PawSox Become “Boys of Bowling” for Tomorrow Fund

The Triple-A ballclub that plays together also bowls together?

Yes, and it’s done in the name of a very good cause.

Every season, the Pawtucket Red Sox put down the gloves and bats and pick up bowling balls at East Providence Lanes – located two miles away from McCoy Stadium – to raise money for The Tomorrow Fund, a Rhode Island-based nonprofit organization that provides financial and emotional support to children with cancer and their families. This year’s event took place on Thursday, July 26. As usual, everyone had a good time.

Inside the PawSox clubhouse, the tone that stresses the importance of the “Strike Out Cancer” event was set when manager Kevin Boles hung a notice on the bulletin board. Mandatory attendance was expected, as Boles requested that directions to East Providence Lanes be printed and placed inside each locker.

Minor-league ballplayers aren’t the beneficiaries of too many nights away from the ballyard during the season. Even when there’s a scheduled off day, it could be compromised due to traveling from one city to the next. They’re around each other enough, grinding it on out the field and alternating between bus and plane rides, so that it’s perfectly understandable if everyone wishes to go their separate ways for one night.

“We spend a lot of time together, no doubt about it,” Boles said. “To get away from the ballpark and touch families that are going through a rough patch, that was good.”

These were just some of the positive responses that Tomorrow Fund Board of Directors member Rosemary Huestis picked up on as she traveled from lane to lane. She greeted each player, who was paired up with a Tomorrow Fund patient. Some of the PawSox players enhanced the evening by bringing their families to East Providence Lanes.

“For them to dedicate their time to the kids and our organization shows what great people they truly are,” stated Lisa Abbenante, Executive Director for The Tomorrow Fund.

The excitement displayed by the youngsters whenever their PawSox bowling partner succeeded in knocking down a high number of pins was easy to spot.

“The kids would say, ‘That’s my guy!'” Huestis said. “For our kids to have something like this and have someone come pay attention to them is a big deal.”

“The players and front office staff are happy to be here, but this event is more about the kids,” said Joe Bradlee, PawSox Director of Communications/Community Relations.

The bowling arrangement between the PawSox and The Tomorrow Fund started in 2012. Through the years the two organizations have added additional charitable twists that still stick to the core principle of aiding those in need. For the past few seasons at McCoy Stadium, fans who purchase soft balls before the fifth inning test their aim as a pickup truck takes to the field and circles the warning track. All the proceeds raised from this popular in-game feature – appropriately dubbed “Hurl The Pearl” – go directly to The Tomorrow Fund.

Whether the support is financial or done with the intentions of brightening someone’s day, The Tomorrow Fund knows they have a good thing going when it comes to the organization’s partnership with the PawSox.

“The support the PawSox give us is amazing. They give us a lot of publicity and help make us known,” Huestis said.

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

Flying Tigers Employee Wins Florida State League/Miami Marlins Scholarship

Lakeland, FL – The Flying Tigers are pleased to announce Victoria Maskas has been selected by the Florida State League (FSL) Scholarship Committee as one of the twelve $1,500 educational scholarship winners. Maskas will be a guest of the Miami Marlins and will be recognized during a pre-game ceremony on Sunday, August 12 in Miami.

Maskas recently graduated from the Harrison School for the Arts in Lakeland and will be attending the University of Florida later this summer, pursuing a degree in Psychology.

The FSL Scholarship Committee awarded a scholarship to an individual of all twelve FSL teams. To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants had to be an employee of or the child or grandchild of an employee of the participating club. They must also be at least a high school junior by the 2018 fall term. The award was based on grades, financial need, leadership capabilities and job performance.

This is the nineteenth straight year for the program and is funded by the Miami Marlins and the Florida State League. Each scholarship has a monetary value of $1,500. A total of 228 scholarships have been awarded to qualified applicants since the inception of the program.

Since 2000, the Marlins Foundation has donated $175,000 to the scholarship program. The purpose of the program is to encourage and reward our school age applicants and send a message that an education is the key to success in life.

The Flying Tigers are the Class A Advanced Affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. For more information please visit the Flying Tigers online at www.LakelandFlyingTigers.com.

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

Marshall Knapp Awarded FSL/Marlins Scholarship

Bradenton, FL – The Florida State League Scholarship Committee and FSL President Ken Carson have awarded twelve (12) $1,500 educational scholarships to deserving applicants from across the League. The Bradenton Marauders are proud to announce that Marshall Knapp has been selected as a scholarship recipient. Knapp is the son of LECOM Park Concessions Manager Chuck Knapp.

This is the nineteenth (19) straight year for the program and is funded by the Miami Marlins and the Florida State League. Each Scholarship has a monetary value of $1,500 and is presented to a student employee, child or grandchild of an employee. A total of 228 scholarships have been awarded to qualified applicants since the inception of the program. The Committee awarded the scholarships after a review of applications submitted by each candidate. The award is based both on financial need and achievement of a grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Recipients must be at least a high school junior by the 2018 Fall Term.

Marshall Knapp will be a senior at Braden River High School this fall. In additional to his outstanding academic performance in the classroom, he is the drum major for the Braden River High School Marching Band of Pirates, logging hundreds of hours of rehearsals each year. He also plays multiple instruments and performs in the Braden River High School Wind Ensemble, the Sun Coast Honor Band, and the Sarasota Concert Band. Knapp plans to study Music Education in college with the goal of becoming a high school band director.

The Miami Marlins provide a generous contribution to the program. The purpose of the program is to encourage and reward our school age applicants and send a message that an education is the key to success in life. All winners will be the guests of the Marlins at Marlins Park on Sunday, August 12, 2018 and will be recognized in an on-field pregame ceremony. Knapp will also throw out a first pitch at an upcoming Marauders home game.

For more information about the Bradenton Marauders, call 941-747-3031, visit www.bradentonmarauders.com, or email MaraudersInfo@pirates.com.

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

Blue Jays Bowling Tournament Raises Over $10,000

DUNEDIN-FL, The Dunedin Blue Jays 2018 Charity Bowling Tournament on Saturday, July 21st raised $10,370 for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tampa Bay. Over 200 local baseball fans participated in the event, joining the entire Dunedin Blue Jays team at Maple Lanes Countryside Bowling Alley in Clearwater for a day of bowling, raffles, silent auctions, and prizes during the team’s fifth annual tournament. Since 2014, the event has raised over $45,000 to support the well-being of local families through Ronald McDonald House Charities.

“The Blue Jays are incredibly grateful for the continued support of local businesses and their sponsorships that make this event possible each year, for our players for dedicating their time to helping the local community, and most of all for fans who helped make this year’s event a success,” Kathi Beckman, the Blue Jays Manager of Community Relations, said following the event.

For the third consecutive year, the event raised over $10,000 to help Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tampa Bay care for families with children receiving treatment in local hospitals. Adding to the excitement at the tournament, local fan Teddy K. threw the first perfect 300 game in bowling tournament history. For his feat, Teddy was awarded a team-signed bowling ball and pin and the opportunity to throw out the first pitch at a 2019 Toronto Blue Jays Spring Training game.

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

Fireflies Launch Campaign to Retire SC Veteran Medical Debt

COLUMBIA, SC – In advance of Independence Day, the Columbia Fireflies today announced a campaign to retire the medical debt of veterans across the state. More than 700 veteran families have a combined $800,000 in medical debt in South Carolina, and the team and its fans will have the opportunity to help in this community-wide effort.

“Columbia is known as the ‘Most Military Friendly Community in America’ for many reasons,” said Fireflies team president John Katz. “Every American can appreciate the sacrifices our military heroes have made, and now we have an opportunity to pay it forward.”

The kickoff for the campaign will begin on July 4th, as the Fireflies celebrate Independence Day at Spirit Communications Park. Specially-designed red, white and blue jerseys – first worn by the team on Fort Jackson Night, June 5th – will be auctioned off during the game. 100% of the proceeds from the auction will benefit our veterans in need.

RIP Medical Debt, a nationally-recognized not-for-profit 501(c)(3) charity, was established in 2014 to locate, purchase and forgive unpaid and unpayable medical debt. Our campaign, which will be funded by events such as the jersey auction, will provide RIP Medical Debt the funds to buy South Carolina veteran medical debt and abolish it, with no strings attached for the beneficiaries.

This program provides debt relief for those in our military community that need it most. To qualify, veteran medical debt has been identified for people who meet the following criteria: 1) people who make less than 2x the Federal poverty level; 2) people with financial hardship – a debt that is 5% or more of their annual income; and 3) people who are insolvent.

In addition to the jersey auction on July 4th, fans will have additional opportunities to give:

July 4 – July 9: The Fireflies will be holding a “Text to Give” campaign at Spirit Communications Park during the week of Independence Day, where fans will have the opportunity to text a donation.

Additional opportunities will be announced later this season.

Tickets for the July 4th Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks Extravaganza are on sale now. Visit FirefliesTickets.com, the Spirit Communications Park ticket office or call (803) 726-4487 for more information.

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About the Columbia Fireflies

The Columbia Fireflies are the South Atlantic League affiliate of the New York Mets. Winners of Ballpark Digest’s Best New Branding and Logo Award in 2016, the Fireflies play games across the southeast and mid-Atlantic regions, including against in-state rivals in Charleston and Greenville. The team partnered with the city of Columbia and Hughes Development to construct Spirit Communications Park, a multi-use outdoor sports and entertainment venue at the center of the BullStreet development. The Columbia Fireflies are owned by Hardball Capital, owners of the Fort Wayne TinCaps of the Midwest League and the Chattanooga Lookouts of the Southern League. For more information, visit ColumbiaFireflies.com, or follow the Fireflies on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

About Spirit Communications Park

Spirit Communications Park, the 2016 Ballpark Digest Ballpark of the Year, is a 365-day per year multi-use sports and entertainment venue located in the heart of downtown Columbia, SC. Spirit Communications Park is the home ballpark for the Columbia Fireflies, the South Atlantic League affiliate of the New York Mets. Designed for baseball, concerts, football, soccer and a host of other activities, the venue seats approximately 9,000 for sporting events and up to 15,000 for major outdoor concerts. With 16 luxury suites and a 7,000 square-foot Club Level Lounge, Spirit Communications Park can also host everything from business meetings to wedding receptions, and everything in between. The venue is open 365 days a year and serves as a public park with the wrap-around concourse representing 1/3 of a mile for walkers and joggers. For more information, visit SpiritCommunicationsPark.com.

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

H.O.P.E. Week Initiative 2018

The first weeks in June were fun for fans of the New York Yankees organization with MiLB and MLB minor league and inter-league games vs. New York Mets organization. The New York Yankees were playing at Citi Field vs. the Mets. The St. Lucie Mets were playing the Tampa Tarpons at George M. Steinbrenner Field. While baseball games were being played the Yankees “A” Advanced Tampa Tarpons, Partnership and Community Activation team, including New York Yankees Foundation, was busy bringing H.O.P.E Week into the community.

Introduced in 2009, the H.O.P.E. Week Initiative (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) is rooted in the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope and encouragement to more than just the recipient of the gesture.

On each of five consecutive days the Yankees participating teams shines a spotlight on a different individual, family or organization worthy of public recognition and support. Each day is designed so honorees can share their inspirational stories with players, fans and the media.

At its core, HOPE Week is about people helping people. The one thing everybody has, no matter where they come from, what their financial situation is or what kind of skills they possess, is time. By involving players, coaches, Managers, General Managers and front office staff during the celebration of HOPE Week, the New York Yankees organization sends the message that everyone can give of themselves to make their community a better place.

Jennifer Steinbrenner Swindal, New York Yankees General Partner/Vice Chair Person and President of Yankees Tampa Foundation opened H.O.P.E Week Initiative, first day, with Tampa Tarpons. “Jenny” along with minor league prospects Isiah Gilliam, Mandy Alvarez, Kellin Deglan, Ryan Lidge and Edwin Tordecilla visited the children of United Cerebral Palsy of Tampa Bay (UCP) www.ucptampa.org

During their time in the Yankees Player Development system, each of the minor league players oblige with participation in community service.

The first HOPE day provided a unique playdate for the young Tampa Tarpons players to greet children with degrees of physical disabilities. It provided time to play games and answer questions from “what is an infielder?” to “where are the pitchers?” “Jenny” used a rubber ball to play toss & catch with a small child in a wheel chair and demonstrated to other children how a catcher is positioned. She took time to tie shoe laces. I have pictures! The natural interaction with children by all from the HOPE team was enlightening. A child named “Jasper”, quiet, solitary, stood aside from the rest in the play room but was drawn to infielder Mandy Alvarez who slowly went one-on-one with the child. “Iechia”, the pre-school teacher observed and commented on the bond between the child and player.

Tampa Tarpons Mascot Blue is always along for fun and the children loved, hugged and tugged at his gigantic uniform. The children, families and staff were invited to attend the St. Lucie Mets vs. Tampa Tarpons game at George M. Steinbrenner Field.   UCP of Tampa was provided tickets and food vouchers. On the field during pregame, United Cerebral Palsy of Tampa received $2,500.00 check.

 

Second Day of HOPE Week: Jennifer Steinbrenner, Tim Guidry, Administrator of Yankees Tampa Foundation, including staff of Partnership and Community Activation joined the Tampa Tarpon players; Hoy Jun Park, Keith Skinner, Dom Thompson-Williams, while visiting the Children’s Home Network www.childrenshomenetwork.org.

Mr. & Mrs. George M. Steinbrenner III, the New York Yankees Tampa Foundation throughout seasons remain sponsors of the Children’s Home with financial contribution, vans for transportation and a swimming pool. Mrs. Joan Z. Steinbrenner is a longtime board member for the Children’s Home, Inc.

The Children’s Home story began in 1892, when as recorded by history, Miss Carrie Hammerly began tending to orphaned and abandoned children. The Children’s Home recognizes more than 125 years of history in Tampa, Florida. With time, the Children’s Home has progressed. Situated on 88 acres, the Children’s Home features six cottages, administration building, playground and among others, an in campus school.

Kids Village. The main campus in Tampa is the site of the residential treatment and healing program. Children ages 6-17 reside in cottages and are provided with support for healing from abuse, neglect and abandonment.

Fostering Families. The Children’s Home program is exclusively committed to recruiting, preparing and supporting foster families to nurture children and mentor families as a whole. The program strives to keep siblings together, while providing safety and permanency through reunification and family restoration.

Kinship. This program is available to grandparents or other relative caregivers raising a family member’s child or children. Kinship offers support by helping families connect to resources, expand family support systems and reduce stress to promote family stability.

Adolescents in Motherhood (AIM). The program accepted its first teen mother at the Children’s Home in 2015. Since then it continues to provided services for teen mothers and expecting teens who are in foster care and has grown to include the newly-implemented Life-Skills initiatives.

SEEDS. The Supporting and Empowering Educational and Developmental Services program provides intervention services that work collaboratively with school, family members and community to ensure children are ready for kindergarten and reading on level by third grade.

At the Children’s Home we met youth that crossed sectors of our society, children separated from their parents because of neglect, drug abuse and unstable living conditions. The Children’s Home Network yearly provides care for thousands of children whose parents surrendered the well being of their children. I met two children who share multiple cultures; Hawai’ian/Puerto Rican, Americans. Although they share separate living quarters at the Children’s Home, the 16 year old girl keeps a watchful eye on her eight year old brother. “Kealohalani” wants to go home. She expressed interest in keeping up with language. She was promised a Hawai’ian dictionary and a Word Search book.

This HOPE day provided an insight for the team on the care of our children separated from their parents. It was a getting to know you, with a mix of conversation and laughter. The youth enjoyed a day being coached at hoops by the Tampa Tarpon players, followed by a casual game of baseball. The players had fun as they received instruction from the kids on how to tie dye teeshirts. The boys, girls and staff of counselors were presented a Tampa Tarpons baseball cap and invited with game ticket and food voucher to attend the evening St. Lucie Mets vs. Tampa Tarpons game at George M. Steinbrenner Field. During the pregame presentation The Children’s Home Network, Frankie Sasak, Operations Coordinator – Kids Village received a $2,500.00 contribution from the New York Yankees Foundation.

Third Day of HOPE Week: Initiative continued with a visit to Trinity Cafe where Tampa Tarpon pitchers; Albert Abreu, Justin Kamplain, Andrew Schwaab, Brian Trieglaff, Yoiber Marquina, Nestor Oronel and catcher Keith Skinner assisted with feeding the homeless.

The Partnership and Community Activation Manager, Jessica Lack and staff, including Tim Guidry and other volunteers joined at individual tables, assisting with requests during the lunch being served. More than a dozen children sat at tables with family members. We met a young father feeding a toddler and tending to children; Rickey 5 years old, Jeremiah 6, Noah 2 and a polite little girl who said she was 9 and her full first name was “Liyah Mikayla Lee”. She advised us her mother was not with them because she had a job interview. She chatted that her Dad would start work the next day and he promised them they would then have toys. Before lunch time had ended their mother arrived with good news that she got the job. The father spoke of bringing the children to Trinity Cafe while he and his wife struggled with providing meals. At the entrance table of Trinity Cafe is a sign which states “A Safe Place to Find Hope”.

Fourth Day of HOPE Week: George M. Steinbrenner Field is as an “anchor” in the community as it provided space to play and learn to four Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay; Town & County, Greco, Belmont Heights, Garcia Salesian. Over 100 youngsters representing the clubs participated in a “Baseball Camp Morning” with use of the main playing field, practice field, batting cages, clubhouse access to players’ ping pong table and just sitting in the dug out. The youth enjoyed pitching, fielding, hitting and running the bases as coached by Tampa Tarpons players Nick Green, Nick Nelson, Ryan Lidge, Matt Wivinis and Keith Skinner.

Tampa Tarpons, Assistant General Manager, Jeremy Ventura scheduled the morning of baseball for the youngsters, almost as structured as a regular season schedule of the Tampa Tarpon players. The Boys & Girls Clubs were identified with colored arm bands. Coordinated by club tee shirts, teams were guided into the various field activities through radio remote control by Jessica Lack and Tampa staff; Mary Kate Harvey and Marcella Costello. This was a most productive event.

In the Yankees Clubhouse the youth were curious as to where A-Rod, Aaron Judge, Derek Jeter, CC Sabathia, Don Mattingly, Bernie Williams had their lockers. The children sat on players’ stools and asked questions, “Yogi Berra was here, was he a catcher or a pitcher?”, “This is a special place”, “I can’t believe I’m sitting here”. “I am a big Yankees fan, can I take some dirt?” The boys spoke with Tarpon players of the teams where they play baseball and asked for advice as future major leaguers. They were proud of hitting home runs. A lone girl “Laylani” sat on the clubhouse couch and pointed at two “boy” name plates above lockers. She asked what the word “boy” meant. I explained they were the bat boy lockers. “When am I going to be one of those?” Sincere with her question, it was explained that she could be, was then given a brief overview of duties and walked out to the field to show her where the bat boys sat. Her final question was, “where would I change into my uniform?”

Seminole Hard Rock Tampa employees volunteered for the event with the Boys & Girls Clubs. We were introduced to Kristen Walker, Assistant Manager of Security who travels to Hard Rock sponsored events and Allen McBrayer, Director of Casino Player Development.

The Boys & Girls Clubs were provided volunteers Stefan Miller and De’Naysha Mullings from Bank of America’s Student Leadership Program “Making a Difference in the Community”.

At the conclusion of Baseball Camp Morning, the Boys & Girls Clubs were ushered into the Yankees Legends Pavillion for pizza, refreshments, including Boys & Girls Clubs/Hard Rock Cafe teeshirts. They were joined by Janine Valentin, Chief Programs Officer-Implementation of Program Development and Operations for the twenty-four Boys & Girls Clubs. During our conversation with the President of the Boys & Girls Clubs it was revealed that 78% of the children live below the Federal Poverty Level.

The Boys & Girls Clubs were provided four tickets per youth for that evening’s Tampa Tarpons game. During the pregame ceremony, Chris Letos, President of Boys & Girls Clubs was presented $2,500.00.

H.O.P.E. Week Initiative continued the following morning with a visit to George M. Steinbrenner Field by families from MacDill Air Force Base. Military members and children enjoyed the company of selected Tampa Tarpon Players. The families were provided tickets and food vouchers to attend evening game of Tampa Tarpons vs. Bradenton Marauders “A” Advanced affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

H.O.P.E Week Initiative concluded with “Starting Right, Now”. www.startingrighnow.org

“Students all come from diverse backgrounds with different stories, but we all have one thing in common – we are homeless.” How best to continue to describe the works of this program except with words from its founder, Vicki Sokolik and Chairman, Matthew Silverman.

Starting Right, Now (SRN) meets the needs of a growing population of homeless, unaccompanied youth. SRN intervenes with a uniquely holistic approach. We created a comprehensive curriculum to empower our youth. In addition to housing stability, food, academic support and life-skill classes each student is paired with a mentor who becomes their advocate, guiding them with emotional support. Each student has access to health insurance, food stamps, banking (financial literacy) and a network of support. We work with each student to propel them to the military, vocational training or higher education. SRN intercedes at a critical juncture, breaking the generational cycle of poverty. Unlike other organizations, we provide a deep, holistic and personal approach to end homelessness, one child at a time. We are not a hand-out, we are not a band-aid. We cure homelessness and achieve remarkable results. Join us. “Starting Right, Now”.

Starting Right, Now teens were invited to attend an afternoon Bradenton Marauders vs. Tampa Tarpons game and were provided tickets and food vouchers. During a pre-game presentation SRN received a $2,500.00 check. At game end, the teens and Tampa Tarpon players joined in a casual game of baseball on George M. Steinbrenner Field.

 

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

Dragons and Vectren Present 2018 “Community All-Stars”

Dayton, Ohio – The Dragons and Vectren will honor Shoes 4 the Shoeless during the unique “Community All-Stars” program on Monday, June 25, at 7:00 p.m. when the Dayton Dragons take on the Great Lakes Loons at Fifth Third Field.

The Dayton community is a great place to live, work and play. But what makes Dayton truly great are the people that call Dayton home. We have great people and great organizations in our community that do incredible things each and every day. Throughout the season, the Dragons and Vectren will honor five “All-Stars” with a special inning break tribute in recognition of their service.

Shoes 4 the Shoeless Story: “Shoes & Socks Bring Hope”

Kris Horlacher is a nurse by trade, but a decade ago she began devoting her time to a tutoring and mentoring program for homeless kids. Whether it’s finding food to eat or shelter for the night, these children have plenty of needs, and something that is often overlooked is their feet. According to Horlacher, “a pair of shoes and socks that are in good condition and fit, is the biggest unmet need for children living in poverty.” After researching, they found only a few organizations nationwide who provide these resources. They did not appear to be highly effective so, in 2010, Horlacher decided to take action into her own hands.

Within the first year of forming Shoes for the Shoeless (S4TS), Horlacher and her team won the Pepsi Refresh competition, a nationwide competition for organizations to compete for a $50,000 grant. Horlacher proudly states, “against all odds, Shoes 4 the Shoeless won, beating out large corporations from all across the country.” This funding was the traction needed to launch the organization.

Many of the children served by S4TS have never owned a pair of new shoes. Instead they wear hand-me-downs that are extremely worn, and not even close to the right size. Children go to school wearing shoes full of holes, missing soles, taped together, etc. Hundreds of local children do not even own socks. S4TS corrects these painful and embarrassing problems for children on the spot.

Since 2011, Shoes 4 the Shoeless has served over 75,000 children in 7 counties. Around 500 volunteers go to schools each month and work one-on-one with kids to find the right pair of shoes. Around 1,000 pairs of gym shoes are donated by Shoes 4 the Shoeless each month! To learn more and help support Shoes 4 the Shoeless, please visit www.shoes4theshoeless.org

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program is made possible by the generous support of Vectren. For more information or to nominate an All-Star in your life, visit www.daytondragons.com/communityallstar.

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

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Dodgers Foundation and San Manuel Team Up with Quakes

LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) in partnership with the Dodgers, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes will host a Community Service Day at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, June 25 at LoanMart Field (8408 Rochester Ave.) in Rancho Cucamonga.

Dodger alumni Lee Lacy and Derrel Thomas along with players from the Dodgers’ Single-A partner Rancho Cucamonga Quakes and San Manuel volunteers will lead a youth baseball clinic and reading event for over 150 youth from Think Together, a LADF grantee that has afterschool and summer programming for students throughout the greater Los Angeles area, including Ontario, Colton, Rancho Cucamonga, Rialto and Adelanto. Following the activities, a healthy lunch will be provided to all participants.

“It’s important that we work with our partners like the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation to give back to the community and to inspire the youth who are the future,” said Lynn Valbuena, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Chairwoman. “The 2018 Community Service Day is one of many examples of the San Manuel team working hand-in-hand with great organizations to bring smiles to more than 150 children in our local community.”

“We are thrilled to be extending our reach, and partnering with the Quakes and San Manuel Band of Mission Indians to bring this event to Think Together’s participants in San Bernardino County,” said Nichol Whiteman, Executive Director, Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation. “Opportunities like this help multiply the impact of our investment in the communities we serve, and are an important part of our grantmaking program.”

This year’s program is the latest joint community initiative between LADF and San Manuel following a Dodgers Dreamfield Community Service Day last September at Bud Bender Park in Rialto, where youngsters took part in a youth clinic and community garden project. Think Together is a LADF grantee, receiving $25,000 since 2015 to support after school literacy and college access programs at 23 middle schools in Azusa, Baldwin Park, Duarte, Pico Rivera, Norwalk, Lynwood, El Monte and South Whittier.

Media interested in attending Monday’s event can RSVP by emailing Mike Lindskog (mlindskog@rcquakes.com). Media parking is available on site, and media can enter through LoanMart Field’s main entrance.

About the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation:

The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation is the official team charity of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Its primary focus is to support cornerstone programs in Sports + Recreation, Education + Literacy and Health + Wellness benefitting children and families in need throughout the greater Los Angeles region. By leveraging strategic partnerships, the mission is to harness the power of the Dodger brand and the passion our fans have for Los Angeles into a vehicle for positive change in under-served communities. Visit the Dodgers Foundation online at www.dodgers.com/ladf, follow them on Twitter @DodgersFdn, Instagram @dodgersfoundation and like them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/LosAngelesDodgersFoundation.

About the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians:

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is a federally-recognized Indian tribe located on the San Manuel Indian Reservation near Highland, California. San Manuel exercises its inherent sovereign right of self-governance and provides essential services for its citizens by building infrastructure, maintaining civil services, and promoting social, economic and cultural development. As descendants of the indigenous people of the San Bernardino highlands, passes, valleys, mountains and high deserts, the Serrano people of San Manuel have called this area home since time immemorial and are committed to remaining a productive partner in the San Bernardino region.

About Think Together:

Think Together partners with schools and communities to pursue educational equity and excellence for all kids. As a nonprofit organization, Think Together innovates, implements and scales academic solutions that change the odds for hundreds of thousands of California students. Think Together’s program areas include early learning, afterschool, school support services and leadership development for teachers and school administrators. For more information, call (888) 485-THINK or visit www.thinktogether.org.

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

Tenth Annual Peanut-Free Nights on June 28 and 29

GRAND CHUTE, WI – The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers will hold two Peanut-Free Nights at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium when they open the second half of their home schedule on Thursday, June 28 and Friday, June 29. This is the tenth season in a row in which the Midwest League affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers have held at least one Peanut-Free Night to allow fans with peanut allergies the opportunity to attend games.

Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium will have no peanuts, peanut butter, or peanut based products to allow fans with peanut allergies a chance to enjoy the Timber Rattlers games against the Clinton LumberKings. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05pm on both nights.

The stadium will be cleaned and rinsed before the events 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 the Peanut-Free Nights, there are big promotions scheduled for both games.

The game on June 28 is Dinosaur Night with an appearance by a “Live” dinosaur and vehicles from the Jurassic Park movies in front of the stadium. Additionally, the first 1,000 fans to attend this game will receive a Dinosaur T-Shirt from the Eric Soda Insurance Agency and the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers. This night is a Craft Brews and Brats Thursday presented by Wisconsin Brewing Company, Badger Club Amber, Fox River Brewing Company, and 105.7, WAPL with 12-ounce craft beers and Cher-Make brats available for $2.

The game on June 29 is Harry Potter Night presented by Neuroscience Group. There will be characters from the movies, butter beer, and more fun from the books and movies. Plus, the first 1,000 fans to attend the game will receive a pair of Harry Potter-themed Timber Rattlers socks. Neuroscience Group also is bringing Strike Out Stroke Night to the stadium with ways to recognize the signs of and prevent strokes. After the game there will be a fireworks display courtesy of FOX 11 and after the fireworks children 14 and under may participate in Kids Run the Bases presented by Menasha Corporation. This night is also an Arty’s Old Fashioned Friday presented by WIXX with Arty’s Old Fashion drinks available for $3.

Tickets for Peanut-Free Nights on June 28 and June 29 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 story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

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2018 Nick Adenhart Memorial Scholarship winners: Mackenzie Redmond and Logan Hadsall

Cedar Rapids, IA – The Cedar Rapids Kernels and Kernels Foundation are pleased to announce Mackenzie Redmond and Logan Hadsall as the winners of the 2018 Nick Adenhart Memorial Scholarships. They were recognized in an on-field ceremony before the Kernels game with Peoria on Sunday, June 17th.

Mackenzie Redmond will be graduating from Marion High School and plans on attending Mount Mercy University to major in Nursing. Logan Hadsall will be graduating from Center Point-Urbana High School and plans on attending Kirkwood Community College, pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice. Both winners are members of the National Honor Society at their respective high schools.

Nick Adenhart was a bright young pitcher who played for the Cedar Rapids Kernels in 2006 and was a rising star in the Los Angeles Angels organization. Only hours after Nick’s 2009 season debut on the mound for the Angels, a drunk driver tragically killed him on April 9, 2009 at age 22.

Nick’s family continues to honor him with the awarding of two $1,000 scholarships in his memory. The Kernels Foundation is privileged to administer the scholarships on behalf of Nick’s family.

The Kernels are currently enjoying the MWL All-Star Break through June 20th. They begin the second half of the MWL season by hosting the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers on Thursday, June 21st at 6:35 PM, which kicks off a seven-game home stand that continues until Wednesday, June 27th.

Chris Kleinhans-Schulz and Morgan Hawk bring you all of the play-by-play on the radio home of Kernels baseball, 1450 KMRY AM and 93.1 KMRY FM. Fans may listen on-line at www.kmryradio.com, or www.kernels.com. Fans may also stream all 70 Kernels home game and selected road games via a MiLB.TV subscription. Visit MiLB.TV for subscription information.

Tickets may be purchased on-line at www.kernels.com, or by calling the Kernels Ticket Office at 896-7560. Ticket office hours are 10 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday.

The Hope Foundation & the Scrappers Partner to Help Raise Funds for Kids

NILES, OH – The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley and the Mahoning Valley Scrappers have joined together to help raise funds for chronically/terminally ill children in our community throughout the 2018 season. “We are excited about teaming up with the Mahoning Valley Scrappers in an effort to spread our mission to educate and help chronically and terminally ill children of the Mahoning Valley,” states Tony Spano, Founder and Executive Director of The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley.

Saturday, July 7th has been designated as The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley Awareness Night at the Scrappers at Eastwood Field in Niles. In addition, when fans purchase tickets online for the July 7th game or any other game this season, The Hope Foundation will receive a portion of the sale, when they type the word “HOPE” in the Special Offer Code box. The HOPE code is valid for all online tickets, including game day purchases up to 4:00pm the day of the game. The offer is not valid with the purchase of tickets at the window or by phone or for July 4th or buck nights.

The Hope Foundation will also fundraise with jersey auction for the Scrappers game worn Star Wars jerseys, which will be worn the Friday, June 22nd game against the Auburn Doubledays, sponsored by Liberty Comics and Middlefield Bank.

The Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley (H.F.M.V.), a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization, was founded in 2007 after the increasing success and popularity of the Game of Hope Charity Basketball Classic. Our unpaid staff, volunteers and supporting individuals and organizations are committed to our mission. They provide charitable and financial support to local charities that share our goal of improving the lives of chronically/terminally ill children. With money raised from donation and our signature fundraisers, The Foundation provides grants of up to $5,000. For more information about The Foundation please visit the website at www.HopeMV.org.

Tickets for the Scrappers 2018 season are now on sale. For more information, contact the Scrappers Front Office at (330) 505-0000 or visit mvscrappers.com for a complete schedule.

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

Thunder HOPE Week Honors Outstanding Organizations and Individuals

The Thunder, Double-A Affiliate of the New York Yankees, completed their HOPE Week during the most recent homestand. HOPE Week, helping others persevere and excel, is a New York Yankees initiative aimed at honoring outstanding organizations and individuals who do good in the local community.

Tuesday, June 5 – Dan Sczweck, Miracle League of Mercer County

Dan Sczweck, the Executive Director of the Miracle League of Mercer County, earned his recognition for the work he’s done running the Miracle League of Mercer County. To watch the HOPE Week Ceremony honoring Dan and MLMC Athletes, click here.

 

Wednesday, June 6 – Just Fight Foundation

The Thunder honored the Just Fight Foundation on June 6 as part of HOPE Week. On December 8th, 2015 in Abington, PA, a seven year old girl, Allyson Turner, was found unconscious in her bathtub. Her parents rushed to the scene and immediately began to perform CPR on Allyson until the EMT’s arrived. This was crucial to her survival as Allyson was immediately rushed to Abington Hospital and then flown to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. While Allyson was being treated by multiple doctors, her parents would say to her: “Just Fight!”

Her older brother Liam decided to take initiative and print Just Fight on t-shirts and began to sell them to friends and community members to support Allyson. The Just Fight Foundation was born to promote emergency preparedness in the community and educate the public on life saving techniques and provide support for families facing life-altering events due to illness or injury and spread the message: ‘Just Fight.’

To view the ceremony honoring the Just Fight Foundation, click here.

Thursday June 7 – Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton provides a network of comprehensive healthcare services which includes hosptial care, prevention and wellness, primary and specialty medical services and diagnostic & treatment services in the community. Thunder players and coaches visited patients and RWJ, to view the ceremony, click here.

 

Friday June 8 – Radiology Affiliates Imagaing and Breast Cancer Awareness

RAI (Radiology Affiliates Imaging) is a team of medical diagnostic imaging professionals dedicated to providing superior, integreated management and radiology imaging support services to the medical practices that we serve for the purpose of providing optimal patient care.

The Thunder welcomed over 50 breast cancer survivors to the ballpark for a pre-game pink rose ceremony where Thunder players honored individual survivors on the field at ARM & HAMMER Park. To view the ceremony, click here.

Saturday, June 9 – Isles Youth Institute and F.I.E.L.D. Renovation

Isles Youth Institute is a community development and environmental organization based in Trenton, New Jersey. With a mission to foster self-reliant families and healthy, sustainable communities, designs and develops effective services that support this mission and share what they learn with others who can make a difference. Beyond its central New Jersey base, Isles works to influence policy and practices that support healthy, self-help agendas.

Isles and members of the Thunder came together to renovate the field at North Trenton Little League as part of the F.I.E.L.D. Program. To view the ceremony honoring Isles and the F.I.E.L.D. Program, click here.

Sunday, June 10 – Thea’s Star of Hope

Thea’s Star of Hope was founded in 2012 in honor of Thea Danze, a child who had undergone continuous treatment for her brain tumor since 2007. The organization is the embodiment of Thea’s positive outlook and a testament to the indelible spirit so many diagnosed with pediatric brain cancer. The Thunder welcomed Thea and other patients for a special on-field ceremony, to view the ceremony, click here.

In addition to the HOPE Week honors this past week at ARM & HAMMER Park, Thunder players and staff participated in the United Way of Greater Mercer County Strike Out Hunger event. For video on that event, click here.

Your Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, are in the midst of their 25th season in franchise history. For the latest information on Thunder baseball or to purchase tickets, visit

OKC Dodgers and Kimray Partner to Create Kimray Kids Program

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and Kimray, Inc. have partnered this season to create a new program called Kimray Kids to benefit foster care and family service organizations in the Oklahoma City area.

Three Kimray Kids Nights will take place during the OKC Dodgers’ season, starting Saturday, allowing foster care and family service organizations to bring children and families out for a night of fun and baseball at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

“We are pleased with the opportunity to partner with Kimray to feature these wonderful organizations and the families they serve,” said Michael Byrnes, OKC Dodgers President/General Manager. “Kimray is a great community partner and the opportunity to match their passion for these organizations with the experience and atmosphere the Dodgers provide, makes for a unique experience for these families.”

The first Kimray Kids Night of the season will take place during Saturday’s 7:05 p.m. Dodgers game against the Las Vegas 51s and will feature participants selected by Sunbeam Family Services. Individuals from Lilyfield will participate in the Saturday, July 7 Kimray Kids Night and individuals from FaithWorks of the Inner City will participate in the Saturday, Aug. 18 Kimray Kids Night.

Each night’s participating Kimray Kids group members will receive a T-shirt and voucher for a meal at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. They will enjoy a complete, behind-the-scenes tour of the ballpark, followed with a private meet-and-greet with an OKC Dodgers player, including a Q&A session, photos and autographs. Participants will then enjoy that night’s game from a designated Kimray Kids section in the ballpark.

During Kimray Kids Nights, the OKC Dodgers Team Store and all concession stands will have an optional “Add A Dollar” feature, allowing fans to donate to that night’s featured organization. The OKC Dodgers will then match up to $500 in donations.

Kimray, Inc. is a world-class manufacturer of control equipment used extensively in oil and gas production around the world with the mission of “making a difference in the lives of those we serve.”

“We are so excited to partner and support local organizations that are making a difference in the lives of so many who need an advocate and loving care!” said Shad Glass, Executive Vice President of Kimray, Inc. “One of Kimray’s core values is to ‘strengthen the family,’ and organizations like Sunbeam Family Services, Lilyfield, and FaithWorks of the Inner City are doing just that. Investing in tomorrow’s future gives hope for today and hope for things to come. When you support Kimray Kids Night at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, you are helping to make a difference in the lives of children and families across this great state.”

Sunbeam Family Services seeks to meet the growing needs of central Oklahoma’s most vulnerable citizens, providing help, hope and the opportunity to succeed to people of all ages. They offer real solutions, aiming to strengthen individuals, families and communities through a continuum of programs: early childhood, foster care, counseling and senior services.

“Sunbeam Family Services is absolutely honored to be a recipient of the Kimray Kids program,” said Erin Engelke, Chief External Relations Officer for Sunbeam Family Services. “The money raised through this wonderful event will help hundreds of children and their families across Oklahoma City from our Foster Care, Early Childhood and Grandparents Raising Grandchildren programs.”

Lilyfield is a faith-based, nonprofit organization that has been providing adoption and foster care plan-based services to Oklahoma City and the surrounding areas since 2000 and in Tulsa since 2014. Lilyfield focuses on five program areas: adoption; foster care; specialized counseling for those impacted by adoption and foster care; independent living services for former foster youth; and a prevention program that serves children and families at-risk of involvement with the foster care system.

“Lilyfield is proud and excited to be a part of Kimray Kids,” said Robert Elliot, Director of Development for Lilyfield. “We are so grateful to Kimray and the OKC Dodgers for this wonderful opportunity that honors the very special families that we serve.”

Many children and families from underserved areas of Oklahoma City never have the opportunity to take advantage of resources within reach of their neighborhoods. This is true for families in the Shidler-Wheeler community of southeast OKC assisted by FaithWorks. Through the Kimray Kids program, families can attend an Oklahoma City Dodgers game, and visit the ballpark located within walking distance of their community.

“FaithWorks is so excited to be a part of creating a new experience for our children and their families,” said Sally Goin, Executive Director of FaithWorks. “We love providing opportunities for families to come together to enjoy what our city has to offer. Unfortunately, sometimes those opportunities have a ‘price’ that is out of reach for families. FaithWorks is grateful to Kimray for a kids’ night for some very special kids and their families.”

The Dodgers open a seven-game homestand today with a three-game series against the Salt Lake Bees at 7:05 p.m. at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. The series continues at 7:05 p.m. on a $2 Thursday featuring $2 Pepsi products, bottled water and select beer. Fireworks are slated to follow Friday’s 7:05 p.m. matchup against Salt Lake, presented by Oklahoma Blood Institute.

The Dodgers open a four-game home series against the Las Vegas 51s at 7:05 p.m. Saturday on Marvel Super Hero Night. Fans who come out to Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark can meet Iron Man and Thor during the game.

Sunday’s 6:05 p.m. game falls on a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday, featuring pregame player autographs, a mascot meet-and-greet, face painters, inflatables and postgame kids run the bases. Five hundred OERB Player of the Month posters, featuring May winner Joe Broussard, will be available to children ages 12 and under as they exit the ballpark Sunday.

The series against Las Vegas continues at 7:05 p.m. Monday and wraps up with an 11:05 a.m. game Tuesday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on a Summer Field Trip Day. Camps and day cares are encouraged to come out Tuesday for a summer field trip. An OKC Dodgers game ticket, hat and sack lunch are included for the price of $13 per person for groups of 10 or more.

Tickets are available through the OKC Dodgers ticket office located on South Mickey Mantle Drive, by phone at (405) 218-2182, or by visiting okcdodgers.com.

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

TinCaps to Honor Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Rising Star Student

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Fort Wayne TinCaps and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana will recognize Amaya Williams, a local high school senior and one of 20 national Rising Star Students program winners, with an on-field check presentation and a ceremonial first pitch on Friday, June 22 when the team plays the West Michigan Whitecaps at Parkview Field at 7:05 p.m.

The TinCaps and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana surprised Amaya with the invitation to Parkview Field at the Big Futures Graduation on Tuesday night (June 12).

 

Williams will receive a $500 college stipend as part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Rising Star Students program. The award honors high-achieving students involved in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America mentorship program who are preparing for college.

 

Amaya, who just graduated from North Side High School in Fort Wayne, plans to attend Ivy Tech and major in Early Childhood Education. Williams wants to impact those around her and always looks for an opportunity to make a difference in her community and within herself. With the influence of her Big Sister, Domini, Amaya feels confident that she’s fully prepared for her future in college and in the workplace.

 

Nominees for the honor were required to provide submissions describing their academic and personal achievements, college and career goals, and how their involvement in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program has impacted them.

 

“Big Brothers Big Sisters does amazing work in our community and around the nation,” said TinCaps President Mike Nutter. “Amaya and Domini are a perfect example of how BBBS can develop young people into our future leaders. We can’t wait to honor Amaya at Parkview Field.”

 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America has been an MiLB Charity Partner since the program’s inception in 2004. The mission of the Minor League Baseball Charity Partners Program is to provide national exposure for participating charities, expand current relationships between clubs and local chapters and to foster new relationships where none exist. In 2017, charitable giving by Minor League Baseball teams and MiLB Charities totaled nearly $40 million.

 

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of America:

Big Brothers Big Sisters provides children facing adversity with strong, enduring, professionally supported oneto-one mentoring relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. Big Brothers Big Sisters ensures that the children in its program achieve measurable outcomes, including educational success, avoidance of risky behaviors, higher aspirations, greater confidence, and better relationships. This mission has been the cornerstone of the organization’s 114-year history. With nearly 300 affiliates across the country, Big Brothers Big Sisters has served more than 2 million children (“Littles”) in the past 10 years.

 

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

TinCaps & Padres to Donate to Challenger Baseball League

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Fort Wayne TinCaps and the San Diego Padres are donating $1,000 to provide bats and helmets to the local Challenger Baseball League at Northcrest Little League.

The Little League Challenger Division is an adaptive baseball program for individuals with physical and intellectual challenges. Any individual with a physical or intellectual challenge may participate. The Challenger Division accommodates players ages 4-18, or up to age 22 if still enrolled in school. Locally, there are six teams in the Challenger League that meet every Sunday. There are over 950 Challenger programs in 10 countries around the world with over 30,000 athletes participating in the Challenger Division every year.

 

“When we heard about the opportunity to support such a tremendous organization in our community, we were excited to help in any way possible,” said TinCaps President Mike Nutter. “The Challenger Baseball League has an amazing mission, and we’re grateful to have a Major League affiliate like the Padres who are committed to helping us make a positive impact in our community.”

 

The Fort Wayne and San Diego organizations are in their 20th season of affiliation together, going back to 1999. Annually, the Padres sponsor more than 1,500 tickets that are donated to non-profit organizations in the Fort Wayne area that allow less fortunate fans to attend games at Parkview Field. In addition, the Padres underwrite the costs for 1,000 tickets for military families on Military Appreciation Day at Parkview Field (which this year is set for Sunday, June 10). Not to mention, Padres prospects with the TinCaps volunteer to make appearances in the community throughout the season.

 

“The Padres are always committed to helping the TinCaps make a difference in the community in Fort Wayne as we do in San Diego,” said Todd Stephenson, Padres Manager for Minor League Administration. “Like the TinCaps, as an organization, the Padres are committed to making the game of baseball inclusive for all. The Challenger Baseball League does an incredible job and hopefully our donations help these kids and young adults create special baseball memories that will last a lifetime.”

 

Representatives from the TinCaps, including team mascot Johnny TinCap, will deliver the equipment on Sunday, June 3.

 

About Challenger Baseball:

The Challenger Baseball program was initiated by Little League Baseball in 1989 to meet the needs of physically and mentally challenged brothers and sisters of Little League players. The Fort Wayne Challenger program began in 1991 with two teams totaling 17 players, playing games alternately between the Northcrest and Forster Park Little League complexes, to be accessible for wheelchairs.

 

In 1999, two additional teams were added with 46 players ages eight through age eighteen or High School graduation. In 2008, Fort Wayne was chartered with the first experimental Senior Challenger program for players ages 14 to unlimited age, which now serves an additional twenty-two players.

 

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