Spikes Youth Baseball Clinic is this Saturday

Kids can learn baseball fundamentals from the pros at the Spikes Youth Baseball Clinic, presented by Penn State Health, this Saturday, July 1. The clinic is free with a ticket to Saturday night’s 7:05 p.m. Spikes game, and will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.

Spikes players will help kids sharpen their basic skills, including pitching, fielding and hitting, at the clinic. Registration will begin at 10:30 a.m., and participating kids will have the opportunity to get autographs from the players at the end of the clinic.

The Youth Baseball Clinic starts a jam-packed day at the ballpark, as the Spikes face the Auburn Doubledays at 7:05 p.m., on Youth Baseball Night, presented by Boyles Insurance. Plus, the first 250 kids ages 12 and under will get free ‘dippin dots thanks to Boyles Insurance.

It’s also a Scratch n’ Win Saturday, presented by P.J. Harrigan’s and WOWY 97.1. Every Spikes fans will be a winner as each fan receives a scratch-off card with a great prize or discount on it, including the grand prize of 2018 Season Tickets!

Tickets for Satuday’s game, as well as every game on the Spikes’ 2017 home slate, can be purchased by clicking here, by calling (814) 272-1711, or by visiting the Medlar Field at Lubrano Park Ticket Office.

Information on all Spikes single-game, season and group ticket packages is available by clicking here.

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

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Learn from the Senators at the Senators 2017 Baseball Camp

The Harrisburg Senators baseball camp is your child’s opportunity to learn baseball from a professional coach or player. What better way to learn the finer points of baseball, the ins and outs, the fundamentals than from the very players you watch when you come to FNB Field?

The two-day camp dates are Wednesday, July 5 and Thursday, July 6. The camp is for kids aged 7 – 14 and will have instruction on hitting, running, pitching and fielding. The camp is divided into two groups, ages 7-9 and ages 10-14. The camp is four and a half hours of instruction over two days.

The instruction times both days is the same for both age groups. Ages 7-9 have instruction from 8:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. followed by lunch from 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Ages 10-14 have instruction from 10:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Lunch follows from 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Registration Wednesday for ages 7-9 is 8:15 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. ages 10-14.

For a price of $85 each participant receives a baseball camp t-shirt, lunch each day, a ticket to the game on Thursday, and they get to take the field with the Senators before the game on Thursday. This is your youngster’s chance to play on FNB Field and hang out with players!

For more information, please contact Jessica Moyer or Josh Bleyer with the Senators at either 717-231-4444 or via email at jmoyer@senatorsbaseball.com or jbleyer@senatorsbaseball.com. Act now as the camp is just a week away and has limited spots remaining! You can sign your child up all the way up to and including registering them on Wednesday morning, July 5.

The Senators box office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tickets are available via telephone during the same hours as the box office hours. Tickets are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, online at www.senatorsbaseball.com. You can find the Senators on Facebook at facebook.com/senatorsbaseball or @hbgsenators on Twitter.

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

SeaWolves To Host ‘Good Deeds Day’ on July 1

The Erie SeaWolves, Double-A Affiliate of the Detroit Tigers, have teamed up with Erie Federal Credit Union to host the fourth annual Good Deeds Day on Saturday, July 1 at UPMC Park.

Good Deeds Day is a drive to collect items needed by multiple non-profit organizations in the Erie region. Fans who donate an item at the game on July 1 will receive a complimentary Upper Box seat ticket to the SeaWolves’ Fan Appreciation Night on Saturday, August 26 against the Akron RubberDucks (Cleveland Indians).

“We would like to thank our partners at Erie Federal Credit Union for supporting this community initiative,” SeaWolves President Greg Coleman said. “We encourage SeaWolves fans to support one or more Erie-area organizations by bringing needed items to the ballpark on July 1.”

Items can be donated at the stadium from 6:00-7:00 p.m. prior to the SeaWolves’ game against the Altoona Curve. Stadium gates open to the general public at 6 p.m. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The following is a list of participating organizations and their current list of needed items:

Project Support Our Troops

Needs items include canned fruit (full size cans; no plastic containers), peanuts, peanut butter, trail mix, beef jerky, waterless hand sanitizer, snack cracker packs, foot powder, Silly String, Pringles, tooth paste, crossword puzzles, tooth brushes, rat traps, cookies, lip balm, gum, air freshener, eye drops, cards or letters of support, hard candy, shower scrubbies, non-aerosol bug repellant, On-the-Go drink mix, small Kleenex packs, Wet Wipes (travel size), tea bags, lotion, hand-held games, sun­flower seeds, instant cocoa packets, Q-Tips, Cracker Jack, deodorant, shampoo and conditioner. NO ramen noodles or travel-size personal hygiene items please.

United Service Corps

Various school supplies including pencils, glue sticks, markers, crayons and notebooks.

KaleidAScope, Inc.

Copy paper, paper towels, tissues, manila folders, large kitchen garbage bags, rolls of stamps, post-it notes, tablets of paper, snacks for groups, paper plates, plastic cups, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes.

The JFK Center

Arts and craft supplies including paper, crayons, colored pencils, glue, paint and paint brushes. Assorted toiletries including toothpaste and tissues. The JFK Center is also currently seeking volunteers and will have information available at its table.

Perseus House

Toiletries and paper products including tissues, toilet paper, paper plates, cups, and paper towels. Perseus House is also currently seeking volunteers and will have information available at its table.

Erie Youth Hockey

Hockey tape, hockey sticks, ice skates, hockey pucks, hockey pants, chest protectors and helmets.

Erie City Mission

Diapers (Sizes 2, 3, 4 & 5), baby wipes, baby food and formula, boxed food (cereal, breakfast bars, macaroni & cheese, spaghetti), canned food (fruit, vegetables, soup, broth, chicken, tuna), feminine hygiene products (pads, tampons, shaving cream), toilet paper, paper towels, mulch for gardens, various vegetable and fruit seeds for gardens.

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

RailRiders Announce HOPE Week Activities

Moosic, Pa. – What began as an ode to the parent club and the community has turned into an annual tradition in NEPA. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) are proud to announce that beginning on Monday, June 19, the RailRiders will join the New York Yankees in support of HOPE (Helping Others Persevere and Excel) Week 2017, a unique week-long communal program that brings to light extraordinary stories intended to inspire individuals into action in their own communities.

Initiated in 2009 and now in its eighth campaign in NEPA, HOPE Week is rooted in the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope and encouragement to more than just the recipient of the gesture. Each day from Monday, June 19, through Sunday, June 25, members of the RailRiders front office staff or club will reach out personally to connect with an organization, cause or individual. 2017 marks the sixth straight year that each of the Yankees’ six U.S.-based affiliates will participate in the program, making the initiative one that the entire organization proudly stands behind.

“Being a part of the Yankees family is special. HOPE Week is one of the unbelievable programs that solidifies the ‘Yankee way’ and how important it is to impact your community,” said RailRiders Team Pesident/COO Josh Olerud.

On Monday, June 19, will hold a special meet and greet between SWB players and military veterans. Local veterans from St. Francis Commons Veterans Program in Scranton will receive tickets to the game and will have a special meet and greet with players at the field before the game. These veteran groups in attendance will receive special recognition during the Hometown Heroes in-game announcement.

From 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20, players, coaches and front office staff will help box up meals for the Commission on Economic Opportunity’s “Senior Box Program” at the Weinberg Northeast Regional Foodbank in Pittston, PA. The CEO’s “Senior Box Program” provides meals to over 2,000 senior citizens in the area every month.

Wednesday, June 21, will feature a visit to the Janet Weis Children’s Unit at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Hospital. Players, coaches, front office staff, and CHAMP will visit the patients in the Children’s Unit of the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Hospital from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The visit will include reading to and visiting with the kids, coloring CHAMP and other fun pages and each child will get a special gift to keep. During the game, autographed memorabilia will be auctioned off and the proceeds will be given to the Ronald McDonald House of Scranton towards their efforts to support families of children who are in the hospitals in the local Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area.

RailRiders players will make a special visit on Thursday, June 22, to see a local Nanticoke area high school senior varsity baseball player, Aaron Kreitzer, who is in the hospital battling leukemia. Kreitzer will also be presented with his own custom RailRiders jersey. Since his diagnosis, Kreitzer’s high school baseball team, fellow students, and the whole Greater Nanticoke area community have rallied around him and his family throwing charity softball tournaments and fundraising benefits.

SWB will kick-off their annual RailRiders Vs. Cancer fundraiser on Friday, June 23. Fans will be informed of the fundraiser, the date of the head shaving will be announced, and past year’s fundraising campaign success will be highlighted. The RailRiders will also get to choose a local pediatric cancer program to receive half of the funds raised in this season’s campaign. Fans at the ballpark will be given the team fundraising website information.

From 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 24, players, coaches and staff will volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. They will put the finishing touches on a home in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., for a low-income family to purchase in July. The Wyoming Valley Habitat for Humanity restored the home for a single mother and her five-year-old daughter.

The team will wrap up their HOPE Week on Sunday, June 25, by participating in Minor League Baseball’s Joe Torre “Safe at Home” Domestic Violence Awareness Initiative. MiLB Charities has teamed up with the Joe Torre “Safe at Home” Foundation to raise awareness for domestic violence and educate fans about the resources available to help those in need. The first 500 fans at the game will receive Topps Card Sets featuring MLB veterans and top prospects and a signed Joe Torre Baseball will be raffled or auctioned off for the charity of our choosing. A representative from the Joe Torre Foundation will also be in attendance.

Our Community Organization of the Game will be the Mary Kay Foundation whose mission is to serve and support women with cancer and women and children affected by domestic violence. The Mary Kay Foundation will be selling their t-shirts during the game to raise money for their local programs. There will also be a “supply” drive (Items such as hygiene products, diapers, baby food and formula, school supplies, bus tickets and a no-longer used cell phone can make an important difference).

HOPE Week is just a part of the RailRiders’ community outreach this season, and the RailRiders look forward to continuing their involvement both during and after HOPE Week. Any inquiries regarding the weeklong festivities should be directed to RailRiders director of community relations Jordan Maydole by calling 570-969-2255 (ext. 3140) or by e-mailing jmaydole@swbrailriders.com.

The 2016 Gildan Triple-A National Champion RailRiders hit the road for four games in three days against the Buffalo Bisons (Toronto Blue Jays) beginning Friday, June 16. First pitch at Coca-Cola Field is set for 7:05 p.m. The boys of SWB return home on Monday, June 19, against the Syracuse Chiefs (Washington Nationals). Every Monday home game at PNC Field is Dollar Dog Night, presented by the Times-Tribune. For tickets or more information, please call 570-969-BALL (2255) or visit swbrailriders.com.

– SWB RailRiders Baseball – The Place to Be! –

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

Baseballtown Charities Breaks Ground on Savage 61 Dream Field

(Reading, Pa) – On Wednesday, June 14th at 4:30 p.m., Baseballtown Charities and their distinguished guests broke ground on the Savage 61 Dream Field at the Relevant Sports Complex. The Savage 61 Dream Field is the first baseball field in Berks County that is designed specifically for children with physical and developmental challenges.

Distinguished guests such as Tim Profit of Savage 61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, Chris Kaag of IM Able Foundation, Pennsylvania State Senator Judy Schwank along with President of Baseballtown Charities Chuck Domino and Vice President of Baseballtown Charities Scott Hunsicker all spoke on behalf of the Savage 61 Dream Field.

Future Dream League players Jonny Ortiz, Tyler Hartman, Mya Haddock, Scott Palmer, Kyle Wolf joined President of Baseballtown Charities Chuck Domino, Vice President of Baseballtown Charities Scott Hunsicker, Jim Leupold of the Baseballtown Dream League, Tim Profit of Savage 61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, Chris Kaag of IM Able Foundation and Screwball of the Reading Fightin Phils in the groundbreaking by shoveling dirt to officially get the field construction underway.

The Savage 61 Dream Field was announced in October of 2016 at the Diamonds and Dreams Dinner event hosted by the Reading Fightin Phils at First Energy Stadium.

IM ABLE Foundation and Baseball Charities announced a partnership in January of 2017 to build an adaptive playground at the new Savage 61 Dream Field. The playground will create a motivating and encouraging environment that will allow all children including those with physical or cognitive challenges to play together. Children who use a wheelchair, cane or crutches will be able to move freely throughout the playground. The surface of the playground will be rubber tile.

Baseballtown Charities will continue to raise funds to support the Baseballtown Dream League complex. Baseball town is also recruiting community members to serve as volunteer “angels” to assist Dream League players at every game.

Parents and community members interested in signing up children, volunteering or donating can email Baseballtown Charities at baseballtown@fightins.com for more information.

About Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League

Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in Reading, Pa. that focuses on making dreams come true one pitch at a time. The Savage 61 Field of Dreams will be constructed at Relevant Sports Complex in Temple, Pa. Since 2002, Baseballtown Charities has worked to build inclusive baseball diamonds as well as bonds between players, teammates and supportive communities. For more information, visit www.baseballtowndreamleague.com.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2017 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Donate blood at the ballpark Wednesday for Spikes tix

The State College Spikes and the American Red Cross are teaming up for a Blood Drive in Suite 519 at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 7, and we need your help, Spikes fans!

In addition to helping our neighbors by increasing regional blood supplies, any presenting donor that comes to the ballpark on Wednesday will receive two (2) Bullpen Box tickets for a Spikes home game of their choice this summer.

Walk-ins are welcome, but fans can also make an appointment with the Red Cross at RedCrossBlood.com.

The American Red Cross urges those who have never given blood before – as well as those who haven’t given recently – to make an appointment to give blood or platelets now and help sustain a sufficient community blood supply this summer.

While the need for blood is constant during the summer months, the Red Cross experiences a drastic decline in new donors. Nationwide, about one-third fewer new donors came out to give last summer than during the rest of the year. Additionally, many schools where blood drives are held – and where new donors give – are not in session, and current donors often delay giving due to summer vacation plans.

While about 38 percent of the population is eligible to give blood, less than 10 percent of those eligible actually do. The blood donation process takes about an hour with the actual donation only taking about 10 minutes.

So be sure to join us Wednesday between 12:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. here at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park as the Spikes and the American Red Cross team up for Blood Drive at the ballpark!

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

Senators Annual Pink Night is August 19

The Harrisburg Senators Annual Pink Night is Saturday, August 19 when the Senators play the New York Yankees double-A affiliate the Trenton Thunder. This season, the Senators are honoring survivors of breast cancer by using their names to create pinstripes on the Senators’ special Pink Night jersey.

The jersey will be pinstriped made from the survivor’s names. Starting now, and extending through June 13th, fans will be able to submit an entry with the names of anyone who has battled breast cancer. All names submitted will be used on the jerseys.

The Senators will invite all individuals who have battled breast cancer to take part in a pre-game human pink ribbon in the outfield during the National Anthem including family members. There will also be a banner on display that evening with every name of every survivor from the submissions.

For more information about Pink Night or to submit a name, click navigate to senatorsbaseball.com/pinknight. Submissions must be made online. For questions about Pink Night please call the Senators at 717-231-4444 and ask for either Ashley Grotte, Jessica Moyer or JK McKay.

Tickets for the Pink Night game, and every game this season, can be purchased Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tickets are available via telephone during the same hours as the box office hours. Tickets are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, online at www.senatorsbaseball.com. You can find the Senators on Facebook at facebook.com/senatorsbaseball or @hbgsenators

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

Fightins announce Color the Stadium 5K “Running w/Scissors” Fun Run or Walk

(Reading, Pa) – The Reading Fightin Phils have announced there will be a Color the Stadium 5K “Running with Scissors” Fun Run or Walk presented by Penn State Health St. Joseph, Corps Fitness, IM ABLE Foundation and A Running Start on Saturday, June 10th.

The event will feature a pre-race party with a DJ to get everyone in the moving and grooving mood! The race will then kick off with a Color Blast with Reading Fightin Phils players & mascots. The race course will consist of inside and outside of FirstEnergy Stadium. Each lap around the stadium will be about a half mile. The start of the race will take place at 3pm, prior to the Reading Fightin Phils game.

Why are we running with scissors? Because no other color run does this! For this race and this race only – it’s FUN to run with scissors! People have always told us to not run with scissors. But for this fun race, we are throwing caution to the wind, and running with scissors, to raise money and draw attention to the Baseballtown Dream League – a new league and a new Savage 61 Dream Field that will allow children with physical and developmental challenges to play real baseball, on a real field, on a real team!

Don’t want to run the full 5K? THAT’S OK! Just run for fun and stop when you are done! You don’t have to run the full 5K, THAT’S OK!

Schedule for the day includes:

  • 2:30: Check-In
  • 2:30-3:00: DJ Pre-Party
  • 3:00: Color Blast w/ Fightins Players and Mascots
  • 3:00: 5K Run Begins
  • 3:30-4:30: VIP Post Run Party and Happy Hour for Runners and Their Guests w/ Live Music
  • 4:30: Gates Open to All Fans
  • 5:00: Mascot Band Performs
  • 6:35: First pitch between the Fightin Phils and the Hartford Yard Goats
  • Post-Game MEGA BLAST FIREWORKS – Largest Fireworks Show in Stadium History!!!
  • All runners must please wear swimming goggles or sunglasses to protect their eyes

Each Runner Receives:

  • Registration for the Color the Stadium 5K “Running w/ Scissors” Fun Run or Walk
  • DJ Dance Party and Color Blast w/ Fightins Mascots and Players to start the Race
  • Two Color Packets to be a Part of the Color Blast Throw
  • Fun, Safe Color the Stadium Course Circling America’s Classic Ballpark, including inside the stadium (6 laps of approx.. ½ mile each lap = 3 miles)
  • Color thrown on you each lap
  • Commemorative Color the Stadium 5K “Running w/ Scissors” Fun Run or Walk T-Shirt
  • 15″ Scissors to Run With and Keep
  • Exclusive Access to the VIP Post-Run Party for Runners & their Guests w/ Live Music
  • Game Ticket for the Reading Fightin Phils Game – including:
    • Pre-Game VIP Party and Concert at 3:30
    • Fightins Mascot Band Concert at 5:00
    • Fightins vs. Hartford 6:35
    • Mega Blast Fireworks after the game – the largest fireworks show in stadium history!

There will be an on-field ceremony at 6:15 p.m. before the Fightin Phils game with the Hartford Yard Goats. The ceremony will recognize:

  • Best Dressed, Best Dressed Three-Person Team, & Best-Dressed 10-Person Team.
  • Most Colorful Male, Most Colorful Female, Most Colorful Child 14 & Under.
  • Also will recognize the following runners:
    • Fastest Male, Fastest Female, Fastest Male 14 & Under, Fastest Female 14 & Under, Fastest Male 40+, Fastest Female 40+

The cost of the event is $39 per runner. Groups of three runners will receive a discount for only $100! Groups of 10 runners will receive a discount for only $250! Extra guests for the game and VIP party members will receive $6 discounted Fightin Phils tickets. All proceeds benefit Baseballtown Charities Dream League, thanks to Penn State Health St. Joseph, Corps Fitness and a Running Start.

Space is limited – we encourage teams to sign up as soon as possible for this unique, fun event. www.baseballtown.org/marathon.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2017 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

The RailRiders Join WWI Centennial Commission to Remember WWI Veterans

WASHINGTON, DC: To mark the 100th Anniversary of America’s joining World War I, the SWB RailRiders (Triple-A/ New York Yankees) will join with the US World War One Centennial Commission and teams across the International League to honor the veterans of World War I on Armed Forces Day, May 20.

The RailRiders will feature a WW1-themed game with special giveaways, local history presentations and representation from area veteran groups.

“Having the opportunity to honor and commemorate our WWI soldiers on Armed Forces Day in conjunction with the WW1CC is an honor,” RailRiders President/COO Josh Olerud said.

The U.S. World War I Centennial Commission is a Congressional Commission, created to provide public outreach, education programs, and commemorative events for America’s involvement in World War I. Congress also authorized the Commission to create the new National World War I Memorial in Washington DC.

The WW1CC is also active on the state level, working with the WW1 Commission of Pennsylvania along with veteran leaders, elected officials, historians and youth groups in honoring the veterans of WW1.

The WW1CC’s Executive Director, Dan Dayton, is thrilled by the partnership with the International League teams. “This is a great opportunity for the World War I Centennial Commission, to partner with the people of the league, the teams, and with the fans, to remember these American veterans, and what they did for us all“.

Randy Mobley, President of the International League agreed, “The story of baseball has roots in World War I, and the story of World War I has close ties with baseball. One hundred years ago, hundreds of professional and semi-professional players put their baseball careers on hold in order to serve overseas in the war, including Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, and Eddie Grant. The International League is proud to partner with the WW1CC on this important commemoration and it is fitting that baseball be part of our national tribute to those who served in WW1.“

More information on the World War I Centennial Commission; ww1cc.org

International League www.milb.com

Scranton/ Wilkes-Barre RailRiders www.swbrailriders.com

Beginning May 20, the RailRiders are offering a $2 walk-up discount on available lower level tickets for active and retired members of the military. A valid military ID is required at the time of purchase. The offer is day-of-game only, for all lower level seating locations, based on availability. For tickets or more information, please call 570-969-BALL (2255) or visit www.swbrailriders.com.

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

Senators Ranked Seventh amongst 162 Minor League Baseball Teams in Charitable Giving in 2016

Recently, Minor League Baseball Charities sent out a report that ranked the Harrisburg Senators 7th amongst the 162 Minor League Baseball teams for the 2016 calendar year in total charitable giving. The Senators contributed over $880,000 directly back into the Central PA community in 2016 which comes mostly in the form of direct monetary contributions and in-kind donations.

The Senators give in various ways including the proceeds from the annual Hot Stove Dinner in February and the in-season charity dinner in August. Also included are the proceeds from the many special event jersey auctions and raffles, fundraiser tickets sold to non-profit organizations, ticket and merchandise donations, and in-person appearances by front office staff and players.

In 2016, the Senators front office staff and players made over 230 appearances. Last year, the team wore six specialty jerseys which were auctioned and raffled with the proceeds going to charity. Additionally, over $82,000 was donated through fundraisers. The Senators made in-kind donations of tickets and merchandise to organizations throughout central Pennsylvania totaling $697,358.

“We are extremely proud of what we have been able to accomplish in recent years in terms of our community involvement and charitable giving,” said Harrisburg Senators’ President Kevin Kulp. “It’s a big part of our mission. We take our summertime platform in this community very seriously. While we always strive to provide affordable family entertainment, being a part of this community and being able to give back is a big part of who we are.”

“We want to use our platform to raise awareness for local non-profit organizations and help them raise necessary funds so that they can continue their good work. Our staff works tireless hours doing what we do and I think that one of the most rewarding aspects of our jobs is knowing that we are fighting the good fight and we ARE making a difference. $880,000 for us is a good number and one in which we are extremely proud.”

The goal in 2017 is to hit the million-dollar mark in charitable donations and the team is off and running. Organized by Senators Community Relations Coordinator, Blair Jewell, the Senators have already made over 130 appearances and recently had the entire team going to the Central PA Food Bank on Wednesday, April 5. While at the Food Bank, the team put together over 150 boxes of food for families. Manager Matt LeCroy, along with several players and staff members, have already made the first of several appearances this season to the Penn State Children’s Hospital. They played bingo with kids, answered questions and learned about the youngsters during their visit.

“It means a lot to our patients and families when the Senators take time out of their schedules to come in and visit,” said Sarah Miller, Child Life Support Associate at Penn State Children’s Hospital. “There are always plenty of smiles to go around when they stop by!”

The Senators look forward to continuing to raise money for local non-profit organizations. The players and front office staff will continue to make appearances throughout the season. The Senators not only work with charitable organizations in the community, but also aid organizations through ballpark promotions.

Some examples of season long in-park community initiatives include free parking when fans donate clothes to Community Aid on Thursday nights. On Monday nights, members and former members of the armed forces receive free tickets and their families receive half price tickets. Each game the Senators spotlight a different community organization as part of the “Community Organization of the Game” program which allows a non-profit organization to come to the ballpark and provide information to Senators fans about them. Every game you come to the ballpark there is likely a group in attendance that is making money as part of their easy fundraiser program where organizations can make as much as $4 per ticket sold.

This is the 31st season of Harrisburg Senators baseball since returning to the Eastern League in 1987 and while the Senators organization will continuously strive to provide quality entertainment at an affordable price, the team will also continue to strive to make a difference in the community.

If you have any questions or would like further information about the Harrisburg Senators charitable donations, please contact Blair Jewell at 717-231-4444 or via email at bjewell@senatorsbaseball.com.

The Senators box office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tickets are available via telephone during the same hours as the box office hours. Tickets are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, online at www.senatorsbaseball.com. You can find the Senators on Facebook at facebook.com/senatorsbaseball or @hbgsenators on Twitter.

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

Charitable Tuesdays Returns in 2017

One organization will be featured at every Tuesday home game and receive;

  • A display table in the stadium to display and distribute promotional literature and materials
  • A live on-field interview before the game
  • Ceremonial 1st pitch honors for the organization
  • The opportunity to be a guest on the Crosscutters radio broadcast for one inning
  • A $250 donation to the organization courtesy of Woodlands Bank and the Crosscutters presented during an on-field ceremony

“Woodlands Bank is excited to, once again, sponsor Charitable Tuesdays with the Crosscutters.”, stated Jon P. Conklin, President & CEO of Woodlands Bank. “Our team of employees are passionate about volunteering their time and efforts in giving back to the communities we serve. Our partnership with the Crosscutters just reiterates the commitment that we have to our local communities and to the charitable organizations that do so much for them.”

Interested organizations should submit an application, available for download HERE or in-person at BB&T Ballpark. Applications must be received by June 2, 2017. More information is available by contacting the Cutters Director of Community Relations, Sarah Budd at (570) 326-3389 or email sarah@crosscutters.com

The Crosscutters 2017 season opens on June 20 when they host the State College Spikes. The full schedule can be found HERE.

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

Curve expanding partnership with Miracle League of Blair County

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

-CURVE-

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

7th Annual Cutters 5K Race to Benefit CDC

The Williamsport Crosscutters, in partnership with the Children’s Development Center, will be holding the 7th Annual Cutters 5K on Saturday, June 24th at the newly renovated BB&T Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field.

The race, through Williamsport’s West End, begins at 9am with registration open at 8am. The course has runners starting outside the ballpark entrance with the final sprint inside the stadium finishing at home plate. Both runners and walkers are encouraged to take part in the event.

All proceeds from the event benefit the Children’s Development Center of Williamsport. Since 1923, the CDC has been providing services to children with special needs from birth to 21 years of age. Last year’s event attracted almost 200 participants.

Hope Enterprises Children’s Development Center is honored to be the beneficiaries of the Cutters 5K race since its inception. The 5K not only promotes awareness of the services we provide but has raised over $68,000 in the 6 years of the event. Hope is grateful for the continued partnership with the Williamsport Crosscutters and their dedication to enhancing the lives of children and their families that we serve” stated Hope Enterprises President, Rob Labatch.

Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in seven male and female age categories for runners. In addition to the prize awards, the top male and female runners will throw out ceremonial first pitches at the Williamsport Crosscutters game on June 30th. Prizes will also be awarded to the top three male and female walkers. The event will also feature the always entertaining Kids Fun Run, free for children age 10 and under. All children participating will receive an award.

“We are proud to partner with the CDC annually on this fun event. The money raised goes to such an important and worthy cause”, said Cutters Vice-President of Marketing Gabe Sinicropi.

Registration is $15 in advance and $20 on race day. All participants receive a race t-shirt (while supplies last). Entry forms are available for download HERE, register online at PARunners.com by CLICKING HERE, or pick up an entry form at the Crosscutters offices at BB&T Ballpark or the CDC offices located at 625 W. Edwin St.  Sponsorships of the event are also still available.

The Crosscutters open the 2017 season on June 20 against the State College Spikes at the newly renovated BB&T Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field. The Cutters schedule and all ticket ordering information is available at www.crosscutters.com or by calling the Cutters at (570) 326-3389.

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

Fightin Phils Honored as People’s Choice Leader

(Reading, Pa) – The Reading Fightin Phils, double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, have been presented the People’s Choice Leader Award in Family Entertainment and Local Sports Team by Berks County Living and Lamar Advertising. The awards were presented at the 12th Annual Berks County People’s Choice Who’s Who in Business Luncheon on Friday, April 28th at the Reading Country Club.

Berks County Living works alongside independent marketing firm Polk-Lepson of York to find which local businesses are tops among county residents each year through months of research and e-mail surveys with consumers about whom they saw as the leading companies in various business categories.

For nearly a half century, the Fightin Phils have been recognized, both nationally and locally, for their tradition of affordable family entertainment.

In 2016, Minor League Baseball released a study that found that average cost for a family of four to enjoy a Minor League Baseball game was $64.97. The average cost was calculated by using the prices of two adult tickets, four hot dogs, two sodas, two beers, a program and parking.

A comparable package in Reading costs $53.00, nearly $11 less than the national average. All of Reading’s prices fall under the national average, including parking and programs, which are both free of charge all year long.

Berks County Living is the only regional magazine dedicated to highlighting all that is unique about the Greater Reading/Berks area. The monthly lifestyle magazine continues to inform readers about what makes Berks County an exceptional place to live.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2017 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

NYPL Charitable Foundation Announces 2017 Scholarship Contest

The Class-A Short-Season New York-Penn League and its member clubs, including the Williamsport Crosscutters, are proud to announce that the league’s philanthropic arm, the NYPL Charitable Foundation, will once again award over $10,000 in scholarships this summer to deserving high school graduates from the league’s 14 markets.

The Class-A Short-Season New York-Penn League and its member clubs, including the Williamsport Crosscutters, are proud to announce that the league’s philanthropic arm, the NYPL Charitable Foundation, will once again award over $10,000 in scholarships this summer to deserving high school graduates from the league’s 14 markets.

Now in its ninth year, the 2017 NYPL Scholarship Contest is open to any graduating senior from a public or private high school within the league’s footprint. Any student who has been accepted at a two- or four-year college or university, vocational school, or technical education institution is eligible. Applicants will be judged based on academic performance, volunteer and extracurricular activities, and the impact their local NYPL club and Minor League Baseball have had on their lives.

The scholarship contest will consist of two stages – a local round and a league round. In the local stage, students will apply directly to their local NYPL team, with one applicant chosen by each of the 14 teams to advance to the league/final round. The 14 finalists will then be judged by league representatives. Three applicants will be selected to receive the top prize of a $2,500 scholarship. All other finalists will receive a $250 book award.

“The New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation and our 14 member clubs are pleased to have the opportunity to assist outstanding high school seniors within our league’s footprint for the ninth consecutive season,” said Ben J. Hayes, President of the New York-Penn League. “This program will again recognize those seniors who not only meet and exceed traditional scholarship criteria, but demonstrate the positive community impact and lifelong memories fostered by their local NYPL clubs throughout the year.”

High school seniors interested in entering the 2017 Scholarship Contest can obtain the official application by visiting the Williamsport Crosscutters offices at BB&T Ballpark. Applications can also be also be downloaded by clicking HERE.

The deadline to submit applications to the nearest NYPL team is June 5, 2017. Each club’s winner, including the three $2,500 scholarship recipients, will be selected in mid-July.

The New York-Penn League and its 14 member clubs created the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation, a 501(c) (3) charitable organization, in 2003. The mission of the Foundation is to provide focus and support for the collective and individual charitable and community efforts of the New York-Penn League, its Clubs, and their staff.

For more information on the 2017 NYPL Scholarship Contest, call the Crosscutters at (570) 326-3389.

The Crosscutters 2017 home opener is scheduled for Tuesday, June 20 against the State College Spikes. Season tickets, bonus books and mini-plans are now available by phone at (570) 326-3389, online by clicking HERE or in-person at BB&T Ballpark.

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