River Cats, Access Leisure Present 14th Annual “Baseball for All” Skills Clinic

Free Baseball Skills Clinic to be Held at River Cats Independence Field

WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The Sacramento River Cats, in partnership with the City of Sacramento and Access Leisure, are excited to participate in this weekend’s 14th annual “Baseball for All” free skills clinic at River Cats Independence Field. The clinic will take place this Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

The “Baseball for All” clinic is run in part by current members of the River Cats. Players will work with and coach the junior athletes in attendance in basic skills and other baseball fundamentals. The clinic is open to youth with disabilities age four through school age. The clinic is held at the fully accessible River Cats Independence Field, located at the Sam Pannell Community Center.

“‘Baseball for All’ is one of our favorite community events, not just for us, but for the players, as well,” said River Cats President, Jeff Savage. “We all look forward every year to coming out here to River Cats Independence Field and connecting through the sport we all love. It’s impactful for everyone involved and we couldn’t be more excited.”

In addition to hands-on coaching with current River Cats players, each participant will receive a “Baseball for All” tee shirt. Lunch will also be provided for participants and their parent/guardian. In addition, each ballplayer will receive two tickets to a River Cats home game at Raley Field. Additional tickets will be available through the Round Table Pizza Ticket Office at Raley Field.

Pre-registration is required for athletes to participate in the clinic. The registration form can be found online at cityofsacramento.org.

River Cats Independence Field opened in 2005 and has hosted the “Baseball for All” clinic since 2006. Located in South Sacramento, the River Cats Independence Field baseball diamond is resurfaced with a custom rubberized turf, similar to that used for the track and field surfaces in the Paralympics. The River Cats Foundation and River Cats Baseball contributed cash, goods, and services totaling more than $250,000 to River Cats Independence Field to help in its construction and upkeep.

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The Sacramento River Cats are the Triple-A affiliate of the 2014 World Champion San Francisco Giants. The team plays at Raley Field in West Sacramento, consistently voted one of the top ballparks in America. River Cats Season Tickets, Mini-Plans, and Flex Plans can be purchased for the 2015 season by calling the River Cats Ticket Hotline at (916) 371-HITS (4487). For more information about the River Cats, visitwww.rivercats.com. For information on other events at Raley Field, visitwww.raleyfield.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Sacramento River Cats. Click here to view the original story.

San Jose Giants’ Unveil 2015 Salute to the Military Trading Card Set

Willie Mays headlines group of honorees that include every branch of the military

San Jose, CA– The San Jose Giants unveiled today their 2015 Salute to the Military Trading Card Set, presented by Operation: Care and Comfort. All branches of the United States Military are represented in the set. In addition, the trading cards include current military personnel, individuals killed in action as well as veterans from World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and Gulf Wars. Included in the set are San Francisco Giants Hall of Fame outfielder Willie Mays, who served in the Army during the 1950’s, as well as heroic Navy Seal, and author of the book Lone Survivor, Marcus Luttrell. The following is a complete list of all selections for the 2015 San Jose Giants Military Trading Card Set:

Willie Mays, Marcus Luttrell, Harold E. Adams, Alvaro G. Alvarado, Andrews Family, Vanessa Barquero, Nicholas P. Barthel, Ernest Bizzozero, Joseph Bojo, Paris Cervantes, Tomas Cortez, Donald Crawford, Milan Dungjen, Peter Filice, Miguel Gastelo, Gary Ginestra, Michael R. Gomez, Mike C. Gomez, Keffer Family, Rob Knepper, Travis Layfield, Edward Moss, Nick Nardolillo, Robert Orum, Earl Orum, Jerimy Y. Pickering, John G. Rally, Jimmie C. Ruiz, Romeo Delos Santos, Tipi Soli, Louis P. Swan and Brothers, Garrett C. Unruh, Teryl G. Vogler, James R. West and Henry Zatarain.

“It is truly an honor to have San Francisco Giants legend Willie Mays and national hero Marcus Luttrell join these amazing brave men and women in our 2015 Salute to the Military Trading Card Set, presented by Operation: Care and Comfort,” said Juliana Paoli, San Jose Giants Chief Marketing Officer. “For the second straight year, we received an incredible number of stories of the heroes among us and we want to thank everyone who submitted a nomination. We feel privileged to have each of the honorees in our set and hope that they will help remind people of all the brave men and women who have protected and are still protecting our country.”

The sets will be given away to the first 1,000 fans through the gates on Salute to the Military Night on April 18. The game will be an entire evening dedicated to honoring the brave men and women defending our country. The pregame festivities will include a first pitch ceremony, color guard presentation and on-field recognition of the individuals chosen for the 2015 Military Trading Card Set. The team will also wear special military themed jerseys and don these jerseys again on Memorial Day, May 25, where they will be part of an in-game silent auction directly benefiting Operation: Care and Comfort. On May 25, each of the highest bidders will be able to go on the field following the game and receive their new autographed jersey right off the respective San Jose Giant’s back.

“It is a privilege for Operation: Care and Comfort to be a part of this promotion and we want to thank our partners BAE Systems, USAA and the San Jose Rotary Club Military Care Package Committee for helping make the set possible,” said Julie DeMaria, Operation: Care and Comfort President and Co-Founder. “The trading card set is a memorable way to honor the brave men and women who serve our country and the individuals who make up this set not only span generations, but are a tremendous representation of the heroes in our community.”

First pitch for the San Jose Giants home opener will take place at 7:00 PM on Thursday, April 16 against the Bakersfield Blaze. Opening Night festivities include postgame fireworks presented by State Farm, magnet schedule giveaway to the first 4,000 fans, San Francisco Giants World Champion Affiliate Flag Raising Ceremony and a historic first pitch that Giants fans will not want to miss! The Giants will host games at Municipal Stadium on Mother’s Day (May 10), Memorial Day (May 25), and Independence Day (July 4). For information on the 2015 season and ticket packages please visit sjgiants.com, call (408) 297-1435 or stop by the Municipal Stadium Box Office Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Jose Giants. Click here to view the original story.

Local Military Members Honored In Squirrels Card Set Giveaway

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Richmond-Flying-SquirrelsThe Richmond Flying Squirrels, Double-A affiliate of the World Champion San Francisco Giants, are excited to announce they are currently accepting nominations for their inaugural Military Card Set Giveaway on May 26th presented by Verizon. The trading card set will be comprised solely of current or former members of the military that have been nominated by fans. Nominations will be accepted through April 10th online at www.squirrelsbaseball.com or at any Verizon Wireless Store in Central Virginia. Military card sets will be distributed to the first 2,000 fans on May 26th at The Diamond. Gates open on May 26th at 5:30PM and a pre-game ceremony to honor all Military members will take place before the first pitch against Harrisburg. SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATIONS HERE

“We have always had strong a place in our heart for our Military personnel and all they do to protect our freedom and allow us to do what we do for and in our community,” Said Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell. “We could not be more pleased to highlight these heroes in this commemorative and limited edition card set.

Any questions regarding the Military Card Set Giveaway can be directed to erin.mcdonald@squirrelsbaseball.com. The Flying Squirrels 2015 season begins on Thursday, April 9th. Single-Game tickets are currently on sale at The Diamond, over the phone and online. Opening Night April 9th will feature the Squirrels first eve dueling fireworks and dueling piano show. For a full list of the 2015 season promotions, visit www.squirrrelsbaseball.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Richmond Flying Squirrels. Click here to view the original story.

San Jose Giants 2015 Summer Camp Sessions

Three camp sessions scheduled at Municipal Stadium

San-Jose-GiantsThe San Jose Giants announced today three sessions for their ninth annual Summer Camps at Municipal Stadium. The organization will offer one camp in June, July and August, giving families a variety of dates throughout the summer to get their kids involved. Session 1 will take place June 15 – June 18, Session 2 July 27 – July 30 and Session 3 August 3 – August 6. All camp sessions will run from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM each day and focus on developing baseball skills for boys and girls ages 7 through 14.

The San Jose Giants understand the value of individual instruction and are committed to having numerous coaches on-hand. Camp participants will receive the most personal interaction and focused attention possible as all camps will maintain a 10:1 camper to coach ratio. The coaching staff will be led by John Rally, the San Jose Giants Corporate Partnerships and Youth Development Program Manager.

“With another baseball season nearly upon us, I am eager to get out on the field this summer to help develop young athletes’ baseball skills while teaching them to apply those lessons to their lives off the field,” said Rally. “Municipal Stadium has helped produce a number of homegrown champions over the years. My hope is that these camp sessions will assist our participants in realizing and furthering their dreams of someday playing here in a Giants uniform.”

During each session, campers will work on all fundamentals of the game with a focus on baserunning, hitting, catching, fielding and throwing mechanics. Each session costs $295 per camp prior to May 1. Following May 1, the cost to register will increase to $315 per camp. Included in the registration price, each camp participant will receive tickets for the entire family to a designated San Jose Giants game, Summer Camp T-Shirt, lunch provided each day, and over 20 hours of baseball instruction! To learn more about the San Jose Giants Summer Camps visit sjgiants.com, call (408) 380-4501, or email JohnRally@sjgiants.com.

Registration and payment for San Jose Giants Summer Camps will take place through sjgiants.com.

Click here to begin registration and payment. Please note that registering your child is not complete until both the form and payment have been completed.

First pitch for the 2015 San Jose Giants home opener will take place Thursday, April 16 against the Bakersfield Blaze. San Jose’s 2015 season begins on Thursday, April 9 in Lancaster. The Giants will host games at Municipal Stadium on Mother’s Day (May 10), Memorial Day (May 25), Father’s Day (June 21) and Independence Day (July 4). For more information on the 2015 season and ticket packages please visit sjgiants.com or call (408) 297-1435.

2015 San Jose Giants Summer Camps

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Jose Giants . Click here to view the original story.

Fresno Grizzlies Coat and Blanket Drive December 8-13

Donations can be dropped off on the second floor administration lobby at Chukchansi Park

Fresno-GrizzliesThe Fresno Grizzlies, Triple-A affiliate of the Houston Astros, will join Catholic Charities Diocese of Fresno in giving back to the community this holiday season. Catholic Charities is a non-profit social service agency located in Downtown Fresno that is dedicated to serving all of those in need throughout the Fresno, Merced, and Kern counties. Together, the Grizzlies and Catholic Charities will work towards receiving winter clothing item donations to help provide families and individuals to stay warm through the winter season.

Catholic-Charities-of-FresnoThe Coat and Blanket Drive will take place at Chukchansi Park and is open to anyone who would like to donate new or gently used articles of clothing for the winter. The drive will commence on Monday, December 8th and run through Saturday, December 13th. Drop-off hours will be 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday on the second floor lobby of the Grizzlies administration office (enter ballpark off H Street). The donation drive will end on Saturday, December 13th with a drop-off point on the corner of Tulare/H Street in front of the Chukchansi Park Gate 1 sign from 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Anyone making a donation will receive two (2) complimentary ticket vouchers for a 2015 Fresno Grizzlies home game.

            It is recommended that donations consist of coats and/or blankets, but any clothing garments practical for the winter are also welcomed.

A list of suggestions is below:

Coats Blankets/Quilts/Comforters
Gloves/Mittens Sweaters
Winter Boots Hoodies
Hats/Beanies Ear Muffs/Headbands
Scarves Full-length Pants/Sweats
Long-sleeved shirts Socks

 

***All items donated must be gently used, in good condition or new***

As the winter season arrives and temperatures get cooler, there are many people who can benefit from the donation of any winter apparel. Many families in the Fresno, Merced, and Kern county areas do not have the means to purchase new clothing items at this time of year. A donation of at least one item can help tremendously.

ABOUT CATHOLIC CHARITIES:

Catholic Charities Diocese of Fresno is a non-profit social service agency located in Downtown Fresno. They are devoted to helping and empowering people of the community and have been serving low-income residents in Fresno, Merced, and Kern County for over 47 years. Catholic Charities promotes community empowerment through assistance in applying and enrollment for government and public programs that are designed to lower monthly expenditures. An in-house food pantry allows the organization to feed an average of 120 to 130 families daily. This specific Catholic Charities location at 149 Fulton Street also houses a thrift store, which not only clothes families in crisis, but is also open to the public. All proceeds go directly back to Social Service programs of Catholic Charities.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Fresno Grizzlies. Click here to view the original story.

San Jose Giants Release 2014 Community Report

Report showcases organization’s impact in the South Bay

San-Jose-GiantsThe San Jose Giants released today their 2014 Community Report. The report is a complete detail of the organization’s community involvement and contributions. From expanding the team’s extensive fundraising efforts to a record number of mascot appearances and the organization’s rise from twenty-fifth in Minor League Baseball’s social media rankings to second overall, the San Jose Giants presence was felt well beyond the Municipal Stadium gates this year.

“I want to personally thank all of our fans and partners for your loyalty and passion for the San Jose Giants and our place in the community,” said Daniel Orum, San Jose Giants President and CEO. “Through the organization’s extensive work with youth sports groups, schools and regional non-profit organizations, the team has introduced baseball to millions of homes in Northern California and this year alone raised over $480,000 for charitable causes.”

The 2014 Community Report showcases the variety of charitable efforts the San Jose Giants are involved with both inside and beyond the Municipal Stadium gates. Highlights of the report include over 150 appearances made by San Jose Giants personnel, unique, community-centered evening’s at Municipal Stadium, events in partnership with the Giants Community Fund to help under served youth and in-kind donations to more than 750 local and national organizations.

For more information on the San Jose Giants and how to get your organization involved next season, call (408) 297-1435 or visit sjgiants.com.

Read 2014 San Jose Giants Community Report

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Jose Giants. Click here to view the original story.

Auggie’s Holiday Extravaganza – Dec. 13th

Toys for Tots Drive

Augusta-GreenJacketsThe Augusta GreenJackets have announced the first annual “Auggie’s Holiday Extravaganza,” a free event open to the public at Lake Olmstead Stadium on Saturday, December 13th from 9 AM to Noon. “The holiday season is one of our favorites here at the GreenJackets. We invite the entire community to come out and ‘Catch the Holiday Buzz’ with us.” said Tom Denlinger, General Manager of the GreenJackets.

The GreenJackets are planning an event fun for the whole family. Included (but not limited to, and subject to change) will be:
Toys-for-Tots-logo-2014b– A Toys for Tots Drive – bring an unwrapped toy and be entered to win GreenJackets prizes
– Breakfast with Santa – $5 pancake breakfast from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
– Appearance from Auggie and Santa
– 2014 GreenJacket and North Augusta native Jake Smith will be present for pictures and
autographs
– First 100 fans receive a complimentary cupcake, courtesy of Piece of Cake Bakery
– Inflatable rides set up for kids
– Video game setup in the Hive Pro Shop, thanks to Video Game Haven
– Discounts on GreenJackets Merchandise in the Hive Pro Shop
– Opportunity to purchase GreenJackets Holiday Packages

Anyone interested in becoming a vendor and sell items for this event can contact the GreenJackets Front Offices at (706) 736-7889. The fee is $20, and you must provide your own table and chairs.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Augusta GreenJackets. Click here to view the original story.

San Jose Giants 2015 Military Trading Card Set Nominations Now Open

Operation: Care and Comfort will again sponsor giveaway based on fan submissions

San-Jose-GiantsToday the San Jose Giants announced and opened nominations for their second Military Trading Card Set, presented by Operation: Care and Comfort. The trading card set will again be made up entirely from fan nominations of current or former members of the military. Nominations will be accepted through Friday, December 19. All submissions must be accompanied by a photo of the nominee, in military uniform, sent to info@sjgiants.com. The sets will be given to the first 1,000 fans in attendance at the San Jose Giants Fourth Annual Salute to the Military Day on Saturday, April 18.

Operation-Care-and-ComfortLast year’s 36 member set included honorees from every branch of the military as well as a number of notable honorees: local icon, turned national news story Joe Bell and courageous war hero Pat Tillman. Click here to submit your nomination for the 2015 Military Trading Card Set.

“The Military Trading Card Set was an extraordinary addition to our 2014 Salute to the Military Day. We are incredibly excited to again offer our fans and the community the chance to share their wonderful stories of the heroes among us,” said Juliana Paoli, San Jose Giants Chief Marketing Officer. “After receiving nearly 100 submissions last year, we hope that opening this year’s nomination process months in advance will allow even more people the opportunity to honor the brave men and women that serve our country.”

“Operation: Care and Comfort is proud to continue their partnership with the San Jose Giants and thrilled for our troops, veterans and their families to be honored through the second year of this set,” said Julie DeMaria, Operation: Care and Comfort President and Co-Founder. “The first Salute to the Military Trading Card Set was made up of a remarkable group of heroes. I hope that current military and veterans alike, throughout the Bay Area, will again be nominated and have the opportunity to be recognized.”

The San Jose Giants Fourth Annual Salute to the Military Day on April 18 will be part of the team’s 2015 opening homestand. The Giants will also host games at Municipal Stadium on Mother’s Day (May 10), Memorial Day (May 25), Father’s Day (June 21) and Independence Day (July 4). For more information on the 2015 season and ticket packages please visit sjgiants.com or call (408) 297-1435.

Submit Nomination for the Military Trading Card Set, presented by Operation: Care and Comfort

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Jose Giants. Click here to view the original story.

Squirrels Nominated For John Henry Moss Community Service Award

Richmond Tabbed by Eastern League for Award in 5th Season

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Richmond-Flying-SquirrelsThe Richmond Flying Squirrels, Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, are pleased to announce that the organization has been nominated by the Eastern League of Professional Baseball Clubs for the 2014 John Henry Moss Community Service Award. The league nominates just one team for the award, presented annually by Minor League Baseball.

The John Henry Moss Community Service Award is bestowed upon a club that demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within their local community and within the baseball industry.

Community impact has been a foundational focal point for the Squirrels since their inception in 2010. The Squirrels’ nomination comes following a season in which they continued to expand many of their community aims. That included the launch of the Squirrels’ new non-profit arm, Flying Squirrels Charities, created with the goal of growing opportunities for local children. The first major fundraising campaign for Flying Squirrels Charities was “Smooch-a-Pig,” which included the involvement of 10 local celebrities and benefitted “Operation Renovation.” The campaign, which endeavored to rebuild 12 little league fields for the Richmond City Department of Parks & Recreation, raised over $60,000.

“There are many awards that the Squirrels as an organization would be delighted to receive,” said Flying Squirrels’ Vice President & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell. “However, this nomination is of particular significance to us. Community service is the bedrock of the Squirrels’ organization, and it is gratifying that our sustained effort continues to have a profound impact.”

The Squirrels continue to be one of the most active teams in professional sports within their community. Among their other programs and highlights:

  • “Go Nuts for Reading Program (39,000 student participants)
  • Flying Squirrels Art Contest (5th Year)
  • Score an “A”, Score a Ticket Program
  • Kroger Squirrels Tails Kids Club (24,000 Members)
  • In-Season Youth Camps
  • Drives (Food, Books, School Supplies, Blood)
  • Mustaches for Kids Program
  • Ed Randall’s Bat for the Cure
  • Charitable Events (Turn Left Golf Classic, Hot Stove Banquet, Nutzy’s Rotary Funn Run, Squirreloween, Puritan Cleaners Coats for Kids Drive, etc.)
  • 450 Mascot Appearances Annually (Local Schools, Businesses, Non-Profits, Festivals, etc.)
  • 30 Player and Coaches Appearances During the 2014 Season (200+ Hours of Community Service)
  • Executive Speaking Engagements (100+ in 2014)
  • ASK Fun Walk & 5K (Ask Foundation – 9th Annual)
  • Camp Warrior
  • Flying Squirrels Regional Youth Baseball Tournament
  • Monetary Gifts & Gifts In-Kind ($150,000)

The John Henry Moss Community Service Award is named after the longtime, former South Atlantic League president, who founded the SAL and presided over it for a half-century (1959-2008).

The John Henry Moss Community Service Award will be presented at the Baseball Winter Meetings, which will be held in San Diego, CA, from December 7-11.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Richmond Flying Squirrels. Click here to view the original story.

San Jose Giants Announce Ice Bucket Challenge Auction at Municipal Stadium

Entire team to take part in auction for the cause with fan participation

San-Jose-GiantsThe San Jose Giants have announced that they will host an Ice Bucket Challenge Auction on Thursday, August 21 to benefit the ALS Emergency Treatment Fund. Fans will be able to bid on the opportunity to pour a bucket of ice water on their favorite San Jose Giants player following the final out. If every player receives a bid during Thursday’s game, San Jose Giants’ mascot Gigante will take the Ice Bucket Challenge and nominate three very special friends. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the San Jose-based ALS Emergency Treatment Fund.

ALS-etf-logo“The Ice Bucket Challenge has grabbed the attention of the nation and in the true spirit of Minor League Baseball we want to involve our community to raise awareness and make an impact,” said Juliana Paoli, Chief Marketing Officer of the San Jose Giants. “This auction represents a tremendous opportunity for our fans, the community and the entire San Jose Giants organization to continue the awesome movement begun by Pete Frates and raise funds for the ALS Emergency Treatment Fund.”

In addition, the San Jose Giants have nominated season ticket holders, sponsors as well as the following media members to take part in the Ice Bucket Challenge at Municipal Stadium on Thursday: Gary, Julie, Indiana Al and Randy from 95.3 KRTY, Sam and Lissa from 94.5 KBAY, Pope and Marla from MIX 106.5, Christina Loren, Raj Matthai and Robert Handa from NBC Bay Area, Vernon Glenn and Roberta Gonzalez from CBS 5, Larry Beil from ABC 7, Andrew Baggarly and Fallon Smith from CSN Bay Area, Brian Murphy and Paul McCaffrey from KNBR and Alex Pavlovic and Bud Geracie from the San Jose Mercury News.

Any member of the media is welcome to take part. If you are interested in joining this event at Municipal Stadium please email bentaylor@sjgiants.com.

View San Jose Giants Ice Bucket Challenge Video

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Jose Giants. Click here to view the original story.

GreenJackets to Host Golden Harvest Food Bank Canned Food Drive

Augusta-GreenJacketsThe Augusta GreenJackets are excited to announce today that they will be partnering with the Golden Harvest Food Bank to host the Golden Harvest Food Bank Canned Food Drive as a part of our game on Friday, August 22, 2014 at Lake Olmstead Stadium.

“Golden Harvest Food Bank is not only an important part of the community but a great organization,” said GreenJackets General Manager Tom Denlinger. “With our commitment to the community we are excited to partner together on this night and have our fans help support the Golden Harvest Food Bank.”

Golden-Harvest-Food-BankGolden Harvest’s goal is to provide and serve quality food to people in need. Through the help of local community support they are able to serve lunch every day in downtown Augusta at the Master’s Table Soup Kitchen. On August 22nd, two GreenJackets players will be at the Master’s Table volunteering their time by serving food and speaking with members of the community from 11 – Noon.

“It’s so encouraging to have strong community partners like the GreenJackets who are willing to cultivate our sports culture but also partner with us in taking action in feed the hungry” said Travis McNeal, Executive Director at Golden Harvest Food Bank.

Golden Harvest is doing a ticket fundraiser as part of the night to help members of the CSRA community. Fans that bring canned food items to the game will receive a raffle ticket for “Enter to Win” giveaways. Game time is slated for 7 PM as the GreenJackets face the Lexington Legends. Gates open at 6:00 PM. The first 1,000 fans will receive a Golf Umbrella courtesy of SRP Federal Credit Union. It’s also Golf Night with special themes and promotions. There will also be Launch-A-Ball and post-game kids run the bases.

 

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Augusta GreenJackets. Click here to view the original story.

Golf alongside Future Giants on August 6 at Copper River C.C.

Fresno Grizzlies players and coaches will join the field

Fresno-GrizzliesThe Grizzlies Community Fund will be hosting the third annual Grizzlies Golf Tournament on August 6th at the Copper River Country Club located on 2140 E. Clubhouse Drive in Fresno, California. One of the marquee events put on by the Grizzlies Community Fund, the golf tournament places participants right alongside Future Giants as teams compete in a four-man scramble for various prizes. All proceeds from the event directly benefit the Grizzlies Community Fund, which seeks to continue making a lasting and positive impact in the Central Valley. In 2013, tournament proceeds aided in the ability to support over 500 community and non-profit groups throughout the Central Valley.

Fresno-Grizzlies-Community-Fund-logoFoursome packages are still available for interested participants, along with individual and team options. To register for the tournament, a downloadable registration form can be found here. Participants are encouraged to register as soon as possible as there are a limited number of foursomes remaining.

Registration includes: A pre-tournament breakfast, a bucket of range balls, team photo, sponsored giveaway items, free beverages (provided at holes 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15), and a post tournament mixer that will include drinks and hors d’oeuvres.

Golf attire is required. Collared shirts and slacks or shorts are preferred (no steel spikes are allowed on the course). Check-in for the tournament begins at 7:30 a.m. and a breakfast will be provided before the shotgun start at 9:00 a.m.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Fresno Grizzlies. Click here to view the original story.

Pig-Smooching Raises Nearly $40,000

Ten Local Leaders Bring Home the Bacon for Area Youth

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Richmond-Flying-SquirrelsThe Richmond Flying Squirrels Charities, the non-profit foundation of the Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, are pleased to announce that the inaugural Smooch-A-Pig charity fundraising campaign raised nearly $40,000 for Richmond area youth athletics. Ten dedicated local business leaders and celebrities (listed below) executed vigorous fundraising campaigns for the honor of smooch Parker the Rally Pig at home plate during the Squirrels game on July 17th. While all of the participants went “whole hog” in their tireless efforts, Dan Schmitt from RMC events brought in the most bacon and won the privilege to kiss Parker. Schmitt brought along chocolates and a rose to give the celebrity swine and the two shared a special moment at home plate (photos attached) prior to the game. All the proceeds raised will go directly to “Operation Renovation,” a dedicated community impact project to renovate 12 Richmond youth baseball facilities (details below).

Richmond-Flying-Squirrels-CharitiesThe Smooch-A-Pig Participants:

Jon Bibbs, Richmond Prep School Administrator
Matt DiNardo, WRIC TV Meteorologist
Jack and Melissa, 103.7 Play
Cla Meredith, Former MLB Player
Barry Moore, Volvo of Midlothian
Kim Scheeler, Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce President & CEO
Dan Schmitt, RMC Events President
Latrell Scott,Virginia State University Head Football Coach
Norman Way, Puritan Cleaners Director of Operations
Lisa Watkins, Coca-Cola East Region Key Account Development Manager

“We can’t thank these ten leaders enough for their extraordinary efforts,” Flying Squirrels Chief Executive Manager Chuck Domino said. “These candidates share our vision for what Operation Renovation can do for the community. The money raised here is an important start of what will be an ongoing effort from Flying Squirrels Charities.”

The four phases for Operation Renovation are projected as follows:
Phase 1- build 24 dugouts on 12 designated youth baseball fields in Richmond
Phase 2 – improve these same playing fields
Phase 3 – develop the Henderson Complex into a Little League Complex, including the concessions building
Phase 4– recover and renovate unused fields as demands dictate.

Operation Renovation Youth Baseball Fields

Battery Park, 2000 Fendall Ave.
Bellemeade, 1800 Lynhaven Ave.
Bill Robinson, 701 N. 37th St.
Blackwell, 16th & Everett St.
Calhoun, 436 Calhoun St.
Chandler, 201 E. Brookland Park Blvd.
Hotchkiss (Two Fields), 701 E. Brookland Park Blvd.
Lucks Field, Rodgers & T St.
Powhatan, 5051 Northampton Ave.
Westover (Two Fields), 1301 Jahnke Rd.

Although the inaugural Smooch-A-Pig campaign is over, additional information and donations can still be made to Flying Squirrels Charities through the website www.smoochapig.com. Any individuals or business interested in getting involved with Operation Renovation and Flying Squirrels Charities can contact Squirrels Charity Liaison/Media Relation Manager Jay Burnham at 804-482-6791 or email at jay.burnham@squirrelsbaseball.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Richmond Flying Squirrels1. Click here to view the original story.

Squirrels Benefit Troops with Homefront IPA

Beer that benefits Troops available tonight at The Diamond

RichmondFlyingSquirrels_2014-05-23
Proceeds from Friday’s release of Homefront IPA will benefit Operation Homefront.

Richmond-Flying-SquirrelsThe Richmond Flying Squirrels, Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants are excited to announce that once again Homefront IPA, a specialty beer brewed by Center of the Universe Brewery with all proceeds going directly to Operation Homefront, will be released at The Diamond and available for a limited time on Friday night. Center of the Universe Brewery along with 10 other designated breweries across the country brew this IPA for the Memorial Day weekend to benefit Operation Homefront, a non-profit with a nationwide organization that provides emergency and other financial assistance to the families of service members and wounded warriors. Operation Homefront has provided assistance to thousands of military families since its inception in 2002. The 11 breweries combined donate 100% of proceeds and will raise a minimum of $150,000 for Operation Homefront this year.

Operation-Homefront“Homefront IPA is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to all of the men and women who dedicate themselves to protecting our safety and our way of life,” said Chris Ray, Co-founder of Center of the Universe and former Major League pitcher. “By releasing this beer so close to Memorial Day at The Diamond, we hope to give a reminder to everyone of how important the past, present, and future members of our armed forces are and to remember the ultimate sacrifices so many have made in their pursuit of our freedom.”

A limited amount of Homefront IPA will be for sale at the top of the main entrance to the right of the stage. It is brewed with West Coast hops, fresh orange zest, and aged on Louisville Slugger Maple bats. The bats will then be auction off with the proceeds also benefiting Operation Homefront.

The Participating Breweries:
Center of the Universe Brewing Company, Ashland, VA
Fremont Brewing Company, Seattle, WA
Sly Fox Brewing Company, Pottstown, PA
Cigar City Brewing, Tampa, FL
Perennial Artisan Ales, St. Louis, MO
Saint Arnold Brewing Company, Houston, TX
21st Amendment Brewery, San Francisco, CA
Left Hand Brewing Company, Longmont, CO
Stone Brewing Co., Escondido, CA
Palmetto Brewing Company, Charleston, SC
Maui Brewing Co., Lahaina, HI

The Flying Squirrels begin a seven game homestand tonight at 7:05PM with postgame fireworks. Limited tickets are available through the box office and online at www.squirrelsbaseball.com.

 

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Richmond Flying Squirrels. Click here to view the original story.

GreenJackets to Host Blood Drive on May 17th with Shepeard Community Blood Center

Augusta-GreenJacketsThe Augusta GreenJackets announced today that they will be hosting the Shepeard Community Blood Drive as a part the home game at Lake Olmstead Stadium vs. the Greensboro Grasshoppers on Saturday, May 17th with first pitch at 7pm. The Community Blood Center will be outside the main stadium gates receiving donations between 6 PM and 9 PM to help those in need around the CSRA.

Shepeard-Community-Blood-Center“As your community blood bank, and the contracted provider of blood and blood products to 20 local hospitals, including GR Health, and the regional burn center, Shepeard must collect 144 units each day to meet the needs of local patients”, said Greg Bearden, Assistant Director of Community Resources. “We are grateful to sponsors like the Augusta GreenJackets and our faithful family of donors who are helping us reach this goal to save local lives.”

This will be the second time Shepeard Community Blood Center has come to Lake Olmstead Stadium. Back in March, the Center came to BuzzFest and had a respectable turnout. The Center will be coming back to Lake Olmstead four more times throughout the season. 

“Shepeard Blood Center is not only an important part of the community but a great organization to work with,” said GreenJackets GM Tom Denlinger. “With our commitment to the CSRA it is our pleasure to host a blood drive at the ballpark and tie in with great partners like Shepeard Blood Center and GR Health!”

Georgia Regents Medical Center, who works closely with Shepeard Community Blood Center, will also be at the game. The first 1,000 fans inside the stadium will receive a visor courtesy of GR Health. Fans who donate blood at the Community Blood Center will receive a FREE ticket to Shepeard Blood Center Night with the GreenJackets on June 6th. Plus kids 12 and under can run the bases after the game.  

For more information about Shepeard Community Blood Center, how to donate blood or get involved click here.  

2014 marks the 26th consecutive season of professional baseball in Augusta. All GreenJackets Ticket Plans, including Full, Half, Weekend, and Custom Plans are on sale now for the 2014 Season. For more information, including pricing and benefits, visit www.GreenJacketsBaseball.com or contact the GreenJackets Front Office at 706-922-WINS.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Augusta GreenJackets. Click here to view the original story.