Drive Celebrate Reading All-Stars on Sunday

The Drive’s homestand concludes on Sunday afternoon with a Reading All-Stars Celebration Game for students in Spartanburg, Anderson and Pickens Counties. Be sure to congratulate these hard-working students for their efforts throughout the day!

First pitch is at 4:05 PM, and the pregame festivities begin at 3:00 PM. In addition to receiving a t-shirt, participating in a pregame parade at 3:30 and a book fair, these students will be participating in fun on-field games and presentations throughout the day, and they will get a chance to meet Drive players prior to the game as well.

Stick around after the game for BlueCross BlueShield Kids Run the Bases!

Tickets for Sunday’s game are available now by stopping by the Main Street Box Office, by calling (864) 240-4528 or by CLICKING HERE. 

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

Reading All-Stars Celebrated on Wednesday

The Reading All-Stars Celebration Game for Greenville County elementary and middle school students will be made up at Fluor Field on Wednesday.

The doubleheader begins at 4:00 PM, and game two would start no earlier than 7:00 PM. Both games are scheduled for seven innings in length.

The Reading All-Stars celebration is scheduled to begin at 6:00 PM, where elementary school students will receive their t-shirts for completing the Reading All-Stars program, and middle school students will receive caps and an opportunity to meet Drive players in between games. All students will receive a complimentary book from Public Education Partners and get to participate in an in-game book fair.

Purchase tickets for Wednesday at Fluor Field at the Main Street Box Office, by calling (864) 240-4528 or by CLICKING HERE. 

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

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Dancing with the Students Returns to Crawford Middle School During 2018 Arts Night

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends are proud to conclude another successful year of “Dancing With The Students” with Crawford Middle School students during 2018 Arts Night. The finale will be held in the gymnasium of Crawford Middle School on Friday, April 27 at 6 p.m. Media is welcome to attend the finales for photographs and interviews with the students.

Dancing with the Students is a non-profit organization based out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania originally founded in 2005 by Lexington Legends Secretary and Principal Sue Martinelli Shea. The program came to Lexington after Legends President and CEO, Andy Shea, won the Dancing with the Stars of Lexington Competition with Arthur Murray Dance Instructor, Rae Mickelwait. “As an Arthur Murray ballroom dance instructor, I am so excited to be participating in my third Dancing with the Students Grand Finale with Crawford Middle School! A big thank you to the Lexington Legends for sponsoring such a wonderful program, that uses ballroom dance, my career and passion, to teach life-skills, respect, positive self-image and teamwork,” said Mickelwait.

“I am so honored that the Legends and Crawford Middle School have partnered up for another year of Dancing with the Students. I am very proud of my Mother and the program she has helped to create. I cannot wait to see the finale and all the hard work the students have put into their dances!” said Legends President and CEO, Andy Shea.

Students involved in the competition are in sixth, seventh and eighth grade and focus on not only ballroom dancing, but other skills such as respect, manners and positive self-image. Through a partnership between their Physical Education class as well as Arts and Humanities, students learn four dances: Waltz, Tango, Merengue and Swing while also learning the history behind the social dances and cultures. Local Arthur Murray Trained dance instructor, Mickelwait, trains the students on all aspects of ballroom dancing. “I am so thrilled with the partnerships among the Lexington Legends, Dancing with the Students and Crawford Middle School,” said Legends Secretary and Principal, Sue Martinelli Shea. “The students are the winners every time!”

In Margaret Van Hook Stevens’ Arts and Humanities course, students learn the history behind ballroom dancing and how it can have positive impacts in their lives. Van Hook Stevens’ grandfather was a farmer from Winchester, Kentucky who won a Waltz competition which earned him an invitation to dance at MGM Studios in the 1930’s. In her classroom, she says she “stresses the importance that your hobby or your extracurricular activity you participate in could one day provide open door opportunities or extra income because of skills learned. Dance provided extra income for my grandfather and his family in the 1930’s and dance provides additional income for my family today.”

Also during 2018 Arts Night will be the CMS Art Gallery Walk. Students have spent the past 18 days creating 57 different sketches in their Arts and Humanities Class which can be viewed throughout the event, as well.

For more information about Dancing with the Students, visit www.dancingwiththestudents.org or contact Jillian Waitkus at jwaitkus@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7847.

The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, will return home to Whitaker Bank Ballpark to face the West Virginia Power on April 27, 2018 at 7:05 pm. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit lexingtonlegends.com.

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

Donate Tickets to Veterans Through Vets Night Out

The BlueClaws are parterning with OceanFirst Bank on Vets Night Out, a program that donates tickets for local military personnel, both veterans and active.

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – The BlueClaws and OceanFirst Bank have partnered on Vets Night Out, a program through which fans can donate tickets that will be given directly to veterans to enjoy BlueClaws games on June 14th and August 21st this year.

There are four levels of donation: Red, White, Blue, and Eagle, with each level including varying degrees of benefits.

  • Red – A $100 donation includes 10 tickets for veterans. Each donor receives on-field recognition and two tickets to the games on June 14th and August 21st.
  • White – A $250 donation includes 25 tickets for veterans. Each donor receives on-field and website recognition plus four tickets to the games on June 14th and August 21st.
  • Blue – A $500 donation includes 50 tickets for veterans. Each donor receives on-field and website recognition, an exclusive Field Day (date TBD), and eight tickets to the games on June 14th and August 21st.
  • Eagle – A $1,000 donation gives 100 tickets for veterans. Each donor receives on-field and website recognition, an exclusive Field Day (date TBD), and a BlueClaws Luxury Suite outing (for 20) either Labor Day Weekend or to an April/May game in 2019 (dates are subject to availability).

“The BlueClaws are proud to work with the area business community to support veterans and active military personnel,” said Joe Ricciutti, BlueClaws President & General Manager.

“We also recognize that while their loved ones are serving on active duty, there is often a family stationed at one of our great military bases, worried and waiting for them to safely return. We wanted to also give them an opportunity to enjoy a night with the BlueClaws. We want to be a place where families can go to put the real world on the back burner, even for just a few hours, and enjoy some baseball, mini golf, boardwalk games, ice cream and family time.”

All tickets for veterans will be donated through certified programs and directly through Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.

To participate in Vets Night Out, contact Tyler Odle by calling 732-901-7000 ext 124.

Thursday, June 14th is Military Appreciation Night, presented by OceanFirst Bank. The BlueClaws will honor veterans throughout the night. Plus, former Yankees infielder Bucky Dent will be on hand for an autograph signing. It’s also Thirsty Thursday, presented by 95.9 WRAT, with dollar beer in the brand-new BlueClaws Biergarten, and 50-cent wings from Quaker Steak & Lube.

Tuesday, August 21st is the lone 2018 appearance from the Phillie Phanatic, presented by OceanFirst Bank. It’s also a Silver Sluggers Tuesday where Silver Sluggers members eat free.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. New additions for 2018 include the Toyota World Home Run Pavilion, with boardwalk games, the BlueClaws new Mini Golf Course, and Biergarten.

Tickets for all 2018 home games are available by calling 732-901-7000 option 2 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.

Safe Kids Upstate Day is Wednesday at Fluor Field

The Drive will hold their annual Safe Kids Upstate Day at Fluor Field, in partnership with Greenville Health System and Bradshaw Automotive, on Wednesday night. First pitch against the Augusta GreenJackets is at 7:05 PM, and the fun begins when the gates open at 6:00 PM.

Safety Patrol members will participate in a pregame parade around the Fluor Field warning track at 6:30 PM, and Safe Kids will be handing out bike helmets to the first 400 children who enter the Fluor Field gates.

Throughout the night, the Drive will be recognizing Safe Kids Upstate’s annual award winners, including their Grand Slam Winner, Volunteers of the Year, the Hero Award, and the Brian Donnelly Lifetime Achievement Award. Children of all ages will also be able to learn more about all aspects of safety “At Home, At Play and On the Way” with concourse exhibits and interactive stations, and following the completion of all stations, children will have a chance to win great prizes.

Purchase tickets for Sunday’s game at the Main Street Box Office, by calling (864) 240-4528, or by CLICKING HERE. 

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

Reading All-Stars Celebrated on Monday Night

The Drive return to Fluor Field on Monday night, and they will team up with Michelin North America to hold the Reading All-Stars Celebration Game for Greenville County students.

First pitch for the game against the Augusta GreenJackets is at 7:05 PM, and the fun begins when the gates open at 6:00 PM. Greenville County students who completed the Reading All-Stars program this school year will be presented with a t-shirt from the Drive and Michelin, and they will also participate in a pregame parade around the Fluor Field warning track at 6:30.

During the game, kids will have the chance to participate in a book fair courtesy of Public Education Partners, who work to improve public education and student achievement in Greenville County Schools.

To purchase tickets, head to the Main Street Box Office, call (864) 240-4528 or CLICK HERE. 

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

Fireflies Seek Candidates for 2nd Annual Military Baseball Card Set

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The Columbia Fireflies are looking for active duty military members, reservists and military veterans to honor in their 2nd Annual Military Baseball Card Set, presented by AllSouth Federal Credit Union. On Memorial Day (Monday, May 28) the first 1000 fans through the gates will receive the 2018 Military Baseball Card Set featuring our local uniformed heroes. The Fireflies are thrilled to continue such a unique way of expressing our gratitude and recognizing those who have served or who are currently serving our country.

“We are thrilled to continue this relationship with AllSouth by recognizing these men and women,” said Fireflies team President John Katz. “It was an honor to recognize 26 individuals and their families on Memorial Day last year, and we are excited to once again have this opportunity.”

“In 1960, AllSouth Federal Credit Union began as Fort Jackson Federal Credit Union,” said AllSouth Federal Credit Union Executive Vice President Brian Bowen. “Our foundation was built on serving the military and we are honored to sponsor a set of cards for those who proudly served our country.”

The Military Baseball Card Set was an amazing way to honor our hometown heroes last year and the Fireflies are excited to keep this tradition in which veterans and active / reserve members of the military from the Midlands can be saluted. Nominations may be made now through Monday, April 30 here: http://www.milb.com/content/page.jsp?ymd=20180413&content_id=272052978&fext=.jsp&sid=t3705&vkey=.

Tickets for the 2018 season are on sale now. Visit ColumbiaFireflies.com, the Spirit Communications Park ticket office or call (803) 726-4487 for more information.

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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.

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

Sunday is Safe Kids Upstate Day

Opening Week presented by TD Bank continues on Sunday at 4:05 PM with the annual Safe Kids Upstate Day at Fluor Field, in partnership with Greenville Health System and Bradshaw Automotive. Safety Patrol members will participate in a pregame parade around the Fluor Field warning track at 3:30 PM, and Safe Kids will be handing out bike helmets to the first 400 children who enter the Fluor Field gates.

Throughout the day, the Drive will be recognizing Safe Kids Upstate’s annual award winners, including their Grand Slam Winner, Volunteers of the Year, the Hero Award, and the Brian Donnelly Lifetime Achievement Award. Children of all ages will also be able to learn more about all aspects of safety “At Home, At Play and On the Way” with concourse exhibits and interactive stations, and following the completion of all stations, children will have a chance to win great prizes.

After the game, be sure to stick around for BlueCross BlueShield Kids Run the Bases!

Purchase tickets for Sunday’s game at the Main Street Box Office, by calling (864) 240-4528, or by CLICKING HERE.

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

Legends Pair Baseball and Learning with STEM Program in Partnership with Lexmark

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends are excited to announce two Education Days this season: April 11 and May 9, both beginning at 10:35 a.m. In addition to the Education Days at the ballpark, the Legends will continue the Lexington Legends STEM Program, in a new partnership with Lexmark.

Modeled after the Legends Hit the Books Program, the goal of the Lexington Legends STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) Program is to help children in Fayette County Public Schools gain the skills required to succeed in today’s world.

“Lexmark is proud to partner with the Legends in support of STEM education. Learning through hands-on activities related to baseball sparks an interest in STEM, steering our youth toward successful careers in critical fields,” said Lexmark’s Director of Global Talent Management, Diversity and Corporate Citizenship and NA Business Partners, Sheri Evans Depp. “Lexmark and other innovative companies will need these qualified candidates to fill future STEM jobs. And as a nation, we will rely on this next generation of innovators to drive our economy. ”

In 2017, 4,500 students in FCPS participated in this program. This year, that number has grown to 8,600 students actively participating in the initiative to create interest in STEM-related careers and topics. Students are rewarded for completing in-school STEM-related projects with free tickets to a Legends game. They have to master four aspects of learning: Critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and communication. These are accomplished by one hour of coding, creating an innovative project, attending a STEM Fair or STLP Meeting and then teaching someone what they learned. This four-step process helps to reinforce new learning and broaden what the students would learn in the classroom.

On April 11 and May 9, students from across the area will take in a Legends game at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on Education Days. During those games, students will be able to learn more about the science of baseball with launch angles, speed, velocity and more being broadcasted on the television screens on the concourse. Lexmark will also be sponsoring a STEM Fair for students to gain hands-on learning from a variety of Lexington-area organizations. Students can learn about meteorology from WKYT and Bryan Station High School will have virtual reality opportunities. The US Army, Kentucky American Water, Whitaker Bank, Explorium, Lexmark, Denham-Blythe (May 9th only), Bechtel and Kumon will also have interactive setups for the STEM Fair.

“Pairing baseball and learning for our Education Days is something we take great pride in. Not only will students learn how science relates to the sport, but they will also have the opportunity to take in a variety of other subjects and topics in the STEM Fair. This is a unique program we enjoy offering that fills Whitaker Bank Balllpark with students each season,” said Legends President/CEO Andy Shea.

The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and member of the South Atlantic League, play all home games at Whitaker Bank Ballpark in Lexington, Kentucky. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com.

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

Legends Announce Whitaker Bank Ballpark to be Tobacco Free

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends announced today that Whitaker Bank Ballpark, along with all city-owned and operated ball fields, will be tobacco free. In conjunction with Tobacco Free Kentucky and the City of Lexington, the news was announced at Media Day at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

“Almost 15 years ago, Lexington became the first city in the state to enact a smoke-free ordinance. The results were almost immediate, with fewer smoking related emergency room visits and a better quality of life. This new tobacco-free policy at Whitaker Bank Ballpark and our city-owned and operated ball fields is a logical next step,” said the honorable Jim Gray, Mayor of Lexington.

Whitaker Bank Ballpark will be a smoke free environment for the first time in the stadium’s history. Baseball and tobacco have gone hand in hand for decades, with chew being the most noticeable tobacco product, but new initiatives, led by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, are trying to change that. Extended use of tobacco products including cigarettes, chew, snuff and other products have been proven to have long-term negative health effects.

“Lexington is once again taking the lead on health when it comes to protecting residents from the dangers of tobacco use,” said Ben Chandler, President and CEO of the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky. “By making all city ball fields tobacco-free, including Whitaker Bank Ballpark, Mayor Gray and Andy Shea are sending a powerful message to young baseball players looking to emulate their hometown baseball idols: tobacco use is unsafe, unhealthy, and not at all cool.”

Lexington has been on the forefront of enacting tobacco-free legislation in the state of Kentucky, with Whitaker Bank Ballpark and the Legends taking the next step of prohibiting tobacco products inside the gates. Previous smoking areas, such as behind the bleachers in left field, will no longer be designated smoking areas. There will also be no smoking on the suite level. All types of tobacco products such as cigarettes and vapes, are not allowed.

“We are very proud to be one of the first Minor League Baseball facilities in the country to go tobacco-free. Being one of the premiere family entertainment options in the region, we felt this move had to be made. We are honored to lead the way in making the Central Kentucky community a healthier and happier place to live,” said Legends President/CEO, Andy Shea.

Fans will be able to smoke outside the facility on the first base side, behind the Stables, in the fenced in area.

About the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky

Funded by an endowment, the mission of the nonpartisan Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky is to address the unmet health needs of Kentuckians by developing and influencing policy, improving access to care, reducing health risks and disparities, and promoting health equity. Since the Foundation opened its doors in 2001, it has invested more than $27 million in health policy research, advocacy, and demonstration project grants across the Commonwealth Follow the Foundation on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube, and visit www.healthy-ky.org.

About the Lexington Legends

The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com. All individual game tickets are now on sale.

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

Legends Announce Partnership with UK HealthCare for Sensory Friendly Kits and Days at Whitaker Bank Ballpark

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends are proud to announce Sensory Friendly Days on Sunday, May 13 and Monday, June 11, 2018 in partnership with UK HealthCare. Along with special considerations around the ballpark before the games, the Legends will have Friendly Access Sensory Safety Kits provided by Life Is Washable Inc. available throughout the entirety of the season.

On the days of May 13 and June 11, fans with sensory sensitivities and their families will be able to enter the ballpark at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 13 and 5:00 p.m. on Monday, June 11 to take part in pre-game festivities they previously may have had to skip. There will be no loud music or public address announcements made during this time. Legends players will be available for autographs and the Toyota Triple Play Zone will be open, also. Legends mascots, Big L and Pee Wee will be on hand, but will not approach children. Instead, they will allow the children to come up to them for autographs and photographs as desired. When gates open for the public at 12:30 p.m. (Sunday, May 13) and 6:00 p.m. (Monday, June 11), children and their families can make their way to Guest Services to pick up one of the thirty Sensory Safety Kits for the remainder of their time at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

“This new partnership with UK HealthCare opens Legends games to children and adults who normally would not be able to attend due to sensory sensitivities,” said Legends President/CEO Andy Shea. “We always want to strive to make our games as accessible as possible and this is a huge step towards that. Families can come out and enjoy a game utilizing the new Sensory Safety Kits that will be available all season long.”

Included in the Friendly Access Sensory Safety Kits provided by Life is Washable Inc. and sponsored by UK HealthCare, are stickers, a wrist band, ID card, communication card, a sensory toy, anti-glare glasses, earmuffs and tissues. At the end of each night, fans will return the kits to Guest Services so they can be sanitized, restocked, and ready for the next event. With the partnership with UK HealthCare, there are certain items provided that the child can keep after the game.

“We are thrilled to join the Legends’ efforts to provide an opportunity for more of Kentucky’s kids to enjoy America’s favorite pastime. The sensory kits will allow children who would otherwise not be able to attend a baseball game due to loud noises and other environmental factors to enjoy a fun day at the ballpark, making lifelong memories,” said Scottie Day, Interim Chair, UK Department of Pediatrics.

Previously, minor league hockey teams have done similar nights, but the Legends are ensuring that fans can enjoy games for the entirety of the season by utilizing the Friendly Access Sensory Safety Kits. Thirty kits will be stocked in Guest Services to start the 2018 season, as interest and demand dictates, more kits can and will be added to inventory for fan use.

For more information about Sensory Friendly Day, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com.

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

Fluor Field Hosts Blood Drive on Thursday, April 5th

The Greenville Drive and The Blood Connection are teaming up again in 2018 to hold blood drives at Fluor Field. The first blood drive of the season is scheduled for Thursday, April 5th. The Blood Connection buses will be set up outside the Main Street gates between 11:00 AM and 7:00 PM.

Fans who stop by Fluor Field and donate blood will receive a ticket voucher to a 2018 Drive game at Fluor Field, subject to availability, and a Blood Connection t-shirt. They will also be provided with a hot dog, chips and a drink after donating.

One lucky fan from The Blood Connection’s blood drives on April 5th at Fluor Field and April 6th at select locations will receive a Red Sox VIP Experience, which includes two pavilion reserved tickets to a Red Sox game, two nights in a Boston hotel, a VIP tour of Fenway Park, and a $500 airfare voucher.

For more information on The Blood Connection and donating blood, CLICK HERE.

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

Bowling With The BlueClaws Returns April 15th

Bowling With The BlueClaws is back on Sunday, April 15th!

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – BlueClaws Charities is proud to announce its seventh annual Bowling With The BlueClaws fundraising event returns to Sea Girt Lanes on Sunday, April 15th. BlueClaws players will again be at the event, a great chance for kids to have a fun night out with players and Buster while raising money for a worthy cause.

The charitable bowling event takes place from 6-8pm. For just $15, participants will receive bowling shoes, a raffle ticket for a series of prizes, pizza and soda, and unlimited bowling games.

Raffles will be held throughout the night for limited edition autographed merchandise and other door prizes. In addition to prizes being given out, BlueClaws players will be there to hang out with you! All proceeds from the night will benefit BlueClaws Charities and their Community Partners.

“This has been a great event for BlueClaws Charities and the fans over the last seven years and we look forward to another great event,” said Jim DeAngelis, Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities. “Each fundraising event like Bowling With the BlueClaws benefits a wide variety of local organizations that we are proud to support and will continue to support.”

For more information or to reserve a spot, contact JoAnne Bell at 732-901-7000 ext. 100 or at jbell@blueclaws.com. Space is limited and those interested are encouraged to book early.

BlueClaws Charities, the official charity of the Lakewood BlueClaws, is a 501c3 dedicated to supporting the underpriveleged Ocean and Monmouth counties. BlueClaws Charities has donated over $250,000 over the past four years to community organizations, including donations in the form of grants to BlueClaws Charities Community Partners.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League in attendance in all 16 years of existence.

Opening Day for the 2018 season is Thursday, April 12th. Tickets are available by calling 732-901-7000 option 2 or online by clicking here.

– BlueClaws –

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

Legends Stache Tank Program – Update 3/20

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends announce today the winning specialty food item from Crawford Middle School – Legends fans will be able to indulge in Uncle Ray’s Potato Chip Crusted Chicken Wraps all season long.

Teams of Crawford Middle School students presented their final presentations to a panel of community judges at Whitaker Bank Ballpark. Other finalists included the Panwich (renamed from the pancakerito; a breakfast sandwich made out of pancakes) and a Texas-toast sandwich with macaroni and cheese with barbeque chicken.

“Stache Tank was first started as part of our diversity and inclusion initiative, and we are beyond proud of how it has taken off. We have received tremendous support both locally and throughout the Minor League Baseball community,” said Legends President/CEO, Andy Shea. “The most challenging part of the entire program is selecting one winning group out of all the incredibly creative ideas these kids come up with!”

The wrap will include chicken tenders that will be breaded in Uncle Ray’s Potato Chips, the official Potato Chip of Minor League Baseball. The wrap will also include lettuce, tomatoes, onions and pickles. Fans will receive a side of French fries with three options of dipping sauces that include ranch, honey mustard and barbecue sauce. The Uncle Ray’s Potato Crusted Chicken Wrap will be available in the Kentucky Ale Taproom at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

The members of the winning group (picture attached) are: Hannah Cook (Team Lead), Madison Green, Alyssa Waugh, Nakita Epsy, and Annamarie Seamans.

“This year’s Stache Tank was a huge success! I am so proud of our students for their hard work and creativity. The food items were delicious and the presentations were excellent. I appreciate the Lexington Legends for allowing students from CMS this incredible opportunity,” said Crawford Middle School Principal, Mike Jones. “To see them use math, team work, technology, and other school related skills in a real-world setting makes me extremely proud.”

Northern Elementary students are working on their final presentations for their give-a-way item project that the first 1,000 fans will receive at a Legends home game during the month of August. The top three giveaway items that have moved on to the final round of judging are: Light-up bracelet, lunch bag, and PopSocket phone stand. Students will present their final presentations to a panel of community judges that include Kimberly Bussell of Whitaker Bank, Phil Holoubek of Lexington’s Real Estate Co, Jade Miles of Lexmark, Kellen Dargle of WKYT, 1st District Councilmen James Brown, Former UK Quarterback Patrick Towles of Traditional Bank, and James Webb of G& J Pepsion on Monday, March 26 at 10 a.m. in the boardroom at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

The Legends welcome media to the final round of Northern Elementary School presentations on Monday, March 26, 2018 at 10 a.m.

For more information about the Legends Stache Tank Program, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855.

The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com.

ORIGINAL RELEASE from 2/20/2018

 

 

Legends Stache Tank Program

Bryan Station High School Winners Selected; Middle and Elementary School Programs in Full Swing

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Lexington Legends announce the winning Opening Day plans from Bryan Station High School Stache Tank—Legends fans will see a “Tropical Electric” theme as they enter the gates for the first time April 5, 2018.

 

Teams of Bryan Station High School students competed to create themed event plans for the 2018 Opening Day game for the April 5 Legends home opener. Other ideas included “Slumber Sluggers” focusing around a large pajama party idea which involves bringing live sheep to the ballpark, a “Luau Day” for fans to imagine themselves on a tropical island or on Spring Break, playing fun tropical themed activities and potentially having fun taking whacks at an old junk car to help relieve stress, and a theme centered around everything “jumbo;” jumbo games, jumbo prizes, etc. However, in final presentations on February 6th, the panel of judges comprised of community members ultimately selected the “Tropical Electric” theme to reign supreme.

 

Fans can anticipate Tropical Electric Opening Day to include features such as: neon lights in the concourse, a photo booth with tropical themed props up front, inflatable palm trees, dog costume dress up contest in tropical attire for Bark in the Park presented by Pepsi, glow sticks distributed at fireworks time, Hawaiian flower balloons decorating the seating bowl and other tropical décor hanging from breezeways, Hawaiian flower designs on a Legends script staff tee, Bryan Station Academy booths with games/showcasing all academies (virtual reality, etc.), a hula dance cam on the video boards, an arm wrestling contest, and face painting for kids.

 

Tropical Electric winning group members (picture attached) are: Anna Hassloch, Drake Witt, Jade Finley,Stephen Lyal, Caden Tarry, Kate Jones, Joko Bojang, Ariana Rojas

 

“We are so excited to continue to strengthen the partnership between the Lexington Legends and Bryan Station High School and to once again be taking over Opening Day” said Heather Epply, Academy Coach at Bryan Station High School. “StacheTank is such an amazing opportunity for our students to apply their creativity and skills to a real world situation. Going through the process of idea generation, planning, presenting, accepting critical feedback, and polishing their presentations teaches them so much more than they would learn in a traditional classroom. Our students are so excited to see their hard work become a reality on April 5th!”

 

Crawford Middle School students are presenting their final presentations to a panel of community judges at Whitaker Bank Ballpark in the Executive Boardroom on Wednesday, February 28 at 11 a.m. The top three specialty food item presentations that have moved on to the second round of judging are: a Panwich (renamed from the pancakerito; a breakfast sandwich made out of pancakes), a sandwich wrap featuring chicken tenders battered in Uncle Rays Potato Chips (Uncle Rays is the official potato chip of Minor League Baseball), and a Texas-toast sandwich with macaroni and cheese with barbeque chicken.

 

Judges for round two for Crawford Middle School students are: Kimberly Bussell of Whitaker Bank, Councilwoman Angela Evans of the 6th District, Phil Holoubek of Lexington’s Real Estate Co., Former UK Quarterback Patrick Towles of Traditional Bank, Elizabeth Murphy of Lexington Clinic, Arthur Lucas of LFUCG, and Daryl Love of Valvoline.

 

The Northern Elementary students are working on their Stache Tank give-a-way item project that the first 1,000 fans will receive at the Legends home game later in the season during the month of August.   This group of students is completing research by doing some initial market surveys to see what would excite fans. As they progress through their project, they’ll incorporate speech writing, math skills and presentation techniques as they too will present to members of the Legends Front Office for round one of presentations on March 7 at 2 p.m. and then have final presentations to a panel of community members later in March.

 

The Legends welcome media to the Crawford Middle School presentations on Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 11 a.m.

 

For more information about the Legends Stache Tank Program, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com.

 

ORIGNIAL RELEASE from 2/2/18

 

 

Legends Stache Tank Program for 2018 in Full Swing: Gearing up for presentations

 

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Stache Tank is back. The Lexington Legends are holding another round of Stache Tank competition, as students on the elementary, middle and high school levels from Fayette County Public Schools compete on a variety of entrepreneurial business and event project designs connected to Legends baseball at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

 

Stache Tank follows a format similar to the popular television program “Shark Tank,” in which entrepreneurs present their ideas to a panel of potential investors. The Legends call the competition “‘Stache Tank” in recognition of the team’s mustache logo. Currently, teams of students at Northern Elementary, Crawford Middle School, and Bryan Station High School have been competing with each other at their schools to create and build the best ideas and presentations. The finalists will make presentations at Whitaker Bank Ballpark to a panel of judges made up of community leaders and Legends officials as their project timelines come to a close.

 

Teams of Bryan Station High School students are creating themed event plans for the 2018 Opening Day game for the April 5 Legends home opener. Ideas include “Slumber Sluggers” focusing around a large pajama party idea which involves bringing live sheep to the ballpark, a “Tropical Electric” neon light/glow stick experience for fans, a “Luau Day” for fans to imagine themselves on a tropical island or on Spring Break, playing fun tropical themed activities and potentially having fun taking whacks at an old junk car to help relieve stress, and a theme centered around everything “jumbo;” jumbo games, jumbo prizes, etc.

 

The Bryan Station High School teams will make their presentations in the executive board room at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on Tuesday, February 6 at 10 a.m. to a panel of judges comprised of community members. Judges on the panel include: Kimberly Bussell of Whitaker Bank, James Webb and Morgan Reaguer of G&J Pepsi, Laci Poulter of Lexington Clinic, Phil Holoubek of Lexington’s Real Estate Co., 1st District Councilman James Brown, Former UK Quarterback Patrick Towles of Traditional Bank, Sheri Evans Depp of Lexmark and Christina Briggs of Kentucky Children’s Hospital.

 

Crawford Middle School students are creating a specialty food item to be served in the Kentucky Ale Taproom restaurant throughout the 2018 season. Among the early contenders are items like: a pancakerito (a breakfast burrito made out of pancakes), a special take on a pretzel bun pulled pork sandwich, a sandwich wrap featuring chicken tenders battered in Uncle Rays Potato Chips (Uncle Rays is the official potato chip of Minor League Baseball), a hamburger hotdog, a donut burger with coleslaw, and a Texas-toast sandwich with macaroni and cheese with barbeque chicken.

 

“It’s been fun watching the wheels turn in the student’s minds,” said Crawford Principal Mike Jones. “I have been challenging them to think big, bigger than they ever have before. I feel as though sometimes we do not allow our students opportunities to think outside the box enough. I actually told our students, create a new box if you want. We just had our initial taste tests, and so far, the kids are impressed with their creativity. I also think the kids are excited they have an opportunity to present an idea to members of the community and hear their feedback” he added.

 

Crawford Middle School students will present their initial presentations to members of the Legends Front Office and then have final presentations to a panel of community members at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on February 28, 2018 at 11 a.m.

 

The Northern Elementary students are working on a give-a-way item that the first 1,000 fans would receive at the Legends home game later in the season during the month of August.   This group of students is beginning their research by doing some initial market surveys to see what would excite fans. As they progress through their project, they’ll incorporate speech writing, math skills and presentation techniques as they too will present to members of the Legends Front Office and then have final presentations to a panel of community members. Those presentation dates will be set at a later date.

 

The Legends welcome media to the Bryan Station High School presentations on Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at 10 a.m.

 

For more information about the Legends Stache Tank Program, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com.

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

LexArts Inc. and Legends Seek Artist for Lou Johnson Tribute At Whitaker Bank Ballpark

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – In partnership with LexArts Inc. and the Lexington Legends, Legends President/CEO Andy Shea announced to the Sweet Lou Johnson Lexington Chapter of the Society of American Baseball Research that the Legends are currently searching for an artist from the region (Kentucky and contiguous states) to create a piece to honor Lexington native, and World Series hero, “Sweet” Lou Johnson.

Sweet Lou Johnson was born in Lexington and attended Dunbar High School. He signed as a free agent for the New York Yankees in 1953, and saw his first major league action in 1962 with the Milwaukee Braves. Johnson was then traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers and subsequently led the Dodgers to a World Series victory in 1965, hitting the game winning home run in a decisive game seven. After various injuries, Johnson retired from baseball in 1970. He ended his career batting .258 with 48 home runs, 232 RBI and 50 stolen bases.

The partnership between the Legends and LexArts Inc. began in 2017 after the Legends hosted an On The Table event. Community members voiced their opinions of ways to improve the city in different capacities to make it more vibrant and engaged. During the same time, Lexington Mayor Jim Gray called for a more diverse narrative for public art, which led to the idea of incorporating Sweet Lou Johnson into Whitaker Bank Ballpark. The Legends and LexArts Inc. applied, and received, a grant from Blue Grass Community Trust Foundation to begin the first phase of the project to seek proposals from artists around the region. They not only wanted to honor Lexington’s history, but the incredible contribution that Sweet Lou Johnson made to the game of baseball.

“It is an honor to have the opportunity to pay homage to Lou Johnson. Not only will this showcase Johnson and the impact he had in the world of baseball, but also bring together sports and the arts at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.” said Legends President/CEO Andy Shea. “We are proud to be able to honor this part of Lexington history and showcase the contribution that Sweet Lou Johnson made to baseball.”

The project will consist of two phases:

Phase 1: RFQ/RFP

The Request for Qualifications / Proposals will seek to identify artists in the region that are interested in creating work to celebrate Lou Johnson. Artists must provide resume, past work and a cover letter that identifies the type of work they would create, what materials it would use and describe concept.

Phase 2: Commissioned Proposals

Three artists will be paid $500 to further develop their concepts and provide a rendering.

The three finalists’ proposals will be displayed for the public to see at the Whitaker Bank Ballpark in late Spring 2018. One proposal will be selected to be realized.

The deadline for qualifications is April 7, 2018 and artists will be notified by April 13. Final proposals will be due May 31 and then the proposals will be viewed by the public June 1-21 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark at Lexington Legends games.

The anticipated budget for the project will be $50,000 which includes artist fee and travel, materials and installation.

All interested artists should visit www.lexarts.org/participate/artists/ for more information and to submit their applications. All artists must go through LexArts Inc. with their submissions.

The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com

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