Canadians host Indigenous Peoples Night on July 14

VANCOUVER, BC – Nat Bailey Stadium – home of the Vancouver Canadians – sits on the lands of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations. The Canadians, in partnership with Coastal First Nations and Rogers Communications, will pay homage to the people of those lands on Thursday, July 14 when they host their inaugural Indigenous Peoples Night.

The festivities will begin well before first pitch. Traditional music and dance will be performed at the ballpark entrance from 5:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. The on-field pregame welcome ceremony will be led by Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations leaders.

In conjunction with the Indian Residential School Survivors Society, 20 residential school survivors and their families have been invited to the game and 20 athletes from the Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council will take the field with the C’s starting lineup as part of the Baseball Buddies program.

All Canadians game day staff will be wearing HstryMkrs “Every Childs Matters” orange t-shirts in solidarity with the theme of the night. The shirts will be available for presale and on site during the game with 100% of the proceeds benefitting residential school survivors. Shirts are available for presale now by clicking here.

The C’s extend their gratitude to Coastal First Nations for their consultation, guidance and support in launching this yearly event.

*Who: *Vancouver Canadians

*What: * Indigenous Peoples Night at The Nat

*Where: *Nat Bailey Stadium (4601 Ontario Street, Vancouver, B.C.)

*When: * Thursday, July 14, 2022, at 7:05 p.m. PDT

Tickets for the event are available now by calling the box office at 604-872-5232 or by clicking here.

Dragons to Recognize “Hometown Heroes” Honorees During Game on July 4

DRAGONS TO RECOGNIZE “HOMETOWN HEROES” HONOREES DURING GAME ON JULY 4

Dayton, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons will recognize the 1487th Transportation Company of the U.S. Army as “Hometown Heroes” during a special inning break of the Dragons game on Monday, July 4 against the West Michigan Whitecaps at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. The game will start at 7:05p.m.

The Dayton Dragons shine the spotlight on the military, past and present, through the Hometown Heroes program. This program hosts military families at every Dragons game, recognizing outstanding military organizations, groups, and individuals.

Since its inception in 1873, the 1487th transportation company has participated in World War I, World War II, the Gulf War, and the Global War of Terror. Coming out of the Gulf War, the unit was designated as the “Iron Camels” due to their efforts in transporting vital supplies of food and water across Kuwait.

In 2020, the unit was called to transport critical supplies in Southwest Asia in support of Operations Spartan Shield (OSS) and Inherent Resolve (OIR.) From March to December of 2020, the Iron Camels successfully completed transportation missions including driving over 500,000 individual miles and supporting 115 military units. They conducted 90 missions to the Khabari Crossing in Kuwait, trans-loading multi-class supplies in support of OIR operations. These missions included the transport of Counter-Terrorism Equipment Fund Class VII for divestment operations and the retrograde of multi-class supplies.

In recognition of their efforts, they were awarded the Army Meritorious Unit Commendation for their exceptional conduct in performance of outstanding achievement and service. The award, which dates back to 1944, is only granted to units who exemplify these efforts for six continuous months or more, during military operations against an armed enemy.

The emblem is a scarlet ribbon with a gold, laurel leaf frame and is to be worn by service members on the right breast of their service coat.

The Dayton Dragons Hometown Heroes program is made possible by the generous support of the Dayton Development Coalition, Reynolds & Reynolds, and the Dayton Dragons. For more information, please visit daytondragons.com/hometownheroes.

Mississippi Braves to honor civil rights icons The “Tougaloo Nine” on Saturday, July 16

PEARL, MS – In conjunction with Minor League Baseball’s initiative “The Nine”, on Saturday, July 16, when the Mississippi Braves take on the Rocket City Trash Pandas at Trustmark Park, the team will be honoring the brave students that made up the historic Tougaloo Nine.

“The M-Braves look forward to recognizing the courageous members of the Tougaloo Nine on this night”, said M-Braves vice-president and general manager Pete Laven. “Their story is vital to the fight for civil rights history in not just our great state but the entire nation. We are honored and humbled that several of the Tougaloo Nine will be present for the game.”

Story of the Tougaloo Nine:

In March 1961, the Tougaloo Nine became the first Mississippi students to stage a sit-in against segregation when they staged a demonstration at the main public library in Jackson. Just over a year earlier, on February 1, 1960, students from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical College launched the sit-in movement with a protest at a Greensboro lunch counter. Students from black colleges across the South followed suit at a variety of public places—lunch counters, libraries, and department stores—that denied service to blacks.

On March 27, 1961, nine members of the Jackson Youth Council of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People—Meredith Coleman Anding Jr., James Cleo Bradford, Alfred Lee Cook, Geraldine Edwards, Janice Jackson, Joseph Jackson Jr., Albert Earl Lassiter, Evelyn Pierce, and Ethel Sawyer—entered Jackson’s main library and began browsing through the card catalog and then sat down to read. When police arrived and asked the students to leave, they refused and were arrested on charges of breach of the peace. Medgar Evers gathered bail for their release, and Jack Harvey Young Sr., a civil rights lawyer, represented the students. They were ultimately convicted, fined one hundred dollars each, and given thirty days in jail, though that part of the sentence was suspended. However, their actions led to the integration of what is now the Jackson Metropolitan Library System, and they have been honored by the college and by the City of Jackson.

On July 16, Mississippi Braves players will wear vintage Tougaloo College baseball jerseys from the 1960s that feature the last name of one of the Tougaloo Nine students on the back.

“Tougaloo College is honored to be a part of this special occasion as the Mississippi Braves pay tribute to the Tougaloo Nine,” said Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Social Justice, Dr. Daphne Chamberlain. Tougaloo College has a rich civil rights history that has been well documented, and the Tougaloo Nine are a significant part of that history. More than sixty years ago, these young people challenged the status quo in their actions to integrate the Jackson Public Library. The Tougaloo Nine inspired and empowered young people across Mississippi to join the fight for freedom. The role the Tougaloo Nine played in effectuating positive social change in Mississippi during one of the most turbulent periods in this state and this nation’s history is a testament to their bravery and commitment to securing human dignity for all people.”

These jerseys will be available for our fans to purchase during the game via silent auction, with proceeds benefitting the Ella Josephine Baker Social Justice Scholarship.

Before the 6:05 pm first pitch will be a pre-game ceremony to include current Tougaloo College baseball players, video tributes before the game, a mobile museum kiosk on the stadium concourse, and appearances by living members and families of the Tougaloo Nine. The evening will conclude with a phenomenal Post-Game Fireworks Show.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit mississippibraves.com, or call 888-BRAVES4.

WooSox Show Respect to Veterans, Current Soldiers on Military Appreciation Night 

Worcester– On Friday, June 24, the Worcester Red Sox welcomed several members from our nation’s military, who were honored before their game against the Charlotte Knights (AAA, Chicago White Sox). The ceremony started with a ceremonial dropping of the massive American flag over the Worcester Wall in right field. Then, the WooSox welcomed several members of the Home Base Program. Following the Red Sox World Series Championships in 2004 and 2007, Red Sox Chairman Tom Werner and Larry Lucchino, the former Red Sox President and CEO, and current Chairman of the WooSox, brought the championship clubs to Walter Reed Army Medical Center on their White House visit. An enormous impact was left on both the veterans and the players. Once the Red Sox won the World Series in 2007, they had veterans from the Walter Reed Center deliver the players their World Series rings. After this chilling moment, Werner and Lucchino knew the Red Sox had an opportunity to make a difference with all veterans around the country. Soon after, the Red Sox organization formed a partnership with the Massachusetts General Hospital, pledging to help soldiers heal the invisible wounds of war. The Home Base Program has served a staggering 25,000 veterans while training over 85,000 clinicians. Representing the Home Base Program was Volunteer Coordinator Jose Navarro-Robles and Veteran Outreach Coordinator, and United States Navy veteran, Kevin Dillon.

Then, the WooSox welcomed a Dominican Republic immigrant and Purple Heart recipient, Alex Arriaga. Arriaga served in the Army National Guard from 2001 to 2007 in several missions, including Operation Iraqi. Following his tenure with the National Guard, Alex served as an employment and training manager for Veterans Inc. Currently, Alex serves his hometown as the Director of Worcester’s Veterans’ Services.

Every home game, the WooSox honor a local non-profit as the “Heart of Worcester”. On Friday, the Heart of Worcester was Veterans Inc. Located on Grove Street, Veterans Inc. is the national leader in ending homelessness among veterans at an astonishing rate of 85%. Since its creation, Veterans Inc. has served more than 85,000 veterans. Representing Veterans Inc. was Government Affairs Specialist Ray Carville.

Honored next as the Hometown Hero was Project New Hope. Founded in 2010, Project New Hope sets out to help United States veterans and their family members cope with challenges, stigmas, and fears they endure during or after their tenure in the U.S. Military. Honored pre-game was the foundation’s president and CEO, Bill Moore. Also honored was Sturbridge native Colonel Tom Stewart. After serving in the Massachusetts National Guard for 32 years, including deployment in Afghanistan, Stewart joined the Project New Hope Board Of Directors. Stewart was honored by throwing out a Ceremonial First Pitch.

Following the Hometown Hero ceremony, 10 brave men and women recited the oath of enlistment into the United States Marine Corps. Among those sworn in were: Jameson Latour (Southbridge), Jordan Santos (Southbridge), Jose Quintana (Worcester), Mario Frascolla (Worcester), Mathius Gonzalez (Worcester), Nicholas Flood (Worcester), Reagan Casey (Grafton), Ryan Greenwood (Auburn), Sudip Gajurel (Worcester), and Phuc Vuong (Worcester). Swearing them in was Staff Sergeant Nicholas F. Lamothe. After the ceremony, Staff Sergeant Nicholas F. Lamothe threw out a Ceremonial First Pitch.

Presenting the colors for the national anthem was the Worcester Fire Honor Guard. Singing the national anthem for his second time at Polar Park was Pepperell native Ewan Beauzil. A recent graduate of North Middlesex Regional High School with high honors, Ewan is departing on July 5th to join the United States Army. Much like his first rendition, Ewan delivered a flawless performance.

At the end of the 4th inning of every home game, the WooSox honor a veteran as part of their “In Debt to a Vet” program. On Friday, the WooSox honored Technical Sergeant Bruce L. Cordero. A native of Lynn, MA, Bruce has served in the United States Air Force since 2004. Bruce was greeted by the fans with a standing ovation.

The WooSox players showed up for the veterans, smacking four home runs, including two from Christian Stewart en route to a 10-2 victory. The win was the WooSox’ 5th in a row, pushing their record to two games over .500 as they make their midseason push at a division crown.

BlueClaws to Honor Fallen Heroes on Military Appreciation Night

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws will host their annual Military Appreciation Night, presented by OceanFirst Bank, on Thursday, July 7th, but this year, the night takes on an extra-special meaning as the team honors and hosts the families of New Jersey’s fallen heroes, military members that lost their lives in service to America.

During the game, BlueClaws players will be wearing special jerseys, each featuring the name of a fallen hero on the back. After the game, each BlueClaws player will present their jersey to the Gold Star family members in an on-field ceremony.

“These heroes mark the best of us,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “They have given their lives in support of the nation they serve. It is our honor to recognize their heroic achievements and the sacrifices of their families.”

Fans are encouraged to arrive early to the ballpark for a series of pre-game festivities including a wreath ceremony through which one wreath will be presented on behalf of each branch of the United States Military. There will also be a parade featuring members of the 87th FSS Youth Program from Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, and an honor guard featuring a local chapter from Disabled American Veterans.

ORDER TICKETS ONLINE.

The night also includes a Troop Supply Drive. Fans are encouraged to donate razors, snacks, baby wipes, shampoo, soap, non-chocolate candies and sweets, sun block with SPF 40+, lip balm, writing utensils, silly string, deodorant, tissues, q-tips, white socks, batteries, insect repellent, and flashlights. This supply and care package drive is in conjunction with the Monmouth-Ocean Central Labor Council Military Committee, Monmouth-Ocean Building Trade Council, National Guard, Toms River Armory, A.R.M.S, and IBEW Local 400 Military Committee.

Donation locations will be set up outside the ballpark for fans to drop off their items.

The BlueClaws have partnered with Wreaths Across America on a one-of-a-kind program through which fans can both reserve a ticket to BlueClaws Military Appreciation Night on July 7th and sponsor a wreath to be laid at a soldier’s grave this December. There are several options for fans to participate in this one-of-a-kind program.

  • Sponsor a wreath and donate a ticket for a veteran to enjoy Military Appreciation Night for $15
  • Sponsor a wreath, donate a ticket for a veteran to enjoy Military Appreciation Night, and receive a ticket to the game for yourself for $25.

Click here to participate in the program. All tickets for veterans will be distributed directly through accredited channels.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They enter July within 33,381 fans of 8-million in their franchise history, which dates to 2001.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

CareSource, Dragons Team Up to Honor Local Veteran

CareSource Veteran Salute Honors William Zimmerman on June 26

DAYTON, Ohio –CareSource and the Dayton Dragons will host United States Navy veteran William Zimmerman during the CareSource Veteran Salute Program on Sunday, June 26, 2022, at 1:05PM when the Dayton Dragons take on the Lake County Captains at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. Sunday will be the third of five special CareSource Veteran Salute dates of the 2022 season.

The CareSource Veteran Salute Program provides veterans in the Dayton region with a once-in-a-lifetime experience to celebrate their service to their country. Each honoree has their story shared in front of the crowd at Day Air Ballpark, followed by a standing ovation in appreciation of the veteran’s hard work and dedication both in military and civilian accomplishments.

William Zimmerman’s Story

William Zimmerman, born and raised in Tipp City, graduated from Tippecanoe High School in 1964. He wanted to serve his country and enlisted in the Navy in December of 1965. William served 21 years in the military; four years active duty and 17 years in the reserves.

William began his career with the Navy in Pensacola, Florida. He was then moved to Long Beach, California for his second tour of duty. William recorded aviation flight information and repairs on assigned aircraft. His Vietnam service was aboard the USS Enterprise which was the first nuclear-powered ship to engage in combat by utilizing her aircraft against the Viet Cong at the height of the Vietnam War. In July of 1969, William returned to the United States – very happy to see the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco as his ship drew nearer.

William continued to serve in the Naval Reserves until he retired in February of 1990. While in the reserves, he decided to attend college and graduated in 1981 from Edison State Community College with a degree in Business Management. He played basketball while in college and even started his own income tax business that continued for 40 years.

William was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal with a Bronze Star and many other service and campaign medals. He exemplifies a veteran who loves his community and continues to give back through his local church and volunteering for local causes. William has two children, three grandchildren, and resides in New Carlisle with his wife, Janel. He enjoys spending time with his family, bowling, watching the Reds, and attending Dragons games. He recently started reading more routinely and has read over 200 books in the last three years.

To nominate a veteran in your life for the Veteran Salute Program, please visit daytondragons.com/veteransalute today.

CareSource’s Veteran Salute program highlights five veterans’ stories during the course of each season. Veterans who are chosen are honored at a Dragons game with an in-game ceremony and provided with VIP treatment during their special night. The program is an extension of CareSource’s continued commitment to serving special populations and its new efforts to support veterans through innovative health and life services programs. For more information about the Veteran Salute program, visit www.daytondragons.com/veteransalute.

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Polar Park Celebrates Juneteenth, sponsors Black Music Festival

The Worcester Red Sox concluded their six-game series Sunday in an afternoon matinee against the Toledo Mud Hens. In addition to Father’s Day festivities Sunday, Polar Park played host to multiple celebrations of Juneteenth, the commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States on June 19, 1865.

A trio of local musicians, Charles Ketter, Lydia Fortune, and Miss Shirley Johnson, rocked along Summit Street to begin Juneteenth commemoration. Patrons enjoyed spirituals as well as jazz and blues stylings pre-game.

For the Heart of Worcester, fans welcomed Dr. Thomas Doughton, a senior lecturer for interdisciplinary and special studies at The College of the Holy Cross. Doughton was instrumental in the creation of Worcester’s Black History Trail. Alongside Doughton was another influential figure to the trail’s creation: Worcester City Councilor Khrystian King.

The trail encompasses a near 300-year history in Worcester through several landmarks of historical significance across the Heart of the Commonwealth. The display tells the unfiltered stories of those who lived in the city as far back as the 18th Century, and had its first five stops dedicated earlier this month.

Sunday’s Ceremonial First Pitch was delivered by Ernest Floyd, who was honored as the Hometown Hero. Floyd created and serves as executive producer of Unity Radio, 97.9 FM. Unity Radio helps create an avenue through which members of the Worcester community can help one another.

Before the performance of the national anthem, Polar Park raised the Juneteenth flag alongside the American flag, and heard a rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by 15-year-old Liyah McBridge. The Star-Spangled Banner was performed by P.E. James.

Social justice is one of the WooSox Foundation’s four areas of focus. To further strengthen the club’s commitment to supporting the local Black community, the Foundation announced its sponsorship of The Black Music Festival with a $1,500 contribution, which was dedicated before first pitch Sunday.

The festival will be hosted by the Uncommonwealth Group on Saturday, June 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Patrons can expect a full day of musical performances, entertainment, food, vendors, and building bridges to the community through music on the Worcester Common.

Sunday’s game was a victory for the WooSox on the back of Ryan Fitzgerald’s 5th inning three-run home run and Connor Seabold’s (5-1, 1.95) quality start.

Sunday concluded with a special Father’s Day Catch on the Field.

New Historical Baseball Display to be Unveiled at Eastwood Field on July 25

NILES, OH –Niles, OH – The Mahoning Valley Scrappers will debut a new display at Eastwood Field which will feature historic baseball figures with ties to the region. The unveiling will take place before a game on Monday, July 25, 2022, a date which will coincide with the National Baseball Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

The display has been funded by local baseball historian P. M. Kovach and will feature six individuals with ties to the area: Bud Fowler, the first African-American professional baseball player who began his career in New Castle, PA; Jimmy McAleer, a Youngstown native who played and managed in Cleveland in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and helped establish the American League; Elmer Flick, who played in the minors in Youngstown and went on to a Hall of Fame career; Red Ames of Warren who played in three World Series; Billy Evans who played baseball for Rayen HS in Youngstown and became the youngest MLB umpire at the age of 22 in 1906; George H. Burns, a Niles native who helped the Cleveland Indians beat Brooklyn in the 1920 World Series.

The Scrappers will take on the Fredrick Keys and the game will also feature the Peppers in Oil promotion and Niles Community Day with first pitch at 7:05pm. The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are one of six founding members of the MLB Draft League, joining the Frederick Keys, the State College Spikes, the Trenton Thunder, the West Virginia Black Bears and the Williamsport Crosscutters. For more information, visit mvscrappers.com or contact the front office at 330-505-0000.

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Saturday: Join us as the Bisons host Native American Heritage Night (6pm)

GET MY TICKETS – Native American Heritage Night

The Buffalo Bisons are proud to partner with Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino to host Native American Heritage Night as the club faces the St. Paul Saints on Saturday, July 25. First pitch is at 6:05 p.m. with the Sahlen Field gates opening at 5 p.m. TICKETS

The night will be a celebration of the rich Native American culture here in Western New York and throughout the country. The Indigenous Spirit Dancers will perform on the field pregame as well as during the game while traditional music will be played throughout the night. The Bisons will feature trivia and educational messages on the scoreboard while additional information will be available inside the ballpark’s concourse.

Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino will also be handing out Free Sunglasses to the first 900 fans that stop at their concourse table. Seneca Nation of Indians President, Matthew Pagels, will throw out the night’s ceremonial first pitch while Layla Seneca will sing the anthems for the game.

Saturday’s game is also the club’s first Labatt-urday Night of the season, featuring $4 Labatt Blue and Blue Light from 5-7 p.m. in the concourse by Section 106. Be sure to enter pre-game as a fan 21 years or older could win ‘Beer for a Year’ if a Bisons player homers off the giant inflatable Labatt can beyond the right field wall. GET MY TICKETS

Blue Wahoos And Cox Honor Legacy Of Chappie James To End Homestand On Juneteenth 

The Blue Wahoos were unable to sweep their week-long series against the Tennessee Smokies.

But they won the day in other ways Sunday, following a 5-1 loss at Blue Wahoos Stadium on an unforgettable Father’s Day at Blue Wahoos presented by Cox Communications that coincided with Juneteenth, National Freedom Day.

In addition to their title sponsorship of the day’s festivities, Cox Communications provided 100 game tickets, hats, and food to children in the community and the opportunity for the kids to take the field with the Blue Wahoos!
Nino Mendez

Their lone loss in this six-game series with the Smokies still kept the Blue Wahoos on verge of clinching the first-half division race in the Southern League South Division. The other three South Division teams, including nearest chaser Biloxi Shuckers, all lost Sunday as well.

While bats were quieted, the Blue Wahoos still stirred crowd attention among the 4,123 who braved the hot afternoon.

For the first time, the Blue Wahoos wore specialty, all-blue jerseys which included four silver stars in honor of the Gen. Daniel “Chappie” James Jr., who rose from Pensacola to become in 1975 the first African-American four-star general in United States Armed Forces history.

James’ decorated legacy included tours of combat duty in the Korean War and Vietnam War, earning him rarefied placement in U.S. Air Force history prior to his death 1978.

His granddaughter, Britt James, who was attending her brother’s wedding in Washington state, provided a video tribute and local members of the Chappie James Flight Academy and Chappie James Memorial Bridge Foundation were recognized on the field.

Then moments before the National Anthem was played, an 11-year-old boy tossed a ceremonial first pitch to a man who been in a stepdad role. On the baseball were the words, “Let’s Make This Official.”

The two melted in each other’s arms with tears as paperwork was presented for the adoption to become official.

Happy Father’s Day, indeed.

There were also youth league teams across the field in pregame warmups as part of a sponsorship from Cox Communications, who provided 100 game tickets, hats, and food to children in the community. In what might be a team record, 10 different people threw out a first pitch.

The game itself fell in what seemed a familiar comeback scenario to the Blue Wahoos.

After trailing 4-0, they had the first two batters on base in both the seventh and eighth innings. Unlike previous home game, late-inning comebacks, the Blue Wahoos (33-25) could not follow with a big hit to extend a five-game winning streak.

As it turned out, however, win or lose Sunday, the Blue Wahoos position for a playoff-clincher would not have changed. Playing hours earlier, Biloxi fell 7-6 in 10 innings, on the road against the Chattanooga Lookouts, ending Biloxi’s four-game win streak.

The Blue Wahoos will travel to Biloxi on Tuesday to begin a six-game series with the Shuckers (30-31) that will end the first half schedule. The Blue Wahoos need just one win to wrap up first-place in the first half and gain a playoff spot for mid-September.

Because each team in the South Division has played a different number of games, winning percentage is what determines the first half winner.

Cody Mincey delivered a solid start Sunday for the Blue Wahoos, working six innings, giving up all three of his runs in the second inning, but not walking a batter in his outing. He had tough luck in the second when a potential double-play was botched with a wide throw, leading into Cole Roederer’s two run single.

The Blue Wahoos got their lone run in the seventh on Jan Mercado’s two-out single, but managed only six hits against three Smokies pitchers. Cobie Fletcher-Vance went 2-for-3 as the Blue Wahoos’ lone multiple-hit batter.

WHAT’S NEXT?

WHO: Blue Wahoos vs. Biloxi Shuckers

WHEN: Tuesday (June 21) through June 26.

WHERE: MGM Park, Biloxi, Miss.

GAMETIMES: Start times are 6:35 p.m. for games Tuesday through Saturday, then 5:05 p.m. on Sunday (June 26).

TICKETS: www.biloxishuckers.com/tickets.

RADIO: : ESPN-Pensacola (99.1 FM and 1330 AM and WYCT 98.7 HD4).

TV: YurView (check provider) and MILB.tv (streaming) through www.milb.com/live-stream-games with subscription discount using BLUE WAHOOS.

NEXT HOME SERIES: Begins on June 28 vs. the Montgomery Biscuits.

Trash Pandas Explore Negro League History

Baseball is a game built on its history, with the sacrifices of players’ past paving the way for today’s stars to shine brightest. In Alabama, that history is especially significant, with professional baseball’s roots in the state dating back more than a century.

The Rocket City Trash Pandas are the newest addition to Alabama’s rich baseball history, blasting off with the inaugural season in 2021. This week, the Trash Pandas will celebrate the history with Negro League Tribute Night on Thursday, June 16.

The second annual Negro League Tribute Night at Toyota Field will feature appearances from former Negro League players Eugene Scruggs of the Detroit Stars and former Birmingham Black Baron Horace Moore. Also on the concourse will be a traveling exhibit from the Negro Southern League Museum in Birmingham.

During the Trash Pandas’ road trip in Birmingham in May, several players and coaches visited the museum before a game, learning about the history of the game that is their passion. At the museum, the Trash Pandas explored a wide variety of Negro League memorabilia and artifacts, including uniforms, equipment, contracts, and even a hologram of the legendary Satchel Paige with a hologram of his arsenal on the mound to show movement on his pitches.

It was an eye-opening experience for the Trash Pandas, and a preview of what fans can expect on Thursday night.

“It’s an awesome opportunity for the players. I’m really excited for them to be able to experience this,” Trash Pandas Manager Andy Schatzley said. “It’s incredibly informative and celebratory of a portion of the game that needs to be celebrated and recognized.”

“Coming here and getting to take in the museum, it’s definitely humbling and I’m also proud of the heritage of the people that came before me that paved the way for me to be able the game that I love today,” said outfielder Torii Hunter Jr., who was recently promoted to Triple-A Salt Lake. “I’m extremely grateful, appreciative, and I’m also humbled because they endured a lot to get us to where we are now but I’m thankful for everything they’ve done and the contributions they’ve made to this game.”

The exhibits featuring Negro League legends such as Paige, Josh Gibson, Willie Mays, and many more were especially meaningful to some, and it speaks to the overall message of the Negro Southern League Museum.

“We tell the story of black baseball through the eyes of Birmingham and the country,” said Valerie Wilson, Project Manager for the Negro Southern League Museum. “It’s so important to pay respect and homage to the players and their adventures.”

The story behind many of the exhibits on display feature even greater significance, with each player paving their own success story. That message was felt by the Trash Pandas.

“The biggest thing is that people didn’t care about what kind of bat was used or what kind of glove they had. They were just out there to play the game and be the best they could,” Hunter Jr. said. “There were not a lot of excuses being made. It makes me take a step back and look at my career and how everything has gone for me. There’s not many excuses for me to not go out there and play the game the right way because that’s what they did, especially given the circumstances that they were in.”

“It was nostalgic,” Schatzley added. “Understanding that every player, these players included, have their own individual path to getting to where they want to be and being able to learn and empathize with the path of some players that came before these guys is awesome for the players to see.”

“In the minor leagues you go from city to city, league to league, it’s a grind,” said Hitting Coach Kenny Hook. “I think it’s important for them to understand the history of the Southern League. There’s so much history here and it’s something they are proud to be a part of.”

“Being here and seeing all of the history. It’s cool to be able to take a step back and see where our game was and how our game has grown,” added pitcher Kolton Ingram.

Those thoughts echo what the museum is hoping to hear when players from other teams stop by throughout the season.

“It’s extra special for us that current players respect their elders and want to learn about their history,” Wilson said. “We’re always excited when players take the time to come here and learn.”

For more information on the Negro Southern League Museum in Birmingham, visit birminghamnlsm.org.

WooSox Honor History While Celebrating City's Tercentennial at Start of Polar Park Homestand

WORCESTER — Even though the WooSox have been in existence for only two years, the team understands how to recognize 300 years of history for its new home.

The city of Worcester celebrated its tercentennial last weekend while the WooSox were on the road, so the team kicked off a 12-game homestand at Polar Park by continuing the historic celebration on the actual June 14 birthday.

In perfect Worcester fashion, the WooSox finished with a 4-0 victory over the Toldeo Mud Hens in front of 5,669 at Polar Park.

Prior to Tuesday night’s game, the WooSox presented Bill Wallace, the Worcester Historical Museum’s executive director, with a time capsule to be opened on the city’s 400th birthday.

WooSox team president Dr. Charles Steinberg had every member of the team sign a baseball to present as part of the time capsule. The ball was photographed from all sides and the players were asked to legibly sign the ball, so future generations will know who played for the team in 2022.

A key to the city was presented to members of the Tercentennial committee, including Kate McEvoy, Kim Salmon, Yaffia Fain, Mary MacKenzie, Amy Peterson and Julie Bowditch. Mayor Joseph M. Petty also was in attendance and threw out the ceremonial first pitch to celebrate the city’s birthday.

“We’re celebrating who we are,” Wallace said. “We have a commitment to the future.”

The WooSox also recognized Jose Santiago, who was a key member of the 1967 Boston Red Sox’ pennant-winning Impossible Dream Team. The right-hander posted a 12-4 record with a 3.59 ERA in 50 games. He also pitched Game 1 of the ’67 World Series and also hit a home run in a 2-1 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals.

The tradition of honoring local nurses continued during the pregame ceremony, along with Worcester Chief of Police, Steven Sargent, and Worcester Deputy Fire Chief, John Powers, Deputy Chief Adam Roche and firefighter Jay O’Brien.

A moment of silence was held as the WooSox remembered police Officer Manny Familia, the Worcester 6 and three other firefighters who also made the ultimate sacrifice. The team also recognized Polar Park security guard Scott Gauvin, who passed away unexpectedly last week.

After Mary MacKenzie sang the national anthem, the WooSox announced the team is restoring the annual Police and Firefighter’s charity baseball game. The game will be played Sept. 26 at Polar Park.

Jovan Familia, the son of Manny Familia, who passed away June 4, 2021, attempting to save a drowning child, along with Ava Roy, the daughter of firefighter Christopher Roy, who passed away on call Dec. 9, 2018, will serve as the honorary captains of the charity baseball game. Jovan and Ava then threw out a ceremonial first pitch.

Prior to the top of the fifth inning, the team’s “In Debt to a Vet” recognized Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Joseph Paul Genduso, 93, of Worcester, who earned a Purple Heart in the Korean War.

Then, everyone in attendance sang “Happy Birthday” to the city of Worcester.

It was a night of recognizing everything that makes Worcester a special place to call home.

“We’re celebrating everything that’s good about Worcester,” Wallace said. “It’s past. It’s present, and the role of all of us, and the ballpark in the future. Our role is to preserve all this and we’re pleased to be recognized, but this is also an exciting time for Worcester.”

It was only four years ago when the dream of having the Red Sox’ Triple-A affiliate in Worcester became a reality. Steinberg, a historian of the game, quickly went to work learning everything he could about the deep roots of baseball in Worcester.

“When you’re first learning about Worcester, you start studying the dates, and you learn about the flag and the seal, and you see 1722,” Steinberg said.

From Day 1, the WooSox had their focus on 2022 and the Tercentennial. Steinberg believed it was a special opportunity to recognize the team’s new home. The WooSox spent countless hours with Wallace, who taught the organization about the city’s history, so it was only natural for the Opening Celebration’s fireworks to take place last Friday at Polar Park.

“To be able to have Polar Park bat leadoff in the 300th celebration felt really good,” Steinberg said. “It felt like we had created a place that beyond baseball was a focal point for such a special celebration.”

The city’s history is evident all over Polar Park. From the heart-shaped lights, the city seal on the end of each row of seats, the city’s flag beyond the right-center field wall, and the numerous artifacts, the inside and outside of the ballpark is a living time capsule.

“It’s a ballpark that’s filled with Worcester-isms,” Wallace said.

Wallace added he would give the WooSox an A-plus in a course of Worcester history.

The next 100 years in the Heart of the Commonwealth could be a special time in the next chapter of the city’s future. Anything and everything could happen.

“Who knows?” Steinberg said. “That’s the beauty of it.”

This piece originally was published in The Telegram & Gazette on June 14, 2022

Yard Goats to Host HBCU/Negro League Celebration Three-Day Event 

“LEVELING the PLAYING FIELD” June 15th-17th

(Hartford, CT) The Hartford Yard Goats Baseball Club, the Double-A Eastern League affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, announced it will be hosting a three-day event called LEVELING the PLAYING FIELD from June 15th through June 17th in Hartford. The events will take place at the South End Boys & Girls Club, Hooker Live and Dunkin’ Donuts Park. The three-day event is presented by the Hartford Yard Goats Foundation, and Charter Oak Family Health Center.

In 2021, the Yard Goats celebrated the 100th Anniversary of the Negro Baseball Leagues through music, dance, exhibitions, presentations and more. This year, the Yard Goats are excited to highlight the history and experience of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Both the Negro Leagues and Black Colleges were formed as a result of racial discrimination, and on the premise of providing equal opportunities for Black students and baseball players.

Events Schedule:

Day 1: WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15**th* *(5:00 PM)**

Location: SOUTH END BOYS & GIRLS CLUB (129-131 Ledyard Street, Hartford)

“LEGEND BEHIND THE PLATE” -THE JOSH GIBSON STORY

* -Documentary & talk back with Sean Gibson (great grandson of Josh Gibson)*

* -Doors open at 5:00 and program begins at 5:45*

Day 2: THURSDAY, JUNE 16**th* *(5:00 PM-7:00 PM)**

Location: HOOKER LIVE (1 Sequassen Street, Hartford)

AN UNFILTERED PANEL DISCUSSION AROUND RACIAL AND GENDER EQUITY

* -Moderated by Jay Williams, President & CEO of The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving*

-Panel includes: Sean Gibson (President of Josh Gibson Foundation), Mary-Jane Foster (President & CEO of Interval House), Tony Womack (former MLB All-Star & World Series Champion), Cheryl Sharp (Civil Rights Attorney/Deputy Director of CHRO), JP Blandin (Head Coach of Delaware State University Baseball)

Day 3: FRIDAY, JUNE 17 (4:00 PM)

PRE-GAME BLOCK PARTY

Location: Heaven Skate Park

YARD GOATS GAME

Location: Dunkin’ Donuts Park

Virginia State Trojans Marching Band, Live DJ Wrexx & Big Regg, Greek Strolls, Steppers, Dancers, Youth Marching Bands from across Connecticut, Painting & More

The first-place Yard Goats return home for a six-game homestand tonight (7:05 PM) against the Akron RubberDucks. Tickets for all games are available on the Yard Goats website (yardgoatsbaseball.com), or over the phone or in person at the Click-It-Or-Ticket Box office.

Dragons to Recognize “Hometown Heroes” Honorees During Game on June 12

Dayton, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons will recognize Army recruits of the Miami Valley as “Hometown Heroes” during a special inning break of the Dragons game on Sunday, June 12 against the Great Lakes Loons at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. The game will start at 1:05 p.m.

The Dayton Dragons shine the spotlight on the military, past and present, through the Hometown Heroes program. This program hosts military families at every Dragons game, recognizing outstanding military organizations, groups, and individuals.

Everyone who joins the military has one thing in common: they have sworn in by repeating either the military Oath of Enlistment or Oath of Office. During the game on Sunday, future soldiers of the United States Army will be taking a solemn oath of enlistment, marking the beginning of selfless service to their nation.

The Dayton Dragons Hometown Heroes program is made possible by the generous support of the Dayton Development Coalition, Reynolds & Reynolds, and the Dayton Dragons. For more information, please visit daytondragons.com/hometownheroes.

CareSource, Dragons Team Up to Honor Local Veteran

DAYTON, Ohio –CareSource and the Dayton Dragons will host United States Marine veteran Robert De Roziere during the CareSource Veteran Salute Program on Sunday, June 5, 2022, at 1: 05PM when the Dayton Dragons take on the South Bend Cubs at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. Sunday will be the second of five special CareSource Veteran Salute dates of the 2022 season.

The CareSource Veteran Salute Program provides veterans in the Dayton region with a once-in-a-lifetime experience to celebrate their service to their country. Each honoree has their story shared in front of the crowd at Day Air Ballpark, followed by a standing ovation in appreciation of the veteran’s hard work and dedication both in military and civilian accomplishments.

Robert De Roziere’s Story

Robert De Roziere, born and raised in Kettering, graduated from Miami University with a degree in Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs in December of 1987. He always wanted to serve his country. He was commissioned as an officer (2nd Lieutenant) in the Marine Corps in 1987. Robert served 31 years in the military; 11 years active duty and 20 years in the reserves.

Robert began his career with the Marines in 1988 at Camp Pendleton in California. He served as Company Radio Officer/Operations Officer and deployed with the 5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade during Operation Desert Shield/Storm. Robert was quickly promoted to First Lieutenant. After his deployment, his second tour of duty lead him and his family to Philadelphia where he assisted in recruiting. He was then promoted to Captain in 1992.

In 1994, Robert’s third tour of duty brought him to Quantico where he was assigned to Marine Corps Systems Command and earned his master’s degree in Telecommunications in 1998. He left active duty and transferred to the Marine Corps Reserve in Cincinnati. In 2003, Robert was deployed and served in Operation Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom.

Robert was awarded the Legion of Merit which is presented by the President of the United States and many other services and campaign medals. He exemplifies a veteran who loves his community by sharing his service journey and appreciating the three decades of leadership, structure, and growth he gained. Robert has four sons, 13 grandchildren, and resides in Middletown with his wife. He enjoys spending time with his family, attending sporting events, and staying busy at his home.

To nominate a veteran in your life for the Veteran Salute Program, please visit daytondragons.com/veteransalute today.

CareSource’s Veteran Salute program highlights five veterans’ stories during the course of each season. Veterans who are chosen are honored at a Dragons game with an in-game ceremony and provided with VIP treatment during their special night. The program is an extension of CareSource’s continued commitment to serving special populations and its new efforts to support veterans through innovative health and life services programs. For more information about the Veteran Salute program, visit www.daytondragons.com/veteransalute.

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