Susan G Komen for the Cure

OKC Dodgers and MidFirst Bank Present “Pack the Park Pink” T-shirt Design Contest

January 23, 2020

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

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and MidFirst Bank are calling for submissions to design this season’s “Pack the Park Pink” T-shirt.

The 2020 “Pack the Park Pink” game to benefit Susan G. Komen Oklahoma and promote breast cancer awareness is scheduled for Friday, July 31, when the Dodgers face the Las Vegas Aviators.

The special limited-edition T-shirt will be gifted to all breast cancer survivors attending the game, and it will as be distributed to fans attending the game through the “Pack the Park Pink” group ticket package.

The template for T-shirt design submissions is now available to download at okcdodgers.com/pink. Each T-shirt design can feature two colors, one of which must be pink. There are no limits on the amount of submissions an individual can make, but all submissions must be received by April 3 by uploading them to okcdodgers.com/pink or via email to [email protected].

The winning design will be announced in June. The winner will receive four complimentary tickets to the “Pack the Park Pink” game and will be recognized during an on-field presentation.

“Pack the Park Pink” is an annual tradition between the Dodgers, MidFirst Bank and Susan G. Komen Oklahoma. Unique events will be held throughout the evening and “Pack the Park Pink” will culminate with a pink fireworks show following the game. More details regarding the game will be released in the future.

The Dodgers’ game-worn pink jerseys and hats, in addition to pink bats, breast cancer awareness baseballs and game-used bases will be auctioned off throughout the night to benefit Susan G. Komen Oklahoma. The mission of Susan G. Komen Oklahoma is “to save lives by meeting the most critical needs in our communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer.”

A special “Pack the Park Pink” ticket package is currently available for purchase starting at $12 per person for groups of 10 or more and includes the new T-shirt and a pink Dodgers hat.
Other season ticket packages and group outings for the 2020 season are currently on sale. For more information, call (405) 218-2182 or visit okcdodgers.com.

Dodgers and MidFirst Bank to “Pack the Park Pink” Friday as Part of 20th Season Celebration Weekend

August 8, 2017

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

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and MidFirst Bank will team up to “Pack the Park Pink” Friday as part of 20th Season Celebration Weekend at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

Dodgers players and coaches will take the field at 7:05 p.m. Friday against the Round Rock Express wearing special pink jerseys and hats, and the evening will culminate with an all-pink fireworks show following the game.

A silent auction will take place throughout the night for the autographed, game-worn OKC Dodgers jerseys and hats, with proceeds benefiting Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Fans are encouraged to wear pink to the game in support of the cause, and representatives from Susan G. Komen for the Cure will be on the concourse throughout the night to provide information about the organization. The mission of Susan G. Komen for the Cure is “to save lives and end breast cancer forever by empowering people, ensuring quality care for all, and energizing science to find the cure.”

Nine breast cancer survivors will take the field with Dodgers players prior to the game. Breast cancer survivors will also sing the national anthem and throw out a ceremonial first pitch. Kristi Mahaffey, president of the board of directors for Susan G. Komen for the Cure of Central and Western Oklahoma, as well as a commercial lender with MidFirst Bank, will participate in the pregame delivery of team lineup cards to the umpires.

OU Medical’s mobile mammogram vehicle will be at the ballpark offering tours and information about their statewide services throughout the game.

In addition to “Pack the Park Pink,” the Dodgers are celebrating the 20th season of Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark during their series against Round Rock this weekend. Gates open at 6 p.m. Friday and the first 2,000 fans through the gates will receive a 20th Season Commemorative Stein, presented by Okie811. A new commemorative brick display will be unveiled by the OKC Dodgers Baseball Foundation prior to the game on the exterior Mickey Mantle Plaza.

The 20th Season All-Ballpark Team, as voted by fans, will be unveiled prior to Saturday’s 7:05 p.m. game and former Oklahoma City Mayor Ron Norick will throw out a ceremonial first pitch. Norick was instrumental in the MAPS (Metropolitan Area Projects) program, which funded the ballpark’s construction.

Todd Van Poppel, who threw the first official pitch at the ballpark in 1998 for the RedHawks and pitched 11 seasons in the Majors, will throw out a ceremonial first pitch prior to Sunday’s 6:05 p.m. game. Sunday’s game falls on a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday, featuring family friendly activities such as pregame player autographs and kids can run the bases after the game. Van Poppel will also be available to sign autographs during one inning of the game. The series wraps up with a 7:05 p.m. game Monday against the Express at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

For more information about “Pack the Park Pink,” 20th Season Celebration Weekend, or to purchase tickets, visit okcdodgers.com or call (405) 218-1000.

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

Breast Cancer Awareness Night, Diamond Dig Highlight Five-Game Homestand

July 18, 2017

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

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Birmingham Barons are set to welcome the Jackson Generals, Double-A affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks to Regions Field for a five-game homestand beginning on Wednesday night. A jam packed schedule of promotions, events and giveaways are on tap, highlighted by Saturday night’s Breast Cancer Awareness night and Diamond Dig. In addition, The SwitchYard On 14^th will be open before, during and after games all homestand for fans to enjoy a game of ping pong or bocce ball, as well as a drink from the Barstream, or some of the new menu items featured in the Foodstream. Here is the full schedule for the homestand.

Wednesday, July 19, 7:05 p.m. – Come out and enjoy the opening game of a five-game series against Jackson on AAA Wednesday presented by AAA of Alabama. Present your AAA card at the box office for two dollars off a regular priced ticket. The executive entry opens at 5:30 p.m., with all gates opening at 6 p.m. The SwitchYard On 14^th will open its doors at 4 p.m. and remain open following the game until 10 p.m.

Thursday, July 20, 7:05 p.m. – Another installment of the fan favorite Thirsty Thursday presented by Miller Lite, Woodbridge and Buffalo Wild Wings is on tap for Thursday night at Regions Field. Enjoy two dollar domestic beer, wine and soft drink specials. The executive entry opens at 5:30 p.m., with all gates opening at 6 p.m. Fans can enjoy Thirsty Thursday at The SwitchYard On 14^th which opens at 4 p.m. and will remain open until midnight.

Friday, July 21, 7:05 p.m. – Join us for another Friday Night Fireworks show presented by Coca-Cola, Hibbett Sports and Alabama Power following the 7:05 p.m. game. Before the game, the first 1,000 kids 12 and under will receive a 1990s Barons Alternate Throwback Jersey. During the game, we will be giving away two roundtrip train tickets to New York City, courtesy of Amtrak and it is also a FIAT Friday presented by FIAT of Birmingham. The executive entrance opens at 5:30 p.m., with all gates opening at 6:00. The SwitchYard on 14^th will be open at 4 p.m. prior to the game and will remain open after the game until midnight.

Saturday, July 22, 6:30 p.m. – The Barons will wear special jerseys in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Night featuring the names of local women affected by the disease. These jerseys will be auctioned off during the game, with the proceeds benefiting the Susan G. Komen Foundation. The first 200 women to register at our Diamond Dig table near customer service will be able to go on the field following the game and dig for a diamond valued at over $4,000 presented by Diamonds Direct. Finally, the first 1,000 women through the gates at Regions Field will receive a pink rose courtesy of Norton’s Florist. The executive entrance opens at 4:30 p.m., with all gates opening at 5:00. The SwitchYard on 14^th will be open once again prior to the game at 4 p.m. and will remain open after the game for fans to enjoy until midnight.

Sunday, July 23, 3:00 p.m. – The five-game series against Jackson wraps up on a Salute to Armed Forces Sunday presented by NAPA and Marion Military Institute. All active or retired military members can receive two dollars off a regular priced ticket by showing a valid military ID at the box office. The executive entrance opens at 1:30 p.m., with all gates opening at 2:00. The SwitchYard on 14^th opens at 2 p.m. prior to the game and will remain open after the game until 9 p.m.

For ticket information, game schedule, promotions calendar or for additional information about Regions Field, call (205) 988-3200, or visit www.barons.com, www.facebook.com/birminghambarons or on Twitter: @bhambarons.

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

Support Pink in the Park: Sunday, July 16

June 26, 2017

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

We’re getting our pink on to put the spotlight on breast cancer research and awareness. Join us on Sunday, July 16 for Pink in the Park Night, presented by Kroger. Help us to “Pink out” Fifth Third Field and show your support for an important cause.

Three team signed pink Mud Hens jerseys and a team signed pink bat will be raffled off during the game, with proceeds to benefit Susan G. Komen of Northwest Ohio. Look for the raffle table on the main concourse. Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20, with winning numbers being drawn at the end of the sixth inning.

GAME TICKET ($12) – BUY TICKETS

What you get:

July 16 Mud Hens game ticket

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

Swing For a Cure Set to Return June 23rd

June 16, 2017

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

The Hillcats will have everyone wearing pink on Friday, June 23rd at 6:30 p.m. with their 11th Annual “Swing For A Cure” Breast Cancer Awareness Night presented by Centra’s Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center! Proceeds from this event will benefit the Susan G. Komen For the Cure Foundation.

The first 1,000 fans through the gates at 5:30 p.m. will receive a free pink commemorative t-shirt! All Hillcats players will don pink commemorative jerseys which will then be up for bid during a silent auction during the game. Fans will also have the chance to make a donation at the Box Office that night.

It’s estimated that there will be over 230,000 reported new cases of invasive breast cancer in the United States in 2017 and as many as 1 in 800 women in Virginia alone, may be diagnosed each year. The Susan G. Komen Foundation was created in 1982 by Komen’s sister and has since raised $2.5 billion for research, treatments, and support for survivors.

The Hillcats would like to thank the following sponsors of the Swing For A Cure for their support and donations: Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center as the title sponsor; ABC 13; Apple Ford of Lynchburg; Central Virginia Imaging; Central Virginia Oral and Facial Surgery; Dr. Kim Combs; Flowers Baking Company; Heartland Lynchburg; Hedges Insurance; High Peak Sportswear; Johnson Health Center; 105.5 KD Country; Lynchburg Gynecology; Medical Associates of Central Virginia; Pathology Consultants; Peery Family Dentistry; Physicians Treatment Center; Piedmont Community Health Plan; 97.9 FM The Planet / Oldies 103.9 & 106.9 FM / 93.7 KHF; Rob Bass, MD | Clinton Beverly, MD | John Guglielmetti, MD | Peter Ploch, MD; WIQO / ESPN Radio; WJJS / STEVE FM / WYYD; and Women’s Health Services of Central Virginia.

To purchase tickets to the “Swing For A Cure” Breast Cancer Awareness Night or any other game, fans can call the box office at (434) 528-1144 or go online. Ticket purchases can also be made in person at the Lynchburg City Stadium Ticket Office (Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.)

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

Legends’ donations for 2016 top $1,000,000

December 22, 2016

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

Big L and the Legends welcomed Girl Scouts to Whitaker Bank Ballpark for a campout May 6. More than 330 girls spent the night at the ballpark. The Girl Scouts were one of many organizations who received support from Legends’ community programs in 2016.

(WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK, Lexington, Ky.) The Lexington Legends made donations totaling $1,000,763 in 2016 to a variety of non-profit organizations serving central Kentucky.

In its 16-year history, the Legends organization has donated close to $15 million to the region.

“The Legends are proud to be part of this community and region,” said Legends President/CEO Andy Shea. “We will continue to provide support to these great organizations that do so much good work.”

Among the organizations and causes who benefited from events and programs in 2016 were:

Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts: Overnight campouts for Boy Scouts (August 18) and Girl Scouts (May 6) were held following Legends games at Whitaker Bank Ballpark. The scouts sold nearly 1,000 donated game tickets to raise funds for their organizations. About 700 scouts participated in the campouts.

Breast Cancer Research and Awareness: The Legends held Breast Cancer Awareness Night at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on July 9. Funds raised through an auction of pink jerseys and pink bases used during the Legends game that night, along with t-shirt sales, benefited Kentucky Cancer Link, which serves breast cancer patients on a personal basis by reducing or eliminating barriers to screening, diagnosis and treatment; The Markey Cancer Center, established in 1983 as a Comprehensive Cancer Center; and Susan G. Komen, the world’s largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer. The Legends and LBX held a celebration lunch, with proceeds going to those same three organizations.

Military Appreciation Night: The Legends’ Military Appreciation night was held on June 25. It included an auction of jerseys to benefit Military Missions, a local non-profit organization that supports troops in a variety of ways, including the sending of care packages with personal items and snacks to military personnel.

Bark in the Park: The Legends held 12 “Bark in the Park” nights during the 2016 season. Dog owners were invited to bring their dogs to the game, and a two-dollar “admission” charge for each dog was donated to the Scott County Humane Society.

Guns and Hoses Softball Game: The Legends provide the setting for the Guns and Hoses game, which matches the Lexington Police Department against the Lexington Fire Department in a softball game and home run derby. The winning team takes home a trophy, and the loser receives a toilet seat as the runner-up prize. More than 2,000 people attended the 2016 game.

Community Organization of the Night: The Legends provide an opportunity for a local non-profit organization to step into the spotlight at a Legends home game. Organizations may set up an information table on the concourse, and a representative is interviewed on the field before the game and on radio during the game. Organizations who purchased discounted tickets for re-sale as a fundraiser also received 25% of the proceeds from that night’s 50-50 raffle. (The Legends Charitable Fund also received 25%, and the fan holding the winning ticket received 50%.)

Hit the Books Reading Program: Geared toward elementary schools, the Legends’ Hit the Books Reading Program is designed to encourage students to read, both in school and away from school. The Legends gave away 33,000 Hit the Books bookmarks to students in central Kentucky in 2016. (A winning bookmark design is selected from students’ entries.) Those who complete the Hit the Books reading program are awarded two tickets to a Legends home game.

Field of Dreams: The Paul Miller Ford Field of Dreams program allows youth baseball and softball players to be part of pre-game festivities. Members of the youth teams are introduced to the fans and take the field along with the Legends starters. Teams are selected at random from registrations received at Field of Dreams sponsor locations. Team members receive complimentary admission to the game. The Legends hosted 80 Field of Dreams teams in 2016.

Legends Character Award at William Wells Brown Elementary: Every nine weeks during the school year, 19 students from William Wells Brown Elementary School in Lexington are selected to receive the Legends Character Award. The award is designed to motivate students to demonstrate good behavior and a great attitude. The students are nominated by their classroom teachers. Winners are publicly recognized and personally congratulated by the Legends’ Big L.

Kids Area: At every Legends home game in 2016, Lafayette High School cheerleaders volunteered to work in the Aetna Kids Play Area to raise money for their cheer program. The Legends made a $7,500 donation to the program.

Go Red Night: The American Heart Association and St. Joseph Health Care System sponsored a “Go Red” Night June 3 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark, where fans received information on the dangers and risks of heart disease. Free blood pressure checks and presentations of information were provided throughout the game.

Donation requests: The Legends donate tickets, memorabilia or merchandise to as many organizations as possible. Tickets are used by members of the non-profit organizations or for auctions to raise funds for those organizations. The Legends fulfilled more than 300 donation requests in 2016.

United Way of the Bluegrass: Donors to the annual United Way of the Bluegrass campaign receive two free box seat tickets to a Legends home game. In 2016, the Legends donated 23,333 tickets for use by the United Way.

St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Scholarship Program: At the end of every baseball season, the Legends hold a silent auction for the jerseys worn by the players during home games. Proceeds go to the St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Scholarship Program.

Fundraising tickets: The Legends offer schools, teams and other organizations an opportunity to buy tickets at a discounted price and raise funds by selling the tickets at the regular price. More than 5,000 tickets were purchased at the discount rate for fundraising in 2016.

For more information on the Legends’ community programs, contact Sarah Bosso at 859-422-7847 or [email protected]

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

Salem Red Sox Make Record Donation to Susan G. Komen

May 11, 2015

Annual Pink in the Park weekend proceeds donated to charity

SALEM, Va. – The Salem Red Sox are pleased to announce that a record donation will be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure as a result of the extremely successful Pink in the Park Weekend.

This year, the Red Sox will be donating $4,652.27 to the non-profit organization. This amount comes from two silent auctions: Saturday night’s pink jerseys and Sunday’s pink bats. In addition, a portion of the proceeds from pink paraphernalia that was sold at the park this past weekend was included.

This year’s donation is the largest the Salem Red Sox have made in the eight-year history of the Pink in the Park series. Over the previous seven years, the Red Sox have donated $21,000 to the organization.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Salem Red Sox. Click here to view the original story.

9th Annual Swing for a Cure Slated for May 23rd

May 8, 2015

The Hillcats will have everyone wearing pink on Saturday, May 23rd with the 9th Annual “Swing For A Cure” Breast Cancer Awareness Night presented by Centra’s Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center! Proceeds from this event will benefit the Susan G. Komen For the Cure Foundation.

General admission tickets for the 6:30pm game against the Frederick Keys will be $11, with a portion of each ticket being donated to the fight against cancer. Plus, the first 1,000 fans through the gates will receive a free pink t-shirt! All Hillcats players will don pink commemorative jerseys which will then be up for bid during a silent auction during the game.

It’s estimated that there will be over 230,000 reported new cases of invasive breast cancer in the United States in 2015 and as many as 1 in 800 women in Virginia alone, may be diagnosed each year. The Susan G. Komen Foundation was created in 1982 by Komen’s sister and has since raised $2.5 billion for research, treatments, and support for survivors.

The Hillcats would like to thank the following sponsors of the Swing For A Cure for their support and donations: Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center as the title sponsor; ABC 13; Allergy Partners of Lynchburg; Apple Ford of Lynchburg; Central Virginia Family Physicians; Central Virginia Imaging; Central Virginia Oral and Facial Surgery; Dr. Kim Combs; Flowers Baking Company; Heartland Lynchburg; Hedges Insurance; High Peak Sportswear; 105.5 KD Country; Lynchburg Gynecology; Medical Associates of Central Virginia; Pathology Consultants; Peery Family Dentistry; Physicians Treatment Center; Piedmont Community Health Plan; 97.9 FM The Planet; Robert Bass, MD | Peter Ploch, MD | Greg Alty, MD; WIQO/ESPN Radio; WJJS; and Women’s Health Services.

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

Pitch for the Cure Celebrates 10th Anniversary

May 5, 2015

Indians partner with Susan G. Komen for tenth consecutive season

Spokane, WA – The Spokane Indians are excited to celebrate the 10^th Anniversary of the Pitch for the Cure Breast Cancer Walk, presented by Mike’s Hard Lemonade, this August! Click here to register!

Sunday, August 2nd, at Avista Stadium, will mark the tenth anniversary of this fun summer event. The short one-mile walk around Avista Stadium in support for Breast Cancer finishes with participants being recognized on the field during a special ceremony before the 3:30pm game. Indians players will wear pink jerseys and hats – to be auctioned – in the game against the Eugene Emeralds. The Susan G. Komen Eastern Washington affiliate will once again be the primary beneficiary of the day’s festivities.

“This is the tenth anniversary of the Pitch for the Cure – that’s an entire decade of raising awareness in the Spokane community…it’s fantastic,” said Randy Schwaegler, President of Komen’s Eastern Washington affiliate Board. “The event keeps growing every year, and the support is non-stop. This is why we come out every year – to give those who fight another reason for tomorrow.”

The cost for the walk is $25 for adults and $15 for kids 12 and under. Participants will receive a special edition 10^th anniversary T-shirt, a donation in their name to the Susan G. Komen Eastern Washington affiliate, and a ticket to the Spokane Indians baseball game that afternoon.

Last year, the Spokane Indians donated a total of $9,000 to the Susan G. Komen Eastern Washington affiliate. In the ten year partnership, the Spokane Indians have donated over $40,000 to the Komen Foundation. Seventy-five percent of all funds donated to the Susan G. Komen Eastern Washington affiliate stays local and is given back to help those with breast cancer in Eastern Washington.

Deadline for early registration is Friday, July 17th, with a late fee of $5 after this date. Participants have until the day of event to sign-up. Packet pick-up is scheduled for Friday, July 31st from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Spokane Indians Team Store located at Avista Stadium (602 N. Havana) and the day of the walk starting at 2:30 PM at Avista Stadium.

In addition to Mike’s Hard Lemonade, supporting sponsors for this year’s Pitch for the Cure include Coordinated Care, Ezell’s Famous Chicken, Inland Imaging, Itron, The Odom Corporation, Pepsi, Randi L. Johnson Attorney at Law, Rockwood Health System, Window World, and KXLY-AM 920.

Click here to register online, or click here to download a printable registration form. For more information on the Pitch for the Cure, please contact Walk Director Elise Rooney at (509) 343-6811, or email at [email protected].

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

Pinstripes in Pink

March 3, 2015

Donations Secure Loved One’s Name on Special Aug. 22 Jerseys

An annual tradition takes a twist. In 2015, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders’ (Triple-A/New York Yankees) Breast Cancer Awareness Game will sport special pink jerseys. And this year, fans can champion the fight or memory of a loved one by placing their names on the jerseys themselves.

With a $20 donation to Susan G. Komen® NEPA, a loved one’s name will appear as part of a pinstripe on the RailRiders’ Breast Cancer Awareness jerseys. The jerseys will be autographed and auctioned off to the highest bidder that same night, Aug. 22. Submissions for donations and names are due by Friday, May 29.

The night features a number of other activities in recognition of the cause. The first 2,500 fans in attendance will receive a replica pink RailRiders jersey courtesy of PNC Bank. There will be a raffle for a RailRiders’ team-signed pink bat. Breast cancer survivors will receive complimentary tickets and everyone is encouraged to participate in a PNC Field Pink-Out by wearing pink to support the cause.

Entries for names should be sent to the RailRiders’ offices: 235 Montage Mountain Rd., Moosic, PA 18507. Cash or check will be accepted as payment for the $20 donation. Checks should be made payable to: Susan G. Komen® NEPA. Payment must be received before a name is printed. Entrants should include the first and last name to appear on the jersey. That name should be typed or printed legibly. The opportunity has a limited availability. CLICK HERE for an entry form PDF.

“Komen NEPA is excited to join the RailRiders for Breast Awareness Night at PNC Field,” said Dolly Woody, executive director of Susan G. Komen® NEPA. “The Komen NEPA Race for the Cure is celebrating 25 years of impact in the fight against breast cancer and Breast Cancer Awareness Night is an opportunity to educate the public. We want women and men to, ‘Know your normal. Know your risks.’ Prevention and early detection are key pieces to ending breast cancer.”

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders . Click here to view the original story.

Legends’ donations top $715,000 for 2014

December 22, 2014

14-year total nears $13 million

Lexington Legends President/COO Andy Shea (at left) and LBX President/CEO Eric Sauvage (second from left) present a check to representatives of Kentucky Cancer Link, Susan G. Komen and the Markey Cancer Center for funds raised in the Legends' annual Breast Cancer Awareness game. The Legends make donations to a variety of organizations throughout the region. (Lexington Legends) — Lexington Legends President/COO Andy Shea (at left) and LBX President/CEO Eric Sauvage (second from left) present a check to representatives of Kentucky Cancer Link, Susan G. Komen and the Markey Cancer Center for funds raised in the Legends’ annual Breast Cancer Awareness game. The Legends make donations to a variety of organizations throughout the region. (Lexington Legends)

The Lexington Legends today announced donations for 2014 totaling $715,645 to a variety of non-profit organizations serving central Kentucky. The Ivy Walls Charitable Giving Foundation Fund at Bluegrass Community Foundation, in cooperation with the Legends and business sponsors, has presented checks to organization representatives throughout the month of November.

Ivy Walls Management is a Lexington-based organization that manages the operation of the Legends.

In its 14-year history, the Legends organization has donated close to $13 million to the region.

“There’s nothing more important to our organization than giving back to our community,” said Sarah Bosso, the Legends’ director of community relations and special events. “Each season, the Legends look forward to working with all of these amazing organizations and to developing new partnerships as well.”

“The Legends will always be active in the community,” added Legends President/COO Andy Shea. “We’re proud to have the opportunity to support these great organizations.”

Among organizations receiving funds in 2014 were:

–Boy Scouts of America Bluegrass Council: The Legends supported the Boy Scouts through their participation in the “Brave the Blue III” campaign, in which donations were raised by those who rappelled down the 30-story Financial Center building in downtown Lexington. The Legends’ Big L has been among the rappellers in all three years of the campaign.

-Breast Cancer Research and Awareness: The Legends held a Breast Cancer Awareness Night July 12. Funds raised through an auction of pink jerseys and pink bases used during the game, along with t-shirt sales, benefited Kentucky Pink Connection, which serves breast cancer patients on a personal basis by reducing or eliminating barriers to screening, diagnosis and treatment; The Markey Cancer Center, established in 1983 as a Comprehensive Cancer Center; and Susan G. Komen, the world’s largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer. The Legends and LBX held a dinner, with proceeds going to those same three breast cancer charities.

–Military Missions: The Legends’ Military Appreciation night June 14 included an auction of camouflage jerseys to benefit Military Missions, a local non-profit organization that supports troops in a variety of ways, including the sending of care packages.

–P.A.W.S. and the Lexington Humane Society: The Legends held five “Bark in the Park” nights during the 2014 season, on which dog owners were invited to bring their dogs to a Legends game. The “admission” price for dogs was a donation to the Paris Animal Welfare Society (P.A.W.S.) and the Lexington Humane Society.

-St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Scholarship Fund: At the end of every baseball season, the Legends hold a silent auction for the home jerseys worn during the season with proceeds going to the St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Scholarship Program. About $4,000 was raised from the 2014 auction.

–United Way of the Bluegrass: The Legends and United Way are longtime partners on ticket donations to United Way donors, as listed below.

–Vs. Cancer: Legends President/COO Andy Shea and catcher Chad Johnson had their heads shaved following the Legends game August 15 as part of a Vs. Cancer fund-raiser and sign of solidarity with young cancer patients.

In-kind donations

The Legends also make substantial in-kind donations throughout the year to many groups and organizations, including a long-standing relationship with United Way of the Bluegrass. Donors to the annual United Way of the Bluegrass campaign receive two free box seat tickets to a Legends home game.

In the 2014 season, more than 84,000 box seat tickets were donated to various organizations and camps through the Legends’ partnership with United Way, along with Hit the Books, a Legends’ campaign to encourage Central Kentucky students to read. More than 300 donations were made through the Legends online donation request system at lexingtonlegends.com under the “Community” tab.

In addition, the Legends made more than 200 public appearances in 2014 with their mascots, Big L and Pee Wee, at schools, hospitals, nursing homes and other organizations.

Aramark, the Legends’ concession partner, made significant donations to school booster clubs, primarily for work done at concession stands during games.

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

BlueClaws Charities Makes Mark Through Community Grant Program

November 19, 2014

Awards grants to 34 non-profit organizations in 2014

BlueClaws Charities has completed its 6^th annual grant process. After analyzing the applications, BlueClaws Charities handed out grants to 34 Community Partner organizations in Monmouth & Ocean Counties.

BlueClaws Charities, a registered 501c3 organization, raises money at all 70 BlueClaws home games. A 50/50 raffle, special jersey auctions, and miscellaneous programs are used to raise money during games. The annual “Phillies Winter Banquet,” “ALS Celebrity Waiter Event,” “Bowling With the BlueClaws,” and the “BlueClaws Charities Nine & Dine Golf Outing” are additional fundraising initiatives conducted by BlueClaws Charities.

Each organization, also 501c3s, becomes eligible for a grant through a season-long partnership with the BlueClaws.

“This grant program is the culmination of the BlueClaws Charities year and we are very grateful to everyone that supports the organization in any way,” said BlueClaws Charities Executive Director Jim DeAngelis. “Without the support of the fans and donors, we would not be able to aid our magnificent Community Partner organizations.”

The following non-profit organizations received a cash grant from BlueClaws Charities (alphabetical order): ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, American Red Cross (Jersey Coast Chapter), Ashley Lauren Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ocean County, Caregivers Volunteers of Central Jersey, Central Jersey Blood Center, David’s Dream and Believe Cancer Foundation, Enable Inc., Exit 82 Theatre Company, Family Options Adoptions, Family Resource Associates, First Tee of Monmouth & Ocean Counties, Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, Go 4 the Goal, LADACIN Network, Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Fund, Monmouth County SPCA, Mya Lin Terry Foundation, NJ TEARS, Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity, Ocean County Shriners Club, Ocean County YMCA, Ocean’s Harbor House, Raising Hope for Others, RJM Sports Group, Saint Vincent DePaul Society of Ocean County, Salvation Army of Ocean County, Susan G. Komen For the Cure of Central & South Jersey, Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund, United Way of Monmouth County, United Way of Ocean County.

All Community Partners that completed the grant application were rewarded with a grant. Each partner was asked to describe the program within their organization that would benefit from the grant, with the requirement that the grant be allocated to Ocean or Monmouth County.

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

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

The Lakewood BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League and New Jersey in attendance in each year of their existence. 2015 will be their historic 15^th season of family fun.

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

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

Race for the Cure at Fluor Field on Saturday

September 25, 2014

Registration begins at 6:30 AM; Race begins at 8:00 AM

What: 20th Annual SC Mountains to Midlands Race for the Cure
When: Saturday, September 27, 2014
Where: Fluor Field, Home of the Greenville Drive in downtown Greenville, SC
Online Race for the Cure registration has closed, but you can still register at Fluor Field on Friday, September 26th from 11am-7pm and Saturday September 27th starting at 6:30 AM. The race begins at 8:00 AM. Celebrate 20 years of local giving with Susan G. Komen and SC Mountains to Midlands this Saturday, September 27!

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

RailRiders 2014 Community Report

September 24, 2014

Over $360,000 Given Back to NEPA, 66% Jump from Award-Winning 2013

Coming together for the greater good. All baseball teams try to accomplish it on the field. In the case of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) – the off-the-field efforts in that same vein added up to a whole lot of good to date in 2014.

Among the highlights:

– Five jersey auctions raised over $20,000 to benefit: Hunt of a Lifetime, IamMore Foundation, Allied Health Services, Fisher House and the Dave Miley HOF Scholarship Fund.

– The debut of the team’s Fit Track program, presented by Odak.

– Another successful HOPE Week in concert with the rest of the New York Yankees organization.

– An increase in charitable giving from $217,000 to over $360,000 including cash and in-kind gifts.

– Over 550 hours volunteered in the community by full-time staff, players and coaches.

– Over 200 mascot appearances.

– Support of our military with the Metlife Military Appreciation program, Honor Guard program, veterans parade appearances in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, and a players/field staff visit to the Gino Merli Veterans Center.

– The RailRiders and Kost Tire and Auto raised $14,000 for the Boys and Girls Clubs of NEPA with the Hurl the Pearl promotion (up $2,000 from 2013).

-The addition of several other new initiatives including: Breast Cancer Awareness Night which raised $2,000 for the Susan G. Komen Foundation and the Girl Scouts of NEPA; an Easter Egg Hunt for children with special needs; and special school day themes for including an anti-bullying day and an anti-drug and alcohol day.

The RailRiders franchise prides itself on engaging with the community. The signature addition in that regard for 2014 – the Fit Track program. Fit Track’s inaugural year sported over 30 schools in NEPA and over 12,000 children. It encourages children to develop healthy habits during their youth that will transition into adulthood. The Fit Track focuses on three main healthy behaviors: being active for 60 minutes each day; making healthy food choices; and getting at least eight hours of sleep a night. Each enrolled child received a free RailRiders jump rope to aid in their physical activity. Each child that completed the program received a free ticket to one of four RailRiders home games with Fit Trackers honored on the field during the pre-game festivities.

The Community Organization of the Game program, presented by DePietro’s Pharmacy, came back for its second season. Each of the team’s 72 home games spotlighted a local non-profit/civic organization. That COG had the opportunity to spread its message to every guest through a pre-game on-field interview, a ceremonial first pitch, an on-air radio interview and a concourse table display.

A standard from previous years, the Adopt-A-Field program, renovated four local fields (one high school field; one softball field; two youth fields). Front office staff and grounds crew members spent the entire day at each park cutting the infield, rebuilding pitching mounds, fertilizing/mowing grass, cleaning dugouts and more. The fields were chosen through a contest on the team’s website with fan votes deciding the lucky winners.

As the top affiliate of the New York Yankees, the RailRiders proudly played their part in the organization’s annual HOPE (Helping Others Persevere and Excel) Week effort. The week-long community outreach program’s purpose is to touch as many lives as possible in your area. Members of the RailRiders’ coaching staff, players and front office folks made their way throughout NEPA.

HOPE Week 2014 in SWB included partnerships with the Children’s Miracle Network and Make-A-Wish Foundation to welcome children in for an unforgettable day; shaved heads and over $13,000 raised for childhood cancer research; a visit to the Gino Merli Veterans Center; and laser tag with the NEPA Boys and Girls Club.

The RailRiders’ Military Appreciation program was brought back to show the team’s support of our nation’s active and retired military. The serviceperson and his/her family were honored. Activities included complimentary game tickets, a pre-game on-field interview and a ceremonial first pitch.

SWB’s patriotic pride continued by Setting A Seat Aside. To honor men and women affiliated with our nation’s military whom could not be at PNC Field, one significant seat (section 13, row 15, seat one) remains forever empty and unsold.

“2014 was a great year,” said community relations manager Rachel Mark. “Seeing the impact our community outreach makes in NEPA is priceless. We are excited to continue these efforts and watch them grow in 2015.”

Invested in the community, the RailRiders franchise has more than 30 full-time employees. Combined with concessionaire Legends, PNC Field boasts over 500 seasonal employees. The franchise prides itself on customer service and affordability as the bar-setting destination for affordable, family entertainment destination in NEPA.

The RailRiders open their 2015 season at home on April 9 against the Syracuse Chiefs (Washington Nationals). For more information please call (570) 969-BALL (2255) or visit swbrailriders.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Click here to view the original story.

Naturals will host Pink in the Park on Friday, August 8

August 4, 2014

The team will wear pink jerseys that will be auctioned off during the game

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals will wear special pink jerseys on Friday, August 8 as part of Pink in the Park night presented by Farm Rich when the Naturals play host to the San Antonio Missions, the Double-A Affiliate of the San Diego Padres, at 7:05 P.M. at Arvest Ballpark. The special pink Naturals jerseys will be available for silent auction during the game with all of the proceeds from the auction going to the Susan G. Komen Ozark Affiliate.

Pink in the Park night represents the final jersey auction of the 2014 season. The silent auction will take place along the concourse behind Section 109. Bidding for the game-worn jerseys will begin when the gates open at 6:00 P.M. and fans will have the opportunity to bid on the jerseys until the middle of the 6^th inning when the silent auction will conclude.

Every player and coach will have a jersey available for auction. Fans will have the opportunity to bid on the likes of Naturals’ Manager Vance Wilson, as well as highly touted Royals prospects such as LHP Brandon Finnegan, INF Hunter Dozier, OF Jorge Bonifacio, RHP Christian Binford, INF Cheslor Cuthbert, INF Orlando Calixte, and LHP Sam Selman. Fans with winning bids will get to go on the field following the game where they will receive their pink jersey directly from the player or coach.

In addition to Pink in the Park, Friday night will also include a post-game Fireworks Spectacular and only three (3) post-game Fireworks shows remain during the 2014 season. It is also a Scout Night Campout presented by Camping World of Northwest Arkansas where Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and Cub Scouts are invited to come to the game for a discounted rate, receive a limited Naturals’ Scout Night Patch, enjoy a kid themed movie after the game, and campout on the outfield grass.

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, AR. For more information including statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. Click here to view the original story.