Supporting the Community

Pink Ribbon Girls to be Honored as Community All-Star

August 22, 2017

The Dragons and Vectren will honor the Pink Ribbon Girls organization during the unique “Community All-Stars” program on Thursday, August 24, at 7:00 p.m. when the Dayton Dragons take on the Bowling Green Hot Rods at Fifth Third Field.

The Dayton community is a great place to live, work and play. But what makes Dayton truly great are the people that call Dayton home. We have great people and great organizations in our community that do incredible things each and every day. Throughout the season, the Dragons and Vectren will honor five “All-Stars” with a special inning break tribute in recognition of their service.

Pink Ribbon Girls Story

Pink Ribbon Girls is an organization founded by breast cancer survivors who have a passion for supporting and empowering others who are currently in the fight against breast and women’s reproductive cancers. The organization is currently in its sixth year and serves women in Dayton, Cincinnati, and Columbus.

Women that are diagnosed with breast cancer are given information about Pink Ribbon Girls before they even leave the hospital. The organization focuses many of their efforts on those who are dealing with the initial shock and uncertainty of this diagnosis.

Pink Ribbon Girls not only offers services to provide support for the family member with cancer, but also their entire family. Thanks to partnerships with Scratch Event Catering and Rush Transportation, the organization provides three meals per week for the entire family, housecleaning services, rides to and from treatment, and peer support.

The organization serves all women who are suffering from breast or women’s reproductive cancer and their families. There is no income base or age requirement.

President and CEO Heather Salazar has been impressed with the incredible support of the people in this area, “What this community is doing to change the lives of women and families facing the hardest battle of their lives is really, truly what a community should be about and Dayton has raised the bar in that regard.”

Pink Ribbon Girls hosts many events throughout the year, but “Ignite the Fight” is the organization’s signature event and is coming up on Saturday, October 21. Those interested in signing up to volunteer at events or fundraisers can visit the Pink Ribbon Girls Facebook page or visit https://www.pinkribbongirls.org/ for more information.

The Dragons Community All Star program, made possible by the generous support of Vectren, showcases amazing citizens and organizations that have gone above the call of duty to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley all summer long. To nominate someone or learn more, visit daytondragons.com/communityallstar.

More Information: The Dayton Dragons are the Midwest League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 70-game home schedule at beautiful Fifth Third Field in downtown Dayton, easily accessible from Interstate 75. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling (937) 228-2287, by email at dragons@daytondragons.com, or on the web at daytondragons.com.

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

Dragons and Vectren Present 2017 “Community All-Stars”

August 3, 2017

The Dragons and Vectren will honor Juliann Price during the unique “Community All-Stars” program on Friday, August 4, at 7:07 p.m. when the Dayton Dragons take on the Great Lakes Loons at Fifth Third Field.

Juliann’s Story

Normally, most of us scroll through our Facebook feed just to see if anything out there is interesting enough to get us to stop for a moment. But last summer, Juliann Price stumbled across a Facebook post that was more than interesting. It immediately altered the course of her life.

Juliann saw a post from her friend telling the story of Barbara Perlman. Barbara was in need of a kidney transplant and was running low on time. The call to action was simple enough, just get your blood tested to see if you’d be a potential match.

Most people would’ve felt something for Barbara’s story, but quickly gone back about their day. After all, who would give one of their kidneys to a complete stranger they’ve never met? Juliann felt something different when she saw the post, however. She was compelled to get the blood test and see if she could help.

“Something just spoke to me,” Juliann said. “I had never thought about doing anything like this before, but when I found out about her need, I just made up my mind on the spot and never turned back. I was going to help, whether it was her or someone else down the road.”

As it would turn out, Juliann was enough of a match with Barbara that they sent her to New York City for further testing last August. Those follow-up tests showed a match of 4.3 on a scale of 5, which was more than enough to go through with the transplant operation.

So on November 10, 2016, Juliann was wheeled into surgery where she gave up 1 of her 2 kidneys to allow Barbara a chance to continue living a normal life.

The surgery was very successful, and both ladies are living normal lives. They have also become great friends. The pair talk nearly every day on the phone and plan to reunite once again on November 10, 2017…a date they jokingly refer to as their “Kidney-versary.”

For showing us all what it means to truly help a fellow human being in their time of need, Juliann has been selected as a Dragons Community All Star.

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

Bandits, American Bank donate $1,500 to YMCA

July 27, 2017

DAVENPORT, Iowa – Furthering the commitment to giving back to the local community, the Quad Cities River Bandits have donated $1,500 to the Scott County YMCA and Two Rivers YMCA. The funds were raised from ticket sales during the July 10 game at Modern Woodmen Park, which was sponsored by American Bank. The River Bandits annually donate more than $300,000 back to the Quad Cities community.

Scott County YMCA on the Iowa side and Two Rivers YMCA in Illinois will split the donation of funds raised from ticket sales to the 2,095 fans attending the game on Monday, July 10. American Bank was the title sponsor of the game, helping to facilitate the fundraising.

This is the latest in a long line of community efforts by the River Bandits. Already in 2017, the River Bandits have created the Bill Edmond seats, which honor the late local leader and provide two free box seats to every River Bandits game to deserving, underprivileged members of the Quad Cities community; expanded the club’s Bandit Scholars program, already the largest in all of Minor League Baseball, by adding Eastern Iowa Community College to its list of recipients; and partnered with the Bechtel Trust to create the new Carousel Corporation, a nonprofit designed to donate 100% of the proceeds from four new rides at Modern Woodmen Park back to underprivileged youth in the Quad Cities area.

“Paying for our young people to attend college and donating back to this great community are two things that we are delighted to do,” said team owner Dave Heller. “The River Bandits are 100 percent committed to making the Quad Cities the best possible place to live, work and raise a family for everyone who calls this great area home.”

In addition to the financial donations of over $300,000 a year, the River Bandits staff also volunteers over 1,000 hours of collective community service with local organizations, including the local YMCAs. The two locations receiving this specific donation are free to spend the money however they see fit. For more information on the charitable contributions of the River Bandits, or to request donations, contact Director of Community Relations Crystal Bowen at (563) 333-2736 or crystal@riverbandits.com

Chasers Players, Front Office Staff to Participate in Chasers Community Week

July 26, 2017

The Omaha Storm Chasers organization’s third annual “Chasers Community Week” presented by Summit Dental Health kicks off on Friday, July 29. Omaha Storm Chasers players and front office members will be volunteering their time throughout the Omaha Metro community from July 29-August 6. Details for each day of “Chasers Community Week” can be found below, which include players visiting Children’s Hospital and the Southwest YMCA, as well as participating in Buddy Baseball at Werner Park. In addition, the front office will help serve dinner at Ronald McDonald House, and volunteer at The Wall That Heals among many other events in the community.

Planned Events for “Chasers Community Week”

Saturday, July 29 – The Storm Chasers organization will be auctioning off Christmas sweater jerseys on Christmas in July presented by Mannheim Steamroller, with the proceeds benefitting Moving Veterans Forward. There will also be a lemonade stand hosted by the Storm Chasers and Summit Dental at Werner Park that evening, with proceeds benefitting the Open Door Mission.
Sunday, July 30 – The Storm Chasers organization hosts the first of two UnitedHealthcare Library Nights at Werner Park. This will be in addition to hosting First Responders and having interactive fire, police and medical displays, including a helicopter in the parking lot, on First Responders Night that evening.
Monday, July 31 – Several Storm Chasers players will be visiting Southwest YMCA starting at 11:00 a.m. to play a pickup game of baseball with kids at that location. That evening, the Storm Chasers organization’s second UnitedHealthcare Library Night will take place at Werner Park, in addition to a Drawstring Backpack Giveaway presented by Huber Chevrolet.
Tuesday, August 1 – Storm Chasers front office members along with Summit Dental Health employees will assist in cooking and serving dinner at the Ronald McDonald House.
Wednesday, August 2 – The organization will host their annual Jirschele Family Memorial Golf Outing at Tara Hills Golf Course to help benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association beginning at 9:00 a.m. The Wall That Heals, a half-scale duplication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., is also set to arrive at Werner Park that day thanks to Werner Enterprises. Storm Chasers players and front office members will also participate in the Leader Reader at the Children’s Museum. Storm Chasers front office members and a mascot will also be visiting Offutt Air Force Base that day.
Thursday, August 3 – The Wall That Heals, a half-scale replica of the Vietnam War Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. will be open beginning at 11:00am until the closing ceremonies take place at approximately 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 6.
Friday, August 4 – Storm Chasers players will be visiting with patients at Children’s Hospital.
Saturday, August 5 – Bellevue Buddy Baseball will take place at Werner Park at 9:00 a.m., with Storm Chasers players and front office members assisting in the morning event to support the Down Syndrome Alliance. The event will feature headshots and walk-up songs for the buddies playing baseball. Storm Chasers players and Casey will also be at First National Bank on 132^nd & Center for their annual Stuff the Bus school supply drive.
Sunday, August 6 – The Storm Chasers organization salutes all former and current members of our armed forces on Military Appreciation Day at Werner Park. Following that day’s contest at approximately 6:00 p.m. will be a closing ceremony for The Wall That Heals, which will include the playing of “Taps”.

The Storm Chasers return to Werner Park to begin an eight-game homestand on Saturday, July 29, starting with a four-game set versus the Fresno Grizzlies. First pitch of the series opener is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. that evening.

Single game tickets for all remaining Storm Chasers home contests are still available, and can be purchased online at www.omahastormchasers.com, or by calling the Werner Park Ticket Office from noon until 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at (402) 738-5100.

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

Drive Announce Bob Hughes as 12th Annual Green Day Honoree

July 18, 2017

Greenville, SC – The Greenville Drive announced today that Bob Hughes, Chairman of Hughes Development Corporation, has been selected as the honoree for the team’s annual Green Day event. The 12^th annual Green Day celebration presented by TD Bank will be held Tuesday, August 1^st at Fluor Field when the Drive host the Asheville Tourists at 7:05 PM.

Each year, the Drive pay tribute to an individual who has helped make Greenville one of the most dynamic regions in the country. Hughes has been chosen as the 2017 honoree due to his significant role in the renaissance of Downtown Greenville through real estate and mixed-use development, and he has been one of Greenville’s primary visionaries in the continuing growth of the local community.

“Bob is an individual that has devoted his personal and professional life to making Greenville a very special place – to make Greenville a place of note for its design, its offerings, its opportunities and its energy. A place where people gather, and a place where people feel welcome, and it was only appropriate for us the Greenville Drive to recognize his leadership as we celebrate Green Day,” said Craig Brown, Drive Owner and Team President. “Our organization has seen firsthand the impact that Bob has made on Greenville, and the impact he has made will be felt for generations.”

“Bob personifies the culture of Greenville. He is extremely generous with his time with each and every one of us, and we are all grateful for everything he does for this city and this community,” added Greenville Mayor Knox White. “He is responsible for some of Greenville’s building blocks that make our city a special place, and the envy of other cities in this region. He is very much deserving of being this year’s Green Day honoree.”

Hughes’ vision has produced some of Greenville’s most recognizable buildings. Among the projects Hughes has overseen include Riverplace, the NEXT Building, and the ONE Building, all of which host both establishing and emerging businesses in Downtown Greenville.

While Hughes’ developments are all architecturally stunning, they have also been lauded for their impressive sense of community. Each of these projects are graced with plazas that serve as inviting entrances and large gathering places, which tie into Hughes’ belief that these developments should bring friends and families together. Hughes has seen Greenville as an ideal place to raise a family, and his projects have taken that to heart.

“I want to thank the Drive for this incredible honor, as well as my co-workers, my family, and the previous Green Day honorees for all of their support,” said Hughes. “The continued success of Greenville is a collaborative effort, and I’m extremely fortunate to be a part of it. It is very special to be a part of this group of honorees that have done so much for this great place we call home, and I am proud to accept this on behalf of what we’ve accomplished, but also for what we’re going to continue to do in the future.”

Hughes joins an acclaimed group of Green Day honorees, including former Greenville Mayor Max Heller and his wife, Trudy (2006); Greenville City Councilwoman Lillian Brock Flemming and Greenville County Councilwoman Xanthene Norris (2007); former Greenville Technical College President Dr. Tom Barton (2008); businessman and philanthropist C. Dan Joyner (2009); civic leader, judge and attorney Merl Code (2010); former S.C. Governor and U.S. Secretary of Education Dick Riley (2011); South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities Founder Dr. Virginia Uldrick (2012); environmentalist and attorney Tommy Wyche (2013); philanthropists Hayne and Anna Kate Hipp (2014); Centennial American Properties CEO David Glenn (2015); and Erwin Penland Co-Founder Joe Erwin (2016).

In honor of Greenville’s 186^th birthday, Drive players will wear special green uniforms and caps on Green Day, and fans are encouraged to create a “green out” by sporting green as well. First pitch is at 7:05 PM, and the first 2,000 adults who enter when the gates open at 6:00 will receive a commemorative Green Day T-shirt, while the first 1,000 kids at Fluor Field will receive a commemorative Green Day superhero cape, all courtesy of TD Bank. Following the game, fans are invited to stick around for a spectacular fireworks show in celebration of Greenville.

To purchase tickets for Green Day on Tuesday, August 1st, go to the Main Street Box Office, call (864) 240-4528 or CLICK HERE.

About the Greenville Drive

The Greenville Drive, the South Atlantic League affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, is in its 12^th season at award-winning Fluor Field in downtown Greenville. Since 2006, more than 400,000 fans a year have been welcomed to Fluor Field for both Drive games and additional community events. In 2012, the Drive was honored with the prestigious Freitas Award, presented by Baseball America and given to an organization which exemplifies excellence in operations, franchise stability and community engagement. 69 Drive alumni have gone on to play at the major-league level, 13 of which were members of the Red Sox 2013 World Series Championship Team.

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

SeaWolves To Host ‘Good Deeds Day’ on July 1

June 27, 2017

The Erie SeaWolves, Double-A Affiliate of the Detroit Tigers, have teamed up with Erie Federal Credit Union to host the fourth annual Good Deeds Day on Saturday, July 1 at UPMC Park.

Good Deeds Day is a drive to collect items needed by multiple non-profit organizations in the Erie region. Fans who donate an item at the game on July 1 will receive a complimentary Upper Box seat ticket to the SeaWolves’ Fan Appreciation Night on Saturday, August 26 against the Akron RubberDucks (Cleveland Indians).

“We would like to thank our partners at Erie Federal Credit Union for supporting this community initiative,” SeaWolves President Greg Coleman said. “We encourage SeaWolves fans to support one or more Erie-area organizations by bringing needed items to the ballpark on July 1.”

Items can be donated at the stadium from 6:00-7:00 p.m. prior to the SeaWolves’ game against the Altoona Curve. Stadium gates open to the general public at 6 p.m. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The following is a list of participating organizations and their current list of needed items:

Project Support Our Troops

Needs items include canned fruit (full size cans; no plastic containers), peanuts, peanut butter, trail mix, beef jerky, waterless hand sanitizer, snack cracker packs, foot powder, Silly String, Pringles, tooth paste, crossword puzzles, tooth brushes, rat traps, cookies, lip balm, gum, air freshener, eye drops, cards or letters of support, hard candy, shower scrubbies, non-aerosol bug repellant, On-the-Go drink mix, small Kleenex packs, Wet Wipes (travel size), tea bags, lotion, hand-held games, sunflower seeds, instant cocoa packets, Q-Tips, Cracker Jack, deodorant, shampoo and conditioner. NO ramen noodles or travel-size personal hygiene items please.

United Service Corps

Various school supplies including pencils, glue sticks, markers, crayons and notebooks.

KaleidAScope, Inc.

Copy paper, paper towels, tissues, manila folders, large kitchen garbage bags, rolls of stamps, post-it notes, tablets of paper, snacks for groups, paper plates, plastic cups, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes.

The JFK Center

Arts and craft supplies including paper, crayons, colored pencils, glue, paint and paint brushes. Assorted toiletries including toothpaste and tissues. The JFK Center is also currently seeking volunteers and will have information available at its table.

Perseus House

Toiletries and paper products including tissues, toilet paper, paper plates, cups, and paper towels. Perseus House is also currently seeking volunteers and will have information available at its table.

Erie Youth Hockey

Hockey tape, hockey sticks, ice skates, hockey pucks, hockey pants, chest protectors and helmets.

Erie City Mission

Diapers (Sizes 2, 3, 4 & 5), baby wipes, baby food and formula, boxed food (cereal, breakfast bars, macaroni & cheese, spaghetti), canned food (fruit, vegetables, soup, broth, chicken, tuna), feminine hygiene products (pads, tampons, shaving cream), toilet paper, paper towels, mulch for gardens, various vegetable and fruit seeds for gardens.

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

First Federal Credit Union & Cedar Rapids Kernels present HomeRun for Hunger

June 15, 2017

Cedar Rapids, IA – First Federal Credit Union and the Cedar Rapids Kernels have created the HomeRun for Hunger program, a collaborative initiative to support the Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP) Food Reservoir. Working together, volunteer employees will gather fresh food donations at the conclusion of each Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers’ Market where items will then be donated to the HACAP Food Reservoir (our community food bank distributing food to the 12.2% food insecure in our area through 114 non-profit organizations and a variety of programs).

HomeRun for Hunger volunteers from First Federal Credit Union and the Cedar Rapids Kernels will pick up acceptable food donations from vendors near the end of each Downtown Farmers’ Market. These volunteers will be wearing “Home Run for Hunger” t-shirts and will have wagons to transport donated items. All donated items will be taken to the on-site HACAP Mobile Food Pantry truck and delivered to the food reservoir that serves Linn and six surrounding counties.

“We are pleased to bring the HomeRun for Hunger program to the Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers’ Market”, stated First Federal Credit Union CEO Tom Chalstrom. “Working with the Cedar Rapids Kernels, together we can provide the resources to commit to making Home Run for Hunger a program that will make a difference for families that use HACAP’s programs”.

Ryne George, Community Relations Manager for the Cedar Rapids Kernels added, “The HomeRun for Hunger program is another means by which our team, our employees and our fans can help make our community a better place. We are looking forward to making this program an important resource for HACAP’s food bank”.

Linda Gorkow from the HACAP Food Reservoir remarked, “We are so appreciative of the time, resources and effort that First Federal and the Kernels have given to create the Home Run for Hunger program. The employees of both organizations are volunteering their time to ensure the program is a success. The vendors of the Downtown Farmers’ Market can help us alleviate hunger in the area by donating unsold food items that will make its way to the homes that most need it.”

The HACAP Food Reservoir is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and donations are tax deductible. Receipts will be available upon request.

Acceptable food donations include: All fresh fruits and vegetables, honey (with producer label), eggs, cans of food (proper labeling with ingredient labels), non-food items (personal care and home care items especially).

The following items cannot be accepted: home-canned items or preservatives, home-made baked items (must be prepared in professional kitchen with ingredient label, and no alcoholic beverages.

For more information please visit CRDowntownMarket.com.

Sea Dogs Partner with Goodwill for Donation Drive

June 14, 2017

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs have partnered with Goodwill Northern New England to host the 8th Annual Goodwill Night and Donation Drive at Hadlock Field on Wednesday, June 28th when the Sea Dogs take on the New Hampshire Fisher Cats at 7:00 PM.

Fans are encouraged to bring bags of gently used clothing, books and other household items to Hadlock Field to donate to Goodwill. Goodwill will have a donation center at Hadlock Field to collect the items. For a list of acceptable donations, please visit Goodwill’s website: http://www.goodwillnne.org/donate/acceptable-donations/ .

Donations help fund Goodwill services that strengthen our local communities by getting people back to work and receiving the support they need to lead more stable lives.

Puffy G, Goodwill’s mascot, will be there to throw out the first pitch.

Goodwill Industries of Northern New England runs retail, cleaning and health care services that help fund workforce services in our region.

As an employer of more than 2,000 people and a social service provider, Goodwill has a unique perspective that can help other employers build their own workforce through its Workforce Services.
Goodwill operates 30 retail stores across Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont.

Goodwill Neurorehabilitation Services in Portland, Maine and Lewiston, Maine offers comprehensive brain injury services and treatment options for people with acquired brain injuries. At Goodwill Neurorehabilitation Services, comprehensive, community-based therapies are provided to assist individuals with cognitive, emotional and physical needs – so lives can get back on track after a brain injury.

Goodwill NNE also operates Good Clean Property Services – a full service commercial property maintenance company offering the perfect combination of quality, customized, eco-friendly services.

Please visit www.goodwillnne.org for more information.

Tickets are available for all remaining 2017 Sea Dogs’ home games. Tickets can be purchased by contacting the Sea Dogs Ticket Office at 207-879-9500 or online at www.seadogs.com.

Keys Care Charity Golf Classic Scheduled for July 11

June 14, 2017

FREDERICK, MD -The Frederick Keys are excited to announce that the 22^nd Keys Care Charity Golf Classic presented by Turning Point Financial will take place on Tuesday, July 11. This annual event will be held at Musket Ridge Golf Course. All proceeds from the tournament benefit Frederick Keys Care.

“Each year, Turning Point Financial selects several charity events to support and we are excited to be partnering with the Frederick Keys to support the Joel A. Stephens Memorial Fund this year,” said Alexandra Stickelman, Director of Sales and Marketing for Turning Point Financial. “Over the years, we’ve enjoyed sharing in the tradition of Frederick Keys baseball with our clients, and this year, we are especially grateful for the unique opportunity to partner with the Frederick Keys organization and give back to the community.”

Tournament registration begins at 8:00 a.m with a shotgun start at 9:00 a.m. The golf tournament format is captain’s choice. Players can enjoy breakfast sponsored by Wegmans, lunch at the turn provided by Roy Rogers as well as an awards luncheon catered by Buffalo Wild Wings. There will also be prizes given out for “longest drive” and “closest to the hole.”

Participants can book a foursome or sponsor a Keys player. Additionally, sponsorship opportunities are available at different hole locations, tee boxes and for a variety of competitions. For more information, click here.

Over the last 21 years, the Keys have raised over $100,000 for the Joel A. Stephens Memorial Fund, better known as Frederick Keys Care. In the fall of 1999, this fund was created to honor Joel Stephens, a compassionate Orioles minor leaguer who passed away suddenly at age 22.

This fund is part of the Community Foundation of Frederick County’s Universal Grant application funding program and supports local non-profit organizations that provide direct aid to Frederick County youth and young adults. Recipients of Keys Care grants for this year will be recognized at the awards luncheon following the golf tournament.

To register for the Keys Care Charity Golf Classic or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, call 301-815-9916 or visit frederickkeys.com.

The Keys close out the first-half at Nymeo Field from Thursday, June 15-Sunday, June 18 against the Lynchburg Hillcats. For tickets, fans can call the box office at 301-815-9939 or visit frederickkeys.com.

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

Sky Sox Host Heroes Classic Batting Practice

June 7, 2017

On a beautiful afternoon at Security Service Field, batting practice was in full swing. The crack of the bat filled the air as baseballs from the Colorado Springs coaching staff flew through the high altitude.

It was the beginning of another home game for the Sky Sox, but the top Brewers prospects weren’t in the cages this time around.

Instead, members of the Colorado Springs service community stood in the batter’s box, as representatives of the Colorado Springs Police Department, Colorado Springs Fire Department and the Colorado Springs chapter of the Wounded Warriors Project gathered to help kick off the 2017 Heroes Classic.

“It’s always fun to meet people that protect and serve our country,” said Sky Sox Manager Rick Sweet. “Any time I get an opportunity to spend time with these people and for my players to spend quality time with these people is always a great for them and for us.”

The annual batting practice was part of the Heroes Classic schedule, which aims to raise money and support for the men and women of the Colorado Springs community that choose to protect and serve the freedom and rights both at home and abroad.

“It’s an honor to serve the citizens of Colorado Springs and be able to do the things that I do,” said CSFD’s Ryan Pighetti, a 10-year firefighter at Station 17. “Being recognized for something like this is just icing on the cake. I have service inside of me and that’s why I do what I do.”

Pighetti and many others from across the three organizations had the opportunity to step onto the field and interact with players who share common values of hard work, determination, camaraderie and sacrifice.

“We talked about the camaraderie between the fire department, between their teammates, and a lot of it is the same,” said Pighetti. “These guys have put just as much hard work and determination into their career as I’ve put into my career to get to where we’ve ended up to this point.”

“It’s incredible when our warriors and their family members can come out on the field with professional baseball players and take some swings in the batting cages,” said Greg Monck, Alumni Manager for the Colorado Springs chapter of the Wounded Warrior Project. “It’s an awesome time for them and it helps get them out of the house and hang out with their families.”

For the Sox, an event such as the Heroes Classic batting practice allows the team to show gratitude for those who allow them to play their favorite game.

“For the players, it gives them a chance to touch base with people that allow us to have fun playing the sport that we get to play,” said Sweet. “It’s because of our warriors and the police and fire departments that we have the freedom to play baseball.”

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

THE INLAND EMPIRE 66ERS JOIN NORTH PARK ELEMENTARY FOR FIELD DAY

May 26, 2017

SAN BERNARDINO – The Inland Empire 66ers organization, including staff and players, joined North Park Elementary School on May 26, 2017, in an abundance of outdoor activities for their annual end of the year Field Day event.

After the elementary school endured a tragic event this April, the 66ers made it a priority to offer any support that they could to the school and its students. “It was important for us as an organization and a team to offer to help put some fun and excitement back in to the school day for these students,” explained Ryan English, Assistant General Manager.

After short discussion with the San Bernardino Unified School District, and the North Park Elementary staff, there was no hesitation that Field Day would serve as the best event for the 66ers organization to get involved with. Field Day, consisted of numerous outdoor activities for the students to participate in. Activities included dodgeball, tug-of-war, basketball, volleyball, tetherball, hockey, and many others outdoor games.

The 66ers staff and full team, including all players and coaching staff, split up and to participate in any, and all games with the students. “For us to go out there was great, I think we had just as much fun as they did,” 66ers infielder Jake Yacinich explained, “they had smiles on their faces, and for us to be able to do that is really good for us, as well as good for them.”

Not only did the staff and players get to enjoy their time with North Park Elementary, but the 66ers beloved mascots Bernie and Slick attended, as well as the mascots from the neighboring teams, The Lake Elsinore Storm and The Rancho Cucamonga Quakes. “It was a great for us to come together as a minor league baseball community for these kids, the mascots were the stars of the show,” said 66ers general manager Joe Hudson.

The Inland Empire 66ers of San Bernardino baseball team are the Class-A Advanced affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, serving the Inland Empire community with family friendly entertainment.

Bookmarks to be honored at BB&T Ballpark

May 22, 2017

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (May 22, 2017) – The Winston-Salem Dash are proud to announce that Bookmarks is the 2017 Charity Partner. The Dash will honor Bookmarks on Monday, May 29, during their 2 p.m. game against the Down East Wood Ducks at BB&T Ballpark.

Bookmarks is a literary arts nonprofit organization that fosters a love of reading and writing in the community. Their programming connects readers with authors and books and is achieved through the largest annual book festival in North and South Carolina, an Authors in Schools program, which reaches 7,500 students annually, and year-round events in their gathering space and nonprofit independent bookstore. Visit bookmarksnc.org for more information.

The Dash’s Charity Partner benefits from the proceeds of the club’s Commemorative Brick Program, through which fans can purchase engraved bricks that are installed outside of BB&T Ballpark’s main gates beyond right-center field. Bookmarks will also receive deliverables equivalent to a Dominant-level partner to spread its message to Dash fans all season long. Here is a list of the Dash’s past charity partners:

2010: Brenner Children’s Hospital
2011: Centers for Exceptional Children
2012: Ronald McDonald House of Winston-Salem
2013: Habitat for Humanity of Forsyth County
2014: Senior Services
2015: The Shalom Project of Winston-Salem
2016: Veterans Helping Veterans Heal (VHVH)

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

Dragons Host Hometown Heroes Celebration Night at Fifth Third Field

May 19, 2017

The Dayton Dragons and the Dayton Development Coalition will hold the first of two Hometown Heroes™ Celebration Nights Saturday, May 20 at Fifth Third Field when the Dragons play the Bowling Green Hot Rods at 7:07 p.m.

“Hometown Heroes™ Celebration Nights represent something truly special about the Dayton Region,” said Jeff Hoagland, DDC President and CEO. “Our desire to thank those who serve our country, combined with a true American pastime, has created an incredible night dedicated to our Hometown Heroes. We want to thank them for their service and let them know, no matter where they are stationed, Dayton will always welcome them home.”

The Celebration Nights are the highlight of the year-long Hometown Heroes™ program, which honors our community’s service men and women affiliated with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the Springfield, Ohio Air National Guard Base. The DDC and the Dragons, with the generous support of local businesses, began the program 14 years ago as a way for the community to support the thousands of military families in the region.

Colonel McDonald, the installation and 88^th Air Base Wing commander, will swear in 12 new Air Force recruits during the game.

Major General William Cooley, the commander of Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, and Colonel Bradley McDonald, the Wright-Patt installation and 88th Air Base Wing commander at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base., will throw out a first pitch.

The Association of Defense Communities recently recognized Dayton as a Great American Defense Community, in part for the Hometown Heroes™ programs at the Dragons, Victoria Theatre Association, Dayton Art Institute, and Dayton Air Show. Hometown Heroes^TM, working in close partnership with Dayton Hoopla/First Four events, UD & WSU Men’s Basketball, and the Fraze Pavilion, offers year-long events honoring our military community.

Staff Sergeant Kelly Perry from the Air Force Band of Flight. During the national anthem, the Wright Patterson Air Force Base Honor Guard will present the colors.

On the plaza, there will be a Security Forces Humvee, an Air Force Recruit Van, and the 445^th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron will showcase equipment used on evacuation missions. The Dragons Entertainment staff will hand out mini flags, and fans can sign “Thank You” cards to send to troops overseas.

The Dayton Development Coalition (DDC) is the leading economic development organization for the 14-county Dayton region. Working closely with public and private regional partners, its mission is to retain, expand and recruit jobs. The DDC and the Dayton region ranked as the nation’s top metro for its size for economic development in 2008, 2009 and 2012 and runner-up in 2010, 2011, 2014 and 2015. With the State’s largest single-site employer in its backyard, the DDC also focuses on advocating for the critical missions at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and supporting the work of the United States Air Force. The DDC was ranked as America’s top military community, and was presented with the 2015 Community Excellence Award from the Association of Defense Communities. It was designated as one of the ADC’s Great American Defense Communities in 2016 – a testament to the collaborative efforts in support of Wright-Patt, America’s #1 Air Force Base as ranked by the Air Force Times (2014). For any questions regarding the DDC, contact Shannon Joyce Neal at (937) 231-5436.

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

NATURALS FUNDRAISING PROGRAM ON RECORD PACE

May 15, 2017

SPRINGDALE, Ark – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are proud to announce that the popular Naturals Ticket Fundraising Program is on a record pace for the 2017 season while there are still dates available for groups for upcoming home games.

Through 20 home games played the Naturals organization has partnered with 89 groups from across Northwest Arkansas and surrounding communities and those groups have sold 19,473 tickets, which has raised a collective $78,752.00 for their respective causes. For comparison, last year through May 14 the program was at 56 groups for a total of $56,053 raised.

The groups that have participated in the program this year have consisted of school groups, sports teams, civic groups, non-profits, community partners, and numerous other community organizations. Families and supporters of the cause will get to come out to a Naturals game, have fun, and keep a large portion of the ticket sales. Depending on the final number of attendees, your group will get to keep anywhere from 25%-50% of the organization’s ticket sales. As an incentive and a reward, the Naturals will offer prizes to top sellers of groups and they include tours, autographs, game tickets, and First Pitch opportunities. Because of the amount of groups who take advantage of the program, dates are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The 2017 record pace has already surpassed the halfway mark of last year. During the 2016 season a total of 125 groups took advantage of the Naturals Ticket Fundraising Program and sold 29,170 tickets, which raised a collective $114,125.

The fundraising flyer is currently available and can be found on our website at www.nwanaturals.com under the Groups & Events tab or by emailing us at groups@nwanaturals.com. To check upcoming date availability or if you have any questions about the Naturals fundraising programs, call us at (479) 927-4900 or visit our Administrative Offices located at Arvest Ballpark.

Non-profit groups seeking more exposure for their cause can inquire about the Community Partner Program that offers free marketing exposure for participating groups to go along with the standard benefits of our ticket fundraising program.

Follow the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Facebook and Twitter @NWANaturals all throughout the year by using the hashtag #NaturalPastime and #CrowntoCrown for all of our up-to-date information on Season 10 of Naturals baseball.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The Naturals play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark in Springdale, Ark. For more information, including statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

-Naturals-

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

Chiefs Announce Pete Vonachen Community Service Award

May 11, 2017

PEORIA, IL – The Peoria Chiefs and Humana have announced creation of the Pete Vonachen Community Service Award designed to honor individuals from Central Illinois who are making a positive difference in their community. Nominations will be accepted online throughout the season.

The awards are designed to honor those who have gone above and beyond in their Central Illinois community in the spirit of Pete Vonachen who successfully impacted the Peoria area throughout his life. Nominees could be firefighters, police officers, first responders, volunteers, teachers, doctors, good Samaritans or the neighbor down the street who is always helping those who need it.

Fans can go to the nomination page to nominate their favorite Humana Community All-Star by providing information and a reason why they are an unsung Humana Community All-Star deserving of recognition.

The Chiefs will honor a finalist at five different games this season: May 20, June 10, July 4, July 29 and August 12. Then on September 1 the overall Humana Community All-Star of the 2017 season will be honored at the final regular season game of the season.

Tickets and Promotions:

Season ticket packages, including full-season, a 35-game ticket package, an 18-game ticket package, a Flex Plan or Pick-Six Plan are currently on sale by calling 309-680-4000. Individual game tickets are also on sale with the Dozer Park Box Office open Monday – Friday from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm and online at www.peoriachiefs.com which also lists all of the season’s promotions. Game times and promotions are subject to change.

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