Dragons to Recognize “Hometown Heroes” Honorees During Game on July 4

DRAGONS TO RECOGNIZE “HOMETOWN HEROES” HONOREES DURING GAME ON JULY 4

Dayton, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons will recognize the 1487th Transportation Company of the U.S. Army as “Hometown Heroes” during a special inning break of the Dragons game on Monday, July 4 against the West Michigan Whitecaps at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. The game will start at 7:05p.m.

The Dayton Dragons shine the spotlight on the military, past and present, through the Hometown Heroes program. This program hosts military families at every Dragons game, recognizing outstanding military organizations, groups, and individuals.

Since its inception in 1873, the 1487th transportation company has participated in World War I, World War II, the Gulf War, and the Global War of Terror. Coming out of the Gulf War, the unit was designated as the “Iron Camels” due to their efforts in transporting vital supplies of food and water across Kuwait.

In 2020, the unit was called to transport critical supplies in Southwest Asia in support of Operations Spartan Shield (OSS) and Inherent Resolve (OIR.) From March to December of 2020, the Iron Camels successfully completed transportation missions including driving over 500,000 individual miles and supporting 115 military units. They conducted 90 missions to the Khabari Crossing in Kuwait, trans-loading multi-class supplies in support of OIR operations. These missions included the transport of Counter-Terrorism Equipment Fund Class VII for divestment operations and the retrograde of multi-class supplies.

In recognition of their efforts, they were awarded the Army Meritorious Unit Commendation for their exceptional conduct in performance of outstanding achievement and service. The award, which dates back to 1944, is only granted to units who exemplify these efforts for six continuous months or more, during military operations against an armed enemy.

The emblem is a scarlet ribbon with a gold, laurel leaf frame and is to be worn by service members on the right breast of their service coat.

The Dayton Dragons Hometown Heroes program is made possible by the generous support of the Dayton Development Coalition, Reynolds & Reynolds, and the Dayton Dragons. For more information, please visit daytondragons.com/hometownheroes.

Mississippi Braves to honor civil rights icons The “Tougaloo Nine” on Saturday, July 16

PEARL, MS – In conjunction with Minor League Baseball’s initiative “The Nine”, on Saturday, July 16, when the Mississippi Braves take on the Rocket City Trash Pandas at Trustmark Park, the team will be honoring the brave students that made up the historic Tougaloo Nine.

“The M-Braves look forward to recognizing the courageous members of the Tougaloo Nine on this night”, said M-Braves vice-president and general manager Pete Laven. “Their story is vital to the fight for civil rights history in not just our great state but the entire nation. We are honored and humbled that several of the Tougaloo Nine will be present for the game.”

Story of the Tougaloo Nine:

In March 1961, the Tougaloo Nine became the first Mississippi students to stage a sit-in against segregation when they staged a demonstration at the main public library in Jackson. Just over a year earlier, on February 1, 1960, students from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical College launched the sit-in movement with a protest at a Greensboro lunch counter. Students from black colleges across the South followed suit at a variety of public places—lunch counters, libraries, and department stores—that denied service to blacks.

On March 27, 1961, nine members of the Jackson Youth Council of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People—Meredith Coleman Anding Jr., James Cleo Bradford, Alfred Lee Cook, Geraldine Edwards, Janice Jackson, Joseph Jackson Jr., Albert Earl Lassiter, Evelyn Pierce, and Ethel Sawyer—entered Jackson’s main library and began browsing through the card catalog and then sat down to read. When police arrived and asked the students to leave, they refused and were arrested on charges of breach of the peace. Medgar Evers gathered bail for their release, and Jack Harvey Young Sr., a civil rights lawyer, represented the students. They were ultimately convicted, fined one hundred dollars each, and given thirty days in jail, though that part of the sentence was suspended. However, their actions led to the integration of what is now the Jackson Metropolitan Library System, and they have been honored by the college and by the City of Jackson.

On July 16, Mississippi Braves players will wear vintage Tougaloo College baseball jerseys from the 1960s that feature the last name of one of the Tougaloo Nine students on the back.

“Tougaloo College is honored to be a part of this special occasion as the Mississippi Braves pay tribute to the Tougaloo Nine,” said Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Social Justice, Dr. Daphne Chamberlain. Tougaloo College has a rich civil rights history that has been well documented, and the Tougaloo Nine are a significant part of that history. More than sixty years ago, these young people challenged the status quo in their actions to integrate the Jackson Public Library. The Tougaloo Nine inspired and empowered young people across Mississippi to join the fight for freedom. The role the Tougaloo Nine played in effectuating positive social change in Mississippi during one of the most turbulent periods in this state and this nation’s history is a testament to their bravery and commitment to securing human dignity for all people.”

These jerseys will be available for our fans to purchase during the game via silent auction, with proceeds benefitting the Ella Josephine Baker Social Justice Scholarship.

Before the 6:05 pm first pitch will be a pre-game ceremony to include current Tougaloo College baseball players, video tributes before the game, a mobile museum kiosk on the stadium concourse, and appearances by living members and families of the Tougaloo Nine. The evening will conclude with a phenomenal Post-Game Fireworks Show.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit mississippibraves.com, or call 888-BRAVES4.

Frisco announces winners of RoughRiders Scholarship Program presented by InTouch

FRISCO, Texas (July 1, 2022) – The Frisco RoughRiders and InTouch Credit Union are thrilled to announce the 10 recipients of the RoughRiders Scholarship Program presented by InTouch for the class of 2022.

“InTouch’s commitment to the community directly led to their partnership with our scholarship program and their unwavering support of our organization has been phenomenal,” said RoughRiders President and General Manager Victor Rojas. “On behalf of the entire organization, we are ecstatic to award these amazing students with scholarships as they further their education.”

“We are excited to be the presenting sponsor for this year’s RoughRiders Scholarships,” said Kent Lugrand, President and CEO of InTouch Credit Union. “These ten young men and women are beginning to start a new chapter of their lives. With the rest of their book still unwritten, InTouch Credit Union is honored to be part of the journey through this scholarship. We wish them all nothing but the best and encourage them to follow their dreams while helping others to do the same.”

The following students will all receive one of 10 $1,000 scholarships from the RoughRiders Foundation in pursuit of postsecondary education:

Greyson Blanchard (Celina High School)

Lorien Britt (Rockwall High School)

Chandler Cooney (Flower Mound High School)

Isabella Grogman (Lebanon Trail High School)

Mitchen Hallie (Heritage High School)

Samuel McCaulley (Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science)

Brandon Pedro (Plano West Senior High School)

Ahyiyah Porter (Plano Senior High School)

Charan Adhish Vengatesh (Independence High School)

Reese Williams (Prosper High School)

Students will be honored on the field after the first inning of the RoughRiders game on Friday, July 1st against the Corpus Christi Hooks. First pitch for the game is at 7:05 p.m.

For tickets and more information about the Frisco RoughRiders, visit RidersBaseball.com or call 972.731.9200.

About InTouch Credit Union

InTouch Credit Union (ITCU) is a financial cooperative that has proudly served members since 1974. ITCU is committed to creating member value by placing the financial needs and delivery of exceptional service to the membership ahead of profit while maintaining fiscal responsibility. With branches in three states, and assets of more than $1 billion, ITCU serves more than 90,000 members in all 50 states and more than 20 countries around the world. Membership eligibility rules are available on ITCU.org. ITCU can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About the RoughRiders Foundation

The mission of the RoughRiders Foundation is to enhance the community we serve through charitable contributions, grants, and programming initiatives. The RoughRiders Foundation supports programs and organizations in our community that motivate and reward children and families in the areas of education, good health and community services activities.

For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders Foundation, contact Breon Dennis at [email protected] or at [email protected].

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance for 15 consecutive seasons (2005-2019). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg. Since then, the new ownership group, together with the City of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise enhancements, investing over $8 million in a wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including a state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store and the world’s largest water feature in a sports facility, the massive Lazy River. These enhancements earned the Riders and the City of Frisco Ballpark Digest’s prestigious “Best Ballpark Renovation” award for two consecutive years (2015 and 2016). More than 170 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball. For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact [email protected].

Reno family to honor loved one’s legacy at July 8 Reno Aces game

RENO, NV (June 29, 2022) — An athlete and avid skier, Alex Anderson, died in May 2020 at 38 years old. As a registered organ donor, he saved the lives of four people through organ donation.

Anderson’s family will run the bases at the Reno Aces’ Home Run for Life game, presented by Donor Network West, after the second inning, Friday, July 8, at Greater Nevada Field as they take on the Tacoma Rainiers. His family has also connected with his liver recipient, Diana Lujan, who lives in Colorado – a video message from Lujan will play during the game.

A Donor Network West ambassador since January 2021, Anderson’s mother, Dawn Tindal, has been working to extend her son’s legacy by sharing with others the importance of organ, eye and tissue donation. Other family members have joined in advocacy for organ donation as well; Anderson’s 11-year-old nephew gave a presentation to his classmates about organ donation.

“Alex was a very giving person,” said Dawn Tindal. “If he was here today, he’d want his recipients to know that his gifts are meant to help them to live their best lives.”

One donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation and up to 75 lives through tissue donation. More than 600 Nevadans are on the organ transplant waiting list.

Donor Network West, northern Nevada and northern California’s federally designated non-profit organ procurement organization are proud to support six Home Run for Life baseball games throughout the 2022 season. The partnership brings critical awareness about organ donation to the community and its sports fans. This will be the fourth Home Run for Life game of the 2022 season.

“We’re so grateful to Alex’s family for their strength in sharing their story and continuing his legacy as organ donation advocates,” Janice Whaley, President and CEO of Donor Network West, said. “Donor Network West is proud to partner with the Reno Aces in honoring organ donors like Alex and their families who have given so much – their gifts have granted others a second chance at life.“

The 2022 season is the first time Donor Network West and Reno Aces have partnered to showcase the Home Run for Life program. Once a month, brave individuals and families in the northern Nevada community are honored by taking a ceremonial trip around the bases, with each team lining the baselines. Individuals honored have received life-saving transplants or have lost a loved one who saved lives through organ donation.

“Honoring organ donors and their families during Aces games at Greater Nevada Field has been a tremendous privilege,” Eric Edelstein, President of Reno Aces and Greater Nevada Field said. “Our partnership with Donor Network West has been so gratifying and we look forward to continuing our support of their community outreach and educational efforts for organ donation.”

Anyone can register to be an organ donor. To learn more and to register as an organ donor, visit DonorNetworkWest.org.

— @MyDNWest —

Media note: If media would like an interview with Dawn Tindal ahead of the Friday, July 8 Aces game, please contact Jena Esposito, [email protected], 702-513-0606. Photos of Tindal’s son, Alex Anderson, are available for download here.

Photo cutline: Donor Network West invites the community to honor and remember Alex Anderson, who died in May 2020 and saved four lives through organ donation. Anderson’s family will run the bases at the July 8 Reno Aces game.

About Donor Network West

Donor Network West saves and heals lives by facilitating organ and tissue recovery for transplantation and research. The organization was established in 1987 and is an official Donate Life organization accredited by the Association of Organ Procurement Organizations (AOPO) and the American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB). Federally designated to serve 45 counties in northern Nevada and northern California, Donor Network West has headquarters in northern Nevada and California and partners with the Department of Motor Vehicles and the state-authorized donor registries. For information, visit DonorNetworkWest.org and follow us on social media: @mydnwest.

*About the Reno Aces
*Since 2009, the Reno Aces, Triple-A affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, has been a fixture in the Northern Nevada community providing family-friendly entertainment and Minor League Baseball in downtown Reno at Greater Nevada Field. Over the past 14 years, over 4.5 million fans have passed through the turnstiles, and the Aces have contributed to thousands of different non-profit charities throughout the region. For more information about the team or tickets for the entire 2022 season, visit RenoAces.com or Text TIXX to 21003.

Scrappers & 910th Airlift Wing Partner for Operation Fly Together Campaign

NILES, OH –The Mahoning Valley Scrappers (est. 1999) and Youngstown Air Reserve Station (est. 1955), home to the 910th Airlift Wing, have been pillars in the Mahoning Valley in Northeast Ohio for decades. Together, we’ve participated in ceremonies, flag salutes, fly overs, and more. With significant growth by both parties, the opportunity to rally the region even more has never been better.

Together, we are thrilled to announce the Mahoning Valley Scrappers Baseball Team is teaming with the 910th Airlift Wing for a Community Engagement Partnership campaign called “Operation Fly Together” beginning with the 2022 baseball season with the Warren Area Chamber of Commerce Education, Civic & Cultural Foundation as the primary sponsor.

With unique and creative marketing elements, this campaign is designed to celebrate the venerable C-130 Hercules tactical cargo aircraft and bring increased awareness to the local presence of 910th Airlift Wing and YARS in Northeast Ohio. This campaign will also bring together currently serving Reserve Citizen Airmen, civilians, and thousands of veterans within 50 miles of the base.

Since the Mahoning Valley Scrappers are leaders in fun, and experts at creating unique moments at the stadium and in the community, their team has created new specialty marketing components include a new logo, patch, flag, educational markers, caps and jersey that are unique to the ‘Operation Fly Together’ campaign.

Elements of this new Partnership will fall under five categories — Support, Honor, Educate, Celebrate and Community. Here are some details of each category of this new Partnership:

Support – To celebrate the C-130 Hercules and the ‘Operation Fly Together’ campaign in Mahoning Valley, the Mahoning Valley Scrappers will host “The 910th Airlift Wing ‘Operation Fly Together’ Night” in conjunction with the Scrappers game on Saturday, August 6, 2022. To support this exciting partnership, a new patch and logo have been created. This patch and logo will be used on the sleeve of a specialty jersey created specifically for the partnership of the 910th Airlift Wing and the Mahoning Valley Scrappers celebrating ‘Operation Fly Together.’ A new team cap featuring a “Winger” logo, inspired by the YARS Mascot Winger, has been created and players will wear these caps at the game. Additionally,

the Mahoning Valley Scrappers have developed a new merchandise line for the Team Store that features the ‘Operation Fly Together’ patch logo and the “Winger” logo. Mechandise is available now for pre-order here: https://scrappers.milbstore.com/collections/operation-fly-together

Honor – To honor the men and women assigned to Youngstown ARS and living throughout the surrounding greater Mahoning Valley area. A new ‘Operation Fly Together’ flag will be featured at Eastwood Field in honor of the campaign on ‘Military Appreciation Nights’ and “The 910th Airlift Wing ‘Operation Fly Together’ Night.” The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are continuing their ‘Military Appreciation Nights’. This weekly promotion has occurred at Eastwood Field for at least 15 seasons and will continue to occur during the 2022 season. Every Wednesday, military members can receive 2 free tickets to the Scrappers game. Military branches are recognized and featured on these days. Additionally, the Mahoning Valley Scrappers will host “The 910th Airlift Wing ‘Operation Fly Together’ Night” on August 6, 2022. During the game, the Scrappers will wear the specialty jerseys and caps; there will be in game/online auction of the game-worn specialty jerseys and caps; the 910th will have table displays at the game; the 910th’s Winger mascot will be in attendance and the members of the 910th Airlift Wing will participate in pre-game and in-game activities such as singing the National Anthem, ceremonial first pitches, pre-game ceremonies on field prior to the game, promotional videos during the game, kids activities, the 7th inning stretch and more.

Educate – To bring awareness about the C-130 Hercules and its history. The following items are being developed to accomplish this goal: C-130 Hercules educational marker signs throughout the concourse; C-130/Winger coloring sheets in Kids Fun Zone and a Winger marker in the Fun Zone.

Celebrate – To bring awareness in a fun and positive way with the general public. The following events and items are being developed to accomplish this goal: Kids meet and greet with Winger and 910th Airlift Wing members as well as special ticket and merchandise packages available for fans.

Community – To rally the community and bring positive awareness about the positioning of Youngstown Air Reserve Station in the community. In addition to the joint press event kicking off this Partnership, the following events are being planned to accomplish this goal: Mahoning Valley Scrappers Players visit to YARS and a Baseball clinic for 910th Airlift Wing Families.

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers Baseball Team and the 910th Airlift Wing are excited to team up for “Operation Fly Together.” We look forward to bringing this new Community Engagement Partnership campaign to the Mahoning Valley and continuing our efforts together for years to come.

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are one of six founding members of the MLB Draft League, joining the Frederick Keys, the State College Spikes, the Trenton Thunder, the West Virginia Black Bears and the Williamsport Crosscutters. For more information and to purchase tickets and merchandise, visit mvscrappers.com or contact the front office at 330-505-0000.

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Chihuahuas Launch “Fetch the FUNdraiser” with ADP to Benefit Humane Society of El Paso

EL PASO – June 28, 2022 – The El Paso Chihuahuas have partnered with ADP to launch “Fetch the FUNdraiser,” benefiting the Humane Society of El Paso. Fetch the FUNdraiser runs now through July 18.

The Chihuahuas and ADP are asking fans to donate a minimum of $5. Donations are being collected via text-to-donate by texting “FETCH” to 844-311-5007.

“We are proud to partner with ADP to raise funds for the Humane Society of El Paso,” said Brad Taylor, MountainStar Sports Group Senior Vice President and Chihuahuas General Manager. “The care the Humane Society provides is important to the lives of these local animals.”

Funds from the Fetch the FUNdraiser program will go towards purchasing blankets, toys, and supplies requested by the Humane Society. For every $5 raised, the El Paso Chihuahuas will donate an additional toy or leash.

“The generous donations of our community impact our shelter in many ways. With over 150 dogs, cats, puppies and kittens currently residing at our facility, we rely on donors to help support our animals and programs providing enrichment and care,” said Tayler Quintana, Humane Society Community Engagement and Volunteer Coordinator.

Fans who make a monetary donation of $5 or more will be entered-to-win one of five Chihuahuas Prize packs. For every $5 donation, a fan will receive one enter-to-win ($10=2 entries, $15=3 entries, etc.).

Along with the Fetch the FUNdraiser program, the Chihuahuas Volunteer Pack, presented by Helen of Troy, will volunteer at the Humane Society alongside ADP employees on Friday, July 22.

The Humane Society of El Paso (HSEP) is a no-kill animal shelter in El Paso operating for the purpose of building a better community for all animals through adoptions, education, foster care, volunteer work, and community events according to the website.

“Without the help of our community, we would not be able to do what we do,” said Quintana. “Our community is an integral part of helping to rehabilitate and rehome the animals under our care.”

The 501(c)(3) non-profit does not receive local or federal government funding and is solely dependent on adoption and service fees, fundraising activities, grants, and donations from the community. HSEP is not associated with any national organizations.

A complete list of shelter needs can be found by CLICKING HERE.

The Chihuahuas return to action tonight versus the Oklahoma City Dodgers (Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate). The series includes three nights of Fireworks Spectacular as part of the GECU Independence Day Celebration. For ticket information CLICK HERE.

FETCH THE FUN!

About the Humane Society of El Paso

The Humane Society of El Paso (HSEP) is the oldest and largest no-kill animal shelter in the City and County of El Paso, Texas and have remained in continuous operation for more than 70 years for the purpose of building a better community for all animals through adoptions, education, foster-care, volunteer work and community events. The organization is a private, 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and does not receive any funding from the City or County of El Paso, the State of Texas or the federal government. In 2021, HSEP cared for nearly 2,000 shelter animals, and our adoption counselors placed 1,698 dogs and cats into loving homes. Our volunteer foster families cared for an additional 1,217 animals. In addition, more than 3,000 cats and kittens were spayed/neutered through our Mary Speer Program for Community (feral) Cats.

WooSox Show Respect to Veterans, Current Soldiers on Military Appreciation Night 

Worcester– On Friday, June 24, the Worcester Red Sox welcomed several members from our nation’s military, who were honored before their game against the Charlotte Knights (AAA, Chicago White Sox). The ceremony started with a ceremonial dropping of the massive American flag over the Worcester Wall in right field. Then, the WooSox welcomed several members of the Home Base Program. Following the Red Sox World Series Championships in 2004 and 2007, Red Sox Chairman Tom Werner and Larry Lucchino, the former Red Sox President and CEO, and current Chairman of the WooSox, brought the championship clubs to Walter Reed Army Medical Center on their White House visit. An enormous impact was left on both the veterans and the players. Once the Red Sox won the World Series in 2007, they had veterans from the Walter Reed Center deliver the players their World Series rings. After this chilling moment, Werner and Lucchino knew the Red Sox had an opportunity to make a difference with all veterans around the country. Soon after, the Red Sox organization formed a partnership with the Massachusetts General Hospital, pledging to help soldiers heal the invisible wounds of war. The Home Base Program has served a staggering 25,000 veterans while training over 85,000 clinicians. Representing the Home Base Program was Volunteer Coordinator Jose Navarro-Robles and Veteran Outreach Coordinator, and United States Navy veteran, Kevin Dillon.

Then, the WooSox welcomed a Dominican Republic immigrant and Purple Heart recipient, Alex Arriaga. Arriaga served in the Army National Guard from 2001 to 2007 in several missions, including Operation Iraqi. Following his tenure with the National Guard, Alex served as an employment and training manager for Veterans Inc. Currently, Alex serves his hometown as the Director of Worcester’s Veterans’ Services.

Every home game, the WooSox honor a local non-profit as the “Heart of Worcester”. On Friday, the Heart of Worcester was Veterans Inc. Located on Grove Street, Veterans Inc. is the national leader in ending homelessness among veterans at an astonishing rate of 85%. Since its creation, Veterans Inc. has served more than 85,000 veterans. Representing Veterans Inc. was Government Affairs Specialist Ray Carville.

Honored next as the Hometown Hero was Project New Hope. Founded in 2010, Project New Hope sets out to help United States veterans and their family members cope with challenges, stigmas, and fears they endure during or after their tenure in the U.S. Military. Honored pre-game was the foundation’s president and CEO, Bill Moore. Also honored was Sturbridge native Colonel Tom Stewart. After serving in the Massachusetts National Guard for 32 years, including deployment in Afghanistan, Stewart joined the Project New Hope Board Of Directors. Stewart was honored by throwing out a Ceremonial First Pitch.

Following the Hometown Hero ceremony, 10 brave men and women recited the oath of enlistment into the United States Marine Corps. Among those sworn in were: Jameson Latour (Southbridge), Jordan Santos (Southbridge), Jose Quintana (Worcester), Mario Frascolla (Worcester), Mathius Gonzalez (Worcester), Nicholas Flood (Worcester), Reagan Casey (Grafton), Ryan Greenwood (Auburn), Sudip Gajurel (Worcester), and Phuc Vuong (Worcester). Swearing them in was Staff Sergeant Nicholas F. Lamothe. After the ceremony, Staff Sergeant Nicholas F. Lamothe threw out a Ceremonial First Pitch.

Presenting the colors for the national anthem was the Worcester Fire Honor Guard. Singing the national anthem for his second time at Polar Park was Pepperell native Ewan Beauzil. A recent graduate of North Middlesex Regional High School with high honors, Ewan is departing on July 5th to join the United States Army. Much like his first rendition, Ewan delivered a flawless performance.

At the end of the 4th inning of every home game, the WooSox honor a veteran as part of their “In Debt to a Vet” program. On Friday, the WooSox honored Technical Sergeant Bruce L. Cordero. A native of Lynn, MA, Bruce has served in the United States Air Force since 2004. Bruce was greeted by the fans with a standing ovation.

The WooSox players showed up for the veterans, smacking four home runs, including two from Christian Stewart en route to a 10-2 victory. The win was the WooSox’ 5th in a row, pushing their record to two games over .500 as they make their midseason push at a division crown.

BlueClaws to Honor Fallen Heroes on Military Appreciation Night

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws will host their annual Military Appreciation Night, presented by OceanFirst Bank, on Thursday, July 7th, but this year, the night takes on an extra-special meaning as the team honors and hosts the families of New Jersey’s fallen heroes, military members that lost their lives in service to America.

During the game, BlueClaws players will be wearing special jerseys, each featuring the name of a fallen hero on the back. After the game, each BlueClaws player will present their jersey to the Gold Star family members in an on-field ceremony.

“These heroes mark the best of us,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “They have given their lives in support of the nation they serve. It is our honor to recognize their heroic achievements and the sacrifices of their families.”

Fans are encouraged to arrive early to the ballpark for a series of pre-game festivities including a wreath ceremony through which one wreath will be presented on behalf of each branch of the United States Military. There will also be a parade featuring members of the 87th FSS Youth Program from Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, and an honor guard featuring a local chapter from Disabled American Veterans.

ORDER TICKETS ONLINE.

The night also includes a Troop Supply Drive. 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. 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.

Donation locations will be set up outside the ballpark for fans to drop off their items.

The BlueClaws have partnered with Wreaths Across America on a one-of-a-kind program through which fans can both reserve a ticket to BlueClaws Military Appreciation Night on July 7th and sponsor a wreath to be laid at a soldier’s grave this December. There are several options for fans to participate in this one-of-a-kind program.

  • Sponsor a wreath and donate a ticket for a veteran to enjoy Military Appreciation Night for $15
  • Sponsor a wreath, donate a ticket for a veteran to enjoy Military Appreciation Night, and receive a ticket to the game for yourself for $25.

Click here to participate in the program. All tickets for veterans will be distributed directly through accredited channels.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They enter July within 33,381 fans of 8-million in their franchise history, which dates to 2001.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

CareSource, Dragons Team Up to Honor Local Veteran

CareSource Veteran Salute Honors William Zimmerman on June 26

DAYTON, Ohio –CareSource and the Dayton Dragons will host United States Navy veteran William Zimmerman during the CareSource Veteran Salute Program on Sunday, June 26, 2022, at 1:05PM when the Dayton Dragons take on the Lake County Captains at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. Sunday will be the third of five special CareSource Veteran Salute dates of the 2022 season.

The CareSource Veteran Salute Program provides veterans in the Dayton region with a once-in-a-lifetime experience to celebrate their service to their country. Each honoree has their story shared in front of the crowd at Day Air Ballpark, followed by a standing ovation in appreciation of the veteran’s hard work and dedication both in military and civilian accomplishments.

William Zimmerman’s Story

William Zimmerman, born and raised in Tipp City, graduated from Tippecanoe High School in 1964. He wanted to serve his country and enlisted in the Navy in December of 1965. William served 21 years in the military; four years active duty and 17 years in the reserves.

William began his career with the Navy in Pensacola, Florida. He was then moved to Long Beach, California for his second tour of duty. William recorded aviation flight information and repairs on assigned aircraft. His Vietnam service was aboard the USS Enterprise which was the first nuclear-powered ship to engage in combat by utilizing her aircraft against the Viet Cong at the height of the Vietnam War. In July of 1969, William returned to the United States – very happy to see the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco as his ship drew nearer.

William continued to serve in the Naval Reserves until he retired in February of 1990. While in the reserves, he decided to attend college and graduated in 1981 from Edison State Community College with a degree in Business Management. He played basketball while in college and even started his own income tax business that continued for 40 years.

William was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal with a Bronze Star and many other service and campaign medals. He exemplifies a veteran who loves his community and continues to give back through his local church and volunteering for local causes. William has two children, three grandchildren, and resides in New Carlisle with his wife, Janel. He enjoys spending time with his family, bowling, watching the Reds, and attending Dragons games. He recently started reading more routinely and has read over 200 books in the last three years.

To nominate a veteran in your life for the Veteran Salute Program, please visit daytondragons.com/veteransalute today.

CareSource’s Veteran Salute program highlights five veterans’ stories during the course of each season. Veterans who are chosen are honored at a Dragons game with an in-game ceremony and provided with VIP treatment during their special night. The program is an extension of CareSource’s continued commitment to serving special populations and its new efforts to support veterans through innovative health and life services programs. For more information about the Veteran Salute program, visit www.daytondragons.com/veteransalute.

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Multidisciplinary Experts at INTEGRIS Health Guide Jeremiah Harrell Through Spine and Heart Challenges

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS Health continue the “Home Run For Life” series for an 11th season and will recognize Jeremiah Harrell prior to the Dodgers’ 7:05 p.m. game Saturday against the Round Rock Express at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

A multidisciplinary team of experts at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center performed life-saving emergency spinal surgery on Harrell while also accommodating his pre-existing heart conditions, including a left ventricular assistance device (LVAD), earlier this year. INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center is the only facility in the state offering a full-service advanced heart failure program including teams of board-certified heart failure, LVAD, heart and lung transplant, anesthesia, cardiothoracic and neurosurgical experts together at one facility.

“Home Run For Life” recognizes individuals in the 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 a pregame ceremony.

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

Harrell was referred to INTEGRIS Health’s cardiology team when he first moved to Oklahoma. He was born with a genetic heart condition that was deteriorating and he underwent a procedure to implant a left ventricular assistance device (LVAD) at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center in December 2021.

Life returned to normal for the Bluejacket, Okla., resident until he started to feel numbness and a burning sensation in his neck around Easter earlier this year.

Harrell’s wife rushed him to INTEGRIS Health in Oklahoma City where he met with Pal Randhawa, M.D., with INTEGRIS Spine and Neurological Surgery.

The medical team discovered a severe infection that eroded and destabilized his spine, causing it to begin to collapse and damage his spinal cord.

“Had he not come to the hospital that very day, he would have been permanently paralyzed,” Randhawa said.

A team comprised of LVAD, anesthesia, cardiothoracic and neurosurgical experts were all present during the surgery in case they needed to respond quickly to any potential complications.

INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center is the only facility in the state capable of offering all these teams together in one place.

The emergency surgery was successful, and Harrell underwent additional staged surgeries to stabilize his neck.

Harrell knows his surgeries were no small feat and is incredibly grateful for his caretakers.

“My doctors are amazing,” Harrell said. “They keep a big smile on my face because without them I wouldn’t be walking around now.”

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

The OKC Dodgers are in the midst of a six-game home series against the Round Rock Express at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark that continues tonight at 7:05 p.m. Upcoming promotional highlights include:

• Friday, June 24 – 7:05 p.m.: Gates open at 6 p.m. and the first 1,000 guests will receive an OKC Dodgers water bottle. Braum’s Friends & Family 4-Packs are available for the game that include four tickets, four hats and four Braum’s restaurant vouchers. Friday Night Fireworks are then scheduled to follow the game.

Additionally, the Dodgers are partnering with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to increase awareness on the topic of mental health in the community, focusing on education, advocacy and support to #StrikeOutTheStigma of mental illness. Oklahomans who are working to de-stigmatize the connotations that come with mental health struggles will be recognized throughout the season, including during Friday night’s game.

• Saturday, June 25 – 7:05 p.m.: Harrell will be honored for his INTEGRIS “Health Home Run For Life” prior to Saturday’s game. Also before the game, Oklahoma City Community College President Mautra Staley Jones, Ed.D. is scheduled to throw out a ceremonial first pitch. Jones began her tenure March 1, 2022 and is the first woman and also the first person of color to lead OCCC.

Saturday is a Future Dodgers Night and youth baseball and softball teams in uniform are invited to participate in a pregame parade on the field. Game tickets for groups of 10 or more include a souvenir OKC Dodgers hat. Saturday is also a Braum’s Friends and Family Night, allowing groups of 10 or more people to receive a game ticket, OKC Dodgers hat and a Braum’s restaurant voucher that can be redeemed at any Oklahoma Braum’s location, starting at just $13 each.

• Sunday, June 26 – 2:05 p.m.: Following the conclusion of the game, kids can take the field to run the bases like their favorite pros.

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

OKC Dodgers Aim to #StrikeOutTheStigma with Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers are partnering with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) this season to help #StrikeOutTheStigma and increase awareness on the topic of mental health in our community.

The partnership focuses on education, advocacy and support to help destigmatize the connotations that come with mental health struggles. Oklahomans who are working to do so will be recognized throughout the 2022 Dodgers baseball season.

The first honoree of 2022 is Tony Stelter, director of recovery support for ODMHSAS who leads the organization’s planning, development and administrative aspects of consumer advocacy and recovery support services. He also uses his personal experiences with recovery to help others facing similar battles. Stelter will be recognized during the Dodgers’ game against the Round Rock Express at 7:05 p.m. Friday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

“Through our partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, we want to help raise awareness on the topic of mental health by talking openly about the subject and providing educational resources,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “By sharing the personal stories of Oklahomans who have been impacted by, or work to provide, mental health services in our community, we want to help strike out the stigma and provide support to our fellow Oklahomans.”

Stelter, who lives in Moore, is a licensed professional counselor who also identifies as a person in recovery.

Stelter holds a master’s degree in human relations from the University of Oklahoma and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Central Oklahoma.

He credits his son Ethan with saving his life.

Before Ethan was born, Stelter became addicted to opiates. He saw it as an escape from encountering unwanted negative feelings that stemmed from major depressive disorder and low self-worth. With Ethan on the way, Stelter tried to quit unsuccessfully on numerous occasions.

The path of self-destruction continued until it reached his lowest point and Stelter attempted to overdose, taking painkillers and some over-the-counter medication. Luckily, he survived. He wanted to be a father for Ethan, but knew he had a way to go.

“When Ethan was born it was one of the best days of my life,” Stelter said. “I loved him oh so much, but I hadn’t learned to love myself.”

He went on to receive intensive outpatient treatment and later started working for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services in the Children’s Recovery Center.

“If it wasn’t for the services like we have at the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, I wouldn’t be here today,” he said.

The OKC Dodgers are in the midst of a six-game home series against the Round Rock Express at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark that continues tonight and Thursday at 7:05 p.m. Upcoming promotional highlights include:

• Friday, June 24 – 7:05 p.m.: Gates open at 6 p.m. and the first 1,000 guests will receive an OKC Dodgers water bottle. Stelter will be recognized on the field during the game.

Braum’s Friends & Family 4-Packs are available that include four tickets, four hats and four Braum’s restaurant vouchers. Friday Night Fireworks are then scheduled to follow the game.

• Saturday, June 25 – 7:05 p.m.: The third INTEGRIS “Health Home Run For Life” honoree of the season will be recognized prior to Saturday’s game. Also before the game, Oklahoma City Community College President Mautra Staley Jones, Ed.D., is scheduled to throw out a ceremonial first pitch. Jones began her tenure March 1, 2022 and is the first woman and also the first person of color to lead OCCC.

Saturday is a Future Dodgers Night and youth baseball and softball teams in uniform are invited to participate in a pregame parade on the field. Game tickets for groups of 10 or more include a souvenir OKC Dodgers hat. Saturday is also a Braum’s Friends and Family Night, allowing groups of 10 or more people to receive a game ticket, OKC Dodgers hat and a Braum’s restaurant voucher that can be redeemed at any Oklahoma Braum’s location, starting at just $13 each.

• Sunday, June 26 – 2:05 p.m.: Following the conclusion of the game, kids can take the field to run the bases like their favorite pros.

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

New Historical Baseball Display to be Unveiled at Eastwood Field on July 25

NILES, OH –Niles, OH – The Mahoning Valley Scrappers will debut a new display at Eastwood Field which will feature historic baseball figures with ties to the region. The unveiling will take place before a game on Monday, July 25, 2022, a date which will coincide with the National Baseball Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

The display has been funded by local baseball historian P. M. Kovach and will feature six individuals with ties to the area: Bud Fowler, the first African-American professional baseball player who began his career in New Castle, PA; Jimmy McAleer, a Youngstown native who played and managed in Cleveland in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and helped establish the American League; Elmer Flick, who played in the minors in Youngstown and went on to a Hall of Fame career; Red Ames of Warren who played in three World Series; Billy Evans who played baseball for Rayen HS in Youngstown and became the youngest MLB umpire at the age of 22 in 1906; George H. Burns, a Niles native who helped the Cleveland Indians beat Brooklyn in the 1920 World Series.

The Scrappers will take on the Fredrick Keys and the game will also feature the Peppers in Oil promotion and Niles Community Day with first pitch at 7:05pm. The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are one of six founding members of the MLB Draft League, joining the Frederick Keys, the State College Spikes, the Trenton Thunder, the West Virginia Black Bears and the Williamsport Crosscutters. For more information, visit mvscrappers.com or contact the front office at 330-505-0000.

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Pink Ribbon Girls Survivor Celebration Night at the Ballpark

Dayton, Ohio – The Pink Ribbon Girls (PRG) and the Dayton Dragons will host a Survivor Celebration on Tuesday, June 21, at 7:00 p.m., when the Dayton Dragons take on the Lake County Captains at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District.

The Pink Ribbon Girls provide transportation to and from treatment, housecleaning kits, and peer support and education to breast and gynecological cancer patients at their greatest time of need. The organization has the mission of making sure “No one travels this road alone” and serves anyone regardless of their age, stage, or socio-economic status.

The Pink Ribbon Girls will be in attendance at the game to promote awareness and to celebrate the breast cancer and gynecological cancer survivors they have helped. Proceeds from the Dragons 50/50 for the entire week (June 21 to June 26) will go towards the services and programs of the Pink Ribbon Girls.

If you want to learn more about how you can help support The Pink Ribbon Girls, check out their website here at: pinkribbongirls.org

Joey Chiulli, 6-year-old cancer survivor, will celebrate his Anthem Home Run for Life at a Dragons Game

 

 

Dayton, Ohio—Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Ohio and the Dayton Dragons will host 6-year-old Joey Chiulli during the iconic Anthem Home Run for Life program on Wednesday, June 22, when the Dayton Dragons take on the Lake County Captains at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District.

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 Day Air Ballpark during a Dragons home game while the crowd cheers them on.

Joey’s Story

In November of 2018, Joe Chiulli was experiencing extreme pain in his legs along with several respiratory infections. As he battled through the difficulties of breathing, the pain in his legs forced him to stop walking. His parents had exhausted all medical options to find a remedy to their son’s pain, but little help was found.

For six months, Joe continued to suffer intense pain until a nurse noticed severe bloating in his abdomen. The medical staff sent Joey into testing, and a biopsy confirmed Joey had acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), a type of cancer found in the bone marrow of children. He underwent nine blood transfusions, a lumbar puncture, and a bone marrow transplant.

The ‘induction’ phase of the cancer treatment journey was extremely tough on Joe. The medications and steroids created negative reactions physically, mentally, and emotionally. This four-year-old faced extreme anxiety, anger, and depression. His reaction led doctors to believe he was chemo resistant – less than 10% of cancer patients fall into this category. As a result, his medical team included Joey in a new medical study where doctors targeted cancer genetically.

As April 2019 rolled around, Joey’s thigh still hurt more than the rest of his body. A CT scan showed an abscess on this thigh; the infection was growing into his femur. Doctors immediately drained his bone three times to remove the disease. Finally, the road to recovery could begin, and Joey relearned how to walk.

Joey is in ‘long term maintenance’ having had his final spinal on June 17, 2022. Joey will be heading into first grade at Liberty Elementary and is wise beyond his years. He says, “if we all stay strong, everything will be ok.”

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons applaud all those who have been instrumental in Joe’s life, including his family, Dr. Dolé, and his entire medical team.

To learn more about Anthem Home Run for Life, please visit www.daytondragons.com/hrfl.

More Information:_ The Dayton Dragons are the affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 66-game home schedule at beautiful Day Air Ballpark_ in the heart of the Water Street District. 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 [email protected], or on the web at daytondragons.com.

 

Louisville Bats Celebrate Pride on June 23

The Louisville Bats will be partnering with the Louisville Pride Foundation, Queer KY, and Derby City Pride League to host the second-annual Pride Night at Louisville Slugger Field on Thursday, June 23.

The event will be sponsored by UAW Local 862 and fans can purchase tickets and support the fundraiser at the Louisville Bat Online Box Office – Pride Night. A portion of each ticket purchased through this link will go directly to the organizations supporting our community here in Louisville.

The evening will host a bundle of promotions including a Pride Koozie giveaway to the first 500 fans (Sponsored by UAW Local 862), a ceremonial first pitch from Chris Hartman from the Fairness Campaign, and a performance of the national anthem by the Louisville Gay Men’s Chorus.

On top of these activities, Thursday Night Louisville Slugger Field promotions will also be in effect, including Game Time Happy Hour, with $2 beers from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. throughout the ballpark (21 or older only).