information visit myrtlebeachpelicans.com/asl.

ABOUT YOUNG TALKERS: Young Talkers is an adult & pediatric therapy clinic located in Myrtle Beach, SC and Pawleys Island, SC. Their mission is to provide quality speech-language and feeding/swallowing therapy services to the pediatric and adult population in order to enhance their verbal/non-verbal communication and feeding/swallowing skills. They accomplish this by identifying concerns through specialized evaluations and the development of goals to meet the needs of the patient and their family. Young Talkers has received first place in Best of the Beach for six years in a row for Best Medical Clinic, Group or Office. For more information, visit them online at YoungTalkers.com.

ABOUT PELICANS ORGANIZATION FOR THE DEAF: Pelicans Organization for the Deaf (POFD) is a non-for-profit organization that provides educational and cultural events which serves members and board with diverse in the Myrtle Beach area. POFD recognizes the differences and diversities in people and members who encourage interaction amongst one another for stimulating and exciting exchanges of ideas , concepts, information and leadership. Each POFD member is unique and appreciated as an individual. Without them, POFD would not exist. The programs, service, events and new activities provided by POFD continues to attract new members and volunteers. A growing number of members in this organization shows that POFD is truly meeting its goals and needs in the community.

Woodpeckers Launch First Ability Inclusive Themed Game

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The Fayetteville Woodpeckers, in partnership with ServiceSource, Miller’s Crew, Bravery Kids Gym and the Vision Resource Center, will host its first-ever “Ability Awareness Day” at Segra Stadium. “Ability Awareness Day” will take place during the Woodpeckers game on Sunday, August 14th at 2:05 pm vs the Down East Wood Ducks. The goal of the initiative is to promote inclusion and celebrate the abilities of all people within Fayetteville and Cumberland County.

The day will kick off with a free baseball skills clinic for Special Olympics Cumberland County athletes. Prior to the first pitch, the Fayetteville Parks and Recreation Buddy Sports baseball team will take the field with the Woodpeckers for starting lineups and the national anthem. Throughout the game, the Woodpeckers will hold a Houston Astros autographed baseball auction, with all proceeds benefitting ServiceSource, Miller’s Crew, Bravery Kids Gym and the Vision Resource Center. In addition, fans can purchase food at the Miller’s Crew food truck outside the front gates.

The Woodpeckers will transform a room inside the stadium into a sensory friendly space for those who may feel overwhelmed by the crowd, noise or other factors. Sensory friendly stations provided by Bravery Kids Gym will be set up around the concourse. Fans can also check out sensory friendly bags that include headphones, fidget toys and cue cards (available at the guest services table during every Woodpeckers game).

Fans can purchase tickets for the “Ability Awareness Day” game at fayettevillewoodpeckers.com/tickets or by visiting the Truist Box Office at Segra Stadium. For more information on “Ability Awareness Day,” please visit www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com.

NO PEANUT ZONE in Effect for Timber Rattlers Games on July 22 and July 23

GRAND CHUTE, WI – The first two Wisconsin Timber Rattlers games of their next homestand will be Peanut-Free Games at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium. No peanuts will be in the stadium for the games on Friday, July 22 and Saturday, July 23 against the Beloit Sky Carp. This will be the thirteenth season in a row for the Rattlers to hold at least one Peanut-Free Game to allow fans with peanut allergies the opportunity to attend games.

The Timber Rattlers front office and cleaning crew will clean and rinse the stadium while the team is on their extended road trip to remove as much peanut residue from the seats, the concourse, and other areas of the ballpark as possible. Even though peanuts and products made with nuts or peanut oil will not be sold, the Timber Rattlers cannot guarantee that all peanut residues will be out of the ballpark. However, every effort will be made for a peanut-free environment.

In addition to being Peanut-Free, there are other promotions scheduled for both games.

Friday, July 22 features fun for the kids and adults. It is a Supper Club Friday from Arty’s and 101.1 WIXX with half-price Arty’s OId Fashioned cocktails available for fans of legal drinking age. There are postgame fireworks courtesy of Johnson Financial Group. Kids twelve and under may run the bases after the fireworks thanks to Menasha Corporation.

Saturday, July 23 is the official Marvel Defenders of the Diamond Night with a special appearance from Iron Man! The Timber Rattlers players and coaches will wear Iron Man-themed jerseys for the game as a special treat on this Family Night from Stacey Hennessey Century 21 Affiliated and 101.1 WIXX. The jerseys are available in an on-line auction with proceeds going to local charities from Timber Rattlers Give Back. There are postgame fireworks from Tundraland and children twelve and under may run the bases courtesy of Meijer after the fireworks.

Tickets for Peanut-Free Games on July 22 and July 23 are available online, over the phone at (920) 733-4152, or in person. The Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.

Giving HOPE: Gades participating in HOPE Week 6/7-12

WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. (June 1, 2022) – The Hudson Valley Renegades, the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, announced today their participation in HOPE Week. Renegades players and staff will participate in community service events throughout the Hudson Valley from Tuesday, June 7 through Sunday, June 12.

The Renegades participation in HOPE Week is in partnership with Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth), the Official Hospital Partner of the Hudson Valley Renegades.

The Yankees’ wildly popular and successful HOPE Week initiative (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) was introduced in 2009, and is rooted in the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope and encouragement to more than just the recipient of the gesture.

“Being able to participate in HOPE Week is one of the most special parts of being affiliated with the New York Yankees,” said Steve Gliner, President and General Manager of the Renegades. “Being able to touch people’s lives and make a difference through our and the Yankees’ commitment to community engagement is what we are all about as an organization.”

The Renegades 2022 HOPE Week program is as follows:

Tuesday, June 7th – Maria Fareri Children’s Health Services at MidHudson Regional Hospital

  • As part of the Westchester Medical Health Network, the Maria Fareri Children’s Health Services at MidHudson Regional Hospital provides emergency care for children from serious injuries to burns, scrapes, and bruises. Services include a child-friendly Pediatric Emergency Department, select Pediatric Surgical Services, dedicated Pediatric Inpatient Unit, Child Life services to support patients during care, and Caregiver services to support parents, siblings, and other family members during a patient’s care. Renegades players and staff will conduct room visits and participate in crafts projects with patients.

Thursday, June 9th – The Community at Brookmeade

  • Opened in 1977, The Community at Brookmeade offers apartment residences and a combination of lifestyle, services, and amenities designed with the need of active older adults in mind. Located in the village of Rhinebeck, New York, Brookmeade presently serves as a 120-bed facility for seniors aged 62 and above. The Community is committed to providing all residents with a lifestyle focus on quality, centered in wellness, and facilitated by competent and caring staff. Renegades players and staff will visit and engage with residents and participate in activity stations.

Friday, June 10th – Liberty Station

  • Hudson River Housing believes that those who served our country deserve the highest level of care, including quality, affordable housing. Hudson River Housing aims to meet the needs for the veteran community through specialized housing, transportation, advocacy, and care management. Operated by Hudson River Housing, Liberty Station was the first of three housing services available for veterans. Opened in 2014, Liberty Station offers a supportive living environment in the company of other veterans. Units are single room occupancy, with shared kitchen and bath facilities. Garden Street Housing and Poughkeepsie Commons also offer housing for veterans. Garden Street Housing offers low-cost housing with a preference for female veterans, with private baths and shared kitchen and common areas and Poughkeepsie Commons is a 72-unit apartment complex that offers 24 one-bedroom apartments exclusively for veterans. Veterans from Liberty Station, Garden Street Housing, and Poughkeepsie Commons will gather at Liberty Station to meet and engage with Renegades players and staff.

Saturday, June 11th – Disability, Dream & Do (D3)/ThinkDIFFERENTLY Camp

  • D3 and ThinkDIFFERENTLY collaborate to host camp in partnership with Hudson Valley Renegades. Disability, Dream & Do (D3) is a pro style practice with professional players at stadiums across the country. D3 participants have an opportunity to hit, throw, catch and run the bases with instruction from the best regardless of anyone’s limitations. The Disability Dream and Do (D3Day) sports camps were created by Dave Clark, the only pitcher in professional sports history to pitch on crutches, and Doug Cornfield, a former NCAA medal winning runner at Georgia, who himself had a child born with no arms. These camps allow professional players to interact with children with special needs in various drills and compete in sports with no limitations. In 2016, Dave Stevens, who was born without legs but played college football and minor league baseball, came on board as the D3 Day camps expanded to other cities in the US. Dave, Dave and Doug now put on camps all over the country and share their amazing stories as well as inspire others to look past a disability and turn it into an ability.
  • “ThinkDIFFERENTLY” is a call to action, a genuine challenge to determine if we have it within ourselves to look past our differences and treat others the way we would hope to be treated. Too often, too many with special needs are overlooked and their unique abilities ignored. Instead, we seek to lift each other up and embrace all residents of all abilities. Launched by Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro in 2015, the “ThinkDIFFERENTLY” initiative seeks to change the way individuals, businesses, organizations and communities relate to our neighbors with special needs.

Sunday, June 12th – Fishkill Food Pantry

  • The Fishkill Food Pantry was established as a mission program in 1985 to assist individuals and families in the Southern Dutchess area who are coping with financial emergencies and supply basic food needs. The people served are often referred to the Pantry by social service agencies, churches, schools, and family advocates. The Pantry is the largest food pantry in Dutchess County, serving families in Beacon, Beekman, Chelsea, Cold Spring, Fishkill, Glenham, Hopewell Junction, Hughsonville, Stormville, and Wappingers Falls. The Renegades will provide donations in the morning to the food pantry and host a food drive during Sunday’s game.

The Renegades Community Program and their participation in HOPE Week is presented by WMCHealth. Throughout the week, the Renegades host the Jersey Shore BlueClaws for a seven-game series at The Dutch. For more information on HOPE Week and the Renegades Community Program, visit www.hvrenegades.com and click on the Community tab.

ABOUT THE HUDSON VALLEY RENEGADES

The Renegades are in their second season as the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees. They have played their home games at Dutchess Stadium in Wappingers Falls, N.Y. since 1994.

ABOUT DIAMOND BASEBALL HOLDINGS

Diamond Baseball Holdings (DBH) is a subsidiary of Endeavor, the global sports and entertainment company. DBH was formed in 2021 to support, promote, and enhance Minor League Baseball through professional management, best practices, innovation and investment. (DiamondBaseballHoldings.com).

Scrappers Announce Partnership with the Fairhaven Foundation and Trumbull County Board of DD for Specialty Team Jersey Auction

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are excited to unveil the fourth in a series of five specialty jersey nights during the 2022 season. The Scrappers have partnered with the Fairhaven Foundation and Trumbull County Board of DD to create a specialty jersey that the Scrappers players will wear for Developmental DisABILITIES Awareness Night on Friday, June 24th against the Williamsport Crosscutters. The jersey design was inspired by the artwork of three individuals served by the Trumbull County Board of DD. Artists will be recognized at the June 24th Scrappers game. Game-worn jerseys will be auctioned off in person at the game and also online at mvscrappers.com and LiveSource. Jersey proceeds will benefit the Fairhaven Foundation.

“We are so thankful for our partnership with the Mahoning Valley Scrappers as they join us in helping to create an experience where families and the community can come together to celebrate all abilities. The Fairhaven Foundation transforms the lives of those eligible for services through the Trumbull County Board of DD by providing choices, opportunities, and resources that enable children and adults to fully reach their potential as members of the community”, states Stephanie Champlin, Director of Community Relations and Resource Development, Trumbull County Board of DD and Executive Director, Fairhaven Foundation.

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are set to open the 2022 season at Eastwood Field on Thursday, June 2 against the West Virginia Black Bears. Opening Night will also feature fan favorites postgame fireworks and Buck Night. Scrappers ticket packages and sponsorship opportunities are on sale now. To stay up to date with the Scrappers in the off-season, or for more information, visit mvscrappers.com or contact the front office at 330-505-0000.

Renegades, Curemark partner on Sensory Safe Suite

Partnership will create a better game experience for children with special needs and their families

 

 

WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. (Mar. 31, 2022) – The Hudson Valley Renegades, the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, are pleased to partner with Curemark this season on a Sensory Safe Suite at Dutchess Stadium. Suite No. 8 will be redesigned as a fun, accommodating and functional space to create a better game experience for families with children on the autism spectrum and with special needs.

The Curemark Sensory Safe Suite will have features that provide a feeling of comfort and relaxation at Renegades games while maintaining all of the engaging and standard aspects of a game at The Dutch. This will result in an atmosphere that allows guests in the suite to decompress and absorb the game with family and friends away from the louder, more frantic environments that exist throughout the ballpark.

“Curemark is pleased to partner with the Hudson Valley Renegades, a New York Yankee affiliate, to sponsor a safe and fun space for children with autism and their families,” said Dr. Joan Fallon, CEO of Curemark. “Providing access to baseball, our national pastime, for all individuals is truly important to me. I am grateful to the Renegades for this opportunity.”

For the 2022 season, the Renegades will be fielding applications from parties interested in a game in the Sensory Safe Suite. In accordance with Dutchess Stadium capacity restrictions, the suite can have a party of up to ­­12 people for any game. Families can request its use by reaching out to Community Partnerships and Guest Services Manager Marcella Costello ([email protected]).

“Having a sensory safe suite in our ballpark is not only an important community initiative but an enhancement to our overall fan experience,” said Steve Gliner, President and General Manager of the Renegades. “We know for a fact that families have been unable to attend Renegades games in the past due to sensory overload concerns. Now, thanks to our partners at Curemark, we can share the Renegades experience in a fun and accommodating way for families with children on the autism spectrum.”

The Sensory Safe Suite’s unique look and infrastructure are courtesy of Fun and Function, a Pennsylvania-based company in the suburbs of Philadelphia. Fun and Function has worked with Curemark in the past to create sensory spaces throughout MiLB.

For more information on the Curemark Sensory Safe Suite or the 2021 season, CLICK HERE or call (845) 838-0094.

ABOUT THE HUDSON VALLEY RENEGADES

The Renegades are in their second season as the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees. They have played their home games at Dutchess Stadium in Wappingers Falls, N.Y. since 1994. The Renegades open the 2022 season on Friday, April 8 at the Greenville Drive with a nine-game road trip before returning home for the hope opener at The Dutch on Tuesday, April 19 against the Brooklyn Cyclones. Single-game tickets are on sale now at https://www.milb.com/hudson-valley/tickets/single-game-tickets, by phone at (845) 838-0094 or at the ticket office at The Dutch.

ABOUT DIAMOND BASEBALL HOLDINGS

Diamond Baseball Holdings (DBH) is a subsidiary of Endeavor, the global sports and entertainment company. DBH was formed in 2021 to support, promote, and enhance Minor League Baseball through professional management, best practices, innovation and investment. (DiamondBaseballHoldings.com).

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Autism Awareness Night to Take Place On April 16

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, have announced the team will host Autism Awareness Night at TD Bank Ballpark on Saturday, April 16 for their 6:35 p.m. game versus the Erie Seawolves (Detroit Tigers).

Autism Awareness Night will focus on education and fundraising for organizations from the community. The team has partnered with The Center School, New Horizons in Autism, and Devereux of New Jersey for the game.

There will be three breakout educational sessions provided by The Center School in a luxury suite during the game. Suite 308 will be used as a sensory-friendly area for families as needed.

Participating community organizations will be able to arrive early for a spacial orientation parade around the warning track of the playing field and then join a pre-game arc around the infield. Interested individuals and groups should arrive at the ballpark no later than 6:00 p.m. to participate.

GET TICKETS!

The National Anthem will be performed by Barbara Toland and Ridge Buddy Ball Baseball Club will serve as that evening’s Baseball Buddies.

Throughout the game, the Patriots will recognize some individual accomplishments and successes of the community through the use of PA and scoreboard announcements.

The Patriots Team Store will be selling autism-themed jerseys online prior to the game and onsite during the event while supplies last. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the partnering non-profit organizations in attendance.

BUY A JERSEY NOW!

The first 500 kids in attendance will also receive an Autism Awareness puzzle of Sparkee courtesy of White Castle by stopping by the partner tables on the main concourse.

About the Somerset Patriots

The Somerset Patriots are the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate and develop today’s top minor league talent into the pinstriped superstars of tomorrow for MLB’s winningest team. The Patriots compete in the Double-A Northeast League and play their home games at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ, where fans of all ages and levels of baseball fandom get to enjoy the unique experience that is minor league baseball.

South Bend Cubs to Offer Peanut-Free Suite on May 6

*For Immediate Release *

SOUTH BEND, IN – On Friday, May 6, the South Bend Cubs will provide a peanut-free indoor suite for fans who are allergic to peanuts.

In conjunction with the Michiana Food Allergy Support Group, the South Bend Cubs have created a peanut-free environment for kids of all ages for the past 6 seasons. According to Erica Andert, the founder and leader of the Support Group, families come in from as far as Indianapolis and Chicago to enjoy Cubs games in a nut-free environment.

“The South Bend Cubs do a great job making sure that every inch of the suite is allergen free, we’re excited to bring families with Peanut allergies back out to Four Winds Field and experience a baseball game,” said Andert.

Approximately 85 million Americans are impacted by food allergies and intolerance, including 32 million who have a potentially life-threatening condition, according to Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE). That number includes 5.6 million American children under the age of 18. Peanut allergies are among the most common food allergies and, leading cause for anaphylaxis which can cause death among children according to studies funded by FARE.

“We forget that peanut allergies are such a major challenge now for a lot of kids especially…and what ballpark doesn’t sell peanuts?” South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart said. “At least for that one particular day [kids with peanut allergies] can come out to Four Winds Field and know that they’re getting to experience what their friends get to experience… It gives you the sense that this is something really good that we’re doing, and we’re giving kids the opportunity to be a kid that day.”

Executive chef Scott Craig and his staff go through a rigorous quality control process to ensure that there is absolutely no contact or cross-contamination from peanuts during the food preparing process.

The Peanut-Free Suite costs $25 per person. Space is limited to the first 40 fans. The $25 package includes a game ticket, South Bend Cubs hat and ballpark buffet featuring hot dogs, hamburgers, chips and soda. Tickets are on sale now and guests interested in purchasing tickets can call the South Bend Cubs at (574)-235-9988 or stop by the Four Winds Field Box Office.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 32 seasons, the team has won four Midwest League titles, most recently in 2019, and has captured eight division titles. In 2019, the South Bend Cubs hosted the Midwest League All-Star Game. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill. More information is available at www.SouthBendCubs.com.

MODESTO NUTS RELEASE 2021 COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT

 

MODESTO, CA – The report covers the 2021 fiscal year and discloses the Nuts contributions of over $170,000 to community related programs.

“It was an absolute honor to return in 2021 and offer Stanislaus County a safe, affordable place to enjoy friends, family & co-workers,” said Zach Brockman, General Manager of the Modesto Nuts. “We are supremely confident that our organization will complete that comeback in 2022 and get back to hosting more fans and attending more community events. Donations, in-kind services & direct support for quality-of-life projects in the Modesto area will return in full. We couldn’t be more excited for the future!“

With the help of The Parks Group and Mocse Credit Union, the Modesto Nuts began the Health and Wellness Program with over 10 schools enrolled and about 10,000 students participated. The Health and Wellness Program motivated children to focus on mental health, physical health, and cleanliness by offering performance-based incentives from Save Mart, Health Plan of San Joaquin, and The Modesto Nuts.

Non-profit organizations and little leagues used the Modesto Nuts ticket fundraising program to generate much needed funds. Additionally, the Nuts donated gift baskets which included game tickets, premium suites & autographed memorabilia.

Modesto front office donated their time generously to different organizations throughout the community. From school career fairs, to little league opening days, and much more; the Modesto Nuts were able to teach important values such as chasing dreams, having integrity and working hard for what they want.

In back to back years, the Modesto Nuts have doubled their community appearances. For more information on how you can have a Modesto Nuts representative at your event, please head to our Community Appearance Page.

CLICK HERE for the full 2021 Community Impact Report

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About the Nuts:

The Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball team is the Class A Affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. For more information visit modestonuts.com or call 209-572-HITS (4487)

Deaf Awareness Night Returns to Pelicans Ballpark

 

 

The Myrtle Beach Pelicans are proud to announce the return of Deaf Awareness Night to Pelicans Ballpark on Saturday, August 14. The night, which is presented by Young Talkers, marks the 3rd annual event for the team.

To increase awareness and raise funds for the deaf community, the Pelicans will wear specially-designed jerseys, courtesy of Young Talkers, that replace the traditional Pelicans script with American Sign Language. The club will auction off the commemorative jerseys with proceeds benefiting Pelicans for the Deaf.

In an effort to create an inclusive experience for members of the deaf community, sign language interpreters will be infused into the Pelicans’ game day experience. The night will also include a silent inning, and the Seventh Inning Stretch will be sung by Nicole Herrera – Miss Summerville Teen, and Jason Hurdich, an RID certified deaf interpreter, will accompany the evening’s national anthem singer.

Gates will open at 5 p.m. for the 6:05 p.m. game against the Charleston RiverDogs. For tickets and information visit myrtlebeachpelicans.com, call 843-918-6000, or stop by the Anderson Brothers Bank Box Office at Pelicans Ballpark. Hours of operation are Monday – Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

ABOUT YOUNG TALKERS: Young Talkers is an adult & pediatric therapy clinic located in Myrtle Beach, SC and Pawleys Island, SC. Their mission is to provide quality speech-language and feeding/swallowing therapy services to the pediatric and adult population in order to enhance their verbal/non-verbal communication and feeding/swallowing skills. They accomplish this by identifying concerns through specialized evaluations and the development of goals to meet the needs of the patient and their family. Young Talkers has received first place in Best of the Beach for six years in a row for Best Medical Clinic, Group or Office. For more information, visit them online at YoungTalkers.com__.

‘All Abilities’ Night features sign language jersey auction

 

The Lehigh Valley IronPigs and Air Products are teaming up to host Batting for People of All Abilities on Wednesday, June 17 at 7:05 p.m. Before the game, 5,000 fans 18 and older will receive a rally towel courtesy of Air Products.

MORE: Get Tickets for ‘Batting for People of All Abilities’ Night

The night will recognize people of all abilities. A pre-game basic sign language training will be available for fans. The game will be stopped to provide an opportunity for Aiden Gowarty, son of an Air Products employee, to go to home plate and hit a home run for people of all abilities. Plans for the evening also include the National Anthem signed as well as the 7th inning stretch. There will also be a “silent inning” eliminating any music or sound effects in the stadium.

During the game, the IronPigs will be wearing jerseys with “IronPigs” spelled out in American Sign Language and the evening will be capped off with an ASL jersey auction.