Cubs & PNC Bank Donate 5,300 Notebooks

The Daytona Cubs & PNC Bank have partnered to donate 5,300 notebooks to at-risk Volusia County second through fifth graders.

Daytona-Cubs-logoAs part of the The Daytona Cubs education program, the Cubs have teamed up with PNC Bank to provide notebooks to 5,300 at-risk second through fifth graders in Volusia County.

PNC Bank has joined forces with the Daytona Cubs in this initiative because the bank recognizes the role school readiness plays in the well-being of local children, their families and ultimately, the economy. Research shows the measurable impact school readiness has on the future success of at-risk children in school and life. By preparing the Daytona area’s youngest citizens for educational success, The Cubs and PNC Bank can help build a solid foundation for the future of this region.

Volusia-County-Schools-logo2Cubby, the Daytona Cubs team mascot, the Cubs staff members and PNC Bank representatives have already delivered the notebooks to 10 elementary schools, with the final three schools scheduled for the week of March 18th.

This article orginally appeared on the Daytona Cubs’ website

Buddy Bat writes children’s book to benefit Family Scholar House

Official release at Bats’ annual open house event

LouisvilleBats_2013-03-14

WHAT:

Jeremy Sharfe, a special education teacher at Doss High School has been performing as Buddy Bat for 11 years. He recently wrote A Different Kind of Buddy and will officially release the book at the Louisville Bats annual open house for season ticket holders. Mascot Buddy Bat and illustrator Andrew Kirby will be signing books at the event.

WHERE:

Louisville Slugger Field

WHEN:

Saturday, March 16

10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Books are free to Bats season ticket holders attending the open house and both the author and illustrator will be available to sign books. Others interested in obtaining a book, may contact Family Scholar House at 813-3086. Books are provided as a gift with a donation of $10 or more to Family Scholar House, and all donations will support children’s programming.

Family Scholar House’s children’s programs include the following:

Toddler Book Club

Buddy Bat Book Club

Healthy Me!

Children for Change

Passport for Success

Family Nutrition & Wellness

Family Scholar House’s mission is to end the cycle of poverty by giving single-parent students the support they need to earn a college degree. Currently, 175 families with 278 children live at Family Scholar House’s residential campuses in Louisville and Southern Indiana. All of these families are low-income and have experienced homelessness or unstable housing. FSH parent scholars are full-time college students, with children of all ages, who are pursuing post-secondary education – most often while also working – to achieve career-track employment and make a better future for their children.

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

Youth Clinic & Scout Campouts

Campouts & Clinic Offer Kids Exclusive On-Field Experience

Scout Campouts and the annual Youth Baseball Clinic give kids an exclusive on-field experience.
Scout Campouts and the annual Youth Baseball Clinic give kids an exclusive on-field experience.

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Indians are proud to announce the return of the annual Youth Baseball Clinic as well as Boy and Girl Scout overnight Campouts for the 2013 season.

Troops, dens and packs can pack Victory Field for a full night of exciting activities during the Tribe’s Boy and Girl Scouts overnight Campout events. The fun begins with the regularly scheduled Indians game, followed by a fantastic fireworks show. Campout participants can remain in the ballpark after the game and are treated to popcorn and a movie on the videoboard. Scout groups will also have the opportunity to take to the Tribe’s outfield to set up their tents for the evening, with the grand event being capped off by breakfast on Saturday morning.

Overnight Boy Scout Campouts are set for Friday, June 7 when the Indians take on the Durham Bulls at 7:15 p.m., and Friday, June 28, as the Tribe battles the Rochester Red Wings at 7:15 p.m. The Girl Scout Campout is scheduled Friday, June 21 immediately following the 7:15 p.m. contest between the Tribe and the Charlotte Knights.

Reservations for the Boy and Girl Scout Campouts, which historically sell out, can be made by clicking Scout Events or calling the Victory Field Box Office at (317) 269-3545.

The 2013 Youth Baseball Clinic will also offer fans an exclusive on-field experience as participants will receive one-on-one instruction from the Indianapolis Indians’ coaches and players. The clinic, which is set for Thursday, June 6 at 5:00 p.m., includes several skills stations which will focus on various throwing, fielding and pitching drills. All kids ages 14 and under may participate in the event and admission is included with the purchase of a single-game ticket to Thursday night’s game between Indianapolis and the Durham Bulls.

Individuals interested in participating in the 2013 Youth Baseball Clinic are not required to register for the event, and only need to buy a June 6 game ticket and arrive at Victory Field by 5:00 p.m. Groups of 25 or more patrons will receive a $3 discount off the ticket price, and those with 100 or more participants will be granted $4 off game-day admission.  To book a group outing for the 2013 Youth Baseball Clinic fans can call the Victory Field Box Office at (317) 269-3545.

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

Kids Club Easter Egg Hunt

Kick Off Spring Super Saturday The Dutch

HudsonValleyRenegades_2013-03-12

 

The Renegades are excited to host our 4th Annual “Kick Off to Kids Club Easter Egg Hunt”  during SUPER SATURDAY at The Dutch. On April 5, 2014, the Renegades will hold 2 Easter Egg hunts throughout the day with the first at 10:30 am. and the second at 11:15 a.m.The Kids Club Easter Egg will take place on the field as eggs will be filled with candy, certificates and prizes!

The Be Your Own Fan (at BYOF) Juniors Kids Club is FREE for kids 12 & under

Registered Kids Club members will receive:

  • FREE General Admission ticket to every Monday and Tuesday home game at Dutchess Stadium
  • Exclusive invitations to Kids Club events at the ballpark and throughout the community
  • Monthly E-Mail Newsletters to inform members of upcoming events and specials
  • Kids Club Membership Card

Click Here to Register for the BYOF Juniors Kids Club 

As part of Super Saturday at The Dutch, fans will have the first opportunity to purchase single-game tickets for the 2014 Hudson Valley Renegades season. The Ticket Office will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to give fans their first pick of seats for any of the 38 homes games.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Hudson Valley Renegades. Click here to view the original story.

G-Braves Award February Grant to Archer High School PTSA

“Heart Month” themed grant will benefit Archer PTSA’s Heart Screens for Teens program

Gwinnett BravesThe Gwinnett Braves have awarded their $1,000 grant for the month of February to the Archer High School PTSA of Lawrenceville, GA.  The “Heart Month” themed grant, aimed at assisting organizations that bring awareness or raise funds for heart related diseases, will help fund Archer PTSA’s “Heart Screens for Teens” program.

Archer-HS-Tigers-logoArcher High School PTSA launched the “Heart Screens for Teens” program in 2012 in order to detect potentially fatal heart defects that cannot be identified during routine physicals.  The screening, an ultrasound of the heart that takes about 15 minutes, helps identify Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) or an enlarged heart, which is the leading cause of sudden cardiac death in teens.  HCM is thought to affect one in 500 persons of all ages, but usually manifests itself before the age of 20.  It is 100% detectable, and teen deaths are preventable.

After screening 60 teens in March of last year, Archer PTSA plans to screen 70 teens in 2013.  The process has been updated to include an electrocardiogram (EKG) and sports physical, which will raise the price per screening from $65 to $150.  The grant money awarded by the Gwinnett Braves will be used to reduce the cost of the screening for each teen.  It is Archer PTSA’s hope that a reduced cost will make parents more inclined to sign their teens up for the screening.

“The overall purpose of PTA is to make every child’s potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children,” said Lee Merritt, Co-President of Archer High School PTSA.  “Local PTA units, like Archer High School PTSA, support this mission at the local level with programs that promote the health, safety, and welfare of students and families in our community.  Because of the generous grant from the Gwinnett Braves, Archer PTSA can make Heart Screens for Teens more affordable, and there is no doubt, children’s lives will be saved.”

The original story appeared on the Gwinnett Braves’ website, and can be viewed by clicking here.

Knights Stadium is Now a “Bully-Free” Zone

The first Education Day game was a success! (Erica Caldwell/Charlotte Knights)
The first Education Day game was a success! (Erica Caldwell/Charlotte Knights)

(Fort Mill, S.C.) — Knights Stadium, home of the Charlotte Knights since 1990, is set to become a “bully-free” zone during the upcoming 2013 season as the Knights and The Foundation for Respect Ability are introducing an Anti-Bullying program that will focus on educating kids, teachers, and parents on the importance of living a bully-free life. The program will feature two 11:15 a.m. games during the month of April focused on Education Days for the surrounding school districts of North Carolina & South Carolina. The first game is Tuesday, April 16 and the second game is set for Wednesday, April 24. Both games are presented by Duke Energy, Barton Malow, and Midrex Technologies, Inc.

“Partnering with the Foundation for Respect Ability enhances the educational component of these two dates and expands our commitment to providing opportunities for the community to enjoy a game at the stadium,” said Knights Director of Ticket Sales & Hospitality Sean Owens. “This program gives us a great platform to provide important information about the seriousness of bullying in our life and how to identify, respond, and prevent these acts from occurring.”

Featuring interactive concourse displays, a pre-game educational performance and in-game trivia/PSA’s, participating schools and organizations will receive a full day of education and entertainment. Tickets are as low as $5 for groups of 15 or more and a $5 lunch meal is available for pre-purchase as well.

“We are very excited to partner with the Charlotte Knights to help create awareness about bullying and to help promote strategies for children, parents and teachers to better deal with this behavior,” stated Diane Benson, Executive Director of the Foundation for Respect Ability. “Bullying in sports is also an area of concern and this is a wonderful platform to help to create “upstanders” on and off the playing field.”

About the The Foundation for Respect Ability:
The Foundation for Respect Ability is a nonprofit organization that seeks to convert “bystanders” into “upstanders” and to empower people to address bullying in all its forms. Their goal is to facilitate opportunities for communication and to develop programs and strategies for helping parents, students, and educators as they deal with these issues. The work is delivered through music and activities using Operation Respect’s Don’t Laugh at Me international curriculum. The Foundation offers community workshops for children and parents, in school programs and professional development workshops for staff and teachers. www.xbullying.org

To schedule a group event for Education Days, please contact the Charlotte Knights at 704-357-8071, ext. 2106 or hospitality@charlotteknights.com.

Select single-game tickets are now on-sale online by using the special pre-sale code “presale2013”. Full season and partial season ticket packages are on-sale now and can be purchased by calling 704-357-8071 ext. 2106 or online at www.charlotteknights.com. Season Tickets offer such benefits as a VIP parking pass, invitations to special events, and a unique unused ticket program. They are also the best way to ensure priority selection of seats at BB&T Ballpark. Call a Knights’ representative today for more details! Knights Baseball… Tradition Never Ends!
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Charlotte Knights. Click here to view the original story.

Fisher Cats Foundation to Host Charity Golf Classic on June 3

MANCHESTER, N.H. – The Fisher Cats Foundation, the charitable arm of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, announced it will host a charity golf tournament on June 3, 2013, at Stonebridge Country Club in Goffstown. The 18-hole scramble will raise money to benefit the Child Advocacy Center of Hillsborough County, a program of the Granite State Children’s Alliance with locations in Manchester and Nashua.

The tournament will tee off at 9 a.m. at Stonebridge, with registration and a continental breakfast beginning at 8 a.m.  The event will include a shotgun start followed by a lobster and steak lunch, raffle, and awards ceremony.

“The Fisher Cats Foundation is proud to create a new event to benefit such a worthy cause in our community,” said Fisher Cats President Rick Brenner.  “With our great partners at Stonebridge Country Club we look forward to hosting a fun, challenging event that will support children and families in our community.”

“This event is all about creating new ways to support organizations in our community,” said Cheryl Abbott, Executive Director of the Fisher Cats Foundation.  “Golfers will enjoy a fun day on the links while knowing that their participation is helping the Child Advocacy Center of Hillsborough County strengthen the bonds of the families they support.”

“This partnership with the Fisher Cats Foundation is very exciting for our organization,” said Erin McIntyre, Program Director of the CAC of Hillsborough County.  “We are grateful that they see the importance of our community coming together to help child victims of crime and ultimately stop the cycle of violence.”

Registrations are being taken for foursomes for $750. The event will include prizes for low gross and net scores as well as longest drive and closest-to-the-pin contests on the course.

Registration forms are available at www.nhfishercats.com.  Sponsorship opportunities are also available by contacting Megan Shea at mshea@nhfishercats.com or 603-641-2005.  All participants must be registered by Monday, May 13.

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats established the Fisher Cats Foundation to be a catalyst for the betterment of communities statewide by supporting youth programs that encourage education and promote healthy living. Through the generous support of players, employees, sponsors, and fans, the Fisher Cats Foundation continuously works to make a positive impact throughout New Hampshire and north central Massachusetts. As the primary funding source for the team’s philanthropy, the Fisher Cats Foundation supports a wide variety of non-profit organizations and coordinates several fundraising programs and events. Since its inception in 2006, the Foundation and the Fisher Cats have provided  more than $2.5 million in monetary and in-kind donations to over 3,500 non-profit organizations.

The Child Advocacy Center of Hillsborough County (CAC-HC) is a nationally accredited program providing forensic interviews and coordinated support services to child victims of crime and their families free of charge. Since opening their doors in Nashua and Manchester, the Child Advocacy Center of Hillsborough County has provided services to more than 3,500 children. In addition, family advocacy services are provided, children and families are connected to community resources, and the CAC-HC remains a support to families as the criminal case moves through the legal system. The CAC-HC, in partnership with multidisciplinary team members, ensures a less traumatic investigative process, family connection to community resources, and high prosecution rates.

Individual tickets for April and May games for the 2013 10th Anniversary Season are on sale now.  Fans that wish to obtain seats to mid-summer games, as well as great benefits and premium seat selection, can purchase Full and Half-Season Tickets or Mini-Ticket Plans.  Benefits include free birthday parties and monthly barbecues, invitations to exclusive events, and free gifts like ski passes and gift cards.  To see the full list of benefits and gifts with each plan visit www.nhfishercats.com or call (603) 641-2005.  Opening Day at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium is Thursday, April 4 against the Reading Fightin Phils (Philadelphia Phillies) at 6:35 p.m.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Hits for Home Invitational will benefit tornado-affected communities in Kentucky

Sixteen Kentucky high school teams to compete in the invitational with funds going to those affected by the tornadoes.

LexingtonLegends1_2013-02-27

 

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Whitaker Bank and the Lexington Legends will serve as hosts for the Hits for Home Invitational March 13-16.  Proceeds will go to the Salvation Army, which will then allocate funds to assist communities affected by the March 2012 tornadoes.

Sixteen Kentucky high school baseball teams, many of them representing tornado-affected areas, will participate in the eight-game event at Whitaker Bank Ballpark, home of the Legends, who are a class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals.

Tickets to each session (two games per day) are five dollars per person at the gates on the days of the games.  There will be no advance sale of tickets.  Raffle tickets will be available for purchase.  Winning tickets will be drawn and prizes awarded at the end of the final day of competition.

“We are super excited to be part of this event,” said Legends General Manager Seth Poteat.  “It’s a great way to give back in some small way to those communities that were devastated last year.”

The worst of the severe weather hit Kentucky on March 2, 2012, causing 24 deaths.  More than 300 people were injured, and many Kentuckians are still struggling to repair and rebuild their lives, homes and communities.

To make a personal donation to the tornado survivors, contact Lindsay Hinkebein at Whitaker Bank, 859-293-6005.

Hits For Home Invitational Schedule at Whitaker Bank Ballpark:
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
5 p.m.  Elliott County vs. Menifee County
7 p.m.  Powell County vs. South Laurel

Thursday, March 14, 2013
5 p.m.  Johnson Central vs. North Laurel
7 p.m.  Prestonsburg vs. Lawrence County

Friday, March 15, 2013
5 p.m. Hazard vs. Sheldon Clark
7 p.m. Montgomery County vs. Nicholas County

Saturday, March 16, 2013
11 a.m. Wolfe County vs. Morgan County
1  p.m. Paintsville vs. Bath County

 

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lexington Legends1. Click here to view the original story.

RiverDogs help out at Windwood Farm Home for Children

Charleston-RiverDogsEach month during the off-season, the Charleston RiverDogs close the office to complete one day of volunteer service with a local nonprofit organization. In February, the Charleston RiverDogs Front Office Staff spent their monthly Staff Volunteer Day with the nonprofit organization Windwood Farm Home for Children. Members of the staff helped to complete various chores around the campus.

“I really enjoyed volunteering at Windwood Farm Home for Children,” says Promotions Intern Haley Kirchner. “The best part was getting to spend time with some of the boys, they were all so great!”

Windwood Farm Home for Children offers Help, Hope and Healing to abused, neglected children and their families.

WIndwood-Family-Services-logoWindwood Farm Home for Children was founded by local philanthropist and businessman, Joseph L. Tamsberg, Jr. and opened its doors in 1985. Every member of the nonprofit organization is actively involved in the growth, and success, of their mission to offer an environment of healing that is geared to stamp out multi-generational child abuse and neglect.

Windwood Farm Home for Children offers therapies geared to increase problem solving, anger management, and frustration tolerance, increase the child’s ability to achieve a successful completion of our program and return to a community living situation. Other services include the Family Reunification program, Family Therapy sessions, and an equine assisted learning program.

The RiverDogs staff helps build a shed at Windwood Farm Home for Children.
The RiverDogs staff helps build a shed at Windwood Farm Home for Children.
Special Events Manager, Kristen Wolfe and Promotions Intern, Haley Kirchner paint during their time volunteering at Windwood Farm Home for Children.
Special Events Manager, Kristen Wolfe and Promotions Intern, Haley Kirchner paint during their time volunteering at Windwood Farm Home for Children.

 

Knights Partner with Carolinas HealthCare System

CharlotteKnights_2013-02-21

 

(Fort Mill, SC) – The Charlotte Knights, Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, and Carolinas HealthCare System are dedicated to providing educational opportunities to the youth in our communities. Earlier today, 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 announced that they have committed to providing three $1,000 college scholarships to local high school seniors.

“The Charlotte Knights will continue to make education a primary focus for many of our community initiatives,” said Chris Semmens, Vice President of Sales, Charlotte Knights.  “The Knights are excited to work with our long time partner Carolinas HealthCare System, along with local high school administrators, teachers, parents and students in providing these annual scholarships.”

The 2013 Charlotte Knights Healthcare Scholarship Program is open to any high school senior enrolled in one of the following North or South Carolina counties: Cabarrus, Catawba, Chester, Gaston, Iredell, Lancaster, Mecklenburg, Rowan, Union, or York County. Applicants must be attending an accredited institution of higher education in the fall of 2013, and will be judged on academic performance; volunteer and community involvement; and sports and extracurricular activities. The three winners will be honored before a select Knights game this summer.

“Carolinas HealthCare System’s vision is to lead the transformation of healthcare delivery and a key part of that effort is attracting the next generation of motivated, creative healthcare professionals,” said Carol Lovin, Executive Vice President of Carolinas HealthCare System.  “Partnering with the Charlotte Knights to provide these scholarships is a great way to help turn that vision into reality.”

Applications for the Charlotte Knights Healthcare Scholarship Program presented by Carolinas HealthCare System, are available at charlotteknights.com, and must be postmarked by April 30, 2013 to the Charlotte Knights for consideration. The scholarship committee will be comprised of two Charlotte Knights employees, two Carolinas HealthCare System employees, and one outside party to be selected by the Charlotte Knights.

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 nearly 800 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. CHS works to improve and enhance the overall health and wellbeing of its communities through high quality patient care, education and research programs, and numerous collaborative partnerships and initiatives.

Full season and partial season ticket packages are on-sale now and can be purchased by calling 704-357-8071 ext. 2106 or online at http://www.charlotteknights.com. Season Tickets offer such benefits as a VIP parking pass, invitations to special events, and a unique unused ticket program. They are also the best way to ensure priority selection of seats at BB&T Ballpark. Call a Knights’ representative today for more details! Knights Baseball… Tradition Never Ends.

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

Barons, Children’s of Alabama Launch Babe Ruff’s Kids Club

A portion of the sign up fee benefits Children’s of Alabama

BirminghamBarons_2013-02-19

 

The Birmingham Barons have announced a partnership with Children’s of Alabama as the title sponsor for the new 2013 kids club at Regions Field, called ‘Babe Ruff’s Kids Club’. A portion of the sign up fee benefits Children’s of Alabama. All members of Babe Ruff’s Kids Club will receive:

  • A Babe Ruff’s Kids’ Club T-Shirt
  • An official membership card and inclusion in the Kids Club Newsletter.
  • Special Kids Club Only prices at the Barons Team Store.
  • A Barons Goodie Bag, which includes items from preferred vendors including a Children’s of Alabama stress ball.
  • Inclusion in special Kids Club events at each Sunday home game.
  • Free Admission to all 11 Sunday home games during the 2013 season.

“Children’s of Alabama is delighted to welcome the Birmingham Barons to the neighborhood,” said Garland Stansell, Chief Communications Officer for Children’s of Alabama. “We are excited about the proximity of Regions Field to our campus and are equally excited to continue our long-time partnership with the Barons.  Babe Ruff’s Kids Club seems the perfect fit with our child and family-centered mission.”

“The Barons are excited to partner with Children’s of Alabama on this venture,” said Barons General Manager Jonathan Nelson. “The Barons have always been dedicated to providing the most affordable family entertainment in Birmingham and the kids club is an integral part of that goal. We look forward to providing families with a first class entertainment experience at Regions Field this season.”

To register visit Barons.com, fill out the registration form located on the kid’s club page and bring it to Regions Field. Fans can also contact Steve Bayko at sbayko@barons.com or by phone at 205-988-3200.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Birmingham Barons. Click here to view the original story.

Rock Cats to Host Welcome Home Player Dinner for Connecticut Children’s Medical Center

NewBritainRockCats_2013-02-18

 

The New Britain Rock Cats Baseball Club, the Double-A Eastern League Affiliate of the Minnesota Twins, has announced its “Welcome Home Dinner” will take place on Tuesday, April 2 at Hawks Landing Country Club in Southington.  Fans will have the opportunity to have dinner with the players before the 2013 season starts.  A team autograph session will take place at 5:00pm and dinner will be served at 6:00 pm with each table featuring a player or coach.  The Rock Cats Foundation along with the New Britain Elks Lodge #957, Connecticut Children’s Medical Center and Gordon Bonetti Florist will sponsor the annual “meet the team” event, as the club arrives from spring training.  Individual tickets are only $35 for adults and $25 for children (12 and under), with the proceeds benefiting the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.  Tickets are on sale at the box office or by calling the Rock Cats at 860-224-8383 ext 22.  Tables and event sponsorship opportunities are available for local businesses.  Tickets are sold on a first come first serve basis. This popular event is expected to sell out.

The Annual “Rock Cats Welcome Home Dinner” serves as an occasion to celebrate the arrival of spring and the start of another professional baseball season in Connecticut.  Members of the Rock Cats organization- players, coaches, front office personnel and Rocky, (the team’s popular mascot)- will be present at this festive dinner.  As in the past, Rock Cats players will meet and greet all those in attendance, while also expressing their collective appreciation for the tremendous support the community has extended to this franchise for more than three decades.

Proceeds from the “Rock Cats Welcome Home Dinner” will benefit the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, which is dedicated to improving the physical and emotional health of children through family-centered care, research, education and advocacy.  “This unique event provides the public a unique opportunity to spend an evening with the players they will be rooting for this season while benefiting a wonderful cause in the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center,” Rock Cats President John Willi said.

The Rock Cats open their 31st season on April 4 in Richmond, Virginia and return to the Hardware City a week later on Thursday, April 11 (6:05) for the home opener against the Red Sox affiliate, the Portland Sea Dogs.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Britain Rock Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Swing For the Cure – Put Your Photo On a Jersey

Chiefs website

 

PEORIA, IL – The Peoria Chiefs and the Illinois Cancer Care Foundation are offering fans the opportunity to put their own image on a jersey number for the specialty jerseys the Chiefs will wear during the Swing for the Cure event on Saturday, May 18.

Fans can send in a photo that will be placed on a number on the back of a jersey in one inch by one inch segments. All submitted photos are guaranteed to be on at least one jersey. The cost to submit a photograph is $25 and every person who submits a photo will be entered into a drawing to win one of the jerseys. The maximum order per person is five photographs. The jerseys will be worn on Saturday, May 18 at 6:30 p.m. as the Chiefs host the Clinton LumberKings. All jerseys will be auctioned off during the game and all proceeds will benefit the Illinois CancerCare foundation.

To submit a photo, download the Jersey Form or email ChiefsJerseyPhotos@gmail.com. The deadline for submitting a photo is Friday, April 26. The May 18 game also features a post-game Fireworks show and a Pitch-In For Charity Tennis Ball Toss which will also benefit the Illinois CancerCare Foundation.

Illinois CancerCare, P.C. is a comprehensive practice treating patients with cancer and blood diseases. The focus is to provide state-of-the-art treatments for its patients in the fight against these diseases while staying on the leading edge of breakthrough research and medicines. Illinois CancerCare is central Illinois’ largest network of cancer care specialists with 90-120 open clinical cancer research trials being conducted at any given time. Currently Illinois CancerCare has 17 physicians, more than 230 staff members and 13 clinic locations throughout central and western Illinois. For more information call 309-243-3000 or visit illinoiscancercare.com.

The Illinois CancerCare Foundation is committed to supporting research, education and awareness of a disease that affects 1 in 3 people. The Foundation funds clinical research trials, regardless of the level of federal funding available. A goal of the Illinois CancerCare Foundation is to expand the number of patients enrolling in clinical trials in order to discover better treatment and therapy options and ultimately cures for many types of cancer. Funds are also used to help support cancer education, awareness, and patient comfort care through special programs that reach patients in need. For more information visit illinoiscancercare.com.

 

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

Drillers Starting Make-A-Difference Mondays Program

Kids and families in need to attend selected Monday games free of charge

McElroy Make-A-Difference Mondays will provide nights out at ONEOK Field in downtown Tulsa for needy kids and families this season.
McElroy Make-A-Difference Mondays will provide nights out at ONEOK Field in downtown Tulsa for needy kids and families this season.

Monday evening games will take on a special meaning this season at ONEOK Field. The Tulsa Drillers Foundation has announced a partnership with McElroy Manufacturing that will feature a new program titled “McElroy Make-A-Difference Mondays.”

The six Monday night games of the 2013 season will give Tulsa area children and families in need the opportunity to attend games at no cost. McElroy Manufacturing, through its partnership, will provide complimentary Drillers Dogs and soft drinks for all kids and parents that attend a Monday game as part of the program.

“We are excited to be able to offer this program,” said Drillers General Manager Mike Melega. “Many of us grew up attending games with our parents and grandparents, and the memories can last a lifetime, yet we realize that there are many young fans that may never get the chance to attend a game at ONEOK Field. With the help of McElroy and other companies, we can now give these kids an opportunity to enjoy an evening out and a chance to experience downtown Tulsa and make memories of their own.”

ONEOK, Tulsa Federal Credit Union and Clinical Profusion Systems have also joined the Tulsa Drillers Foundation in the Make-A-Difference program as ticket sponsors. Any company or individual interested in helping to underwrite tickets for those in need can contact Kara Biden with the Drillers at (918)744-5901.

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

2013 Grant Beneficiaries Announced

Lehigh-Valley-IronPigsIronPigs Charities presented by The Air Production Foundation, a non-profit organization striving to provide educational and recreational opportunities for children in the Greater Lehigh Valley area, will award a total of $85,700 in cash grants to 20 non-profit organizations during Thursday’s sold-out Phillies Winter Banquet featuring 1,100 guests at the Sands Events Center. Since debuting in 2007, IronPigs Charities has contributed a total in excess of $550,000 in cash grants and $215,000 in in-kind donations to dozens of local non-profit entities.

“Without question, this is the most rewarding night of the year for our organization,” remarked IronPigs Charities President Kurt Landes. “Make no mistake; these contributions would not be possible without the loyal support of our fans and business partners. We are truly humbled by the generous backing that IronPigs Charities receives and we look forward to continuing to make a tangible impact in our wonderful community.”

IronPigs-Charities-LogoOne of the annual highlights of the Winter Banquet event is the distribution of grants to local non-profit organizations. In fact, over $280,000 has been distributed at this event alone since debuting in 2008.

The 2013 beneficiaries along with a brief synopsis of their benefitting programs are listed below:

  • Allentown School District Foundation: An after-school intra-district middle school baseball program will be started in Allentown School District. At current, the Allentown School District does not have a baseball program at the middle school level. This program will allow for dozens of 6th, 7th and 8th graders to play baseball.
  • Boys and Girls Club of Bethlehem: Mind, Body and Soul are the three components of the Triple Play program. The multi-faceted program is designed to help young people become healthy and active while forming new relationships.
  • Boys and Girls Club of Easton: The Triple Play program consisting of the Mind, Body & Soul components, addresses a need for low-income youth to get more structured exercise in sports, explore healthy nutrition and learn social skills.
  • Community Bike Works: Children participate in a three month “Earn a Bike” program in which they receive instruction on bike mechanics, bike safety, employment skills and business concepts. At the successful conclusion of the program they earn a bike and a helmet.
  • Easton Police Athletic League: New uniforms and equipment will be purchased for the Easton Police Athletic League’s wrestling program. This program serves 50 youth from the Easton area.
  • Family YMCA of Easton, Phillipsburg & Vicinity: The Family YMCA Summer Youth Basketball League serves boys and girls ages 8 to 18. This program supports 80 youth and focuses on low income families.
  • Friends of the Allentown Parks: The Queen of the Court will give girls in the city of Allentown the opportunity to play basketball. Nearly 100 girls are expected to participate in the four week program.
  • Lehigh County Conference of Churches: The Aspires mentoring program addresses the health and wellness of at-risk youth in the Allentown School District. The IronPigs Charities grant will fund ten weeks of recreational and educational group activities.
  • Lehigh County Youth Association: LCYA serves over 100 youth who participate in a variety of sports, including baseball. The IronPigs Charities grant will provide new catchers equipment, a pitching machine, new bases as well as field maintenance equipment.
  • Lehigh Valley Zoo: The Lehigh Valley Zoo’s Wildlife & Wellness Program is a nature inspired health and fitness after-school program to benefit primarily disadvantaged, school-age youth in our community.
  • Lower Macungie Youth Association: After receiving a 2012 grant for field maintenance related items, Lower Macungie Youth Association will now receive funding for a storage shed for the items that were purchased last year.
  • Mikayla’s Voice: This June, Mikayla’s Voice will be hosting a one-of-a-kind triathlon for children with and without disabilities. Children with physical disabilities will participate in all three phases of a triathlon with a little help from their friends.
  • Miracle League of the Lehigh Valley: Their mission is to provide an all-inclusive baseball program for children with various special needs. The IronPigs Charities grant will provide uniforms and equipment for the nearly 300 players in the league.
  • Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley: Golden Dippers Ice Cream Parties will take place at the Children’s Hospital at Lehigh Valley Health Network for children battling cancer who are hospitalized. Additionally, PCFLV will celebrate the end of chemotherapy treatments with a Last Round of Chemo party.
  • Sacred Heart Hospital: An afternoon program of health and wellness will provide over 400 low-income youth with fitness activities, healthy snacks, fresh fruits and vegetables and a backpack giveaway filled with school supplies.
  • Salvation Army: The Breaking Barriers Fitness Camp will teach youngsters how to get fit, how the body works and the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. Each child will receive a personalized workout routine after the instructional sessions.
  • Special Olympics Lehigh County: A full course of track and field events will be setup for over 500 Special Olympics Athletes at Whitehall High School.
  • Valley Youth House: Valley Youth House will be building “Pigtown” as the fifth element of the adventure course at Camp Fowler. Throughout the year nearly 850 youth will participate in the adventure course.
  • YWCA of Bethlehem: The YWCA will give over 50 girls the opportunity to learn the game of golf. Held at Southmoore Golf Course and Wedgewood Golf Course, the young women will learn the necessary skills needed to play in tournaments throughout the area.

Philadelphia Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro, Jr., manager Charlie Manuel along with Dave Brundage (IronPigs manager), C Erik Kratz and INF Kevin Frandsen headline the sold-out 2013 Phillies Winter Banquet presented by The Air Products Foundation, Coca-Cola and the Lehigh Valley Health Network to be held on Thursday at the brand-new Sands Events Center in Bethlehem. Other Phillies dignitaries include Benny Looper (Asst. GM), Joe Jordan (Dir., Player Development) and Steve Noworyta (Asst. Dir., Player Development).

The Phillies Winter Banquet beneficiary, IronPigs Charities, is a recognized 501(c) (3) non-profit organization on the state and federal level.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs.  Click here to view the original story.