Mariachis Jersey Auction to Benefit AHCC Education Excellence Scholarships

The Albuquerque Isotopes announced today an online jersey auction to benefit the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce (AHCC) Foundation’s Education Excellence Scholarships program.

The auction will be held exclusively online at abqisotopes.com. Bidding will start this Sunday at 5:00 pm and will conclude at noon on Wednesday, Aug. 22.

In addition to the players’ autographed, game-worn jerseys, two other items will be up for auction; a team-signed Mariachis de Nuevo México jersey and a unique Coco-themed, team-signed guitar.

Members of the AHCC’s own Board of Directors collectively raised $2000 to purchase the first Mariachis jersey, which will be on display inside the Chamber’s board room.

“The Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce Foundation does phenomenal work and provides terrific services and opportunities to students through these scholarships,” said Isotopes Vice President / General Manager John Traub. “Like all great causes, this program needs funding, and that’s what we hope to do through this auction.”

“John Traub said it best when he said that Mariachi is the soundtrack to our lives,”

said AHCC Vice President Jim Garcia. “We appreciate our partnership with the Mariachis de Nuevo México and are grateful that they have chosen to give back to our community with this generous gift to our Foundation.”

The AHCC Foundation is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes which support, benefit or carry out the purposes of the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce.

AHCC’s Education Excellence Scholarships program strives to empower future leaders by providing an average of 100 students annually with college access, financial aid awareness and scholarships.

BIDDING LINK WILL BE POSTED SOON

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

Annual Florida State League/Miami Marlins Scholarship Winners Announced

TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa Tarpons are pleased to announce Tyler Hernandez has been named one of the 12 winners of the 2018 Florida State League/Miami Marlins Scholarship Program. Each winner receives a $1,500 scholarship and is invited by the Marlins to be recognized in an on-field pregame ceremony at Marlins Park on Sunday, August 12th.

Hernandez recently graduated with a 3.5 GPA from Alonso High School, where he played lacrosse and was a member of both the Beta Club and the National Honor Society. He also has worked in clubhouse operations for Tampa since 2016. Hernandez plans to attend the University of Tampa.

This is the 19th-conecutive year for the program, which has been funded by the Miami Marlins and the Florida State League. Each $1,500 scholarship is presented to a student employee, child or grandchild of an employee. A total of 228 scholarships have been awarded to qualified applicants since the inception of the program.

The purpose of the program is to encourage and reward our school age applicants and send a message that an education is the key to success in life.

The Tampa Tarpons are the Single-A Advanced Affiliate of the New York Yankees. For more information about the Tampa Tarpons, call (813) 673-3055 or visit TarponsBaseball.com.

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

Flying Tigers Employee Wins Florida State League/Miami Marlins Scholarship

Lakeland, FL – The Flying Tigers are pleased to announce Victoria Maskas has been selected by the Florida State League (FSL) Scholarship Committee as one of the twelve $1,500 educational scholarship winners. Maskas will be a guest of the Miami Marlins and will be recognized during a pre-game ceremony on Sunday, August 12 in Miami.

Maskas recently graduated from the Harrison School for the Arts in Lakeland and will be attending the University of Florida later this summer, pursuing a degree in Psychology.

The FSL Scholarship Committee awarded a scholarship to an individual of all twelve FSL teams. To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants had to be an employee of or the child or grandchild of an employee of the participating club. They must also be at least a high school junior by the 2018 fall term. The award was based on grades, financial need, leadership capabilities and job performance.

This is the nineteenth straight year for the program and is funded by the Miami Marlins and the Florida State League. Each scholarship has a monetary value of $1,500. A total of 228 scholarships have been awarded to qualified applicants since the inception of the program.

Since 2000, the Marlins Foundation has donated $175,000 to the scholarship program. The purpose of the program is to encourage and reward our school age applicants and send a message that an education is the key to success in life.

The Flying Tigers are the Class A Advanced Affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. For more information please visit the Flying Tigers online at www.LakelandFlyingTigers.com.

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

Marshall Knapp Awarded FSL/Marlins Scholarship

Bradenton, FL – The Florida State League Scholarship Committee and FSL President Ken Carson have awarded twelve (12) $1,500 educational scholarships to deserving applicants from across the League. The Bradenton Marauders are proud to announce that Marshall Knapp has been selected as a scholarship recipient. Knapp is the son of LECOM Park Concessions Manager Chuck Knapp.

This is the nineteenth (19) straight year for the program and is funded by the Miami Marlins and the Florida State League. Each Scholarship has a monetary value of $1,500 and is presented to a student employee, child or grandchild of an employee. A total of 228 scholarships have been awarded to qualified applicants since the inception of the program. The Committee awarded the scholarships after a review of applications submitted by each candidate. The award is based both on financial need and achievement of a grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Recipients must be at least a high school junior by the 2018 Fall Term.

Marshall Knapp will be a senior at Braden River High School this fall. In additional to his outstanding academic performance in the classroom, he is the drum major for the Braden River High School Marching Band of Pirates, logging hundreds of hours of rehearsals each year. He also plays multiple instruments and performs in the Braden River High School Wind Ensemble, the Sun Coast Honor Band, and the Sarasota Concert Band. Knapp plans to study Music Education in college with the goal of becoming a high school band director.

The Miami Marlins provide a generous contribution to the program. The purpose of the program is to encourage and reward our school age applicants and send a message that an education is the key to success in life. All winners will be the guests of the Marlins at Marlins Park on Sunday, August 12, 2018 and will be recognized in an on-field pregame ceremony. Knapp will also throw out a first pitch at an upcoming Marauders home game.

For more information about the Bradenton Marauders, call 941-747-3031, visit www.bradentonmarauders.com, or email MaraudersInfo@pirates.com.

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

2018 Nick Adenhart Memorial Scholarship winners: Mackenzie Redmond and Logan Hadsall

Cedar Rapids, IA – The Cedar Rapids Kernels and Kernels Foundation are pleased to announce Mackenzie Redmond and Logan Hadsall as the winners of the 2018 Nick Adenhart Memorial Scholarships. They were recognized in an on-field ceremony before the Kernels game with Peoria on Sunday, June 17th.

Mackenzie Redmond will be graduating from Marion High School and plans on attending Mount Mercy University to major in Nursing. Logan Hadsall will be graduating from Center Point-Urbana High School and plans on attending Kirkwood Community College, pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice. Both winners are members of the National Honor Society at their respective high schools.

Nick Adenhart was a bright young pitcher who played for the Cedar Rapids Kernels in 2006 and was a rising star in the Los Angeles Angels organization. Only hours after Nick’s 2009 season debut on the mound for the Angels, a drunk driver tragically killed him on April 9, 2009 at age 22.

Nick’s family continues to honor him with the awarding of two $1,000 scholarships in his memory. The Kernels Foundation is privileged to administer the scholarships on behalf of Nick’s family.

The Kernels are currently enjoying the MWL All-Star Break through June 20th. They begin the second half of the MWL season by hosting the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers on Thursday, June 21st at 6:35 PM, which kicks off a seven-game home stand that continues until Wednesday, June 27th.

Chris Kleinhans-Schulz and Morgan Hawk bring you all of the play-by-play on the radio home of Kernels baseball, 1450 KMRY AM and 93.1 KMRY FM. Fans may listen on-line at www.kmryradio.com, or www.kernels.com. Fans may also stream all 70 Kernels home game and selected road games via a MiLB.TV subscription. Visit MiLB.TV for subscription information.

Tickets may be purchased on-line at www.kernels.com, or by calling the Kernels Ticket Office at 896-7560. Ticket office hours are 10 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday.

TinCaps to Honor Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Rising Star Student

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Fort Wayne TinCaps and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana will recognize Amaya Williams, a local high school senior and one of 20 national Rising Star Students program winners, with an on-field check presentation and a ceremonial first pitch on Friday, June 22 when the team plays the West Michigan Whitecaps at Parkview Field at 7:05 p.m.

The TinCaps and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana surprised Amaya with the invitation to Parkview Field at the Big Futures Graduation on Tuesday night (June 12).

 

Williams will receive a $500 college stipend as part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Rising Star Students program. The award honors high-achieving students involved in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America mentorship program who are preparing for college.

 

Amaya, who just graduated from North Side High School in Fort Wayne, plans to attend Ivy Tech and major in Early Childhood Education. Williams wants to impact those around her and always looks for an opportunity to make a difference in her community and within herself. With the influence of her Big Sister, Domini, Amaya feels confident that she’s fully prepared for her future in college and in the workplace.

 

Nominees for the honor were required to provide submissions describing their academic and personal achievements, college and career goals, and how their involvement in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program has impacted them.

 

“Big Brothers Big Sisters does amazing work in our community and around the nation,” said TinCaps President Mike Nutter. “Amaya and Domini are a perfect example of how BBBS can develop young people into our future leaders. We can’t wait to honor Amaya at Parkview Field.”

 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America has been an MiLB Charity Partner since the program’s inception in 2004. The mission of the Minor League Baseball Charity Partners Program is to provide national exposure for participating charities, expand current relationships between clubs and local chapters and to foster new relationships where none exist. In 2017, charitable giving by Minor League Baseball teams and MiLB Charities totaled nearly $40 million.

 

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of America:

Big Brothers Big Sisters provides children facing adversity with strong, enduring, professionally supported oneto-one mentoring relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. Big Brothers Big Sisters ensures that the children in its program achieve measurable outcomes, including educational success, avoidance of risky behaviors, higher aspirations, greater confidence, and better relationships. This mission has been the cornerstone of the organization’s 114-year history. With nearly 300 affiliates across the country, Big Brothers Big Sisters has served more than 2 million children (“Littles”) in the past 10 years.

 

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

South Bend Cubs accepting applications for college scholarships from regional softball and baseball athletes

SOUTH BEND, Indiana – The South Bend Cubs are pleased to announce beginning today applications will now be accepted from college-bound softball and baseball players from the 11 counties surrounding Four Winds Field in downtown South Bend seeking one of several $5,000 scholarships. Eligibility rules and an application form for the annual scholarship were posted today on the 1st Source Bank Performance Center website.

“These $5,000 scholarships are a significant way to emphasize our support of future leaders and the game we all love,” said Andrew T. Berlin, Chairman and Owner of the South Bend Cubs. “They’re not just for current athletes who will go on to play in college. They’re for any high school senior athlete who intends to continue his or her education full time after high school.”

In 2017, the South Bend Cubs awarded five scholarships of $5,000 each to high school seniors from LaPorte, Mishawaka, South Bend and Walkerton, IN and Buchanan, MI. Two of the recipients were softball players, three were baseball players.

Applications for the 2018 South Bend Cubs Scholarships will be accepted from April 27 through May 31. Up to five (5) $5,000 scholarships will be granted. A full set of rules, eligibility requirements and an application form can be found online at 1stSourceBankPerformanceCenter.com.

“This scholarship offers a tremendous opportunity for our college-bound athletes,” said Joe Hart, President of the South Bend Cubs. “We understand the drive it takes to be an athlete and look forward to helping several of them pursue their post-secondary education.”

Applicants for the 2018 South Bend Cubs Scholarships must deliver their applications in person to the 1st Source Bank Performance Center at the corner of South Street and Lafayette Boulevard in downtown South Bend. E-mailed, paid delivery or postal service applications will not be accepted.

About the South Bend Cubs
The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 30 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. 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. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation Announces 2018 Scholarship Contest

The Class-A Short-Season New York-Penn League and its member clubs, including the Williamsport Crosscutters, are proud to announce that the league’s philanthropic arm, the NYPL Charitable Foundation, will once again award over $10,000 in scholarships this summer to deserving high school graduates from the league’s 14 markets.

Now in its tenth year, the 2018 NYPL Scholarship Contest is open to any graduating senior from a public or private high school within the league’s footprint. Any student who has been accepted at a two- or four-year college or university, vocational school, or technical education institution is eligible. Applicants will be judged based on academic performance, volunteer and extracurricular activities, and the impact their local NYPL club and Minor League Baseball have had on their lives.

The scholarship contest will consist of two stages – a local round and a league round. In the local stage, students will apply directly to their local NYPL team, with one applicant chosen by each of the 14 teams to advance to the league/final round. The 14 finalists will then be judged by league representatives. Three applicants will be selected to receive the top prize of a $2,500 scholarship. All other finalists will receive a $250 book award.

“The New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation and our 14 member clubs are pleased to have the opportunity to assist outstanding high school seniors within our league’s footprint for the tenth consecutive season,” said Ben J. Hayes, President of the New York-Penn League. “This program will again recognize those seniors who not only meet and exceed traditional scholarship criteria, but demonstrate the positive community impact and lifelong memories fostered by their local NYPL clubs throughout the year.”

Area high school seniors interested in entering the 2018 Scholarship Contest can obtain the official application using the link below or by visiting the Williamsport crosscutters offices at BB&T Ballpark during regular business hours.

The deadline to submit applications to the nearest NYPL team is June 4, 2018. Each club’s winner, including the three $2,500 scholarship recipients, will be selected in mid-July.

The New York-Penn League and its 14 member clubs created the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation, a 501(c) (3) charitable organization, in 2003. The mission of the Foundation is to provide focus and support for the collective and individual charitable and community efforts of the New York-Penn League, its Clubs, and their staff.

CLICK HERE to download application

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

Cougars Rank #6 in Charitable Giving Among All MiLB Teams

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have been ranked #6 among all 160 Minor League Baseball (MiLB) for their charitable giving throughout the 2017 season, per the MiLB Charities Report which was released last week by the league. Collectively, MiLB clubs reported nearly $40 million in cash and in-kind donations, the highest in MiLB Charities history.

“When you find yourself ranked #6 out of #160 that is special, no matter the category,” said Cougars owner Dr. Bob Froehlich. “Then when you realize the category in is charitable giving among all of Minor League Baseball, it becomes so special that no words can describe how proud we are of what our Foundation has meant to Kane County.”

Of the nearly $40 million, the Cougars contributed $949,926 among their various charitable campaigns throughout the season. The Cougars charitable giving is highlighted by many different programs throughout the year including the Al Mueller Memorial Scholarship Fund which awards local college students working to further their education, Paramount Fence Home Runs for Charity program, the Cougars Reading Club, as well as the Cougars Summer Reading Program, the Highland Salutes program supports both active duty military and veterans along with participation in MiLB’s inaugural “Es Divertido Ser Un Fan” initiative that aimed to connect Hispanic/Latino baseball fans with their local teams.

Click here to view the full MiLB Charities Report.

Moving towards the 2018 season, the Cougars are pledging to increase their charitable giving via the new history-making “A Million Smiles Campaign.” Announced on Monday, the Cougars are the first MiLB team to set a charity fundraising goal of this magnitude. Each dollar donated throughout the season will provide a much-needed smile for those in need. Fans are encouraged to participate in the charitable giving campaign throughout the year by purchasing 50/50 raffle tickets with proceeds benefitting various local charities, participating in the Pitch In for Charity promotion on fireworks nights, purchasing a Legacy Brick to be displayed at the main entrance of the ballpark, registering for the 7th Annual Cougars 5K on May 19 or selecting the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. as their favorite charity on AmazonSmiles.

For more information about A Million Smiles campaign, visit www.kccougars.com.

The Cougars 2018 season begins on Thursday, April 5 at 6:30 PM against the Clinton LumberKings. For more information, including the full schedule of theme nights, entertainment acts and giveaways scheduled, visit kccougars.com.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates on tickets and promotions.

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.

***

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

Chasers Charities, The Weitz Company Awarding Jackie Robinson Athletic Scholarships

Chasers Charities, the charitable arm of the Omaha Storm Chasers, is proud to announce the eleventh annual Jackie Robinson Athletic Scholarship contest presented by The Weitz Company. The program honors two local African-American students in an effort to commemorate the baseball legend that broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier in 1947.

One male and one female student in the Omaha area will be awarded a $1,000 dollar scholarship from Chasers Charities. Each student will be chosen based upon their work in the classroom, involvement within the community, athletic achievement and other qualities.

“We remain committed in continuing the legacy of Jackie Robinson by offering these scholarships for the eleventh year, and we are thankful to The Weitz Company for partnering with us once again,” said Storm Chasers President and General Manager Martie Cordaro. “Every year we receive many deserving applications, and we expect this year to be no different.”

“”The Weitz Company is excited to partner with the Omaha Storm Chasers again this year to provide opportunities to the next generation.” said Weitz Company Business Development Manager Hilary Thien.

Interested applicants must submit their application by March 23. The winners will be honored at the Storm Chasers’ contest against the Memphis Redbirds on April 18. To be eligible for the Jackie Robinson Athletic Scholarship, students must meet the following criteria:

  • United States citizen or permanent resident
  • Resident of Sarpy, Douglas, Cass, Lancaster or Pottawattamie County
  • Minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
  • African-American (male or female), and a high school student participating in athletics
  • High school senior or graduate planning to enroll in a full-time undergraduate course of study at an accredited postsecondary institution

More information on the application process for the Jackie Robinson Scholarship can be found online by clicking here. Completed applications should be sent by March 23, 2018 to:

Chasers Charities
c/o Omaha Storm Chasers
Attn: Kathleen Ezell
12356 Ballpark Way
Papillion, NE 68046
KathleenE@omahastormchasers.com
(402) 738-5111

About Chasers Charities. Created in 2010, the mission of Chasers Charities is to support the community through charitable contributions that benefit sports and recreational activities with a focus on youth. The foundation accomplishes this mission through financial donations, as well as in-kind support, including memorabilia, tickets and publicity.

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

2018 Nick Adenhart Memorial Scholarship applications now being accepted

Cedar Rapids, IA – Applications are being accepted through The Kernels Foundation for the eighth annual Nick Adenhart Memorial Scholarship.

Nick Adenhart was a bright young pitcher who played for the Cedar Rapids Kernels in 2006, and was a rising star in the Los Angeles Angels organization. Only hours after Nick’s 2009 season debut on the mound for the Angels, a drunk driver tragically killed him on April 9, 2009 at age 22.

Nick’s family and the Kernels Foundation would like to honor him by awarding two $1,000 scholarships in his memory. The Kernels Foundation is privileged to administer the scholarship on behalf of Nick’s family.

The deadline for submitting applications for this scholarship is Friday, April 13, 2018. Applicants must be a graduating high school senior from an area high school and attend a two or four-year accredited college or university and take 12 or more hours per semester. The applicant must have played an organized sport in the last two years, must be a great teammate, must demonstrate hard work and determination, and must have a clear vision of their career goal.

Scholarship applications are available through area schools guidance offices, or may be downloaded from the Kernels website by clicking here.

For more information, please contact Doug Nelson at 319-363-3887 or email at doug@kernels.com.

2018 season ticket packages and 10-game coupon books are on sale now at the stadium, or by calling the Kernels at (319) 363-3887. Individual game tickets go on sale Monday, March 19th at 10 AM. The Kernels open the 2018 Midwest League season at Quad Cities on Thursday, April 5th. The home season begins on Saturday, April 7th vs. Quad Cities at 5:05 PM.

Sounds Scholarship Program Continues in 2018

For the third consecutive year, the Nashville Sounds Foundation will award four scholarships worth $2,500 each to graduating high school seniors who plan to attend college in fall of 2018.

The program, which began in 2016, has awarded $20,000 in scholarships and is designed to help deserving Nashville and Middle Tennessee students help pay for college tuition during their freshman year.

“This program is one of the most rewarding initiatives our community relations team has accomplished,” said Sounds General Manager Adam Nuse. “With support from our fans through our fundraising efforts during the 2017 season, we’re able to help students pursue their dreams of a college education.”

Interested seniors must complete the application process at www.nashvillesounds.com. The process includes submitting a two to three-page essay answering the following prompt: “With today’s social climate, diversity and inclusion are more important now than ever. Using your own life experiences, explain why inclusion is so significant in bridging the divide.”

In addition to the essay, each submission must include at least two letters of recommendation from teachers and/or coaches, and an official high school transcript. The scholarship will be awarded based on the culmination of the student’s school work, extracurricular activities and involvement in the community.

Each winner will receive tickets to a select 2018 Nashville Sounds game of their choice and a special surprise from the Nashville Sounds Foundation. The deadline to be considered for the 2018 scholarships is Friday, February 16, 2018. Scholarship winners will be notified no later than March 23, 2018.

Winners from 2017 include Juanita Aguirre of Pearl-Cohn Entertainment Magnet High School (Middle Tennessee State University), William Bell of Battle Ground Academy (Princeton University), Aijalon Carter of Goodpasture Christian School (Belmont University) and Asher Curnutte of Montgomery Bell Academy (Georgetown University).

The 2018 season will be the Sounds’ 41st in franchise history and fourth as the Oakland Athletics’ top affiliate. Opening Day is set for Thursday, April 5 when the Sounds begin the season in New Orleans. Opening Night at First Tennessee Park is scheduled for Tuesday, April 10 when the Sounds host the Iowa Cubs at 6:35 p.m. Season ticket memberships are available now by calling (615) 690-4487 or by visiting www.nashvillesounds.com.

About the Nashville Sounds Foundation:

The mission of the Nashville Sounds Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, is to positively impact the thriving Middle Tennessee community through various programs and initiatives. The Nashville Sounds Foundation supports programs that energize and influence youth through education, physical development and by maximizing community service.

The Nashville Sounds Foundation is funded through monetary donations, private entities, memorabilia auctions and in-game custom public address announcements.

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

NEST, Chasers Launch 16th Annual Essay Contest

The Nebraska Educational Savings Trust (NEST) and the Omaha Storm Chasers have officially begun the 16th annual “Why I Want to Go to College” essay contest, as announced by Nebraska State Treasurer Don Stenberg.

Seventh and eighth grade students from around the country may submit their entries leading up to the March 2 deadline Essays must be 750 words or less, describing the student’s educational goals and dreams for the future. Entries are required to be typed and double-spaced on 8 1/2 by 11″ paper and must be the student’s original work. Each essay must also be accompanied with the required cover sheet, which can be found here: http://bit.ly/2018ContestCoverSheet.

Winners will receive prizes ranging from $500 to $2,000 toward a NEST College Savings Plan. First, second and third place winners will be honored from each of Nebraska’s three Congressional districts, in addition to out-of-state entries. Entries will be judged by students and faculty at Midland University in Fremont.

All winners hailing from the state of Nebraska will be notified in April. Winners will also receive four box seat tickets to the Storm Chasers’ game on May 6, in addition to being recognized prior to that day’s contest for their achievements.

Complete rules and information on the essay contest may be viewed here: http://bit.ly/2018ContestRules.

Entries must be postmarked by March 2 and sent to:

Omaha Storm Chasers
Attn: Becki Frishman
12356 Ballpark Way
Papillion, NE 68046

Following the Royals Exhibition Game presented by SAC Federal Credit Union on March 26, the Storm Chasers begin 2018 regular season Pacific Coast League play at Werner Park on Thursday, April 5. The Omaha Storm Chasers have been the Triple-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals since the franchise’s first game on April 18, 1969, and is the longest-running Triple-A affiliation in Minor League Baseball.

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.

***

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

BlueClaws Charities Hands Out Grants to 40 Community Partner Organizations

BlueClaws Charities completed their grant program, handing out grants to its Community Partner organizations.

—-

LAKEWOOD, NJ – BlueClaws Charities, the official 501c3 non-profit organization of the Lakewood BlueClaws, completed its 2017 grant program, handing out grants to 40 Community Partner organizations.

All Community Partners applied for and received a grant from BlueClaws Charities this year. Each applicant was asked to detail a specific use for the grant, with the requirement that all money received from BlueClaws Charities stays in Ocean & Monmouth Counties. A complete list can be found below.

“BlueClaws Charities is proud to be able to support such a wide-variety of organizations in our communities,” said Jim DeAngelis, the BlueClaws Vice President of Community Relations and Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities. “These organizations have pledged to keep all funds in Ocean & Monmouth Counties and they are doing spectacular work to assist the underserved. It is our pleasure to be able to lend financial support.”

BlueClaws Charities raises money throughout the year through special events like the Nine & Dine Golf Outing and Phillies Winter Banquet, through jersey and other specialty merchandise auctions, and a 50/50 raffle at each BlueClaws home game.

“Our fans and donors have been tremendously supportive of BlueClaws Charities over the years, and this year was no exception,” said DeAngelis. “We look forward to another successful season in 2018!”

The following organizations received a grant from BlueClaws Charities.

  • ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia to subsidize their Chapters Care Services Program for ALS patient families in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Alzheimer’s Association of Greater New Jersey to offset costs for a fundraising event to benefit New Jersey residents.
  • The Arc, Ocean County Chapter to subsidize costs associated with their major fundraising event, The Arc Walkathon.
  • The Ashley Lauren Foundation to assist children with cancer and their families through direct financial assistance.
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ocean County to provide group mentoring activities which enables children on their waiting list to become involved with the agency.
  • Boy Scouts of America, Jersey Shore Council to provide program support for their ScoutReach Cub Scout Pack at Clifton Elementary School in Lakewood.
  • Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey to help defray costs of criminal background checks on volunteers prior to assignments.
  • Cheer Dream Xplosion Foundation to purchase equipment for their special needs program.
  • Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation to improve the quality of life of those affected by the disease in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Daniela’s Wish to grant wishes to ill children in their communities.
  • David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation to support families in Ocean & Monmouth counties affected by a cancer diagnosis.
  • Dottie’s House to help funding their transitional housing program designed to provide survivors of domestic violence with tools, guidance and support to achieve financial and emotional independence.
  • Easter Seals New Jersey to provide individuals with disabilities and special needs the training and skills needed to independently work within their communities.
  • Emiliana’s Hope to spread cheer to pediatric cancer patients in the area.
  • Exit 82 Theatre Company to help fund their 2018 production season.
  • Family Options Adoptions to provide funding for birth parent scholarships and supplies for birth mothers that decide to parent.
  • Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore to help offer over 200 underserved girls from Lakewood the opportunity to attend the Girls Are Great summer day camp.
  • Go4TheGoal to help kids with cancer achieve their goals.
  • HABcore to help fund the supportive services program component of HABcore’s Rapid Re-Housing program in Ocean County.
  • Holiday Express to help provide a unique interactive holiday musical program, led by volunteer professionals, to individuals who are often forgotten by society and in need of kindness.
  • JAR of Hope to help fund research to eliminate Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
  • Kids Need More to enhance the lives of children, families, and young adults coping with cancer and life threatening illness.
  • LADACIN Network to support their integrated Child Care program to empower children with and without disabilities to work together to succeed in their future education.
  • Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund to assist the organization in its mission to aid wounded warriors and their families.
  • Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanities for repairs for the 21 Easter Seals group homes.
  • Ocean County Family Support Organization to help offset the costs of trips for our Youth Partnership program.
  • Ocean County Shrine Club to support the hospital’s MAGEC System, an adjustable magnetic growing rod used in a non-invasive, non-surgical manner to brace a child’s spine during childhood growth to minimize the progression of scoliosis.
  • Ocean County YMCA to help kids, families, and seniors in the community find assets in YMCA programs and memberships regardless of incomes and backgrounds.
  • Ocean’s Harbor House to provide for the fundamentals of setting up a household after youth graduate from the Transitional Living Program.
  • Ocean Partnership for Children to provide needy children and teens served by Ocean Partnership with winter attire, including hats, coats, boots, mittens, and gloves.
  • Piece of the Puzzle to purchase a computer desk and stool for their offices.
  • Parents of Autistic Children to provide a challenger sports league designed to offer a socialization opportunity through athletic participation between disabled students from different high school and middle schools in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Raising Hope for Others to assist with financial cost of organizing and running its major fundraiser.
  • RJM Sportsgroup to provide scholarships to Jackson Township graduates.
  • Saint Vincent DePaul Society to help pay for temporary sheltering for the homeless.
  • The Salvation Army of Ocean County to provide funding to their Feeding Program.
  • The Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide to help their Youth Council seeking to engage ambassadors in the prevention process.
  • The TEARS Foundation to provide assistance to families who have lost a child due to pregnancy or sustained the sudden loss of an infant or child in Monmouth & Ocean Counties.
  • Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund to provide a scholarship to graduating seniors.
  • United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties to purchase warm clothing for lower income children.

BlueClaws Charities, in addition to the grant program, supports hundreds of non-profit organizations with gift package donations, golf outing hole-in-one sponsorships, and specialty organizations such as OCEAN, Inc., a federal program that assists the less fortunate in the community. The “Tickets for Kids Program,” another BlueClaws Charities initiative, donates over 2,000 tickets to under-served youths in Lakewood and elsewhere in Ocean County.

Organizations that would like to become Community Partners can call Jim DeAngelis at 732-901-7000 ext 114. Community Partners raise money through a BlueClaws fundraiser outing and have the opportunity to volunteer in the FirstEnergy Park concession stands to raise additional funds. These organizations also receive exposure through on-field presentations, table displays, and on BlueClaws.com, plus they have special opportunities to hold events, such as charity walks, at FirstEnergy Park.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They crossed the 7-million fan plateau in 2017.

2018 BlueClaws ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com.

– BlueClaws Charities –

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