Segra Park is Certified Sensory Inclusive 

COLUMBIA, SC – KultureCity has partnered with the Columbia Fireflies to make Segra Park and all of the programs and events that the venue hosts to be sensory inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests and fans with a sensory issue that visits Segra Park.

The certification process entailed the staff at Segra Park being trained by leading medical professionals on how to recognize those guests and fans with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Sensory bags, equipped with noise canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads will also be available to all guests at Segra Park who may feel overwhelmed by the environment.

Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions (1 in 6 individuals). One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to over stimulation and noise, which is an enormous part of the environment in a venue like Segra Park. With its new certification, the Columbia Fireflies are now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when attending any event at Segra Park.

Prior to attending an event, families can download the free KultureCity App where one can view what sensory features are available and where they can access them. Also, on the App is the Social Story which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying an event at Segra Park.

“Our communities are what shape our lives and to know that the Columbia Fireflies are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing. We’re honored to partner with Segra Park to provide a truly inclusive experience for all fans and guests!” said Uma Srivastava, Executive Director of KultureCity.

“We are excited to partner with KultureCity and make Segra Park a more accommodating place for guests that have sensory challenges,” said Brad Shank, Fireflies Team President. “A ballpark can be overwhelming with a lot of sensory input, and by providing options to help in situations where some of our fans are feeling over-stimulated our team continues to strive to make Segra Park inclusive for everyone and Fun For ALL.”

KultureCity is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using its resources to revolutionize and effect change in the community for those with sensory needs, not just those with autism. Since the program’s inception, KultureCity has created over 900 sensory-inclusive venues in 5 countries: this includes special events such as the NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, MLB World Series, and MLB All Star Weekend. KultureCity has won many awards for its efforts, including the NASCAR Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award in 2017 and the 2018 Clio Sports Silver for social good in partnership with Cleveland Cavaliers/Quicken Loans Arena. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ Quiet Space Sensory Room at Quicken Loans Arena was a finalist for the 2018 Stadium Business Award, KultureCity was named one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2019 and 2020 by FastCompany and recently won the Industry Partner Award in TheStadiumBusiness Design & Development Awards 2019.

Blue Wahoos To Wear Navy Uniforms As Part Of Memorial Day Celebration 

The three Blue Wahoos players stared in silent awe at the dark blue, vintage World War II fighter plane positioned in a center display at the National Naval Aviation Museum.

It was a Vought F4U Corsair, a replica to the one Ted Williams flew nearly 80 years ago in Pensacola, while pausing one of baseball’s greatest careers during World War II to complete training at Naval Air Station-Pensacola and become a second lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps.

“This is incredible,” said Blue Wahoos infielder Cobie Fletcher-Vance, looking up at the plane while a tour guide explained how Williams took leave of absence from the Boston Red Sox to join the U.S. Navy– one year after his first Triple Crown batting season in Major League Baseball.

In 1941, Williams became the last player in baseball history to bat over .400 and his unmatched career included being a 19-time MLB All-Star, between two military service duties in Pensacola.

He was among more than 500 MLB players and more than 2,000 Minor League Baseball players who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II.

Williams, who later flew combat missions in the Korean War, was part of a sizeable contingent of professional baseball players who came to NAS-Pensacola for training.

“There is so much history here,” said Blue Wahoos relief pitcher Colton Hock, after joining Fletcher-Vance and outfielder Thomas Jones for a trip May 11 to the base. “So cool to see all this.”

Part of that history includes the wartime connection between baseball and NAS-Pensacola that will be celebrated Memorial Day weekend at Blue Wahoos games on Saturday and Sunday.

In both games against the Mississippi Braves, the Blue Wahoos will wear special uniforms, approved by the Navy. Officers from NAS-Pensacola will attend the games.

The three Blue Wahoos players wore the Navy jerseys on their recent visit to the base as a preview.

On Saturday, Capt. Terry Shashaty, Commanding Officer of NAS-Pensacola will throw out a first pitch, along with others before the two games.

The Blue Wahoos will show off their permanent display to Navy baseball in Pensacola, located on the wall above the stairs leading from the main entrance.

“When the players came that day and wore those Navy jerseys, the people who saw them that day just thought that was awesome,” said Jason Bortz, the public affairs officer at NAS-Pensacola.

“And to wear them (Saturday-Sunday) in front of thousands of people for a couple times this season, I think it’s going to be one of the best nights we’ve had for the base had in several years,” he said. “We have been through a lot the last several years.

“This is going to be a great night for Pensacola. We are honored to be a part of this.”

The Navy baseball jerseys will also be worn by the Blue Wahoos on July 2 during Fourth of July weekend at the ballpark.

Following that game, the jerseys will be auctioned to benefit the Navy-Marine Relief Society, a non-profit organization hat provides financial assistance and additional services to members of the Navy and Marine Corps and their families.

Also on Saturday, there will be a book signing from 11 a.m to 12 p.m. at the Bodacious Bookstore and Café on Intendencia Street, featuring Anne Keene, author of “The Cloudbuster Nine” an award-winning book about MLB players training during World War II to become Navy pilots.

Keene, a renown military historian, will be joined by Sharon Hornfisher, wife of late Navy historian Jim Hornfisher, who wrote the book “Who Can Hold The Sea, The U.S. Navy And The Cold War.”

Keene assisted the Blue Wahoos with compiling information, photos and details about the Navy baseball history in Pensacola.

“We say it all the time at the base and we truly mean it… that Pensacola is the best military community in the country,” Bortz said. “By far, it is the most military friendly.

“It is the most supportive of the military and this is a great opportunity for people in the community, whether they are in the military. or were in the military, or just living in the community to come out and see something that shows the relationship with the base, the Navy and the local community.”

Williams led an all-star baseball team, the Bronson Bombers, during his time in Pensacola. Bronson Field was an auxiliary base with baseball fields that is now part of the Blue Angel Recreation Park for military members.

The team had other MLB players training in Pensacola and competed in a championship series against Corpus Christi during 1943.

The U.S. Armed Forces used baseball and other sports as a way to help build morale and friendships while the pro athletes of that era were training.

“I think that speaks to the unselfishness of Ted Williams and that whole generation during World War II,” Bortz said. “He was a professional baseball player in the prime of his career, who didn’t have to serve, or if he did serve, he didn’t necessarily have to be in a combat situation.

“He voluntarily chose that. He wanted to be a pilot. He wanted to go into combat. It was more important to serve his country than his baseball legacy. That speaks highly of him.”

Williams, who died in 2002, played his entire 19-year career with the Boston Red Sox.

Bill Vilona is a retired Pensacola News Journal sports columnist and now senior writer for Pensacola Blue Wahoos. He can be reached at [email protected]

WANT TO GO?

WHAT: Navy Baseball Celebration

WHEN: Saturday, Sunday and July 2

WHERE: Blue Wahoos Stadium

WHO: Events part of Blue Wahoos games this weekend vs. Mississippi Braves and July 2 vs. Montgomery Biscuits. Blue Wahoos will wear specialty designed Navy baseball uniforms on these days.

TICKETS: Limited number of game tickets available for Saturday’s 6:05 p.m. game Tickets available for Sunday (4:05 p.m.) and July 2 games at www.bluewahoos.com/tickets.

BOOK SIGNING: In conjunction with weekend, a book signing Saturday at 11 a.m. at Bodacious Bookstore and Café features award-winning author and Navy baseball historian Anne Kleene, who wrote “Cloudbuster Nine”, along with Sharon Hornfisher, wife of late-author Jim Hornfisher.

Keene assisted Blue Wahoos in compiling photos, information on Navy history. Free admission to bookstore.

Spokane Indians and Avista Utilities Team Up to Host Fairchild Families

Spokane, WASH. – Each quarter, Fairchild Air Force Base hosts family members of deployed personnel on base, providing a welcome distraction and the chance to spend time with families facing similar challenges. At these events, the goal is to provide a free meal and entertainment while enjoying each other’s company and support.

This spring, in light of recent world events, the Spokane Indians and Avista Utilities teamed up to host this event with over 100 family members of deployed personnel from Fairchild at the ballpark on Friday, April 22nd.

The group enjoyed a ballpark-catered dinner in the Coors Light Caboose and cheered on the Indians to a 7-3 victory over the Hillsboro Hops on a gorgeous spring night at Avista Stadium.

Lindsey Diaz, whose grandfather played in the New York Mets organization, threw out the first pitch before the game. Her husband, Lt. Col. Valentino “Tino” Diaz, has been in the Air Force since 2005 and is currently stationed in the European Theater.

“It means everything to have someone who is going through the same things you are going through,” said Lindsey. “And an event like this to bring it all together – it’s super fun.”

Marissa Korzilius’ husband Lt. Col. Joshua Korzilius, who was in the same class at the Air Force Academy as Lt. Col. Diaz, has been in the European Theater since October. The mother of four is thankful to have the support of the Spokane community and fellow military spouses like Lindsey.

“Things like this help, seeing the community rally around you,” said Marissa. “The kids are able to do something fun and get their mind off missing dad.”

The night at the ballpark for the deployed families started with a light rain but ended with an Indians win, a beautiful sunset, and a rainbow over the Caboose, showing that — with a little help from the community and support from friends and family – there are brighter days ahead.

NEXT HOMESTAND

The Indians return home to Avista Stadium for a six-game series against the Eugene Emeralds starting on Tuesday, May 17th with the Businessperson’s Special Day Game presented by the Journal of Business & KXLY AM 920/100.7 FM. Daytime baseball is back at Avista Stadium with a first pitch at 12PM. Move your afternoon business meetings to the ballpark for a hot dog and beer! Bring your gently used neckties to donate to local charities. CLICK HERE for tickets.

ABOUT THE SPOKANE INDIANS

The Spokane Indians are the High-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies located in Spokane, Washington, and were named 2021 MiLB Organization of the Year. Avista Stadium is home to the MultiCare Kids Bench Seat. Parking at all Spokane Indians games is FREE. The Spokane Indians office and team store hours are 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM on Monday through Thursday and 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM on Fridays. On game days, the office and team store are open from 10:00 AM through the end of the game.

Vancouver Canadians and RBC Announce RBC We Care Wednesdays

VANCOUVER, BC – The Vancouver Canadians and RBC are pleased to announce the 2022 debut of RBC We Care Wednesdays, a brand-new community spotlight campaign that will highlight the efforts, impact, and achievements of 10 local charities through public awareness, a ticket fundraiser and in-stadium events that showcase each charity at Nat Bailey Stadium.

“We are honoured to partner with the Vancouver Canadians to celebrate 10 incredible charities who are making such an important impact in local communities across British Columbia,” said Todd Shewfelt, Regional Vice President, Business Financial Services, RBC Royal Bank. “My Team RBC colleagues and I are extremely excited to join the Canadians at iconic Nat Bailey Stadium to support our community partners. The charities we have selected for RBC We Care Wednesdays are organizations that we have long-standing relationships with through donations, sponsorships and countless employee volunteer hours and fundraising. That’s why we can’t wait to join baseball fans at The Nat this season to thank these charities for all that they are doing to help care for our communities.”

During each RBC We Care Wednesday, fans at the ballpark will be introduced to one of the following 10 charities:

May 4 – BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, works with communities across British Columbia to raise funds for essentials including life-saving equipment, research into childhood diseases, a wide range of medical staff and community child health education programs.

May 18 – Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland, whose vision is to see all young people realize their full potential and whose mission is to enable life-changing mentoring relationships to ignite the power and potential of young people.

June 1 – United Way British Columbia, serves Central and Northern Vancouver Island, Lower Mainland, Thompson Nicola Cariboo, Southern Interior, Trail and District, and East Kootenay and exists to drive positive impact and lasting change by delivering resources and support for the people who need it most.

June 15 – YMCA of Greater Vancouver, a charity that has cares for kids, shapes leaders for tomorrow and helps generations of people come together to find support, get healthier and make friends for life.

June 29 – JA British Columbia, brings important educational experiences to thousands of students annually across British Columbia. Through these programs that focus on financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship, JABC aims to inspire, prepare, and empower BC youth for lifelong success.

July 13 – Greater Vancouver Food Bank, whose mission is to create empowering environments that provide and promote access to healthy food, education, and training.

July 27 – Challenger Baseball, a division of Baseball BC that provides an opportunity for children with cognitive or physical disabilities to enjoy the full benefits of participation in baseball at a level structured to their abilities.

August 3 – Out On Screen, a professional arts organization with two key program initiatives: the annual Vancouver Queer Film Festival and Out In Schools, a province-wide educational program aimed primarily at high school students with program delivery across the education system that engages high school students using film and video to address homophobia, transphobia, and bullying.

August 24 – BGC South Coast BC, proudly serving over 10,000 children, youth and families annually, providing fun, safe spaces to learn, grow and heal.

Sept 7 –* Foundry*, a province-wide network of integrated health and social service centres for young people ages 12-24. Foundry Centres provide a one-stop-shop for young people to access mental health care, substance use services, primary care, social services and youth and family peer supports.

Each charity will benefit from a special fundraising code that fans can use to purchase tickets. A portion of the ticket purchase price will go directly to support the charity. A special pregame ceremony, interactive activities on the concourse – including Meet & Greets with RBC Olympians – and other events around the ballpark will take place during each RBC We Care Wednesday. Stay up-to-date with event plans for each RBC We Care Wednesday by visiting CanadiansBaseball.com/Community/RBCWeCareWednesdays.

About RBC

Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 88,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada’s biggest bank, and one of the largest in the world based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our 17 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries. Learn more at rbc.com_._

We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/community-social-impact_._

APERÇU DE RBC

La Banque Royale du Canada est une institution financière mondiale définie par sa raison d’être, guidée par des principes et orientée vers l’excellence en matière de rendement. Notre succès est attribuable aux quelque 88 000 employés qui mettent à profit leur créativité et leur savoir‑faire pour concrétiser notre vision, nos valeurs et notre stratégie afin que nous puissions contribuer à la prospérité de nos clients et au dynamisme des collectivités. Selon la capitalisation boursière, nous sommes la plus importante banque du Canada et l’une des plus grandes banques du monde. Nous avons adopté un modèle d’affaires diversifié axé sur l’innovation et l’offre d’expériences exceptionnelles à nos 17 millions de clients au Canada, aux États‑Unis et dans 27 autres pays. Pour en savoir plus, visitez le site rbc.com_._

Nous sommes fiers d’appuyer une grande diversité d’initiatives communautaires par des dons, des investissements dans la collectivité et le travail bénévole de nos employés. Pour de plus amples renseignements, visitez le site https://www.rbc.com/collectivite-impact-social/index.html_._

Woodpeckers Establish Youth Baseball Team with Boys & Girls Club 

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. —The Fayetteville Woodpeckers have partnered with the Boys & Girls Club to establish a youth baseball team. The “Junior Woodpeckers” provide members of the Boys & Girls Club with the opportunity to participate in baseball. As a 12U team, the “Junior Woodpeckers” compete in the Fayetteville Parks and Recreation youth baseball league.

The Woodpeckers Foundation and Community Leaders Program donated $10,000 to the Boys and Girls Club to cover the costs of fees, uniforms and other expenses related to the baseball season. Uniforms include custom-made “Junior Woodpeckers” jerseys with the Fayetteville Woodpeckers logo on the sleeve. The purpose of the initiative is to provide children with the opportunity to compete in youth sports without financial barriers. The “Junior Woodpeckers” team is part of the Community Leaders Program, which supports youth sports and military initiatives in the Fayetteville area.

Members of the “Junior Woodpeckers” team will be showcased at the Fayetteville Woodpeckers game on Saturday, June 18th as the Fayetteville Woodpeckers take on the Fredericksburg Nationals. For more information on the Fayetteville Woodpeckers, or to buy tickets for the game on June 18th, please visit www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com.

Touch-a-Truck Returns to FirstEnergy Stadium

(Reading, PA) – FirstEnergy Stadium is excited to host the Junior League of Reading’s Annual Touch-a-Truck Event! On Saturday, May 7th from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m, families will have the opportunity to check out unique local vehicles, including trucks, race cars, motorcycles, safety vehicles and more, from all across the region, plus visit a variety of vendor tables, including ballpark food!

This year’s Touch-A-Truck will host a sensory friendly hour from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. for children with autistic spectrum disorders and those requiring a quieter environment. At this exclusive hour, all trucks, cars, and emergency vehicles will not utilize their horns and sirens.

Touch-a-Truck is a hands-on learning experience for children to explore a variety of large trucks, heavy machinery, recreation vehicles, farm equipment, emergency vehicles, motorcycles and much more! Children of all ages are welcome to the event, which will also feature additional family-friendly entertainment, children’s activities, and more.

In addition to the great lineup of diverse vehicles, there will be free Phunland rides, live performances, children’s activities, ballpark food favorites, and much more. The Reading Fightin Phils are excited to once again be a partner in the annual Touch-a-Truck event.

Tickets are just $5 and can be purchased at jlreading.org or here.

Proceeds raised from Touch-a-Truck will support The Junior League of Reading, PA, Inc. and its community projects and services to expand the resources available to all children to enhance opportunities available for their growth, development, and overall welfare.

The Junior League of Reading, PA, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

Single game ticket for the Fightin Phils 55th season affiliated with the Philadelphia Phillies are available now by visiting rphils.com, by calling 610-370-BALL, or by stopping by the Fightins Ticket Office located at FirstEnergy Stadium.

NATURALS HOST YOUTH BASEBALL CLINIC AT ARVEST BALLPARK ON SATURDAY, MAY 14

SPRINGDALE, Ark. – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are excited to partner with D-BAT NW Arkansas to announce the return of the Naturals FREE Youth Baseball Clinic that will take place at Arvest Ballpark from 2:30 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 14 in advance of that night’s 6:05 p.m. game against the Wichita Wind Surge, the Double-A Minnesota Twins.

The Naturals Youth Baseball Clinic, which is presented by D-BAT NW Arkansas is open to children ages 6-12 and will cover instruction of key baseball fundamentals, including hitting, pitching, outfield, infield, throwing, and base running. All kids that register will receive a complimentary ticket to that night’s game that features a post-game Fireworks show.

Registered clinic participants will be broken up into six different groups and they will get to experience six different 10-minute stations located throughout the playing field of Arvest Ballpark. Instruction at certain stations of the clinic will be given by select Naturals players.

There is a registration form titled Kids Clinic Registration Form – May 14 located on the Naturals website, nwanaturals.com, under the SCHEDULE & PROMOTIONS tab that interested parents can fill out to register their son or daughter for the clinic. The deadline to register for the event is Wednesday, May 11 but participants are encouraged to sign up quickly, as previous events have filled to capacity prior to the deadline. Check-in begins at Arvest Ballpark at 2:00pm on the day of the event so we ask that you arrive early as participation is limited to the first 150 children. Participants are asked to only bring their glove and wear proper baseball attire.

Following the clinic, Arvest Ballpark will be cleared and then the gates will re-open at 4:30 p.m. for the Naturals game against the Wind Surge that is scheduled to begin at 6:05 p.m. If you have any questions regarding the event, please call the Naturals Front Office at (479) 927-4900.

Sod Poodles, Fairly Group Announce 'Home Runs For Hope'

Amarillo, TX – The Amarillo Sod Poodles, Fairly Group, and Hope Choice are proud to partner for the 2022 season, providing Home Runs For Hope. For every Sod Poodles home run hit throughout the 2022 season, Fairly Group will donate $1,000 to Hope Choice.

Hope Choice is a ministry-based organization that offers services for individuals and families who are facing everyday struggles and cultural pressures. Hope Choice opened its doors in 1998 as a crisis pregnancy center and has since expanded its services to include mentoring programs as well as character-building programs in more than 90+ schools. Hope Choice and its school-based programs reach 24,000 students each month. Their mentoring groups are designed to teach character values and help build self-esteem in young people who face a variety of challenges in their daily lives.

“We exist to equip, mentor, and strengthen future generations”, said Hope Choice Executive Director, Candy Gibbs. “With programs from kindergarten through college and classes to equip moms and dads for every stage of life; we are seeing generations transformed daily. We are honored to serve our community alongside you and are thrilled to partner with the Sod Poodles for the 2022 season! Shield to shield! Go Soddies!”

“The Sod Poodles are excited to once again partner with the Fairly Group to raise awareness and funds for an incredible local charitable organization helping build and strengthen our panhandle community”, said Tony Ensor, President, and General Manager of the Sod Poodles. “A home run is one of the most exciting parts of a baseball game. It brings hope and joy to our fans just like Hope Choice works toward providing kids and young adults the resources to choose hope in every area of their lives.”

“It is not possible to adequately explain how Hope Choice has inspired our family personally, and our community for the last two decades,” said Alex Fairly, CEO of Fairly Group. “We are honored to help support the impact work they do.”

The Sod Poodles have already hit 17 home runs through 12 games in 2022, helping raise $17,000 for Hope Choice. During the eighth inning of every Sod Poodles home game this season, the team will update the current total ‘Home Runs For Hope’, and the amount of money raised to assist Hope Choice and its mission.

For more information about Hope Choice, please visit www.HopeChoice.com

Danville Otterbots announce ballpark sensory room, expand inclusivity efforts

The Danville Otterbots will host a ribbon cutting ceremony for their new Ballpark Sensory Room, presented by The Hughes Center, on Friday, April 29, 2022, at 10 a.m. Since the club’s inception in January 2021, the Otterbots have been dedicated to providing a welcoming and inclusive ballpark for every member of the community. The sensory room will provide opportunities for children with sensory sensitivities and their families to be able to enjoy Otterbots games and non-baseball ballpark events all year long.

While some fans look forward to the sights, sounds and smells of being at the ballpark, those who are averse to the traditional hustle and bustle of baseball games will now have the opportunity to cheer on the Otterbots all season long. Located on the concourse in the right field Kids Zone, the Otterbots ballpark sensory room is equipped with cuddle swings, fidget boards, soft LED lights, wall-to-wall padding, uniquely textured rugs, sound-deadening headphones, comfortable chairs, sensory-friendly fidget toys and a blackout curtain. The curtain can be opened to reveal a window overlooking the Kids Zone, so parents can maintain a view of non-sensory averse siblings or friends during their time in the sensory room.

“Since our first day in Danville, our goal has been to build a product and atmosphere that provides entertainment for every single member of our community, and every visitor to Danville and the Southside Virginia region,” said Otterbots general manager Austin Scher. “We took tremendous strides towards reaching that goal in our inaugural season, but we knew we still had work to do. By constructing a sensory room on the concourse, we are now able to provide opportunities for children and families with sensory aversions to enjoy the ballpark and have a space dedicated to ensuring that their enjoyment is comprehensive.”

The ballpark sensory room is presented by The Hughes Center, who partnered with the Otterbots to outfit the space with appropriate activities and infrastructure to accommodate all levels of need. Materials were provided in-part by Columbia Forest Products, and construction was completed by Otterbots spring ballpark operations intern, United States military veteran and civil engineer, Luca Cicilese. The Otterbots prioritize their community, and could not be more grateful to these community partners for their support in bringing the sensory room to life.

“The Hughes Center is excited to partner with the Otterbots to create this awesome addition to the baseball stadium,” said Alison Waymouth, director of business development for The Hughes Center. “The sensory room will be another piece of inclusion added to the park that welcomes and supports everyone in our local community while also extending a warm welcome to surrounding areas. Our goal is to have an outlet for all to have a positive, relaxing and accommodating experience. The noise and excitement at a game can be overwhelming, but the sensory room offers a place to reset and make it more enjoyable and accessible for everyone.”

Danville’s American Legion Field will be the first park in the Appalachian League to have a dedicated sensory-friendly room inside the gates, and one of few in non-MLB ballparks. The Otterbots join the Brooklyn Cyclones, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and Rochester Red Wings as non-MLB ballparks to have a sensory room on-site.

All members of the media and the Southern Virginia community are invited to attend the sensory room ribbon cutting ceremony Friday, April 29, 2022, at 10 a.m. Parking is available in the main lot, and the ceremony will take place on the right field concourse in front of the sensory room. Please send all RSVPs and inquiries to [email protected].

As Opening Night on June 2 approaches, the Otterbots have more news on ballpark improvements and community programming set to be announced in the coming weeks. Single-game tickets will be available in early May.

Otterbots season tickets, flex packs, group outings and corporate partnerships are currently available for the 2022 season. For more information, call 434-554-4487, email [email protected], or stop by the front office.

Make-A-Wish HV announces World Wish Day celebration with Renegades

TARRYTOWN, NY (April 12, 2022) – Having granted more than 3,000 wishes for children with critical illnesses since the chapter’s founding in 1986, Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley staff, volunteers and supporters know about the power of a wish and how it restores hope for local children battling with critical illnesses.

Every year, Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley – along with other chapters and affiliates worldwide – celebrate World Wish Day on April 29, the anniversary of the wish that inspired the founding of the organization 42 years ago.

In celebration of World Wish Day, Make-A-Wish supporters are invited to celebrate the power of a wish at Dutchess Stadium in Wappingers Falls, NY to rally around the tagline:

“Restore hope with a wish.”

In partnership with the Hudson Valley Renegades, the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, Make-A-Wish will host a local World Wish Day Ambassador, wish kid Bryan and his family, to represent the over 3,000 children who have had a wish granted by the chapter. Bryan will be throwing out the ceremonial first pitch and take part in on-field activities at the Renegades game that night. In addition, Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley President & CEO, Kristine Burton and Bryan will spend time in the radio broadcast booth to talk about the impact of a wish and how everyone has the power to restore hope with a wish.

Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.gadesgroups.com. The password is WISH. Tickets will be available for purchase through this link until Wednesday April 27th at 11:30pm, two days prior to the game.

Inspired by new research on the impact of a wish, World Wish Day 2022 focuses on how the hope that a wish provides can improve the emotional and mental well-being for children with critical illnesses, helping them to deal with, and overcome, their illness.

Today, Make-A-Wish is releasing new research in the form of the 2022 Wish Impact Study that provides quantitative data to lend credibility to the anecdotal feedback heard regularly from wish families. The powerful results of the Wish Impact Study add to a growing body of research demonstrating how wish-fulfillment promotes mental and emotional well-being for children and their families who are facing trauma stemming from a critical illness.

The online study surveyed three groups of individuals: parents of wish kids, wish alumni (i.e., former wish recipients) and doctors. The parents and alumni who were surveyed experienced a wish between 2009 and 2019, allowing them to look back and assess the lasting, long-term impact of the wish. In total, 3,411 people completed the survey.

Wish parents made up the majority of respondents with 93% of parents acknowledging that their family experienced traumatic stress due to their child’s critical illness. After their child’s wish was granted, 94% of parents recalled seeing improvements in their child’s emotional well-being, so much so that 91% of parents reported the wish gave their child a better chance of surviving their illness.

The wish alumni who completed the survey affirm the wish parents’ sentiments. 87% of alumni stated that they and their families experienced traumatic stress during their battle with a critical illness. Their wish played an integral role in counteracting the mental and emotional distress. More than 90% of the alumni agreed that the wish improved their quality of life, brought their family closer together, boosted their self-esteem and gave them hope for the future. Interestingly, 60% of the alumni indicated that they had fully recovered from their illness, helping to dispel the common misconception that children must have an end-of-life prognosis to be eligible for a wish.

Perhaps the most overwhelmingly positive feedback on the impact of a wish came from the pediatric doctors who participated in the study. More than 90% of the doctors said they witnessed their patients overcoming feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety and depression after their wish. Furthermore, 95% of the doctors reported the wish improved their patients’ emotional and physical well-being. 75% of the doctors went as far as to state that a wish could improve a child’s medical outcomes.

“At a time when families are dealing with unplanned hospital stays and uncomfortable treatments, a wish can provide children with the chance to reclaim a piece of their childhood and a sense of control,” said Dr. Shoba Sriktantan, MD, FAAP and chair of the Make-A-Wish National Medical Advisory Council. “After coming back from a wish, many of my patients exhibit a renewed sense of hope and greater compliance with their treatment, which is why I – and many of my peers – consider a wish to be an important part of a child’s treatment plan.”

To learn more about the Wish Impact Study and find out how you can get involved, visit hudson.wish.org.

About Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley

Make-A-Wish® Hudson Valley creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. We seek to bring every eligible child’s wish to life because a wish is an integral part of a child’s treatment journey. Research shows children who have received a wish are able to build the physical and emotional strength needed to fight critical illnesses. Since its inception in 1986, the Hudson Valley Chapter has granted wishes to over 3,000 children in the community it serves. The Chapter’s territory spans eight counties of the Hudson Valley, including Delaware, Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester. The Chapter is a Better Business Bureau Wise Alliance Accredited Charity, meeting the 20 Standards for Charity Accountability. Additionally, a recent independent audit of the chapter reported that 73% of all funds raised go to program services. For more information about the Hudson Valley Chapter visit hudson.wish.org.

About the Hudson Valley Renegades

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

About Diamond Baseball Holdings

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

Tarpons partner with Curemark on Sensory Safe Suite

The Tampa Tarpons are excited to team up with Curemark, LLC this season.

Suite 4 will be available to one family per-game to experience the Tarpons game. The Curemark Suite will provide a comforting, relaxing, and less stimulating space for families with children on the autism spectrum and with special needs to experience a Tarpons game while still being fun and functional. This allows guests in the suite to decompress and enjoy baseball with their family away from the louder, hectic and often over-stimulating environment in other areas of the ballpark.

Families can request use of Suite 4 by filling out this request form.

For more information on the Curemark Sensory Safe Suite, please email [email protected].

Segra Stadium Earns Sensory Inclusive Certification

The Fayetteville Woodpeckers will offer a sensory friendly environment at Segra Stadium beginning this season. The stadium earned sensory inclusive certification in February with 50% of the Woodpeckers front office completing a training through KultureCity, a national nonprofit that advocates for sensory needs. This new initiative will promote an accommodating experience for all guests and fans with a sensory condition.

The Woodpeckers Foundation supplied $1,000 to the initiative, which included the purchase of certification, five sensory bags and one weighted lap pad. Segra Stadium will have sensory bags available for check out at the guest services table behind section 125. Included in every sensory bag are headphones, fidget tools and verbal cue cards. Fans will also be able to check out a weighted lap pad for use.

Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD, and other similar conditions. One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to over simulation and noise. With its new certification, Segra Stadium is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible.

For more information on the Fayetteville Woodpeckers or the Woodpeckers Foundation, please visit www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com. The Woodpeckers open their third season of play in Kannapolis on April 8th and return for their home opener on April 12th against the Salem Red Sox.

Renegades, Curemark partner on Sensory Safe Suite

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ABOUT THE HUDSON VALLEY RENEGADES

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

ABOUT DIAMOND BASEBALL HOLDINGS

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

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CareSource Continues Veteran Salute Program with Dayton Dragons

 

DAYTON, OHIO – CareSource, a nonprofit multistate health plan, is continuing their commitment partnering with the Dayton Dragons for the third year in a row for the CareSource Veteran Salute. The program is an extension of CareSource’s commitment to improve the lives of complex populations including veterans and their families through innovative programs and partnerships to support their health and well-being.

CareSource’s Veteran Salute is open to any living military veteran in the Miami Valley. Five veterans will be selected from entries submitted between April 1 and June 30, 2022. Selected honorees will be recognized at a Dayton Dragons home game during an inning break at Day Air Ballpark, April through August 2022.

Each veteran will receive VIP treatment during their night, including pregame activities, in-game recognition, seating in a luxury suite at the ballpark, a special gift and more.

“CareSource is proud to continue our third year of the Veteran Salute program to honor local veterans across the region and bring their stories of service to a wider Dayton audience,” said Ramsey Sulayman, Director of Veteran Programs, CareSource.

Since 2019, CareSource and the Dayton Dragons have honored 15 local veterans and their families with a special experience at the ballpark.

“The Dragons are excited to once again partner with CareSource to honor local veterans,” said Robert Murphy, Dragons President & General Manager. “We look forward to continuing to recognize these individuals who have served our country and sharing their stories with our fans at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District in 2022.”

Nominations for CareSource’s Veteran Salute program are open to the public. Any living military veteran from the Miami Valley is eligible to be nominated. To nominate a veteran, go to www.daytondragons.com/veteransalute

About CareSource

CareSource is a nonprofit, multi-state health plan recognized as a national leader in managed care. Founded in 1989, CareSource administers one of the nation’s largest Medicaid managed care plans and offered a lifetime of access to care through health insurance, including Medicaid, Health Insurance Marketplace, Medicare Advantage and dual-eligible programs. Headquartered in Dayton, Ohio, CareSource serves 2 million members in Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia. CareSource understands the challenges consumers face navigating the health system and is transforming health care with industry-leading programs that improve the health and well-being of our members.

For more, visit www.caresource.com, follow @caresource on Twitter, or like CareSource on Facebook.

More Information: The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 66-game home schedule at beautiful Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling (937) 228-2287, by email at [email protected], or on the web at daytondragons.com.

Autism Awareness Night to Take Place On April 16

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

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

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

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

GET TICKETS!

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

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

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

BUY A JERSEY NOW!

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

About the Somerset Patriots

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