Aces’ Partner Rounds Bakery is ALL IN for the Community

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Feeling frustrated, Rounds Bakery owners’ Anton Novak and Sean Cary needed to get involved. “My husband Sean said, ‘This is an all-out war against this virus, and we need to do everything we can to help,'” Novak said.

Feeling frustrated, Rounds Bakery owners’ Anton Novak and Sean Cary needed to get involved.

“My husband Sean said, ‘This is an all-out war against this virus, and we need to do everything we can to help,'” Novak said.

Rounds Bakery Owners Sean Cary (left) and Anton Novak (right) Rounds Bakery

Mirroring the idea of the old Rosie Riveter campaign where you don’t need to be on the front lines to help, they got to work.

Since COVID-19 cases ramped up in the United States in the middle of March 2020, Rounds Bakery has been donating breakfast sandwiches, muffins, coffee cakes, bagels, and cream cheese to local health care workers.

Their delivery trucks have been making stops at COVID testing sites, St. Mary’s, Renown Regional, Renown South Meadows and Northern Nevada Medical Center from about 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. daily.

Rounds drops off food to St. Mary’s Rounds Bakery

“When we donate, we try and go a little bit further by labeling things for the COVID team, the ER team, REMSA, etc., and even the people that have to clean the rooms and security guards – all putting their lives in danger for the safety of others,” Novak said.

Not only is Rounds donating food to keep medical workers fed while they fight COVID-19, but they have taken it upon themselves aid the shortage of protective masks for not only health workers, but the public as well.

“Renown Regional had these mask kits they were begging anybody to sew I discovered something new about my husband – he knows how to sew. So he started sewing 25 masks a night for Renown Regional,” Novak said. “But then…we went out and bought fabric so we could make CDC recommended masks, 1200 thread count, and we are selling them in our store for those who want to buy them and those funds help feed our heroes.”

An Air Force veteran and former international pilot, Novak has even called upon his friends from overseas to help aid the shortage of masks in the area.

“I have friends in Hong Kong. A friend of mine works for this company that makes masks, so I said, ‘Ship me 2,000,'” Novak said. “So they FedEx priority overnighted international 2,000 masks to my bakery and we’ve been giving those out.”
Rounds’ work in the community during the COVID-19 outbreak is highly admirable. However, it didn’t take a global pandemic for the restaurant to get involved in giving back.

The giving all started about six years ago when Novak and Cary purchased a struggling bakery with 11 employees about to lose their jobs.
They noticed their inherited staff was throwing away donuts at the end of each day, something that did not fly with Rounds. So they began driving the leftover goods to a homeless shelter.

“We did that for about a month and that became the defining moment for our business model,” Novak said. “We weren’t going to build this restaurant on the backs of the community, but we were going to build it with the help of the community.”

Since 2014 Rounds has truly taken that model to heart by donating over 45 tons of food and $100,000 in cash and in-kind donations according to Novak.

“We have two main pillars of giving, Sean’s family was in education and my family owned a restaurant growing up, so we say, ‘you can’t learn on an empty stomach and you can’t earn a living without an education’ – so let’s get people fed and keep them in school,” Novak said. “Those have been our two fundamentals of giving over the last six years.”

Just to name a few, the bakery has donated to local charities such as Children’s Cabinet, The Eddy House, Boys and Girls Club, Veterans Guest House, Nevada Homeless Shelter and Ronald McDonald House over the years.

A business focused on giving away profit is not always set up for success, but Novak believes Reno has helped this model flourish thanks to the nature of the people who call the Biggest Little City home.

“We are a very generous community to helping those in need, I think we have a deep understanding of the human existence and you can find yourself in a bad place and it’s not that you’re a bad person, you’re just in a bad situation – and I think Reno really thrives on helping those people.”

Rounds Delivers to Northern Nevada Medical Center Rounds Bakery

It’s one thing to be charitable and donate, but if no one likes your food…you’re not going to go very far. Rounds’ product has helped the business become a staple in the community but also has gained award recognition from places like USA Today, Reno Gazette-Journal, American Marketing Federation to name a few.

Want to taste some of their award-winning food? Rounds Bakery has recently converted its restaurant to a marketplace to abide but CDC recommendations. All food is made fresh daily and pre-packaged. You can step into the shop and not even have to talk to anyone by purchasing using Rounds’ self- checkout. They’ve even added everyday essentials to their store to help with the scarcity of supplies.

“We know it’s a challenge sometimes to have to wait in line at Costco for three hours just to get into the building. You’re exposing yourself to so many more people – so for the people that don’t want that big exposure, we sell eggs, milk, we sell toilet paper, we have masks, hand sanitizer, we have these things that we converted our business model and restaurant into a bakery general store,” Novak said.

The Reno Aces are proud to be partners with Rounds Bakery and the work they are doing in the community. Support Rounds and shop Local! The bakery is located at 294 E Moana Ln.

For more information on Rounds Bakery visit their website at https://roundsbakery.com/ or follow the bakery on Twitter @roundsbakery

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Salem Red Sox Raise Over $1700 for Non-Profits

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Salem, Virginia (April 9, 2020) – The Salem Red Sox raised over $1700 during the recent “I Miss Baseball” fundraising campaign. Partnering with local vendor Press Press Merch, the collaboration included the development of a limited edition “I Miss Baseball” Salem Red Sox t-shirt. The efforts focused on supporting non-profits in Southwest Virginia, during the COVID-19 crisis.

“The Salem Red Sox wanted to find a way to give back to our local community in this time of need,” said Group Sales Manager, Alex Michel. “While we do not have the daily escape that sports gives us, we felt we wanted to spread positivity by creating a t-shirt that helps give to our local non-profit organizations that we partner with and support.”

Over 130 t-shirts were purchased during the campaign, with 2019 Salem Red Sox outfielder Tyler Esplin purchasing 30 for the Lake Bluff U12 travel baseball team in his hometown of Lake Bluff, Illinois. With each purchase, fans received one t-shirt and two undated tickets for the 2020 season, with proceeds going to the non-profit of their choice. Additionally, the Red Sox announced a matching campaign in which every donation made, the team would provide two complimentary tickets for healthcare workers at Carilion and other healthcare facilities. Esplin chose to donate his tickets and proceeds to Carilion Children’s.

“We were excited to partner with the Salem Red Sox during this initiative”, said Greg Szechenyi, owner of Press Press Merch. “This was a fun and engaging way to connect with our communities and local non-profits, all while supporting our local professional baseball team.”

While the Salem Red Sox season is currently postponed, the Red Sox continued to develop unique ways to stay connected to the fans near and far away. Follow the Salem Red Sox on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay up-to-date on daily activities and information.

The Salem Red Sox are the Advanced-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox and call Salem Memorial Stadium in Salem, Virginia home. The team was founded in 1968 and purchased by Fenway Sports Management in December of 2007.

 

Reno Aces and 1868 FC donating 100% of select team shop proceeds to local hospitals

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In support of the local healthcare community, the Reno Aces and Reno 1868 FC will be donating 100% of proceeds from a selection of items in the Greater Nevada Field team shop from now until Friday, April 17. The proceeds will go towards assisting Renown, Saint Mary’s, Carson Tahoe and Northern Nevada Medical Centers, as well as Tahoe Forest and Barton Memorial Hospitals in providing direct support to the employees fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

The funds donated will go towards supporting the staff working in hospitals: protective equipment so the staffs can help others safely, childcare so medical professionals can continue to work, as well as food, groceries and hotel stays to ensure the families of hospital staffs are safe, healthy and fed during the pandemic.

“In speaking with our healthcare partners, there is a significant need for basic necessities, and we want to contribute,” said Aces and 1868 FC president Eric Edelstein.

“We commit 100% of the proceeds of this sale will go directly to those on the front lines against this pandemic. There are heroes among us, and right now they wear masks, gloves and PPE.”

“Residents of The Biggest Little City are doing their part, staying home, and making personal sacrifice during these unprecedented times, but the biggest heroes during this unprecedented crisis are the medical professionals,” Aces general manager Emily Jaenson said. “As an organization whose role is to physically bring people together, we thought, what can we do to help? The answer was a fundraiser where 100% of the purchase price of any pieces in the collection will benefit this community. Please join us in supporting these hospitals in the Northern Nevada community, just as they have always supported us.”

“I’m thrilled that we are able to provide an outlet for our community to support,” said 1868 FC general manager Doug Raftery. “In the end, we are rewarding you with Reno 1868 FC and Aces gear for your donation to our local healthcare workers.”

Aces items going towards the fundraising efforts include team cards, New Era packable visor hats and OT Sport replica jerseys. Reno 1868 FC will offer New Era fitted hats, women’s crew neck sweaters and men’s track jackets. The team store is currently only accepting orders made online, with the Aces team store found here, and 1868 FC’s team store here.

 

Drillers Join Tulsa Kitchens Unite to Help Feed Those in Need

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The Tulsa Drillers organization will begin to participate in Tulsa Kitchens Unite, a program that has been developed by Hunger Free Oklahoma to help feed families in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the program, the Drillers’ food and beverage personnel, who normally work the games at ONEOK Field, will now instead provide a minimum of 250 meals daily that will be distributed free of charge through the program.

In addition, the Drillers have also pledged to donate proceeds from all online merchandise sales during the month of April to Hunger Free Oklahoma. For the remainder of this month, 100% of the proceeds from sales of any items listed under the “COVID-19 Relief” tab in the Drillers online store will be donated to Hunger Free Oklahoma. Also, 20% of the total on purchases of all other items in the Team Store will be donated. The Drillers online store can be accessed by clicking HERE.

Under the Tulsa Kitchens Unite program, Hunger Free Oklahoma is partnering with locally owned restaurants, food trucks, caterers and other local businesses like the Drillers that have the ability to produce pre-prepared and refrigerated to-go style meals. In turn, the meals are provided to families in this time of crisis. The program goals are to keep local kitchens open, keep workers paid and keep local families fed.

The Drillers food and beverage staff will began preparing meals this week using the facilities at ONEOK Field.

The prepared dinners are distributed at sites set up by Hunger Free Oklahoma, including at schools and at nonprofit and faith-based organizations. The meals are provided at no cost to the recipients. Tulsans who are struggling during this unprecedented economic downturn will be able to pick up the free meals and feed their families.

“We are appreciative of the opportunity to partner with Hunger Free Oklahoma in the Tulsa Kitchens Unite program,” said Drillers President Mike Melega. “These are difficult and unsure times for so many of us, and we hope that the work of our folks to provide quality meals will be a comfort to local families. It is a just a small part that we can play in a very important program that Hunger Free Oklahoma has developed.”

Hunger Free Oklahoma Executive Director Chris Bernard said, “We are grateful to so many of our community partners who are working at or above capacity to make sure Tulsans in need have access to food.”

“We are also grateful to the Foundations who are supporting so many efforts around the city, including this one.”
Through the generous donations of many individuals and foundations, Tulsa Kitchens Unite has reached nearly 70% of its funding goal. The program has set an initial goal of running the program for 12 weeks, averaging 30,000 meals per week.

 

Greater Nevada Field to Host Two Food Bank of Northern Nevada Drive by Distribution Events in April

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The Reno Aces, 1868 FC, and Greater Nevada Field are partnering with the Food Bank of Northern Nevada to provide drive-thru distributions of the Mobile Harvest program on April 7 & 17 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. for community members in need of both shelf-stable and perishable food items.

Community members will have the ability to participate in a grab-n-go food distribution line located in the parking lots adjacent to the rotunda at Greater Nevada Field. Volunteers will be in place to help the flow of traffic.

Because the safety of the clients, volunteers, and staff of the Food Bank are of utmost importance, it is asked that anyone attending a distribution take the following precautions:

  • Please keep safe social distances from others
  • Whenever possible, please limit the number of household members who attend distributions
  • We recommend 1 person per household
  • If you are ill, please do not attend a distribution
  • Clients may have a friend or neighbor pick up from a distribution on their behalf by simply writing a short note to be presented when food is picked up
  • Practice frequent and thorough handwashing with soap
  • Remember to sneeze or cough away from others and into your elbow when possible
  • Volunteers and employees are wearing gloves and sanitizing surfaces for the protection of all served through Food Bank program

If households are in need of help during this difficult time, they are encouraged to reach out to the Food Bank at 775-331-3663 or by visiting the Get Help section of FBNN.org to find the distributions closest to them.

“We are so grateful to the Reno Aces and 1868 FC for allowing us to use their lot for distribution of our Mobile Harvest program,” Jocelyn Lantrip, Director of Marketing for the Food Bank of Northern Nevada said. “Because of their partnership, we are able to operate drive-through distributions that are much safer for everyone involved. It is so important for the community to work together during this challenging time and we are very grateful.”

“We are thrilled to be able to contribute to the Northern Nevada Food Bank’s Mobile Harvest distribution program by hosting at the Greater Nevada Field parking lots,” Aces General Manager Emily Jaenson said. “We are here for the community and are happy to have found a way to contribute.”

“The Northern Nevada Food Bank is a vital part to this community every single day, and we are here to lend a helping hand during these uncertain times,” 1868 FC General Manager of Business Operations Doug Raftery said. “We appreciate what they do for our area, especially in this time of need.”

For more information on the Reno Aces or Reno 1868 FC, visit the teams’ websites at renoaces.com and reno1868fc.com. For more information on the Food Bank of Northern Nevada, visit fbnn.org.

 

Pirates and Marauders Dish Out Pizza to Hospital Staff

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Bradenton, Fla. – On Friday, the Pittsburgh Pirates and Bradenton Marauders teamed up with Fastfire by Oak & Stone and Demetrios’ Pizza House to provide pizzas to healthcare workers on the frontlines during the COVID-19 Pandemic at Blake Medical Center and Manatee Memorial Hospital.

“We are thrilled with the kindness the Pittsburgh Pirates and Bradenton Marauders leadership, staff and players are showing our day and night teams, during this healthcare crisis. Their generosity to not only help hospital’s staff but local business’ is much appreciated.” said Kevin DiLallo, CEO, Manatee Memorial Hospital.

Blake Medical Center President and CEO Randy Currin echoed the sentiment saying, “Blake Medical Center is very grateful for the generous show of support and appreciation from the Pittsburgh Pirates. This thoughtful delivery will touch the hearts of our caregivers as we continue with our work providing the very best care for our patients and community during this trying time.”
Following the lead of Pirates players who purchased more than 400 pizzas from local shops in Pittsburgh for to the staff at Allegheny General Hospital, the Pirates and Marauders set out to do what they could to help during these tough times for both small businesses and hospitals.

“During this time we’ve got to come together as a community. There’s comfort in great tastes and flavors – so providing our Fastfire pizzas to the real heroes, the hospital staffs, is the least we can do. We’re thankful to the Pirates for being our partners and including us in this gesture of thanks,” notes Brett Decklever, Co-Owner of Oak & Stone.

Following that line of thought, owner of Demetrios’ Pizza House Gus Sokos said, “The restaurant and hospitality industry has been devastated over the last two and a half weeks. We recently had to make decisions with staff members whose lives may be impacted forever. Our spirits, along with those in the healthcare profession, are getting drained from the uncertainty that this virus has brought. The Pittsburgh Pirates and Bradenton Marauders are a first class organization and it was an honor to partner with them to help lift the morale of these individuals who have dedicated their lives to caring for others. We wish to thank Jeff Podobnik and his team for their wonderful generosity towards our business and staff today.”

The Pittsburgh Pirates and Bradenton Marauders staffs went out and delivered the pizzas personally, taking the chance to inject positivity into the community and provide a beacon of hope in dark times.

“The Pittsburgh Pirates and the Bradenton Marauders take pride in being woven into the fabric of this community. During this COVID-19 crisis, we know we all need to join together to help our neighbors in any way we can,” said Jeff Podobnik, Pittsburgh Pirates Vice President of Florida and Dominican Operations. “We are proud to help support local businesses and work to lift the spirits of healthcare workers in Manatee County.”

 

Renegades Implement #GadesGivingBack Initiative to Help Local Non-Profits

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Renegades focus on community-based sales, to assist the Hudson Valley during COVID-19 pandemic.

WAPPINGERS FALLS, NY – The Hudson Valley Renegades, Short Season Class-A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays, announce in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic and it’s rippling effects on the local community an initiative to give back to local non-profits.

The Hudson Valley Renegades are here for you, whether it’s safe at home, or at The Dutch, we want to make sure we are doing our part in helping our community during this time. We have implemented our #GadesGivingBack initiative to donate a portion of profits from ticket sales, gift cards and food and beverage back to the community.

“As a small business ourselves, our organization and employees feel the hardships being felt by many in the Hudson Valley area and throughout our country,” said Renegades President/General Manager Steve Gliner. “The Renegades have always worked hard to put our fans and community first and this is more important now than ever! Through our #GadesGivingBack initiative, we hope to rally our fans and community and give back to local organizations that directly assist those in need. This season is dedicated to YOU, and we hope that you will help us support those most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Our first #GadesGivingBack initiative can be supported through purchasing gift cards that you can use now, or save for later. These gift cards can be purchased for either $25, $50 or $100, with fans receiving an additional 20% value to spend on anything at Dutchess Stadium during Renegades games this summer, and 20% of each sale will be donated to Dutchess Responds. These gift cards are available for purchase now through the entire 2020 season and can be used into the 2021 season.

The breakdown of purchasing gift cards is as follows:

Purchase (You Pay): $20 Gift Card Value: $30 Donated to Charity: $5

Purchase (You Pay): $50 Gift Card Value: $60 Donated to Charity: $10

Purchase (You Pay): $100 Gift Card Value: $120 Donated to Charity: $20

Purchase a gift card HERE!

The purpose of Dutchess Responds is to provide critical needs such as food, medications and household essentials to individuals experiencing hardships or quarantine restrictions as a result of the Covid-19 virus emergency. Community leaders, in conjunction with Dutchess County government have established the Dutchess Responds fund at Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley.

The next #GadesGivingBack initiative will be when single game tickets go on-sale, which will go live on Saturday, April 11 for online purchases only at hvrenegades.com. The first week, Saturday, April 11 through Saturday, April 18, $2 from each ticket purchased will be donated to a charity.

In 2019 the Renegades donated over $170,000 in in-kind donations to hundreds of organizations throughout the community. One of the most successful ways of generating money for organizations was through the Renegades Fundraiser Program. The program allows a group the ability to choose the Sunday through Thursday game they want to attend, the Renegades will set-up an online portal for individuals to purchase. Each package is $13, and includes a General Admission ticket, Gades Group Hat and a $5 donation back to your organization. If this is something your group is interested in participating in please email Tyson at [email protected] with the Subject: Host A Fundraiser.

The Renegades will choose a new non-profit for each community outreach initiative that is rolled out, making sure to reach not just those in Dutchess County but all of our fans in the Greater Hudson Valley Region.

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Support Local Clearwater Partners

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While we await a return of baseball, we look for ways to support each other. Local restaurants and caterers are currently serving much-needed meals. Many of these locations and providers are partners with your Clearwater Threshers.

Below is a list of local restaurants with links to their websites. With support from our fans, we can help these businesses continue to provide for the community.

The Threshers and our partners thank you for your support!

This page will be updated if we receive new information from the restaurant. For more hours and details, please call ahead or check the partner’s website.

Abe’s Place Tap and Grill
Amici’s Catered Cuisine
Blinker’s Beachside Steakhouse
Boston Market
Capogna’s Dugout
Coco’s Crush Bar & Grill
Cody’s Roadhouse – Belleair Bluffs
Delco’s
Dunedin Smokehouse
Frenchy’s Outpost – Dunedin
Frenchy’s Saltwater Cafe
Hooters
Iron Oak
Jamminz’ Beach Bar
Kelli’s Catering
Lenny’s
PDQ
Pete & Shorty’s
Pisces Sushi & Global Bistro
Port A Pitt Bar-B Que
The Salty Crab North Beach
Smokey Bones
Stuffed Mushroom
Tijuana Flats – Largo
Wawa
Westshore Pizza – Clearwater
Willie Jewell’s – Largo

 

MODESTO NUTS ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP WITH THE SAVE MART COMPANIES TO OFFER EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES TO GAME DAY STAFF

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MODESTO, CA – Last week Minor League Baseball announced, in a release, that the start of the 2020 season will be delayed. Each season, a crew of amazing individuals come to work at John Thurman Field staffing all areas of our ballpark including but not limited to; Concessions, Parking, Ticketing, Games Area, Ushering, Production, Merchandise & Batboy. The Modesto Nuts would not be able to host the consistent, affordable, family-friendly entertainment without the wonderful game day staff.

With the COVID-19 epidemic currently sweeping our nation the Modesto Nuts reached out to 20-year partner, The Save Mart Companies for help. “Our game day staff looks forward to and depends on the supplemental income during the baseball season. It is our obligation to do everything we can to assist our team members in these tough times.” said Zach Brockman, Modesto Nuts General Manager.

The grocery industry is currently in dire need of employment assistance to keep up with the rising demand of consumers. “We care deeply about our employees and this community as a whole. In times like these we need to find ways to help each other. Joining forces with a company like Save Mart that shares all the same values was an easy decision,” Zach Brockman continued.

The Save Mart Companies will offer temporary employment opportunities to current Modesto Nuts game day staff members at local Save Mart and FoodMaxx stores. Click here for more information on employment opportunities with The Save Mart Companies.

We recognize the fear that comes with the current state of our world, and with the help of The Save Mart Companies, we want to bring some peace of mind to the lives of our staff and fill a need for one of our longest tenured partners. Stay healthy and safe, we’re in this together!
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About the Nuts:
The Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball team is the Class A-Advanced Affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. For more information visit modestonuts.com or call 209-572-HITS (4487).

About The Save Mart Companies
The Save Mart Companies operates 205 stores throughout California and Northern Nevada under the banners of FoodMaxx, Lucky and Save Mart. The Save Mart Companies is committed to sourcing a wide variety of local products to communities throughout California and Northern Nevada. In addition to its retail operation, the company also operates Smart Refrigerated Transport and is a partner in Super Store Industries (SSI), which owns and operates a distribution center in Lathrop and the Sunnyside Farms dairy processing plant in Turlock. For more information on the company, please visit: www.TheSaveMartCompanies.com.
For media inquiries, please contact Victoria Castro at 209.985.4229

 

Inaugural Wahoos Classic A Home Run For Area Economic Impact

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Virginia, Oklahoma series brings success on field, box office, local businesses

The teams’ first look at the baseball setting which frames Blue Wahoos Stadium created a lasting impression during the inaugural Wahoos Classic.

Before unpacking their equipment, players on both the Oklahoma Sooners and Virginia Cavaliers reached for cellphones.

“It’s really cool to play in a stadium that is kept up super-nice like this,” said Oklahoma first baseman Tyler Hardman, who created his own memory by blasting the only home run struck in last weekend’s, three-game event – a cannon shot that headed into the water beyond left field and helped the 19th-ranked Sooners to a series-deciding victory.
“You get out the first day and everyone has phones out taking pictures of where you’re going to play,” said the Sooners’ junior first baseman, after his team won the twinbill 7-2 and 5-1, following a 6-0 loss in Friday’s opening game. “It is just really cool to have that experience on different fields and we’re super appreciative for it.”

The event was beneficial in other ways, too.

Blue Wahoos team president Jonathan Griffith said the three-game event, which included a schedule change into a doubleheader last Saturday, thus avoiding inclement weather the next day, generated approximately $500,000 in economic impact for the Pensacola area.
Money spent included hotel rooms for the teams, support staff, players’ parents and fans traveling to Pensacola, ticket sales, transportation, meals at area restaurants, merchandise purchased at the stadium and concession sales.

Saturday’s doubleheader attracted more than 1,400 fans, which was among the largest crowds for a non-Blue Wahoos game at the ballpark. Included in attendance were a large number of Major League Baseball scouts representing various teams to check out talent on the field.

“We basically had 600 people coming from out of town for the games,” he said. “They flew down here. They used local bus companies. They used local restaurants for catering. They used local hotels and some Airbnbs.

“We had rooms booked through ResortQuest, our Highpointe Hotels. By using a lot of local businesses in town who we work with, it drove business to all of those different locations.

“To me, it’s about what did it do for the local economy here.”

The games were televised by Cox Sports Television and aired throughout the nation, including the Washington, D.C. market and in Oklahoma. The weather for both game days was clear-blue sky and multicolor sunsets, so that part became good fortune.

“Live television for two days is a big deal,” Griffith said. “That was essentially a television broadcast of ‘Come Visit Pensacola’ all over the country.”

The event was first broached seven years ago by UVA, which was looking for a season-opening place to play in 2020. Like most major college programs, Virginia fills a schedule years in advance.

Griffith said discussions have begun for the Cavaliers to return, possibly for an expanded event with more teams. That’s fine with Virginia baseball coach Brian O’Connor.

“Very, very happy,” O’Connor said. “Pensacola is a great community. They were great hosts. It’s a beautiful ballpark. They did a terrific job. The field plays really, really good. I hope we have the opportunity come back here, because it’s a first-class operation.

“It was a good crowd for two teams that are not from here. Really nice, energetic crowd so a good environment to play college baseball in, for sure.”

It was the first time either team had been to Pensacola or had anyone from the teams visit the ballpark. The newness of the venue, plus the reputation of Blue Wahoos Stadium, were among reasons why Oklahoma leaped at Virginia’s invitation to be the opponent.

“I think it was a breath of fresh air playing in a minor league stadium that they take care of so well,” said Sooners’ head coach Skip Johnson, who is in his 27th year as a college baseball coach. “The ground crew was unbelievable. I mean, everything we asked for, needed, they were always there for us.

“The biggest thing was more of the hospitality. The field played great, the mound was good. If I would have lost I would have said the same thing.”

The Wahoos Classic began a busy prelude to the Blue Wahoos opening day on April 9 against the Tennessee Smokies.

On March 6-8, Pensacola Sports is presenting the annual Cox Diamond Invitational, sponsored by Cox Communications. The participating teams are Troy University, Louisiana-Lafayette, Samford and Michigan State, which is returning from a previous year in the event.

On March 16, Escambia High will host Gulf Breeze in one-game event. That will be followed on March 17 by the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater – alma mater of Blue Wahoos owner Quint Studer — traveling to Pensacola with other NCAA Division III teams — to play a full week of games.

The busy month concludes on March 26-27 with the “Battle of the Bay” prep tournament featuring Pensacola Catholic, Tate, West Florida High and Pace in a two-day tournament.

Diamond in the Rough program returns in 2020

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WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (Jan. 23, 2020) – The Winston-Salem Dash are once again partnering with Flow Chevrolet to hold the 2020 Flow Chevrolet Diamond in the Rough Ballpark Renovation, during which one local baseball field will be selected to win a Major League makeover.

Area Little Leagues and softball leagues may submit videos to the Dash’s social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube or Instagram, showing why their field is in need of renovation. Entries will be accepted through February 15th.

The Dash will select a winner to be announced in February. The Dash grounds crew will head to the winning site to refurbish the field later this year. Representatives from the selected field will also be recognized at BB&T Ballpark during a 2020 Dash home game.

In 2014, the Dash and Flow Chevrolet partnered for their inaugural field renovation at South Little League (SLL) in Winston-Salem. Other recipients include Winston-Salem National Little League in, Northwest Forsyth Little League and Parkland High School in. While most fields have received playing surface upgrades, each recipient has had different needs. Tha Dash and Flow Chevrolet aim to address these needs to provide youngsters with opportunities to enjoy our game. The City of Winston-Salem Recreation and Parks WePlay League participants were rewarded last year with a clinic with the Dash players and coaches, tickets and meal vouchers to a Dash game as well as a commemorative t-shirt.

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

Cougars Release Economic Impact Statement

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GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars and their fans have provided a major impact to the Kane County economy since the organization’s inaugural season in 1991. In 2019 alone, the Cougars generated over $11 million for the city, according to a recent economic impact study conducted by the organization.

Some of the highlights from the 2019 season include over $4.9 million invested into the community by ballpark visitors, 499 seasonal and full-time jobs as well as Foundation giving that totaled $1,054,980. Money spent at the ballpark includes tickets, concessions, souvenirs and parking.

“Over the last 29 years, the community has seen first hand that the Cougars have become far more than just a baseball team,” said owner Dr. Bob Froehlich. “As an organization, we have established a reputation beyond the baseball field and our motto of affordable family fun. We’re committed to making a difference in our community year-round.”

The 30th anniversary season kicks off on Thursday, April 9 at 6:30 PM against the Cedar Rapids Kernels. Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates on all the 30th-anniversary festivities including tickets and promotions.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 180 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber and Willson Contreras.

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

Modesto Nuts Release 2019 Community Impact Report

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

The report covers the 2019 fiscal year and discloses the Nuts contributions of over $375,000 to community related programs.

“Our community is the backbone of everything we do, without it we cannot exist.” said Zach Brockman, General Manager of the Modesto Nuts. “In the coming years, we will be continuing to increase our community footprint and we invite all of our current and potential partners to join us in this initiative.”

With the help of The Parks Group and Mocse Credit Union, the Modesto Nuts Reading Program involved around over 80 schools and over 35,000 local students. The Reading Program motivated children to reach their reading goals by offering performance-based incentives from Save Mart, Chuck E. Cheese, Taco Bell, and The Modesto Nuts.

Non-profit organizations and little leagues used the Modesto Nuts ticket fundraising program to generate much needed funds. Additionally, the Nuts donated gift baskets which included game tickets, premium suites & autographed memorabilia to over 200 different local charities.

Modesto Nuts players, coaching staff, and front office donated their time generously to different organizations throughout the community. From school career fairs, to little league opening days, and much more; the Modesto Nuts were able to teach important values such as chasing dreams, having integrity and working hard for what they want.

In back to back years, the Modesto Nuts have doubled their community appearances. For more information on how you can have a Modesto Nuts representative at your event, please head to our Community Appearance Page.

CLICK HERE for the full 2019 Community Impact Report

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About the Nuts:

The Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball team is the California League Class A-Advanced Affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. The Modesto Nuts is the Central Valley’s place for family, fun, affordable entertainment. For more information on season tickets, group rates, sponsorships and more visit modestonuts.com or call 209-572-HITS (4487).

Tortugas announce 12-week charitable donation campaign

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – The Daytona Tortugas have announced a 12-week campaign of charitable donations to give back to the community that has stood steadfastly with the team in its quest to keep affiliated professional baseball at historic Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach.

The Tortugas Care Charity Foundation, the team’s philanthropic organization that supports local youth sports and sea turtle conservation initiatives, will make a financial contribution to a deserving community organization each week leading up to April 9, the 2020 season’s Opening Day. Recipients will be selected through an open application process that will begin immediately.

The Tortugas decided to launch the 12 Weeks of Thanks campaign after being overwhelmed with support from the community in the wake of news that Daytona is one of 42 communities slated to lose affiliated professional baseball under a plan put forward by Major League Baseball that would take effect in 2021.

“We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support we’ve received from the community to ‘Save our Tortugas'” said Tortugas co-owner Bob Fregolle. “From the support we’ve gotten from local government, the media, and the fans, it’s meant a lot to us as we do everything we can to save baseball here in Daytona. This seemed like a wonderful way to say ‘Thank You’ and to generate even more momentum as we head into what promises to be an amazing season at The Jack.”

To start off the campaign, the Tortugas will make a donation to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Volusia/Flagler. Boys & Girls Clubs of Volusia/Flagler operate in eight communities in the areas of greatest need within Volusia and Flagler counties and provide young people with adults who respect and listen to them, a safe environment, and constructive activities that channel youthful energy into challenging pursuits. The Tortugas are proud to support their efforts.

“The Tortugas organization is a great partner for the Boys & Girls Club and the Daytona Beach community,” said Joe Sullivan, Chief Professional Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Volusia/Flagler Counties. “They have made it possible for our kids and families to attend games and provided financial support for our clubs. Our Daytona Tortugas are involved champions of our organization and area.”

Organizations that would like to be considered for subsequent contributions during the Tortugas’ 12 Weeks of Thanks campaign should contact Josh McCann, Community Relations & Outside Events Manager, by emailing [email protected].

The Tortugas begin the 2020 season on April 9th against the Florida Fire Frogs. Jackie Robinson Ballpark and the Daytona Tortugas will host the Florida State League All-Star Game on Tuesday, June 23rd. For more information, contact the team at 386-257-3172 or visit the Tortugas website at www.daytonatortugas.com.

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

Appalachian League releases 2019 community report

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – The Appalachian League today announced it surpassed $2.3 million in charitable contributions for the 2019 calendar year. The multi-million dollar figure is a culmination of all community involvement from the ten teams in the Advanced-Rookie league, as well as efforts from the Appalachian League office.

“As a league, we appreciate the opportunity to give back and to enhance the communities that have supported our member clubs for more than 100 years,” said League President Dan Moushon.

Appalachian League executives, staff members, players, coaches, and umpires spent more than 7,600 hours volunteering in their communities across more than 220 events. Additionally, organizations partnered with five Minor League Baseball national charity partners and hosted local activations for five MiLB community initiatives.

More information about the Appalachian League’s 2019 community initiatives and charitable contributions can be viewed in the official 2019 report available here.

The 2020 Appalachian League season begins on June 22. Fans can view the complete schedule at appyleague.com.

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