Spokane County Fair & Expo Center and the Spokane Indians Team Up for Wildfire Relief

SPOKANE, WA – The Spokane County Fair & Expo Center and the Spokane Indians baseball team have teamed up to help support the firefighting efforts in the region. Firefighters from all over the state have been using the Spokane County Fair & Expo Center and parking areas of Avista Stadium as a staging area while they work to contain the fires that started last week.

“We are pleased to be able to work together with the Spokane Indians and use our combined resources to aid these firefighters,” said Rich Hartzell, Director of the Spokane County Fair & Expo Center. “Both parties have made concerted efforts to help during this busy time of year in order to protect the safety of our community.”

The baseball team’s Military Appreciation Night on Saturday, August 27 was originally scheduled to have post-game fireworks, but the area typically used for the promotion is being utilized by the Incident Management Teams as a base camp to fight wildfires near Spokane.

“We want to thank the Spokane County Fair & Expo Center and the Spokane Indians for being such great hosts,” said Matt Ugaldea, Unit Leader Pacific Northwest Incident Management Team 11. “They have been very accommodating and allowed us to concentrate our efforts on fighting the area’s fires.”

In lieu of the post-game fireworks on Saturday, the Spokane Indians, the Spokesman-Review, and KHQ will make a donation to local wildfire victims.

“We felt it was important for the team to step up and help those affected by the recent wildfires,” said Chris Duff, General Manager for the Spokane Indians. “It has been inspiring to see our community rally together in support of those in need.”

For more information, please contact the Indians at (509) 535-2922 or mail@spokaneindians.com.

About the Indians

The Indians are the Short Season Class “A” affiliate for the Texas Rangers. For more information, please visit www.spokaneindians.com or call (509) 343-6886 (OTTO).

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

Mets to take part in CommUNITY initiative Friday

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. – Minor League Baseball recently unveiled the CommUNITY initiative program to encourage fans to come together and stand up against discrimination and violence. The St. Lucie Mets are proud to participate in the program that is in response to recent tragedies and tension in communities across the country.

The Mets CommUNITY initiative will take place during the third inning of Friday’s second game vs. the Palm Beach Cardinals. MiLB’s goal is to get all 160 MiLB teams involved and have their fans leave a game feeling inspired with a sense of unity.

Upon entering Tradition Field, fans will be given signs that read “Community Means” and the fans can fill in the blank of what community means to them. The fans and players will stand up and hold the signs in solidarity in the middle of the third inning.

“Our ballparks have long been a place of fun and enjoyment, providing a break from the ills of today’s society,” said Minor League Baseball President and CEO, Pat O’Conner. “The CommUNITY initiative aims to urge fans to take action in their communities and to promote unity, understanding, acceptance and inclusion.”

Friday’s doubleheader starts at 4 p.m. It is also First Responders Appreciation Night, which ties in with the CommUNITY initiative.

In addition to various activities at the ballpark, Minor League Baseball teams and their fans can participate in the initiative on social media using #MiLBCommUNITY to pledge their plan to create positive change.

For more information, contact Kasey Blair at 772-871-2115.

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

Miracle host Unity in the Community and Craft Beer Fest

FORT MYERS, Fla. (August 12, 2016) – On Saturday, August 13, the Miracle will be hosting a night to celebrate the hard work and courage of our local first responders on an evening of Unity in the Community featuring the return of the Craft Beer Fest and Beer, Baseball and Boom!

All first responders and one guest will receive complimentary admission to a 6:05 p.m. game against the Charlotte Stone Crabs. Gates open at 5 p.m. There will be several first responders in uniform, vehicles on site, a marching band in front of the stadium and displays for fans.

Units that will be at the ballpark include the Fort Myers Coast Guard, the Charlotte County Police Department, the Cape Coral Police Department, the Collier County Police Department, the Florida Highway Patrol, the Lee County Sheriff’s Department, the Fort Myers Police Department, the Fort Myers Fire Department, Bayshore Fire Department, the North Fort Myers Fire Department, South Trail Fire Department, the Iona-McGregor Fire Department and the Cape Coral Fire Department.

In addition to First Responder’s Night, the Miracle have the annual Beer, Baseball and Boom event presented by Killebrew Rootbeer, 95.3 OLZ and Fox 4. For $22 in advance and $25 on Saturday, fans receive a ticket to the game and a wristband for unlimited sampling of over 40 craft beers from 5-7 p.m. First responders and their guests can purchase the Craft Beer Fest wristband at the Fort Points by Sheraton Guest Services booth on the main concourse for $14.

Connoisseurs of ales, lagers, pilsners and stouts will sophisticate their palettes with the likes of Bury Me Brewing’s Cold Dead Hands, Old Soul Brewing’s Defector, 3 Daughters’ Beach Blonde Ale, Big Storm Brewing’s Wavemaker, 21st Amendment Toaster Pastry, Cigar City Tampa Lager, Sierra Nevada Otra Vez, Riptide Paddlepuss Blonde, Fort Myers Brewing Chocolate Peanut Butter Porter and many more!

Killebrew Root Beer will also be offering free samples at the top of the stairs of the Grand Entry. Once you’ve wet your whistle, try the famous Catcher’s Mitt at the concession stand. The Catcher’s Mitt is an empanada stuffed with Asian pork covered in sweet and sour slaw and topped with cilantro lime sauce. The Miracle will also feature Italian Baseballs made of pepperoni, cheese and marinara sauce surrounded by fresh dough and fried to a golden brown perfection. There will also be delicious poutine, french fries topped with cheese curds and peppered white gravy, as well as Killebrew Root Beer Floats!

For more information on First Responder’s Night or Beer, Baseball and Boom, contact the Miracle offices at (239) 768-4210. For a full list of beers that will be available for sampling, visit www.miraclebaseball.com.

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

Round Rock Express Backs the Blue This Sunday

ROUND ROCK, Texas – For 72 games a year, the Round Rock Express rely on the help of local law enforcement, the Round Rock Police Department, to keep Dell Diamond and their fans, staff, players and coaches safe.

With the recent attacks on law enforcement and the shooting of Round Rock citizen and Travis County Sheriff Deputy Sgt. Craig Hutchinson, the Express are backing the blue this Sunday, July 31 and encouraging fans to wear blue in a stand of solidarity with local law enforcement. The Express will raffle off a team-autographed blue jersey with all proceeds from raffle ticket sales going to the family of Sgt. Hutchinson and local law enforcement agencies.

“These officers protect us every single day at the ballpark and in the community,” Express Manager Jason Wood said. “They’ve become family and when one of our family members is attacked, we rally around them. We want them to know that we stand with them and appreciate the work they do in putting on that uniform every day.”

The Express players and coaches will also wear blue uniforms on Sunday in a show of support as they take on the Memphis Redbirds at 7:05 p.m.

For more information on the Express, visit www.RoundRockExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter!

51s Present Hometown Heroes Night (Friday, May 13)

                LAS VEGAS: The Las Vegas 51s professional baseball team of the Pacific Coast League (PCL), Triple-A affiliate of the 2015 National League Champion New York Mets, will open a brief four-game homestand on Tuesday, May 10 against the El Paso Chihuahuas, Triple-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres, at Cashman Field. All games on the homestand from Tuesday-Friday, May 10-13 will begin at 7:05 p.m.

The 51s, under fourth-year manager Wally Backman, are currently playing a stretch of 16 out of 20 games on the road from May 2-22. Las Vegas is 3-3 on the eight-game road trip (2-2 vs. El Paso; 1-1 vs. Sacramento). The trip will conclude in Northern California on Monday evening against the Sacramento River Cats, Triple-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants.

The 51s organization have the proud distinction of being the longest enduring franchise in the history of professional sports in the state of Nevada.

2016 ATTENDANCE: In 14 dates, Las Vegas’ total is 76,788 for an average of 5,485. The season-high “home crowd” was an overflow sellout of 11,726 vs. Tacoma on April 28 for Fireworks/Star Wars Night. The Las Vegas franchise has reached the 300,000 plateau in “home” attendance in all 33 seasons (1983-2015). The all-time attendance total now stands at 11,054,517. The Las Vegas franchise welcomed the 11-millionth fan (Brian Johnson) during the opening homestand on April 14 vs. Sacramento.

HOMETOWN HEROES NIGHT – FRIDAY, MAY 13

               8 News Now Viva Las Vegas Fireworks (post-game show),” presented by The Orleans & Gold Coast will be featured on Hometown Heroes Night.

The GUNS AND HOSES will play a preliminary game at 5 p.m., pitting local police agencies, against local firefighters. All ticket holders will be able to come inside and watch the first responder showdown, and then stay for the rest of the festivities. At 6 p.m., there will be a static display of emergency service and patrol vehicles parked in front of Cashman Field for attendees to tour and learn about the types of vehicles and technology used to keep our community safe. A K-9 unit will also be on hand for a brief demonstration.

The 51s organization will conduct a special pre-game ceremony dedicated to recognize, support and to thank our emergency service providers including the police, fire and emergency medical providers of Southern Nevada. The “Color Guard Ceremony” will feature members of the Police and Fire Departments and including ceremonial first pitches for individuals who will be honored for their acts of heroism.

Individual police officers, firefighters and emergency personnel who have dedicated their lives to helping others will be acknowledged during the pre-game ceremony.

The 51s will have a special “thank you” announcement for the families of our local Hometown Heroes.

“The 51s organization is excited to present the annual Hometown Heroes Night at Cashman Field,” 51s President/COO Don Logan said. “We are honored to have all of the departments & organizations with ties to First Responders at the ball park for this special evening.

“We are privileged to acknowledge the members of the police, fire and emergency medical providers and for all of the important jobs that they all serve for the safety of our entire community.”

The following is the Departments & Organizations with ties to First Responders who will be at Cashman Field:

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department; City of North Las Vegas Police Department; City of Henderson Police Department; Nevada Department of Public Safety – Highway Patrol Division; Crime Prevention and Community Relations – Clark County School District Police Department; Friends of Las Vegas Metro Police Department Foundation; Clark County Fire Department; City of Las Vegas Fire Department; City of North Las Vegas Fire Department; City of Henderson Fire Department; Henderson Firefighters Benevolent Association; Special Olympics; Operation FireHEAT; Save the Fire Truck.

Budweiser Dollar Beer Night will also be presented on Thursday, May 12 in game three of the four-game series against El Paso. Dollar Beer Night will be featured at every Thursday home game during the 2016 season. Proper identification and wristbands are required for dollar beer night.

El Paso’s roster features two of the top 10 prospects in the Padres organization, according to Baseball America: Top prospect: outfielder Manuel Margot (No. 2) and outfielder Hunter Renfroe (No. 3).

Former Las Vegas 51s first baseman James Loney is also a member of the El Paso roster. Loney played two seasons for Las Vegas (2006-07, Triple-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers) and was the 2006 PCL Batting Champion with a .380 average (98 games, 139-for-366, 33 doubles, 8 HR, 67 RBI). The .380 average is a Las Vegas single-season franchise record.

Four Las Vegas players in franchise history (1983 – present) have recorded PCL Batting Titles: John Kruk (.351, 1985); Loney in 2006; Terry Tiffee (.378, 2008); David Cooper (.364, 2011).

Loney has enjoyed a successful 10-year Major League career with the Dodgers (2006-12), Boston (2012) and Tampa Bay (2013-15). He has appeared in 1,343 career ML games and has a career .285 average (1,334-for-4,680) with 251 doubles, 99 home runs and 635 RBI. He was originally selected in the first round (19th overall) by the Dodgers of June 2002 First-Year Player Draft.

The 51s will broadcast all games on Lotus Broadcasting on NBC Sports Radio AM 920 ‘THE GAME’, which will carry live all 144 regular season games. Also, all games will be available on the 51s website (Major League Baseball Advanced Media, MLBAM) at www.LV51.com. Russ Langer, the 10-time Nevada Sportscaster of the Year by the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association (NSSA), is in his 17th season behind the microphone calling 51s baseball.

All 51s games (home & away) will also be broadcast on MiLB.TV via LV51.com.

Following the homestand, Las Vegas will start a stretch of 16 straight games against the American Conference from May 14-30, beginning in Oklahoma City, Okla., against the Dodgers, Triple-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The four-game series will conclude on Tuesday, May 17. The next scheduled off day for the PCL is Wednesday, May 18. The 51s will then continue the eight-game road trip at Colorado Springs, Colo., on Thursday, May 19 against the Sky Sox, Triple-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The four-game series will conclude on Sunday, May 22.

Tickets for all 51s home games can be purchased at the America First Credit Union Box Office at Cashman Field. The box office is open Monday-Friday (non-game days) from Noon to 4:30 p.m. Tickets can also be purchased through Ticketmaster (1-800-745-3000, www.ticketmaster.com). Ticketmaster outlets are located at selected Smith’s Food & Drug.

The individual game tickets for the 72-game home season are priced at $11.00 (reserved, $12.00-Day of Game); $14.00 (plaza, $15.00-Day of Game) and $16.00 (field, $17.00-Day of Game) & the blue dugout seats at $30.00. The traditional $2.00 discount for Military personnel is offered on plaza, field and reserved seats throughout the season except for the “Fireworks Extravaganza” on Monday, July 4 (all seats priced at $16.00-presale & $17.00-Day of Game for this special event).

Season tickets and mini-plan packages (11, 22, 36-game plans) are available by calling the 51s office at (702) 798-7825.

Official licensed 51s team merchandise is available on the “Team Shop” section of the website.

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

Cardinals to observe National Law Enforcement Week during May 7 game

Springfield, MO – In honor of National Law Enforcement Week from May 10 – 16, the Springfield Cardinals are honoring law enforcement personnel throughout the Springfield area during the Thursday, May 7 game at Hammons Field.

Established by President John F. Kennedy in 1962, National Law Enforcement Week pays special recognition to law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.

“The entire Cardinals Organization has the utmost respect for all law enforcement personnel and first responders,” said Springfield Cardinals Vice President / General Manager Matt Gifford. “They are the men and women who put their lives on the line everyday to make our community the great place to live that it is, and we are honored to recognize their service and sacrifices at Hammons Field.”

As part of the evening, Springfield Police Officer Aaron Pearson, who was wounded in the line of duty on January 26, 2015, is scheduled to throw out a Ceremonial First Pitch before the game. Additionally, the Cardinals are donating $5 from every Field Box Ticket to the May 7 game ordered through the link below to Officer Pearson and his family through the Missouri Fraternal Order of Police.

To help raise funds for Officer Pearson, fans must order their tickets for the May 7 game through the dedicated link below or call Community Relations Coordinator Niki Lodholz at (417) 832-3042. First Pitch on Thursday, May 7 is scheduled for 7:10pm, with gates opening at 6:10pm.

Click here to order your tickets right now.

I Heart Cardinals T-Shirts, Friday Night Fireworks, Kolten Wong Coins and more coming up from May 5 – 8

The Cardinals hit the road for an eight-game trip, starting Monday in Northwest Arkansas with a 7:05pm First Pitch. Catch all the action live on Jock 98.7FM and SpringfieldCardinals.com, and tune in 15 minutes early for the Coyote’s Sports Cafe Pregame Show.

The Cardinals come back from the road to host the Naturals at Hammons Field from May 5 – 8. Don’t miss all of the upcoming fun, including:

-Tuesday, May 5 – Give Ozarks I Heart Cardinals T-Shirt Giveaway (2,500), presented by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, and Great Southern Bank $1 Dog Day. First Pitch is 6:30pm, gates open at 5:30pm.

-Wednesday, May 6 – Morning Baseball at Hammons Field with The Hamels Foundation Educational Day Program before the game. First Pitch is 11:10am, gates open at 10:10am.

-Thursday, May 7 – 2015 Commemorative Coin Giveaway 3 of 4 (2,500 Kolten Wong Coins) and Klement’s “Buck a Brat” Night. First Pitch is 7:10pm, gates open at 6:10pm.

-Friday, May 8 – AM Pyrotechnics Friday Night Fireworks featuring Hip Hop and R&B Music. First Pitch is 7:10pm, gates open at 6:10pm.

For information about becoming a Season Ticket Holder, organizing a Group Outing, booking a The Cup Birthday Party or ordering Individual Game Tickets right now, call the Front Office at (417) 863-2143 or visit SpringfieldCardinals.com.

Click here to view the full 2015 Schedule.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Springfield Cardinals. Click here to view the original story.

Dragons to Host Public Safety Day on April 26

Kettering Health Network and Dragons team up for Pregame Event on the Plaza

(NICK FALZERANO )
(NICK FALZERANO )

Dayton, Ohio – The Dayton Dragons announced today that Public Safety Day will be held Sunday, April 26 on the Plaza at Fifth Third Field. Kettering Health Network and the Dragons are partnering to bring this free event to the public. From noon to 2:30 p.m., families will be allowed to explore special displays featuring a fire truck, SWAT vehicles, K-9 units, an ambulance, and police cars.

Public Safety Day allows members of the Dayton community to recognize the area’s exceptional police and fire departments by letting them get up close and personal with these vehicles. Dragons mascots Heater and Gem will take photos with fans on the plaza before the game. Children will receive a free plastic emergency hat (while supplies last). There will also be raffle prizes throughout the event.

 

Sgt. Mark Spiers, Officer of the Year, will be honored during the pregame ceremony. Sgt. Spiers shows extreme empathy for fellow officers and is always reliable, often plowing snow in front of the station for patrons. He assisted a retired officer, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, acquire a wheelchair. While he is reliable, Sgt. Spiers also leads by example, never asking anything of his officers that he would not do himself.

Also during the pregame ceremony, members of the Vandalia Fire Department will be honored for their brave exhibition. The firefighters responded to a person at a local YMCA who was not breathing. They arrived at the patients side within three minutes and transported the patient to Grandview Medical Center in 37 minutes. The patient survived and left the hospital in good condition thanks to the immediate response time of the Vandalia Fire Department and the expert care at the hospital. Representing the fire department is Chad Garver who will throw out the first pitch.

More Information:  The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com.

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

Wings to Honor First Responders, Military on Opening Day

Amy Pierson to throw out 1st pitch

rochesterredwings_2015-04-08

For Opening Day on Saturday, April 11 the Rochester Red Wings will honor local police, fire fighters, emergency medical responders, military branches and their families for all they do serving this community. Over 2,000 of these local men and women will be in attendance thanks to the generosity of over 50 local businesses and individuals who donated tickets to our local heroes. Game time is 1:35 p.m. and the gates will open to fans at noon.

Red Wings players and field staff will wear commemorative hats on Saturday in honor of fallen Rochester Police Department Officer Daryl Pierson. The game-used hats will be autographed and auctioned off during the game with 100 percent of the proceeds benefitting the Rochester Police Foundation which will benefit Officer Pierson’s wife, Amy, and children; Christian and Charity. Amy will be in attendance to throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

“Opening Day is always a special day and this year figures to be no different,” General Manager Dan Mason said. “We are thrilled to host so many of our local heroes and their families at Opening Day. We look forward to honoring Officer Pierson with our commemorative cap and raising money for his family.”

Rochester opens the 2015 season in Buffalo on Thursday at 2:05 p.m.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Rochester Red Wings. Click here to view the original story.

APD Officer Golson To Throw Out First Pitch

Golson Is Recovering From Being Shot In The Line Of Duty January 3

albuquerqueisotopes_2015-04-01

Albuquerque-IsotopesAlbuquerque Police Officer Lou Golson is scheduled to throw out the first pitch for the Albuquerque Isotopes on Opening Night, April 9, when the Isotopes host the Reno Aces at 6:35 p.m.

Officer Golson was shot four times on January 3 when he initiated a traffic stop for a suspected DWI. Upon Golson approaching the vehicle, the driver flung open his door and fired five shots at Golson, striking him four times. He was shot in the leg, breaking his left femur, while another bullet penetrated his bulletproof vest. He also broke his wrist when he fell to the pavement.

Golson returned fire as the suspect fled the scene and maintained his composure to call for help on his radio. Golson was able to accurately identify the suspect, and the suspect was apprehended a few days later.

“We are honored to have Officer Golson joining us for Opening Night,” Isotopes General Manager John Traub said. “He has been making a remarkable recovery since being shot in the line of duty earlier this year, and we’re thrilled he will be able to throw out the first pitch of the 2015 season. We are very thankful for his service to the community as well as the service of all of our military members and public safety officers.”

A 31-year veteran of the Albuquerque Police Department, Golson also served in the Armed Forces in many different capacities. He’s worked a variety of beats at APD, including traffic and SWAT, but recently volunteered to return to DWI Patrol. He was also honored by MADD as a hero awardee on November 8.

Mayor Richard J. Berry, Colorado Rockies Senior Director of Player Development Zach Wilson and Isotopes President Ken Young are also scheduled to be on hand for the Opening Night festivities.

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

Barons Searching for Community Heroes

Five to be recognized on-field July 28 – August 1

Birmingham-BaronsThe Birmingham Barons announced Thursday they are searching for five Birmingham area citizens to be recognized as the team’s inaugural “Barons Community Heroes” class in 2015.

Beginning today, fans have the opportunity to nominate individuals who they believe are deserving of recognition at a Barons baseball game. By visiting Barons.com and clicking “Barons Community Heroes” on the community tab, fans will be instructed to complete a nomination form that can be submitted during home games or emailed.

Whether the nominee is currently/formerly a teacher, firefighter, law enforcement officer, military personnel or a volunteer, the Barons are looking for those who have made a difference in the Birmingham community and want to recognize those unsung heroes.

“The Barons are a community-driven business, and we believe this is a great way to give back to a community that has shown us so much support for so many years,” Barons General Manager Jonathan Nelson said. “We want to be able to give those individuals the attention and recognition they deserve for their hard work and dedication to the Birmingham area, and who better to ask for suggestions than those whose lives they have impacted most; their neighbors.”

If chosen, one person shall be recognized on-field each night July 28 – August 1 as the Barons host the Mississippi Braves at Regions Field. Nomination forms are due Sunday, May 31 at midnight.

Birmingham opens the 2015 season Thursday, April 9 as Regions Field hosts the Mobile BayBears at 7:05 p.m. To order tickets, visit Barons.com or call (205) 988-3200. For more information, visit us at www.barons.com, www.facebook.com/birminghambarons or on Twitter: @bhambarons.

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

Now accepting nominations for Local Heroes Nights to recognize community leaders

kannapolisintimidators_2015-02-26
(Ray Marsden/Kannapolis Intimidators)

 

Kannapolis-IntimidatorsThe Kannapolis Intimidators, Class A Affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, are now accepting nominations for a new “Local Heroes Night” series in 2015. Throughout the season, the Intimidators will be recognizing those who have gone above and beyond for our community by dedicating a night at the ballpark in their honor. Fans can submit nominations online at IntimidatorsBaseball.com.

*Click here to Nominate a Local Hero*

“There are people in our community that have been a hero in one way or another to those they serve. Teachers and coaches, police officers, firefighters, public servants, religious leaders, volunteers, and so many others have played such an important role in the growth and development of our community. We want to give them a chance to be recognized,” said Randy Long, Intimidators General Manager.

Local Heroes will be recognized at an Intimidators home game during the 2015 season with the opportunity to throw out a ceremonial first pitch, receive premium tickets to the game, and have their contributions to the community celebrated throughout the game. Nominations will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

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

Hometown Heroes Program Presented by MetLife Launches

RailRiders Pay Homage to Public Service, Military & More

Scranton-W-B-RailRiders-logoYour mom. Your neighbor. Your son. A classmate from long ago. Any one of them could be among the local heroes honored by the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) during the 2015 season thanks to the team’s Hometown Heroes Program presented by MetLife.

The RailRiders are calling for nominations for the initiative that will salute those that have exemplified excellence in public service. Those with service time in the military, police force, fire department, emergency medical service, volunteer activities or other related fields are eligible.

Each 2015 home game will spotlight these local heroes with recognition on the video board at PNC Field, the opportunity to throw out a ceremonial first pitch, and four field reserved seats to enjoy the game.

Entries can be sent by e-mail to HometownHeroes@swbrailriders.com or to the RailRiders’ front office at PNC Field, 235 Montage Mountain Rd., Moosic, PA 18507 with special attention to “Community Relations”. Each submission should include the potential honoree’s name, reasons for his/her nomination, a preferred month to attend for the honor and contact information (telephone number, e-mail address and a mailing address).

“This is our way of saying thank you to those that serve,” said Rachel Mark, the RailRiders’ community relations director. “It also allows us to show our respect and gratitude for the sacrifices so many of our neighbors make on a daily basis.”

The RailRiders open their 2015 season at home on April 9 against the Syracuse Chiefs (Washington Nationals). For more information please call (570) 969-BALL (2255) or visit swbrailriders.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Click here to view the original story.

RailRiders to Unfurl Banners of Honor in 2015

Team Seeks Community Input to Recognize NEPA’s Most Helpful & Courageous

Scranton-W-B-RailRiders-logoThere are many pieces to the puzzle that make up why NEPA is such a great place to live, work and play. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) believe that the people of NEPA stand at the top of that pyramid. The team would like to invite our neighbors to submit nominations for the newly-minted Banners of Honor program that will salute those that have exemplified excellence in public service. Those with service time in the military, police force, fire department, emergency medical service, volunteer activities or other related fields are eligible.

Entries can be sent by e-mail to info@swbrailriders.com or to the RailRiders front office at PNC Field, 235 Montage Mountain Rd., Moosic, PA 18507 with special attention to “Banners of Honor”. Each submission should include a summary and photo of the person being nominated. Selections will be made by Jan. 30, 2015. The selected winners will be honored with banners inside of PNC Field throughout the 2015 season.

“We believe that some of the most helpful and respected people to enter our stadium have never played on the field, but are the men and women of our community,” said Rachel Mark, the RailRiders’ community relations director.

The RailRiders open their 2015 season at home on April 9 against the Syracuse Chiefs (Washington Nationals). For more information please call (570) 969-BALL (2255) or visit swbrailriders.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Click here to view the original story.

BlueClaws Charities Makes Mark Through Community Grant Program

Awards grants to 34 non-profit organizations in 2014

LakewoodBlueClaws_2014-11-19

 

Lakewood-BlueClaws-LogoBlueClaws Charities has completed its 6th annual grant process. After analyzing the applications, BlueClaws Charities handed out grants to 34 Community Partner organizations in Monmouth & Ocean Counties.

BlueClaws Charities, a registered 501c3 organization, raises money at all 70 BlueClaws home games. A 50/50 raffle, special jersey auctions, and miscellaneous programs are used to raise money during games. The annual “Phillies Winter Banquet,” “ALS Celebrity Waiter Event,” “Bowling With the BlueClaws,” and the “BlueClaws Charities Nine & Dine Golf Outing” are additional fundraising initiatives conducted by BlueClaws Charities.

Each organization, also 501c3s, becomes eligible for a grant through a season-long partnership with the BlueClaws.

“This grant program is the culmination of the BlueClaws Charities year and we are very grateful to everyone that supports the organization in any way,” said BlueClaws Charities Executive Director Jim DeAngelis. “Without the support of the fans and donors, we would not be able to aid our magnificent Community Partner organizations.”

The following non-profit organizations received a cash grant from BlueClaws Charities (alphabetical order): ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, American Red Cross (Jersey Coast Chapter), Ashley Lauren Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ocean County, Caregivers Volunteers of Central Jersey, Central Jersey Blood Center, David’s Dream and Believe Cancer Foundation, Enable Inc., Exit 82 Theatre Company, Family Options Adoptions, Family Resource Associates, First Tee of Monmouth & Ocean Counties, Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, Go 4 the Goal, LADACIN Network, Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Fund, Monmouth County SPCA, Mya Lin Terry Foundation, NJ TEARS, Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity, Ocean County Shriners Club, Ocean County YMCA, Ocean’s Harbor House, Raising Hope for Others, RJM Sports Group, Saint Vincent DePaul Society of Ocean County, Salvation Army of Ocean County, Susan G. Komen For the Cure of Central & South Jersey, Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund, United Way of Monmouth County, United Way of Ocean County.

All Community Partners that completed the grant application were rewarded with a grant. Each partner was asked to describe the program within their organization that would benefit from the grant, with the requirement that the grant be allocated to Ocean or Monmouth County.

BlueClaws Charities, in addition to the grant program, supports hundreds of non-profit organizations with gift package donations, golf outing hole-in-one sponsorships, and specialty organizations such as OCEAN, Inc., a federal program that assists the less fortunate in the community. The “Tickets for Kids Program,” another BlueClaws Charities initiative, donates over 2,000 tickets to underserved youths in Lakewood and elsewhere in Ocean County.

Organizations that would like to become Community Partners can call Jim DeAngelis at 732-901-7000 ext 114. Community Partners raise money through a BlueClaws fundraiser outing and have the opportunity to volunteer in the FirstEnergy Park concession stands to raise additional funds. These organizations also receive exposure through on-field presentations, table displays, and on BlueClaws.com, plus they have special opportunities to hold events, such as charity walks, at FirstEnergy Park.

The Lakewood BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League and New Jersey in attendance in each year of their existence. 2015 will be their historic 15th season of family fun.

Ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com.

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

Gwinnett Braves Award October Grant to Project Paws Alive

Organization receives $1,000 “Four Legged Friends” themed grant

Gwinnett BravesThe Gwinnett Braves have announced the recipient of their $1,000 grant for the month of October. Project Paws Alive, Inc. has been awarded the “Four Legged Friends” themed grant, aimed at funding an organization that benefits animals.

Project Paws Alive was created in 2012 when the founders heard about a series of Police K-9 deaths that could have been prevented had the dogs been wearing protective ballistic vests while on duty. Since forming, the organization has worked to provide K-9 stab and bullet proof protective vests, as well as other vital K-9 equipment to Law Enforcement, Fire, Search and Rescue and Military K-9 units nationwide.

Project-Paws-AliveThe $1,000 grant awarded by the Gwinnett Braves will help Project Paws Alive in their local mission, providing protective equipment to the nine dogs in the Gwinnett County Police Department’s K-9 unit. Their goal is to raise $16,000, which will provide each K-9 with a ballistic/spike protective vest as well as a K-9 trauma kit.

“We are absolutely honored to be the recipient of this grant so generously offered by the Gwinnett Braves,” said Cheryl Allen, Co-Founder and President of Project Paws Alive. “We are pleased to announce that this particular grant will be used to purchase protective equipment for our very own Gwinnett County Police K-9 Unit.”

About Project Paws Alive, Inc.:  Based in Grayson, GA, Project Paws Alive is a nationwide 501(c) non-profit organization. They rely solely on donations and sponsors to provide life-saving K-9 equipment to Law Enforcement, Fire, Search and Rescue, EMS and Military units across the country. To learn how you can support Project Paws Alive, visit their website at projectpawsalive.org.

For more information on the Gwinnett Braves Grant Program, including details on how your organization can apply for future grants, call Community Relations Coordinator Alison Atkins at 678-277-0346 or email Alison.Atkins@braves.com.

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