Disability Awareness

Autism Awareness Night

July 11, 2014

The Tampa Yankees will support Autism Awareness as they host their first annual “Autism Night” on Saturday, July 26 at George M. Steinbrenner Field against the Fort Myers Miracle. The game will begin at 6:00 pm & the gates will open to all fans at 5:00 pm.

On “Autism Night,” custom jerseys will be worn by the players & coaches that will be auctioned off during the game. Auction winners will have the opportunity to get their jersey signed by the player or coach who wore it after the game. The auction will benefit The Inspire Foundation, a non-profit organization whose mission is to bring music and the arts to ALL children with special needs. Fans will also have the chance to win a 2014 Ford F150 STX if they enter the raffle at the game.

Saturday, July 26^th will also be Friends & Family Night, where Family 4-Packs will be available for $38. Included are four reserved tickets, hot dogs, bags of chips, sodas, TY caps & two passes to Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo. Family 4-Packs can only be purchased at the Steinbrenner Field Box Office.

Before the game, kids will have the opportunity to run the bases from 5-5:15 pm & player autographs will be given on the concourse from 5:10-5:30 pm. A face painter will be on the concourse as well from 5-7:00 pm.

Tickets are $4 for general admission, $6 for reserved seating and can be purchased at the George M. Steinbrenner Field Box Office.

The Tampa Yankees are the Single A-Advanced affiliate of the New York Yankees. For more information you may contact the Tampa Yankees offices at (813) 673-3055 or visit www.tybaseball.com.

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

Two Peanut-Controlled Nights Set for August

July 9, 2014

For both games, the Knights will welcome all fans with peanut allergies in Power Alley sections 124-126 for a great night of baseball.

On Wednesday, August 6, the Charlotte Knights will host their first of two “Peanut-Controlled Games” at BB&T Ballpark this season. Fans with peanut allergies will be able cheer on the Knights in the team’s “Peanut-Controlled Zone” where sales of peanuts will be halted in that section and fans will not be allowed to consume peanut products in that area.

“We wanted to make sure that those with peanut allergies have their chance to enjoy a game at BB&T Ballpark this season,” said Knights COO Dan Rajkowski. “Our hope is that these two games will provide those fans and families with peanut allergies a chance for a safe and enjoyable game in Uptown Charlotte.”

Gates open at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 6 as the Knights host the Gwinnett Braves (Triple-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves) in a 7:05 p.m. game. The second of the two games will take place on Sunday, August 24 at 5:05 p.m. at BB&T Ballpark as the Knights host the Norfolk Tides (Triple-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles). Gates open at 4:00 p.m. on August 24.

For both games, the Knights will welcome all fans with peanut allergies in Power Alley sections 124-126 for a great night of baseball. Signage will be present to alert other fans that the area is a “Peanut-Controlled Zone” and no peanuts will be consumed in that area for the duration of the day. For the least peanut-exposed path to the Power Alley sections, fans should enter BB&T Ballpark through the center field gate.

Tickets in the Power Alley sections for each of the “Peanut-Controlled Games” are just $8 in advance and are available by phone at 704-357-8071, online at www.charlotteknights.com, or in person at the BB&T Ballpark Ticket Office. Fans ordering online should use promo code “peanutfree”.

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

RailRiders Announce HOPE Week Activities

July 2, 2014

Week-Long Festivities Commence Sunday, July 6

What began as an ode to the parent club and the community has turned into an annual tradition in NEPA. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) are proud to announce that beginning on Sunday, July 6 the RailRiders will join the New York Yankees in support of HOPE (Helping Others Persevere and Excel) Week 2014, a unique week-long communal program that brings to light extraordinary stories intended to inspire individuals into action in their own communities.

Initiated in 2009 and now in its fifth campaign in NEPA, HOPE Week is rooted in the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope and encouragement to more than just the recipient of the gesture. Each day from Sunday, July 6 through Friday, July 11 members of the RailRiders front office staff or club will reach out personally to connect with an organization, cause or individual. 2014 marks the third straight year that each of the Yankees’ six U.S.-based affiliates will participate in the program, making the initiative one that the entire organization proudly stands behind.

HOPE Week begins with the RailRiders’ annual food drive on Sunday, July 6. Patrons are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to the 7:05 p.m. contest against the Charlotte Knights (Chicago White Sox) in exchange for one lawn seat in the NEPA Honda Homer Zone. SWB has partnered with the Voluntary Action Center which will distribute the collected items to agencies and food pantries around the region. The RailRiders will respond by honoring Voluntary Action Center’s ‘Volunteers of the Year’ with a pre-game ceremony on the field.

Scranton/Wilkes-Barre coaches, players and front office staff will trek to the Gino Merli Veterans Center in Scranton on Monday, July 7 to participate in a full day of inspiring visits. The RailRiders will visit residents in their rooms and see who has the best stuff in some games of Wii baseball. The visit includes a social filled with baseball-themed snacks.

Fortune favors the bald? We will find out on Tuesday, July 8 when the RailRiders join the Vs. Cancer Foundation with a night at PNC Field committed to raising money for childhood cancer research. Half of the funds raised will be donated to the National Childhood Cancer Research Foundation and the other half will be donated locally. RailRiders players and front office staff will shave their heads during and after the game to help raise awareness. A number of names are scheduled to participate including RHP Danny Burawa, SHP Pat Venditte, C Francisco Arcia and team president/GM Rob Crain. The RailRiders have set a team goal of $10,000 for the event.

On Wednesday, July 9, Children’s Miracle Network kids and their families will journey into the RailRiders’ home clubhouse for a personal meet-and-greet with players before the game.

The RailRiders head to the NEPA Boys and Girls Club on Thursday, July 10. SWB has partnered with Combined Forces Mobile Laser Tag for the fun and excitement of laser tag. The event includes inflatable barricades, walls and laser guns. RailRiders’ players and staff will participate in the team sport with club members from 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

The big league baseball dream propels the RailRiders each day. On Friday, July 11, the RailRiders will seek to help dreams of a different variety. HOPE Week concludes with Princess and Pirate Night at PNC Field as the RailRiders partner with the Make-A-Wish foundation to honor two deserving kids. Limos, along with staff dressed in their best princess and pirate attire, will escort the two honorees to PNC Field for special on-field recognition and ceremonial first pitches. Each child will receive a complimentary princess and pirate costume and promotional package.

HOPE Week is just a part of the RailRiders’ community outreach this season, and the RailRiders look forward to continuing their involvement both during and after HOPE Week. Any inquiries regarding the week-long festivities should be directed to RailRiders community relations manager Rachel Mark by calling 570-969-2255 (ext. 3140) or by e-mailing rmark@swbrailriders.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees. Click here to view the original story.

Photo squares on sale for Autism Awareness Jerseys

June 27, 2014

River Bandits will wear specialty jerseys for third annual photo jersey auction Friday, Aug. 8

The Quad Cities River Bandits are again offering fans the chance to put their photographs in small squares in the team’s jersey numbers for the annual photo jersey auction on Autism Awareness Night presented by KWQC on Aug. 8 at Modern Woodmen Park. All of the proceeds of the square purchases and jersey auction will benefit the Quad Cities Autism Center Inc.

At $25 per square, fans can purchase a space in the River Bandits’ jersey numbers to feature a photograph of themselves, a family member or friend, or a picture chosen by the Quad Cities Autism Center. A limited number of squares are available, and each square comes with a certificate of purchase. Each square is guaranteed to be on at least one jersey, and the maximum individual order is five squares.

In 2012, the River Bandits became the first U.S. professional sports team to hold a photo jersey auction for charity, and the team’s second annual event was recognized last season with the annual Golden Bobblehead Award for the Best Charity Promotion or Event in Minor League Baseball.

“We are thrilled to partner again with the Quad Cities Autism Center to give River Bandits fans another incredible opportunity to be part of a nationally-recognized promotion and help fight autism right here in the Quad Cities,” said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. “The Quad Cities community has shown generous and enthusiastic support for the photo jersey auction and has demonstrated its determination to help fight autism, and we are excited for another memorable event at Modern Woodmen Park!”

In 2013, the River Bandits’ Autism Awareness Night raised more than $12,000. The promotion was selected in September 2013 among nearly 200 nominations as a finalist in its promotional category. It was later selected as the 2013 Golden Bobblehead Award winner for Best Charity Promotion or Event at Minor League Baseball Promotional Seminar in Louisville, Ky., last September.

Fans can order the photo squares by completing the form at www.riverbandits.com, calling 563-324-3000 or emailing Alex@riverbandits.com.

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

Homestand: Peanut Allergy Awareness, Fireworks, ‘Bark” and more

June 26, 2014

Former UK star Riddle returns with Greensboro

A peanut allergy awareness night, three Ford Fireworks shows, including one for an Independence Day celebration, and a Bark in the Park night will highlight a seven-game homestand for the Lexington Legends beginning Friday, June 27. The Legends will also welcome a former Kentucky Mr. Baseball back to the Bluegrass.

The Legends, class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, will take on the Augusta GreenJackets, an affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, in a four-game series June 27-30. The Greensboro Grasshoppers, an affiliate of the Miami Marlins, will be in for a three-game series July 1-3.

The schedule:

Friday, June 27: Legends vs. Augusta, 7:05 p.m. The Legends and Family Allergy & Asthma are teaming up to provide a fun, worry-free evening for those with peanut allergies. At one game each year, the Legends remove all forms of peanuts, sunflower seeds and any foods prepared with peanut oils, so that fans may enjoy the game – and the concessions — without concern about a possible allergic reaction. There will be giveaway items and chances to win prizes donated by Family Allergy and Asthma. A Ford Fireworks show will follow the game.

Saturday, June 28: Legends vs. Augusta, 7:05 p.m. Saturday is Lexington Clinic Night, and fans should look for information and giveaways from Lexington Clinic representatives. A Ford Fireworks show will follow the game.

Sunday, June 29: Legends vs. Augusta, 6:05 p.m. It’s a JIF Kids Club Sunday. Kids Club members receive free admission to the game, and all kids may run the bases after the game.

Monday, June 30: Legends vs. Augusta, 7:05 p.m. All Monday night home games are “Kids Eat Free” nights, sponsored by Members Heritage Federal Credit Union. All kids age 12 and under will receive a voucher good for a free meal and drink.

Tuesday, July 1: Legends vs. Greensboro, 7:05 p.m. Every Tuesday night is 37-cent hot dog night. The price is in recognition of the Ford F-150 being the number one selling truck for 37 consecutive years.

The visiting Grasshoppers have a Kentucky connection: Frankfort native and former Western Hills High School and University of Kentucky star J.T. Riddle is with Greensboro after being drafted in the 13^th round and signed by Miami in 2013. Riddle was Kentucky High School Mr. Baseball in 2010.

Wednesday, July 2: Legends vs. Greensboro, 7:05 p.m. Wednesday is Bark in the Park night, presented by IncrediPet. Fans may bring their dogs to the game.

Thursday, July 3: Legends vs. Greensboro, 7:05 p.m. It’s a Kentucky Ale Thirsty Thursday, and beer and Pepsi products will be on sale for one dollar each. There is no home game on July 4, so the Legends invite fans to celebrate Independence Day Thursday with a Ford Fireworks show after the game.

For ticket information, call 859 422-7867 or go online to lexingtonlegends.com.

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

Meet MEGA Brain during Strike Out Stroke Night on June 27

June 22, 2014

Rattlers team up with Neuroscience Group

See MEGA Brain at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium on Friday, June 27!

Fans will see something at the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers game on Friday, June 27 that they have never seen at a Timber Rattlers game before…a gigantic MEGA Brain! It’s all part of Strike Out Stroke Night presented by Neuroscience Group and the Timber Rattlers.

The MEGA Brain provides visitors with a highly interactive educational experience about the central nervous system’s most critical organ. Visitors can step inside the 18 foot long by 14 foot wide by 12 foot high human brain, learn about the various structures and normal brain function, observe examples of brain trauma and disease, and view displays explaining some of the latest neurological medical treatments.

“We are so excited to be able to facilitate the Strike Out Stroke program, and to have the MEGA Brain available with which to educate people about the signs of a stroke,” said Cheryll Poissant, Director of Clinical Operations for the Neuroscience Group. “Our ultimate goal is to save lives through education and awareness.”

The MEGA Brain will be on display at Neuroscience Group’s main clinic located at 1305 W American Dr in Neenah on Friday, June 27 with Timber Rattlers players and Fang, the team mascot from 9:00am to noon. The MEGA Brain will be in front of the Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium beginning at 4:30pm on June 27.

Fans will also be able to stop by a Neuroscience Group information table on the main concourse for complimentary blood pressure screening.

“We’re very excited to partner with Neuroscience Group and Strike Out Stroke to help spread awareness about the signs of a stroke,” said Rob Zerjav, Timber Rattlers President. “We’re also excited to showcase the MEGA Brain to our fans as a way to further provide a memorable interactive educational experience.”

The game is also Peanut Free Night and North Shore Bank Family Night presented by Y100. No peanuts will be sold in the concession stands or allowed into the stadium as part of Peanut Free Night. For North Shore Bank Family Night, Children 12 and under receive a voucher that is good for a free hotdog and soda and children 14 and under may run the bases courtesy of Molina Healthcare after the postgame fireworks display.

Tickets for this game are available online, over the phone at (920) 733-4152 or (800) WI-TIMBER, 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 and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 3:00pm.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers. Click here to view the original story.

Timber Rattlers Announce Sixth Annual Peanut Free Night

June 20, 2014

Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium is a NO PEANUTS ZONE on June 27

Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium will be a No Peanuts Zone for Peanut Free Night on Friday, June 27.

The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers open the second half of their home schedule on Friday, June 27 with a special night. The Midwest League affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers hosts the Burlington Bees with their sixth annual Peanut Free Night at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium.

There will be no peanuts, peanut butter, or peanut based products allowed inside the stadium for the game to allow fans with peanut allergies to enjoy this Timber Rattlers game. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05pm

“I know families with children who have peanut allergies,” said Timber Rattlers president Rob Zerjav. “They circle this date every year for an opportunity to come out to a game. We are extremely happy to host this game again.”

The stadium will be cleaned and rinsed before Peanut Free Night to remove as much peanut residue from the seats, the concourse, and other areas in 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.

This game is also North Shore Bank Family Night presented by Y100. Children 12 and under receive a voucher that is good for a free hotdog and soda. Children 14 and under may run the bases courtesy of Molina Healthcare after the postgame fireworks display.

Tickets for Peanut Free Night are available online, over the phone at (920) 733-4152 or (800) WI-TIMBER, 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 and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 3:00pm.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers. Click here to view the original story.

15th Annual “Kindness Beats Blindness” Auction on June 21 Benefits MUSC’s Storm Eye Institute

June 18, 2014

List of high-end auction items released as RiverDogs battle Kannapolis

The Charleston RiverDogs will host their 15^th Annual “Kindness Beats Blindness RP Auction” on Saturday, June 21, at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park.

The RiverDogs, fresh off their All-Star break, will face the Kannapolis Intimidators with the first pitch set for 6:05 pm.

With proceeds going to the Medical University of South Carolina’s (MUSC) Storm Eye Institute and their on-going fight to prevent the loss of sight, the RiverDogs’ silent auction begins when the gates open at 5 pm and concludes at the bottom of the 6^th inning.

The Charleston RiverDogs have donated more than $500,000 to the Storm Eye Institute to help fight Retinitis Pigmentosa, a disease that causes blindness and that has affected Rebecca Veeck, the daughter of RiverDogs President Mike Veeck and his wife, Libby.

The list of high-end auction items includes:

Blue 2002 EZ-Go Electric Golf Cart

Features a rear-flip seat; battery; top and charger; approved for street use during daylight hours;

A Week’s Vacation at “Serenity by the Sea”

Located in the Grand Pavilion at Wild Dunes Resort on the Isle of Palms; foursome at Harbor Course at Wild Dunes;

New York Yankees

Tickets to the New York Yankees Legends Club;

Fun in New Orleans

Two-night stay at a special bed & breakfast; Sunday Jazz brunch on the Steamboat Natchez; and a tour of historic New Orleans;

Watershed Cabins

Two-night stay in Bryson City, North Carolina; Biltmore Estates passes;

Swing Bed

Hand crafted porch swing from Lowcountry Swing Beds;

Edge of America Staycation

Folly Beach hotel two-night stay: paddle boarding, dinners, sailing tour, kayaking, bicycle rental and the use of a MINI Cooper for the weekend.

In addition, the RiverDogs will have a wealth of sports-related memorabilia including a Freddie Freeman autographed bat, a Chipper Jones autographed retirement poster, a LeBron James autographed Miami Heat jersey, a Muhammad Ali autographed photo and much, much more.

For additional information about the “Kindness Beats Blindness RP Auction” or if you are interested in a donation or purchasing tickets to the game, please call Melissa McCants Azevedo at (843)577-DOGS (3647) or visit www.riverdogs.com or www.rileyparkevents.com.

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

G-Braves Team Up with Vs. Cancer Foundation

June 17, 2014

Gwinnett players, coaches, front office members to raise funds to cure kids’ cancer

The Gwinnett Braves announced a partnership with the Vs. Cancer Foundation to Cure Kids’ Cancer. G-Braves’ players, coaches and front office staff members are participating in fundraising efforts for the foundation, culminating with “G-Braves Vs. Cancer Night” at Coolray Field on Saturday, August 30.

If the Gwinnett Braves raise their collective team goal of $10,000 by August 30, then select players, coaches and front office members will shave their heads prior to the 7:05 PM game against Charlotte. G-Braves’ field manager Brian Snitker, already sporting the shaved-head look, has pledged to shave off his trademark mustache if the goal is reached.

Fans can donate now by going online to gbraves.vs-cancer.org. Half of all proceeds will benefit national childhood cancer research, and the other half will help kids directly with the Rally Foundation.

Gwinnett’s fundraising efforts are part of a larger “Baseball Vs. Cancer 2014” campaign. A total of 128 teams across the minor league, collegiate, high school and youth ranks are taking part, with a total goal of $750,000.

About the Vs. Cancer Foundation: Founded by former University of North Carolina baseball player and Stage IV brain cancer survivor Chase Jones, the non-profit organization is dedicated to saving kids’ lives by empowering athletes and communities to fund lifesaving childhood cancer efforts. To donate or get involved, visit vs-cancer.org.

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

Slugging ALS Night at Dell Diamond June 20

June 12, 2014

2014 Marks 75th Anniversary of Lou Gehrig’s Inspiring Speech at Yankee Stadium

A pitcher can’t strike out just anyone, but Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as ALS, can. The Round Rock Express, along with the ALS Association Texas Chapter and MJ’s Army, will co-host Slugging ALS Night at Dell Diamond on Friday, June 20 as the Express take on the Sacramento River Cats. The event will further raise awareness about the disease that knows no racial, ethnic or socioeconomic boundaries in hopes of finding a cure.

Express players and coaches will wear commemorative pinstripe jerseys with the name Gehrig on the back and a #4 patch on the sleeve. This year marks the 75^th anniversary of Lou Gehrig’s heart wrenching retirement speech at Yankee Stadium that brought this disease to the medical forefront. In 1941, following his death from ALS, the disease became more commonly known as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease.” The game-worn, commemorative pinstripe jerseys will be auctioned off as part of a special silent auction during the game with proceeds benefitting the ALS Association Texas Chapter and MJ’s Army. The auction will also include one-of-a-kind autographed baseball memorabilia.

To further raise awareness with a focus on Gehrig’s iconic jersey number, general admission/berm tickets are available at a discounted price of $4 for this special game.

“We are thrilled to host Slugging ALS night at Dell Diamond,” Express Sr. Vice President of Marketing Laura Fragoso said. “Bringing attention to this disease and keeping the fight started by Lou Gehrig alive is something that we are proud to be a part of.”

MJ’s Army will also be hosting the inaugural Slugging ALS Texas Timber Wood Bat Baseball Tournament from June 20-22 in the greater Austin area to generate more support for ALS research. The event is open to any amateur team wishing to play with divisions starting as young as age eight and 100% of the tournament’s proceeds will go towards MJ’s Army.

For more information on the Express, visit www.RoundRockExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook and Twitter!

About ALS
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Early symptoms of ALS often include muscle weakness that gradually becomes worse over time. Most who are diagnosed with ALS are only given between 3-5 years of life expectancy.

About MJ’s Army
Shortly after being diagnosed with ALS in June of 2011, Michael Jaillet (MJ) formed MJsARMY.org with the help of family and friends. MJ’s Army is a non-profit organization based out of Austin,TX whose mission is threefold: 1) to raise awareness about ALS, 2) to volunteer locally to assist families affected by ALS and 3) to raise much needed research dollars to fund treatments, and ultimately, a cure for ALS.

About the ALS Association
The ALS Association is the only national not-for-profit health organization dedicated solely to the fight against ALS. ALSA covers all the bases – research, patient and community services, public education, and advocacy – in providing help and hope to those facing the disease. The ALS Association (National Office and the Texas Chapter) operates under a shared mission: to help people living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and to leave no stone unturned in search for the cure.

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

M-Braves schedule ALS Awareness Nights

June 10, 2014

Braves to host several upcoming awareness nights to help ‘Strikeout ALS’

The Mississippi Braves baseball team is proud to announce three upcoming ALS Awareness Nights, benefiting The ALS Association: July 3, July 12 and August 22. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, has no known cause or cure and progressively paralyzes its victims, attacking nerve cells and pathways in the brain or spinal cord.

We’re honored to have the Mississippi Braves’ support,” said Brandi Nickles, Care Services Director of the Louisiana-Mississippi Chapter of The ALS Association. “These events at Trustmark Park will bring a tremendous amount of awareness to the disease, as well as provide a fun event for those living with ALS and their families. In addition, the dollars raised from these events will provide much needed funding for research for finding a treatment and ultimately a cure for ALS.

Minor League Baseball is a major supporter of The ALS Association because of baseball’s connection to Lou Gehrig,” said Steve DeSalvo, M-Braves General Manager. “This year marks the 75th anniversary of Lou Gehrig’s farewell speech. We’ve gotten behind the efforts of the Louisiana-Mississippi Chapter and plan to put on a lot of various events at Trustmark Park so we can help them not only find a cure but also a treatment for this fatal disease.

Since the M-Braves are not home on July 4, the anniversary of Gehrig’s famous speech, the Double-A Braves will honor Gehrig’s legacy and raise money for the fight against ALS on July 3. The Braves will also hold a charitable Tennis Ball Toss following the game prior to the Supersized Fireworks Show Independence Day Celebration. All proceeds will go to the fight against ALS.

On July 12, M-Braves players will wear special military/camouflage jerseys with ALS patches on the sleeves. The jerseys will be auctioned off during the game. Players will sign their respective jerseys after the game before handing them over to the highest bidders. 100% of the auction proceeds go to the ALS Association. The Braves will also donate $2 to the ALSA for every ticket purchased to the game.

On August 22, M-Braves players will wear special military/camouflage caps with the ALS and Mississippi Army National Guard logos incorporated on them. Similar to the jerseys, each cap will be signed by the player and auctioned off with 100% of the proceeds going to the ALS Association. The first 1,500 fans through the gates will get one of the free replica caps. Once again, the Braves will donate $2 to the ALSA for every ticket purchased to the game along with 100% of that night’s proceeds from the post-game Tennis Ball Toss.

As previously announced, the annual Walk to Defeat ALS has been relocated to Trustmark Park with the M-Braves commitment as presenting sponsor. The walk is scheduled for Saturday, September 27. The Walk to Defeat ALS is The ALS Association’s signature event in which all funds directly support cutting-edge research, programs and patient care. All interested walkers should call 800-891-3746, or register online at http://web.alsa.org/Jackson2014.

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

M-Braves to host Walk to Defeat ALS

June 7, 2014

Trustmark Park to host awareness walk and other events September 27

In conjunction with The ALS Association Louisiana-Mississippi Chapter, the Mississippi Braves baseball team is proud to announce its commitment as presenting sponsor of the 2014 Jackson Walk to Defeat ALS. Trustmark Park will host the annual event Saturday, September 27.

ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, progressively paralyzes its victims, attacking nerve cells and pathways in the brain or spinal cord. ALS has no known cause or cure, but the community is rallying together to help change that. The ALS Association is a perfect fit for the Mississippi Braves. M-Braves General Manager Steve DeSalvo has agreed to serve as Chairman of the Walk to Defeat ALS. Trustmark Park will also host other events over the weekend to raise more money and awareness for ALS.

“Minor League Baseball is a major supporter of The ALS Association because of baseball’s connection to Lou Gehrig,” DeSalvo said. “This year marks the 75th anniversary of Lou Gehrig’s farewell speech. We’ve gotten behind the efforts of the Louisiana-Mississippi Chapter and plan to put on a lot of various events at Trustmark Park so we can help them not only find a cure but also a treatment for this fatal disease.”

Kelly Viator, Executive Director of The ALS Association Louisiana-Mississippi Chapter, is excited to have the Braves on board. “We’re very grateful for the Mississippi Braves’ support of our signature event, the Walk to Defeat ALS,” Viator stated.

“This event builds awareness of ALS, raises funds to support patient services and research for treatment and a cure, and brings the community together for an important cause,” she said. “As the presenting sponsor and host for the walk, the Braves will have a significant impact on families living with ALS in the Jackson area. We’re looking forward to a successful partnership.”

In addition to hosting the Walk to Defeat ALS, the Braves will host A Night with The ALS Association on Thursday, July 10 in the Farm Bureau Grill at Trustmark Park. Guests will enjoy light refreshments and learn more about the work that The ALS Association Louisiana-Mississippi Chapter is doing in the Jackson area and how community business leaders can become involved as corporate supporters.

I was fortunate enough to accompany a group of pALS (persons living with ALS), caregivers, Chapter staff and friends on a trip to Washington D.C. in May to tell their story to the Mississippi legislature,” DeSalvo explained. “This has had a huge impact on me, and I want to ask the Jackson-Metro Area to help ‘Strike out ALS’.

For more information or to attend A Night with The ALS Association, contact Chelsea Moreau at 225-343-9880, ext. 6 or chelsea.moreau@alsalams.org.

Persons with ALS (pALS) will gather with their families and friends at The Walk to Defeat ALS, hoping their steps will make a difference for ALS patients living in Jackson. Many who walk have a loved one who is still fighting the deadly disease. Others walk in memory of a loved one. Some walk out of a simple concern for those who are suffering with Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

With a life expectancy of only two to five years, patients have an urgent need, and the community is stepping in to fill it by walking for those who can’t. The Walk to Defeat ALS is The ALS Association’s signature event in which all funds directly support cutting-edge research, programs and patient care.

Last year’s events in Louisiana and Mississippi raised $535,000. The ALS Association Louisiana-Mississippi Chapter holds six walks throughout the two states annually. The chapter aims to raise $600,000 this year to continue ALS research and to extend local patient services programs. The Mississippi Braves baseball team is the first presenting level sponsor in the history of the Jackson walk.

All interested walkers should call 800-891-3746, or register online at http://web.alsa.org/Jackson2014.

About The ALS Association Louisiana-Mississippi Chapter

The ALS Association Louisiana-Mississippi Chapter was founded in April 2005 to serve the needs of those living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and their caregivers. The ALS Association is the only national not-for-profit health organization dedicated solely to the fight against ALS. The Louisiana-Mississippi Chapter works with The ALS Association’s National Office to accomplish a shared mission. Our chapter focuses primarily on helping local patients and families living with ALS while the National Office focuses primarily on research and national advocacy. The Chapter supports the National Office through revenue sharing and research contributions. The National Office supports the Chapters by providing up-to-date information and materials. For more information about The ALS Association Louisiana-Mississippi Chapter, go to www.ALSALAMS.org.
About the Mississippi Braves

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

Support Uplifting Athletes by attending tonight’s game

June 5, 2014

Please join the Penn State Chapter of Uplifting Athletes in fighting kidney cancer with the State College Spikes on Friday, July 11! A portion of tickets sold will be donated to Uplifting Athletes to assist in the fight against rare diseases.

Tickets can be purchased at TicketReturn.com for $12 each. When ordering your tickets, use the Username “Uplifting” and the password “Athletes“ to receive your discount and benefit Uplifting Athletes. Uplifting Athletes tickets are also available by calling 814-272-0237.

Even if you are unable to attend the game, you can still help! We will be taking ticket orders as donations for any family who is affected by a rare disease. Too often a baseball game is not in the budget for some of these families, but you can indicate that your ticket donation is for a family in need and we will make sure they gain free admittance. Even better, a portion of your donation will also be given to Uplifting Athletes to help fight rare diseases.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the State College Spikes. Click here to view the original story.

Redcay Strong Community Day Slated for June 14th

May 27, 2014

Fundraiser for Derrick Redcay and family to be held at FirstEnergy Stadium

ReadingFightinPhils_2014-05-27 — On June 14th, the Fightins will be holding the Redcay Strong Community Day at FirstEnergy Stadium. (Brad Drey)

Following the overwhelming support from the Muhlenberg Township community to raise funds for the Derrick Redcay Strong fund on Saturday, May 3rd’s game, the Reading Fightin Phils will be hosting Redcay Strong Community Day at FirstEnergy Stadium on Saturday, June 14th from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. thanks to Savage 61, Forino, and Lowe’s.

Admission to the event is free for all ages. A $10 wristband for unlimited access to children’s activities during the afternoon will also be available at the event.

As part of the day’s festivities, Savage 61 will be donating a brand new 2014 Dodge Dart to be raffled off at $10/ticket. All money earned through the raffle will go to the Redcay Strong fund. Savage 61 will also be coordinating a handicap accessible van for Derrick and his family.

Lowe’s will also be donating supplies to the Redcay family in order for them make the family garage accessible for Derrick.

The event benefits the Derrick Redcay Strong fund, which has been set up to assist with the ongoing expenses related to the support and care of Derrick and his family. Local fire companies, ambulance, police department, township, and school officials have joined forces with his church Alsace Lutheran in the fundraising efforts.

On April 24, 18 year-old Muhlenberg High School senior Redcay suffered a rare stroke to his spinal cord that severed his nerves at the C4-C6 area. As a result, Redcay no longer has sensations and movement below his neck and needs assistance with breathing, which his family hopes is temporary.

Derrick is a member of the high school varsity baseball team, the Alsace Lutheran Church Youth Group, and is a member of the National Technical Honor Society, earned by maintaining a 3.5 GPA since the 9th grade. Derrick is also a volunteer firefighter with the Goodwill Fire Company, helping out at a 5-alarm blaze in the township less than 24 hours before he was stricken. Derrick has been accepted to the University of New Haven to study Fire Science.

Volunteers from the Redcay Strong fund will be on hand June 14th to sell Redcay Strong t-shirts, bracelets, and decals with the proceeds going to the fund.

The day of fun will feature live music on the Weston Center Winning Smiles Stage. In addition, businesses, organizations, and individuals will be running stands, games, and activities throughout Tompkins VIST Bank Plaza. A list of the activities can be found below:

•   Face Painting-Goodwill Fire Company
•   Gatorade/Lemonade Stand-Mason Yeager
•   Bake Sale-Alsace Lutheran Church
•   Dunk Tank-Reading Education Association
•   Chair Massage-BTI
•   Cotton Candy-Ethosource
•   Moon Bounce-Ethosource
•   Pony Rides (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.)-Ananda Farm
•   Door Prizes/Raffle-Lori Pottinger
•   Kids Fire Fighter Hose Shoot-Temple Fire Company
•   Children’s Games (Duck Pone, Lollipop Tree, and more)-Alsace Lutheran Church
•   Fish Pond-Mary Heister
•   Bean Bag Toss-Muhlenberg Ambulance
•   Chair Massage Station-United Artists

Fightin Phils concession stands will be open during the event from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

For more information regarding the Redcay Strong fund and how you can donate, visit RedcayStrong.org.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Reading Fightin Phils. Click here to view the original story.

ALS Celebrity Waiter Event Returns June 4th

May 20, 2014

Fundraiser once again held at TGI Friday’s in Brick

The BlueClaws are proud to hold their 14th annual ALS Celebrity Waiter Event on Wednesday, June 4th at TGI Friday’s on Route 70 in Brick.

The event, which started in 2001, raises money for the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, the principal charity of the Philadelphia Phillies.

This marks the third straight year the event will be at TGI Friday’s in Brick. There will be two seatings: one at 5:30 and another at 7:00. As in years past, BlueClaws players will be serving as the waiters, and coaches will serve as bartenders.

20% of every check, plus 100% of all tips, will be donated directly to the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia.

Reservations are encouraged and can be made by calling 732-262-0937.

“This has been a wonderful partnership between the BlueClaws and the ALS Association over the last 13 years and we are looking forward to what is always a great event,” said Jim DeAngelis, BlueClaws Director of Community Relations.

“The Phillies and their family have raised money to fight ALS for 30 years and here at the minor league level, the BlueClaws have been able to do the same since our inception in 2001,” he added.

The ALS Celebrity Waiter event has raised nearly $125,000 in its first 13 years.

There will also be a silent auction, while BlueClaws players will sign autographs and pose for pictures throughout the night.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League in attendance in all 13 years of existence.

Tickets for all remaining BlueClaws games are on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 2 or online at BlueClaws.com.

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