U.S. Marine Corps Hold Special Birthday Ceremony At Blue Wahoos Stadium 

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A special moment in American history was honored Tuesday morning at Blue Wahoos Stadium.

More than 400 U.S. Marines gathered for commemoration of the 245th birthday of the Marine Corps, complete with a traditional cake cutting ceremony and recognition of service.

Across the nation, Tuesday marked another milestone in the formation of the U.S. Marine Corps on Nov. 10, 1775, just eight months prior to the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The Marine Corps was established on that date by the Second Continental Congress.

In Pensacola, the ability of Blue Wahoos Stadium to host the ceremony and keep the gathering in proper physical distance made it a desired choice.

Shannon Reeves, the Blue Wahoos events manager, was contacted in September by Group Gunnery Sergeant Chris Clerico, operations chief for the Marine Aviation Training Support Group 21, to begin preparing for Tuesday’s ceremony.

The Blue Wahoos have worked with the Marines and other branches of the military in hosting previous events.

“They knew we had a lot of outdoor space and they could bring this many people,” Reeves said. “Plus, have a central location at home plate and the pitcher’s mound to do what they wanted to do, along with enabling everyone to see it, so it really worked well.”

The ceremony included the U.S. Marines Corps Hymn, along with playing of the Star Spangled Banner and other patriotic tributes to the moment in history.

It was another testament to what we can do here,” she said. “We just had 400 Marines and what a great ceremony and show. It was so great to see this.

“And to have everyone with masks on, so respectful, that was really great. They came in here (Tuesday morning) and roped off the entire sections of our stadium in about five minutes, so people could sit wherever they wanted and be safe.

“They really are a well-oiled machine in terms of how quickly they get it done and so respectful.”

Drive Set to Host Two Marquee Community Events at Fluor Field

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GREENVILLE, S.C. – The Greenville Drive is pleased to announce two upcoming marquee community events at Fluor Field. A new event, the Green Monster Mash (October 17), and a community favorite, the Upstate Veterans Salute (November 8), will offer free, family fun and a chance for the Upstate to once come together at Fluor Field – our community’s ideal outdoor social distancing venue.

Named after Fluor Field’s iconic Green Monster in left field, the first-ever Green Monster Mash Fall Festival will offer trick-or-treating, hayrides, a pumpkin patch, Halloween and fall-themed arts and crafts and a screening of the movie “Goosebumps” (rated PG). Trick-or-treating and other activities will run from 3-5 p.m., with the movie starting at 5 p.m. Movie seating is available on the field and in stadium seats, so bring a blanket and prepare to get spooky. Admission to The Green Monster Mash is free, but reservations are required and must be staggered to ensure social distancing. Reserve your spot today by clicking here

For the 5th straight year, the Upstate Veterans Salute, founded originally by the Drive & long-time community partners Michelin, General Electric, & Prisma Health, honors & recognizes our community’s Veterans & active military heroes. This year’s event will feature emotional & powerful Military focused programming, Military vehicle displays at the stadium gates, an aerial flyover by the vintage Warbirds Flyover Team, and a concert by up-and-coming country artist Filmore. South Carolina Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette will provide the keynote address, and the salute will conclude with a patriotic fireworks display. Gates open at 3 p.m., with Filmore set to begin at 4:30pm. Socially distanced seating will be available both in stadium seats as well as in first come, first served “pods” set up on the field itself. As always, admission to the Upstate Veterans Salute is free but a ticket reservation is required. Reserve your tickets today at UpstateSalute.com.

“Despite the challenges of the last 7 months, the Drive’s commitment to the Upstate community is stronger than ever & we’re excited to announce our upcoming Halloween & Veterans Day events”, said Drive Vice President of Marketing, Jeff Brown. “We’ve all missed out on a lot this year, so, with these events, the Drive is thrilled to bring back some of the joy and fun we are accustomed to providing our community each year. We encourage everyone to come out and enjoy themselves in the safe and welcoming environment that is Fluor Field.”

CANNON BALLERS HONOR HEROES THROUGH FIELD OF HONOR®

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(KANNAPOLIS, NC) – In a tribute of those whose actions made them heroes in our lives, the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers bring their inaugural Field of Honor® display to Atrium Health Ballpark.

It is appropriate to honor our heroes with a display of the flag that they honored through their service and sacrifice. The Field of Honor® display of United States flags bring volunteers, residents, and visitors together as hundreds of flags are posted. This inspiring and memorable panorama of red, white, and blue is hard to describe, but once experienced it is not to be forgotten.

Each 3-foot by 5-foot flag comes with its own story and displays a tag identifying both the flag honoree and the person who sponsored the flag. Flags may be purchased to honor the memory of a veteran or current service member from any branch of service. The purchaser will be permitted to take home the flag following the conclusion of the event. This living display of heroism flies as a patriotic tribute to the strength and unity of Americans, and honors all those who are serving, have served, and have made the supreme sacrifice for our nation’s security and freedom.

The Field of Honor® will fly starting November 2nd thru November 11th. The Cannon Ballers will host an Opening Ceremony for the placing of the first flag on November 2nd at 12:00pm at Gate #1 (West Ave). The field will then be open to the public 24 hours a day for viewing and observation. Each evening, “Taps” will be played at sunset. A Closing Ceremony will be held on November 11th at 11:00AM inside of Atrium Health Ballpark with guest speakers, musical tributes, and the reading of the names of the veterans honored on the field. All ceremonies pending social distancing standards and the mandates from the Office of the Governor.

Flags are available for purchase for $40 at the Cannon Baller team store or online at www.kcballers.com. Cash, check, or credit/debit card are available.

For more information on the Field of Honor®, visit www.kcballers.com or call 704-932-3267. Those interested in sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact Ryan Pegarsch at 704-935-1529 or [email protected].

About Kannapolis Cannon Ballers
The Kannapolis Cannon Ballers are a Minor League Baseball team of the South Atlantic League and the Class A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. Currently located in Kannapolis, North Carolina, the team was established in 1995 as the Piedmont Phillies until 1996 when they changed their name to the Piedmont Boll Weevils.

What is Field of Honor®?
The Field of Honor® program is part of a national movement that started out as a way to commemorate the lives lost on September 11, 2001 and was founded by the Colonial Flag Foundation.

In just a short amount of time, the concept has grown and communities like ours across America are turning to Field of Honor® tributes to raise money and awareness for a growing array of causes. The Field of Honor® is a community project of remembrance, and an expression of humanity and patriotism.

OceanFirst Foundation Honors Non-Profits as Part of Home Runs for Heroes

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – OceanFirst Foundation made donations to 16 organizations that support military personnel on Friday as part of an adjusted version of the Home Runs for Heroes program. The ceremony took place during the Party in the Park fireworks event at FirstEnergy Park.

Since 2009, OceanFirst Foundation has donated to non-profit organizations for each BlueClaws home run hit at FirstEnergy Park. Despite the 2020 season being canceled, the organization still to 16 organizations.

The following organizations received a donation from OceanFirst Foundation.

  • American Red Cross
  • Army Emergency Relief (Fort Dix)
  • Cape May Coast Guard Community Foundation
  • Catholic Charities (Diocese of Trenton)
  • Deborah Hospital Foundation
  • GI Go Fund
  • Homes for All/Hands For All
  • Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey
  • Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Foundation
  • Ma Deuce Deuce
  • National Guard State Family Readiness Council
  • Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society
  • Operation First Response
  • Recalibrate
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars – Brick Post 8867
  • Vetgroup

“The BlueClaws are proud to partner with OceanFirst Foundation on the Home Runs for Heroes Program and we thank them for their support of these amazing organizations even in this unique year,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “Even without a BlueClaws season, we are thrilled to see OceanFirst Foundation donate to these many worthy causes all over the Shore.”

“We thank the Lakewood BlueClaws organization and Townsquare Media for providing the opportunity to work together to bring much needed relief to local military families and Veterans during these difficult times. We’re pleased to have provided $408,000 in grants over the years of our partnership.” said Katherine Durante, Executive Director of OceanFirst Foundation.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment.

-BlueClaws-

Trail West Bank joins Yoga in the Ballpark to support Veterans

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The Missoula PaddleHeads have announced new partners for their monthly event, Yoga in the Ballpark, as non-profit partner Red Willow Learning Center, and headline sponsor Trail West Bank join the prana. Three installments are scheduled for Sunday August 23rd, Sunday September 13th, and Sunday October 4th at Ogren Park Allegiance Field. Join the Missoula PaddleHeads and our Yogi Community as we embark on a morning of yoga, a light brunch, mimosas, and shared prana on the field. Tickets for all three dates are on sale now through gopaddleheads.com, or directly at https://bit.ly/3htTKwt.

Through the support of the new headline sponsor, Trail West Bank, the Red Willow Learning Center will be provided 50 tickets to each Yoga in the Park event. In addition, added to the standard $20 ticket option, each event will have an option for patrons to purchase a $25 ticket, with $5 donated directly back to the Red Willow Learning Center’s Heroes Therapeutic Outreach Program.

The support of the Red Willow Learning Center’s Heroes Therapeutic Outreach program will help provide:

_The Heroes Therapeutic Outreach Program (HTOP) is designed to provide services that augment what is already being provided, filling a gap in available services for the veteran community. The Mind/Body modalities utilized in the HTOP programming help address the high incidence of depression, feelings of isolation, and the difficulties of readjustment to civilian life. _

As part of our Heroes Therapeutic Outreach Program, the Learning Center at Red Willow is proud to make all of its courses available to all Veterans and Active Duty Military Personnel, their Families and Caregivers, as well as our Community’s First Responders.

Launched in March of 2014, the Heroes Therapeutic Outreach Program (HTOP), serves over 500 registered participants through modalities like Meditation, Yoga, Tai Chi, Qigong, Writing Therapies, Art Therapies, Equine-Assisted Therapy, Mindfulness, and Resilience. We work within a Venn Diagram consisting of Post-Traumatic Stress, Traumatic Brain Injury, Chronic Pain, Depression, and Isolation.

Each yoga class will be led by a community of professionals and light, healthy fare to enjoy post workout. Stadium gates will open at 9:30am for a 10:00am class. Early registration and arrival are encouraged. Mimosas and other beverages will be available for purchase to enjoy with your meal and fellow yogis. All participants must bring their own yoga mat. Additional equipment such as a strap or block may be utilized but are not required.

Tickets available now at: https://bit.ly/3htTKwt

The safety of the Missoula community is our utmost priority. A full COVID-19 Readiness Plan has been created by the Missoula PaddleHeads for operating the venue cautiously, safely, and responsibly, and can be found at www.gopaddleheads.com. The execution of this plan includes: social distancing and crowd control measures, one-way concourse walkways, cleaning, disinfecting and sanitizing practices, staff training, PPE guidelines, a full food and beverage plan, and wellness and symptom checks for all staff.

Bulls & WGU North Carolina Announce Military Appreciation Event

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The Durham Bulls announced today the launch of a recognition program in partnership with WGU North Carolina and the USO of North Carolina, to provide a unique, special experience for active military and their families.

Beginning Monday, the Bulls will host pre-registered military families at Durham Bulls Athletic Park and provide the opportunity to take batting practice, play catch in the outfield, enjoy yard games or just breathe in the fresh air for a 45-minute session, underneath the stadium lights.

“We are extremely happy to be able to offer these military families a special experience at the ballpark,” said Nick Bavin, Director of Corporate Partnerships at the Durham Bulls. “We are always grateful for the sacrifice these individuals and their families make for us, so we’re excited to be able to play a part in putting a smile on their faces during these trying times.”

“As a military spouse, I know firsthand that opportunities like these are greatly appreciated,” said WGU North Carolina Chancellor Catherine Truitt. “We look forward to hosting these families for a memorable experience of a lifetime.”

In addition to the on-field experience, the event will also serve as a ‘Back to School’ kickoff with WGU North Carolina providing school supplies to the children in attendance.

WGU North Carolina is a One Star Patriot Circle Partner of the USO of North Carolina and was recently named the number one military school in the nation in the category of online/vocational in an announcement that can be found here: https://www.wgu.edu/newsroom/press-release/2020/02/wgu-named-number-one-by-military-friendly.html.

About WGU North Carolina

WGU North Carolina is an online competency-based university established to expand access to higher education for North Carolina residents. The university offers more than 60 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the fields of business, K-12 teacher education, information technology, and health professions, including nursing. Degrees are granted under the accreditation of Western Governors University, which is accredited through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Driving innovation as the nation’s leading competency-based university, WGU has been recognized by the White House, state leaders, employers, and students as a model that works in post-secondary education. WGU has been named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies, and has been featured on NPR, NBC Nightly News, CNN, and in The New York Times. Learn more at nc.wgu.edu.

Harley Night is Back For R-Phils Party With A Purpose

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The Reading Fightin Phils and Classic Harley-Davidson are bringing back Harley Night on Thursday, August 6th during their Party With A Purpose event. The night will begin with the annual ride from Classic Harley and the fun will continue at the ballpark. Enjoy live music, your favorite ballpark food & drinks, and a catch on the outfield!

This season would have been the 23rd Annual Harley Night. The R-Phils have found a way to continue the tradition this summer! The ride from Classic Harley in Leesport at 5:30 and end at FirstEnergy Stadium.

The $5 entrance fee to support the Blue Mountain Chapter of the Nam Knights of America Motorcycle Club, assisting local Veterans and Police Officers in their time of need. Purchase a pass at R-Phils.com/events. Or visit bit.ly/2BKLadB on the Classic Harley website.

In keeping with the guidelines for outdoor dining, and social distancing, the event will be limited to a small number of people. This community event is family-friendly and will take place in Tompkins VIST Bank Plaza, as well as on the field at America’s Classic Ballpark!

Gates will open at 5:15 and the concession stand will be open from 5:30PM – 8:30PM. Fans will also have access to the field to have a catch and spread out. There will be live music by a local artist.

The Rick Herrema Foundation To Receive $10,000 Donation for Summer Camps

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FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Playing, learning, and growing: that’s what summer camp is all about at The Rick Herrema Foundation’s 50 acre green space called ‘Rick’s Place,’ located just minutes from Fort Bragg. The Fayetteville Woodpeckers are proud to give a donation of $10,000 to The Rick Herrema Foundation for camp participants to enjoy three weeks of activities, without the extra worry or burden of expenses and safety concerns due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Woodpeckers presented a check in the amount of $10,000 to The Rick Herrema Foundation from their primary outreach program of the club’s official team charity, The Community Leaders Program, which focuses on military and youth sports causes. This donation will sponsor the supplies and activities budget for the upcoming three weeks of summer camps. With the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Rick Herrema Foundation is elevating safety and sanitation measures to protect the campers and their well-being, while having fun in an outdoor, safety-conscious environment. The summer camps are specifically designed for children with military connections, ages 8 to 14 years old. This summer, campers will learn survival skills, land navigation, ax throwing, and wood working, as well as other fun, socially distant activities during their time at Rick’s Place. Additionally, The Community Leaders Program has sponsored scholarships to cover the cost for camp participants whose families may be financially challenged.

The Community Leaders Program is made possible through the generosity of our corporate partners: SEGRA, AEVEX, ASUS, The Walsingham Group, CarolinasDentist, and Blanton’s Air, Plumbing, and Electric.

For more information about Rick’s Place and The Rick Herrema Foundation, click HERE. You can find more information on The Community Leaders Program HERE.

Salem-Keizer Volcanoes to continue tradition of honoring military 

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SOLD OUT! SOLD OUT! SOLD OUT! KEIZER, OR — The Salem-Keizer Volcanoes’ long-standing tradition of “Thanking, Honoring and Saluting” members of the military is set for July 4, 2020.

This year’s event will be, as in prior years, held at Volcanoes Stadium in Keizer. Unlike each of the prior tributes, there will not be a Volcanoes baseball game held in conjunction with the evening. Due to COVID-19, the Patriotic Tribute will be a drive-in type of event in the stadium’s parking lot. It will still feature recognition of our military heroes, swearing-in of members to the armed services, a Fallen Warrior memorial and many tributes to those who have defended our country with multiple deployments.

The Volcanoes have become known throughout the region and country for their patriotic tributes. In 2019, the Volcanoes’ Jerry Howard won the National Charles K. Murphy Award for the best Patriotic Tribute in the Nation.

Drive-In 4**th** of July Protocol

Vehicle spaces are limited and separated by at least one parking stall width. Staff will direct parking – vehicle parking will be staggered to allow best visibility.

Taller Vehicles (Trucks, Vans, RV’s) that would limit site lines of lower vehicles will be parked towards the back of the parking lot to assure viewing for all

Event Rules: NO PERSONAL FIREWORKS

  • Maximum Parking Lot Speed 5 MPH
  • Vehicle must stay in assigned parking spot.
  • Unless needing to use restrooms or to visit concession stand, guests must stay within the passenger compartment of the vehicle.
  • Encouraged to wear facemask if visiting restroom or concession stand. Minimum 6’ Social Distancing to be observed at all times.
  • Guests may not place any object outside of a vehicle that may obstruct the view of other guests
  • Headlights, parking lights, and interior lights must remain off while parked
  • No excessive noise allowed that would impair the hearing of other guest
  • Drugs, Alcoholic Beverages, Smoking or vaping of any substance is prohibited
  • Personal food and drink is allowed
  • Guests must take all trash with them
  • No exit and return to event is allowed
  • Sale of goods or services by guests is prohibited
  • Cooking, grilling, or other food preparation is prohibited
  • Pets not permitted (services animals allowed – but must remain inside vehicle)
  • Should this event be canceled for any reason – there are no refunds.

Failure to follow Event Rules or staff instructions will be cause for removal from event or police action.

Admission ticket is good for a passenger vehicle with up to eight (8) people. Additional ticket(s) need to be purchased for vehicles with more than 8 people.

Attendees voluntarily assumes all risks and dangers of personal injury as a result of attending the event.

Concession Stand Opens 6:00pm – Beer Sales end 9:15pm – Concessions Close 9:45pm

Menu: Hot Dogs $4. Hamburgers $5. Cheeseburgers $6. Nachos $4. Large Popcorn $5. Candy $2. Red Ropes $3. Canned pop or DASANI water $3. Canned or draft beer $6. Large $8.

Flying Squirrels, Brown Distributing, CBS 6 looking to honor heroes on July 4

Submissions being accepted to recognize local military personnel and veterans during Independence Day celebration

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels, Brown Distributing and CBS 6 will recognize military personnel and veterans with Honoring Our Heroes presented by Brown Distributing on July 4 at The Diamond.

As part of Honoring our Heroes presented by Brown Distributing, five military personnel and veterans will receive a VIP experience at The Diamond and will be featured during CBS 6’s live broadcast of the July 4 fireworks celebration.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO NOMINATE

The winners will be announced on Wednesday, July 1 between 6:30 and 7 a.m. on “CBS 6 This Morning.”

“Brown Distributing is proud to be a part of this event and honoring our heroes,” Brown Distributing Company Co-President Dave Sorokowski said. “Our team of over 250 employees are proud supporters of the community we work in and look forward to bringing Richmond together on July 4.”

Selected honorees will also receive a swag pack of Flying Squirrels gear, CBS 6 merchandise, gift cards and more.

“Brown Distributing has been a great partner since the Squirrels arrival in Richmond,” Flying Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “Their desire to join this unique television event, honor military personnel and help the Richmond citizens through these times speaks volumes about their commitment to this community.

The live broadcast of the Fourth of July fireworks at The Diamond will air on CBS 6 on Saturday, July 4 from 9-10 p.m.

In an effort to practice safe social distancing and best ensure the health and of the Flying Squirrels family, the team’s front offices and team store are currently closed. Fans looking to reach out to the Flying Squirrels front office can find information here and are encouraged to interact on social media through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Additionally, COVID-19-related updates and resources from the Flying Squirrels can be found here.

Sale of Camo T-Shirts to benefit VA’s ‘Homeless Veterans Program’

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The Buffalo Bisons have partnered with the VA Western New York Heathcare System to help some of our brave servicemen and women who need it the most.

The team is selling all new Men’s and Women’s Camo T-Shirts with 100% of the net proceeds to be donated back to the VA’s “Homeless Veterans Program.”

VA’s specialized programs for homeless Veterans serve hundreds of thousands of homeless and at-risk Veterans each year. Independently and in collaboration with federal and community partners, VA programs provide Veterans with housing solutions, employment opportunities, health care, justice- and reentry-related services and more.

>>>CLICK HERE to order your Bisons’ Camo T-shirt

The Women’s Camo Tee comes in black and features the Bisons’ alternate ‘standing buffalo’ logo. Sizes from small to x-large are available for $28.00 each. CLICK HERE TO BUY

The Men’s Camo Tee was made in military green and sports the Bisons primary team logo. Sizes from medium to xx-large are available for $28.00 each. CLICK HERE TO BUY

For more information on the VA’s Homeless Veterans Program and its other vital services, please visit buffalo.va.gov..

RiverDogs, Boeing Introduce ‘Hall of Honor’ to memorialize military families in Lowcountry

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On the eve of Armed Forces Day and the first scheduled RiverDogs Military Appreciation Night at The Joe, the ballclub is announcing the creation of the Hall of Honor, in partnership with Boeing, and asking for the public to nominate outstanding military veterans with Lowcountry ties.

The new recognition, which will feature new inductions at each Boeing Military Appreciation Night – starting June 15 whether or not there will be a live game at The Joe –, is meant to create a way for military veterans in the Lowcountry to be permanently recognized.

The Hall of Honor is the newest of Boeing and the RiverDogs’ joint military appreciation platform, which aims to honor and celebrate military families in the Lowcountry through various recognition programs. The team planned to roll out this program live in person at its Boeing Military Appreciation Night on May 16; however, although the season has begun in a delay due to COVID-19, the team decided not to postpone honoring our area’s military families.

“We at the RiverDogs think we can’t do enough to recognize the sacrifices and achievements of our country’s military heroes,” said RiverDogs president and general manager Dave Echols. “Adding a Hall of Honor allows us to immortalize Lowcountry military heroes to help ensure their stories are not forgotten.”

At each Boeing Military Appreciation Night moving forward, a minimum of two inductees will be enshrined in the Hall of Honor. A community committee will choose one nominee from a pool of high-profile local military heroes. The other inductee will be selected from open-to-the-public nominations, which can be submitted at https://forms.gle/fQJ5kicLxo8jpUbL7.

Inductees will be recognized on the field on a Military Appreciation Night, and will have their story told on the RiverDogs’ brand new Hall of Honor web site: https://www.milb.com/charleston/community/boeing-hall-of-honor​​​​​​​

“Boeing’s commitment to veterans and their families goes beyond the products we make, it includes our investments that highlight the vital role veterans play in our community,” said Boeing’s Lindsay Leonard, Senior Director of National Strategy and Engagement and Government Operations. “We are proud to continue our partnership with the Charleston RiverDogs to showcase our military heroes and forever recognize their service and sacrifice through the Hall of Honor.”

The Latest on the RiverDogs

The health and safety of RiverDogs fans and employees is of the utmost importance to the organization and we support Minor League Baseball’s decision to delay the start of the 2020 season in an effort to reduce the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). This is a fluid, rapidly evolving situation and we are taking all necessary measures to ensure that our facilities are following the recommendations set forth by local, state and national officials. At this time, the RiverDogs remain unsure as to what extent this delay will have on our season. RiverDogs season tickets, partial season plans, and group tickets, including options to the Segra Club at Riley Park, are now available for the 2020 campaign at riverdogs.com/tickets. You can view the RiverDogs’ COVID-19 Readiness Plan at RiverDogs.com.

–RIVERDOGS–

Woodpeckers 2019 Community and Charitable Giving Report

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Since it’s inception in March of 2019, the Fayetteville Woodpeckers Fund has implemented the Fayetteville Woodpeckers’ desire to make a tangible impact on the Greater Fayetteville community through their official team charity. Investing over $71,000 in charitable giving, in-kind donations, and volunteer hours in their inaugural season, the Woodpeckers set out to establish a winning record not only in baseball games, but in their commitment to helping the community surrounding Segra Stadium.

The core program of this initiative, The Community Leaders Program, emphasizes a focus on youth sports and military causes. With the volunteerism and funds contributed by the Woodpeckers’ 2019 Community Leaders Corporate Partners (Segra, AEVEX, ASUS, Walsingham Group, Inc., and CarolinasDentist), we were able to accomplish the following projects below in 2019.

Youth Sports

  • Sponsored uniforms for 21 youth baseball and softball teams throughout Cumberland County, including the Buddy Baseball Program for special needs children.
  • Purchased and installed a new scoreboard for the Buddy Baseball Program at their home field in Massey Hill. The previous scoreboard was damaged during Hurricane Matthew.
  • Provided new Nike PG3 basketball shoes for both Men’s and Women’s varsity basketball teams at E.E. Smith High School.

Military

  • Funded 50 scholarships for military children to attend summer camp at Rick’s Place. Rick’s Place is a veteran owned 50-acre park just outside Fort Bragg that provides support for active duty and veteran soldiers and their families. In addition, the Woodpeckers provided all 250 campers with a t-shirt to wear during the duration of camp.
  • In conjunction with the USO of North Carolina and with the help of over 70 volunteers from our corporate partners, the Bird Bath Kits initiative was launched. Over 1,000 Bird Bath Kits, which included various personal care hygiene items, were packed at Segra Stadium and then delivered to elementary and middle schools on Fort Bragg as part of our back to school project.
  • Purchased a new irrigation system to benefit the community garden established for veterans therapy at Rick’s Place. This garden has a variety of flowers, vegetables, and herbs that veterans and their families are able to plant, tend, and harvest free of charge.

Other 2019 Charitable Initiatives: 
Paint the Park Purple, Alzheimer’s Awareness Night – On Saturday, July 27th, 2019, the Woodpeckers partnered with McKee Homes to host Alzheimer’s Awareness Night at Segra Stadium. The team wore custom purple jerseys that were auctioned off in-game, raising over $8,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association of Eastern North Carolina. The first 2,000 fans through the gates that night receieved custom purple Woodpeckers shirts to wear during the game, while awareness/educational videos played throughout the evening.
Fayetteville Woodpeckers Fund Jersey Auctions – The Woodpeckers held two other impactful jersey auctions that benefited the club’s charity in 2019. The first was a Patriotic jersey for our Independence Day Celebration game on July 3rd and the second was our end-of-season Inaugural home jersey set. These funds were used to help with the above Fayetteville Woodpeckers Fund initiatives.
Falcon Children’s Home Christmas Initiative – The Woodpeckers purchased 120 toys for children (infant to 19 years old) to open during the annual Falcon Children’s Home Christmas Party in December.
Childhood Cancer Awareness, Hailey Keller’s Home Run for Life & Jacob Moore’s Woodpecker for a Day – The Woodpeckers were honored to have Hailey and Jacob be a part of our Inaugural season. Hailey celebrated her five year anniversary of being cancer free by hitting a “home run” and running the bases during one of our inning breaks to a standing ovation. Jacob signed a one-day contract and enjoyed a full day of team training and fun as an honorary Woodpecker. Jacob has defied the odds and continues to fight while living with terminal neuroblastoma.

In addition to the above, the club fulfilled over 200 in-kind donations to organizations throughout Fayetteville and the surrounding communities. Our favorite red-cockaded woodpecker Bunker also made over 100 appearances throughout the region, putting a smile on the face of children and keeping our fans in good spirits!

 

2020 CT Military All-Star Nominations Now Open

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NORWICH, CT – The Norwich Sea Unicorns, Class-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers, and the Better Business Bureau Serving Connecticut are proud to announce that the nomination process for the 2020 CT Military All-Stars promotion is now open and will run through July 10th! The seventh annual promotion will honor nine current or former military personnel prior to Military Appreciation Night at Dodd Stadium on Friday, August 14th.

2020 will be the eighth consecutive season that the annual Military Appreciation Night will be presented by the Better Business Bureau Military Line which provides free services, consumer education and other resources for military families, to assist them during and after deployment. The nine honorees will be selected from the pool of nominations by a panel of community judges and will be honored on the field prior to the game. In addition, the first 1,000 fans through the gates on August 14th will receive a baseball card set featuring these heroes.

Nominations representing all branches of the military are welcome. The submission form can be found online by visiting goseaunicorns.com/military. Fans can also pick up a nomination form and submit their nomination in person at Dodd Stadium at the Dime Bank Information Booth during Tigers games or in the front office during regular business hours through July 10th.

In addition to the CT Military All-Stars ceremonies, the Sea Unicorns will be wearing specially designed and military themed jerseys during the game on August 14th. The jerseys will be auctioned off during the game. The proceeds will go towards a scholarship for a military family through the BBB Military Line.

The Norwich Sea Unicorns are the New York-Penn League affiliate of the Detroit Tigers at Dodd Stadium in Norwich, Connecticut. 2020 season memberships for “The Captains Club”, mini plans, and team merchandise are now on sale! The 2020 season at Dodd Stadium kicks off on Sunday, June 21st at 7:05 pm with fireworks after the game. The front office and box office are open daily from 9 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday and can be accessed in person or by calling 860-887-7962.

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

2020 Military Trading Card Nominations Open

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

San Jose Giants Open 2020 Military Trading          Card Set Nominations

Nominations for Operation: Care and Comfort’s Custom Card Set being taken through March 1

San Jose, CA– Today the San Jose Giants announced and opened nominations for the ninth annual Military Trading Card Set, presented by Operation: Care and Comfort. The trading card set will be comprised of fan nominations of current and former military personnel. Nominations will be accepted through Sunday, March 1. Fans can nominate their hero or heroes on sjgiants.com. A photo of the nominee, in military uniform, must accompany all submissions and be sent to [email protected].

Selected recipients will receive their very own trading cards along with the complete trading card sets-all complimentary thanks to Operation: Care and Comfort. The cards will feature the honoree’s name, photo and service seal on the front of the card and a personal bio on the back. Honorees will be recognized during the Ninth Annual Salute to the Military Night presented by Operation: Care and Comfort on Saturday, April 18. The first 1,000 fans in attendance on Salute to the Military Night also receive the commemorative trading card set.

Previous military trading card sets have included honorees from every branch of the military spanning multiple generations. Notable individuals from past sets include former San Francisco Giants Manager, Bruce Bochy’s father Gus Bochy, the “Say Hey Kid” Willie Mays, and the founder of the Lone Survivor Foundation Marcus Luttrell along with many other heroic men and women.

“We can think of no better way to kick off the 2020 season than with the annual Salute to the Military Night alongside our good friends from Operation: Care and Comfort,” said Matt Alongi, San Jose Giants Vice President of Marketing. “The opportunity to honor these heroes and share their respective stories and sacrifices made to preserve our freedom through the Trading Card set is truly a privilege.”

“Operation: Care and Comfort is proud to open nominations for the ninth edition of the Military Trading Card Set with the San Jose Giants,” said Julie DeMaria, Operation: Care and Comfort President and Co-Founder. “The Military Trading Card Set sheds a light on the stories of courageous servicewomen and servicemen and we are excited to continue this meaningful program as an extension of Operation: Care and Comfort’s mission to honor those who have served or are currently serving our country.”

The San Jose Giants Ninth Annual Salute to the Military Night is on Saturday, April 18 at Municipal Stadium. Selected Military Trading Card set nominees will be notified by the San Jose Giants on a later date. The San Jose Giants 2020 Opening Night is Friday, April 17 at Excite Ballpark against the Lake Elsinore Storm. Ticket packages are on sale now. For more information, visit sjgiants.com or call 408.297.1435.

SUBMIT NOMINATION

OPERATION: CARE AND COMFORT

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