RoughRiders announce Women Rock Day at Dr Pepper Ballpark

FRISCO, TEXAS (APRIL 15, 2014) – The Frisco RoughRiders, Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, announced a promotion worthy of rock star status today as they unveiled Women Rock Day at Dr Pepper Ballpark in conjunction with Women Rock, Inc. The two organizations will rock out together on Saturday, May 10 as the RoughRiders battle the Corpus Christi Hooks at 7:05 p.m.

The event will mark the third time the RoughRiders have teamed up with the not-for-profit Breast Cancer awareness group. As in the past, Women Rock Day will amp up the game day experience at Dr Pepper Ballpark.

For just $25, fans receive a limited edition RoughRiders hat, a prime seat behind the ‘Riders dugout and a souvenir PlayBall! game program. For two hours, fans with an appetite can enjoy unlimited hot dogs, brats and nachos, and quench their thirst with unlimited Dr Pepper products.

Five dollars from every ticket purchased will be donated to Women Rock, Inc. In turn, Women Rock, Inc. plans to use a portion of the night’s proceeds to fund medicals costs for breast cancer warrior, A.J. Atherton. Ms. Atherton will be present at the game to throw out the first pitch.

Women Rock Day also coincides with the Pink in the Park jersey auction at Dr Pepper Ballpark on May 9 and 10. A portion of all proceeds from the silent auction will benefit Women Rock, Inc.

For more information on Pink in the Park, contact LaShawn Moore at 972-334-1978 or lmoore@ridersbaseball.com

Women Rock Day occurs at the end of an eight-game RoughRiders homestand that begins on May 3 at 7:05 p.m. against the Midland Rock Hounds.

For information on tickets to see the RoughRiders in 2014, please call (972) 731-9200, e-mail Info@RidersBaseball.com or visit www.RidersBaseball.com.

For additional information on Women Rock, Inc., visit http://www.womenrockinc.org/. Women Rock, Inc. can also be found on:

Twitter: @womenrockinc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WomenRockInc

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/WomenRockInc

About Women Rock, Inc.

Women Rock, Inc, is a not for profit organization that is on a mission to save lives through increasing awareness and the early detection of breast cancer in North Texas and Southern Oklahoma. We will Leave No Stone Unturned!

Women Rock Inc.’s vision is to spread breast cancer awareness and education, and increase early detection procedures and participants, in order to maximize breast cancer detection while focusing on women who suffer disproportionately due to socioeconomic circumstances. We will take education to people in the communities of Northeast Texas with a mobile teaching setup. Our government funds programs that provide screening exams for women that qualify, but for every five women that qualify, only one is being assisted! Many women are getting left out! Every woman should have the opportunity to have a screening mammogram, and a chance at early detection. It’s that simple. Early detection saves lives! Women Rock wants to close the gap and provide mammograms to those women that are slipping through the proverbial cracks.

About Frisco RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A Affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play their games at beautiful Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas. The team has finished first among all Double-A minor league teams in attendance each season from 2005 – 2013, drawing more than half-a-million fans each year since the team was founded in 2003. More than 100 former RoughRiders have gone on to play in the Major Leagues, including All-Stars Ian Kinsler, Elvis Andrus, Chris Davis, C.J. Wilson, Adrian Gonzalez, Neftali Feliz and Matt Harrison The RoughRiders are owned by Mandalay Sports Entertainment, winners of the “Baseball Organization of the Year” in 2008 by Ballpark Digest.

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

“Yes we Can”-ned Food Drive

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In conjunction with the Salvation Army of Beloit and the Salvation Army of Janesville the Snappers are proud to announce our “Yes We Can” food drive. The Snappers invite fans to bring canned or non-perishable food items to the ballpark for any of the games April 14th -18th and fans will receive a ticket voucher for the Snappers game on Wednesday May 14th! All food donated will be split between the food pantries at the Salvation Army of Beloit and the Salvation Army of Janesville.

“We are so excited to have this new promotion at the ballpark this season. The work done at the Salvation Army in both Beloit and Janesville is a vital part of our community and we are happy to be a part of it” said Snappers President Dennis Conerton.

Tami Prochazka of the Salvation Army in Janesville said, “The Salvation Army appreciates this partnership with the Beloit Snappers and the community in ensuring food pantry shelves are stocked and ready to assist families in need during difficult times. The Yes We Can food drive is a win-win for The Salvation Army, food pantry families and avid baseball fans.”

The Snappers will be taking on the Great Lakes Loons Monday April 14th-16th all games starting at 6:30 pm with gates opening at 5:30 pm. April 17th-18th the Snappers will take on the Lansing Lugnuts with both games starting at 6:30 pm gates opening at 5:30 pm. For tickets visit the Snappers Box Office or call 608-362-2272.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Beloit Snappers. Click here to view the original story.

The 9th annual Special Needs Camp is Saturday, April 26

Miracle, Dave Clark Foundation team up or special day at the ballpark

(Linwood Ferguson)
(Linwood Ferguson)

FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 8, 2014) – The Fort Myers Miracle are proud to team with Dave Clark Foundation for the ninth annual Special Needs Baseball camp on Saturday, April 26 at 10 a.m. at Hammond Stadium. The baseball camp is open to the first 25 individuals, with a physical or mental challenge, age 18 and under.

The entire Miracle team and coaches will teach kids the baseball skills of hitting, throwing, catching and fielding. The camp affords the opportunity for campers to experience the feeling of being a professional baseball player for a day.

Cape Coral resident Dave Clark hosts the camp. Suffering from the effects of Post Polion Syndrome (PPS), 61-year old Clark amassed over 600 wins during a 30-year baseball career that began in the early 1970s. Currently, Clark focuses his energy on public speaking, organizing disability events and is an envoy international coach for Major League Baseball.

As part of the Disability Dream & Do activities, Clark will present the “Pulling Each Other Along Award” prior to the 6:05 p.m. Miracle game versus the Palm Beach Cardinals on Saturday, April 26. The award is presented to an unsung hero(s) whose selfless acts have helped those with a disability. For more information about D3 or to nominate a worthy candidate, visit www.daveclarkfoundation.org or email: award@daveclarkfoundation.org.

“There are two types of dreamers. Dreamers that dream and dreamers that Dream & Do,” said Clark, the only professional baseball player to pitch from crutches. “D3 Baseball with the Fort Myers Miracle gives the youth a wonderful chance to do both, Dream & Do.”

There is no cost associated with the camp. To register a child, please call (239) 768-4210 or send an email to aadams@miraclebaseball.com. Include your name, the child’s full name, full address, phone number, email address and any special needs for your child.

“This day always leaves an impression on all of our players, coaches, and our entire front office staff. To see the joy on the faces of the kids and our players while the camp is taking place is just priceless. This is one of the best events that we do all year long,” said Miracle President Steve Gliner.

Kids are asked to bring their own baseball gloves and one adult chaperone is required to be in attendance with each child attending the camp. Each participant will receive four tickets for the Miracle game that evening at 6:05 p.m. Lunch will also be provided following the camp activities.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Fort Myers Miracle. Click here to view the original story.

Autism Awareness Day Returns to Hadlock April 13th

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PORTLAND, Maine – The Portland Sea Dogs are pleased to announce the return of Autism Awareness Day at Hadlock Field on April 13, 2014 at 1:00 PM against the New Britain Rock Cats.

The event will be held with the support of Karleen Frost of Embracing the World of Autism, and the University of New England Occupational Therapy program. It will run from 11:00 AM (two hours prior to the start of the game) until the end of the game.

The UNE students will create and facilitate activities for children and families in a special “Sensory Room” that will allow children with autism to self-regulate using movement, calming sensory input and fidget items.

In addition to the “Sensory Room” the students will also make sensory kits including tactile items, chewy food, and fidget items to help people with autism self-modulate their nervous system during the game.

The goal of the event is to raise autism awareness and to help people with autism perform the occupations of everyday life.

Tickets to the game are being offered at a discounted rate for those that use the special offer code “EmbraceAutism” at www.seadogs.com. Those in attendance are asked to wear the color orange to show support for Autism Acceptance.

For more information visit www.seadogs.com or contact Lindsey Oliver by calling 207-874-9300.

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

Spirit of Boston Run to be Held on Monday

Timed 5K will benefit City of Greenville Youth Baseball Program

(Picasa)
(Picasa)

Greenville, SC – The Greenville Drive, emediagroup, Caine Halter YMCA and Setup Events have combined forces to coordinate the Spirit of Boston Run, a timed 5K, on Monday, April 21st. The 5K will begin at 5:30 PM, and the run leads into the Drive’s game against the Asheville Tourists at 7:05.

All funds raised will go to the City of Greenville Community Youth Baseball Program, which provides inner city children with an opportunity to play baseball in a structured program at their community park.

“We are thrilled to host the Spirit of Boston Run on April 21st,” commented Drive General Manager Eric Jarinko. “With over $20,000 raised, last year’s Run for One event was a huge success in support of the events at last year’s Boston Marathon, and making this an annual event will be a great step as we continue our efforts to bring the Greenville community closer to the city of Boston.”

Jarinko continued, “We are proud of our affiliation with the Boston Red Sox, and the run will live up to its namesake by channeling the spirit of Boston on the same day as the Boston Marathon. That combined with all funds benefitting the City of Greenville’s Youth Baseball Program will make this an exciting day for everyone involved.”

Runners and walkers will start at the Caine Halter YMCA at 5:30pm. The course will wind its way through Cleveland Park from the YMCA and have its own version of Boston Marathon’s “Heartbreak Hill”. Runners and walkers will finish by entering Fluor Field, running by its own version of the iconic Green Monster, and crossing home plate while high-fiving players and coaches from the Drive.

“We believe that having Drive players and coaches greeting runners as they finish adds a nice touch to the event,” said Jarinko. “They have aspirations of playing or coaching in Boston one day, so they understand the significance of this event and how much the Red Sox organization means to Boston.”

The Drive collected new and lightly used equipment at the Hot Stove event in January, and partly because of the Drive’s efforts, the league is all set for play in 2014.

“Having the Greenville Drive as the Title Sponsor of the Community Youth Baseball Program has been a huge benefit as the program continues to grow,” said Dana Souza, Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Greenville. “The Drive is such a positive force in the entire Upstate Region, and we are pleased that their generous support allows so many children to enjoy a happy and healthy lifestyle through baseball.”

The Drive will provide all participants with a complimentary ticket to attend that evening’s game against the Tourists. Participants and fans will be given the opportunity to purchase t-shirts with the Spirit of Boston logo on them for just $10.

“emediagroup is thrilled to partner with the Greenville Drive and Setup Events on an event that will do so much good for the Greenville community now and in the coming years,” said Bill Bishop, co-owner of emediagroup.

“The Spirit of Boston Run is very important to the Drive organization with our ties to Boston,” added Drive Co-Owner and President Craig Brown. “We are pleased to channel the energy of the wonderfully lively city of Boston, and we are excited to make this inspiring event for a great cause an annual tradition here in Greenville.”

Registration and packet pickup for the race will begin at 4:30 PM. For more information, and to register before the day of the race, click here.

 

WHAT: Spirit of Boston Race

WHEN: Monday, April 21st

WHERE: Fluor Field at the West End, Downtown Greenville

DETAILS:

-4:30 PM: Packet pickup/Registration

-5:30 PM: 5K begins

-7:05 PM: Greenville Drive vs. Asheville Tourists

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

Drive Partnering with Ronald McDonald House

One Night One Shirt campaign to help families in need

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On Friday, May 9th, the Greenville Drive are partnering with the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas for a fantastic cause, One Night One Shirt! That day has been designated by organizations across the Upstate as a casual day, and employees of these organizations who purchase a One Night One Shirt t-shirt for $13.00 will be able to wear the t-shirt to work, and in doing so, they will help sponsor a night at the Ronald McDonald House for a family in need.

In addition, employees who wear the t-shirt will receive a complimentary ticket to the Drive’s game that night at Fluor Field against the Greensboro Grasshoppers. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 PM.

The deadline to order the T-shirts is Tuesday, April 1. For more information please contact Emily Muserallo at 864-272-0197 or by email, or visit the One Night One Shirt website.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Greenville Drive1. Click here to view the original story.

2014 Wisconsin Timber Rattlers Golf Outing set for June 3

Charity golf outing to benefit The Miracle League of the Fox Valley

Fang T. Rattler is ready for the 2014 Charity Golf Outing for the Miracle League of the Fox Valley at Shamrock Heights on June 3.
Fang T. Rattler is ready for the 2014 Charity Golf Outing for the Miracle League of the Fox Valley at Shamrock Heights on June 3.

GRAND CHUTE, WI – Make your plans to golf with the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers and help The Miracle League of the Fox Valley. The Midwest League affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers will hold their annual golf outing on Tuesday, June 3 at Shamrock Heights Golf Course in New London.

A foursome may register for $350. Foursomes have the opportunity to play with a Timber Rattlers player, but that chance is based on a first come, first serve RSVP. Individuals may register for $100.

The outing tees off with registration beginning at 8:00am and a shotgun start at 9:00am. Lunch is included with registration and will be served at the turn. Snacks will be available after the round of golf from 2-4pm. A raffle drawing and awards presentation will conclude the event.

If you wish to participate in the 2014 Wisconsin Timber Rattlers Golf Outing, please contact Hilary Bauer at (920) 733-4152 or hbauer@timberrattlers.com by Monday, May 26. Registration forms are also available at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium and online at timberrattlers.com.

Persons unable to golf, but looking for a way to contribute may consider a hole sponsorship package at $100 or an in-kind donation toward raffle/hole prizes.

The Miracle League of the Fox Valley, an organized baseball league for children aged 4-19 with physical and/or cognitive disabilities, was formed in 2008 by Fox Valley parents Lisa and Mark Robbins. Registration is open now through March 28 for players and volunteers for the 2014 Miracle League of the Fox Valley season, which starts on June 9. The league plays their games at the John Wollner Fox Cities Miracle Field in Appleton’s Memorial Park.

The Timber Rattlers begin their 2014 season on Thursday, April 3 against the Peoria Chiefs at 6:35pm.

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. Individual game tickets for the 2014 Timber Rattlers season are on sale now.   Fans may purchase their tickets in person, by calling (800) WI-TIMBER or (920) 733-4152 or online through timberrattlers.com. Tickets for groups of 20 or more may be ordered in person or over the phone.

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

Missions and Corner Store announce Kids Corner program

Donations allow San Antonio youth an opportunity to watch America’s Pastime

San Antonio – The San Antonio Missions, in a joint effort with Corner Store, are thrilled to announce a brand new Kids Corner program for the 2014 season.

The Kids Corner program will provide non-profit youth organizations with tickets to a Missions home game as well as concession credit.

“Corner Store is proud to be a sponsor of the Kids Corner program,” said Kim Bowers, president and CEO of CST Brands, the parent company of the Corner Stores. “Supporting our San Antonio youth is something we are very passionate about, and this program gives kids a chance to feel special and enjoy one of America’s favorite pastimes.”

“We’re very excited to offer San Antonio youth an opportunity to watch professional baseball that they may otherwise not have,” said Missions’ General Manager Dave Gasaway. “We’re thankful to have Corner Store team up for this great cause.”

The San Antonio Missions takes the role of community leadership very seriously. It is the goal and responsibility of the organization to become a community leader in the Alamo City. In 2003 the Missions created Missions CARE, a non-profit charitable organization. Missions CARE gives back to the community in many forms such as: scholarships to student-athletes, Missions “Rookie League”, local donations and mascot appearances.

Non-profit youth organizations looking to take part in this program can contact Missions’ PR Director Rich Weimert at 210-554-1513 or rweimert@samissions.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Antonio Missions. Click here to view the original story.

Kernels partner with Goodwill to serve Goodwill Great Cookies™

Made by Veterans here in the Heartland

CedarRapidsKernels_2014-03-13

Cedar Rapids, IA – The Cedar Rapids Kernels and Goodwill have partnered to bring our fans a delicious new product being made right here in the Heartland. Goodwill Great Cookies™ will be sold at all remaining Cedar Rapids Roughriders games (starting March 15th) and all Cedar Rapids Kernels games this season.

These huge, monster cookies are baked fresh from scratch by veterans in the Heartland and delivered by veterans. This program allows homeless and disadvantaged veterans job training and skill development to help them overcome barriers to independence. So when you buy a cookie at the Roughriders and Kernels, you will truly “Eat a Cookie, Save a Life.”

Visit www.kernels.com for game times or pick up a Kernels Pocket Schedule found at various locations around eastern Iowa.

Individual game tickets, 2014 season ticket packages and 10-game coupon books are on sale now at the stadium, or by calling the Kernels at (319) 363-3887. Ticket Office hours are 10 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday, and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday.

The 2014 Kernels arrive in Cedar Rapids on Monday, March 31st and the first chance to meet the new team is on Tuesday, April 1st as part of ‘Meet the Kernels Night’ from 5:00 to 7:30 pm. The Kernels open the 2014 MWL season on Thursday, April 3rd when they host the Clinton LumberKings at 6:35 pm.

The Cedar Rapids Kernels are the Midwest League affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Cedar Rapids Kernels. Click here to view the original story.

Gwinnett Braves Announce January and February Grant Recipients

“I Have a Dream” themed grant goes to Lekotek, “Hearth Month” themed grant awarded to Camp Twin Lakes

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA – The Gwinnett Braves have announced the recipients of their $1,000 grants for the months of January and February. Lekotek of Georgia has been awarded January’s “I Have a Dream” themed grant, aimed at assisting an organization that grants wishes, dreams and opportunities for the youth, elderly, injured or sick. Camp Twin Lakes will receive February’s “Heart Month” themed grant, intended to benefit an organization that promotes awareness for heart-related diseases and illnesses.

Lekotek of Georgia, founded in 1983, has made a difference for more than 5,500 families from metro Atlanta, rural Georgia and beyond. Lekotek’s goal is to facilitate the inclusion of children with disabilities into their families, schools and communities by providing accessible play, adapted toys, technology, information and resources.

Last year, 626 children with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, hearing and/or vision loss, spina bifida, mitochondrial disorders and genetic conditions benefited from the Lekotek’s vision of providing a world where children with disabilities were included and empowered through play.

The grant awarded by the Gwinnett Braves will fund the purchase of adapted toys, iPads and other electronic items to help children with disabilities reach their potential.

“This grant will make it possible for Lekotek to expand services at both our satellites in Duluth and Gainesville,” said Lekotek Director Helene Prokesch. “We appreciate the generous support of the Gwinnett Braves. We thank the Gwinnett Braves for promoting our mission of inclusion, where everyone is a player.”

While the Gwinnett Braves and Lekotek have formed a new partnership through the January grant, the team’s support of Camp Twin Lakes is continued with the February grant. The G-Braves and their parent club, the Atlanta Braves, have had a strong relationship with the camp for years.

For over 20 years, Camp Twin Lakes has provided life-changing camp experiences to thousands of Georgia’s children with serious illnesses, disabilities and other life challenges. CTL collaborates with nearly 60 nonprofit organizations, each serving a different population, to create customized programs for campers. Annually, more than 9,000 campers are served through year-round, medically-supported camp programming. CTL currently partners with three organizations that serve kids and teens who have heart defects, heart disorders or have received a heart transplant.

Every camp program incorporates activities that promote healthy habits such as biking, swimming, zip-line courses, rock climbing, and nutrition-based programming such as trying fresh vegetables picked from CTL’s Sustainable Teaching Farm. Biking along the paved trails throughout camp remains a Camp Twin Lakes favorite.

With the grant awarded by the Gwinnett Braves, Camp Twin Lakes will purchase new BMX bikes for campers to use on the trails.

“Our hope is to keep our campers excited about biking because it’s a fantastic exercise activity that is readily available to most on a year-round basis and not just during their time at camp,” said Eric Robbins, Executive Director of Camp Twin Lakes. “At our campsites, we have trails where campers can learn how to ride for the first time or can advance their biking skills. The addition of new BMX bikes will allow more campers to enjoy riding around camp. We are so grateful to the Gwinnett Braves for awarding us this grant to help us expand our biking program.”

About Lekotek: Lekotek of Georgia is a unique nonprofit, helping all children learn through play. Imagine you’re a child who wants to turn on a battery-operated toy or email a friend and you can’t because your hands are fisted. Or imagine you are a child who can’t speak but has lots to say. With adapted toys, computers and iPads, Lekotek makes it possible for every child to experience success, communicate and learn along the way. The word “Lekotek” comes from the Swedish work “lek,” meaning play, and the Greek suffix “tek” meaning library. Loosely translated, Lekotek means play library, but to the hundreds of families they help, it is much more. Lekotek is a safe haven from medical appointments and therapies. It’s a place where parents find resources and support while children have fun and learn. For more information about the program and how you can contribute, please contact Helene Prokesch at helene@lekotekga.org.

About Camp Twin Lakes:  Camp Twin Lakes is a nonprofit organization that provides year-round recreational, therapeutic and education camp programs for children and young adults facing serious illnesses, disabilities, and other life challenges. With its network of Camp Partners, Camp Twin Lakes provides life-changing experiences at its medically-supportive, state-of-the-art accessible camps located in Rutledge, GA; Winder, GA; Warm Springs, GA; children’s hospitals; and other locations throughout the state. For more information about Camp Twin Lakes and how you can contribute, please email contact@camptwinlakes.org.

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

 # # #

 COUNTDOWN TO THE 2014 HOME OPENER (Friday, April 11, 7:05 PM vs. Durham): 29 Days

The Gwinnett Braves are the Triple-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. Follow the G-Braves at gwinnettbraves.com, facebook.com/GwinnettBraves1 and twitter.com/GwinnettBraves. Tickets for all 2014 home games are on sale now by calling the Coolray Field Ticket Office at 678-277-0340 or visiting gwinnettbraves.com.

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

SIXTH ANNUAL BEER FESTIVAL TO BENEFIT SUNCOAST HOSPICE FOUNDATION

Over 100 craft beers will be available for sampling on Saturday, October 4th highlighting the Hops for Hospice Beer Festival at Bright House Field. The sixth annual event, sponsored by the Clearwater Threshers and Frenchy’s Restaurants has already raised over $100,000 in its first five years which benefits the Suncoast Hospice Foundation.

Beer distributors in the Tampa Bay area will sample their latest and most popular craft beers to attendees during the 4:00-8:00 pm event. Distributors include Great Bay Distributors, JJ Taylor Distributors and Brown Distributors. Other vendors include a wine sampling area represented by Zonin Wines as well as a Green Screen Photo Booth.

Every attendee will receive a commemorative beer mug, sponsored by Abe’s Place Tap & Grill that can be used during the event to sample the products. Other activities include a corn hole tournament, a closest to the pin golf contest that takes place on the field sponsored by East Lake Woodlands Golf Club, music provided by a DJ at the Frenchy’s Tiki Pavilion located on the concourse in left field and food vendors including Abe’s Place Tap & Grill who will be raffling off an IPAD Mini.

Tickets are only $25 in advance or $30 on the day of the event and can be purchased at the Bright House Field ticket office (Mon-Fri 10-4 pm), by phone at 727-467-4457 or on-line. For Groups with 10 or more tickets, please contact Doug Kemp for a special discounted rate at 727-712-4316 or dkemp@ThreshersBaseball.com

Suncoast Hospice is a not-for-profit agency committed to serving individuals and families as they face chronic illnesses, near the end of life, deal with end of life issues or are in grief. To learn more about Suncoast Hospice, call (727) 586-4432 or visit TheHospice.org.

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

Bandit Scholars Program expands, partners with Community Foundation of the Great River Bend

Applicants from eight counties to be included; donors can make tax-deductible, online contributions

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The Quad Cities River Bandits and the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend are new partners in supporting the expanding Bandit Scholars Program that awards two scholarships annually to Quad Cities-area high school seniors. River Bandits owner Dave Heller and Susan Skora, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend, announced the partnership at a press conference Thursday morning at Modern Woodmen Park.

Through the partnership with the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend, donors can make online, tax-deductible donations to the Bandit Scholars Program by going to www.cfgrb.org. Fans can also click on the team’s website, www.riverbandits.com, and be taken directly to the Bandit Scholars page on the Foundation’s website. The application deadline for 2014 has already passed, but beginning with the next scholarship application cycle in 2015, students will be able to submit their applications online through the Community Foundation’s website. Furthermore, students from eight Quad Cities-area counties – Henry, Mercer, Rock Island and Whiteside Counties of Illinois, and Cedar, Louisa, Muscatine and Scott Counties of Iowa – are eligible for the two scholarships.

“We are delighted to be able to partner with the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend to enhance and expand our Bandit Scholars Program,” Heller said. “It will now be easier than ever for fans and organizations to make tax-deductible donations to the program, easier than ever for talented students to apply, and easier for us to continue growing this unique scholarship program, which is one-of-a-kind in minor league baseball. The Community Foundation has an unmatched track record in supporting great causes throughout the region, and we are excited to continue making the dream of free college tuition real for more Quad Cities families!”

The Community Foundation of the Great River Bend has been active in the Quad Cities region for the past 50 years and helps donors support hundreds of local causes, including scholarship opportunities on both sides of the Mississippi River. The Community Foundation’s mission is simply stated: To better our community by connecting people who care with causes that matter. In 1994, the Davenport Area Foundation became the “The Community Foundation of the Great River Bend,” reflecting the growth as a regional resource for both charitable giving and civic engagement. As CFGRB celebrates its 50th anniversary, there is no longer one pooled fund. Instead, there are more than 900 distinct charitable funds, totaling more than $100 million in assets located in 13 affiliate community foundations that serve 17 counties in two states.

“The River Bandits are a vital part of this community. They bring excitement and family fun to the Quad Cities,” stated Susan Skora, President and CEO of the Community Foundation. “The Community Foundation is pleased to partner with them as they bring education and internship opportunities to area students.”

The Bandit Scholars Program annually awards two scholarships to deserving area high school seniors. Each scholarship pays for the winner’s entire first year of tuition and includes a summer internship with the River Bandits following the winner’s first year of college.

River Bandits owners Dave Heller and Bob Herrfeldt founded the Bandit Scholars Program in 2009. The scholarships benefit a Quad Cities-area high school senior entering the University of Iowa and has been awarded annually to one Quad Cities-area high school senior since its inception. The Bandit Scholars Program expanded in 2012 with the addition of a second scholarship for an incoming freshman on the Illinois side at either Western Illinois University or Black Hawk College. The two 2014 scholarship winners will be announced and honored at the River Bandits’ June 15 home game at Modern Woodmen Park.

The River Bandits are the only team in minor league baseball to give away two college scholarships each year paying a student’s entire first-year tuition. To help fund the scholarships, the River Bandits hold promotional events, including the annual Frost Fest and the Bandits Race to Home 5K, set for April 12. Race and Fun Run participants receive a registration discount through March 19 by visiting www.riverbandits.com/5k. Fans can also send donations for the scholarship fund to Modern Woodmen Park.

UP NEXT: Opening Day is April 3, so lock in your seats now to see the defending Midwest League Champions in 2014! To order any of the ticket plans – with new lower prices – call the River Bandits box office at 563-324-3000 or visit www.riverbandits.com to download the season ticket order form. Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $40. Call a River Bandits account representative today to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.

ABOUT THE BANDITS: Having just been named Ballpark Digest’s winner of Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the River Bandits ownership is making one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 110 feet over the playing field, is opening this spring, along with a carousel, a new ride called a “Drop and Twist,” an expanded 300-foot long zip line, and many other new games and attractions. In 2013, the team unveiled a new 220-foot long dual zip line, a rock climbing wall, and a number of new bounce houses. The team’s major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, just saw all six of its affiliates reach the playoffs – the first time in a decade any MLB team can claim such success. The River Bandits were one of three affiliates to reach the championship round and one of two to win their league championship.

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

Return of Community Events

The Rome Braves announced today the return of two community wide special events at State Mutual Stadium, home of the Rome Braves. On Friday March 21st and Saturday March 22nd, the Rome Braves High School Invitational will be held for the third consecutive year. This year joining the Floyd County High Schools in competition will be Calhoun High School, Darlington School, Rome High School, and the defending GHSA-AAA State Champions, Cartersville High School. On Friday Armuchee High School will take on Calhoun High School at 6pm. The schedule for Saturday will feature Coosa High School vs. Darlington School at 11am, Model High School vs. Rome High School at 2:45pm, and Pepperell High School vs. Cartersville High School at 6:30pm. Gates will open 1 hour prior to the first schedule game each day. “We’re excited to announce the addition of these four baseball programs into our Invitational,” said Rome Braves General Manager, Michael Dunn. “It’s always a good day when we’re able to showcase and support local high school baseball.”

This two day Invitational directly benefits these local baseball programs based on their team’s ticket sales. Fans can purchase tickets directly from their favorite participating teams through March 14th and the team that sells the most tickets receives an additional donation from the Atlanta Braves Foundation for their baseball program. Tickets are $5 per person and seating is general admission for all games. After the 14th, tickets can be purchased through the box office at State Mutual Stadium.

Following the Invitational, in April, the Rome Braves will host the 2nd Annual No Excuses 5k and 10k in memory of Scott Hines. This yearly race benefits the Braves Miracle Field of Rome. Competition will take place on Saturday April 19th at 8am and is a part of the R.A.C.E. Rome series. In the inaugural race, almost 300 runners crossed the finish line at home plate to support baseball for disabled kids and adults in Northwest Georgia. Through programming at the Braves Miracle Field of Rome, over 100 athletes have suited up to play baseball during the first two seasons. A weekly school league is also available to special education classes in the area. No athlete is turned away due to the financial constraints. For more information contact Erin Elrod at 706-368-9388 or click here and sign-up online.

The Rome Braves 2014 home opener is Thursday April 10th at 7pm against the Savannah Sand Gnats, an affiliate of the New York Mets. Tickets go on sale Saturday March 8th at 9am.

 

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

Charlotte Knights Announce Scholarship Programs for 2014

CharlotteKnights_2014-02-18

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Walmart, Naturals Introduce Welcome Home Military Program

Nominate military members or veterans for public recognition at a Naturals game

Walmart and the Northwest Arkansas Naturals are proud to introduce our Welcome Home Military program, which was created to honor members of the men and women that have served in the United States Military at Naturals games throughout the spring and summer.

The program will take place at all twelve (12) Sunday home games on the Naturals’ 2014 schedule. For those interested in nominating a military member or veteran for a game, you can visit our website nwanaturals.com and find our Welcome Home Military Page under the Community tab. Once the form included is completely filled out, you may either fax it or email it to the Naturals at the contact information listed on the form or drop it off at our Administrative Offices at Arvest Ballpark.

Nominees that are selected for this inaugural program will receive on-field, and/or Videoboard, recognition during a pre-game ceremony at a Sunday Naturals game, four (4) complimentary Super Premium tickets, and a special certificate of recognition.

“The Naturals are proud to team up with Walmart to help honor those that serve to protect the freedoms of our great nation,” said Naturals General Manager Justin Cole.

On Memorial Day 2013, Walmart demonstrated its continuing support of veterans with the launch of its Welcome Home Commitment. Walmart promised to offer a job to any honorably discharged U.S. veteran within his or her first 12 months off active duty. Walmart projected it would hire more than 100,000 veterans over five years and it’s well ahead of that, having hired 26,000 veterans within the first six months of the commitment. Veterans interested in learning more can visit www.WalmartCareersWithAMission.com.

If an honoree wants to attend the game accompanied by a large group, the Naturals will make group rates available for advance purchase for groups of 20 or more in addition to the four (4) complimentary tickets provided. A military identification card, when shown at the Arvest Ballpark Ticket Office, is also valid for a $1 discount on tickets at all Naturals home games, no matter the day of week.

The Seventh Season of Naturals Baseball begins Thursday, April 3, 2014 in Frisco, TX. The team opens at Arvest Ballpark on Thursday April 10, 2014 against the same Frisco RoughRiders.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The Naturals play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark in Springdale, AR. For more information including statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

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This article originally appeared on the official website of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. Click here to view the original story.