Reno Aces celebrate National Girls and Women in Sports Day

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To celebrate National Girls and Women in Sports Day, the Reno Aces are sharing thoughts from the women in the organization that make the team go.

“The purpose of National Girls and Women in Sports Day is to acknowledge the accomplishments of female athletes, recognize the influence of sports participation for women and girls, and honor the progress and continuing struggle for equality for women in sports,” said Aces general manager Emily Jaenson.

Today marks the 35th Annual National Girls & Women in Sports Day (NGWSD). This celebration inspires girls and women to play and be active, to realize their full power. The confidence, strength and character gained through sports participation are the very tools girls and women need to become strong leaders in sports and life. We invite you to celebrate NGWSD in your community and to join the Women’s Sports Foundation as we Lead Her Forward in 2020.

More information on how to get involved is available here. Hear how sports and working in the industry have affected some of the women in our organization:

Emily Jaenson – General Manager

“I was an athlete growing up playing just about every sport you can imagine and it provided to me sisterhood of friends and fun, the experience of winning, and knowing what it feels like to work hard and see improvement. All of these aspects are essential to my life today in my career!

I am an athlete today; participation in sports taught me the importance of moving my body and overall health and wellness. Keeping fit allows me to do all of the things I want to do today including having the energy to juggle a full-time demanding job, be a mom to my little boys, and pursue my hobbies.

I look to today’s female athletes and women leading sports organizations for inspiration. Women continue to break barriers and this work lead HER forward in the next generation.”

Laura Raymond – Membership Development Director

“When I started my career in sports with the San Jose Sharks in 2009, I don’t think I really understood what I was getting myself into. This industry has not only given me access to once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, like being trusted with the San Francisco Giants triplets in 2015 and working the 2019 NHL All-Star Weekend, but also the chance to meet and build friendships with people from all over the country that I never would have met otherwise. Above that, this industry allows me to give back to my community in ways that not many people get the chance to, and I think that is what keeps pulling me back to the world of sports. Bringing exciting and engaging entertainment to our fans game after game never seems to get old, is something I feel so fortunate to be a part of.”

Courtney Baker – Corporate Partnerships Account Manager

“I had known ever since high school that I wanted to work in sports. Here I am in 2021, nine years of experience later. Working in sports is demanding, time-consuming and stressful (at times); but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Nothing beats game days and the friendships you get to make along the way.”

Leah Withrow – Head groundskeeper

“Getting to work in sports is a dream. That feeling I had when I was little, getting to go to the park and kick the ball around, is the same feeling I get everyday. There’s a lot work of work that has to happen, but at the end of the day it’s just fun and baseball games most of the time.”

Stacey Bowman – Chief Financial Officer

“I love working in sports as I am able to be a part of making memories for our fans. As a woman in sports it is important to me to show to our future generations that barriers based on gender should not exist.”

Sarah Bliss – Director of Ticket Operations

“It shouldn’t be noteworthy that I’m a woman working in sports. It shouldn’t be surprising that women are coaches, general managers and referees at a major league level. These should be accepted norms.

Not only am I a woman working in professional sports, I am a coach for Girls on the Run. In both I see the continuing need to inspire young women to recognize their power and potential to achieve their dreams. Those dreams will lead to a world where women achieving whatever they want in sports is the norm.”

Samantha Hicks – Chief Revenue Officer

“Sports unite people, getting to walk into a stadium every day to bring more fans to our games, how cool is that for work?!”

Cardinals Teacher of the Month: Lesa Bettencourt, Glendale High School

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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The Springfield Cardinals and Missouri Lottery are proud to announce Lesa Bettencourt of Glendale High School in Springfield as our January Teacher of the Month.

Lesa has been the Director of Drama at Glendale High School (GHS) since 2003, where she has taught and inspired countless students in the Springfield Public School system who are interested in the arts. Each year, Lesa develops plays not only attended by current students, but by former GHS drama alumni.

“You will always see so many alumni come back not only to see the show, but to see Mrs. Bettencourt,” one former student wrote in their nomination. “She always refers to us as her babies, and we will always be that in her heart and in ours.”

Before taking over as Director of Drama, Lesa was a Special Education Teacher at Glendale from 1995-03.

“She has encouraged kids in special needs to be in shows,” another nominator wrote. “She has helped countless kids–even at-risk kids–become successful. Teaching them skills such as self-confidence and public speaking. She has worked countless hours putting on plays for 28 years.”

Lesa, a Missouri State University graduate, is retiring after this year. And while the COVID-19 pandemic has limited the freedom to put on the plays her students have become accustomed to working towards, her current and former students expressed just how much the 26 years of Lesa’s teaching has meant to them through their nominations.

“She’s a mother for me and for every student,” a third nominator wrote. “She guides every single one of us to improve ourselves in any way and grow to discover our true potential in life. She gives a word to every senior at the end of their time at Glendale–that word represents them. It is unique, personal and students feel so loved and understood because no word could’ve described them better. That alone shows the dedication she always puts in her work and explains why she really is the best teacher.”

Lesa and the Glendale High School drama Class of 2019.

To show gratitude for their important contributions to the Southwest Missouri community, Lesa and each future Teacher of the Month will receive one 2021 Luxury Suite Rental with food and beverage for up to 18 people, one Ceremonial First Pitch, recognition on the Cardinals Video Board and 18 Cardinals Caps, all made possible by Missouri Lottery.

Created as a way to honor local-area educators from all grade levels, the Cardinals Teacher of the Month Award program, presented by Missouri Lottery, is an opportunity for the Southwest Missouri community to shine the spotlight on teachers who are making a difference in the lives of their students during these challenging times.

One hundred percent of Missouri Lottery profits are earmarked for education. In fact, since the Lottery began 35 years ago, it has generated more than $6.5 BILLION for the state and public education.

To nominate a February Teacher of the Month, you can visit springfieldcardinals.com/molotteryteachers today.

A Thank You from the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Coast BC

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Through the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation, C’s Co-Owner Jeff Mooney and wife Suzanne Bolton have committed to providing scholarships to members of the Boys and Girls Clubs or South Coast BC who were in either Grade 11 or 12 could step forward and apply for post-secondary grants that could reach up-to-$15,000.

Several of the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Coast BC recipients from the the scholarship program wanted to share their appreciation for the opportunity to pursue their academic dreams.

We are excited to see how these young adults can make an impact in our community!

To learn more about the Foundation: https://www.milb.com/vancouver/commun…​

To support during #BeyondTheNat​ Week: https://trellis.org/beyondthenatweek

Thank you to our volunteers!

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Our Foundation’s success is because of your generosity. Whether it comes in the form of monetary support, or it’s simply you rolling up your sleeves to join us as a volunteer, we ‘Thank You’!

Since the start of the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation League in 2012, we have had a core group of dedicated volunteers. These volunteers have provided mentorship for the thousands of kids we welcome to the stadium each year. One of the many standout volunteers is Al Carruthers. Al has been a member of the Foundation League for the last 6 years. Through a long-term basketball teammate, Carolynn Tuckwell (President & CEO of Boys and Girls Clubs of South Club), he had learned about the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation and wanted to be involved in some capacity as he was moving into his retirement. Over the 6 years of being a volunteer with the Foundation League, he enjoys seeing the development of the kids whether it is an improvement of baseball fundamentals, teamwork, or leadership skills.

“It’s important that they come away from the Foundation League with something positive. Whether it’s running to first and not third when they hit the ball, or learning how to work together as a team — they leave the field with a new skills set.” — Al Carruthers

Al is a regular volunteer with other programs with the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Coast BC, who sees many of the children who come out each summer to Nat Bailey Stadium. Being a familiar face and mentor for these kids is certainly a highlight for Al and the other volunteers within the Foundation League.

When asked “who would make a great volunteer for the Foundation League”?

“Volunteers don’t need to have a baseball or softball background, it’s as simple as taking the time a few days during the summer and bringing a friend to come out and spend time with the children. It’s good for the kids to learn how to work together as this Foundation League opportunity may be their first experience in a team environment.”

It’s not about keeping score or making outs, but providing a safe and welcoming environment for the children of the Boys and Girls Clubs to be together. Over the last couple of years, we have integrated fun activities for the kids to stay active and entertained after having their meal. Some of these activities include signing an ‘Official Player Contract’ as a member of the Foundation League, racing against the C’s Sushi Mascots, and team photos that they can keep.

Thank you to each and every one of our Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation members who helped take our commitment within our community to a whole new level. For more information about the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation click HERE or email [email protected] on how to become a volunteer.

2020 Gail and Michael Hause Volunteer of the Year Award: Ray Shum

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Since the inception of the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation League, we have been fortunate to have many great volunteers come out to Nat Bailey Stadium and work with children as they learn both baseball and life skills. In memory of two great volunteers and supporters of the foundation, we created the Gail and Michael Hause Volunteer of the Year Award in 2017. Over the past few years, we have presented this award to the volunteer who has gone above and beyond throughout the summer in a ceremony prior to one of our games. Unfortunately, in 2020 we were not able to run our foundation league. However, that did not stop the amazing supporters of the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation from finding ways they could contribute – especially one individual.

For close to a decade, Raymond Shum has been pivotal in raising awareness and funds for the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation. He has made countless donations to our foundation with a couple key goals in mind: help children play baseball and grow as individuals. Raymond came to realize the power of sport and how it can bring communities and people from all backgrounds together when his son started playing baseball. The teamwork and camaraderie that his son experienced had an impact on both him and his son. Seeing those connections and friends that his son made through playing a team sport made Raymond feel that all children should have that opportunity, one he did not have growing up.

Over the years, Raymond has brought many groups out to games as an introduction to the Canadians and to our foundation. On occasion, he has used these as mini fundraisers for the foundation and to give back to the community that he loves. In one instance, he was instrumental in getting a large group from Help Change My City out to a game. Most of the youth that came that day had never seen a baseball game before. Through all the donations and groups, Raymond believes in “making baseball a real fun event” for all.

Raymond never stops looking for ways that he can contribute. He believes that “giving back is important and other people can learn from what you do”. His passion for the game of baseball, the City of Vancouver, and the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation is truly inspiring. All of us at the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation cannot thank him enough for all his support.

For Raymond’s never-ending pursuit to support the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation we can think of no one better to be awarded the 2020 Gail and Michael Hause Volunteer of the Year Award. Raymond, thank you for all you do for the foundation, the Canadians, and our community.

To learn more about the Vancouver Canadians impact within our local community click HERE

Beyond The Nat Week will be running from January 25 – 29, 2021 — to support the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation click HERE

Cardinals Teacher of the Month: Stacy Yerby, Ozark East Elementary

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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The Springfield Cardinals and Missouri Lottery are proud to announce Stacy Yerby of Ozark East Elementary as our Teacher of the Month.

Stacy is in her 18th year as a teacher, and her innovative teaching strategies have impressed parents and students alike for a long time in the Ozark community.

For the past six years, Stacy has built an economics unit around a pop-up restaurant that is completely designed and managed by her second graders. Her unit has been so successful that it has received years of media attention in Springfield.

“Students do all the prep work from making menus, hostessing, serving, cooking and cleaning,” a Missouri Lottery Teacher of the Month nominator explained. “Hundreds of people come to their one-day restaurant. Throughout the years, money raised from these events has been donated to many good causes from an ill student’s medical bills to the Ronald McDonald house, the PTA and more.’

“Stacy is so much more than a 2nd-grade teacher. She’s a humanitarian.”

Stacy’s dedication to creating a unique, interactive and memorable learning environment for her students year after year is why she’s our latest Teacher of the Month, presented by Missouri Lottery.

To show gratitude for their important contributions to the Southwest Missouri community, Stacy and each future Teacher of the Month will receive one 2021 Luxury Suite Rental with food and beverage for up to 18 people, one Ceremonial First Pitch, recognition on the Cardinals Video Board and 18 Cardinals Caps, all made possible by Missouri Lottery.

Created as a way to honor local-area educators from all grade levels, the Cardinals Teacher of the Month Award program, presented by Missouri Lottery, is an opportunity for the Southwest Missouri community to shine the spotlight on teachers who are making a difference in the lives of their students during these challenging times.

One hundred percent of Missouri Lottery profits are earmarked for education. In fact, since Lottery began 34 years ago, it has generated more than $6.5 BILLION for the state and public education.

To learn more about the Teacher of the Month award program, presented by Missouri Lottery, or to nominate Teacher of the Month, you can visit springfieldcardinals.com/molotteryteachers today.

Blue Wahoos Provide Special Covenant Care Wish For Beloved Youth Baseball Coach 

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The hallway entrance doors opened, providing Jeff LaMonte first glimpse of the gathering ready to embrace him on the field at Blue Wahoos Stadium.

As he was slowly guided in a wheelchair down the dugout ramp, joyful surprise enveloped his face.

Standing near home plate were friends and relatives. Some traveled from far away. Former players from decades ago, now with their own families, had their gloves and bats ready to play ball.

All stood anxious Nov. 28 to greet the beloved youth baseball coach, who impacted so many lives for decades in the Pace Athletic and Recreation Association, commonly known as PARA.

“This is the first time I’ve ever been here,” said LaMonte, who is battling a terminal illness. “I always wanted to come to a game, but just could never get here.”

Now he was here on this day, thanks to Covenant Care in Pensacola.

The organization’s “My Wish” program made it happen. In this case, it was a wish for baseball. For several hours, LaMonte was positioned behind the batting cage, his brother by his side, watching kids, then adults play in sandlot style games.

Each inning, former players he coached would exchange greetings. Among LaMonte’s family and long-time friends, eyes welled. Emotion flowed.

They wore powder blue T-shirts with an inspirational message on the front and #TeamJeff on the back.

“This is amazing, it is magical,” said Christie Parker, Covenant Care senior director of development. “It is our goal for every patient to have a wish like this. Something that is meaningful for them and also their entire family and their friends.

“So, it means the world to us to be able to experience this with them and it’s because of the Blue Wahoos that we were able to bring it all together and make it happen.”

LaMonte’s life is filled with memories of coaching Tee-Ball players who became high school players. Travel Ball players who became college players.

Four of his prodigies are a group including Minnesota Twins third baseman Josh Donaldson, former Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell, former St. Louis Cardinals pitcher P.J. Walters and infielder Drew Cumberland, former first round pick by the San Diego Padres.

They all went from PARA to professional baseball.

“I really want to show my gratitude and say thank you for everything you’ve done, not only for me, but everyone in the community,” said Russell, in a video tribute shown on the stadium video board during the My Wish event.

The poignant experience this day was part of Covenant Care’s fast-expanding My Wish program. It started three years ago with approximately 80. Before this year ends, Parker said there will have been 450 or so My Wish experiences in 12 months.

Each one is different, powerful in its own way. The one with LaMonte was large-scale, open for anyone in the Pace community — touched in some way by LaMonte — to come to Blue Wahoos Stadium and show their support.

“This is My Wish in its best form,” said Angela Bottesini, senior director of My Wish and Patient Family Experience for Covenant Care. “This was (LaMonte’s) dream that he knew would never happen. And when we found that out… to be able to bring it to fruition this good is just wonderful.”

Covenant Care is one of the Blue Wahoos’ company partners. Both dugouts at the stadium have Covenant Care sponsorship signs.

When Bottesini contacted Blue Wahoos president Jonathan Griffith about the stadium availability on Nov. 28 and the possibility of using the stadium in this way, he immediately gave approval.

LaMonte grew up in Albany, Ga, before moving to Pace. He got started in PARA when his stepson became old enough to play youth baseball. He continued coaching and mentoring hundreds of kids through the program.

It made a My Wish day at Blue Wahoos Stadium with men he coached as kids even more impactful.

“The program itself was the brainchild, the heart baby of our CEO Jeff Mislevy,” Bottesini said. “He said we need to be part of this community in a way that we have never done before. That’s how this developed.

“In five years, our goal will be to have done 10,000 wishes.”

Blue Wahoos owner Quint Studer, who attended the My Wish experience for LaMonte, has been a long-time supporter of Covenant Care’s mission.

In a season without baseball, the Blue Wahoos have been able to connect with the community in hosting a variety of events that would not be possible without the expansive space of the ballpark.

Studer has also donated the Blue Wahoos’ Airbnb clubhouse experience for selected dates for Covenant Care’s Camp Connect program, designed to provide a special moment for children ages 6-17, who lost a loved one.

“We are so fortunate in Northwest Florida to have Covenant Health,” Studer said. “They make wishes come true. “That’s what they did (Nov. 28) for Team Jeff, so ballplayers could come out and thank him for decades of coaching and his impact in the community.

“We are fortunate the Blue Wahoos and Blue Wahoos can be part of making a difference in our community just as Covenant Health does.”

One of those ways the team made a difference occurred on Aug. 23, 2019 when the Blue Wahoos hosted an equally special My Wish moment for 96-year-old Albert Lane, a World War II, U.S. Army fighter pilot.

Mr. Lane flew over the stadium during a Blue Wahoos game with aid of another pilot in a vintage military plane from that era. It was days before Mr. Lane’s next birthday. He passed away months later.

“Before he died he wanted to do a fly over,” Bottesini said. “As he was passing, he held the social worker’s hand and said that was the finest point in his life.

“So that tells you how big of an effect this stadium has made on Covenant Care and the patients we serve.”

Jeff LaMonte was joined by family members in a special Covenant Care My Wish experience Nov. 28 at Blue Wahoos Stadium.

Cardinals Teacher of the Month: Tiffany Gray, Mansfield Middle School

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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The Springfield Cardinals and Missouri Lottery are proud to announce Tiffany Gray of Mansfield Middle School as our October Teacher of the Month.

A Mansfield native, Tiffany has spent all 19 of her years in education as a teacher at her hometown’s middle school. As this different and challenging school year approached, Tiffany worked tirelessly on new and innovative ways to meet the needs of students in the classroom and learning in a virtual setting.

Early on when COVID-19 began to impact her community, Tiffany was there to help package, hand out and deliver meals to her students. As her school district’s meal plan phased out towards the end of the 2019-20 school year, Tiffany continued to deliver food to area families through a community donor program by buying two large coolers to fit in her vehicle that allowed her to continue to package and deliver meals on a weekly basis.

Tiffany’s commitment to the well-being of her students and her impact on their learning environment not just now, but over the past 19 years, is why she’s this month’s Teacher of the Month, presented by Missouri Lottery.

To show gratitude for their important contributions to the Southwest Missouri community, Tiffany and each future Teacher of the Month will receive one 2021 Luxury Suite Rental with food and beverage for up to 18 people, one Ceremonial First Pitch, recognition on the Cardinals Video Board and 18 Cardinals Caps, all made possible by Missouri Lottery.

Created as a way to honor local-area educators from all grade levels, the Cardinals Teacher of the Month Award program, presented by Missouri Lottery, is an opportunity for the Southwest Missouri community to shine the spotlight on teachers who are making a difference in the lives of their students during these challenging times.

One hundred percent of Missouri Lottery profits are earmarked for education. In fact, since Lottery began 34 years ago, it has generated more than $6.5 BILLION for the state and public education.

To learn more about the Teacher of the Month award program, presented by Missouri Lottery, or to nominate a November Teacher of the Month, you can visit springfieldcardinals.com/molotteryteachers today.

Chasers in the Community

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The Omaha Storm Chasers in conjunction with Chasers Charities and Spectra Food Services and Hospitality combined for over 600 hours of community service in the Omaha Metro this year, and welcomed nearly 90,000 fans to a safe and socially distant Werner Park in 2020.

“We are proud of our staff for continuing to work in the community during this especially difficult year and we will continue to pursue opportunities and plan events that provide community connections in 2021,” said Storm Chasers General Manager Laurie Schlender. “While we have had staff reductions and no baseball in 2020, our commitment to being involved in the community has not wavered and we are planning things for 2021 that will continue that commitment.”

The Storm Chasers organization was also visible throughout the Omaha Metro community, as the combined number of mascot and staff appearances totaled 75. Chasers Charities in partnership with The Weitz Company also awarded two $1,000 college scholarships through the Jackie Robinson Scholarship program to Livia McFadden and Nolan Christianson. The Chasers also partnered with numerous non-profit organizations throughout the year including Ronald McDonald House Charities, the Salvation Army, the Tangier Shrine, Project Wee Care and the Foodbank for the Heartland amongst many others. They also partnered with Jack Daniels to provide for Operation Ride Home for the second straight year.

A brand new classroom program, Chasers All-Stars, was also created in 2020 providing parents, teachers, and administrators the ability to nominate teachers from the metro to be honored. Over 20 classrooms were surprised in February and March with a visit from Stormy, a weather demonstration provided by KMTV and a variety of prizes.

Despite many challenges brought by Covid-19, the Storm Chasers remained committed to providing relief for the Omaha Metro Community. A partnership with Kidwell Inc. provided 25 gallons of hand sanitizer to the Ronald McDonald House in April and nearly $1000 was donated to the Foodbank of the Heartland through Feeding America, while donating tickets for the 2021 season to frontline workers. The Storm Chasers were also able to provide a sense of normalcy providing two free drive-in firework shows and six Curbside To Go pick up meals.

A full overview of the Storm Chasers’ 2020 Community Relations efforts can be found online here.

Drive Set to Host Two Marquee Community Events at Fluor Field

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GREENVILLE, S.C. – The Greenville Drive is pleased to announce two upcoming marquee community events at Fluor Field. A new event, the Green Monster Mash (October 17), and a community favorite, the Upstate Veterans Salute (November 8), will offer free, family fun and a chance for the Upstate to once come together at Fluor Field – our community’s ideal outdoor social distancing venue.

Named after Fluor Field’s iconic Green Monster in left field, the first-ever Green Monster Mash Fall Festival will offer trick-or-treating, hayrides, a pumpkin patch, Halloween and fall-themed arts and crafts and a screening of the movie “Goosebumps” (rated PG). Trick-or-treating and other activities will run from 3-5 p.m., with the movie starting at 5 p.m. Movie seating is available on the field and in stadium seats, so bring a blanket and prepare to get spooky. Admission to The Green Monster Mash is free, but reservations are required and must be staggered to ensure social distancing. Reserve your spot today by clicking here

For the 5th straight year, the Upstate Veterans Salute, founded originally by the Drive & long-time community partners Michelin, General Electric, & Prisma Health, honors & recognizes our community’s Veterans & active military heroes. This year’s event will feature emotional & powerful Military focused programming, Military vehicle displays at the stadium gates, an aerial flyover by the vintage Warbirds Flyover Team, and a concert by up-and-coming country artist Filmore. South Carolina Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette will provide the keynote address, and the salute will conclude with a patriotic fireworks display. Gates open at 3 p.m., with Filmore set to begin at 4:30pm. Socially distanced seating will be available both in stadium seats as well as in first come, first served “pods” set up on the field itself. As always, admission to the Upstate Veterans Salute is free but a ticket reservation is required. Reserve your tickets today at UpstateSalute.com.

“Despite the challenges of the last 7 months, the Drive’s commitment to the Upstate community is stronger than ever & we’re excited to announce our upcoming Halloween & Veterans Day events”, said Drive Vice President of Marketing, Jeff Brown. “We’ve all missed out on a lot this year, so, with these events, the Drive is thrilled to bring back some of the joy and fun we are accustomed to providing our community each year. We encourage everyone to come out and enjoy themselves in the safe and welcoming environment that is Fluor Field.”

Non-Profit Hero of the Week: Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield

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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — With its origins dating all the way back to 1938, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield has enabled young people in our city to reach their full potential in a completely inclusive environment for over eight decades.

The club boasts five different locations throughout Springfield that offers a broad range of programs in the arts; character and leadership development; education and career development; health and life skills; and sports, fitness and recreation.

When the COVID-19 pandemic reached our city, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield became a key local food distribution center, distributing over 40,000 meals to the Springfield community. They went on to create a phased opening to safely accommodate high-need families at their facilities. Today, they are serving Springfield Public Schools students five days a week while providing virtual learning support and after-school programming.

And that is why they’re this week’s Non-Profit Heroes award winner, presented by American National Insurance.

You can view all of our Non-Profit Heroes at springfieldcardinals.com/heroes.

“On March 18, we closed our doors. On March 19, we opened new ones,” Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield Brandy Harris said. “[COVID-19] has brought uncertainty and disruption to the communities we serve, but Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield’s top priority has not changed: the well-being and safety of the children and families we serve.’

“We have been a consistent, safe and stable place for many kids during these unstable times.”

That instability includes families who were suddenly unsure of how to balance work and life. With schools closed or operating on a limited schedule, many were suddenly facing challenges to which they didn’t have answers.

“I would have had to quit my job as a single parent [once school started if not for BGCS],” a Non-Profit Heroes nominator wrote. “They have offered my child tutoring, behavioral health and counseling during such a difficult time in our lives. They are always there when we need them.”

“They provided meals when all clubs and schools were closed,” another Non-Profit Heroes nominator wrote. “Then, within days of Springfield Public Schools announcing a two-day per week classroom option, they stepped up to offer care for kids and also help with their virtual learning. They have worked tirelessly during this pandemic to make sure kids and parents have all the resources they need, while also offering scholarships for families that need care but can’t afford it.”

A visit to the official website of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield (BGCS) is the quickest way to see how the organization has pivoted to the times we’re experiencing. The first tab on the home page reads “BGCS AT HOME.” It’s a portal to activities for all age groups and all aspects of life, from arts to STEM to emotional well-being to physical activity and more. It provides a schedule specifically built around the regulations that come with life during a pandemic. And it’s access to The Club Crate program–a reasonably priced club that includes an exclusive BGCS-created program curriculum, access to weekly custom ZOOM classes, weekly recognition and incentive-based activities, and access to additional at-home focused content.

How can you get involved?

Volunteers are such a big part of what make all of our Non-Profit Heroes, presented by American National Insurance, so great.

To get involved with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield, visit bgclubspringfield.org.

For more on what BGCS is doing on a daily basis, follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/bgclubspringfield.org.

Cardinals Teacher of the Month: Maria San Paolo, Cassville Intermediate

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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The Springfield Cardinals and Missouri Lottery are proud to announce Maria San Paolo of Cassville Intermediate School as our September Teacher of the Month.

Maria spent her summer teaching in-person summer school and thinking of ways to make her classroom as safe as possible for her kids to return for the 2020-21 school year. Because her students sit four to a table, she had to think of a creative way to socially distance her students from one another.

To do so, she made dividers from curtain rods and clear shower curtains, which divided each table into four private sections for the safety and well-being of her students during COVID-19.

Today, she continues to prepare virtual lesson plans for her students just in case another “wellness break” occurs at her school. Maria has also taken time to prepare virtual learning for students who are currently and may in the future be quarantined due to exposure to the virus—a necessity in keeping them caught up with the rest of the class.

Maria lets nothing stand in the way of the safety and success of her students, and that’s why she’s this month’s Teacher of the Month, presented by Missouri Lottery.

To show gratitude for their important contributions to the Southwest Missouri community, Maria and each future Teacher of the Month will receive one 2021 Luxury Suite Rental with food and beverage for up to 18 people, one Ceremonial First Pitch, recognition on the Cardinals Video Board and 18 Cardinals Caps, all made possible by Missouri Lottery.

Created as a way to honor local-area educators from all grade levels, the Cardinals Teacher of the Month Award program, presented by Missouri Lottery, is an opportunity for the Southwest Missouri community to shine the spotlight on teachers who are making a difference in the lives of their students during these challenging times.

One hundred percent of Missouri Lottery profits are earmarked for education. In fact, since Lottery began 34 years ago, it has generated more than $6.5 BILLION for the state and public education.

To nominate an October Teacher of the Month, you can visit springfieldcardinals.com/molotteryteachers today.

Hometown Hero: Kim Elkins

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

 

SPOKANE, Wash. – When school districts started to close as a response to the COVID-19 outbreaks in mid-March, many faced the issue of continuing to provide meals for students in need. With the help of her team, Kim Elkins, the Nutrition Director for the Mead School District, made it her mission to provide kids in the district a dish of normalcy by continuing to provide breakfast and lunch. The district, comprised of seven elementary and one middle schools, set out to serve cold meals at 16 different locations that families could take home to heat up for the kids. Between March and August, a total of 238,044 breakfasts and lunches were served to the community. With help from Assistant Director of Nutrition Services, Mark Oswalt and their team, Kim coordinated with the transportation department to deliver meals from the school’s warehouses to the distribution sites. They’d be set up for 30 minute windows so that kids from more rural areas would have access without far drives. Several school bus drivers helped distribute the meals, some even dressing up in themed outfits to bring some fun to the pickup. The kids loved it and some would follow suit and dress up in themes as well. As the 2020-2021 school year starts, the Spokane Indians are excited to feature Kim as a Hometown Hero for the impact she has made on our community, especially over the past six months. Kim’s efforts helped ensure that kids were still being fed. The Spokane Indians had the chance to chat with Kim to find out more on this important project and the work that went into making it such a success.

SI: How long have you served as the Nutrition Director with the Mead School District? What is your favorite part of the job?

KE: Eight years, the best part is working with a great team that cares immensely about making sure kids are fed well-balanced meals that support learning.

SI: What was your particular role in implementing the meal pickup program?

KE: I coordinated the change from the normal serving model to one we had never implemented before. This included an overhaul of staff responsibilities, procurement of available supplies and food, communication with district and community members, transportation of meals, and implementing staff safety protocols. COVID-19 changed functions of every nutrition program. All school nutrition professionals in the area were happy to accept the challenge to ensure kids were fed during closures.

SI: What were some of the biggest challenges that you faced to successfully implement this program?

KE: Building the airplane in the air! Different aspects of staffing may have been one of the biggest challenges. We needed to create a new type of work environment that made our available staff feel safe while producing meals for our community with continually evolving health and safety recommendations. With schools across the nation facing similar obstacles, it was a challenge finding food and packaging supplies to keep our program running smoothly. There was undoubtedly a lot of coordination that made this successful.

SI: Who were the key players along the way?

KE: Mark Oswalt, Assistant Director of Nutrition Services; Brian Liberg, Director of Transportation; Jolene Andres, Executive Assistant for the Superintendent Communication Expert; and our nutrition and transportation team members. It was inspiring to see people from other school departments pitch in to feed kids.

SI: 238,044 meals served for breakfast and lunch is an incredible amount, how does that compare to typical numbers for the school district?

KE: Typically, we serve 6,000 meals per day that is spread across 13 buildings with 45 staff. With the meal pickup program, we were producing meals out of 2 kitchens with staff who assembled and then helped hand out meals with our bus drivers.

SI: Now that the 2020-2021 school year has begun, what plans does your team have in place moving forward?

KE: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the extension of free summer meals through December 31st. We are excited to offer free breakfast and lunch to our students attending school in person starting September 14th. We are also offering free weekly meal kits for families whose children are choosing full online learning and hybrid learners for non-in person school days. It is a big challenge to operate our meal programs in the schools in addition to a “to go” meal program. But again, our team has stepped up and are working to make sure it happens knowing how important food is for student learning.

SI: Outside of your work with the school district, what hobbies do you have?

KE: I ride my three horses in endurance races and on local trails, garden, and cook.

SI: What is your favorite quote?

KE: “Look at a day when you are supremely satisfied at the end. It’s not a day when you lounge around doing nothing; it’s a day you’ve had everything to do and you’ve done it.” – Margaret Thatcher

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

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Calfee Park to host free Halloween Bash on October 23 and 24

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

 

PULASKI, Va. – Calfee Park will host two nights of Halloween fun on Friday October 23 and Saturday October 24 with a free Halloween Bash presented by Shelor Motor Mile Growing the Future, Tru Harvest Farms, and Calfee Park Baseball. Both events are open to the public and free.

Gates open at 4:30pm each night for trick or treating with local businesses, games, costume contests, and pumpkin painting. Friday night’s activities will conclude with a 6:30pm screening of the Wizard of Oz on the videoboard, and Saturday evening will feature a showing of Hocus Pocus. Free popcorn will be provided during each movie.

The first 250 kids each night will receive a free pumpkin presented by Shelor Motor Mile. The event will cap at 1,000 people each night, and attendees will be asked to comply with social distancing requirements. Calf-E’s Kitchen will be open with full concessions for purchase each night.

If you have any questions about the Calfee Park Halloween Bash or are a local business looking to set up a booth for trick or treating, please contact Melissa Epperly at (540) 250-1732 or [email protected].

 

Tulsa County Election Board Names ONEOK Field Early-Voting Location

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

 

The Tulsa County Election Board has announced that ONEOK Field will be used as the early voting location for the November 3rd election. ONEOK Field is normally home to the Tulsa Drillers, but it will open for three different periods for Tulsa County voters to complete ballots for the November election.

Throughout the country, several stadiums and arenas have been chosen as voting locations to help provide safe facilities for voters during the COVID pandemic.

The Tulsa County Election Board will be conducting in-person, early voting at ONEOK Field on Thursday and Friday October 29 and 30 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday October 31 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

The election board is anticipating record-breaking voter participation for this three-day early voting period.

“We are pleased to announce that we will be partnering with ONEOK Field, home of the Tulsa Drillers in downtown Tulsa, as our chosen location for in-person, early voting,” said Election Board Secretary Gwen Freeman.

“The ONEOK Field location will enable Tulsa County voters to vote at a large, centrally-located venue where our staff and resources can be combined to ensure the success of our early voting teams and to assist in the implementation of CDC guidelines. These guidelines includes adequate room for large crowds and social distancing in a covered but open-air facility that helps prevent the spread of COVID. The venue is ADA compliant, has ample available parking areas, is easily accessible by public transportation and is a well-known and familiar location.”

“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to ONEOK Field management and the Tulsa Drillers team for offering the voters of Tulsa County the use of their location for this event,” said Freeman.

The election board is encouraging voters to wear masks and social distance while voting.

Freeman added that since the election board we will be utilizing all available staff members to facilitate early voting at one large site, the Tulsa County Election Board will not be available for early voting but will be open for other business, including in-person absentee ballot drop-off. Absentee ballots cannot be dropped off at ONEOK Field.

It is the first time that ONEOK Field has been utilized as a voting place. It joins other sports venues in large markets that are being used in this election, including Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles and the Toyota Center in Houston.

“We are thrilled to be able to make ONEOK Field available for early voting and to help provide a safe, outdoor, polling location for all voters, including those with health concerns,” said Drillers President Mike Melega. “It’s a simple, yet impactful, way that the Drillers organization can give back to a Tulsa community that has always been there for us.”

Quick facts for early in-person voting for the November 2020 Presidential Election

Location: ONEOK Field (201 N Elgin Ave, Tulsa, OK 74120)

Dates and times: Thursday, October 29, 2020 8am-6pm
Friday, October 30, 2020 8am-6pm
Saturday, October 31, 2020 9am-2pm