Sunday is Safe Kids Upstate Day

Opening Week presented by TD Bank continues on Sunday at 4:05 PM with the annual Safe Kids Upstate Day at Fluor Field, in partnership with Greenville Health System and Bradshaw Automotive. Safety Patrol members will participate in a pregame parade around the Fluor Field warning track at 3:30 PM, and Safe Kids will be handing out bike helmets to the first 400 children who enter the Fluor Field gates.

Throughout the day, the Drive will be recognizing Safe Kids Upstate’s annual award winners, including their Grand Slam Winner, Volunteers of the Year, the Hero Award, and the Brian Donnelly Lifetime Achievement Award. Children of all ages will also be able to learn more about all aspects of safety “At Home, At Play and On the Way” with concourse exhibits and interactive stations, and following the completion of all stations, children will have a chance to win great prizes.

After the game, be sure to stick around for BlueCross BlueShield Kids Run the Bases!

Purchase tickets for Sunday’s game 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.

Dragons to Recognize Honor Flight Dayton Program on April 11

Dayton, Ohio-The Dayton Dragons will recognize the Honor Flight Dayton program during an inning break of their game on Wednesday, April 11 against the Lake County Captains at Fifth Third Field. The game will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday’s event is the first of four special Hometown Heroes program spotlights at Dragons games this season. At each Hometown Heroes event, the Dragons pay tribute to all service men and women past and present. Presenting sponsors are the Dayton Development Coalition and Leidos. Additional tributes are scheduled for May 8, June 24, and July 15, each focused on a different aspect or organization involved in the military. The season-long celebration will wrap up with a Celebration Night on August 18.

Many veterans and chaperones who will be participating in the scheduled April 14 Honor Flight will be in attendance at the Dragons Hometown Heroes spotlight during the game on April 11.

Honor Flight Dayton’s mission is to ensure that Dayton area veterans have the opportunity to see their national memorials in Washington, D.C. These once in a lifetime trips are provided at no cost to qualified veterans. Created in 2005, the first Honor Flight took 12 veterans on six small planes from Springfield, Ohio to D.C. Since then, thousands of veterans have been escorted to see their memorial. The program is still going strong with up to four flights per year. In 2017, year more than 440 veterans were able to enjoy this experience. This program started with WWII veterans, but now much of their impact is on Korean and Vietnam veterans.

To donate, volunteer, nominate a veteran, or learn more about Honor Flight Dayton, please visit www.honorflightdayton.org or call (937) 322-4448.

For more information on the Dragons Hometown Heroes program, go to daytondragons.com/hometownheroes.

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

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San Jose Giants Unveil 2018 Military Trading Card Set Presented by Operation: Care and Comfort

San Jose, CA– The San Jose Giants today officially unveiled the 2018 Military Trading Card Set, presented by Operation: Care and Comfort. The incredible 42 card set features military personnel who have served in WWII, the Korean War, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf War, the War in Afghanistan and Iraq. Furthermore, each branch of the military is represented in the trading card set. This year’s decorated installment features many outstanding men and women who have served and sacrificed for our country. Below is the complete list of the distinguished honorees.

Dustin Ambrose, Alohalani Aweau, Frederick P. Baquiran, Adrianna Bascochea, Ryan Bennett, Alfonso A. Barreras, Phil Bond, W.F. “Bill” Bonifay, David Bridgen, Reginald L. Caselli, Ron Castro, Justen Chilbert, George S. Dailey, Wayne M. Elliott, Bryan and Kelley Evans, Emilio Gallegos, Mark Getchell, Frederick John Goetz, Jr., David Grieve, Edward E. Hart, Gregory Hatfield, Bradly Headley, Andrew Hesterberg, Chris Hiro, Tyler Hodge, Roy L. Jones, Jr., Joseph La Jeunesse, James Leonard, Augustine G. Lerma, Paul Apodaca Lerma and Jacob Paul Lerma, Matthew and Michael Lipkovitch, Jerome Marci, Dewey Nguyen, Edward Pereira, Donald Rancour, Juan Reyes, Andrew San Diego, Anthony G. Siegle, Michael R. Sisco, Nate Smith, William Venuti and Keith M. Williams.

“The San Jose Giants are once again humbled by the incredible nominees in this year’s Operation: Care and Comfort Military Trading Card Set and consider it our privilege to honor these fine men and women,” said Jeff Black, San Jose Giants Director of Marketing. “We thank all of the families and individuals who have shared their stories with us and view the trading card set as a representation of our gratitude for those who have served and sacrificed for our country.”

On April 21, as a part of Salute to the Military Night, trading card nominees and their families will be honored on field during a special pregame ceremony. They will receive their complimentary trading card packs amongst other gifts. A limited number of military trading card sets will be made available as well in the San Jose Giants Dugout Store. The first 1,000 fans will also receive a commemorative O.C.C. and San Jose Giants co-branded t-shirt gate giveaway. All-new, digital camouflage themed jerseys will be worn and an exciting Operation: Care and Comfort Military Jersey Auction will take place benefitting O.C.C. All other servicemen and servicewomen are encouraged to come out to the ballpark as the night is a salute to everyone who has fought to protect our freedom.

“Operation: Care and Comforts mission is to allow caring Americans to donate their time, talent and treasure to honor those currently serving our country and to those who have served. We believe Salute to the Military Night embodies this mission and we cannot wait for the special evening,” said Julie DeMaria, Operation: Care and Comfort President and Co-Founder. “On behalf of O.C.C., we thank all current military personnel, veterans and those we have lost-you truly epitomize what it means to be a hero.”

First pitch for Salute to the Military Night is at 5:00 PM and gates open at 3:30 PM. The evening comes on the second night of Heroes Weekend which begins on Friday, April 20 with First Responders Night. Our Giants 2018 season gets underway on Thursday, April 5 at Inland Empire. The San Jose Giants home-opener is Thursday, April 13 at Municipal Stadium. For information on the 2018 season and ticket packages please visit sjgiants.com, call 408.297.1435 or visit the Municipal Stadium Box Office Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Purchase San Jose Giants Tickets

View the 2018 San Jose Giants Schedule

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ABOUT THE SAN JOSE GIANTS

The San Jose Giants are a professional baseball team in the Class A Advanced California League. The team has been an affiliate of the San Francisco Giants since 1988 and has boasted one of the best records in the minor leagues after partnering with the big-league club, going 2,300-1,891 (.548). San Jose has won six California League Championships as a Giants affiliate (2010, 2009, 2007, 2005, 2001 and 1998) and eleven overall. In 30 seasons, the San Jose Giants have graduated 199 Major League players, 143 of whom have played or currently play for the San Francisco Giants. The Giants won back to back league championships in 2009 and 2010 and are also the first team in California League history to have won four titles over a six-year span. Municipal Stadium, the home of the San Jose Giants, first opened in 1942 and has seen over 7 million fans enter through its gates. In 2018, the San Jose Giants look to continue their tradition of playing winning baseball while providing fun, affordable, family-entertainment. To be a part of the 2018 season, please contact the San Jose Giants Box Office at 408.297.1435 or visit us online at sjgiants.com. San Jose Giants baseball in your backyard since 1942, Our Town, Our Team, Our Giants

ABOUT OPERATION: CARE AND COMFORT

Founded in 2003 in the San Francisco Bay Area, Operation: Care and Comfort supports the military, veterans and their families through three distinct programs- OCC Care Packages, OCC Tickets for Troops, and OCC Adopt a Military Family. OCC and its volunteers have received numerous awards for their effort, including the Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher Distinguished Civilian Humanitarian Award from the Pentagon (2007) and the National Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces Award (2009.) For more information on this worthy, all volunteer organization, please visit www.occ-usa.org.

Red Wings, Turnbull team up for Military Salute

The Rochester Red Wings have teamed up with Turnbull Heating and Air Conditioning to honor local veterans and active military members as part of the 7th Inning Military Salute in 2018.

The Red Wings will recognize a local military member, active or retired, on the field prior to the playing of God Bless America after the top of the 7th inning is over. Through the partnership with Turnbull, each person who is honored will receive two free premium tickets to that night’s game, VIP parking and 25 Diamond Dollars, which is ballpark currency that can be used at the Red Wings Team Store, Ticket Office or concession stands.

For more information or to nominate an active military member or veteran please contact Travis Sick at (585) 454-1001 ext. 3042 or TSick@RedWingsBaseball.com.

The 2018 season begins Friday, April 6 when Rochester hosts Buffalo at 6:05 p.m. Single-game tickets for all 70 games, including Opening Day, are on sale now at RedWingsBaseball.com. The Ticket Office will open for the first time on Friday, March 23 for the 2nd Baseball’s Back Bash.

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

Sounds Expand “Hometown Hero” Program, Add Puckett’s as Presenting Sponsor

The Nashville Sounds Baseball Club is proud to announce an expansion of its “Hometown Hero” program presented by Puckett’s. At all Saturday and Sunday games at First Tennessee Park in 2018, the Sounds and Puckett’s will honor active members of the armed forces, veterans, paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers and firefighters.

Selected heroes will receive complimentary tickets to a Sounds game, a $50 Puckett’s gift card and swag. Additionally, the hero will be recognized on the iconic guitar scoreboard during a special in-between inning feature.

Nominations for heroes are now being accepted at www.nashvillesounds.com. All nominees must be, or have been, a paramedic, emergency medical technician, police officer, firefighter, or a member of the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard.

The Sounds offer military family ticket discounts for every Sunday-Wednesday game at First Tennessee Park. A $2 discount on single-game ticket prices is available for any Reserved section seat – based on availability. The offer is valid for up to four tickets per government-issued military I.D. presented at the Sounds Ticket Office.

Additionally, the Sounds salute the troops every Sunday by wearing special military jerseys.

The 2018 season will be the Sounds’ 41st in franchise history and fourth as the Oakland Athletics’ top affiliate. Opening Day is set for Thursday, April 5 when the Sounds begin the season in New Orleans. Opening Night at First Tennessee Park is scheduled for Tuesday, April 10 when the Sounds host the Iowa Cubs at 6:35 p.m. Season ticket memberships are available now by calling (615) 690-4487 or by visiting www.nashvillesounds.com.

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

Chasers Earn 2018 Business Progress Award

The Omaha Storm Chasers are the recipient of the Sarpy County Economic Development Corporation’s (SCEDC) 2018 Business Progress Award. The organization accepted the award at the corporation’s annual meeting at the Embassy Suites La Vista on Thursday evening.

“We are proud to accept this award and thank the Sarpy County Economic Development Corporation for this honor,” said Storm Chasers President and General Manager Martie Cordaro. “We are proud to call Sarpy County our home.”

The Storm Chasers organization has played home games at Werner Park in Sarpy County since April 2011. In that time span over three million fans have enjoyed Storm Chasers games and special events at Werner Park. The franchise has also had an economic impact of more than $17 million annually.

Since beginning play in Sarpy County in 2011, on the field the Storm Chasers organization has hosted the First National Bank 2015 Triple-A All-Star Game and won three Pacific Coast League titles, including Back-to-Back Triple-A National Championships. Off the field, the franchise has garnered numerous industry honors, including two nominations for Minor League Baseball’s John H. Henry Moss Community Service Award, as well as Ballpark Digest’s 2016 Charity Award.

The Omaha Storm Chasers are the Triple-A Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The Storm Chasers play at Werner Park in Papillion, Sarpy County, Nebraska. For more information please visit omahastormchasers.com and follow us on Twitter @omastormchasers and at facebook.com/omahastormchasers.

Following the 2018 Royals Exhibition Game presented by SAC Federal Credit Union on March 26, Omaha begins their 50th Season in Franchise History with Opening Night 2018 on Thursday, April 5 against the Colorado Springs Sky Sox at 6:35 p.m.

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

Shorebirds Celebrate Hit the Books Bookmark Contest Winner

SALISBURY, Md. — The Delmarva Shorebirds, Class A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, along with Dr. James M. Crouse at The Brace Place, presenting sponsor of the Hit the Books program, honored Emma Adams of Mardela Middle School for winning the 2018 Hit the Books Bookmark Design Contest.

Her winning design was featured on bookmarks that were distributed to over 50,000 students at 100 area schools that participate in the Hit the Books program.

Hit the Books encourages elementary and middle school students on the Delmarva Peninsula to read outside of their regular classroom assignments. Students that complete their reading goals receive two free ticket vouchers to a Shorebirds home game during the 2018 season.

Adams’ winning design features an aerial view of Arthur W. Perdue Stadium during a Shorebirds game with “Hit the Books!” on the video board along with Sherman pointing to the Dr. James M. Crouse logo while Sherman says “Get your braces here!” For her efforts, she was rewarded with a surprise visit at school from Sherman and representatives from the Delmarva Shorebirds and The Brace Place on Wednesday, January 17. She will also get the opportunity to throw out a first pitch before her school’s Hit the Books date at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium this spring.

“Emma’s design was great! Sherman was drawn in so much detail and she showed how much fun Shorebirds games are,” Kathy Damato, Shorebirds Community Relations Manager, said. “We look forward to rewarding all the kids who go through with the Hit the Books program by hosting them at a Shorebirds game this spring.”

The initiative, which is one of the biggest and longest-running reading programs in the region, officially kicked off on Tuesday, Jan. 17 and will run through Feb. 24.

“Reading is a great pastime of mine and it means a lot to me. The Hit the Books program does a great job of showing these children how important reading really is ,” Dr. James M. Crouse said. “Our partnership with the Shorebirds Hit the Books program is a perfect fit for us at The Brace Place.”

Participating schools will be notified in March about their game date at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in 2018, and students will be honored as part of a pregame parade around the field. For more information, contact the Delmarva
Shorebirds at 410-219-3112.

Season ticket and group outing packages are currently on sale for the 2018 season. The Shorebirds offer full season tickets, half season tickets, a 22-game plan and a 12-game plan along with a number of opportunities for groups to enjoy a night out at the ballpark. To secure your seat(s), call 410-219-3112.

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

2018 Military Promotions Announced

The Montgomery Biscuits continued their four-day schedule of promotional announcements on Wednesday by announcing their Military themed promotions for the 2018 season, including a special new ticket discount for our Armed Forces.

 

As winners of the 2017 Southern League Patriot Award for outstanding support of, and engagement with the U.S. Armed Forces, the Biscuits look to continue their support and recognition for the River Region’s military families. For the first time, any person with a valid military ID will receive a $3 discount on any ticket to all 70 Biscuit home games. Military personnel (including retired and Veteran status) will also receive food and drink specials during the Biscuits weekly “Military Wednesday” promotion.

 

The Biscuits are also planning some large scale events to honor and recognize the military in 2018, beginning with Opening Weekend. On Friday, April 6th, the Biscuits will be holding a “Maxwell AFB Centennial” celebration, honoring the 100th Anniversary of the opening of Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, complete with a pre-game flyover.

 

The yearly “Military Appreciation Night” will occur on Saturday, May 12th. Tickets will be made available for military personnel for only $5 courtesy of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce and the night will feature in-game promotions recognizing our local military heroes and in-stadium displays. The night will also conclude with a MAX Fireworks Spectacular.

 

Legends of aviation will arrive at Riverwalk Stadium on Tuesday, May 29th as the Air Command and Staff College host the “Gathering of Eagles“, a yearly collection of historically significant aviation legends coming together to tell their stories. The Biscuits will host the only public appearances of the “Eagles” and fans will get a chance to meet and get autographs during the game.

 

The Biscuits are also planning an exciting premium giveaway courtesy of Auburn University Montgomery recognizing the military aviation history, present, and future of Montgomery with a dual figurine featuring the C-130 aircraft from the 908nd Airlift Wing and the newly announced F-35 Lightning II Jet which is set to arrive at the 187th Fighter Wing in 2023. The C-130 figurine will be given away on Saturday, June 2nd and the F-35 figurine will be given away on Wednesday, August 8th. Both figurines will be able to be joined together to create one commemorative keepsake.

 

The Biscuits have created a special “Military Ticket Pack” to honor those who serve. With a valid military ID, fans can purchase the “Military Pack” and receive 10 undated Biscuits tickets good for any game, a custom Biscuits Challenge Coin, and $10 in Food Bucks for use at Riverwalk Stadium. Fans can purchase this pack by visiting the Riverwalk Stadium Box Office, visiting biscuitsbaseball.com, or calling (334) 323-2255.

Every day from January 16-19, the Biscuits will be unveiling more and more details about their 2018 promotional calendar. Be sure to follow the Biscuits social media platforms or check biscuitsbaseball.com on Thursdsay at 11:00 AM CST, as the Biscuits will be announcing details about the giveaways fans can expect during the season.

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

Ports Release 2017 Community Relations Report

STOCKTON, Calif.- Through the organization’s non-profit sector, the Anchor Fund, the Ports gave $32,464 in monetary donations and nearly $240,000 of in-kind donations to local non-profits within the San Joaquin community in 2017. Through various fundraisers held at Banner Island Ballpark, the Ports were able to raise almost $11,000 with the help of generous fans.

The revenue-leading event was the eleventh annual Pink Night, in which $5,493 benefited Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Medical Center. Additional fundraisers included Root Beer Float Day and Youth Baseball Camps presented by Amy L. Scriven, DDS., and Anchor Fund Weekend.

The Ports also had over 50,000 individuals participate in community programs such as Silver Sluggers presented by SCAN Health Plan, Amy L. Scriven, DDS. Kids’ Club, Baseball by the Books courtesy of Smack Pie Pizza, and the Summer Reading Program in partnership with San Joaquin County Libraries. Additionally, the Ports teamed up with Valley First Credit Union for this year’s Community Corner. Valley First donated 625 tickets to the Anchor Fund, and the Ports matched that donation for tickets to be distributed in the community.

Through these outreach programs, the Ports were able to provide people of all ages with donated or discounted tickets.

New to the 2017 season, the Ports partnered with Sutter Gould Medical Foundation to create a program called “Community Person of the Month,” in which select members of the local community were recognized in a monthly pre-game ceremony and a $500 donation was made to a non-profit organization of each recipient’s choice.

Finally, the Ports’ mascot, members of the front office, and Ports players were out in the community approximately 180 days out of the 2017 calendar year for events such as Little League Opening Ceremonies, school and library visits, grassroots events, and more.

“We are proud of the impact the Ports Community Department has made in the city of Stockton and beyond, in conjunction with the many people and organizations in our market,” said President Pat Filippone. “Over the 10 years since we’ve established the Anchor Fund, the Ports have remained committed to supporting the community and we look forward to growing upon this season’s success in the upcoming year.

The Stockton Ports’ Anchor Fund was established in early 2007 and has helped support many community projects, with a primary focus on youth centers and youth sports. The charitable fund reflects and reaffirms the Ports’ commitment to strengthening the community using baseball and entertainment as a backdrop, with 457 non-profit organizations receiving donations in 2017.

To view the Community Relations Report and receive ticket information on the 2018 season, please visit www.stocktonports.com.

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

Keys Contribute More Than $200,000 to Local Community in 2017

FREDERICK, MD-With the holiday season upon us, the Frederick Keys are excited to look back on 2017 as another outstanding year for community involvement. This year, the Keys worked hand-in-hand with a myriad of groups on community initiatives and assisted in countless fundraising efforts.

In 2017, the Keys contributed more than $200,000 to the local community. This benefited non-profits, local schools and libraries, the military and other worthy causes. The Keys also donated over $150,000 in in-kind gifts and raised over $20,000 for local non-profit organizations through in-stadium fundraising. This supported local non-profit groups including the United Way, Heartly House, Habitat For Humanity, Blessings in a Backpack and The Police Activities League. Funds were also raised for victims of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.

Throughout the season, the Keys work with different organizations to benefit local non-profits and other worthy causes. For the third straight season, BGE Home and the Keys partnered on “Make a Difference Monday.” During each Monday game, a different 501 (c) (3) organization was given 25 tickets to see the Keys play to go along with a pre-game interview, a ceremonial first, a marketing table on the concourse and a :20 public address announcement. Among the groups who participated were the Team Up for 1 Foundation and the Frederick County Humane Society.

Other year-long programs which benefited local non-profits included Walks for a Cause and Pack the Park. Each time a Keys player walked, Keeney and Basford Funeral Homes donated $10 to Frederick Keys Care. Another staple of the Keys community involvement, Pack the Park enables charities to raise funds through ticket sales as well as a 50/50 raffle. Pack the Parks take place on Fridays and Saturday’s to maximize the organization’s exposure. Other benefits include a first pitch and a chance to speak on the field before the game.

Some groups have specific nights where their cause is recognized. These included Strike Out Stroke Night, Deaf & Hard of Hearing Night, Knock Tobacco Out of the Park Day and Cancer Awareness Night. Through working with Frederick Memorial Hospital’s Stroke & Chest Pain Division, the Keys were able to spread awareness of strokes, how to avoid them and be alerted to when someone could be having one.

For Deaf and Hard of Hearing Night, the Keys worked with the Maryland School for the Deaf to promote ways to communicate with individuals who are deaf or hearing impaired. Students from the school also created special sign language videos with Keys players. Knock Tobacco Out of the Park Day included a pre-game presentation about tobacco use, as well as a video and slates throughout the game explaining the dangers of using tobacco. For this night, the Keys partnered with the Tobacco Free Coalition.

Each season the Keys join forces with the American Cancer Society to recognize cancer survivors and to remember those who have lost their battle with cancer. Survivors receive a free ticket to the game, while ACS sells t-shirts and luminaries as part of a unique fireworks show. This includes a photo montage on the video board of cancer fighters, in conjunction with the organization’s Cancer Has a Face Program. Keys Players and Coaches also donned special lavender jerseys with words of encouragement such as hope, faith and love. These were auctioned off during the game, with proceeds benefiting ACS.

To promote educational and wellness initiatives, the Keys work frequently with the Frederick County Public School System. In 2017, the team introduced the Report Card Program. Children who received A’s, A equivalents or improved grades on their report cards received two complimentary tickets to a Keys game in April as well as a bumper sticker showing their accomplishments.

Meanwhile, this past season just under 2,000 sixth grade students filled Nymeo Field for STEM Day. Each student attendee received an assignment packet with questions based on game action, information from concourse vendors and videos featuring Keys mascot Keyote and players. The Keys and FCPS also work together on Family Fitness Weekend. Children who are active for one hour a day receive a voucher to a Keys weekend game.

Once again the Keys and Frederick County Public Libraries worked together in 2017. The team provided local libraries in Frederick and in surrounding counties with nearly 70,000 summer reading vouchers. Students who complete their summer reading assignments receive a voucher to attend a game in either July or August and receive recognition during a pre-game parade.

A long-standing goal of the Keys has also been to give back to active and retired military members. One way this is accomplished is through Fort Detrick Night. A US Army Medical Command Installation based in Frederick, Fort Detrick is the city’s largest employer. The Keys work closely with the base to put on a night for military members and their families. Tickets are provided at a discounted rate, while Fort Detrick brings out an anthem singer, color guard and military VIPs to give on-field presentations.

The Keys will be celebrating their 30th anniversary in 2018. For more information about ticket plans, fans can contact the Keys groups department at 301-815-9900. The Frederick Keys kickoff their home schedule on Thursday, April 12 against the Potomac Nationals at 7:00 p.m. To follow the Keys all offseason, fans can visit frederickkeys.com.

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

2017 San Jose Giants Release 2017 Community Report

SAN JOSE, CA– The San Jose Giants released today their 2017 Community Report. The report is an overview of the organizations outreach and community involvement as well as a summary of games and events at historic Municipal Stadium. From a record number of mascot and player appearances, donations and fundraising endeavors to the celebration of the #DiamondSeason, the San Jose Giants connected with and served the South Bay in more ways than ever before.

“I want to personally thank all of our fans and partners for your loyalty and support. You inspire us each day and are the motivation behind our efforts to give back to the community” said Daniel Orum, San Jose Giants President and CEO. “2017 will be remembered as a hallmark year filled with countless memories all made possible by you. We are proud to contribute to this wonderful community and are working diligently to raise the bar even higher in next year.”

The 2017 Community Report demonstrates the variety of charitable efforts the San Jose Giants are involved with both inside and outside the stadium gates. Highlights of the report include the nearly 200 community appearances made by San Jose Giants personnel, special community-centered nights and events at Municipal Stadium, the #DiamondSeason and introduction of We Care Wednesday, extensive fundraising programs, events in partnership with the Giants Community Fund to help underserved youth and in-kind donations to well over 500 local and national organizations. For the complete 2017 San Jose Giants Community Report, click on the link below.

2017 San Jose Giants Community Report

For more information on the San Jose Giants and how to get your organization involved next season, call 408.297.1435 or visit sjgiants.com.

SC Veterans Upstate Salute at Fluor Field on November 12th

The Drive, along with fellow Upstate Veterans Alliance partners GE, Greenville Health System and Michelin are excited to team up for the second annual SC Veterans Upstate Salute! You’re invited to join us in this free celebration on Sunday, November 12th at Fluor Field, as we will honor our local veterans with a night full of entertainment.

The event will begin at 5:00 PM, with the Field Street gates at Fluor Field opening at 4:00. Highlights of the evening include a concert from country music star Craig Morgan, a 21-gun salute, parachuters, an aerial flyover and opportunities to meet community agencies supporting veterans and their families. The night will conclude with a spectacular fireworks show. The concession stands at Fluor Field will be open throughout the evening.

Admission is free for the Upstate Salute, but registration is required, and you can register by CLICKING HERE. For more information, including to learn more about the schedule of events for the Upstate Salute, please visit www.upstatesalute.com. We hope to see you at Fluor Field on November 12th to help honor our nation’s veterans!

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

Dragons Support of Military Nominated for Award

Dayton, Ohio-For the second straight year, the Dayton Dragons have been selected as the Midwest League nominee for a national award selected by Minor League Baseball that will be presented at the Baseball Winter Meetings in December.

The Charles K. Murphy Patriot Award is presented to one club from among approximately 180 Minor League teams for outstanding support of and engagement with the United States Armed Forces and veterans, both at the ballpark and in the community. The Dragons have been selected in a vote of the 16 Midwest League teams as the league nominee for the national honor in both 2016 and 2017, the first two years of the award’s existence.

The award is named after longtime Florida State League president Chuck Murphy, a former Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army who served as the FSL’s top executive from 1990 until his passing in 2015.

For many years, the Dragons, in partnership with the Dayton Development Coalition, have included local military programs into their season-long schedule of events and promotions. Here are some highlights:

HOMETOWN HEROES PROGRAM

The Dragons partner with Wright-Patterson AFB for the Dragons “Hometown Hero of the Game” experience. For all 70 home games, we host a family in the Dayton community of a deployed Airman. All season long, the Hometown Hero of the Game program enables us to provide VIP treatment to WPAFB families. Every family receives a VIP tour, ballpark meals, and souvenirs.

HOMETOWN HEROES CELEBRATION NIGHTS

Hometown Heroes Celebration Nights are two special evenings focused on honoring our local service men and women from WPAFB and the Springfield Air National Guard. These games are filled with American-themed activities that celebrate the local military tradition. These nights give Dragons fans and the Dayton community the opportunity to support and thank our local service members and their families for the sacrifices they make.

DRAGONS AND THE DAYTON VA MEDICAL CENTER

For the past eight years, the Dragons and the Dayton VA Medical Center have collaborated with an annual event honoring veterans and active military and their families. The 2017 event brought over 600 veterans and families to the ballpark for a night of recognition to local veterans, as the Dayton VA Medical Center hosted their annual Welcome Home Outreach event.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Several other military events were also planned during the 2017 season at Fifth Third Field. On Memorial Day, Army PFC Mitchell Kirtley returned home from active duty in Afghanistan by surprising his family at a Dragons game. On June 14, in celebration of the 242nd birthday of the U.S. Army, the Association of the U.S. Army had an outing with the Dragons featuring numerous pre-game activities, and 30 Army recruits took part in a swearing-in ceremony during the game. On June 23, Vice Admiral Phil Wisecup threw out the ceremonial first pitch of the Dragons game. VADM Wisecup, from Piqua, is the former President of the Naval War College, the former Naval Inspector General of the United States Navy, and has been director of the Chief of Naval Operations Strategic Studies Group since 2013.

The Dragons are the Midwest League nominee for the Charles K. Murphy Patriot Award and will considered along with the nominees from each of the other leagues within Minor League Baseball. The national winner will be announced at the Baseball Winter Meetings in December.

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

Chasers Nominated for John Henry Moss Community Service Award

The Pacific Coast League has announced that the Omaha Storm Chasers’ franchise is the circuit’s nominee for Minor League Baseball’s John Henry Moss Community Service Award. Each league in Minor League Baseball nominated an organization, with the overall winner announced at the annual Baseball Winter Meetings in Orlando, Florida in December.

“A truly great organization is one that shows a high level of commitment to its own community,” stated Omaha Storm Chasers President and General Manager Martie Cordaro. “We are proud to be representing the Pacific Coast League with this nomination, which is a testament to the time and commitment of our front office staff, as well as the Kansas City Royals organization, to the Omaha Metro community.”

Over the course of the 2017 campaign, Chasers Charities, the charitable arm of the Omaha Storm Chasers, donated $808,182 to local charities, setting an all-time record in charitable giving for the fourth consecutive year. The Storm Chasers assisted over 1,500 different organizations, and were also visible in the community with over 420 mascot and player appearances. Front office employees also donated 740 hours of community service throughout the year.

73 different organizations were provided a platform at Werner Park at the Sprint Community Organization of the Night. Over $18,000 was raised through the McDonald’s and Huber Chevrolet Hurl the Pearl promotion for the Ronald McDonald House, while more than $21,000 was raised for various local charities including Methodist Hospital Founation and Moving Veterans Forward via four Jersey Auctions. Initiatives also included Hy-Vee Canned Food Sundays, with nearly 5,000 items donated to Heartland Hope Mission, in addition to Chasers FUNdamentals, with Chasers Charities teaming with DREAM to put on baseball clinics introducing youth to baseball.

Chasers Charities also offered the Chasin’ Dreams Grant, donating a total in excess of $9,000 to help non-profit organizations that operate youth softball/baseball programs make major renovations. Two Jackie Robinson Athletic Scholarships worth $1,000 each were also awarded through Chasers Charities and The Weitz Company, while partnering with the Nebraska State Treasurer’s Office for the 15th annual Why I Want To Go To College Essay Contest.

The Storm Chasers also held their third annual Chasers Community Week presented by Summit Dental, which included the Jirschele Family Memorial Golf Outing to help benfit the Muscular Dystrophy Association, as well as player appearances at Children’s Hospital and the Southwest YMCA and hosting Bellevue Buddy Baseball at Werner Park. The nine-day event culminated in hosting The Wall That Heals, an exhibit that featured a half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. The exhibit was open 24 hours a day from August 3-6 at Werner Park, with the Storm Chasers’ Military Appreciation game preceded the exhibit’s closing ceremonies.

Werner Park also served as a site for local organizations to use the stadium as a venue to host large-scale fundraisers. Those special events included the “Boxer 500” to benefit the Great Plains Colon Cancer Task Force, the “Walk to Defeat ALS”, SHARP Race towards Brain Aneurysm, Heart Heroes Run, and Nebraska 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb.

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

Fightins Nominated for John Henry Moss Community Service Award

(Reading, PA) – The Eastern League has announced the Reading Fightin Phils have been nominated for the John Henry Moss Community Service Award. For the John Henry Moss Community Service Award, which is given to a club that demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support and leadership, the Eastern League has recognized the Reading Fightin Phils. The winner of this award is selected by Minor League Baseball and will be honored at the Baseball Winter Meetings in Orlando, Florida.

This past June, the Fightin Phils broke ground on the brand new Savage 61 Dream Field, which is a facility that will provide children with physical and developmental disabilities the opportunity to play baseball. The unique rubberized surface is the first field of its kind to be built in Berks County. The project is being fully funded by Baseballtown Charities, the Reading Fightin Phils charitable organization. As part of the fundraising efforts the Fightin Phils hosted the first ever “Dinner Under the Stars” last October and raised $650,000 towards the project. Those fundraising efforts for the Dream Field were in addition to the regular charitable efforts of the franchise that included in-stadium fundraising and support for numerous charitable organizations.

“We are thrilled to be the Eastern League nominee for the John Henry Moss Community Service Award”, said Fightin Phils General Manager Scott Hunsicker. “The Moss award is a goal of our staff and everyone associated with Baseballtown Charities, as we continuously try to give back to the community as much as possible.”

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

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

The Eastern League also announced their nominations for the Rawlings Woman Executive of the Year Award (Richmond), the Charles K. Murphy Patriot Award (Binghamton), the Larry MacPhail Award (Erie), and the John H. Johnson President’s Award (Richmond).

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2018 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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