Adrianne Ayers to Celebrate “Home Run For Life” with OKC Dodgers and INTEGRIS Health Saturday

 

Oklahoma City — The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS Health continue the “Home Run For Life” series Saturday by honoring Adrianne Ayers of Midwest City, Okla., during the Dodgers’ 7:05 p.m. game against the Las Vegas Aviators at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

Ayers, a registered nurse, fell ill with the flu in February 2018. Several days later her health spiraled to the point where one of her children had to call 911 and Ayers was taken to the hospital.

“They told us had he not called 911, I might not have made it through the night,” Ayers recalled.

In addition to flu, Ayers had developed pneumonia and strep throat so severe that her body went septic. She developed necrotizing pneumonia, a severe complication from a bacterial lung infection that can cause lung tissue damage. Her lungs, heart and kidneys were all shutting down.

It was determined that extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, known as ECMO, was necessary for Ayers’ survival and she was transferred to INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center, which specializes in ECMO, to receive the last-resort, lifesaving treatment. ECMO provides both cardiac and respiratory support to patients whose heart and/or lungs are so severely diseased or damaged that they can no longer serve their function. The goal is to allow the heart or lungs to rest and recover while the machine does all the work.

“What it does is takes the blood out of the body on one side and puts oxygen into it and then flows back into your body through different tubes,” Ayers said. “It’s almost like dialysis — in one side and out the other.”

Ayers ended up on ECMO for an INTEGRIS Health record 119 days — just one piece of the extensive multi-disciplinary care she received during her five months in the hospital.

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

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

Throughout her five months at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center, Ayers was also on a ventilator, had a tracheostomy and was on dialysis in addition to ECMO. There was talk of potential double kidney and lung transplants for her.

Ayers was enrolled in the ATHOS 3 Expanded Access Protocol for Giapreza clinical trial for a medication that regulates blood pressure, becoming one of 10 patients in the world to have received the therapy while on ECMO at the time. She also became the first patient in the OKC area to benefit from an off-label use of Olympus Spiration endobronchial valves, which were inserted into her lungs, opening breathing passageways like they would an artery during a cardiac procedure.

One special moment especially stands out in Ayers’ mind to describe the depth and range of care she received at INTEGRIS Health.

“The doctors and nurses at INTEGRIS are amazing. They are saints,” she said. “There was one point where I was tired and I was tired of fighting and I was tired of everything going on and (one of the doctors) took me outside just to get some vitamin D. Anytime they took me anywhere in the hospital it was a huge ordeal because I had the ECMO machine and dialysis and the vent and the chair, so it was like a small parade going down the hallway.

“Just for a doctor to do that, I can’t say enough good things about them…They are just amazing people.”

Ayers was released from the hospital in July 2018 and still undergoes frequent checkups. There is a possibility in the future she will need a lung transplant, but says she is doing well now. Ayers, 44, returned to work as a RN at St. Anthony in April 2021 and said she brings a new perspective with her to work after all she has been through.

“I have always been a patient person with patients and am even more so now,” she said. “I can’t even explain it. It’s like you walk into a room and see both points of view at the same time. You can empathize even small things, like tape coming off an IV. After it’s done 100 times, that hurts.

“It’s weird, but I am thankful for everything I have been through because I think it makes me relate to patients better.”

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

Tonight, the OKC Dodgers return home to open a 12-game homestand as well as a six-game home series against the Las Vegas Aviators at 7:05 p.m. The series continues at 7:05 p.m. Friday when Dodgers players and coaches will wear special pink jerseys and hats that will be auctioned off to benefit Susan G. Komen Oklahoma as the Dodgers and MidFirst Bank team up to “Pack the Park Pink.” A pink fireworks show will follow the game.

Saturday’s 7:05 p.m. game falls on Marvel Super Hero Night, presented by Courtyard by Marriott, and Star-Lord and Black Widow will make special appearances throughout the night. Ayers’ “Home Run For Life” will also be recognized during Saturday’s game. Kids can run the bases following Sunday’s 6:05 p.m. game. The series against Las Vegas then wraps up at 7:05 p.m. Monday and at 7:05 p.m. on a $2 Tuesday, featuring $2 select beer, soda and bottled water from a line of Budweiser and Pepsi products. COOP Ale Works draft beer will also be available at a special rate of $3. The OKC Dodgers then remain home for a six-game series against the Albuquerque Isotopes Thursday, Sept. 2 – Tuesday, Sept. 7 at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

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

Dash Announce Hometown Heroes USA Celebration

 

The Winston-Salem Dash are teaming up with Salem One for a Hometown Heroes USA event at Truist Stadium on Saturday, September 11 to honor all service members and first responders (active and retired). The Dash will take on the Bowling Green Hot Rods, an affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays, at 6:00 p.m.

Service members and first responders (and one guest) can take advantage of a special $5 offer that includes their game ticket and a voucher for a hot dog, chips, and a Pepsi product. Additional tickets that include the food and beverage voucher can be purchased for $16. The first 500 service members and first responders to purchase tickets will be eligible to receive a free pair of OnCloud athletic shoes at the game, courtesy of Veterans Service of the Carolinas. Fans should register for shoes when purchasing their tickets, and the shoes generally run a half size small. All tickets through this offer must be reserved by Wednesday, September 1.

“We are proud to partner with Salem One to recognize those who have served our country at home and abroad,” said Dash President C.J. Johnson. “September 11 seemed like the perfect date to honor members of the armed forces and police, fire and emergency response personnel whose selfless acts help provide the freedom and security we are all able to enjoy.”

For more information and to purchase tickets contact Bobby Lemons by calling 336-714-6860 or emailing [email protected]. This offer is not available online.

Margaritaville Night, Healthcare Heroes headline final six of ‘Tugas homestand

 

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – The Daytona Tortugas continue their two-week homestand at Jackie Robinson Ballpark with more fun and excitement over six games against the Palm Beach Cardinals, Low-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, on Tuesday, August 17. Among the highlights are a Thirsty Thursday, Margaritaville Night on Saturday, and a First Responders and Healthcare Heroe Appreciation Night on Friday.

The Tortugas open up the set on Tuesday, August 17, with a Breast Cancer Awareness Night presented by Radiology Associates Imaging. Daytona players and coaches will don special pink-tinted uniforms to mark the occasion, as the organization looks to raise money and awareness in the fight against breast cancer. Silver Sluggers Night — the best club in baseball for fans 60-and-over — presented by Conviva Cares Solutions will also be a part of the festivities. As a part of Silver Sluggers Night, fans can enjoy Michelob Ultra drafts for $2.50. The first pitch of that night and all weekday games are set for 7:05 p.m. Gates will open at 6 p.m.

Charity remains a focal point for the organization with a Wishful Wednesday presented by VyStar Credit Union on August 18. The Tortugas partner with a local non-profit organization to swell up donations and awareness for a worthy cause. Starting at just $14, patrons will be able to enjoy all-you-can-eat hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza, and popcorn thanks to a Belly Buster Wednesday presented by Marco’s Pizza. Courtesy of Landshark, souvenir cup holders will also be able to enjoy refills at concession stands for just $3.

The biggest party in Central Florida returns to the oldest ballpark in Minor League Baseball on August 19 courtesy of a Thirsty Thursday presented by Bud Light. All those in attendance can beat the heat with fountain drinks and draft beers starting at as low as $1.

We recognize the selflessness of those who have aided others during the pandemic as a part of our First Responders and Healthcare Heroes Appreciation Night on Friday, August 20. It will be another Friday Night Happy Hour presented by Ormond Brewing Company and Cutwater Spirits. Fans will be able to enjoy free tastings of a selection of Ormond Brewing draft beers and Cutwater Spirits from 6 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Additionally, patrons will be able to enjoy Ormond Brewing Company draft beers and Cutwater Spirits at a reduced price at all our beer stands throughout the evening.

The clock will be frozen at 5 p.m. on Saturday, August 21, as the Tortugas host their annual Margaritaville Night bash. As a part of the Best Dressed Team in Baseball series, Daytona players and coaches will sport special uniforms to mark the occasion. Fans are encouraged to dress in style and enjoy “Cheeseburger in Paradise” and margarita specials at the concession and bars all evening long.

The Tortugas get dressed up in their Sunday best to close out the homestand on Sunday, August 22. The Best Dressed Team in Baseball series squeezes into Sunday, as Daytona players and coaches will don special tuxedo-themed uniforms. It will also be a Bark in the Park and Tiny ‘Tugas Night. For just $2, fans can purchase a “pooch pass” so their four-legged friend can enjoy a nine-inning vacation, as well. Additionally, there will be activities for all Tiny ‘Tugas members who come out to the ballpark, including Running the Bases after the game. It will also be the Tortugas’ Yappy Hours with 16 oz. Bud Light Seltzer and Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzer cans on sale for $4. The series finale gets underway at 5:35 p.m.and gates open at 4:30 p.m.

Season tickets, multi-game plans, group packages, and more are currently available and can be purchased online at www.daytonatortugas.com or by calling the Tortugas’ Ticket Office at (386) 257-3172.

PROBABLE STARTING PITCHERS (all broadcasts available on <a href=”http://daytonatortugas.com” target=”_blank” >daytonatortugas.com and the MiLB First Pitch app)

TUESDAY: TBA vs. RHP James Marinan (1-5, 5.40 ERA)

WEDNESDAY: TBA vs. RHP Bryce Bonnin (4-0, 1.24 ERA)

THURSDAY: TBA vs. RHP James Proctor (3-0, 1.35 ERA)

FRIDAY: TBA vs. RHP Gabriel Aguilera (0-2, 5.40 ERA)

SATURDAY: TBA vs. RHP Jason Parker (4-1, 3.88 ERA)

SUNDAY: TBA vs. RHP Miguel Medrano (2-1, 4.59 ERA)

ABOUT THE DAYTONA TORTUGAS

The Daytona Tortugas are the Low-A Affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and a member of Minor League Baseball’s Low-A Southeast. The Tortugas play at Jackie Robinson Ballpark in downtown Daytona Beach, Fla. Jackie Robinson Ballpark also plays host to Bethune-Cookman University, the Jackie Robinson Ballpark Museum, and many community events and initiatives of all sizes throughout the year.

Dragons to Recognize “Community All-Stars” Recipient During Game on August 17

 

*Dayton, Ohio *— The Dayton Dragons will recognize The Hope Center for Families as a “Community All-Stars” recipient during a special inning break of the Dragons game on Tuesday, August 17 against the Lake County Captains at Day Air Ballpark. The game will start at 7:05 p.m. In addition, half of the 50/50 proceeds will be donated to The Hope Center for Families.

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program honors individuals who have gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley. They could be firefighters or police officers, doctors or good Samaritans. It could be a first responder or a volunteer. The Dragons are going to highlight these Community All-Stars at games all summer long.

More than half of children in the City of Dayton live below the poverty level. The statistics show that when those children grow up, they are likely to continue the poverty cycle to their children as well. The “poverty cycle” often persists across multiple generations unless that cycle is interrupted through outside intervention.

The Hope Center for Families was developed to interfere with the poverty cycle in Northwest Dayton, giving families the support and hope needed to grow and advance into sustainable living wages.

The Hope Center for Families is an initiative by the Omega Community Development Corporation that focuses on the two-generation model – a model that targets low-income children and their parents simultaneously. The center will focus on the three main factors that aid in the reduction of poverty through workforce, health, and educational development.

Mini University, Sinclair Community College, and Dayton Children’s Hospital will have a significant presence within the Hope Center. Mini University will operate an early learning program within the center. Sinclair Community College will offer certificate programs for adults to further their education, allowing them to gain higher wages. Dayton Children’s Hospital will aid in childcare.

The Center plans to start transforming the lives of the people of Northwest Dayton as soon as the door open in Fall 2021.

Vanessa Ward, Omega Community Development Corporation president, said her dream once the center is open would be that when people walk in, they will be greeted by people that care.

For going above and beyond to improve the quality of life in Miami Valley, The Hope Center for Families is being honored as a Dragons Community All-Star.

Help support the development of The Hope Center for Families at the following links:

You can nominate other individuals or organizations that are going above and beyond for the Dayton community at www.daytondragons.com/communityallstar.

This event is the fourth of five special Community All-Stars spotlights at Dragons games this season. Presenting sponsors are Flying Ace Express Carwash, CenterPoint Energy, Great Clips, and Synchrony. An additional tribute is schedule for September 1, focused on a different individual or organization who has gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley.

The Dragons play at beautiful, downtown Day Air Ballpark and are scheduled to play 18 more home games during the regular season. Game times are 7:05 p.m. for Tuesday through Saturday games and 2:05 p.m. on Sundays. No Monday games are scheduled at this time. Gates open one hour prior to game time. Single-game tickets for all Dragons 2021 home games are available at www.daytondragons.com or by phone at (937) 228-2287.

Penultimate Homestand Includes Military Appreciation and Opera Night

 

The Charleston RiverDogs continue to own the best record in the Low-A East and return to The Joe for their penultimate homestand of 2021 to battle the Columbia Fireflies next week. The series, which runs from August 17-22, will consist of seven games in six days. The RiverDogs will take a big step toward clinching a berth in the postseason with a successful series on the field.

The homestand includes plenty of reasons for fans to be excited. On Wednesday, the RiverDogs meet the Fireflies in a doubleheader on Pride Night where the team will wear Charleston Rainbows uniforms in the nightcap. Friday features our third Military Appreciation Night of the season, as well as Opera Night. The team will close out the homestand by taking on their Perros Santos identity for the final two games of the series on Saturday and Sunday. Here is the full lineup:

Tuesday, August 17, 7:05 p.m.: Dog Day: There are only two more chances to enjoy a ballgame with man’s best friend this season. Bring the pup along to the ballpark for each and every Island Coastal Lager Dog Day, when we encourage you to #TakeItEasy. This week’s featured breed will be the French Bulldog! Fans can also enjoy $2 hot dogs and $2 beers. Tuesday games are presented by 96.9 the Wolf.

Wednesday, August 18, 5:05 p.m. (Doubleheader): Pride Night/Wicked Wednesday: Enjoy two games for the price of one! We’ll throw it back to a previous era in Charleston baseball history and play as the Charleston Rainbows. The entire night will also be a celebration of inclusiveness with our friends from Charleston Pride and MUSC Health. The Rainbows jerseys will be part of a jersey auction throughout the night. You will have a chance to leave with a game-worn uniform from one of our players! As is the case for every Wednesday at the ballpark, we will celebrate craft beer and throw in some wicked good fun thanks to Wicked Weed.

Thursday, August 19, 7:05 p.m.: Thirsty Thursday: Dust off the bell bottoms and join us for a funky ‘70s-themed night at The Joe. $1 beers are available throughout the park on each Budweiser Thirsty Thursday this season! That’s right, you can grab a $1 beer (or two) no matter where you are in the ballpark. Don’t forget, DJ Natty Heavy will be dropping beats on the Ashley View Pub. He may have even add some disco hits to the mix! Thursday games are presented by 95SX.

Friday, August 20, 7:05 p.m.: Military Appreciation Night/Opera Night/Red Shirt Friday/Post-Game Fireworks: On this night, we will celebrate the classical music tradition of opera with themed games, trivia and a t-shirt toss alongside the Holy City Arts and Lyric Opera. The RiverDogs will also open the weekend with a gigantic tribute to military members on Boeing Red Shirt Friday. Members of the military will receive free tickets to the game. Retired and active military members can call the RiverDogs box office to receive the discount code. The team will make their new inductions into the Hall of Honor prior to the game. Once again, on the final day of the work week, the RiverDogs and Boeing invite you to wear red in support of those who serve our country. On the field, the team will participate as well, wearing special red jerseys. The night will be capped with another fireworks spectacular presented by REV Federal Credit Union. Friday games are presented by 103.5 WEZL.

Saturday, August 21, 6:05 p.m.: Perros Santos Weekend/LED Light Show: The RiverDogs will spend the weekend suiting up as Los Perros Santos de Charleston as part of Minor League Baseball’s Copa de la Diversión initiative. Along with MUSC Health and Berkeley Electric Cooperative, we’ll celebrate the local Latin American culture with special uniforms, music courtesy of DJ Luigi and Spanish public address announcements. Our opponents, the Columbia Fireflies, will join in on the fun, playing as Chicharrones de Columbia. Following the game, stick around for a post-game light show featuring our LED lights at The Joe. Saturdays are presented by ABCNews4 and MyTV Charleston.

Sunday, August 22, 5:05 p.m.: Perros Santos Weekend/Family Sunday/Jewish Heritage Night/Strike Out Stigma Night: The RiverDogs will spend the weekend suiting up as Los Perros Santos de Charleston as part of Minor League Baseball’s Copa de la Diversión initiative. Along with MUSC Health and Berkeley Electric Cooperative, we’ll celebrate the local Latin American culture with special uniforms, music courtesy of DJ Luigi and Spanish public address announcements. Our opponents, the Columbia Fireflies, will join in on the fun, playing as Chicharrones de Columbia. In addition, we are partnering with the Charleston Jewish Federation for Jewish Heritage Night. It’s also Strike Out Stigma Night with information and resources available on mental illness and substance abuse. Parking is free and kids will be invited to run the bases following the game! This Sunday’s game is presented by Star 99.7.

Playoff tickets for the Low-A East Championship Series in September are on sale now at riverdogs.com. For a limited time, fans who purchase tickets to the team’s first home playoff game will receive all subsequent home games for free. Purchase playoff tickets here.

All RiverDogs tickets for the 2021 season are available for purchase online and will be delivered digitally. Once purchased, tickets can be printed at home or scanned on a phone. For answers to frequently asked questions, fans are encouraged to visit the RiverDogs Digital Ticket Guide. In addition to tickets, the entire RiverDogs gameday experience will be cashless including parking, the team store and concessions. Fans who do not have credit or debit cards will be able to use cash to purchase gift cards at Fan Services on gamedays. Masks are no longer required, but suggested for non-vaccinated guests. The RiverDogs also have a no bag policy, with the exception of medical bags, diaper bags, and clutch-style purses no larger than 6.5in x 4.5in.

RiverDogs season tickets, flexible ticket plans, and group tickets, including options to the Segra Club at Riley Park, are now available for the 2021 campaign at riverdogs.com/tickets or by contacting the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS). A full schedule for the 2021 season is available at riverdogs.com.

LP Frans Stadium to Host Disability Dream & Do Camp

 

HICKORY, NC – Six local Rotary Clubs, with the generous support of the Hickory Crawdads and their parent club, the Texas Rangers, are offering a Dave Clark Disability Dream & Do (D3Day) Baseball Camp to children and young adults with varying disabilities along with their families and caregivers on Saturday, August 28th at LP Frans Stadium. The camp will run approximately from 10am-12pm.

The camp is a professional style baseball camp and will be staffed by numerous volunteers from the Crawdads, the Rotary Clubs, and the baseball teams from Lenoir-Rhyne University and Catawba Valley Community College.

The camp is free to participants. Pre-registration is required at www.D3Day.com. Interested families should select “events” on the website; then click on the Crawdads logo. A tab for participant registration is on the left-hand menu. All participants will receive a free t-shirt and cap, and lunch will be provided. Volunteers may also pre-register by selecting the volunteer registration tab on the same menu.

“The Crawdads organization is about making life-long memories and we can’t wait to be a part of the Disability Dream and Do Camp and help do just that for the participants and their families,” Crawdads General Manager Douglas Locascio said.

The Rotary project has been titled “The 100 Years of Rotary Disability Camp” to celebrate 100 years of Rotary service to local communities. According to Kelly Farr, president of the Rotary Club of Hickory, it is a demonstration of how Rotary does good in the world.

“Rotary is a huge international organization, and our local clubs support a number of worldwide projects but we especially value service to the local communities,” Farr said. “This project allows six clubs to join hands and offer something very special to the often underserved and forgotten population of wonderful disabled children.”

D3Day sports camps were created by Dave Clark, the only pitcher in professional baseball history to pitch on crutches, and Doug Cornfield, a medal winning runner at Georgia, who himself has a son born without arms. The Crawdads’ camp will also feature Emmy award-winning ESPN analyst Dave Stevens who was born without legs but played college football and hockey as well as professional baseball.

The Dave Clark camps allow children with any disability to interact with college and professional athletes in various drills and compete in sports with no limitations. There will be various stations to learn baseball skills and a “high five game.” The event will conclude with an award ceremony for participants.

Check-in for the camp will begin at 9:45am and will wrap up with lunch at noon.

Bisons offer Frontline Healthcare Workers 2 FREE TICKETS to Home Opening Weekend, Aug. 14-15

 

The return of the Bisons to Sahlen Field isn’t the final step in our region’s battle against the coronavirus, but it’s one that could only be made thanks to the tireless efforts and dedication of our Frontline Healthcare Workers. As a way to show our gratitude, the Bisons are holding Frontline Healthcare Worker Appreciation Weekend during the team’s Home Opening Weekend; Saturday, August 14 (1:05 p.m.) and Sunday, August 15 (1:05 p.m.) against the Rochester Red Wings.

At either game, August 14 or August 15, any healthcare worker who worked on the frontlines of the COVID-19 battle can receive TWO FREE GAME TICKETS by showing their employee ID at the Sahlen Field Box Office (must claim complimentary tickets on the day of the game).

During each game, the Bisons will also honor all healthcare workers who attend with special crowd recognitions, giving the Bisons staff, the players and the fans in attendance an opportunity to show their appreciation for all that they have done. There will also be a ceremonial first pitches before each game from a member of the hard-working, dedicated staffs of Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Erie County Medical Center and Kaleida Health (to be announced).

“There are many individuals who have worked and sacrificed in an effort to get us out of this pandemic, but none are as vital as the passionate and dedicated frontline healthcare workers throughout the region and around the world,” said Anthony Sprague, General Manager of the Buffalo Bisons. “From the early, scary days of COVID-19 to the constant struggle to adapt and stay ahead of the virus, these are the heroes that are battling each day to comfort, to heal and to get our communities back on their feet. For that, we will forever be grateful.”

For more information, fans are encouraged to visit Bisons.com. Saturday’s game will feature a Replica Bisons Jersey Giveaway to the first 2,000 fans in attendance and Sunday’s game includes postgame Kids Run the Bases, as young fans will get their first chance to get back on the field at Sahlen Field.

Tickets for all fans are just $10.00 each and are available at the Sahlen Field Box Office and online at Bisons.com.

Submit Your Favorite Teacher for a Neon Apple Award

 

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies are partnering with T-Mobile to present the first ever Neon Apple Awards. Three Midlands teachers, one elementary, one middle and one high school teacher, will be selected to win the honor on Teacher Appreciation Night presented by T-Mobile at Segra Park August 12. The Fireflies are asking fans to nominate their favorite teachers in the Midlands for the award.

Winning teachers will be recognized during the game and will receive two complimentary tickets to the August 12 game at Segra Park plus a monetary donation from T-Mobile to go towards classroom supplies needed for the upcoming school year.

“Teachers are a critical piece of the very fabric of our community and we are proud to partner with T-Mobile on presenting the first ever Neon Apple Awards,” said Fireflies Director of Marketing Ashlie DeCarlo. “This is a great opportunity to honor our classroom heroes at Segra Park and we are looking forward to.”

Fans can submit nominations for their favorite teacher online here. Nominations for the award must be submitted by end of day Sunday, August 8. Winners will be contacted by a Fireflies staff member on Monday, August 9.

Any teacher who attends the game on August 12 will be able to show their school ID at Guest Services to receive a gift from the Fireflies for their contributions to their students and our community. For tickets to the Fireflies game August 12 against the Fayetteville Woodpeckers, please visit FirefliesTickets.com.

JPMorgan Chase and the Blue Rocks Partner to Honor Essential Businesses, Non-Profits, and First Responders

 

Wilmington DE – JPMorgan Chase and the Wilmington Blue Rocks have announced that they are partnering to honor businesses and non-profits that stayed open throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as first responders who continue to serve the public’s needs.

During each of the remaining 24 home games in 2021, one business, non-profit or group of first responders will be recognized for their unwavering commitment and hard work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Honorees will receive free tickets and access to a 20-person suite donated by Chase. They will also be honored on the field before the game. Organizations in healthcare, hospitality, grocery, home improvement, retail, banking and other industries can be nominated for this honor.

As part of the promotion, hospitality workers will have another opportunity to receive complimentary tickets to any Blue Rocks game, courtesy of Chase. For the entire month of August, hospitality workers can present a recent pay stub at the Christiana Care Box Office at Daniel S. Frawley Stadium and receive two tickets to any home game that month, based on availability. Firefighters, police officers, and EMTs can also take part in this promotion by showing their pay stubs at the Christiana Care Box Office during any game in September.

“JPMorgan Chase has been a tremendous partner in recent years,” said Blue Rocks’ Vice President of Business Development, Robert Ford. “We’re very excited to have the opportunity to honor these businesses and individuals who have worked hard during the pandemic to help our community.”

“Teaming up with the Blue Rocks to support our community aligns with Chase’s commitment to Delaware,” said Tom Horne, JPMorgan Chase Delaware Market President. “On behalf of the firm’s 11,000 employees, we share our deepest appreciation to those who have, and continue to do so much, to support our neighbors.”

The program, which kicks off at the beginning of the Blue Rocks’ next home stand on August 3, will run through the end of the 2021 season.

About Chase

Chase is the U.S. consumer and commercial banking business of JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE: JPM), a leading global financial services firm with assets of $3.7 trillion and operations worldwide. Chase serves more than 60 million American households with a broad range of financial services, including personal banking, credit cards, mortgages, auto financing, investment advice, small business loans and payment processing. Customers can choose how and where they want to bank: More than 4,700 branches in 44 states and the District of Columbia, 16,000 ATMs, mobile, online and by phone. For more information, go to chase.com.

Sea Unicorns Host “Salute to Health Care Workers” on Saturday, July 24 on NESN

 

(Norwich, CT) – The Norwich Sea Unicorns are hosting “Salute to Health Care Workers” Saturday, July 24 at 12 pm when they take on the Westfield Starfires in a game that will air live on NESN. Tickets for all health care workers and their families are $2 with a valid health care employee ID.

“We are happy to recognize the health care workers in our community who give so much of themselves every day, but especially throughout the pandemic when they have helped lead all of us through such a difficult period,” said Dave Schermerhorn, General Manager of the Norwich Sea Unicorns. “Health care professionals work tirelessly and selflessly every day, so we hope these heroes of our community can enjoy a well-deserved day at the ballpark where we can recognize them and show our appreciation for all they do for so many.”

The game will air live on NESN at the special noon start time. The broadcast is part of the four-game “Future’s Saturdays on NESN” television slate in which all eight FCBL teams are featured throughout the month of July.

“Being able to broadcast this game on NESN allows us to extend our message of gratitude and appreciation to health care workers throughout New England,” said Schermerhorn. “It also is a great opportunity for us to showcase Norwich Sea Unicorns Baseball and the unique gameday atmosphere at Dodd Stadium to baseball fans throughout all six New England states.”

Health care workers who would like to purchase tickets at the special rate of $2 with their health care employee ID may do so by calling the Norwich Sea Unicorns Box Office at (860) 887-7962 between 9:00 am – 5:00 pm or in person at the Norwich Sea Unicorns Box Office on game day.

Segra Stadium To Host 3rd Annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb

 

The 3rd Annual Fayetteville 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb will be held on the morning of Saturday, September 11th at Segra Stadium. Opening ceremonies will begin at 8:30 a.m. and the climb will start at 8:47 a.m.

The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb is a way to honor and remember the FDNY firefighters, police, and EMS who selflessly gave their lives on that tragic day. Each participant will pay tribute to those brave souls by climbing the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center. Your individual tribute not only remembers the sacrifice, but symbolically completes their heroic journey to save others. Through community participation we can ensure that each of the 343 firefighters, 60 police officers, and 10 EMS are never forgotten.

Registration fees are $30 per person and include your entry to the climb and a t-shirt. Anyone interested in climbing MUST REGISTER ONLINE by September 8th. We will accept walk-up registration; however, t-shirts cannot be guaranteed for anyone registering day of. Check-in and registration for the event will begin at 7:00 a.m. All proceeds from the stair climb will benefit programs provided by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to support the families of your local fallen firefighters and the FDNY Counseling Services Unit.

To register, please visit the Fayetteville 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb Facebook page or visit firehero.org and select ‘9/11 stair climbs’ under the events drop down tab.

Brandy Warehime to Celebrate “Home Run For Life” 

 

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS Health continue the “Home Run For Life” series Saturday by honoring Brandy Warehime of Weatherford, Okla., during the Dodgers’ 6:05 p.m. game against the Sugar Land Skeeters at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

While driving on the John Kilpatrick Turnpike in March 2018, Warehime lost control of her car and spun three times before her car rolled four times. The then-24-year-old was ejected from the vehicle and thrown about 70 feet, suffering extensive injuries.

Her journey to recovery involved almost three months in hospitals and care centers, concluding with three weeks at INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation where she started to resume everyday activities before finally returning home.

“My learning and starting to live life normal were all done at Jim Thorpe,” she said. “I remember my first therapist helping me put on a pair of pants, which seems so small, but at the time it was such a big thing because I hadn’t had pants on in a long time. I remember getting to stand up and getting to learn how to walk and start doing all the things that were normal and I wanted to be back to myself as soon as possible.

“The words thank you can never be enough to every single therapist that helped me along the way.”

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

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

Warehime was driving westbound on the John Kilpatrick Turnpike and went to take the May Avenue exit in north Oklahoma City when she lost control of her car and spun three times before her car rolled four times

She was ejected from the vehicle and thrown about 70 feet, breaking her clavicle, scapula, pelvis, 12 ribs and her femur. She shattered her back and thoracic spine. She suffered a stroke, coma and a traumatic brain injury.

During surgery, doctors learned she had a stroke. Then following the surgery she didn’t wake up for eight days.

“I have two rods and four screws in my leg and I have two rods and 12 screws in my back holding me together now,” she said.

At INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation, she re-learned how to do everyday activities like put on clothes and shower.

Warehime said she never wanted to stop trying. She never missed a therapy session and persevered.

“I just kept going and kept trying,” she said. “All of my therapists, we’re still friends to this day. They were incredible people and that’s why I get to be where I am right now.”

Now more than three years later, Warehime is enjoying life with a new perspective thanks to the care she received at INTEGRIS Health. She married her husband Jake in June 2020 in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and the couple is now expecting their first child.

“Life has changed a lot since my accident,” Warehime said. “You enjoy the little things, so I take life a little bit slower…Find time to (do things) because you are not promised tomorrow…Now we are so excited because we will be welcoming our sweet little baby in February.”

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

The OKC Dodgers continue their homestand and open a six-game series tonight against the Sugar Land Skeeters at 7:05 p.m. at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. Promotional highlights of the series, include:

• Friday: Loop Rawlins will perform his one-man Wild West show, presented by Heartland Flyer. The trick roper, whip cracker and gun spinner will perform a variety of jaw-dropping feats throughout the night. Fireworks are scheduled to follow the 7:05 p.m. game.

• Saturday: Enjoy the OKC Dodgers’ 6:05 p.m. game before taking in a postgame concert by Crowder presented by Scott Dawson Evangelistic Association on Faith and Family Night. Groups of 10 or more will receive a special rate and an OKC Dodgers hat in addition to the postgame concert. Also during the game, the INTEGRIS Home Run For Life series continues, featuring July’s honoree Warehime.

• Sunday: Kids can run the bases following each Sunday home game throughout the Oklahoma City Dodgers’ season. First pitch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m.

• Tuesday: Throughout the season, $2 Tuesdays feature $2 select beer, soda and bottled water from a line of Budweiser and Pepsi products. COOP Ale Works draft beer will also be available at a special rate of $3. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

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

Baysox Host Heroes Day Sunday, July 25

 

Bowie Baysox To Host Heroes Day To Celebrate First Responders

Law Enforcement, Firefighters and EMS Personnel Can Get Free Tickets

To The Baysox Game Sunday, July 25

Bowie, Md: The Bowie Baysox, Double-A Affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles announce today that the team will host Heroes Day on Sunday, July 25 at Prince George’s Stadium in Bowie, MD when they take on the Hartford Yard Goats, Double-A Affiliate of the Colorado Rockies. The game on Sunday, July 25 will take place at 1:35 pm and a portion of the ticket sales from the game will benefit the Children’s Cancer Foundation in Columbia, MD. (https://childrenscancerfoundation.org/)

All Law Enforcement, Firefighters and EMS personnel are invited to attend this Sunday’s game for FREE! To obtain the free tickets, Law Enforcement, Fire or EMS personnel will need to present their valid, active-duty badge or identification badge at the Bowie Baysox Ticket Office on Sunday, July 25. Two free tickets to Sunday’s game will be issued to that first responder to come in and enjoy the game.

Heroes Day at the Baysox will feature a day of giving back as the team has partnered with the Anne Arundel County Fire Department to feature a charity softball game following the Baysox game against Hartford. The softball game will pit the Anne Arundel County Fire Department against the Mid-Atlantic Fire Department in a competitive on-field battle for softball supremacy. This is the second year that this event has taken place following a Baysox game, the first time was in 2019. All fans attending the Baysox game on Sunday, July 25 are invited to stay and enjoy the softball game.

All fans are also encouraged to come dressed in their favorite hero costume or animated hero character apparel. There will also be some great costumed characters in attendance for fans to meet and take photos with including a Panther and American Captain.

Baysox players and team members will also be wearing specially designed jerseys for this game that will be auctioned with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Children’s Cancer Foundation of Columbia.

Fans wishing to purchase tickets to this event and to have part of their ticket price donated to the Children’s Cancer Foundation can CLICK HERE and use the special code HEROES (all caps) when purchasing tickets for the July 25 game. Five dollars for each ticket purchased with the code HEROES will be donated to CCF through tickets purchased by 11:59 pm Friday, July 23.

The 2021 Baysox season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. For a complete Baysox 2021 schedule and list of promotional events, CLICK HERE.

Drive Announce Mayor Knox White As Organization’s 15th Annual Green Day Honoree

 

Greenville, S.C. – The Greenville Drive, Advanced-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, announced today that Mayor Knox White has been selected as the honoree for the team’s annual Green Day celebration, presented by TD Bank, this year to be held on Wednesday August 4th at Fluor Field when the Drive host the Rome Braves.

Each year, the Drive pay tribute to an individual who has helped make Greenville one of the most electric and dynamic cities in the country. Over the course of his more than 25 years as mayor, no one has had a more profound and transformational impact on our city than Mayor White. From the creation of Falls Park and the Liberty Bridge, the development along the Reedy River, Unity Park, the Swamp Rabbit Trail, and our very own Fluor Field, everyone across our City has benefitted from Mayor White’s vision and leadership. The Drive are excited and honored to recognize Mayor White as this year’s Green Day honoree.

“Knox White was born in Greenville, grew up in Greenville, and transformed Greenville into one of the world’s most admired, awarded, and livable cities,” said Greenville Drive Owner & President Craig Brown. “We can’t think of a more deserving person for this year’s Green Day honoree than Mayor White. His vision and leadership have propelled us forward and positioned our great city for even greater future success.”

“Greenville is not just an amazing city, it is my home and my passion,” noted Mayor Knox White. “While it takes a lot of hard work and strong working partnerships, like the one we have with The Drive to accomplish what we have here and maintain our positive momentum, serving this city has been the proudest accomplishment and one of the greatest joys of my life. I am proud to be the Drive’s 2021 Green Day honoree, and I’m even more excited about what’s next.”

White joins an acclaimed group of Green Day honorees, including Mayor Max Heller and his wife, Trudy (2006); Greenville City Councilwoman Lillian Brock Flemming and Greenville County Councilwoman Xanthene Norris (2007); former Greenville Technical College President Dr. Tom Barton (2008); businessman and philanthropist C. Dan Joyner (2009); civic leader, judge and attorney Merl Code (2010); former S.C. Governor and U.S. Secretary of Education Dick Riley (2011); South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities Founder Dr. Virginia Uldrick (2012); environmentalist and attorney Tommy Wyche (2013); philanthropists Hayne and Anna Kate Hipp (2014); Centennial American Properties CEO David Glenn (2015); Erwin Penland Co-Founder Joe Erwin (2016); Hughes Development Corporation Chairman Bob Hughes (2017), Spinx Chairman Stewart Spinks (2018) and Southernside Neighborhood President Mary Duckett (2019).

In honor of Green Day & Greenville’s birthday celebration, Drive players will wear special green uniforms and caps on Green Day, and fans are encouraged to create a “green out” by sporting green as well. First pitch is set for 7:05pm against the Rome Braves. The first 2,000 fans through the stadium gates will receive a commemorative Green Day t-shirt or superhero cape, all courtesy of TD Bank. And then make sure to stick around after the game for a spectacular fireworks show in celebration of Greenville’s birthday.

Whitecaps reveal “Grand Rapids Dam Breakers” persona that will bring more awareness to Grand Rapids Whitewater project

 

Comstock Park, MI – – Saturday, July 17, 2021 – – West Michigan Whitecaps Manager Brayan Pena answered his phone. The call was from Jim Jarecki, Whitecaps VP & General Manager. Pena listens intently, then smiles. “We’re doing WHAT?”

Jarecki was calling to get some Whitecaps players set up for a photo shoot on the banks of the Grand River. They would be dressed in a new uniform; with a new name they would not recognize.

At LMCU Ballpark tonight, the West Michigan Whitecaps announced their newest alternate identity, and with a grand purpose. The Whitecaps will become the Grand Rapids Dam Breakers for one night only on Saturday, August 21**st**, at 7:05 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at https://www.milb.com/west-michigan

“Efforts to restore the Grand River have been underway for over a decade” said Matt Chapman, of Grand Rapids Whitewater. “We are honored that the entire Whitecaps organization believes in the tremendous opportunity our community has with the Grand River. With the support and awareness from The Grand Rapids Dam Breakers, we will work to restore the rapids in the Grand River for everyone.”

The Grand Rapids Dam Breakers persona was created to bring awareness to the Grand River restoration project. Spearheaded by Grand Rapids Whitewater, the goal is to restore the rapids back to a 2.5 mile stretch of the Grand River.

“There’s no doubt the Whitecaps love Grand Rapids and the unique history our city and even our ballpark have with the Grand River,” said Whitecaps CEO Joe Chamberlin. “This Dam Breakers persona is an awesome opportunity for us to bring awareness to this very special project and we will be doing all that we can to highlight the efforts of Grand Rapids Whitewater. The Whitecaps are an important part of the West Michigan landscape, and we are excited to support this new vision of revitalization, economic growth and plenty of new fun for everyone in our community.”

Why?

Residents and visitors alike flock to downtown attractions on both sides of the Grand River. It makes smart economic sense to make the riverfront a central gathering place for everyone.

The Anderson Economic Group projects 230,000 net new visitor days and more than 500,000 people each year, a boon that translates up to almost $19 million in net economic impact for the city and 80-100 new jobs. In addition, $250+ million in capital investments are anticipated within 10 years of the project completion.

“By embracing the Dam Breakers brand our fans, business partners, and all of West Michigan can join us in helping to create momentum and support for this exciting project that has the potential to mean so much to our city,” Chamberlin added. “A healthy and thriving Grand River helps create a healthy and thriving Grand Rapids and through the Dam Breakers brand we invite all of our Whitecaps fans to be part of this historic movement,” Chamberlin said.

Consumers Energy is one of those business partners who embraces the message and already responded as the Grand Rapids Dam Breakers game sponsor on August 21**st**.

“Consumers Energy is proud to be part of this community effort to put the Rapids back in Grand Rapids – a project that will provide west Michigan families significant recreational, economic, and environmental benefits,” said Lauren Youngdahl Snyder, Consumers Energy’s vice president of customer experience. “We are committed to better protecting our planet for generations to come, and we applaud the Whitecaps, temporarily the Grand Rapids Dam Breakers, and Grand Rapids Whitewater in their mission to enhance the natural resources here in the Grand Rapids community.”

In early July, the Whitecaps began teasing the announcement and the new name with cryptic sounds of water, images of waves and dates on their social media. The announcement tonight was the collaborative work of the Whitecaps, Grand Rapids Whitewater, and Consumers Energy.

The Whitecaps organization plans to give a portion of the proceeds of all Grand Rapids Dam Breakers merchandise over to the Whitewater project.

The Grand River restoration project proposes to bring natural, cultural and commercial excitement back to our waterway by restoring a 2.5-mile stretch of the river to its rightful, rolling state. From Ann Street to Fulton Street, the project will reveal an 18-foot drop in spectacular fashion, snaking and snarling around boulders, stone and natural reefs. With this exciting feature at its heart, a new riverfront will rise.

About West Michigan Whitecaps: The Whitecaps minor league baseball team was established in 1994. The Whitecaps are the High- A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers and play in the Eastern Division of the High-A Central League. The team’s home games are played in West Michigan’s favorite, largest, outdoor, multi-purpose venue, LMCU Ballpark. For more information on Whitecaps and LMCU Ballpark visit whitecapsbaseball.com or contact Steve VanWagoner at [email protected] or 616.318.8949.

About Grand Rapids Whitewater: Grand Rapids WhiteWater (GRWW) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, formed as an outgrowth of the **Green Grand Rapids**** initiative to champion the restoration of the rapids on the Grand River. Started by Chip Richards and Chris Muller, the organization is led by Steve Heacock and Matt Chapman, and backed by an active board of directors. **

In 2013, the Grand River restoration initiative was designated an Urban Waters Federal Partnership project. Working with numerous community partners, including design experts from the River Restoration Org., GRWW has led the planning, fundraising and permitting process.

About Consumers Energy: Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

Media Contacts: Katie Carey, 517-740-1739, or Brian Wheeler, 517-740-1545