Paul Ferguson to Celebrate “Home Run For Life” Friday with OKC Dodgers

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS conclude the 2018 “Home Run For Life” series Friday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark by recognizing Paul Ferguson, one of two people in the state of Oklahoma and surrounding region living with a Total Artificial Heart.

Ferguson had a history of cardiac issues and already had two mechanical heart valves when he was admitted to INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center in early December 2017 with a failing heart at the age of 65. In order to save his life, doctors took the bold step of removing Ferguson’s natural heart and replacing it with a Total Artificial Heart.

“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 home run “lap” around the bases during an in-game ceremony.

“For the eighth straight year, we are proud to partner with INTEGRIS to recognize some amazing Oklahomans who have faced extraordinary adversity with their health,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “Their perseverance and courage are great examples and we are pleased to have the opportunity to honor their hard work in overcoming these challenges.”

The Total Artificial Heart is the only FDA-approved device of its kind in the world. While traditional heart pumps assist one side of the heart or the other, the Total Artificial Heart replaces both ventricles. Instead of working with a person’s existing heart, the device is a heart substitute and the natural heart is physically removed from the patient.

“Our experience told us that Paul’s heart disease was so bad that a traditional heart pump wouldn’t be enough,” said Doug Horstmanshof, M.D., heart failure cardiologist and co-director of the INTEGRIS Advanced Cardiac Care program. “So, we decided to try something different – completely replacing the heart with the Total Artificial Heart.”

A constant, rhythmic thumping now follows Ferguson wherever he goes. The steady, pulsing sound of forced air stems from a small pump enclosed in a backpack that never leaves his side. That vital piece of equipment and even beat keep his heart pumping – 131 times a minute to be exact.

The Total Artificial Heart is powered by a portable pneumatic drive connected to the patient’s body by tubes. A heart transplant is often the next step for these patients, and the Total Artificial Heart is designed to allow them to wait for a matching donor heart at home rather than staying in the hospital, potentially for months on end.

Ferguson received his Total Artificial Heart in December and started inpatient rehabilitation at INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation in January.

“It’s a very humbling experience,” Ferguson said. “It’s a journey.”

He has since returned home to Bethany and is back to enjoying retirement with his family and friends. Ferguson and his wife Kathy have three children and six grandchildren in the Oklahoma City area with whom they share much of their time.

After retirement, the couple purchased lakefront property at Lake Eufaula in eastern Oklahoma. With Ferguson’s Total Artificial Heart, they are still able to visit the lake with their family and enjoy time out on the water riding on their new pontoon boat.

Kathy said her husband has more flexibility than one would expect with his Total Artificial Heart. Charged batteries and electrical outlets need to be within reach wherever they go, but they even have a car charger for the backpack pump to add to his adaptability.

“This goes with me everywhere,” Ferguson said about the backpack. “I just set it down by my chair and I just plug in to the wall.”

Ferguson said he has learned the importance of living every day one day at a time throughout his journey. He is extremely grateful to his wife, family and the staff at INTEGRIS for their tremendous care.

“INTEGRIS is fantastic, and not just because of this,” Ferguson said. “The time I spent up there watching them work with other people, they are truly compassionate and caring people.

“They are very gifted and talented people and they are where they should be.”

Ferguson’s family, children and grandchildren provide his daily motivation. His youngest granddaughter is quickly nearing her second birthday.

“One of my reasons for getting this was my little one,” he said. “I want her to remember me.”

The Dodgers are in the midst of their final homestand of the regular season. They continue a three-game series against the Omaha Storm Chasers at 7:05 tonight at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark and then at 7:05 p.m. on a $2 Thursday, featuring $2 Pepsi products, bottled water and select beer.

The Dodgers’ final home series of the regular season opens against the Colorado Springs Sky Sox at 7:05 p.m. Friday to kick off Fan Appreciation Weekend at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. The OKC Disc Dogs will perform on the field and fireworks will follow the game, presented by Francis Tuttle.

The series continues at 7:05 p.m. Saturday, featuring the Clubhouse Collectibles silent auction presented by The Oklahoman. The final Chaparral Energy Family Sunday takes place at 6:05 p.m. Sunday, before the Dodgers host their final regular-season home game at 7:05 p.m. Monday against Colorado Springs.

Tickets are available through the OKC Dodgers ticket office located on South Mickey Mantle Drive, by phone at (405) 218-2182, or by visiting okcdodgers.com.

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

Dragons and Vectren Present 2018 “Community All-Stars”

Dayton, Ohio – The Dragons and Vectren will honor Shoes 4 the Shoeless during the unique “Community All-Stars” program on Monday, June 25, at 7:00 p.m. when the Dayton Dragons take on the Great Lakes Loons at Fifth Third Field.

The Dayton community is a great place to live, work and play. But what makes Dayton truly great are the people that call Dayton home. We have great people and great organizations in our community that do incredible things each and every day. Throughout the season, the Dragons and Vectren will honor five “All-Stars” with a special inning break tribute in recognition of their service.

Shoes 4 the Shoeless Story: “Shoes & Socks Bring Hope”

Kris Horlacher is a nurse by trade, but a decade ago she began devoting her time to a tutoring and mentoring program for homeless kids. Whether it’s finding food to eat or shelter for the night, these children have plenty of needs, and something that is often overlooked is their feet. According to Horlacher, “a pair of shoes and socks that are in good condition and fit, is the biggest unmet need for children living in poverty.” After researching, they found only a few organizations nationwide who provide these resources. They did not appear to be highly effective so, in 2010, Horlacher decided to take action into her own hands.

Within the first year of forming Shoes for the Shoeless (S4TS), Horlacher and her team won the Pepsi Refresh competition, a nationwide competition for organizations to compete for a $50,000 grant. Horlacher proudly states, “against all odds, Shoes 4 the Shoeless won, beating out large corporations from all across the country.” This funding was the traction needed to launch the organization.

Many of the children served by S4TS have never owned a pair of new shoes. Instead they wear hand-me-downs that are extremely worn, and not even close to the right size. Children go to school wearing shoes full of holes, missing soles, taped together, etc. Hundreds of local children do not even own socks. S4TS corrects these painful and embarrassing problems for children on the spot.

Since 2011, Shoes 4 the Shoeless has served over 75,000 children in 7 counties. Around 500 volunteers go to schools each month and work one-on-one with kids to find the right pair of shoes. Around 1,000 pairs of gym shoes are donated by Shoes 4 the Shoeless each month! To learn more and help support Shoes 4 the Shoeless, please visit www.shoes4theshoeless.org

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program is made possible by the generous support of Vectren. For more information or to nominate an All-Star in your life, visit www.daytondragons.com/communityallstar.

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

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Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and Dragons present an Anthem Home Run for Life

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and Dragons present an Anthem Home Run for Life

Bentley Renner will celebrate his Anthem Home Run for Life on Wednesday, June 27

Dayton, Ohio – Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons will host five-year-old Bentley Renner during the unique Anthem Home Run for Life program on Wednesday, June 27, at 7:00 p.m., when the Dayton Dragons take on the Great Lakes Loons at Fifth Third Field.

The Anthem Home Run for Life program provides children in the Dayton region who are battling serious medical conditions with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Each honoree gets to take a lap around the bases at Fifth Third Field during a sold-out Dragons home game while the crowd cheers them on.

Bentley’s Story

After a premature birth, Bentley Renner had a difficult time swallowing. Doctors diagnosed him with severe dysphagia. They felt his challenges with swallowing were due to his prematurity and would improve with time.

Two months later, a common cold put Bentley back to the hospital. He was admitted for eight weeks and needed life support. While in the PICU, Bentley was unable to swallow, and his motor skills quickly declined. Bentley went through intense feeding therapy and needed a g-tube to digest food.

For the next year and a half, Bentley was in and out of the hospital. At three years of age, Bentley underwent a diagnostics workshop at the Mayo Clinic and visited the National Institute of Health. Bentley and his parents were shocked to learn he had mitochondrial myopathy.

Mitochondrial myopathy is a genetic disease affecting specific parts of the cells in the body. In an affected cell, the mitochondrion cannot produce the energy the body needs. In response, these cells don’t provide enough fuel for the body’s muscles and nerves, creating a setback in development. A disease like this causes several issues like muscle weakness, hearing loss, trouble with balance, and seizures. These common symptoms often make it difficult for doctors to diagnose.

Treatment started immediately for Bentley. He has had several airway surgeries and takes mitochondrial vitamins daily. Since he was born, Bentley has had 19 hospital stays in the ICU. “I am sad when I have to go to the hospital because I really miss my family and friends,” Bentley said. “But I usually get to play games with the doctors and nurses, which is fun!”

Today, Bentley is five-years-old and full of energy. He will be starting kindergarten at Brookville Elementary in the fall. Bentley looks forward to spending time with his family in Florida this summer.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons applaud all those who have been instrumental in Bentley’s life, including his parents Jerry and Trisha, siblings Ella and Olivia, his pediatrician Dr. Amy Jones, and his entire medical team. Please join us in cheering on Bentley as he completes his Home Run for Life at Fifth Third Field on June 27.

More Information:  The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com.

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

Emily Rose Hollins to Celebrate “Home Run For Life” Saturday with OKC Dodgers

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS continue the 2018 “Home Run For Life” series Saturday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark by recognizing Emily Rose Hollins, who was born nearly four months premature and spent 156 days in the INTEGRIS Children’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Hollins was born at 25 weeks and six days on Feb. 8, 2017, weighing a mere 12.7 ounces at birth. After spending more than five months in the NICU after her birth, Hollins left INTEGRIS as the hospital’s smallest surviving baby ever.

Hollins is thriving today thanks to the care she received at INTEGRIS. Her weight was approaching 15 pounds in April and Hollins was on the verge of both talking and walking.

“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 home run “lap” around the bases during an in-game ceremony.

“For the eighth straight year, we are proud to partner with INTEGRIS to recognize some amazing Oklahomans who have faced extraordinary adversity with their health,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “Their perseverance and courage are great examples and we are pleased to have the opportunity to honor their hard work in overcoming these challenges.”

About two years ago, Melanie Hollins didn’t believe she would be able to have children. The now-43-year-old Bethany resident had been diagnosed with diabetes, high blood pressure and end-stage kidney failure – all hereditary traits in her family tree.

Melanie’s kidneys were functioning at just 13 percent and she was going through the approval process to be placed on the kidney transplant list when she and her husband Alex found out she was pregnant with Emily Rose.

“We were both excited and horrified at the same time,” Melanie said. “Here I was dealing with my own major medical problems and asking myself ‘am I even going to be physically capable of carrying this child?'”

She said everything progressed fine with her pregnancy until about six months in when during a scheduled check-up her doctor said Emily Rose was very small and not growing like she needed to be. Melanie’s kidney function also dropped to 11 percent. Then one night in early February, Melanie experienced strong stomach pains and went to the emergency room.

“They told me, she’s coming today,” Melanie recalled. “That freaked me out.”

At 6:22 p.m., Emily Rose was delivered by Cesarean section and entered the world weighing barely more than a can of soda and less than one pound.

Being born so early, Emily Rose’s body was extremely underdeveloped. She was not able to breathe on her own. She couldn’t physically take a bottle until she was three months old. NICU nurses fed her through a tube to keep her alive.

After a five-month stay in the hospital, Emily Rose weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces and was released as a healthy baby girl.

Melanie is so thankful to the medical staff at INTEGRIS for their faith, tenacity and willingness to help her daughter against the odds.

“They gave her a chance, and them giving her a chance made all the difference in the world,” Melanie said.

Melanie works today to balance maintenance of her own health with caring for Emily Rose and the rest of her family, including 10-year-old daughter Jacari. Melanie is on dialysis and continues to wait on the kidney transplant list. She said Emily Rose constantly gives her strength thanks to her daughter’s vivacity.

“She’s a little firecracker,” Melanie said. “Full of energy.”

To read Hollins’ full story, visit: milb.com/oklahoma-city/tickets/home-run-for-life-emily-rose-hollins.

The Dodgers continue their homestand at 7:05 tonight on a $2 Thursday featuring $2 Pepsi products, bottled water and select beer. Fireworks are slated to follow Friday’s 7:05 p.m. matchup against Salt Lake, presented by Oklahoma Blood Institute.

The Dodgers open a four-game home series against the Las Vegas 51s at 7:05 p.m. Saturday on Marvel Super Hero Night. Fans who come out to Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark can meet Iron Man and Thor during the game and watch Hollins complete her “Home Run For Life” following the third inning.

Sunday’s 6:05 p.m. game falls on a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday, featuring pregame player autographs, a mascot meet-and-greet, face painters, inflatables and postgame kids run the bases. Five hundred OERB Player of the Month posters, featuring May winner Joe Broussard, will be available to children ages 12 and under as they exit the ballpark Sunday. The posters will showcase an action shot of Broussard, who was selected as the May winner through a social media poll, as well as informational OERB graphics about well site safety.

The series against Las Vegas continues at 7:05 p.m. Monday and wraps up with an 11:05 a.m. game Tuesday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on a Summer Field Trip Day. Camps and day cares are encouraged to come out Tuesday for a summer field trip. An OKC Dodgers game ticket, hat and sack lunch are included for the price of $13 per person for groups of 10 or more.

Tickets are available through the OKC Dodgers ticket office located on South Mickey Mantle Drive, by phone at (405) 218-2182, or by visiting okcdodgers.com.

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

First Responders Night with Fireworks on June 23

CLEARWATER, Fla. – The Threshers are honoring local emergency personnel on Saturday, June 23, with First Responders Night at Spectrum Field. The day features community police and fire departments playing softball on Spectrum Field in the afternoon and a huge fireworks show after the game, plus recognition of the heroes in attendance during the game.

Gates open at 5:00 p.m. for the 6:15 p.m. game with the Dunedin Blue Jays. The fireworks are presented by Banquet Masters.

For a group tickets, or tickets for the afternoon softball games, call Bobby at 727-712-4408.

Tickets on ThreshersBaseball.com

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

Military Appreciation Day is Sunday, July 1st

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS FOR MILITARY APPRECIATION DAY

The Drive will celebrate Military Appreciation Day on Sunday, July 1st at Fluor Field. The game against the Charleston RiverDogs will begin at 4:05 PM, and the Drive are honored to recognize the brave men and women who have served, or continue to serve, our country as part of this special day.

Throughout the evening, the Drive will team up with Upstate Warrior Solutions, a nonprofit that assists warriors with future opportunities and encourages the community to embrace them as neighbors and friends.   Prior to the game, the Drive will have a special military vehicle display on Field Street for kids to take pictures with.

The military celebrations will also begin before the game with a fly-in by the U.S. Army Special Forces Parachute Team and a flyover of Warbirds Vintage Aircrafts.

Don’t miss this special celebration of the military at Fluor Field on July 1st! Tickets are available now at the Main Street Box Office, by calling (864) 240-4528 or by CLICKING HERE.

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

Special Dragons Jersey Friday on Defeating Cancer Night

DAYTON, OHIO-The Dayton Dragons will wear specially-designed jerseys on “Defeating Cancer Night” at Fifth Third Field on Friday, June 8 when they host the Bowling Green Hot Rods at 7:00 p.m. Each jersey will be autographed by the Dragons player or coach who wore it that night for a jersey auction that will begin after the game. All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society.

The specially-themed jersey night will be a first in the Dragons 19-year history. The Dragons have never worn specially-designed jerseys for a single game and then conducted a jersey auction after the game.

Jerseys worn by all Dragons players and coaches will be part of the auction, which will last one week and be viewable at daytondragons.com.

“The Dragons organization is very excited with this opportunity to assist the American Cancer Society in their continuous fund-raising efforts,” said Robert Murphy, Dragons President & General Manager. “This will be the first full-team jersey auction in our history and we are pleased to give fans the opportunity to bid on these special jerseys to be worn on Friday night by our players and coaches.”

“We are looking forward to Friday night and sharing our resources with the community,” said Shayna Knack, Senior Manager, Community Development, with the American Cancer Society. “It’s an honor to be part of this event and we want to thank the Dragons organization for partnering with us in the fight to end cancer.”

Defeating Cancer Night at Fifth Third Field on June 8 will include a variety of special events and activities.

  • The American Cancer Society’s pink semi-truck will be parked on the plaza in front of the ballpark with an information table.
  • The Bob Ross Auto Group’s pink vehicle will be parked on the plaza with a tent and showcase items.
  • The Pink Ribbon Girls’ pink fire truck will be parked on the plaza with a tent and information table.
  • Free sunscreen samples will be available through a partnership between Minor League Baseball and the American Cancer Society that promotes awareness and prevention of skin cancer.
  • Andrew Heil, a two-time cancer survivor, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.
  • The event will also feature in-game recognition of cancer survivors, battlers, care providers, and family members.

A portion of ticket revenue from the game on June 8 will also be donated to the American Cancer Society and Pink Ribbon Girls.

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

Military Appreciation Night, Troop Supply Drive on June 14th

Military Appreciation Night on June 14th includes a Troop Supply Drive.

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – The BlueClaws will be hosting their annual Military Appreciation Night and Troop Supply Drive, presented by OceanFirst Bank, at the game on Thursday, June 14th. First pitch is at 7:05 pm.

There will be both pre-game and in-game ceremonies honoring members of the armed forces. A Black Hawk Helicopter will be stationed on the Great Lawn in front of the ballpark for pictures with fans.

Tickets – Call 732-901-7000 option 2 or click here to order online.

Additionally, the BlueClaws will once again be collecting items for their Troop Supply Drive. Boxes will be set up for the Troop Supply and Care Package Drive in the front of the ballpark and fans are encouraged to donate razors, snacks, baby wipes, shampoo, soap, non-chocolate candies and sweets, sun block with SPF 40+, lip balm, writing utensils, silly string, deodorant, tissues, q-tips, white socks, batteries, insect repellent, and flashlights.

The BlueClaws will also be collecting, as always, gently used cell phones at the New Jersey Natural Gas Information Booth to benefit Cell Phones for Soldiers.

This supply and care package drive is in conjunction with the Monmouth-Ocean Central Labor Council Military Committee, Monmouth-Ocean Building Trade Council, National Guard, Toms River Armory, A.R.M.S, and IBEW Local 400 Military Committee.

Vets Night Out – Through the BlueClaws Vets Night Out program, presented by OceanFirst Bank, fans can donate tickets that will be given directly to veterans to enjoy BlueClaws games on June 14th and August 21st this year. For more in Vets Night Out, click here or call Tyler Odle at 732-901-7000 ext 124.

In addition, former Yankee Bucky Dent will be signing autographs at the game. Dent hit one of the most famous home runs in baseball history to win a one-game playoff against the Red Sox in 1978. His signing will begin at 6 pm when the gates open.

Bucky Dent VIP Express Pass – A VIP Express Pass lets holders skip the main autograph line. A limited number of express passes are available and can be ordered online by clicking here on the phone at 732-901-7000 option 2. Please note when ordering that the VIP Line price includes a game ticket ($23 adults, $20 junior/senior).

It’s also a Thirsty Thursday, presented by 95.9 WRAT, with dollar beer and soda plus 75-cent wings in the BlueClaws Biergarten. For more on the BlueClaws Thirsty Thursday Club, which includes seven undated Thursday tickets and access to a VIP Line in the BlueClaws Biergarten, click here.

– BlueClaws –

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

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and Dragons present an Anthem Home Run for Life

Dayton, Ohio – Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons will host 12-year-old Gabe Duplechian during the unique Anthem Home Run for Life program on Wednesday, May 30, at 7:00 p.m., when the Dayton Dragons take on the West Michigan Whitecaps at Fifth Third Field.

The Anthem Home Run for Life program provides children in the Dayton region who are battling serious medical conditions with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Each honoree gets to take a lap around the bases at Fifth Third Field during a sold-out Dragons home game while the crowd cheers them on.

Gabe’s Story

Around Christmas of 2012, Gabe Duplechian came home from school with a sore arm. There was no incident earlier that day that would have caused the constant pain Gabe was feeling, so his parents took him to urgent care. Based on preliminary tests, it was suggested Gabe had a fracture and his arm was placed in a cast to heal.

Unfortunately, this didn’t solve Gabe’s issues. Quickly after having his cast removed, he had similar pain in his other arm and then shortly thereafter his legs. The pain was so excruciating that he was unable to walk and perform daily functions. After months of tests with results seemingly normal, Gabe’s parents were frustrated and took him to the emergency room for some answers.

After many more tests, Gabe and his parents were shocked to learn he had Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Gabe didn’t have the typical signs of this condition, and it had taken months for the family to get an accurate diagnosis.

ALL is a cancer of the white blood cells characterized by excess lymphoblasts. Malignant, immature white blood cells continuously multiply and are overproduced in the bone marrow. This form of cancer causes damage by crowding out normal cells in the bone marrow, and eventually spreads to other organs.

Treatment started immediately for Gabe. He had a one-week induction with steroids and then started chemotherapy. Gabe went through 30 days of isolation, lost his hair multiple times, had a buildup of ammonia, and experienced liver issues during his treatment.

Today, Gabe is 12-years-old and feels great. His last round of chemotherapy was in June of 2016 and he’s extremely grateful to be in remission. “This experience has taught me to not take things for granted,” Gabe said. “Things could always be worse. And even though I had cancer, cancer didn’t have me.”

Gabe will be in eighth grade at Kettering Middle School next school year. He enjoys english, wrestling, and playing the saxophone.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons applaud all those who have been instrumental in Gabe’s life, including his parents Jason and Adrienne, his specialist Dr. Dole, and his entire medical team. Please join us in cheering on Gabe as he completes his Home Run for Life at Fifth Third Field on May 30.

More Information:  The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com.

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

Lexington Legends to Host A+ Teacher Appreciation Night

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends are excited to announce Teacher Appreciation Night on 90’s Night with a guest appearance by Saved By The Bell’s Mr. Belding on Thursday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. Teachers who show their ID at the box office will receive $3 off box seats for the night.

“We are excited to honor all the hard work that teachers do each and every school year. We invite them to kick off summer with Teacher’s Appreciation Night as well as our other promotions such as Thirsty Thursday and Bark in the Park. We are also pleased to welcome 90’s icon, and one of the most well know principals: Mr. Belding from Saved By the Bell,” said Legends President/CEO Andy Shea.

In order to honor some of the hardest work people in Kentucky, the Legends invite teachers to Whitaker Bank Ballpark to celebrate the school year and take in a baseball game. Teachers will also be involved in on-field promotions throughout the game, in what is sure to be an A+ night.

One of the most famous Principals will also be making an appearance at Whitaker Bank Ballpark. Mr. Belding from Saved By the Bell will be on hand to meet fans, sign autographs, take pictures and find out exactly what is going on in here.

On Throwback Thursday, the Legends will be throwing it back to the 90’s with scrunchies, neon clothing and more. Be prepared for all the best hits, including the sweet tunes of the Backstreet Boys, Spice Girls and other top groups from that decade.

It is also Thirsty Thursday courtesy of Kentucky Ale and Pepsi. Enjoy $1 12 oz. beers and $3 16 oz. beers at the Bullpen Patio, First Base Pavilion Tent, and the Handlebar in the first base concourse. $1 Pepsi products will be available in the 1st base and 3rd base concession stands.

Fans can also bring their best friend, of the K9 variety, for Bark in the Park with a $2 donation to Scott County Humane Society.

The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and member of the South Atlantic League, play all home games at Whitaker Bank Ballpark in Lexington, Kentucky. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com

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

ValleyCats, Community Resource Federal Credit Union partner to recognize Capital Region’s Community Heroes!

TROY, N.Y. – The Tri-City ValleyCats and Community Resource Federal Credit Union have teamed up again in 2018 on the “Home Run Community Heroes Starting 9” initiative, a program that aims to highlight those that go above and beyond in the Capital Region community.

A selection of nominees will be recognized in an on-field ceremony on Thursday, July 19, prior to the ValleyCats game versus the Brooklyn Cyclones.

“We are honored to join with the ValleyCats again this year to honor our Community Heroes,” said Marc DeNofio, VP of Marketing at Community Resource FCU. “Our everyday heroes are at the very core of what makes the Capital Region a great place to live. At CRFCU we enjoy supporting these selfless individuals, and offering banking services that enrich the lives of all residents.”

The ‘Cats and Community Resource FCU are encouraging fans to nominate personnel from military, law enforcement, firefighter/EMS agencies, non-profit organizations, as well as teachers, volunteers, children and everyday people that have helped make the Capital Region a better place to live.

“We are excited to partner with Community Resource Federal Credit Union to recognize the efforts of those who have had a positive impact within our community,” said ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan. “There is plenty of heroic work being done within the Capital Region that many people may not know about, so we’re glad to be able to showcase a handful of those circumstances.”

The nine nominees selected will also be treated to a luxury suite as guests of Community Resource FCU, with complimentary food and drink.

Fans who want to nominate a Community Hero can do so by filling out the form located online at tcvalleycats.com/communityheroes. The ValleyCats will be accepting nominations through Friday, June 29. Forms can be faxed with attention to Elyse Zima at 518-629-2299, e-mailed to elysezima@tcvalleycats.com, or dropped off at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium.

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

Girl Scout Day is Sunday at Fluor Field

The Drive’s homestand against the Augusta GreenJackets concludes with Girl Scouts Day on Sunday at 4:05 PM.

The Drive are excited to team up with the Girl Scouts of South Carolina Mountains to Midlands for another day of celebration. Girl Scouts will participate in a pregame parade around Fluor Field, and when the gates open, there will be an on-field bridging ceremony in which Girl Scouts receive a commemorative patch from this special day.

During the game, Girl Scouts will take part in the Education Adventure Challenge that teaches the importance of healthy living by combining Scout practices with the game of baseball.

Stick around after the game for Kids Run the Bases presented by BlueCross BlueShield!

Purchase tickets for Sunday’s game at Fluor Field by visiting the Main Street Box Office, by calling (864) 240-4528 or by CLICKING HERE.

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

Threshers Veterans and Military Appreciation Night is June 2

CLEARWATER, Fla. – The Threshers are saying ‘thank you’ and honoring those who serve at Veterans and Military Appreciation Night at Spectrum Field on Saturday, June 2. The day features inter-service softball games in the afternoon, a Hero Card Set giveaway, a POW/MIA Chair of Honor Dedication, a troop care package packing event, on-field ceremonies, a game-used jersey auction, and post-game fireworks. The night is presented by Bosley and Bratch, Lawyers for Veterans.

The first 1,000 guests to arrive will receive a free Hero Card Set giveaway, a baseball-style card set featuring local military heroes and veterans – with their photo and a bio included. The heroes, or their representatives, will be honored along the 3rd base line prior to game time.

Along with Rolling Thunder and Hussey Seating, the Threshers will be dedicating as part of the pregame ceremonies, a POW/MIA Chair of Honor to be on permanent display at Spectrum Field. Media is encouraged to attend this photo opportunity with military, local, and team officials.

In addition to the displays and happenings on the concourse, there will be a swearing-in of new recruits on-field, and SOCOM Para-Commandos from MacDill AFB will be jumping in to the ballpark. The special Threshers camouflage game jerseys will be part of a silent auction fundraiser during the game. Those with winning bids may collect their jersey from the player with an autograph, on-field after the game.

The Stano Foundation is partnering with the Threshers for a Troop Care Package packing event to take place during the game on June 2.

Military Night Packing Event Flyer PDF

Items to fill the snack sacks may be dropped off in the administration office of Spectrum Field during business hours in the weeks leading up to Veterans and Military Appreciation Night. Donations are encouraged of protein bars, granola bars, trail mix, peanuts, small bags of chips, and similar snacks.

Gates open at 5 p.m. for the 6:15 p.m. game with the Florida Fire Frogs, and a huge fireworks show follows the game. A portion of every military ticket sold will benefit the Haley House Fund and Injured Warriors of Florida. Historic military equipment from various branches including the Coast Guard will be on display around the park with many vendors inside.

 

The ‘Battle of the Branches’ softball games, organized by Navy Federal Credit Union, will take place on Spectrum Field during the afternoon preceding the Threshers game. Teams from the U.S. Coast Guard Sectors St. Pete and Clearwater, MacDill AFB, and VetSports will be competing for fun and bragging rights. Group tickets are available for the softball.

Call the BayCare Box Office at 727-467-4457.

Ticket Prices:

Field Box Seats – $10

Box Seats – $8

Military/Child/Senior – $6

Berm – $6

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

South Bend Cubs Co-Host Inaugural Military Honor & Appreciation Fair on Memorial Day

SOUTH BEND, IN – As a kickoff to South Bend’s “Best.Week.Ever.” festival, the South Bend Cubs will host the inaugural Military Honor & Appreciation Fair at Four Winds Field on Monday May 28. The fair is part of “Armed Forces Week”, a special week of home games dedicated to the United States military service branches starting on Monday, May 21st and culminating with Military Appreciation Days on Sunday evening and Memorial Day.

“Every year, we are honored to partner with Express Employment Professionals over Memorial Day weekend,” said South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. “This season, we have expanded the weekend to include the full eight game homestand as well as a Military Honor and Appreciation Fair to help bring awareness to issues that our active duty military and veterans are facing.”

Co-hosted by Express Employment Professionals, Military Appreciation Days on Sunday, May 27 and Memorial Day, May 28, will honor veterans and currently-serving military personnel by offering two free tickets to either the Sunday or Monday games with proof of service.

On Sunday, visitors around the Four Winds Field Plaza will be visually inspired by 50 US flags placed in-line by the Indiana Patriot Guard Riders in dedication to Vietnam veterans. This display will recognize members of the Vietnam Veterans of America. The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association will also ride their motorcycles onto the field, which will be followed by a live flyover and field landing of UH-1 Huey 369, a restored Huey helicopter from American Huey 369 out of Peru, Indiana.

On Memorial Day, Express Employment Professionals and the South Bend Cubs will host the inaugural Military Honor & Appreciation Fair. The event starts at 10:45 a.m. with a special wreath-laying ceremony featuring area dignitaries that include Indiana’s 2nd District Congresswoman Jackie Walorski, 95.3 MNC’s afternoon radio host Casey Hendrickson, and South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. Other participants will include the Miller’s Vets Color Guard, area Boy & Girls Scouts, and representatives of the Indiana Army National Guard, who will perform TAPS and the National Anthem.

Following the ceremony will be the Military Appreciation Fair. Over 25 local military service organizations will be represented along with military vehicles and equipment on display. There will also be a paintball shooting booth from BlastCamp out of Hobart, Indiana. All events on Monday will take place outside of Gates A & B in the Four Winds Field plaza.

Prior to first pitch on Monday, the families of fallen service members will be recognized on the field, organized by US Army Survivor Outreach Services and Helping Hands for Freedom.

In addition to the events on May 27 and 28, the South Bend Cubs and Express Employment Professionals will host a food drive during all eight games. Nearly 25% of food insecure Hoosiers are our military veterans. All food and money collected will benefit the Food Bank of Northern Indiana and their area food agencies, who help feed hungry and food insecure families across North-Central Indiana.

About Express Employment Professionals
Express Employment Professionals is a leading workforce staffing provider in the U.S., Canada and South Africa. Founded in 1983, Express Employment Professionals has nearly 800 franchise locations, including three franchise offices covering a six-county area and located in Mishawaka, Elkhart, and Warsaw, in North-Central Indiana. Express specializes in the placement of job-seekers with employers for commercial, administrative, skilled trades, and professional positions.

About the South Bend Cubs
The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 30 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. This year, Four Winds Field, home of the Cubs, was named Ballpark Digest’s Best Single-A ballpark. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

OKC Dodgers Host Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night Friday

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers will honor the service and dedication of local military members and their families Friday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on the first of two Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Nights this season.

The Dodgers play the Nashville Sounds at 7:05 p.m. Friday, and special festivities will be held throughout the evening, culminating with postgame fireworks, presented by Oklahoma Blood Institute.

“Our Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Nights are always some of our most anticipated dates on our schedule because they provide us with the opportunity to show our gratitude to our local service members and their families first-hand,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “These commemorative nights allow us to honor the sacrifices and commitments made by these devoted individuals and show how appreciative the Oklahoma City community is for their service.”

An Air Force F-16 Mini-Jet and customized SUVs will be on display on the Warren Spahn and Johnny Bench Plazas and a swearing-in ceremony of new Air Force recruits will take place on the field prior to the game.

Representatives from Tinker Air Force Base will participate in several pregame events. Col. Geoffrey Weiss, 552 Air Control Wing CC, is scheduled to throw out the first pitch. Command Chief Master Sgt. Mark Hurst is slated to deliver the lineup card and Airman Lauren McNary will perform the national anthem. The Tinker Air Force Base Honor Guard will present the colors.

Retirement and re-enlistment ceremonies will take place between innings, as well as a working dog demo by Tinker Air Force Base’s Security Forces.

The Dodgers open a four-game series against Nashville at 7:05 p.m. on a $2 Thursday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, featuring $2 Pepsi products, bottled water and select beer.

The series continues at 7:05 p.m. Friday and Saturday before wrapping up with a 2:05 p.m. game on a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday, featuring pregame player autographs, a mascot meet-and-greet, face painters, inflatables and postgame kids run the bases.

The second Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night of the season is slated for Friday, Aug. 17 when the Dodgers play the Iowa Cubs at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

OKC Dodgers tickets are available through the OKC Dodgers ticket office located on South Mickey Mantle Drive, by phone at (405) 218-2182, or by visiting okcdodgers.com.

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