Wounded Warriors return to Raley Field this weekend

The Sacramento River Cats are honored to welcome the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team (WWAST) to Raley Field this Saturday, May 6. The WWAST will take on the Sacramento All-Stars at 3:30 p.m. in Game One of a Raley Field doubleheader. The River Cats will then host the division rival Reno Aces at 7:05 p.m. for Salute to Armed Forces

This is the second time the WWAST will take the field here in West Sacramento after making their Raley Field debut in July of 2015. They’ll take on the Sacramento All-Stars, a team composed of local personalities and celebrities, including KCRA sports anchor Michelle Dapper and former NFL player Adrian Ross.

The WWAST is made up of brave men and women, both veterans and active duty soldiers, from four of the five service branches, who have sustained injuries resulting in amputation. Through extensive rehabilitation, they have become competitive athletes again, playing against able-bodied teams in competitive, celebrity, and exhibition games across the country.

In addition to functioning as an outlet for veterans and active duty soldiers to compete athletically, the WWAST uses these cross-country games to raise funds for the WWAST Kids Camp, medical research, and rehabilitation equipment. Now in its fifth year, the WWAST Kids Camp seeks to empower young boys and girls with amputations. The camps are led by WWAST players who work as coaches and mentors, helping teach not just softball skills, but more importantly life skills as well.

The WWAST game is proudly presented by Aerojet Rocketdyne, Wells Fargo, Shriner’s Hospital for Children, Securitas, Roebbelen, and Safe Credit Union. KCRA is also a presenting member of Saturday’s game.

Following the WWAST/Sacramento All-Stars game, the River Cats will host the Reno Aces in game one of a four-game set. First pitch for part two of the doubleheader is set for 7:05 p.m. with gates to open at 3:00 p.m.

Tickets for the doubleheader are available now and can be purchased by visiting rivercats.com/tickets or calling the River Cats ticket line at (916) 371-HITS (4487).

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The Sacramento River Cats are the Triple-A affiliate of the three-time World Champion San Francisco Giants. The team plays at Raley Field in West Sacramento, consistently voted one of the top ballparks in America. River Cats Season Tickets, Mini-Plans, and Flex Plans can be purchased for the 2017 season by calling the River Cats Ticket Hotline at (916) 371-HITS (4487). For more information about the River Cats, visit www.rivercats.com. For information on other events at Raley Field, visit www.raleyfield.com.

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

Help The Blue Wahoos and Whataburger Support USO Northwest Florida

PENSACOLA, Fla., – For Military Appreciation Month, the Pensacola Blue Wahoos and Whataburger are teaming up for a fourth year to collect donations for USO Northwest Florida. Donations will be collected during the Blue Wahoos’ home games during the month of May. The USO will deliver the items directly to the troops currently serving the United States.

Fans who donate during the drive will receive a coupon for a free Whataburger. Donations can be dropped off at the entry gates.

The Blue Wahoos, Whataburger and the USO are asking for specific items during each homestand. The dates and requested items are as follows:

May 8th-12th vs. Birmingham Barons
Individually wrapped snack items such as granola bars, trail mix, peanuts, crackers, chips, etc.

May 18th-22nd vs. Mobile BayBears
Single-serve microwavable snacks such as mac and cheese, ramen noodles, ravioli, etc.

May 30th-June 3rd vs. Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp
Center supplies such as copy paper, dish soap, batteries, paper towels, etc.

All Home Games – Bottled Water and Canned Soda

ABOUT WHATABURGER:
Whataburger has focused on its fresh, made-to-order burgers and friendly customer service since 1950 when Harmon Dobson opened the first Whataburger as a small roadside burger stand in Corpus Christi, Texas. Dobson gave his restaurant a name he hoped to hear customers say every time they took a bite of his made-to-order burgers: “What a burger!” Within the first week, people lined up around the block for his 25 cent, 100 percent beef burgers served on five-inch buns. Today, the company is headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, with more than 790 locations in 10 states with sales of more than $2 billion annually. Visit www.whataburger.com for more information.

Check out the company on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and follow them on their most recently launched channel, Snapchat, @WhataburgerLife.

ABOUT USO:
The USO strengthens America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family, home and country, throughout their service to the nation.

–www.bluewahoos.com–

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

TinCaps Seek Nominees for Military Salutes in 2017

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Fort Wayne TinCaps, along with OmniSource Corporation and Steel Dynamics Inc., will salute our military throughout the 2017 season and need your help.

All those who serve our country, or have served, deserve to be saluted. The TinCaps are looking for nominations of active or veteran military personnel to honor at games. If you have a friend or family member you’d like to see honored at Parkview Field, then let the team know.

Selected nominees will be rewarded with VIP treatment at Parkview Field. This includes tickets to the game for them and their family, and recognition on the field before that night’s fireworks show.

The TinCaps ask that you submit a short essay explaining why the community should know about your hero’s story. Submissions should be sent to TinCaps Vice President David Lorenz (lorenz@tincaps.com). You can also call David at 260-407-2815.

“Honoring the men and women that currently serve or have previously served our country is the least we can do,” TinCaps President Mike Nutter said. “We’re glad to have this special opportunity at Parkview Field to give these heroes the spotlight and thank them from all that they have done and continue to do.”

Through the generosity of the OmniSource Corporation and Steel Dynamics Inc., and caring individual donors, the TinCaps also invite all members of the military and their families to attend Military Appreciation Night on Tuesday, June 27 (7:05 p.m.) when the TinCaps host the South Bend Cubs. Complimentary tickets for that game can be requested at TinCapsMilitary.com.

The TinCaps will wear special patriotic jerseys on Military Appreciation Night presented by OmniSource and Steel Dynamics and on the Fourth of July. The jerseys will be auctioned off on the Fourth with all proceeds benefitting Honor Flight Northeast Indiana.

Tickets are available online at TinCapsTickets.com, by calling 260-482-6400, or visiting the Parkview Field Ticket Office.

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

Operation Support Our Troops Concert Moves to Northwestern Medicine Field

GENEVA, Ill. – Operation Support Our Troops – America has announced that Rockin’ for the Troops, the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year, will take place at Northwestern Medicine Field – home of the Kane County Cougars – on Saturday, July 22. Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.kccougars.com.

Visit www.RockinForTheTroops for additional information about the concert including FAQ’s, volunteer opportunities and more.

Both OSOT-America and the Cougars are excited to announce Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Lynyrd Skynyrd as the headlining band. Motown tribute band, The Voices, will also perform along with Ayla Brown and Empty Pockets. Brown will perform patriotic inspired songs and country music while Empty Pockets rounds out the lineup with rock and roll. Gates will open at 2 p.m. with stage entertainment beginning at 2:30 p.m. Following the concert, there will be a fireworks display, courtesy of Melrose Pyrotechnics. Attendees are encouraged to bring donation items for Christmas stockings that will be sent to troops serving overseas.

Fans can purchase various ticket package options including a Meet & Greet for $300 which comes with one premium box seat ticket, an exclusive preshow meet & greet with Lynyrd Skynyrd, specially designed Lynyrd Skynyrd tour shirt, collective tour lithograph and more. The Free Bird VIP package is also available for $150 and includes multiple perks such as one premium box seat ticket, exclusive Free Bird trucker hat as well as a Lynyrd Skynyrd koozie and bottle opener set.

“The Cougars organization is honored that Northwestern Medicine Field will be the site of this year’s Rockin’ for the Troops,” said Vice President and General Manager of the Kane County Cougars, Curtis Haug. “We are constantly striving to find ways to support both active duty military and veterans so we are thrilled to be hosting an event that not only benefits OSOT-America, but features such an iconic performer in Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Proceeds from each ticket will help support the programs of OSOT-America.

“This is an exciting year for OSOT-America with moving Rockin’ for the Troops to Northwestern Medicine Field in Geneva, along with a different main act,” said Jamie Nelson, Executive Director of OSOT-America. “We are hard at work to continue with the tradition of a day of support for our Military Community. Rockin’ for the Troops helps us to raise the necessary funds to continue our mission of providing comfort and care for deployed troops. These funds are critical to our mission to cover the cost of shipping our comfort and care packages, provide one-time grants to veterans under financial stress and help our families of the fallen. We appreciate the continued support of our local communities.”

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

About Operation Support Our Troops – America

The mission of OSOT America is to support the morale and well-being of American forces by providing comfort, resources and education to all involved both while deployed and the soldier’s return. As a volunteer-based non-profit organization, OSOT-America provides the opportunity for community members to express their appreciation and also offer support for our troops. Engaged in the longest war of our country’s history, and with our servicemen and women completing multiple tours of duty, OSOT-America is committed to showing them that “We Have NOT Forgotten.” Volunteer opportunities are available. Visit www.osotamerica.org for more information.

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

Fireflies Seek Candidates for Military Baseball Card Set

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The Columbia Fireflies are looking for active duty military members, reservists and military veterans to honor in their Inaugural Military Baseball Card Set, presented by AllSouth Federal Credit Union. The baseball card set will feature 30 cards and will be given to the first 1,000 fans in attendance on Memorial Day (Monday, May 29).

“Columbia is considered by many to be one of the most military-friendly cities in America,” said Fireflies team President John Katz. “We have three members of our full-time staff who served in the US Navy for a combined 48 years, and many members of our gameday staff are veterans. It’s an honor to share a home city with Fort Jackson, the US Army’s largest Basic Training installation. The Fireflies are grateful for the service and sacrifices made by brave men and women – and their families – in defense of our great nation.”

“We have served Fort Jackson since 1960 and consider it a privilege to be able to sponsor this first set of cards honoring those who serve and have served our country,” said Audrey Brown, vice president of marketing for AllSouth Federal Credit Union.

The Fireflies hope to make this an annual tradition in which several veterans and active / reserve members of the military from the Midlands can be saluted. The Fireflies are currently taking nominations for the card set here:

http://www.milb.com/content/page.jsp?ymd=20170418&content_id=225014992&fext=.jsp&sid=t3705&vkey

Tickets for the 2017 season are on sale now. Visit ColumbiaFireflies.com, the Spirit Communications Park ticket office or call (803) 726-4487 for more information.

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About the Columbia Fireflies

The Columbia Fireflies are the South Atlantic League affiliate of the New York Mets. Winners of Ballpark Digest’s Best New Branding and Logo Award in 2016, the Fireflies play games across the southeast and mid-Atlantic regions, including against in-state rivals in Charleston and Greenville. The team partnered with the city of Columbia and Hughes Development to construct Spirit Communications Park, a multi-use outdoor sports and entertainment venue at the center of the BullStreet development. The Columbia Fireflies are owned by Hardball Capital, owners of the Fort Wayne TinCaps of the Midwest League and the Chattanooga Lookouts of the Southern League. For more information, visit ColumbiaFireflies.com, or follow the Fireflies on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

About Spirit Communications Park

Spirit Communications Park, the 2016 Ballpark Digest Ballpark of the Year, is a 365-day per year multi-use sports and entertainment venue located in the heart of downtown Columbia, SC. Spirit Communications Park is the home ballpark for the Columbia Fireflies, the South Atlantic League affiliate of the New York Mets. Designed for baseball, concerts, football, soccer and a host of other activities, the venue seats approximately 9,000 for sporting events and up to 15,000 for major outdoor concerts. With 16 luxury suites and a 7,000 square-foot Club Level Lounge, Spirit Communications Park can also host everything from business meetings to wedding receptions, and everything in between. The venue is open 365 days a year and serves as a public park with the wrap-around concourse representing 1/3 of a mile for walkers and joggers. For more information, visit www.SpiritCommunicationsPark.com.

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

Rattlers and Thrivent Financial Team Up for Make-A-Difference Mondays

GRAND CHUTE, WI – The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers and Thrivent Financial are getting together to present Make-A-Difference Mondays at the ballpark this season. There will be four special Monday games over the remainder of the 2017 season to aid local non-profit organizations.

Fans who choose to donate to the non-profit will receive a discounted box seat ticket for $10 (normally $14) to these special Monday games. Additionally, $5 of the $10 for the ticket will be donated to the non-profit scheduled to be a partner for that game.

To purchase discounted tickets for Make-A-Difference Mondays in advance, visit TimberRattlers.com and use the promo code: thrivent. Fans will receive a discounted ticket on the day of the game by donating items to the non-profit organization at the time of purchase.

“Thrivent Financial is a financial services organization that helps Christians be wise with money and live generously. For more than a century we’ve helped our more than 2 million member-owners make wise money choices that reflect their values, and we provide opportunities for them to be even more generous where they live, work and worship,” said Jenny Rohan, Community Engagement Leader for Thrivent Financial. “Our partnership with the Timber Rattlers is an opportunity for our members and the community to see what living our mission looks like and will make an impact for churches and non-profit organizations in our community.”

The schedule for the four Make-A-Difference Mondays and the non-profit organizations and the most-needed items they need for donations on those days are:

May 15: Feeding America

  • Canned Fruits (preferably low sugar)
  • Peanut Butter
  • Canned Meats (such as tuna, chicken, etc.)
  • Cereal (hot & cold)
  • Grains (such as rice, pasta, etc.)
  • Soups (or other “heat & eat” meal-like items)

June 12: Building for Kids

  • Brightly Colored Paper Plates, Cups, and Napkins
  • 9″ Balloons
  • Small Bottles of White Glue
  • Glue Sticks
  • Gallons of Vinegar

June 26: Center for Veterans Issues, LLC

  • Pre-packaged snacks (granola bars, pudding, oatmeal, etc.)
  • Canned Goods
  • Personal Hygiene Items (toothbrush, toothpaste, travel size shampoo/conditioner, deodorant)

August 7: Homeless Connections

  • Size 5 diapers
  • Napkins
  • Coffee (ground or Kcups)
  • Alarm clocks
  • Dryer sheets
  • Cans of Fruit
  • Bike Locks
  • Bike Helmets: youth and adult
  • Nuks for babies

The Timber Rattlers are currently on the road. They will return home to begin a seven-game homestand on Thursday, April 20 with a game against the Peoria Chiefs.

Partial season and group ticket packages are currently available for the 2017 season. Tickets packages are available online, over the phone at (920) 733-4152 or (800) WI-TIMBER, and in person. Individual game tickets for this season are also on sale now.   Groups of 20 or more may order tickets over the phone or in person. The Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and from 10:00am to 3:00pm on Saturdays.

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

Potomac Nationals Announce Military Appreciation Night Plans, Commemorative On-Field, Autographed Military Appreciation Jersey Auction, & Ticket Discounts for Active & Retired Military Personnel

Woodbridge, VA— The Potomac Nationals are proud to honor all active and retired United States military members in the Northern Virginia community throughout the 40th season of Potomac Baseball at Pfitzner Stadium.

The P-Nats are honored to announce that the Nationals’ annual Military Appreciation Night will get underway on Saturday June 3rd with a special pre-game ceremony while commemorative military appreciation on-field jerseys will be worn by Potomac Nationals players and coaches throughout the 2017 season courtesy of Reality Realty, and military ticket discounts will be available to active and retired military members for every home game at Pfitzner Stadium this season.

Military Appreciation Night with the P-Nats
Military Appreciation Night with the P-Nats is sponsored by Reality Realty, First Command Financial Services, and Little Caesars. The first 1,000 fans in attendance will receive a military-themed camo t-shirt giveaway sponsored by Little Caesars, the Official Pizza Partner of the Potomac Nationals. During Military Appreciation Night, there will be apparatus from various military installations located outside the gates of Pfitzner Stadium for fans to explore. There will be a pre-game ceremony held on the field to honor military personnel in addition to an honorary color guard and sprawling American Flag presentation, and a special rendition of the National Anthem to show our appreciation for the service men and women in the P-Nats’ community. Commemorative on-field military appreciation jerseys, sponsored by Reality Realty will be worn during the game, as well. The P-Nats encourage all active and retired military members to attend. Free tickets are available to all branches of the military for this event on Saturday, June 3rd. For more information about complimentary tickets, please contact P-Nats Group Sales Executive, Alec Manriquez by e-mail at amanriquez@potomacnationals.com or by phone at 703-590-2311 ext. 221.

P-Nats’ On-Field, Autographed Commemorative Military Appreciation Jersey Auction
Potomac Nationals players and coaches will wear commemorative military appreciation jerseys throughout the 2017 season. These themed jerseys are sponsored by Reality Realty and will be worn on every Sunday home game in 2017 with the exception of games on 5/14 and 6/11. All game-used Military Appreciation Jerseys will be autographed by the P-Nats player or coach who wore the jersey all season and the game jerseys will be auctioned off on the field during the August 27thhome game at Pftizner Stadium. All proceeds from the auction will be donated to Reality Realty’s non-profit organizations of choice, the Heroes Alliance Network and The American Veterans Ball. The jerseys will also be worn on Military Appreciation Night on Saturday, June 3rd. The camouflage jerseys will feature a logo that combines the logos of the Heroes Alliance Network and The American Veterans Ball.

Military Member Ticket Discounts at The Pfitz
All active and retired members of any branch of the military will receive a $2 discount off any seat at The Pfitz at ANY Potomac Nationals home game during the 2017 with a valid Military ID. Free general admission tickets are also available for any active member of the military who attends ANY P-Nats home game. Discounted single game tickets are available at every home game at Pftizner Stadium and will be issued to any patron with valid military identification. For inquiries on discounted season tickets for active or retired military members, please contact P-Nats Director of Ticket Operations, Chris Bentivegna by email at cbentivegna@potomacnationals.com or by phone at 703-590-2311 ext. 225. Or contact Joe Emery by e-mail at tickets@potomacnationals.com or by phone at 703-690-2311 ext. 229.

About Reality Realty Professionals
Reality Realty Agents strive to weave the standard real-estate knowledge expected by our clients’ into their wants/needs, lives, goals, and over all well being. The application of this principle ensures the full integration of client’s into the process, balanced, and sustainable while remaining rooted in our clients’ life goals. Real Estate Artisans™! Visit their website: www.realityrealtypros.com

About First Command Financial Services
First Command’s mission, coaching those who serve in their pursuit of financial security, hasn’t really changed since the inception of the company that would become First Command back in 1958. The focus continues to be on building trusting Client-Advisor relationships by meeting face-to-face with service members, federal employees, and their families to learn what’s important to them, helping them establish meaningful and specific goals that reflect their values, and then constructing comprehensive financial plans for protecting their loved ones and pursuing their goals.

About Little Caesars
Little Caesars is the Official Pizza Partner of the Potomac Nationals. With locations in Woodbridge, Dale City, and Manassas, Little Caesars offers five-dollar Hot-n-Ready pizzas, a deep, deep dish pizza, Italian Cheese Bread, Crazy Bread and a five-dollar lunch combo. Little Caesars uses freshly-shredded cheese, farm-fresh tomato sauce, and made-from-scratch dough. P-Nats fans can redeem a free order of Crazy Bread with a P-Nats ticket stub at any location in Prince William County. Visit them online: www.littlecaesars.com

About Heroes Alliance
The Heroes Alliance was founded in Tampa in 2005, and has expanded throughout the United States. Our non-profit team of costumed volunteers are ready to make appearances at community and children-oriented charity events-from helping local law enforcement with community functions to visiting sick children in the hospital to help brighten their spirits. Whatever it may be, the Heroes Alliance is here to help with a unique role among charity groups in bringing a “real life” superhero experience to children and families. Visit their website: www.heroesalliance.org

About The American Veterans Ball
The Salute to The American Veterans Ball was created to provide “all” Veterans of “all” the Armed Forces to participate in an annual service ball similar to our active components. The most common denominator that we’d discovered was that once veterans transitioned out of their respective service components there were often times an immediate disconnection with such a traditional and customary event of shared comradeship. Despite this disconnection they still live out the values and way of life instilled in them as patriotic veterans. An evening to reignite, connect with, and to celebrate our patriotism with our fellow brothers and sisters through this unique event for years to come. Please join us in celebration in Saluting our past, present, and future Veterans. Visit their website: www.americanveteransball.org

The Potomac Nationals of the Carolina League play at Pfitzner Stadium in Woodbridge, Virginia, and are the Carolina League affiliate of the Washington Nationals. The Potomac Nationals have claimed five Carolina League Championship titles (1982, 1989, 2008, 2010, and 2014) and nine CL Northern Division Championships. Sponsorship opportunities for the 2017 season and beyond are available, as well as corporate outings for the 2017 season to watch the future stars of the Washington Nationals at The Pfitz. For more information on Potomac Nationals 2017 single game tickets, season tickets, mini plans, group outings, and picnic packages, visit the P-Nats online at www.potomacnationals.com or call the Potomac Nationals Ticket office at 703-590-2311.

— Potomac Nationals –

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

San Jose Giants Unveil 2017 Military Trading Cards Presented by Operation: Care and Comfort

San Jose, CA– The San Jose Giants unveiled at FanFest, the 2017 Military Trading Card Set, presented by Operation: Care and Comfort. This incredible 40 card set is complete with honorees from each military branch. Furthermore, the pack includes current personnel and veterans who have served in World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, the War in Afghanistan and Iraq. The set is filled with men and women from our town and from across the globe who have honorably defended the principles on which the United States is founded upon. Below is the complete list of these distinguished individuals.

Jason Bendett, Gus Bochy, Thomas E. Boyd, Sr., Leonard “Del” Byler, Monica Calderon, William J. Cline, Timothy Dameron, James Garland Dommert, Monica Flores, Robert James Gettemy, Dennis Dale Greer, Phillip D. Hatfield, Marcuss Hernandez, Tianna C. Herrera, Christopher K. Hill, Daniel “Doc” Jacobs, Brian Jergens, Cynthia B. Kepple, Nicholas Kimmel, Jim Mackie, Benjamin McIntosh, Francis Edmund Motch, Sam Nichols, Robert Nishnic, Pasquale Oliverio, Joseph A. Pereira, James Phillips, Louis Redondo, Angelica Reyes, Douglas P. Rodrigues, Frank P. Rodrigues, Gerald Ryan, Anthony J. Smith, Patrick Smith, Katherine “Kit” Tatro, David B. Tripiano, Richard Williams, Dave Wilson and George Youabb.

“Our team is humbled and grateful to have the opportunity to honor these men and women in an Operation: Care and Comfort Military Trading Card Set,” said Juliana Paoli, San Jose Giants VP of Communications and Chief Marketing Officer. “Thank you to everyone who generously shared their story with us. This set is truly a representation of our gratitude towards the honorees along with all military personnel across the world who so selflessly serve and protect our country.”

On April 15, as a part of Salute to the Military Night, the first 1,000 fans will be the fortunate recipients of this remarkable trading card set. The special day, which is dedicated to honoring our military, will feature a variety of festivities including a first pitch ceremony, color guard presentation and on-field recognition of the honorees chosen to be a part of the card pack. All-new camouflage themed jerseys will be worn and an exciting Operation Care and Comfort Military Jersey Auction will take place. Many of the selected individuals and their families will also be in attendance, adding to the special nature of the evening. All other servicemen and servicewomen are encouraged to come out to the ballpark as the night is a salute to all who serve our country.

“It is a privilege for Operation: Care and Comfort to be a part of this promotion, honoring the men and women who have and continue to fight for our freedoms,” said Julie DeMaria, Operation: Care and Comfort President and Co-Founder. “The individuals who make up this set span generations and epitomize what it means to be a hero.”

First pitch for the Salute to the Military Night will take place at 5:00 PM and gates will open at 3:30 PM. The game will be the conclusion of a competitive, early-season, Northern Division matchup against the Stockton Ports. Our Giants 2017 season gets underway on Thursday, April 6 with our home-opener Thursday, April 13. For information on the 2017 season and ticket packages please visit sjgiants.com, call 408.297.1435 or visit the Municipal Stadium Box Office Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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

Baysox Seek Military Hero Nominations

BOWIE, Md. – The Bowie Baysox are seeking Military Hero Nominations to be used in the Military Heroes Card Set being given away during the game Friday, July 21. Fans living in the area who know active or retired members of the Armed Forced are encouraged to fill out the nomination form on www.baysox.com.

During Military Heroes Appreciation Night Friday, July 21, the Baysox will distribute a 20-30 card set to the first 1,000 fans ages 18 and older featuring active and retired members of the Armed Forces received through the nomination process. The cards will feature photographs and information about their military careers. The Baysox will honor these veterans and/or their families in special ceremonies before and during the game. Baysox fans living in the Maryland and Washington, D.C. region who have family or friends in the military can help the Baysox honor their service by nominating them for this special card set.

“We are very excited to bring this promotion back for a fourth season,” said Baysox Assistant General Manager Phil Wrye. “With our stadium’s proximity to so many military bases, there are numerous men and women who deserve special recognition for their service to our country. This card set giveaway is another great way to honor local Military Heroes.”

In order for a nomination to be considered, all information in the online form must be completely filled out. The Bowie Baysox will make every attempt to select an even number of nominations from each branch of the service, while also attempting to include Military Heroes that have served in different decades. These are subject to the information received during the nomination process.

Nominations will only be accepted through the online form on www.baysox.com and all nominations must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. Friday, Apr. 21. Following that deadline, the Baysox staff will randomly select 20-30 nominations to be included in the Military Heroes Card Set.

Military Heroes (or their families/relatives) that are included in the Baseball Card Set will be invited to attend the Bowie Baysox game on July 21 at 7:05 p.m. to take part in ceremonies before and during the game. Each selected nominee will receive four Box Seat Tickets to the game and will also receive additional instructions prior to the game date.

Questions about the nomination process can be directed via email to info@baysox.com. The nomination form can be found online at: http://www.milb.com/content/page.jsp?ymd=20170328&content_id=72248234&fext=.jsp&sid=t418&vkey=.

The 2017 Bowie Baysox season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. The Baysox 2017 home opener will be Thursday, April 13 against the Harrisburg Senators at 6:35 p.m. Don’t miss out as the team prepares to celebrate its 25th Season. Baysox season tickets plans are available at www.baysoxshop.com.

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

PawSox Foundation to Present “A Veterans Home Run: 5k Walk ‘N Run” on May 20

The Pawtucket Red Sox and the PawSox/Skeffington Charitable Foundation today announced exciting changes to their annual 5K Walk ‘N Run, which this year will take place on Saturday, May 20th at 9:30 am with the route both starting and finishing at McCoy Stadium. An earlier time of year (the race was held Labor Day weekend the past five years), a revamped course which will now take runners by downtown Pawtucket, and an enhanced partnership with area veterans are among the new highlights for this popular event.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

The revitalized PawSox Foundation, now in its 18th year, has worked closely with both Operation Stand Down RI and 21 Heroes among other veterans organizations. Proceeds from the race will benefit the Foundation’s veterans initiatives. Operation Stand Down serves the Ocean State’s 67,800 veterans and their families while 21 Heroes was established to honor the 21 soldiers from Pawtucket who lost their lives in the Vietnam War. A 21 Heroes memorial dedication will take place the day after the 5K on Sunday, May 21 at Slater Park capping off an historic weekend for veterans causes in Pawtucket.

“We are so pleased to work with the wonderful people from Operation Stand Down and with Terry Nau of 21 Heroes to honor and give something back to the many amazing Rhode Island veterans and their families,” said PawSox Senior Vice President/Club Counsel Kim Miner, who also runs the PawSox Foundation. “In our ongoing effort to build on the PawSox legacy of celebrating our veterans, we were especially pleased to introduce a nightly ‘In Debt to a Vet’ salute during each game at McCoy Stadium last year and that tradition will continue this season.”

One of the premier road races in the area, the PawSox Foundation 5K will start from the McCoy Stadium parking lot, weave through the streets of downtown Pawtucket, and eventually finish at home plate on the McCoy playing field. This new and improved route will help showcase the beautiful riverfront and other reinvigorated areas of the Pawtucket downtown.

“Our veterans and those currently serving in the armed services give so much to us to ensure that our freedom and the American Dream endure,” said Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien. “Partnering to promote causes to support our veterans is the least that we can do. Thank you to the PawSox Foundation for working with our local organizations and investing in our community. And thank you to Operation Stand Down and Heroes 21 for ensuring that our veterans are never left behind.”

The race is sponsored by National Grid, Planet Fitness, W.B. Mason, and Coast 93.3. The first 500 participants who register on pawsox.com will receive a free race t-shirt. Pre-registration is $25 per person, and teams of 10 or more will be just $20 per person. On the day of the race, registration will open at 7:30 am and the cost will be $30.

Cash prizes will be awarded to the winners. Festivities will continue after the race with food and entertainment in the PawSox Party Tent area at McCoy. All participants will also receive tickets to the PawSox game on May 23 vs. Louisville at 6:05 pm, and will be invited to take part in a pre-game on-field parade and award ceremony that evening.

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

Cougars Support Local Military Organizations Through Grant Donation

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced they were selected as a grant recipient from Highland Capital Management, located in Dallas, Tex. The grant, designated to the Cougars through the “Highland Salutes” program, will be donated to support two local charities, Operation Support Our Troops and SALUTE Inc., which are focused on supporting both active duty military and veterans.

Operation Support Our Troops, based out of Naperville, Ill., provides comfort and care at home and away for active duty military, veterans and their families. They accomplish this through care packages that contain items not readily available during deployment as well as personal letters and notes of encouragement from the surrounding community.

Founded in 2003 by a military family from Arlington Heights, Ill., SALUTE, Inc. was born from their desire to give back to other military families faced with the many hardships experienced during a deployment. Through their efforts, SALUTE, Inc. provides financial, physical and emotional support for military members, veterans and their families.

“We are humbled that Highland Capital Management has chosen the Kane County Cougars Foundation as the recipient of this grant through the ‘Highland Salutes’ program,” said owner, Dr. Bob Froehlich. “The entire Cougars organization is dedicated to giving back and supporting the men and women of our military who have sacrificed so much. Through this grant, we are able to continue those efforts to support local organizations that carry out that same mission.”

“Highland is delighted to support the Kane County Cougars Foundation and the local initiatives that serve our veterans and their families,” said Brad Ross, President of Highland Capital Management Fund Advisors.

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About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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

PMSG, RiverDogs Team Up for Red Shirt Fridays to Raise Funds for Local Military Community

CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Charleston RiverDogs have partnered with the Palmetto Military Support Group (PMSG) on Red Shirt Fridays at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, donating a portion of each of the nights’ proceeds to the local military support group focused on aiding Charleston area military members and their families.

“We have always admired the RiverDogs’ commitment to our military community,” said Peter Wertimer, president of the PMSG. “Our mission is to help make Charleston become the single most supportive community of its military in the country. All that the ball club provides will go right back to our war fighters and their families in the form of worthy investments in their various activities.”

For all 11 Fridays at The Joe this year, the RiverDogs will once again wear specialty red uniforms in honor of the military. Fans are encouraged to wear red as well, and save a dollar off their ticket purchase at the gate with the option to donate that dollar to the PMSG.

“The Palmetto Military Support Group is doing great things for military families in the Lowcountry, and we are excited to further team up with this worthy organization,” said RiverDogs President and General Manager Dave Echols, the current VP on the board of the PMSG. “The RiverDogs have been a proud partner of the PMSG since their inception, and they are a natural fit to be a part of our military appreciation efforts each Friday this year.”

The recipient of Minor League Baseball’s inaugural Patriot Award last season, the RiverDogs continued to strengthen their ties to the Lowcountry’s strong military family. The club hosted three Military Appreciation nights during the season where all active and retired service members enjoyed complementary tickets, and honored a military family of the game at each home contest. Service men and women were also frequent performers of the National Anthem at The Joe, and the club hired five homeless military vets to their ballpark cleanup crew.

The Palmetto Military Support Group is a membership organization comprised of Lowcountry citizens and companies that support the goal of the Charleston region becoming known as the most supportive of our military community in the country. The PMSG organizes command visits and social get-togethers with military personnel for its membership and conducts a number of fundraisers (with an emphasis on FUN) throughout the year.

RiverDogs season tickets, half-season ticket packages, mini plans, and group tickets are now available for the 2017 campaign, including options for the all-new Riley Park Club. The RiverDogs, the Class-A affiliate of the 27-time world champion New York Yankees, begin their season on April 6 when they host the Lexington Legends at The Joe. Single-game tickets are now available online and will be solid in person at the box office and by phone starting on March 15 at 9am. Ticket information can be secured by contacting the box office at (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or online at www.riverdogs.com.

–RIVERDOGS–

WALMART, NATURALS JOIN FORCES ON MILITARY APPRECIATION SUNDAYS

SPRINGDALE, Ark. – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are extremely proud to join forces with Walmart on our Military Appreciation Sundays. Military Appreciation Sundays presented by Walmart were created to honor the men and women that serve or have served in the United States Military by giving them special recognition in advance of every Sunday home game.

Military Appreciation Sundays presented by Walmart will take place at all 11 Sunday home games this year. The nominated men and women that are selected for the program will be recognized and honored with an on-field or videoboard recognition during a special pre-game ceremony, four (4) complimentary Super Premium tickets, and a special certificate of recognition.

Whether it’s to honor a friend, relative, or to reunite a recently returned home veteran with their family, we ask that interested fans visit our website www.nwanaturals.com and fill out one (1) of the forms located under the Community tab titled Walmart Military Appreciation Nomination Form or the Printable Walmart Military Appreciation Form. If you’ve selected the printable form we’d ask that you fill it out and email or fax it to the Naturals at the contact information listed on the nomination form. You may also drop it off at our Administrative Office located at Arvest Ballpark between 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday.

On Memorial Day 2013, Walmart introduced the Veterans Welcome Home Commitment which guaranteed a job offer to any eligible, honorably discharged U.S. veteran who was within 12 months of active duty. The initial goal was to hire 100,000 veterans by the end of 2018. In May 2015, Walmart announced the expansion of this projection with a new goal of hiring 250,000 veterans by the end of 2020. The company also changed the eligibility from within 12 months of active duty to any veteran honorably discharged since we announced the original commitment. Since Memorial Day 2013, Walmart has offered jobs to more than 150,000 veterans through the Veteran Welcome Home Commitment and more than 19,000 have been promoted to roles of higher pay and greater responsibility. To explore career options with the company visit walmartcareerswithamission.com.

In addition to Military Appreciation Sundays, the Naturals will continue to offer a Military discount at every home game. A Military ID, when shown at the Arvest Ballpark Box Office, is valid for a $1 discount off the regular ticket price to home games.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals will host the San Antonio Missions, the Double-A Affiliate of the San Diego Padres, on Thursday, April 6 at 6:25 p.m. for Opening Day of Season 10 of Naturals Baseball at Arvest Ballpark.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The Naturals play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark in Springdale, Ark. For more information, including statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

-Naturals-

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

Helping Hands: 2016 Power Donation Review

The annual Trick-or-Treat at Appalachian Power Park saw record attendance in 2016 with over 3,000 in attendance for the free event.

CHARLESTON, WV (February 16, 2017) – The West Virginia Power strive to build stronger relationships within the Kanawha Valley and surrounding communities. During the 2016 calendar year, the Power made donations totaling $93,800 through monetary, stadium events at Appalachian Power Park and in-kind contributions.

 

“We believe it is important to support the people in the community who support us,” said Ken Fogel, the Executive Vice President of the West Virginia Power. “We have the unique opportunity to work with a captive audience at the ballpark during the season and also help organizations raise funds through their own events.”

 

The most sizable donation was made to the American Red Cross in September. In response to the June floods, the Power worked with fans, vendors, sponsorship partners and the Pittsburgh Pirates to raise $51,115 for relief efforts. The club also made financial donations to a variety of charitable efforts like Thomas Health System’s Keys for Healthy Kids. Walks, charity functions and similar events are held at Appalachian Power Park each year, including the Polar Plunge, benefiting Special Olympics West Virginia, the Alzheimer’s Walk and Autism Awareness Day. The

Power once again hosted the BridgeValley Community and Technical College Pumpkin Drop, where 1,200 students from 38 schools converge through a fun engineering project. The club also hosts an annual trick-or-treat event each Halloween with the 2016 version being the most successful to date.

 

The West Virginia Power also fulfill a multitude of requests for donations throughout the each year. The club has donated items for auctions and raffles to organizations like Charleston Montessori School, Read Aloud WV, FestivALL, and the March of Dimes. The Power donated hundreds of game tickets in 2016, including 285 free tickets to veterans of the United States Armed Forces. Autographed items or merchandise are also popular donation requests and are used in raffles or auctions to raise money for a variety of charities.

 

Charitable organizations interested in receiving items for auctions or raffles must fill out a donation request form, available online by clicking here or submit their written request to the Power front office. For more information, call 304-344-BATS.

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

Bandits donate $5,000 to American Legion

River Bandits owner Dave Heller (left) presents check to American Legion Post 26

DAVENPORT, Iowa – Furthering the traditions of giving back to the local community and honoring the United States military, the Quad Cities River Bandits and Main Street Baseball have donated $5,000 to the Davenport American Legion. River Bandits owner Dave Heller presented a check for the full amount to Post 26 Monday evening during the post’s member meeting. The donation will be used by the Legion for building repairs and roof improvements.

The grant continues the River Bandits dedication to honoring and helping those who have served our country. The Bandits currently provide ticket discounts – sometimes as low as $1 a ticket – to current and former military members, honor military and civilian personnel by giving them four free tickets to sit in the Lane Evans Patriot Seats during each home game, host the patriotic Red, White and Boom celebration every July 3 and work with military programs, such as Honor Flight of the Quad Cities, to raise money for the organizations that serve, protect and honor our service men and women.

“We at the River Bandits appreciate more than words can express the selfless dedication of all of the men and women who have proudly worn our nation’s uniform,” said Heller. “We are delighted to make this grant to fund the necessary building and roof repairs that our local Legion Post required, and even more excited to welcome Quad Cities’ veterans, guardsmen, reservists and active duty military to the ballpark all season long. Our great country was built on the strength of our veterans, and we are so grateful for their sacrifices to ensure our freedom.”

Post 26 is one of the largest American Legion branches in the state of Iowa and has been chartered since 1920. The American Legion is a national, community-service organization that has served as a patriotic, mutual-help, war-time veterans organization chartered by congress nearly a century ago.

“American Legion Post 26 wants to thank Mr. Dave Heller for his generous donation to Post 26,” said Commander Mike Matson. “His kindness will go a long way in helping the American Legion in Davenport help serve our local Veterans.”

In 2016, the River Bandits gave over $320,000 in charitable contributions to the Quad Cities community and seek to improve upon that number in 2017. The River Bandits season begins on Thursday, April 6, at 6:35 p.m. against the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers at Modern Woodmen Park. Group packages are available now by calling (563) 324-3000 or visiting riverbandits.com.

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