Reno Aces Partners with JAKKS Pacific for Annual Toy Donations to Benefit Local Charities

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces have been spreading joy with thousands of toys to local charities during its annual toy donation in partnership with JAKKS Pacific throughout the holiday season. This year, the Aces have partnered with the following eight local charities for its toy donation:

Ashlee’s Toy Closet

Boys and Girls Club of Truckee Meadows

Greater Nevada Credit Union

Reno Rodeo Foundation

Tahoe Truckee Toys for Tots

Washoe County Sherriff’s Office

Washoe County Toys for Tots

Women and Children’s Center of the Sierra

“Over the years, our partnership with JAKKS Pacific has been phenomenal. Thanks to the friendship between our owner Herb Simon and Stephen Berman, JAKKS CEO, the Aces ensure every toy donated brings a local child in need some joy,” said Reno Aces President Eric Edelstein. “We can’t thank the Northern Nevada community enough for the support they provide the Aces, and these toys are a chance for us to give back to those less fortunate in the region.”

JAKKS Pacific Co-Founder and CEO Stephan Berman and Aces owner Herb Simon have been longtime friends, partnering for over a decade to make toy donations. The partnership has led to thousands of toys being donated to various charities in Nevada and Central Indiana.

The Reno Aces are slated to open the 2023 season at Greater Nevada Field on Friday, March 31st, against the Las Vegas Aviators, Triple-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics. Season Memberships are available via RenoAces.com, texting “MEMBER” to 21003, or calling (775) 334-7000.

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Reno Aces Fans Raise Over $22,000 in Theme Jersey Auctions

RENO, Nev. – From Doctor Strange to SpongeBob SquarePants, Margaritaville, and more, the players and coaching staff wore a wide range of jerseys beyond their standard red, white, and blues during their Pacific Coast League Championship run at Greater Nevada Field.

This season, the Aces partnered with six Reno-area charities, Reno Rodeo Foundation, JOIN Inc., Eddy House, Communities in Schools of Nevada, Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation, and Disabled American Veterans, with each theme jersey night that included a jersey auction.

After a final tally of each theme-jersey auction, the Reno Aces are proud to announce a total of $22,374.18, with each of the six beneficiary charities receiving $3,729.

“The sense of giving that the Aces fans showcased this year to our charitable partners was remarkable with every dollar raised,” said Reno Aces Community Relations Manager Mary Knezovich. “These jerseys allow the winner to have a one-of-a-kind Reno Aces piece of history, and every winning bid helps the Northern Nevada community.”

Eddy House –

“Eddy House is very grateful to the Reno Aces for donating the proceeds of their jersey auction! Eddy House is Northern Nevada’s only shelter serving youth 18 to 24. When youth come to us, they have full access to our wide range of services, including immediate needs such as shelter, food, and showers, as well as case management, workforce development, therapy, and more. This money will help us to continue to provide these services as the demand increases with the cold weather. Thank you!”

Reno Rodeo Foundation –

“What most people don’t realize about the Denim Drive is that 100% of all donations go directly to these children,” said Debby Herman, Reno Rodeo Foundation President. “The support from the Reno Aces will directly benefit our program and the amazing impact the proceeds from the Marvel Jersey auction with have for children who have experienced the unimaginable”

“The Denim Drive program has evolved to providing Reno Rodeo Foundation purchase cards to social works so the kids can pick out their new clothing and hygiene items” said Clara Andriola, Executive Director of the Reno Rodeo Foundation. “Social workers have shared this process gives them a sense of pride, calms their anxiety from the trauma, boosts their confidence and allows them to express their individual style while teaching them crucial life skills that help them feel normal, especially during a time when everything the children know and own has been ripped away from them.”. The Reno Aces generous donation sends a message that someone really cares about them.”

Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation –

“Northern Nevada is a beautiful place to live because of great community partners like the Reno Aces. Your donation is greatly appreciated, and more important than ever, it offers Help, Hope, and Courage to families from the moment their child is diagnosed through survivorship. The Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation can provide services to ensure local families can overcome the financial and emotional burdens of a childhood cancer diagnosis. In the last 20 years, our foundation has provided over $7 million in direct financial assistance to local children. Your support helps assist approximately 120 children with needs such as medical, household, educational, and travel expenses related to treatment. We can provide this support because of donors like you. We appreciate the Reno Aces and recognize the significant impact of their donation. Thank you for helping make a difference for our youngest cancer warriors and their families.”

Communities in Schools of Nevada –

“We’re grateful that the Reno Aces and the Aces fans help put the “Communities” in our name through the jersey auction event! With the funds raised through this generous donation, we are able to continue our work in helping the almost 9,000 students in 13 schools throughout Washoe County by eliminating barriers to staying in school and graduating. Thank you to everyone who bid and won!”

The Reno Aces theme-jersey auctions will return in 2023, with the first one set for May, and additional auctions will run on select Saturdays throughout the season.

Baseball returns to Greater Nevada Field on Friday, March 31st, as the Reno Aces 2023 Opening Day will include a battle against their Silver State rivals, the Las Vegas Aviators, Triple-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics. To purchase tickets or for more information about the Reno Aces, visit www.renoaces.com.

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Honoring Two Grandchildren’s Legacies; a Local Grandfather will be Recognized at Aug. 19 Reno Aces Game

RENO, NV (Aug. 15, 2022) — Anthony Lyson was 18 years old when he died from a severe allergic reaction to tree nuts in 2017. His cousin, Frankie Lynn Young, passed away at 10 months old in 2012 after being born prematurely and experiencing health complications with her breathing. Anthony saved five lives through organ donation and Frankie saved three. Both were the grandchildren of Reno local, David Lyson.

David will run the bases at the Reno Aces’ Home Run for Life game, presented by Donor Network West, after the second inning, Friday, Aug. 19, at Greater Nevada Field as they take on the Salt Lake Bees.

David has owned and operated a print shop for nearly 34 years in Reno and extends his passion as a community leader to organ donation advocacy, speaking with high school students and DMV groups about his grandchildren and their life-saving gifts.

“Frankie was an incredible little girl,” said David. “And Anthony was such a wonderful young man; a 4.0 student who loved numbers and wanted to become an aeronautical engineer. He was so excited when he got his driver’s license in the mail saying, ‘Look, I got my license and I got my red heart!’”

One donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation and up to 75 lives through tissue donation. More than 600 Nevadans are on the organ transplant waiting list.

Donor Network West, northern Nevada and northern California’s federally designated non-profit organ procurement organization, is proud to support six Home Run for Life baseball games throughout the 2022 season. The partnership brings critical awareness about organ donation to the community and its sports fans. This will be the fifth Home Run for Life game of the 2022 season.

“David continues the legacies of Frankie and Anthony by sharing their stories – the Donor Network West team is immensely grateful to David and his family for their continued advocacy for organ donation,” Janice Whaley, President and CEO of Donor Network West, said. “Our partnership with the Reno Aces is just one of the many powerful ways we honor the gifts of donors and their families and give hope to those on the waiting list.“

The 2022 season is the first time Donor Network West and Reno Aces have partnered to showcase the Home Run for Life program. Once a month, brave individuals and families in the northern Nevada community are honored by taking a ceremonial trip around the bases, with each team lining the baselines. Individuals honored have received life-saving transplants or have lost a loved one who saved lives through organ donation.

“Honoring everyone who’s been impacted by organ donation at Greater Nevada Field has created incredibly powerful moments throughout our season,” Eric Edelstein, President of Reno Aces and Greater Nevada Field, said. “Seeing our community rally around organ donors and their families has been so special. We look forward to continuing our support of Donor Network West’s community outreach and educational efforts for organ donation.”

Anyone can register to be an organ donor. To learn more and to register as an organ donor, visit DonorNetworkWest.org.

— @MyDNWest —

Media note: If the media would like an interview with David Lyson ahead of the Friday, Aug. 19 Aces game, please contact Jena Esposito, [email protected], 702-513-0606. Photos of Lyson’s grandchildren, Frankie and Anthony, are available for download here.

Photo cutline: Donor Network West and the Reno Aces will honor the family of David Lyson at the Aug. 19 Home Run for Life game. David’s grandson, Anthony Lyson, was 18 years old when he died from a severe allergic reaction – he saved five lives through donation. David’s granddaughter, Frankie Lynn Young, passed away at 10 months old after being born prematurely and experiencing health complications with her breathing – she saved three lives.

About Donor Network West

Donor Network West saves and heals lives by facilitating organ and tissue recovery for transplantation and research. The organization was established in 1987 and is an official Donate Life organization accredited by the Association of Organ Procurement Organizations (AOPO) and the American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB). Federally designated to serve 45 counties in northern Nevada and northern California, Donor Network West has headquarters in northern Nevada and California and partners with the Department of Motor Vehicles and the state-authorized donor registries. For information, visit DonorNetworkWest.org and follow us on social media: @mydnwest.

About the Reno Aces
Since 2009, the Reno Aces, Triple-A affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, has been a fixture in the Northern Nevada community providing family-friendly entertainment and Minor League Baseball in downtown Reno at Greater Nevada Field. Over the past 14 years, over 4.5 million fans have passed through the turnstiles, and the Aces have contributed to thousands of different non-profit charities throughout the region. For more information about the team or tickets for the entire 2022 season, visit RenoAces.com or Text TIXX to 21003.

Aces, Greater Nevada Credit Union to host Community Partner Ticket Fundraising Program webinar

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces, in partnership with Greater Nevada Credit Union, will be hosting a virtual kickoff event for their Community Partner Ticket Fundraising Program on Wednesday, February 23rd. The Zoom webinar will feature Aces president Eric Edelstein and GNCU chief experience officer Danny DeLaRosa, who will unveil the 2022 program details.

“The Reno Aces are proud to partner with Greater Nevada on an enhanced Community Partner Ticket Fundraising program for the 2022 season,” said Edelstein. “Organizations in Northern Nevada will have more access to funds than ever before, and we look forward to discussing opportunity for involvement at the kickoff event on February 23rd.”

The program was originally created in 2016, and has helped more than 200 local organizations raise over $300,000 collectively. This year, the program will provide even more opportunity for groups, thanks to additional donation offerings courtesy of GNCU. As part of the program, organizations can sell Aces tickets and receive a portion of the proceeds. Details regarding GNCU’s additional donation offerings will be explained in the webinar.

“Greater Nevada Credit Union wants to assist non-profits in raising much-needed funds to support their community work”, said Wally Murray, president and CEO of Greater Nevada Credit Union. “We are keenly aware that the pandemic disrupted fundraising for many worthwhile charities. The Community Partners program at Greater Nevada Field is another way we are showing Greater Nevada’s ongoing commitment to the organizations serving others and making a positive impact throughout the region.”

All organizations in Northern Nevada with fundraising interest are encouraged to attend the event which starts at 4:00pm PT, and can RSVP for the event by clicking here.

Celebrating Black History Month with the Top 5 Black Players in Las Vegas Professional Baseball History

Aviators Recognize Top 5 Black Players in Franchise History

In honor of Black History Month, the ballclub gives a tip of the cap to five of its all-time greats

By Matt Jacob | Las Vegas Aviators | @MattRJacob

In celebration of Black History Month, teams across Minor League Baseball are taking a look back at five of the best Black players to suit up for their club.

While some of these standout performers went on to long and illustrious Major League careers, others simply had great Minor League careers. Or, in some cases, just one incredible season that went down as “a year for the ages.”

Here is a look at five of the best Black baseball players ever to don a Las Vegas Stars, 51s or Aviators uniform.

James Loney (Las Vegas 51s, 2006-07)

A first-round pick of the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2002 amateur draft, James Loney had modest success during his first four professional seasons. Playing exclusively in the low minors, the Houston native batted .280 with 181 RBI in 431 games.

Loney then earned his first Triple-A promotion ahead of the 2006 season. Upon arriving at Cashman Field, the 22-year-old first baseman promptly showed why the Dodgers made him a first-round selection. Loney won the Pacific Coast League batting crown with a .380 average, collecting 136 hits — including 33 doubles — in 98 games. He finished the season with eight home runs, 67 RBI and 64 runs, and by the following April, he was on the Dodgers’ opening-day roster.

Loney returned to Las Vegas briefly in 2007, and finished his 51s career with a .341 batting average, nine homers, 99 RBI and 92 runs in 156 games. He went on to enjoy a productive 11-year Major League career with the Dodgers, Tampa Bay Rays, New York Mets and Boston Red Sox. In nearly 1,500 big-league games, Loney batted .284 with 108 homers, 267 doubles and 669 RBI.

Matt Kemp (Las Vegas 51s, 2006-07)

It didn’t take Matt Kemp very long to race through the Los Angeles’ Dodgers minor-league system. Just three years after L.A. drafted him in the sixth round, Kemp was patrolling the outfield at Dodger Stadium and showcasing the hitting prowess that would make him a frequent MVP candidate.

Las Vegas baseball fans got a first-hand glimpse of Kemp’s five-tool talents during parts of two seasons with the 51s. The Oklahoma native was promoted from Double-A Jacksonville during the 2006 season and hit .368 with three homers and 36 RBI in 44 games in Las Vegas. After finishing the 2006 campaign in L.A., a 22-year-old Kemp returned to the 51s to start the 2007 season and he hit .329 with four homers and 20 RBI in 39 games.

That was enough for the Dodgers to come calling again, and Kemp never looked back. In 15 big-league seasons — the first nine of which were spent with the Dodgers — Kemp made three All-Star teams, won two Silver Slugger awards and two Gold Gloves.

During a particularly prolific three-year run from 2009-2011, Kemp hit .290 with 93 home runs, 83 doubles, 17 triples, 316 RBI and 294 runs. The best of those seasons was in 2011, when Kemp posted a career-best .324 batting average and led the National League with 39 homers, 126 RBI and 115 runs. In a controversial vote, he fell just short of winning the NL MVP.

Kemp retired after the 2020 season, finishing his career with a .284 average, 287 homers and 1,031 RBI in 1,750 Major League games.

Shane Mack (Las Vegas Stars, 1986-89)

Shane Mack’s baseball career began with a bit of a gamble: After the Kansas City Royals drafted him in the fourth round of the 1981 draft, the Los Angeles native declined to sign, instead accepting a scholarship from UCLA. The decision paid off, because three years later, the San Diego Padres selected Mack with the 11th overall pick of the 1984 draft and promptly sent the outfielder to Double-A.

After two solid seasons with the Beaumont (Texas) Golden Gators, Mack was elevated to Triple-A Las Vegas during the 1986 season. He would spend parts of the next four seasons with the Stars, batting .326 across 137 games.

In addition to being part of Las Vegas’ only two Pacific Coast League championship teams in 1986 and 1988, Mack earned his first two big-league promotions, playing a combined 201 games for the Padres in 1987 and 1988.

Prior to the start of the 1990 season, Mack was traded to the Minnesota Twins, where he enjoyed his greatest Major League success. In five seasons in Minnesota, he hit .309 with 67 homers, 119 doubles, 24 triples, 315 RBI, 351 runs and 71 stolen bases. At age 27, Mack was an integral part of the Twins’ 1991 World Series-winning team, batting .318 with 18 homers, 27 doubles and 74 RBI.

Mack ended his nine-year Major League career with a .299 batting average — and he finished it with the team that initially drafted him: the Royals.

Bip Roberts (Las Vegas Stars, 1987-88; 1995)

Like Mack, Leon “Bip” Roberts bypassed pro ball when he was initially drafted in 1981 by the Pittsburgh Pirates. But after the second baseman spent one season at Chabot College in Heyward, California, the Pirates came after Roberts again, selecting the Berkeley native in the first round of the 1982 draft.

This time, Roberts signed. However, he never played a game for the Pirates, as the San Diego Padres plucked him in the 1985 Rule 5 Draft. In so doing, the Padres had to keep Roberts on the big-league roster for the entire 1985 season or offer him back to Pittsburgh. They did just that, and Roberts hit .253 in 101 games with San Diego.

No longer under Rule 5 constraints, the Padres shipped diminutive infielder to Triple-A Las Vegas before the 1987 season. Needless to say, the 5-foot-7 Roberts rose to the challenge, as he batted .329, scored 139 runs and stole 56 bases in 198 games with the Stars in 1987-88.

Roberts was a huge contributor to the Stars’ 1988 Pacific Coast League championship club. He hit .353, posted a .406 on-base percentage, delivered 36 extra-base hits (including eight triples) and stole 29 bases in 36 attempts.

The Padres finally recalled Roberts in September 1988, and “The Bipster” spent the next decade as a big leaguer with six different teams (Padres, Royals, Reds, Indians, Tigers and his hometown A’s). In all, he played 12 Major League seasons and hit .294 with 30 home runs, 203 doubles, 31 triples, 663 runs, 352 RBI and 264 stolen bases.

Roberts, who played three games for Las Vegas in 1995 on an injury rehab stint, also made the 1992 National League All-Star team and finished among the top 10 NL hitters in 1990, 1992 and 1994.

Eddie Williams (Las Vegas Stars, 1990, 1994, 1998)

If ever there was a poster child for the phrase “baseball journeyman,” it was Eddie Williams.

Drafted by the New York Mets with the fourth-overall pick in 1983, Williams played for 11 different Major League organizations from 1983-1999. He then went on to play four seasons of independent ball and one season in the Mexican League.

A prodigious power hitter from San Diego, Williams did three tours of duty with his hometown Padres in 1990, 1994-95 and 1998. And each time the first baseman/third baseman returned to the San Diego organization, he found his way to Las Vegas, where he frequently tormented Pacific Coast League pitchers.

Never was this truer than on April 22, 1998, when Williams had a game for the ages north of the border: Facing the Calgary Cannons, Williams exploded for a Las Vegas franchise-record four home runs and 10 RBI in a wild 20-15 victory.

Every time he donned a Stars uniform, Williams delivered at the plate. He hit .316 with 17 homers and 75 RBI in 93 games in 1990; .352 with 20 homers and 54 RBI in 59 games in 1994; and .336 with 20 homers and 77 RBI in 90 games in 1998.

Altogether, Williams’ career statistics rank among the best in Las Vegas history: .332 batting average, 57 homers, 65 doubles, 176 runs and 206 RBI.

Williams spent parts of 10 seasons (395 games) with six big-league clubs, but he did the bulk of his damage for San Diego. In 177 games with the Padres, Williams hit .279 with 26 of his 39 career home runs and 96 of his 150 career RBI.

Aces to make toy donations to seven charities ahead of holiday season

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces, in partnership with JAKKS Pacific, will make toy donations to seven different local charities ahead of the holiday season. Washoe County Toys for Tots, Lithia Hyundai, Ashlee’s Toy Closet, Reno Rodeo Foundation, Greater Nevada Credit Union, Tahoe Truckee Toys for Tots and Washoe County Sheriff will all receive toys for wider distribution in the Northern Nevada area and beyond.

“We are thrilled to be the recipient of such a generous gift from our friends at JAKKS Pacific.,” Aces president Eric Edelstein said. “Their generosity will again be felt through the Northern Nevada community and we are proud to make the holidays brighter for those less fortunate.”

JAKKS Pacific Co-Founder and CEO Stephen Berman and Aces owner Herb Simon have been longtime friends, partnering for over a decade to make toy donations. The partnership has led to thousands of toys being donated to various charities in both Nevada and Central Indiana.

The first donation is tomorrow, November 30, benefitting Washoe County Toys for Tots. Lithia Hyundai and the Washoe County Sheriff will both be on Wednesday, Dec. 1, and Ashlee’s Toy Closet will be Saturday, Dec. 4. Monday, Dec. 13 will see toys donated to the Reno Rodeo Foundation, and the donations will conclude on December 17 with Greater Nevada Credit Union.

Aces Final Stretch homers to benefit District 1 Little League in Northern Nevada

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces will be competing on behalf of Northern Nevada’s District 1 Little League, as part of Minor League Baseball’s “Homers that Help.” For each home run the Aces hit over the Triple-A Final Stretch, MiLB will donate $50 to District 1.

“We are thrilled to partner with District 1 to help fund scholarships for athletes in need of assistance,” said Aces president Eric Edelstein. “We look forward to working with them to grow participation in sports through this partnership!”

District 1 represents 12 Little Leagues across the Reno, Sparks, Carson City and Lake Tahoe areas. District 1 coordinates all league initiatives, as well as MLB initiatives such as Home Run Derby and Pitch, Hit and Run. They also coordinate training for umpires, volunteers and coaches for all leagues.

The Final Stretch will include the 10 remaining games against Albuquerque and Las Vegas, concluding on Sunday, August 3 at home against Las Vegas.

Through 118 regular season games, the Aces hit the second-most homers in all of Triple-A – 193 long balls.

Aces are back in action tonight after being off yesterday. First pitch from Albuquerque is set for 5:35 p.m. PT, and can be heard on KPLY 630AM or on RenoAces.com with Zack Bayrouty on the call.

Reno Aces to host fifth “Home Run for Life” ceremony on Friday

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces will host their fifth Saint Mary’s “Home Run for Life” ceremony of 2021, featuring Carrie Chamberlin, a breast cancer warrior,on Friday, Sept. 3 when the Aces take on the Tacoma Rainiers at 6:35 p.m. PT at Greater Nevada Field.

Since 2014, the Aces and Saint Mary’s have partnered to showcase the “Home Run for Life” program. Once a month, a brave individual in the Northern Nevada community is honored by taking a ceremonial trip around the bases with each team lining the baselines. The ceremony symbolizes the end of a battle against adversity. Individuals honored have overcome a significant medical event in their life with the help of Saint Mary’s personnel.

Carrie persevered through her relentless battle with breast cancer.

In October 2015, Chamberlin was diagnosed with stage zero ductal carcinoma in situ, which is abnormal cells found in the milk ducts of a women’s breast. Following surgery and a small round of radiation, the long-time Aces fan found herself clear of cancerous cells.

After five years without any issues, a time for celebration turned sour as Carrie found out she had breast cancer on Christmas Eve. A little over a month after the positive diagnosis, Chamberlin had both of her breasts removed and the doctors were able to remove all of the cancer cells.

The real battle came in the weeks following, as Carrie had struggled with mobility in both of her arms. Had it not been for Saint Mary’s Fitness Center and her fitness trainers, Denise and Stephanie, her road to recovery would have been stunted.

As of August 2021, Chamberlin has been cancer-free and credits her family, friends and the Saint Mary’s professionals for getting her healthy and in shape to take her life back.

Carrie Chamberlin will round the bases commemorating her “Home Run for Life” in the middle of the second inning on Friday night. The Reno Aces and the Tacoma Rainiers players and staff will be lined up at a 12-foot distance to greet him as she makes her way toward home plate.

Greater Nevada Field gates open at 5:35 p.m. PT on Friday, Sept. 3. Tickets are on sale now at www.renoaces.com or by calling (775) 334-7000.

Aces hosting Saturday toy drive with Ashlee’s Toy Closet for fire victims

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces are partnering with Ashlee’s Toy Closet for a toy drive prior to this Saturday’s game against the Tacoma Rainiers. Fans will be able to drop off items beginning at 4:30 p.m. PT for the 6:35 p.m. PT game at Greater Nevada Field. The supplies will go directly to help children affected by the various fires in our area, including the Tamarack, Caldor, Dixie and Beckwourth Complex fires.

The drive will be looking for new toys, new socks and underwear packs, new blankets and gift cards for families to use on meals, gas or general needs.

“All of us as the Aces are Nevadans who are heartbroken to see community suffering at the hands of wildfires,” said Aces president Eric Edelstein. “We pledge to support those on the front lines of this disaster just as we have the last and will do the next.”

“The Aces have supported Ashlee’s Toy Closet for several years in the form of donating toys so that they can be delivered to children who have lost everything due to fire,” said Aces general manager Emily Jaenson. “What we respect most about Ashlee is her response time to help people right here in our own community. She sees a need, fills her truck, and delivers toys into the hands of children when they need them most.”

Ashlee’s Toy Closet started in South Lake Tahoe 14 years ago after the Angora Fire. Ashlee Smith, the daughter of a firefighter, started the organization which is currently providing boots-on-the-ground support of all evacuees from the Caldor fire.

Aces to host PLAY BALL initiative with Mayor Schieve on Sunday, July 25

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces and Mayor Hillary Schieve will partner for the PLAY BALL Initiative and National Baseball Day prior to the club’s July 25 game against the Round Rock Express, beginning 90 minutes prior to first pitch. Mayor Schieve will also be in attendance.

PLAY BALL is a partnership between Major League Baseball and the U.S. Conference of Mayors, where Mayor Schieve was recently elected Second Vice President. MLB’s initiative demonstrates the positive way the game can serve as an outlet for physical activity and fun with friends all while encouraging young people and communities to engage in the game of baseball at its most basic levels.

“The Reno Aces have been an integral part of the Biggest Little City community for more than a decade,” Reno Mayor Schieve said. “For the past few years, I’ve been partnering with the Aces on the U.S. Conference of Mayors Play Ball initiative, and each year it gets bigger and better.”

Kids of all ages with a ticket to the game are welcome to participate on the field at Greater Nevada Field before gates open, engaging in a short baseball clinic dedicated to skill development, social interaction, team building and learning basic fundamentals.

Participants will be able to enhance their hitting, fielding and running abilities through the classic tee work, in-field work and baserunning games.

“I encourage our local families to come out to Greater Nevada Field on July 25th for a fun day at the ballpark,” Mayor Schieve added. “We have one of the best Triple-A stadiums in the nation, and this is a unique opportunity for fans to get on the field.”

Any attendee will be eligible for a complimentary shirt on a first-come, first-serve basis for their participation with the Reno Aces and the Mayor’s office.

For more information, please visit RenoAces.com or contact the Aces at (775) 334-4700.

Margaritaville, Military Appreciation Nights to star in Aces’ August promotions

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces to host Margaritaville and Military Appreciation Nights as part of August’s feature promotions at Greater Nevada Field. Tickets are available on RenoAces.com, by calling (775) 334-7000 or texting “TIXX” to 21003.

The Aces will go down to Margaritaville, presented by Greater Nevada Credit Union and KOLO 8 News Now, in its ode to legendary singer Jimmy Buffett on Saturday, Aug. 7, with an Aces Bucket Hat giveaway, presented by GNCU, available to fans at the gates on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Attendees can also package their tickets with a limited edition Aces Hawaiian shirt by clicking here for just $35 per package. Along with the bucket hats, fans will get a full Margaritaville experience with specialty food and beverage options such as “Margarita Burger”, “Island Tots”, “Tequila Lime Chicken Sliders” and Margarita specials.

The club will also be wearing a Hawaiian-shirt-inspired jersey for the game and will be auctioned off via Livesource for charity.

“As we continue to roll both on and off the field with Aceball this season, we know that the August promotional calendar will give all fans something to be excited about,” Aces President Eric Edelstein said. “Greater Nevada Field will continue to be the place to be all summer long in Northern Nevada.”

Following Margaritaville to kick off August’s promotions, the Aces will welcome all current and former frontline fighters to the field for Military Appreciation Night, presented by Silver State International & Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment, KOH AM 780 and KOLO 8 News Now, on Saturday, Aug. 28.

The evening will feature a Kevin Cron Tank bobblehead giveaway with limited quantities available for fans at the gate. A pregame collaboration with Rescue 22, a local non-profit organization dedicated to pairing service members with emotional support animals, will take place on-field so all attendees are encouraged to arrive early. During the contest, the Aces and the Sierra Nevada Vietnam Veterans 989 Chapter will hold a re-dedication ceremony for our Prisoner of War chair. The evening dedicated to our brave soldiers will also feature a postgame fireworks display.

Reno will sport a special Camo-based jersey for Military Appreciation Night and will also be auctioned off for charity through Livesource. Any active military members can buy discounted tickets by clicking here.

Biggest Little City Sundays, where the team dons their red alternate BLC ‘City Pride’ caps, are set to continue next month and will be featured twice, Aug. 8 against Tacoma and Aug. 29 versus Sacramento.

Our K-9 fans will be welcomed to the stadium once again on Monday, Aug. 9, as part of the team’s Dog Days of Summer. The first Monday of each month allows fans the opportunity to bring their dogs to the park, vaccination paperwork is required. For more information, please click here.

Baseball Bingo has returned to Greater Nevada Field for every Monday home game. When in attendance, stop by section 104 to pick up your scorecard to play along during the game and win prizes.

Daily Deals will also be featured throughout the month. Every Monday is Military Monday, presented by 105.7 KOZZ, which offers buy-one-get-one-free tickets to all military and first responders. Each week also includes Taco Tuesday, presented by Alice 96.5, featuring two tacos for six dollars, or two and a beer for 10 dollars. Additionally, Thirsty Thursdays, presented by Coors Light, Rock 104.5 and ESPN 94.5, offer two-buck Coors Lights drafts and four-dollar Aceball Ale drafts.

Weekend Daily Deals feature Firework Fridays, presented by Saint Mary’s, My News 4, Fox 11 and Nevada Sports Net, Super Saturdays’ giveaways and Family Sundays, presented by 106.9 MoreFM, that offer one-dollar hot dogs.

Aces to partner with KOLO Cares, Food Bank of Northern Nevada for food drive

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces and KOLO Cares are partnering with the Food Bank of Northern Nevada to include a food drive at Aces games from June 17-20. All who bring a non-perishable food item will receive a buy-one-get-one-half-off ticket voucher for the Aces’ August 5-10 series against the Tacoma Rainiers.

“KOLO 8 News Now is excited and proud to partner with the Reno Aces and the Food Bank of Northern Nevada to help provide much needed food to residents in our area,” said KOLO’s General Manager Matt Eldredge. “Along with their annual toy drive for needy children, the Aces prove again to be a generous supporter of worthwhile causes to help those in need in Northern Nevada.”

The Food Bank of Northern Nevada provides food for families in need, through more than 145 partner agencies. The food bank serves more than 106,000 people every month, and have served as a 501(c)3 nonprofit for more than three decades.

KOLO Cares is a program with KOLO 8 News Now, highlighting the charitable and community work done in the Northern Nevada region.

Reno Aces to host second “Home Run for Life” ceremony on Friday

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces will host their second Saint Mary’s “Home Run for Life” ceremony of 2021, featuring Antonette Shaw-Costa, a breast cancer survivor,on Friday, June 4 when the Aces take on the Sacramento River Cats at 6:35 p.m. PT at Greater Nevada Field.

Since 2014, the Aces and Saint Mary’s have partnered to showcase the “Home Run for Life” program. Once a month, a brave individual in the Northern Nevada community is honored by taking a ceremonial trip around the bases with each team lining the baselines. The ceremony symbolizes the end of a battle against adversity. Individuals honored have overcome a significant medical event in their life with the help of Saint Mary’s personnel.

Antonette is an embodiment of a warrior’s heart, battling through thick and thin and still coming out on top.

In January 2018, Antonette found the infamous sign of cancer in her right breast and on her lymph nodes, a lump. It was not long before the words “you have cancer” were uttered from her doctor’s mouth and left her in a world of “deafening silence”.

The news was shocking for Antonette but, she turned to social media as an outlet and started a video blog called Antonette Inspires to provide support not only for herself but, for those who also needed to know they were not alone.

This warrior went through six months of chemotherapy, six surgeries and six and a half weeks of strong radiation to banish those cancerous cells. Through her 18-month bout with breast cancer, Antonette continued to show her strength, grinding out her everyday job as a realtor by nearly breaking her own personal sales goals in the process and also found love as a newlywed last year.

In the coming months, Antonette will be a competitor in the Breast Cancer to Bikini Competition in October to take back her mind, body and spirit.

Antonette will round the bases commemorating her “Home Run for Life” in the middle of the second inning on Friday night. The Reno Aces and the Sacramento River Cats players and staff will be lined up at a 12-foot distance to greet her as she makes her way toward home plate.

Greater Nevada Field gates open at 5:35 p.m. PT on Friday, June 4. Tickets are on sale now at www.renoaces.com or by calling (775) 334-7000.

Aces to Host “Home Run for Life” Ceremony on May 28

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces will host their first Saint Mary’s “Home Run for Life” ceremony of 2021, featuring Amanda Petch, a cervical cancer survivor,on Friday, May 28 when the Aces take on the Tacoma Rainiers at 6:35 p.m. PT at Greater Nevada Field.

Since 2014, the Aces and Saint Mary’s have partnered to showcase the “Home Run for Life” program. Once a month, a brave individual in the Northern Nevada community is honored by taking a ceremonial trip around the bases with each team lining the baselines. The ceremony symbolizes the end of a battle against adversity. Honored individuals of the run have overcome a significant medical event in their life with the help of Saint Mary’s personnel.

Amanda Petch embodies the true sentiment of what it means to be a warrior, defying all odds and coming out victorious in her battle against cervical cancer.

In early 2020, Amanda and her husband found out they were expecting their first child. Like any parent, both were overcome with joy and excitement to welcome their newborn. During their first ultrasound appointment, regular testing was done as well as their first sight at the soon-to-be baby boy.

Unfortunately, a moment of happy feelings quickly turned “hopeless and broken” as her doctor found a lump on her cervix that turned out to be cancerous. Add in the tumultuous circumstances surrounding COVID-19 on top of the pregnancy and the lump, the future was unknown.

With a great support team from her family, friends, and prayer warriors from around the country, Amanda battled through all the curveballs thrown her way. She delivered her healthy son six weeks early through a c-section and endured over 30 combined rounds of chemotherapy en route to her victory.

On April 21, 2021, Amanda officially took down cancer after a year-long battle when her final scans showed no signs.

Amanda will round the bases commemorating her “Home Run for Life” in the middle of the second inning on Friday night. The Reno Aces and the Tacoma Rainiers players and staff will be lined up at a 12-foot distance to greet her as she makes her way toward home plate.

Greater Nevada Field gates open at 5:35 p.m. PT on Friday, May 28. Tickets are on sale now at www.renoaces.com or by calling (775) 334-7000.


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Aces, Community Health Alliance offer free vaccines at Aces games

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces and Community Health Alliance have announced 17 dates to offer free vaccines at Greater Nevada Field for all attending fans, including Tuesday, May 18, at the Aces’ series finale against the Las Vegas Aviators at 12:05 p.m. PT.

“We are excited that baseball is back in Northern Nevada and to partner with the Reno Aces this season to make getting your COVID-19 vaccine even easier,” said Oscar Delgado, CEO of Community Health Alliance. “Getting your vaccine is as easy as getting a hot dog and a cool drink from the snack stand. Be safe and enjoy the season.”

Members of the Community Health Alliance will be present at the stadium on the following dates:

· May 18 and 28

· June 3, 7, 17, and 21

· July 8, 12, 22, and 26

· August 5, 9, 26, and 30

· September 2, 16, and 20

“The Community Health Alliance has been an excellent resource and partner throughout the pandemic to return our fans to Greater Nevada Field,” said Aces President Eric Edelstein. “Getting our community vaccinated is the crucial last step to returning our lives to normal and we are ecstatic to bring them into our home for all of our fans.”

The vaccines will be administered on the concourse behind section 115 and will run for the entirety of the game with Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) available.

Community Health Alliance has seven health centers across Reno and Sparks. They offer quality medical, behavioral and pediatric dental care to the uninsured, underinsured and the insured. They have two in-house pharmacies ensuring that they provide health care for the whole you. Call (775) 329-6300 to make an appointment or visit www.chanevada.org for more information.