Hometown Hero: Stacy Kitchens

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SPOKANE, Wash. – The COVID-19 pandemic has created several stress factors in hospitals as protocols change, capacity is reached, and employees are susceptible to contracting the virus. It’s essential that leaders in healthcare continue to be positive and supportive for coworkers and patients alike. The Spokane Indians were excited to be able to meet Hometown Hero, Stacy Kitchens. Stacy is an Emergency Room RN (registered nurse) at MultiCare Deaconess Hospital. She has a reputation of treating others like family. Stacy has been an integral person in the emergency room through her leadership, adaptability, and willingness to help others through challenging times.

SI: How long have you worked for MultiCare? What is your current role?

SK: I started at Deaconess Hospital in 2005 as a phlebotomist while I was working my way through nursing school. I then started out as a new graduate RN in the Emergency Room in 2008 and have never left. I currently am a Charge Nurse there.

SI: How have your day-to-day duties changed during this pandemic?

SK: My duties at work have definitely changed during this pandemic. I wear a mask for the entire twelve hours of my shift. I also wear eye protectant if I am around any patient for more than 15 minutes. As a nurse I have always been trained on proper use of personal protection equipment and the specialized equipment we use when taking care of COVID positive patients or patients being tested for COVID. Now I just use the equipment much more often and feel very comfortable and confident doing so.

SI: What inspired you to become a nurse?

SK: I was intrigued by the idea of nursing. I thought it would be fun to help take care of people and make a difference in their lives so I decided to volunteer at a local emergency room and absolutely loved it. It was fascinating to me. I loved the excitement of the emergency room and the opportunity to help make people feel better in difficult situations.

SI: What is a piece of advice that you would give anyone looking to pursue a career in healthcare?

SK: I would say you should absolutely do it. While going to school or researching different careers in the medical field, you should volunteer or take an entry level job in a hospital or medical setting so you can find your fit. Healthcare has so many different opportunities for you to find what you’re truly passionate about.

SI: are some hobbies that you enjoy when you aren’t working?

SK: My absolute favorite thing to do when I am not working is being on my boat with my family. We love traveling to different lakes in the amazing PNW. My husband and I are teaching our kids how to surf and are loving every minute on the water.

SI: What is your favorite quote?

SK: You become what you believe, so believe in yourself.

The Spokane Indians would like to thank Stacy and all healthcare workers for making sacrifices and taking care of people in need. To submit nominations for future Hometown Hero’s, visit: https://www.milb.com/spokane/community/hometownhero

About the Spokane Indians

The Spokane Indians are the Short Season Class “A” affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play at Avista Stadium. The Spokane Indians Team Store is open for online orders and curbside pickup.

Volcanoes’ Cancer Awareness Tradition to Continue

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Event to include Fans, Fan Cutouts, Survivors and Fireworks; Volcanoes to take the field for first and only time in 2020!

KEIZER, Oregon — The Salem-Keizer Volcanoes’ Cancer Awareness tradition of honoring survivors will continue with a celebration and baseball game planned for Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020, at Volcanoes Stadium.

“While things will look different than prior years, we felt it was especially important for the event to survive the pandemic and provide something for survivors to look forward to,” said Lisa Walker, co-owner of the Volcanoes. “We’ve been doing this for nearly 20 years. It is one of our marquee events and something the Volcanoes have become known for and thanks to Dr. Bud Pierce of Oregon Oncology, co-founder of the event, the tradition will continue this year. It’s also a perfect way to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month.”

Thanks to collaboration with Derek Legg, Head Coach for Corban University, the Volcanoes will field a team for the first and only time in 2020 and play a game versus the Corban University Warriors at Volcanoes Stadium. Game time will be 6:35 p.m.

Cancer Survivors may e-mail [email protected] and request FREE tickets to the game, compliments of Dr. Pierce. Capacity will be limited to 250 people per Covid-19 protocols and to allow for 6’ social distancing.

“We have over 4,000 seats, so this is a perfect venue for social distancing and provides a safe environment,” said Walker.

The balance of the stadium will not be empty as fans, for just $30 each, will have the opportunity to have a cardboard cutout image of themselves, or order a cutout to honor a cancer survivor whom was unable to attend, or have a cutout in memory of a loved one placed in a seat at the stadium. The cutout(s) will be available for fans to pick up as a keepsake following the event! Fans should e-mail [email protected] for complete details on how to submit their photos. Deadline for submission is Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2020.

The Volcanoes will also be providing a gift to all cancer survivors who attend the game and the evening will conclude with a spectacular fireworks show.

The Ems Tip Their Cap to the 100th Anniversary of the Negro Baseball League

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This season the Eugene Emeralds were set to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the formation of the Negro Baseball League at PK Park. This league was known for spotlighting some great sportsmanship. Although the pandemic has stopped the Emeralds season, we will move forward with recognizing some of the great players who played in the Negro Baseball Leagues.

Baseball had a prominent standing in African American society since the mid to late 1800s. Racist norms of the day prevented teams with black players from joining the Association of Amateur Baseball Players and this segregation was codified in the 1890’s by a “gentlemen’s agreement” among National League owners. Banned from the major leagues, black athletes and teams barnstormed in the US, competing against anyone who would play them.

In 1920, Andrew “Rube” Foster, the managers of one of these teams and a former pitcher, met with 7 of the owners of similar teams in Kansas City, MO and created the Negro National League, comprised of eight teams from the Northeast and Midwest. This Negro National League is generally recognized as the first of the Negro Leagues, and it provided a spotlight on some of the best baseball players of the era.

From the beginning the league had many hardships. In addition to racism, Jim Crow laws, and tough economic conditions, most teams played in ballparks owned by white teams which were only available when the white team was out of town. Games were sometimes cancelled when a profitable exhibition against a white team became available. Wide disparity in the quality of teams exasperated financial woes and led to a number of team failures which, in turn, led to league failures. Despite the hardships, the decades between 1920 and 1950 always included at least one active league.

World War II led to an improvement in the economic situation of many African Americans, which in turn lead to a great improvement in the leagues. Similar to MLB, many teams lost players to the armed forces, but the leagues continued to put a quality product on the field. Teams became a linchpin for economic development in black communities. Games drew crowds of over 5,000 and black business men and women started to build their businesses around the game of baseball. They saw the chance to offer goods, services and entertainment to the players as they would come through town for games. Cities began to see hotels, restaurants, night clubs, barbershops and barrooms being created to cater to players and their crowds.

The integration of Major League Baseball that started in 1947 with Negro League alumnus Jackie Robinson led to a slow but irreversible gutting of talent of the Negro Leagues. Teams were not able to compete financially and did not want to stand in the way of African Americans playing in the Majors. Quality of play declined and finances suffered. Teams tried to stay relevant by signing white players as well as women, but it wasn’t enough and the last one folded in the 1960’s.

Many outstanding players started their playing careers in the Negro League and the Eugene Emeralds will be highlighting some of the players over the next week. Be sure to watch the Emeralds Facebook page as we learn more about founder Rube Foster, Josh Gibson, James Bell and Toni Stone. You can also visit the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum e-museum (http://www.nlbemuseum.com/ to find out more about the League and its players. Please join us as we tip our cap to honor the Negro Leagues in its centennial year.

Emeralds and Kendall to Host Be a Hero Drive

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On Wednesday, August 19th the Eugene Emeralds and Kendall Toyota are inviting the Eugene/Springfield community to become superheroes through their Be a Hero Drive. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. community members will be able to donate blood, join the bone marrow registry and learn about organ donation. They will be joined by members from American Red Cross, Be the Match and Donate Life NW at Kendall Toyota of Eugene.

The American Red Cross Blood Mobile will be on site to collect blood donation. Donating blood products is essential to community health and the need for blood products is constant. Additionally, the Red Cross is testing all blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies. The Red Cross has added safety precautions to the drive to ensure the health and safety of all who attend. This will include a temperature screening, enhanced disinfecting of areas and social distancing wherever possible. They are also asking donors to sign up for a pre-scheduled appointment at redcrossblood.org/give, instead of walking in, as to adhere to the social distancing guidelines. All blood types are needed, and people who have never donated before are encouraged to donate. Donors must be 17 years old or older, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in general good health.

Seventy percent of blood cancer patients requiring a marrow transplant are waiting for a match through the Bone Marrow Registry. It is normally 1 in 300 of those who register will be matched with those in need. Be the Match, operated by the National Marrow Donor Program, manages the largest and most diverse marrow registry in the world. They will be on site collecting volunteers to be listed as a potential blood stem cell donor, ready to save the life of any patient in need of a transplant through a quick cheek swab.

Another way members can Be a Hero is to register to be an organ donor through Donate Life NW. Of the almost 120,000 Americans waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, more than 3,000 live in the Pacific Northwest.

“This was an event we had planned for one of our games this summer,” said Anne Culhane, Director of Community Relations. “These are three amazing, lifesaving programs that rely on volunteers so we wanted to move forward with this drive.”

Individuals not feeling well or who are exhibiting any symptoms, which include fever, tiredness and dry cough should stay home. Donors will be asked to wear a mask while attending this event.

Salem-Keizer Volcanoes to provide final opportunity for high school seniors to PLAY BALL

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KEIZER, OR. — 108 High School seniors, representing 48 different schools from across the State of Oregon, will be converging on Volcanoes Stadium the weekend of July 31, August 1, and August 2 – to play baseball!

“One of the most cherished events in High School baseball is Senior Day at the field. It’s usually the last home game of the season and provides a final recognition for the Senior players and their parents who have supported their efforts for so many years,” said Mickey Walker, CEO for the Volcanoes. “Covid-19 destroyed this emotional opportunity, along with all High School games, this year. We wanted to do something for the Seniors and providing them an opportunity to take the field again seemed to be the Perfect scenario,” concluded Walker.

“We feel a special attachment to High School players as we have hosted the OSAA State Baseball Championships, Spring Break Baseball Tournaments and Futures Game for many years at Volcanoes Stadium,” said Jerry Howard, the Senior Market Representative for the Volcanoes. “This is an opportunity to bid them farewell in an appropriate manner.”

> Game schedule and rosters

The 108 players have been divided into 8 teams and each will play 2 games over the course of the weekend. Game times will be 4pm and 7pm on Friday, July 31. 10am, 1pm, 4pm and 7pm on Saturday, August 1 and 11am and 2pm on Sunday, August 2nd.

Social distancing and Covid-19 protocols will be followed including limiting the number in attendance at each game.

Fans are encouraged to pre-purchase game tickets by going to: http://le1.glitnirticketing.com/leticket/web/ev_list.php

ROSTERS

Team Willie Mays Saturday 1:00 Sunday 11:00: Bruce Beyer Kennedy AJ Deardorff Molalla Damian Pingo Molalla Carson Donaldson Molalla Cooper Roberts Pendleton Derek Homer Hood River Sean Wilbur Burns Shane Curry Pleasant Hill Sam Baker Pleasant Hill Logan Francis Pleasant Hill Hayden Pierce Mt. View Conner Nipp Newberg Coach Kevin Moffatt Kennedy Coach Troy Donaldson Molalla

Team Buster Posey Saturday 1:00 Sunday 2:00: Ethan VanDelinder South Albany Caleb Hennessee Siuslaw Isacc DeLeon Jefferson Nathan Hagel Estacada Daniel Hunt Estacada Ian Lawson Century Brandon Struckman Century Cooper Koelbl Century Barry Sherill Century Cooper Hewett Century Clayton Hamrick Century Luke Miller Salem Academy

Team Joey Bart Saturday 4:00 Sunday 11:00: Alex Reid Aloha Brody Weitzel Aloha Diego Robison Aloha Drew Fritz Aloha Gryphn McGurll Aloha Kieran McCalpin Aloha Dylan Day Central Linn Tanner Reister Central Linn Lane Jeppsen Central Linn Dawson Evenson Clatskanie John Oleson Beaverton Chance Dalton North Eugene Coach Jason Fritz Aloha

Team Pablo Sandoval Friday 7:00 Saturday 4:00: Carson Moffett Clackamas Brody Upton Clackamas Tanner Drog Putnam Nick Geertsen Putnam KJ Ruffo Putnam John Irish Putnam Jackson Hald St. Helens Spencer Gore Lakeridge Owen Brown Lakeridge Brian Hamlin Lakeridge AJ Dix McMinnville Max Egli McMinnville Nick Cargni – Putnam Jordan Proudfoot – Putnam

Team Brandon Crawford Friday 4:00 Saturday 7:00: Ethan Jerome Reynolds Travis Jackson Estacada Jesse Hill Estacada Kaden Settle Estacada Jackson Nees Regis Noah Wierstra North Marion Hunter Wierstra North Marion Brady Hansen North Marion Ryan Olson North Marion Cole Runion Silverton Gage Mack Silverton Zach Gerhards Silverton Greyson Hanowell South Salem Coach Jeremiah Runyon Silverton Coach Chris Brown Cascade

Team Tim Lincecum Friday 7:00 Saturday 7:00: Kobe Dyer Santiam Riley Rothrock Santiam Ethan Patterson McNary Jamison Martin McNary Alex Tavera McNary Alex Simpson McNary Danny Okada McNary Ben Anicker Scappoose Matthew Wallin Scappoose Mason Deverna Newberg Kyler Erion Newberg Julius Scott South Salem Jackson Scott South Salem Coach Larry Keeker McNary Coach Cameron Webb Scappoose

Team Joe Nathan Saturday 10:00 Sunday 2:00: Alex Ramos Oakland Brody Hiner Philomath Brian McClelland Philomath Brandon Alexander West Linn Walker Fetters West Linn Jacob Chaney Reedsport Dallas McGill Reedsport Tyler Thornton Reedsport Jake Hoskins Liberty Kyle Perkins Liberty Avery Jensen South Salem Coach Ryan Raagas Liberty Coach Joe Monahan West Linn

Team Ryan Vogelsong Friday 4:00 Saturday 10:00: TJ Crawford St. Paul Bryce Campbell Regis Nick Cooper Milwaukie Greyson Pihas Horizon Christian Ricky Taylor Central Luke Johnston Amity Brody Roberts Amity Russell Brown Amity Dylan Nyseth Amity Gavin Parker Elmira Sam McCauley Baker Spencer Smith Baker Spencer Shirtcliff Baker Cole Kleckner Wilsonville Coach Kyle Baker Regis Coach Tim Smith Baker

Salem-Keizer Volcanoes to continue tradition of honoring military 

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SOLD OUT! SOLD OUT! SOLD OUT! KEIZER, OR — The Salem-Keizer Volcanoes’ long-standing tradition of “Thanking, Honoring and Saluting” members of the military is set for July 4, 2020.

This year’s event will be, as in prior years, held at Volcanoes Stadium in Keizer. Unlike each of the prior tributes, there will not be a Volcanoes baseball game held in conjunction with the evening. Due to COVID-19, the Patriotic Tribute will be a drive-in type of event in the stadium’s parking lot. It will still feature recognition of our military heroes, swearing-in of members to the armed services, a Fallen Warrior memorial and many tributes to those who have defended our country with multiple deployments.

The Volcanoes have become known throughout the region and country for their patriotic tributes. In 2019, the Volcanoes’ Jerry Howard won the National Charles K. Murphy Award for the best Patriotic Tribute in the Nation.

Drive-In 4**th** of July Protocol

Vehicle spaces are limited and separated by at least one parking stall width. Staff will direct parking – vehicle parking will be staggered to allow best visibility.

Taller Vehicles (Trucks, Vans, RV’s) that would limit site lines of lower vehicles will be parked towards the back of the parking lot to assure viewing for all

Event Rules: NO PERSONAL FIREWORKS

  • Maximum Parking Lot Speed 5 MPH
  • Vehicle must stay in assigned parking spot.
  • Unless needing to use restrooms or to visit concession stand, guests must stay within the passenger compartment of the vehicle.
  • Encouraged to wear facemask if visiting restroom or concession stand. Minimum 6’ Social Distancing to be observed at all times.
  • Guests may not place any object outside of a vehicle that may obstruct the view of other guests
  • Headlights, parking lights, and interior lights must remain off while parked
  • No excessive noise allowed that would impair the hearing of other guest
  • Drugs, Alcoholic Beverages, Smoking or vaping of any substance is prohibited
  • Personal food and drink is allowed
  • Guests must take all trash with them
  • No exit and return to event is allowed
  • Sale of goods or services by guests is prohibited
  • Cooking, grilling, or other food preparation is prohibited
  • Pets not permitted (services animals allowed – but must remain inside vehicle)
  • Should this event be canceled for any reason – there are no refunds.

Failure to follow Event Rules or staff instructions will be cause for removal from event or police action.

Admission ticket is good for a passenger vehicle with up to eight (8) people. Additional ticket(s) need to be purchased for vehicles with more than 8 people.

Attendees voluntarily assumes all risks and dangers of personal injury as a result of attending the event.

Concession Stand Opens 6:00pm – Beer Sales end 9:15pm – Concessions Close 9:45pm

Menu: Hot Dogs $4. Hamburgers $5. Cheeseburgers $6. Nachos $4. Large Popcorn $5. Candy $2. Red Ropes $3. Canned pop or DASANI water $3. Canned or draft beer $6. Large $8.

Spokane Indians and Second Harvest Work Together to Help Feed Community Members

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SPOKANE, Wash. – The Spokane Indians are pleased to announce they have made a donation to Second Harvest that will provide free food for 17,000 meals to people in need in the community. Since March, Second Harvest has distributed, on average, 924,000 pounds of free food per week to help people facing hunger in 26 counties in Eastern Washington and North Idaho. That’s 55% more than before the COVID-19 crisis.

“Our food bank network is on the front lines of an extraordinary battle against hunger as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re grateful for the Spokane Indians and the generous people in our community who supported their efforts to help fill nutritional gaps for our neighbors in need,” said Jason Clark, president and CEO of Second Harvest. “This donation will do more than get food to where it’s needed most. It also will bring hope to local people who are facing so many uncertainties right now.”

Specifically, the Indians raised funds to support Second Harvest’s new Wolff Family Child Hunger Solution Center with a Spring Jersey Auction and two Ballpark Dinner To-Go meals at Avista Stadium. For every meal purchased, the Spokane Indians made a monetary donation to Second Harvest. While placing orders for the family meals online, fans also have the opportunity to make additional donations to Second Harvest.

“Simply put, Indians fans have responded once again” said Otto Klein, Senior Vice President of the Indians. “The generosity of the community is alive and well and we’re proud to do everything we can during this difficult time.”

Both organizations will continue to work together this summer as the Indians plan more Ballpark Dinner To-Go events. June 17th from 4:00 – 6:00PM marks the next family dinner available for curbside pickup at Avista Stadium. Each meal feeds a family of four and includes eight chicken strips, four Indians dogs, over one pound of fries, family size popcorn, four ice cream sandwiches, and a package of Sour Patch Kids for $40 plus tax. For more information or to order a Ballpark Dinner To-Go CLICK HERE.

Help our MiLB CommUNITY

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The Eugene Emeralds are proud to be a part of the MiLB CommUNITY First Initiative for the month of May. This national initiative was developed in conjunction with Feeding America, to raise funds for local food banks and to honor individuals risking their lives on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Emeralds fans are encouraged to visit the CommUNITY First website through May 31st to help MiLB, and the participating teams, raise money for local food banks. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and the Emeralds as the recipient of their donation to direct funds to the Oregon Food Bank and FOOD for Lane County. By selected the Emeralds for the donation, you will ensure that the money will go to support local food banks. If a team is not selected, funds will go to the Feeding America COVID-19 Response Fund which is providing food assistance and supplies to communities most affected by the pandemic.

Ten dollars provides access to 30 meals to families and individuals in need. With school closures and rising unemployment since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, FOOD for Lane County has seen a noticeable increase in the number of people seeking help with food for the first time. With the suspension of food rescue and food drives, the food supply for FOOD for Lane County has been drastically disrupted. The donations will go towards purchasing local food so they can offer a variety of food choices to the community.

Since April, the Emeralds front office has been volunteering with FOOD for Lane County once a week, stocking and creating produce bags for one of the four emergency mobile pantries the nonprofit has set up. By supporting the CommUNITY First Initiative, the Emeralds hope to help families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic by making sure they are fed and cared for during these uncertain times.

In addition, for every $10 donation, the Emeralds will donate one ticket to a home game for either the 2020 or 2021 season to a local hero of the pandemic. Fans are invited to join the national campaign by donating and selecting the Eugene Emeralds at MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst and use #MiLBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

Everett AquaSox Join Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY First Campaign

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EVERETT, WA, April 29, 2020 — The Everett AquaSox today announced they are joining MiLB CommUNITY First, a new national initiative developed by Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) in conjunction with Feeding America®, to raise funds for local food banks and to honor individuals risking their lives on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

AquaSox fans are encouraged to visit MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst through May 31 to donate. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and the Everett AquaSox as the recipient of their donation to direct funds to the Everett community. For every $10 donated, the AquaSox will donate one ticket to a future home game this season or in 2021 to a local hero of the pandemic.

“Supporting the local community is a top priority for the AquaSox, so we are happy to join Minor League Baseball in this nationwide effort,” said AquaSox General Manager Danny Tetzlaff. “This effort will allow us to not only support our local food banks at this very difficult time, but also recognize our essential workers for all they are doing for the community.”

School closures, rising unemployment and rising poverty due to quarantine and extended stay-at-home orders have disproportionately impacted people already at risk of hunger and could result in an estimated additional 17.1 million people experiencing food insecurity in the next six months, according to Feeding America. As the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization with a network of more than 200 affiliates, Feeding America has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.

In response, contributions from AquaSox fans and Minor League Baseball will help ensure families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic are fed and cared for during these uncertain times. Join the national campaign by donating and selecting Everett AquaSox at MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst and use #MiLBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

About the Everett AquaSox

The Everett AquaSox have been the Seattle Mariners’ short-season single-A affiliate since 1995, offering affordable entertainment for families in the Pacific Northwest. To keep up with the Frogs, follow us on Instagram and Twitter, like us on Facebook or visit AquaSox.com.

About Feeding America

Feeding America® is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs, we provide meals to more than 40 million people each year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Individuals, charities, businesses and government all have a role in ending hunger. Donate. Volunteer. Advocate. Educate. Together we can solve hunger. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

Spokane Indians Open 2020 Game Day Job Application

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SPOKANE, Wash. – Do you want to spend your summer working with the most energetic and friendly customer service team in Spokane? If your answer is yes, then look no further. The Spokane Indians are looking for game day team members of all ages to fill a wide variety of positions at Avista Stadium.

Our Goal is to provide affordable family entertainment and excellent customer service to every guest who walks through our gates. Do you have what it takes to help create the best fan experience in baseball?

There’s a wide variety of positions available, with over half of these opportunities in concessions. These positions range from concessions cashiers (21+) to food preps. Each team member is critical in providing the best experience to our guests.

CLICK HERE to learn more about available opportunities and to apply.

Most positions require working game days, plan ahead and click here to take a look at our 2020 schedule. Opening day is June 17th, with customer service training beginning in mid-May.

For more information, please contact [email protected]

About the Spokane Indians

The Spokane Indians are the Short Season Class “A” affiliate for the Texas Rangers. Avista Stadium is home to the $5 Kids Bench Seat courtesy of MultiCare. Parking at all Spokane Indians games is FREE. The Spokane Indians Team Store is open M-F 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, and 10:00 AM on all game days. CLICK HERE to reserve your seats today.

 

Beyond The Nat 2020

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By Rob Fai / Vancouver Canadians | January 24, 2020 5:30 PM

There is a saying that “just because my path is different doesn’t mean I’m lost,” referring to the many twists and turns that life can present over the course of time that can somehow end exactly where we need it to. The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation, thanks to the generosity of co-owner Jeff Mooney and his wife Suzanne, created a post-secondary scholarship program to help those on their path in life find a way to have it include education.

Valued at up to $15,000 per year, per recipient, the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation in cooperation with The Boys & Girls Clubs of South Coast BC has identified seven new scholarship recipients for the upcoming year from all walks of life and with completely different aspirations.

The prerequisite for applying for the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Scholarship Program was simple. Show that you had a passion for continuing education beyond high school and show a commitment to your community and its betterment.

This year’s recipients of the Jeff Mooney & Suzanne Bolton Scholarships are all extremely deserving. Here is a look at just two of the many we helped open the door for this year.

Ludee Plaw came to Canada as a child along with her family when she was just seven years old after spending more than a year in a refugee camp in her native Thailand. Her parents hoped for a better future for their children by simply waiting for their turn to be processed by the Thai government. Not knowing where they would be sent – the Plaw family who eventually find out that Canada would be their destination and upon arriving months later had little to show for their life back home.

“We came here not knowing English, not knowing anything,” says Plaw just steps away from a local Boys & Girls Club much like the one she frequents in the Fraser Valley.

“It was new for my parents, but I think it was worth it as they watched us grow up learning a second language, going to school and graduating high school which was a big thing for them because they didn’t graduate high school. I am the first one to now attend university which is the biggest thing for them, and they are really proud because I never would have gotten this type of education back home.”

A few summers ago, Plaw found her calling in life that unfortunately came at a cost.

“A few years back my aunt got sick and as I spent time with her at the hospital, I realized I wanted to become a nurse. Watching the nurses, they were so caring to my aunt and my entire family. Even though my aunt didn’t make it – I wanted to do this for her, and I want to take care of my family. That moment made me realize that I wanted to make a difference.”

Ludee will begin her university studies in September with her costs covered by the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation.

Megan Wong is halfway home when it comes to her degree but as she admits sometimes ‘life’ can get in the way. Ready to step away from her studies the Boys & Girls Clubs Fraserview let her know of the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation scholarship program and after sending in a heartfelt application became a finalist and eventually a recipient of enough funding to continue her education.

“When I was writing the letter, it was actually really difficult. I didn’t think it was going to be as difficult as it was because I don’t really like to talk about things but I knew I wanted to make it as true and as accurate as I could,” said Megan who admitted it took her about ten tries to feel ready to send the letter off to the selection committee.

Weeks later, Megan was summoned to her Boys & Girls Club for a meeting not realizing what was about to be shared with her but once she received the news – the weight of the world felt as if it had been lifted from her shoulders.

“I was ecstatic, and it was amazing. I could tell how much it meant to both of us and it was just so special to realize that there are people here to support me and believe in me even when those times come along when I don’t believe in myself. I can finish what I started now.”

About the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Scholarship Program:

Created in 2018, Vancouver Canadians co-owner Jeff Mooney and his wife Suzanne Bolton generously donated $75,000 dollars toward funding for up to five (5) recipients. The goal was to provide up to $15,000 per scholarship winner to help them achieve their post-secondary dreams while also supporting them within their communities. Last year Jeff and Suzanne increased their donation to $100,000 to provide even more assistance.

Teens in Grades 11 and 12 can apply through their local Boys & Girls Club and are vetted by a selection committee that includes Vancouver Canadians staff, Boys & Girls Clubs staff and a handful of external members including the donor of the scholarship Suzanne Bolton. The applicant must show a willingness both to attend a post-secondary institution as well as commit to bettering their community through volunteer services or a program benefitting local youth.

More than a dozen students have been able to begin and/or continue their post-secondary education thanks to this program.

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

Hawks Announce Sixth Annual Winter Glove Drive

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BOISE, ID: The Boise Hawks have announced their sixth annual Winter Glove Drive, benefiting the Salvation Army – Boise Corps. For each new pair of winter gloves donated, fans will receive a complimentary reserved seat ticket for Opening Night 2020 (June 22 vs Salem-Keizer). With Treasure Valley temperatures falling below freezing, the Hawks want to help those who are in need of keeping warm.

“The Hawks are proud to continue this program for a sixth straight year,” said Boise Hawks General Manager, Mike Van Hise. “Through the combined efforts with our fan base, we hope to help those in need stay warm this winter.”

Donations of new winter gloves can be made at the Hawks Front Office, located at Memorial Stadium (5600 N. Glenwood Street). Hawks Front Offices are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Donations can be made through Friday, February 7, 2020.

About the Boise Hawks

The Hawks are the Treasure Valley’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. Deposits are currently being taken for full and half-season seat plans for the 2020 Boise Hawks season. To stay up to date on all things Boise Hawks, follow us on Facebook or visit www.BoiseHawks.com.

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

MLBPAA Brings Legends For Youth Baseball Clinic Series to Spokane

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Colorado Springs, Colo. – Local youth will have an opportunity to play with their big league heroes at the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association (MLBPAA) Legends for Youth baseball clinic series on Wednesday, September 25th, 2019. In conjunction with the Spokane Indians, the free clinic features former Major League Baseball players who will teach baseball skills, drills and life lessons, concluding with an autograph session and baseball giveaways for children in attendance.

Players attending* include seven-year MLB veteran Kevin Stocker, alongside Gonzaga Athletic Hall of Fame member Mike Davey and former Spokane Indian Robert Strampe.

Clinic details:

• Avista Stadium, home of the Spokane Indians
  602 North Havana Street, Spokane, WA 99202
• Time: Clinic check-in beginning at 4:30 p.m. with instruction running from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• To register, visit baseballalumni.com. Registration is required.

For more information, please contact Nikki Warner, Director of Communications, at (719) 477-1870, ext. 105 or visit www.baseballalumni.com.

*Clinicians subject to change.

About The Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association (MLBPAA)

MLBPAA was founded in 1982 with the mission of promoting baseball, raising money for charity and protecting the dignity of the game through its Alumni players. The MLBPAA is headquartered in Colorado Springs, CO with a membership of more than 8,600, of which approximately 6,100 are Alumni and active players. Alumni players find the MLBPAA to be a vital tool to become involved in charity and community philanthropy. Follow @MLBPAA on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for updates.

About Legends for Youth Clinics

MLBPAA’s Legends for Youth clinics impact more than 19,000 children each year, allowing them the unique opportunity to interact with and learn from players who have left a lasting impact on the game of baseball. The MLBPAA has reached children across America and internationally in Australia, Canada, China, Cuba, Curaçao, the Dominican Republic, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Panama, the United Kingdom and Venezuela, through the Legends for Youth clinic series. To donate to this program, visit baseballalumni.com/donate. The official hashtag of the Legends for Youth clinic series is #LFYClinic.

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

Season In Review | Ems Go Above And Beyond To Benefit Local Community

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

With another season of Emeralds baseball now officially in the rear-view mirror, we’re taking a look back at some of the special moments and memories created during the 2019 season. Today, we reflect on all the good that the Emeralds imparted throughout the Eugene/Springfield community.

Over the past decade, the Ems have made a concerted effort to ingrain the organization within the fabric of Eugene/Springfield through countless community efforts and initiatives. With almost too many donations, drives and events to keep track of, let’s go by the numbers to see exactly how the Emeralds made a positive impact in Lane County during the past season.

$7,451: Dollars raised to benefit local nonprofits through Good Karma Monday.

Good Karma Monday, presented by Yogi, is a weekly ticket promotion created in recent years with the goal of supporting local nonprofit organizations and initiatives. During every Good Karma Monday throughout the 2019 season, fans were able to purchase discounted box seat tickets ($10) with 50% of ticket sales directly benefitting a local nonprofit organization. All told, the Ems raised a combined $7,451 that together benefitted the Pearl Buck Center, Relief Nursery, A Family For Every Child, and Womenspace.

7: Community focus nights.

The Ems aim to use their influence to shine light on causes and efforts that are near and dear to the organization. During the 2019 season, a total of seven (7) different home games were used to highlight important (local) causes, efforts, and personalities: PRIDE, Climate Change, First Responders Appreciation, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics), League Of Her Own (Lois Youngen – former AAGPBL Player), Suicide Prevention, and Military Appreciation.

5: Community events.

Even when there aren’t ballgames happening at PK Park, the Emeralds are often still playing their part in helping support the local community. All told, the Emeralds hosted five (5) separate non-gameday events during the 2019 season to support local nonprofits and organizations: American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, Eugene Police’s National Night Out, Eugene Food Truck Fest benefitting Eugene Mission, Wham Bam Kendall Jam Car Show benefitting Relief Nursery, and the Boys and Girls Club‘s Field of Dreams.

$3,500: Dollars raised through specialty jersey sales during the 2019 season.

Every year, the Emeralds front office collaborates to design one-of-a-kind, specialty jerseys to be worn on a select night during the season. During each specialty jersey game, fans in attendance can bid on the game-worn jerseys via a silent auction, and the auction winners receive their jersey directly from the corresponding player immediately following the game.

Below, you can find the corresponding nonprofit beneficiary for each specialty jersey worn by the Ems this past season.

PRIDE – HIV Alliance

Climate Change – Our Children’s Trust

Star Wars – Children’s Miracle Network

Black Panther – Ems Community Fund

3: Collection drives hosted to benefit nonprofit organizations.

The Emeralds hosted three separate community collection drives during the past season: a book drive benefitting United Way, a cat/dog items drive benefitting Greenhill Humane Society, and a new socks/underwear drive benefitting Eugene Mission.

6,500: Tickets donated to local elementary school students and teachers through Sluggo’s Home Run Reading Challenge, presented by Oregon Medical Group and Wildish.

Year after year, Sluggo and the Emeralds staff spend the spring visiting countless Lane County schools in an effort to encourage reading among children. Participating schools and teachers decide on a reasonable reading goal for their students’ respective reading levels. Once the individual goal is reached by a student, they automatically receive two free tickets to one of the Emeralds Reading Program Redemption games.

This year, the Emeralds hosted a total of eleven (11) Reading Program Nights with more than 6,500 total tickets donated to local elementary school students and teachers.

6: Monarcas games at PK Park this past season.

Starting in 2018, the Emeralds proudly joined “Copa de la Diversión,” or “Fun Cup,” a season-long event series specifically designed to embrace the culture and values that resonate most with participating teams’ local U.S. Hispanic/Latino communities. As such, the Emeralds created their own unique identity as Los Monarcas de Eugene, using the Monarch butterfly as a subtle and beautiful symbol for the migrant community. Every Sunday home game, the Emeralds transformed into los Monarcas by donning specially designed uniforms while also incorporating Latin-themed food, music, and decorations all throughout PK Park.

$6,850: Dollars raised through the 50/50 raffle for Eugene Little League and Boys & Girls Club.

25: Emeralds player outings and efforts within the community totaling more than 175 hours of volunteer work.

5: Days Emeralds players hosted baseball clinics during the season.

1: Guide dogs that the Emeralds helped train this season.

Last but not least, fans at PK Park likely noticed a new four-legged friend roaming the concourse during the 2019 season. Vegas, the Emeralds service dog in-training, joined the organization earlier this year under the direction of Anne Culhane, the team’s Director of Community Relations. Since his arrival, Vegas has been a (rapidly growing) staple at the Ems office and at PK Park, and thanks to Culhane’s guidance he’s also continued to take major steps towards his goal of one day becoming a service dog.

To learn more about The Joys of Living Assistance Dogs visit joydogs.org.

Stay up to date with the Emeralds by following the team on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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

Volcanoes to honor Sprague Little League Sept. 2

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

KEIZER – It seems only fitting as the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes get ready to start the South Division playoffs that the team is honoring the Sprague Little League team recently home from the 2019 Little League World Series.

This is a very special and important event for both the Volcanoes and the entire community,” said Mitche Graf, Volcanoes President. “It wasn’t all that long ago that professional baseball players were Little League athletes dreaming of getting drafted someday. Come to Volcanoes Stadium on September 2 and share this wonderful fabric of the journey in baseball. If there is one game you want to see before the Northwest League playoffs – this is it.”

https://www.milb.com/salem-keizer/tickets/single-game-tickets

Click above and enter “FAMILY” to get a $5 GA tickets. All kids 12 and under are FREE!

Don’t miss the fun as the Volcanoes honor Sprague Little League with special offers as they take on Eugene. This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

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