OKC Dodgers and ODMHSAS to Honor Reggie Whitten Saturday As He Works to #StrikeOutTheStigma

Oklahomans working to destigmatize mental health and substance use struggles are being recognized during Dodgers games this season in partnership with Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers are partnering with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) this season to help #StrikeOutTheStigma and increase awareness on the topic of mental health and substance use in our community.

The partnership focuses on education, advocacy and support to help destigmatize the connotations that come with mental health and substance use struggles. Oklahomans who are working to do so will be recognized throughout the 2022 Dodgers baseball season.

The second honoree of 2022 is Reggie Whitten, a practicing lawyer in Oklahoma City who spends his free time advocating about the dangers of substance abuse across the state following the death of his son in 2002. Whitten founded Fighting Addiction Through Education (FATE).

Whitten will be recognized during the Dodgers’ game against the Sugar Land Space Cowboys at 7:05 p.m. Saturday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

“Through our partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, we want to help raise awareness on the topic of mental health by talking openly about the subject and providing educational resources,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “By sharing the personal stories of Oklahomans who have been impacted by, or work to provide, mental health and substance use services in our community, we want to help strike out the stigma and provide support to our fellow Oklahomans.”

Whitten’s son Brandon was a well-loved, popular kid who was homecoming king at Westmoore High School and went on to win a NAIA football championship with Southwestern Oklahoma State.

Unknown to many however, he became addicted to opioids, leading to a deadly motorcycle crash in 2002.

Whitten shares his son’s story through his work with FATE, wanting to change the stigma of how addiction is viewed.

“It is not a shameful thing,” he said. “It is a disease of the brain.”

He emphasizes that those struggling with addiction face a stigma that people afflicted by other diseases don’t.

“There is no stigma associated with cancer, diabetes, asthma or any other disease I can think of,” he said. “When your loved one gets addiction, there’s nobody knocking at the door to bring over food or give you a hug.”

Whitten notes that there are a myriad of resources available through the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and that addiction can be treated like any other disease.

He said it’s critical to make the public aware of the dangers of opioids.

“The need for this is greater now than ever,” Whitten said.

To read Whitten’s full story, visit the OKC Dodgers’ “Beyond the Bricks” website at: medium.com/beyond-the-bricks.

The Dodgers continue a six-game series against the Sugar Land Space Cowboys at 7:05 p.m. tonight and the teams play nightly through Sunday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

Friday Night Fireworks are set to follow Friday night’s 7:05 p.m. game.

Whitten will be honored during Saturday night’s 7:05 p.m. game. Saturday is also Marvel Defenders of the Diamond Night and the Dodgers will wear special edition Marvel-branded jerseys on the field. Special guests Thor and Star-Lord will be in attendance. A Braum’s Friends and Family group offer is available Saturday for groups of 10 or more to receive a game ticket, OKC Dodgers hat and meal voucher to use at any Braum’s location in Oklahoma for a special ticket price.

Following Sunday night’s 6:05 p.m. series finale against the Space Cowboys, kids can run the bases.

OKC Dodgers tickets can be purchased through okcdodgers.com/tickets. For more information, please visit okcdodgers.com or call (405) 218-2182.

Live radio coverage of each OKC Dodgers game begins 15 minutes before first pitch on AM 1340 “The Game,” 1340thegame.com and through the free iHeartRadio or MiLB First Pitch apps. OKC Dodgers games are also available streamed live on MiLB.TV with a subscription.

ECMO Treatment at INTEGRIS Health Helped Save Life of Tulsa Man

OKLAHOMA CITY – The 11th season of the INTEGRIS Health “Home Run for Life” series continues Friday night as Cliff Allison will be recognized prior to the Oklahoma City Dodgers’ 7:05 p.m. game against the Sugar Land Space Cowboys at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

Allison, 53, suffered acute mitral valve failure during the summer of 2020. However, a buildup of fluid in his lungs made it impossible to operate on his heart. Allison was flown from Tulsa to INTEGRIS Health in Oklahoma City where he would receive an advanced life-saving treatment called extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

“There’s no question that what INTEGRIS Health did was a life-saver,” Allison said.

“Home Run For Life” recognizes individuals in the 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 a pregame ceremony.

“Each month during the baseball season, we are proud to partner with INTEGRIS Health to honor the perseverance and courage displayed by these incredible Oklahomans,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “’Home Run For Life’ allows us to uniquely recognize their amazing and inspiring stories of triumph over significant health challenges.”

Allison was mowing his lawn on a warm June day in 2020 when he suddenly felt overheated and had trouble breathing. His symptoms did not improve and testing at an urgent care revealed the levels of oxygen in his blood were dangerously low. He was rushed to the emergency room in Tulsa.

There, he was diagnosed with acute mitral valve failure, but unfortunately, by the time the cause was discovered, Allison had suffered further complications, including a buildup of fluid in his lungs, which made a heart operation impossible at that time.

After being flown to INTEGRIS Health in Oklahoma City, Allison started ECMO treatment, which works like a set of heart and lungs for a patient. It is often considered as a “last hope” for patients with hearts in critical condition.

ECMO bought Allison’s body time to heal, and once he was stable, Dr. Marshall Bell, M.D., a cardiothoracic surgeon at INTEGRIS Health, was able to replace Allison’s mitral valve and save his life.

“If it weren’t for the skill and care I got at INTEGRIS Health, I wouldn’t be here today,” Allison said.

To read Allison’s full story, visit the OKC Dodgers’ “Beyond the Bricks” website at: medium.com/beyond-the-bricks. Photos of Allison are attached for use (credit: OKC Dodgers).

The Dodgers continue a six-game series against the Sugar Land Space Cowboys at 7:05 p.m. tonight and the teams play nightly through Sunday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

Allison will be honored prior to Friday night’s 7:05 p.m. game and Friday Night Fireworks are set to follow the game.

Saturday is Marvel Defenders of the Diamond Night and the Dodgers will wear special edition Marvel-branded jerseys on the field. Special guests Thor and Star-Lord will be in attendance. A Braum’s Friends and Family group offer is available Saturday for groups of 10 or more to receive a game ticket, OKC Dodgers hat and meal voucher to use at any Braum’s location in Oklahoma for a special ticket price.

Following Sunday night’s 6:05 p.m. series finale against the Space Cowboys, kids can run the bases.

OKC Dodgers tickets can be purchased through okcdodgers.com/tickets. For more information, please visit okcdodgers.com or call (405) 218-2182.

Live radio coverage of each OKC Dodgers game begins 15 minutes before first pitch on AM 1340 “The Game,” 1340thegame.com and through the free iHeartRadio or MiLB First Pitch apps. OKC Dodgers games are also available streamed live on MiLB.TV with a subscription.

Round Rock Express to Host “End the Stigma Night” on July 27  

ROUND ROCK, Texas – The Round Rock Express are set to host End the Stigma Night, on Wednesday, July 27 at Dell Diamond as the Express take on the Sacramento River Cats (San Francisco Giants) at 7:05 p.m. The night will highlight the importance of mental health and self-wellness as former Express outfielder and current Mental Health Advocate for the San Francisco Giants, Drew Robinson, will discuss his journey after surviving a suicide attempt and how we need to “End the Stigma,” surrounding mental health. Robinson will speak to the crowd from the top of the dugout before the game begins.

“I’m so excited to return to Dell Diamond, which is where I spent so much of my time growing not only as a baseball player, but as a person,” Robinson said. “To be able to share my story with everyone at the stadium that welcomed and embraced me throughout my time spent there, through the ups and downs, is something not many players get the opportunity to do. I’m incredibly excited to come share my story and some lessons learned since my attempt in April 2020 with such a meaningful environment to me.”

Robinson will speak to the crowd 15 minutes before the game starts. Fans in attendance will be able to purchase an “End the Stigma” t-shirt, with proceeds benefitting the Better U Foundation.

Robinson’s story was detailed in the 60-minute film, “Alive: The Drew Robinson Story,” which aired in May of 2021 as part of ESPN’s “E:60” series and won a Sports Emmy for Outstanding Journalism. The documentary describes how Robinson survived 20 hours after attempting to take his own life.

Robinson was a fourth-round selection by the Texas Rangers in 2010 and he appeared in 100 games in the major leagues. Over the course of 2017 and 2018, Robinson appeared in 95 games for Texas and spent time with the Express from 2014-2018. He retired from baseball in July 2021 and continues to promote his message of self-love across the country.

“We’re thrilled to have our old friend Drew Robinson back at Dell Diamond,” Express President Chris Almendarez said. “He has overcome so much in his life and his message of positivity and strength will be incredibly powerful for our fans to hear.”

Local mental health non-profit organizations will be tabling on the concourse to spread awareness. If your organization is interested in having a table, please e-mail [email protected].

Tickets to July 27’s End the Stigma Night are on sale now and can be purchased online at RRExpress.com or by phone at (512) 255-2255. For more information about the Express, visit RRExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Subscribe to the E-Train email newsletter and keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!

BRYAN CRANSTON, AARON PAUL TO HOST “BREAKING BAD” MEMORABILIA SILENT AUCTION FOR CHARITY JULY 30 AT ISOTOPES PARK 

The Albuquerque Isotopes today announced “Breaking Bad” stars Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul will host a silent auction Saturday, July 30 at Isotopes Park. The Emmy-winning actors are also scheduled to throw out the ceremonial first pitch and sing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” during that evening’s game.

Proceeds from the auction will benefit two local charities:

New Mexico Veterans Integration Centers**:** A resource for Veterans and their families in New Mexico, the VIC provides many services, including multiple housing assistance options, peer support, food and nutrition, and case management services to Veterans, their families, and the community.

Children’s Cancer Fund of New Mexico: From the moment a New Mexico child is diagnosed with cancer, the CCFNM is there to help. Generous donations directly support these children and their families in the following manner: Assistance for transportation costs, food vouchers, prizes for children and teens to help minimize the trauma of painful procedures, scholarship assistance and much more.

All silent auction items will be donated from the personal collections of both Cranston and Paul, who starred in the hit television series from 2008-2013. The auction—which will be held exclusively at Isotopes Park—will begin when the gates open at 5:30 pm and will last through the fifth inning. The specific auction items will be announced in the coming weeks. The auction winners will be invited to attend a private photo op with both Cranston and Paul during that night’s game.

“Albuquerque was our creative home throughout the run of Breaking Bad, and will always have a warm place in my heart,” Cranston said. “Now, Aaron and I thought we can do something to say thank you in the best way possible, by raising money for two very important charities that serve the ABQ community, while also having fun at the ballpark.”

“ABQ…we see you. Doing the math – the city has been the host to Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul for sixteen years! That is a long-term relationship,” Paul said. “We were so grateful the city was an important part of the stories, because it was a character as well. Thank you, Albuquerque. See you at the game, everyone!”

The auction will highlight a festive evening, as the 6:35 pm game vs. Las Vegas will feature Blake’s Lotaburger Green Chile Cheeseburgers Night and a post-game Fireworks Spectacular.

Cranston and Paul will be returning to Albuquerque, in part, to promote their Dos Hombres Mezcal which has become the number six Mezcal in North American sales in just under three years. Dos Hombres Margaritas will be available at Isotopes Park starting in mid-July.

An updated version of the Isotopes 2022 schedule is linked here. Fans can purchase individual tickets to all remaining Isotopes home games here. Information on group outings can be found here.

Reno family to honor loved one’s legacy at July 8 Reno Aces game

RENO, NV (June 29, 2022) — An athlete and avid skier, Alex Anderson, died in May 2020 at 38 years old. As a registered organ donor, he saved the lives of four people through organ donation.

Anderson’s family will run the bases at the Reno Aces’ Home Run for Life game, presented by Donor Network West, after the second inning, Friday, July 8, at Greater Nevada Field as they take on the Tacoma Rainiers. His family has also connected with his liver recipient, Diana Lujan, who lives in Colorado – a video message from Lujan will play during the game.

A Donor Network West ambassador since January 2021, Anderson’s mother, Dawn Tindal, has been working to extend her son’s legacy by sharing with others the importance of organ, eye and tissue donation. Other family members have joined in advocacy for organ donation as well; Anderson’s 11-year-old nephew gave a presentation to his classmates about organ donation.

“Alex was a very giving person,” said Dawn Tindal. “If he was here today, he’d want his recipients to know that his gifts are meant to help them to live their best lives.”

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 are 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 fourth Home Run for Life game of the 2022 season.

“We’re so grateful to Alex’s family for their strength in sharing their story and continuing his legacy as organ donation advocates,” Janice Whaley, President and CEO of Donor Network West, said. “Donor Network West is proud to partner with the Reno Aces in honoring organ donors like Alex and their families who have given so much – their gifts have granted others a second chance at life.“

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 organ donors and their families during Aces games at Greater Nevada Field has been a tremendous privilege,” Eric Edelstein, President of Reno Aces and Greater Nevada Field said. “Our partnership with Donor Network West has been so gratifying and we look forward to continuing our support of their 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 media would like an interview with Dawn Tindal ahead of the Friday, July 8 Aces game, please contact Jena Esposito, [email protected], 702-513-0606. Photos of Tindal’s son, Alex Anderson, are available for download here.

Photo cutline: Donor Network West invites the community to honor and remember Alex Anderson, who died in May 2020 and saved four lives through organ donation. Anderson’s family will run the bases at the July 8 Reno Aces game.

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.

Chihuahuas Launch “Fetch the FUNdraiser” with ADP to Benefit Humane Society of El Paso

EL PASO – June 28, 2022 – The El Paso Chihuahuas have partnered with ADP to launch “Fetch the FUNdraiser,” benefiting the Humane Society of El Paso. Fetch the FUNdraiser runs now through July 18.

The Chihuahuas and ADP are asking fans to donate a minimum of $5. Donations are being collected via text-to-donate by texting “FETCH” to 844-311-5007.

“We are proud to partner with ADP to raise funds for the Humane Society of El Paso,” said Brad Taylor, MountainStar Sports Group Senior Vice President and Chihuahuas General Manager. “The care the Humane Society provides is important to the lives of these local animals.”

Funds from the Fetch the FUNdraiser program will go towards purchasing blankets, toys, and supplies requested by the Humane Society. For every $5 raised, the El Paso Chihuahuas will donate an additional toy or leash.

“The generous donations of our community impact our shelter in many ways. With over 150 dogs, cats, puppies and kittens currently residing at our facility, we rely on donors to help support our animals and programs providing enrichment and care,” said Tayler Quintana, Humane Society Community Engagement and Volunteer Coordinator.

Fans who make a monetary donation of $5 or more will be entered-to-win one of five Chihuahuas Prize packs. For every $5 donation, a fan will receive one enter-to-win ($10=2 entries, $15=3 entries, etc.).

Along with the Fetch the FUNdraiser program, the Chihuahuas Volunteer Pack, presented by Helen of Troy, will volunteer at the Humane Society alongside ADP employees on Friday, July 22.

The Humane Society of El Paso (HSEP) is a no-kill animal shelter in El Paso operating for the purpose of building a better community for all animals through adoptions, education, foster care, volunteer work, and community events according to the website.

“Without the help of our community, we would not be able to do what we do,” said Quintana. “Our community is an integral part of helping to rehabilitate and rehome the animals under our care.”

The 501(c)(3) non-profit does not receive local or federal government funding and is solely dependent on adoption and service fees, fundraising activities, grants, and donations from the community. HSEP is not associated with any national organizations.

A complete list of shelter needs can be found by CLICKING HERE.

The Chihuahuas return to action tonight versus the Oklahoma City Dodgers (Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate). The series includes three nights of Fireworks Spectacular as part of the GECU Independence Day Celebration. For ticket information CLICK HERE.

FETCH THE FUN!

About the Humane Society of El Paso

The Humane Society of El Paso (HSEP) is the oldest and largest no-kill animal shelter in the City and County of El Paso, Texas and have remained in continuous operation for more than 70 years for the purpose of building a better community for all animals through adoptions, education, foster-care, volunteer work and community events. The organization is a private, 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and does not receive any funding from the City or County of El Paso, the State of Texas or the federal government. In 2021, HSEP cared for nearly 2,000 shelter animals, and our adoption counselors placed 1,698 dogs and cats into loving homes. Our volunteer foster families cared for an additional 1,217 animals. In addition, more than 3,000 cats and kittens were spayed/neutered through our Mary Speer Program for Community (feral) Cats.

OKC Dodgers Hosting Mid-Season Job Fair June 28

*OKLAHOMA CITY – *The Oklahoma City Dodgers will be hosting a mid-season job fair for gameday staff on Tuesday, June 28 from 4-7 p.m. at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

The Dodgers are seeking multi-talented, highly motivated team players. Available positions include customer service, food service, retail operations, grounds crew and much more.

A full list of open positions can be found below.

“Our gameday staff has always been, and will always be, a vital piece of the fan experience at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark,” said OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes. “We typically have around 250 gameday employees working during our home games, and the people we hire during our job fairs are the ones on the front lines assisting fans and providing the level of unsurpassed customer service we pride ourselves on.”

The job fair will be held in the Legends Lounge at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. Interested job seekers should enter the ballpark through the glass doors adjacent to the Team Store located on South Mickey Mantle Drive.

Those applying for any position must be available for all remaining Dodgers home games through the end of September as well as other events held throughout the year. All applicants must be at least 16 years of age.

Applicants should be prepared to interview with Oklahoma City Dodgers’ full-time staff during the job fair. Résumés are encouraged but not required.

For more information on the 2022 OKC Dodgers mid-season job fair, visit okcdodgers.com or call (405) 218-2185.

AVAILABLE POSITIONS

CUSTOMER SERVICE

  • Gameday Ticket Sellers
  • Ticket Takers
  • Ushers

FOOD SERVICE

  • Line and Prep Cooks
  • Quick Service Expediters & Managers
  • In-Seat Vendors & Servers
  • Premium Level Servers
  • Warehouse Attendants
  • Dishwashers

TEAM STORE

  • Merchandising Sales Associates

OTHER

  • Field Crew Assistants

Multidisciplinary Experts at INTEGRIS Health Guide Jeremiah Harrell Through Spine and Heart Challenges

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS Health continue the “Home Run For Life” series for an 11th season and will recognize Jeremiah Harrell prior to the Dodgers’ 7:05 p.m. game Saturday against the Round Rock Express at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

A multidisciplinary team of experts at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center performed life-saving emergency spinal surgery on Harrell while also accommodating his pre-existing heart conditions, including a left ventricular assistance device (LVAD), earlier this year. INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center is the only facility in the state offering a full-service advanced heart failure program including teams of board-certified heart failure, LVAD, heart and lung transplant, anesthesia, cardiothoracic and neurosurgical experts together at one facility.

“Home Run For Life” recognizes individuals in the 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 a pregame ceremony.

“Each month during the baseball season, we are proud to partner with INTEGRIS Health to honor the perseverance and courage displayed by these incredible Oklahomans,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “’Home Run For Life’ allows us to uniquely recognize their amazing and inspiring stories of triumph over significant health challenges.”

Harrell was referred to INTEGRIS Health’s cardiology team when he first moved to Oklahoma. He was born with a genetic heart condition that was deteriorating and he underwent a procedure to implant a left ventricular assistance device (LVAD) at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center in December 2021.

Life returned to normal for the Bluejacket, Okla., resident until he started to feel numbness and a burning sensation in his neck around Easter earlier this year.

Harrell’s wife rushed him to INTEGRIS Health in Oklahoma City where he met with Pal Randhawa, M.D., with INTEGRIS Spine and Neurological Surgery.

The medical team discovered a severe infection that eroded and destabilized his spine, causing it to begin to collapse and damage his spinal cord.

“Had he not come to the hospital that very day, he would have been permanently paralyzed,” Randhawa said.

A team comprised of LVAD, anesthesia, cardiothoracic and neurosurgical experts were all present during the surgery in case they needed to respond quickly to any potential complications.

INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center is the only facility in the state capable of offering all these teams together in one place.

The emergency surgery was successful, and Harrell underwent additional staged surgeries to stabilize his neck.

Harrell knows his surgeries were no small feat and is incredibly grateful for his caretakers.

“My doctors are amazing,” Harrell said. “They keep a big smile on my face because without them I wouldn’t be walking around now.”

To read Harrell’s full story, visit the OKC Dodgers’ “Beyond the Bricks” website at: medium.com/beyond-the-bricks.

The OKC Dodgers are in the midst of a six-game home series against the Round Rock Express at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark that continues tonight at 7:05 p.m. Upcoming promotional highlights include:

• Friday, June 24 – 7:05 p.m.: Gates open at 6 p.m. and the first 1,000 guests will receive an OKC Dodgers water bottle. Braum’s Friends & Family 4-Packs are available for the game that include four tickets, four hats and four Braum’s restaurant vouchers. Friday Night Fireworks are then scheduled to follow the game.

Additionally, the Dodgers are partnering with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to increase awareness on the topic of mental health in the community, focusing on education, advocacy and support to #StrikeOutTheStigma of mental illness. Oklahomans who are working to de-stigmatize the connotations that come with mental health struggles will be recognized throughout the season, including during Friday night’s game.

• Saturday, June 25 – 7:05 p.m.: Harrell will be honored for his INTEGRIS “Health Home Run For Life” prior to Saturday’s game. Also before the game, Oklahoma City Community College President Mautra Staley Jones, Ed.D. is scheduled to throw out a ceremonial first pitch. Jones began her tenure March 1, 2022 and is the first woman and also the first person of color to lead OCCC.

Saturday is a Future Dodgers Night and youth baseball and softball teams in uniform are invited to participate in a pregame parade on the field. Game tickets for groups of 10 or more include a souvenir OKC Dodgers hat. Saturday is also a Braum’s Friends and Family Night, allowing groups of 10 or more people to receive a game ticket, OKC Dodgers hat and a Braum’s restaurant voucher that can be redeemed at any Oklahoma Braum’s location, starting at just $13 each.

• Sunday, June 26 – 2:05 p.m.: Following the conclusion of the game, kids can take the field to run the bases like their favorite pros.

Tickets can be purchased through okcdodgers.com/tickets. For general information or inquiries, please visit okcdodgers.com or call (405) 218-2182. Live radio coverage of each OKC Dodgers game begins 15 minutes before first pitch on AM 1340 “The Game,” 1340thegame.com and through the free iHeartRadio or MiLB First Pitch apps. All OKC Dodgers games are also available streamed live on MiLB.TV with a subscription.

OKC Dodgers Aim to #StrikeOutTheStigma with Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers are partnering with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) this season to help #StrikeOutTheStigma and increase awareness on the topic of mental health in our community.

The partnership focuses on education, advocacy and support to help destigmatize the connotations that come with mental health struggles. Oklahomans who are working to do so will be recognized throughout the 2022 Dodgers baseball season.

The first honoree of 2022 is Tony Stelter, director of recovery support for ODMHSAS who leads the organization’s planning, development and administrative aspects of consumer advocacy and recovery support services. He also uses his personal experiences with recovery to help others facing similar battles. Stelter will be recognized during the Dodgers’ game against the Round Rock Express at 7:05 p.m. Friday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

“Through our partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, we want to help raise awareness on the topic of mental health by talking openly about the subject and providing educational resources,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “By sharing the personal stories of Oklahomans who have been impacted by, or work to provide, mental health services in our community, we want to help strike out the stigma and provide support to our fellow Oklahomans.”

Stelter, who lives in Moore, is a licensed professional counselor who also identifies as a person in recovery.

Stelter holds a master’s degree in human relations from the University of Oklahoma and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Central Oklahoma.

He credits his son Ethan with saving his life.

Before Ethan was born, Stelter became addicted to opiates. He saw it as an escape from encountering unwanted negative feelings that stemmed from major depressive disorder and low self-worth. With Ethan on the way, Stelter tried to quit unsuccessfully on numerous occasions.

The path of self-destruction continued until it reached his lowest point and Stelter attempted to overdose, taking painkillers and some over-the-counter medication. Luckily, he survived. He wanted to be a father for Ethan, but knew he had a way to go.

“When Ethan was born it was one of the best days of my life,” Stelter said. “I loved him oh so much, but I hadn’t learned to love myself.”

He went on to receive intensive outpatient treatment and later started working for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services in the Children’s Recovery Center.

“If it wasn’t for the services like we have at the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, I wouldn’t be here today,” he said.

The OKC Dodgers are in the midst of a six-game home series against the Round Rock Express at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark that continues tonight and Thursday at 7:05 p.m. Upcoming promotional highlights include:

• Friday, June 24 – 7:05 p.m.: Gates open at 6 p.m. and the first 1,000 guests will receive an OKC Dodgers water bottle. Stelter will be recognized on the field during the game.

Braum’s Friends & Family 4-Packs are available that include four tickets, four hats and four Braum’s restaurant vouchers. Friday Night Fireworks are then scheduled to follow the game.

• Saturday, June 25 – 7:05 p.m.: The third INTEGRIS “Health Home Run For Life” honoree of the season will be recognized prior to Saturday’s game. Also before the game, Oklahoma City Community College President Mautra Staley Jones, Ed.D., is scheduled to throw out a ceremonial first pitch. Jones began her tenure March 1, 2022 and is the first woman and also the first person of color to lead OCCC.

Saturday is a Future Dodgers Night and youth baseball and softball teams in uniform are invited to participate in a pregame parade on the field. Game tickets for groups of 10 or more include a souvenir OKC Dodgers hat. Saturday is also a Braum’s Friends and Family Night, allowing groups of 10 or more people to receive a game ticket, OKC Dodgers hat and a Braum’s restaurant voucher that can be redeemed at any Oklahoma Braum’s location, starting at just $13 each.

• Sunday, June 26 – 2:05 p.m.: Following the conclusion of the game, kids can take the field to run the bases like their favorite pros.

Tickets can be purchased through okcdodgers.com/tickets. For general information or inquiries, please visit okcdodgers.com or call (405) 218-2182. Live radio coverage of each OKC Dodgers game begins 15 minutes before first pitch on AM 1340 “The Game,” 1340thegame.com and through the free iHeartRadio or MiLB First Pitch apps. All OKC Dodgers games are also available streamed live on MiLB.TV with a subscription.

Space Cowboys to Host Baseball Camps in July and August

(SUGAR LAND, Texas) – The Sugar Land Space Cowboys today announced they will be hosting two Space Cowboys Baseball Camps at Constellation Field, led by Space Cowboys manager and former Major Leaguers, Mickey Storey.

The first camp will be held from July 6-8, with the second camp held from Aug. 3-5.

The Space Cowboys Baseball Camp is limited to 150 campers ages 6-12, with the registration fee $175. To get more information and register for the camp, visit the following link: https://atmilb.com/3tEBRnf.

Along with Storey, Space Cowboys personnel will provide instruction and run campers through drills and skills competitions. Storey appeared in parts of two seasons at the Major League level (2012-13), including one with the Houston Astros, and had a nine-year career at the professional level.

Campers will receive an official Space Cowboys Baseball Camp t-shirt, as well as a ticket to their final camp day on either July 8 or Aug. 5. The campers will also participate in a pregame parade around the Constellation Field warning track prior to their attended game.

About the Sugar Land Space Cowboys

The Sugar Land Space Cowboys are the Triple A affiliate of the Houston Astros and compete in the Pacific Coast League. They began play as the Astros Triple A affiliate in 2021 and began playing under the Space Cowboys brand in 2022. The Space Cowboys play at Constellation Field, located at the corner of Hwy-6 and US-90 Alternate in Sugar Land, Texas. Follow the team on Twitter (@SLSpaceCowboys), Instagram (@slspacecowboys), Facebook (SLSpaceCowboys) and their official website (slspacecowboys.com). Fans can purchase full-season and partial-season plans, as well as single-game tickets, by visiting slspacecowboys.com/tickets.

Sugar Land Space Cowboys Host 200 Kids for Play Ball Weekend

(SUGAR LAND, Texas) – The Sugar Land Space Cowboys on Saturday morning hosted 200 kids from the Houston area for a baseball clinic at Constellation Field.

The Space Cowboys held the baseball clinic as part of PLAY BALL Weekend. All 120 Minor League Baseball clubs hosted either a PLAY BALL clinic, Pitch, Hit & Run and Jr. Home Run Derby competitions, youth baseball and softball tournaments, or games and events involving local Challenger Baseball leagues and Miracle League programs.

Space Cowboys manager Mickey Storey, development coach Wladimir Sutil, strength coach Zach Reding, bullpen catcher Caleb Nunes and video coordinator Garrett Allen helped run kids from the Houston area through hitting, pitching, fielding and agility circuits throughout Constellation Field.

PLAY BALL events were also held by all 30 Major League teams, as well as other select locations on all seven continents.

PLAY BALL is MLB’s signature youth engagement activity that is featured in events all around the United States and Canada. More information on the program, as well as future event updates, can be found at www.PlayBall.org.

Saturday MVP Field Day to Celebrate 2022 OKC Dodgers MVP Program

OKLAHOMA CITY – More than 17,000 second-, third- and fourth-grade students from across the state of Oklahoma participated in the sixth year of the Oklahoma City Dodgers MVP Program: Encouraging STEM Education presented by Devon Energy and Olsson.

The free OKC Dodgers MVP Program incentivizes teachers and students to participate in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) curriculum, rewarding students for their STEM achievements both inside and outside of the classroom.

“Devon is committed to engaging with students and teachers to promote STEM learning in classrooms across the state,” said Christina Rehkop, Devon’s community relations director. “The MVP Program is a fun and exciting way to bring skills and learning to life through the lens of baseball.”

The program was offered statewide in Oklahoma for a fourth straight year and expanded to include second-grade classrooms for the first time for the 2021-22 school year.

“Olsson is excited to be partnering with the Oklahoma City Dodgers’ MVP Program that celebrates the achievements of young students throughout the state in STEM education,” said Jimmy Sparks, Western Region Leader for Olsson.

The sixth year of the program culminates Saturday with MVP Field Day at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark — an exclusive event for participating MVP students and teachers, as well as their families. More than 700 students and teachers from throughout Oklahoma are scheduled to attend.

MVP Field Day will include STEM activities presented by Devon Energy, Olsson, SWOSU/Sage Camp, Women’s Energy Network, Engage Learning, OERB, Science Museum Oklahoma, First Robotics, Mad Science, Rose State College, NASA, Women in Technology and OG&E.

“We are excited to celebrate and reward our MVP Program students and teachers for their hard work during the school year with a day filled with fun STEM activities at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “We have received such positive feedback from teachers and students during the program’s first six years and look forward to continuing to grow the MVP Program.”

The OKC Dodgers MVP Program will resume in August for the 2022-23 school year. Additional information about the OKC Dodgers MVP Program and how to participate can be found at okcdodgers.com/mvp or via email to: [email protected].

The OKC Dodgers play the Sugar Land Space Cowboys at 6:05 p.m. tonight before opening a three-game series against the Salt Lake Bees at 7:05 p.m. Friday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

Friday night’s game features Loop Rawlins: One Man Wild West Show presented by H&H Shooting Sports as well as Friday Night Fireworks following the game.

The Dodgers and Bees meet again at 7:05 p.m. Saturday on 89ers Night as the Dodgers will wear retro 89ers jerseys in a nod to the franchise’s history. Saturday is also a Future Dodgers Night as youth baseball and softball teams can participate in a pregame parade on the field.

The series wraps up at 2:05 p.m. Sunday and kids can run the bases following the game.

Tickets are available at okcdodgers.com/tickets. Live radio coverage of each OKC Dodgers game begins 15 minutes before first pitch on AM 1340 “The Game,” 1340thegame.com and through the free iHeartRadio or MiLB First Pitch apps. All OKC Dodgers games are also available streamed live on MiLB.TV with a subscription.

National Transplant Games Athlete and Liver Recipient to Run Bases at June 3 Reno Aces Game

 

Pati Hughes-Fudge, a 70-year-old horse trainer from Gardnerville, Nev., received a liver transplant in 2015; but rather than slowly ease into life after the transplant, she competed in the Transplant Games of America just six months after her transplant surgery. The Games gather thousands of transplant recipients, living donors and supporters for a weeklong celebration made up of 20 athletic and recreational competitions.

Hughes-Fudge has brought home many medals from competing against other athletes in 2016 and 2018, and she looks forward to 2022’s Games, which will take place in San Diego this July. She will compete in swimming, and track and field.

Currently, 14,000 people in the U.S. are on the national transplant waitlist for a liver.

Thanks to organ donation, Hughes-Fudge continues her passions for training horses, judging horse shows across the country, swim training and spending time with her family. She will run the bases at the Reno Aces’ Home Run for Life game, presented by Donor Network West, after the second inning, Friday, June 3, at Greater Nevada Field as they take on the Tacoma Rainiers.

“I’ve been an organ donor since I got my driver’s license at 14 years old,” Hughes-Fudge said. “Little did I know then that I would need a transplant. It felt like every fiber of my being was fixed after my transplant – it’s a blessing and a joy to be able to go compete in events like the Transplant Games and participate in the Home Run for Life game.”

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. With more than 600 Nevadans waiting for lifesaving organ transplants, the partnership brings critical awareness about organ donation to the community and its sports fans. This will be the third Home Run for Life game of the 2022 season.

“Pati regained her life after her liver transplantation – her husband, her children and her grandchildren regained their loved one because someone said yes to organ donation,” Janice Whaley, president and CEO of Donor Network West, said. “Donor Network West is honored to partner with the Reno Aces in celebrating recipients like Pati who are now able to enjoy life.“

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, a brave individual in the northern Nevada community is 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.

“Watching the fans at the ballpark and community cheer on these local organ recipients has been incredible to experience,” Eric Edelstein, President, Reno Aces and Greater Nevada Field, said. “We’re excited to continue our partnership in highlighting Donor Network West’s community outreach and educational efforts as they work to share the important message of organ donation.”

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

 

Three-Year-Old Casen Hazlewood to celebrate “Home Run For Life” 

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS Health continue the “Home Run For Life” series for an 11th season and recognize their second honoree of 2022, Casen Hazlewood of Ponca City, during the Dodgers’ 7:05 p.m. game Friday against the Reno Aces at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

Hazlewood weighed 1 pound, 4 ounces at birth, as he was at just 26 weeks gestation, and went on to spend his first 154 days at INTEGRIS Health Children’s.

“Home Run For Life” recognizes individuals in the 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 a pregame ceremony.

“Each month during the baseball season, we are proud to partner with INTEGRIS Health to honor the perseverance and courage displayed by these incredible Oklahomans,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “’Home Run For Life’ allows us to uniquely recognize their amazing and inspiring stories of triumph over significant health challenges.”

Doctors determined Hazlewood had selective intrauterine growth restriction, a condition that stunted his development as his twin brother, Hudson, was getting most of the placental sharing.

Twins Casen and Hudson were born May 6, 2019, after their mother, Kari underwent an emergency cesarean section surgery.

Sadly, Hudson passed away unexpectedly from an infection just 12 days after his birth.

Soon after, Casen came down with the same infection. His parents feared the worst.

“There were multiple times we didn’t know if he was going to make it,” his father Donnie Hazlewood said.

Casen overcame the infection, just as he continues to overcome everything.

“I think he’s the toughest little kid I’ve ever seen,” Donnie said. “He’s been able to conquer and overcome so many things in his short life.

Hazelwood’s immune system is not as strong as an average child his age. Just last August, he was hospitalized with a cold and was there until October.

“We are ready to go at a moment’s notice,” Donnie said. “A cold can put him in the hospital for a long time.”

The Hazlewoods have driven back and forth numerous times from their Ponca City home to Oklahoma City, staying in an RV most nights while their son has been in the hospital.

The family gushes about the loving and welcoming care they received at INTEGRIS Health Children’s.

“We think the world of them,” Donnie said. “We consider them some of our closest friends.”

To read Hazlewood’s full story, visit the OKC Dodgers’ “Beyond the Bricks” website at: medium.com/beyond-the-bricks.

The OKC Dodgers are in the midst of a six-game home series against the Reno Aces at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark that continues tonight at 7:05 p.m. Upcoming promotional highlights include:

• Friday, May 27 – 7:05 p.m.: An on-field naturalization ceremony will take place prior to the game as approximately 80 people will be naturalized as United States citizens. Friday Night Fireworks are scheduled to follow the game.

• Saturday, May 28 – 7:05 p.m.: The first Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night of the season presented by Casey’s General Stores takes over Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark as the Dodgers honor the service and dedication of local military members and their families. Dodgers players and coaches will wear special camouflage jerseys and hats during the game.

The first 1,000 fans through the gates, which open at 6 p.m., will receive a camouflage OKC Dodgers hat. A mass swearing-in ceremony for new military recruits will take place pregame, as well as a flyover in conjunction with Vance Air Force Base. Military personnel from Tinker Air Force Base and Fort Sill will participate in pregame and in-game highlights, including a ceremonial first pitch, and the 395th Army Band from Mustang will perform the national anthem pregame. During an inning break, the band will also perform a rendition of “God Bless America.”

• Sunday, May 29 – 2:05 p.m.: Baseball Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench joins retired Baseball Hall of Fame President Jeff Idelson and acclaimed photographer Jean Fruth Sunday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark to promote the non-profit Grassroots Baseball and hold a pregame book signing for “Grassroots Baseball: Route 66.” Copies of the book, in which Bench wrote the introduction and a chapter about Oklahoma, will be available for purchase in the OKC Dodgers Team Store.

­­­Idelson and Fruth founded Grassroots Baseball with the mission of promoting and celebrating the amateur game around the globe, with a focus on growing interest and participation at the youngest levels. The overarching goal of Grassroots Baseball is to give back by providing inspiration, instruction and equipment to help ensure more children have the opportunity to learn, play and enjoy the game.

Bench is also slated to throw out a ceremonial first pitch Sunday.

Additionally on Sunday, OKC Dodgers Rookie League participants ranging in age from 3-10 will take place in a pregame parade on the field to celebrate the conclusion of the 2022 Rookie League season.

The OKC Dodgers Baseball Foundation, in partnership with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, will host a “They Were All Stars” traveling exhibit along the concourse of Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark throughout June and a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the exhibit will take place during Sunday’s game. The exhibit highlights Negro League players who became Major League All-Stars.

Following the conclusion of the game, kids can take the field to run the bases like their favorite pros.

Tickets for all OKC Dodgers home games through June at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark are on sale now and range in price from $12-33. All tickets are digital and available for purchase online at okcdodgers.com/tickets. For additional information, please call (405) 218-2182 or visit okcdodgers.com.

Live radio coverage of each OKC Dodgers game begins 15 minutes before first pitch on AM 1340 “The Game,” 1340thegame.com and through the free iHeartRadio or MiLB First Pitch apps. All OKC Dodgers games are also available streamed live on MiLB.TV with a subscription.

Bark in the Park, Military Celebration Night and Appearance by Johnny Bench Highlight Promotion-Packed Series

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers’ second annual Bark in the Park presented by Sit Means Sit Dog Training and the first Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night of the season presented by Casey’s General Stores are just two of the special promotions primed for the Dodgers’ jam-packed upcoming home series against the Reno Aces starting at 7:05 p.m. Tuesday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

The series opens on a $2 Tuesday featuring $2 select beer, soda and bottled water from a line of Budweiser and Pepsi products. COOP Ale Works draft beer will also be available at a special rate of $3.

The Dodgers’ second annual Bark in the Park presented by Sit Means Sit Dog Training is also Tuesday night as fans can bring their dog to the game. The first 300 dogs in attendance will receive a special commemorative dog bandana. Water and relief stations will be available throughout the ballpark for Tuesday’s dog guests.

Other promotional highlights for the series that continues through Sunday include:

• Friday, May 27 – 7:05 p.m.: An on-field naturalization ceremony will take place prior to the game as approximately 80 people will be naturalized as United States citizens. Friday Night Fireworks are scheduled to follow the game.

Also on Friday, three-year-old Casen Hazlewood of Ponca City will be recognized during the second INTEGRIS Health “Home Run For Life” of the 2022 season. Hazlewood weighed 1 pound, 4 ounces at birth, as he was at just 26 weeks gestation, and went on to spend his first 154 days at INTEGRIS Health Children’s.

“Home Run For Life” recognizes individuals in the 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 a pregame ceremony.

• Saturday, May 28 – 7:05 p.m.: The first Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night of the season presented by Casey’s General Stores takes over Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark as the Dodgers honor the service and dedication of local military members and their families. Dodgers players and coaches will wear special camouflage jerseys and hats during the game.

The first 1,000 fans through the gates, which open at 6 p.m., will receive a camouflage OKC Dodgers hat. A mass swearing in ceremony for new military recruits will take place pregame, as well as a flyover in conjunction with Vance Air Force Base.

Military personnel from Tinker Air Force Base and Fort Sill will participate in pregame and in-game highlights, including a ceremonial first pitch, and the 395th Army Band from Mustang will perform the national anthem pregame. During an inning break, the band will also perform a rendition of “God Bless America.”

Braum’s Friends & Family 4-Packs are available for Saturday’s game that include four tickets, four hats and four Braum’s restaurant vouchers.

• Sunday, May 29 – 2:05 p.m.: Baseball Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench joins retired Baseball Hall of Fame President Jeff Idelson and acclaimed photographer Jean Fruth Sunday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark to promote the non-profit Grassroots Baseball and hold a pregame book signing for “Grassroots Baseball: Route 66.” Copies of the book, in which Bench wrote the introduction and a chapter about Oklahoma, will be available for purchase in the OKC Dodgers Team Store.

Idelson and Fruth founded Grassroots Baseball with the mission of promoting and celebrating the amateur game around the globe, with a focus on growing interest and participation at the youngest levels. The overarching goal of Grassroot Baseball is to give back by providing inspiration, instruction and equipment to help ensure more children have the opportunity to learn, play and enjoy the game.

Bench is also slated to throw out a ceremonial first pitch Sunday.

Additionally on Sunday, OKC Dodgers Rookie League participants ranging in age from 3-10 will join a pregame parade on the field to celebrate the conclusion of the 2022 Rookie League season.

The OKC Dodgers Baseball Foundation, in partnership with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, will host a “They Were All Stars” traveling exhibit along the concourse of Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark throughout June and a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the exhibit will take place during Sunday’s game. The exhibit highlights Negro League players who became Major League All-Stars.

Following the conclusion of the game, kids can take the field to run the bases like their favorite pros.

Tickets for all OKC Dodgers home games through June at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark are on sale now and range in price from $12-33. All tickets are digital and available for purchase online at okcdodgers.com/tickets. For additional information, please call (405) 218-2182 or visit okcdodgers.com.

Live radio coverage of each OKC Dodgers game begins 15 minutes before first pitch on AM 1340 “The Game,” 1340thegame.com and through the free iHeartRadio or MiLB First Pitch apps. All OKC Dodgers games are also available streamed live on MiLB.TV with a subscription.