5th Annual JetHawks Fundraising Workshop

 

5th Annual Lancaster JetHawks Fundraising Workshop
Come join the Lancaster JetHawks’ for our 5th annual fundraising workshop on March 10th, 2020 from 12pm-1pm. Learn how the JetHawks can help you raise awareness and funds for your organization, while also throwing a fun event for your supporters at the ballpark!

The JetHawks Fundraising Workshop will be held on Tuesday, March 10th at The Hangar, located at 45116 Valley Central Way in Lancaster. It will be from 12:00-1:00 in the JetHawks Party Suite. At the Workshop, you’ll hear from the JetHawks, as well as local non-profits who have found success partnering with the JetHawks, enjoy complimentary lunch, and have the opportunity to talk with a JetHawks representative about your organization. Plus, one lucky attendee will win $300 towards their group event!

The JetHawks partnered with over 150 local non-profits in 2019, and we want to show you why! Join us at the ballpark to talk about baseball, fundraising and how we can help you grow your organization in 2020!

To RSVP please contact Nick DiPaola at 661-726-5400 or email [email protected].

 

At the Table with The Greenville News Comes to Fluor Field March 10

 

The moment you realize your life is going to go in a different direction, and that everything you’ve worked for, and how you’ve always defined yourself, is changing.

That’s the moment six local athletes will share at the next At the Table with The Greenville News event March 10 at Fluor Field. The event in partnership with The Greenville Drive is part of The Greenville News’ culinary storytelling series, which marries illuminating personal stories and creative cuisine.

The six athletes will tell stories of passion, loss, dedication and resolve, and of the day they decided to essentially break up with their pro career.

Participating storytellers are:

  • Bretton Cameron, who retired from the Greenville Swamp Rabbits hockey team
  • Blakely Mattern, soccer player and J.L. Mann High graduate
  • John Harkes, coach of the Greenville Triumph and former USMNT soccer player
  • Levon Kirkland, former Pittsburgh Steeler and Clemson graduate
  • MarieAnn “Mo” Newman, former professional bodybuilder and current bodybuilding judge
  • Madison Younginer, a Mauldin High grad who pitched for the Atlanta Braves

Wilberto Sauceda, executive chef at Fluor Field will put his skills to the test to create a small plates menu inspired by each of the athletes.
The Greenville Drive is the venue sponsor for this event, and money raised will go to benefit the Greenville YMCA.
Tickets are $50 and include six dishes and an evening of stories you’ve never heard. The event is 7 p.m., Tuesday, March 10 at the Champions Club located at Fluor Field. Tickets are available here

 

RiverDogs Set to Host 15th Annual Charity Golf Tournament

 

Even when the team is on the road, the Charleston RiverDogs aren’t opposed to throwing a party, especially when it benefits a good cause. Under the theme of “Cinco de Mayo Fiesta,” the RiverDogs will host their 15th annual charity golf tournament at the Wild Dunes Harbor Golf Course on Tuesday, May 5.

Presented by Container Maintenance, this year’s event will provide an afternoon filled with golf and networking. A portion of the proceeds will benefit MUSC Children’s Health.
“We are looking forward to another great golf outing at Wild Dunes. It will be a fun way to spend an afternoon celebrating Cinco de Mayo and, at the same time, supporting a great cause,” said RiverDogs Director of Special Events, Lisa Dingman.

The event begins with an 11:00 a.m. shotgun start, and limited space is available. Foursomes can reserve a spot for $650 and individuals may register for $175. Sponsorship opportunities for the event begin at $400.

The afternoon will feature costume contests, celebrity appearances and plenty of chances to win prizes. The Cinco de Mayo theme also relates to the RiverDogs continued participation in Minor League Baseball’s Copa de la Diversión initiative. The club will once again take the field as “Los Perros Santos” for four home games during the 2020 campaign. Lunch and dinner are included with lunch being provided by The Kickin’ Chicken.

Contact Lisa Dingman at [email protected] or Kayli Varner at [email protected] with questions about the event.

On the heels of their third straight season eclipsing 300,000 fans through the turnstiles, the RiverDogs have already begun preparations for another year down at The Joe. RiverDogs season tickets, partial ticket plans, and group tickets, including options for the Riley Park Club, are now available for the 2020 campaign at riverdogs.com/tickets or by contacting the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS). The RiverDogs begin their home schedule on April 9 when they host the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers at The Joe. A full schedule and list of games for the 2020 season is available at riverdogs.com.

Dragons Mascots, Green Team Performing at Local Schools

 

Dayton, Ohio-Opening night for the 2020 baseball season at Day Air Ballpark is nine weeks away, but Dayton Dragons mascots Heater and Gem along with the Dragons Green Team are already bringing the excitement of baseball season to local elementary schools. For the eighth straight year, the Dragons entertainment team is performing assemblies at Miami Valley elementary schools. The program continues into April.

Each 30-minute interactive, fun, high-energy performance includes a visit by Heater or Gem and members of the Green Team, the Dragons signature group that facilitates skits, contests, and sing-a-longs during Dragons games at Day Air Ballpark. Each assembly in 2020 focuses on “Healthy Habits,” making smart food choices and being physically active. The performances, typically held in the school gymnasium, include some of the same entertainment skits seen at the ballpark, plus some new material designed specifically for the schools.

All Dragons assemblies are performed free of charge for schools that sign up. Participating elementary schools on board so far stretch from Springboro to Sidney.

The assemblies provide an introduction to the Dayton Dragons School Program, an incentive-based school fundraiser that provides prizes to students and allows the schools to keep a portion of ticket sales to Dragons games.

The Dragons are providing prizes as part of the program including team merchandise, an invitation to a Donatos Pizza Party with Dragons players, a Dragons Frisch’s Kids Club membership, and the grand prize, a Google Chromebook.

The Dragons 2020 Opening Night game is set for Thursday, April 9 at 7:00 p.m. at Day Air Ballpark against the Great Lakes Loons (Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate).

For information on Dragons season tickets, group outings, and luxury suites, go to daytondragons.com or call (937) 228-2287.

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

Modesto Nuts Release 2019 Community Impact Report

 

The report covers the 2019 fiscal year and discloses the Nuts contributions of over $375,000 to community related programs.

“Our community is the backbone of everything we do, without it we cannot exist.” said Zach Brockman, General Manager of the Modesto Nuts. “In the coming years, we will be continuing to increase our community footprint and we invite all of our current and potential partners to join us in this initiative.”

With the help of The Parks Group and Mocse Credit Union, the Modesto Nuts Reading Program involved around over 80 schools and over 35,000 local students. The Reading Program motivated children to reach their reading goals by offering performance-based incentives from Save Mart, Chuck E. Cheese, Taco Bell, and The Modesto Nuts.

Non-profit organizations and little leagues used the Modesto Nuts ticket fundraising program to generate much needed funds. Additionally, the Nuts donated gift baskets which included game tickets, premium suites & autographed memorabilia to over 200 different local charities.

Modesto Nuts players, coaching staff, and front office donated their time generously to different organizations throughout the community. From school career fairs, to little league opening days, and much more; the Modesto Nuts were able to teach important values such as chasing dreams, having integrity and working hard for what they want.

In back to back years, the Modesto Nuts have doubled their community appearances. For more information on how you can have a Modesto Nuts representative at your event, please head to our Community Appearance Page.

CLICK HERE for the full 2019 Community Impact Report

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About the Nuts:

The Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball team is the California League Class A-Advanced Affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. The Modesto Nuts is the Central Valley’s place for family, fun, affordable entertainment. For more information on season tickets, group rates, sponsorships and more visit modestonuts.com or call 209-572-HITS (4487).

Grizzlies Give Back More Than $1M in 2019

Chukchansi Park thrived in 2019, playing home to more than 135 non-profit events, with a total of nearly 25,000 attendees. The Grizzlies also gave more than $1 million in monetary and in-kind donations, which was the most in Minor League Baseball’s Triple-A Pacific Coast League.

The Fresno Grizzlies take pride in assisting, rewarding and supporting worthwhile causes throughout the Central Valley. In 2019, the Grizzlies and Chukchansi Park were grateful to help out so many individuals and organizations.

“Giving back to the community is in our DNA at the Fresno Grizzlies, and these efforts extend far beyond the baseball diamond,” said Madeline Hamada, Community Engagement Manager. “Grizzlies’ programs and community initiatives are helping fulfill our vision of giving back and making the Central Valley a better place to live.”

Non-profit events held at the ballpark included the Cen Cal Fury softball clinic, the Downtown Academy graduation, the Valley Children’s water safety presentation and the Exceptional Needs Formal. Also, the Fresno American Indian Health Project company retreat, Valley PBS end-of-year awards and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Walk held their events in the friendly confines of Chukchansi Park.

“The Grizzlies are an integral part of Downtown Fresno and we are so thankful for the team’s exceptional community contributions,” stated Lee Brand, Fresno mayor. “The array of events that Chukchansi Park hosted last year clearly demonstrate the organization’s dedication to the City and its residents.”

Besides these non-profit events, the Grizzlies continued a trio of programs with amazing community benefits. Junior Grizzlies, a 10-week, non-competitive, adaptive baseball league for children and adults with mental and physical disabilities had more than 160 children and adults participate during the 2019 season. Wild About Reading, which incentivizes students to read frequently celebrated its 16th season in 2019. Since 2012, Wild About Reading has reached 95,000 students with more than 160 schools involved. Finally, Making the Grade allows area schools to reward hard-working students with an afternoon at Chukchansi Park. Nearly 20,000 students and 224 schools participated this year.

Overall, the Grizzlies gave $1,038,310 in monetary and in-kind donations during 2019. $65,500 was raised in ticket fundraisers for non-profits and little leagues, $11,500 was earned through theme jersey auctions, $10,530 was raised through food donations to the Poverello House through the Zero Waste Policy and $10,500 was awarded in Farm Grown Scholarships. On top of that, the Grizzlies front office spent 400 plus hours volunteering around the Central Valley. If you would like to help around your community, join one of these amazing events or be apart of helping the Grizzlies in 2020, click here to learn more.

#Growlifornia

ABOUT THE FRESNO GRIZZLIES

The Fresno Grizzlies, Triple-A affiliate of the 2019 World Series Champion Washington Nationals, are a member of the 16-team Pacific Coast League (PCL) and one of 30 clubs in the world playing the highest level of Minor League Baseball. The team plays at Chukchansi Park in Downtown Fresno, which is also a year-round community venue, hosting a myriad of other special events beyond Grizzlies’ games, such as concerts, festivals, high school baseball and over 100 non-profit community events every year. The Grizzlies enter the 2020 season – their 23rd in Fresno – on the momentum of the fifth championship in 10 years by their big league affiliate. The team celebrated their own PCL title in 2015.

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

SMOKIES INVITATIONAL WILL BE FRIDAY, MARCH 13

 

SEVIERVILLE, TN – The Smokies have announced their Smokies Invitational on March 13, 2020, held at Three Ridges Golf Course (6101 Wise Springs Road, Knoxville, TN 37918). The day’s events begin at 11:30 a.m. with lunch followed by a 1:00 p.m. tee time. Smokies Invitational will feature a round of golf, 50/50 raffle, men’s and women’s longest drive competitions, hole-in-one contest, and closest to the pin contest.

A portion of the proceeds from the event will be donated to Smoky Mountain Service Dogs. The donation will include 100% of the proceeds from the silent auction, purchases made for red tee shot and more. Tim Volk, Smokies General Manager, explained, “We are excited to be partnering up with Smoky Mountain Service Dogs again this year. For all they do in our community, this is our way to help them succeed.”

There are three (3) different options for Smokies Invitational registration all including, lunch, green/cart fees, and donation to Smoky Mountain Service Dogs. Two of the options come in teams of four (4) ranging from $750/each-$500/each. The third option is individual players who will later be placed onto a team of four costing $150/each.

To register or find more information on the Smokies Invitational please visit www.smokiesbaseball.com/invitational2020 or direct any questions to events@smokiesbaseball.com.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com

ABOUT SMOKIES MOUNTAIN SERVICE DOGS

We believe that through appropriate utilization of a public access tested/approved, highly trained service dog, individuals with physical and/or psychological disabilities can often become increasingly self-sufficient and independent. We believe that a large percentage of disabled individuals can experience a higher level of societal and community involvement and acceptance through effective use of a service dog.

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

Help Us Support Fire Efforts In Australia

Chukars Announce Fundraiser to Benefit Australia Wildfires
Chukars offer unique fan experiences for donations to various charities.

IDAHO FALLS, IDAHO – On Tuesday the Idaho Falls Chukars announced a fundraising effort to benefit those affected by the Australia wildfires. This fundraiser will offer fans unique opportunities that are otherwise unavailable for purchase for $10 donations to charities helping the people and animals of Australia.

“It was an idea that came to us this morning.” said Chris Hall, Director of Public Relations for the Idaho Falls Chukars, “We’ve all been distraught thinking about what is going on, especially with the relationships we’ve had with Australian players and coaches over the years. We knew we wanted to help, and this is a great way for us to do it.”

Fans that donate to either the Australian Red Cross, the World Wildlife Foundation or Country Fire Authority will be entered into a raffle box of their choice. Fans will receive one ticket for every $10 donated. Prizes include: A signed Alec Marsh jersey, Chukars hat and batting helmet, batting practice passes, player meet and greets, ten free tickets, opportunity to throw out a first pitch and more.

All fans need to do is donate to the listed organizations, post a confirmation screenshot as a comment on the Chukars social media post and indicate which prize they’d like to be entered to win.

Former Australian Chukars include first baseman Ryan Dale and coach Allan de San Miguel.

For questions or more information please feel free to contact Chris Hall at 208-522-8363 or email at chall@ifchukars.com

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

NATURALS IMPACT IN THE COMMUNITY

The Naturals’ fundraising program has helped raise over one million dollars since the 2010 season

SPRINGDALE, Ark – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are proud to continue to have a positive impact on Northwest Arkansas and the surrounding communities as over one million dollars has been raised for participating groups since the start of the 2010 season through the team’s fundraising and community partners program.

 During the 2019 season alone, the Naturals partnered with 173 groups and those participants combined to raise $121,898.00 through the Naturals’ in-stadium fundraising programs. Groups included but were not limited to High School Baseball teams, school and music groups, youth sports teams and organizations, churches, and non-profits.

In addition to in-stadium fundraising programs, the Naturals also help out local events through donations and mascot appearances. Over the past year, the Naturals fulfilled around 375 donation requests that equal nearly $32,000.00 in in-kind donations while sending out a mascot, either Strike or Sinker, to 65 different local events.

Visit www.nwanaturals.com, call us at (479) 927-4900, or visit our Administrative Offices located at Arvest Ballpark to learn more about the fundraising programs that the Naturals offer, donation requests, and mascot appearances.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals will return to Arvest Ballpark on Thursday, April 16th, 2019 at 6:35 p.m. when they play host to the Corpus Christi Hooks (Double-A Affiliate of the Houston Astros) for 2020 Opening Night.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The Naturals play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark in Springdale, Ark. For more information, including ticket options, group events and more, visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

-Naturals-

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

West End Christian Community Center Named Banquet Charity

 

The Williamsport Crosscutters have announced that the West End Christian Community Center of Williamsport has been chosen as the charity beneficiary for the 14th Annual Hot Stove Banquet to be held on Wednesday, January 15 in the Grand Ballroom of the Genetti Hotel in Williamsport. The event is presented in part by Panda Patriot Power, River Valley Transit, WRAK 1400AM, and the Williamsport Sun-Gazette.

The West End Christian Community Center’s mission is to provide services and programs to help meet the communities social, emotional and spiritual needs. The charity serves over 3,000 people annually through programs such as its soup kitchen, which serves over 13,000 meals per year and Shoe Express, providing over 500 pairs of new shoes annually to needy children.

“We are so thankful to be chosen as the beneficiary for the 2020 Hot Stove Banquet,” said WECCC’s Executive Director Todd Penman. “As close neighbors in Williamsport, it will be wonderful working as partners with the Crosscutters, resulting in more ability to help the community through the programs and services at the West End Christian Community Center.”

 

Special guests for the banquet include Phillies legend Greg Luzinski and ESPN baseball analyst Tim Kurkjian.

Luzinski played eleven seasons in Philadelphia (1970-1980) before finishing his career with the Chicago White Sox. He was a 4-time NL All-Star with Philadelphia (1975-1978) and was a member of the Phillies first World Series championship team in 1980.

Kurkjian, has covered baseball since 1978 and has been a baseball writer, reporter, analyst and host at ESPN since 1998. He has been a regular on Baseball Tonight and SportsCenter. Kurkjian has been part of ESPN’s coverage of the MLB Little League Classic the last three years at Williamsport’s BB&T Ballpark.

The evening will consist of a full-course dinner, live and silent auctions of sports memorabilia along with interviews and question and answer segments with the special guests. Other highlights of the event include the inductions of the latest members to the Bowman Field Hall of Fame and the Lycoming County Sports Walk.

The ballroom doors open at 5:30 PM with the dinner and entertainment portion of the event kicking off at 6:30 PM. A limited autograph session will take place at the close of evening.

Tickets are $59 per person and can be purchased by calling the Cutters offices at (570) 326-3389 or ordering online at the link below. This event is a sell-out every year, so fans are encouraged to purchase tickets now. Business sponsorships for the event are also available.

The Crosscutters 2020 home opener is scheduled for Friday, June 19 as Williamsport hosts the rival State College Spikes.

Purchase Hot Stove Banquet Tickets HERE

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

Hot Rods Announce Second-Annual Charity Dinner and Silent Auction

 

BOWLING GREEN BALLPARK (Bowling Green, KY) — The Bowling Green Hot Rods, Class-A Affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays and member of the Midwest League, are excited to announce their second-annual Charity Dinner sponsored by Van-Meter Insurance featuring guest speaker and two-time MLB All-Star Rob Dibble. The event will take place on January 30, 2020, at the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green and will feature a silent auction.

Dibble, who made stops with the Cincinnati Reds, Chicago White Sox, and Milwaukee Brewers over a seven-year career, will join the Hot Rods for their second-annual Charity Dinner. While the right-handed reliever was best known for being a member of the 1990 World Series Champion Reds team and a member of the “Nasty Boys” bullpen, he’s also enjoyed a successful career after baseball.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Norton Children’s Hospital, Stuff the Bus, and Kids on the Block. There will also be a silent auction and bar during the event, as well.

“We’re excited to host another charity dinner and partner with these three organizations,” said Hot Rods COO/General Manager Eric C. Leach. “Last years’ event was fantastic and we’re looking forward to another incredible night!”

In January of 2019, the Hot Rods hosted their inaugural dinner featuring Hall of Famer George Foster with great success. The event raised over $5,100 for local charities. As an organization, the Hot Rods donated $300,000 in gifts, in-kind donations, and donations back to South Central Kentucky.

“The Bowling Green Hot Rods are a vital community partner for not only Stuff the Bus but numerous outlets,” said Tony Rose of Stuff the Bus and host of the Tony Rose Show. “We are in debt to the Hot Rods and their incredible front office for allowing us to be part of their programs that help us with our mission statement of creating a level playing field for all students.”

The event will start at 5:00 PM with a meet-and-greet with Dibble until 5:30 PM. A meet-and-greet with the general public with the guest speaker will begin at 5:30 PM and conclude at 6:30 PM, when dinner will begin.

Tables are available for $400 while individual tickets are on sale for $40. Tickets can be purchased over the phone at 270-901-2121, www.bghotrods.com or at Bowling Green Ballpark prior to the event.

Ticket packages for the 2020 season are on sale now! Fans can choose from a Holiday pack that includes six tickets and an All-Star shirt for $60 and an All-Star Holiday Pack with six tickets, tickets to both the 2020 Midwest League Home Run Derby and Fanfest, as well as an All-Star Game ticket and a tee-shirt for $85! Individual tickets will be available beginning in February 2020. For the event package information please visit www.bghotrods.com or call 270-901-2121.

# # #

Hot Rods Baseball

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

Chasers in the Community 2019 Review

 

The Omaha Storm Chasers in conjunction with Chasers Charities and Spectra Food Services and Hospitality donated $571,229.19 to numerous Omaha Metro charities in 2019, with the Storm Chasers aligning with more than 300 different organizations. Storm Chasers front office members also combined for nearly 600 hours of community service in the Omaha Metro this year.

“Relationships and community are imperative to what this organization is about,” said Storm Chasers President Martie Cordaro. “Werner Park is a community center so we have a responsibility to Sarpy County and the Omaha Metro to continue to be engaged by being present and giving back.”

During the 2019 season, the Storm Chasers organization provided a platform for 70 non-profit organizations at Werner Park as its Community Organization of the Night. The McDonald’s and Huber Chevrolet Hurl the Pearl promotion also raised $13,378 for the Ronald McDonald House. In addition, $21,395 was donated to various Omaha Metro charities, including Make-a-Wish Nebraska, Gold Glove Charities and Food Bank for the Heartland, through six different Jersey Auctions throughout the season. More than 4,000 canned goods were also donated to Heartland Hope Mission through the Storm Chasers’ Hy-Vee Canned Food Sunday promotion.

A total of $10,865.20 was also raised through the Storm Chasers’ Omaha Potholes promotion to help repair local little league fields with City of Bellevue Recreation and DC West Youth Sports damaged by historic floods this spring, along with matching donations from the Kansas City Royals and Detroit Tigers organizations. The Storm Chasers organization’s relationship with Minor League Baseball and the efforts of President and General Manager Martie Cordaro also helped secure a joint $50,000 donation from Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association to Team Rubicon to support Winter Storm Ulmer disaster relief efforts.

The Storm Chasers organization was also visible throughout the Omaha Metro community, as the combined number of mascot and player appearances totaled nearly 300. Chasers Charities in partnership with The Weitz Company also awarded two $1,000 college scholarships through the Jackie Robinson Scholarship program to Jaden Ferguson and Damicah Dutton-Burton.

Furthermore, the Storm Chasers and Spectra Food Services and Hospitality once again provided local non-profit organizations and community groups to raise funds by volunteering at concessions stands during the season. A total of $51,531 was raised by those volunteers through this program.

In addition, over 9,000 cocktails were sold in the Jack Daniel’s Club over the course of the 2019 season, raising over $4,500 in partnership with Jack Daniel’s for Operation Ride Home.

A full overview of the Storm Chasers’ 2019 Community Relations efforts can be found online at this link: https://www.milb.com/omaha/community/home

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

Indians Set New Records for Charitable Giving

 

INDIANAPOLIS – For the third consecutive year, the Indianapolis Indians set a franchise record for total charitable giving. Including monetary donations and in-kind contributions, the Tribe gave back $583,623 to community organizations in fiscal year 2019. The Indians operate with a fiscal year of October 1-September 30.

Earlier this offseason, the team announced a new 501(C)(3) organization, Indianapolis Indians Charities, focused on uplifting Central Indiana youth and families through partnerships with local nonprofits who work in youth development, family success, education and neighborhood development.

Of the $583,623 in charitable contributions in 2019, $307,823 came from monetary donations to community events and in-stadium fundraising during Tribe games. The other $275,800 came from gifts in-kind of donated tickets, merchandise and mascot appearances.

“The Indians have been a community asset for a long time, and we continue to value our role in giving back,” said Indians President and General Manager Randy Lewandowski. “One of the most impactful ways we work with our partners is providing them the platform of Victory Field and the nearly 600,000 fans that attend home games each season. Now we’re finding new ways to work outside our walls, like Indianapolis Indians Charities and the continued dedication of our staff volunteering their time around Central Indiana.”

The Indians front office volunteered for 40 organizations in 2019, totaling more than 1,486 hours, another team record. The club instituted a staff volunteer program last season that allows employees to volunteer for local organizations during office hours throughout the year. Tribe players also got involved, making 40 appearances for 175 service hours.

Fans were instrumental in two initiatives in 2019-specialty jersey auctions and Thirsty Thursdays at Victory Field. The Indians auctioned off eight specialty jerseys for themes ranging from the team’s new Circle City alternate logo to MARVEL Super Heroes to Indy 500 Night to Stars & Stripes on Independence Day. Fan participation from the auctions drove the total donation for the season to nearly $55,500, another franchise record.

Thirsty Thursdays also received strong fan support in 2019. The new promotion offered discounted soda and draft domestic, premium and craft beer, including $1 from every Sun King craft beer purchase going to a different local nonprofit every Thursday night. The Tribe donated nearly $10,000 to eight non-profits through the Thursday promotion.

Tickets for the 2020 season of Indianapolis Indians baseball are on sale now in full- and half-season plans, plus mini and flex plans. Groups can also purchase tickets for the new Elements Financial Club, a social VIP space scheduled to open in time for Opening Night on Thursday, April 9. Single-game tickets go on sale March 1.

For more on the Indianapolis Indians, visit IndyIndians.com.

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

Michael Chavis Headlines 2020 Sea Dogs Hot Stove Dinner

 

Tickets for the event will go on sale at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, November 13th. Individual tickets for the event are $80.00. Reserved tables of ten are available for $750.00. Tickets can be purchased through the Sea Dogs ticket office by calling 207-879-9500 or online at www.seadogs.com. The event is expected to sell out.

Doors open at 5:30 PM with the Silent Auction running from 5:30 to 7:00 PM. A buffet dinner will be served at 6:30 PM and the program will begin at 7:00 PM. The program will consist of conversations with each guest hosted by Sea Dogs’ radio broadcaster Mike Antonellis.

Chavis made his Double-A debut with the Sea Dogs in 2017, hitting .250 (62-for-248) with 14 homers and 39 RBI in 67 games. He was named the 2017 Red Sox Minor League Offensive Player of the Year after hitting .282 with 313 HR and 94 RBI between High-A Salem and Portland. Chavis made his Major League debut in 2019 and hit .254 (88-for-347) with 18 HR and 58 RBI in 95 games for the Red Sox. His 18 HR and 58 RBI are both the most by a Red Sox in their debut season since Ellis Burks had 20 HR and 59 RBI in 133 games in 1987. Boston drafted Chavis with the 26th overall pick in the 2014 June Draft out of Sprayberry High School in Marietta, Georgia.

All proceeds from the dinner and silent auction will benefit the official charity of the Portland Sea Dogs’; the Strike Out Cancer in Kids Program. The Strike Out Cancer in Kids Program was established in 1995 to raise money for the Maine Children’s Cancer Program. For every strikeout that a Sea Dogs’ pitcher throws money is raised through generous pledges of businesses and individuals. In the 25-year history of the program, nearly five million dollars has been raised.

Previous guests for this event have included Jackie Bradley Jr., Johnny Damon, Keith Foulke, Pedro Martinez, Trot Nixon, and Jason Varitek.

The Sea Dogs open the 2020 season on the road in Hartford, CT on Thursday, April 9th. The home opener is set for Thursday, April 16th at 6:00 PM against the Trenton Thunder (Yankees). Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased by calling the Sea Dogs Ticket Office at 207-879-9500 or online at www.seadogs.com. Book your nine-inning vacation!

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

South Bend Cubs Host Fourth Annual Polar Plunge

 

SOUTH BEND, IN – Leap year will take a whole new meaning this February as the South Bend Cubs will host the 4th annual Michiana Polar Plunge. This event will benefit Special Olympics Indiana and will take place on Saturday, February 29, 2020. Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. the with the plunge starting at 12:00 p.m. After taking the plunge, participants are invited to celebrate at the After-Splash Bash in the Pepsi Stadium Club.

DONATE TO THE SOUTH BEND CUBS PLUNGE TEAM BY CLICKING HERE

The Polar Plunge is an event that is held across Indiana as well as across the country. Special Olympics Indiana is a non-profit organization whose mission is to empower those with intellectual disabilities. As explained by President and CEO of Special Olympics Indiana, Jeff Mohler, “The vision of Special Olympics Indiana is that sports will open hearts and minds towards individuals with intellectual disabilities and create inclusive communities across the state.” By putting on events like the Polar Plunge, Special Olympics Indiana is able to raise funds that will improve the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. The funds that are raised at the Polar Plunge will be used to support the thousands of Special Olympics athletes in Indiana.

“One way we accomplish our vision is through fantastic community partners, the South Bend Cubs are one such partner,” stated Mohler. “From their owner, Mr. Berlin, to their general manager, to the players, and every staff member. The South Bend Cubs are a premier organization. We are excited to partner with them again next February for the 2020 Polar Plunge. Go Cubs!”

Special Olympics Indiana has succeeded in raising over $55,000 in the last three years. The 2019 Polar Plunge raised over $20,000, and Special Olympics Indiana and the South Bend Cubs are looking to you to help reach the 2020 goal of $24,000.

“Every year, our fans and fellow plungers have helped exceed our fundraising goal for Special Olympics Indiana,” said South Bend Cubs Director of Media and Promotions Chris Hagstrom-Jones. “To help us get to $24,000, we’re adding a couple of prizes for our top fundraisers. The individual who raises the most money will receive a free outdoor suite to a South Bend Cubs game in April and the chance to throw out a ceremonial first pitch. To the group that raises the most money, they will each receive a ticket voucher good for any April South Bend Cubs game.”

Fans who do not wish to plunge can also donate to the South Bend Cubs front office team. Fans who donate at least $15 will be entered to win a set of four tickets to a South Bend Cubs game. Three lucky winners will be chosen after February 29. Donate by visiting SouthBendCubs.com or clicking this link.

To participate in the 2020 Michiana Polar Plunge, individuals or groups must raise a “bear” minimum of $75 in pledges. All funds raised will benefit Special Olympics Indiana. Participants can register as an individual or gather friends, family members, co-workers, civic group or school group and register as a team. Register by visiting soindiana.org and clicking on the events page. Funds raised by this event will help local athletes train and compete at local, area and state level.

About Special Olympics Indiana

Special Olympics Indiana is a not-for-profit organization that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in more than 20 Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, reaching more than 16,000 athletes across Indiana. The organization receives no federal- or state-appropriated funds, is not a United Way agency and relies entirely on corporate, civic and individual donations. For more information about Special Olympics Indiana, call (317) 328-2000 or visit www.soindiana.org.

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 32 seasons, the team has won four Midwest League titles, most recently in 2019, and has captured eight division titles. In 2019, the South Bend Cubs hosted 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.

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