Miracle League Baseball Field and Inclusive Playground Initiative Planned in Eastlake near Classic Park

(Eastlake, OH) – A collaboration of leaders in Lake County have put together a fundraising task force and campaign to create an exciting project geared toward children and adults with developmental disabilities. The project is planned at the corner of Route 91 and Vine Street in Eastlake, adjacent to Classic Park, and will include construction of a Miracle League baseball playing field and a large, inclusive playground which will provide play opportunities for individuals with all abilities. An official press conference will be held with members of the community and media at Classic Park on Thursday, September 29 at 1 PM.

There are over 2,000 residents in Lake County alone who will be able to utilize these new facilities which will be open year-round to residents across northeast Ohio. The project will cost approximately $1.2 million to develop and build the Miracle League field and playground. This initiative will be 100% financed through private contributions and donations. The group spearheading this project has already received support from the Lubrizol Foundation, CT Consultants, members of the Cleveland Building and Construction Trades Council, the Lake County Captains, Captains Charities, and the Deepwood Foundation.

The Miracle League is a nationwide program with over 270 fields across the country. Their goal is to provide opportunities for children with physical and intellectual disabilities to play baseball and be part of a team. The Miracle League’s website is www.miracleleague.com for more detailed information on the league.

The team of leaders initially putting together this initiative includes the Lake County Commissioners, City of Eastlake Mayor Dennis Morley, Lake County Ohio Port and Economic Development Authority Executive Director Mark Rantala, Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities/Deepwood Superintendent Elfie Roman, Deepwood Foundation Executive Director Rikke Coach, Lake County Educational Service Center Superintendent Brian Bontempo and Lake County Captains General Manager Neil Stein.

Commissioner Judy Moran, in announcing the creation of the task force said, “I am proud to be a part of the group that has been assembled for this very special Miracle League project. The field and playground will be a place for kids and young adults to come from all over the county and the City of Eastlake to enjoy the things we all do every day. It is a heart-warming project that will put a smile on the faces of everyone involved. The Miracle League Field and Playground will enhance this County as a wonderful place for special needs individuals and their families.”

Lake County residents with special needs already recognize the high quality of community support through Deepwood and the Lake County school systems. Elfie Roman from Deepwood said, “This project epitomizes the inclusive spirit of our Lake County community, and reinforces that all our citizens, of differing abilities, can live, work, and play together!” Eastlake Mayor Dennis Morley commented, “I believe this is a great project for our community. This is not just for Eastlake but for all of Lake County and the surrounding area. I am honored to work with everyone on this task force to bring this project together for the very special group of kids and adults. This will be a special place for everyone to enjoy.”

The funds will be collected by the Deepwood Foundation and Executive Director, Rikke Coach, and will be tax deductible. The fundraising campaign will be led by fundraising Campaign Chairman Morris Beverage III and will begin in September with a goal of having the funds raised by the end of March in 2017. LCOPEDA Director, Mark Rantala said, “This is a very special project and we look forward to making this happen. Community resources like this enhance the County’s ability to attract a quality workforce. The Commissioners’ commitment recognizes that quality of life items are important to the attractiveness of the community. I am confident we can raise the funds.”

For more information on how to get involved with the project contact Mark Rantala at 440-357-2290 x232 or via e-mail at MRantala@lcport.org. Organizations interested in making a financial contribution to the project can contact Rikke Coach with the Deepwood Foundation at 440-350-5208 or Rikke.Coach@lakebdd.org.

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

Helping Hand: Power donate $50,000

Charleston, WV (September 29, 2016) –  The West Virginia Power, in conjunction with the Pittsburgh Pirates, are pleased to announce that their ongoing flood relief efforts have raised $50,000 for the West Virginia Region of the American Red Cross. The flooding that occurred in late June devastated 44 counties across the state of West Virginia and the Power immediately began relief efforts at Appalachian Power Park. Power fans and many of the team’s partners made sizable donations to the collection efforts, including the Pittsburgh Pirates, Pyrotechnico and Success Promotions.

“Our community was hit hard by this natural disaster,” stated Ken Fogel, Executive Vice President of the West Virginia Power. “Our fans, employees, friends and even some corporate partners were affected by the flooding. It was our goal to help in any way possible to begin the relief and recovery process. We are thrilled by the response and the donation we can now make on behalf of those who support us.”

During Power games, the team also used a variety of avenues enabling fans help the flood relief efforts as well. In addition to donation points located around the ballpark, charity t-shirts printed by T-Graphics were sold, proceeds from the nightly 50-50 were allocated and a portion of online tickets sales were donated to the relief effort.

The Power and Pirates Charities worked together to collect and donate dog food for the Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association. KCHA spent the weeks following the flooding rescuing animals displaced during the disaster. Power fans could drop bags of dog food off at the park and the players held a dog food drive at PetSmart in Southridge. On August 9, Pirates Baseball Charities arranged for 50 pallets of dog food to be delivered on behalf of the West Virginia Power and Ainsworth, one of the Pittsburgh Pirates partners.

“We are proud to partner with everyone at the West Virginia Power in support of the recovery efforts of those effected by the historic and devastating floods.” said Bob Nutting, the Pittsburgh Pirates Chairman. “The Power organization is a Pirates affiliate both on and off the field, as we both share in the same deep rooted commitment to help improve the lives of those in need.”

For more information on the monetary donation or other flood relief efforts that the Power held, please front office at (304) 344-2287.

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

Hot Rods to Host Annual Halloween Event

Bowling Green, KY – The Bowling Green Hot Rods announced on Wednesday that the team will once again celebrate Halloween at the ballpark by hosting the newly branded Hot RodderWeen event on Sunday, October 23. The free event will take place from 2-4 p.m., and will include a new haunted clubhouse tour, trick or treating, photo booth, costume contests, and more.

“Our Halloween event has become a staple on our offseason calendar and we love hosting this free event for the community,” said Hot Rods General Manager Eric C. Leach. “In addition to the costume contest and trick or treating, we are adding in a haunted clubhouse tour, which will be a lot of fun for both kids and adults.”

The Hot RodderWeen event will begin at 2 p.m. on Sunday, October 23 and will run until 4 p.m., rain or shine. Attendees are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes, as there will be a costume contest for both children and adults. The event is also dog-friendly (they must be on a leash) as the Hot Rods will have a special costume contest for all dogs in attendance.

Attendees will be able to trick or treat at various locations throughout the ballpark, including the Graves Gilbert Carousel and Van Meter Insurance Axle’s Adventureland playground. A photo booth will be set-up for families to document their outing at the ballpark. And the Body Shop, official merchandise store of the Hot Rods, will be open so fans can stock up on their favorite orange Hot Rods apparel. Hot dogs, popcorn, and soda will all be available for $1.00.

The Hot Rods welcome any community organization or business that would like to hand out candy at the event. If interested, please contact Jennifer Johnson at 270-901-2121 or by email via jjohnson@bghotrods.com.

The Hot Rods open their ninth season in South Central Kentucky on Thursday, April 6th against the Fort Wayne TinCaps. Mini-plans and season tickets are now available for the 2017 season at the Hot Rods front office and online at BGHotRods.com.

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Hot Rods Baseball – #FanDriven

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

66ers Honored with California League’s Award for Community Service

San Bernardino, CA – On Friday the California League announced the 2016 Front Office Awards and named the Inland Empire 66ers the winner of the Excellence in Community Service Award. The award, which was voted on by the other organizations in the California League, was given to the 66ers due to their outstanding and on-going commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within the local community.

The Sixers received high praise from the league for their efforts and commitment to the community following the tragic events on December 2nd. A day after the incident, thousands came to San Manuel Stadium to attend a candlelight and prayer vigil. Victim’s families and friends, civic leaders and the community at large started healing the healing process together. On this night “SB Strong” came into existence and an organic fundraising opportunity happened after multiple attendees asked where they could buy tee shirts with the SB Strong logo on them. The fundraiser was a great success as over 2,000 shirts were purchased with 100% of the proceeds heading to the San Bernardino United Relief Fund. Following the vigil the club would go on to host a luncheon for the first responders, a SB Strong Charity Picnic and Blood Drive and the team’s SB Strong Night Game. During this game the Sixers and the visiting San Jose Giants wore specialty SB Strong jerseys that went up for auction to raise funds for the cause. In total, $74,115.26 was raised for the victims and their families through events held at San Manuel Stadium.

The 66ers continued their excellence in community service by closely working with local schools in several ways. The team’s reading program, which provided tickets for children and their families for reading, saw an increase in participation by over 30%. In addition, the club introduced the Breakfast with a Book Program in which students were rewarded for their academic efforts by receiving breakfast and a new book courtesy of the club. The commitment to the area didn’t stop there as the 66ers worked with over 200 local partners that had an impact of over $400,000 in donations during the 2016 Season.

About the Inland Empire 66ers

The Inland Empire 66ers are the California League Affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels and play their home games at San Manuel Stadium. The club is one of eight Elmore Sports Group owned franchises and one the six Minor League Baseball clubs in the group. Other Elmore Sports Group baseball franchises include the Colorado Springs Sky Sox (Pacific Coast League), The San Antonio Missions (Texas League), Lynchburg Hillcats (Carolina League), Eugene Emeralds (Northwest League), and the Idaho Fall Chukars (Pioneer League). The 66ers franchise will play their 30th season in San Bernardino during the 2017 season which starts on Thursday, April 6th.

Follow the 66ers on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @66ersbaseball

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

Local field wins makeover from Dash, Flow Chevrolet

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (Sept. 13, 2016) – The Winston-Salem Dash and Flow Chevrolet have announced that Northwest Forsyth American Little League (NWFALL) has won the 2016 Diamond in the Rough Ballpark Renovation program. Therefore, NWFALL’s field will receive a Major League makeover this fall.

The Diamond in the Rough Ballpark Renovation contest, which ran throughout the month of July, invited area Little Leagues and softball leagues to submit videos to the Dash on social media to show why their field is in need and deserving of a makeover. NWFALL’s submission emerged victorious from a group of impressive finalists.

This marks NWFALL’s 52nd year of operation, and more than 400 players participated in spring activities in 2016. The little league added a Challenger Division for children with physical or mental challenges this season. NWFALL also hosts several district and state tournaments in baseball and softball.

“NWFALL is thrilled to be the recipient of the Diamond in the Rough renovation,” said Chris Swink, President of NWFALL. “The renovations and upgrades so generously provided by Flow Chevrolet and the Dash will have a big impact on all of our players. We want to thank both Flow Chevrolet and the Dash for their support of Little League Baseball in our community.”

The Flow Chevrolet Diamond in the Rough Ballpark Renovation program will be transforming its third facility. Last year’s winner was Winston-Salem National Little League, while South Little League was the inaugural recipient in 2014. The program follows similar baseball and softball field renovation programs that exist in both Major League Baseball and Minor League Baseball.

For more information on the renovation program or the Dash, call (336) 714-2287.

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

Shorebirds Present Toy Donation To Brooke’s Toy Closet

Pictured: Top; Eric Sichau, Shorebirds Director of Community Relations; Ann DeMarco, PRMC Foundation Board Member; Sherman the Shorebird; Denise Billing, President – PRMC Foundation. Bottom; Joel Olive, Mojo’s Co-Owner & Executive Chef; Stacey McMichael, Fundraising Coordinator – PRMC Foundation; Kellie Noonan, Brooke Mulford Foundation Board Member; Rob Mulford, Owner – Market Street Inn & Mojo’s, Father of Brooke Mulford; Emilia Chrzaszcz, Manager at Market Street Inn; and Sharrell Callaway, Office Manager – Market Street Inn & Mojo’s.

SALISBURY, MD – The Delmarva Shorebirds are proud to announce in conjunction with partners at Market Street Inn, Mojo’s, and the Peninsula Regional Medical Center, the results of the Brooke’s Toy Closet Toy Drive, held on July 23rd at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

In total, 151 items were donated by Shorebirds fans, with the Shorebirds presenting the donation to Brooke’s Toy Closet at the Peninsula Regional Medical Center recently, along with members from Market Street Inn, Mojo’s, and the Peninsula Regional Medical Center Foundation, which oversees and maintains Brooke’s Toy Closet.

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

“This was a fantastic partnership with Market Street Inn, Mojo’s, PRMC, and the Shorebirds. All parties were extremely excited with the results.” said Shorebirds Director of Community Relations Eric Sichau. “We appreciate the support from the local community and Shorebirds fans, and encourage those to donate to the Toy Closet year round to keep it replenished.” “We look forward to continuing the Toy Drive during the 2017 Season!”

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

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

Delmarva Shorebirds
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The Delmarva Shorebirds are the Class “A” Affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles. The Shorebirds are owned by 7th Inning Stretch, LLC, the same company that owns the Stockton Ports of the California League and the Everett AquaSox of the Northwest League.

The Shorebirds celebrated their 20th season in 2015, and have entertained nearly five million fans since beginning play at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury, Md. in 1996. The team has captured South Atlantic League titles in 1997 and 2000 while successfully hosting the South Atlantic League All-Star Game in 1999 and 2011.

For more information on the Shorebirds, call 410-219-3112 or visit theshorebirds.com.

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

Miracle, Keep On Playing host last clinic of 2016

FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 1, 2016) – The Fort Myers Miracle and Keep on Playing are teaming up for the fourth and final baseball clinic with the Fort Myers Boy’s and Girl’s Club for 2016 on Saturday, September 3 at 10 a.m. at Shady Oaks.

The Miracle, Keep On Playing and the Boy’s and Girl’s Club have held three previous baseball clinics with excellent turnout. The Miracle and Keep On Playing have donated baseball equipment to the Boy’s and Girl’s Club and players have delivered one-on-one personal instruction to the local youth throughout the course of the summer. At each clinic, current members of the Miracle roster have worked with kids to help develop a passion for the game of baseball. 2016 Florida State League All-Star and team home run leader Trey Vavra has been at every session.

Fort Myers Mayor Randy Henderson has proclaimed September 3 as MiLB Keep On Playing Day.

“It’s extraordinary to watch the kids pick up a baseball and glove and they don’t stop smiling and laughing,” said Marnie Schneider, Founder of Keep On Playing. “The special gift of choosing what to plays is what Keep On Playing and our amazing teammates give the children. By bringing the wonderful game of baseball to the kids, we give them more options and teach them about our national pastime!”

Keep On Playing and the Miracle support the Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities, or RBI program, at the Boy’s and Girl’s Clubs located in Fort Myers. In addition to baseball skills, clubs ensure participants receive educational components to help foster academic achievement while attending the clinics.

The Keep On Playing mission is to enrich the lives of youth through play. When kids keep on playing, their experiences are enhanced exponentially. Keep On Playing strives to build confidence, increase motivation and enhance self-esteem by jump-starting participation in sports. The Keep On Playing core values are: Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, Perseverance, Excellence, Sportsmanship and Academic Achievement.

“I think the most important thing for people to know about Keep On Playing is its ability to change lives,” said Donja Massop, Director of Operations for the Boy’s and Girl’s Clubs of Lee County. “It’s not just about baseball. It’s more about opportunities and providing kids with new experiences.”

“We are thrilled to be able to work with Keep On Playing to bring a positive message about teamwork and being involved in sports to the kids at the Boy’s and Girl’s Club in Lee County,” said Miracle Chief Operating Officer Steve Gliner. “Being a part of these baseball clinics has been a great experience for our players and staff.”

The Miracle, Keep On Playing and the Boy’s and Girl’s Club have already scheduled clinics for the summer of 2017. For more information on the final Keep On Playing clinic in Fort Myers, contact the Miracle offices at (239) 768-4210.

Yoga in the Outfield on Saturday

Fluor Field will host a special “Yoga in the Outfield” event on Saturday, September 10th. Gates open at 9:00 AM, and a special yoga class will begin at 10:00 AM.

Tickets for the yoga class are available now for just $15 by CLICKING HERE, and they will be $20 at the field on September 10th. Portions of the ticket proceeds will go to Meals on Wheels and the Set Free Alliance.

Kids are also invited to take part in a complimentary mini-yoga session on the berm by the Main Street Gate.

Even if you don’t take part in the yoga classes, anyone can enter with complimentary admission to the Mindful Market located on the concourse with healthy snacks, drinks and cocktails from some of Greenville’s most mindful vendors.

For more information, go to yogaintheoutfield.com or CLICK HERE.

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

Help us recognize area Rising Star Student on 9/4

Join us at Fifth Third Field on Sunday, September 4 as the Hens, Esurance and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio recognize Kendall Smith, one of the 14 Esurance Rising Star Students Program winners, during a pregame ceremony.

About the Rising Star Students Program

The Rising Star Students Program aims to recognize individuals who were ‘Rising Stars’ in his or her community. To be eligible, the nominees had to be classified as “Bigs” or “Littles” in the Big Brothers Big Sister Program. Nominations for the Rising Star Students program were made in July and August by BBBS agencies.

About Kendall

Kendall is a notable area student who enrolled as a “Little” in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio to help with the challenges of adolescence. During her time at The Toledo School for the Arts, she learned to play 11 instruments and performed well academically.

She is currently studying music at Capital University and aspires to play in international orchestra and teach music as a professor. Smith will be presented with a $5,000 check from Esurance for college expenses.

Help us celebrate all of her accomplishments!

Tickets

GAME TICKET ($12) – BUY TICKETS

What you get:

  • September 4 Mud Hens game ticket

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

Spokane County Fair & Expo Center and the Spokane Indians Team Up for Wildfire Relief

SPOKANE, WA – The Spokane County Fair & Expo Center and the Spokane Indians baseball team have teamed up to help support the firefighting efforts in the region. Firefighters from all over the state have been using the Spokane County Fair & Expo Center and parking areas of Avista Stadium as a staging area while they work to contain the fires that started last week.

“We are pleased to be able to work together with the Spokane Indians and use our combined resources to aid these firefighters,” said Rich Hartzell, Director of the Spokane County Fair & Expo Center. “Both parties have made concerted efforts to help during this busy time of year in order to protect the safety of our community.”

The baseball team’s Military Appreciation Night on Saturday, August 27 was originally scheduled to have post-game fireworks, but the area typically used for the promotion is being utilized by the Incident Management Teams as a base camp to fight wildfires near Spokane.

“We want to thank the Spokane County Fair & Expo Center and the Spokane Indians for being such great hosts,” said Matt Ugaldea, Unit Leader Pacific Northwest Incident Management Team 11. “They have been very accommodating and allowed us to concentrate our efforts on fighting the area’s fires.”

In lieu of the post-game fireworks on Saturday, the Spokane Indians, the Spokesman-Review, and KHQ will make a donation to local wildfire victims.

“We felt it was important for the team to step up and help those affected by the recent wildfires,” said Chris Duff, General Manager for the Spokane Indians. “It has been inspiring to see our community rally together in support of those in need.”

For more information, please contact the Indians at (509) 535-2922 or mail@spokaneindians.com.

About the Indians

The Indians are the Short Season Class “A” affiliate for the Texas Rangers. For more information, please visit www.spokaneindians.com or call (509) 343-6886 (OTTO).

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

Mets to take part in CommUNITY initiative Friday

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. – Minor League Baseball recently unveiled the CommUNITY initiative program to encourage fans to come together and stand up against discrimination and violence. The St. Lucie Mets are proud to participate in the program that is in response to recent tragedies and tension in communities across the country.

The Mets CommUNITY initiative will take place during the third inning of Friday’s second game vs. the Palm Beach Cardinals. MiLB’s goal is to get all 160 MiLB teams involved and have their fans leave a game feeling inspired with a sense of unity.

Upon entering Tradition Field, fans will be given signs that read “Community Means” and the fans can fill in the blank of what community means to them. The fans and players will stand up and hold the signs in solidarity in the middle of the third inning.

“Our ballparks have long been a place of fun and enjoyment, providing a break from the ills of today’s society,” said Minor League Baseball President and CEO, Pat O’Conner. “The CommUNITY initiative aims to urge fans to take action in their communities and to promote unity, understanding, acceptance and inclusion.”

Friday’s doubleheader starts at 4 p.m. It is also First Responders Appreciation Night, which ties in with the CommUNITY initiative.

In addition to various activities at the ballpark, Minor League Baseball teams and their fans can participate in the initiative on social media using #MiLBCommUNITY to pledge their plan to create positive change.

For more information, contact Kasey Blair at 772-871-2115.

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

2nd Annual Clash of Cans Food Drive

AUGUSTA, GA – The Augusta GreenJackets, Single-A Affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, have announced the 2nd Annual Clash of Cans Food Drive as a part of the festivities for Thursday, August 25th that will benefit the Golden Harvest Food Bank. The GreenJackets will host the Greenville Drive (Boston Red Sox) with the playoff chase heating up.

“We invite the CSRA to come out in force, bring lots of canned food items and celebrate with us”, stated GreenJackets General Manager Tom Denlinger. “This is a fun way to interact with the local colleges and universities, while also supporting a great organization.”

The GreenJackets are asking local university alumni and students such as the Augusta University, Augusta Technical College, Brenau University, East Georgia State College, Georgia Military College, University of Georgia, Georgia Southern University, Paine College, University of South Carolina, and Clemson University to compete in the Clash of Cans food drive. Current students and alumni are encouraged to participate in the Clash of Cans as a friendly competition for bragging rights of your school. Bring a canned food item for the August 25th game (Last Thirsty Thursday of 2016) to support the Golden Harvest Food Bank and be entered to win prizes! Fans will put their cans in their favorite college’s bin and we’ll declare a winner in the 7th inning!

“Golden Harvest Food Bank is excited that the Augusta GreenJackets are again hosting the Clash of Cans Food Drive. Please donate some canned goods when you come out to the game,” stated Carrie Jones, Special Events Manager for Golden Harvest Food Bank.

August 25th also features College Football Night! Guests are encouraged to wear their favorite school’s apparel to receive $2 off their ticket price for the night. During Thirsty Thursday at Lake Olmstead Stadium guests can enjoy one- dollar draft beers and Coca-Cola fountain sodas all night long presented by the Country Club Dance Hall and Saloon, The Hideout, Napleton Infiniti of Augusta & 93.9 BobFM.

We’re also celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Augusta Sports Council. You won’t want to miss this fun evening! The Clash of the Cans food drive begins at 6:00pm when gates open, and first pitch is scheduled for 7:05pm.

The GreenJackets are “All In” as they make a second half playoff push and they need YOU. We invite you to Catch the Buzz and come out to Lake Olmstead to enjoy the fun. Plus the GreenJackets are closing in on their two millionth fan at the ballpark in 2016! The two millionth fan will win a fantastic prize pack stay tuned for more details! For more information, including pricing and benefits on all ticket plans, visit www.GreenJacketsBaseball.com or contact the GreenJackets Front Office at (706) 922-WINS (9467). To stay up to date with all things ‘Jackets sign up for the Buzz e-newsletter by visiting www.GreenJacketsBaseball.com/thebuzz.

Fireflies Launch Food Drive Fridays to Aid Harvest Hope Food Bank

COLUMBIA, SC – In conjunction with the Harvest Hope Food Bank, the Columbia Fireflies have launched Food Drive Fridays for the remainder of the season. For the final three home Friday games at Spirit Communications Park, fans will be offered buy one get one free tickets in the Bojangles’ Berm, Reserved or Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union All-Star seating sections for every two canned food items they bring to the park. All cans will be donated to the Harvest Hope Food Bank.

The buy one get one free tickets are only eligible for that Friday evening’s game. Here are the Fireflies’ remaining Friday home games:

August 12, 7:05 p.m. vs. Greensboro Grasshoppers (Miami Marlins)

August 19, 7:05 p.m. vs. Augusta GreenJackets (San Francisco Giants)

September 2, 7:05 p.m. vs. Charleston RiverDogs (New York Yankees)

Gates open at 5:30 p.m. for all three games and fans are asked to present their canned food items at the Fireflies Box Office to receive their buy one get one free tickets. Cans will be collected at the front entrance.

Fans with season ticket packages or who have already purchased single game tickets for an upcoming Friday game are still encouraged to bring canned food items.

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

Charitable Tuesdays Bigger and Better in 2016

For the third consecutive season, the Williamsport Crosscutters will present Charitable Tuesdays. The program, presented by Woodlands Bank, gives local non-profit organizations a no-cost opportunity to have a presence at BB&T Ballpark, for the purpose of educating fans about their organization.

One organization will be featured at every Tuesday home game and receive;

  • A display table in the stadium to display and distribute promotional literature and materials
  • A live on-field interview before the game
  • Ceremonial 1st pitch honors for the organization
  • The opportunity to be a guest on the Crosscutters radio broadcast for one inning
  • A $250 donation to the organization courtesy of Woodlands Bank and the Crosscutters presented during an on-field ceremony

“When approached by the Crosscutters with the idea to partner with them for Charitable Tuesdays, it was an immediate yes”, stated Jon P. Conklin, President & CEO of Woodlands Bank. “Woodlands Bank is defined by its commitment to the local community. Daily, we work, live, and give in Lycoming and Clinton County. The Cutters are a great organization that shares the same values as we do, which I know will lead to giving to great and worthy local non-profits this season.”

Interested organizations should submit an application, available online at crosscutters.com or at BB&T Ballpark. Applications must be received by June 3, 2016. More information is available by contacting the Cutters Director of Community Relations, Sarah Budd at (570) 326-3389 or email sarah@crosscutters.com

The Crosscutters 2016 season opens on June 17 when they host the State College Spikes. The full schedule can be found at crosscutters.com.

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

Lake Monsters and Five Guys Team Back Up In 2016 For May Days Fundraising Program

BURLINGTON, VT — The Vermont Lake Monsters are excited to announce the continued partnership with Five Guys Burgers and Fries during the annual May Days fundraiser to benefit non-profits from across the state of Vermont.   “Five Guys May Days” fundraiser will launch May 1st as a month-long program devoted to helping raise funds and awareness for state wide non-profits.

Support of local non-profits has demonstrated the strong commitment both the Lake Monsters and Five Guys have to the greater Burlington community. The goal of this program is not only to provide the opportunity for organizations to raise money, but also raise awareness for their programs while providing a chance for supporters to come together at the ballpark.

The Howard Center is just one of the many local non-profits who has benefitted from participating in Five Guys May Days and will continue the tradition this year. “Throughout the year, we benefit from the generous support of the Lake Monsters.” said Catherine Shahan, Director of Community Friends Mentoring at the Howard Center. “We appreciate our community partnership as it provides opportunities for many of our clients to enjoy an afternoon or evening of baseball, hot dogs, and fun!” Thank you, Lake Monsters for giving back and ensuring the whole community has access to your programs.”

Participating non-profits will have the entire month of May to promote and sell $6 Lake Monsters tickets through a specific URL link designated to their organization for a specific game during the season. After the month of May is completed, the Lake Monsters will donate half of the proceeds back to the organization. Following the selling period, Five Guys will donate up to $500 to match the amount raised by the highest selling non-profit in the program. Organizations will then be recognized on field with a check presentation at a Lake Monsters game this season.

This opportunity is an easy way to fundraise for non-profits, simply by reaching out to your employees, supporters, volunteers, and sponsors with the URL link. For more information or if your non-profit is interested in participating contact Zach Betkowski at 802-655-4200 or zach@vermontlakemonsters.com.

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