Tennessee – Page 5

SMOKIES WILL HOST TENTH ANNUAL SALUTE TO HEROES NIGHT

May 23, 2017

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies will host their tenth annual Salute to Heroes Night presented by the Knoxville TVA Employees Credit Union on Saturday, May 27. The game is set for a 7:00 p.m. first pitch, with gates opening at 5:30 p.m.

Gates will open at 5:30 p.m. and a special pre-game tribute honoring the brave men and women of our armed forces will begin at 6 p.m. The pre-game ceremony will consist of highlighting Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) for the purpose of raising awareness and directing attention to local resources, a flyover, live rendition of the service branch medley, three-volley salute, enlistment oath ceremony, and much more.

Free tickets will be provided to all past and present military members, courtesy of LaborExchange and Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network. Each veteran, active duty service member, or reserve or guard member will be able to receive up to four free tickets, and additional tickets may be purchased at a discounted rate. Military members will need to provide a form of military identification (DD214, military ID, veteran ID, etc.) in order to receive their free tickets for Saturday’s game at the designated military ticket table in front of the will call booth outside of the stadium.

“I don’t think we could ever say thank you enough to those who protect our country,” stated Smokies President and COO Chris Allen. “This night allows us to show recognition to all of our military heroes as well as local heroes around our community. This is a special night, and we look forward to this every year as we will say thank you to all of our veterans, and raise awareness for PTSD throughout the night.”

Military themed jerseys will be worn by the team for Salute To Heroes Night, as they will be auctioned off throughout the game benefiting Remote Area Medical. The jersey auction will be available for bidding beginning on Thursday, May 25 at 10:00 a.m. through Saturday, May 27 at 8:30 p.m. Fans can place their bid on the special jerseys by using the following link: http://smokies.milbauctions.com/gallery.cfm

Limited edition “Honor Those Who Serve” T-shirts will be for sale in the GoTeez Locker Room with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1078’s efforts related to PTSD awareness and support.

The Smokies will be sporting batting helmets that will honor the memories of former local soldiers who took their own lives due to severe PTSD symptoms resulting from their time in the military. These soldiers will be commemorated with initials on the backs of the Smokies’ helmets.

A patriotic themed fireworks show will light up the sky following the game. The fireworks display is a part of the Summer Fireworks Series, presented by Coors Light and Pepsi which will feature post-game fireworks following every Friday and Saturday game through July 29.

The Smokies return home to Smokies Stadium on Wednesday, May 24, 2017 against the Biloxi Shuckers. The full schedule for this season and information regarding single-game tickets, season tickets, and mini plans can be found online at smokiesbaseball.com, or by calling the Smokies Ticket Office at 865-286-2300.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES
The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com

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

Generals To Host Two Baseball Camps

May 22, 2017

Jackson, Tenn. – Once again, the Jackson Generals are proud to host a pair of summer baseball camps for children throughout West Tennessee to learn from the pros! Players will serve as instructors both for the one-day Baseball Camp June 23 and for the two-day Skills Camp July 27 and 28!

Both camps will offer the opportunity to learn the game from the best, with the two-day Skills Camp giving kids more time to hone their skills! The first camp will be the morning of Thursday, June 23 from 9:00 am to noon just after the All-Star Break. For just $55, children can participate in the three-hour camp with Generals players. Also included is a sack lunch, a camp t-shirt, an autograph session and a free general admission ticket to that night’s game versus Jacksonville!

The two-day Skills Camp will take place Thursday, July 27 and Friday, July 28 at The Ballpark! Children ages 9 to 14 will take part in more advanced drills over two days, with the sessions going from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm. Included in the experience is an exclusive camp t-shirt, an autograph session, a sack lunch both days along with both a ticket and food passport for the July 28 game versus Mobile! Skills Camp is just $130 for the first child, and $120 for any additional camper. Teams of nine or more can get the group rate of only $60 per camper!

Registration for both camps is open now. Fill out forms for the one-day Baseball Camp or the two-day Skills Camp and return them to The Ballpark at Jackson. For more information, contact Kate Lentz with the Generals at klentz@jacksongeneralsbaseball.com or by calling the team at (731) 988.5299.

Make sure to get your tickets now to see the 20^th season of professional baseball in Jackson, and the first for the team as an affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks! Call the team at (731) 988.5299, stop by The Ballpark or go online to jacksongeneralsbaseball.com to secure your seats now!

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

SMOKIES PLAYERS AND COACHES TO INSTRUCT YOUTH CLINIC

May 5, 2017

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies announced that they will host a Youth Clinic, presented by Rocky Top Customz on Sunday, May 7. The Clinic will feature multiple stations on the field where clinic attendees can receive instruction and tips from the 2017 Smokies players and coaching staff.

The Youth Clinic will begin at 12:00 pm with gates opening at 11:30 am. The clinic is free of charge, and each child in uniform participating in the clinic will receive free berm admission to the Smokies game following the event. In addition, discounted meal vouchers will be available for purchase the day of the clinic.

“We love to be able to host events like this each year,” Stated Smokies President and COO Chris Allen. “Getting kids involved in the game of baseball is something we are glad to be a part of. Baseball is a game that we take very seriously, but ultimately baseball is a game, and should be enjoyed by children alike.”

Fans can call 865-286-2300 to receive more details about this year’s Youth Clinic, presented by Rocky Top Customz. The game is set for a 2:00 pm first pitch against the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp on Sunday, as it is the last game of the homestand before the Smokies leave for a road series against the Jackson Generals.

The Smokies continue their home series at Smokies Stadium today on Friday, May 5, 2017 against the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp. The full schedule for this season and information regarding single-game tickets, season tickets, and mini plans can be found online at smokiesbaseball.com, or by calling the Smokies Ticket Office at 865-286-2300.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com

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

United States Navy Parachute Team Performing at AutoZone Park on Armed Forces Night

May 5, 2017

BUY TICKETS

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – The United States Navy Parachute Team, “The Leap Frogs,” will be jumping into AutoZone Park on Friday, May 12, as part of the Armed Forces Night celebration that evening.

Fans are encouraged to arrive in their seats no later than 6:45 p.m. to be able to see The Leap Frogs put on their spectacular show. Game time is set for 7:05.

Also on Armed Forces Night, the Navy Brass Quintet will be performing in the Plaza before the game, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The Plaza will also feature displays, equipment, and interactive exhibits.

On Armed Forces Night, and every other night at AutoZone Park, active-duty and retired military personnel can receive a discount on up to two game tickets at the Box Office. A valid military ID is required.

About “The Leap Frogs”

The United States Navy Parachute Team, “The Leap Frogs,” is the official parachute demonstration team of the United States Navy and part of the United States Naval Special Warfare Command. The team is made up of active-duty Navy SEALs, Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewmen (SWCC), and support personnel. A typical Leap Frogs performance consists of six jumpers leaping out of an aircraft at an altitude of 6,000 feet. After freefalling, sometimes using smoke or streamers, The Leap Frogs fly their canopies together to build canopy-relative work formations. After performances, The Leap Frogs make themselves available to the public to answer questions about the Navy and the Naval Special Warfare community, as well as to sign autographs.

For information on upcoming promotions, visit www.memphisredbirds.com/promotions. For more information on single-game tickets and ticket mini-memberships, visit www.memphisredbirds.com/tickets.

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

ALLERGY, ASTHMA & SINUS CENTER WILL HOST PEANUT FREE NIGHT AT SMOKIES STADIUM

April 27, 2017

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies have partnered with the Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center to host a Peanut-Free Night at America’s Friendliest Ballpark on Wednesday, May 3 as the Smokies take on the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp. The Peanut-Free Night allow fans with peanut allergies the chance to enjoy the game at Smokies Stadium.

“The Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center is excited to sponsor Peanut Free Night with the Tennessee Smokies for the sixth year in a row,” said Board Certified Allergist, Dr. Bob Overholt. “We are honored to be able to provide a peanut-free environment for all baseball fans, especially those who might not be able to normally attend, and we hope this event will help raise awareness in East Tennessee about food allergies.”

The Smokies will take anything containing peanuts off its concessions menu for the 7:00 p.m. contest. Additionally, the stadium will be cleaned and rinsed to remove as much peanut residue from the seats, concourse and other areas as possible.

“This is a night I look forward to every year,” said Smokies Vice President Jeremy Boler. “This is a night where many children and families with peanut allergies can actually come out and enjoy a Smokies game. I hope this game brings awareness to food allergies and we look forward to hosting Peanut Free Night for many more years to come!”

The Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center and the Tennessee Smokies team up for this event annually to raise awareness about food allergies, and to allow an enjoyable baseball experience for those with peanut allergies specifically.

The Smokies return home to Smokies Stadium on Wednesday, May 3, 2017 against the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp. The full schedule for this season and information regarding single-game tickets, season tickets, and mini plans can be found online at smokiesbaseball.com, or by calling the Smokies Ticket Office at 865-286-2300.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

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

AutoZone Park Sprouts Miracle-Gro® Rooftop Garden

March 21, 2017

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – The Memphis Redbirds are proud to announce the Miracle-Gro^® Rooftop Garden, a one-of-a-kind addition to AutoZone Park that has wide-reaching benefits for community health, education, and environmental sustainability.

The Miracle-Gro^® Rooftop Garden will be built on the 3rd Floor landing at AutoZone Park, which overlooks the plaza inside the front gates at the corner of B.B. King and Union.

“When the Memphis Redbirds approached Miracle-Gro with a plan to repurpose the third level deck at AutoZone Park, we were thrilled to partner with them and bring this project to life,” said John Sass, Vice President and General Manager of Miracle-Gro. “The soil and plant food we provided will help create a space that educates and inspires all who visit this iconic urban space.”

“As we continue to prioritize connectivity within the Memphis community, we are proud to build the first urban rooftop garden in all of Minor League Baseball,” said Redbirds Principal Owner Peter Freund. “And to have an opportunity to partner with Miracle-Gro on this project, one of the most innovative corporations in America, will ensure its long-term success and opens the door for an exciting evolution of how the garden can grow.”

The applications of the ballpark’s Rooftop Garden are numerous and cross multiple segments of the community. The Redbirds are planning to use a portion of the food and herbs grown in the garden in food served at the concession stands during games. Local and sustainable food is a major push in Memphis’ culinary culture, and the Redbirds have recognized the movement with the ability to use some of the most local and sustainable food seen anywhere.

In addition, during the Redbirds’ annual Education Days, school children in attendance could tour the garden, learn about nutrition, and see how they could grow a garden of their own in whatever space they have at their home. Additional garden tours on gamedays and during special events are being planned as well.

The community will be able to access information about the garden, watch videos, and get gardening tips through the Miracle-Gro^® Rooftop Garden webpage located at www.memphisredbirds.com/miraclegrogarden.

The components of the Miracle-Gro^® Rooftop Garden are constructed with over 3,200 linear feet of Cypress lumber. The footprint of all raised beds is about 1,200 square feet, which is one-quarter of the entire landing area, and the beds hold 80 cubic yards of soil.

The Redbirds will be able to grow many different varieties of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, such as broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, lettuce, onions, peppers, spinach, tomatoes, basil, cilantro, dill, mint, oregano, and many more. More varieties will be added throughout the growing seasons.

The 2017 season begins on Thursday, March 30 against the St. Louis Cardinals in a “Battle of the Birds” exhibition game. The regular-season home opener is Tuesday, April 11 against Colorado Springs. For more information on single-game tickets and mini-memberships, visit www.memphisredbirds.com/tickets. For more information on “Battle of the Birds,” visit www.memphisredbirds.com/battleofthebirds.

About Scotts Miracle-Gro

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company is the world’s largest marketer of branded consumer products for lawn and garden care. The Company’s brands are the most recognized in the industry. In the U.S., the Company’s Scotts®, Miracle-Gro® and Ortho® brands are market-leading in their categories, as is the consumer Roundup® brand, which is marketed near worldwide by Scotts and owned by Monsanto. In the U.S., we maintain a minority interest in a joint venture with TruGreen®, the largest residential lawn care service business, and in Bonnie Plants®, the largest marketer of edible gardening plants in retail channels. In Europe, the Company’s brands include Weedol®, Pathclear®, Evergreen®, Levington®, Miracle-Gro®, KB®, Fertiligène® and Substral®. For additional information, visit us at www.scottsmiraclegro.com.

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

Redbirds, MLB Make Donation to Memphis Public Schools

February 18, 2017

(Roger Cotton/Memphis Redbirds)

PHOTO GALLERY

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – The Memphis Redbirds Community Fund, in conjunction with Major League Baseball, has made a donation to Pitch In For Baseball to benefit Memphis Public Schools as part of MLB’s biennial RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) Institute held this week in Memphis.

The donation will provide $25,000 worth of baseball and softball equipment to help 460 students get on the field, benefitting 24 baseball and softball teams at 16 schools in the Memphis area.

“We are very proud to be able to make this donation to Memphis Public Schools through the Redbirds Community Fund,” Redbirds President and General Manager Craig Unger said. “One of our main missions is to help better our community, and the Redbirds Community Fund is one of the leading vehicles for how we can use our position to do so. We look forward to being able to do more to benefit our community and the Mid-South as a whole.”

The week culminated today with a free PLAY BALL event at AutoZone Park, where area children were able to play on the field and have fun learning skills and celebrating the love of the game. Event participants also received a PLAY BALL t-shirt and a bat and ball set to continue the play at home.

The RBI Institute covers topics such as league operations, players’ health on and off the field (i.e., Pitch Smart, anti-bullying and drug-free lifestyles), educational programs, best practices, coaches training, league finances, equipment procurement and more.

The Redbirds have hosted an RBI site since 1998, where boys and girls ages 6 through 16 join with children from their own community to form teams which travel throughout the city to play each other. Memphis RBI began with six locations and has grown to serve 12 communities and over 1,000 participants.

The mission of the Memphis RBI program is to increase participation and interest in baseball and softball among underserved youth through instructional and competitive play, while encouraging youth to achieve academically, demonstrate good sportsmanship, and contribute positively to the community.

Pitch In For Baseball provides new and gently-used baseball and softball equipment to boys and girls in the United States and around the world who want to play ball but lack the equipment to do so. PIFB reduces barriers to play and promotes youth development by providing equipment directly to leagues, schools and organizations around the world to start, continue, and/or expand their programs. Over the past 10 years, PIFB has donated more than $5 million worth of equipment to 500,000 under-resourced kids in nearly every state and 80 different countries.

For more information on Pitch In For Baseball, visit www.pifb.org.

Schools Receiving Equipment

American Way Middle School (Baseball)

American Way Middle School (Softball)

Bellevue Middle School (Baseball)

Colonial Middle School (Baseball)

Colonial Middle School (Softball)

Grandview Heights Middle School (Baseball)

Hamilton Middle School (Baseball)

Hamilton Middle School (Softball)

Havenview Middle School (Baseball)

Havenview Middle School (Softball)

Hickory Ridge Middle School (Baseball)

Hickory Ridge Middle School (Softball)

Highland Oaks Middle School (Baseball)

Kate Bond Middle School (Softball)

Kingsbury Middle School (Softball)

Kirby Middle School (Baseball)

Memphis Grizzlies Preparatory Charter School (Baseball)

Memphis Scholars Raleigh-Egypt Middle School (Baseball)

Memphis Scholars Raleigh-Egypt Middle School (Softball)

Oakhaven Middle School (Baseball)

Oakhaven Middle School (Softball)

Raleigh-Egypt High School (Softball)

Raleigh-Egypt Middle/High School (Baseball)

Riverview Middle School (Baseball)

About the Redbirds Community Fund

The Redbirds Community Fund benefits area youth organizations by offering outreach programs, providing baseball instruction, giving opportunities for children to attend professional baseball games and to interact with professional players and personnel, providing and refurbishing area facilities for youth activities, and providing financial support to many worthy area Section 501(c)(3) organizations that effectively and efficiently serve the needs of children in the community.

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

Sounds Announce 2017 Scholarship Program Details

January 5, 2017

For the second consecutive year, the Nashville Sounds Foundation will award four $2,500 scholarships to graduating high school seniors who plan to attend college in fall of 2017.

The program began in 2016 and is designed to help four deserving Nashville and Middle Tennessee students help pay for college tuition during their freshman year.

“Our community initiatives and being connected to the youth of Nashville and Middle Tennessee is a responsibility we take seriously,” said General Manager Adam Nuse. “The fundraising efforts throughout the 2016 season have allowed us to play a small role in fulfilling the dreams of these graduating seniors. Our fans play a huge role in this program and we are very thankful for their continued support.”

Interested seniors must complete the application process at www.nashvillesounds.com. The process includes submitting a two to three-page essay answering the following prompt: “Define what leadership means to you and how you have demonstrated leadership ability either in or outside of school. How will you continue to positively impact your community after graduation?”

In addition to the essay, each submission must include at least two letters of recommendation from teachers and/or coaches, and an official high school transcript. The scholarship will be awarded based on the culmination of the student’s school work, extracurricular activities and involvement in the community.

Each winner will receive tickets to a select Nashville Sounds game during the first homestand of the 2017 season and will be recognized during a pre-game ceremony. The deadline to considered for the 2017 scholarships is Friday, February 17, 2017.

Winners from 2016 include Alex Abernathy of Central Magnet High School (University of Tennessee), Arianna Hunter of Lead Academy High School (University of Memphis), Micah McDowell of Oakland High School (University of Kentucky) and Stuart Warner of Marshall County High School (University of Tennessee-Martin).

The 2017 season will be the Sounds’ 40^th in franchise history and their third as the Oakland Athletics’ top affiliate. Season ticket memberships are available now by calling (615) 690-4487 or by visiting www.nashvillesounds.com.

About the Nashville Sounds Foundation:

The mission of the Nashville Sounds Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, is to positively impact the thriving Middle Tennessee community through various programs and initiatives. The Nashville Sounds Foundation supports programs that energize and influence youth through education, physical development and by maximizing community service.

The Nashville Sounds Foundation is funded through monetary donations, private entities, memorabilia auctions and in-game custom public address announcements.

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

Nashville Sounds Foundation to Host 2nd Annual “Suites-N-Treats” Event October 26

October 17, 2016

The Nashville Sounds Foundation will host its second annual “Suites-N-Treats” event on Wednesday, October 26 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at First Tennessee Park.

The pre-Halloween event is designed as an opportunity for underprivileged youth in the greater Nashville area to trick-or-treat in a safe and fun environment. Children can walk the Club Level at First Tennessee Park and visit each uniquely decorated suite to collect treats.

Other activities for children include decorating their own trick-or-treat bags, face-painting, complementary food provided by Centerplate and drinks provided by Coca Cola. Each child will have the opportunity to meet and take pictures with Sounds mascot Booster.

The Sounds have teamed with several non-profit organizations to invite children to the private event. Close to 600 children will participate with the help of the following organizations: Big Brothers Big Sisters, First Steps, Dreams and Wishes, and the Martha O’Bryan Center.

“The Sounds organization is very thankful for the support from these tremendous non-profit organizations,” said Adam Nuse, Sounds General Manager and COO. “With their help, our goal of providing a safe and memorable trick-or-treating experience for these children will be made possible.”

“Suites-N-Treats” will take place on the Club Level with the help of the Sounds’ suite holders, who were invited to decorate their suite so the children could experience a true Halloween-based trick-or-treat experience. The Sounds’ front office staff will also decorate select suites and dress up as part of the festivities.

The mission of the Nashville Sounds Foundation is to positively impact the thriving Middle Tennessee community through various programs and initiatives. The Nashville Sounds Foundation supports programs that energize and influence youth through education, physical development and by maximizing community service. For more information on the Nashville Sounds Foundation and its initiatives, please visit www.nashvillesounds.com and click on the Community tab.

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

E-Twins Look To Impact Area Youth

June 16, 2015

Minor League Baseball has much to offer all age groups but this season E-Twins staff are focusing on youth with a variety of promotions and stadium ticket packages. “We are extremely excited about this season and the impact we can have on our area youth,” said Mike Mains, General Manager. “We have put together a nice package of promotions for all ages but especially for our youth as we hope parents will notice the inexpensive family entertainment that they can enjoy this summer at Joe O’Brien Field.”

With hundreds of local youth participating in baseball and softball programs throughout our area the Twins are offering free youth team baseball and softball parties at Joe O’Brien Field. Admission is free to all players and coaches and parents will enter at a discounted rate of $3.00. In addition to free admission, teams will be announced during pre-game ceremonies and they will take the field during the National Anthem with the E-Twins.

Throughout this season the E-Twins have scheduled several weekly promotions that will give families an opportunity to enjoy an inexpensive night at the ballpark including Tuesday Dollar Nights and Kids Eat Free Wednesday’s. Sponsored by UDC and WCQR Tuesday Dollar Nights will feature $1.00 admission for all along with $1.00 hotdogs, programs and a few other concession items all sold for $1.00. While Wednesday night games this season will feature a free meal for all kids under the age of twelve.

Continuing a long standing tradition the Elizabethton Twins will host two free baseball clinics for area youth including the Todd Walker Baseball Clinic held at Joe O’Brien Field on July 11 and the Blue Gray’s Baseball Clinic held at Historic Blue Grays Field located at Douglas Park on August 1st. Youth between the ages of 6 and 14 will receive instruction in baseball fundamentals, meet E-Twins players and lunch will be provided.

Joe O’Brien Field has much to offer including a great setting for birthday parties and a unique family fun package which offers four reserved seats, four hotdogs with drinks, four programs and one individual in the family will be allowed to throw out the first pitch. This special package will provide a great night of baseball fun and memories for years to come.

The Elizabethton Junior Twins Club is another youth program the E-Twins are proud of. Club membership offers a reduce rate for a season ticket pass to all 34 home games, a Twins tee-shirt and an invitation to a pre-game cookout with E-Twins players.

“The Elizabethton Twins have a great deal to offer our youth,” said Mike Mains. “When you look at the number of families that have kids in this area participating in youth sports its really amazing and then you have this team that is a showcase of future major league stars it’s really special. I just hope parents will see what we have to offer and the great opportunity they have to build a natural love for this game by bringing their children to Joe O’Brien Field.” The E-Twins have produced some great talent through the years including one former 2012 player in Byron Buxton who is right now the number one prospect in Major League Baseball.

For ticket information and other promotional event information call the Elizabethton Twins at 423-547-6441.

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

Smokies To Renovate Youth Fields Saturday

March 26, 2015

Club Teaming Up With U.S. Cellular To Pitch In For Local Community

Members of the Tennessee Smokies front office will be teaming up with U.S. Cellular and other partners to help clean up and renovate two East Tennessee baseball fields on Saturday, March 28, including the Boys & Girls Club of Halls/Powell, and the Christenberry Ballfields. Volunteers from U.S. Cellular will be pitching in at both locations, working side-by-side with Smokies front office members on all tasks. In addition, U.S. Cellular will also be donating $1,000 dollars to each location for equipment upgrades.

“This is a very important project for us, and another way to truly make a difference in the East Tennessee community,” stated Smokies Team President Doug Kirchhofer. “We’re also very grateful to U.S. Cellular and our other partners for working together with us on this venture to ensure baseball is played safely and on a good field for years to come.”

“U.S. Cellular has long enjoyed its partnership with the Tennessee Smokies and the opportunity it gives us to connect with East Tennessee residents,” said Jack Brundige, director of sales for U.S. Cellular in Tennessee. “We are looking forward to rolling up our sleeves to help with the baseball field makeovers. Every young child should have the opportunity to play ball on a safe, well-maintained field.”

“Saturday is an important undertaking by all parties involved, and we’re very excited to be able to provide nice ballfields for kids and the community,” added Smokies General Manager Brian Cox. “Our hope is for this to become a yearly endeavor in which we continue to provide a place to play baseball and help the game flourish.”

Work to be done includes field clean-up and the creation of new dugouts, in addition to adding fencing at the Boys & Girls Club, as well as installing batting cages at Christenberry Ballfields, including new turf, placing padding behind home plate, and field clean-up among other tasks. The team will also be donating several items for use at those locations, including a home plate, bases, chalker, rakes and shovels.

This marks the second time the Smokies have teamed up with The Boys & Girls Club this month, after Smokies Stadium hosted a Pitch, Hit & Run Competition exclusively for club members on March 17 in association with the Boys & Girls Club of Tennessee Valley, and the Smoky Mountains. Additional partners assisting the Smokies with Saturday’s effort are Blalock Construction, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Jet’s Pizza.

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

Easter at the Ballpark

March 17, 2015

Generals to host concert, Easter service with Englewood Baptist

The Jackson Generals are proud to partner with Englewood Baptist Church on Easter Weekend festivities at the Ballpark in Jackson. The church will a concert and fireworks show on Saturday, April 4 and a service and egg hunt on Easter Sunday. Admission to all events is free of charge.

The weekend will begin on Saturday night with a concert headlined by contemporary Christian music artist Travis Cottrell at 7 pm. Cottrell has been nominated for 16 GMA Dove Awards in his musical career, winning two times. His 2011 single “When the Stars Burn Down” debuted atop the Billboard Praise and Worship Chart. He currently serves as the Worship Pastor at Englewood Baptist Church.

Christian hip-hop and spoken word artist Propaganda will also perform at the Ballpark on Saturday night. Fireworks provided by the City of Jackson will follow the show at approximately 9 pm. Gates open on Saturday at 5:30 pm.

Englewood Baptist Church, one of the largest religious institutions in Jackson, will hold their Easter service at the Ballpark at 10 am on Easter Sunday, April 5 with gates opening at 8 am. The service will include music from the Englewood choir and a message from Senior Pastor Jordan Easley. An Easter Egg Hunt will follow the service at 11 am in the outfield.

“We are extremely excited to host Englewood Baptist Church at our ballpark Easter weekend,” Generals’ General Manager Jason Compton said. “This a fantastic opportunity for the Generals. We hope that the Ballpark at Jackson can be a venue for more events like this in the future.”

The Jackson Generals will be providing buffets for both breakfast and brunch on Easter Sunday. Tickets must be purchased from the Generals in advance for both. Breakfast will begin when gates open at 8 am for $10 per person, and brunch will follow the service at 11:30 am for $12 per person. A menu for both meals can be found on the attached flyer.

Additionally, concession stands at the stadium will be open and serving breakfast food for purchase for those who did not buy a buffet ticket in advance.

This is the first time the Generals have hosted Englewood’s Easter Services. For more information on the weekend’s events, visit englewoodeaster.com.

For more information or to buy your buffet tickets, call the Jackson Generals at (731) 988.5299 or visit the Ballpark at Jackson.

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

GM Jason Compton honored by local Chamber, Jackson Sun

October 20, 2014

Compton named to top 40 under 40 in West Tennessee for contributions

On Sunday, the Jackson Sun and the Jackson Chamber of Commerce recognized 40 people under the age of 40 who are making significant contributions to their industries, their companies or who are active in the community and have a heart and drive to make West Tennessee a better place. The Generals congratulate each award winner and are excited that Generals’ GM Jason Compton was named to the exclusive list.

“We are so proud of Jason being honored in this manner,” added team President Reese Smith III. “His ability to rise from an Intern to General Manager of a multi-million dollar organization is evident. His management enabled the Generals to have one of their most successful seasons on record, in 2014.”

Compton began as an intern with the then West Tenn Diamond Jaxx during the 2000 Southern Championship Season and was hired full-time in 2001 as Box Office Manager. He did various jobs within the organization until promoted to Assistant GM in 2008, and then to GM in 2012.

“I have been a part of professional baseball in Jackson for 15 seasons and this past season the Generals saw a 13.5 percent increase in attendance over 2013,” said Compton. “It was the highest attendance since 2008 and had more crowds over 5,000 (six times) people since 2004.”

Compton is a 2013 Leadership Jackson graduate and member of the Leadership Jackson Alumni Association. He is also a member of the Jackson Old Hickory Rotary Club.

Compton, 35, has a B.S. in Education with his major in Sport Management from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He resides in Jackson with his wife of nine years, Autumn, son Carter (5 years old) and daughter Chloe (2 years old).

Season ticket packages for the 2015 Jackson Generals season are currently on sale for just $300. For more information, call (731) 988-5299 or visit the website at jacksongeneralsbaseball.com.

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

Generals Take On Childhood Cancer on Friday, August 22

August 14, 2014

Jackson Raises Awareness with Special Night

The Jackson Generals have teamed up with Ellie’s Hats and the Vs Cancer Foundation to take a swing against childhood cancer.

On August 22^nd at 7:05, the Generals will be taking on the Chattanooga Lookouts in the hunt for a playoff spot. But, the battle on the field will be in support of those children who are entrenched in a battle of their own – one against cancer.

The Generals have spent months collecting hundreds hats from teams and individuals across the country. These hats will be donated on the field that night to the charity, “Ellie’s Hats,” who will give them to children receiving cancer treatments. These kids often lose hair from harsh treatments and the hats often become an extension of themselves, almost like a badge of courage.

But, the donation isn’t all that’s going on. Some of the Generals players have volunteered to have their heads shaved that night to help raise money with the Vs. Cancer Foundation. Any individual attending the game will also have the opportunity to shave their heads in support.

The Vs. Cancer Foundation has set up a website here to help the Generals raise even more for the cause. These donations will be split between Ellie’s Hats and a local Jackson cancer treatment center, meaning every penny is used to fight childhood cancer.

Fans are encouraged to bring a new hat to the game to donate to the cause, and if they do they’ll receive free admission.

The Generals have been recognized for their efforts by Minor League Baseball. They have been named one of five finalists for the top charity event/program in all of Minor League Baseball. MiLB gives a number of “Golden Bobblehead Awards” out every season to recognize the best of the best from around the country. This is the first time the Generals have been a finalist in any category.

Jackson Generals GM, Jason Compton said the support for night has been overwhelming. “We’ve had teams from all over the country send in hats. We’ve had individuals sending along hats or making a donation to the Vs. Cancer web page,” Compton said. “It just goes to show how when it comes to a cause like this, we’re all on the same team. The response for this has been nothing short of inspiring. The recognition from MiLB is just icing on the cake. Any added exposure and awareness that comes from our efforts will just get everyone behind these children who are fighting for their lives.”

For more information, or to get your ticket to help end childhood cancer, call 988-5299 or click here. The Jackson Generals are the Double-A Affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. For more information visit jacksongeneralsbaseball.com, like the Generals on Facebook (Facebook.com/jacksongenerals) or follow us on twitter (@jacksongenerals).

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

Star Wars Jersey Night to Resume August 23

August 9, 2014

Star Wars Night and the Chewbacca jersey auction benefitting the Boys and Girls Clubs of Middle TN and Nashville RBI will resume on Saturday, August 23.

All bids that were placed on August 9th are still considered active bids. If you think you hold the highest active bid for a jersey and have not heard from us, please contact Shannon Lapsley at (615) 690-4487 ext. 153 before August 23rd for more information.

The silent auction for jerseys will resume at Fan Relations when gates open on Saturday, August 23, at 5:35 p.m. and continue until the end of the 6th inning, when all bids will be final.

Please note numbers and jersey sizes are subject to change.

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