Columbia Fireflies to Donate to The Miracle League of Columbia on Giving Tuesday

COLUMBIA, South Carolina – The Columbia Fireflies announced today that, in partnership with BUSH’S® Beans, they will provide a donation to The Miracle League of Columbia as part of #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration, on Tuesday, Nov. 28.

Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving and the widely-recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday, #GivingTuesday kicks off the charitable season, when many focus on their holiday and end-of-year giving. Since its inaugural year in 2012, #GivingTuesday has become a movement that celebrates and supports generosity and philanthropy.

This past season, Dash Winningham was named the BUSH’S Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the 2017 South Atlantic League All-Star Game in Columbia, South Carolina, after going 1-for-2 with a double and two RBI in a 3-3, rain-shortened tie. As an extension of this award, BUSH’S and the Fireflies will provide a $1,000 donation to The Miracle League of Columbia.

“The City of Columbia’s Miracle League Field is an amazing project for our community, providing individuals with special needs to participate in baseball in a fully-accessible, safe environment,” said Columbia Fireflies President John Katz. “The field was built as a partnership between the City of Columbia, Richland County and the Ray Tanner Foundation – a non-profit founded by South Carolina Athletic Director, Ray Tanner, and his wife, Karen.

“On behalf of the Columbia Fireflies, South Atlantic League All-Star Game MVP Dash Winningham and the children of The Miracle League of Columbia, we’d like to thank BUSH’s Beans for making this donation to help further the mission and the good work being done in our community for very special people.”

BUSH’S Beans sponsored 11 All-Star Game MVP awards throughout Minor League Baseball this summer. BUSH’S is making a donation to a local charitable organization chosen by each MVP Award winner’s home club.

“One of the things that attracted BUSH’S to Minor League Baseball is how the clubs and their local communities support each other,” said Mike Morris, Senior Brand Manager at Bush Brothers & Company. “We are proud to recognize the contributions of each BUSH’S MVP Award winner by giving back to his team’s local charity.”

Minor League Baseball unveiled a multi-year, strategic partnership with BUSH’S Beans last December, making it the “Official Beans of Minor League Baseball,” and a “Preferred Partner” of a number of MiLB teams, beginning in 2017. Bush Brothers & Company is the recognized brand leader in beans. The partnership was activated across a range of touch-points this year, including in-ballpark celebrations such as National Baked Bean Month in July and the integration of a variety of BUSH’S Beans products in teams’ concessions.

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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 Minor League Baseball

Minor League Baseball, headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, is the governing body for all professional baseball teams in the United States, Canada and the Dominican Republic that are affiliated with Major League Baseball® clubs through their farm systems. Fans are coming out in unprecedented numbers to this one-of-a-kind experience that can only be found at Minor League Baseball ballparks. In 2017, Minor League Baseball attracted 41.8 million fans to its ballparks to see the future stars of the sport hone their skills. From the electricity in the stands to the excitement on the field, Minor League Baseball has provided affordable family-friendly entertainment to people of all ages since its founding in 1901. For more information, visit www.MiLB.com.

Follow Minor League Baseball on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About BUSH’S® Beans

BUSH’S® is all about friends & family, and a certain Secret Family Recipe. When you enjoy our beans (doesn’t matter if they’re baked beans, chili beans, black beans, pinto beans…well, you get the picture), you can trust that they’re the very best. Because we wouldn’t serve your family anything less. Since we got our start more than 100 years ago in Chestnut Hill, Tenn., BUSH’S® has always maintained that quality is the best policy. We pursue excellence and exceptional taste in our beans, sauces and everything we do. That’s why, from mouthwatering Baked Beans & Chili Beans to satisfying bean recipes, you’re cooking up the best with BUSH’S BEST®. For more information, visit www.bushbeans.com.

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

Funding for Durham’s Miracle League Facility Grows

With the Miracle League of the Triangle expanding its services to Downtown Durham in 2018, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) and EmergeOrtho have joined the program as Major Sponsors by each pledging $50,000 to support the organization and facility.

The new facility, initially announced in May of 2017, is set to open at 461 Morehead Ave., across the street from Durham Bulls Athletic Park. The $50,000 contributions from both Blue Cross NC and EmergeOrtho now turn into a $200,000 pledge, as the Durham Bulls and Capitol Broadcasting announced a $400,000 matching grant for the facility in May.

“The Miracle League ballpark will make Durham an even more inclusive place for all of us,” said Blue Cross NC Senior Vice President and Chief Sales, Marketing and Communications Officer Jon Roos. “Blue Cross NC is proud to call Durham our home and to support the construction of a gathering place that will bring joy to so many children and families. We’re honored to help realize the vision of children of all abilities coming together as friends.”

The Miracle League program and field are specifically designed to serve children and adults with special needs through the game of baseball. The program removes the barriers that keep children and adults with mental and physical disabilities off the baseball field, and lets them experience the joy of America’s pastime. The facility in Durham, made possible by a partnership with the Durham Housing Authority, will feature a rubberized playing surface designed to accommodate wheelchairs and other assertive devices.

“We are proud to partner with the Miracle League of the Triangle, in association with the Durham Bulls and Capitol Broadcasting, to build the new Miracle League facility with plans to be located across the street from Durham Bulls Athletic Park,” said Jim Carrier, Pharm.D., CEO of the Triangle Division of EmergeOrtho. “EmergeOrtho has continued the tradition of being partners with the communities we serve and feel a sponsorship of this tremendous program is a great cause that will bring joy to so many deserving kids.”

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

Jersey auction benefiting The Miracle League of the Triangle

The Mudcats players and field staff all wore special “Double Dare” themed game jerseys for 90s Nickelodeon Night on Saturday, June 17 at Five County Stadium.

Fans can now own those same, one-of-a-kind, game worn and autographed jerseys as they are currently available via online auction at http://auctions.carolinamudcats.com. The net proceeds of the online jersey auction will benefit the Miracle League of the Triangle.

The Miracle League of the Triangle exists to create positive life experiences for children and adults with special needs and for their families through baseball. Established in 2004, the Miracle League of the Triangle serves nearly 400 players with specials needs each year, across 30 teams.

Each jersey will arrive accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

The jersey auction will end on June 25, 2017 at 7:59 PM ET.

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

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Miracle League Night at Lake Olmstead Stadium

AUGUSTA, GA: The Augusta GreenJackets Single “A” affiliate of the San Francisco Giants have partnered together with the Family Y Miracle League – Baseball League for a special game on Saturday, June 10th.

The GreenJackets will open gates at 4:30pm prior to Saturday night’s Augusta GreenJackets and Greenville Drive (Red Sox) 6:05pm contest. The Miracle League will take the field beginning at approximately 4:50pm. Two teams from the Miracle League will play a half an hour game with the GreenJackets players on hand to support and assist players during the game.

“We invite the CSRA to come out and cheer on the Miracle League and Your GreenJackets for this FUN annual tradition, ” stated Tom Denlinger General Manager. “We promise this is an evening you won’t soon forget, grab your friends and family and we hope to see you at the Lake.”

Fans are invited to come early as Brent Lundy will be performing on the concourse as a part of the Saturday Concert Series (4:30-5:45) and you can head to the field to cheer on the GreenJackets and the Miracle League for this special event. During the Miracle League game fans are encouraged to keep your eyes and your ears tuned into game as there will be live on-field interviews conducted with the Miracle League Players. Once the game has concluded there will be a simultaneous ceremonial first pitch thrown by the Miracle League players to players of the Augusta GreenJackets.

It’s going to be a FUN night at the Lake as the first 1,000 fans will receive a one-of-a-kind Cooling Towel courtesy of Augusta University Health, this promises to be one of our most popular giveaways of the season! Every Saturday features the Saturday Concert Series from 4:30-5:45 on the main concourse. It’s Olympic Night with special games and contests all night long. Kids 12 and under are able to run the bases after the game.

About the GreenJackets:

The 29th consecutive season of professional baseball in Augusta is underway. All GreenJackets Ticket Plans (including Full, Half, and Weekend and the all-new 6-Game Flex Plans) and individual tickets are on sale now for the 2017 season. To guarantee your seats to the most popular games, order your 2017 Ticket Packages today by reaching out to the GreenJackets Front Office at (706) 922-WINS (9467).

The New Ballpark at Riverside Village is underway and deposits are now being accepted for Full Season Seats for the 2018 season. To learn more visit www.greenjackets2018.com and place your deposit to today. Leaving the Lake, Ruling the River.

To stay up to date all season long, sign up for the ‘Jackets Buzz e-newsletter by visiting www.GreenJacketsBaseball.com/thebuzz/

About the Family Y of Greater Augusta Miracle League

The Family Y of Greater Augusta’s Miracle League is a adaptive baseball league specifically designed for children and adults with physical and developmental disabilities. Games are played on a rubberized surface field that accommodates wheelchairs and other assistance devices. The Miracle League Field located behind the Uptown Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center on Wrightsboro Road. Registration for the next session of Miracle League starts in August and games will be on Saturdays. To learn more or register contact the Wilson Family Y at (706) 922-9623.

– GreenJackets –

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

Bulls, Miracle League Bring New Field to Durham

The Miracle League of the Triangle, in association with the Durham Bulls and Capitol Broadcasting Company, are expanding their services to Downtown Durham. A new Miracle League facility has plans to open in 2018 at 461 Morehead Ave., across the street from Durham Bulls Athletic Park. As part of the partnership, the Durham Bulls and Capitol Broadcasting are kicking off the fundraising with a $400,000 matching grant.

“The Miracle League is an incredibly important, impactful organization that brings the joy of baseball to so many,” Durham Bulls General Manager Mike Birling said. “We are honored to continue our partnership with The Miracle League, and to bring a facility to the doorstep of Durham Bulls Athletic Park. We look forward to doing all we can to help this tremendous program continue to grow in the Triangle.”

The Miracle League program and field are specifically designed to serve children and adults with special needs through the game of baseball. The program removes the barriers that keep children and adults with mental and physical disabilities off the baseball field, and lets them experience the joy of America’s favorite pastime. Since the main barriers for these players arise from natural grass fields, Miracle League teams play on a custom-designed, rubberized turf field that accommodates wheelchairs and other assertive devices.

Upon completion, the new facility in Durham will be the third location for The Miracle League of the Triangle, joining locations in Cary and North Raleigh. Construction is scheduled to begin on the site in late 2017.

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

Curve expanding partnership with Miracle League of Blair County

CURVE, Pa. – The Altoona Curve, Double-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates, will be expanding their relationship with the Miracle League of Blair County, beginning this summer.

This year, Curve players, staff and mascots will be doing more appearances with the Miracle League of Blair County than any previous year, beginning with the league’s Opening Day on Saturday, May 6.

“The Miracle League is a real gift to our community,” said Tobi Rispoli, Miracle League of Blair County volunteer and board member.” The Curve have always been supportive, including contributions, baseball camps and a presence throughout the year. This year will prove to be even more exciting for the kids and their families.”

Tweet from @Pirates: Thanks to the @AltoonaCurve & all who came out for today’s Miracle League of Blair County Fantasy Camp for Kids. pic.twitter.com/UJk30MDCCP

The Miracle League of Blair County is a charitable organization that provides children and youth with mental and/or physical challenges an opportunity to play baseball as a team member in an organized league, giving them an opportunity to suit up in a uniform, step up to the plate and enjoy the game of baseball in the purest form.

“Working with the Miracle League of Blair County has been truly amazing,” said Curve Director of Community Relations Emily Rosencrants. “The Miracle League of Blair County has always had a great relationship the Curve and we are excited to strengthen the partnership even more this year.”

Curve mascots will be on hand this Saturday to hang out with the Miracle League players between games.

On Saturday, June 10, Curve players will join the Miracle League Curve team for their game against the Orioles. On Saturday, June 24, Curve players will be back for the Pirates Fantasy Camp clinic with all of the Miracle League players.

“Having the Curve players involved is always great, and this year the Pirates are bringing back the Fantasy Camp, which is always one of the best days of the year,” said Rosencrants. “We are looking forward to the 2017 partnership and for the years to come.”

The Curve will also continue their postgame ball launch after weekend home games, where fans can win great prizes with all proceeds benefiting the Miracle League of Blair County.

Tweet from @AltoonaCurve: A great morning helping out at Miracle League of Blair County’s Opening Day! pic.twitter.com/9ze5rRWUFt

“We certainly hope that an increased Curve presence will generate more exposure of the Miracle League so the organization can encourage more families, players and volunteers to sign up for a Miracle League team,” said Rispoli. “The Miracle League is certainly our other ‘Hometown Team!'”

The Miracle League removes the physical barriers that keep children with mental and physical disabilities off the baseball field and lets them experience the joy of America’s favorite pastime. Miracle League teams play on a custom-designed, rubberized turf field that accommodates wheelchairs and other assertive devices while helping to prevent injuries.

For more information on the Miracle League of Blair County, visit PAMiracleLeague.com.

-CURVE-

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

Tortugas Care Charity Foundation Issues First Grant

Daytona Beach, FL — The Tortugas Care Charity Foundation issued their first $500 grant to The Miracle League of Volusia County Tuesday afternoon.

The Tortugas Care Charity Foundation was founded in September of 2016 by the ownership group of the Daytona Tortugas, with the mission of enriching the lives of youth in the community through physical education and sports. With the Daytona Tortugas serving as an affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, a partnership with a local foundation impacting the lives of youth through baseball is the perfect marriage.

Miracle League of Voluisa County was formed in early 2015 and will give those with special needs the opportunity to play America’s favorite pastime. The city of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, has donated land for the future home of our local Miracle League; however, there is still a dire need to raise funds to officially break ground.

For more information on The Miracle League of Volusia County, and ways that you can help get 13,000 school-aged children to step up to the plate, please go to http://www.miracleleaguevolusia.org

And please like the Tortugas Care Charity Foundation Facebook page.

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

Tortugas Ownership Group Establishes Community Foundation

Daytona Beach, FL – The ownership group that acquired the Daytona Tortugas Advanced A Minor League Baseball Club last year is excited to start the new year giving back to the local community with its announcement today that it has established a charitable foundation designed to benefit youth sports and turtle conservation efforts in the community.

The Tortugas Care Charity Foundation was established with seed funding from team owners Reese Smith, Bob Fregolle and Rick French as a way of giving back to the local community that has supported baseball at Jackie Robinson Ballpark for more than a century.

Fregolle and French will serve on the board of trustees of the foundation, along with recently-appointed team President Ryan Keur. Current team Community Relations Director Kristen Alford will also serve as day-to-day Director of the foundation.

The Tortugas Care Charity Foundation is a 501(c)3 philanthropic organization that is committed to enriching the lives of youth in the local community through recreational opportunities — and in a nod to the Tortugas team name — contributing to sea turtle conservation efforts.

The foundation has already made a pledge to support the Miracle League of Volusia County and Tough Baseball, a local organization that uses athletics to teach and mentor children in the community.

During the 2017 baseball season, the team is planning jersey auctions to benefit the foundation and all 50/50 raffle proceeds will also fund foundation grants. The foundation also plans to host other fundraising events throughout the upcoming season in addition to an annual signature event that will be announced soon.

The ownership group will use its social media channels, radio partnerships, team newsletter and a portion of its print advertising budget to support the growth of the foundation, which will officially launch in January.

“The Tortugas Care Charity Foundation is something that Reese, Rick and I have wanted to establish from the moment we acquired the team because each of us has adopted Daytona Beach as our second home and want to give back to the local community that comes out and supports our organization year-round” said Fregolle.

Once the foundation officially launches in a few weeks, both grant applications and donations will be accepted at the Tortugas principal office at 110 East Orange Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32114 and via their new Facebook Daytona Tortugas Care Charity Foundation Facebook page.

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

Shuckers Hit Home Run with Community Contributions and Initiatives in 2016

BILOXI, MS – During the Biloxi Shuckers second season, the team continued to give back to the community. The Shuckers have become a resource for local organizations including non-profits and schools by helping to raise funds and awareness through various methods.

The Shuckers and its concessionaire, Spectra Food Services & Hospitality raised over $178,000 for local nonprofits and donated over $30,000 of in-kind contributions. Through Shuckers initiatives including the Ticket Fundraising Program, In-Stadium Auctions and Spectra NFP Fundraising Program which benefits qualified local 501 (c) (3) nonprofit groups through concessions, the club led the ten-member Southern League for In-Stadium Fundraising.

Among the highlights of the organization’s 2016 charitable work included providing a platform for: Habitat for Humanity, Biloxi Miracle League, Mississippi Center for Autism and Related Learning Disabilities, Jackson County Animal Shelter, Memorial Hospital Foundation and Favre 4 Hope, Special Olympics, Salvation Army of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, ALS Association, American Cancer Society and Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art.

“We give back to our community because we believe we have a responsibility to do so,” stated Shuckers Community Relations and Promotions Coordinator Jenifer Truong. “Whether it’s local schools or non-profits, the Shuckers offer not only a chance to raise funds for your organization, but also awareness to a large audience.”

In addition to the organization’s charitable contributions, Shuckers’ season ticket holders donated just over 1,500 tickets to local non-profits, military personnel and their families, and first responders. The organization also made frequent mascot and player appearances in the community and members of the Shuckers front office also joined forces to record over 200 hours of community service in 2016.

Spectra’s NFP program seeks to provide qualified nonprofit groups and civic organizations a unique fundraising opportunity. Groups provide volunteers to assist with concession stand operations as cashiers, vendors, and stand workers. Those organizations work to reach fundraising goals while providing great service to fans.

“Involving area nonprofit organizations in our operation has helped us hit a home run with the community and Shuckers’ fans,” said Spectra General Manager Mike Brulatour. “Since the opening of MGM Park in June 2015, thousands of volunteers have raised over $300,000 for their respective charities. The commitment and dedication of these volunteers has enabled us to provide a consistent level of exceptional customer service to our patrons while supporting the Mississippi Gulf Coast communities which we serve. Spectra Food Services and Hospitality strives to be a strong partner with the Biloxi Shuckers and a valued member of the Gulf Coast business community.”

Organizations interested in partnering with Spectra or the Shuckers may contact Mike Brulatour at mike_brulatour@comcastspectacor.com or Jenifer Truong at jtruong@biloxishuckers.com.

The Biloxi Shuckers are the Double-A Affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The Shuckers play at MGM Park in Biloxi, Mississippi. For more information please visit biloxishuckers.com and follow us on Twitter @biloxishuckers and at facebook.com/biloxishuckers.com.

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

Miracle League Baseball Field and Inclusive Playground Initiative Planned in Eastlake near Classic Park

(Eastlake, OH) – A collaboration of leaders in Lake County have put together a fundraising task force and campaign to create an exciting project geared toward children and adults with developmental disabilities. The project is planned at the corner of Route 91 and Vine Street in Eastlake, adjacent to Classic Park, and will include construction of a Miracle League baseball playing field and a large, inclusive playground which will provide play opportunities for individuals with all abilities. An official press conference will be held with members of the community and media at Classic Park on Thursday, September 29 at 1 PM.

There are over 2,000 residents in Lake County alone who will be able to utilize these new facilities which will be open year-round to residents across northeast Ohio. The project will cost approximately $1.2 million to develop and build the Miracle League field and playground. This initiative will be 100% financed through private contributions and donations. The group spearheading this project has already received support from the Lubrizol Foundation, CT Consultants, members of the Cleveland Building and Construction Trades Council, the Lake County Captains, Captains Charities, and the Deepwood Foundation.

The Miracle League is a nationwide program with over 270 fields across the country. Their goal is to provide opportunities for children with physical and intellectual disabilities to play baseball and be part of a team. The Miracle League’s website is www.miracleleague.com for more detailed information on the league.

The team of leaders initially putting together this initiative includes the Lake County Commissioners, City of Eastlake Mayor Dennis Morley, Lake County Ohio Port and Economic Development Authority Executive Director Mark Rantala, Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities/Deepwood Superintendent Elfie Roman, Deepwood Foundation Executive Director Rikke Coach, Lake County Educational Service Center Superintendent Brian Bontempo and Lake County Captains General Manager Neil Stein.

Commissioner Judy Moran, in announcing the creation of the task force said, “I am proud to be a part of the group that has been assembled for this very special Miracle League project. The field and playground will be a place for kids and young adults to come from all over the county and the City of Eastlake to enjoy the things we all do every day. It is a heart-warming project that will put a smile on the faces of everyone involved. The Miracle League Field and Playground will enhance this County as a wonderful place for special needs individuals and their families.”

Lake County residents with special needs already recognize the high quality of community support through Deepwood and the Lake County school systems. Elfie Roman from Deepwood said, “This project epitomizes the inclusive spirit of our Lake County community, and reinforces that all our citizens, of differing abilities, can live, work, and play together!” Eastlake Mayor Dennis Morley commented, “I believe this is a great project for our community. This is not just for Eastlake but for all of Lake County and the surrounding area. I am honored to work with everyone on this task force to bring this project together for the very special group of kids and adults. This will be a special place for everyone to enjoy.”

The funds will be collected by the Deepwood Foundation and Executive Director, Rikke Coach, and will be tax deductible. The fundraising campaign will be led by fundraising Campaign Chairman Morris Beverage III and will begin in September with a goal of having the funds raised by the end of March in 2017. LCOPEDA Director, Mark Rantala said, “This is a very special project and we look forward to making this happen. Community resources like this enhance the County’s ability to attract a quality workforce. The Commissioners’ commitment recognizes that quality of life items are important to the attractiveness of the community. I am confident we can raise the funds.”

For more information on how to get involved with the project contact Mark Rantala at 440-357-2290 x232 or via e-mail at MRantala@lcport.org. Organizations interested in making a financial contribution to the project can contact Rikke Coach with the Deepwood Foundation at 440-350-5208 or Rikke.Coach@lakebdd.org.

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

Louisville Slugger Field to host Miracle League Kick-Off Event

Rendering of the future Miracle League of Louisville field located in Fern Creek

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The Miracle League and the Louisville Bats organization have partnered together for a special event at Louisville Slugger Field. This event is for all to meet and greet current Louisville Bat Jermaine Curtis and learn more about the Miracle League. Curtis will be meeting and signing autographs at the FREE Miracle League kick-off event at Louisville Slugger Field from 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 11.

The Miracle League is a baseball complex for children with physical, cognitive and/or emotional disabilities to play in an organized baseball league. The event will have raffle drawings along with a free hat giveaway to all veterans and first responders as the Miracle League will recognize their service on September 11.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Miracle League Game Set for Prior to 4/25 Game

Gates Open Early at 5:30 p.m.

lehighvalleyironpigs_2015-04-02

Lehigh-Valley-IronPigsThe Lehigh Valley IronPigs will play host to a Miracle League exhibition game and also wear commemorative Miracle League inspired jerseys provided by Majestic Athletic during their game against the Buffalo Bisons on Saturday, April 25 at Coca-Cola Park. The game-worn jerseys will be auctioned off with all proceeds benefiting the Miracle League of the Lehigh Valley and the Miracle League of Northampton County.

Miracle-League-logoThe Miracle League exhibition game between the Lehigh Valley team and the Northampton squad will take place from 5 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. In order to allow fans to watch the one-inning contest, all Coca-Cola Park gates will also open promptly at 5 p.m. Dozens of children will take part in the 8th annual Miracle League game at Coca-Cola Park. During the game, each child will have the opportunity to bat and play in the field and the IronPigs players will serve as “angels” and assist the players in all areas of the game.

The Miracle League is dedicated to providing children with special needs and other development disabilities an opportunity to play baseball. Presently there are 250 Miracle League organizations worldwide that provide opportunities to over 200,000 children and young adults with disabilities. For more information on how you can make a difference and support the local Miracle League chapters, please visit miracleleaguelv.org and miracleleagueofnc.org.

IronPigs fans can bid on their favorite player’s jerseys from anywhere with the easy-to-use Qtego service that allows fans to place bids, receive notifications when outbid and check the status of their item via text messages on their mobile phones. Fans without texting access can even call in their bid after registering their phone at Coca-Cola Park.

Register your phone from anywhere in the U.S. by texting “Pigs” to 79230. The bidding begins on April 24 and ends promptly at the end of 7th inning of the April 25 game. Detailed instructions on how to place your bid will be made available at ironpigsbaseball.com.

Winning bidders will have the opportunity to go on the field immediately following the game to have their jersey autographed. Bidders not in attendance at Coca-Cola Park can either pick up their signed jersey at a later date or have it mailed directly to them.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Click here to view the original story.

Chihuahuas and Gatorade Announce “Gatorade GO PLAY” Community Initiative

Promotes and celebrates kids living an active lifestyle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2015 Timber Rattlers Golf Outing to be held on July 27

 

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The Timber Rattlers Golf Outing is unlike any other golf outing. The 2015 event will be held on July 27 at Shamrock Heights in New London. (Wisconsin Timber Rattlers/Ann Mollica)

Charity outing at Shamrock Heights Golf Course to benefit The Miracle League of the Fox Valley

Wisconsin-Timber-Rattlers-2014The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers will be teeing off for a good cause at their annual Golf Outing on Monday, July 27. The day of fun and golf will be held at Shamrock Heights Golf Course in New London and benefit The Miracle League of the Fox Valley.

A foursome may register for $350. Foursomes have the opportunity to play with a Timber Rattlers player, but that chance is based on a first come, first serve RSVP. Individuals may register for $100.

Miracle-League-logoThe outing tees off with registration beginning at 8:00am and a shotgun start at 9:00am. Lunch is included with registration and will be served at the turn. Snacks will be available after the round of golf from 2-4pm. A raffle drawing and awards presentation will conclude the event.

If you wish to participate in the 2015 Wisconsin Timber Rattlers Golf Outing, please contact Hilary Bauer at (920) 733-4152 or hbauer@timberrattlers.com by Monday, July 20. Registration forms are also available at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium and online at timberrattlers.com.

Persons unable to golf, but looking for a way to contribute may consider a hole sponsorship package at $100 or an in-kind donation toward raffle/hole prizes.

The Miracle League of the Fox Valley, an organized baseball league for children aged 4-19 with physical and/or cognitive disabilities, was formed in 2008 by Fox Valley parents Lisa and Mark Robbins. Registration is open now through March 30 for players and volunteers for the 2015 Miracle League of the Fox Valley season, which starts on June 8. The league plays their games at the John Wollner Fox Cities Miracle Field in Appleton’s Memorial Park.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers. Click here to view the original story.