Supporting the Community

Fisher Cats to “Take the Show on the Road” with Citizens Bank

April 23, 2014

All the excitement of a Fisher Cats game brought to one lucky youth baseball league

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats and Citizens Bank have teamed up this season to bring the Fisher Cats entertainment experience on the road! Later this season, the Fisher Cats will ‘Take the Show on the Road’ to one youth baseball league’s local field.

The Fisher Cats will bring their inflatable games, mascot, PA Announcer, promo team, and turf manager to create the fun and exhilarating entertainment that everyone is used to at each Fisher Cats home game. The winning league will also be rewarded with 100 tickets to a Fisher Cats game where they will be recognized as the winner of the ‘Take the Show on the Road’ promotion presented by Citizens Bank.

“We are excited to partner with Citizens Bank to create a new, fun opportunity for youth sports leagues across the region,” said Fisher Cats President Rick Brenner. “We look forward to bringing our Show to a community ballpark and teaming up with the winning league to put on a fun day for their fans, teams, and players.”

“Citizens Bank believes that every child should have the opportunity to explore his or her potential through healthy, active recreational activities, such as those provided through youth sports leagues,” said Joe Carelli, President, Citizens Bank and RBS Citizens, New Hampshire. “We are proud to partner with the New Hampshire Fisher Cats to ‘Take the Show on the Road’ to a league that not only inspires active living but good sportsmanship as well.”

Three lucky entrants will also be selected at random to receive 25 tickets to a game with a VIP Ballpark Tour and the opportunity to meet Fisher Cats players, or one luxury suite rental with 18 tickets and two VIP parking passes.

Leagues are encouraged to send in an application stating how their league exemplifies sportsmanship and why they should be considered to have the Fisher Cats entertainment experience at their local field. Leagues interested in applying can download applications and fliers at the Fisher Cats’ ‘Take the Show on the Road presented by Citizens Bank’ webpage at www.nhfishercats.com.

If you have any questions about ‘Take the Show on the Road presented by Citizens Bank,’ please contact Mike Ramshaw, Senior Vice President of Sales, at 603-606-4187 or mramshaw@nhfishercats.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Fifth Third Bank (Georgia) Partners with the Augusta GreenJackets to Launch Annual Strike Out Hunger! Food Drive

April 22, 2014

Today, Fifth Third Bank (Georgia) announced it is going to bat with the Augusta GreenJackets – to launch Strike Out Hunger! This community food drive will run from April 18 through May 3 (“Fifth Third Day” on 5/3) and is aimed at collecting enough products to feed 5,300 families in the Atlanta Metro area.

Members of the community are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items – such as canned fruits and meats, peanut butter and boxed cereal – to participating Fifth Third Bank financial centers. While supplies last, the bank will give baseball game tickets to those who make a contribution to the food drive, courtesy of the Augusta GreenJackets.

“We believe that a continual investment in our community can make a meaningful impact. Each year, the bank recognizes its employees, customers and the communities it serves on the third day of the fifth month – or 5/3 on the calendar,” said Randy Koporc, president of Fifth Third Bank (Georgia). “We’re proud to be working with top-notch organizations like the Augusta GreenJackets, the Gwinnett Braves, Kennesaw State University, the Atlanta Community Food Bank and the Golden Harvest Food Bank to help families and children in need throughout the Atlanta area.”

After the month-long food drive, the bank will deliver food donations to the Golden Harvest Food Bank, which will in turn feed thousands of families.

“The need for food in our community continues to grow, and the donated items will directly help people right here in our own backyards,” said Rebecca Hersey, Chief Advancement Officer for the Golden Harvest Food Bank. “Last year, we distributed more than 16.2 million pounds of food through our network of more than 300 agencies – translating to more than 438,000 families who benefit from our efforts annually. We are grateful that Fifth Third Bank has once again focused on contributing to our mission to fight hunger and provide hope.”

“We are proud to be able to partner with Fifth Third Bank on the Strike Out Hunger! food drive,” said Tom Denlinger, General Manager of the Augusta GreenJackets. “As we continue to build on our community impact here in the CSRA for 2014, we look forward to seeing the community support this great initiative and be rewarded with a ticket to our Saturday, May 3 game at 7 p.m.”

To take part in fighting hunger and receive tickets to the Augusta GreenJackets vs. Greenville Drive on Saturday, May 3, 2014 at 7 p.m., residents can drop off food donations at financial centers in Martinez and Augusta from April 18 through May 3.

** Disclosure: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Offer available only at participating Fifth Third locations. Offer valid April 18, 2014 – May 3, 2014. Donations may be made during regular business hours. Limit one ticket per donated item with a maximum of four tickets per person. Offer good only while supplies last.

Food collection bins are set up at all 32 Fifth Third financial centers in the following counties: Columbia, Richmond, Fulton, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Walton, and Cobb. Location addresses are available at 53.com.

About the Golden Harvest Food Bank
Golden Harvest Food Bank is a volunteer-driven, non-profit organization that provides quality food and other grocery products to those in need. We do this with local community support through direct service programs, food pantries, and community education about hunger. The Food Bank was founded in Augusta, Georgia, in 1982, and now operates from three distribution centers – Augusta, GA and Aiken and Liberty, SC. Golden Harvest is a locally-supported 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides grocery products to the hungry through direct service programs and a network of more than 300 food pantries and soup kitchens. Golden Harvest distributed more than 16.2 million pounds of grocery products to those in need in fiscal year 2013.

Golden Harvest Food Bank is a member of Feeding America. For more information on how you can help eliminate hunger in our community, visit www.goldenharvest.org. You can also find Golden Harvest on Facebook and Twitter.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Augusta GreenJackets. Click here to view the original story.

AquaSox & MiLB Partner to Assist Oso Relief

April 22, 2014

The Everett AquaSox announced today that they are dedicating their June 16 game towards relief efforts related to the Oso mudslide. All walk-up ticket sales from this game will go directly towards relief and recovery efforts caused by the mudslide that occurred only 30 miles from the AquaSox on March 22.

“So many families and businesses have been impacted locally by the mudslide,” said AquaSox Executive Vice President Tom Backemeyer, “As we enter our 30^th year in Snohomish County, this is the least we can do to try and help those affected by this tragedy.”

In conjunction with the AquaSox’s efforts, Minor League Baseball™ Charities, a tax exempt, 501(c)(3) charitable organization affiliated with the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues, has donated $10,000 to the United Way of Snohomish County’s Disaster Recovery Fund for Mudslide Relief. The AquaSox will present the check to the United Way of Snohomish County on behalf of MiLB on Friday, April 25^th.

“We are very appreciative of Minor League Baseball and the support they have offered to our community through this generous donation,” said Backemeyer.

“Through MiLB Charities, we are able to give back and offer support to the communities in which our clubs are a part, especially in times of need when natural disasters like the Oso mudslide occur,” said Tina Gust, MiLB™ Vice President of Business Development.

A formal check presentation to the United Way will be made prior to an AquaSox game later this summer. To donate directly to the United Way’s Disaster Recovery Fund, and to find out how else you can help, please visit www.uwsc.org.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Everett AquaSox. Click here to view the original story.

High School Baseball Returns to Fifth Third Field on Monday Night

April 21, 2014

Arcanum and Franklin-Monroe to Play at Fifth Third Field on Monday Night

All Games Sponsored by MAC Athletics;

Double-headers scheduled for Friday and Saturday

Dayton, Ohio- Fifth Third Field and the Dayton Dragons will host high school baseball for the ninth straight season in 2014 with the action starting on Tuesday, April 8 at 4:30 p.m. Overall this spring, 30 high schools will play regular season games at the home of the Dragons.

High school baseball at Fifth Third Field also serves as a fundraiser for the participating schools. This year’s series of games will raise approximately $30,000 for the schools to help with the cost of uniforms, equipment, and bus transportation.

All games are sponsored by MAC Athletics, experts in athletic facility planning, design, construction, and equipment acquisition. Go to macathletix.com for more information on their services.

Monday evening’s game features the Franklin-Monroe Jets and the Arcanum Trojans. In the most recent Miami Valley Baseball Coaches Association poll, the Trojans were ranked as the third best team among Division IV schools. Arcanum claimed a 2013 Division IV Southwest District Championship. Arcanum and Franklin-Monroe both compete in the Cross County Conference. The game will be broadcast live on 97.5 WTGR and online on the Gem City Sports Network.

The Dayton Dragons have been hosting the Miami Valley’s best baseball teams since 2006 and are proud to continue the tradition for a ninth year. A complete list of high school baseball games scheduled to be played at Fifth Third Field can be found at daytondragons.com.

All games are free to attend and the media are invited to cover them. Gates will open one hour prior to the first game played that day. High schools may provide their own PA announcers, cheer squads, and national anthem singers. Some even bring their own radio broadcasters to the ballpark. Participating high schools sell Dragons tickets to help raise money for their programs.

–See remaining schedule below–

Day	Date	Time	Home Team	Away Team
Monday	4/21	7:00 PM	Arcanum	Franklin-Monroe
Thursday	4/24	4:30 PM	Lebanon	Piqua
Thursday	4/24	7:00 PM	Sidney	Wayne
Friday	4/25	4:30 PM	Dayton Christian	Troy Christian
Friday	4/25	7:00 PM	Vandalia-Butler	West Carrolton
Saturday	4/26	11:00 AM	Valley View	Greenville
Saturday	4/26	4:00 PM	Beavercreek	Miamisburg
Sunday	5/4	4:00 PM	Fort Loramie	New Knoxville

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Dayton Dragons. Click here to view the original story.

Pelicans team up with HTC and Backpack Buddies

April 18, 2014

Partnership renewed to bring much-needed essentials to underprivileged youth

The Myrtle Beach Pelicans, Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers, are working with HTC for a second straight season to bring Backpack Buddies Monday to TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. The program invites fans to bring certain essentials to the ballpark for donation on Monday home games. Those donating will receive half-price admission on their Monday game ticket.

Starting in 2004, the Backpack Buddies program aims to provide schools with nutritious, child-friendly, self-serve food designed to put in a backpack and feed a child over the weekend. The program began with a pilot program of approximately 300 children. Now, a decade later, the program provides over 1,500 meals a week across Horry County.

The Pelicans are pleased to bring back the program after a successful first year with a valued partner in HTC. To participate, fans can bring the following items to Monday night home games for half-priced admission: powdered drink mix, Ramen Noodles, Pop Tarts, individual servings of pudding, individual servings of apple sauce, fruit cups, jelly (plastic container), peanut butter (small jars), Beanie Weenies, Vienna Sausage, canned meats, cereal, raviolis (pop-top cans), mac and cheese, snack crackers, chicken noodle soup (pop top cans), and unopened containers of mustard, ketchup, and mayo.

“The Help 4 Kids organization that runs Backpack Buddies is an incredible group and we’re honored to help them in their fight to ensure that the 2400+ local children have the food and nourishment the kids need,” remarked Pelicans Vice President and General Manager Andy Milovich. “Barb Mains and her staff give these kids a chance to succeed in the classroom and life. She’s a true hero and we’re fortunate to be in a position to assist her in helping kids throughout our community.”

In 2013 the Pelicans raised nearly $400,000 for various local charities. The Backpack Buddies program saw over $9,400 of those funds. This year the Pelicans have set a goal of raising $500,000 total for local charities and $10,000 for Backpack Buddies

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Click here to view the original story.

Bisons sponsorship of Buffalo Public High School baseball program reaches 8th year

April 18, 2014

Team has contributed more than $500,000 since 2007.

As part of the sponsorship, the Bisons support the 'Junior Bisons' team that plays in the CEBA. — As part of the sponsorship, the Bisons support the ‘Junior Bisons’ team that plays in the CEBA.

As part of the Buffalo Bisons‘ long-standing sponsorship of the City of Buffalo Public High School baseball program, City high school games will return to Coca-Cola Field starting this Saturday, April 19. The Bisons wide-ranging sponsorship, which enters its eighth year in 2014, has successfully revitalized the game within Buffalo Public High Schools as well as prepared young athletes to compete at the collegiate level.

The year’s games begin Saturday, April 19 (10 a.m.) at Coca-Cola Field as City Honors hosts Nichols High School (schedule below).

Since 2007, Bisons owners Bob and Mindy Rich have contributed nearly $500,000 towards the enhancement of high school baseball throughout Buffalo’s Public High Schools.

The Bisons support for the program includes providing team uniforms, paying league and umpire fees, funding stipends for assistant coaches for each Buffalo Public High School team and the use of Coca-Cola Field’s diamond and indoor batting cages year round. Additionally, $250,000 was provided for the renovation of Johnny B. Wiley Stadium, providing the City of Buffalo a top-notch athletic facility for their teams to play in and for the community to share.

Part of the Bisons’ adoption also includes the formation of the Junior Bisons baseball team. The top players from each of the City of Buffalo high schools are joined together to compete in the County of Erie Baseball Association (CEBA) throughout the summer. The focus of the team has always been team-building, fundamentals and life skills teachings. The Junior Bisons have made the post season four times and two former Junior Bisons are currently playing baseball at the collegiate level.

City of Buffalo HS Games this week
City Honors vs. Nichols (Saturday, April 19 -10 a.m.)
South Park vs. J.F.K. (Saturday, April 19 -12 p.m.)
Olmsted vs. CSAT (Monday, April 21 -11 a.m.)
Hutch Tech vs. Roy-Hart (Monday, April 21 -2 p.m.)
McKinley vs. Maritime CS (Tuesday, April 22 -4 p.m.).

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Buffalo Bisons. Click here to view the original story.

Little League Day

April 15, 2014

The Tampa Yankees will host their annual Pepsi Cola Little League Day at Steinbrenner Field on Sunday, April 27^th when they take on the Lakeland Flying Tigers at 1:00PM.

The first 250 kids, ages 14 and under, that enter the stadium will receive a Collector’s Pepsi Cola Yankees pin. Gates will open at 12:00PM. All guests will receive free admission when they show up to the Box Office wearing their Little League uniform (players and coaches).

Palma Ceia Little League Challenger Teams will play a game on Steinbrenner Field after the Tampa Yankees game concludes. The Tampa Yankees actively assist youth baseball and softball programs in the Tampa area to promote the Little League Mission, developing qualities of citizenship, discipline, teamwork and physical well-being.

Tickets are $4 for general admission, $6 for reserved seating and can be purchased at the George M. Steinbrenner Field Box Office.

The Tampa Yankees are the Single A-Advanced affiliate of the New York Yankees. For more information you may contact the Tampa Yankees offices at (813) 673-3055 or visit www.tybaseball.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Tampa Yankees. Click here to view the original story.

F&M Bank High School Baseball Classic opens on Wednesday with new format

April 15, 2014

Opening round, winners bracket held at CMC-NorthEast Stadium

KANNAPOLIS, N.C. (April 15, 2014) – The annual F&M Bank High School Baseball Classic returns to CMC-NorthEast Stadium, home of the Kannapolis Intimidators, with a new format in 2014. The eight-team field will compete in a bracket-style tournament from April 23-25 with all opening round and winners’ bracket games taking place at CMC-NorthEast Stadium. Consolation bracket games will be held at nearby A.L. Brown High School in Kannapolis. Tickets are only $6 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and children 3 and under will be admitted free.

This year’s field includes A.L. Brown, Carson, J.M. Robinson, Mt. Pleasant, North Rowan, Northwest Cabarrus, Salisbury, and South Rowan.

The F&M Bank High School Baseball Classic schedule is as follows:

Wednesday, April 23
Games 1-4 at CMC-NorthEast Stadium
Game 1: 11:00 AM – Carson vs. Salisbury
Game 2: 1:30 PM – J.M. Robinson vs. NW Cabarrus
Game 3: 4:00 PM – Mt. Pleasant vs. A.L. Brown
Game 4: 6:30 PM – North Rowan vs. South Rowan

Thursday, April 24
Games 5 & 6 at A.L. Brown
Game 5: 11:00 AM – Loser Gm 1 vs. Loser Gm 2
Game 6: 1:30 PM – Loser Gm 3 vs. Loser Gm 4

Games 7 & 8 at CMC-NorthEast Stadium
Game 7: 4:00 PM – Winner Gm 1 vs. Winner Gm 2
Game 8: 6:30 PM – Winner Gm 3 vs. Winner Gm 4

Friday, April 25
Games 9 & 10 at A.L. Brown
Game 9: 11:00 AM – Loser Gm 5 vs. Loser Gm 6
Game 10: 1:30 PM – Winner Gm 5 vs. Winner Gm 6

Games 11 & 12 at CMC-NorthEast Stadium
Third-Place Game:
Game 11: 4:00 PM – Loser Gm 7 vs. Loser Gm 8

Championship Game:
Game 12: 6:30 PM – Winner Gm 7 vs. Winner Gm 8

The Kannapolis Intimidators are in the 20th season of professional baseball in Kannapolis and the team’s 14th as the Class A Affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. Since the team moved to Kannapolis in 1995, 77 players that have played in Kannapolis have gone on to the Major Leagues. This year’s team is managed by Pete Rose Jr. CMC-NorthEast Stadium is located off I-85 at exit 63. For ticket information, please contact the F&M Bank Box Office at (704) 932-3267 or visit www.IntimidatorsBaseball.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Kannapolis Intimidators. Click here to view the original story.

Amateur Baseball Returns to Dow Diamond in 2014

April 14, 2014

Great Lakes Loons home will host teams from around the region, state

MIDLAND, Mich. – Dow Diamond will once again host amateur baseball this season, featuring teams from the Great Lakes Bay Region as well as from around the state who will play during April and May when the Great Lakes Loons are out of town.

The schedule kicks off this Tuesday when Freeland and Reese square off for a 5 p.m. game. It will be the first of 13 amateur dates and 26 games scheduled for the home of the Great Lakes Loons.

Listed below is a full schedule of games. All dates are and times are subject to change.

Tuesday, April 15 Freeland vs. Reese 4:30 p.m. gates / 5:00 first pitch

Wednesday, April 16 Hale vs. Marion 3:30 p.m. gates / 4:00 first pitch

Thursday, April 17 Meridian vs. St. Charles (JV/V) 3:30 p.m. gates / 4:00 first pitch

Monday, April 28 Freeland vs. Reese (makeup) 4:30 p.m. gates/5 p.m. first pitch

Tuesday, April 29 Bay City Western vs. Clio 4:00 p.m. gates / 4:30 first pitch

Wednesday, April 30 Standish-Sterling vs. Tawas (JV/V) 4:30 p.m. gates / 5:00 first pitch

Thursday, May 1 Birch Run vs. Flint Kearsley 4:30 p.m. gates /5:00 first pitch

Sunday, May 4 Oscoda vs. Kingsley 12:30 p.m. gates / 1:00 first pitch

Friday, May 9 Vassar vs. Mlllington 4:30 p.m. gates/ 5 p.m. first pitch

Saturday, May 10 Midland Dow vs. Grosse Pointe South 10:30 a.m. gates / 11:00 first pitch

Sunday, May 11 Swartz Creek vs. Montrose Hill-McCloy 2:30 p.m. gates / 11:00 first pitch

Tuesday, May 20 BC John Glenn vs. Ogemaw/Ann Arbor Skyline 4:30 p.m. gates / 5:00 first pitch

Wednesday, May 21 Midland vs. Bullock Creek 4:30 p.m. gates / 5:00 first pitch

Tuesday, May 27 Coleman vs. Gladwin (JV/V) 3:30 p.m. gates / 4:00 first pitch

“One of our goals is to make Dow Diamond available for as many community events as we can,” said Great Lakes Loons President Paul Barbeau. “We’re excited to host a large number of amateur teams once again this year and allow some of the area’s younger baseball talent to enjoy the ballpark.”

Centrally located in downtown Midland, beautiful Dow Diamond is the home field for the Great Lakes Loons and is one of the region’s premiere special events facilities. Dow Diamond is owned by the Michigan Baseball Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity and non-profit corporation.

The Great Lakes Loons are an eighth-year Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. For more information about Dow Diamond and the Loons, visit loons.com or call 989-837-BALL.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Great Lakes Loons. Click here to view the original story.

Five Guys Team Up With Lake Monsters For Annual “May Days” Fundraising Campaign

April 13, 2014

BURLINGTON, VT — The Vermont Lake Monsters are excited to announce Five Guys as a partner with their annual May 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.

“We at Five Guys are very excited to get a chance to support Vermont charities.”, said local Five Guys franchisee owner Greg Vasey. “It’s even more fun when we can show that support while cheering on the Lake Monsters. We’re flattered by the welcome we have received since opening a couple years ago, and this a great way to give something back.”

Support of local non-profits has shown both the Lake Monsters and Five Guys strong commitment 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 all while providing a chance for supporters to come together on their night at the ballpark.

Dragonheart VT is just one of the many local non-profits who have made coming out to the ballpark a yearly event for their supporters.

“This program is a chance for Dragonheart Vermont members to get together and support the Lake Monsters as well as the Lake Monsters supporting us”, said Judy Kinner of Dragonheart Vermont. “We have done this program the past two years are grateful for the opportunity to raise money for breast cancer and supporters dragon boating teams, we will certainly be doing the program again this upcoming season.”

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 total the tickets sold by the non-profit and donate half of the proceeds back to that particular organization. Following the selling period Five Guys will also donate up to $500 to match the amount raised by the highest selling non-profit in the program. When the particular game which the non-profit had been selling for arrives during the season, that organization will be recognized on field and presented a check worth the amount of money which they have raised.

This opportunity is an easy way to fundraise for non-profits, simply by reaching out to your employees, supporters, volunteers, sponsors and spreading the URL link. For more information or if your non-profit is interested in participating contact Adam Matth at 802-655-4200 or download this confirmation form and send to adam@vermontlakemonsters.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Vermont Lake Monsters. Click here to view the original story.

Bandits fans can put names on jerseys for Breast Cancer Awareness Night

April 10, 2014

Deadline April 23 to submit signatures; pink jersey auction proceeds will go to Genesis Center for Breast Health

Quad Cities River Bandits fans were the first in the country to be able to purchase photos on the back of player jerseys for professional sports jersey auction for charity, and this season they will have another unique opportunity to support a cause while honoring loved ones. Through April 23, fans can purchase space for a signature or name to appear on pink jerseys the team will wear for its first-ever pink jersey auction on Breast Cancer Awareness Night presented by Genesis Health Systems and the Quad-City Times on Friday, June 13.

“The entire region has made River Bandits jersey auctions hugely successful events to benefit Quad Cities-area charities, and this summer’s Breast Cancer Awareness Night and jersey auction is another fantastic opportunity for Quad Citians to make a big impact right here in our community,” said team owner Dave Heller. “With the support of our great fans, the pink jerseys will be a memorable tribute to all the women and their families who have bravely battled breast cancer, as well as a strong sign of unwavering support for those who continue to battle breast cancer.”

Fans can purchase space for the signature or name of a loved one who is battling or has battled breast cancer. The signatures and names will be placed on the River Bandits players’ pink jerseys that will be worn Friday, June 13, for Breast Cancer Awareness Night presented by Genesis Health Systems and the Quad-City Times. After the game, the jerseys will be auctioned off, with all the proceeds benefitting the Genesis Center for Breast Health. Each signature or name space is available for purchase at $25 each, with every single dollar raised going to the Genesis Center for Breast Health. More information is available by calling Alexandria Sheffler at (563) 333-2741. The deadline to purchase the signature spaces is April 23.

“We are grateful to the Quad Cities community that makes all of these local charity events possible, and we are thrilled to partner with Genesis Health Systems and the Quad-City Times for Breast Cancer Awareness Night,” said General Manager Andrew Chesser. “The pink jersey auction will benefit a great cause and raise awareness for women and their families whom we are humbled to support with this night at Modern Woodmen Park.”

This year will also mark the fourth annual Camo Jersey Auction presented by the Iowa Army National Guard on May 24, as well as the third annual photo jersey auction Friday, Aug. 8, on Autism Awareness Night presented by KWQC and the Quad Cities Autism Center. The River Bandits were the first U.S. professional sports team to auction photo jerseys for local cancer charities in 2012, and the 2013 Autism Awareness Photo Jersey Auction earned a Golden Bobblehead Award from Minor League Baseball for the Best Charity Promotion in the nation.

UP NEXT: The second annual River Bandits Race to Home 5K and Kids Fun Run presented by Palmer Chiropractic Clinics is Saturday at 8 a.m. Thursday is the last day to register using the link at www.riverbandits.com. All proceeds benefit the Bandit Scholars Program. To order any of the 2014 ticket plans – with new lower prices – call the River Bandits box office at 563-324-3000. Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $40. Call a River Bandits account representative today to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.

ABOUT THE BANDITS: Having just been named Ballpark Digest’s winner of Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the River Bandits ownership is making one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 110 feet over the playing field, is opening in May, along with a carousel, a new ride called a “Drop and Twist,” an expanded 300-foot long zip line, and many other new games and attractions. In 2013, the team unveiled a new 220-foot long dual zip line, a rock climbing wall, and a number of new bounce houses. The team’s major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, just saw all six of its affiliates reach the playoffs – the first time in a decade any MLB team can claim such success. The River Bandits were one of three affiliates to reach the championship round and one of two to win their league championship.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Quad Cities River Bandits. Click here to view the original story.

Eight Local High Schools to Play at Fifth Third Field this Weekend

April 10, 2014

Double-headers scheduled for Friday and Saturday

All games are sponsored by MAC Athletics, experts in athletic facility planning, design, construction, and equipment acquisition. Go to macathletix.com for more information on their services.

Friday’s twin bill features St. Henry and Coldwater at 5:00 p.m., followed by Coldwater and Marion Local at 7:30 p.m.

The St. Henry Redskins are off to a 3-1 start on the year and are only one-half game out of first place in the Midwest Athletic Conference standings. They will square off with a very young Covington Buccs squad, which will turn to OF Justin Williams, 3B Dain Peters and 1B Jake Albright for leadership this season. The Buccs are 2-3 so far this year.

The Coldwater Cavaliers and Marion Local Flyers will play under the Friday night lights in a Midwest Athletic Conference showdown. Coldwater went 22-5 last year and returns seven starters to the field, including senior pitcher Grant Muhlenkamt and junior RF Brady Hoyne. Marion local is 4-1 on the season, good for first place in the league standings. They are led by sophomore Aaron Niepfeld, who hit .426 last season, and lone senior Austin Albers. The Flyers are led by first year head coach Dustin Woods.

Saturday afternoon features two more outstanding matchups. Lehman Catholic will battle Fairborn at 1:00 p.m. and Greenon hosts Northeastern at 4:00 p.m.

Lehman Catholic, members of the Northwest Central Conference, had a solid season last year and returns a number of key players in 2014. Drew Westerheide is the squad’s lone senior, while juniors Greg Spearman and AJ Hemmelgarn anchor the left side of the infield. Head coach Dave King recently picked up his 500^th career coaching victory. Fairborn is led by Ryan Profitt and Ty Boedicker, who each have a hit in five of their first 11 at bats this spring. Brent Grody (1-0) has nine strikeouts through five innings pitched.

The Greenon Knights will battle the Northeastern Jets in the final game of the weekend. Greenon returns seven players from last year’s squad and has started the season with excellent pitching, thanks to Dustin McReynolds and James Schroeder.

–See remaining schedule below–

Day	Date	Time	Home Team	Away Team
Friday	4/11	5:00 PM	St. Henry	Covington
Friday	4/11	7:30 PM	Coldwater	Marion Local
Saturday	4/12	1:00 PM	Lehman Catholic	Fairborn
Saturday	4/12	4:00 PM	Northeastern	Greenon
Monday	4/21	7:00 PM	Arcanum	Franklin-Monroe
Thursday	4/24	4:30 PM	Lebanon	Piqua
Thursday	4/24	7:00 PM	Sidney	Wayne
Friday	4/25	4:30 PM	Dayton Christian	Troy Christian
Friday	4/25	7:00 PM	Vandalia-Butler	West Carrolton
Saturday	4/26	11:00 AM	Valley View	Greenville
Saturday	4/26	4:00 PM	Beavercreek	Miamisburg
Sunday	5/4	4:00 PM	Fort Loramie	New Knoxville

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 article originally appeared on the official website of the Dayton Dragons. Click here to view the original story.

MBF Announces 2014 Grant Recipients

April 7, 2014

The Michigan Baseball Foundation (MBF) is pleased to announce its 2014 grant class.

MIDLAND, Mich. – The Michigan Baseball Foundation (MBF) is pleased to announce its 2014 grant class, which includes 25 organizations from six counties in Mid-Michigan. The 2014 class received a total of $98,555, bringing the grant program’s total to $721,014 since its inception seven years ago.

Since 2008, the Michigan Baseball Foundation has awarded 209 grants to deserving non-profit organizations across 14 counties.

The Foundation began its seventh annual grant process in April 2013, and solicited grant applications from non-profit organizations throughout the region. All applicants were required to meet one or more of the following guidelines, which reflected the purposes for which the Michigan Baseball Foundation was organized:

•   The organization contributes to regional economic development.
•   The organization is based in Mid-Michigan and serves young people.
•   The organization promotes amateur sports and fitness

This year’s Michigan Baseball Foundation grant committee was chaired by Jenee Velasquez. Committee members included Bill Stavropoulos, Paul Barbeau, Ann Craig, Mike Hayes, Susan Kaltenbach, Scott Litle, Dom Monastiere, Abbe Mulders, and Jerry O’Donnell – a combination of members of the Michigan Baseball Foundation board of directors and the Great Lakes Loons management team.

Grant applications for the 2015 grant session are currently available and will be accepted until February 13, 2015. For more information, contact Eric Ramseyer at 989.837.6166, or at eramseyer@loons.com.

Note: Please see attached documents for a complete listing of organizations receiving MBF grants and a 2015 grant application.

The Michigan Baseball Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and public charity, which was formed in 2006 to generate regional economic development and to enhance the efforts of regional organizations that serve young people through creative partnerships and grants. The Michigan Baseball Foundation owns and operates Dow Diamond, home of the Great Lakes Loons, a Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Foundation received its initial funding from The Dow Chemical Company Foundation, The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation, The Dow Corning Corporation, The Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation, The Charles J. Strosacker Foundation and The Bill and Linda Stavropoulos Foundation.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Great Lakes Loons. Click here to view the original story.

Drive to Support Furman Baseball’s Vs. Cancer Initiative

April 4, 2014

Fans encouraged to donate as well

The Furman baseball program has raised over $30,000 in their annual initiative to raise awareness of pediatric cancer, and because Furman has been such a loyal partner to the Greenville Drive and play games at Fluor Field annually, the Drive are lending their support to the cause.

Because Furman reached $30,000 before their game at Fluor Field against South Carolina, Drive General Manager Eric Jarinko will participate in shaving his head with Furman’s players following the game, with Drive staff members taking turns shaving his head. Jarinko is also encouraging Drive staff members and fans to continue to donate money to Furman’s team.

“The Drive is pleased to contribute to Furman’s team as they continue to raise money and awareness for pediatric cancer,” Jarinko said. “Furman is currently in first place out of 120 college baseball teams across the nation in the amount of money raised, but they are being chased closely by the University of Oklahoma. We hope additional donations from our staff and fans will help Furman reach their goal of being the top contributor in college baseball in the fight against pediatric cancer.”

“The Greenville Drive has always been supportive of Furman, our program and the Greenville community,” added Ron Smith, Furman’s Head Baseball Coach. “This is just another example of their extraordinary involvement that goes beyond the baseball field.”

In addition to being near the top of total money raised this season, Furman raised the most money of any college baseball program in 2013. Half of the money Furman raises benefits national childhood cancer research, and the other half goes towards a local children’s hospital.

To help donate to Furman’s team, log on to http://furman.vs-cancer.org/. Come out to Fluor Field on Tuesday night as the Paladins take on South Carolina at 7:00, and stick around after the game as Furman’s players, and potentially the Drive General Manager, shave their heads for pediatric cancer awareness.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Greenville Drive. Click here to view the original story.

Staybridge Suites/Missoula Independent Community Corner Returns

April 2, 2014

Osprey recognize non-profit organizations in Western Montana

MISSOULA, MONT – The Missoula Osprey announced today that the Staybridge Suites/Missoula Independent Community Corner that recognizes the impact of local non-profits in Western Montana will return for the 2014 season.

For every regular season home game, Staybridge Suites, the Missoula Independent and the Osprey team-up to donate 20 tickets to qualified non-profit organizations.

The tickets can be used by volunteers, sponsors, staff, or those that benefit from the organization’s efforts. Due to the popularity of the program, Community Corner tickets are only available on a first come, first served basis.

“The Community Corner is one of the many great programs we are able to offer to non-profits,” said Osprey Vice President/General Manager Jeff Griffin. “With the help of our corporate partners, we are able to recognize the work of local non-profits in our community. The efforts of these groups are one of the many things that make Missoula such a special place to call home.”

Community Corner requests must be made in writing to Griffin on the non-profit organization’s letterhead by the director of each group. Requests may be mailed to 140 N. Higgins, or e-mailed to jgriffin@missoulaosprey.com.

The 2014 home opener for the Osprey is slated for Thursday, June 19 versus the Great Falls Voyagers.

Ticket packages are available for purchase by contacting an Osprey ticket representative at 543-3300, at the MSO Hub Box Office at 140 N. Higgins and on the web at MissoulaOsprey.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Missoula Osprey. Click here to view the original story.