RiverDogs Host 14th Annual Charity Golf Tournament

CHARLESTON, S.C. – Just like a night out at The Joe promises more than just a baseball game, the RiverDogs’ annual charity golf tournament will be no different, while raising money for a good cause. Under the theme of “Día de los Perros,” the RiverDogs will host their 14th annual charity golf tournament, benefitting MUSC Children’s Health, at the Wild Dunes Harbor Course on Monday, March 25 at 11:00 a.m.

Presented by Container Maintenance, this year’s course theme, teasing the RiverDogs’ upcoming identity in the 2019 “Copa de Diversión,” will feature 18 holes and provide a fun afternoon of golfing and networking.

“We’re excited to host our annual golf tournament once again. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon while benefitting a great cause,” said RiverDogs Director of Special Events Lisa Dingman.

Also presented by Michelob Ultra and Estrella, the event begins with an 11 a.m. shotgun start, and limited space is available. Hole sponsorship is $400. Foursomes can reserve a spot for $650 and individuals may register for $175. The afternoon will feature costume contests, potential celebrity appearances, and lots of chances to win prizes with lunch and dinner provided by The Kickin’ Chicken and Mex 1.

Contact Lisa at ldingman@riverdogs.com with questions about the event or visit rileyparkevents.com to register.

The 2019 season will see 72 MiLB teams across the country, including the RiverDogs, transform their brands to join in Copa’s mission to authentically connect MiLB teams with their diverse communities, and embrace and celebrate the culture and values that resonate most with Latinx fans nationwide. The RiverDogs will reveal their Copa identity to the general public on March 18 and encourage their golf participants to help celebrate the occasion.

On the heels of their second straight year eclipsing 300,000 fans through the turnstiles, the RiverDogs have already begun preparations for another year down at The Joe. RiverDogs season tickets, partial season plans, and group tickets, including options to the Riley Park Club, are now available for the 2019 campaign at riverdogs.com/tickets or by contacting the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS). The RiverDogs begin their home schedule on April 11 when they host the Greensboro Grasshoppers at The Joe, preceded by a weeklong road trip. A full schedule and list of game times for the 2019 season is available at riverdogs.com.

–RIVERDOGS–

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

Drive Hosting Job Fair at Fluor Field on January 12th

Greenville, SC – The Greenville Drive will be hosting a Game Day Staff Job Fair at Fluor Field on Saturday, January 12th beginning at 9:00 AM.

The Drive will be making seasonal hires in five departments for the 2019 season at Fluor Field: Box Office, Entertainment, Food and Beverage, Game Operations and Grounds Crew.

All interested parties can arrive beginning at 9:00 AM when the Main Street gates will open. They will be directed to the Champions Club on the suite level, where Drive representatives will be on hand to provide candidates with an application for their preferred department. Once the application has been completed, each candidate will be directed to a suite for an interview in their department.

Following the interview, the Drive will reach out to each candidate with more information if they are selected to be a member of the 2019 Game Day Staff.

Each department is seeking staff members in the following positions.

Box Office: Box Office Representative

Entertainment: Camera Operator, Daktronics Stat Operator, Mascot, Music Operator, Replay Operator, Technical Director

Food and Beverage: Bartender, Beer Cart Attendant, Concession Stand Manager, Concession Stand Worker, Cook, Dishwasher, In Seat Service Attendant, Picnic Server, Suite Attendant

Game Operations: Crowd Manager

Grounds Crew: Grounds Crew Member

For more information on the Greenville Drive’s Game Day Staff Job Fair, please call our front office at (864) 240-4500.

~Greenville Drive~

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

RiverDogs Host Charlie Claus Toy Drive and Movie Night at The Joe

CHARLESTON, S.C. – With the holiday season underway, Charlie and the RiverDogs family are asking fans to help give back. The Charleston club will host their annual Charlie Claus Movie Night, featuring a special presentation of “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” on Saturday, December 8 from 2-5 p.m, while accepting donations to help benefit the Salvation Army Angel Tree Charleston.

Fans that bring a new, unopened toy benefitting the Angel Tree program will gain free admission to the event, hosted by the RiverDogs’ signature mascot, Charlie T. RiverDog. Tickets to the event are $5 otherwise, while kids 3 and under and members of the MUSC Children’s Health Kids Club get in free.

“We’re excited to once again bring back the Charlie Claus Movie Night, while partnering with the Salvation Army Angel Tree in this initiative for the first time,” said RiverDogs Director of Community Relations Walter Nolan-Cohn. “Our generous donations from fans will have a profound impact to help bring much-needed gifts to kids in the Lowcountry this time of year.”

In addition, all fans that donate at least a day before the event, in-person at The Joe will receive a Family Four-Pack (includes four tickets, four hot dogs, four drinks and four bags of chips) to a RiverDogs game in 2019, plus a free admission to the Charlie Claus Movie Night. Salvation Army Angel Tree bins will be available for fans to drop off donations all week leading up to the event (Dec. 3-7) from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. each day. Fans can drop off donations and redeem their tickets at the Riley Park front office.

Along with the feature presentation from the Muppets, there will be a visit by Santa, letter writing stations for the North Pole, hot chocolate, and even an appearance from Charlie Claus himself.

About the RiverDogs

On the heels of their second straight year eclipsing 300,000 fans through the turnstiles, the RiverDogs have already begun preparations for another year down at The Joe. RiverDogs season tickets, partial season plans, and groups tickets, including options to the Riley Park Club, are now available for the 2019 campaign at riverdogs.com/tickets or by contacting the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS). The RiverDogs begin their home schedule on April 11 when they host the Greensboro Grasshoppers at The Joe, preceded by a weeklong road trip. A full schedule and list of game times for the 2019 season is available at riverdogs.com.

–RIVERDOGS–

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

BlueClaws Charities Announces 2018 Grant Recipients

BlueClaws Charities announced the 39 different organizations to receive a grant as part of their 2018 grant distribution.

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – BlueClaws Charities completed their 10th annual grant distribution by handing out grants to 39 area organizations, it was announced on Monday.

BlueClaws Charities Community Partner organizations, all 501c3s that work with the BlueClaws throughout the year, were eligible to apply for a grant and all organizations that applied for a grant received one.

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.

“We are very proud to be support such a wide variety of local organizations that do tremendous work as part of the non-profit community around the Jersey Shore,” said Jim DeAngelis, BlueClaws Charities Executive Director. “These organizations are on the ground working with the underserved in our communities, doing spectacular work.

“Further, it is important that all of the grant money donated by BlueClaws Charities stays here in Ocean and Monmouth Counties,” said DeAngelis. ” It is an honor for BlueClaws Charities to be able to assist these great groups doing their work in our local community.”

The following organizations received grants:

– ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia – to subsidize the cost of services for people living with ALS who reside in Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
– Alzheimer’s Association – to provide services to people living with Alzheimer’s and their families.
– The Arc, Ocean County Chapter – to provide funding to the Arc programs that support 1,500 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in residential, vocational, and recreation services throughout the community.
– The Ashley Lauren Foundation – to assist children with cancer and their families through direct family financial assistance.
– Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Ocean County – to continue community mentorship programs in Ocean County.
– Boy Scouts of America, Jersey Shore Council – to provide direct support to the Scoutreach Cub Scout pack at the Clark Elementary School in Lakewood.
– The Brodie Fund – to continue their mission of offering financial assistance to families that have pets fighting cancer.
– Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey – to help defray the cost of criminal background checks completed on all volunteers prior to assignments.
– Cheer Dream Scoliosis Foundation – to enhance the equipment for their special needs team.
– David’s Dream and Believe Cancer Foundation – to offer financial assistance and wellness services to families affected by a cancer diagnosis.
– Dottie’s House – to provide essential counseling to families to become self-sufficient in their futures.
– Easterseals New Jersey – to teach individuals living with disabilities and special needs and their families about health, nutrition, and exercise education.
– Exit 82 Theatre Company – to assist in their 2019 production season.
– Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore – to fund the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore’s outreach program in Ocean County.
– Go 4 The Goal – to support the Kart 4 Kids, a kart stocked with snacks, gift cards, toys, activities, and electronics to entice kids of all ages.
– Guidinglight House – to provide funding for program services for homeless female veterans.
– HABcore, Inc – to help fund the supportive services program component of HABcore’s Rapid Re-Housing Program in Ocean County.
– JAR of Hope – to fund research in the hope of eliminating Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
– Kids Need More – to enhance the lives of children and their families dealing with a diagnosis of cancer or life threatening illness.
– LADACIN Network – to support their Child Care and Preschool Program which integrate children with and without disabilities.
– Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund – to provide funds to assist in aiding and assistant wounded warriors and their families.
– The Mya Lin Terry Foundation – to support their Holiday Gifting Campaign to benefit pediatric cancer warriors.
– Northern Ocean County Habitat for Humanity – to provide necessary repairs and modifications to a senior’s home through their Aging in Place program.
– Ocean County Family Support Organization – to offset the costs of trips for their Youth Partnerships Program.
– Ocean County Shrine Club – to expand and upgrade the hospital’s Walk-in and Urgent Pediatric Fracture Clinic.
– Ocean County YMCA – to support kids, families, and seniors through the Y-Cares Financial Assistance Program such that they will be able to benefit from membership regardless of their financial resources.
– Ocean’s Harbor House – to replace aging computers in their Emergency Youth Shelter.
– Ocean Partnership for Children – to provide needed equipment for the agency’s consulting psychiatrist to use with the youth being seen, as well as to provide books, sensory materials, and toys for the waiting room and psychiatrist’s meeting space.
– Piece of the Puzzle – to produce a Corner Cafe vocational curriculum for students with autism.
– Parents of Autistic Children – to provide a challenger sports league designed to offer a socialization opportunity between disabled students along with typically developing peers from across Ocean and Monmouth Counties.
– Probation Association of New Jersey Education Fund – to enhance education training opportunities through the operation of their annual training conference.
– Raising Hope for Others – to offset the cost of their August fundraiser.
– RJM Sportsgroup – to help raise money for scholarships for students who belong to the Jackson School District.
– The Salvation Army of Ocean County – to help fund their weekly soup kitchen meal, which serves 50-100 meals each week.
– Seabrook Village – to provide scholarships to eligible student employees who graduate high school and are participating in a form of higher education.
– Society for Prevention of Teen Suicide – support Ocean County Youth Council programming for the 2018-19 academic year by engaging youth ambassadors in the prevention process and working on suicide prevention projects.
– The TEARS Foundation – to provide assistance to families who have lost a child due to pregnancy or infant loss in Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
– Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund – to provide scholarships to graduating seniors residing in Brick Township.
– United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties – to purchase warm clothing for low-income children.

Money is raised for BlueClaws Charities throughout the year including through a nightly 50/50 raffle at all BlueClaws home games, special jersey auctions, and events like the Nine and Dine golf outing.

BlueClaws Charities, in addition to this grant program, supports hundreds local organizations and fundraising events 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.

Other events hosted by BlueClaws Charities include a Challenger Clinic for the developmentally disabled, a food & toy drive during the holiday season, a school supply drive leading into the fall, and baseball camps for the underserved in conjunction with the MLB Players Association.

Organizations that would like to become Community Partners can call Jim DeAngelis at 732-901-7000 ext 114. Space in the program, which includes both fundraising and promotional opportunities, is limited and those interested are encouraged to contact the BlueClaws as soon as possible.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. In 2018, the team debuted a brand-new nine-hole Family Mini Golf Course, Biergarten, and Home Run Pavilion (boardwalk game area) as part of a major renovation to FirstEnergy Park.

2019 ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com.

– BlueClaws –

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

Drive Honored with SCSBA Champions of Public Education Award

Greenville, SC – The Greenville Drive have been selected by the South Carolina School Boards Association as a recipient of the Champions of Public Education Award in recognition of their commitment to public education in the Upstate.

The South Carolina School Boards Association has been issuing the Champions of Public Education Award since 2009, and each quarter, individuals, organizations and local businesses are recognized for their contributions to public education. These contributions include support of local education programs, actively working for the betterment of public schools, and doing their part to inspire support for public schools. Previous recipients of the award in support of Greenville County Schools include The Cliffs Communities, Hubbell Lighting, and Public Education Partners.

The Drive’s consistent efforts in outreach towards public schools is manifested in many ways. The Michelin Reading All-Stars Program works with public schools and library systems to promote reading enjoyment and academic success, and the program has reached almost 700,000 children over 11 years.

The Drive also hosted the inaugural Teach864 Night at Fluor Field this season, which recognized teachers in Greenville County Schools for their dedication and service to their students, their schools, and the local community.

In addition, the Drive have hosted Health Careers Night and Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Night the past few seasons, both of which are designed to educate, inform, and spark interest in those fields for students of all ages.

“Being committed to education is a major component of our community platform, and it is a tremendous honor to be recognized for that commitment with the Champions of Public Education award,” said Drive Owner and Team President Craig Brown. “Our schools in the Upstate are doing a commendable job preparing students to be the leaders of tomorrow, and we consider it a privilege to help out in the development of these young students through our education programs and specialty career nights.”

“The Greenville Drive franchise has been an exemplary community partner for Greenville County Schools for many years,” said Dr. Burke Royster, Superintendent of Greenville County Schools. “Craig Brown always responds affirmatively when we call on him. The Drive has assisted us in honoring all GCS employees through our employee appreciation night, raised the profile of teachers through the Teach864 Campaign, helped educate our families about careers in health and manufacturing, supported academic success in GCS student-athletes, and participated in our AdvancED accreditation review.

“Together, we have co-presented to groups such as TransformSC on the value of public-private partnerships. In short, the Drive has thrown its name recognition and brand value behind our public schools and we are incredibly grateful for their commitment to our cause.”

About the Greenville Drive

The Greenville Drive, the South Atlantic League affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, just completed its 13th season at award-winning Fluor Field in downtown Greenville. Since 2006, more than 400,000 fans a year have been welcomed to Fluor Field for both Drive games and additional community events. In 2017, the Drive was honored with the prestigious John H. Johnson President’s Award, presented by Minor League Baseball and given to “the total baseball franchise,” based on contributions to baseball in the community, promotion of the baseball industry, financial stability and contributions to league stability. 80 Drive alumni have gone on to play at the major-league level, 13 of which were members of the Red Sox 2013 World Series Championship Team.

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

RiverDogs Host Fifth Annual Trick-or-Treat Movie Night Down at The Joe

CHARLESTON, S.C. – The RiverDogs are getting in the Halloween spirit with the fifth annual Trick-or-Treat Movie Night featuring Disney’s “Monsters University” from 6-9 p.m. on Friday, October 26 at Joe Riley Park.

The night begins with trick-or-treating around the Riley Park concourse starting at 6 p.m., followed by the showing of Disney’s animated hit starting at 7 p.m. on the video board. Admission for the event is $5 per person or free with a donation of five (5) or more canned food items for the Lowcountry Food Bank. Members of the MUSC Health Kid’s Club get in free, as do all children ages three (3) and under.

Trick-or-treaters are encouraged to dress in costume. Fans will have the opportunity to interact with various characters, enjoy a bubble station with ‘Good Clean Fun,’ and play in the RiverDogs’ Kids Zone as part of the evening’s festivities.

For more information about getting involved in the event, please contact the RiverDogs front office at (843) 723-7241.

Coming off the heels of their second straight year eclipsing 300,000 fans through the turnstiles, the RiverDogs have already begun preparations for another year down at The Joe. RiverDogs season tickets, including options to the Riley Park Club, are now available for the 2019 campaign by contacting the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS). The RiverDogs begin their home schedule on April 11, 2019 when they host the Greensboro Grasshoppers at The Joe, preceded by a weeklong road trip. A full schedule and list of game times for the 2019 season is available at riverdogs.com.

–RIVERDOGS–

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

Crawdads to Host Trunk-Or-Treat at the Ballpark

Hickory, NC- The Crawdads will be hosting their first-ever Trunk-Or-Treat at the stadium on Monday, October 29th from 6pm to 8pm. The free event will feature a family-friendly place for kids to trick-or-treat, food, Halloween-themed games, and ‘Dads ticket specials.

The Trunk or Treat will have $2 specials on hot dogs, Pepsi products and Dippin’ Dots in addition to free popcorn. The Catawba Farms Crawdads Café will be open for food and refreshments with a limited menu. There will also be an inflatable bounce house, speed pitch, and cornhole set up at the event.

Fans will be able to purchase sweetFrog Claw Club, the official Crawdads kids club for kids 12 and under, packages for a discounted $34 (regular price $49). Silver Slugger, the ‘Dads club for fans 60+, memberships are also available for 2019.

Crawdads ticket books for next season are currently on sale and fans can take advantage of a limited-time offer of the regular 10 ticket books plus a bonus 4 tickets for $70 (total savings of $56 off the single game ticket price).

The Crawdads will open their season at L.P. Frans Stadium on April 11th against the Kannapolis Intimidators. For more information about the Crawdads, including promotions, ticket books, and group outings please visit www.hickorycrawdads.com or contact the front office at (828) 322-3000.

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

OceanFirst Foundation Donates $78,000 Through Home Runs for Heroes Program

The 2018 Home Runs for Heroes program has now generated over $300,000 in 10 years for area non-profits thanks to the OceanFirst Foundation!

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The OceanFirst Foundation donated $78,000 to area non-profit organizations as part of the Home Runs for Heroes program in 2018.

Each time the BlueClaws hit a home run at FirstEnergy Park this year, the organization(s) paired with the corresponding inning received $1,000 from OceanFirst Foundation. The program has now raised over $300,000 in 10 years for local organizations that support military-personnel, both veterans and active.

The BlueClaws hit a franchise record 44 home runs at FirstEnergy Park this year, but because four innings featured two different organizations, home runs hit in the second, third, fourth and fifth innings each generated $2,000 in donations.

Organization Inning Home Runs Total
Cape May County Coast Guard Community Foundation 1st 5 $5,000
National Guard State Family Readiness Council & Army Emergency Relief 2nd 6 $6,000
Vetgroup Inc & Chariot Riders Inc 3rd 6 $6,000
Lt Dennis W Zilinski II Memorial Fund & Jewish Family and Children Service of Southern NJ 4th 10 $10,000
Citizens Veterans Advisory Committee Inc & Veterans of Foreign Wars 5th 8 $8,000
GI Go Fund & Catholic Charities Diocese of Trenton 6th 4 $4,000
Navy – Marine Corps Relief Society 7th 2 $2,000
American National Red Cross 8th 2 $2,000
Operation First Response, Inc 9th + Extras 1 $1,000

Rodolfo Duran led the BlueClaws with 10 home runs at FirstEnergy Park while Jake Scheiner hit seven, Quincy Nieporte hit six, and Jhailyn Ortiz added five.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. The 2019 season opens April 4th at FirstEnergy Park against Hickory (Rangers). Click here to see the 2019 schedule (pdf file).

2019 BlueClaws Five & Ten-Game Membership Plans are currently on sale. This year, they include a Monthly Payment Plan option through which members can pay for their tickets in monthly installments through August. A Five-Game Membership Plan is available for as little as $5.42 per month! For more in BlueClaws Membership Plans, click here.

Since its founding in 1902, OceanFirst Bank has built a solid reputation and legacy as a good neighbor and responsible corporate citizen. The Bank’s strong commitment to helping families, organizations, schools and communities throughout central and southern New Jersey has spanned several generations reaching new heights in 1996 with the creation of OceanFirst Foundation. The Foundation provides grants to nonprofits and local schools that meet community needs within the OceanFirst Bank footprint. In 2017, OceanFirst Foundation will contribute more than $1.6 million to community initiatives and since its inception, more than $30 million in grants have been awarded to over 750 nonprofits throughout central and southern New Jersey.

– BlueClaws –

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

Mason in Search of Friend to go Trick-or-Treating With

COLUMBIA, S.C.- The Columbia Fireflies and Mason today announced that Mason is in search of a friend to spend his Halloween with! Fireflies Kids Club members can enter a contest for the chance to Trick-or-Treat with Mason by submitting their favorite Fireflies, or baseball, memory. The contest winner and their family will be joined by Mason for an hour-long candy filled Trick-or-Treating adventure on October 31.

Memories can be submitted directly to Mason at:

Send mail or deliver to:                                     Email:

Attn: Mason                                                   Mason@ColumbiaFireflies.com

Spirit Communications Park

1640 Freed Street

Columbia, SC 29201

All submissions must be received by 5:00p.m. on Wednesday, October 24. Submissions must include the Kids Club members name and parent / guardian contact information. Winners will be notified on Friday, October 26.

Not a member of the Fireflies Kids Club? It’s free to join and open to all kids 12 and under. Sign up here!

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About the Columbia Fireflies

The Columbia Fireflies are the South Atlantic League affiliate of the New York Mets. Winners of Ballpark Digest’s Best New Branding and Logo Award in 2016, the Fireflies play games across the southeast and mid-Atlantic regions, including against in-state rivals in Charleston and Greenville. The team partnered with the city of Columbia and Hughes Development to construct Spirit Communications Park, a multi-use outdoor sports and entertainment venue at the center of the BullStreet District. The Columbia Fireflies are owned by Hardball Capital, owners of the Fort Wayne TinCaps of the Midwest League and the Chattanooga Lookouts of the Southern League. For more information, visit www.ColumbiaFireflies.com, or follow the Fireflies on Twitter (@ColaFireflies), Facebook (facebook.com/columbiafireflies) and all popular social media platforms.

About Spirit Communications Park

Spirit Communications Park, the 2016 Ballpark Digest Ballpark of the Year, is a 365-day per year multi-use sports and entertainment venue located in the heart of downtown Columbia, South Carolina. Spirit Communications Park is the home ballpark for the Columbia Fireflies, the South Atlantic League affiliate of the New York Mets. Designed for baseball, concerts, football, soccer and a host of other activities, the venue seats approximately 9,000 for sporting events and up to 15,000 for major outdoor concerts. With 16 luxury suites and a 7,000 square-foot Club Level Lounge, Spirit Communications Park also hosts everything from business meetings to wedding receptions, and everything in between. The venue is open 365 days a year and serves as a public park, with a wrap-around concourse representing 1/3 of a mile for walkers and joggers. For more information, visit www.SpiritCommunicationsPark.com.

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

Trick-Or-Beat returns on Halloween

CHARLESTON, WV (October 2, 2018) – The West Virginia Power, in conjunction with 98.7 The Beat and West Virginia Radio Corporation, will host the 13th annual Trick-Or-Beat at Appalachian Power Park on October 31, 2018. This event provides a safe and well-lit environment for Charleston area youth to trick-or-treat on Halloween.

“We are happy to be hosting Trick-Or-Beat for the 13th consecutive year,” said Power General Manager Tim Mueller. “This event has always created a fun atmosphere for everyone in the Charleston community to come out and enjoy together.”

There will be two trick-or-treating sessions at the ballpark on October 31. Session one begins at 6:00 P.M. and will last until 7:00 P.M. The second session starts at 7:30 P.M. and will conclude at 8:30 P.M. Children ages 12 and younger are free to walk around the concourse and pick up candy from different illuminated stations. There is no cost of admission, but all children must have a ticket to enter the ballpark.

Tickets are limited to 1,250 per session and are available now at the West Virginia Power front office or at West Virginia Radio Corporation, located at 1111 Virginia Street East in Charleston. Adults do not need a ticket and are asked to refrain from taking any candy during the event.

New for 2019, all tickets come with a pizza voucher, which can be redeemed after each child finishes trick-or-treating for the evening.

Local businesses are encouraged to contact the Power front office or fill out this form if they are interested in making a candy or monetary donation towards the purchase of candy for the night. If businesses are interested in attending the event to pass out candy and set-up table displays, they can also contact the Power to make the necessary arrangements.

For more information regarding the 13th annual Trick-Or-Beat or other upcoming events at Appalachian Power Park, please contact the Power front office at (304) 344-BATS or visit www.wvpower.com.

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

SC Veterans Upstate Salute at Fluor Field on November 11th

The Drive are excited to team up with fellow Upstate Veterans Alliance partners GE, Greenville Health System and Michelin for the third annual SC Veterans Upstate Salute! You’re invited to join us in this free celebration on Sunday, November 11th at Fluor Field, as we will honor our local veterans with a night full of entertainment.

The Fluor Field gates will open at 3:00. Highlights of the evening include a concert from the Charlie Daniels Band, a 21-gun salute, parachuters, an aerial flyover and opportunities to meet community agencies supporting veterans and their families. The night will conclude with a spectacular fireworks show. The concession stands at Fluor Field will be open throughout the evening.

Admission for the SC Veterans Upstate Salute is complimentary, and we hope you’ll join us as we help celebrate our nation’s veterans!

CLICK HERE TO REDEEM YOUR COMPLIMENTARY TICKET

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

Shorebirds Win SAL Community Service Award

SALISBURY, Md. — The Delmarva Shorebirds have been named the 2018 Community Service Organization of the Year by the South Atlantic League. This award recognizes the Shorebirds’ outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, philanthropy, and leadership within the Delmarva community. The Community Service Organization of the Year award is one of the league’s Outstanding Achievement Awards, which are announced every year after the conclusion of the regular season.

The Shorebirds strive to be more than just a baseball team by supporting the community that supports us. The Shorebirds organization, front office staff, players, and coaches have been extremely committed to serving and supporting the Delmarva community in any way possible.

With the help and partnership of the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, the Shorebirds rebranded the Community Fund to the Shorebirds’ Fly Together Fund. The Fly Together Fund coincides with the social media usage of #FlyTogether but also encompasses support of the Delmarva Peninsula.

The Fly Together Fund was created to help fund local community projects, Little Leagues, and nonprofit organizations. So far this calendar year, the fund has donated $24,384 along with in-kind donations valued at $23,010.

“The Shorebirds are proud to be involved with and provide numerous community programs on the Delmarva Peninsula. I want to thank everyone in the Delmarva community who has been a part of the Shorebirds community outreach programs and events. We hope you will continue to join us in our Fly Together Fund and community relations initiatives in the future,” said Shorebirds’ General Manager Chris Bitters. “Winning this award is such a great honor. Thank you so much to Shorebirds’ Community Relations Manager, Kathy Damato, for leading the organization in all of our community relations efforts. She has gone above and beyond to help us win this award and it is thoroughly appreciated.”

Each of the 14 South Atlantic League teams, along with field managers and umpires, participated in the voting for the South Atlantic League Outstanding Achievement Awards. The Shorebirds will be nominated for the Minor League Baseball John Henry Moss Community Service Award, which honors the founder of the South Atlantic League for his dedication and charitable service to baseball and his community during his 50-year tenure as a league president. Moss founded the South Atlantic League and presided over it from 1959-2008. The winner of this prestigious award will be announced at the Baseball Winter Meetings this December in Las Vegas, NV.

For more information about the Delmarva Shorebirds’ community relations involvement, please contact Kathy Damato at kdamato@theshorebirds.com. The Shorebirds are owned and operated by Seventh Inning Stretch, LLC, who also own the Stockton Ports of the California League and the Everett AquaSox of the Northwest League. Delmarva opens up the 2019 season on the road in Lexington on Thursday, April 4th. The Shorebirds’ first home game at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium will be on Thursday, April 11th against the Lakewood BlueClaws.

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

Shorebirds Present Toy Donation To Brooke’s Toy Closet

SALISBURY, MD – The Delmarva Shorebirds are proud to announce in conjunction with partners at Market Street Inn, MoJo’s, and the Peninsula Regional Medical Center, the results of the Brooke’s Toy Closet Toy Drive, held on Saturday, July 21st and Friday, August 3rd at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

In total, 449 items were donated by Shorebirds fans, with the Shorebirds presenting the donation to Brooke’s Toy Closet at the Peninsula Regional Medical Center recently, along with members from Market Street Inn, MoJo’s, and the Peninsula Regional Medical Center Foundation, which oversees and maintains Brooke’s Toy Closet. An anonymous donor donated $1,000 that was used by Shorebirds’ first baseman, Ryan Ripken, Shorebirds’ front office staff, Brooke’s half sister, Arden, and Brooke’s long time friend, Greyson, to go purchase toys to be included in the donation to Brooke’s Toy Closet.

Toy Donations ranged from activity books, stuffed animals, interactive toys, coloring books, books, action figures, etc. All these items will be extremely beneficial to replenishing Brooke’s Toy Closet and very much appreciated from members of the Peninsula Regional Medical Center Foundation.

“For the third straight year, Shorebirds fans in this community have come together as one to help support this tremendous community asset at the Peninsula Regional Medical Center. We are extremely grateful for these partnerships. Thank you to all the fans who made this possible!” said Shorebirds Director of Marketing Eric Sichau.

“Thank you to all those who made a donation to Brooke’s Toy Closet through this event. Please know that I am humbled and very grateful for all your support and compassion. As a local business man in a small community, I have been committed to giving back to the community that has supported Brooke and I am humbled by your loyal support. Between the strong continued partnership with the Delmarva Shorebirds, and the creation of the Brooke Mulford Memorial Fund in 2017 at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, which will help support Believe in Tomorrow House by the Sea and Camp Fairlee, for local children and their families, these initiatives will further strengthen the support of the local community in honor of Brooke for the future.” said Rob Mulford, owner of Market Street Inn.

Brooke’s Toy Closet was started in 2014 by Brooke Mulford, a local girl who was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, an aggressive form of cancer, in 2009, when she was 4 years old. Brooke, unfortunately, lost her battle with cancer on June 12th, 2017. The closet is a special cabinet filled with toys, coloring books and other goodies that PRMC’s Emergency Department and Pediatrics Unit can give to children who are hospitalized. The recipients of these gifts will be able to use them when they’re in the hospital and take them home to enjoy when they are feeling better. For more information on the Peninsula Regional Medical Center Foundation and Brooke’s Toy Closet, contact the PRMC Foundation at 410-543-7140.

For more information on the Delmarva Shorebirds Community Relations efforts, contact the Shorebirds at 410-219-3112 or visit theshorebirds.com.

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

‘Pack the Park for Midlands Gives’ Raises $9,000 for Local Non-Profits

COLUMBIA, S.C. – In partnership with Midlands Gives and Central Carolina Community Foundation, the Columbia Fireflies helped raise $9,000 dollars for 48 different non-profit organizations that participated in the team’s annual ‘Pack the Park for Midlands Gives’ fundraising initiative on August 7. The event allows each non-profit to individually sell tickets in a collective effort to raise money and awareness for their organizations. Each non-profit receives a percentage of the money from their tickets sales; the Fireflies also donate extra money to the top three selling non-profits.

“Pack the Park is a great annual opportunity for us to support numerous non-profits from our local community all in one day,” said Fireflies Team President John Katz. “We are very excited to be donating a record amount of $9,000 back to the non-profits who participated in the event this season.”

In its third season Pack the Park set a record of total tickets sold and in turn, money being donated back. With nearly 1,700 tickets sold by non-profits for the event, $9,000.00 has been donated back to the non-profits this year. Family Promise of the Midlands was the non-profit that raised the most money in 2018 and set a record for number of tickets sold by an individual non-profit.

“It has been an amazing experience working with the Central Carolina Community Foundation on Pack the Park since our inaugural season,” said Fireflies Marketing/Client Services Manager Ashlie DeCarlo. “It’s been incredible watching the event’s growth and we can’t wait to break those records again next season. Event sales have more than doubled since the kickoff in 2016.”

For more information on fundraising programs with the Fireflies, contact 803-726-4487.

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About the Columbia Fireflies

The Columbia Fireflies are the South Atlantic League affiliate of the New York Mets. Winners of Ballpark Digest’s Best New Branding and Logo Award in 2016, the Fireflies play games across the southeast and mid-Atlantic regions, including against in-state rivals in Charleston and Greenville. The team partnered with the city of Columbia and Hughes Development to construct Spirit Communications Park, a multi-use outdoor sports and entertainment venue at the center of the BullStreet District. The Columbia Fireflies are owned by Hardball Capital, owners of the Fort Wayne TinCaps of the Midwest League and the Chattanooga Lookouts of the Southern League. For more information, visit ColumbiaFireflies.com, or follow the Fireflies on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

About Spirit Communications Park

Spirit Communications Park, the 2016 Ballpark Digest Ballpark of the Year, is a 365-day per year multi-use sports and entertainment venue located in the heart of downtown Columbia, SC. Spirit Communications Park is the home ballpark for the Columbia Fireflies, the South Atlantic League affiliate of the New York Mets. Designed for baseball, concerts, football, soccer and a host of other activities, the venue seats approximately 9,000 for sporting events and up to 15,000 for major outdoor concerts. With 16 luxury suites and a 7,000 square-foot Club Level Lounge, Spirit Communications Park can also host everything from business meetings to wedding receptions, and everything in between. The venue is open 365 days a year and serves as a public park with the wrap-around concourse representing 1/3 of a mile for walkers and joggers. For more information, visit SpiritCommunicationsPark.com.

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

Fireflies and BUSH’S Beans Are Teaming Up Against Hunger

COLUMBIA, S.C. & KNOXVILLE, TENN. – The Columbia Fireflies today announced they are partnering with BUSH’S® Beans and Harvest Hope Food Bank to “Team Up Against Hunger.” In its second year, this program encourages fans to bring non-perishable food donations to Spirit Communications Park for the game on Tuesday, July 31 at 7:05pm vs. the West Virginia Power (Pittsburgh Pirates). In turn, fans who donate two cans will receive buy one, get one free Palmetto Citizens FCU All-Star seats for that game in recognition of helping to feed the local community through Harvest Hope Food Bank. Ninety Minor League Baseball™(MiLB) clubs across the country will “Team Up Against Hunger” throughout the month of July. The month is significant as it marks the middle of summer break and a crucial time when millions of children are not receiving free or reduced-price meals at their schools as they do when school is in session.

“We are honored to partner with BUSH’S Beans and Harvest Hope Food Bank to bring the issue of hunger to light using our MiLB platform,” said John Katz, Fireflies team president. “This is one great way to bring the community together to show that we are united in the fight against hunger in our hometown.”

“As a family-owned food company, it is important to everyone at BUSH’S to help hungry families,” said Mike Morris, consumer experience manager at Bush Brothers & Co. “Working with Minor League Baseball and communities nationwide helps bring attention and action to a very important topic – beating hunger.”

Individual game tickets for the 2018 season can be purchased at the Fireflies box office, over the phone at 803-726-HITS, or online at FirefliesTickets.com.

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About the Columbia Fireflies

The Columbia Fireflies are the South Atlantic League affiliate of the New York Mets. Winners of Ballpark Digest’s Best New Branding and Logo Award in 2016, the Fireflies play games across the southeast and mid-Atlantic regions, including against in-state rivals in Charleston and Greenville. The team partnered with the city of Columbia and Hughes Development to construct Spirit Communications Park, a multi-use outdoor sports and entertainment venue at the center of the BullStreet District. The Columbia Fireflies are owned by Hardball Capital, owners of the Fort Wayne TinCaps of the Midwest League and the Chattanooga Lookouts of the Southern League. For more information, visit www.ColumbiaFireflies.com, or follow the Fireflies on Twitter (@ColaFireflies), Facebook (facebook.com/columbiafireflies) and all popular social media platforms.

About Spirit Communications Park

Spirit Communications Park, the 2016 Ballpark Digest Ballpark of the Year, is a 365-day per year multi-use sports and entertainment venue located in the heart of downtown Columbia, South Carolina. Spirit Communications Park is the home ballpark for the Columbia Fireflies, the South Atlantic League affiliate of the New York Mets. Designed for baseball, concerts, football, soccer and a host of other activities, the venue seats approximately 9,000 for sporting events and up to 15,000 for major outdoor concerts. With 16 luxury suites and a 7,000 square-foot Club Level Lounge, Spirit Communications Park also hosts everything from business meetings to wedding receptions, and everything in between. The venue is open 365 days a year and serves as a public park, with a wrap-around concourse representing 1/3 of a mile for walkers and joggers. For more information, visit www.SpiritCommunicationsPark.com.

About Minor League Baseball

Minor League Baseball, headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, is the governing body for all professional baseball teams in the United States, Canada and the Dominican Republic that are affiliated with Major League Baseball® clubs through their farm systems. Fans are coming out in unprecedented numbers to this one-of-a-kind experience that can only be found at Minor League Baseball ballparks. In 2017, Minor League Baseball attracted 41.8 million fans to its ballparks to see the future stars of the sport hone their skills. From the electricity in the stands to the excitement on the field, Minor League Baseball has provided affordable family-friendly entertainment to people of all ages since its founding in 1901. For more information visit MiLB.com. Follow Minor League Baseball on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About BUSH’S Beans

BUSH’S® Beans are “The Official Beans of Minor League Baseball™.” BUSH’S® is all about family, friends that feel like family, and a certain Secret Family Recipe. When you enjoy our beans (doesn’t matter if they’re Baked Beans, black beans, pinto beans, great northern beans…you get the picture), you can trust that they’re the very best. Because we wouldn’t serve your family anything less. Since we got our start more than 100 years ago in Chestnut Hill, Tenn., BUSH’S® has always maintained that quality is the best policy. We pursue excellence and exceptional taste in our beans, sauces and everything we do. That’s why, from mouthwatering Baked Beans to satisfying bean recipes, you’re cooking up the best with BUSH’S BEST®. For more information, visit www.bushsbeans.com, like them on Facebook or follow BUSH’S® Beans on Instagram and Twitter.

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