Maxwell Elementary student wins the Legends ‘Hit the Books’ Reading Program Bookmark Design Contest

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Legends announce 10 year old LeQuon Greer, a 5th grader at Maxwell Elementary in Lexington, as the overall winner of the bookmark design contest that is part of the Lexington Legends Hit the Books reading incentive program sponsored by Waffle House.

Greer (picture with graphics attached) received a Legends prize pack that included Legends merchandise, a framed Hit the Books poster featuring his artwork, and membership in the 2018 Kids Club. He also will be invited to throw a ceremonial first pitch at a designated Legends game for his school. Bookmarks featuring his artwork will be distributed to students at every school that participates in the Hit the Books program. More than 43,000 students from over 110 Central Kentucky schools take part in the program, which runs through April 1 with bookmark redemption nights throughout the season.

In Hit the Books, a baseball diamond is used to record credit for a student’s reading. For every book a student reads, a teacher places his or her initials on a base. When the student has all three bases and home plate initialed by the teacher, the student may bring a Hit the Books bookmark to the Legends Box Office at Whitaker Bank Ballpark to exchange it for two (2) tickets to a Legends home game designated for their school.

“Hit the Books will continue to be an important part of community outreach for the Legends,” said Dominique Neel, the Legends Hit the Books coordinator and Account Executive. “We enjoy going out to the schools, meeting with students and providing an incentive for their efforts in reading. It’s great to be part of a program that has a positive impact in the educational development of so many students.”

Runners-up in the design contest were Tiffany Setters, 3rd grader at Bourbon Central Elementary in Paris, Kentucky and Audrie Kind, 8th grader at Garrard Middle School in Lancaster, Kentucky. Both of these students (pictures also attached) also received Legends prize packs and opportunities to represent their schools at a game with a ceremonial first pitch opportunity.

The 2018 season is the 18th for Legends baseball in Lexington, and will also mark the 15th year that the Legends have been associated with Hit the Books. Over the course of the program, over 350,000 students have participated in the reading program sponsored by Waffle House.

For more information about the Hit the Books reading program, contact Dominique Neel at dneel@lexingtonlegends.com or (859) 422-7851. 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 Stache Tank Program 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.

Sign Up For 2018 BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camp

Young players can learn the game from the BlueClaws players at one of three Youth Baseball Camp Sessions this summer.

—

LAKEWOOD, NJ – Learn the game from BlueClaws players each day as part of the BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camp at FirstEnergy Park. The BlueClaws will hold three sessions this summer, with each session including three days of instruction from a variety of BlueClaws players.

Camp each day runs from 9 am – 12 pm and includes lunch from 12 pm – 12:30 pm, an autograph session with BlueClaws players on the last day of camp, BlueClaws merchandise, and one ticket to the September 1st BlueClaws game with a pre-game parade on the field.

The camp will cover all aspects of the game, with emphasis on hitting, base running, fielding, throwing, pitching, and position work. The objective of the camp is to instill the fundamentals of baseball, promote good sportsmanship, and create an enjoyable learning atmosphere for all.

2018 Youth Baseball Camp Sessions
Session 1: July 12 – 14
Session 2: July 24, 26, & 27
Session 3: August 16-18

Each session is just $140.

BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camp sessions typically sell out and those interested are encouraged to book their spot as soon as possible.

How to Sign Up: Sign up online by clicking here, return this order form, or call Kevin McNellis at 732-901-7000 ext 164.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment.

– BlueClaws –

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

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.

Charleston RiverDogs Partner with Palmetto Goodwill & GoodPeople Staffing for Jobs at The Joe Hire Me! Events

CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Charleston RiverDogs, in partnership with Palmetto Goodwill’s new line of business, GoodPeople Staffing, will host two Jobs at The Joe Hire Me! events to fill ballpark gameday positions for the 2018 season: a food & beverage only job event on Saturday, February 10 and a general job fair for all positions on Saturday, March 3, both at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park.

The RiverDogs are seeking qualified candidates for positions ranging from cashiers to ushers, merchandise employees to mascots, and more. Those interested in positions in food and beverage are encouraged to attend one of the two hiring events.

 Applicants for all other positions, and anyone interested in F&B jobs who miss the February event, should attend the March job fair at the ballpark.

All interested applicants MUST pre-register for this event by filling out a candidate information form located HERE and then attend one of the event dates listed below.


F&B Jobs Only

  • Saturday, February 10 – 10am-2pm at Joe Riley Park (360 Fishburne St., Charleston, SC 29403)

All Jobs (including F&B)

  • Saturday, March 3 – 10am-2pm at Joe Riley Park (360 Fishburne St., Charleston, SC 29403)

On-site interviews will be conducted for positions in the following areas:

  • food & beverage (front and back of the house)
  • ushers
  • ticket takers
  • box office attendants
  • kids zone
  • stadium clean-up crew
  • parking attendants
  • And if you have what it takes, you can possibly be Charlie T. RiverDog!

Applicants are encouraged to dress appropriately.

About the RiverDogs

The Charleston RiverDogs, the Class A affiliate of the 27-time World Champion New York Yankees, are Charleston’s leader in affordable sports entertainment. Recently recognized with the Bob Freitas Award as the top Class A operation by Baseball America in 2017, the RiverDogs are coming off their most successful season when they welcomed over 300,000 fans through the turnstiles for the first time in franchise history.

RiverDogs season tickets, group tickets, and flex plans, including options to the Riley Park Club, are now available for the 2018 campaign, the club’s 25th season as the RiverDogs and their “175th in dog years.” The RiverDogs begin the season on April 12 when they host the Kannapolis Intimidators at The Joe after a week on the road and an exhibition opener at The Joe on April 3 against Myrtle Beach. Ticket information can be secured by contacting the box office at (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or online at www.riverdogs.com/tickets.

–RIVERDOGS–

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

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Shorebirds Celebrate Hit the Books Bookmark Contest Winner

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BlueClaws, CJBC Blood Drive on January 20th

We’ll be hosting a blood drive at FirstEnergy Park on January 20th.

—

LAKEWOOD, NJ – The BlueClaws and Central Jersey Blood Center are teaming up for a blood drive on Saturday, January 20th from 7 am – 2 pm at FirstEnergy Park.The drive will take place in the BlueClaws Executive Conference Center and each donor will receive a pair of tickets for a 2018 BlueClaws game.

The BlueClaws encourage all fans to donate as the supply of blood needs to be replenished at this time.

While walk-ins are accepted, donors are encouraged to pre-register. To sign up, call 888-71-BLOOD or click here to register online.

Don’t Forget: Please eat before donating. All equipment used during the procedure is sterile and disposable. Donors must be healthy, be at least 16 years of age and weigh at least 120 pounds. Donors must present signature ID.

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.

2018 BlueClaws 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.

Legends sponsor University of Kentucky students to attend 2017 Winter Meetings and PBEO Job Fair

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – For the third consecutive year, the Lexington Legends are sponsoring a group of students, both at the undergraduate and graduate level, who will attend the Winter Meetings, an annual event held each December, that includes seminars, a trade show and a job fair at The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort in Orlando, Florida. The 2017 Winter Meetings mark the first year the Legends have partnered with students from the University of Kentucky.

 

Over the last several months, the Legends have developed a partnership with the UK Chapter of the national student group MANRRS (Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences), led by faculty advisor Dr. Quentin Tyler, Assistant Dean & Director for Diversity at the University of Kentucky.

 

“The Legends are pleased to be able to partner with this UK student group and provide guidance for this first step towards their career,” said Legends President/CEO Andy Shea. “We appreciate the students’ interest, and we think they will really enjoy the opportunity to learn first-hand from experts about a variety of careers in baseball.”

 

The 2017 Winter Meetings began December 10th in Orlando, and will continue through December 14th. The Winter Meetings are an annual gathering of representatives of all 30 Major League Baseball teams and their 160 Minor League Baseball affiliates. Personnel from all teams convene for four days to discuss league business and conduct off-season trades and transactions. Some of Major League Baseball’s biggest player trades and free agent signings occur at Winter Meetings, but much of the agenda at the minor league level concerns the off-the-field business of professional baseball.

 

The PBEO Job Fair, which the UK students will attend, provides connections and opportunities for those who would like to work in baseball in a variety of areas, including promotions, ticket sales, community relations, media relations, broadcasting and others.

 

The students will also have an opportunity to attend the Business of Baseball seminars and workshops, which have been part of the winter meetings for more than 20 years and cover a wide range of baseball business topics. Students will also attend the Trade Show, which features hundreds of vendors from various aspects of the baseball industry.

 

In addition to entry fees, the Legends are supporting the students also through a one-year subscription to PBEO.com (Professional Baseball Employment Opportunities), the official employment service of Minor League Baseball.

 

The UK students who are attending the meetings are: Drexler Blue, Montreale Jones, Jericho Curry, Mia Farrell, Ty’Asia Jones, Jahqtehea Johnson and Aerin Mitchell. The students are being accompanied by Dr. Tyler.

 

The Legends are excited to expand upon their growing partnership with the University of Kentucky through this hands-on educational program.

RiverDogs Host Charlie Claus Toy Drive to Benefit MUSC Children’s Hospital

CHARLESTON, S.C. – Charlie and the RiverDogs are asking fans to help give back this holiday season. The club will be accepting donations of unopened toys at Riley Park all this week as they open their gates for the Charlie Claus Toy Drive to benefit the MUSC Shawn Jenkin’s Children’s Hospital.

“After cancelling our original Charlie Claus event due to weather this past weekend, we wanted to come up with an alternative for our fans to give back this holiday season,” said RiverDogs Community Relations Director Walter Nolan-Cohn. “We would like to thank our fans in advance for their show of support. These donations are a wonderful way to make an impact in the Lowcountry community.”

The four-day long toy drive will run from Monday, December 11 through Thursday, December 14 between the hours of 9am and 4:30pm. Fans are encouraged to donate a new, unopened toy that can be dropped off inside the main gate on Fishburne St. or inside the front office lobby. Every family that donates a toy will also receive a family four-pack (includes four tickets, four hot dogs, four drinks and four bags of chips) for a RiverDogs game in 2018.

 

The week will also culminate with a meet-and-greet featuring Charlie T. RiverDog, Chelsea, and Santa Claus on Thursday, December 14 from 5:30-6:30 in the RiverDogs clubhouse. Families will have the opportunity for photos and to meet the RiverDogs’ signature mascots along with Santa himself.

Charlie will deliver the donated toys from the week’s efforts to the children’s hospital on Wednesday, December 20.

For more information on the Charlie Claus Toy Drive and meet-and-greet, please contact Walter Nolan-Cohn at 843-723-7241 or by email at walter@riverdogs.com.

RiverDogs season tickets, half-season ticket packages, and flex plans, including options to the Riley Park Club, are now available for the 2018 campaign. The RiverDogs begin the season on April 12 when they host the Kannapolis Intimidators at The Joe, preceded by a weeklong road trip and an exhibition opener at The Joe on April 3 against Myrtle Beach. Ticket information can be secured by contacting the box office at (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or online at www.riverdogs.com/tickets.

–RIVERDOGS–

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

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RiverDogs Get in Holiday Spirit with “Season of Giving” Initiative

CHARLESTON, S.C. – It’s the “season of giving,” and the Charleston RiverDogs are getting in the holiday spirit. The club has pledged to donate a dollar to one of four local Lowcountry charities for each ticket sold as part of a group outing at The Joe for the upcoming 2018 season, through Friday, December 22.

For every group ticket plan of 25 or more, picnics of 50+, suite rental, and Riley Park Club group of 10+ sold by the 22nd, the RiverDogs will donate a dollar per ticket to either the Lowcountry Food Bank, Charleston Animal Society, the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, or the Palmetto Military Support Group at the choice of each customer.

In the same spirit of giving, the RiverDogs will also be offering holiday flex plan deals during the month of December. Packages start at just $50 and included five undated grandstand vouchers, good for almost any game during the 2018 season, along with the choice of a RiverDogs hat, shirt, or the option to donate $10 to one of the four charities. A package that includes ten undated vouchers will run at $85.

Ticket information on season tickets and groups, including the Riley Park Club, can be found on riverdogs.com/tickets and reserved with a sales representative by contacting the club at 843-723-7241.

RiverDogs season tickets, half-season ticket packages, and flex plans are now available for the 2018 campaign. The RiverDogs begin the season on April 12 when they host the Kannapolis Intimidators at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, preceded by a weeklong road trip to open the year and an exhibition contest against Myrtle Beach at The Joe on April 3. Ticket information can be secured by contacting the box office at (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or online at www.riverdogs.com/tickets.

–RIVERDOGS–

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

Columbia Fireflies to Donate to The Miracle League of Columbia on Giving Tuesday

COLUMBIA, South Carolina – The Columbia Fireflies announced today that, in partnership with BUSH’S® Beans, they will provide a donation to The Miracle League of Columbia as part of #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration, on Tuesday, Nov. 28.

Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving and the widely-recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday, #GivingTuesday kicks off the charitable season, when many focus on their holiday and end-of-year giving. Since its inaugural year in 2012, #GivingTuesday has become a movement that celebrates and supports generosity and philanthropy.

This past season, Dash Winningham was named the BUSH’S Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the 2017 South Atlantic League All-Star Game in Columbia, South Carolina, after going 1-for-2 with a double and two RBI in a 3-3, rain-shortened tie. As an extension of this award, BUSH’S and the Fireflies will provide a $1,000 donation to The Miracle League of Columbia.

“The City of Columbia’s Miracle League Field is an amazing project for our community, providing individuals with special needs to participate in baseball in a fully-accessible, safe environment,” said Columbia Fireflies President John Katz. “The field was built as a partnership between the City of Columbia, Richland County and the Ray Tanner Foundation – a non-profit founded by South Carolina Athletic Director, Ray Tanner, and his wife, Karen.

“On behalf of the Columbia Fireflies, South Atlantic League All-Star Game MVP Dash Winningham and the children of The Miracle League of Columbia, we’d like to thank BUSH’s Beans for making this donation to help further the mission and the good work being done in our community for very special people.”

BUSH’S Beans sponsored 11 All-Star Game MVP awards throughout Minor League Baseball this summer. BUSH’S is making a donation to a local charitable organization chosen by each MVP Award winner’s home club.

“One of the things that attracted BUSH’S to Minor League Baseball is how the clubs and their local communities support each other,” said Mike Morris, Senior Brand Manager at Bush Brothers & Company. “We are proud to recognize the contributions of each BUSH’S MVP Award winner by giving back to his team’s local charity.”

Minor League Baseball unveiled a multi-year, strategic partnership with BUSH’S Beans last December, making it the “Official Beans of Minor League Baseball,” and a “Preferred Partner” of a number of MiLB teams, beginning in 2017. Bush Brothers & Company is the recognized brand leader in beans. The partnership was activated across a range of touch-points this year, including in-ballpark celebrations such as National Baked Bean Month in July and the integration of a variety of BUSH’S Beans products in teams’ concessions.

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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 development. 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 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 www.MiLB.com.

Follow Minor League Baseball on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About BUSH’S® Beans

BUSH’S® is all about friends & family, and a certain Secret Family Recipe. When you enjoy our beans (doesn’t matter if they’re baked beans, chili beans, black beans, pinto beans…well, 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 & Chili Beans to satisfying bean recipes, you’re cooking up the best with BUSH’S BEST®. For more information, visit www.bushbeans.com.

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

BlueClaws Charities Hands Out Grants to 40 Community Partner Organizations

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

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

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

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

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

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

The following organizations received a grant from BlueClaws Charities.

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

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

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

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

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

– BlueClaws Charities –

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

Breakfast With Buster Holiday Food & Toy Drive on December 9th

Our Breakfast With Buster Food & Toy Drive returns on December 9th!

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – The 18th annual Breakfast With Buster Holiday Food & Toy Drive returns to FirstEnergy Park on Saturday, December 9th from 9 am – 11 am. This year’s event is presented by Rosko’s Bagels in Jackson.

Once again, Buster will be joined by his holiday friend, Santa Claus, at the event, which is free to the public. The BlueClaws ask that those in attendance bring unwrapped toys and/or non-perishable food with all donations benefiting the Salvation Army of Ocean County.

Rosko’s Bagels will provide complimentary bagels and the BlueClaws will provide coffee for attendees.

“This is one of the first events the BlueClaws ever hosted, debuting in December of 2000,” recalled Jim DeAngelis, BlueClaws VP of Community Relations. “It’s been very well supported by the community every year and we look forward to another great event, supporting the less fortunate leading into the holiday season.”

For photos from last year’s event, click here.

The BlueClaws, acquired by Shore Town Basball in July, are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable family entertainment. The BlueClaws open the 2018 season on Thursday, April 12th. 2018 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.

Andy Shea and Lexington Legends to receive prestigious distinguished philanthropist award

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – (November 7, 2017) – The Association of Fundraising Professionals – Bluegrass Chapter presents the Distinguished Philanthropist Award to an individual, corporation, or foundation that has made a significant contribution to our community through their acts of kindness and charitable giving. “Over the years, only a select few have received this special recognition and this year’s recipient is definitely worthy of this honor,” said Patrick Robinson, AFP President.

 

On Friday, November 10, during the National Philanthropy Day Luncheon at the Marriott Griffin Gate, Andy Shea and the Lexington Legends will receive the 2017 Distinguished Philanthropist award.

 

In 2017, the Legends donated over $1.1 million to hundreds of charitable organizations in eastern and central Kentucky. One hundred percent of the Legends staff is currently involved in the community outside of the workplace.

 

President/CEO Andy Shea is the driving force behind all of the Legends’ community initiatives and philanthropic accomplishments. He sets an example of empathy, kindness and selflessness for everyone he meets and encourages others to utilize their unique talents and passions in order to serve others.

 

Shea serves on the boards for LexArts and Junior Achievement. He has built relationships with 10 little brothers through Big Brothers Big Sisters, three of whom were groomsmen in his wedding this past October. He was also the 2013 and 2015 champion of Dancing With The Lexington Stars, which supports the Rotary Club Endowment Fund and Surgery on Sundays. In 2016, Andy won the American Diabetes Association’s Kiss-A-Pig Campaign Individual Winner award for his fundraising efforts towards curing and preventing diabetes. This year, he was humbled to provide the lead gift towards Midway University’s new baseball stadium, which will increase the university’s athletic merit and offer Midway student-athletes the opportunity to compete in state-of-the-art collegiate facilities for the first time.

 

“It’s clear that Andy Shea and the Lexington Legends make a huge impact in our community,” adds Robinson. “AFP – Bluegrass Chapter is pleased to give this prestigious award to both an individual and a team who are touching many lives through their philanthropy.”

(The National Philanthropy Luncheon will be held on Friday, November 10, from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at the Marriott Griffin Gate in Lexington. The Distinguished Philanthropist Award will be presented between 12:45 p.m. and 1:15 p.m.)

For more information about the Legends, 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, will return home to 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

 

4th Annual Line Drive Canned Food Drive

AUGUSTA, GA – The Augusta GreenJackets, Single-A Affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, in conjunction with Platinum Sports and Complete Game are excited to announce the 4th Annual Line Drive Canned Food Drive FREE Baseball Clinic in memory of Terry Childers Senior on Saturday, November 4th from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm.

“We invite the CSRA to come out to Lake Olmstead Stadium, receive professional instruction and support a great cause”, stated GreenJackets Vice President Tom Denlinger. “Help us gather lots of canned goods and receive professional instruction from Platinum Sports and Complete Game.”

In memory of Terry Childers Sr., families across the CSRA are invited to come and take part in this FREE clinic benefiting Golden Harvest Food Bank. Families are encouraged to bring canned goods and other non-perishable food items to be donated to Golden Harvest Food Bank who will be on site to collect.

You can also bring items anytime between now and Nov. 4th to the Platinum Sports & Complete Game facility at 3855 Washington Rd. You do not have to participate in the clinic to bring food donations! Over the past three years, 1,209 meals have been raised with 1,449lbs of Donated goods! Come join us for this awesome event for our community!

Register online at www.playpscg.com. Go to camps/clinics for your free registration.

Matt Childers Quote “We look forward to seeing everyone at this Great event at Lake Olmstead Stadium. This is a great way to give back to our community and provide a wonderful FREE baseball clinic to the public and at the same time come together and support our local food bank through Golden Harvest. This event is held in Memory of Terry Childers Sr. who grew up just blocks away from Lake Olmstead Stadium and went to Richmond Academy and coached the Baseball Team at Augusta College and was a great influence on countless people. We thank the Augusta GreenJackets, the entire staff and especially Vice President Tom Denlinger for his outstanding leadership and partnership during this event.”

Event Details:

  • Saturday, November 4th from 11am-1:00pm
  • Lake Olmstead Stadium, 78 Milledge Road, Augusta, GA 30904
  • Giving back to the community with a FREE baseball clinic – beginning to experienced players welcome
  • Professional instruction from Platinum Sports & Complete Game
  • Bring canned food items and non-perishable food items to benefit Golden Harvest Food Bank
  • Opportunity to support the community together and have some FUN
  • Register in advance or onsite the morning of

About the Platinum Sports and Complete Game

Platinum Sports & Complete Game is the CSRA’s Home to an Amazing Indoor Sports Facility. We have recently added 8,000sq ft. of field Turf to our gym area for additional batting cages, pitching lanes for baseball & softball, a fielding area, workout area, Soccer & Lacrosse areas and much more. We have state of the art batting simulators for baseball & softball that give batters a realistic experience of the pitcher pitching the ball. Our Cosmic Birthday Parties have taken off! An amazing Birthday, Team function, or group Event held under the Black Lights with Music! Check us out at 3855 Washington Rd. Martinez, Ga. 30907 or at our website www.playpscg.com We Take Reservations every day for parties and group Events!

About the Augusta GreenJackets

The Augusta GreenJackets kick off the Inaugural Season at SRP Park on April 12th against the Lexington Legends (Kansas City Royals). SRP Park is the anchor piece of Riverside Village, a live, work, “playball” development which includes apartment living, senior living, retail, restaurants, class “A” office space, and a Crowne Plaza Hotel and Conference Center. Deposits are currently being accepted for Full Season Seats for the GreenJackets 2018 season. To learn more and for a 360-degree view of SRP Park and Riverside Village, visit www.greenjackets2018.com.

 

To stay up to date all season long, sign up for the ‘Jackets Buzz e-newsletter by visiting www.GreenJacketsBaseball.com/thebuzz/.

 

– GreenJackets

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