Chasers In The Community

The Storm Chasers were present throughout the Omaha Metro community in the month of May, which kicked off on May 2 with a Children’s Hospital Visit from Storm Chasers pitchers Malcom Culver and Jonathan Dziedzic, followed by classroom visits at OPS Virtual Learning over a three-day period between May 9-11. One day later, Chasers Charities presented a Chasin’ Dreams Grant to the Central Omaha Legion Baseball Association for over $1,100. In addition, the Storm Chasers’ front office staff totaled 34.5 hours of community service throughout the month of May.

Community Events in May

  • Pitchers Malcom Culver and Jonathan Dziedzic visited Children’s Hospital Visit – May 2
  • OPS Virtual Learning Classroom Visit from Stormy and Storm Chasers Front Office Staff – May 9-11
  • Presented Chasin’ Dreams Grant to Central Omaha Legion Baseball Association from Chasers Charities ($1,198.98)  – May 12
  • Prairie Queen Fundraiser Surprise Visit – May 15

Notable Mascot Appearances for May

  • Walk to Cure Arthritis – May 13
  • Offut AFB Runway Run – May 14
  • Red Nose Day – May 20
  • Ames Ave. Block Party – May 26

Upcoming Community Events in June

  • Children’s Hospital Visit – June 8 (10:00am)
  • AllPlay Miracle Baseball League at Seymour Smith Park – June 10 (10:30am)
  • Player Appearance at Twin Rivers YMCA– June 23 (11:00am)

Upcoming Scheduled Mascot Appearances for June

  • P.A.C.E. Baseball Clinic – June 6 (6:00pm)
  • Papillion Days Parade – June 17
  • Benson Library Storytime – June 22 (10:30am)
  • Hy-Vee Appearance (747 N. 132nd Street) – June 23 (11:00am)
  • Benson Library Storytime – June 24 (10:00am)

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

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ACES TO HOST “HOME RUN FOR LIFE” CEREMONY JUNE 2

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces will host Saint Mary’s “Home Run for Life” ceremony, featuring Jamie Jost, who battled breast cancer, on Friday, June 2 when the Aces take on the Las Vegas 51s at 7:05 p.m. at Greater Nevada Field.

Since 2014, the Aces and Saint Mary’s have been 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 base lines. The ceremony symbolizes the end of a battle against adversity. Individuals honored had overcome a significant medical event in their life with the help of St. Mary’s personnel.

Jost received her recommended screening mammogram at the age of 40, and that is when her doctor noticed some suspicious areas in her right breast. Just one month after her 40th birthday, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. After 17 weeks of dose-dense chemotherapy and radiation treatment started earlier this week, Jost is proud to share she currently has no cancer in her body.

She received her care from breast radiologist Dr. Chivonne Harrigal of Saint Mary’s and they urge women to get screened because Mammography Saves Lives.

Jost will round the bases commemorating her “Home Run for Life” in the middle of the second inning Friday night. The Reno Aces and Las Vegas 51s players and staff will be lined up along each base line to greet Jost as she makes her way toward home plate while her story of adversity and triumph is publicly announced to the stadium crowd.

Greater Nevada Field gates open at 6:05 p.m. on Friday, June 2. Tickets are on-sale now at www.renoaces.com or by calling (775) 334-4700. Follow the club all season long on Twitter (@Aces) or like the team on Facebook.

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

MVP Program Rewards STEM Achievements of Local Students

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and Devon Energy partnered this past school year to create a free program for area elementary students to recognize and reward their achievements in science and math. Approximately 1,000 third- and fourth-grade students in Oklahoma City Public Schools were impacted by the first-year OKC Dodgers MVP Program presented by Devon Energy.

“Devon Energy is committed to helping communities inspire young people to pursue an interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) subjects by working with schools and community organizations to enhance access to STEM education,” said Christina Rehkop, supervisor of community affairs for Devon Energy. “Partnering with the OKC Dodgers for the MVP Program provided an ideal opportunity to further this goal.”

The MVP Program encourages area students and their teachers to participate in STEM curriculum. Top-performing MVP students in participating classrooms received tickets to an OKC Dodgers game and a commemorative MVP baseball hat.

The first year of the program culminates Saturday with MVP Field Day at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark – an event for MVP students and teachers, as well as their families. STEM activities will be available throughout MVP Field Day, presented by Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma, iFly OKC, Devon Energy, Science Museum Oklahoma and the OKC Dodgers. OKC Dodgers players will also participate in the event, helping with hitting and throwing instruction, as well as signing autographs.

“We received an incredible response from Oklahoma City third- and fourth-grade teachers and their students during the first year of the OKC Dodgers MVP Program presented by Devon Energy,” said OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes. “We are proud to have the chance to reward these students and teachers for their hard work throughout the school year and encourage future participation in STEM education throughout the Oklahoma City community.”

The OKC Dodgers MVP Program presented by Devon Energy will resume in August for the 2017-18 school year. Teachers seeking additional information about the OKC Dodgers MVP Program and how to participate in the second year of the program may contact Katy White at katy.white@okcdodgers.com or (405) 218-2105.

The OKC Dodgers open a four-game series tonight against the Colorado Springs Sky Sox at 7:05 p.m. at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on a $2 Thursday that features $2 soda, bottled water and beer from a line of Pepsi and Budweiser products.

Friday is Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night and special festivities will be held throughout the evening, culminating with postgame fireworks presented by LifeShare. A variety of armored vehicles will be on display on the ballpark’s plazas starting at 5 p.m. and first pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

Saturday’s 7:05 p.m. game against the Sky Sox falls on Marvel Super Hero Night and fans can meet Spider-Man and Captain America throughout the evening. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the first 500 fans age 12 and under will receive a free Dodgers cape.

Sunday’s game starts at 2:05 p.m. on Faith Night and a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday. Each Sunday home game offers family friendly activities throughout the afternoon, including pregame player autographs and kids can run the bases after the game. A special $15 ticket will provide admission to a postgame concert by Sanctus Real.

Tickets are available through the OKC Dodgers ticket office located on South Mickey Mantle Drive, by phone at (405) 218-1000, or by visiting okcdodgers.com.

OKC Dodgers to Host Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night Friday

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers will honor the service and dedication of local military members and their families Friday on Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

The Dodgers play the Colorado Springs Sky Sox at 7:05 p.m. Friday, and special festivities will be held throughout the evening, culminating with postgame fireworks presented by LifeShare.

“Friday allows us to recognize the commitments made by our local service men, women and their families and show them how grateful the Oklahoma City community is for their service,” said OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes. “The Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Nights we hold each season have become some of the most anticipated dates on our schedule as we honor these devoted individuals.”

A swearing-in ceremony of new Air Force recruits and a ceremonial first pitch by Colonel Kenyon Bell, Commander, 72nd Air Base Wing from Tinker Air Force Base, will take place on the field prior to the game. A variety of armored vehicles will be on display on the ballpark’s plazas starting at 5 p.m. Friday.

The Honor Guard from Tinker Air Force Base will present the colors during the singing of the national anthem performed by Master Sergeant Robert Alford II, 552 Maintenance Group, Tinker Air Force Base. Alford will also perform “God Bless America” during the game.

Representatives from each branch of the military, as well as other military and veteran organizations, will be available on the concourse throughout the evening to share information with fans.

The Dodgers open a four-game home series against the Colorado Springs Sky Sox at 7:05 p.m. tomorrow on a $2 Thursday that features $2 soda, bottled water and beer from a line of Pepsi and Budweiser products.

Friday is Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night with Friday Fireworks presented by LifeShare.

Saturday’s 7:05 p.m. game against the Sky Sox falls on Marvel Super Hero Night and fans can meet Spider-Man and Captain America throughout the evening. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the first 500 fans age 12 and under will receive a free Dodgers cape.

Sunday’s game starts at 2:05 p.m. on Faith Night and a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday. Each Sunday home game offers family friendly activities throughout the afternoon, including pregame player autographs and kids can run the bases after the game. A special $15 ticket will provide admission to a postgame concert by Sanctus Real.

Tickets are available through the OKC Dodgers ticket office located on South Mickey Mantle Drive, by phone at (405) 218-1000, or by visiting okcdodgers.com.

Peanut Free Night Set For June 5 at Werner Park

On Monday, June 5, the Omaha Storm Chasers will once again host “Peanut Free Night” at Werner Park in association with the Asthma and Allergy Center, allowing fans affected by various allergies to attend a game worry free.

Tickets | Promotions | Groups

“Peanut Free Night is one of our most important community events of the year,” said Storm Chasers President and General Manager Martie Cordaro. “Through the efforts of our ballpark operations staff led by Matt Owen, we are pleased to provide a safe environment for everyone who would otherwise not be able to attend a professional baseball game. All deserve to attend a game at Werner Park.”

No peanut-related items will be served at Werner Park that evening, including peanuts, sunflower seeds and tree nuts. The ballpark will also be thoroughly cleaned prior to that evening to remove any peanut residue to ensure a safe environment for those suffer. Approximately three million people living in the United States report suffering from peanut-related allergies.

“The Asthma and Allergy Center is proud to sponsor Peanut-Free night at Werner Park for the fourth year and happy to see all the families with peanut allergy able to experience a professional baseball game in a peanut-free environment. Parents have told us how much they appreciate this opportunity to have their children experience one of America’s greatest past-times,” said Dr. Linda Ford the founder and president of The Asthma and Allergy Center. “Peanut Free night gives Dr. Brooks, our caring staff and I, a chance to raise awareness about food allergy and for our patients to learn about new products, research and education. The Asthma & Allergy Center is proud to be sponsors of Peanut Free Night and to help provide this night of baseball for the community.

Tickets are still available for that night and all remaining Storm Chasers contests, and may be purchased at www.omahastormchasers.com/tickets, as well as by calling the Werner Park Ticket Office at (402) 738-5100. To view Ticket Office hours, please click here.

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

Sky Sox to dedicate POW*MIA Chair at Security Service Field

The Colorado Springs Sky Sox, in conjunction with Rolling Thunder ®, Inc Chapter 1 out of Denver, will dedicate a POW*MIA Chair of Honor at Security Service Field prior to their 7:00 PM MDT game against the New Orleans on Friday, May 26. The chair will be the first of its kind in Colorado Springs and the first in a sports facility in Colorado.

The pre-game ceremony, which will begin at 6:45 PM MDT, will include a message from Mike Messenger, the President of Rolling Thunder®, Chapter 1 Colorado, the reading of names of POW*MIA veterans from the state of Colorado and the dedication of the POW*MIA Chair of Honor.

“The POW*MIA Chair of Honor represents a void left by all American Soldiers, Marines, Airman, Seaman still missing in action, from all wars and who cannot be here with us today”, said Mike Messenger, President Rolling Thunder Chapter 1 CO. “The Chair of Honor is a symbol of their sacrifice and serves as a reminder to all Americans that It was through their sacrifices that America remains free today. It is the mission of Rolling Thunder CO 1 and all of Rolling Thunder, to lobby Washington to continue their efforts to find them and bring them home. When ONE American is not worth the effort to be found, we as Americans have lost. We want to thank the Sky Sox organization for allowing us the opportunity to present to them and the community of Colorado Springs, the first POW*MIA Chair of Honor in Colorado.”

The Chair of Honor will be adorned with a plaque reading, “This unoccupied chair is in honor of those that are still Prisoners of War (POW) or Missing in Action (MIA), and symbolizes there will always be a place in this stadium awaiting their return. You will not be forgotten.”

“We are very proud to partner with Rolling Thunder to honor American POWs and soldiers missing in action with a permanent Chair of Honor at Security Service Field”, said Sky Sox President & General Manager Tony Ensor. “It’s through the sacrifices of these brave men and women throughout our history that we’re able to celebrate our National Pastime as freely as we do today. This seat signifies that they will always have a home in which to return in Colorado Springs and that their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

About Rolling Thunder®, Inc.:

Incorporated in 1995, Rolling Thunder®, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt, non-profit organization made up mostly of military veterans including many who ride motorcycles, though neither qualification is a prerequisite. The major function of Rolling Thunder®, Inc. is to publicize the POW*MIA issue: To educate the public that many American Prisoners of War were left behind after all previous wars and to help correct the past and to protect the future Veterans from being left behind should they become Prisoners Of War-Missing In Action. They are committed to helping American Veterans from all wars. As a non-profit organization, everyone involved donates his or her time because they believe in the POW*MIA Issue.

The 2017 Sky Sox season is in full swing at Security Service Field. For ticket information, game schedule, promotions calendar or for additional information about the Sky Sox, call (719) 597-1449, visit SkySox.com, like us on Facebook or follow the team on Twitter at @skysox.

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

Whataburger and Round Rock Express to Host Fundraiser for Town and Country Sports

AUSTIN, Texas – On Thursday, May 25, Whataburger is partnering with Round Rock Express to support Town and Country Sports, an athletic facility serving northwest Austin-area youth. Attendees are invited to enjoy their favorite menu items, and 20 percent of Whataburger’s sales from 5 to 8 p.m. will be donated to the organization to go towards supporting youth development through youth-oriented community activities and sportsmanship programs. To add to the fun, there will be the popular “Whataburger for a Year” raffle and a special guest appearance from Whataburger’s mascot, Whataguy.

“Whataburger believes in investing in the communities we call home, and we’re committed to supporting youth sports at every level,” said Whataburger Director of Operations Don Hurrell. “Thanks to our partner Round Rock Express and our loyal customers, we’ll be able to support Town and Country Sports promote an environment of learning and sportsmanship for local young athletes.”

Family-owned Whataburger has proudly served its famous burgers since 1950 and continues to deliver fresh, made-to-order meals every day with extraordinary customer service. In addition to Oh Whata Night fundraising, Whataburger supports the communities it serves through charitable giving and volunteerism to a number of nonprofit organizations that focus on children’s charities, cancer research, hunger assistance, disaster relief and military support.

ABOUT WHATABURGER: Check out the company on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and follow them on their most recently launched channel, Snapchat, @WhataburgerLife.

Brandi Rutherford to Celebrate “Home Run For Life” Friday

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS continue the 2017 “Home Run for Life” series Friday, May 12 at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark by recognizing Brandi Rutherford, who received a life-saving heart transplant at the age of 32.

Rutherford was in dire health in the spring of 2015 and on a waiting list for a heart transplant. Thanks to the generous spirit of a young Oklahoma Army National Guardsman named Teddy Keys, and the care she received at the INTEGRIS Nazih Zuhdi Transplant Institute at Baptist Medical Center, her life was saved.

Now two years later and emboldened with a new heart, Rutherford is healthy and back to work. She volunteers her time to speak about her journey and encourage others to continue the gift of organ donation that gave her a new lease on life.

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

“We are proud to continue the Home Run For Life Series this season and honor some remarkable individuals in our community who have battled exceptional challenges with their health,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “Their resolve and courage offer great inspiration for us all and we are pleased to join with INTEGRIS to recognize their triumphs.”

Rutherford’s health quickly deteriorated in December 2014 as she was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, meaning her heart’s pumping chamber was stretched and not able to contract normally to pump blood properly. Her heart was functioning at about 10 percent. She was eventually diagnosed with congestive heart failure at the end of 2014.

“I was being treated for that and eventually they told me I’d never recover and I’d need a heart transplant,” she said. “It was very shocking.”

She was admitted to the intensive care unit at INTEGRIS where she awaited a new heart in March 2015. Complications arose in late April 2015, leading to emergency surgery and having a stent inserted into her artery.

That same night, on April 27, 2015, Teddy Keys died tragically at the age of 21 in a motorcycle accident near Tulsa.

Keys was an organ donor and was able to donate his bones, tissues and other organs, in part, to his excellent physical health that the athlete and active outdoorsman maintained throughout his life.

The following morning, Rutherford learned of a perfect match for a heart. That night she underwent a five-hour transplant surgery, receiving her new heart April 29, 2015.

“I woke up in ICU and the heart was so strong that I remember my doctor saying, ‘Brandi, you got one beast of a heart,'” she recalled. “I remember the heart beat being so strong that I could feel it beat and then I could hear it in my ears all night long. It was a welcoming sound for sure.”

As she recovered from her surgery, Rutherford sought information about her donor. She had heard about Keys’ tragic accident near her hometown and started to match up their timelines. She turned to social media to try to connect the missing dots. She checked her heart rate one night before climbing into bed and it was at 77 beats per minute. Then she started looking at Facebook photos of Keys and his family.

“My heart started beating out of control,” she said. “My fingertips felt like they were on fire and tears were streaming down. I went to go take my heart rate and it had jumped to 114.”

She knew in that moment she had found her donor. It was as if Keys’ heart, now her heart, was reacting to the images of his family on the screen. That was all the confirmation she needed. Later she received a letter from Keys’ step-mother, who said that seven individuals were helped by Keys, including Rutherford. She learned about Keys, his love for the outdoors, his strong faith and all-around good nature, and that he grew up in the same county as her family, about 30 minutes away in the town of Oologah. Their families eventually met to have dinner and celebrate Keys. She remains in touch with his family via social media and they even have shared holidays together.

Now two years after receiving her new heart, Rutherford is healthy and back to work in Texarkana, Texas. She volunteers for LifeShare of Oklahoma, serving as a vibrant example of what is possible through organ donation.

“I think giving is the best thing,” Rutherford said. “So, to give the gift of life, what a way to go out. Of course, I encourage everybody to be an organ donor.”

Watch Brandi Rutherford complete her “Home Run for Life” following the third inning of Friday night’s 7:05 p.m. game against the Fresno Grizzlies. Fireworks are scheduled to follow the game, presented by True Sky Credit Union. Interview requests for Rutherford, as well as INTEGRIS or Dodgers personnel can be made through the Dodgers communications department.

The Dodgers open an eight-game homestand at 7:05 p.m. Thursday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. The game against Fresno falls on a $2 Thursday, featuring $2 soda (21 ounces), bottled water (20 ounces) and beer (16 ounces) from a line of Pepsi and Budweiser products.

Fans can enjoy Saturday’s 7:05 p.m. game against Fresno with a Braum’s Friends and Family 4 Pack. This special ticket package includes four tickets, as well as four Braum’s combo meal vouchers and four OKC Dodgers hats for as low as $39.99 per package. The first 2,000 fans through the gates Saturday will receive a free hat.

Sunday afternoon’s 2:05 p.m. game against Fresno is a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday filled with family-oriented activities everyone can enjoy. The OKC Dodgers wrap up their homestand at 7:05 p.m. Thursday, May 18 against the Sacramento River Cats on a $2 Thursday.

For tickets or additional information, please call (405) 218-1000, go online to okcdodgers.com or visit the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark ticket office located on South Mickey Mantle Drive. Season ticket packages and group outings are also still available for the OKC Dodgers’ 2017 season. Call (405) 218-1000 to speak to a ticket representative.

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

OKC Dodgers and American Fidelity to Honor All-Stars in Civic Service

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers are partnering with American Fidelity Assurance Company to honor 20 outstanding individuals as All-Stars in Civic Service throughout the 2017 Pacific Coast League season.

These All-Stars in Civic Service make differences in their communities by working as municipal employees, and are prime examples of what civic service is all about as they strive to create a better place for all to live.

The Dodgers and American Fidelity will recognize two area municipal employees as part of Public Service Recognition Week during the team’s upcoming home series against the Fresno Grizzles. Public Service Recognition Week started in 1985 and is celebrated each May to honor federal, state, county and local government employees.

Honorees will be recognized on the field after the end of the second inning of their respective games.

This week’s honorees are:

  • Thursday, May 11 – Jon Friesen, City of Kingfisher
  • Saturday, May 13 – Dee Dee Baird, City of Blanchard

The Dodgers open an eight-game homestand with a 7:05 p.m. game Thursday against Fresno at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on a $2 Thursday, featuring $2 soda (21 ounces), bottled water (20 ounces) and beer (16 ounces) from a line of Pepsi and Budweiser products.

Fireworks will follow Friday night’s 7:05 p.m. game against the Grizzlies, presented by True Sky Credit Union. The first 2,000 fans through the gates for Saturday’s 7:05 p.m. game against Fresno will receive a free hat.

The Dodgers’ homestand then continues through Thursday, May 18. For a full list of 2017 promotions, visit okcdodgers.com. OKC Dodgers tickets are available through the box office on South Mickey Mantle Drive, by calling (405) 218-1000, or by ordering through okcdodgers.com.

American Fidelity Assurance Company is a supplemental benefits provider with a focus on offering a different opinion for customers in education, municipality, auto retail and healthcare. American Fidelity serves more than one million customers across 49 states in the U.S. More information can be found at americanfidelity.com.

Bees to Host Prevention Dimensions Kids Day

SALT LAKE CITY (May 8, 2017) – On Tuesday, May 9, the Salt Lake Bees and the Utah State Office of Education will host more than 12,000 students for Prevention Dimensions Kids Day, with free admission courtesy of Med One Capital and Questar.

The Bees will face the Omaha Storm Chasers at 10:35 a.m. at Smith’s Ballpark.

The fifth and sixth grade students attending the 15th annual event will be treated to an on field opening ceremony where Bees General Manager Marc Amicone will declare the day as Prevention Dimensions Kids Day in Utah, which promotes drug and alcohol prevention.

The National Anthem will be sung by Vienna Wolfgram, while a flag presentation will feature children from Eagle Bay Elementary, Lake Ridge Elementary School, Newman Elementary School, Nibley Elementary School, and Antelope Elementary School.

Attendees are also encouraged to bring a canned food donation for the Utah Food Bank as part of the program.

Prevention Dimensions is Utah’s Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities curriculum, which supports the Utah State Office of Education pre-kindergarten through 12th grade health core. The program strives to give students a strong foundation of effective violence and substance abuse prevention skills. The program began in 1982 as a joint effort between the Utah State Division of Substance Abuse, Utah State Department of Health, Utah State Office of Education and Utah State PTA.

Prevention Dimensions Kids Day is part of the Bees organization’s ongoing commitment to community outreach, health and wellness and youth development.

United States Navy Parachute Team Performing at AutoZone Park on Armed Forces Night

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MEMPHIS, Tennessee – The United States Navy Parachute Team, “The Leap Frogs,” will be jumping into AutoZone Park on Friday, May 12, as part of the Armed Forces Night celebration that evening.

Fans are encouraged to arrive in their seats no later than 6:45 p.m. to be able to see The Leap Frogs put on their spectacular show. Game time is set for 7:05.

Also on Armed Forces Night, the Navy Brass Quintet will be performing in the Plaza before the game, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The Plaza will also feature displays, equipment, and interactive exhibits.

On Armed Forces Night, and every other night at AutoZone Park, active-duty and retired military personnel can receive a discount on up to two game tickets at the Box Office. A valid military ID is required.

About “The Leap Frogs”

The United States Navy Parachute Team, “The Leap Frogs,” is the official parachute demonstration team of the United States Navy and part of the United States Naval Special Warfare Command. The team is made up of active-duty Navy SEALs, Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewmen (SWCC), and support personnel. A typical Leap Frogs performance consists of six jumpers leaping out of an aircraft at an altitude of 6,000 feet. After freefalling, sometimes using smoke or streamers, The Leap Frogs fly their canopies together to build canopy-relative work formations. After performances, The Leap Frogs make themselves available to the public to answer questions about the Navy and the Naval Special Warfare community, as well as to sign autographs.

For information on upcoming promotions, visit www.memphisredbirds.com/promotions. For more information on single-game tickets and ticket mini-memberships, visit www.memphisredbirds.com/tickets.

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

OKC Dodgers to Honor Esurance Rising Star Students Program Winner

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers, Esurance and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma will recognize Nate Peters, a senior at Union High School in Tulsa, Okla. and one of 14 Esurance Rising Star Students program winners, during a pregame presentation at tonight’s 7:05 p.m. game against the Colorado Springs Sky Sox at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. The Esurance Rising Star Students program, which highlights and celebrates Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) participants for their outstanding service to their local communities, awards select high school students a $5,000 college stipend each, courtesy of Esurance.

Peters plans to major in sports business at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College and go on to play football at a Division I school. Balancing academics and football was a challenge for the Tulsa, Okla. native, but he maintained his grades and made the honor roll. Nate credits his “Big” from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma for giving him “many life lessons, most importantly, how to be a man.”

The Esurance Rising Star Students program submissions included unique and inspirational stories, academic accolades, college and career plans and more, emphasizing why each individual was a “Rising Star” in his or her community. To be eligible, nominees were required to be “Bigs” or “Littles” in Big Brothers Big Sisters.

“With the help of Esurance and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, we can recognize a Rising Star Student in our community getting ready for his own call-up to college, and honor the student with a unique ballpark celebration,” said Michael Byrnes, OKC Dodgers President/General Manager.

Last June, Esurance and Minor League Baseball announced a multi-year partnership making it the exclusive home and auto insurance partner of Minor League Baseball. Together, they created the Esurance Call-Up Worthy platform, which launched exclusively on MiLB.com and MiLB team websites. The platform celebrates the iconic moment in Minor League Baseball when a player is called up to Major League Baseball®, highlighting his journey through shareable digital and social content, such as virtual trading cards, video highlights and the Esurance Farm Report.

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

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River Cats set to salute Armed Forces during homestand

The Sacramento River Cats are back for a four-game homestand against the Reno Aces (Arizona Diamondbacks) starting Saturday, May 6. The homestand may be brief, but includes the annual fan-favorite Salute to Armed Forces celebration as well as the return of the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team (WWAST) for a special softball match against the Sacramento All-Stars.

Saturday, May 6 – River Cats vs. Reno Aces

  • WWAST: The Wounded Warriors Amputee Softball Team will take on the Sacramento All-Stars at 3:30 pm. Tickets for tonight’s River Cats game also include the exhibition softball game. Gates open at 3 pm.
  • Game Time: First pitch for the River Cats game is at 7:05 p.m. Raley Field gates will open to all fans at 3 p.m.
  • Broadcast: Today’s game will be broadcast live online at rivercats.com and on River Cats radio affiliate ESPN 1320.
  • Salute to Armed Forces: The celebration will include a flyover, National Anthem by Band of the Golden West (Travis AFB), and a special recognition of a WWII veteran who survived Pearl Harbor.
  • Armed Forces Specialty Jerseys: The River Cats will take the field in specialty jerseys which feature images of local active and retired service members, all submitted by fans. These game-worn jerseys will be available via auction and all proceeds will benefit Women’s Veterans Alliance
  • Saturday Night Fireworks: Enjoy themed fireworks shows after every Saturday game, courtesy of Sutter Health.

Sunday, May 7 – River Cats vs. Reno Aces

  • Game Time: First pitch is at 1:05 p.m. Raley Field gates will open to all fans at 11 am.
  • Broadcast: Tonight’s game will be broadcast live online at rivercats.com and on River Cats radio affiliate ESPN 1320.
  • Sunday Funday: K-LOVE Sunday Funday features pregame player autographs, face painters, and Kids Run the Bases after the game.
  • Little League Day: Pregame Little League parade presented by California Family Fitness.

Monday, May 8 – River Cats vs. Reno Aces

  • Game Time: First pitch is at 7:05 p.m. Raley Field gates will open to all fans at 6 p.m.
  • Broadcast: Tonight’s game will be broadcast live online at rivercats.com and on River Cats radio affiliate ESPN 1320.
  • Baseball Bingo Monday: Each play on the field corresponds to a square on your Bingo card, presented by Cache Creek Casino Resort.

Tuesday, May 9 – River Cats vs. Reno Aces

  • Game Time: First pitch is at 12:05 p.m. Raley Field gates will open to all fans at 9:30 a.m.
  • Broadcast: Today’s game will be broadcast live online at rivercats.com.
  • Toyota Family Value Tuesdays: Fans can enjoy $1 hot dogs and ice cream cups every Tuesday, presented by Toyota.
  • AAA School Day: Students from across the Sacramento Region can enjoy a pregame AAA Assembly, courtesy of the Division of Boating and Waterways.

Tickets are still available for all games and can be purchased online at rivercats.com or over the phone by calling (916) 371-HITS (4487) or by visiting the Round Table Pizza Ticket Office at Raley Field.

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The Sacramento River Cats are the Triple-A affiliate of the three-time World Champion San Francisco Giants. The team plays at Raley Field in West Sacramento, consistently voted one of the top ballparks in America. River Cats Season Tickets, Mini-Plans, and Flex Plans can be purchased for the 2017 season by calling the River Cats Ticket Hotline at (916) 371-HITS (4487). For more information about the River Cats, visit www.rivercats.com. For information on other events at Raley Field, visit www.raleyfield.com.

– CLAWS UP –

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

Wounded Warriors return to Raley Field this weekend

The Sacramento River Cats are honored to welcome the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team (WWAST) to Raley Field this Saturday, May 6. The WWAST will take on the Sacramento All-Stars at 3:30 p.m. in Game One of a Raley Field doubleheader. The River Cats will then host the division rival Reno Aces at 7:05 p.m. for Salute to Armed Forces

This is the second time the WWAST will take the field here in West Sacramento after making their Raley Field debut in July of 2015. They’ll take on the Sacramento All-Stars, a team composed of local personalities and celebrities, including KCRA sports anchor Michelle Dapper and former NFL player Adrian Ross.

The WWAST is made up of brave men and women, both veterans and active duty soldiers, from four of the five service branches, who have sustained injuries resulting in amputation. Through extensive rehabilitation, they have become competitive athletes again, playing against able-bodied teams in competitive, celebrity, and exhibition games across the country.

In addition to functioning as an outlet for veterans and active duty soldiers to compete athletically, the WWAST uses these cross-country games to raise funds for the WWAST Kids Camp, medical research, and rehabilitation equipment. Now in its fifth year, the WWAST Kids Camp seeks to empower young boys and girls with amputations. The camps are led by WWAST players who work as coaches and mentors, helping teach not just softball skills, but more importantly life skills as well.

The WWAST game is proudly presented by Aerojet Rocketdyne, Wells Fargo, Shriner’s Hospital for Children, Securitas, Roebbelen, and Safe Credit Union. KCRA is also a presenting member of Saturday’s game.

Following the WWAST/Sacramento All-Stars game, the River Cats will host the Reno Aces in game one of a four-game set. First pitch for part two of the doubleheader is set for 7:05 p.m. with gates to open at 3:00 p.m.

Tickets for the doubleheader are available now and can be purchased by visiting rivercats.com/tickets or calling the River Cats ticket line at (916) 371-HITS (4487).

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The Sacramento River Cats are the Triple-A affiliate of the three-time World Champion San Francisco Giants. The team plays at Raley Field in West Sacramento, consistently voted one of the top ballparks in America. River Cats Season Tickets, Mini-Plans, and Flex Plans can be purchased for the 2017 season by calling the River Cats Ticket Hotline at (916) 371-HITS (4487). For more information about the River Cats, visit www.rivercats.com. For information on other events at Raley Field, visit www.raleyfield.com.

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

OKC Dodgers and OHSO Aim to ENDUI Through “Road to the Show” Promotion

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office are partnering on the “Road to the Show” this season to give away a trip for two to watch the Los Angeles Dodgers play at Dodger Stadium in August by encouraging fans to ENDUI.

One lucky winner will receive a trip for two to Los Angeles to watch the Los Angeles Dodgers play the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017. The winning trip includes roundtrip airfare for two, a two-night stay in a downtown Los Angeles hotel, as well as two Dodgers game tickets.

Starting today, fans can enter the “Road to the Show” contest by interacting with the OKC Dodgers’ social media using the hashtag #ENDUI or by visiting okcdodgers.com/roadtotheshow and filling out the online form for a chance to win.

The final day to submit contest entries is July 6, 2017 and fans can enter an unlimited number of times between now and July 6. For a full list of rules and regulations for the “Road to the Show” promotion, visit okcdodgers.com/roadtotheshow or call (405) 218-1000.

ENDUI is a statewide campaign to end impaired driving. The mission of the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office (OHSO) is to combat the number and severity of traffic crashes by developing and supporting educational, enforcement and engineering programs.

The OKC Dodgers open a four-game home series tonight against the Colorado Springs Sky Sox at 7:05 p.m. at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. For ticket information, visit okcdodgers.com or call (405) 218-1000.