TinCaps Reading Program Reaches Record Numbers

Partnerships with Longe Optical and PBS39 Help Promote Literacy

Jeff Ostermann, President of Longe Optical, at Parkview Field.
Jeff Ostermann, President of Longe Optical, at Parkview Field.

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Thanks to Longe Optical and PBS39 (WFWA), the TinCaps Reading Program has reached new heights in 2015. The influence of local partners will be on full display at Wednesday’s 11:05 a.m. TinCaps game when Parkview Field is set to host approximately 4,000 school children – a record number at one game.

Longe Optical, the exclusive eye care provider of the TinCaps, became the presenting sponsor of the TinCaps Reading Program in 2014. As a result of the commitment of Longe Optical’s four Fort Wayne locations, the program now has 64,789 students participating throughout Northeast Indiana, Northwest Ohio, and southern Michigan. That’s an increase of nearly 10,000 students from a year ago.

“The TinCaps Reading Program presented by Longe Optical is one of the top literacy programs in the country,” TinCaps President Mike Nutter said. “As the son of a teacher, I’ve seen the impact that reading and literacy can have on a child. The teachers in our region are as good as anywhere in the country and we love having them partner with us on this tremendous program. It’s completely free for the schools thanks to our partners at Longe Optical.”

The TinCaps Reading Program is a community initiative which encourages students to read by setting individual goals for number of books, number of pages, hours spent reading, etc. Each student “rounds the bases,” hitting benchmarks until the final goal is reached, and with that milestone comes a free ticket to a TinCaps game, a hot dog, and a bottle of water. Participating schools also can receive a visit from the TinCaps’ mascot, Johnny.

“We are thrilled to see the growth in the TinCaps Reading Program,” said Jeff Ostermann, President, Longe Optical. “For more than 65 years, Longe Optical has had a deep commitment to helping children see better with innovations such as our HD digital lenses and $99 kids eyeglass packages. With the growth in the program we know that thousands more children are seeing and reading better than ever before and we are excited to see even more participation in the years to come.”

For more information on the TinCaps Reading Program presented by Longe Optical, visit TinCaps.com.

 

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Fort Wayne TinCaps. Click here to view the original story.

Capacity Field Expected for Mother’s Day 5K

Race Benefits Maine Breast Cancer Patients and Research

portlandseadogs_2015-05-05

Race Registration

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs in conjunction with the Maine Track Club and Intermed, will be hosting the 15th annual Mother’s Day 5K Road Race on Sunday, May 10th at 9:15am. Proceeds from the event will benefit Maine breast cancer patients and research with the funds being split between the Cancer Community Center and the Maine Cancer Foundation. There will also be a Kid’s Run, presented by Maine Running, beginning at 8:30am that is free of charge.

The Portland Sea Dogs Mother’s Day 5K is the largest 5K road race in the State of Maine. It is also the second largest road race in the state, only the Beach to Beacon is larger. A capped field of 3,000 runners is once again expected for this year’s race.

In the previous 14 years of the event, the Sea Dogs have been able to donate over $189,507.00 to support breast cancer research and patients in Maine including $20,000.00 from last year’s race.

The Sea Dogs are in need of several volunteers for the race. If interested please log on to www.seadogs.com for more information or contact the Sea Dogs Office at 207-874-9300.

All bags entering Hadlock Field will be inspected. The Sea Dogs highly recommend that people leave their bags at home or in the car. The Sea Dogs appreciate your patience and understanding.

Slugger and his Mom lead the way on the flat 5K course which begins in front of the Portland Expo building, travels down Congress Street, turning down Stevens Avenue, and making a right onto Brighton Avenue back down Deering Avenue into Fitzpatrick Stadium. The race culminates with a unique finish inside Hadlock Field in front of the third base dugout. The course is USAT&F certified and is part of the USAT&F Sanctioned Grand Prix series.

The top overall male and female finishers will receive a trophy, a pair of 2015 Season Tickets for the remainder of the 2015 Sea Dogs season, and throw out the ceremonial first-pitch prior to a future Sea Dogs game. The top three male and female finishers in each age group will also be presented with awards. All participants of the race will receive a complimentary ticket to attend a future Sea Dogs game.

The race is open to the public. Walkers and wheelchair racers are welcome as well. A limited number of spots are still available. Registration is $20.00. The kid’s race is free. If you would like to run in the 15th annual Sea Dogs’ Mother’s Day 5K you may register online at www.seadogs.com or at Fleet Feet Maine Running located on Marginal Way in Portland on Friday, May 8th from Noon to 6:00 PM or Saturday, May 9th from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Additionally, if spots remain, runners may register the day of the race at Hadlock Field from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM.

Runners who have already registered may also pick-up their packets at Fleet Feet Maine Running during the same hours as above.

Road Closures:
Park Avenue from Weymouth Street to Saint John Street will be closed to traffic from 8:50 AM to 9:15 AM on Sunday, May 10th.

Father’s Day 5K 
The Sea Dogs will also host a Father’s Day 5K on Sunday, June 14th at 9:15 AM, which will benefit Prostate Cancer Research. For additional information and to register, please contact the Portland Sea Dogs at 207-874-9300 or log on to www.seadogs.com or www.mainetrackclub.com.

Book your inning vacation! Tickets for all remaining 2015 Sea Dogs home games are available. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Sea Dogs Ticket Office at 207-879-9500 or online at www.seadogs.com.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Portland Sea Dogs. Click here to view the original story.

New England Federal Credit Union And Lake Monsters Team Up For CHAMP Sightings

BURLINGTON, VT — New England Federal Credit Union and the Vermont Lake Monsters will once again be teaming up this year to actively support the community by offering free CHAMP appearances (called “CHAMP Sightings”) to non-profit organizations and other programs that share their commitment to enhancing the well being of the local communities.

“Whether it is at the ballpark or out in the community, CHAMP stands for so many positive things,” said Nate Cloutier, Lake Monsters’ Executive Director – Sales & Marketing. “He creates smiles and memories, and it is such a joy to work with New England Federal Credit Union on bringing CHAMP in to the community to enhance these local events. To see CHAMP at awareness walks or at the hospital, and see the smile and hear the laughter is priceless.”

This partnership between New England Federal Credit Union and the Lake Monsters will give certain organizations and programs the opportunity to have CHAMP make an appearance at their event for no charge.

Organizations and programs interested in participating in the “CHAMP Sightings” program, and having CHAMP attend their event for free must submit a formal application that can be downloaded from CHAMP Sightings page on the CHAMP section of website. Please note that depending on the event location, travel costs may apply. Interested parties should submit their application as soon as possible, as appearances are limited.

“CHAMP makes events fun while helping to draw attention to worthwhile causes that are important to our community,” said Cindy Morgan, Senior Marketing Executive at NEFCU. “We’re delighted to support the Lake Monsters, and we encourage all non-profits and other programs that qualify to apply for a free CHAMP Sighting at their 2015 event.”

If an organization or program does not fit the requirements of the CHAMP Sightings program, regular CHAMP appearance requests can be made by calling (802) 655-4200 or downloading an application from CHAMP Appearances page on the CHAMP section of the website. Regular rates do apply – $100 per hour, plus travel expenses.

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

Spikes announce 2015 school programs

Outreach programs provide lessons to over 15,000 Central PA students

statecollegespikes_2014-04-30

The State College Spikes are pleased to announce the team’s roster of 2015 school programs. Each program has a unique theme and focus, with the common goal of using the Spikes brand to supplement classroom curriculum in the areas of reading, writing, exercising, eating healthy and conserving water. These programs are always offered free of charge to area schools.

Most programs are implemented through school assemblies and involve mascots, players and front office staff. All programs offer K-8 students the opportunity to earn free tickets to a Spikes’ home game upon completion of one of the fun and educational school programs. The Spikes annually reach over 15,000 Central Pennsylvania school children in Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Huntingdon, Mifflin and Juniata Counties through community outreach programs.

New for the 2015 season is the “Head Above Water” program presented by the State College Borough Water Authority. The program teaches water conservation and its positive effects, with a free Spikes ticket offered upon completion of the program.

Below are capsules of the Spikes 2015 school programs:

Healthy Home Runs presented by Mount Nittany Health
The Spikes and Mount Nittany Health are offering this school program, which is designed to promote a healthy lifestyle by creating awareness of the importance of proper nutrition and physical activity. Ike the Spike and representatives from Mount Nittany Health will visit schools to hold a kick-off assembly, which can be held outside or inside. During the assembly, K-6 students will be educated on the importance of exercise and nutrition before having the opportunity to take “Ike’s Fun Fit Challenge.” Students who complete the simple and fun physical fitness challenge will be rewarded with one complimentary Bullpen Box ticket and an on-field recognition ceremony during the Spikes’ Healthy Home Runs Day at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park on Sunday, August 2.

Books and Baseball Program presented by National Penn Bank
The Spikes and National Penn Bank have partnered for the Books and Baseball Reading Program for the 2015 season. This program encourages students to complete a reading program by rewarding them with free Spikes tickets upon completion. Participating students will receive a special bookmark to keep track of the books they read. Any participating student that reads four books under the supervision of their teacher or parent will earn one free ticket for a designated Books and Baseball game during the 2015 season. At those games, participants will be honored from the field for their participation and completion of the programs. The program includes a free assembly and reading presentation with the National Penn Bank Nook Monster at any of the participating schools. Books and Baseball is designed for students in grades K-8.

Spikes Essay Contest presented by the Centre Daily Times
The Spikes Essay Contest is for K-8 students to creatively share their experiences and thoughts about the State College Spikes through pictures or essays. The contest is divided into three different grade levels: K-1, 2-4 and 5-8. Students in kindergarten through first grade are encouraged to include drawings along with one sentence for the theme “If I were Ike the Spike.” The second to fourth grade group will be asked to write a short essay entitled “If I coached the Spikes.” Fifth to eighth graders will be encouraged to write a 300 word or fewer essay entitled “If I could create a new food item for the Spikes, it would be (blank).” A winning essay will be chosen in each of the three age groups and those winners will earn tickets to a 2015 Spikes home game for their entire grade. The submission deadline for the Spikes Essay Contest is June 1.

“Head Above Water” presented by the State College Borough Water Authority
All new for 2015 – the State College Borough Water Authority and the Spikes have partnered to implement a youth water conservation awareness program, “Head Above Water.” Ike the Spike, along with a representative from the State College Borough Water Authority, will be educating students on the importance of water conservation and the effects it can have. The program is an initiative that will encourage students to practice good water conservation habits by rewarding them with a free Spikes ticket upon completion of the program. Participating students will receive a special baseball card to help remind them how to conserve water. Any participating student that completes the water conservation program under the supervision of his or her teacher and/or parent will earn one free ticket to a 2015 Spikes baseball game. The program includes a free assembly and water conservation presentation with Ike the Spike and the State College Borough Water Authority at any of the participating schools.

There is no cost for schools to participate in any of the Spikes school programs. Teachers or administrators interested in participating in any of the State College Spikes School Programs can contact Bobbi Jo Davidson, Spikes Community Relations Assistant at (814) 272-1711 or bdavidson@statecollegespikes.com.

The Spikes, defending New York-Penn League champions, begin their 38-game home schedule with Opening Night on Friday, June 19 at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, and the slate continues through September 6.

Single-game tickets for each game in the 2015 season will be available starting at TicketFest 2015 on Saturday, May 2 at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Season tickets, McDonald’s Flex Books and an array of group and hospitality options for the 2015 season are currently on sale by calling the Spikes at (814) 272-1711. Additional information on all club ticketing options can be viewed here.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the State College Spikes. Click here to view the original story.

Legends celebrate 15th year with ’15 Days of Service’

Lexington Legends players, front office staff and Big L made a visit to Greenhouse 17, the first stop on the Legends "15 Days of Service" program. (Lexington Legends)
Lexington Legends players, front office staff and Big L made a visit to Greenhouse 17, the first stop on the Legends “15 Days of Service” program. (Lexington Legends)

(WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK, Lexington, Ky.) The Lexington Legends are celebrating their 15th year of operation of 2015, and part of that celebration includes a special campaign to continue giving back to the community.

The Legends’ “15 Days of Service” campaign will include volunteer work with 15 different organizations in the Lexington area. Legends players as well as front office staff will be involved.

The first of the 15 stops was made April 20 at Greenhouse 17, an advocacy agency in Lexington committed to ending intimate partner abuse in families and the community.   Legends players Alfredo Escalera, Kyle Pollock, and Michael Hill, along with Big L and front office staffers Rebecca Barnes, Anne Brenner, Ty Cobb, April Dietrich, Tim Vieira and Corie Roberts spent time with children at Greenhouse 17 and also helped out with some gardening chores.

Other agencies that will be part of “15 Days of Service” include the Ronald McDonald House, Sweet Blessings, Hope Center, Toyota Bluegrass Miracle League, Salvation Army, Central Kentucky Riding for Hope, United Way, God’s Pantry, the Nest, GLEAN and Habitat for Humanity. More will be added as the 2015 season continues.

“Community service has always played a very important part of who we are as an organization here at the Lexington Legends,” said Barnes, the Legends’ director of community relations. “Being able to give back to the community that has supported us for the last 15 years is a great way to celebrate our 15th anniversary season.”

“Fifteen days of service really brings our community service efforts into focus,” added Legends President/CEO Andy Shea. “We’ll never lose sight of the importance of giving back, but the celebration of the 15th season of Legends baseball provides a special incentive for all of us.”

For more information, contact Barnes at 859-422-7855.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lexington Legends. Click here to view the original story.

Dragons to Host Public Safety Day on April 26

Kettering Health Network and Dragons team up for Pregame Event on the Plaza

(NICK FALZERANO )
(NICK FALZERANO )

Dayton, Ohio – The Dayton Dragons announced today that Public Safety Day will be held Sunday, April 26 on the Plaza at Fifth Third Field. Kettering Health Network and the Dragons are partnering to bring this free event to the public. From noon to 2:30 p.m., families will be allowed to explore special displays featuring a fire truck, SWAT vehicles, K-9 units, an ambulance, and police cars.

Public Safety Day allows members of the Dayton community to recognize the area’s exceptional police and fire departments by letting them get up close and personal with these vehicles. Dragons mascots Heater and Gem will take photos with fans on the plaza before the game. Children will receive a free plastic emergency hat (while supplies last). There will also be raffle prizes throughout the event.

 

Sgt. Mark Spiers, Officer of the Year, will be honored during the pregame ceremony. Sgt. Spiers shows extreme empathy for fellow officers and is always reliable, often plowing snow in front of the station for patrons. He assisted a retired officer, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, acquire a wheelchair. While he is reliable, Sgt. Spiers also leads by example, never asking anything of his officers that he would not do himself.

Also during the pregame ceremony, members of the Vandalia Fire Department will be honored for their brave exhibition. The firefighters responded to a person at a local YMCA who was not breathing. They arrived at the patients side within three minutes and transported the patient to Grandview Medical Center in 37 minutes. The patient survived and left the hospital in good condition thanks to the immediate response time of the Vandalia Fire Department and the expert care at the hospital. Representing the fire department is Chad Garver who will throw out the first pitch.

More Information:  The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com.

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This article originally appeared on the official website of the Dayton Dragons. Click here to view the original story.

Buddy Bat joins Family Scholar House mini-marathon team

MEDIA ADVISORY

 

CONTACT:

Nicole Gabriel

Community Engagement Specialist

ngabriel@familyscholarhouse.org

Mobile: (502) 219-7657

 

BUDDY BAT JOINS “WILL RUN FOR BOOKS” MINI-MARATHON TEAM

BUDDY BAT SUPPORTING FAMILY SCHOLAR HOUSE THROUGH THE MINI-MARATHON

WHAT:

On Saturday, April 25, Buddy Bat, the official mascot of the Louisville Bats, will participate in the Kentucky Derby Festival’s mini-marathon to support Family Scholar House. Fellow runners and walkers are encouraged to post a selfie taken with Buddy Bat during the race and use #BuddyRuns4Books to be entered into a drawing for a prize pack of Louisville Bats tickets and memorabilia. As our community prepares for the mini-marathon, Family Scholar House is posting training tips on Facebook, including one to be posted on Tuesday of Buddy Bat training for the mini.

Cathe Dykstra, Chief Possibility Officer of Family Scholar House, has known Buddy Bat (AKA Jeremy Sharfe) as an educator and community leader for many years. Cathe said, “The only thing bigger than Buddy Bats’ head is his heart. He really cares about families and giving everyone a chance to learn and grow.”

Family Scholar House, a nonprofit organization, is changing lives, families and communities through education. Family Scholar House provides comprehensive, holistic programming and support services for disadvantaged single-parent college students and their children. This is the first year that Family Scholar House has been an official charity included in the Kentucky Derby Festival’s mini-marathon.

WHERE & WHEN:

Monday, April 20th, at 3pm – Buddy Bat will be training at Proformance, 2041 River Road.

Saturday, April 25th – KDF mini-marathon course (you can’t miss him!)

MORE INFORMATION:

For more information, contact Nicole Gabriel at (502) 813-3085 or ngabriel@familyscholarhouse.org.

About Family Scholar House

Our mission is to end the cycle of poverty and transform our community by empowering families and youth to succeed in education and achieve life-long self-sufficiency. To date, Family Scholar House graduates have earned 186 college graduates. Family Scholar House’s four Louisville-area campuses are home to 215 families with 324 children.

To learn more, please visit our website at www.familyscholarhouse.org or find us on Facebook.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Louisville Bats. Click here to view the original story.

Dragons Players and Mascots to Visit Schools in Three Counties This Week

Heater will join players as part of Dragons MVP Program

DAYTON, Ohio – Dayton Dragons players and one of the team’s mascots, Heater, will visit schools in three different counties across the Miami Valley this week. The visits are part of the Dragons MVP program and members of the local media are invited to cover them. The players will introduce themselves to the students, answer questions and take pictures. Each student will also receive a Dragons pen. The following schools are listed with an address, date and time of visit:

Tuesday, April 14

10am-10:45am

Cox Elementary

506 Dayton Avenue

Xenia, OH, 45385

Phone: 937-372-9201

 

11:15am-12pm

Main Elementary

2942 Dayton-Xenia Rd.

Beavercreek, OH, 45434

Phone: 937-429-7588

 

Wednesday, April 15

9:45am – 10:30am

Perrin Woods Elementary

431 West John Street

Springfield, OH, 45506

Phone: 937-505-4310

 

11:15am – 12pm

Rolling Hills Elementary

2613 Moorefield Rd.

Springfield, OH, 45502

Phone: 937-399-2250

 

Friday, April 17

10am-10:45am

Salem Christian

6500 Southway Rd.

Clayton, OH, 45315

Phone: 937-836-9910

 

11:15am-12pm

Dayton Leadership Academies

1416 W. Riverview Ave.

Dayton, OH, 45402

Phone: 937-567-9426

Members of the media may contact schools individually at the numbers listed if they intend to cover the visits.

The Dragons MVP Program, a tool for teachers, uses the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Baseball as an educational tool for fourth and fifth grade teachers, helping them motivate and reward students for success in and out of the classroom. The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is sponsored by Bob Evans, WDTN-TV, Dayton’s CW Television, and Sinclair Community College. For more information on the Dragons MVP Program contact the Dayton Dragons or visit www.daytondragons.com.

More Information:  The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com.

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This article originally appeared on the official website of the Dayton Dragons. Click here to view the original story.

Chico Makes 500th Community Appearance!

elpasochihuahuas_2015-03-27

El-Paso-Chihuahuas-2014As Chico entertained the students at Dr. Green Elementary School’s State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) Pep Rally, the Chihuahuas mascot recorded his 500th community appearance since he wandered onto the steps of Southwest University Park less than one year ago.

“_______________________________________,” said Chico. “_____________________ _____________________________!”

The Chihuahuas debuted a silent Chico on their flagship radio station, Team 600 ESPN El Paso on April 14th, 2014. Since his introduction Chico has become the face of the Chihuahuas brand.

Chico’s 500 appearances included school visits, military Welcome Home ceremonies, grand openings of businesses, parades and birthday parties to name a few.

Aside from baseball, Chico is an advocate of education having assisted in such programs as Read Across America, Red Ribbon Week, Anti-Bullying Week, STAAR Testing Rallies and more.

In February 2015, Chico was invited to represent El Paso in Austin, Texas for El Paso Days, a series of meetings between local leaders and state officials, becoming a true ambassador for the city.

“We are proud to hit this community milestone so quickly with our goodwill ambassador, Chico,” said Chihuahuas General Manager Brad Taylor. “He is the one member of our team that will be here year after year while supporting all of the great groups in our region.”

If you are interested in having Chico at your next event, go to www.epchihuhauas.com under the ‘Community’ tab and fill out the online ‘Mascot Appearances Form.’

This article originally appeared on the official website of the El Paso. Click here to view the original story.

Chihuahuas and Gatorade Announce “Gatorade GO PLAY” Community Initiative

Promotes and celebrates kids living an active lifestyle

El-Paso-Chihuahuas-2014Athletes of the Miracle League of El Paso were treated to a surprise last night as Chico, the Chihuahuas mascot, and Andy Imfeld, the Chihuahuas on-field emcee, launched the Gatorade GO PLAY Community Program. Along with a visit from Chico the athletes received Gatorade donated by Pepsi.

“The surprise visit was a huge hit and our athletes had a blast,” said Sandie Olivar, founder and executive director of the Miracle League of El Paso. “The disabled community normally lives a very sedentary lifestyle that does not get the opportunity to get outside and play. The Miracle League gives them the outlet to be active and play baseball while having some fun too.”

Miracle-League-logoGatorade GO PLAY’s mission is to celebrate and promote kids living an active lifestyle. Chico and Andy will be going around the Greater El Paso Area to surprise kids who make the choice to be active rather than live a sedentary way of life.

“Along with Gatorade and Pepsi, we are proud to work with the inspirational athletes in the Miracle League. These kids exemplify desire and determination,” said Brad Taylor, general manager of the El Paso Chihuahuas.

Included in the Gatorade GO PLAY program is a social media component. The Chihuahuas are asking how kids “GO PLAY”. Fans are encouraged to take a picture of themselves or their team being active and share it on Facebook, Twitter and/or Instagram using the markers #GatoradeGoPlayEPC and @epchihuahuas.

The best pictures and examples of living an active lifestyle will be featured by the Chihuahuas on their social media sites.

Chico will continue to make surprise visits over the next few weeks. Children are encouraged to remain active and keep an eye out for him.

Olivar concluded, “Last night was an incredible evening for our four competitive teams – Yankees, Longhorns, Fearless and Young Guns. Thank you to the Chihuahuas and Chico for a memorable night.”

This article originally appeared on the official website of the El Paso Chihuahuas. Click here to view the original story.

B-Mets, Maines Team Up for Big League Dreams

Binghamton-MetsThe Binghamton Mets, along with Maines Food & Party Warehouse, are reaching out to local Southern Tier Little Leagues with the B-Mets Big League Dreams program. New for the 2015 season, Big League Dreams, a youth baseball initiative, gives Little Leagues in the Binghamton area the chance to earn unbeatable rewards from the B-Mets.

To enter the drawing, a representative from each League is invited to acquire an application from Jesse Scaglion at the Binghamton Mets via email (jesse@bmets.com) or phone (607) 723-6387. The deadline to enter is Monday, April 13. Winners will be announced on Friday, April 17.

Five Little Leagues selected in the drawing will win terrific prizes including a $500 gift card to Maines Food & Party Warehouse and the chance to take the field at NYSEG Stadium alongside B-Mets players as part of the Field of Dreams program. Winning Leagues will also get a visit from B-Mets players and mascots at their field during the season. Maines will provide a concession stand makeover for all five winning Leagues.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Binghamton Mets. Click here to view the original story.

Hit the Books Underway in Area Elementary Schools

missoulaosprey_2015-03-19

Annual reading program assists children in setting & achieving goals

Missoula-OspreyThe Missoula Osprey with help of their partners, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana and Sylvan Learning, kicked off the club’s biggest and most successful community program, Hit the Books, in nearly 30 area elementary schools.

The Osprey started the Hit the Books Reading Program in their inaugural season in 1999 and have seen participation grow over time. 4,777 students spanning 241 classrooms are participating in the 2015 edition of Hit the Books, where annually nearly 50,000 books are read.

“Hit the Books is one of the best reading programs in all of professional baseball,” Osprey Vice President/General Manager Jeff Griffin said. “The program is incentive based designed for Missoula-area students to set goals and follow through with achieving them over a seven week period.”

Hit the Books is set up like a baseball game, meaning there are nine innings (three books equals one inning), where students receive a different prize for each inning completed. Every student that participates gets a letter of achievement and is entered to win a Kindle Reader. Other prizes include Osprey themed school supplies, an exclusive dessert party with team mascot Ollie, and ticket vouchers to an Osprey game. Over $100,000 in prizes was awarded to area students in 2014.

The program culminates with a celebration at one of eleven Osprey home games designated as Hit the Books Nights, where students are honored for their achievements.

“The program wouldn’t be what it is today without the support of our partners,” Griffin said. “We are also very proud of all of time the students and teachers put in to make it a success. Educators tell us the program helps motivate students as summer vacation approaches.”

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Missoula Osprey. Click here to view the original story.

Bowling With The BlueClaws – April 15th

lakewoodblueclaws_2015-03-11

Event, with BlueClaws players, returns to Sea Girt Lanes

Lakewood-BlueClaws-LogoBlueClaws Charities is proud to announce its fifth annual Bowling With The BlueClaws fundraising event returns to Sea Girt Lanes on Wednesday, April 15th. BlueClaws players will again be at the event, a great chance for kids to have a fun night out with players and Buster while raising money for a worthy cause.

The charitable bowling event takes place from 6-8pm. For just $12, participants will receive bowling shoes, a raffle ticket for a series of prizes, pizza and soda, and unlimited bowling games.

BlueClawsCharitiesRaffles will be held throughout the night for limited edition autographed merchandise and other door prizes. In addition to prizes being given out, BlueClaws players will be there to hang out with you! All proceeds from the night will benefit BlueClaws Charities and their Community Partners.

For more information or to reserve a spot, contact JoAnne Bell at 732-901-7000 ext. 100 or at jbell@blueclaws.com. Space is limited and those interested are encouraged to book early.

BlueClaws Charities, the official charity of the Lakewood BlueClaws, is a 501c3 dedicated to supporting the underpriveleged Ocean and Monmouth counties. BlueClaws Charities has donated over $195,000 over the past three years to community organizations, including donations in the form of grants to BlueClaws Charities Community Partners.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lakewood BlueClaws . Click here to view the original story.

Baysox Honor Reading Program Poster Winners

BowieBaysox_2015-02-06

Bowie-BaysoxThe Baysox lovable mascot Louie made visits to schools across the region during the past month to congratulate some very special students. Louie wanted to congratulate the winners of the annual poster contest that kicks off the Read and Hit a Home Run reading program.

All eight winning students are listed below:

Calvert County – Plum Point Middle School – Savannah Hersh – 6th Grade

Anne Arundel County – Central Elementary School – Marissa Beach – 5th Grade

Charles County – Arthur Middleton Elementary School – Desaray Green-Quartey – 4th Grade

Howard County – Trinity School – Ciara O’Connor – 6th Grade

Montgomery County – Forcey Christian School – Zoeii Strong – 5th Grade

Queen Anne’s County – Kennard Elementary School – Sarah Ireland – 4th Grade

Prince George’s County – Drew Freeman Middle School – Kentisha Torries – 7th Grade

St. Mary’s County – Town Creek Elementary School – Owen Corpus – 3rd Grade

The students’ poster designs were selected as the winner for all schools in their county. The poster designed by the winning student will also be displayed in each participating school in their respective counties throughout the program.

Louie surprised the winners during special school assemblies, rewarding them with a framed poster of the design, eight Baysox tickets and a collection of Baysox gear. The students also get a chance to throw out a ceremonial first pitch before the Baysox Reading Night game for their county.

The Baysox would like to thank Read and Hit a Home Run Reading Program sponsor Educational Systems Federal Credit Union for their support of the program. This is the 11th year that Educational Systems Federal Credit Union has sponsored the reading program.

In all, more than 200 schools are registered to participate in the reading program this year. Any student in participating schools who reads at least four books is rewarded with a free ticket to a Baysox game. This is the 19th year the Baysox have overseen the reading program and during that time, the team has helped to promote reading for millions of elementary and middle school students in Maryland. Louie will be visiting students throughout the weeks leading up to the season to show them how fun reading can be.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Bowie Baysox. Click here to view the original story.

Legends’ donations top $715,000 for 2014

14-year total nears $13 million

Lexington Legends President/COO Andy Shea (at left) and LBX President/CEO Eric Sauvage (second from left) present a check to representatives of Kentucky Cancer Link, Susan G. Komen and the Markey Cancer Center for funds raised in the Legends' annual Breast Cancer Awareness game. The Legends make donations to a variety of organizations throughout the region. (Lexington Legends)
Lexington Legends President/COO Andy Shea (at left) and LBX President/CEO Eric Sauvage (second from left) present a check to representatives of Kentucky Cancer Link, Susan G. Komen and the Markey Cancer Center for funds raised in the Legends’ annual Breast Cancer Awareness game. The Legends make donations to a variety of organizations throughout the region. (Lexington Legends)

Lexington-Legends-2013The Lexington Legends today announced donations for 2014 totaling $715,645 to a variety of non-profit organizations serving central Kentucky. The Ivy Walls Charitable Giving Foundation Fund at Bluegrass Community Foundation, in cooperation with the Legends and business sponsors, has presented checks to organization representatives throughout the month of November.

Ivy Walls Management is a Lexington-based organization that manages the operation of the Legends.

In its 14-year history, the Legends organization has donated close to $13 million to the region.

“There’s nothing more important to our organization than giving back to our community,” said Sarah Bosso, the Legends’ director of community relations and special events. “Each season, the Legends look forward to working with all of these amazing organizations and to developing new partnerships as well.”

“The Legends will always be active in the community,” added Legends President/COO Andy Shea. “We’re proud to have the opportunity to support these great organizations.”

Among organizations receiving funds in 2014 were:

Boy-Scouts-logo3–Boy Scouts of America Bluegrass Council:  The Legends supported the Boy Scouts through their participation in the “Brave the Blue III” campaign, in which donations were raised by those who rappelled down the 30-story Financial Center building in downtown Lexington. The Legends’ Big L has been among the rappellers in all three years of the campaign.

-Breast Cancer Research and Awareness: The Legends held a Breast Cancer Awareness Night July 12. Funds raised through an auction of pink jerseys and pink bases used during the game, along with t-shirt sales, benefited Kentucky Pink Susan-G.-KomenConnection, which serves breast cancer patients on a personal basis by reducing or eliminating barriers to screening, diagnosis and treatment; The Markey Cancer Center, established in 1983 as a Comprehensive Cancer Center; and Susan G. Komen, the world’s largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer.   The Legends and LBX held a dinner, with proceeds going to those same three breast cancer charities.

Military-Missions –Military Missions: The Legends’ Military Appreciation night June 14 included an auction of camouflage jerseys to benefit Military Missions, a local non-profit organization that supports troops in a variety of ways, including the sending of care packages.

–P.A.W.S. and the Lexington Humane Society: The Legends held five “Bark in the Park” nights during the 2014 season, on which dog owners were invited to bring their dogs to a Legends game. The “admission” price for dogs was a donation to the Paris Animal Welfare Society (P.A.W.S.) and the Lexington Humane Society.

-St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Scholarship Fund:  At the end of every baseball season, the Legends hold a silent auction for the home jerseys worn during the season with proceeds going to the St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Scholarship Program. About $4,000 was raised from the 2014 auction.

United-Way–United Way of the Bluegrass: The Legends and United Way are longtime partners on ticket donations to United Way donors, as listed below.

–Vs. Cancer:  Legends President/COO Andy Shea and catcher Chad Johnson had their heads shaved following the Legends game August 15 as part of a Vs. Cancer fund-raiser and siVs-Cancer-logogn of solidarity with young cancer patients.

In-kind donations

The Legends also make substantial in-kind donations throughout the year to many groups and organizations, including a long-standing relationship with United Way of the Bluegrass. Donors to the annual United Way of the Bluegrass campaign receive two free box seat tickets to a Legends home game.

In the 2014 season, more than 84,000 box seat tickets were donated to various organizations and camps through the Legends’ partnership with United Way, along with Hit the Books, a Legends’ campaign to encourage Central Kentucky students to read. More than 300 donations were made through the Legends online donation request system at lexingtonlegends.com under the “Community” tab.

In addition, the Legends made more than 200 public appearances in 2014 with their mascots, Big L and Pee Wee, at schools, hospitals, nursing homes and other organizations.

Aramark, the Legends’ concession partner, made significant donations to school booster clubs, primarily for work done at concession stands during games.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lexington Legends. Click here to view the original story.