Promoting Health/Fitness

RiverDogs Introduce “Healthy Challenge Tuesdays”

April 18, 2013

This season, the RiverDogs, the Class A affiliate of the 27-time World Champion Yankees, introduce the “Healthy Challenge Tuesday” as the club partners with the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) to make every Tuesday’s game at The Joe a night that is themed around living a healthier lifestyle.

“Tuesday night games will now be geared toward living and promoting a healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally,” said RiverDogs General Manager Dave Echols. “We all can do a better job of taking care of ourselves, and why not start doing it at a baseball game?”

The RiverDogs have teamed up with the MUSC Wellness Center to create an entire new line of healthy concessions options available throughout the season, many made from crops grown on the MUSC Urban Farm located in downtown Charleston. Each Tuesday game will feature a different item from these new healthy selections and be offered to fans at a discounted rate.

Additionally, the club’s renowned between-innings promotions will also be health and fitness oriented for Tuesday home games this year. MUSC Wellness staff will be heard from throughout the night on the video board providing quick, simple, healthy lifestyle choices ranging from exercise activities to snack options to general healthy lifestyle tips.

“The MUSC Wellness Center and Healthy Charleston Challenge are excited to partner with the RiverDogs to help promote healthy lifestyle habits for the whole family while enjoying America’s pastime,” said Janis Newton, Assistant Director of the MUSC Wellness Center. “Together we’ll offer families the opportunity to eat healthy and increase physical activity while having fun cheering on the RiverDogs in 2013.”

Spikes announce 2013 school programs

April 15, 2013

Programs expected to reach over 15,000 Central PA school children

StateCollegeSpikes_2013-04-15 — Spikes mascots, players and staff can visit your school as part of each program

The State College Spikes have announced the team’s roster of 2013 school programs. Each program has a unique theme and focus, but the common goal is to use the fun Spikes brand to supplement classroom curriculum in the areas of reading, writing, exercising, eating healthy and living an eco-friendly lifestyle.

Most programs are supplemented by school assemblies involving mascots, players and front office staff, and all programs offer K-8 students the opportunity to earn free tickets and experiences at Spikes home games upon completion of fun program tasks. Last year, the Spikes reached over 15,000 Central PA school children in Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Huntingdon, Mifflin and Juniata Counties.

Below are capsules of the Spikes 2013 school programs:

Healthy Home Runs presented by Mount Nittany Health
The Spikes and Mount Nittany Health are offering this school program, which is designed to promote a healthy lifestyle through nutrition and physical activity. Ike the Spike and representatives from Mount Nittany Health will visit schools to hold a kick-off assembly (which can be held outside or inside). During the assembly, K-6 students will be educated on the importance exercise and nutrition before having the opportunity to take “Ike’s Fun Fit Challenge.” Students who complete the simple and fun physical fitness challenge will be rewarded with one complimentary Bullpen Box ticket and an on-field recognition ceremony during the Spikes’ Healthy Home Runs Day at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park on Saturday, August 3, 2013.

Project I.K.E presented by Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority
Project I.K.E. is a collaboration between the Spikes and Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority teaching children about the importance of “going green” and incorporating eco-friendly practices in their daily lives. The acronym in the program title stands for “Inspiring Kids to be Eco-Friendly” and targets children in grades K-8. The Spikes, Ike the Spike and a representative from the Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority will host educational school assembly visits for each participating school. Project I.K.E. also offers complimentary tours of Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, which demonstrates how the Spikes recycle and go green in the world’s first LEED Certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) ballpark. As part of the program, students will be given an educational packet to complete, which can be redeemed for one complimentary Bullpen Box Ticket to a 2013 Spikes home game.

Spikes Student All-Star Program presented by Chick-fil-A and PSEA
In partnership with Chick-fil-A and the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA), the Spikes Student All-Stars program provides K-8 teachers around the region with a tool to reward students with free tickets to a Spikes game based on whatever criteria the teacher would like to establish in his/her own classroom. Each teacher within the Spikes geographic region receives six (6) forms to distribute to students. The program encourages teachers to incentivize students based on excellence in a subject, dramatic improvement in a subject, or by showing classroom leadership. Any student chosen will be provided with a free ticket to one of three pre-determined 2013 Spikes home games (July 7, August 4 and August 25), and will be honored as part of a special pre-game, on-field recognition ceremony.

Books and Baseball Program presented by National Penn Bank
The Spikes and National Penn Bank have partnered for the Books and Baseball reading program for the 2013 season. This program encourages students to complete a reading program by rewarding them with free Spikes tickets upon completion. Participating students will receive a special bookmark to keep track of the books they read. Any participating student that reads four books under the supervision of their teacher or parent will earn one free ticket for a designated Books and Baseball game during the 2013 season (July 6, July 27 and August 24). At those games, participants will be honored from the field for their participation and completion of the programs. The program includes a free assembly and reading presentation with the National Penn Bank Nook Monster at any of the participating schools. Books and Baseball is designed for students in grades K-8.

Spikes Essay Contest
The Spikes Essay Contest is for K-8 students to creatively share their experiences and thoughts about the State College Spikes through pictures or essays. The contest is divided into three different grade levels: K-1, 2-4 and 5-8. Students in kindergarten through first grade are encouraged to include drawings along with one sentence for the theme “If I were Ike the Spike.” The second to fourth grade group will be asked to write a short essay entitled “If I coached the Spikes.” Fifth to eighth graders will be encouraged to write a 300 or less word essay entitled “If I could create a new food item for the Spikes, it would be (blank).” A winning essay will be chosen in each of the three age groups and those winners will earn tickets to a 2013 Spikes home game for their entire grade. The submission deadline for the Spikes Essay Contest is June 1.

There is no cost for school to participate in any 2013 Spikes school program. Teachers or administrators interested in participating in any of the State College Spikes school programs can contact Spikes Community Relations Manager David Wells at 814-272-1711 ext. 331 or dwells@statecollegespikes.com.

The Spikes, the Class-A Short-Season affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, will open the club’s eighth season on Monday, June 17 at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park against the rival Williamsport Crosscutters (Philadelphia Phillies). The Spikes will be home for 38 regular season home dates between June 17 and August 30. Single-game tickets for the upcoming 2013 season will go on sale to the public starting Friday, April 26 at 4 p.m. Season Tickets, Value Plans, McDonald’s Flex Books and an array of group and corporate hospitality options are currently available and can be reserved by calling (814) 272-1711. All Spikes ticket options can be viewed at State College Spikes.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the State College Spikes. Click here to view the original story.

Fisher Cats Team with Youk’s Kids, E&R Cleaners for Manchester Public Schools D

April 10, 2013

Organizations provided thousands of tickets for Manchester school children

MANCHESTER, NH – In a time when school budgets are being slashed and squeezed, often at the cost of educational field trips, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats partnered with two local foundations to provide thousands of Manchester school children with a school day at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium. Youk’s Kids, the foundation of former Red Sox infielder Kevin Youkilis, and E&R Cleaners purchased tickets so that nearly five thousand students could enjoy a field trip to the ballpark-turned-classroom for Manchester Public Schools Day on Wednesday morning.

“Youk’s Kids and E&R Cleaners have been tremendously generous in providing their support for this initiative this year,” said Fisher Cats President Rick Brenner. “Without them, it’s likely that these children would’ve missed out on a unique educational experience in what is undoubtedly one of largest and most fun ‘classrooms’ they will enjoy this year.”

In addition to enjoying the action on the field, the school children were introduced to a variety of learning elements throughout the ballpark. The Fisher Cats invited several local attractions to provide learning stations that covered a wide range of subjects, including astronomy, wildlife, fire safety, financial education, and math and science.

“As a foundation, Youk’s Kids is constantly striving to provide opportunities that enhance the health and well-being of children in New England,” said Youk’s Kids Board Co-Vice President Tina Cantu. “Teaming with the Fisher Cats for this special day game provides these students with an activity that is not only fun, but can lead to a greater interest in learning.”

“Being a family-run business that started here in Manchester, we know the value and importance in creating educational opportunities for the children in our city,” said E&R Cleaners President Rick Botnick. “We hope that these students had a lot of fun and were able to experience something new at the ballpark for the very first time.”

In addition to the support provided by Youk’s Kids and E&R Cleaners, the following attractions and businesses provided booths and displays during Manchester Public Schools Day:

McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center
Carriage Shack Farm petting zoo
CU4 Reality Financial Education Program
Seacoast Science Center
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Manchester
Smokey the Bear
Aviation Museum of New Hampshire
The NHHEAF Network Organizations
New Hampshire Musculoskeletal Institute
Coca-Cola Recycling
The W.I.L.D Center & Zoological Park of New England
Manchester Fire Department
Manchester Police Department

The Fisher Cats open their next homestand on Thursday, April 18 against the Binghamton Mets (New York Mets). The first game of the homestand features a fleece blanket giveaway for the first 1,000 fans courtesy of Heritage Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric. For tickets, visit www.nhfishercatas.com, stop by the Box Office at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium, or call 603-641-2005.

The mission of Youk’s Kids is to create a community of support, increase awareness and advocate for the health and well-being of children. Growing up surrounded by the precious gifts of family, friends, community and religion, Kevin Youkilis has long been passionate about giving back to the community. Over the years, he has sought opportunities to make a difference and has participated in a variety of philanthropic efforts. In 2007, he took his commitment to the next level and founded Youk’s Kids. Since its inception, Youk’s Kids has raised over $3 million to support more than 1,000 children.

E & R Laundry and Dry Cleaners was established in 1921 as a family owned and operated business and remains so today. A commitment to our customer is what originally defined E & R as being “not your typical laundry and dry cleaner” and it has continued to distinguish us from the competition for over 75 years. During that time, our family has established a foundation which continues to support the local communities we call home.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

First Race to Home 5K raises over $5K for Bandit Scholars

April 6, 2013

More than 300 participants get unique experience of finishing at home plate of Modern Woodmen Park

More than 300 runners and walkers competed in the first-ever Bandits Race to Home 5K and Fun Run presented by Palmer Chiropractic Clinics on Saturday morning, helping raise more than $5,000 towards the Bandit Scholars Program.

BlueClaws, Horizon Open Healthy Plate Concession Stand

March 31, 2013

Puts Good Nutrition Right in Baseball Fans’ Strike Zone

LAKEWOOD, NJ – As a nutrition-conscious America looks for more healthy menu options when dining out, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and the Lakewood BlueClaws are teaming up to bring smarter eating choices to America’s pastime.

Just in time for the BlueClaws 2013 baseball season, Horizon BCBSNJ is opening a new “Horizon Healthy Plate” concession stand at FirstEnergy Park, where fans at every game will be able to find nutritious alternatives to the traditional ball park fare.

“Good food and family fun are the great staples of a professional baseball game at any of New Jersey’s Minor League ballparks,” said Jonathan Pearson, Director of Corporate Philanthropy and Community Affairs for Horizon BCBSNJ. “Healthy eating should be a part of the ballpark experience, too. That’s why Horizon BCBSNJ’s pitch to fans is to bring their appetites to the Horizon Healthy Plate concession, where menu options are both nutritious and delicious,” Pearson said.

“Enhancing our ballpark menu to offer a more healthy variety of food is something that we are excited to do this summer,” said BlueClaws General Manager Brandon Marano. “We thank Horizon BCBSNJ for their support and we think our fans will enjoy these new options.”

The Horizon Healthy Plate concession has received the support of the New Jersey Department of Health, which administers ShapingNJ, a public/private partnership for nutrition, physical activity and obesity prevention.

“The New Jersey Department of Health and the ShapingNJ Partnership are pleased to collaborate with Horizon BCBSNJ to bring healthy concessions to places where our residents enjoy leisure-time activities,” said Peri L. Nearon, MPA, Director of the Office of Nutrition & Fitness, NJ Department of Health. “It is so important to give families and individuals healthy choices, and to make healthy choices easier for people to make not only for themselves, but for their children.”

The BlueClaws and Horizon BCBSNJ will officially open the Horizon Healthy Plate concession stand on Thursday night with a ceremony at 5:45 pm, before the 6:35 pm game.

The Horizon Healthy Plate menu was designed by certified dieticians under the direction of Glenn D. Pomerantz, MD, JD, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Horizon BCBSNJ. The menu includes a long list of popular heart-healthy dining choices, such as a grilled vegetable sandwich, a turkey burger, and frozen yogurt topped with fruit. The Horizon Healthy Plate menu also includes nutritional alternatives to the traditional ballpark fare, such as a veggie burger, a veggie hot dog and pop chips. From entrees to appetizers; from side dishes to beverages; each affordably-priced item includes calorie and other nutritional information.

Click here to see a full menu.

“Making the right nutrition choices in every meal, including those enjoyed at leisure-time, is key to maintaining health and wellness,” Pearson said. “We encourage fans to take their smart eating habits out to the ball game this season by stepping up to the Horizon Healthy Plate concession at FirstEnergy Park.”

About Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, the state’s oldest and largest health insurer, is a tax-paying, not-for-profit health services corporation, providing a wide array of medical, dental, and prescription insurance products and services. Horizon BCBSNJ is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, serving 3.6 million members with headquarters in Newark and offices in Wall, Mt. Laurel, and West Trenton. Learn more at www.HorizonBlue.com.

About the BlueClaws

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League in attendance in all 12 years of existence.

– BlueClaws –

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lakewood BlueClaws. Click here to view the original story.

Red Wings Host Relay for Life Event on June 29

March 15, 2013

The Rochester Red Wings are set to host the first-ever American Cancer Society Relay for Life event in the City of Rochester on June 29, 2013 at Frontier Field.

The overnight, community walk around the warning track at Frontier Field will begin with a Survivor Lap at 7:00 p.m. on June 29 and conclude the following morning, June 30, with a Fight Back Ceremony at 7:00 a.m.

In between, participants will take turns walking, running or otherwise circling the track “relay” style to raise funds to fight cancer. In addition, the celebration will include music, dancing, games, food and a candlelight vigil at nightfall to honor cancer survivors and caregivers and to remember those lost to cancer.

“The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life is a truly amazing event and we could not be more proud as an organization to host a Relay event at Frontier Field this season,” said Red Wings General Manager Dan Mason. “Everyone in some way, shape or form as been affected by cancer and this event is a great way to honor the victims and survivors as well as fight back against this terrible disease.”

Relay participants can sign up individually or as a member of a team at www.relayforlife.org/redwingsny and are encouraged to raise money prior to the event. Participants who raise over $100 will receive an official Rochester Red Wings Relay for Life T-shirt.

Participants interested in learning more about the Red Wings Relay for Life event are invited to attend the kickoff party at Frontier Field from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 23 – the same day single-game tickets go on sale for the upcoming 2013 baseball season.

The ACS’s Relay for Life event ignites team spirit among participants and works to raise funds used to save lives and create more birthdays by helping you stay well, helping you get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back.

Since 1985, Relay for Life has spread to more than 5,200 communities in the U.S. and has become a worldwide movement, taking place in more than 25 countries.

You can register, donate and learn more at www.relayforlife.org/redwingsny

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Rochester Red Wings. Click here to view the original story.

Boux, Clotile flex their muscles for MDA

March 11, 2013

Zephyr Field hosts MDA’s third annual Muscle Walk

Zephyr Field was home to the third annual Muscle Walk hosted by the Greater New Orleans Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) on Saturday, March 9.

The venue served as a backdrop for more than 700 supporters and friends, as they took the field for a walk around the park in support of muscular dystrophy research. Participants marched around the warning track of the stadium with the “Pocket Aces” brass band leading the way.

The event drew laughter, music, and even a cupcake eating contest sponsored by the Kupcake Factory.

Boudreaux and Clotile welcomed friends to their home, including Gumbo and Sir Saint from the New Orleans Saints, Bones and Mojo from the New Orleans Voodoo, along with the Voodoo Dolls. All mascots and participants took part in a dance competition, crafts for kids, and a fire truck display courtesy of the Jefferson Parish Fire Department.

Each year the Muscular Dystrophy Association hosts Muscle Walks across the country to help raise funds for research and medical support, the largest event of its kind in the United States. This year, the event raised $50,000.00 to support local MDA initiatives.

“Our annual family-reunion style fundraiser is not just about raising funds to help in the fight against muscle disease and ALS,” said April Catarella, MDA Executive Director-New Orleans. “It’s about getting our families together and raising awareness with the public. This year, we couldn’t have been more excited to have Zephyr Field graciously host this event. Each year we continue to grow, and the facility really enabled us to expand and create a truly memorable experience for our families. Not to mention the unique opportunity to have a second-line around the field.”

“Their staff also went above and beyond in accommodating our needs. We hope to have found our Muscle Walk home for years to come.”

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Orleans Zephyrs. Click here to view the original story.

G-Braves Award February Grant to Archer High School PTSA

March 6, 2013

“Heart Month” themed grant will benefit Archer PTSA’s Heart Screens for Teens program

The Gwinnett Braves have awarded their $1,000 grant for the month of February to the Archer High School PTSA of Lawrenceville, GA. The “Heart Month” themed grant, aimed at assisting organizations that bring awareness or raise funds for heart related diseases, will help fund Archer PTSA’s “Heart Screens for Teens” program.

Archer High School PTSA launched the “Heart Screens for Teens” program in 2012 in order to detect potentially fatal heart defects that cannot be identified during routine physicals. The screening, an ultrasound of the heart that takes about 15 minutes, helps identify Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) or an enlarged heart, which is the leading cause of sudden cardiac death in teens. HCM is thought to affect one in 500 persons of all ages, but usually manifests itself before the age of 20. It is 100% detectable, and teen deaths are preventable.

After screening 60 teens in March of last year, Archer PTSA plans to screen 70 teens in 2013. The process has been updated to include an electrocardiogram (EKG) and sports physical, which will raise the price per screening from $65 to $150. The grant money awarded by the Gwinnett Braves will be used to reduce the cost of the screening for each teen. It is Archer PTSA’s hope that a reduced cost will make parents more inclined to sign their teens up for the screening.

“The overall purpose of PTA is to make every child’s potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children,” said Lee Merritt, Co-President of Archer High School PTSA. “Local PTA units, like Archer High School PTSA, support this mission at the local level with programs that promote the health, safety, and welfare of students and families in our community. Because of the generous grant from the Gwinnett Braves, Archer PTSA can make Heart Screens for Teens more affordable, and there is no doubt, children’s lives will be saved.”

The original story appeared on the Gwinnett Braves’ website, and can be viewed by clicking here.

2013 Grant Beneficiaries Announced

January 26, 2013

IronPigs Charities presented by The Air Production Foundation, a non-profit organization striving to provide educational and recreational opportunities for children in the Greater Lehigh Valley area, will award a total of $85,700 in cash grants to 20 non-profit organizations during Thursday’s sold-out Phillies Winter Banquet featuring 1,100 guests at the Sands Events Center. Since debuting in 2007, IronPigs Charities has contributed a total in excess of $550,000 in cash grants and $215,000 in in-kind donations to dozens of local non-profit entities.

“Without question, this is the most rewarding night of the year for our organization,” remarked IronPigs Charities President Kurt Landes. “Make no mistake; these contributions would not be possible without the loyal support of our fans and business partners. We are truly humbled by the generous backing that IronPigs Charities receives and we look forward to continuing to make a tangible impact in our wonderful community.”

One of the annual highlights of the Winter Banquet event is the distribution of grants to local non-profit organizations. In fact, over $280,000 has been distributed at this event alone since debuting in 2008.

The 2013 beneficiaries along with a brief synopsis of their benefitting programs are listed below:

Allentown School District Foundation: An after-school intra-district middle school baseball program will be started in Allentown School District. At current, the Allentown School District does not have a baseball program at the middle school level. This program will allow for dozens of 6th, 7th and 8th graders to play baseball.
Boys and Girls Club of Bethlehem: Mind, Body and Soul are the three components of the Triple Play program. The multi-faceted program is designed to help young people become healthy and active while forming new relationships.
Boys and Girls Club of Easton: The Triple Play program consisting of the Mind, Body & Soul components, addresses a need for low-income youth to get more structured exercise in sports, explore healthy nutrition and learn social skills.
Community Bike Works: Children participate in a three month “Earn a Bike” program in which they receive instruction on bike mechanics, bike safety, employment skills and business concepts. At the successful conclusion of the program they earn a bike and a helmet.
Easton Police Athletic League: New uniforms and equipment will be purchased for the Easton Police Athletic League’s wrestling program. This program serves 50 youth from the Easton area.
Family YMCA of Easton, Phillipsburg & Vicinity: The Family YMCA Summer Youth Basketball League serves boys and girls ages 8 to 18. This program supports 80 youth and focuses on low income families.
Friends of the Allentown Parks: The Queen of the Court will give girls in the city of Allentown the opportunity to play basketball. Nearly 100 girls are expected to participate in the four week program.
Lehigh County Conference of Churches: The Aspires mentoring program addresses the health and wellness of at-risk youth in the Allentown School District. The IronPigs Charities grant will fund ten weeks of recreational and educational group activities.
Lehigh County Youth Association: LCYA serves over 100 youth who participate in a variety of sports, including baseball. The IronPigs Charities grant will provide new catchers equipment, a pitching machine, new bases as well as field maintenance equipment.
Lehigh Valley Zoo: The Lehigh Valley Zoo’s Wildlife & Wellness Program is a nature inspired health and fitness after-school program to benefit primarily disadvantaged, school-age youth in our community.
Lower Macungie Youth Association: After receiving a 2012 grant for field maintenance related items, Lower Macungie Youth Association will now receive funding for a storage shed for the items that were purchased last year.
Mikayla’s Voice: This June, Mikayla’s Voice will be hosting a one-of-a-kind triathlon for children with and without disabilities. Children with physical disabilities will participate in all three phases of a triathlon with a little help from their friends.
Miracle League of the Lehigh Valley: Their mission is to provide an all-inclusive baseball program for children with various special needs. The IronPigs Charities grant will provide uniforms and equipment for the nearly 300 players in the league.
Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley: Golden Dippers Ice Cream Parties will take place at the Children’s Hospital at Lehigh Valley Health Network for children battling cancer who are hospitalized. Additionally, PCFLV will celebrate the end of chemotherapy treatments with a Last Round of Chemo party.
Sacred Heart Hospital: An afternoon program of health and wellness will provide over 400 low-income youth with fitness activities, healthy snacks, fresh fruits and vegetables and a backpack giveaway filled with school supplies.
Salvation Army: The Breaking Barriers Fitness Camp will teach youngsters how to get fit, how the body works and the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. Each child will receive a personalized workout routine after the instructional sessions.
Special Olympics Lehigh County: A full course of track and field events will be setup for over 500 Special Olympics Athletes at Whitehall High School.
Valley Youth House: Valley Youth House will be building “Pigtown” as the fifth element of the adventure course at Camp Fowler. Throughout the year nearly 850 youth will participate in the adventure course.
YWCA of Bethlehem: The YWCA will give over 50 girls the opportunity to learn the game of golf. Held at Southmoore Golf Course and Wedgewood Golf Course, the young women will learn the necessary skills needed to play in tournaments throughout the area.

Philadelphia Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro, Jr., manager Charlie Manuel along with Dave Brundage (IronPigs manager), C Erik Kratz and INF Kevin Frandsen headline the sold-out 2013 Phillies Winter Banquet presented by The Air Products Foundation, Coca-Cola and the Lehigh Valley Health Network to be held on Thursday at the brand-new Sands Events Center in Bethlehem. Other Phillies dignitaries include Benny Looper (Asst. GM), Joe Jordan (Dir., Player Development) and Steve Noworyta (Asst. Dir., Player Development).

The Phillies Winter Banquet beneficiary, IronPigs Charities, is a recognized 501(c) (3) non-profit organization on the state and federal level.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Click here to view the original story.

Armed Forces Day Celebration at the Ballpark

January 25, 2013

Saturday, May 19 vs. St. Lucie Mets @ 6:00 p.m. (Gates open at 4:30 p.m.)
Patriotic Fireworks Extravaganza following the game (weather permitting).

Armed Forces Day Celebration
The Flying Tigers will be honoring current and retired members of the military for their service to the country. Veterans and current military personnel will also receive FREE admission. There will be a special JROTC Pass and Review celebration on the field prior to the game.

Pre-Game
Roy Powers and the Last Exit Blues Band will be performing in the concourse prior to the game.

North Lakeland Little League Team Party
The Flying Tigers will be hosting North Lakeland Little League’s team parties before and during the game. Each team will parade on the field prior to the game.

Tiger Trot 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run
The Flying Tigers annual Tiger Trot 5K will take place on Saturday, May 19 at Joker Marchant Stadium. The race will begin at 8:00 am with registration and packet pickup beginning at 7:00 am. Trophies will be awarded to the Overall Male/Female, Masters Male/Female as well as age group winners. There will also be special military team awards. 5K entry fee is $25 and includes race t-shirt (while supplies last) and a special dog tag. The Tiger Trot benefits the Detroit Tigers Foundation of Florida, Polk County ROTC programs and The Ledger’s Newspaper in Education Program. To register please click here.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lakeland Flying Tigers. Click here to view the original story.

66ers Partner with Joe Baca Foundation to Host Free Baseball Clinic & Little League Sign-Up

December 19, 2012

San Manuel Stadium Will Be Site of Open Baseball Clinic

San Bernardino, CA– The Inland Empire 66ers and the Joe Baca Foundation will be hosting a free baseball clinic at San Manuel Stadium on January 12, 2013 from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. The festivities will also include the District 43 little league sign-ups. This will be the first year that this event has been put on, all in an effort to encourage little league participation as well as a fun and educational clinic for baseball and softball players ages 4 – 18. Participants in the clinic do not have to sign up for little league. This is an open clinic for all children.

This event will mark the first community function that the Inland Empire 66ers are holding in 2013. The team’s mascot, Bernie, will make an appearance and there will be inflatables set up for children to play in. Children of all levels will be able to participate in the clinic and enjoy drills that are based on their individual skill levels.

66ers Community Relations Manager, Kelsey Beckenbach-English stated, “The 66ers and local little leagues have had a strong partnership since the team was known as the Spirit and played their games at Fiscalini Field. Every year, we assist local teams and leagues in their fundraising efforts and we hope that with this free community event, we will be able to assist in the increase of participation for their 2013 season.”

The Joe Baca Foundation’s mission is to “build a better future…for our children.” These types of clinics allow them to meet their goal of emphasizing physical health and teaching the basic fundamentals of baseball to under-served youth in our communities.

The little league sign-ups for District 43 as well as several other Inland Empire little league districts, will take place from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. For more information on this exciting day, please contact Inland Empire 66ers Community Relations Manager, Kelsey Beckenbach-English at 909-495-7658 or via e-mail at kelsey@66ers.com.

More information can be found by visiting www.district43.org or www.facebook.com/district43.

The 2013 season will kick off on Thursday April 4, 2013 at San Manuel Stadium when the 66ers take on the Modesto Nuts. Inland Empire fans can now purchase season ticket and group packages for the 2013 season. Tickets can be purchased by calling 909-888-9922. Additional information is available online at www.66ers.com. For more information on the Inland Empire 66ers please contact Joey Seymour, Director of Ticket Operations and Media Relations, at 909-495-7638.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Inland Empire 66ers. Click here to view the original story.

Our visit to Feed My Starving Children

November 15, 2012

The Kane County Cougars front office staff has been fortunate to send their staff to do a 2-hour shift at Feed My Starving Children in Aurora, which is about 20 minutes from their ballpark in Geneva. FMSC is a non-profit Christian organization that relies on volunteers to hand-pack meals specifically formulated for malnourished children. Those meals go to nearly 70 countries around the world.

The photo below shows how many meals Cougars staff packed during their shift. FMSC has several locations. It’s an incredibly fun atmosphere. Everyone has a role in the packing process – some are pouring the ingredients into the bag, others are weighing the items, others are boxing up the meals and placing the boxes in their warehouse. Upbeat music is playing the entire time and it really builds up a sense of camaraderie among our staff who are offering their time. We’d encourage any other minor league team to see if they are close to a FMSC, and have their staff and players volunteer to help.

Oftentimes during the busy portion of the season, it’s tough for our staff to simply be around each other, outside of the ballpark. These monthly initiatives we’ve set up really build team morale among our staff. More importantly, the giving of our time for these causes and seeing the impact we can make in the community (and in the case of FMSC, the world), it’s incredibly rewarding.

RiverDogs volunteer with Fields to Families

October 27, 2012

Each month during the off-season, the Charleston RiverDogs close the office to complete one day of volunteer service with a local nonprofit organization. In October, the Charleston RiverDogs Front Office Staff spent their monthly Staff Volunteer Day with the nonprofit organization Fields to Families. Members of the staff gleaned vegetables from a local farm to donate to local food banks and soup kitchens.

“It was awesome to get out there and get our hands dirty,” says RiverDogs Director of Media Relations & Broadcasting Sean Houston. “It was rewarding, and fun, and I hope we get to do it again soon.”

Fields to Families is a nonprofit organization, founded in 2006, that helps the hungry in the Charleston community gain access to nutritious fruits and vegetables.

Fields to Families’ operates as a three step process. The organization depends greatly on local farms who generously offer unused fruits and vegetables to Fields to Families, which are then harvested by volunteers, like the RiverDogs staff. Those fruits and vegetables then make their way to Lowcountry organizations that feed the hungry, including food pantries, soup kitchens, Meals on Wheels, shelters and churches. It is these recipient agencies who complete the process and distribute the harvested foods to the hungry and needy.

The RiverDogs staff spends the day volunteering with Fields to Families.

Director of Media Relations, Sean Houston and Sales Representative, Annie Fuller.

RiverDogs Staff Raise Funds for American Heart Association

October 8, 2012

The Lowcountry Heart Walk is the American Heart Association’s mission in action. This annual celebration promotes physical activity and heart healthy living in a fun, family and dog friendly environment. There is a Survivor Reception for Cardiovascular & Stroke survivors and their caregivers. More than 5000 walkers are anticipated to participate in this non competitive one or three mile walk event. As our signature fundraising event, the Lowcountry Heart Walk is raising critical dollars for the American Heart Association’s lifesaving mission.

The Charleston RiverDogs front office staff started a Heart Walk team with a collective fundraising goal of $1,500. By the day of the Heart Walk, the RiverDogs staff were able to donate a total of $1,675 for the American Heart Association.

On September 29th, a police-estimated 5,200 people — men and women of all ages and ethnicities — gathered to celebrate survival, “miracles” and raised a projected $650,000 to help more fight the No. 1 killer of Americans, cardiovascular disease and defects. The walk also focuses on lifestyle change to improve heart health.

This year’s Heart Walk chairwoman, Anita Zucker, said the event helps highlight the Heart Association’s goal to reduce deaths from cardiovascular disease and strokes by 20 percent by 2020.

“To reach this goal, we must start in our communities across the nation,” urges Zucker. “Thank you for committing today to stand for positive change in our community. Today is the day we begin to walk more, eat better and live longer.”

Sales Representatives Annie Fuller and David Cullins and Director of Media Relations at the starting line of the 2012 Heart Walk

Helping Hens award $30K to local non-profits!

August 31, 2012

The Toledo Mud Hens announced today that during the 2012 season, the Helping Hens Charitable Fund awarded $30,000 in grants to local nonprofit organizations, providing youth with sports and recreation services.

Helping Hens Charitable Fund

“Helping Hens” is the official charitable fund of the Toledo Mud Hens baseball club and is administered through the Toledo Community Foundation. Keith Burwell, President of the Toledo Community Foundation, and Cheri Pastula, Manager of Community Relations for the Mud Hens, presented checks to the grant winners prior to the Hens game on Sunday, August 26th.

“These organizations do exceptional work and the Mud Hens are thrilled to support local children in their efforts to stay active and healthy,” said Cheri Pastula, Manager of Community Relations for the Mud Hens.

The 2012 “Helping Hens” Grant Winners

Ability Center of Greater Toledo – A grant was awarded to implement a bicycle education program for individuals with disabilities.

Children’s Resource Center – A grant was awarded to provide a one-year membership to the Bowling Green Community Center, where children can engage in safe indoor recreation activities including soccer, volleyball and basketball.

City of Fremont-Parks and Recreation Department – A grant was awarded to support the Flash Youth Running Program, which allows children to participate in Cross Country and Track & Field.

East Toledo Family Center – A grant was awarded to purchase equipment that 600 children use for its baseball, soccer and basketball programming that the organization offers throughout the year.

Girls on the Run of Northwest Ohio – A grant was awarded to provide scholarships for girls who cannot afford program participation fees.

Kids Unlimited, Inc. – A grant was awarded to purchase playground equipment to be used by 150 children participating in its after school and summer programming.

Salvation Army, NW Ohio Area Services – A grant was awarded to purchase sports equipment that will be used during the physical education module of the Bridging the Gap Program and in conjunction with activities that are sponsored by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo.

Toledo Ballet Association, Inc. – A grant was awarded to support the Musical Theater Camp that is conducted in partnership with the Catholic Club.

Toledo School for the Arts – A grant was awarded to provide 50 underserved youth with the opportunity to participate in the Urban Dance Program.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Toledo Mud Hens. Click here to view the original story.

Male	1st Place	Time	2nd Place	Time	3^rd Place	Time
Overall	Jerry Lack (East Moline, IL)	18:01	Chris Rubel (Bettendorf, IA)	18:26	Heath Nichols	19:22
19 & U	Tyler Brewster (Bettendorf, IA)	20:18	Spencer Feldman (Atalissa, IA)	22:53	Seth West (Orion, IL)	23:05
20-24	Michael Henrekin (Tampico, IL)	23:12	Gradeigh De La Rosa	25:01	Kevin Weis (Davenport, IA)	25:41
25-29	Josh Hendrix (Davenport, IA)	20:54	Jacob Clark (Davenport, IA)	20:58	Tyler Drury (Davenport, IA)	22:21
30-34	Josh Berka (Iowa City, IA)	21:47	Dan Bailey (Davenport, IA)	25:32	Mitch Driscoll (Taylor Ridge, IL)	26:18
35-39	Billy Butler (Moline, IL)	20:47	Joel Abrams (Ely, IA)	23:23	David Krogman (Muscatine, IA)	24:26
40-44	Brad Palmer (Davenport, IA)	23:29	Johnny Hawkins (Rock Island, IL)	24:06	Logan Lee (Coal Valley, IL)	24:10
45-49	Marvin McMeekan (Milan, IL)	20:04	Rob Woodall (Bettendorf, IA)	24:27	Scott Carlson (Davenport, IA)	24:28
50-54	Scott Caldwell (Moline, IL)	20:09	Kevin Kurrle (Macomb, IL)	20:57	Daryl Jeffers (Rock Island, IL)	24:48
55-59	William Heller (Davenport, IA)	24:54	Steve Vipond (Aledo, IL)	26:13	Tom Schuetz (Bettendorf, IA)	27:00
60+	Mark Cook (Hampton, IL)	22:03	Gary Nelson (Leclaire, IA)	25:05	Gary McCormick (Coal Valley, IL)	27:12

Female	1st Place	Time	2nd Place	Time	3^rd Place	Time
Overall	Cathy Lack (East Moline, IL)	22:00	Cassidy Foltz (Prophetstown, IL)	22:18	Amanda Brown (Davenport, IA)	23:06
19 & U	Franki Crites (Davenport, IA)	23:18	Kaitlyn Powell (Blue Grass, IA)	25:25	Aaliyah Lopez (Davenport, IA)	31:55
20-24	Sabrina Dejong (Hampton, MO)	23:39	Hilary Wellman (Davenport, IA)	23:39	Brittany Lichty (Davenport, IA)	25:55
25-29	Christie Webber (Bettendorf, IA)	24:11	Lori Blocker (Davenport, IA)	25:48	Brittany Howe (Taylor Ridge, IL)	26:17
30-34	Jill Rubel	23:16	Adriana Aldape (Davenport, IA)	23:33	Nicole Bussard (Coal Valley, IL)	25:53
35-39	Nicole Callahan (Moline, IL)	24:11	Heidi Woodford (Dewitt, IA)	26:05	Tonya Wisor (Davenport, IA)	26:15
40-44	Beth Markovich (Bettendorf, IA)	25:17	Julie Jennings (McCausland, IA)	26:06	Michelle Koops (Davenport, IA)	28:58
45-49	Kari Koster (Geneseo, IL)	23:50	Penny Jagers (Bettendorf, IA)	25:04	Georgene Zust (Bettendorf, IA)	28:05
50-54	Bridget Stengel (Moline, IL)	27:20	Ann Morland (Galesburg, IL)	27:43	Ann Faulhaber (Davenport, IA)	31:09
55-59	Kathy Mackie (Dewitt, IA)	28:21	Jolene Vipond (Aledo, IL)	29:55	Linda Lanman (Davenport, IA)	38:56
60+	Marianne Schroeder (Bettendorf, IA)	28:35	Margie Schaefer (Moline, IL)	34:44	Floria Moore (East Moline, IL)	39:12