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Fireflies Searching for Military Heroes to Recognize In-Game

June 13, 2022

Nominate an Active Duty, Reserves or Veteran to be honored July 7

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies are looking for eight local military heroes to honor in-game as the Heroes of the Inning for Military Appreciation Night July 7 at Segra Park at 7:05 pm. Any current or former member of any branch of the military can qualify to be honored.

Fans can submit their nominations online here. Those selected as “Heroes of the Inning” will be contacted directly by a Fireflies representative. Honorees chosen will be given two reserved tickets to the July 7 game vs the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Submissions are due by Monday, June 27.

The Fireflies are home until June 19 playing the Carolina Mudcats (Class-A Affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The homestand includes a Budweiser Thirsty Thursday and the return of Negro League Weekend. We’ll have appearances from former Negro Leaguer Russell “Crazy Legs” Patterson and Josh Gibson’s Great-Grandson along with a fireworks show and a t-shirt giveaway to help celebrate those who played in the Negro Leagues. Individual game ticket prices range from $5 to $12 and premium seating options are available starting at $14 per person. All tickets will be sold on a first come first serve basis and are based upon availability.

Tagged as : Carolina League, Columbia Fireflies, Kansas City Royals, Military & Veterans, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events, South Carolina, Ticket Donations { }

Dragons to Recognize “Hometown Heroes” Honorees During Game on June 12

June 10, 2022

Dayton, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons will recognize Army recruits of the Miami Valley as “Hometown Heroes” during a special inning break of the Dragons game on Sunday, June 12 against the Great Lakes Loons at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. The game will start at 1:05 p.m.

The Dayton Dragons shine the spotlight on the military, past and present, through the Hometown Heroes program. This program hosts military families at every Dragons game, recognizing outstanding military organizations, groups, and individuals.

Everyone who joins the military has one thing in common: they have sworn in by repeating either the military Oath of Enlistment or Oath of Office. During the game on Sunday, future soldiers of the United States Army will be taking a solemn oath of enlistment, marking the beginning of selfless service to their nation.

The Dayton Dragons Hometown Heroes program is made possible by the generous support of the Dayton Development Coalition, Reynolds & Reynolds, and the Dayton Dragons. For more information, please visit daytondragons.com/hometownheroes.

Tagged as : Cincinnati Reds, Dayton Dragons, Honoring History, Midwest League, Military & Veterans, Ohio, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events { }

BlueClaws Partner With Wreaths Across America In New One-of-a-Kind Program

June 9, 2022

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws have partnered with Wreaths Across America on a one-of-a-kind program through which fans can both reserve a ticket to BlueClaws Military Appreciation Night on July 7th and sponsor a wreath to be laid at a soldier’s grave this December.

Military Appreciation Night at ShoreTown Ballpark is set for Thursday, July 7th at 7:05 pm, and is presented by OceanFirst Bank.

There are several options for fans to participate in this one-of-a-kind program.

· Sponsor a wreath and donate a ticket for a veteran to enjoy Military Appreciation Night for $15

· Sponsor a wreath, donate a ticket for a veteran to enjoy Military Appreciation Night, and receive a ticket to the game for yourself for $25.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE.

All tickets for veterans will be distributed directly through accredited channels.

“Wreaths Across America and the BlueClaws have been talking about this program for the better part of three years, and are thrilled to launch the program heading into Military Appreciation Night,” said Mel Russen, Board Member and Local Location Leader for Wreaths Across America.

“The wreaths that are sponsored through this program will be placed on gravesites of local veterans around the Jersey Shore. Additional wreaths will go to Arlington National Cemetery for the nationwide Wreaths Across America Day on December 17, 2022.”

Military Appreciation Night will include special ceremonies before and after the game. Fans are encouraged to get to their seats early.

“We’ve been very excited to launch this program with Mel and Wreaths Across America,” said Bob McLane, BlueClaws Senior VP of Ticket Sales & Service. “We are working with a truly special organization and this program will serve to both bring veterans out to the ballpark but also to provide wreaths for local veterans’ graves.”

In 2021, Wreaths Across America laid over 2.3 million wreaths at over 3,100 locations around the country, including in all 50 states.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have drawn nearly 8 million fans to ShoreTown Ballpark since their 2001 inception.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

Tagged as : Jersey Shore BlueClaws, Military & Veterans, New Jersey, Philadelphia Phillies, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events, South Atlantic League, Wreaths Across America { }

CareSource, Dragons Team Up to Honor Local Veteran

June 3, 2022

DAYTON, Ohio –CareSource and the Dayton Dragons will host United States Marine veteran Robert De Roziere during the CareSource Veteran Salute Program on Sunday, June 5, 2022, at 1: 05PM when the Dayton Dragons take on the South Bend Cubs at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. Sunday will be the second of five special CareSource Veteran Salute dates of the 2022 season.

The CareSource Veteran Salute Program provides veterans in the Dayton region with a once-in-a-lifetime experience to celebrate their service to their country. Each honoree has their story shared in front of the crowd at Day Air Ballpark, followed by a standing ovation in appreciation of the veteran’s hard work and dedication both in military and civilian accomplishments.

Robert De Roziere’s Story

Robert De Roziere, born and raised in Kettering, graduated from Miami University with a degree in Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs in December of 1987. He always wanted to serve his country. He was commissioned as an officer (2nd Lieutenant) in the Marine Corps in 1987. Robert served 31 years in the military; 11 years active duty and 20 years in the reserves.

Robert began his career with the Marines in 1988 at Camp Pendleton in California. He served as Company Radio Officer/Operations Officer and deployed with the 5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade during Operation Desert Shield/Storm. Robert was quickly promoted to First Lieutenant. After his deployment, his second tour of duty lead him and his family to Philadelphia where he assisted in recruiting. He was then promoted to Captain in 1992.

In 1994, Robert’s third tour of duty brought him to Quantico where he was assigned to Marine Corps Systems Command and earned his master’s degree in Telecommunications in 1998. He left active duty and transferred to the Marine Corps Reserve in Cincinnati. In 2003, Robert was deployed and served in Operation Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom.

Robert was awarded the Legion of Merit which is presented by the President of the United States and many other services and campaign medals. He exemplifies a veteran who loves his community by sharing his service journey and appreciating the three decades of leadership, structure, and growth he gained. Robert has four sons, 13 grandchildren, and resides in Middletown with his wife. He enjoys spending time with his family, attending sporting events, and staying busy at his home.

To nominate a veteran in your life for the Veteran Salute Program, please visit daytondragons.com/veteransalute today.

CareSource’s Veteran Salute program highlights five veterans’ stories during the course of each season. Veterans who are chosen are honored at a Dragons game with an in-game ceremony and provided with VIP treatment during their special night. The program is an extension of CareSource’s continued commitment to serving special populations and its new efforts to support veterans through innovative health and life services programs. For more information about the Veteran Salute program, visit www.daytondragons.com/veteransalute.

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Tagged as : Cincinnati Reds, Dayton Dragons, Honoring History, Midwest League, Military & Veterans, Ohio, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events { }

Giving HOPE: Gades participating in HOPE Week 6/7-12

June 1, 2022

WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. (June 1, 2022) – The Hudson Valley Renegades, the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, announced today their participation in HOPE Week. Renegades players and staff will participate in community service events throughout the Hudson Valley from Tuesday, June 7 through Sunday, June 12.

The Renegades participation in HOPE Week is in partnership with Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth), the Official Hospital Partner of the Hudson Valley Renegades.

The Yankees’ wildly popular and successful HOPE Week initiative (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) was introduced in 2009, and is rooted in the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope and encouragement to more than just the recipient of the gesture.

“Being able to participate in HOPE Week is one of the most special parts of being affiliated with the New York Yankees,” said Steve Gliner, President and General Manager of the Renegades. “Being able to touch people’s lives and make a difference through our and the Yankees’ commitment to community engagement is what we are all about as an organization.”

The Renegades 2022 HOPE Week program is as follows:

Tuesday, June 7th – Maria Fareri Children’s Health Services at MidHudson Regional Hospital

  • As part of the Westchester Medical Health Network, the Maria Fareri Children’s Health Services at MidHudson Regional Hospital provides emergency care for children from serious injuries to burns, scrapes, and bruises. Services include a child-friendly Pediatric Emergency Department, select Pediatric Surgical Services, dedicated Pediatric Inpatient Unit, Child Life services to support patients during care, and Caregiver services to support parents, siblings, and other family members during a patient’s care. Renegades players and staff will conduct room visits and participate in crafts projects with patients.

Thursday, June 9th – The Community at Brookmeade

  • Opened in 1977, The Community at Brookmeade offers apartment residences and a combination of lifestyle, services, and amenities designed with the need of active older adults in mind. Located in the village of Rhinebeck, New York, Brookmeade presently serves as a 120-bed facility for seniors aged 62 and above. The Community is committed to providing all residents with a lifestyle focus on quality, centered in wellness, and facilitated by competent and caring staff. Renegades players and staff will visit and engage with residents and participate in activity stations.

Friday, June 10th – Liberty Station

  • Hudson River Housing believes that those who served our country deserve the highest level of care, including quality, affordable housing. Hudson River Housing aims to meet the needs for the veteran community through specialized housing, transportation, advocacy, and care management. Operated by Hudson River Housing, Liberty Station was the first of three housing services available for veterans. Opened in 2014, Liberty Station offers a supportive living environment in the company of other veterans. Units are single room occupancy, with shared kitchen and bath facilities. Garden Street Housing and Poughkeepsie Commons also offer housing for veterans. Garden Street Housing offers low-cost housing with a preference for female veterans, with private baths and shared kitchen and common areas and Poughkeepsie Commons is a 72-unit apartment complex that offers 24 one-bedroom apartments exclusively for veterans. Veterans from Liberty Station, Garden Street Housing, and Poughkeepsie Commons will gather at Liberty Station to meet and engage with Renegades players and staff.

Saturday, June 11th – Disability, Dream & Do (D3)/ThinkDIFFERENTLY Camp

  • D3 and ThinkDIFFERENTLY collaborate to host camp in partnership with Hudson Valley Renegades. Disability, Dream & Do (D3) is a pro style practice with professional players at stadiums across the country. D3 participants have an opportunity to hit, throw, catch and run the bases with instruction from the best regardless of anyone’s limitations. The Disability Dream and Do (D3Day) sports camps were created by Dave Clark, the only pitcher in professional sports history to pitch on crutches, and Doug Cornfield, a former NCAA medal winning runner at Georgia, who himself had a child born with no arms. These camps allow professional players to interact with children with special needs in various drills and compete in sports with no limitations. In 2016, Dave Stevens, who was born without legs but played college football and minor league baseball, came on board as the D3 Day camps expanded to other cities in the US. Dave, Dave and Doug now put on camps all over the country and share their amazing stories as well as inspire others to look past a disability and turn it into an ability.
  • “ThinkDIFFERENTLY” is a call to action, a genuine challenge to determine if we have it within ourselves to look past our differences and treat others the way we would hope to be treated. Too often, too many with special needs are overlooked and their unique abilities ignored. Instead, we seek to lift each other up and embrace all residents of all abilities. Launched by Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro in 2015, the “ThinkDIFFERENTLY” initiative seeks to change the way individuals, businesses, organizations and communities relate to our neighbors with special needs.

Sunday, June 12th – Fishkill Food Pantry

  • The Fishkill Food Pantry was established as a mission program in 1985 to assist individuals and families in the Southern Dutchess area who are coping with financial emergencies and supply basic food needs. The people served are often referred to the Pantry by social service agencies, churches, schools, and family advocates. The Pantry is the largest food pantry in Dutchess County, serving families in Beacon, Beekman, Chelsea, Cold Spring, Fishkill, Glenham, Hopewell Junction, Hughsonville, Stormville, and Wappingers Falls. The Renegades will provide donations in the morning to the food pantry and host a food drive during Sunday’s game.

The Renegades Community Program and their participation in HOPE Week is presented by WMCHealth. Throughout the week, the Renegades host the Jersey Shore BlueClaws for a seven-game series at The Dutch. For more information on HOPE Week and the Renegades Community Program, visit www.hvrenegades.com and click on the Community tab.

ABOUT THE HUDSON VALLEY RENEGADES

The Renegades are in their second season as the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees. They have played their home games at Dutchess Stadium in Wappingers Falls, N.Y. since 1994.

ABOUT DIAMOND BASEBALL HOLDINGS

Diamond Baseball Holdings (DBH) is a subsidiary of Endeavor, the global sports and entertainment company. DBH was formed in 2021 to support, promote, and enhance Minor League Baseball through professional management, best practices, innovation and investment. (DiamondBaseballHoldings.com).

Tagged as : Baseball Camps/Instruction, Children's Health and Development, Disability Awareness, Family Relief/Resources, Food Banks, Food Insecurity, Hospital Visits, Hospitals/Medical Research, Hudson Valley Renegades, Military & Veterans, New York, Shelters/Housing, South Atlantic League, Supporting the Community, Tampa Bay Rays, Volunteering, Youth Sports { }

Blue Wahoos To Wear Navy Uniforms As Part Of Memorial Day Celebration 

May 27, 2022

The three Blue Wahoos players stared in silent awe at the dark blue, vintage World War II fighter plane positioned in a center display at the National Naval Aviation Museum.

It was a Vought F4U Corsair, a replica to the one Ted Williams flew nearly 80 years ago in Pensacola, while pausing one of baseball’s greatest careers during World War II to complete training at Naval Air Station-Pensacola and become a second lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps.

“This is incredible,” said Blue Wahoos infielder Cobie Fletcher-Vance, looking up at the plane while a tour guide explained how Williams took leave of absence from the Boston Red Sox to join the U.S. Navy– one year after his first Triple Crown batting season in Major League Baseball.

In 1941, Williams became the last player in baseball history to bat over .400 and his unmatched career included being a 19-time MLB All-Star, between two military service duties in Pensacola.

He was among more than 500 MLB players and more than 2,000 Minor League Baseball players who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II.

Williams, who later flew combat missions in the Korean War, was part of a sizeable contingent of professional baseball players who came to NAS-Pensacola for training.

“There is so much history here,” said Blue Wahoos relief pitcher Colton Hock, after joining Fletcher-Vance and outfielder Thomas Jones for a trip May 11 to the base. “So cool to see all this.”

Part of that history includes the wartime connection between baseball and NAS-Pensacola that will be celebrated Memorial Day weekend at Blue Wahoos games on Saturday and Sunday.

In both games against the Mississippi Braves, the Blue Wahoos will wear special uniforms, approved by the Navy. Officers from NAS-Pensacola will attend the games.

The three Blue Wahoos players wore the Navy jerseys on their recent visit to the base as a preview.

On Saturday, Capt. Terry Shashaty, Commanding Officer of NAS-Pensacola will throw out a first pitch, along with others before the two games.

The Blue Wahoos will show off their permanent display to Navy baseball in Pensacola, located on the wall above the stairs leading from the main entrance.

“When the players came that day and wore those Navy jerseys, the people who saw them that day just thought that was awesome,” said Jason Bortz, the public affairs officer at NAS-Pensacola.

“And to wear them (Saturday-Sunday) in front of thousands of people for a couple times this season, I think it’s going to be one of the best nights we’ve had for the base had in several years,” he said. “We have been through a lot the last several years.

“This is going to be a great night for Pensacola. We are honored to be a part of this.”

The Navy baseball jerseys will also be worn by the Blue Wahoos on July 2 during Fourth of July weekend at the ballpark.

Following that game, the jerseys will be auctioned to benefit the Navy-Marine Relief Society, a non-profit organization hat provides financial assistance and additional services to members of the Navy and Marine Corps and their families.

Also on Saturday, there will be a book signing from 11 a.m to 12 p.m. at the Bodacious Bookstore and Café on Intendencia Street, featuring Anne Keene, author of “The Cloudbuster Nine” an award-winning book about MLB players training during World War II to become Navy pilots.

Keene, a renown military historian, will be joined by Sharon Hornfisher, wife of late Navy historian Jim Hornfisher, who wrote the book “Who Can Hold The Sea, The U.S. Navy And The Cold War.”

Keene assisted the Blue Wahoos with compiling information, photos and details about the Navy baseball history in Pensacola.

“We say it all the time at the base and we truly mean it… that Pensacola is the best military community in the country,” Bortz said. “By far, it is the most military friendly.

“It is the most supportive of the military and this is a great opportunity for people in the community, whether they are in the military. or were in the military, or just living in the community to come out and see something that shows the relationship with the base, the Navy and the local community.”

Williams led an all-star baseball team, the Bronson Bombers, during his time in Pensacola. Bronson Field was an auxiliary base with baseball fields that is now part of the Blue Angel Recreation Park for military members.

The team had other MLB players training in Pensacola and competed in a championship series against Corpus Christi during 1943.

The U.S. Armed Forces used baseball and other sports as a way to help build morale and friendships while the pro athletes of that era were training.

“I think that speaks to the unselfishness of Ted Williams and that whole generation during World War II,” Bortz said. “He was a professional baseball player in the prime of his career, who didn’t have to serve, or if he did serve, he didn’t necessarily have to be in a combat situation.

“He voluntarily chose that. He wanted to be a pilot. He wanted to go into combat. It was more important to serve his country than his baseball legacy. That speaks highly of him.”

Williams, who died in 2002, played his entire 19-year career with the Boston Red Sox.

Bill Vilona is a retired Pensacola News Journal sports columnist and now senior writer for Pensacola Blue Wahoos. He can be reached at [email protected]

WANT TO GO?

WHAT: Navy Baseball Celebration

WHEN: Saturday, Sunday and July 2

WHERE: Blue Wahoos Stadium

WHO: Events part of Blue Wahoos games this weekend vs. Mississippi Braves and July 2 vs. Montgomery Biscuits. Blue Wahoos will wear specialty designed Navy baseball uniforms on these days.

TICKETS: Limited number of game tickets available for Saturday’s 6:05 p.m. game Tickets available for Sunday (4:05 p.m.) and July 2 games at www.bluewahoos.com/tickets.

BOOK SIGNING: In conjunction with weekend, a book signing Saturday at 11 a.m. at Bodacious Bookstore and Café features award-winning author and Navy baseball historian Anne Kleene, who wrote “Cloudbuster Nine”, along with Sharon Hornfisher, wife of late-author Jim Hornfisher.

Keene assisted Blue Wahoos in compiling photos, information on Navy history. Free admission to bookstore.

Tagged as : Charity Auctions/Raffles, Family Relief/Resources, Florida, Honoring History, Miami Marlins, Military & Veterans, Pensacola Blue Wahoos, Southern League { }

Squirrels offering free tickets for Veterans, military this weekend

May 27, 2022

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels are offering two free tickets for Veterans, active-duty military, Guard and Reserve members for their games on Saturday, May 28 and Sunday, May 29, the team announced on Friday afternoon.

Active-duty military, Guard members, Reserve members and Veterans can show their IDs at the Flying Squirrels box office to receive two free general admission tickets for the team’s games against the Hartford Yard Goats on Saturday and Sunday at The Diamond.

The complimentary tickets are not available online and must be picked up at the Flying Squirrels ticket office at The Diamond.

“As we enter Memorial Day weekend, we want to take a moment to reflect and remember those who have given their lives in service to our country,” Flying Squirrels CEO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “We also want to celebrate our Veterans and active duty military at The Diamond as a small ‘thank you’ for all they do and have done.”

On Saturday, first pitch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m. and the gates at The Diamond open at 5 p.m. Following Saturday’s game, fans can enjoy In-Your-Face Fireworks launched up close and inside the fences presented by Breeze Airways.

On Sunday, first pitch is scheduled for 1:35 p.m. and the ballpark gates open at 12:30 p.m. The first 1,000 kids 14 and under will go home with a Patriotic Youth Bucket Hat presented by Pepsi and Aquafina. Kids 14 and under are also invited to play catch on the field before the game from 12:45 p.m.-1:05 p.m. presented by Nesquik. Following the conclusion of the game on Sunday, kids 14 and younger can run the bases presented by Richmond Family Magazine.

For tickets or more information, visit SquirrelsBaseball.com/Tickets, call 804-359-3866 or stop by the Flying Squirrels offices.

Tagged as : Eastern League, Military & Veterans, Richmond Flying Squirrels, San Francisco Giants, Ticket Donations, Virginia { }

Armed Forces Appreciation Day: May 28 at PNC Field

May 23, 2022

The Scranton/ Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are proud to honor those brave men and women who have served or are currently serving our great nation.

As a token of gratitude, join us on Armed Forces Appreciation Day – May 28, 2022 – at PNC Field. Active or retired members of our Armed Forces can present military identification at the Box Office to receive a complimentary ticket. In addition, the RailRiders are pleased to offer 25% off up to four additional tickets for family and friends.

(Based on seating availability. This offer is not available online or over the phone. Must present identification at the time of purchase.)

Gates open at 3 P.M. with a camo hat giveaway courtesy of Metlife.

First Pitch at 4:05 P.M. versus the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp.

Please visit the Box Office at PNC Field or call (570) 969-BALL for more information.

Tagged as : Discounted Tickets, International League, Military & Veterans, New York Yankees, Pennsylvania, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, Ticket Donations { }

Bark in the Park, Military Celebration Night and Appearance by Johnny Bench Highlight Promotion-Packed Series

May 23, 2022

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers’ second annual Bark in the Park presented by Sit Means Sit Dog Training and the first Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night of the season presented by Casey’s General Stores are just two of the special promotions primed for the Dodgers’ jam-packed upcoming home series against the Reno Aces starting at 7:05 p.m. Tuesday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

The series opens on a $2 Tuesday featuring $2 select beer, soda and bottled water from a line of Budweiser and Pepsi products. COOP Ale Works draft beer will also be available at a special rate of $3.

The Dodgers’ second annual Bark in the Park presented by Sit Means Sit Dog Training is also Tuesday night as fans can bring their dog to the game. The first 300 dogs in attendance will receive a special commemorative dog bandana. Water and relief stations will be available throughout the ballpark for Tuesday’s dog guests.

Other promotional highlights for the series that continues through Sunday include:

• Friday, May 27 – 7:05 p.m.: An on-field naturalization ceremony will take place prior to the game as approximately 80 people will be naturalized as United States citizens. Friday Night Fireworks are scheduled to follow the game.

Also on Friday, three-year-old Casen Hazlewood of Ponca City will be recognized during the second INTEGRIS Health “Home Run For Life” of the 2022 season. Hazlewood weighed 1 pound, 4 ounces at birth, as he was at just 26 weeks gestation, and went on to spend his first 154 days at INTEGRIS Health Children’s.

“Home Run For Life” recognizes individuals in the community who have overcome a significant medical event with the help of their families, physicians and health care professionals. To symbolize the end of their battle against adversity, honorees take a home run “lap” around the bases during a pregame ceremony.

• Saturday, May 28 – 7:05 p.m.: The first Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night of the season presented by Casey’s General Stores takes over Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark as the Dodgers honor the service and dedication of local military members and their families. Dodgers players and coaches will wear special camouflage jerseys and hats during the game.

The first 1,000 fans through the gates, which open at 6 p.m., will receive a camouflage OKC Dodgers hat. A mass swearing in ceremony for new military recruits will take place pregame, as well as a flyover in conjunction with Vance Air Force Base.

Military personnel from Tinker Air Force Base and Fort Sill will participate in pregame and in-game highlights, including a ceremonial first pitch, and the 395th Army Band from Mustang will perform the national anthem pregame. During an inning break, the band will also perform a rendition of “God Bless America.”

Braum’s Friends & Family 4-Packs are available for Saturday’s game that include four tickets, four hats and four Braum’s restaurant vouchers.

• Sunday, May 29 – 2:05 p.m.: Baseball Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench joins retired Baseball Hall of Fame President Jeff Idelson and acclaimed photographer Jean Fruth Sunday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark to promote the non-profit Grassroots Baseball and hold a pregame book signing for “Grassroots Baseball: Route 66.” Copies of the book, in which Bench wrote the introduction and a chapter about Oklahoma, will be available for purchase in the OKC Dodgers Team Store.

Idelson and Fruth founded Grassroots Baseball with the mission of promoting and celebrating the amateur game around the globe, with a focus on growing interest and participation at the youngest levels. The overarching goal of Grassroot Baseball is to give back by providing inspiration, instruction and equipment to help ensure more children have the opportunity to learn, play and enjoy the game.

Bench is also slated to throw out a ceremonial first pitch Sunday.

Additionally on Sunday, OKC Dodgers Rookie League participants ranging in age from 3-10 will join a pregame parade on the field to celebrate the conclusion of the 2022 Rookie League season.

The OKC Dodgers Baseball Foundation, in partnership with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, will host a “They Were All Stars” traveling exhibit along the concourse of Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark throughout June and a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the exhibit will take place during Sunday’s game. The exhibit highlights Negro League players who became Major League All-Stars.

Following the conclusion of the game, kids can take the field to run the bases like their favorite pros.

Tickets for all OKC Dodgers home games through June at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark are on sale now and range in price from $12-33. All tickets are digital and available for purchase online at okcdodgers.com/tickets. For additional information, please call (405) 218-2182 or visit okcdodgers.com.

Live radio coverage of each OKC Dodgers game begins 15 minutes before first pitch on AM 1340 “The Game,” 1340thegame.com and through the free iHeartRadio or MiLB First Pitch apps. All OKC Dodgers games are also available streamed live on MiLB.TV with a subscription.

Tagged as : Honoring History, Los Angeles Dodgers, Military & Veterans, Naturalization Ceremonies, Oklahoma City Dodgers, Pacific Coast League, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events { }

RoughRiders to honor fallen 2d Lt Anthony Wentz on Armed Forces Day

May 20, 2022

FRISCO, Texas (May 20, 2022) – On Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 21st, the Frisco RoughRiders will honor fallen Air Force 2d Lt Anthony D. Wentz with a special pregame ceremony prior to their game against the Corpus Christi Hooks.

The Riders will honor the life of Second Lt Anthony D. Wentz by dedicating the two seats that Anthony and Cori Wentz sat in during their first official date at Riders Field as well as a ceremonial first pitch from Anthony’s wife, Cori Wentz.

Second Lt Anthony D. Wentz was killed in a military training accident at Laughlin Air Force Base on November 19th, 2021.

Born in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Wentz followed the footsteps of his father and brother by serving in the military after high school. He accepted an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York where he studied mechanical engineering. At West Point, Wentz met the love of his life and now wife, Cori. They began officially dating on December 17th, 2017, going to many cities and sports games, including a visit to a Frisco RoughRiders game in the summer of 2018 as their first date in Cori’s hometown in Texas.

In addition to the pregame ceremony, all members of the Frisco RoughRiders team will wear special military jerseys during the game. The jerseys feature Steel Hearts, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring the legacies of the fallen cadets, midshipmen, and graduates of America’s service academies through the sale of high-quality, steel memorial bracelets.

For every Steel Hearts bracelet sold, $10 is donated to a charity, trust, or foundation designated by the surviving family. All team-worn jerseys will be available for auction on MiLB Auctions at a later date.

For tickets and more information about the Frisco RoughRiders, visit RidersBaseball.com or call 972.731.9200.

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance for 15 consecutive seasons (2005-2019). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg. Since then, the new ownership group, together with the City of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise enhancements, investing over $8 million in a wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including a state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store and the world’s largest water feature in a sports facility, the massive Lazy River. These enhancements earned the Riders and the City of Frisco Ballpark Digest’s prestigious “Best Ballpark Renovation” award for two consecutive years (2015 and 2016). More than 170 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball. For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact [email protected].

Tagged as : Frisco RoughRiders, Honoring History, Military & Veterans, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events, Texas, Texas League, Texas Rangers { }

Bisons' Armed Forces Day to include autographed Cap Raffle

May 18, 2022

TICKETS: Armed Forces Day | Purchase my 5950 Armed Forces Day Cap | 3930 Caps

Join the Bisons as we pay tribute to the brave servicewomen and men that protect our freedoms on Armed Forces Day at the ballpark, Saturday, May 21 as the Herd hosts the Syracuse Mets at 1:05 p.m., presented by the Buffalo Naval Park.

Along with special pre-game and in-game tributes, the Bisons coaches and players will be wearing special Armed Forces Day Caps as they face their Thruway Series rival. During the game, we’ll hold a special Raffle of the Game-Worn and Autographed Caps, with proceeds to benefit the “Save the Sullivans.” Benefit a great cause as you try to snag a one-of-a-kind piece of Bisons memorabilia.

The Bisons 2022 Armed Forces Day caps are also currently available in the Bisons.com Online Shop in the on-field 5950 and flex-fit 3930 varieties. Get your caps today, or pick yours up at Sahlen Field when you celebrate Armed Forces Day with the Herd on Saturday!

Tagged as : Buffalo Bisons, Charity Auctions/Raffles, International League, Military & Veterans, New York, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events, Toronto Blue Jays { }

Salute to America, Event to Honor Vietnam POWs

May 13, 2022

Join The Drive on Friday, June 3 at 6 PM in celebrating a special group of people, the Vietnam POWs. Members of the United States Armed Forces were held as prisoners of war (POWs) in significant numbers during the Vietnam War from 1964 to 1973. The POWs spent years living in unimaginable circumstances. They had a mission to resist, survive and return with honor, and they did.

Fluor Field will be alive with large groups of POWs in Greenville for a reunion and celebration of their survival. Let’s show up and celebrate with them!

Using this evening to celebrate a perfect night of patriotism, bring your family out to Fluor Field for a complimentary community event. Saluting America together, a chance for us to come out and say thank you!

The evening will include special entertainment as a flag jump takes off in a helicopter and then lands back in the stadium. Continued programing to include Miss Liberty Belle, a patriotic fly over, and our special guest Steve Amerson (America’s Tenor) performing “Amazed by America” accompanied by Broadway singer, Laurie Gayle Stephenson. Ending the night in full celebration, we will conclude with fireworks!

You can register for the complimentary event HERE or by using the QR code above.

Come out to Fluor Field to show your appreciation for the these fearless members of society!

Schedule:

6:00 Doors open and concessions open

6:30 Program starts

6:45 Flag Jump into the stadium

7-7:30 Miss Liberty Belle

7:30 Fly over and Salute to America Musical Performance

8:40-8:45 Fireworks

Complimentary community event with donations to the Vietnam POW Reunion Foundation accepted.

Tagged as : Boston Red Sox, Greenville Drive, Honoring History, Military & Veterans, POW/MIA, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events, South Atlantic League, South Carolina, Supporting the Community { }

Spokane Indians and Avista Utilities Team Up to Host Fairchild Families

May 12, 2022

Spokane, WASH. – Each quarter, Fairchild Air Force Base hosts family members of deployed personnel on base, providing a welcome distraction and the chance to spend time with families facing similar challenges. At these events, the goal is to provide a free meal and entertainment while enjoying each other’s company and support.

This spring, in light of recent world events, the Spokane Indians and Avista Utilities teamed up to host this event with over 100 family members of deployed personnel from Fairchild at the ballpark on Friday, April 22nd.

The group enjoyed a ballpark-catered dinner in the Coors Light Caboose and cheered on the Indians to a 7-3 victory over the Hillsboro Hops on a gorgeous spring night at Avista Stadium.

Lindsey Diaz, whose grandfather played in the New York Mets organization, threw out the first pitch before the game. Her husband, Lt. Col. Valentino “Tino” Diaz, has been in the Air Force since 2005 and is currently stationed in the European Theater.

“It means everything to have someone who is going through the same things you are going through,” said Lindsey. “And an event like this to bring it all together – it’s super fun.”

Marissa Korzilius’ husband Lt. Col. Joshua Korzilius, who was in the same class at the Air Force Academy as Lt. Col. Diaz, has been in the European Theater since October. The mother of four is thankful to have the support of the Spokane community and fellow military spouses like Lindsey.

“Things like this help, seeing the community rally around you,” said Marissa. “The kids are able to do something fun and get their mind off missing dad.”

The night at the ballpark for the deployed families started with a light rain but ended with an Indians win, a beautiful sunset, and a rainbow over the Caboose, showing that — with a little help from the community and support from friends and family – there are brighter days ahead.

NEXT HOMESTAND

The Indians return home to Avista Stadium for a six-game series against the Eugene Emeralds starting on Tuesday, May 17th with the Businessperson’s Special Day Game presented by the Journal of Business & KXLY AM 920/100.7 FM. Daytime baseball is back at Avista Stadium with a first pitch at 12PM. Move your afternoon business meetings to the ballpark for a hot dog and beer! Bring your gently used neckties to donate to local charities. CLICK HERE for tickets.

ABOUT THE SPOKANE INDIANS

The Spokane Indians are the High-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies located in Spokane, Washington, and were named 2021 MiLB Organization of the Year. Avista Stadium is home to the MultiCare Kids Bench Seat. Parking at all Spokane Indians games is FREE. The Spokane Indians office and team store hours are 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM on Monday through Thursday and 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM on Fridays. On game days, the office and team store are open from 10:00 AM through the end of the game.

Tagged as : Colorado Rockies, Family Relief/Resources, Military & Veterans, Northwest League, Spokane Indians, Washington { }

Dragons to Recognize “Hometown Heroes” Honoree During Game on April 22

April 21, 2022

Dayton, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons will recognize the Miami Valley Young Marines as a “Hometown Heroes” honoree during a special inning break of the Dragons game on Friday, April 22 against the West Michigan Whitecaps at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. The game will start at 7:05p.m.

The Dayton Dragons shine the spotlight on the military, past and present, through the Hometown Heroes program. This program hosts military families at every Dragons game, recognizing outstanding military organizations and individuals.

Young Marines is a national non-profit education and service program for boys and girls, ages eight through high school. The organization promotes mental, moral, and physical development of its members, upholding the Marine Corps’ core values, as well as the Young Marines’ core values of leadership, discipline, and teamwork.

The Miami Valley unit participates year-round in community projects and events that focus on character building and leadership. Their mission is to nurture and develop its members into responsible citizens who enjoy and promote a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.

One of their major initiatives is called “Drill Heroes,” a drill competition held to raise money to complete the Miami Valley Veterans Museum. With multiple age-based competitions, this event brings friends, families, co-workers, and other members of the community together to compete in the largest knockout drill competition ever assembled.

Furthermore, the unit has partnered with Wreaths Across America to lay remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country’s heroes at the Dayton Memorial Park Cemetery. This local unit has also been awarded the Fulcrum Shield Award for excellence in youth anti-drug programs from the Department of Defense twice – a distinction that no other unit has achieved.

The Miami Valley Marines are always looking for new members, volunteers, education opportunities, and donations. For more information about the Miami Valley Young Marines and how you can support their mission, visit miamivalleyyoungmarines.com.

This is the first of five special Hometown Heroes events at Dragons games this season. Additional tributes are scheduled for May 17, June 12, July 4, and August 13. The Dayton Dragons Hometown Heroes program is made possible by the generous support of the Dayton Development Coalition, Reynolds & Reynolds, and the Dayton Dragons. For more information, please visit daytondragons.com/hometownheroes.

Tagged as : Children's Health and Development, Cincinnati Reds, Dayton Dragons, Midwest League, Military & Veterans, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events { }

South Bend Cubs and Legacy Heating & Air to Provide Free Tickets to United States Military

April 20, 2022

 

SOUTH BEND, IN – In what is always a marquee pair of days at Four Winds Field, the South Bend Cubs will once again host Military Appreciation Weekend on Saturday, May 28 and Sunday, May 29 as the Cubs face off with the Great Lakes Loons. As presented by Legacy Heating & Air, the organization will devote Memorial Day Weekend to honoring our heroes.

By displaying their Military Identification Card, active military members and veterans can receive two free tickets to either Saturday or Sunday’s game. Those wishing to head to the ballpark that weekend can pick up their tickets at the Four Winds Field Box Office.

“I speak for our entire front office when I say that Military Appreciation Weekend is one that we look forward to every season,” South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart said. “We wouldn’t be able to do what we do on the field and in the stands without these brave men and women serving to protect us all. The two complimentary tickets are just a small token of our appreciation, and we’ll look forward to appropriately honoring all of the active military and veterans that join us.”

“We are proud to partner with the South Bend Cubs in an effort to express our gratitude to those in uniform serving today and those who have served in the past,” Legacy Heating & Air President Tony Cook said. “We thank you for your time, bravery, and sacrifice for this country. It is the home of the free because of the brave.”

To join in thanking and honoring all military members at Four Winds Field on Memorial Day Weekend, purchase your tickets online by clicking here or calling 574-235-9988.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the High-A affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 34 years, the team has won four Midwest League titles, most recently in 2019, and has captured eight division titles. In 2019, the South Bend Cubs hosted the Midwest League All-Star Game. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill. More information is available at www.SouthBendCubs.com.

Tagged as : Chicago Cubs, Indiana, Midwest League, Military & Veterans, South Bend Cubs, Ticket Donations { }

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Minor League Baseball clubs have been actively involved in their communities for many years. For the first time, their activities and contributions will be chronicled on this site.

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