OceanFirst Foundation Donates $78,000 Through Home Runs for Heroes Program

The 2018 Home Runs for Heroes program has now generated over $300,000 in 10 years for area non-profits thanks to the OceanFirst Foundation!

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The OceanFirst Foundation donated $78,000 to area non-profit organizations as part of the Home Runs for Heroes program in 2018.

Each time the BlueClaws hit a home run at FirstEnergy Park this year, the organization(s) paired with the corresponding inning received $1,000 from OceanFirst Foundation. The program has now raised over $300,000 in 10 years for local organizations that support military-personnel, both veterans and active.

The BlueClaws hit a franchise record 44 home runs at FirstEnergy Park this year, but because four innings featured two different organizations, home runs hit in the second, third, fourth and fifth innings each generated $2,000 in donations.

Organization Inning Home Runs Total
Cape May County Coast Guard Community Foundation 1st 5 $5,000
National Guard State Family Readiness Council & Army Emergency Relief 2nd 6 $6,000
Vetgroup Inc & Chariot Riders Inc 3rd 6 $6,000
Lt Dennis W Zilinski II Memorial Fund & Jewish Family and Children Service of Southern NJ 4th 10 $10,000
Citizens Veterans Advisory Committee Inc & Veterans of Foreign Wars 5th 8 $8,000
GI Go Fund & Catholic Charities Diocese of Trenton 6th 4 $4,000
Navy – Marine Corps Relief Society 7th 2 $2,000
American National Red Cross 8th 2 $2,000
Operation First Response, Inc 9th + Extras 1 $1,000

Rodolfo Duran led the BlueClaws with 10 home runs at FirstEnergy Park while Jake Scheiner hit seven, Quincy Nieporte hit six, and Jhailyn Ortiz added five.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. The 2019 season opens April 4th at FirstEnergy Park against Hickory (Rangers). Click here to see the 2019 schedule (pdf file).

2019 BlueClaws Five & Ten-Game Membership Plans are currently on sale. This year, they include a Monthly Payment Plan option through which members can pay for their tickets in monthly installments through August. A Five-Game Membership Plan is available for as little as $5.42 per month! For more in BlueClaws Membership Plans, click here.

Since its founding in 1902, OceanFirst Bank has built a solid reputation and legacy as a good neighbor and responsible corporate citizen. The Bank’s strong commitment to helping families, organizations, schools and communities throughout central and southern New Jersey has spanned several generations reaching new heights in 1996 with the creation of OceanFirst Foundation. The Foundation provides grants to nonprofits and local schools that meet community needs within the OceanFirst Bank footprint. In 2017, OceanFirst Foundation will contribute more than $1.6 million to community initiatives and since its inception, more than $30 million in grants have been awarded to over 750 nonprofits throughout central and southern New Jersey.

– BlueClaws –

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

South Bend Police Department and Cubs to Host Trick or Treating Event on October 29

UPDATE: Due to the expected crowd size, the entrance has been moved to Gate B, next to the Box Office.

SOUTH BEND, IN – The South Bend Cubs have partnered with the South Bend Police Department to introduce Stu and Swoop’s Cops and Goblins trick or treating event taking place on Monday, October 29 from 5:00 P.M.-7:30 P.M at Four Winds Field.

The new event in Downtown South Bend will allow local families to come out to the ballpark and enjoy safe trick or treating as the South Bend Police and Fire Department will be joined by other city officials. The groups will hand out candy along with other South Bend community sponsors. South Bend Cubs mascots Stu and Swoop will also be in Halloween costumes to meet and take pictures with the kids.

The South Bend Fire Department will also bring their smoke house to the event. The new partnership between the Cubs and South Bend Police Department creates for a new opportunity to give back to the entire community.

“This is an amazing event our community, officers, and the City looks forward to every year,” South Bend Police Chief Scott Ruszkowski said. “Thousands of people have enjoyed a fun and safe trick or treating experience with officers. This year, we’re excited to be partnering with the South Bend Cubs and taking our Halloween event fun to a whole new level.”

“We’re excited to be partnering with the South Bend Police Department in this community event,” South Bend Cubs Director of Media and Promotions Chris Hagstrom said. “This event continues to show that Four Winds Field isn’t just a baseball destination. We want the stadium to be seen as another great entertainment venue in the city of South Bend.”

Around the ballpark with spooky music playing from the speakers, both the Cubs Den Team Store and 1st Source Bank Performance Center will be open to the public. Kids hoping to check out the Performance Center will be able to take swings in the same batting cages used by the South Bend Cubs players.

Kids arriving in their Halloween costumes will have the opportunity to also enter a costume contest at the park. Prizes will be awarded to those who are wearing the most fun costumes. Be creative!

Any other businesses and organizations who are interested in hosting and sponsoring a table at the event can contact Officer Keenan Lane at 574-235-5941 for more information.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 31 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2019, the South Bend Cubs will host the Midwest League All-Star Game. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill. More information is available at www.SouthBendCubs.com.

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

Winston-Salem Police Foundation Free Movie Night postponed to October 28

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (Sept. 12, 2018) – Due to the impending hurricane, the Winston-Salem Dash, in conjunction with the Winston-Salem Police Foundation, are postponing their free Movie Night at BB&T Ballpark from Saturday, September 15, to Sunday, October 28.

Gates for the new date will open at 5:30 p.m., with the hit movie Coco beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Admission to this event is free to the public; however, donations of cash & blankets will be accepted as well as non-perishable food items. Cash & blanket donations will go towards the Winston-Salem Police Foundation, a non-profit, independent organization dedicated to enhancing the capacity of the Winston-Salem Police Department to be more effective in improving public safety.

Non-perishable food items will be donated to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina. The Foundation focuses on community outreach, funding and raising resources to assist the Police Department in making Winston-Salem a safer place to live, work and enjoy life. More information on the organization is available at wspolicefoundation.org, where you can also donate to the Foundation.

“Despite the postponement of the initial date, we are very excited to still be holding this special event. It is our mission to bring members of the police department and community together to create conversations about how we can continue to improve public safety in Winston-Salem,” said Scott Sewell, president of the Winston-Salem Police Foundation. “BB&T Ballpark provides a perfect atmosphere for a fun-filled evening of learning and socializing.”

There will be free parking for all attendees, and concession stands throughout the facility will have food and beverages available for purchase. No outside food or beverage is permitted. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets to sit in the outfield to watch the movie. However, lawn chairs of any kind will not be permitted in the ballpark.

The Kids Zone will also be open for free on October 28, with several free carnival games featured on the concourse as well. Before the movie, representatives of the Winston-Salem Police Department will have their various vehicles on display, including police cars, motorcycles, bike patrol bicycles and rescue/hazardous device vehicles and the Operations Sweet Reads Bookmobile. Members of the K-9 unit will be in attendance as well.

“No amount of bad weather can stop us from holding this great event. These movie nights at the ballpark allow for positive interactions and conversations between the people who protect us every day and those whom they are protecting,” Dash president C.J. Johnson said. “We are excited to once again host this beautiful community event at BB&T Ballpark.”

Coco, which was released in 2017, follows a 12-year-old boy named Miguel, who is accidentally transported to the Land of the Dead, where he seeks the help of his deceased musician great-great-grandfather to return him to his family among the living. Coco won the “Best Animated Feature” at the Academy Awards, and it was named the “Best Animated Film” at the Golden Globe Awards.

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

Guns & Hoses Charity Softball Event Set for October 7

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (September 6, 2018) – The 11th Annual Guns & Hoses Charity Softball Game will take place at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark on Sunday, October 7. The event, presented by 707 Shooting Range and Goldfinch Winslow Law Firm, features a 4-team showdown between Myrtle Beach and Horry County first responders. All proceeds from the event will benefit SOS Health Care, Inc. Project Lifesaver for Horry County.

“This is a great, friendly rivalry game between the police and fire departments,” said Project Lifesaver Program Coordinator Monique Clement. “Without their support Project Lifesaver would not be possible in our area. They are our first responders, our search and rescue, and the backbone to Project Lifesaver.”

“After teaming up with the Myrtle Beach Pelicans in 2017 this event drew its biggest crowd to date,” added Clement. “The Pelicans have stepped up to the plate again this year and I have no doubt it will be bigger and better than before, allowing SOS Health Care to make Project Lifesaver more successful.”

Admission to the event is a $5 donation to SOS Health Care, Inc. The event will also include a hot dog buffet while supplies last. Concessions will also be available. Additionally, spectators can participate in various games and raffles with all proceeds benefiting SOS Health Care Inc.

“We’re excited to host this event for a second straight year,” stated Pelicans General Manager Ryan Moore. “TicketReturn.Com Field is the community’s ballpark and what better way to celebrate that than by hosting a charity event headlined by our community’s first responders.”

Gates for the Guns & Hoses Charity Softball Game will open at 2 PM. The approximate schedule of play is as follows:

  • 3:00PM           Myrtle Beach Fire Department vs. Horry County Fire Rescue
  • 4:00 PM          Myrtle Beach Police Department vs. Horry County Police Department
  • 5:30 PM          Championship Game

Event details are available online at myrtlebeachpelicans.com/guns&hoses.

ABOUT SOS HEALTH CARE, INC: The mission of SOS Health Care, Inc. is to partner and inform the community by providing hope, care and assistance to individuals with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities. Their vision is to be an organization that is proactive and always moving forward. It creates its own future, is results focused, and seeks to achieve impact that adds value to a large group of stakeholders. It honors traditions but values change which it sees as a necessary part of an evolving world. Internally, development is almost sacred. People routinely exchange resources and share new ideas. Everyone is connected internally and externally. “What ifs” and “what’s out there” are considered normal parts of conversation.

ABOUT PROJECT LIFESAVER: The primary mission of Project Lifesaver is to provide timely response to save lives and reduce potential injury for adults and children who wander due to Alzheimer’s, autism and related conditions. This is a program that uses radio telemetry to track individual transmitters on a band worn like a watch or a bracelet. The transmitter is assigned a frequency that can be used to track down the wearer should he or she leave home without the knowledge of their caregiver. Project Lifesaver currently is a partnership program between SOS Health Care and Horry County Public Safety and currently covers 32 children with autism. The cost of the band and batteries for one year is $375 per year. Project Lifesaver provides this service free of charge to the individual.

ABOUT THE PELICANS: The Myrtle Beach Pelicans are the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs and play their home games at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Since being acquired by a group led by Chuck Greenberg during the 2006 season, the Pelicans have repeatedly set team attendance records and become known as one of Minor League Baseball’s most innovative and creative franchises. The team and its employees have been dedicated to making a difference in the Myrtle Beach community, specifically giving back over $2 million in donations, fundraising proceeds, in-kind services and community service since launching the Pelicans Play It Forward Community Initiative in 2013. TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark has ranked in the top eight in all of Minor League Baseball by Stadium Journey in six of the last seven seasons. The same publication also placed the Pelicans in the Top 100 Stadium Experiences and the best in the Carolina League for six of the past seven seasons. In June 2017, the Pelicans won the 2017 TripAdvisor.com Certificate of Excellence award. For more information on the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, please contact the Pelicans at (843) 918-6000 or email Info@MyrtleBeachPelicans.com.

First Responders Night with Fireworks on June 23

CLEARWATER, Fla. – The Threshers are honoring local emergency personnel on Saturday, June 23, with First Responders Night at Spectrum Field. The day features community police and fire departments playing softball on Spectrum Field in the afternoon and a huge fireworks show after the game, plus recognition of the heroes in attendance during the game.

Gates open at 5:00 p.m. for the 6:15 p.m. game with the Dunedin Blue Jays. The fireworks are presented by Banquet Masters.

For a group tickets, or tickets for the afternoon softball games, call Bobby at 727-712-4408.

Tickets on ThreshersBaseball.com

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

ValleyCats, Community Resource Federal Credit Union partner to recognize Capital Region’s Community Heroes!

TROY, N.Y. – The Tri-City ValleyCats and Community Resource Federal Credit Union have teamed up again in 2018 on the “Home Run Community Heroes Starting 9” initiative, a program that aims to highlight those that go above and beyond in the Capital Region community.

A selection of nominees will be recognized in an on-field ceremony on Thursday, July 19, prior to the ValleyCats game versus the Brooklyn Cyclones.

“We are honored to join with the ValleyCats again this year to honor our Community Heroes,” said Marc DeNofio, VP of Marketing at Community Resource FCU. “Our everyday heroes are at the very core of what makes the Capital Region a great place to live. At CRFCU we enjoy supporting these selfless individuals, and offering banking services that enrich the lives of all residents.”

The ‘Cats and Community Resource FCU are encouraging fans to nominate personnel from military, law enforcement, firefighter/EMS agencies, non-profit organizations, as well as teachers, volunteers, children and everyday people that have helped make the Capital Region a better place to live.

“We are excited to partner with Community Resource Federal Credit Union to recognize the efforts of those who have had a positive impact within our community,” said ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan. “There is plenty of heroic work being done within the Capital Region that many people may not know about, so we’re glad to be able to showcase a handful of those circumstances.”

The nine nominees selected will also be treated to a luxury suite as guests of Community Resource FCU, with complimentary food and drink.

Fans who want to nominate a Community Hero can do so by filling out the form located online at tcvalleycats.com/communityheroes. The ValleyCats will be accepting nominations through Friday, June 29. Forms can be faxed with attention to Elyse Zima at 518-629-2299, e-mailed to elysezima@tcvalleycats.com, or dropped off at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium.

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

Squirrels to Host 5th Annual Guns & Hoses Softball Game

Funnville – The Richmond Flying Squirrels, Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, will celebrate the culmination of National Police Week (May 13-19) and the beginning of National EMS Week (May 20-26) with a First Responders Day at The Diamond on Sunday, May 20. The day will feature the fifth annual Guns & Hoses charity softball game between the Richmond Police Department and Richmond Fire Department following the Flying Squirrels’ 1:05 p.m. contest against the Harrisburg Senators.

Pregame activities for First Responders Day at The Diamond are scheduled to include a Touch-A-Truck-style event with fire trucks, law enforcement and EMS vehicles parked outside the front gates of the ballpark beginning at noon. Richmond Sheriff Antionette Irving and members of her staff will participate in Catch with a Cop in the outfield from 12:15-12:35 p.m.

“We’re committed to the greater Richmond community, and a day like this gives us an opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to the men and women who serve and protect our community every day,” said Flying Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell. “The competitive spirit between the Richmond police and fire departments is a lot of fun to watch and we encourage our fans to come out and support both on the field as well as their charitable causes.”

Both the Richmond police and fire departments are selling fundraiser tickets to Sunday’s game. Proceeds from the Richmond police fundraiser will benefit the Bike for Blue campaign while Richmond fire proceeds support the Muscular Dystrophy Association summer camp. Both organizations will also be selling T-shirts during Sunday’s game as an additional fundraiser to benefit the respective charities they are supporting.

To purchase tickets to support the Richmond Police Department fundraiser, click here: https://groupmatics.events/Richmondpolice

To purchase tickets to support the Richmond Fire Department fundraiser, click here: https://groupmatics.events/Richmondfire

As part of every Sunday home game, kids ages 14 and younger can run the bases after the game presented by Richmond Family Magazine. The Guns & Hoses softball game will begin immediately after kids run the bases.

For more information regarding First Responders Day, call 804-359-FUNN (3866). To learn more about upcoming events in Funnville and to purchase tickets, visit www.squirrelsbaseball.com.

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

Redbirds, Ford Bring “Mid-South Heroes Weekend” to AutoZone Park

MEMPHIS, Tennessee — The Memphis Redbirds have partnered with Ford to honor heroes during the team’s games May 25-27 at AutoZone Park as part of “Mid-South Heroes Weekend presented by Ford,” where firefighters and EMS, military, and police will be celebrated each day during Memorial Day Weekend.

Mid-South Heroes Weekend presented by Ford
– Friday, May 25: firefighter and EMS recognition
– Saturday, May 26: military recognition and postgame fireworks
– Sunday, May 27: police recognition and postgame fireworks

Each day features recognition of these groups of heroes, and equipment, displays, and interactive experiences in the Plaza and around the stadium.

Fans are also invited to come to the ballpark early on Sunday the 27th for the second annual Shelby County Sheriffs versus Memphis Police Department softball game. Gates open at 3:45 for the softball game, which runs from 4:15-5:30. The winner will be presented with the Sheriff’s Cup on the field.

“This is shaping up to be one of the marquee weekends of the season at AutoZone Park,” Redbirds President/General Manager Craig Unger said. “We are pleased to partner with Ford to honor the heroes of the Mid-South all weekend long. These events are just a small token of the gratitude we have for these heroes who do so much for each and every one of us.”

“The Mid-South Ford Dealers are proud to honor our Mid-South Heroes through our sponsorship of the Memphis Redbirds,” Don Kitchens, Chairman of the Mid-South Ford Dealers said. “We appreciate those who ‘Go Further’ every day for our country and Mid-South communities. We invite everyone to come out to the ballpark over the Memorial Day Weekend and support our Military, Veterans, First Responders, and Memphis Redbirds.”

Special ticket pricing is available for firefighters, EMS, military, and police by contacting the Redbirds at (901) 721-6000, compliments of Ford.

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

Express Donate K-9 Unit to Round Rock Police Department

ROUND ROCK, Texas – The Round Rock Express are proud to announce that the team has donated a 22-month-old Belgian Malinois K-9 unit named Vada to the Round Rock Police Department. Express Owners Don and Bret Sanders purchased Vada from Slovak Working Dogs overseas, brought her to the United States, and facilitated the donation on behalf of the team.

The gesture comes less than a year after beloved RRPD K-9 Dega passed away following the discovery of an inoperable tumor. Dega was honored for her service at the Round Rock Express game on April 10, 2017, less than a month before her passing.

“We are incredibly proud to present Vada to the Round Rock Police Department on behalf of the Round Rock Express,” Bret Sanders said. “After my Dad and I heard of Dega’s passing, we wanted to help. This is just a small token of our appreciation for everything that RRPD does to keep not only Dell Diamond, but the entire City of Round Rock safe on a daily basis.”

Vada began her career in the K-9 patrol division but is quickly working up the ranks. This spring, she was certified by the National Narcotics Detector Dog Association to detect the odor of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, ecstasy and methamphetamines. In fact, on her way home from being certified by NNDAA, Vada assisted in the arrest of an individual carrying illegal narcotics.

The RRPD is currently training Vada in the disciplines of article searching and tracking. Vada will soon be able to follow and track human odor and the disruption of the vegetative state to the source.

The Sanders Family are no strangers to generosity when it comes to animals and law enforcement. Don is the founder of the Houston Police Foundation and previously served as Director of the Houston Police Pension System. He also financed a state-of-the-art shelter and facility at the Friends for Life animal shelter, a no-kill animal rescue and adoption shelter in Houston. The Sanders Family also previously donated two K-9 units and a police horse to the Houston Police Department.

“We are very thankful and appreciative of the Sanders Family and the Round Rock Express ownership group.” RRPD Officer Robert Ramos said. “Vada has been an amazing addition to the Round Rock PD family, as well as my family at home. She has surpassed my expectations and I could not be happier with her performance and where we are as a K-9 team.”

Fans will have their first chance to meet Vada on Sunday, May 6 during Bark in the Park at Dell Diamond. Vada will be honored alongside Officer Ramos before the 1:05 p.m. game against the Iowa Cubs. Fans are encouraged to bring their own four-legged friends to the game as well. More information about Bark in the Park at Dell Diamond can be found here.

Single-game tickets, season memberships and flex plan ticket packages are on sale now. For more information on the Express, visit RoundRockExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter!

Sounds Expand “Hometown Hero” Program, Add Puckett’s as Presenting Sponsor

The Nashville Sounds Baseball Club is proud to announce an expansion of its “Hometown Hero” program presented by Puckett’s. At all Saturday and Sunday games at First Tennessee Park in 2018, the Sounds and Puckett’s will honor active members of the armed forces, veterans, paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers and firefighters.

Selected heroes will receive complimentary tickets to a Sounds game, a $50 Puckett’s gift card and swag. Additionally, the hero will be recognized on the iconic guitar scoreboard during a special in-between inning feature.

Nominations for heroes are now being accepted at www.nashvillesounds.com. All nominees must be, or have been, a paramedic, emergency medical technician, police officer, firefighter, or a member of the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard.

The Sounds offer military family ticket discounts for every Sunday-Wednesday game at First Tennessee Park. A $2 discount on single-game ticket prices is available for any Reserved section seat – based on availability. The offer is valid for up to four tickets per government-issued military I.D. presented at the Sounds Ticket Office.

Additionally, the Sounds salute the troops every Sunday by wearing special military jerseys.

The 2018 season will be the Sounds’ 41st in franchise history and fourth as the Oakland Athletics’ top affiliate. Opening Day is set for Thursday, April 5 when the Sounds begin the season in New Orleans. Opening Night at First Tennessee Park is scheduled for Tuesday, April 10 when the Sounds host the Iowa Cubs at 6:35 p.m. Season ticket memberships are available now by calling (615) 690-4487 or by visiting www.nashvillesounds.com.

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

Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. Releases Annual Report for 2017

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE 2016 ANNUAL REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. is proud to present the third Annual Report to the Community detailing the charitable outreach completed in 2017. The report lists the extensive accomplishments of the foundation and the notable programs coordinated by the Cougars.

Five new foundation programs were added in 2017 including the Al Mueller Memorial Scholarship Fund, the D-backs Give Back partnership, AmazonSmile, Highland Salutes and the Es Divertido Ser Un Fan campaign which saw the Cougars selected as one of four teams out of 160 Minor League Baseball teams to participate in this historic Hispanic outreach program.

The annual 5K Run/Walk hosted by the Cougars was re-branded in honor of First Responders. A total of $2,000 was donated to local departments including Geneva Police and Fire, St. Charles Police and Fire, Batavia Police and Fire as well as the Kane County Forest Preserve Police and the Kane County Sheriff’s Department.

Ozzie’s Reading Club was also re-branded, with the addition of our new mascot Annie, to the Cougars Reading Club. Each year the program encourages over 130,000 local area students to meet reading goals with incentives such as game tickets, food vouchers and a drawstring backpack. In-kind donations for the Cougars Reading Club totaled $646,190 in 2017.

The 50/50 Raffle, presented by Bret Brizzolara your local Country Financial representative and the Acres Group Pitch-In for Charity are two in-game programs from which a portion of the proceeds benefit specific charities selected by the Kane County Cougars Foundation. In 2017, these two programs generated over $29,000 to support local causes including Fox Valley Wildlife Center, Food for Greater Elgin, Holiday Heroes, Naperville Alive and DuPage PADS.

For every home run that was hit by a Cougars player at home, Paramount Fence made a donation to Emmanuel House which was then matched by the Cougars through the Home Run for Charity program. In 2017, the donation totaled $2,400.

Through a variety of military organizations including the Illinois National Guard, Operation Support Our Troops, Rolling Thunder and the Veteran Tickets Foundation, the Kane County Cougars Foundation presented in-kind donations for Military Recognition totaling $16,844 in 2017.

Various in-kind donations, community appearances, high school seminars, clinics and events show the Cougars on-going commitment to the surrounding community through programs such as the Library Summer Reading Program, senior citizen half-price tickets and food vouchers, the Winter Coat Drive and a partnership with Two Men and a Truck to collect items through the Movers for Moms program.

“Each year we strive to find new ways to give back to local organizations,” said Cougars owner Cheryl Froehlich. “With the additional programs added under the Kane County Cougars Foundation we were able to assist the surrounding community in more ways than we ever have before.”

“We’re dedicated to creating a legacy for the Kane County Cougars that goes far beyond the game of baseball,” added Cougars owner Dr. Bob Froehlich. “The Cougars are committed to making Kane County and the surrounding area a better place to live and work through the efforts of the Kane County Cougars Foundation.”

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 161 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

***

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

Safe & Seen trick-or-treat set for October 29

The State College Spikes are once again partnering with Centre LifeLink EMS to give fans a chance at free family fun for the Halloween season with Safe & Seen at the Ballpark presented by State College Community Land Trust. The family trick-or-treating event is scheduled for Sunday, October 29 from 3-5 p.m. at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.

Safe & Seen will feature the opportunity for families to bring their young trick-or-treaters to the ballpark in costume for a safe Halloween event that will include many fun activities for fans of all ages. Admission and parking are free.

Youngsters can also bring a bag or bucket to be filled by area organizations stationed throughout the ballpark as they go “door-to-door” to collect treats and other fun items.

Penn State Health will also be on hand to give a mini-pumpkin from Shuey’s Market in State College to each youngster, as well as a decorating kit. Plus, fans young and old can experience ambulance tours, fall crafts, kids games, Spikes mascot meet-and-greets, and more.

Local organizations still interested in being part of Safe & Seen in the Ballpark can contact Ben Love of the Spikes at blove@statecollegespikes.com.

Fans are also encouraged to bring a donation for Centre LifeLink EMS in support of their life-saving services.

Medlar Field at Lubrano Park will play host to even more fun in 2018 when the Spikes return for an All-Star summer, with the 2018 NYPL All-Star Game serving as the centerpiece of what promises to be a jam-packed schedule. To find out more about Season Seat Memberships, Value Plans, Flex Books and a variety of different group packages and experiences for the 2018 season, call the Spikes at (814) 272-1711. Additional team and ticket information can also be viewed by visiting State College Spikes.com.

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

Free Movie Night set for October 21 at BB&T Ballpark

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (Sept. 6, 2017) – The Winston-Salem Dash, in conjunction with the Winston-Salem Police Foundation, are proud to announce a free Movie Night at BB&T Ballpark on Saturday, October 21. Gates open at 5 p.m., with the hit movie Sing beginning at 6:30 p.m. The Dash are also teaming with Sunshine and WXII 12 News for this exciting event.

Admission to this event is free to the public; however, donations of cash or blankets are strongly encouraged for all attendees. All donations will go to the Winston-Salem Police Foundation, a non-profit, independent organization dedicated to enhancing the capacity of the Winston-Salem Police Department to be more effective in improving public safety. The Foundation focuses on community outreach, funding and raising resources to assist the Police Department in making Winston-Salem a safer place to live, work and enjoy life. More information on the organization is available at wspolicefoundation.org, where you can also donate to the Foundation.

“We always enjoy bringing members of the police department and community together to create conversations about how we can continue to improve public safety in Winston-Salem,” said Scott Sewell, President of the Winston-Salem Police Foundation. “BB&T Ballpark provides a perfect atmosphere for a fun-filled evening of learning and socializing.”

There will be free parking for all attendees, and concession stands throughout the facility will have food and beverages available for purchase. No outside food or beverage is permitted. The Kids Zone will also be open for free on Saturday, with several free carnival games featured on the concourse as well. Before the movie, district representatives of the Winston-Salem Police Department will have their various vehicles on display, including police cars, motorcycles, bike patrol bicycles and rescue/hazardous device vehicles. Members of the K-9 unit will be in attendance as well.

“These Movie Nights at the ballpark have started so many necessary conversations between the people who protect us every day and those whom they are protecting,” Dash President Geoff Lassiter said. “We certainly encourage everyone in the community to partake in this great event.”

In case of inclement weather in the area on October 21, the make-up date is Sunday, October 22, with gates opening at 4 p.m. and the movie starting at 5:30 p.m.

Starring the voices of renowned actors and actresses Matthew McConaughey, Seth MacFarlane, Reese Witherspoon and Scarlett Johansson, Sing tells the story of a koala bear named Buster Moon who is fighting to save his once-beloved theater with the greatest singing competition the world has ever seen. Each of the contestants has a unique personality that he or she brings to the stage, and every one of them believes this competition is their shot to change their lives forever.

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

South Bend Cubs Host Fallen Heroes Day on Saturday, August 27

SOUTH BEND, IN – On Sunday, August 27, the South Bend Cubs will honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the community on Fallen Heroes Day presented by Midland Engineering. In addition to the recognition, the club will announce the 2017 Corporal Paul Deguch Community Service Award recipient.

The Corporal Paul Deguch Community Service Award is presented annually to a South Bend Cubs player who demonstrates outstanding service to the Michiana community. The award is in honor of Corporal Paul Deguch, a City of South Bend police officer, who was killed in the line of duty in August 1997. Members of the Deguch family will be on hand to present the award.

“We are honored to keep the memory of Corporal Deguch alive with this community service award,” said South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. “Everyday police officers, firefighters, EMT’s and service volunteers put their lives on the line to serve and protect, some of which give the ultimate sacrifice. This day is to remember all who lost their lives protecting our community.

Members of the South Bend Police Department will line the field in their squad cars to honor their fallen brother and participate in the award ceremony.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. This year, Four Winds Field, home of the Cubs, was named Ballpark Digest’s Best Single-A ballpark. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

Chasers Players, Front Office Staff to Participate in Chasers Community Week

The Omaha Storm Chasers organization’s third annual “Chasers Community Week” presented by Summit Dental Health kicks off on Friday, July 29. Omaha Storm Chasers players and front office members will be volunteering their time throughout the Omaha Metro community from July 29-August 6. Details for each day of “Chasers Community Week” can be found below, which include players visiting Children’s Hospital and the Southwest YMCA, as well as participating in Buddy Baseball at Werner Park. In addition, the front office will help serve dinner at Ronald McDonald House, and volunteer at The Wall That Heals among many other events in the community.

Planned Events for “Chasers Community Week”

  • Saturday, July 29 – The Storm Chasers organization will be auctioning off Christmas sweater jerseys on Christmas in July presented by Mannheim Steamroller, with the proceeds benefitting Moving Veterans Forward. There will also be a lemonade stand hosted by the Storm Chasers and Summit Dental at Werner Park that evening, with proceeds benefitting the Open Door Mission.
  • Sunday, July 30 – The Storm Chasers organization hosts the first of two UnitedHealthcare Library Nights at Werner Park. This will be in addition to hosting First Responders and having interactive fire, police and medical displays, including a helicopter in the parking lot, on First Responders Night that evening.
  • Monday, July 31 – Several Storm Chasers players will be visiting Southwest YMCA starting at 11:00 a.m. to play a pickup game of baseball with kids at that location. That evening, the Storm Chasers organization’s second UnitedHealthcare Library Night will take place at Werner Park, in addition to a Drawstring Backpack Giveaway presented by Huber Chevrolet.
  • Tuesday, August 1 – Storm Chasers front office members along with Summit Dental Health employees will assist in cooking and serving dinner at the Ronald McDonald House.
  • Wednesday, August 2 – The organization will host their annual Jirschele Family Memorial Golf Outing at Tara Hills Golf Course to help benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association beginning at 9:00 a.m. The Wall That Heals, a half-scale duplication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., is also set to arrive at Werner Park that day thanks to Werner Enterprises. Storm Chasers players and front office members will also participate in the Leader Reader at the Children’s Museum. Storm Chasers front office members and a mascot will also be visiting Offutt Air Force Base that day.
  • Thursday, August 3 – The Wall That Heals, a half-scale replica of the Vietnam War Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. will be open beginning at 11:00am until the closing ceremonies take place at approximately 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 6.
  • Friday, August 4 – Storm Chasers players will be visiting with patients at Children’s Hospital.
  • Saturday, August 5 – Bellevue Buddy Baseball will take place at Werner Park at 9:00 a.m., with Storm Chasers players and front office members assisting in the morning event to support the Down Syndrome Alliance. The event will feature headshots and walk-up songs for the buddies playing baseball. Storm Chasers players and Casey will also be at First National Bank on 132nd & Center for their annual Stuff the Bus school supply drive.
  • Sunday, August 6 – The Storm Chasers organization salutes all former and current members of our armed forces on Military Appreciation Day at Werner Park. Following that day’s contest at approximately 6:00 p.m. will be a closing ceremony for The Wall That Heals, which will include the playing of “Taps”.

The Storm Chasers return to Werner Park to begin an eight-game homestand on Saturday, July 29, starting with a four-game set versus the Fresno Grizzlies. First pitch of the series opener is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. that evening.

Single game tickets for all remaining Storm Chasers home contests are still available, and can be purchased online at www.omahastormchasers.com, or by calling the Werner Park Ticket Office from noon until 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at (402) 738-5100.

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

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