TinCaps Jersey Auction to Help Fund Daisies Monument

Fort Wayne TinCaps and City of Fort Wayne partner on Fort Wayne Daisies Player Monument

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne TinCaps, in partnership with the City of Fort Wayne Parks & Recreation Department, are raising funds to renovate and improve the Fort Wayne Daisies monument at the historic site of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) team’s home field, located at Fort Wayne’s Memorial Park.

“Fort Wayne has a rich baseball history and the Daisies are front and center as trailblazers for the sport in this city,” said Michael Limmer, TinCaps Vice President of Marketing. “While Memorial Park has long had a marker to designate it as the former home field of the Fort Wayne Daisies, we felt each individual Daisies player deserved to be recognized as well. This new monument will highlight each of the 144 former players and managers associated with the Daisies during the team’s existence from 1945 through 1954.”

The enhanced monument was designed and created as a partnership with the City of Fort Wayne’s Parks and Recreation Department. Memorial Park is located approximately two miles east of Parkview Field, where the TinCaps play.

“It is fitting to honor each player and the managers of the Fort Wayne Daisies on one of the very sites where they played,” said Steve McDaniel, Fort Wayne Parks & Recreation Director. “These women represented Fort Wayne, our parks and recreational sports with distinction coming out of the World War II conflict and set a tone of excellence and team spirit that we still celebrate today. Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation is glad to partner with the Fort Wayne TinCaps in this effort to memorialize the names of the Fort Wayne Daisies players with a monument in Memorial Park.”

The TinCaps are hoping that fans of the Daisies will help make the monument possible.

“The Parks & Recreation Department has been incredible to work with on this project,” said Limmer. “From the moment we proposed the idea they have been onboard 100 percent. They created the plans, the layout, the design for the monument, and are covering the cost of preparing the future site and all surrounding landscaping. Now, we just need to fundraise the remaining portion of the project to make this monument happen.”

The TinCaps, Minor League Baseball’s High-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres, will wear replica Daisies uniforms during their game on Saturday, May 21. The jerseys are being auctioned online with 100 percent of all winning bids going directly toward the monument project.

“The TinCaps are covering the cost of producing the jerseys so all proceeds from the auction will go directly to making this monument a reality,” Limmer said. “Every penny that these jerseys raise is one step closer to making this monument happen. The Fort Wayne Daisies players, and their families, deserve to have their names permanently on display for future generations. We don’t want their legacy to be forgotten.”

Those interested in placing a bid on a jersey can visit the auction site at TinCapsJersey.com. The auction is live now and will close on Sunday, May 22 at 9:00 p.m. ET.

Fans that would like to make a direct donation can visit the GoFundMe page dedicated to the Fort Wayne Daisies monument project at this link.

The TinCaps have also designed specialty Fort Wayne Daisies t-shirts that are currently on-sale in the The Orchard Team Store with $2.00 from each sale going towards the Memorial Park monument project.

MORE INFORMATION ON “FORT WAYNE DAISIES THROWBACK NIGHT”:

The Fort Wayne TinCaps are partnering with the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) to host a Fort Wayne Daisies Throwback Night on Saturday, May 21 (6:35 p.m.) as the TinCaps — wearing special Daisies-themed jerseys — take on the West Michigan Whitecaps (Detroit Tigers affiliate).

During the evening, fans can expect to see former players from the Daisies and other AAGPBL teams in attendance. The AAGPBL alumni, and their families, will be recognized on the field during the night and also signing autographs for fans on the concourse. The TinCaps will be honoring and recognizing them for their community contributions and the legacy they built in the game of baseball. In addition, this night will also feature postgame fireworks.

Tickets are available at TinCapsTickets.com, by calling 260-482-6400, and at the Parkview Field Ticket Office.

The AAGPBL, which operated from 1943-54, has been famously recognized over the years in a variety of ways, such as a special exhibit at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y., and the movie A League of Their Own. Learn more at AAGPBL.org.

Sock Puppets release new community piece, The Aviator 

BURLINGTON, N.C. — Burlington and Alamance County have long been known for their textile heritage, but this industry was only part of what makes this community so special. When the Sock Puppets launched their new name in 2021, they did so to honor that very industry but saw the unique ability to be able to continue to honor various industries, events and people with their new brand. May 16, 2021 marked the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Alamance, and in celebration, the Burlington baseball team launched the first of many Community Sock Puppets. On the 75th anniversary of another marquee location here in Burlington, it’s time they announce another, The Aviator.

When Glenn Huffman and Dover Fogleman built the Fairchild airfield in 1931, they marked the beginning for an industry that has been a key catalyst to the City of Burlington’s and Alamance County’s growth for the next 91 years. As WWII began a few years later, numerous companies, as well as the federal government, occupied the airfield and started producing various pieces of equipment to assist in the war effort. Due to the new industry booming, many new people moved here for work and built a new community on the east side of Burlington. Even though Fairchild airfield closed in the 1960s, the aviation industry continued to grow and thrive in Central North Carolina.

Seeing a further need for expansion of the aviation industry in 1947, it was decided that a new Burlington Airport should be built. Now, as they celebrate 75 years of service to this community, the Burlington Airport continues to grow and assist the growth of the surrounding areas. Servicing both the public and many businesses, the airport is one of the most vital contributors that has been bringing new jobs to Alamance County.

Dan Danieley, the Executive Director of the Burlington-Alamance Airport Authority, sums up the purpose and role of the airport by saying, “the goal of the airport is to serve the community. As a key transportation and logistics hub, The Burlington Alamance Regional Airport is literally connecting our community to the world. We are a critical economic engine for business development, not only in our community but our region as well.”

With now two community characters as a part of their brand, the Sock Puppets continue to try and tell the story of their community in a sockingly different way. “A sock puppet can be anything,” Anderson Rathbun, General Manager of the Sock Puppets, said, “and before we even decided to go with the Sock Puppets moniker and honor the textile heritage, we saw hundreds and hundreds of community members share other pieces of history that they wanted to see embodied in our new brand. Now to come full circle and be able to honor not one, not two, not three but an unlimited amount of history with their respective, unique sock puppets is something we are very proud of.”

To learn more about the Burlington-Alamance Airport Authority click here.

To commemorate the new community sock character, you can now order the limited edition Aviator sock shirt!

Epilepsy Foundation’s Walk to END EPILEPSY® Series and 2.6-Million-Mile Challenge at Day Air Ballpark on Saturday

Dayton, Ohio — The Epilepsy Foundation will kick off its Walk to END EPILEPSY® series in Ohio with an in-person event on Saturday, May 7 at Day Air Ball Park.

The Epilepsy Foundation’s Walk to END EPILEPSY® series is a platform to create awareness, share stories, help educate others, and raise funds for the more than 129,000 Ohioans living with epilepsy. In addition, the Epilepsy Foundation is hosting the 2.6-Million-Mile Challenge Walk Your Way.

“This year’s Walk to END EPILEPSY® is back, and it’s better than ever,” said Dr. Crystal Hagans, Executive Director of Epilepsy Foundation Ohio. “Safety is our priority, so we are offering different ways that people can participate in our community. We invite everyone to join with friends, family, and colleagues to celebrate one another in person at Day Air Ball Park or opt to make the walk on their own as part of the 2.6-Million-Mile Challenge. No matter where people are, each step and fundraising dollar counts.”

Epilepsy can affect anyone. Over a lifetime, one in 10 people will have a seizure, and one in 26 will be diagnosed with epilepsy. Despite its prevalence, epilepsy receives 10 times less funding than other brain disorders.

The Walk to END EPILEPSY Ohio-Dayton in-person event is taking place in accordance with CDC, state and local health guidelines. For those who are not able to walk in person, they can register as a Walk Your Way participant and decide how to complete the Walk. All participants will log their miles by hitting the streets, trails, and treadmills on their own or with their team to help reach the 2.6-Million-Mile-Challenge goal. It doesn’t matter whether they stroll, saunter, or power-walk, they can complete their walk whenever, wherever while others in their community do the same.

No matter how people choose to participate, everyone’s support will be recognized and celebrated. The Epilepsy Foundation is hosting a virtual livestream celebration on June 4 for all Walk participants. For more information, or to register for the Walk to END EPILEPSY Ohio-Dayton visit: https://donate.epilepsy.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.event&eventID=966

About Epilepsy

According to the World Health Organization, epilepsy is the most common serious brain disorder worldwide with no age, racial, social class, national or geographic boundaries. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) estimates that 3.4 million people in the United States are affected by epilepsy. It is the underlying tendency of the brain to produce seizures which are sudden abnormal bursts of electrical energy that disrupt brain functions.

About the Epilepsy Foundation

With a network of partners throughout the United States, the Epilepsy Foundation is leading the fight to overcome the challenges of living with epilepsy. The Foundation connects people to treatment, support and resources; leads advocacy efforts; funds innovative research and the training of specialists; and educates the public about epilepsy and seizure first aid. For more than five decades, the Epilepsy Foundation has shone a light on epilepsy to promote awareness and understanding, and to advocate for laws that matter to people with epilepsy, while also funding epilepsy research and supporting epilepsy investigators and specialists in their early careers. In partnership with the CDC, the Epilepsy Foundation has helped to improve access to care for people with epilepsy, expanded its digital reach and online resources in homes across the country, and trained more than 600,000 people in seizure recognition and first aid. The Epilepsy Foundation continues to focus on serving the epilepsy community through advocacy, education, direct services and research for new therapies. To learn more visit epilepsy.com or call 1.800.332.1000. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

# # #

Three Of Pensacola's Best Provide Wisdom, Advice On Blue Wahoos' Women In Sports Night 

Blue Wahoos vice president Donna Kirby, far left, moderates seminar with Michelle Snow, left, Melissa Miller-Schubeck and Beth Barr on April 22 during the Blue Wahoos special Women in Sports Night at ballpark. (Nino Mendez)

They grew up in Pensacola and competed in totally different sports, but with similar aspirations during a breakthrough era.

That commonality, along with their unique athletic success gave Michelle Snow, Melissa Miller and Beth Barr a powerful role in blazing a trail for so many other female athletic stars from this community who have followed.

The three were together for the first time last Friday at Blue Wahoos Stadium, participating in a pregame symposium at the Blue Wahoos’ first Women In Sports Night last week at the ballpark.

Snow went from stardom at Pensacola High to playing for Pat Head Summit at Tennessee, then onto the WNBA and international basketball as Pensacola’s greatest female basketball player.

“I believe people have to understand there will be a lot of obstacles in the way and a lot of fears you have to overcome,” said Snow, addressing the young athletes in the audience that day inside the season-ticket holders lounge. “You have to overcome that fear.”

Miller, now Miller-Schubeck, a Tate High grad, won back-to-back SEC All-Around championships in 1988-89 for the Florida Gators and was inducted into the UF Athletic Hall of Fame as one of its greatest athletes.

“I think it is important to have goals,” she said. “If you don’t have goals, you are not shooting toward anything.”

Barr, now Barr-Gifford, a Booker T. Washington and University of Texas graduate, was the youngest member at 16-years-old for the 1988 U.S. Olympic Women’s Swim Team. She won a silver medal for the U.S. in the team’s medley relay, and just missed the podium in her two other Olympic events that year.

All three overcome adversity in their development to attain the highest level of success. Here were their thoughts on two powerful topics during the symposium. They were also recognized by throwing out a first pitch that night and on the dugout, following the second inning, as well as in-game interviews on the Blue Wahoos radio broadcast.

Since you all competed, so much has changed in women’s sports. If you mentor young girls or if still involved in some way, how would view the state of your particular sports today?

MICHELLE SNOW

“For me the state of mentoring, the state of basketball in the WNBA, and everything like that, I think it is in a beautiful place. We just had one of the best CBA (collective bargaining agreement with owners and players) deals. ESPN just did another multimillion deal. Nike now owns a 25-percent stake in the WNBA. Things are getting there, the endorsements are there, you don’t have to go overseas now if you don’t want to. These young ladies are making that good, good cash.

And it is a blessing because it is the people who started it, who fought for it, who are still invested in it, that get to see that become a dream and possibility. When I was coming up, there was no WNBA. It didn’t happen until my senior year in high school. With these young ladies, they get to see it from the day they are born all the way the way up, they get to come to games and see their favorite athletes.

I mentor several players. I also do the WNBA podcast. It is a lot of fun seeing where the game is going and the opportunities that are available.

MELISSA MILLER

“The state of gymnastics and where it is at… it doesn’t have much in a professional realm. It is more in the collegiate level. And it has changed so much over the years. And I am so glad that I am not doing gymnastics anymore, because (competitors) are way too good. Where I have seen the biggest change is the growth in the sport. More people are involved into it.

Now, it’s grown with more and more college teams getting gymnastics and top notch gymnastics. If you watched the national championship last week, Auburn was in the final four for the first time ever in gymnastics. It is growing, because there is just more interest in the sport.

It is really neat to see the expansion in the sport in a lot of different areas. The equipment has really changed too. A lot of changed.”

BETH BARR

“Swimming is constantly changing. With equipment and bathing suits and fitness. It is more of a strength sport now. When I was swimming, I was a small swimmer and more of a technician in the water. The girls now are so strong. Swimming now relies more heavily on strength. There is also some professional swimming now which is great to see. It is also great to see swimmers can now expand their careers. The ages are getting older. As far as females they are definitely getting older and able to still compete.”

You all went through adverse situations in your careers on way to achieving so much success. How did each of you handle those tough times?

MELISSA MILLER

“As a young kid, my goal was to make the Olympic team. I was in eighth grade, and I moved away from home went to visit top coaches in the country. I got hurt right before qualifications for the Olympic trials. So my biggest dream was now shattered. I didn’t understand it at the time. When the plans you have don’t work out the way you want them, what do you do? For me, I realized God had a different plan. When I had that loss, I was redirected and I was able to get a scholarship at Florida and because of that, I had a successful career. It really made up for it.

You may have your mind set that you want to do this, this and this… and want to be a D-1 athlete, and it may not plan out. You can get hurt in an instant and your career may be over. You have to realize that and have a backup plan.”

BETH BARR

‘”I would rather face failure any day. Because failure provides an opportunity. You want that. Athletes go through depression. Because, it’s like I don’t know what to do now. You succeeded and now what? Embrace failure. My son just won a state wrestling title in Arizona, but he would call me when he lost a match and I would say, okay, what did you learn from that? What will you do better? When you win, you don’t learn anything… Always look at failure as an opportunity.”

MICHELLE SNOW

“Fear actually motivated me. And it motivated me because I was so afraid of certain things. I remember getting all the way to state final four (at Pensacola High) our freshman year and we lose. Went to the NCAA Final Four twice (with Tennessee) and got blown out in the championship game. That is tough. I get all the way to the pros and get drafted (in WNBA) by a team (Houston Comets) that has never kept a rookie. That is terrifying. You may not ever play and you worked your entire life to get there. I go overseas (first season) and I get fired (cut).

My mother had Lupus growing up. I didn’t know how much time she had. I didn’t know if she would wake up that next morning. It is scary It is a terrifying thing. People thought I wanted to play pro basketball because I wanted the cars, the fame, the money. I wanted to play because I wanted to buy my mother medicine. Her medicine was $500 for one prescription. I wanted to go pro so I could make a difference in her life.”

“Home Run For Life” Honoree Jack Chappell Received Heart Transplant at INTEGRIS Health

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS Health continue the “Home Run For Life” series for an 11th season and recognize their first honoree of 2022, Jack Chappell of Edmond, during the Dodgers’ 7:05 p.m. game Saturday against the Sugar Land Space Cowboys at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

Chappell was diagnosed with heart failure in 2013 and was referred to cardiologists at INTEGRIS Health. He underwent placement of a HeartMate 2 Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) twice there before it was recommended that Chappell pursue a heart transplant. He was subsequently placed on the transplant list in 2020.

Just nine months ago, in July 2021, Chappell received his new heart at INTEGRIS Health and will now be honored during National Donate Life Month.

“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.

“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.”

While waiting for a heart transplant, Chappell was hospitalized in March 2021 after complications from a bout with asymptomatic COVID-19 in late 2020 that left him with internal bleeding.

He said the doctors put it plainly: “The only way to fix it is to put a new heart in you.”

Chappell, now 58, spent four months in the hospital waiting for his new heart, but he didn’t let that stop him from being productive. He had a desk set up in his hospital room allowing him to work remotely. Chappell didn’t miss a single paycheck

“Why not?” Chappell replied when asked about his desire to work from his room. “I’m not going to sit around here and dwell on being sick.”

Chappell became a regular at INTEGRIS Health, getting acquainted with many of the staff. He raves about the quality of care and company he received at INTEGRIS Health.

They’d been through the journey with me this whole time,” he said. “They’re great caregivers.”

In July 2021, everyone received the good news. Chappell was getting his new heart.

“I’m one of the fortunate ones,” he said.

To read Chappell’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 12-game homestand at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark that continues tonight at 7:05 p.m. Upcoming promotional highlights include:

• Friday, April 29: Gates open at 6 p.m. and the first 1,000 fans receive an OKC Dodgers hat. Friday Night Fireworks presented by Springhill Suites are also scheduled to follow the game, which falls on a Braum’s Friends and Family Night featuring a special offer for groups of 10 or more.

• Saturday, April 30: Girl Scout Night is Saturday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. Groups of 10 or more can enjoy a special ticket package and participate in a pregame on-field parade.

• Sunday, May 1: After the conclusion of the 2:05 p.m. game, kids can take the field to run the bases.

• Tuesday, May 3: A Field Trip Day is set for an 11:05 a.m. first pitch and gives students a chance to enjoy a fun class outing before the school year ends. Groups of 10 or more can purchase a special ticket package.

• Friday, May 6: Revel: Speed Painter presented by Courtyard by Marriott will perform. The performance artist creates works of art live, upside down and in less than two minutes. His 2021 performance resulted in the Dodgers winning a coveted Golden Bobblehead for Best In-Game Promotion/Feature during the 2021 Minor League Baseball season. Fireworks are scheduled to follow the game. An All-You-Can-Eat ticket offer is also available, providing a terrace level seat and all-you-can-eat food, including hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, and soft drinks for $25.

• Saturday, May 7: Braum’s Friends and Family Night features a special offer for groups of 10 or more. Also, Braum’s Friends & Family 4-Packs are available, including four tickets, four hats and four Braum’s restaurant vouchers starting at just $43.99.

• Sunday, May 8: Following the conclusion of the 2:05 p.m. game, kids can take the field to run the bases.

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.

South Bend Cubs and Jordan Automotive Present Teacher Appreciation Night

SOUTH BEND, IN – The South Bend Cubs are thrilled to continue to partner with Jordan Automotive for another Teacher Appreciation Night at Four Winds Field on Wednesday, June 8 for a 7:05 p.m. ballgame that includes post-game fireworks.

“We love this night every year,” said South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. “It provides us a chance to honor and show our gratitude for all the hard work teachers and educators in the area do for our kids.”

“Teachers deserve to celebrate their good work and we love being able to be a part of that celebration,” said Robert Hayden, Executive Manager of Jordan Automotive Group. “Without teachers’ involvement and support, the Food 4 Kids program would not be as successful, and for that and all they do we truly appreciate teachers.”

In order to give back for all the strenuous work done by teachers within the Michiana region, Jordan Automotive is offering up two complimentary tickets and two Four Winds Field food vouchers to teachers and administrators to catch the South Bend Cubs take on the Cedar Rapids Kernels. Both food vouchers are good for one hot dog, a bag of chips, and a fountain soda. 600 food vouchers will be available.

All teachers at Four Winds Field will be honored by the South Bend Cubs in the middle of the third inning when they will be asked to stand and be recognized by everyone else in attendance.

Teachers and administrators can pick up their two complimentary tickets by showing their school ID at the Four Winds Field box office. The box office is open during the week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on weekend game days (Saturday 12 p.m. until the 7th inning and Sunday 10 a.m. until the 7th inning).

Fans attending the game will also be treated to a special Wednesday night post-game fireworks show.

The South Bend Cubs and Jordan Automotive look forward to honoring all teachers from Michiana for their hard work and dedication with a fun night of baseball at Four Winds Field.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the High-A minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 34 years, the team has won four Midwest League titles, most recently in 2019, and has captured eight division titles. In 2019, the South Bend Cubs hosted the final Midwest League All-Star Game. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

Ballpark Yoga Returns To Blue Wahoos Stadium This Sunday!

By popular demand, “Seventh Inning Stretch” Ballpark Yoga will return to Blue Wahoos Stadium throughout the summer, with four new dates in May and June announced today by the Blue Wahoos.

“After our first Ballpark Yoga session in April, we heard from so many fans clamoring for more, so we’re very excited to add four new dates this summer,” Blue Wahoos events manager Shannon Reeves said. “We’re very grateful to our friends at Disko Lemonade for leading these sessions and making them fun for all ages and experience levels.”

Ballpark Yoga will be offered in May on Sunday, May 1st and Sunday, May 22nd and in June on Sunday, June 12 and Sunday, June 26. All sessions will begin at 9:00 AM – late enough to allow fans to sleep in but early enough to not miss brunch downtown afterwards – and will be led by expert instructors from Disko Lemonade Yoga Studio.

Tickets to each session are available at BlueWahoos.com for $12. Yoga is held in centerfield at Blue Wahoos Stadium, offering attendees exclusive access to the field at the stadium, and participants are encouraged to bring a yoga mat, blanket, or towel to exercise on.

Get Tickets:

Sunday, May 1
Sunday, May 22
Sunday, June 12
Sunday, June 26

Segra Stadium To Host Inaugural ‘Jackie Robinson Showcase’ 

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The Fayetteville Woodpeckers *will host an inaugural “Jackie Robinson Showcase” on Thursday, May 5th at *Segra Stadium. The showcase will feature three high school baseball teams, including E.E. Smith, Westover and 71st High School. Game times are set for 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

The showcase aligns with Minor League Baseball’s new initiative, “The Nine.” Launched in 2022, the initiative is a Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport, provide new opportunities for youth baseball and softball participation, further diversify the business of baseball.

Named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946, The Nine will connect MiLB teams’ existing, Black-community focused development efforts with new national programming and future special events in a coordinated and centralized campaign. The new inclusion initiative follows MiLB’s Copa de la Diversión — the Latino fan engagement platform introduced in 2017 that included 76 MiLB teams in 2021.

All costs for the showcase will be funded by the Woodpeckers Foundation. Admission is free and open to the public. Food and beverage will also be available on this day. For more information, please visit www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com.

Dragons to Recognize “Hometown Heroes” Honoree During Game on April 22

Dayton, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons will recognize the Miami Valley Young Marines as a “Hometown Heroes” honoree during a special inning break of the Dragons game on Friday, April 22 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 and individuals.

Young Marines is a national non-profit education and service program for boys and girls, ages eight through high school. The organization promotes mental, moral, and physical development of its members, upholding the Marine Corps’ core values, as well as the Young Marines’ core values of leadership, discipline, and teamwork.

The Miami Valley unit participates year-round in community projects and events that focus on character building and leadership. Their mission is to nurture and develop its members into responsible citizens who enjoy and promote a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.

One of their major initiatives is called “Drill Heroes,” a drill competition held to raise money to complete the Miami Valley Veterans Museum. With multiple age-based competitions, this event brings friends, families, co-workers, and other members of the community together to compete in the largest knockout drill competition ever assembled.

Furthermore, the unit has partnered with Wreaths Across America to lay remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country’s heroes at the Dayton Memorial Park Cemetery. This local unit has also been awarded the Fulcrum Shield Award for excellence in youth anti-drug programs from the Department of Defense twice – a distinction that no other unit has achieved.

The Miami Valley Marines are always looking for new members, volunteers, education opportunities, and donations. For more information about the Miami Valley Young Marines and how you can support their mission, visit miamivalleyyoungmarines.com.

This is the first of five special Hometown Heroes events at Dragons games this season. Additional tributes are scheduled for May 17, June 12, July 4, and August 13. 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.

GO Blue For CASA Event Set For May 5

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, have teamed up with CASA for a child advocate event at TD Bank Ballpark on Thursday, May 5 for the 6:35 p.m. game against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Toronto Blue Jays).

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy declared April 2022 as CASA Child Advocate Month in celebration of the work CASA volunteers do on behalf of the state’s most vulnerable children.

The Patriots will host GO Blue for CASA Night and encourage fans to wear blue to the game as part of the event designed to build awareness around child abuse.

There will be 139 lawn signs located in front of TD Bank Ballpark to represent all the children served in foster care in 2021.

“We’re so excited to team up with the Somerset Patriots to celebrate our CASA Child Advocate volunteers as well as build awareness around child abuse and the impact within our communities,” said Ellen Davis Director of Development CASA SHaW.

CASA is selling tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the game as part of their fundraising efforts. To purchase tickets or partner with the organization, please visit https://bit.ly/GoBlue4CASASHAW.

The game’s 50/50 raffle will also benefit the work of CASA as advocates of children in need.

About CASA

CASA SHaW provides well-trained, trauma-informed volunteers to serve as advocates in court for children living in foster care. Our goal is to ensure that every child served has a safe, permanent home and the resources and services needed to thrive and not just survive adverse childhood experiences. We are committed to educating ourselves and the community about the causes and impacts of child abuse and neglect, the need for racial equity in a disproportionate system, and how to best advocate for and meet the needs of children in foster care in Somerset, Hunterdon, and Warren Counties.

About the Somerset Patriots
The Somerset Patriots are the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate and develop today’s top minor league talent into the pinstriped superstars of tomorrow for MLB’s winningest team. The Patriots compete in the Double-A Northeast League and play their home games at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ, where fans of all ages and levels of baseball fandom get to enjoy the unique experience that is minor league baseball.

To learn more, visit: www.somersetpatriots.com

Negro Leagues Night a Tradition at Truist Field

Eddie G.G. Burton, pictured middle, helped launch the team’s Negro Leagues Night in 2014. (Laura Wolff/Charlotte Knights)

Since April 15, 2004, Major League Baseball has celebrated Jackie Robinson Day. Every year on that day, players from all around the majors — and countless other teams from around Minor League Baseball — honor the legacy of Jackie Robinson by wearing #42 on their jerseys. Even more so, they stand for what Jackie Robinson stood for when he broke the color barrier on April 15, 1947 — equality.

Now, as the 75th anniversary of Jackie’s debut is on the horizon, baseball is set to celebrate his achievements and the Knights are planning a big Negro Leagues Night this year at Truist Field.

CHARLOTTE KNIGHTS TRIBUTE TO THE NEGRO LEAGUES
In Charlotte, the Knights have honored the legacy of Jackie Robinson as well as the history of the Negro Leagues. Since 2014, the Knights have held a special Tribute to the Negro Leagues at the ballpark. At these games each season, all players on the Knights take the field in wear #42 on their jerseys and former players from the Negro Leagues come out to the ballpark to share their stories. In addition, a traveling museum is set up on the concourse by Ray Banks, a Negro Leagues historian. Local Negro Leagues historian, Michael Turner Webb, is also a part of the night to share the history of the Negro Leagues. It is truly a special game each year.

1ST NEGRO LEAGUES NIGHT IN 2014
The first Jackie Robinson Day celebration at Truist Field (then BB&T Ballpark) took place on April 15, 2014. As the Knights moved into their new Uptown Charlotte home just four days earlier, the ballpark was ready for new traditions. Thanks to the vision of Eddie G.G. Burton, a former player in the Negro Leagues and a Charlotte resident, the Knights began their yearly Tribute to the Negro Leagues tradition. With help from Eddie, the event grew each year. More celebrations, more players, and more important messages made it so special. I’m proud to say that it was because of Eddie’s tireless efforts that the event became one of the finest celebrations in all of Minor League Baseball.

Many legendary Negro Leagues players have been honored at the ballpark each year.
Laura Wolff/Charlotte Knights

A YEARLY TRADITION
Although the Knights have not always been home for a game on April 15, the team still always finds a date to honor Jackie and the Negro Leagues. The 2015 celebration took place on May 17 and it was the first time the team welcomed a total of four former players from the Negro Leagues. The 2015 celebration was also the first in which the Knights welcomed a traveling museum.

The Knights celebrated their 3rd Annual Negro Leagues Night on Jackie Robinson Day, April 15, 2016 and their 4th Annual Negro Leagues Night on April 18, 2017. Each of these celebrations featured former players such as Carl Forney, a star pitcher from Belmont, who played in the Negro Leagues with teams such as the Charlotte Black Hornets and Indianapolis Clowns. Other former players such as Luther “Luke” Atkinson, Sam Allen, and Bill Cathcart made it a yearly tradition to visit the Knights for these special tribute nights.

Sadly, Forney passed away on December 16, 2017 and the 5th Annual Negro Leagues Tribute Night, which took place on April 17, 2018, honored his memory. Carl’s grandson, Jordan, threw out the game’s ceremonial first pitch. In addition, the Knights received a tremendous honor when Jackie Robinson’s daughter, Sharon Robinson, made a special appearance at the ballpark. The Knights presented Sharon with a #42 Knights jersey during an on-field ceremony.

TRIBUTE TO EDDIE G.G. BURTON
Sadly, the 5th Annual Negro Leagues Night was the final one for its founder, Eddie G.G. Burton. On Monday, October 22, 2018, Burton passed away at the age of 88. There since the beginning in 2014, the tribute nights could not have taken place each year without the work of Eddie. On Saturday, November 10, 2018, the Knights held a memorial service at the ballpark for Eddie.

In 2019, with the memory of Eddie GG. Burton on all of our minds, the Knights held their 6th Annual Negro Leagues Tribute Night on April 9. On hand for this special tribute to the Negro Leagues and the memory of Eddie, were his wife, Gaile, and son, Keith. In an emotional ceremonial first pitch, Keith looked up to the heavens and threw out the pitch.

KEEPING THE HISTORY OF JACKIE AND THE NEGRO LEAGUES ALIVE
The Knights were scheduled to host their 7th Annual Negro Leagues Tribute during the 2020 season. With the 100th Anniversary of the Negro Leagues that year, the celebration was one many looked for to attending. The team had many big plans for the game. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the season was first postponed and then ultimately cancelled. In 2021, with restrictions and many protocols still in place, the night was not held for a second consecutive year. That all changes this year as the Charlotte Knights 7th Annual Negro Leagues Night is set for Friday, April 15 on the 75th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier.

Much like in past seasons, the Knights will continue to honor the memory of Jackie Robinson, Eddie G.G. Burton and all of the players who have paved the way.

APRIL 15 at TRUIST FIELD
Friday’s game will feature three former Negro Leagues players on-hand to meet fans and sign autographs. The three former players are Sam Allen, Wali Cathcart (Rock Hill, SC native) and Larry LeGrande. In addition, Johnson C. Smith University will have a table on the concourse to showcase the history of the school’s baseball program. Ray Banks, a Negro Leagues ambassador, will bring his customized historical museum from Baltimore for all fans to enjoy at the game. It features photographs, baseball gear and other artifacts. Michael Turner Webb, a local Negro Leagues historian, will also be on hand to share his knowledge with fans.

The evening will also serve as a tribute to former Negro Leagues player, Eddie G.G. Burton. Sadly, Burton passed away in 2018. He was a big part of putting this annual event together since 2014. His family will be honored during the pre-game festivities. In addition, former Major League Baseball pitcher and founder of the Carolinas Metro Reds, Morris Madden, will perform the National Anthem. The Knights players will wear #42 jerseys when they face the Memphis Redbirds at 7:04 p.m. at Truist Field.

First Reading All-Stars Celebration is Sunday, April 24th!

The first of three Reading All-Stars games this season. Presented by Michelin, this program uses the fun and excitement of Greenville Drive baseball to encourage elementary and middle school students to read. If students achieve Reading All-Star status, they earn a complimentary ticket to the game.

This game will see students from Anderson, Pickens, Laurens, and Spartanburg County schools. Each Reading All-Star will get the chance to walk in a pregame parade or attend a Meet the Team event prior to the game and get a new RAS t-shirt and book to take home with them.

Students and teachers will be recognized throughout the game as we celebrate their accomplishments!

3rd Annual Teach GCS Night is Tuesday, April 19th

In partnership with Public Education Partners of Greenville County, Greenville Count Schools, and Herff Jones, the Greenville Drive will host their 3rd annual Teach GCS Night at Fluor Field this Tuesday to kick-off the homestand versus the Winston-Salem Dash – affiliate of the Chicago White Sox.

A night to elevate teachers in Greenville County Schools, and celebrate their profession, the evening begins at 5 PM with a special pre-game picnic in the 500 Club for all first-year teachers and their mentors! Those attending this picnic should have received a special invitation from Public Education Partners!

When gates to Fluor Field officially open at 6 PM, all teachers will receive a complimentary “My Drive to Teach” t-shirt courtesy of Herff Jones, and a $5 ballpark voucher compliments of the Drive that can be used at any of the concession stands!

Teachers from across Greenville County Schools will be recognized pre-game and throughout the night! Anne Tromsness, the 2021-22 Greenville County Schools Teacher of the Year will throw out the Ceremonial First Pitch, while Matt DeHart and Caroline Black, two of Greenville County Schools “Emerging Teachers” will serve as the Honorary Captains. Christian Scott, Sarah Poole and Anna Hasenkamp, the Greenville County Schools Teacher of the Year Runners-Up will kick the game off as Honorary Play Ball Announcers!

In-game inning breaks will include live interviews with Superintendent Dr. Burke Royster, as well as GCS Trustee Chuck Saylors.

You’ll want to be part of this special night, when we recognize and thank our Greenville County School teachers. Click HERE to purchase tickets!

We Honor the Negro Leagues on Jackie Robinson Day

This year, we celebrate the 75th anniversary of Jackie Robinson debuting for the Brooklyn Dodgers, breaking baseball’s color barrier. In honor of Robinson and many other players who pursued playing professional baseball despite the obstacles that were placed in their path, the Charlotte Knights would like to remember a few players from the Carolinas who were part of making the Negro Baseball Leagues a major league sport, even if it wasn’t properly recognized in their time.

The Taylor family out of South Carolina played a big role in the legacy of the Negro Leagues. The oldest of four Taylor brothers, C.I. Taylor, was born in 1875 in Anderson, SC. In 1904, C.I. founded the first all-black professional team in Birmingham, AL. As manager of the Birmingham Giants from 1904-1909, the eldest Taylor recruited his younger brothers Steel Arm Johnny, Candy Jim, and Ben to play for him. The youngest brother, Ben Taylor, finished his career in the Negro Leagues batting over .300 across 21 seasons. In 2006 Ben was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

Another member of the National Baseball Hall of Fame, Buck Leonard, played from 1935 to 1948 for the Homestead Grays of the Negro National League. Leonard was born in Rocky Mount, NC in 1907. He was compared to Lou Gehrig early in his career. The comparison was not just for his smooth hits and bat swing that resembled Gehrig’s (which was intentional as the teenaged Leonard would take a train up to Washington, DC to watch his favorite player Gehrig and the Yankees play the Senators) but it was more so for his kind and gentle demeanor, which Gehrig was known to have. In 1972, Leonard was inducted into the Hall of Fame after a Negro Leagues career hitting over .340 and a 1.042 OPS.

Dave Barnhill pitched in the professional and semi-pro Negro Leagues and foreign baseball leagues from the mid-1930s up until 1948. Standing only 5’6” tall, one might not be ready for the heater (fastball) coming to the plate from the mound. Not only were batters scared of his fastball, but even Barnhill was quoted as saying he was worried he might hurt a batter. When asked about Barnhill, Cool Papa Bell said, “he threw smoke.” Barnhill was born in Greenville, NC. In 1943 the Pittsburgh Pirates asked Barnhill to tryout for the Major League team. Unfortunately, the Pirates owner canceled the tryout. This was 3 years prior to Jackie Robinson signing with the Dodgers. In 1948, the New York Giants offered Barnhill a Major League contract. In 1950, at age 36, Barnhill and the Minneapolis Millers (minor league team for the Giants) won the American Association Championship. He went 11-3 with a 3.60 ERA that season. Barnhill retired before ever getting a promotion to the New York Giants.

As most remember Jackie Robinson being the first player to break the color barrier in the Major Leagues, some may forget the first player to break the color barrier in the American League was South Carolina native Larry Doby. On July 5, 1947, Doby debuted for the Cleveland Indians becoming Major League’s second black player. Doby was born in Camden, SC before his family moved to New Jersey. While in high school at age 18, Doby began playing professional baseball for the Newark Eagles of the Negro National League. While serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, Doby met Mickey Vernon, a star with the Washington Senators who was also serving in the Navy. Vernon is credited with encouraging Doby not to give up on baseball. In 1947, Bill Veeck and his Indians signed Doby to a Major League contract. In his last at-bat in the Negro Leagues, Doby hit a home run for Newark before leaving for Cleveland. After a 13-year career in Major League Baseball, Doby was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1998. Doby has won two World Series, the 1946 Negro League World Series with the Newark Eagles and the 1948 World Series with the Cleveland Indians.

There were many more players in the Negro Leagues who either played in the Carolinas or were born in the Carolinas that contributed to making the Negro Leagues a major league sport. The Negro Leagues helped Jackie Robinson take the steps to start the breaking of barriers in baseball, in sports, and in our society.

The Jackie Robinson Foundation, founded by Jackie’s wife Rachel, continues to help provide scholarship and leadership programs for minority students and is opening a Jackie Robinson Museum in New York this year.

Jackie Robinson Foundation: https://jackierobinson.org/

MLB’s recognition of the 75th anniversary: https://www.mlb.com/news/jackie-robinson-day-2022-commemoration

Fireflies Seeking Stand Up To Cancer Warriors of the Inning Nominees

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies today announced that they are searching for Cancer Warriors of the Inning to be honored during Stand Up To Cancer Night at Segra Park Thursday, May 19. The Fireflies will recognize local Cancer Warriors: those who are survivors, currently fighting or who have lost their lives to the fight against cancer.

Fans can nominate Cancer Warriors online by sharing their Warrior’s story. Nominations must be submitted by midnight Sunday, May 8. The Fireflies will be recognizing eight warriors during the game on Stand Up To Cancer Night. Each warrior who gets selected will receive two complimentary tickets to the Fireflies game May 19 vs the Myrtle Beach Pelicans at 7:05 pm.

The Fireflies return home April 19 to face-off against the Down East Wood Ducks for the first time in franchise history! When the Texas Rangers affiliate comes to town, the Fireflies will host their first Trash the Poop Dog Day of Summer, pass out a t-shirt giveaway and will blast-off a spectacular fireworks display.

Tickets for the upcoming games next week, and all 2022 Fireflies home games, are on sale now and can be purchased online at FirefliesTickets.com, by calling the Fireflies Box Office at 803-726-4487 or by visiting the Fireflies Box Office in-person at Segra Park. Individual game ticket prices range from $5 to $12 and premium seating options are available starting at $14 per person. All tickets will be sold on a first come first serve basis and are based upon availability.