Military Appreciation Night June 22

CORPUS CHRISTI – Hooks Camo Flag Caps to the first 1,500 fans from the Outlets at Corpus Christi Bay kick off the team’s annual Military Appreciation Night Thursday, June 22.

Whataburger Field gates open at 5:35 p.m., with first pitch vs. the Frisco RoughRiders scheduled for 7:05.

“The Outlets at Corpus Christi Bay are honored to partner with the Hooks for this opportunity to express gratitude to our service men and women, both active-duty and retired,” Marketing Director and Specialty Leasing Coordinator Kimberly Perez said. “Their contributions to our safety, freedom, and quality of life are immensely appreciated and we thank them.”

“We recognize current and former military members at games each night, but Thursday’s tribute enables us to go even deeper in demonstrating our appreciation for their sacrifices,” Hooks President Ken Schrom said.

In addition to Thursday’s giveaway, military service members receive discounted tickets at the box office upon presentation of ID. An appearance by Skydive South Texas, a U.S. Navy re-enlistment, and Patriot Riders presence highlight the pregame ceremonies.

The National Anthem will be performed by Marisol Castaneda.

Also Thursday, Stripes presents Thirsty Thursday, with discounted soda and beer.

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

PawSox Introduce First Four “Academic All-Stars”

The Pawtucket Red Sox tonight introduced the first four selectees to the “PawSox Academic All-Stars” program before the opener of their twin-bill at McCoy Stadium.

The program puts the spotlight on one middle school student from each of Rhode Island’s 39 cities and towns. The children are selected by educators based on academics, citizenship, and character.

“We welcome the opportunity to recognize young people throughout the state who are succeeding in school and contributing to their communities,” said PawSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “Teachers remind us that a small gesture from the community’s baseball team can have a large impact on a child’s self-esteem, particularly in middle school. We hope their moment in the spotlight-or in the sunlight-is a source of pride for their students, their friends, and their families.”

In pre-game ceremonies, each threw a Ceremonial First Pitch, and each received an authentic baseball bat engraved with their name. Each also receives a host of gift certificates from the PawSox and their sponsors.

The first four students were from Burrillville, Coventry, Newport, and Woonsocket.

The first four students were Ever Gallo, a 12-year-old 6th grader from Burrillville Middle School, and three 14-year-old 8th graders: Allison Abbruzzese of Feinstein Middle School in Coventry; Gavin Crowley of Thompson Middle School in Newport; and Andrew Simonini from Woonsocket Middle School at Villa Nova.

“It is important that our community recognizes promising students who are making an effort to better themselves and the lives around them,” said PawSox Senior Vice President/Club Counsel Kim Miner, who oversees the PawSox Foundation. “That is why these students we have sought value scholarship, citizenship, and character.”

The club will continue to recognize “PawSox Academic All-Stars” throughout the season. Educators seeking more information can find it at pawsox.com or by calling the PawSox, 401-724-7300.

The PawSox Academic All-Stars is the club’s second major community initiative in the area of education. Last November, the club introduced its PawSox Scholars program, in which two 8th-graders, one from Pawtucket and one from neighboring Central Falls, receive a college scholarship of $10,000 from the PawSox Foundaton.

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

Legends help honor ‘Phenomenal Father’ David Cozart of Fayette County Fatherhood Initiative on the TODAY Show

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends are extremely proud to announce that at 10:30am June 15, 2017, in honor of Father’s Day, Fayette County Fatherhood Initiative Director David Cozart was recognized as a ‘Phenomenal Father’ on the TODAY Show with Kathie Lee and Hoda.

The Lexington Legends were a part of this on-air recognition by providing David with fifty tickets to the fathers and children that David helps mentor through FCFI, so they can enjoy a night at Whitaker Bank Ballpark. David will also be receiving a night in a Luxury Suite for him and his family, recognized on-field at a game and will receive the Ultimate Legendary Experience, which includes a personalized Legends jersey!

“David is doing amazing work for our community. His impact is far reaching and has changed the lives of many fathers and their children. I am truly proud to call him a friend, as he has also helped guide me as a mentor for youth in our community.” states Andy Shea, Legends President & CEO.

The Legends continue to extend their congratulations to David for this remarkable accomplishment for all his good work and for what Fayette Co. Fatherhood Initiative does for our community.

VIDEO LINK from The TODAY Show: http://www.today.com/video/meet-the-phenomenal-father-who-teaches-men-to-be-responsible-dads-968109123734

For more information, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859 422-7855. The Legends, a Single-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, continue their homestand through Sunday, June 18 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Asheville Tourists and Hagerstown Suns. 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.

Fluor Field Hosts Military Appreciation Day on July 2nd

The Drive will celebrate Military Appreciation Day on Sunday, July 2nd at Fluor Field. The game against the Lexington Legends 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 Solution, 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 2nd. To purchase tickets, stop by the Main Street Box Office, call (864) 240-4528 or CLICK HERE.

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

Pitch for Pink is Friday, July 14

CLEARWATER, Fla. – Join the Clearwater Threshers for the 12th annual Pitch for Pink event on Friday, July 14, at Spectrum Field. The breast cancer awareness event and fundraiser has generated more than $254,000 for the Morton Plant Mease Foundation. Stay after the game for a spectacular fireworks show, presented by Clearwater Gas.

Gates open at 5:30 p.m. for the 6:15 p.m. game with the Bradenton Marauders. The first 1,000 fans to arrive will receive a commemorative stainless steel travel mug from Banquet Masters. Pregame honoring of those who have battled breast cancer includes a Survivor’s Walk around the field, always a touching moment to recognize those affected by the terrible disease.

“Not only is Pitch for Pink a financial help to the programs designed for those affected by breast cancer, but it gives those people a night where the community rallies around them and shows their support,” said Threshers Promotions and Community Relations Manager, Amanda Koch.

Amanda has had her life touched by breast cancer, as the disease runs in her family. She is dedicated to the cause has helped the Threshers build Pitch for Pink into a powerful tool to help others touched by breast cancer.

A major part of the evening’s fundraising efforts is the silent auction, featuring Phillies and Threshers memorabilia plus gift packages donated by local businesses. Also included in the auction are the special pink jerseys being worn by the Threshers players on-field during the game. Winners of the jerseys may head down to the field after the game to receive their autographed jersey personally from the player.

The night is capped by an amazing post-game fireworks show, presented by Clearwater Gas.

Tickets for Pitch for Pink are $6-$10 and group packages are available. Information and tickets are available at ThreshersBaseball.com and the Spectrum Field box office, 727-467-4457.

For information on how to donate items for the silent auction and raffle prizes, contact Amanda at 727-712-4405 or at akoch@threshersbaseball.com.

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

March of Dimes Celebration on Tuesday

The Drive’s latest homestand begins on Tuesday as the Drive team up with the March of Dimes for a special night.

First pitch is at 7:05 PM, and the Drive will be celebrating the daily efforts of the March of Dimes to “Go to Bat for Babies.” All March of Dimes attendees will take part in a picnic in The Iron Yard 500 Club when gates open at 6:00, and March of Dimes kids will be recognized with a pregame parade around Fluor Field as well as during in-game entertainment.

Come celebrate the hard work of the March of Dimes and the children who have received their support! To purchase tickets, stop by the Main Street Box Office, call (864) 240-4528 or CLICK HERE.

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

Dragons and Vectren Honor Habitat for Humanity

The Dragons and Vectren will honor Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton during the unique “Community All-Stars” program on Tuesday, June 13, during game one of a doubleheader 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.

Habitat for Humanity’s Story

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton helps people in need by building, renovating, and remodeling houses so that there are decent and affordable homes in safe communities where families can live and grow.

Habitat provides a “hand up, not a handout,” which promotes a partnership between Habitat, volunteers, and homeowners. The selection process for potential homeowners is extremely thorough and requires certain criteria including: a set level of income, debt-to-income ratio, current employment, and a standard of sweat equity hours which can be earned by building their own home, as well as homes of other families.

Habitat also prepares homeowners to succeed by providing them with classes focusing on money skills, home maintenance, consumer credit counseling, and legal issues, among other topics. The goal of these classes is to provide the skills and knowledge for each family to be self-supporting, active participants in their community.

Habitat teaches these families what it means to be part of a community and how being a homeowner can setup their children and future generations for success.

In 2017, Habitat for Humanity has plans scheduled to serve 25 families including 5 new home builds, 5 rebuilds, and 15 repairs.

One of these scheduled home builds will take place on the Fifth Third Field plaza from August 5-August 8 in partnership with Coldwell Banker Heritage Realtors and the Dayton Dragons! Over 125 volunteers participated in last year’s plaza build. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit www.daytonhabitat.org/volunteer.

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.

NATURALS HOST MOST IMPROVED STUDENT GAMES

SPRINGDALE, Ark – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are proud to have partnered with Mercy Kids on our Mercy Kids Most Improved Student Program, which gave teachers a chance to reward students for making progress during the year. The Naturals will host three (3) Mercy Kids Most Improved Student games on June 7, June 8 and on June 12 and each game will feature a pre-game recognition on the field prior to the start of the game.

During the 2017 season, the Northwest Arkansas Naturals received a record number of nominations for the Mercy Kids Most Improved Student Program. A total of 1,226 students (up from 1,106 in 2016) were nominated by 734 different teachers. The total number of schools participating also increased from 86 in 2016 to nearly 175 in 2017.

Each student that was nominated received two (2) tickets and a Kansas City Royals Kids Zone pass to their choice of either the June 7, June 8, or June 12 games. Prior to each, the Northwest Arkansas Naturals will honor these Most Improved Students with a pre-game parade on the field where they’ll be recognized in front of the crowd. Note that the pre-game recognition on Wednesday, June 7 will occur in-between games since it is a doubleheader.

Teachers were asked to submit nominations of student(s) in their class who have shown the most improvement since the start of the school year. Measuring improvement in the classroom can be very subjective, so the guidelines for student nominations were left up to the discretion of each teacher as they could nominate students that made strides with their behavior, social involvement, academic improvement or any combination of these.

For more information on the Mercy Kids Most Improved Student Program fans can visit www.nwanaturals.com, call (479) 927-4900, email groups@nwanaturals.com, or stop out at the Administrative Office at Arvest Ballpark.

Follow the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Twitter @NWANaturals all throughout the year by using the hashtag #NaturalPastime and #CrowntoCrown for information on tickets, groups, promotions, roster, standings, statistics, and Naturals alumni in the Major Leagues.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The Naturals play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark in Springdale, Ark. For more information, including statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

-Naturals-

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

Staci Johnson to Celebrate “Home Run For Life” Saturday

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS continue the 2017 “Home Run for Life” series Saturday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark by recognizing Staci Johnson, who was diagnosed with breast cancer last year at the age of 36.

Johnson was proactive in her treatment after discovering an unusual lump in early 2016, and embraced positivity throughout her treatment at INTEGRIS Cancer Institute and INTEGRIS Comprehensive Breast Center.

The Bethany resident is now in remission, back to work and enjoying her time with her husband Mike and sons Hunter, 9, and Wyatt, 5, with a fresh perspective.

“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.

“We are proud to continue the Home Run For Life Series this season and honor some remarkable individuals in our community who have battled exceptional challenges with their health,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “Their resolve and courage offer great inspiration for us all and we are pleased to join with INTEGRIS to recognize their triumphs.”

In January 2016, Johnson noticed an unusual lump after exiting the shower. She made an appointment with her physician, but didn’t give it much thought otherwise as she had no history of breast cancer in her family.

An ultrasound, mammogram and biopsy followed in the coming weeks at the INTEGRIS Comprehensive Breast Center, and in February 2016, Johnson was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma.

She allowed herself to be distraught for the next two days, but then decided that to beat this, she needed to keep a positive mimndset throughout the coming months.

“For the most part I didn’t let it get me down. I was very positive,” she said. “I had that initial couple of days, but then I just thought: ‘Nope we’re going to get this taken care of.'”

She started her first chemotherapy treatment March 10, 2016 at the INTEGRIS Cancer Institute and had eight rounds of chemotherapy total that lasted into July.

“They didn’t waste any time which is a blessing because they just took over,” Johnson said. “Your brain is muddled. There is so much information being fed to you that you just kind of follow the path and I knew I was in good hands.”

Her first four rounds of chemotherapy were strong and came every two weeks. She started to lose her hair before her second treatment and asked her husband to help shave her head. The last four rounds of chemo came every three weeks.

Exhaustion, aches and pains followed each round. She would go in for chemo on Thursdays and return to work on Tuesdays. Some days were more difficult than others.

She had surgery in September and then radiation treatments in November and December. She received the encouraging news that she was in remission in the fall of 2016.

Throughout her treatments, appointments and recovery, positivity and support enveloped her.

Johnson said the staff at INTEGRIS Cancer Institute became part of her family because of the encouragement and outstanding care they offered.

Her friends and family offered other forms of support, bringing food to her family, helping with shopping and assisting in keeping her sons’ lives as normal as possible through it all.

“It’s just so amazing that when you need it, there is so much compassion,” Johnson said.

Her illness initially forced her to slow down. But slowing down also brought her a new perspective and is a practice she continues today.

“Just being willing to say no and making certain things the priority and cherishing the moments you do have,” Johnson said. “That was my big thing. Those things you do pick to do with your friends and family, just cherishing them because life is so short.”

To read Johnson’s full story, visit okcdodgers.com. Watch Staci Johnson complete her “Home Run for Life” following the third inning of Saturday’s 7:05 p.m. game against the Round Rock Express at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

The Dodgers open a seven-game homestand at 7:05 p.m. Friday and fireworks are scheduled to follow the game. The series continues at 7:05 p.m. Saturday.

Sunday’s 6:05 p.m. game falls on a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday filled with family-oriented activities, including pregame player autographs and kids can run the bases after the game.

The homestand continues with a four-game series against the Omaha Storm Chasers starting at 7:05 p.m. Tuesday, June 13. A Field Trip Day game follows at 11:05 a.m. Wednesday, June 14.

Thursday, June 15’s 7:05 p.m. game against Omaha falls on a $2 Thursday, featuring $2 soda, water and beer from a line of Pepsi and Budweiser products. Fireworks are scheduled to follow the homestand finale that starts at 7:05 p.m. Friday, June 16 against Omaha.

For tickets or additional information, please call (405) 218-1000, go online to okcdodgers.com or visit the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark ticket office located on South Mickey Mantle Drive.

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

Antonio and Sydnei Copher Celebrate their Anthem Home Runs for Life on June 14

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons will host 14-year-old Antonio Copher and his 13-year old sister Sydnei for an Anthem Home Run for Life on Wednesday, June 14, 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.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons will host 14-year-old Antonio Copher and his 13-year old sister Sydnei for an Anthem Home Run for Life on Wednesday, June 14, 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.

Antonio and Sydnei’s Story

Antonio Copher is in the eighth grade, and his sister Sydnei is in the seventh grade at East Dayton Christian School. Both Copher children are very artistic and have big dreams for the future. Antonio is active in choir and plays piano. He’d like to work for a tech company in the future or pursue a career in music. Sydnei loves dance, theatre, and playing the violin, and wants to be an anesthesiologist. Staying active is important for them, but it isn’t always easy. Both Copher children were diagnosed at birth with sickle cell disease.

Sickle cell disease is an inherited disorder in which red blood cells (which are normally round and flexible) are sticky, hard, and shaped like crescent moons. Some of the complications associated with sickle cell may include chronic pain, susceptibility to infection, organ damage, and stroke.

Because of sickle cell, the Copher children grew up with a chronic achy feeling, mostly in their backs. They took medication every day for the pain but still had to make visits to the hospital when it became unbearable.

Sickle cell is a lifelong disease, but Antonio, Sydnei, and their family are diligent about managing their condition. They don’t make trips to the hospital nearly as much anymore, and most of their treatment can be done either at home or at the doctor’s office.

Today, Antonio and Sydnei continue to stay active, eat right, drink plenty of water, and pay close attention to what their bodies tell them. Their parents have taught them how to take ownership of their treatment and learn how to cope with their condition. “You have to fight through the worst days to get to the best days,” Sydnei explained. Antonio said, “I don’t think of myself as being different…Things happen for a reason, and you should work to prepare yourself for the future – or even the next few minutes.”

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons applaud all those who have been instrumental in Antonio and Sydnei’s lives, including their parents Antonio Sr. and Synthia and their specialist Dr. Dole. Please join us in cheering them on as they complete their Anthem Home Run for Life at Fifth Third Field on June 14.

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.

ACES TO HOST “HOME RUN FOR LIFE” CEREMONY JUNE 2

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces will host Saint Mary’s “Home Run for Life” ceremony, featuring Jamie Jost, who battled breast cancer, on Friday, June 2 when the Aces take on the Las Vegas 51s at 7:05 p.m. at Greater Nevada Field.

Since 2014, the Aces and Saint Mary’s have been partnered to showcase the “Home Run for Life” program. Once a month, a brave individual in the Northern Nevada community is honored by taking a ceremonial trip around the bases with each team lining the base lines. The ceremony symbolizes the end of a battle against adversity. Individuals honored had overcome a significant medical event in their life with the help of St. Mary’s personnel.

Jost received her recommended screening mammogram at the age of 40, and that is when her doctor noticed some suspicious areas in her right breast. Just one month after her 40th birthday, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. After 17 weeks of dose-dense chemotherapy and radiation treatment started earlier this week, Jost is proud to share she currently has no cancer in her body.

She received her care from breast radiologist Dr. Chivonne Harrigal of Saint Mary’s and they urge women to get screened because Mammography Saves Lives.

Jost will round the bases commemorating her “Home Run for Life” in the middle of the second inning Friday night. The Reno Aces and Las Vegas 51s players and staff will be lined up along each base line to greet Jost as she makes her way toward home plate while her story of adversity and triumph is publicly announced to the stadium crowd.

Greater Nevada Field gates open at 6:05 p.m. on Friday, June 2. Tickets are on-sale now at www.renoaces.com or by calling (775) 334-4700. Follow the club all season long on Twitter (@Aces) or like the team on Facebook.

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

Troop Supply Drive at June 15th BlueClaws Game

BlueClaws Military Appreciation Night is coming up on Thursday, June 15th.

—

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 15th.

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.

In addition, former Mets manager Bobby Valentine will be signing autographs at the game from 6:00 pm until 8:30 pm, taking a short break to throw out a ceremonial first pitch on the field. For additional information, and to purchase a VIP Pass, click here. The line forms when the gates open at 6:00 pm (5:30 pm for season ticket holders).

It’s also a Thirsty Thursday with dollar beer and soda plus 50-cent wings in the Coors Light WRAT Trap.

– BlueClaws –

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

MVP Program Rewards STEM Achievements of Local Students

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and Devon Energy partnered this past school year to create a free program for area elementary students to recognize and reward their achievements in science and math. Approximately 1,000 third- and fourth-grade students in Oklahoma City Public Schools were impacted by the first-year OKC Dodgers MVP Program presented by Devon Energy.

“Devon Energy is committed to helping communities inspire young people to pursue an interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) subjects by working with schools and community organizations to enhance access to STEM education,” said Christina Rehkop, supervisor of community affairs for Devon Energy. “Partnering with the OKC Dodgers for the MVP Program provided an ideal opportunity to further this goal.”

The MVP Program encourages area students and their teachers to participate in STEM curriculum. Top-performing MVP students in participating classrooms received tickets to an OKC Dodgers game and a commemorative MVP baseball hat.

The first year of the program culminates Saturday with MVP Field Day at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark – an event for MVP students and teachers, as well as their families. STEM activities will be available throughout MVP Field Day, presented by Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma, iFly OKC, Devon Energy, Science Museum Oklahoma and the OKC Dodgers. OKC Dodgers players will also participate in the event, helping with hitting and throwing instruction, as well as signing autographs.

“We received an incredible response from Oklahoma City third- and fourth-grade teachers and their students during the first year of the OKC Dodgers MVP Program presented by Devon Energy,” said OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes. “We are proud to have the chance to reward these students and teachers for their hard work throughout the school year and encourage future participation in STEM education throughout the Oklahoma City community.”

The OKC Dodgers MVP Program presented by Devon Energy will resume in August for the 2017-18 school year. Teachers seeking additional information about the OKC Dodgers MVP Program and how to participate in the second year of the program may contact Katy White at katy.white@okcdodgers.com or (405) 218-2105.

The OKC Dodgers open a four-game series tonight against the Colorado Springs Sky Sox at 7:05 p.m. at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on a $2 Thursday that features $2 soda, bottled water and beer from a line of Pepsi and Budweiser products.

Friday is Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night and special festivities will be held throughout the evening, culminating with postgame fireworks presented by LifeShare. A variety of armored vehicles will be on display on the ballpark’s plazas starting at 5 p.m. and first pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

Saturday’s 7:05 p.m. game against the Sky Sox falls on Marvel Super Hero Night and fans can meet Spider-Man and Captain America throughout the evening. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the first 500 fans age 12 and under will receive a free Dodgers cape.

Sunday’s game starts at 2:05 p.m. on Faith Night and a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday. Each Sunday home game offers family friendly activities throughout the afternoon, including pregame player autographs and kids can run the bases after the game. A special $15 ticket will provide admission to a postgame concert by Sanctus Real.

Tickets are available through the OKC Dodgers ticket office located on South Mickey Mantle Drive, by phone at (405) 218-1000, or by visiting okcdodgers.com.

Dragons MVP Field Day on Saturday

The Dragons MVP Program presented by Bob Evans provides thousands of area fourth and fifth grade students with “MVP Field Day” at Fifth Third Field this Saturday, June 3, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The students from Clark, Greene, Miami, Montgomery, and Warren Counties were all recognized by their teachers through the “Dragons MVP Program” as having done something extraordinary inside or outside of the classroom this school year.

The Dragons MVP Program provides students, who are recognized by their teachers, with a unique opportunity to attend this special event where they will have a chance to meet the 2017 Dayton Dragons and enjoy a day of fun activities at Fifth Third Field. Among the activities scheduled are inflatable games, carnival games, mascots, a special treat from Bob Evans, a free team poster, “baseball skills” stations with the Dragons players, and an autograph session.

FACTS ABOUT THE MVP PROGRAM

This is the 12th season for the Dragons MVP Program. More than 1,120 classrooms and 34,000 students participated during the 2017 season.

Each teacher selected five Dragons MVPs for their classroom, resulting in more than 6,000 students being recognized for their achievements in and out of the classroom.

The children selected as Dragons MVPs received a customized certificate and complimentary tickets to enjoy a Dragons game at Fifth Third Field with their families. At the game, they received a specially designed Dragons MVP ball cap. MVPs also received tickets to the “MVP Field Day” to be held at the stadium on June 3.

The Dragons MVP program presented by Bob Evans is also made possible courtesy of Sinclair College, WDTN-TV and Dayton’s CW Television.

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.

OKC Dodgers to 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 on Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

The Dodgers play the Colorado Springs Sky Sox at 7:05 p.m. Friday, and special festivities will be held throughout the evening, culminating with postgame fireworks presented by LifeShare.

“Friday allows us to recognize the commitments made by our local service men, women and their families and show them how grateful the Oklahoma City community is for their service,” said OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes. “The Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Nights we hold each season have become some of the most anticipated dates on our schedule as we honor these devoted individuals.”

A swearing-in ceremony of new Air Force recruits and a ceremonial first pitch by Colonel Kenyon Bell, Commander, 72nd Air Base Wing from Tinker Air Force Base, will take place on the field prior to the game. A variety of armored vehicles will be on display on the ballpark’s plazas starting at 5 p.m. Friday.

The Honor Guard from Tinker Air Force Base will present the colors during the singing of the national anthem performed by Master Sergeant Robert Alford II, 552 Maintenance Group, Tinker Air Force Base. Alford will also perform “God Bless America” during the game.

Representatives from each branch of the military, as well as other military and veteran organizations, will be available on the concourse throughout the evening to share information with fans.

The Dodgers open a four-game home series against the Colorado Springs Sky Sox at 7:05 p.m. tomorrow on a $2 Thursday that features $2 soda, bottled water and beer from a line of Pepsi and Budweiser products.

Friday is Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night with Friday Fireworks presented by LifeShare.

Saturday’s 7:05 p.m. game against the Sky Sox falls on Marvel Super Hero Night and fans can meet Spider-Man and Captain America throughout the evening. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the first 500 fans age 12 and under will receive a free Dodgers cape.

Sunday’s game starts at 2:05 p.m. on Faith Night and a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday. Each Sunday home game offers family friendly activities throughout the afternoon, including pregame player autographs and kids can run the bases after the game. A special $15 ticket will provide admission to a postgame concert by Sanctus Real.

Tickets are available through the OKC Dodgers ticket office located on South Mickey Mantle Drive, by phone at (405) 218-1000, or by visiting okcdodgers.com.