2018 Cancer Awareness Jersey Night

Idaho Falls Chukars Cancer Awareness Jersey

Idaho Falls, ID – The Idaho Falls Chukars will be holding their annual Cancer Awareness Night during the 2018 season. To better commemorate this night the Chukars will be donning newly designed, limited edition, Breast Cancer Awareness jerseys for the special night. To better celebrate the courage, determination, and resilience of cancer survivors everywhere and honor those that have fought bravely and have lost their lives; These jerseys will hold the names of people that have battled with any cancer and have either died or survived.

The Chukars are inviting anyone that would like to honor a family or friend that has or is battling cancer to submit a donation form to put their name on the custom jersey. The cost to add a name to the jersey will be $50.00. You can purchase the game used jersey for an additional $50.00.

Donations will support both Mountain View Charities, which is an organization that “Clears the obstacles that face southern Idaho individuals and organizations so they can achieve their fullest potential, enriching our whole community in the process.” They give grants to help medical patients financially. They give college scholarships, and they support innovative charitable organizations in the community. The Mammogram Voucher Program at East Idaho Health is a program that offers vouchers for women receive free screening and diagnostic services.

Forms to reserve a space for a name can be found on the Chukars website ifchukars.com. Inquires can also be answered by calling the Chukars main office at 208-522-8363. Payment can be accepted either by mailing a check or calling the Chukars main office and making a payment over the phone

#ifchukars.com#

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

Need a Fundraiser? Try Ours!

CORPUS CHRISTI – The 2018 Kleberg Bank College Classic, featuring Mississippi State, University of California-Santa Barbara, Nicholls and host Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, is February 23-24-25 at Whataburger Field.

If your club, association, or organization has fundraising needs, we can help.

Your group can sell 2018 Kleberg Bank College Classic tickets and retain half the proceeds!

Including tax, daily adult tickets are $10.83, $5.41 for children 4-12.

To start your Kleberg Bank College Classic fundraiser, contact Zach Kaddatz of the Corpus Christi Hooks at 361-561-HOOK (4665). You can also e-mail him at zkaddatz@cchooks.com

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2018 Kleberg Bank College Classic Schedule

Friday, February 23
Mississippi State vs. UC Santa Barbara, 2 p.m.
Nicholls State vs. Islanders, 6 p.m.

Saturday, February 24
Nicholls State vs. Mississippi State, 2 p.m.
UC Santa Barbara vs. Islanders, 6 p.m.

Sunday, February 25
UC Santa Barbara vs. Nicholls State, 11 a.m.
Mississippi State vs. Islanders, 3 p.m.

Click Here to read more on the 2018 KBCC field.

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

Ports Release 2017 Community Relations Report

STOCKTON, Calif.- Through the organization’s non-profit sector, the Anchor Fund, the Ports gave $32,464 in monetary donations and nearly $240,000 of in-kind donations to local non-profits within the San Joaquin community in 2017. Through various fundraisers held at Banner Island Ballpark, the Ports were able to raise almost $11,000 with the help of generous fans.

The revenue-leading event was the eleventh annual Pink Night, in which $5,493 benefited Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Medical Center. Additional fundraisers included Root Beer Float Day and Youth Baseball Camps presented by Amy L. Scriven, DDS., and Anchor Fund Weekend.

The Ports also had over 50,000 individuals participate in community programs such as Silver Sluggers presented by SCAN Health Plan, Amy L. Scriven, DDS. Kids’ Club, Baseball by the Books courtesy of Smack Pie Pizza, and the Summer Reading Program in partnership with San Joaquin County Libraries. Additionally, the Ports teamed up with Valley First Credit Union for this year’s Community Corner. Valley First donated 625 tickets to the Anchor Fund, and the Ports matched that donation for tickets to be distributed in the community.

Through these outreach programs, the Ports were able to provide people of all ages with donated or discounted tickets.

New to the 2017 season, the Ports partnered with Sutter Gould Medical Foundation to create a program called “Community Person of the Month,” in which select members of the local community were recognized in a monthly pre-game ceremony and a $500 donation was made to a non-profit organization of each recipient’s choice.

Finally, the Ports’ mascot, members of the front office, and Ports players were out in the community approximately 180 days out of the 2017 calendar year for events such as Little League Opening Ceremonies, school and library visits, grassroots events, and more.

“We are proud of the impact the Ports Community Department has made in the city of Stockton and beyond, in conjunction with the many people and organizations in our market,” said President Pat Filippone. “Over the 10 years since we’ve established the Anchor Fund, the Ports have remained committed to supporting the community and we look forward to growing upon this season’s success in the upcoming year.

The Stockton Ports’ Anchor Fund was established in early 2007 and has helped support many community projects, with a primary focus on youth centers and youth sports. The charitable fund reflects and reaffirms the Ports’ commitment to strengthening the community using baseball and entertainment as a backdrop, with 457 non-profit organizations receiving donations in 2017.

To view the Community Relations Report and receive ticket information on the 2018 season, please visit www.stocktonports.com.

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

Aces Donate $303,046 to 650 Groups in Northern Nevada, California

RENO, Nev. – Since the Reno Aces Baseball Club’s inception in 2009, the club has maintained a dedicated focus on making a positive impact in Reno and the surrounding Northern Nevada region. The Aces posted record-breaking charitable donations in 2017, thanks to overwhelming support from Aces fans and the community.

“In return to our great fans and wonderful community, we strive to impact Reno and Northern Nevada through a variety of programs and charitable donations,” said Reno Aces and Reno 1868 FC president Eric Edelstein. “Our vision builds on making Greater Nevada Field more than just a sporting venue, but a center for community empowerment and celebration.”

The Aces and their staff focused on four key components to the club’s overall community impact: baseball development, community events at Greater Nevada Field, community outreach and in-game fundraising and awareness.

BASEBALL DEVELOPMENT

In 2017, the Aces showed their continued support to baseball at all levels locally by hosting youth baseball fundraising programs and high school games at Greater Nevada Field.

$15,000: The Reno Aces and University of Nevada Baseball team played its annual exhibition game prior to the first game of the season. This game provides not only an opportunity for our players to get back in the game, but gives Nevada Baseball the experience of playing on a professional field and a fundraising source. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales of that night’s game are donated to the Nevada Dugout Club. This season, the Reno Aces donated $15,000.

Youth Baseball & Softball Days: The Reno Aces partnered with multiple Northern Nevada and California Little League and softball leagues to provide on-field inspiration and once-in-a-lifetime experiences through Reno Aces Youth Baseball and Softball Days. Youth teams attend a Reno Aces game, parade around the field pre-game and have their team’s name announced by the PA announcer for all of those in attendance to hear. In addition, the Reno Aces staff and mascot, Archie, attend each leagues’ opening ceremonies and bring baseball into more communities.

$54,000: For the past nine seasons, the Aces invited local high schools to play regular-season games at Greater Nevada Field. To participate in the program, high schools committed to purchasing 500 tickets (good for any Aces regular season home game) to sell to local community supporters, with the proceeds benefiting their respective school’s athletic program. Twelve high school baseball programs participated in 2017, and a total of 4,500 tickets were sold, equating to $54,000 in donations.

COMMUNITY EVENTS AT GREATER NEVADA FIELD

In 2017, the Aces and Greater Nevada Field hosted multiple programs and events, ranging from the Biggest Little Startup Fair to Trick-or-Suite prior to Halloween. A few major events are highlighted below:

30: Biggest Little Startup Fair, benefiting the Northern Nevada Community – Greater Nevada Field hosted the Biggest Little Startup Fair for a fourth consecutive year. The fair is a cooperative effort between 30 Reno startup companies, the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada, the University of Nevada and Truckee Meadows Community College. Students from across Northern Nevada were given the opportunity to meet potential employers and find out about volunteer opportunities, internships and job openings.

City of Reno Stuff-A-Buss- In 2017, Greater Nevada Field again hosted the City of Reno Stuff-A-Buss event to benefit local senior citizens in need. The Regional Transportation System parks a bus in front of Greater Nevada Field from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in an effort to “stuff the buss” with new and unused items. Upon donation, those who donated received free Aces tickets or free skate rental to the Reno Ice Rink.

Trick-or-Suite, benefiting the Food Bank of Northern Nevada – The Reno Aces and Greater Nevada Field hosted the fifth annual Trick-or-Suite event to provide a safe trick-or-treating environment for children in the Northern Nevada community. Aces community partners assisted in decorating the NVision Glass Suite Level and passed out candy to local children. Attendees donated a total of $972, an increase of 77% from 2016, and over 1,100 pounds of canned and boxed food equating to 1,948 meals.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

The Aces heightened focus on community outreach paid dividends in 2017.

2017 monetary donations: $36,075.00

Archie’s Kids Club – Since the inaugural season, the Aces have provided Archie’s Kids Club to Aces fans between the ages of 3 and 12. For the third consecutive season, Kids Club has been free to these fan to provide as many individuals as possible the gift of Aces Baseball including: Access to the lovable Aces mascot, Archie continued education of the game of baseball, a t-shirt, exclusive Kids Club event invites, personal e-mails from Archie and much more. In 2017, over 1,100 young Aces fans participated in Kids Club.

Nevada Humane Society – In the fall of 2014, the Aces fostered Princess, a pit bull from the Nevada Humane Society, in effort to get her adopted and begin the organization’s goal to be ambassadors for not only pit bulls, but all animals in need of a home. After five months of no potential adopters, the organization officially adopted Princess and crowned her the “Princess of the Field.” This year, the Reno Aces continued to sell Princess Plush toys in the Team Shop. Overall, over 150 Princess Plush Toys were sold and approximately $3,200 will be donated to the Humane Society.

In-Kind Donations/Donation Requests- Throughout the year, the Reno Aces donated tickets, memorabilia, mascot appearances, merchandise and ice skating admissions to as many organizations in the Northern Nevada and California communities as possible. Donated items are used for members of those organizations to raise funds for their cause, provide awards and spread the love of baseball. The Aces donated to 650 organizations, totaling over $182,818.

 IN-GAME FUNDRAISING AND AWARENESS

The Aces hit a home run with their in-game fundraising and awareness in 2017, with fundraising totals reaching $87,353.00.

Saint Mary’s Home Run For Life – In 2017, Saint Mary’s Home Run for Life returned for a fifth consecutive season. Once a month, a brave individual in the Northern Nevada Community was honored by taking a ceremonial trip around the bases with each team lining the baselines. The ceremony symbolizes the end of a battle against adversity. Individuals honored had overcome a significant medical event in their life with the help of their families, physicians and healthcare professionals. Five individuals were honored during the 2017 season.

Non-Profit Ticket Fundraising Program Presented by Greater Nevada Credit Union – The Non-Profit ticket Fundraising Program presented by GNCU returned for the fourth consecutive season, with over 100 organizations participating in 2017. Available to non-profit organizations, schools, sports teams, special causes and community organizations, the Aces provide tickets and fundraising materials for groups to sell game tickets at a value price in the effort to make the attributed organization the most money possible. Groups also receive a variety of benefits to spread awareness about their cause during their game, depending on the number of tickets sold. This season, non-profit organizations raised $77,000.

JAKKS Pacific Home Run for the Holidays,- For the sixth consecutive year, the Reno Aces partnered with JAKKS Pacific, Inc., and Reno 1868 FC to donate toys to help less-fortunate children living in Northern Nevada. This holiday season, 2,000 toys were donated to organizations in the Reno-Sparks/Carson community assisting at risk and in need youth. Since 2011, JAKKS Pacific has donated over 44,500 toys to the Northern Nevada community.

To view the entire 2017 Community Impact Report click the link.

The Aces will begin their 2018 campaign on April 5th against the Fresno Grizzlies at Greater Nevada Field. 2018 Aces ticket packages are on-sale now at www.renoaces.com or by calling (775) 334-4700. Follow the club during the offseason on Twitter (@Aces) or like the team on Facebook.

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

Keys Contribute More Than $200,000 to Local Community in 2017

FREDERICK, MD-With the holiday season upon us, the Frederick Keys are excited to look back on 2017 as another outstanding year for community involvement. This year, the Keys worked hand-in-hand with a myriad of groups on community initiatives and assisted in countless fundraising efforts.

In 2017, the Keys contributed more than $200,000 to the local community. This benefited non-profits, local schools and libraries, the military and other worthy causes. The Keys also donated over $150,000 in in-kind gifts and raised over $20,000 for local non-profit organizations through in-stadium fundraising. This supported local non-profit groups including the United Way, Heartly House, Habitat For Humanity, Blessings in a Backpack and The Police Activities League. Funds were also raised for victims of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.

Throughout the season, the Keys work with different organizations to benefit local non-profits and other worthy causes. For the third straight season, BGE Home and the Keys partnered on “Make a Difference Monday.” During each Monday game, a different 501 (c) (3) organization was given 25 tickets to see the Keys play to go along with a pre-game interview, a ceremonial first, a marketing table on the concourse and a :20 public address announcement. Among the groups who participated were the Team Up for 1 Foundation and the Frederick County Humane Society.

Other year-long programs which benefited local non-profits included Walks for a Cause and Pack the Park. Each time a Keys player walked, Keeney and Basford Funeral Homes donated $10 to Frederick Keys Care. Another staple of the Keys community involvement, Pack the Park enables charities to raise funds through ticket sales as well as a 50/50 raffle. Pack the Parks take place on Fridays and Saturday’s to maximize the organization’s exposure. Other benefits include a first pitch and a chance to speak on the field before the game.

Some groups have specific nights where their cause is recognized. These included Strike Out Stroke Night, Deaf & Hard of Hearing Night, Knock Tobacco Out of the Park Day and Cancer Awareness Night. Through working with Frederick Memorial Hospital’s Stroke & Chest Pain Division, the Keys were able to spread awareness of strokes, how to avoid them and be alerted to when someone could be having one.

For Deaf and Hard of Hearing Night, the Keys worked with the Maryland School for the Deaf to promote ways to communicate with individuals who are deaf or hearing impaired. Students from the school also created special sign language videos with Keys players. Knock Tobacco Out of the Park Day included a pre-game presentation about tobacco use, as well as a video and slates throughout the game explaining the dangers of using tobacco. For this night, the Keys partnered with the Tobacco Free Coalition.

Each season the Keys join forces with the American Cancer Society to recognize cancer survivors and to remember those who have lost their battle with cancer. Survivors receive a free ticket to the game, while ACS sells t-shirts and luminaries as part of a unique fireworks show. This includes a photo montage on the video board of cancer fighters, in conjunction with the organization’s Cancer Has a Face Program. Keys Players and Coaches also donned special lavender jerseys with words of encouragement such as hope, faith and love. These were auctioned off during the game, with proceeds benefiting ACS.

To promote educational and wellness initiatives, the Keys work frequently with the Frederick County Public School System. In 2017, the team introduced the Report Card Program. Children who received A’s, A equivalents or improved grades on their report cards received two complimentary tickets to a Keys game in April as well as a bumper sticker showing their accomplishments.

Meanwhile, this past season just under 2,000 sixth grade students filled Nymeo Field for STEM Day. Each student attendee received an assignment packet with questions based on game action, information from concourse vendors and videos featuring Keys mascot Keyote and players. The Keys and FCPS also work together on Family Fitness Weekend. Children who are active for one hour a day receive a voucher to a Keys weekend game.

Once again the Keys and Frederick County Public Libraries worked together in 2017. The team provided local libraries in Frederick and in surrounding counties with nearly 70,000 summer reading vouchers. Students who complete their summer reading assignments receive a voucher to attend a game in either July or August and receive recognition during a pre-game parade.

A long-standing goal of the Keys has also been to give back to active and retired military members. One way this is accomplished is through Fort Detrick Night. A US Army Medical Command Installation based in Frederick, Fort Detrick is the city’s largest employer. The Keys work closely with the base to put on a night for military members and their families. Tickets are provided at a discounted rate, while Fort Detrick brings out an anthem singer, color guard and military VIPs to give on-field presentations.

The Keys will be celebrating their 30th anniversary in 2018. For more information about ticket plans, fans can contact the Keys groups department at 301-815-9900. The Frederick Keys kickoff their home schedule on Thursday, April 12 against the Potomac Nationals at 7:00 p.m. To follow the Keys all offseason, fans can visit frederickkeys.com.

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

Program at Greater Nevada Field Raises More Than $77,000 Total for Local Non-Profits This Season

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces, in conjunction with Greater Nevada Credit Union (GNCU), hosted the “GNCU Community Partners Program Luncheon” on Wednesday, October 11 at Greater Nevada Field. The event recognized participating community organizations for their efforts this season, which raised a total of $77,000 in donations for 70 non-profits. In addition, Greater Nevada Credit Union awarded the top three fundraisers with a monetary contribution for their respective cause.

The top three fundraisers and the GNCU monetary awards were:

1.          Zazpiak Bat Reno Basque Dancers                  $1,000.00

2.          Brown Elementary                                           $500.00

3.          Concerns of Police Survivors                           $500.00

The Reno Aces, which oversee the Greater Nevada Credit Union Community Partners Program at Greater Nevada Field, focus on helping local charitable organizations raise funds, create awareness, and unite stakeholders. Participating non-profits choose a game date to highlight their organization and receive a portion of each ticket sold. All program participants are invited to the GNCU “Thank You” luncheon at the end of the season.

To learn more about getting involved in the Greater Nevada Credit Union Community Partners Program at Greater Nevada Field, visit www.renoaces.com or call 775-334-4700. 2018 Aces ticket packages are on sale now at www.renoaces.com or by calling (775) 334-7000.

Follow the club during the offseason on Twitter (@Aces) or like the team on Facebook. To purchase a Reno 1868 FC or 2017 ticket package, call (775) 334-7000 or visit www.reno1868fc.com .

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

Jordy Nelson Charity Softball Game Scheduled for June 2, 2018

GRAND CHUTE, WI – The 2018 Jordy Nelson Charity Softball Game will be held at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium at 12:05pm on Saturday, June 2. Individual tickets for the game will go on sale Tuesday, November 21 at 10:00am. Fans can get tickets a week ahead of that date by purchasing a special four-game ticket package that includes tickets to the softball game and vouchers good for any three Wisconsin Timber Rattlers home games (except Opening Day) during the 2018 regular season.

“My charity softball game will be better than ever because we are going to mix up the teams,” said Nelson. “It’s possible that Randall Cobb and I could be going head-to-head! The only guarantee is that my team will win on the field and Young Life will win most of all!”

In the 2017 game, the offense jumped out to a huge 18-3 lead before switching scores with the defense. The offense rallied from their own deficit for a 27-25 win in front of 8,228 fans.

The four-game ticket package will be available to fans on Wednesday, November 15 at 10:00am through the Timber Rattlers Ticket Office by calling (800) WI-TIMBER, (920) 733-4152, or in person at the Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office. These ticket packages will also be available online through TimberRattlers.com.
Prices for the four-game packages are:
Premium Box Seat: $108
Box Seat: $87
Reserved Seat: $59

The first two rows of the seating bowl at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium are the premium box seat option in this ticket package. Vouchers for the Timber Rattlers games must be redeemed at the box office and are based on availability.

Individual tickets for the Jordy Nelson Charity Softball Game, which includes the sponsor game at 10:00am and the Home Run Derby at 11:00am, go on sale Tuesday, November 21 at 10:00am. Tickets for the softball game are $69 for a premium box seat, $48 for a box seat, $29 for a reserved bleacher seat, and $14 for a general admission grass seat. There are also a limited number of patio tables available at $255. Patio tables seat four people and include waitstaff service and an autographed item from Jordy Nelson.

All You Can Eat Seats are available for $87 for the softball game only. These seats are located on the first base side of the stadium and include a ticket to the Jordy Nelson Charity Softball Game and an all-you-can-eat picnic.

If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities, please contact Lammi Sports Management at (414) 727-3600.

The Jordy Nelson Charity Softball game benefits Young Life, an organization for middle, high school and college students that pairs them with adults focused on the things that matter most to kids – fun, adventure and friendship. The 2017 game raised $130,000 for Young Life. Founded in 1941, Young Life has more than 3,000 staff and 30,000 volunteers reaching more than 1,000,000 kids annually.

The Timber Rattlers box office is open from 9am until 5pm Monday through Friday.

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

66ers Complete 2017 Community Benefit Snapshot

SAN BERNARDINO – The Inland Empire 66ers organization released their annual Community Benefit Report for the 2017 Fiscal Year. The report divulges how close to $300,000 was invested to the Inland Empire community along with several community oriented programs implemented by the 66ers Front Office staff.

Over 100 area organizations and non-profit organizations were able to raise $152,944 through 66ers fundraising programming and events plus 50 area organizations received monetary aid in the amount of $32,702. In-kind donations, such as game tickets, gift baskets and autographed memorabilia were proudly donated to over 200 local organizations to the tune of $113,946.

“We believe that to have the benefit of our community supporting us we must be involved back, creating a true partnership. This has never been more evident than during the 2017 season when our community made us number one in California League attendance for the first time in 27 years,” said Joe Hudson, General Manager. “The 66ers also believe that being part of the community outside of the ballpark is important and showcased it with 66ers Front Office members being active in over twenty local organizations.”

In addition to monetary donations given to numerous organizations, the 66ers Front Office spent several hundred hours volunteering their time in the community. Programs like “Breakfast and a Book” where 66ers staff members provide breakfast to local students who excelled over the month and read them a couple stories while they ate were extremely successful and will be expanded for the following year. During the off-season the Front Office selected one community organization a month to volunteer their time. A few of these organizations included Santa Claus, Inc., Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County, Central Little League diamond clean up and the 66ers took staff and players to North Park Elementary for a kickball game after the tragedy at their school.

“We’re more than grateful to give monetary donations, but sometimes it’s more impactful to offer a helping hand,” said Stephanie O’Quinn, Community Groups Manager. “It’s not only rewarding to the community but for us as an organization.”

In addition to the Breakfast and a Book program, other annual events include: the annual 66ers Golf Tournament which raised over $4,000 for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, Walk for the Animals hosted by the Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley that netted over $14,000 for their event at San Manuel Stadium, and The Pink Ribbon Place jersey auction that raised over $3,400 from jersey sales and ticket fundraiser.

The Inland Empire 66ers of San Bernardino baseball team are the Class-A Advanced affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels serving the Inland Empire community with family friendly entertainment. The 2018 season begins on Thursday, April 5th against the San Jose Giants at San Manuel Stadium. For more information about season ticket memberships or group outings, please contact the 66ers at www.66ers.com or call 909-888-9922.

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

Cutters Accepting Applications for Hot Stove Dinner Charity

The Williamsport Crosscutters are now accepting applications from area non-profits for the 12th Annual Hot Stove Dinner & Auction with the Phillies to take place in January.

The event features guests from the Philadelphia Phillies along with other local sports celebrities.

A portion of the proceeds from the evening are donated to a local non-profit each year.

“This is our favorite event of the off season,” stated Gabe Sinicropi the team’s Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations. “We look forward to another night of fun with the Phillies and the opportunity to raise needed funding for a local charity.”

Local non-profit agencies who wish to be considered must complete and return a short application by November 17, 2017. The application is available at the link below, at the Cutters offices at BB&T Ballpark or by emailing sarah@crosscutters.com.

A guest list and ticket details regarding the annual dinner will be announced in the coming weeks. Businesses wishing to receive sponsorship information for the event may contact the Crosscutters at (570) 326-3389.

CLICK HERE FOR APPLICATION

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

BlueClaws Upgrade Fundraising Options for 2018 Season

We’ve enhanced our Fundriasing Program heading into 2018!

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – The BlueClaws have upgraded their fundraising program heading into 2018, crafting improved and varied offerings compatible with all types of groups and organizations.

This year, the BlueClaws Fundraising Program has been expanded to include two versions that enable groups to raise money by buying and selling either 125 or 250 tickets. Plus, groups will have a chance to raise additional funds by volunteering in a FirstEnergy Park concession stand during a game.

Buster’s 250 Fundraising Program – In this program, groups purchase 250 tickets at $7 per ticket and re-sell them for $11, making $4 per ticket. A maximum of 20 volunteers can work a BlueClaws concession stand, earning $37.50 per person, an additional $750 for the group. Through this program, groups can earn $1,750, or more with additional tickets.

Participation in the programs outlined above also gives groups the opportunity to take advantage of additional exclusive opportunities.

Youth Sports Organizations – Youth Sports Organizations that participate in the BlueClaws Fundraising Program will receive a Pre-Game Parade, the Future BlueClaws (up to 18 players run on the field with the BlueClaws for the National Anthem), Clawstars of the Game (up to 30 players can play catch on the field prior to the game), and a First Pitch for up to two members of the group. Additionally, the BlueClaws will purchase a sign at the organization’s Little League field (Program A).

Schools – Schools that participate in the BlueClaws Fundraising Program receive a Pre-Game Parade and a ceremonial first pitch. A school chorus can sing the National Anthem or God Bless America, plus the school band can perform on the field before the game. Additionally, Buster will attend an assembly at the school.

Dance & Entertainment Organizations – These groups will receive an on-field performance before the game and a table on the concourse to promote their studio and additional programs. Any pre-game performance will be posted on the BlueClaws Facebook page shortly after the performance.

For additional information on the BlueClaws Fundraising Program, contact a representative by calling 732-901-7000 option 3.

– BlueClaws –

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2017 San Jose Giants Release 2017 Community Report

SAN JOSE, CA– The San Jose Giants released today their 2017 Community Report. The report is an overview of the organizations outreach and community involvement as well as a summary of games and events at historic Municipal Stadium. From a record number of mascot and player appearances, donations and fundraising endeavors to the celebration of the #DiamondSeason, the San Jose Giants connected with and served the South Bay in more ways than ever before.

“I want to personally thank all of our fans and partners for your loyalty and support. You inspire us each day and are the motivation behind our efforts to give back to the community” said Daniel Orum, San Jose Giants President and CEO. “2017 will be remembered as a hallmark year filled with countless memories all made possible by you. We are proud to contribute to this wonderful community and are working diligently to raise the bar even higher in next year.”

The 2017 Community Report demonstrates the variety of charitable efforts the San Jose Giants are involved with both inside and outside the stadium gates. Highlights of the report include the nearly 200 community appearances made by San Jose Giants personnel, special community-centered nights and events at Municipal Stadium, the #DiamondSeason and introduction of We Care Wednesday, extensive fundraising programs, events in partnership with the Giants Community Fund to help underserved youth and in-kind donations to well over 500 local and national organizations. For the complete 2017 San Jose Giants Community Report, click on the link below.

2017 San Jose Giants Community Report

For more information on the San Jose Giants and how to get your organization involved next season, call 408.297.1435 or visit sjgiants.com.

Making Strides Walk Coming Up Saturday, Oct. 21

DAYTON, OHIO – The 2017 “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” walk will take place at Fifth Third Field on Saturday, October 21. Registration will begin at 8:00 a.m. The walk will start at 9:00 a.m.

This event is part of a national fundraising effort. In 2016 alone, over 1 million walkers across the country collected more than $60 million to help fight this disease.

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and it is estimated that over 40,000 lives will be lost to breast cancer in 2017. Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women (excluding skin cancer) and second only to lung cancer as a cause of cancer death in women.

You can help win the fight. The walk and donations go directly to the support, transportation, recovery, and other needs that arise with the diagnosis of breast cancer. The American Cancer Society also invests in groundbreaking breast cancer research to better understand, prevent, find, and treat the disease.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. The Dragons website, www.daytondragons.com, has gone pink in October in support of efforts by Kettering Health Network to increase Breast Cancer awareness in the Miami Valley.

To register for the walk, please visit www.makingstrideswalk.org/Dayton.

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 (937) 228-2287, by email at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com.

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

Legends Helping “Restore the Shore”

(WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK, Lexington, Ky.) The Lexington Legends and the Lakewood BlueClaws are South Atlantic League rivals on the baseball field, but the Legends are enthusiastically supporting the New Jersey-based BlueClaws on their “Restore the Shore” campaign in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.

The Legends purchased “Restore the Shore” t-shirts in support of the efforts by the Blue Claws to help victims of the super storm. The campaign will continue through Memorial Day. While the BlueClaws are working closely with individuals and businesses in their area, support is welcome from anywhere. Atlantic Physical Therapy and Ergo clothing are sponsoring the campaign.

“Supporting the BlueClaws in the Restore the Shore efforts was a no-brainer,” said Sarah Bosso, the Legends’ director of community relations and special events. “As a member of the South Atlantic League baseball family, we wish we were able to do more to help those affected. The hope is that our contribution to our friends in Lakewood and surrounding areas will highlight the importance of reaching out and supporting communities outside of your own, and will encourage other teams and individuals to do the same. We are grateful for the opportunity to be involved.”

Each Friday until Memorial Day, participants will wear the t-shirts, and each person will make a donation every Friday. Details are available at BlueClaws.com/Restore.

Businesses that participate will be honored in a ceremony at a 2013 BlueClaws game.

“Obviously, there were so many of our friends and neighbors impacted significantly by Hurricane Sandy,” said Dave Manzo, co-founder of Atlantic Physical Therapy Center. “Through this program, we can raise money in a fun way over the next several months.”

In early 2013, those impacted by the storm will be able to fill out an application, and donations will be made to as many families as possible.

“We have an opportunity to help many re-build after Sandy’s devastation,” said BlueClaws General Manager Geoff Brown. “We’re looking forward to helping, and we hope that there are a lot of businesses and families that can help us make an impact.” ###

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

Biloxi Shuckers make major community impact in 2017

Here is a link to the original story on the team’s website.

BIBiloxi ShuckersLOXI, MS – In a season marked by several on-field accomplishments in the third year of Minor League Baseball on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the Biloxi Shuckers are most proud of their various community outreach efforts. From theme nights to jersey auctions, the Shuckers have made a financial and symbolic impact on their community throughout the 2017 season.

The Shuckers were nominated by the Minor League Baseball Community as a finalist for a prestigious “Golden Bobblehead” award for the “Best Community Promotion or Event” after helping with the Hattiesburg/Petal tornado relief efforts and William Carey vs. Biloxi Shuckers exhibition game. Shuckers’ employees traveled to Petal, Mississippi to assist cleanup crews. The tornado caused damage to the campus of nearby William Carey University, so the Shuckers scheduled a benefit exhibition game against the school’s baseball team before the first road trip of the season. The game raised $6,090 for the university’s tornado recovery efforts. This effort coupled with numerous other initiatives garnered the recognition.

Watch: Youtube Video

In addition to the recognition by Minor League Baseball, the Shuckers were also a finalist for the Southern League’s Community Service Award.

Shuckers’ front office members laid the groundwork for a successful season with several other community initiatives. Employees laid sod at an athletic complex in Moss Point, Mississippi to revitalize the area’s youth baseball program.

Watch: Youtube Video

In partnership with Walmart, the inaugural Shuckers “Hit the Books” reading program brought Schooner the Seagull to 17 schools and over 10,000 students to incentivize reading with Shuckers tickets as a reward.

Watch: Youtube Video

Since their inception, the Shuckers have had a strong relationship with nearby Keesler Air Force Base and the substantial military presence on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. That trend continued in 2017, as every Monday became “Military Monday” with special discounts for active and retired members of the armed forces. Special camouflage jerseys, worn every Monday and designed with input from Keesler staff, and were auctioned off at the end of the season with proceeds benefiting local military causes.

Throughout the season, the Shuckers have partnered with several charitable organizations to raise money and awareness for deserving local causes. Three additional jersey auctions earlier this season have brought in money for the March of Dimes, Mississippi Center for Autism, and Favre4Hope breast cancer research.

Watch: Youtube Video

The Shuckers have also hosted a Christmas in July toy drive for the Uplift Foundation, Seatbelt Safety night for the K&J Foundation (started by team photographer Brian Pearse), and Skin Cancer Awareness night in partnership with the MiLB Charities Sun Safety Initiative.

Youth outreach was not limited to the “Hit the Books” program. The Shuckers turned their two “Education Day” games into vocational field trips, with visits from Biloxi Fire and Police, NASA, the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, Department of Marine Resources, University of Southern Mississippi’s Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, and Mississippi State University’s Coastal Research Extension.

Former New York Mets catcher and Biloxi native Barry Lyons was formally invited into the Shuckers organization as an ambassador prior to the 2017 season, and the team assisted him in the creation of the first series of Shuckers Kids Clinics for local youth. In addition, the “Field of Dreams” program allowed more than 100 young baseball and softball players from the area to take the field alongside Shuckers players for the national anthem.

In partnership with the Knights of Columbus, the Biloxi Shuckers collected 765 lbs of food/product during a food drive on Sunday, July 30th for them to distribute in the community.

In addition to these widespread efforts, the Shuckers have also made numerous player and mascot appearances in the community over the course of the season. The Shuckers in-kind donations and in-stadium fundraising initiatives have raised $155,455.91 for over 100 charitable organizations. The Biloxi Shuckers understand the responsibility that comes with their platform in the community and are determined to make a positive impact on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

In addition to monetary contributions, the Biloxi Shuckers front office staff have logged 265 community volunteer hours thus far in 2017. Those hours have been spent working with area schools, NCBC’s Child Development Center, Humane Society of South Mississippi, VA Medical Center, Loaves and Fishes and cleanup efforts from Hurricane Harvey.

The Shuckers open up their 2018 season on the road at Montgomery before their home opener against Mississippi on April 11. More information on the fourth season of Biloxi Shuckers baseball will be available at biloxishuckers.com as the offseason progresses.

ABOUT THE BILOXI SHUCKERS: The Biloxi Shuckers are the Double-A Southern League 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.