Whitecaps Community Foundation to Donate 5,000 books

COMSTOCK PARK MI, – The Whitecaps Community Foundation is celebrating “March is Reading Month” in a big way this year, by donating 5,000 books to local Grand Rapids elementary schools. The book donations will benefit the students of 15 Grand Rapids Public Schools recommended for the program based on their needs and their potential for impacting as large a student group as possible.

The Whitecaps Community Foundation started their book donation program two years ago when 300 books were donated to one school in need and since then the program has blossomed. Each school receiving books will host an assembly recognizing the importance of reading where the books will be distributed to students. Two of the donations will occur in April where West Michigan Whitecaps players will be on hand to help distribute books. Those are April 11 at Ridgemoor Park Montessori and on April 19 at Sherwood Park Global Studies Academy. Both of those are scheduled to start at 10:30 a.m.

The book donations are a key part of the Whitecaps Community Foundation’s Reading Program, which helps area school children enjoy Whitecaps baseball while promoting reading and literacy. Kids who read 15 minutes a day, during the month of March, can attend a Whitecaps game for free in April, May or June. The Whitecaps Community Foundation provides participating schools with all support materials, such as reading tracking calendars and posters, at no cost. Last year’s Reading Program had more than 67,000 K-6 children participate from over 260 West Michigan schools. Nearly 16,000 complimentary tickets were donated to students who completed the challenge.

The Whitecaps Community Foundation, the nonprofit extension of the West Michigan Whitecaps, is a 501c3 organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children and their families by providing them with access to social, educational and recreational programs that will have a positive impact on their futures. With the help and generosity of community partners and members, the Whitecaps Community Foundation continues to strive to make the West Michigan area a better place to grow, learn, and thrive.

In 2017, through a combination of donations and fundraising efforts, the Whitecaps Community Foundation gave more than $530,000 to local children and their families. For details on the Whitecaps Community Foundation’s programs and how to participate in the Reading Program please visit us at www.whitecapscommunityfoundation.org or call the Whitecaps front office at 616.784.4131.

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

Shorebirds Celebrate Hit the Books Bookmark Contest Winner

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AquaSox Release 2017 Community Relations Report

Everett, WA – The Everett AquaSox Community Fund launched in 2009 to help fund many community projects, with a focus on education, youth programming and youth sports. Since its inception, the Community Fund has donated over $100,000 in grants to Little Leagues, Boys & Girls Clubs and other local organizations.

In 2017, the Everett AquaSox Community fund donated $21,307 in monetary donations to several non-profit organizations and foundations in the area. The Community Fund raises money primarily through auctions at the ballpark. The season featured six different auctions with the first auction being the Relay for Life jersey. In addition to the Relay for Life jersey, there were Pink in the Park hats, 4th of July hats, FrogStock jerseys, Star Wars jerseys and the fan favorite, FROGS faux-throwback jerseys.

Hit-a-Home-Run in Reading Program increased its enrollment to nearly 23,000 students between Snohomish, King, Island and Skagit counties. Students who read “around-the-bases” received a coupon from Alfy’s pizza, Woodland Park Zoo and a ticket to a game with their school.

The AquaSox continued supporting the Challenger League by hosting two games in 2017. Each game allowed every player in the Challenger League to show off their skills at the plate, in the field and on the mound. All the AquaSox players participated in both events after their game.

Webbly and staff participated in multiple events throughout the season. This included Camp Erin, Socktoberfest, Celebrate Schools 5K, National Adoption Day and more! If your organization has an event you would like Webbly or the AquaSox staff to attend, contact Ashlea LaPlant at (425) 258-3673 or at ashleal@aquasox.com.

Click here to vew the complete 2017 Community Relations Report.

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

Ports Release 2017 Community Relations Report

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. Releases Annual Report for 2017

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE 2016 ANNUAL REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. is proud to present the third Annual Report to the Community detailing the charitable outreach completed in 2017. The report lists the extensive accomplishments of the foundation and the notable programs coordinated by the Cougars.

Five new foundation programs were added in 2017 including the Al Mueller Memorial Scholarship Fund, the D-backs Give Back partnership, AmazonSmile, Highland Salutes and the Es Divertido Ser Un Fan campaign which saw the Cougars selected as one of four teams out of 160 Minor League Baseball teams to participate in this historic Hispanic outreach program.

The annual 5K Run/Walk hosted by the Cougars was re-branded in honor of First Responders. A total of $2,000 was donated to local departments including Geneva Police and Fire, St. Charles Police and Fire, Batavia Police and Fire as well as the Kane County Forest Preserve Police and the Kane County Sheriff’s Department.

Ozzie’s Reading Club was also re-branded, with the addition of our new mascot Annie, to the Cougars Reading Club. Each year the program encourages over 130,000 local area students to meet reading goals with incentives such as game tickets, food vouchers and a drawstring backpack. In-kind donations for the Cougars Reading Club totaled $646,190 in 2017.

The 50/50 Raffle, presented by Bret Brizzolara your local Country Financial representative and the Acres Group Pitch-In for Charity are two in-game programs from which a portion of the proceeds benefit specific charities selected by the Kane County Cougars Foundation. In 2017, these two programs generated over $29,000 to support local causes including Fox Valley Wildlife Center, Food for Greater Elgin, Holiday Heroes, Naperville Alive and DuPage PADS.

For every home run that was hit by a Cougars player at home, Paramount Fence made a donation to Emmanuel House which was then matched by the Cougars through the Home Run for Charity program. In 2017, the donation totaled $2,400.

Through a variety of military organizations including the Illinois National Guard, Operation Support Our Troops, Rolling Thunder and the Veteran Tickets Foundation, the Kane County Cougars Foundation presented in-kind donations for Military Recognition totaling $16,844 in 2017.

Various in-kind donations, community appearances, high school seminars, clinics and events show the Cougars on-going commitment to the surrounding community through programs such as the Library Summer Reading Program, senior citizen half-price tickets and food vouchers, the Winter Coat Drive and a partnership with Two Men and a Truck to collect items through the Movers for Moms program.

“Each year we strive to find new ways to give back to local organizations,” said Cougars owner Cheryl Froehlich. “With the additional programs added under the Kane County Cougars Foundation we were able to assist the surrounding community in more ways than we ever have before.”

“We’re dedicated to creating a legacy for the Kane County Cougars that goes far beyond the game of baseball,” added Cougars owner Dr. Bob Froehlich. “The Cougars are committed to making Kane County and the surrounding area a better place to live and work through the efforts of the Kane County Cougars Foundation.”

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 161 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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

Cedar Rapids Kernels release 2017 Community Report

Cedar Rapids, IA – The Kernels have released their second annual report showcasing how the organization supported the Cedar Rapids community in 2017.

The eleven page report features new community programs “Catch with a Cop” and “Home Run for Hunger” while also breaking down the $256,000 in charitable donations contributed by the Kernels organization. Other highlights include a recap on the thriving “Kernels Summer Reading Program” and a page dedicated to The Kernels Foundation in their efforts in supporting recreational activities for the youth in Eastern Iowa.

“The work we do in Cedar Rapids and surrounding communities is something we are very proud of.” says Ryne George, Kernels Director of Community Relations. “Back in 2016 we started the “Take the Lead” community relations initiative to help brand our efforts and today it has really grown into a way of thinking here at the ballpark and pushes us to do more.”

The 2017 Cedar Rapids Kernels Community Report can be viewed by clicking here.

The Cedar Rapids Kernels are the Midwest League affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. For more information, visit www.kernels.com and follow the Kernels on social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

The Cedar Rapids Kernels are the Midwest League affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fireflies Reading Program Receives National Recognition

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The American Association of School Librarians (AASL) has awarded the Columbia Fireflies Reading Program – an incentive-based literacy initiative presented by Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital – a certificate of commendation as an outstanding program deserving of recognition at the national level.

The Reading Program was created to encourage and enhance literacy among the youth of the Midlands. The program is completely free to students and educators. During the academic year, the program is run through schools, and, during the summer months, the program continues through local libraries. Students are required to reach goals set by educators while they “Read Around the Bases,” creating a customizable incentive-based program to encourage children to read. Each student’s progress is tracked, and once they make it to “Home Plate” (complete the program), students are rewarded with a complimentary ticket to a Fireflies game, a voucher for a free meal, a special gift from the Fireflies and a free ticket to EdVenture Children’s Museum.

“The Columbia Fireflies are proud to have been honored with this formal commendation for our efforts to enhance literacy through our Reading Program,” said Fireflies team President John Katz. “Our partnership with Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital has been instrumental in our ability to grow so rapidly and to impact the lives of so many children.”

In just the second year of the program, the Fireflies reached over 65,000 students from 153 schools during the spring session, and nearly 25,000 more this summer through 4 county libraries, the YMCA and other child-centric organizations.

Kyle Williamson, the Fireflies Reading Program Manager, works closely with educators and librarians to provide children across the Midlands with incentives to hit their reading goals, develop a love for reading and for the use of information technologies. After summer break, the Reading Program had been implemented across the region in Richland, Lexington, Oconee, Newberry, Fairfield, Lancaster, Kershaw, Florence, Williamsburg, Calhoun, Sumter, Orangeburg, Beaufort, and Barnwell Counties.

“Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital firmly believes in the importance of literacy. Reading is a strong component of children’s ability to grow and understand the world around them. Forming a partnership with the Fireflies reading program is another way of being an advocate for children and their overall well-being that helps our entire community,” said Diane Bagnal-Moody, administrative director of Children’s Hospital.

Delegates of the AASL Affiliate Assembly nominate specific programs across the country, and the South Carolina Association of School Librarians delegate, Cindy Symonds, brought the Fireflies’ efforts to the national stage.

The Fireflies kicked off the program at the local schools and libraries with Mason, the team’s mascot, making an appearance to get the children excited about reading. Fireflies players joined in after the season began and would head out in their uniforms and read with students at various schools.

The mission of AASL is to empower leaders to transform teaching and learning. Audrey Church, president of AASL, explained that this group works to ensure that all members of the school library field collaborate to connect learners with ideas and information to prepare students for life-long learning and informed decision-making.

Enrollment for the 2018 Fireflies Reading Program begins on Friday, October 27th at 9am. Visit ColumbiaFireflies.com for more details.

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

Register for This Year’s Edition of Fang’s Reading Club

GRAND CHUTE, WI – Fang’s Reading Club is open for enrollment! The incentive-based rewards program that encourages reading development in children from grades K through 5 is presented by Learning Rx, Myndology, and Tutor Doctor. Teachers and reading coordinators have until Friday, November 17 to get involved in this popular Wisconsin Timber Rattlers program.

Personnel at participating schools have the flexibility to design the program to meet the needs of their students. The Timber Rattlers and various sponsors will provide students with incentive prizes as they reach goals within the program. Students who meet all of their goals for the program are rewarded with a FREE ticket as part of their school’s Family Night at a Timber Rattlers game in 2018.

The Timber Rattlers and the sponsors of Fang’s Reading Club will provide:

  • An introductory letter to be sent to parents at the start of the program.
  • Baseball related verification aids to help parents and teachers track the progress of participants.
  • Incentive prizes for students as they reach each goal set by the coordinator.
  • A FREE ticket to a 2018 Timber Rattlers game with a hot dog & soda voucher for students who complete the program.
  • Information to aid schools in setting up their Family Night at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium.

Please head to Fang’s Reading Club page at the Timber Rattlers website for full details, including a sample timeline, dates for Reading Club games, and how your school can schedule a visit from Fang. You may also look at this year’s Reading Club brochure here.

The club had 200 schools and over 47,000 students participate in the program last year and Fang is looking to make this year’s club even bigger!

Contact Dayna Baitinger at dbaitinger@timberrattlers.com, (800) WI-TIMBER, or (920) 733-4152 if you have any questions or would like to register your class or school for this year’s club.

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

Biloxi Shuckers make major community impact in 2017

Here is a link to the original story on the team’s website.

BIBiloxi ShuckersLOXI, MS – In a season marked by several on-field accomplishments in the third year of Minor League Baseball on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the Biloxi Shuckers are most proud of their various community outreach efforts. From theme nights to jersey auctions, the Shuckers have made a financial and symbolic impact on their community throughout the 2017 season.

The Shuckers were nominated by the Minor League Baseball Community as a finalist for a prestigious “Golden Bobblehead” award for the “Best Community Promotion or Event” after helping with the Hattiesburg/Petal tornado relief efforts and William Carey vs. Biloxi Shuckers exhibition game. Shuckers’ employees traveled to Petal, Mississippi to assist cleanup crews. The tornado caused damage to the campus of nearby William Carey University, so the Shuckers scheduled a benefit exhibition game against the school’s baseball team before the first road trip of the season. The game raised $6,090 for the university’s tornado recovery efforts. This effort coupled with numerous other initiatives garnered the recognition.

Watch: Youtube Video

In addition to the recognition by Minor League Baseball, the Shuckers were also a finalist for the Southern League’s Community Service Award.

Shuckers’ front office members laid the groundwork for a successful season with several other community initiatives. Employees laid sod at an athletic complex in Moss Point, Mississippi to revitalize the area’s youth baseball program.

Watch: Youtube Video

In partnership with Walmart, the inaugural Shuckers “Hit the Books” reading program brought Schooner the Seagull to 17 schools and over 10,000 students to incentivize reading with Shuckers tickets as a reward.

Watch: Youtube Video

Since their inception, the Shuckers have had a strong relationship with nearby Keesler Air Force Base and the substantial military presence on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. That trend continued in 2017, as every Monday became “Military Monday” with special discounts for active and retired members of the armed forces. Special camouflage jerseys, worn every Monday and designed with input from Keesler staff, and were auctioned off at the end of the season with proceeds benefiting local military causes.

Throughout the season, the Shuckers have partnered with several charitable organizations to raise money and awareness for deserving local causes. Three additional jersey auctions earlier this season have brought in money for the March of Dimes, Mississippi Center for Autism, and Favre4Hope breast cancer research.

Watch: Youtube Video

The Shuckers have also hosted a Christmas in July toy drive for the Uplift Foundation, Seatbelt Safety night for the K&J Foundation (started by team photographer Brian Pearse), and Skin Cancer Awareness night in partnership with the MiLB Charities Sun Safety Initiative.

Youth outreach was not limited to the “Hit the Books” program. The Shuckers turned their two “Education Day” games into vocational field trips, with visits from Biloxi Fire and Police, NASA, the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, Department of Marine Resources, University of Southern Mississippi’s Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, and Mississippi State University’s Coastal Research Extension.

Former New York Mets catcher and Biloxi native Barry Lyons was formally invited into the Shuckers organization as an ambassador prior to the 2017 season, and the team assisted him in the creation of the first series of Shuckers Kids Clinics for local youth. In addition, the “Field of Dreams” program allowed more than 100 young baseball and softball players from the area to take the field alongside Shuckers players for the national anthem.

In partnership with the Knights of Columbus, the Biloxi Shuckers collected 765 lbs of food/product during a food drive on Sunday, July 30th for them to distribute in the community.

In addition to these widespread efforts, the Shuckers have also made numerous player and mascot appearances in the community over the course of the season. The Shuckers in-kind donations and in-stadium fundraising initiatives have raised $155,455.91 for over 100 charitable organizations. The Biloxi Shuckers understand the responsibility that comes with their platform in the community and are determined to make a positive impact on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

In addition to monetary contributions, the Biloxi Shuckers front office staff have logged 265 community volunteer hours thus far in 2017. Those hours have been spent working with area schools, NCBC’s Child Development Center, Humane Society of South Mississippi, VA Medical Center, Loaves and Fishes and cleanup efforts from Hurricane Harvey.

The Shuckers open up their 2018 season on the road at Montgomery before their home opener against Mississippi on April 11. More information on the fourth season of Biloxi Shuckers baseball will be available at biloxishuckers.com as the offseason progresses.

ABOUT THE BILOXI SHUCKERS: The Biloxi Shuckers are the Double-A Southern League Affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The Shuckers play at MGM Park in Biloxi, Mississippi. For more information please visit biloxishuckers.com and follow us on Twitter @biloxishuckers and at facebook.com/biloxishuckers.com.

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

DeGraaf Wins Jays Community Service Award

Dunedin Blue Jays starting pitcher Josh DeGraaf had a memorable season on the field, establishing himself as Dunedin’s ace in the second half and helping to pitch the team to a share of the Florida State League’s Championship. While his impact was great between the white lines, DeGraaf made many more memories for members of our local Dunedin community off the field. For his continued efforts to support the local community, DeGraaf was recently honored as the Blue Jays 2017 Community Service Award winner.

The Blue Jays Community Service Award has been given annually since 2012 to the Blue Jays player who best exemplifies the team’s commitment to enriching the Dunedin community through a variety of outreach programs that promote education, healthy lifestyles, and charity. Throughout the 2017 season, DeGraaf represented the Blue Jays in the community through numerous appearances away from the ballpark, supporting and encouraging local children, students, and families.

“We could always count on Josh. Hands down, no one was more eager to participate and help out throughout the season,” Blue Jays Community Relations Manager Kathi Beckman said about DeGraaf. “He was a leader and an advocate for our programs in the clubhouse all year. He was so personable with fans and the community and was an absolute natural with children and students.”

DeGraaf helped lead the 2017 Blue Jays Bookin’ It To The Ballpark Reading Program, the largest community outreach progam in the franchise’s history, reaching five hundred elementary school students in 14 Pinellas County schools. DeGraaf visited local elementary schools to support the program and promote literacy, reading to local students, answering their questions, and encouraging them in their studies. Over the course of the six-week program, local students read for 146,035 minutes, over 101 full days of reading.

DeGraaf was also active at the 2017 Blue Jays Bowling Tournament, an event that raised $12,820 for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tampa Bay. Prior to the event, he volunteered to paint pottery to be raffled at the event and then helped raise nearly $1000 selling raffle tickets to fans at the event.

DeGraaf also took to the shopping mall to help out local families, participating in the Blue Jays Here We Grow and Toys For Tots Shopping Drives. During the Here We Grow Shopping Spree, he helped purchase school supplies and clothing for local students in need. During the Toys For Tots drive, he joined teammate Ryan Cook in selecting $1000 worth of toys and presents to be given to local children during the upcoming holiday season.

Reflecting on the myriad of events he participated in throughout the year, DeGraaf noted the time he spent with local students during the Reading Program as particularly memorable.

“I loved the kids’ questions. They always had really funny questions and sometimes very surprisingly good questions about baseball, about reading, and about life. It was fun hearing those and laughing with them. They may have been early mornings, but I enjoy working with kids.”

DeGraaf joins an impressive list of past Dunedin Blue Jays Community Service Award winners.

2012: Danny Barnes
2013: Matt Newman
2014: Taylor Cole
2015: L.B. Dantzler and Jorge Saez
2016: Tim Mayza

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

Blue Wahoos Earn Southern League Community Service Award

MARIETTA, Ga., – The Southern League of Professional Baseball Clubs has announced the Pensacola Blue Wahoos winners of the Community Service Award. The Blue Wahoos racked up four individual awards including the Woman of Excellence Award, Groundskeeper of the Year, Trainer of the Year and Sports Media Award.

In conjunction with the Studer Community Institute, the Blue Wahoos have ignited a fire within the community to help raise awareness about the importance of Early Childhood Education. By improving early childhood education, we hope to move in a positive direction the metrics for graduation rates, a reduction in crime and juvenile delinquency, an improvement in the number of families living below the poverty line, and attracting employers to Pensacola. The Blue Wahoos’ Community Relations team are helping with early childhood education by providing schools with a Blue Wahoos-focused program, “Kazoo’s Grand Slam Reading Program,” which includes kick-off or “launch” parties wherein Kazoo and our Flight Squad (entertainment group) visit elementary schools and perform “Kazoo Makes the Team.” Once classes have fully-participated in the reading requirements of “Kazoo’s Grand Slam Reading Program,” they are entered in a raffle to win a trip for their class to a Blue Wahoos game. Year over year, participation in our reading program continues to grow.

To further support our commitment to Early Childhood Education, we provide an in-stadium fun fact test that asks children to identify colors, numbers, traits and characteristics of the Blue Wahoos and our stadium. Children complete the test and return with it to Fan Assistance where they are rewarded with a Blue Wahoos promotional giveaway item of their choice.

Ray Sayre, Director of Sports Turf Management for the Blue Wahoos, is this year’s Groundskeeper of the Year, as selected by the league’s field managers and umpires. This is the fifth consecutive year Sayre has won this award. Sayre has been with the Wahoos since the team’s inaugural season. Growing up in Lexington, Kentucky, he began his turf career working on the athletic fields for the University of Kentucky. Before making the move to Pensacola, Sayre worked for several minor league teams including the Louisville Bats, the Greenville Drive and the Bowling Green Hotrods.

Donna Kirby, Vice President of Operations, is this year’s Woman of Excellence Award Winner. Kirby has been a leader with the Blue Wahoos since our inaugural season and has been instrumental in putting Pensacola on the map as leaders in the field of exemplary customer service. Kirby’s core responsibility is to create an environment focused strongly on extraordinary customer service. As a direct result of Kirby’s work with customer service, representatives from local companies, universities newspapers and other baseball teams all wanted to learn how to take their organizations to the next level with customer service.

Bill Vilona, Senior Sports Columnist at the Pensacola News Journal, is honored with the Southern League’s Sports Media Award. Covering the team since the inaugural season, Vilona has covered games, practices, events and offseason activities. Vilona continues to go over and beyond in his coverage by producing positive off-the-field stories to show the positive impact of the Blue Wahoos. Vilona was inducted to the Pensacola Sports Hall of Fame in 2015 as one of only three media members inducted in the hall. He was also inducted into the 2016-17 University of West Florida Athletics Hall of Fame.

Tyler Moos, athletic trainer for the Blue Wahoos, is this years’ Southern League Trainer of the Year. Moos just completed his second year with Pensacola and his second year with the Cincinnati Reds. He joined the Reds following three seasons in the Mariners organization.

As the winner of the Southern League Community Service Award, Pensacola will be nominated for MiLB’s John Henry Moss Award. Sayre will be nominated for the Sports Turf Managers Association classification winner. Kirby is nominated for MiLB’s Woman Executive of the Year Award.

2017 Southern League Awards

Southern League Community Service Award: Pensacola Blue Wahoos

Groundskeeper of the Year: Ray Sayre, Pensacola Blue Wahoos

Woman of Excellence Award: Donna Kirby, Pensacola Blue Wahoos

Sports Media Award: Bill Vilona, Pensacola News Journal

Trainer of the Year: Tyler Moos, Pensacola Blue Wahoos

Don Mincher Organization of the Year: Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp

Southern League Patriot Award: Montgomery Biscuits

Jimmy Brogan Executive of the Year: Harold Craw, Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp

Outstanding Employee of the Year: Ari Rosenbaum, Mobile BayBears

Southern League Promotion Trophy: Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp

Radio Broadcaster of the Year: Chris Harris, Biloxi Shuckers

Best Visiting Clubhouse Attendant: Shawn Jenkins, Tennessee Smokies

Bayboy of the Year Award: Wesley Sullivan, Mobile BayBears

The Pensacola Blue Wahoos are the Double-A Affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and a member of the Southern League. Follow the Pensacola Blue Wahoos at BlueWahoos.com, facebook.com/PensacolaBlueWahoos and twitter.com/BlueWahoosBBall.

–www.bluewahoos.com–

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

Summer Reading All-Stars Celebrated on Sunday

This weekend’s homestand at Fluor Field concludes on Sunday afternoon as the Drive and Michelin, N.A. host the Summer Reading All-Stars Celebration Game!

First pitch between the Drive and Rome Braves is set for 4:05 PM, and the fun for Reading All-Stars begins when the gates open at 3:00. Summer Reading All-Stars from the library systems of Greenville, Anderson and Pickens Counties will receive a complimentary t-shirt as they arrive, and they will be celebrated with a pregame parade around the warning track at 3:30.

Following the game, all children, including Reading All-Stars, are invited to join in for BlueCross BlueShield Kids Run the Bases!

Be sure to come out on Sunday to celebrate these students for continuing their reading programs during the summer. To purchase tickets, head to the Main Street Box Office, call (864) 240-4528 or CLICK HERE.

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

AquaSox Reading Program Receives Honor

Everett, WA – The Everett AquaSox received the 2016-2017 Spirit of the Community Award from the Everett PTSA Council during their 2016-2017 Awards Recognition Banquet at Everett Community College on May 25, 2017. The AquaSox were recognized for their contributions to the students in the Everett School District. Kellie Howard, Community Relations & Merchandise Manager was on hand to accept the award for the organization from Everett PTSA Council President, Angela Steck and Program Chair, Denise Constantineau. “During my two years with the AquaSox I have had the privilege to kick off our Hit a Home Run in Reading Program and truly see the kids’ eyes light up when they find out they can see an AquaSox game and Webbly all by reading books!” Kellie shared.

Hit a Home Run in Reading Program presented by SoundTransit is a 4-week program that starts in the Spring months and in 2016 over 60 elementary schools and over 27,000 students in Snohomish County participated in this free program. The program kicks off at each school with a special appearance by Webbly and celebrates the reading program awards. In 2017 prizes included a student designed bookmark featuring artwork from four different students, free admission to the Woodland Park Zoo, a personal Alfy’s Pizza, discounted Port of Subs kid’s meal and a ticket to an AquaSox game with their school. Schools are invited to attend select games during our Opening Week where they are recognized during a pre-game on-field parade.

Since 2009 over 200,000 students have participated in the ‘Hit a Home Run Reading’ program. General Manager, Danny Tetzlaff said “We are very honored to have our ‘Hit A Home Run Reading’ program recognized. Using AquaSox baseball to encourage student to read is a real homerun!” The first ‘Hit a Home Run Reading’ program Night is Opening Night June 15 against the Hillsboro Hops.

Group tickets, family outings and ticket packages are currently available and selling fast for all games for the 2017 season. To purchase your tickets for Opening Night our office at (425) 258-3673 or visit AquaSox.com for more information.

Bookmarks to be honored at BB&T Ballpark

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (May 22, 2017) – The Winston-Salem Dash are proud to announce that Bookmarks is the 2017 Charity Partner. The Dash will honor Bookmarks on Monday, May 29, during their 2 p.m. game against the Down East Wood Ducks at BB&T Ballpark.

Bookmarks is a literary arts nonprofit organization that fosters a love of reading and writing in the community. Their programming connects readers with authors and books and is achieved through the largest annual book festival in North and South Carolina, an Authors in Schools program, which reaches 7,500 students annually, and year-round events in their gathering space and nonprofit independent bookstore. Visit bookmarksnc.org for more information.

The Dash’s Charity Partner benefits from the proceeds of the club’s Commemorative Brick Program, through which fans can purchase engraved bricks that are installed outside of BB&T Ballpark’s main gates beyond right-center field. Bookmarks will also receive deliverables equivalent to a Dominant-level partner to spread its message to Dash fans all season long. Here is a list of the Dash’s past charity partners:

2010: Brenner Children’s Hospital
2011: Centers for Exceptional Children
2012: Ronald McDonald House of Winston-Salem
2013: Habitat for Humanity of Forsyth County
2014: Senior Services
2015: The Shalom Project of Winston-Salem
2016: Veterans Helping Veterans Heal (VHVH)

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