Sponsor Spotlight: Navy Federal Utilizes Blue Wahoos Stadium For Employees’ Event

 

The versatility for holding events at Blue Wahoos Stadium was recently exemplified during a partnership with Navy Federal.

In its annual “Big Day Out” employee appreciation event, Navy Federal was able to provide a festive, carnival-style setting for the company’s Pensacola employees and their friends and families.

More than 4,000 attended the Oct. 19 event, exclusive for Navy Federal employees, families and guests. It included live bands, inflatable slides and bounce houses, live reptiles provided by Reno’s Reptiles of Pensacola, a mechanical bull, face painters, a pumpkin patch, balloon artists, various food and vendors and bingo and casino-style games for adults.

All of this happening at the same time on a Saturday afternoon.

“It’s our biggest private event by a longshot,” said Shannon Reeves, the Blue Wahoos’ events sales manager. “We just turn the stadium into something it normally isn’t. There’s just so much happening and it creates a fun experience for everyone.”

Navy Federal is a charter partner, joining as sponsor with the Blue Wahoos’ inaugural 2012 season. In addition to an outfield fence sign, the company’s partnership has been visible in a variety of other ways throughout each year, including as a game-day sponsor during the Blue Wahoos home schedule.

The “Big Day Out” event has been a signature element of the partnership.

“We’re grateful to be connected,” Reeves said. “They’re so good and it’s fun seeing them grow. I feel like we’ve been able to grow this event with them.

“Their communications team has been fantastic. They have a great team of planners there.”

With its 7,500-plus employees in the Pensacola area, Navy Federal has become a huge economic engine for the region. Blue Wahoos Stadium has been a natural venue the company’s appreciation day.

“We really start planning the next one this right after the (current) event ends,” Reeves said.

A prior forecast of rain this time added to the challenge. Fortunately, the weather cleared by noon, the sun returned and the event was another big success.

“Everything worked out, other than I lost sleep,” said Reeves, laughing. “But in the events world, this happens. I was a wedding planner for a long time.. more than 10 years…. so I certainly have been one to watch the weather and refresh a weather app about 40 times a day.

“We wanted to do everything we could to keep it on the planned date.”

As Reeves emphasized, Blue Wahoos Stadium can be utilized for these types of events for other companies as well.

When built, the bayfront stadium was designed to be a multi-use facility. It’s something available for other employee appreciation days on smaller-scale levels.

“While we have limited dates, we open the stadium or the grounds to the community almost every single weekend,” Reeves said.

On Navy Federal’s “Big Day Out,” children and their parents were able to enjoy the entire grounds. For the first time, Reno’s Reptiles and staff were able to put a few of its species on the field.

A sizable, African spur-thigh tortoise, crawled on the infield grass a few feet from an Albino Burmese python. Both creatures were main attractions for kids and picture-takers and weren’t fazed by the amount of people around.

“That was obviously a big hit,” Reeves said. “We had a lot going on. If you can imagine it, we can do it. The stadium lends itself to being a concert venue, a festival fair, a picnic, a place for kids to play, all at once.”

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

Indians Specialty Jersey Auctions Break Records

 

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indianapolis Indians announced today the team and its fans raised $55,461 through specialty jersey auctions in 2019, a record-breaking total for one of the club’s most popular promotions every season. The funds were raised through in-park auctions benefiting seven different nonprofit organizations.

“Specialty jersey auctions have held a prominent place on the Indianapolis Indians promotions calendar for the past ten years, which speaks to their popularity among our fans and partners,” said Indianapolis Indians President and General Manager Randy Lewandowski. “It’s important we use our platform as a long-standing community partner to lift up those around us. We’re focused on helping Central Indiana youth and families, and the Victory Field experience is one way we can do it.”

The 2019 beneficiaries were Folds of Honor Indiana (May 3 – Indy 500), Indiana National Guard Relief Fund (July 4 – Stars & Stripes), Children’s TherAplay Foundation (July 6 – Spider-Man), Teachers’ Treasures (July 20 – Prospects Night), Riley Children’s Foundation (August 3 – The Incredible Hulk), Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Indiana (August 17-18 – PAW Patrol, August 23-24 – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles), and Special Olympics (Postseason – Circle City).

Earlier this offseason, the Tribe announced the creation of Indianapolis Indians Charities, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to helping youth and families grow stronger together, learn more and live healthier lives. It will support organizations across Central Indiana who serve in youth development, family success, education and neighborhood development. Established in 1902, the Indians are formalizing their community outreach for the first time in franchise history.

For more information or to purchase a 2020 ticket package, visit IndyIndians.com or call (317) 269-3545.

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

San Jose Giants Release 2019 Community Report

The San Jose Giants released today their 2019 Community Report. The report serves as an overview of the organization’s community outreach, charitable fundraising efforts, youth development, in-stadium service and community events hosted at Municipal Stadium as well as a ‘thank you’ to all fans, partners, players and staff members.

“We are extremely blessed to open the Excite Ballpark gates to the best fans and partners in all of Minor League Baseball. The passion and loyalty displayed by our community is the inspiration behind every San Jose Giants home game and community event.,” said Daniel Orum, San Jose Giants President and CEO. “We are eager to continue the momentum next year and are working hard to bring an even better experience to Excite Ballpark in 2020.”

 

The 2019 Community Report demonstrates the club’s activity in the community and overall pledge to giving back both inside and outside the stadium’s gates. Highlights of the report include information about Giants player and mascot appearances, staff volunteer efforts, Excite Credit Union Hometown Heroes, special fundraising programs, Minor League Baseball community initiatives, in-stadium service, San Jose Giants baseball and more. For the complete 2019 San Jose Giants Community Report, click on the link below.

For more information on the San Jose Giants and how to get your organization involved next season, call 408.297.1435 or visit sjgiants.com.

View 2019 Community Report

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

OceanFirst Foundation Donates $38,000 Through Home Runs for Heroes

 

LAKEWOOD, NJ – OceanFirst Foundation donated $38,000 to area non-profit organizations and military-based programs through the 2019 Home Runs for Heroes Program. The program is a partnership between the BlueClaws, OceanFirst Foundation, and Townsquare Media.

“We are honored to once again partner with the OceanFirst Foundation for this amazing program,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “Our men and women of the military, both veterans and active, risk their lives to keep us safe here at home. This program is a great way to give back and we thank OceanFirst Foundation for their support.”

“The 2019 season was a great success and we’re delighted that BlueClaws home runs resulted in $38,000 of donations by OceanFirst Foundation. This brings our eleven year total awarded through Home Runs for Heroes to $376,000. We thank the BlueClaws organization and Townsquare Media for giving us the opportunity to work together to bring much needed relief to local military families with special needs,” said Katherine Durante, Executive Director of OceanFirst Foundation.

Home Runs for Heroes grants provide financial support to charities that meet the emergency basic needs of veterans and local service men and women – active and retired – and their families during difficult times. Non-profits were paired with each inning of the game and each BlueClaws home run hit at FirstEnergy Park meant a $1,000 donation to the charity (or charities) corresponding with the inning in which the home run was hit.

The program has now completed 11 seasons and raised $376,000 towards different organizations. See the full 2019 donation table below:

Organization Inning Home Runs Total
Cape May Coast Guard 1st 1 $1,000
American National Red Cross / GI Go Fund 2nd 3 $3,000
Deborah Heart & Lung Hospital Foundation / Vetgroup 3rd 3 $3,000
Chariot Riders / National Guard State Family Readiness Council 4th 1 $1,000
Army Emergency Relief / Navy Marine Corps. Relief Society 5th 5 $5,000
Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Southern NJ / Catholic Charities (Trenton) 6th 1 $1,000
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8867 (Brick) / Operations 1st Response 7th 2 $2,000
Lt. Dennis Zilinski II Memorial Fund 8th 3 $3,000
Citizens Veteran Advisory Committee 9th + Extras 4 $4,000

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. The team will open their 20th season at FirstEnergy Park on Thursday, April 16th. 2020 ticket packages are currently available by calling 732-901-7000 option 2 or online at BlueClaws.com/Tickets.

Since its founding in 1902, OceanFirst Bank has built a solid reputation and legacy as a good neighbor and responsible corporate citizen. The Bank’s strong commitment to helping families, organizations, schools and communities throughout central and southern New Jersey meet their financial needs has spanned several generations, reaching new heights in 1996 with the creation of OceanFirst Foundation. The Foundation provides grants to organizations that meet community needs within the OceanFirst market. Since its inception, OceanFirst Foundation has contributed in excess of 7,500 grants totaling more than $39 million to over 900 local charities throughout central and southern New Jersey.

– BlueClaws / OceanFirst –

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

SC Veterans Upstate Salute at Fluor Field on November 10th

The Drive are excited to team up with fellow Upstate Veterans Alliance partners GE, Michelin and Prisma Health for the fourth annual SC Veterans Upstate Salute! You’re invited to join us in this free celebration on Sunday, November 10th at Fluor Field, as we will honor our local veterans with a night full of entertainment.

The Fluor Field gates will open at 3:00. Highlights of the evening include a concert from Darryl Worley, a 21-gun salute, parachuters, an aerial flyover and opportunities to meet community agencies supporting veterans and their families. The night will conclude with a spectacular fireworks show. The concession stands at Fluor Field will be open throughout the evening.

Admission for the SC Veterans Upstate Salute is complimentary, and we hope you’ll join us as we help celebrate our nation’s veterans!

CLICK HERE TO REDEEM YOUR COMPLIMENTARY TICKET

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

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First responders and military can attend this Wednesday’s Midwest League championship game for free

 

SOUTH BEND, Indiana (September 9, 2019) – The South Bend Cubs will play the first two games of the Midwest League Championship series at Four Winds Field this Wednesday and Thursday night. On Wednesday night, September 11, South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart has invited all active and retired military, as well as all first responders, to attend that night’s game free of charge.

“We are so proud to be in the championships. It’s certainly a special night for us as a team, but also as a community,” Hart said. “We can spend the evening together honoring those who protected our country on 9/11, and celebrating those who continue to protect us. We want as many military personnel and first responders as we can get in the stadium on Wednesday.”

Hart said all first responders, active duty and military veterans can receive two free tickets to the game. Guests must present Military ID or form of first-responder identification at the Box Office to claim tickets. The offer is not available online.

This week’s Midwest League championship games take place at Four Winds Field, 501 W. South Street, South Bend. Tickets can be purchased online at SouthBendCubs.com or by calling the Box Office at 574-235-9988. Gates for both games will open at 6 p.m., first pitch is at 7:05 p.m.

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

Blue Wahoos, Covenant Care help 97-year-old WW II fighter pilot fulfill wish

Attired in a fighter pilot’s suit, Albert J. Lane clutched a cold beer in his left hand and a century of life spirit in his heart.

Mr. Lane, a U.S. Army fighter pilot in World War II, had just taken one final flight Friday night, which included a flyover at Blue Wahoos Stadium, perfectly timed after the National Anthem, as a cheering, sellout crowd waved at the vintage aircraft.

Through Pensacola’s Covenant Care, a Blue Wahoos corporate partner and its “My Wish” program, Mr. Lane was able to exit his wheelchair and settle into the co-pilot’s cockpit of a vintage, dual-wing, 1943 Boeing N2S-4 Stearman aircraft and fulfill his own wish.

It was 82 years ago when Mr. Lane, a Michigan native, last climbed into an open cockpit plane of that era, training for a future role as a B-17 Bomber in the United States Army. He remembered how to do it again Friday night.

“How about that! I got in that plane,” said Mr. Lane, excitedly, about an hour after the flight, as young children and admiring adults gathered around him on the stadium concourse.

It created a powerful, emotional scene that made even Jhoan Duran‘s no-hit bid into the seventh inning, along with the Blue Wahoos eventual 3-2 win against the Jackson Generals, seem secondary on this memorable night.

“That was really special to see,” said Blue Wahoos manager Ramon Borrego, who stood and cheered from the dugout as Mr. Lane was honored on the first base line in the bottom of the sixth inning. “When you see a guy like him who went to World War II and served this country…I was thinking about it and thought, ‘Wow, this guy fought in World War II. He gave everything to his country.’

“And he still had energy. He began to get up from that wheelchair. That was amazing to see. I could think and see this man, say back when he was in his 20’s in that airplane.”

Mr. Lane lives in Greenwood, a small town near Marianna in Jackson County, about two hours east from Pensacola. When Covenant Care got involved and arranged a My Wish request, the Blue Wahoos joined to help provide the flyover experience at the stadium.

“It’s such a great tie-in for us,” said Blue Wahoos president Jonathan Griffith. “The wishes Covenant Care grants are local and regional and in our own footprint, so it’s awesome to be part of, and meets our own mission to improve the quality of life in our area. It’s very cool to be part of this.”

The My Wish program began about a year ago and has provided a couple hundred such final wishes, according to Covenant Care president and CEO Jeff Mislevy.

“We thought about how do we connect donors to these wishes. And it’s a unique platform,” Mislevy said. “Because an individual donor has an opportunity to entirely support a wish for someone. You make that person to person connection and there is just so much power in that.

“I wanted to be here to see him fly over. It chokes you up in a way. I can’t imagine the emotion that must be pouring through his veins right now. That’s what powers us to do this. And this was unique to him.”

The gold vintage bi-plane that Mr. Lane was flown in was provided by Pensacola’s Roy Kinsey, who operates Veterans Flight and annually participates in the Pensacola Beach Air Show.

Kinsey and others at Pensacola Aviation Center helped Mr. Lane from his wheelchair. They aided him to climb on a step-stool, hoisted him on the wing and into the open-air co-pilot cockpit of the plane. Kinsey then flew the aircraft.

Lane’s physician, Robin Albritton, who lives in Marianna and works there at Jackson Hospital, was at Blue Wahoos Stadium standing on the concourse, watching the flyover.

“When Covenant Care called me two weeks ago to tell me what they were doing, I put my phone down and cried,” said Albritton, his voice wavering with emotion. “He is a real American hero. He deserves this so much.

“Having taken care of him for the past eight years, I knew he probably got into that plane by himself. That man is sharp as a tack. He first came to me at 90-years-old and gave me the biggest, ol’ hug. I’ve had long conversations with him when he visits. I have done just enough to not get in his way these years. To see this is unbelievable. People like him remind me of why I do this.”

After the plane returned to Pensacola Aviation, Mr. Lane and his group traveled to Blue Wahoos Stadium. Covenant Care staff were there waiting to congratulate the World War II veteran.

The smile on his face, the throng of strangers, including so many children, who wanted to meet him and get his autograph, were poignant examples of how meaningful, how special this experience became.

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

Marauders Partner With Sport Clips Haircuts to Provide Free Tickets for Members of the Armed Forces on Military Appreciation Night

Bradenton, Fla. – The Bradenton Marauders have partnered with Sport Clips Haircuts to supply free tickets to active duty and veteran military personnel for the Military Appreciation Night Game on Friday, June 21. Military Appreciation Night is presented by Sam Adams. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and first pitch is at 6:30 p.m. for all Marauders Friday home games.

Sport Clips will give away up to 500 free tickets to active duty military and veterans. The tickets are available at participating Sport Clips locations. Proof of military service must be provided to acquire a ticket. No purchase is necessary at the Sport Clips location. Military members bringing family or friends to the game with them can coordinate seat locations at the LECOM Park box office.

Free military tickets are now available at these participating Sport Clips locations:

·         Sport Clips Haircuts of Bradenton – 1606 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton, FL 34207

·         Sport Clips Haircuts of Sarasota – University Walk – 8433 Tuttle Ave, Sarasota, FL 34243

·         Sport Clips Haircuts of Sarasota – Shops at Siesta Row – 3800 S Tamiami Trail, Suite #112, Sarasota, FL 34239

·         Sport Clips Haircuts of South Sarasota – 8378 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34238

June 21 will also feature the Military Heroes Card Set giveaway presented by Sam Adams. The card set features military heroes who were nominated by friends and family members. The men and women included in the card set will be honored on the field before the game. The first 750 fans will receive the card set.

The Marauders are facing the Tampa Tarpons, the Florida State League affiliate of the New York Yankees in the game on June 21.

The LECOM Park ticket office is open on Tuesday-Friday non-gamedays from 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. On gamedays the box office will be open on weekdays from 10:00 a.m. until the end of the game and on weekends from two hours before first pitch until the end of the game.

For more information about the Bradenton Marauders, please call 941-747-3031, visit www.BradentonMarauders.com, or email MaraudersInfo@pirates.com.

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

Lakeland Flying Tigers to host Armed Forces Night presented by Wawa

The Lakeland Flying Tigers have a special evening planned for May 18, 6:00 PM.

Join the Lakeland Flying Tigers for an evening at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium to celebrate our men and women who serve our country in all branches of the military. The local JROTC will be providing a patriotic parade and the game will be followed by Fireworks presented by Aarons.

Players and coaches will be wearing special jerseys to commemorate the event.

The Flying Tigers will be honoring current and retired members of the military for their service to the country. Veterans and current military personnel will also receive FREE admission.

Come out and enjoy the festivities for our Armed Forces Night presented by Wawa as we recognize veterans that fought in the Revolutionary War, World War I, World War 2, Vietnam War, Korean War, and Operation Desert Storm.

The event starts at 6:00 PM with gates opening at 4:30 PM.

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

TinCaps Continue Military Appreciation Night in 2019

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne TinCaps once again have partnered with OmniSource LLC, Steel Dynamics Inc., and the San Diego Padres to welcome military personnel to Parkview Field for Military Appreciation Night on Monday, Aug. 19 (7:05 p.m.), when the team hosts the Bowling Green Hot Rods (Tampa Bay Rays affiliate).

Complimentary tickets are currently available for military families-both active and veteran-to enjoy the game on Aug. 19, thanks to the generosity of OmniSource, Steel Dynamics, the Padres, and caring individual donors.

The Padres, Fort Wayne’s Major League Baseball affiliate, are once again underwriting the costs for 1,000 tickets for military families. The San Diego Padres are proud to partner with the TinCaps in support of military and charity initiatives in the Fort Wayne area. The Padres had the first military outreach program in professional sports and it is currently the largest in MLB.

“We’re indebted to our nation’s military members and their loved ones,” said TinCaps President Mike Nutter. “This gives us an opportunity to show our gratitude for their sacrifices to our country. We’re also thankful to have teammates like OmniSource, Steel Dynamics, and the San Diego Padres to help us honor our military.”

“The men and women of our OmniSource and SDI family are proud and honored to be a part of this celebration for our courageous United States military heroes,” said Russ Rinn, President & COO OmniSource LLC. “We all know that because of them, we live in freedom.”

The TinCaps are also continuing their partnerships with multiple military organizations, offering military personnel in attendance the chance to visit kiosks highlighting many of the support organizations and offerings available to military in the area.

On Military Appreciation Night, the TinCaps will be wearing camouflage jerseys, which will be auctioned off on TinCapsJersey.com, with proceeds donated to Honor Flight Northeast Indiana.

Military personnel and their family can request Military Appreciation Night tickets at TinCapsMilitary.com. Tickets will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Fans with questions can contact Rachel Lopez with the TinCaps at 260-407-2809 or lopez@tincaps.com.

In addition, the TinCaps continue to take nominations for the team’s Military Salutes throughout the season on fireworks nights. Click here for more details.

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

Giants Unveil 2019 Military Trading Card Set

San Jose, CA– The San Jose Giants officially unveiled today the 2019 Military Trading Card Set, presented by Operation: Care and Comfort. This extraordinary 40-card set consists of brave military personnel who were nominated by fans and who served our country. The card set represents the 7th installment of the special promotion designed to honor the men and women in our armed forces. All honorees receive complimentary card sets and 100 copies of their own respective card. The honorees/representatives receive their trading cards on Military Appreciation Night, April 13th during a special pregame ceremony that takes place at 4:15 PM.

2019 Military Trading Card Set Honorees:

341st Military Police Company, Becky Good, Chester Bradley, Courtney Davis, Craig Jones, Diep Le, Erick Aldama, Gustavo Rangel, Guy DePonzi, Hal Taylor, Heather Deming, James Grissom, James Shidawara, Jesse Lester McCard Jr., Joe Follen, John Casey, John McLachlan, Justin Luke McCard, Kevin Ebbert, Lindsey Reyes, Nathaniel Pleasantbey, Niko Diaz, Orin Good, Patrick Michael DePonzi, Robert Bylsma, Robert John Veasey, Robert Sisco, Russell Hughes, Sharon Wagner, Shelley Reyes, Socorro Muniz, Steve Langridge, Tristan Aller, William Danko, William Meyer, Ysidor M. Sanchez and Zachary Phelps.

“We are humbled to recognize many incredible honorees in this year’s Operation: Care and Comfort Military Trading Card Set,” said Jeff Black, San Jose Giants Vice President of Marketing. “Thank you to all of the families and individuals who have shared their stories with us and thank you for your service.”

On April 13, as a part of Military Appreciation Night, honorees will be recognized on field during a special pregame ceremony at which time they will receive their trading cards. The first 1,000 fans receive a military trading card set giveaway as well. All-new, camouflage themed jerseys will be worn by the Giants which fans can bid on-all proceeds benefit Operation: Care and Comfort. The bidding begins on April 13 and concludes on Memorial Day.

“The mission of Operation: Care and Comfort is to allow caring Americans to donate their time, talent and treasure to honor those currently serving our country and to those who have served. Salute to the Military Night embodies this mission and we cannot wait for the special evening,” said Julie DeMaria, Operation: Care and Comfort President and Co-Founder. “On behalf of O.C.C., we thank all current military personnel, veterans and those we have lost-you epitomize what it means to be a hero.”

First pitch for Military Appreciation Night on April 13 is at 5:00 PM and gates open at 4:00 PM. The special Military Trading Card Set Ceremony begins at 4:15 PM. The San Jose Giants home opener is Thursday, April 11. For information on tickets call 408.297.1435, visit sjgiants.com or stop by the stadium Box Office.

Purchase San Jose Giants Tickets

View the 2019 San Jose Giants Schedule

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ABOUT THE SAN JOSE GIANTS

The San Jose Giants are a professional baseball team in the Class A Advanced California League and have been an affiliate of the San Francisco Giants since 1988. San Jose has won six California League Championships as a Giants affiliate (2010, 2009, 2007, 2005, 2001 and 1998) and eleven overall. The San Jose Giants have graduated 206 Major League players, 149 of whom have played or currently play for the San Francisco Giants. The organization has been honored with the Larry MacPhail Award, presented to the club with the best creative marketing and promotions, and the President’s Trophy, granted to the most complete franchise. For 2019 tickets or to reserve your group outing, please contact the San Jose Giants Box Office at 408.297.1435 or visit us online at sjgiants.com. San Jose Giants baseball in your backyard since 1942, Our Town, Our Team, Our Giants.

TinCaps Seek Nominees for Military Salutes in 2019

The Fort Wayne TinCaps, along with OmniSource LLC and Steel Dynamics Inc., will salute our military throughout the 2019 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 Community Engagement Manager Morgan Olson atolson@tincaps.com. You can also call Morgan at 260-407-2812.

Click here to see the 30 dates the TinCaps have fireworks nights in 2019.  

Through the generosity of the OmniSource, Steel Dynamics, caring individual donors, and the San Diego Padres, the TinCaps also invite all members of the military and their families to attend Military Appreciation Night on Monday, Aug. 19 (7:05 p.m.) when the TinCaps host the Bowling Green Hot Rods. Complimentary tickets for that game can be requested at TinCapsMilitary.com.

The TinCaps will wear special patriotic jerseys on Military Appreciation Night. The jerseys will be auctioned off with all proceeds benefitting Honor Flight Northeast Indiana.

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

Jumbo Shrimp initiate A Better Jacksonville Series

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jumbo Shrimp are continuing their commitment to serving the city of Jacksonville and its surrounding areas by introducing the club’s new A Better Jacksonville Series. Fans who donate to each of these monthly charitable drives will be entered into a drawing to throw out a ceremonial first pitch prior to the Jumbo Shrimp’s 6:35 p.m. game on Sunday, August 25 at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville.

The Jumbo Shrimp’s A Better Jacksonville Series begins on Friday, April 26 with a greeting card donation drive. During this 7:05 p.m. game on Military Appreciation Night, the club will use donated greeting cards by allowing fans to write to active military.

The Jumbo Shrimp will team with the Jackson Five, the club’s internship program with Andrew Jackson High School, on Monday, May 20 to hold an Education Day Shoe Drive prior to the club’s 11:05 a.m. contest. All shoes donated will be sent to the City Rescue Mission.

Fans will be asked to donate toys on Sunday, June 9 for a 3:05 p.m. game on A Story of Toys Day. All proceeds will benefit One More Child. When the Jumbo Shrimp celebrate Mac & Cheese Day at 3:05 p.m. on Sunday, July 14, all fan non-perishable food donations will benefit Feeding Northeast Florida.

The inaugural A Better Jacksonville Series will wrap up prior to the Jumbo Shrimp’s 6:35 p.m. game on Saturday, August 10 with a school supply donation. Each donation will benefit Duval County Public Schools.

Fans who donated to each of the five monthly drives throughout the 2019 season will be entered into a drawing to throw out a ceremonial first pitch. The winner will toss out that ceremonial first pitch prior to the Jumbo Shrimp’s 6:35 p.m. contest on Sunday, August 25.

UP NEXT: Opening Day for the Jumbo Shrimp in 2019 is Thursday, April 4, against the Jackson Generals at the Baseball Grounds Jacksonville. Season tickets, mini plans, and corporate outings are on sale now. Visit www.jaxshrimp.com or phone 904-358-2846 to secure yours today.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by General Manager Harold Craw. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

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

M-Braves to Salute Military and First Responders with $5 Tickets All Season

PEARL, MS – The Mississippi Braves are proud to announce that beginning in 2019; all members and veterans of all branches of the U.S. military and first responders/emergency personnel will receive $5 field level tickets ($7 discount) to all Mississippi Braves home games when presenting a valid ID. This expanded discount on tickets for all Mississippi Braves home games at Trustmark Park to our local heroes is an extension of SportClips Military Monday and AMR First Responders Wednesday.

On SportClips Military Monday this season, FREE field level or general admission tickets will be offered to all members and veterans of all branches of the U.S. military. One random fan, representing the military, will receive a SportClips prize pack. AMR First Responders Wednesday offers FREE field level or general admission tickets to first responders/emergency personnel.

“The M-Braves want to say thank you to all members of our armed forces and first responders/emergency personnel for their service and sacrifice,” said Mississippi Braves Vice President and General Manager, Pete Laven. “Recognizing these exemplary citizens by providing them a fun ballpark experience is something which the Braves and our partners SportClips and AMR are very proud. We look forward to seeing these local heroes and their friends and family at Trustmark Park this season.”

“To keep our communities safe day and night, emergency responders must often sacrifice time with their families,” said Stan Alford, Operations Manager, AMR Central Mississippi. “Thanks to the M-Braves’ promotions for first responders, fire, police and EMS personnel can enjoy more games at the ballpark with their loved ones all season long. It’s AMR’s special joy to team up with the Braves to make these promotions possible.”

The military discount is not available for tickets ordered online, and purchases must be made at the Trustmark Park box office. Fans may now secure their single-game tickets for each of the 70 Mississippi Braves games at Trustmark Park. Tickets may be purchased at mississippibraves.com, by calling 888-BRAVES4 or stopping by the Trustmark Park box office Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. The Braves will open their 15th season at Trustmark Park on Wednesday, April 10 at 6:35 pm, featuring a Post-Game Fireworks Extravaganza. Fans will save from the day-of-game pricing by purchasing tickets in advance. The season begins on the road at Tennessee on April 4.

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

RiverDogs, Boeing Announce Joint Partnership to Recognize Military Members and Families

CHARLESTON, S.C. – Boeing has been named a 20/20 Partner of the Charleston RiverDogs, making the world’s largest aerospace company one of a group of partners committed to the vision of RiverDogs baseball and Joe Riley Park for the future.

Accompanying Budweiser and MUSC Health as a 20/20 partner, Boeing joins the Charleston club in strengthening the relationship between strong community-minded businesses and the RiverDogs. Boeing’s connection with the RiverDogs will offer several opportunities to showcase both organizations’ commitment to recognize, honor, and support military and veteran personnel and their families.

“The RiverDogs remain steadfast in our efforts to honor the military in the Lowcountry and bring awareness to the effort and sacrifice of veterans. We are thrilled to be partnering with Boeing to further these initiatives,” said Dave Echols, President and General Manager of the Charleston RiverDogs.

“Veterans and their families are a vital part of our company, our community, and our country. We are thrilled to partner with the Charleston RiverDogs to thank our veterans for their service and celebrate their contributions with America’s favorite pastime,” said Ashley Holbrook, Director of National Strategy and Engagement, Government Operations, Boeing South Carolina.

Exhibiting Boeing and the RiverDogs’ commitment to honoring the armed forces, a new, single, black seat, the POW/MIA “Chair of Honor,” will be a permanent fixture at The Joe all season long. The RiverDogs will host a dedication ceremony prior to the first pitch of the second game of the season on Friday, April 12.

Along with honoring the memory of past service members, Boeing will join forces with the RiverDogs in hosting three Military Appreciation Nights to honor active and retired military members in the local community on Saturday, May 25, Monday, July 1, and Friday, August 2. In conjunction with Boeing, the RiverDogs will offer complementary tickets to all active and retired service members and their families for these special event games.

Not just limited to three home dates throughout the season, RiverDogs players and staff will also wear specialty red jerseys at each Friday home game, expressing their support of the armed forces. As part of Red Shirt Fridays, fans wearing a red shirt may receive $1 off regular ticket pricing at the box office with the option to donate that dollar back to support various veteran’s non-profit groups in the Lowcountry. During an inning break at every Friday home game, a deployed military serviceman, servicewoman – – or veteran unable to attend the game – will be called and thanked by all in attendance for their service.

At each of the RiverDogs’ 70 home tilts during the year, Boeing will help present the “Hero of the Game,” recognizing an outstanding veteran while giving the special guest and their family a VIP treatment at the ballpark. As the Hero of the Game, honorees and their families are treated to the Riley Park Club experience, recognized on the video board and through public address with a description of their contributions to our country. Along with honoring one “Hero of the Game,” there will be a special in-game recognition, asking all veterans in attendance to stand at each of the RiverDogs’ home contests during the year.

For further details about the RiverDogs and Boeing’s military appreciation programs, how to nominate a veteran to be honored at a game this season, and complementary military tickets available throughout the year, visit the RiverDogs’ Military homepage at riverdogs.com/military.

On the heels of their second straight year eclipsing 300,000 fans through the turnstiles, the RiverDogs have already begun preparations for another year down at The Joe. RiverDogs season tickets, including options to the Riley Park Club, are now available for the 2019 campaign by contacting the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS). The RiverDogs begin their home schedule on April 11 when they host the Greensboro Grasshoppers at The Joe, preceded by a weeklong road trip. A full schedule and list of game times for the 2019 season is available at riverdogs.com.

–RIVERDOGS–

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