Cougars to Honor First Responders on July 29

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced that they will honor first responders at Northwestern Medicine Field on Saturday, July 29. Tickets are on sale now at kccougars.com or by calling the box office at 630-232-8811.

First responders who wish to attend the game can purchase a buy one, get one free reserved seat ticket deal in person at the Cougars box office beginning today through July 29. Proof of identification must be presented at the time of purchase. There is a limit of 10 tickets per order. Offer is not valid on previously purchased tickets.

In addition, there will be local first responder vehicles displayed outside the gates for fans to admire including patrol cars and fire engines.

For the game, the Cougars will sport limited edition First Responder Night jerseys. One half of the jersey is fire engine red with yellow and orange flames running down the sleeve to represent our heroic firefighters while the other half of the jersey features an armored look to represent the police officers who protect us.

Before the game, St. Charles police officer John Losurdo will throw out a ceremonial first pitch. Officer Losurdo, named the top police officer in Kane County, was presented the 2016 Louis Spuhler Award for his outstanding police work. Additional first responders will be honored throughout the game including an in-game presentation for the Meijer Hometown Hero.

Graduates from the Kane County Sherriff’s Office Junior Deputy Program (JDMP) will also be in attendance and honored on the field. The JDMP helps students between the ages of 14-17 build their self-esteem while providing insight into the professional life of law enforcement officers in an effort to build trust between the Sherriff’s Office and the community.

Other highlights for First Responders Night include a pre-game performance by Beatles tribute band, American English, in the Acres Music Garden from 4:45-6 PM while the always hilarious ZOOperstars! will provide in-game entertainment. Gates will open at 4:30 PM.

For updates throughout the season on tickets and promotions follow the Cougars on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

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 157 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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

Show your appreciation for our Veterans Friday, 7/28

The Toledo Mud Hens will be saying thanks to those who have served our country, during Veterans Appreciation Night presented by Owens Community College on Friday, July 28. Please join us at Fifth Third Field that evening to honor all current and former military service personnel, as well as our police officers and firefighters.

VETERANS APPRECIATION NIGHT FESTIVITIES

Our pregame ceremonies will include a Color Guard and ceremonial first pitches. Each unit/detachment in attendance will be recognized on our video board as well as during our radio/TV broadcast.

JERSEY/BAT RAFFLE

Stop by our raffle table on the main concourse for your chance to win a Mud Hens team-signed jersey or a team-signed bat. Raffle tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20. Proceeds will benefit U.S. Veterans Inc., a local veterans support organization.

TICKETS FOR ACTIVE MILITARY PERSONNEL

Special $12 tickets are available to veterans and active military personnel and their families. Order tickets here by using the promo code VETS.

DONATE TICKETS TO VETERANS

Show your appreciation for the sacrifices made by our veterans by donating tickets for veterans to attend a Mud Hens game. Contact our box office at 419-725-HENS.

The Toledo Mud Hens will take on the Rochester Red Wings Friday, July 28 at 7:05 p.m.

GAME TICKET ($15) – BUY TICKETS

What you get:

  • July 28 Mud Hens game ticket
  • Postgame fireworks

Click the links to check out the menus and make reservations:

NINE at Hensville: ninehensville.com | Chef Tony has put together a menu that he describes as “traditional Americana” where he uses local ingredients from area farms and producers to create made-from-scratch dishes with a modern taste and composition. NINE is housed in the former Folger Butcher Shop, a historic 1865 building. Exposed brick, reclaimed wood and handcrafted tables give NINE a casual vibe that fits a fun, downtown, neighborhood restaurant.

Fleetwood’s Tap Room: fleetwoodshensville.com | Have a drink at Hensville’s new craft beer bar, located on the first floor of the Fleetwood Building across the street from Fifth Third Field. Fleetwood’s Tap Room features 48 beers on draft, a wide selection of whiskeys, an eclectic menu, and an outstanding outdoor patio that overlooks Hensville Park.

BirdCage Bar & Grill: birdcagebarandgrill.com | The BirdCage Bar and Grill is located on the Club Level at Fifth Third Field and provides incredible views of the on-field action! Your ticket to the Mud Hens game gives you entry to the BirdCage, where you and your guests will enjoy a great dining experience created by Chef Tony House, featuring a display of hand-carved meats, antipasti, classic salad, and seasonal entrees.

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

San Jose Giants Unveil San Jose Police Department Hat

San Jose, CA– On Friday, July 21, the San Jose Giants will welcome to Municipal Stadium local police officers, fire fighters, EMT’s, and paramedics along with all the brave men and women who serve and protect our community for First Responder’s Night, presented by Alliance Credit Union. During the game, our team will don fire-department-inspired jerseys which fans can bid on with proceeds benefiting the San Jose Fire Department Los Bomberos. Additionally, all first responders who show their badge or ID at the Box Office will receive complimentary admission for themselves and their families.

The San Jose Giants are also proud to announce that they have collaborated with the San Jose Police Department in releasing an all-new, SJPD-themed, On-field New Era 59FIFTY cap for First Responder’s Night. The navy colored hat features the San Jose Police emblem and yellow ‘PD’ lettering with the team’s ‘SJ’ logo in white. Beginning July 21, fans can purchase the SJPD New Era fitted hat in the San Jose Giants Dugout Store. All first responders will receive a special 10% discount. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of each hat will go to benefit the Police Amateur Athletics Foundation (PAAF).

“We are grateful to have had the opportunity to team with the San Jose Police Department in designing this new hat and will wear them proudly in recognition of the police department and all that they do to serve and protect our town,” said Juliana Paoli, Senior Vice President of Communications and Chief Marketing Officer. “I would encourage fans to pick up a cap of their own and show their pride for our local law enforcement. Not only is it great looking but each purchase will also benefit an incredibly praiseworthy foundation.”

The San Jose Giants are also proud to collaborate with the San Jose Fire Department for the second consecutive season in deputing an on-field SJFD-inspired jersey. Fans will have the opportunity to bid on these jerseys and take them right off our Giant’s backs and receive an autograph after the game on the field. Proceeds will benefit the San Jose Fire Department Los Bomberos Toy Drive. Los Bomberos grants the gift of Christmas to thousands of families in our community every holiday.

Additionally, the San Jose Giants are teaming up with one of their partners, Strike Brewing Company, to help raise awareness and funds for the night. On Friday, July 21 and Saturday, July 22, Strike will be handing out BOGO tickets at their taproom, located on South 10th Street, and be donating $1 for every pint of their newest beer poured, Night Train 26 Pale Ale, to the San Jose Firefights Burn Foundation. Furthermore, during the San Jose Giants game on First Responder’s Night, Strike will be pouring Night Train 26 Pale Ale out of the Strike Brewing Stand at Municipal Stadium.

Other highlights of the evening include a special pregame ceremony with first responder vehicles lining the field; an SJPD Air Two Helicopter landing; ceremonial first pitches featuring the Assistant Chief of Police, Dave Knof; the SJFD Chief Curtis Jacobson and Alliance Credit Union President and CEO, Brian Dorcy; an Alliance Credit Union Hometown Hero presentation and postgame fireworks. The Giants will take on the Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate, the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes. First pitch is at 7:00 PM and gates open at 5:30 PM. For more information on tickets, call 408.297.1435 or visit sjgiants.com.

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

Police Foundation Night July 19

CORPUS CHRISTI – Corpus Christi Police Foundation Night at Whataburger Field is Wednesday, July 19, as the Hooks play host to the Frisco RoughRiders.

Ballpark gates open at 6:05, with first pitch scheduled for 7:05.

Reserved-seat tickets for Corpus Christi Police Foundation Night are $10, and a portion of the proceeds benefit the organization. To order, contact Tanner Twomey at 361-561-4718 or ttwomey@cchooks.com.

The Corpus Christi Police Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization formed by business leaders to support the Corpus Christi Police Department. Donations made by individuals, corporations, and foundations fund special programs, officer training, equipment, and new technology, none of which are considered under the city budget.

The CCPF’s mission: To create a safer Corpus Christi by strengthening the bond between the CCPD and the citizens it serves. With community support, we can help foster a better-equipped, better-trained police force, and a better-informed and more engaged public.

H-E-B is presenting sponsor of the Corpus Christi Police Foundation.

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

Homestand Will Salute Service People!

The Hillcats will kick off a six-game homestand on the 4th of July that will include the Salute to Service People Weekend. Fans can enjoy a pair of fireworks shows and a trio of giveaways to kick off July!

Celebrate Independence Day on Tuesday, July 4th with the Hillcats as they begin a three-game series with the Wilmington Blue Rocks at 6:30 p.m. The gates will open at 5:00 p.m. and we’ll have our largest postgame fireworks show of the year following the game presented by Kroger & Westover Dairy! And come dressed in your finest red, white & blue apparel for our photo booth. The best photos will be displayed on the video board during the game!

Promotions Calendar

The series with Wilmington will continue on Wednesday, July 5th at 6:30 p.m. Every Wednesday home game is a Winning Wednesday presented by 89.9 WNRN where you’ll receive a free ticket to the next Wednesday home game on 7/26! Gates will open at 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, July 6th is a 6:30 p.m. start time. The gates will open at 5:30 p.m. for a Thirsty Thursday presented by Miller Lite, Yuengling & 97.9 FM The Planet where we’ll have game-long Happy Hour specials! It’s also a GLTC and RIDE Solutions Bike to the Ballpark Night so ride your bicycle to the game for $1 off admission.

The Salem Red Sox will come to town for a three-game series starting on Friday, July 7th at 6:30 p.m. We’re kicking off Salute to Service People Weekend with free admission for all active and retired military that evening! The gates will open at 5:30 p.m. for a FANtastic Friday Giveaway where the first 1,000 fans will receive a free Hillcats Patriotic Cap presented by Foster Fuels, Inc. and 105.5 KD Country.

View Schedule

Saturday, July 8th will be a 6:00 p.m. start time. The gates will open at 5:00 p.m. for our 9th Annual Autism Awareness Night presented by Physicians Treatment Center. The first 1,000 fans in attendance will receive a free commemorative t-shirt and fans can make a donation at the Box Office to Commonwealth Autism. For more information on Commonwealth Autism, visit www.autismva.org. We’ll also have fireworks after the game!

The homestand will wrap up on Sunday, July 9th with our 10th Annual Guns & Hoses Charity Softball Game where the Lynchburg Police Department will face off against the Lynchburg Fire Department. The gates will open at 2:00 p.m. which is when we will start giving away a free commemorative t-shirt to the first 1,000 fans in attendance. The Guns & Hoses Softball game will begin at 2:45 p.m. and the Hillcats will play the Salem Red Sox at 5:00 p.m. All proceeds from the evening will benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association and the Special Olympics! That evening is also a Family Funday Sunday presented by ABC 13. Purchase 4 for $40 Family 4-Packs at the Box Office which include 4 GA tickets and 4 hot dog combos. Families can run the bases and play catch in the outfield after the Hillcats game and check out our social media pages at the handle @lynhillcats for Social Sunday online deals. It’s also a Virginia529 Smart Savers Sunday with free admission if you show your Smart Savers Card at the Box Office. Virginia529 College Savings Plan is the official college savings plan of the Hillcats, visit www.virginia529.com/smartsavers for more information.

So come out and cheer on your First-Half Northern Division Champions! Fans can purchase tickets for any of these games by calling the box office at (434) 528-1144 or by going online. Ticket purchases can also be made in person at the Lynchburg City Stadium Ticket Office (Mon-Fri. 9am-5pm). Hillcats Baseball…It’s Purrrrrfect!

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

Catch ‘Battle of the Badges’ softball Sunday, July 16

A local rivalry is renewed: the Toledo Police vs. Toledo Fire feud will be settled on the diamond at Fifth Third Field, during the Battle of the Badges charity softball game on Sunday, July 16. The 7-inning contest will start approximately one hour following the conclusion of the Toledo Mud Hens vs. Columbus Clippers game which starts at 4 p.m.

Enjoy a great day out at the ballpark while supporting a great cause. Battle of the Badges tickets are $13 and are good for both games, and include a $2 donation to Toledo Police and Toledo Firefighters Local 92 Charities.

BATTLE OF THE BADGES TICKET ($13) – BUY TICKETS

Note: when ordering online use the promo code TPD or TFD.

What you get:

  • July 16 Mud Hens game ticket
  • Battle of the Badges softball game

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

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Tampa Yankees to Recognize “Everyday Heroes” in July 4th Celebration

Tampa, Fla. – The Tampa Yankees invite fans to celebrate Independence Day at George M. Steinbrenner Field on Tuesday, July 4th. Gates will open at 6:00 p.m. and the T-Yanks will battle the Fort Myers Miracle at 7:00 p.m. After the game, fans can witness a fireworks extravaganza.

As a thank you to our “Everyday Heroes,” the T-Yanks will offer free admission to all EMT, firefighters, police and military personnel with a valid identification.

Players and coaches will be wearing custom camouflage jerseys that will be available in an online auction at tampayankees.milbauctions.com. The auction will run through the end of the season, with the proceeds benefiting “My Warrior’s Place.”

“This program assists our local heroes and their families who have suffered a catastrophic event, such as a life-threatening disease, fire or flood. Realizing money is not the only thing needed during a time of crisis, we meet practical needs as well. Individuals and local business owners help meet those needs at no cost to the family. Our program matches individuals and families with available resources within our community.” – www.mywarriorsplace.org.

In addition, fans can take advantage of a July 4th Four-Pack Ticket Offer: Four lower reserved tickets, four Dellin Betances bobbleheads and four TY camouflage hats for $40.00. This offer is exclusively available online while supplies last and will run until July 3rd at 11:59 p.m. Four-packs will not be sold on the day of the game. To purchase a four-pack, fans can click here.

To purchase single tickets for the “July 4th Celebration,” fans can visit the George M. Steinbrenner Field Box Office or go online to www.tybaseball.com. Tickets start at $5 for upper reserved seating, $8 for lower reserved seating, and parking is always free.

The Tampa Yankees are the Single-A Advanced Affiliate of the New York Yankees. For more information, call (813) 673-3055 or visit www.tybaseball.com.

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

D-Braves Invite First Responders, Teachers to Appreciation Nights

DANVILLE, Va. – The Danville Braves today announced two additional promotional nights for the 2017 season – First Responders Night (July 20) and Teacher Appreciation Night (August 10). On each night, the Braves will offer $2 General Admission tickets to first responders and teachers, respectively. Both appreciation nights fall on Thirsty Thursdays presented by Buffalo Wild Wings when fans can purchase discounted fountain and draft beverages.

All firefighters, police, EMTs, and other first responders can purchase tickets in advance at the D-Braves offices or at the gate on First Responders Night, Thursday, July 20. Teachers may also purchase tickets in advance or at the gate on Teacher Appreciation Night, Thursday, August 10.

To view the complete promotional schedule or purchase tickets for any 2017 home game, visit dbraves.com.

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

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Sky Sox Host Heroes Classic Batting Practice

On a beautiful afternoon at Security Service Field, batting practice was in full swing. The crack of the bat filled the air as baseballs from the Colorado Springs coaching staff flew through the high altitude.

It was the beginning of another home game for the Sky Sox, but the top Brewers prospects weren’t in the cages this time around.

Instead, members of the Colorado Springs service community stood in the batter’s box, as representatives of the Colorado Springs Police Department, Colorado Springs Fire Department and the Colorado Springs chapter of the Wounded Warriors Project gathered to help kick off the 2017 Heroes Classic.

“It’s always fun to meet people that protect and serve our country,” said Sky Sox Manager Rick Sweet. “Any time I get an opportunity to spend time with these people and for my players to spend quality time with these people is always a great for them and for us.”

The annual batting practice was part of the Heroes Classic schedule, which aims to raise money and support for the men and women of the Colorado Springs community that choose to protect and serve the freedom and rights both at home and abroad.

“It’s an honor to serve the citizens of Colorado Springs and be able to do the things that I do,” said CSFD’s Ryan Pighetti, a 10-year firefighter at Station 17. “Being recognized for something like this is just icing on the cake. I have service inside of me and that’s why I do what I do.”

Pighetti and many others from across the three organizations had the opportunity to step onto the field and interact with players who share common values of hard work, determination, camaraderie and sacrifice.

“We talked about the camaraderie between the fire department, between their teammates, and a lot of it is the same,” said Pighetti. “These guys have put just as much hard work and determination into their career as I’ve put into my career to get to where we’ve ended up to this point.”

“It’s incredible when our warriors and their family members can come out on the field with professional baseball players and take some swings in the batting cages,” said Greg Monck, Alumni Manager for the Colorado Springs chapter of the Wounded Warrior Project. “It’s an awesome time for them and it helps get them out of the house and hang out with their families.”

For the Sox, an event such as the Heroes Classic batting practice allows the team to show gratitude for those who allow them to play their favorite game.

“For the players, it gives them a chance to touch base with people that allow us to have fun playing the sport that we get to play,” said Sweet. “It’s because of our warriors and the police and fire departments that we have the freedom to play baseball.”

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

Chiefs Announce Pete Vonachen Community Service Award

PEORIA, IL – The Peoria Chiefs and Humana have announced creation of the Pete Vonachen Community Service Award designed to honor individuals from Central Illinois who are making a positive difference in their community. Nominations will be accepted online throughout the season.

The awards are designed to honor those who have gone above and beyond in their Central Illinois community in the spirit of Pete Vonachen who successfully impacted the Peoria area throughout his life. Nominees could be firefighters, police officers, first responders, volunteers, teachers, doctors, good Samaritans or the neighbor down the street who is always helping those who need it.

      Fans can go to the nomination page to nominate their favorite Humana Community All-Star by providing information and a reason why they are an unsung Humana Community All-Star deserving of recognition.

The Chiefs will honor a finalist at five different games this season: May 20, June 10, July 4, July 29 and August 12. Then on September 1 the overall Humana Community All-Star of the 2017 season will be honored at the final regular season game of the season.

Tickets and Promotions:

Season ticket packages, including full-season, a 35-game ticket package, an 18-game ticket package, a Flex Plan or Pick-Six Plan are currently on sale by calling 309-680-4000. Individual game tickets are also on sale with the Dozer Park Box Office open Monday – Friday from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm and online at www.peoriachiefs.com which also lists all of the season’s promotions. Game times and promotions are subject to change.

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

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Cougars Rebrand Annual 5K To Honor Local First Responders

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced the 6th annual 5K Run/Walk will take place on Saturday, June 3 at Northwestern Medicine Field beginning at 8 a.m. The charitable event will take on a new look from years past as the Cougars organization continues to grow their charitable outreach. Renamed the Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders, presented by Planet Fitness, a portion of the proceeds from the race will benefit the TriCity (Batavia, Geneva and St. Charles) Police and Fire Departments, the Kane County Sheriff’s Office and the Forest Preserve District of Kane County Police Department.

Registration is now open for the event at kccougars.com as well as raceroster.com.

“Planet Fitness is very excited to be sponsoring this year’s Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders,” said Mike Horan, Managing Partner at Planet Fitness. “We would like to thank First Responders for all they do in our community. Planet Fitness is looking forward to promoting health and fitness throughout the community.”

The Cougars 5K, which features chip timing, will take on a new course along both Kirk Road and Fabayan Parkway. Additional course details will be announced at a later date.

This year’s event will also include the “Cougars Inside the Park Dash” for children through age 12. The roughly half-mile fun run, held inside the ballpark, will take place at the conclusion of the Cougars 5K Run/Walk for just $5 per child.

For the first time in the history of the Cougars annual 5K event, Kane County Board Chairman, Chris Lauzen, will be serving as the Official Starter for the Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders.

“We’re very excited about the new direction that the Cougars 5K has taken on,” said Cougars owner, Dr. Bob Froehlich. “The additional element of honoring first responders continues to expand our charitable outreach throughout the community while allowing us to continue the Cougars tradition of hosting family-friendly events.”

Open to both competitive runners and recreational walkers, the Cougars host one of the most unique 5K events in the Chicagoland area. The finish line, located at home plate, allows participants to be seen on the ballpark’s videoboard through a live-feed camera while also receiving high-fives from Ozzie and Annie T. Cougar down the final stretch of the race course. Families with children are encouraged to participate as strollers are permitted on the course with a special discounted rate for participants between the ages of 5-18 years old.

Those registered by May 24 are guaranteed a commemorative race t-shirt featuring the new Cougars 5K logo while all participants will receive a complimentary ticket voucher valid for any game during the 2017 season. The top three male and female finishers in 14 age groups will receive a custom race medal featuring the Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders logo, courtesy of Image Awards, Engraving & Creative Keepsakes, Inc. of Geneva.

Following the race, participants can enjoy a variety of refreshments including a complimentary hot dog, brat and beer for those 21 and older.

Individuals who register by March 24 can take advantage of early bird pricing with a special $28 fee. Following the early bird registration, pricing will increase to $33 until May 31 and then $38 until race day on June 3.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for up to date information regarding tickets and promotions.

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 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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

RoughRiders donate to Jerry Walker Fund

The RoughRiders Foundation presented a $3,000 check to the Jerry Walker Fund on Tuesday in Little Elm. (Frisco RoughRiders)

FRISCO, Texas (February 14, 2017) – The Frisco RoughRiders today donated $3,000 to the Jerry Walker Fund in a check presentation alongside the Little Elm Police Department.

Little Elm Chief of Police Rodney W. Harrison and several officers attended the event at the Little Elm Public Safety Building, with the check presented on behalf of the RoughRiders by Breon Dennis, Executive Director of RoughRiders Foundation.

“On behalf of the Little Elm Police Department, I would like to thank the RoughRiders Baseball organization for their support of the Walker Family and LEPD,” Chief of Police Harrison said. “We sincerely appreciate the entire baseball community for their contributions to the Jerry Walker Fund and the care they have shown to the men and women of our police force. We could not ask for better neighbors.”

Funds were raised during the Texas Rangers Winter Caravan at Dr Pepper Ballpark on Jan. 28.

Walker died in the line of duty on Jan. 17. He left behind a wife and four children.

About the Jerry Walker Fund

Donations can be made to the Assist the Officer Foundation, Attn: Jerry Walker Fund, 1412 Griffin St. East, Dallas, TX 75215.

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play their games at beautiful Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance in each of the last 12 seasons (2005-2016). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg and Scott Sonju. The new ownership group, together with the city of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise improvements over the past two seasons, investing more than $7 million in a wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including a new state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store, and the newest and biggest creation, the 174-foot Choctaw Lazy River. The upgrades made prior to the 2015 season earned the Riders and the City of Frisco “Best Ballpark Renovation” of 2015 by Ballpark Digest. The same publication also honored the Choctaw Lazy River as the best ballpark improvement over $1 million for the 2016 season. More than 140 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball, including All-Stars Chris Davis, Adrian Gonzalez, Ian Kinsler, and Nelson Cruz, as well as current Rangers stars Elvis Andrus, Rougned Odor, and Nomar Mazara. For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders and Dr Pepper Ballpark, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact Art Garcia at AGarcia@RidersBaseball.com or Ryan Rouillard at RRouillard@RidersBaseball.com.

Legends’ donations for 2016 top $1,000,000

Big L and the Legends welcomed Girl Scouts to Whitaker Bank Ballpark for a campout May 6. More than 330 girls spent the night at the ballpark. The Girl Scouts were one of many organizations who received support from Legends’ community programs in 2016.

             (WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK, Lexington, Ky.) The Lexington Legends made donations totaling $1,000,763 in 2016 to a variety of non-profit organizations serving central Kentucky.

In its 16-year history, the Legends organization has donated close to $15 million to the region.

“The Legends are proud to be part of this community and region,” said Legends President/CEO Andy Shea. “We will continue to provide support to these great organizations that do so much good work.”

Among the organizations and causes who benefited from events and programs in 2016 were:

Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts:  Overnight campouts for Boy Scouts (August 18) and Girl Scouts (May 6) were held following Legends games at Whitaker Bank Ballpark. The scouts sold nearly 1,000 donated game tickets to raise funds for their organizations. About 700 scouts participated in the campouts.

                Breast Cancer Research and Awareness: The Legends held Breast Cancer Awareness Night at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on July 9. Funds raised through an auction of pink jerseys and pink bases used during the Legends game that night, along with t-shirt sales, benefited Kentucky Cancer Link, which serves breast cancer patients on a personal basis by reducing or eliminating barriers to screening, diagnosis and treatment; The Markey Cancer Center, established in 1983 as a Comprehensive Cancer Center; and Susan G. Komen, the world’s largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer. The Legends and LBX held a celebration lunch, with proceeds going to those same three organizations.

                Military Appreciation Night: The Legends’ Military Appreciation night was held on June 25. It included an auction of jerseys to benefit Military Missions, a local non-profit organization that supports troops in a variety of ways, including the sending of care packages with personal items and snacks to military personnel.

                Bark in the Park: The Legends held 12 “Bark in the Park” nights during the 2016 season. Dog owners were invited to bring their dogs to the game, and a two-dollar “admission” charge for each dog was donated to the Scott County Humane Society.

Guns and Hoses Softball Game:  The Legends provide the setting for the Guns and Hoses game, which matches the Lexington Police Department against the Lexington Fire Department in a softball game and home run derby. The winning team takes home a trophy, and the loser receives a toilet seat as the runner-up prize. More than 2,000 people attended the 2016 game.

Community Organization of the Night:  The Legends provide an opportunity for a local non-profit organization to step into the spotlight at a Legends home game. Organizations may set up an information table on the concourse, and a representative is interviewed on the field before the game and on radio during the game.    Organizations who purchased discounted tickets for re-sale as a fundraiser also received 25% of the proceeds from that night’s 50-50 raffle. (The Legends Charitable Fund also received 25%, and the fan holding the winning ticket received 50%.)

                Hit the Books Reading Program: Geared toward elementary schools, the Legends’ Hit the Books Reading Program is designed to encourage students to read, both in school and away from school.    The Legends gave away 33,000 Hit the Books bookmarks to students in central Kentucky in 2016. (A winning bookmark design is selected from students’ entries.) Those who complete the Hit the Books reading program are awarded two tickets to a Legends home game.

Field of Dreams: The Paul Miller Ford Field of Dreams program allows youth baseball and softball players to be part of pre-game festivities. Members of the youth teams are introduced to the fans and take the field along with the Legends starters. Teams are selected at random from registrations received at Field of Dreams sponsor locations.   Team members receive complimentary admission to the game. The Legends hosted 80 Field of Dreams teams in 2016.

           Legends Character Award at William Wells Brown Elementary:   Every nine weeks during the school year, 19 students from William Wells Brown Elementary School in Lexington are selected to receive the Legends Character Award. The award is designed to motivate students to demonstrate good behavior and a great attitude. The students are nominated by their classroom teachers. Winners are publicly recognized and personally congratulated by the Legends’ Big L.

Kids Area:   At every Legends home game in 2016, Lafayette High School cheerleaders volunteered to work in the Aetna Kids Play Area to raise money for their cheer program. The Legends made a $7,500 donation to the program.

Go Red Night: The American Heart Association and St. Joseph Health Care System sponsored a “Go Red” Night June 3 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark, where fans received information on the dangers and risks of heart disease. Free blood pressure checks and presentations of information were provided throughout the game.

Donation requests:  The Legends donate tickets, memorabilia or merchandise to as many organizations as possible. Tickets are used by members of the non-profit organizations or for auctions to raise funds for those organizations. The Legends fulfilled more than 300 donation requests in 2016.

  United Way of the Bluegrass:  Donors to the annual United Way of the Bluegrass campaign receive two free box seat tickets to a Legends home game. In 2016, the Legends donated 23,333 tickets for use by the United Way.

St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Scholarship Program: At the end of every baseball season, the Legends hold a silent auction for the jerseys worn by the players during home games. Proceeds go to the St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Scholarship Program.

                Fundraising tickets:   The Legends offer schools, teams and other organizations an opportunity to buy tickets at a discounted price and raise funds by selling the tickets at the regular price. More than 5,000 tickets were purchased at the discount rate for fundraising in 2016.

For more information on the Legends’ community programs, contact Sarah Bosso at 859-422-7847 or sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com

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

Shuckers Hit Home Run with Community Contributions and Initiatives in 2016

BILOXI, MS – During the Biloxi Shuckers second season, the team continued to give back to the community. The Shuckers have become a resource for local organizations including non-profits and schools by helping to raise funds and awareness through various methods.

The Shuckers and its concessionaire, Spectra Food Services & Hospitality raised over $178,000 for local nonprofits and donated over $30,000 of in-kind contributions. Through Shuckers initiatives including the Ticket Fundraising Program, In-Stadium Auctions and Spectra NFP Fundraising Program which benefits qualified local 501 (c) (3) nonprofit groups through concessions, the club led the ten-member Southern League for In-Stadium Fundraising.

Among the highlights of the organization’s 2016 charitable work included providing a platform for: Habitat for Humanity, Biloxi Miracle League, Mississippi Center for Autism and Related Learning Disabilities, Jackson County Animal Shelter, Memorial Hospital Foundation and Favre 4 Hope, Special Olympics, Salvation Army of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, ALS Association, American Cancer Society and Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art.

“We give back to our community because we believe we have a responsibility to do so,” stated Shuckers Community Relations and Promotions Coordinator Jenifer Truong. “Whether it’s local schools or non-profits, the Shuckers offer not only a chance to raise funds for your organization, but also awareness to a large audience.”

In addition to the organization’s charitable contributions, Shuckers’ season ticket holders donated just over 1,500 tickets to local non-profits, military personnel and their families, and first responders. The organization also made frequent mascot and player appearances in the community and members of the Shuckers front office also joined forces to record over 200 hours of community service in 2016.

Spectra’s NFP program seeks to provide qualified nonprofit groups and civic organizations a unique fundraising opportunity. Groups provide volunteers to assist with concession stand operations as cashiers, vendors, and stand workers. Those organizations work to reach fundraising goals while providing great service to fans.

“Involving area nonprofit organizations in our operation has helped us hit a home run with the community and Shuckers’ fans,” said Spectra General Manager Mike Brulatour. “Since the opening of MGM Park in June 2015, thousands of volunteers have raised over $300,000 for their respective charities. The commitment and dedication of these volunteers has enabled us to provide a consistent level of exceptional customer service to our patrons while supporting the Mississippi Gulf Coast communities which we serve. Spectra Food Services and Hospitality strives to be a strong partner with the Biloxi Shuckers and a valued member of the Gulf Coast business community.”

Organizations interested in partnering with Spectra or the Shuckers may contact Mike Brulatour at mike_brulatour@comcastspectacor.com or Jenifer Truong at jtruong@biloxishuckers.com.

The Biloxi Shuckers are the Double-A Affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The Shuckers play at MGM Park in Biloxi, Mississippi. For more information please visit biloxishuckers.com and follow us on Twitter @biloxishuckers and at facebook.com/biloxishuckers.com.

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

Firefighter Donations Being Accepted at McCormick Field

ASHEVILLE, NC— Firefighter donations are now being accepted at the McCormick Field ServPro Box Office. Donations to local firefighters may be made during the stadium hours of operation of 8:30am-5:30pm, Monday-Friday. All donors will receive a pair of complimentary tickets to a future, select Asheville Tourists game.

Items that firefighters are in need of:

-Bottled Water

-Bottles of Powerade

-Beef Jerky

-Lip Balm

-Eye Drops

-Burt’s Bees Facial Moisturizer

-Baby Wipes

-Lotion

-Shampoo and Conditioner

-Shaving Supplies

All donations will be distributed to firefighters as they battle nearby forest fires.

Please direct any questions or interview requests to Doug Maurer at (828) 258-0428 ext. 203 or dmaurer@theashevilletourists.com.

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