Faith Night and Meet the Team Headline Next Homestand

FREDERICK, MD – The Frederick Keys welcome the Fayetteville Woodpeckers back to Nymeo Field for one last time from Friday, August 16-Sunday, August 18. Two fireworks shows are scheduled to go with Faith Night and the final Meet the Team event of the season. For tickets, fans can visit frederickkeys.com or call 301-815-9939.

Friday’s contest is at 7:00 p.m. with gates opening one hour beforehand. The first 1,000 fans will receive a rally towel giveaway presented by Potomac Edison. Fireworks follow the game, while there are just five fireworks shows left during the 2019 campaign.

Friday’s contest is at 7:00 p.m. with gates opening one hour beforehand. The first 1,000 fans will receive a rally towel giveaway presented by Potomac Edison. Fireworks follow the game, while there are just five fireworks shows left during the 2019 campaign.

Faith Night returns to Nymeo Field on Saturday. Before first pitch at 6:00 p.m. fans can enjoy a special pregame concert from 3:30-5 p.m. from the Waterboyz for Jesus. Church groups can purchase discounted tickets to the game by calling 301-815-9940. After the game there is a fireworks show presented by Saint John’s Catholic Prep.

The series concludes on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. Fans are encouraged to arrive early for one last chance to Meet the Team. From 12:00-12:30, those who come to the game can go down to the field for a meet and greet and autograph session with Keys players and coaches. During that time, fans can also have a catch in the outfield as part of Sunday Funday courtesy of Dogtopia of Frederick.

To go with this, it is the final Summer Reading Day of the year presented by Catoctin Wildlife Preserve. Participants who completed their local library’s summer reading program are invited to come out to the game, while a pregame parade begins at 12:30.

The Keys have two homestands left, with the Potomac Nationals visiting from August 20-22 and from August 30-September 2. Highlights include Fort Detrick Night sponsored by En-Net Services, Art in the Park Night on Friday, August 30 benefiting the Frederick Arts Council, Wrestling Night with Jake “The Snake” Roberts on Saturday, August 31, a Baby Shark Picnic on Sunday, September 1 and Fan Appreciation Day on Labor Day. Three fireworks shows also remain. For tickets, fans can visit frederickkeys.com or call 301-815-9939.

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

Baysox Announce 2019 Reading Program

BOWIE, Md. –  The Bowie Baysox announced the 24th year of the Read & Hit a Home Run Reading Program this week, thanks in part to Educational Systems Federal Credit Union.

The program, which began in 1996, reaches over 200 schools across the DMV region, impacting over 35,000 students a year. Those numbers include area homeschool co-ops, helping encourage and foster an excitement for literacy in local schools.

Registered schools will have the opportunity to participate in the program by reading four (4) books of the students’ choice during the given time frame. Every student that completes the reading goal will receive two free tickets to a 2019 Baysox game. During the season, the team will host several designated Reading Nights (based on geographic location). At the stadium, all students will be recognized for their accomplishments during the game.

All reading specialists and homeschool teachers/directors are encouraged to register their school. Once registered, all students can participate in a jersey design contest, with the winner’s choice being unveiled at a school assembly by Louie, the Baysox mascot.

To register your school, head over to the ‘community’ section of www.baysox.com and fill out the form at the bottom of the “Read & Hit a Home Run Reading Program” page. For more information or any additional questions, contact Baysox Community Programs Manager Kelsey Carter at (301) 464-4871 or email her (kcarter@baysox.com).

The Bowie Baysox 2019 season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. 2019 Baysox Ticket Packages, including Season Tickets, Mini-Plans and Flexible Ticket Packages are available online at baysox.com, via phone at 301-464-4865 or in person at the stadium ticket office.

To keep up with Baysox news, visit baysox.com and be sure to follow the Baysox on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or register for the all new Baysox Text Insider Club for free by texting the keyword BAYSOX to 50700.

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

Contribute to the Annual Toys for Tots Drive!

FREDERICK, MD-The Frederick Keys are excited to announce their continued partnership with the Toys for Tots Program. Entering the seventh straight year where the Keys and Toys for Tots have worked together, fans are encouraged to donate new, unwrapped toys in November and December. These gifts are then handed out to less fortunate children on Christmas Day.

“It is important that the holiday season is a special time for local children,” said Keys Director of Marketing, Erin Lawson. “We’ve been impressed at the community’s support each year and we can’t wait for another great turnout in 2018.”

The collection period for Toys for Tots is underway and runs through Friday, December 14. To make a donation, fans can visit the Nymeo Field main office (adjacent to the stadium main gates) during normal business hours (9 a.m.-5 p.m.) Monday-Friday. Anyone who contributes a new, unwrapped toy receives a Keys hat and two tickets to a game in 2019. Fans can also bring toys to the annual Keys Holiday Event on Saturday, December 1 which runs from 10 a.m-1 p.m. Prize packs will be limited to one per person.

Nymeo Field has frequently been one of the top collection sites in Frederick County. A program that began in 1947, there are more than 150 Marine reserve sites as wells as more than 800 local Toys for Tots programs across the country. In 2016 nearly 50,000 toys were collected in Frederick County and almost $30,000 was raised.

Planning for the 2019 Frederick Keys season is underway, which includes the Carolina League All-Star Classic on Tuesday, June 18 presented by Visit Frederick. The Keys schedule for next season is available by clicking here, while fans can buy/renew ticket plans for the 2019 season by calling 301-815-9900. To follow Keys offseason news, events and more, fans can visit frederickkeys.com.

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

Shorebirds Win SAL Community Service Award

SALISBURY, Md. — The Delmarva Shorebirds have been named the 2018 Community Service Organization of the Year by the South Atlantic League. This award recognizes the Shorebirds’ outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, philanthropy, and leadership within the Delmarva community. The Community Service Organization of the Year award is one of the league’s Outstanding Achievement Awards, which are announced every year after the conclusion of the regular season.

The Shorebirds strive to be more than just a baseball team by supporting the community that supports us. The Shorebirds organization, front office staff, players, and coaches have been extremely committed to serving and supporting the Delmarva community in any way possible.

With the help and partnership of the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, the Shorebirds rebranded the Community Fund to the Shorebirds’ Fly Together Fund. The Fly Together Fund coincides with the social media usage of #FlyTogether but also encompasses support of the Delmarva Peninsula.

The Fly Together Fund was created to help fund local community projects, Little Leagues, and nonprofit organizations. So far this calendar year, the fund has donated $24,384 along with in-kind donations valued at $23,010.

“The Shorebirds are proud to be involved with and provide numerous community programs on the Delmarva Peninsula. I want to thank everyone in the Delmarva community who has been a part of the Shorebirds community outreach programs and events. We hope you will continue to join us in our Fly Together Fund and community relations initiatives in the future,” said Shorebirds’ General Manager Chris Bitters. “Winning this award is such a great honor. Thank you so much to Shorebirds’ Community Relations Manager, Kathy Damato, for leading the organization in all of our community relations efforts. She has gone above and beyond to help us win this award and it is thoroughly appreciated.”

Each of the 14 South Atlantic League teams, along with field managers and umpires, participated in the voting for the South Atlantic League Outstanding Achievement Awards. The Shorebirds will be nominated for the Minor League Baseball John Henry Moss Community Service Award, which honors the founder of the South Atlantic League for his dedication and charitable service to baseball and his community during his 50-year tenure as a league president. Moss founded the South Atlantic League and presided over it from 1959-2008. The winner of this prestigious award will be announced at the Baseball Winter Meetings this December in Las Vegas, NV.

For more information about the Delmarva Shorebirds’ community relations involvement, please contact Kathy Damato at kdamato@theshorebirds.com. The Shorebirds are owned and operated by Seventh Inning Stretch, LLC, who also own the Stockton Ports of the California League and the Everett AquaSox of the Northwest League. Delmarva opens up the 2019 season on the road in Lexington on Thursday, April 4th. The Shorebirds’ first home game at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium will be on Thursday, April 11th against the Lakewood BlueClaws.

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

Shorebirds Present Toy Donation To Brooke’s Toy Closet

SALISBURY, MD – The Delmarva Shorebirds are proud to announce in conjunction with partners at Market Street Inn, MoJo’s, and the Peninsula Regional Medical Center, the results of the Brooke’s Toy Closet Toy Drive, held on Saturday, July 21st and Friday, August 3rd at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

In total, 449 items were donated by Shorebirds fans, with the Shorebirds presenting the donation to Brooke’s Toy Closet at the Peninsula Regional Medical Center recently, along with members from Market Street Inn, MoJo’s, and the Peninsula Regional Medical Center Foundation, which oversees and maintains Brooke’s Toy Closet. An anonymous donor donated $1,000 that was used by Shorebirds’ first baseman, Ryan Ripken, Shorebirds’ front office staff, Brooke’s half sister, Arden, and Brooke’s long time friend, Greyson, to go purchase toys to be included in the donation to Brooke’s Toy Closet.

Toy Donations ranged from activity books, stuffed animals, interactive toys, coloring books, books, action figures, etc. All these items will be extremely beneficial to replenishing Brooke’s Toy Closet and very much appreciated from members of the Peninsula Regional Medical Center Foundation.

“For the third straight year, Shorebirds fans in this community have come together as one to help support this tremendous community asset at the Peninsula Regional Medical Center. We are extremely grateful for these partnerships. Thank you to all the fans who made this possible!” said Shorebirds Director of Marketing Eric Sichau.

“Thank you to all those who made a donation to Brooke’s Toy Closet through this event. Please know that I am humbled and very grateful for all your support and compassion. As a local business man in a small community, I have been committed to giving back to the community that has supported Brooke and I am humbled by your loyal support. Between the strong continued partnership with the Delmarva Shorebirds, and the creation of the Brooke Mulford Memorial Fund in 2017 at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, which will help support Believe in Tomorrow House by the Sea and Camp Fairlee, for local children and their families, these initiatives will further strengthen the support of the local community in honor of Brooke for the future.” said Rob Mulford, owner of Market Street Inn.

Brooke’s Toy Closet was started in 2014 by Brooke Mulford, a local girl who was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, an aggressive form of cancer, in 2009, when she was 4 years old. Brooke, unfortunately, lost her battle with cancer on June 12th, 2017. The closet is a special cabinet filled with toys, coloring books and other goodies that PRMC’s Emergency Department and Pediatrics Unit can give to children who are hospitalized. The recipients of these gifts will be able to use them when they’re in the hospital and take them home to enjoy when they are feeling better. For more information on the Peninsula Regional Medical Center Foundation and Brooke’s Toy Closet, contact the PRMC Foundation at 410-543-7140.

For more information on the Delmarva Shorebirds Community Relations efforts, contact the Shorebirds at 410-219-3112 or visit theshorebirds.com.

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

Shorebirds to Hold Collection for Brooke’s Toy Closet

SALISBURY, Md. — The Delmarva Shorebirds are proud to partner with Market Street Inn and MoJo’s again in 2018 to hold a toy drive to benefit Brooke’s Toy Closet at The Peninsula Regional Medical Center.

Brooke’s Toy Closet was started in 2014 by Brooke Mulford, a local girl who was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, an aggressive form of cancer, in January of 2009, when she was four years old. Brooke, unfortunately, lost her battle with cancer in June of 2017. Brooke’s Toy Closet is a special cabinet filled with toys, coloring books and other goodies that PRMC’s Emergency Department and Pediatrics Unit can give to children who are hospitalized. The recipients of these gifts will be able to use them when they’re in the hospital, and take them home to enjoy when they are feeling better.

The toy drive will be held on Saturday, July 21st when the Shorebirds host their annual Christmas in July game at 7:05 PM against the Greensboro Grasshoppers. Gates will open at 4:00 PM so that fans can watch the Shorebirds and Grasshoppers take batting practice. The Shorebirds will be holding the collection in the Fun Zone outside the main gates of Arthur W. Perdue Stadium. Those who make a donation will receive a ticket voucher to a future 2018 Shorebirds home game, a $5 gift card to Market Street or MoJo’s, an entry in a raffle to win another $50 gift card to each restaurant, and other prizes. The Shorebirds will accept new unwrapped toys, activity books, and other children’s toy items.

If you can’t make it to the Shorebirds game on July 21st, starting on July 1st, you can drop off your donated toys at Market Street Inn at 130 W Market Street in Salisbury.

That night’s game will also feature the Shorebirds wearing special Christmas-themed jerseys that will be auctioned off to benefit the Shorebirds Fly Together Fund and a postgame Q105 fireworks show presented by MoJo’s and Market Street Inn.

For more information on the toy drive, contact the Shorebirds at 410-219-3112.

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

Shorebirds Summer Reading Program Begins

SALISBURY, Md. — The Delmarva Shorebirds are happy to partner with McDonald’s® Restaurants of Eastern Shore through the Shorebirds Summer Reading Program in 2018.

The Shorebirds Summer Reading Program provides incentives for over 10,000 children to participate in their local libraries’ summer reading programs. This summer, the Shorebirds and McDonald’s are partnering with over 25 public libraries by offering complimentary tickets and other offers that can be used as rewards or incentives with their existing Summer Reading Programs.

The Shorebirds will be making several trips to libraries on the Eastern Shore where Shorebirds players and/or Sherman will read to kids and talk to them about the importance of reading.

Youth that reach their reading incentives in Delaware and Virginia will be invited out to the Shorebirds game on Sunday, August 5th against the Charleston RiverDogs while participating youth in Maryland will be invited to the Shorebirds game against the Rome Braves on Sunday, August 19th.

“We know learning never stops, and providing kids an incentive to read more over the summer break will better prepare students for classes in the fall,” local McDonald’s owner/operator Tiffany Beach said. “The Shorebirds Summer Reading Program is an exciting way to encourage continuous learning and reward kids for their efforts. We are so happy to be a part of the program in 2018.”

“The Shorebirds are excited to partner with McDonald’s through our Summer Reading Program. We really believe that with the incentives that are provided by the Shorebirds and McDonald’s, along with visits from Shorebirds players and Sherman, that the children will not only realize that reading is important but also have fun in doing so,” said Chris Bitters, General Manager.

Here is the list of the appearances that have been booked so far:

June 27th-Frankford Library-2:00 PM
July 18th-Snow Hill Library-2:00 PM
July 25th-Crisfield Library-10:30 AM
August 1st-Wicomico Library-10:30 AM
August 6th-Millsboro Library-11:00 AM
August 16th-Talbot County Library-10:30 AM

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

Keyote’s Birthday, Scout Night and Meet the Team Highlight Upcoming Homestand

FREDERICK, MD-The Frederick Keys return to Nymeo Field from Friday, June 1-Sunday, June 3. This jam-packed weekend includes Keyote’s Birthday, Scout Night, the second Meet the Team Event of the year plus a pair of fireworks shows. Fans can pick up their tickets by calling 301-815-9939 or by visiting frederickkeys.com.

Friday night’s game is at 7:00 p.m with gates opening at six, as the Keys take on the Lynchburg Hillcats. The first 1,000 fans receive a Trey Mancini shirsey sponsored by Nymeo. A member of the Keys in 2014-15, Mancini comes off an outstanding 2017 season with the Orioles where he was one of the top rookies in Major League Baseball.

It is also Keyote’s LEGO-themed birthday party. LEGO Batman and Emmet will be on hand while fans can purchase an exclusive meet and greet package. This includes a general admission ticket, hot dog, chips and drink. Fans can book their spot by calling the Keys Groups Office at 301-815-9900. After the game, there are fireworks also courtesy of Nymeo. This is a fan vote fireworks night and those attending can visit the Keys Facebook page to vote on their musical accompaniment.

Saturday is Scout Night sponsored by Wegman’s. Gates open at 5 p.m and first pitch is at 6. Local scout troops who attend can participate in a pre-game parade starting at 5:30, while those who sign up receive an exclusive food package and a chance to camp out on the outfield following the game. Additionally, the first 1,000 campers receive a special patch. For more information, fans can contact the Keys Groups Department. Fireworks follow the game presented by Wegman’s and Tops Inc.

The homestand wraps up on Sunday at 2 with the second Meet the Team Event of the year. From 1-1:30 those who come to the game can head down to the field to meet their favorite Keys players and coaches and get autographs. During this time fans who bring a ball and glove can also enjoy a catch in the outfield as part of Sunday Funday. It is also Sun Safety Awareness Day sponsored by Minor League Baseball.

For additional information about upcoming homestands, fans can contact the Keys at 301-815-9939 or visit frederickkeys.com.

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

Free Community Shred Day Sat. May 19

Money One Federal Credit Union and the Bowie Baysox are hosting a free shred-only event that allows you to protect your identity and safely dispose of old documents with personal information on Saturday, May 19 from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm. (no 3-ring binders, paperclips or rubbish please)

*New* Electronic Device Recycling! Bring any old computers, monitors, printers, and cables too! This will help support employment training and community jobs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We cannot provide destruction of computer hard drives.

This event will take place at Prince George’s Stadium, home of the Baysox and will run from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm.

For a complete list of items that will be accepted, please CLICK HERE.

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

Baysox to Host Educator Appreciation Night on April 20

Are you a teacher or school administrator who loves baseball? If so, you are in luck! The Bowie Baysox will host their annual Educator Appreciation Night presented by Educational Systems Federal Credit Union on Friday, April 20 when the team hosts the Akron RubberDucks at 7:05 p.m.

Any area educator that shows their school ID badge at the Baysox box office on April 20 will receive one complimentary ticket to enjoy the game.

The Baysox will honor all area educators in attendance during the game.

Educators that come out and join us for Educator Appreciation Night will get the chance to watch a Baysox team that is home to four of the Top 10 prospects in the Baltimore Orioles system according to MLB.Com.

Friday’s game is also our annual celebration of the mathematical equation of Pi and students from around the region who can memorize and recite hundreds of places of Pi. There will even be some wack antics with actual Pies throughout the game. Will you get Pied?

April 20 marks the start of a six-game homestand for the Baysox that also includes the first Fireworks show of the year on Saturday, April 21, Bark in the Park Day on Sunday, April 22 and our first Baseball in Education/STEM Day game of the year on Wednesday, April 25.

The Bowie Baysox 2018 season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. Baysox single game tickets are available online at baysox.com, via phone at 301-464-4865 or in person at the stadium ticket office. The Baysox ticket office is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on non-game days, until the top of the 7th inning on non-fireworks game days and at the end of the fireworks show on fireworks game days.

To keep up with Baysox news, visit baysox.com and be sure to follow the Baysox on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or register for the all new Baysox Text Insider Club for free by texting the keyword BAYSOX to 50700.

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

Baysox Partner With Michael’s Desserts of Bowie To Offer Delicious Ticket Package & Help Area Homeless

BOWIE, Md. – Do you love baseball and dessert? If the answer is yes, then you are in luck with the Pie in the Park Ticket Pack from the Bowie Baysox!

The most delicious ticket package in all of Minor League Baseball has arrived in Bowie again this season! As part of this limited time offer, purchasers will receive eight (8) undated box seat ticket vouchers that are valid to be used any combination of 2018 regular season home games, a collectible bobble head of your choice (Options include: Trey Mancini, Dylan Bundy, Zach Britton, Kevin Gausman or Babe Ruth) as well as a freshly baked homemade pie from Michael’s Desserts of Bowie. The pie choices include apple, mixed berry or peach and a member of the Bowie Baysox staff will personally deliver the whole package (within a 25 mile radius of Bowie.)

Michael’s Desserts is operated by Michael Platt, a 12-year-old Bowie resident who recently appeared on the Food Network’s “Kids Baking Championship”. Michael’s culinary interests are in the forefront of helping those less fortunate and the Baysox are excited to partner up with him for our annual Pie in the Park Package tradition.

For each Pie in the Park Ticket Package ordered, Michael’s Desserts will also bake and deliver a homemade pie to area homeless.

This limited time offer ends on Friday, March 23, 2018.

The Pie in the Park Ticket package is currently available for purchase at baysoxshop.com or by contacting Chris Rogers at 301-464-4813 or at crogers@baysox.com.

The Baysox annual “Pi Day” Ticket Sale is coming on Wednesday, March 14 when the Baysox offer a one-day discount on select April home games with prices starting at $3.14 (plus online web fees).

The Bowie Baysox 2018 season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. Season ticket packages are on sale now at baysoxshop.com. The team’s 2018 home opener will be Thursday, April 5 against the Harrisburg Senators at 6:35 p.m. To keep up with Baysox news during the offseason, visit baysox.com and be sure to follow the Baysox on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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

Shorebirds Celebrate Hit the Books Bookmark Contest Winner

SALISBURY, Md. — The Delmarva Shorebirds, Class A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, along with Dr. James M. Crouse at The Brace Place, presenting sponsor of the Hit the Books program, honored Emma Adams of Mardela Middle School for winning the 2018 Hit the Books Bookmark Design Contest.

Her winning design was featured on bookmarks that were distributed to over 50,000 students at 100 area schools that participate in the Hit the Books program.

Hit the Books encourages elementary and middle school students on the Delmarva Peninsula to read outside of their regular classroom assignments. Students that complete their reading goals receive two free ticket vouchers to a Shorebirds home game during the 2018 season.

Adams’ winning design features an aerial view of Arthur W. Perdue Stadium during a Shorebirds game with “Hit the Books!” on the video board along with Sherman pointing to the Dr. James M. Crouse logo while Sherman says “Get your braces here!” For her efforts, she was rewarded with a surprise visit at school from Sherman and representatives from the Delmarva Shorebirds and The Brace Place on Wednesday, January 17. She will also get the opportunity to throw out a first pitch before her school’s Hit the Books date at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium this spring.

“Emma’s design was great! Sherman was drawn in so much detail and she showed how much fun Shorebirds games are,” Kathy Damato, Shorebirds Community Relations Manager, said. “We look forward to rewarding all the kids who go through with the Hit the Books program by hosting them at a Shorebirds game this spring.”

The initiative, which is one of the biggest and longest-running reading programs in the region, officially kicked off on Tuesday, Jan. 17 and will run through Feb. 24.

“Reading is a great pastime of mine and it means a lot to me. The Hit the Books program does a great job of showing these children how important reading really is ,” Dr. James M. Crouse said. “Our partnership with the Shorebirds Hit the Books program is a perfect fit for us at The Brace Place.”

Participating schools will be notified in March about their game date at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in 2018, and students will be honored as part of a pregame parade around the field. For more information, contact the Delmarva
Shorebirds at 410-219-3112.

Season ticket and group outing packages are currently on sale for the 2018 season. The Shorebirds offer full season tickets, half season tickets, a 22-game plan and a 12-game plan along with a number of opportunities for groups to enjoy a night out at the ballpark. To secure your seat(s), call 410-219-3112.

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.

Baysox Accepting Nominations, Donations for 11th Year of Louie’s Holiday Hope Project

BOWIE, Md. – The Bowie Baysox announced on Wednesday afternoon that Louie’s Holiday Hope Project will return for the 11th year to brighten the holiday season for local families in need. Beginning now and continuing through early December, the team will be accepting nominations for families that need assistance this holiday season. The Baysox will also be collecting gently used coats, new socks and other warm clothing to be donated to area families.

Louie’s Holiday Hope Project began in 2007 and over the last ten years, has aided close to one hundred area families and over 275 children. This year, the team is proud to partner with Prince George’s County Fire/EMS department, the Bowie Police Department and Bowie Youth & Family Services to help as many families as possible.

“We’ve partnered with the Louie’s Holiday Hope Project for the last several years and have been impressed with all that the Baysox have done to make the holiday special for so many Bowie families. Without this assistance, many area parents would not be able to prepare a special meal or provide gifts for their children” said Wendy Wilcox, Executive Director of Bowie Youth and Family Services.

The Baysox welcome help from fans and members of the local community in order to help as many families as possible. Members of the community can nominate families that need assistance by e-mailing a nomination to info@baysox.com. Submission information can be found at the Baysox website, www.baysox.com. Submissions will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Friday, December 1.

WARM CLOTHES & SOCKS COLLECTION

Prince George’s Stadium will also serve as a collection point for warm clothes and sock donations in conjunction with Louie’s Holiday Hope Project. The team invites fans to bring gently used winter coats, new socks and other warm clothing to the Baysox front office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Monday, December 4) to donate to local families and individuals in need.

The Bowie Baysox 2018 season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. The Baysox will return in 2018 to celebrate their 26th Season. Season ticket and Holiday Ticket packages are now on sale at baysoxshop.com. The team’s 2018 home opener will be Thursday, April 5 against the Harrisburg Senators at 6:35 p.m. To keep up with Baysox news during the offseason, visit www.baysox.com and be sure to follow the Baysox on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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

Annual Toys for Tots Drive to Begin November 1

FREDERICK, MD-With the holiday season approaching quickly, the Frederick Keys are excited to continue their partnership with Toys for Tots. This program run by the United States Marine Corps Reserve, collects new, unwrapped toys in November and December. These gifts are then distributed to less fortunate children on Christmas Day.

The sixth straight year the Keys and Toys for Tots have worked together, Nymeo Field collections begin on Wednesday, November 1 and conclude on Thursday, December 14. Those interested in making a donation can drop off toys during normal business hours (9-5 p.m) Monday through Friday. All donations will be taken in the main office. Anyone who contributes a new, unwrapped toy receives a Keys hat and two tickets to a 2018 home game.

“We are excited to do our part in making the holidays a great time for everyone,” said Keys Marketing Manager, Erin Lawson. “The outpouring of support from Keys fans in recent years has been truly touching and we look forward to another great turnout in 2017.”

Nymeo Field has routinely been one of Frederick County’s top collection destinations. In 2016, 49,238 toys were distributed to 4,432 children in Frederick County. Additionally, more than $28,800 was collected for Toys for Tots. A program that began in 1947, today there are over 150 Marine reserve sites across the country as well as countless local sites across the country.

Planning for the Frederick Keys 30th anniversary season is already underway, while season ticket plans are currently on sale. Anyone who purchases a plan will have their choice of a Trey Mancini or Austin Hays bobblehead.

For a complete look at this year’s home schedule fans can click here. A full promotional schedule will be announced at a later date. 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.