Blue Rocks to Help Raise Money for Hurricane Harvey Victims

Wilmington, DE – With the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey in Houston and the region of southeast Texas, the Wilmington Blue Rocks are partnering with their fans to help raise funds and provide relief for the communities impacted by the historic storm.

The Blue Rocks will donate $2 for every box seat and reserve box seat purchased online using the promo code RELIEF, for games from Saturday, September 2 through Monday, September 4. Additionally, the Blue Rocks will donate all proceeds from the team’s Hurl the Pearl promotion, along with the proceeds raised from their Launch-a-Ball contest on Saturday, September 2. The club is also having an online auction of original artwork featuring mascots Rocky Bluewinkle and Mr. Celery, with all proceeds going directly to the Hurricane Harvey relief fund.

“Our hearts and prayers are with the people of the Texas Gulf Coast during this very challenging time,” said Blue Rocks owner Dave Heller. “Whether it be money or needed clothes, we are asking all of our fans to join us in helping our fellow citizens along the Gulf. And with Minor League Baseball matching fans’ donations, we are really hopeful that our fans, along with the great baseball fans across the country, can make a real difference to Americans in need.”

Starting on Saturday, September 2, the Red Cross will set up monetary donation buckets outside the gates at the ballpark and GreenDrop will have donation boxes for fans to give new or gently used clothing during the final three games of the 2017 regular season.

“The damage that Hurricane Harvey has caused to the regions impacted is catastrophic,” said Blue Rocks General Manager Andrew Layman. “The Blue Rocks are happy to contribute to the relief fund for Hurricane Harvey. I know our great fans will also be pleased to know that the proceeds from the multiple ways we plan to raise funds and the donation boxes that will be stationed at the ballpark will be aiding the victims affected by the storm.”

Minor League Baseball Charities will also match all donations provided by its teams, up to $10,000, and will send the collective funds to organization(s) selected by the MiLB office and those clubs whose communities are affected.

The Wilmington Blue Rocks conclude their 2017 regular season at home with seven games to be played in six days. Wilmington starts a three-game, two-day series with the Down East Wood Ducks on Wednesday, August 30 with a doubleheader starting at 5:05 pm and gates opening at 4:30 p.m. Fans can purchase tickets online at www.bluerocks.com.

 

25 Years of Blue Rocks Baseball

www.bluerocks.com

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

Legends team up with WKYT and the American Red Cross to help Harvey victims

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends, WKYT and the American Red Cross are teaming up to help those in Texas affected by Hurricane Harvey.

The Lexington Legends are giving back $1 for each ticket issued to Wednesday’s August 30 double header against the Augusta GreenJackets. Volunteers from the American Red Cross will also be at the game to collect money at the gates as fans enter Whitaker Bank Ballpark. In addition, the Legends are also donating $5 for every Legends hit, walk, and stolen base during the double header. The video boards will be showcasing “Text HARVEY to 90999,” the “Text to Give” number for fans to make an automatic $10 donation to the American Red Cross. This code will also be featured on the video boards throughout the Red, White and Boom 2017 Music Festival taking place at Whitaker Bank Ballpark September 1-3.

“Minor League Baseball has announced that MiLB Charities will be matching all Harvey Relief fundraising efforts its clubs collect, up to $10,000” said Andy Shea, Legends President and CEO. “The Legends want to be able to give as much as they can and we ask our fans to help the American Red Cross and those affected in Texas, in any way they are able — join us at the ballpark on August 30.”

Also taking place August 30, American Red Cross board members and volunteers will be taking donations over the phone at WKYT between 4 and 7 p.m., with live cut-ins to the ballpark with WKYT Sports Director Brian Milam. There will also be a live radio-a-thon from the Kentucky Ale Taproom inside of Whitaker Bank Ballpark for fans to call in and donate. Radio stations participating in the radio-a-thon to be announced later by the American Red Cross.

By donating to the American Red Cross relief effort, Kentuckians can show they stand with Texas after the devastating hurricane damage and flooding impacting the Lone Star state.

The American Red Cross says there are more than 17,000 people in Texas seeking refuge in shelters. Red Cross spokesman Don Lauritzen said Tuesday that there are 45 shelters in the Houston area, along the Gulf Coast and elsewhere. He says more are opening in Louisiana.

“The American Red Cross is grateful to partner with the Lexington Legends as we respond to the needs from Hurricane Harvey” said Tawanda Owsley, Executive Director of the Bluegrass Chapter of the American Red Cross. “The Red Cross has launched a massive response to this devastating storm and needs financial donations to be able to provide immediate disaster relief. Help people affected by Hurricane Harvey by visiting redcross.org, calling 1-800-REDCROSS or texting the word HARVEY to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from this disaster.”

 

For more information, please contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Single-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, return home to Whitaker Bank Ballpark for their final two games of the season, on August 29 at 7:05pm, and a double-header on August 30 at 5:35pm against the Augusta GreenJackets, an affiliate of the San Francisco Giants. For ticket information, call 859-422-7867 or visit www.LexingtonLegends.com

NATURALS FUNDRAISING PROGRAM SURPASSES $100,000 RAISED

SPRINGDALE, Ark – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are proud to announce that the popular Naturals Ticket Fundraising Program has surpassed the $100,000 raised mark. With 20 regular season home games left in 2017, the program has now raised a collective total of $100,140 for organizations throughout Northwest Arkansas and the surrounding communities.

Through 50 home games played at Arvest Ballpark, the Naturals organization has partnered with 126 groups from across the region and those groups have sold a combined 25,085 tickets. The result is a total amount of $100,140.00 raised for their respective causes, which marks the quickest that the program has accomplished the $100,000.00 feat. For comparison, during the entire 2016 season 125 groups participated in the program and sold 29,170 tickets, which raised a collective $114,125.

There are still spots available to involve an organization during home games in August and September; however, because of the popularity of the program and the amount of interest from groups, dates are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Groups in the program this year have consisted of school groups, sports teams, civic groups, non-profits, community partners, and numerous other community organizations. Families and supporters of the cause will get to come out to a Naturals game, have fun, and keep a large portion of the ticket sales. Depending on the final number of attendees, your group will get to keep anywhere from 25%-50% of the organization’s ticket sales. As an incentive and a reward, the Naturals will offer prizes to top sellers of groups and they include tours, autographs, game tickets, and First Pitch opportunities.

The fundraising flyer is currently available and can be found on our website at www.nwanaturals.com under the Groups & Events tab or by emailing us at groups@nwanaturals.com. To check upcoming date availability or if you have any questions about the Naturals fundraising programs, call us at (479) 927-4900 or visit our Administrative Offices located at Arvest Ballpark.

Non-profit groups seeking more exposure for their cause can inquire about the Community Partner Program that offers free marketing exposure for participating groups to go along with the standard benefits of our ticket fundraising program.

Follow the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Facebook and Twitter @NWANaturals all throughout the year by using the hashtag #NaturalPastime and #CrowntoCrown for all of our up-to-date information on Season 10 of Naturals baseball.

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 statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

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

Chasers Players, Front Office Staff to Participate in Chasers Community Week

The Omaha Storm Chasers organization’s third annual “Chasers Community Week” presented by Summit Dental Health kicks off on Friday, July 29. Omaha Storm Chasers players and front office members will be volunteering their time throughout the Omaha Metro community from July 29-August 6. Details for each day of “Chasers Community Week” can be found below, which include players visiting Children’s Hospital and the Southwest YMCA, as well as participating in Buddy Baseball at Werner Park. In addition, the front office will help serve dinner at Ronald McDonald House, and volunteer at The Wall That Heals among many other events in the community.

Planned Events for “Chasers Community Week”

  • Saturday, July 29 – The Storm Chasers organization will be auctioning off Christmas sweater jerseys on Christmas in July presented by Mannheim Steamroller, with the proceeds benefitting Moving Veterans Forward. There will also be a lemonade stand hosted by the Storm Chasers and Summit Dental at Werner Park that evening, with proceeds benefitting the Open Door Mission.
  • Sunday, July 30 – The Storm Chasers organization hosts the first of two UnitedHealthcare Library Nights at Werner Park. This will be in addition to hosting First Responders and having interactive fire, police and medical displays, including a helicopter in the parking lot, on First Responders Night that evening.
  • Monday, July 31 – Several Storm Chasers players will be visiting Southwest YMCA starting at 11:00 a.m. to play a pickup game of baseball with kids at that location. That evening, the Storm Chasers organization’s second UnitedHealthcare Library Night will take place at Werner Park, in addition to a Drawstring Backpack Giveaway presented by Huber Chevrolet.
  • Tuesday, August 1 – Storm Chasers front office members along with Summit Dental Health employees will assist in cooking and serving dinner at the Ronald McDonald House.
  • Wednesday, August 2 – The organization will host their annual Jirschele Family Memorial Golf Outing at Tara Hills Golf Course to help benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association beginning at 9:00 a.m. The Wall That Heals, a half-scale duplication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., is also set to arrive at Werner Park that day thanks to Werner Enterprises. Storm Chasers players and front office members will also participate in the Leader Reader at the Children’s Museum. Storm Chasers front office members and a mascot will also be visiting Offutt Air Force Base that day.
  • Thursday, August 3 – The Wall That Heals, a half-scale replica of the Vietnam War Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. will be open beginning at 11:00am until the closing ceremonies take place at approximately 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 6.
  • Friday, August 4 – Storm Chasers players will be visiting with patients at Children’s Hospital.
  • Saturday, August 5 – Bellevue Buddy Baseball will take place at Werner Park at 9:00 a.m., with Storm Chasers players and front office members assisting in the morning event to support the Down Syndrome Alliance. The event will feature headshots and walk-up songs for the buddies playing baseball. Storm Chasers players and Casey will also be at First National Bank on 132nd & Center for their annual Stuff the Bus school supply drive.
  • Sunday, August 6 – The Storm Chasers organization salutes all former and current members of our armed forces on Military Appreciation Day at Werner Park. Following that day’s contest at approximately 6:00 p.m. will be a closing ceremony for The Wall That Heals, which will include the playing of “Taps”.

The Storm Chasers return to Werner Park to begin an eight-game homestand on Saturday, July 29, starting with a four-game set versus the Fresno Grizzlies. First pitch of the series opener is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. that evening.

Single game tickets for all remaining Storm Chasers home contests are still available, and can be purchased online at www.omahastormchasers.com, or by calling the Werner Park Ticket Office from noon until 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at (402) 738-5100.

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

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NATURALS PARTNER WITH AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE

SPRINGDALE, Ark – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are proud to partner with the American Red Cross on a blood drive in August. An emergency call for blood and platelet donations was issued due to a current shortage.

Recently it was announced that the American Red Cross is experiencing a severe blood shortage and has issued an emergency call for the need of blood and platelet donations as right now there is more blood being distributed to hospitals than being donated. Thus the American Red Cross will be hosting a blood drive in August and the Naturals are teaming up with them to try and reach a goal of over 150 donors at blood drives across the region.

Each person that donates blood or platelets to the American Red Cross from August 1 through August 15 will receive a voucher for two (2) FREE Dugout Premium tickets to the Naturals 7:05 p.m. game on Tuesday, August 22 against the Springfield Cardinals (Double-A St. Louis Cardinals). The voucher will need to be turned into the Arvest Ballpark Box Office in advance or on the day of the game where it will be exchanged for the best available seats.

Find out more information or make an appointment to give blood by downloading the Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS. The donated blood and platelets will go to patients in need.

Follow the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Twitter @NWANaturals all throughout the year by using the hashtag #NaturalPastime and #CrowntoCrown for all of our up-to-date information on Season 10 of Naturals baseball.

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 statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

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

Legends & SAL teams partner with The BairFind Foundation

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends are pleased to announce three missing children, whose status as missing was advertised at Whitaker Bank Ballpark through The BairFind Foundation, have been located and returned home. The BairFind Foundation partners with 153 Minor League Baseball teams to publicize missing children with the hope of locating them as a result. So far this baseball season 224 children have been located across the country. Teams in the South Atlantic League have successfully helped locate over 30 missing children as a result of their participation in the BairFind program, a testament to the passion of our fans for our community.

“The SAL partnership with The BairFind Foundation is a great example of how the Clubs turn the support they receive from their fans into another way to help their communities” said Eric Krupa, South Atlantic League President. “While the act of looking at a sign seems simple, all those eyes on those signs can really help the families whose children are missing. Everyone can participate and do their part by taking a moment to look at the pictures the next time you are at the ballpark.”

The BairFind Foundation is a tax exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to find missing children, and is an Official Homegrown Charity Partner of Minor League Baseball, which was just named a Classy Top 100 Non-Profit and Social Enterprise for 2017. The BairFind Foundation produces high definition, attractive signs for sports stadiums and arenas that feature photos of each city’s missing children. BairFind signs are placed in high visibility areas and are seen by millions of sports fans each season, greatly increasing the chances that featured children will be safely located.

The Lexington Legends are immensely proud to support and partner with The BairFind Foundation (www.bairfind.org) in conjunction with other Minor League Baseball teams across the country, as recently featured in USA Today (article below). The BairFind Foundation founder Dennis Bair, a former minor league baseball pitcher, said “A major challenge for a family with a missing child is how to keep their child’s photo in public view. This summer, the Lexington Legends have placed a BairFind sign featuring area missing children on their ballpark concourse for all the fans to see, greatly increasing the chances that someone will recognize a child’s picture and that they’ll be safely located. We are proud to partner with the Lexington Legends and the South Atlantic League, who were among the earliest adopters of our initiative.”

The Lexington Legends Executive Vice President Gary Durbin, will be officially placing ‘FOUND’ stickers on The BairFind Foundation sign on the children who have been located during the 7:05pm game tonight, July 21, 2017.

For more information on this remarkable charitable project, please consult The BairFind Foundation website: www.bairfind.org, follow on Twitter: @BairFind or contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Single-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League. For ticket information, call 859-422-7867 or visit www.LexingtonLegends.com

USA Today BairFind Foundation Article:

https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2017/07/18/minor-league-ballpark-signs-raise-awareness-missing-kids/489037001/

Legends Team Up with Tempur Sealy and Sleep Outfitters for Bed Donation Event and Pajama Party

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends have partnered with Tempur Sealy and Sleep Outfitters for ‘Pajama Party Night’ on the July 28 home game versus the Kannapolis Intimidators at 7:05pm, the culmination of a summer long partnership between the three Lexington companies.

The partnership started in April with the donation of 30 Tempur-Pedic Twin XL mattress and bed foundations for the Lexington Legends players, and blossomed into a community outreach effort between the three companies which grew to include the Kansas City Royals and North Broadway Auto. Director of Minor League Operations for the Kansas City Royals, Ronnie Richardson, expresses how the impact of such a substantial donation is to a Minor League player who is just beginning their career in baseball. “The Kansas City Royals and Lexington Legends are really appreciative of the generous donation by Tempur Sealy. The opportunity to provide mattresses for our players here in Lexington really helps us achieve our goal of creating the best possible environment for the players both on and off the field.”

In addition to providing mattresses to Legends players, Tempur Sealy wanted to truly make their donation impactful throughout the Lexington community, which is where the Lexington Legends were able to make the connection and to grow this into a fun community night at the ballpark. One hundred students from Russell Cave Elementary and Winburn Middle School, who have been selected through the Family Resource Coordinators at each school, will be receiving a Tempur-Pedic Twin mattress and bed foundation courtesy of Tempur Sealy and Sleep Outfitters. Not only will these students be taking home new mattresses, they also will be receiving new bedding courtesy of the Kansas City Royals and/or North Broadway Auto.

“We are just as excited to be able to donate Kansas City Royals bedding as Tempur Sealy donates mattresses to local children in the Lexington community. We want to thank Tempur Sealy and the Lexington Legends for all of the efforts” continues Richardson of the Kansas City Royals. This is a great outreach program and will have a positive impact on the lives of everyone involved.” The bed donation pick-up event takes place Saturday, July 29 at 9:00am. For additional information on location, or if media are interested in attending the event, contact Sarah Bosso, Legends Vice President of Business Development.

The Lexington Legends, Tempur Sealy and Sleep Outfitters are rolling out the red carpet for the 100 students at Pajama Party Night, held at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on Friday, July 28. The students and their families will receive transportation to and from the game by Gold Shield charter buses, outfitted in Legends gear, provided game tickets, participate in on-field contests throughout the game and will be the fireworks Grand Marshalls – who will count down the fireworks while sitting atop Tempur-Pedic beds set-up behind homeplate. They will have a meet and greet session with Legends players on the field where they can get pictures and autographs. “We are thrilled to be able to be a part of this remarkable event” expresses Sarah Bosso, Legends Vice President of Business Development. “Mattresses, bed foundations and bedding are sometimes an overlooked need and we are so thankful for amazing community partners like Tempur Sealy, Sleep Outfitters, North Broadway Auto and our parent club the Kansas City Royals for being able to help coordinate such an impactful event for the Northside of Lexington.”

The Legends welcome all fans attending the Friday, July 28 game to bring new, unopened twin sheet sets as a donation to the game for the opportunity to watch the fireworks post-game on the outfield. Fans are encouraged to bring blankets to sit on and dress in pajama-like attire to accompany the “Pajama Party” theme of the night.

“Sleep Outfitters is a company that has deep roots in Lexington and we are committed to doing our part to make our hometown an even better place to live” expresses Kim Knopf, Founder and CEO of Sleep Outfitters. “It’s exciting to get to team up with Lexington-based Tempur Sealy and the Lexington Legends to provide the gift of a great night’s sleep to some deserving kids. It’s going to be a pajama party to remember for all of us.”

For more information, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Single-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, return home July 16 for a doubleheader at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Hagerstown Suns, an affiliate of the Washington Nationals at 2:05pm. For ticket information, call 859-422-7867 or visit lexingtonlegends.com.

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

Legends to celebrate the United States Armed Forces July 8!

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Honoring the United States Armed Forces is something that the Lexington Legends do every home game in a variety of ways, but there is always one game dedicated to specifically saying “Thank You” to those who have served our country. July 8th is the night the Lexington Legends have reserved as their Military Appreciation Night, which has been celebrated by the organization since their inception in 2001. Military Appreciation Night is presented by LFUCG Department of Environmental Quality.

The night features special ticket offers and discounts for Active Duty and Retired Military as well as Veterans, Armed Forces branch music and recognitions throughout the game, a 20 foot by 30 foot American Flag in the outfield for the National Anthem, Mine-craft inspired digital camo jerseys worn on-field by the Legends players, with those jerseys in a silent auction taking place throughout the game; giving fans the opportunity to take home the special jerseys, the Joe Everson original painting of Iwo Jima (from the July 4th National Anthem) will also be included in the silent auction, and much more. The most highlighted features of the evening are the honorary ceremonial first pitchers and four of the thirty people who will be unveiling the 20 foot by 30 foot American Flag for the National Anthem.

There will be five ceremonial first pitches tossed out by five unique individuals who have bravely served our country in one way or another. First, Colonel Pete Evans, U.S. Army (RET) who has served in Afghanistan, Korea and to the Pentagon. Second pitch will be Mike Niklarz, who is the Director of Kentucky’s National Cemetery Complex, which consists of 9 locations and includes historic Camp Nelson National Cemetery. The Legends third ceremonial first pitch is a 30 year U.S. Air Force veteran and Master Navigator Colonel Mark Roland. Colonel Roland and his wife Barbara are also Gold Star parents-their son, Air Force Captain Matthew Roland paid the ultimate sacrifice August 26, 2015 and was posthumously awarded the Silver Star for gallantry. Gunnery Sergeant James R. Barnett is the fourth ceremonial first pitch, as he has been named “Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year” for the 623rd Field Artillery Battalion, the 38th Field Artillery Brigade, and the Kentucky National Guard for 2017. The fifth and final ceremonial first pitch is 97 year old Captain Helen Horlacher Evans, from Lexington, Kentucky. Captain Helen Horlacher Evans is one of the few remaining female World War II veterans still alive today.

The National Anthem for the July 8 game will feature a 20 foot by 30 foot American flag, unveiled by the assistance of thirty retired military, veterans, military family members, and four Tuskegee Airmen; the first African American Fighter and Bomber Pilots in the United States Armed Forces.

The Legends welcome media for photographs and interviews to help honor and support those who will be recognized at the 2017 Military Appreciation Night game, July 8 with gates opening at 5:30pm and first pitch 6:35pm.

For more information, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Single-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, continue the homestand July 8-10 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Greenville Drive, an affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. For ticket information, call 859-422-7867 or visit lexingtonlegends.com.

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

‘The Wall That Heals’ Coming to Werner Park Aug. 3-6

The Wall That Heals, featuring a half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C., will be coming to Werner Park from August 3-6. The exhibit, which includes the replica wall and Mobile Education Center, will be presented by Werner Enterprises and open 24 hours a day over the four day span starting on August 3rd.

“Hosting The Wall That Heals at Werner Park in conjunction with Werner Enterprises will be an incredible honor,” said Storm Chasers President and General Manager Martie Cordaro. “We highly encourage everyone in the Omaha Metro to take the time to visit and pay tribute along with us to our servicemen and servicewomen in our Armed Forces.”

Approximately 250 feet long, the memorial wall bears the names of the more than 58,000 men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam, while honoring the three million-plus Americans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during the Vietnam War. It will be escorted to Werner Park by local law enforcement on Wednesday, August 2 and on display beginning the following day Thursday, August 3. It will be open 24 hours a day until the evening of August 6, following the Storm Chasers’ Military Appreciation Day contest at Werner Park, with closing ceremonies taking place post-game.

“Taking The Wall That Heals on the road gives thousands more veterans and their family members an opportunity to see The Wall and honor those who have served and sacrificed so much,” said Jim Knotts, president and CEO of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, the nonprofit that built The Wall. “It helps veterans from all of America’s conflicts to find healing and a powerful connection through their common military experiences.”

Friends and family members of those who are honored on the wall are encouraged to bring a photo to the exhibit to be scanned and included in the VVMF’s The Wall of Faces. More details about The Wall That Heal‘s visit to Omaha, including opening ceremonies at Werner Park and the Storm Chasers’ Military Appreciation Day on Sunday, August 6, will be announced later this month.

The Wall That Heals has visited more than 500 communities throughout the nation since its dedication. These partners are proud to bring The Wall That Heals to Werner Park: Werner Enterprises, U.S. Bank, Omaha Storm Chasers, Centris Federal Credit Union, CHI Health, McDonald’s, SilverRidge Assisted Living, AAA Nebraska, Budweiser of Omaha, Center Trophy, Pepsi, and US Foods.

The Omaha Storm Chasers are the Triple-A Affiliate of the 2015 World Series Champion Kansas City Royals and play at Werner Park in Papillion, Sarpy County, Nebraska. For more information please visit omahastormchasers.com and also follow us on Twitter @omastormchasers and “Like” us at facebook.com/omahastormchasers.

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

Legends help honor ‘Phenomenal Father’ David Cozart of Fayette County Fatherhood Initiative on the TODAY Show

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends are extremely proud to announce that at 10:30am June 15, 2017, in honor of Father’s Day, Fayette County Fatherhood Initiative Director David Cozart was recognized as a ‘Phenomenal Father’ on the TODAY Show with Kathie Lee and Hoda.

The Lexington Legends were a part of this on-air recognition by providing David with fifty tickets to the fathers and children that David helps mentor through FCFI, so they can enjoy a night at Whitaker Bank Ballpark. David will also be receiving a night in a Luxury Suite for him and his family, recognized on-field at a game and will receive the Ultimate Legendary Experience, which includes a personalized Legends jersey!

“David is doing amazing work for our community. His impact is far reaching and has changed the lives of many fathers and their children. I am truly proud to call him a friend, as he has also helped guide me as a mentor for youth in our community.” states Andy Shea, Legends President & CEO.

The Legends continue to extend their congratulations to David for this remarkable accomplishment for all his good work and for what Fayette Co. Fatherhood Initiative does for our community.

VIDEO LINK from The TODAY Show: http://www.today.com/video/meet-the-phenomenal-father-who-teaches-men-to-be-responsible-dads-968109123734

For more information, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859 422-7855. The Legends, a Single-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, continue their homestand through Sunday, June 18 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Asheville Tourists and Hagerstown Suns. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit lexingtonlegends.com.

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

NATURALS HOST MOST IMPROVED STUDENT GAMES

SPRINGDALE, Ark – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are proud to have partnered with Mercy Kids on our Mercy Kids Most Improved Student Program, which gave teachers a chance to reward students for making progress during the year. The Naturals will host three (3) Mercy Kids Most Improved Student games on June 7, June 8 and on June 12 and each game will feature a pre-game recognition on the field prior to the start of the game.

During the 2017 season, the Northwest Arkansas Naturals received a record number of nominations for the Mercy Kids Most Improved Student Program. A total of 1,226 students (up from 1,106 in 2016) were nominated by 734 different teachers. The total number of schools participating also increased from 86 in 2016 to nearly 175 in 2017.

Each student that was nominated received two (2) tickets and a Kansas City Royals Kids Zone pass to their choice of either the June 7, June 8, or June 12 games. Prior to each, the Northwest Arkansas Naturals will honor these Most Improved Students with a pre-game parade on the field where they’ll be recognized in front of the crowd. Note that the pre-game recognition on Wednesday, June 7 will occur in-between games since it is a doubleheader.

Teachers were asked to submit nominations of student(s) in their class who have shown the most improvement since the start of the school year. Measuring improvement in the classroom can be very subjective, so the guidelines for student nominations were left up to the discretion of each teacher as they could nominate students that made strides with their behavior, social involvement, academic improvement or any combination of these.

For more information on the Mercy Kids Most Improved Student Program fans can visit www.nwanaturals.com, call (479) 927-4900, email groups@nwanaturals.com, or stop out at the Administrative Office at Arvest Ballpark.

Follow the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Twitter @NWANaturals all throughout the year by using the hashtag #NaturalPastime and #CrowntoCrown for information on tickets, groups, promotions, roster, standings, statistics, and Naturals alumni in the Major Leagues.

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 statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

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

Chasers In The Community

The Storm Chasers were present throughout the Omaha Metro community in the month of May, which kicked off on May 2 with a Children’s Hospital Visit from Storm Chasers pitchers Malcom Culver and Jonathan Dziedzic, followed by classroom visits at OPS Virtual Learning over a three-day period between May 9-11. One day later, Chasers Charities presented a Chasin’ Dreams Grant to the Central Omaha Legion Baseball Association for over $1,100. In addition, the Storm Chasers’ front office staff totaled 34.5 hours of community service throughout the month of May.

Community Events in May

  • Pitchers Malcom Culver and Jonathan Dziedzic visited Children’s Hospital Visit – May 2
  • OPS Virtual Learning Classroom Visit from Stormy and Storm Chasers Front Office Staff – May 9-11
  • Presented Chasin’ Dreams Grant to Central Omaha Legion Baseball Association from Chasers Charities ($1,198.98)  – May 12
  • Prairie Queen Fundraiser Surprise Visit – May 15

Notable Mascot Appearances for May

  • Walk to Cure Arthritis – May 13
  • Offut AFB Runway Run – May 14
  • Red Nose Day – May 20
  • Ames Ave. Block Party – May 26

Upcoming Community Events in June

  • Children’s Hospital Visit – June 8 (10:00am)
  • AllPlay Miracle Baseball League at Seymour Smith Park – June 10 (10:30am)
  • Player Appearance at Twin Rivers YMCA– June 23 (11:00am)

Upcoming Scheduled Mascot Appearances for June

  • P.A.C.E. Baseball Clinic – June 6 (6:00pm)
  • Papillion Days Parade – June 17
  • Benson Library Storytime – June 22 (10:30am)
  • Hy-Vee Appearance (747 N. 132nd Street) – June 23 (11:00am)
  • Benson Library Storytime – June 24 (10:00am)

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

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Peanut Free Night Set For June 5 at Werner Park

On Monday, June 5, the Omaha Storm Chasers will once again host “Peanut Free Night” at Werner Park in association with the Asthma and Allergy Center, allowing fans affected by various allergies to attend a game worry free.

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“Peanut Free Night is one of our most important community events of the year,” said Storm Chasers President and General Manager Martie Cordaro. “Through the efforts of our ballpark operations staff led by Matt Owen, we are pleased to provide a safe environment for everyone who would otherwise not be able to attend a professional baseball game. All deserve to attend a game at Werner Park.”

No peanut-related items will be served at Werner Park that evening, including peanuts, sunflower seeds and tree nuts. The ballpark will also be thoroughly cleaned prior to that evening to remove any peanut residue to ensure a safe environment for those suffer. Approximately three million people living in the United States report suffering from peanut-related allergies.

“The Asthma and Allergy Center is proud to sponsor Peanut-Free night at Werner Park for the fourth year and happy to see all the families with peanut allergy able to experience a professional baseball game in a peanut-free environment. Parents have told us how much they appreciate this opportunity to have their children experience one of America’s greatest past-times,” said Dr. Linda Ford the founder and president of The Asthma and Allergy Center. “Peanut Free night gives Dr. Brooks, our caring staff and I, a chance to raise awareness about food allergy and for our patients to learn about new products, research and education. The Asthma & Allergy Center is proud to be sponsors of Peanut Free Night and to help provide this night of baseball for the community.

Tickets are still available for that night and all remaining Storm Chasers contests, and may be purchased at www.omahastormchasers.com/tickets, as well as by calling the Werner Park Ticket Office at (402) 738-5100. To view Ticket Office hours, please click here.

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

Lexington Legends Partner with Robbie Ross Jr.’s Mission 108

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends are proud to partner with Robbie and Brittany Ross through their non-profit foundation Mission 108, a Human Rights organization focused on helping survivors of Human Trafficking and extreme poverty throughout the globe.

Robbie Ross Jr., a Lexington native and graduate of Lexington Christian Academy, is a current professional baseball pitcher for the Boston Red Sox organization. Robbie and his wife Brittany started Mission 108 in 2012 while working with underserved communities in Lexington. While traveling and exploring different cultures as an MLB family, they experienced firsthand the impact that modern day slavery and extreme poverty has on people throughout the globe. Robbie and Brittany realized that their mission needed to be centered on empowering the vulnerable and serving those affected by Human Trafficking.

Mission 108 came to the Legends through the Community Organization of the Night program, a free opportunity the Legends offer to non-profits throughout the region at every Legends home game, to provide a platform for those organizations to inform the public about their cause and good works. Mission 108 will be the Community Organization of the Night on Sunday, May 28, 2017.

In addition to hosting an informational table in the concourse, participating in a pregame on-field interview and on air radio interview during the game, the Lexington Legends and Mission 108 are holding a Mystery Autograph Baseball Grab Bag Event in the concourse during the Legends game on May 28, 2017 at 2:05pm when the Legends take on Tim Tebow and the Columbia Fireflies.

Autographed Baseballs will be available for $30.00 each and in unmarked numbered bags. Fans participating in the Grab Bag Event will have a chance at over 60 different baseballs autographed by Major League Baseball Players, Top Prospects in the Royals and Nationals organizations, former UK Basketball and Football players and Legends 2017 Team signed balls.  In order to participate in the Mystery Autograph Baseball Grab Bag Event, fans must have a ticket to the May 28, 2017 Legends game.

“Mission 108 is excited to combine our love for baseball with our passion for anti-human trafficking at this event. Funds raised from this mystery ball event go directly to those affected. It will be a great time, and we hope to see all of you there. Thank you for your support” states Brittany Ross, co-founder of Mission 108.

For more information, about Mission 108 visit www.mission108.com or about the Mystery Ball Grab Bag Event and Legends Community Organization of the Night, contact Jillian Waitkus at jwaitkus@lexingtonlegends.com or 859 422-7847. The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, return to Whitaker Bank Ballpark to face off against the Hickory Crawdads, an affiliate of the Texas Rangers, on May 23, 2017 at 7:05pm. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit lexingtonlegends.com.

NATURALS FUNDRAISING PROGRAM ON RECORD PACE

SPRINGDALE, Ark – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are proud to announce that the popular Naturals Ticket Fundraising Program is on a record pace for the 2017 season while there are still dates available for groups for upcoming home games.

Through 20 home games played the Naturals organization has partnered with 89 groups from across Northwest Arkansas and surrounding communities and those groups have sold 19,473 tickets, which has raised a collective $78,752.00 for their respective causes. For comparison, last year through May 14 the program was at 56 groups for a total of $56,053 raised.

The groups that have participated in the program this year have consisted of school groups, sports teams, civic groups, non-profits, community partners, and numerous other community organizations. Families and supporters of the cause will get to come out to a Naturals game, have fun, and keep a large portion of the ticket sales. Depending on the final number of attendees, your group will get to keep anywhere from 25%-50% of the organization’s ticket sales. As an incentive and a reward, the Naturals will offer prizes to top sellers of groups and they include tours, autographs, game tickets, and First Pitch opportunities. Because of the amount of groups who take advantage of the program, dates are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The 2017 record pace has already surpassed the halfway mark of last year. During the 2016 season a total of 125 groups took advantage of the Naturals Ticket Fundraising Program and sold 29,170 tickets, which raised a collective $114,125.

The fundraising flyer is currently available and can be found on our website at www.nwanaturals.com under the Groups & Events tab or by emailing us at groups@nwanaturals.com. To check upcoming date availability or if you have any questions about the Naturals fundraising programs, call us at (479) 927-4900 or visit our Administrative Offices located at Arvest Ballpark.

Non-profit groups seeking more exposure for their cause can inquire about the Community Partner Program that offers free marketing exposure for participating groups to go along with the standard benefits of our ticket fundraising program.

Follow the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Facebook and Twitter @NWANaturals all throughout the year by using the hashtag #NaturalPastime and #CrowntoCrown for all of our up-to-date information on Season 10 of Naturals baseball.

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 statistics, ticket options, and more, please 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.