Ashley HomeStore Donates 50 Mattress Sets

CORPUS CHRISTI — Ashley Furniture HomeStore’s “A Hope to Dream” program is donating 50 Tempur-Pedic mattress sets to local children in need during August. The furniture retailer’s goodwill project is in collaboration with the Corpus Christ Hooks Baseball Club.

Each mattress set is comprised of a mattress, foundation, and comforter.

Local partnerships with The Food Bank of Corpus Christi, KIII-TV3, KRIS-TV, The Beach 96.5, Hot Z95, Post Acute Medical, Colon and Rectal Associates of South Texas, the American Red Cross, and others are providing other donated items for 50 children to help them prepare for the 2017-18 school year.

Youngsters selected to receive a new bed will be treated to an evening at Whataburger Field and special night with the Hooks on Saturday, August 12.

“This event will be our largest single-day donation with our “A Hope to Dream” program,” said Paige Streiff, Owner of the Corpus Christi Ashley Furniture HomeStore. “As a mother of two young children, I witness first-hand what having a bed of their own and a quality night’s sleep can do for these developmental years. Obtaining a great night of sleep promotes a healthy lifestyle and is an excellent way to start out everyone’s day.”

Said Dr. Craig Bennett, M.D. of Ashley’s Wellness Center: “An estimated 30 to 50 percent of children have trouble sleeping well. Getting a good night’s sleep is more important than most people realize. It helps ensure a healthy lifestyle by lowering stress and reducing the risk for illness and depression, while improving cognitive and physical performance. A good night’s sleep is especially important to help children focus academically and grow socially.”

Ashley Furniture HomeStore’s “A Hope to Dream” program was created to provide mattress sets to children with a demonstrated need.

A Hope to Dream

Ashley Furniture HomeStore believes that every child deserves a good night’s sleep. Founded in 2010 on that guiding principle, Ashley Furniture HomeStore’s “A Hope to Dream” program provides mattress sets to less fortunate children in our area. A portion of the proceeds for every mattress purchased at the Ashley Furniture HomeStores in Victoria and Corpus Christi helps pay for a mattress set for a child in need. To date, Ashley Furniture HomeStores throughout the U.S. have together provided underprivileged children with approximately 13,000 beds. Those wishing to nominate a child can visit http://www.ashleyfurniturehomestore.com/events/ahopetodream.html or request an electronic application by emailing AHopeToDream@ashleyfurniture.com. In-store applications are also available at participating locations.

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

Donate to the Cardinals School Supplies Drive and get $1 tickets

Springfield, MO – The Springfield Cardinals are excited to partner with the Foundation for Springfield Public Schools to host the 2017 Stuff the Bus School Supplies Drive at Hammons Field.

Running right now through the Sunday, August 6 game at Hammons Field, the Cardinals are seeking donations of new school supplies. All fans that donate from the list of needed school supplies below may purchase a discounted $1 ticket to the August 6 game for each item donated.

Below is a list of needed school supplies for the Stuff the Bus School Supplies Drive:

-Washable Markers
-Mead Composition Books
-Portfolio Folders with Pockets
-Mechanical Pencils
-Pens
-Backpacks
-Tissues
-Anti-bacterial Wipes
-Colored Pencils
-Crayons
-Glue Sticks
-Scissors

To donate, please bring your new school supplies from the above list to the Cardinals Ticket Office at Gate 1 at Hammons Field. The Ticket Office is open from 9am – 5pm, Monday – Friday, and from 9am through the game on gamedays.

First Pitch on Sunday, August 6 is 6:10pm with gates opening at 5:10pm. Sunday also features the Sysco Foods Team Baseball Card Set Giveaway (2,000) and is a Hiland Dairy Ice Cream Sunday with free ice cream for kids before the game. All kids can also run the bases after the game.

For more information, call the Front Office at (417) 863-0395 or visit SpringfieldCardinals.com.

Route 66 Super Soft Shirts, Willie McGee Bobbleheads, Dance Party Fireworks and more during August 3 – 6 homestand

The Cardinals continue the road trip in Tulsa on Tuesday at 7:05pm. Catch all the action live on Jock 98.7 FM and SpringfieldCardinals.com, and tune in 15 minutes early for the Coyote’s Sports Cafe Pregame Show.

Springfield then returns home for the next fun-filled homestand from Thursday, August 3 – Sunday, August 6. Don’t miss any of the upcoming fun, including:

-Thursday, August 3, 7:10pm – Aaron Sachs & Associates Route 66 Super Soft Shirt Giveaway (2,000) and Klement’s “Buck a Brat” Night. Gates open at 6:10pm.

-Friday, August 4, 7:10pm – AM Pyrotechnics Friday Night Fireworks featuring Dance Party Music and a Specialty Jersey Auction to benefit the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri. Gates open at 6:10pm.

-Saturday, August 5, 6:10pm – Maria’s Mexican Restaurant Willie McGee Career Highlights Bobblehead Giveaway (2,000). Gates open at 5:10pm.

-Sunday, August 6, 6:10pm – Sysco Foods Team Baseball Card Set Giveaway (2,000), Hiland Dairy Ice Cream Sunday and Kids Run the Bases. Gates open at 5:10pm.

For information about becoming a Season Ticket Holder, organizing a Group Outing, booking a Birthday Party or ordering Individual Game Tickets right now, call the Front Office at (417) 863-2143 or visit SpringfieldCardinals.com.

Click here for the complete 2017 Promotional Schedule and to order your tickets right now.

Escape to Cardinals Baseball!

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

NATURALS FUNDRAISING PROGRAM SURPASSES $100,000 RAISED

SPRINGDALE, Ark – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are proud to announce that the popular Naturals Ticket Fundraising Program has surpassed the $100,000 raised mark. With 20 regular season home games left in 2017, the program has now raised a collective total of $100,140 for organizations throughout Northwest Arkansas and the surrounding communities.

Through 50 home games played at Arvest Ballpark, the Naturals organization has partnered with 126 groups from across the region and those groups have sold a combined 25,085 tickets. The result is a total amount of $100,140.00 raised for their respective causes, which marks the quickest that the program has accomplished the $100,000.00 feat. For comparison, during the entire 2016 season 125 groups participated in the program and sold 29,170 tickets, which raised a collective $114,125.

There are still spots available to involve an organization during home games in August and September; however, because of the popularity of the program and the amount of interest from groups, dates are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Groups in the program this year have consisted of school groups, sports teams, civic groups, non-profits, community partners, and numerous other community organizations. Families and supporters of the cause will get to come out to a Naturals game, have fun, and keep a large portion of the ticket sales. Depending on the final number of attendees, your group will get to keep anywhere from 25%-50% of the organization’s ticket sales. As an incentive and a reward, the Naturals will offer prizes to top sellers of groups and they include tours, autographs, game tickets, and First Pitch opportunities.

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

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

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

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

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

NATURALS PARTNER WITH AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE

SPRINGDALE, Ark – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are proud to partner with the American Red Cross on a blood drive in August. An emergency call for blood and platelet donations was issued due to a current shortage.

Recently it was announced that the American Red Cross is experiencing a severe blood shortage and has issued an emergency call for the need of blood and platelet donations as right now there is more blood being distributed to hospitals than being donated. Thus the American Red Cross will be hosting a blood drive in August and the Naturals are teaming up with them to try and reach a goal of over 150 donors at blood drives across the region.

Each person that donates blood or platelets to the American Red Cross from August 1 through August 15 will receive a voucher for two (2) FREE Dugout Premium tickets to the Naturals 7:05 p.m. game on Tuesday, August 22 against the Springfield Cardinals (Double-A St. Louis Cardinals). The voucher will need to be turned into the Arvest Ballpark Box Office in advance or on the day of the game where it will be exchanged for the best available seats.

Find out more information or make an appointment to give blood by downloading the Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS. The donated blood and platelets will go to patients in need.

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

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

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

Police Foundation Night July 19

CORPUS CHRISTI – Corpus Christi Police Foundation Night at Whataburger Field is Wednesday, July 19, as the Hooks play host to the Frisco RoughRiders.

Ballpark gates open at 6:05, with first pitch scheduled for 7:05.

Reserved-seat tickets for Corpus Christi Police Foundation Night are $10, and a portion of the proceeds benefit the organization. To order, contact Tanner Twomey at 361-561-4718 or ttwomey@cchooks.com.

The Corpus Christi Police Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization formed by business leaders to support the Corpus Christi Police Department. Donations made by individuals, corporations, and foundations fund special programs, officer training, equipment, and new technology, none of which are considered under the city budget.

The CCPF’s mission: To create a safer Corpus Christi by strengthening the bond between the CCPD and the citizens it serves. With community support, we can help foster a better-equipped, better-trained police force, and a better-informed and more engaged public.

H-E-B is presenting sponsor of the Corpus Christi Police Foundation.

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

Military Appreciation Night June 22

CORPUS CHRISTI – Hooks Camo Flag Caps to the first 1,500 fans from the Outlets at Corpus Christi Bay kick off the team’s annual Military Appreciation Night Thursday, June 22.

Whataburger Field gates open at 5:35 p.m., with first pitch vs. the Frisco RoughRiders scheduled for 7:05.

“The Outlets at Corpus Christi Bay are honored to partner with the Hooks for this opportunity to express gratitude to our service men and women, both active-duty and retired,” Marketing Director and Specialty Leasing Coordinator Kimberly Perez said. “Their contributions to our safety, freedom, and quality of life are immensely appreciated and we thank them.”

“We recognize current and former military members at games each night, but Thursday’s tribute enables us to go even deeper in demonstrating our appreciation for their sacrifices,” Hooks President Ken Schrom said.

In addition to Thursday’s giveaway, military service members receive discounted tickets at the box office upon presentation of ID. An appearance by Skydive South Texas, a U.S. Navy re-enlistment, and Patriot Riders presence highlight the pregame ceremonies.

The National Anthem will be performed by Marisol Castaneda.

Also Thursday, Stripes presents Thirsty Thursday, with discounted soda and beer.

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

June 23: Puppy Rescue Mission Comes to Whataburger Field

CORPUS CHRISTI – This Friday, the Corpus Christi Hooks and their fans have a unique opportunity to bless U.S. military service men and women and stray dogs and cats worldwide through the Puppy Rescue Mission’s Mystery Ball Fundraiser.

“The Puppy Rescue Mission builds on the bond our soldiers, sailors, and officers have already established with stray animals when deployed to war zones and impoverished countries,” Hooks Director of Fan Engagement JD Davis explained. “Our military personnel love and care for the cats and dogs, and their four-legged friends reciprocate with love, comfort, and encouragement during what can be extremely perilous circumstances. Many formerly deployed military members desire to give the strays forever homes. That’s the purpose of Puppy Rescue Mission.”

To raise much-needed funding for the non-profit, Jill Borkowski, wife of Hooks pitching coach Dave Borkowski, is coordinating the sale of “Mystery Balls” on the Whataburger Field concourse this Friday before and during the Corpus Christi-Frisco game at 7:05. Bags containing autographed “Mystery Balls” cost $20 each. Inside, contributors to the Puppy Rescue Mission will find an official Major League or Texas League baseball signed by a past or present Hooks player, Astros player, Hall-of-Famer (Jeff Bagwell or Craig Biggio), or MLB star.

Autographed “Mystery Balls” for sale on Friday include:

Jose Altuve

Jeff Bagwell

Carlos Beltran

Craig Biggio

Adam Everett

Dallas Keuchel

Brian McCann

Lance McCullers

George Springer

Mark Buehrle

Adrian Beltre

Nomar Mazara

Yu Darvish

Elvis Andrus

Joey Gallo

Rougned Odor

Rogelio Armenteros

J.D. Davis

Jacob Dorris

Drew Ferguson

Jack Mayfield

Antonio Nunez

Jon Singleton

Cy Sneed

Garrett Stubbs

Kyle Tucker

The Puppy Rescue Mission is a Texas-based non-profit making it possible for our brave service men and women to bring their “battle buddies” home. The Puppy Rescue Mission currently has over 40 rescues in the works at an average cost of $2,500 to $3,500 per animal.

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

NATURALS HOST MOST IMPROVED STUDENT GAMES

SPRINGDALE, Ark – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are proud to have partnered with Mercy Kids on our Mercy Kids Most Improved Student Program, which gave teachers a chance to reward students for making progress during the year. The Naturals will host three (3) Mercy Kids Most Improved Student games on June 7, June 8 and on June 12 and each game will feature a pre-game recognition on the field prior to the start of the game.

During the 2017 season, the Northwest Arkansas Naturals received a record number of nominations for the Mercy Kids Most Improved Student Program. A total of 1,226 students (up from 1,106 in 2016) were nominated by 734 different teachers. The total number of schools participating also increased from 86 in 2016 to nearly 175 in 2017.

Each student that was nominated received two (2) tickets and a Kansas City Royals Kids Zone pass to their choice of either the June 7, June 8, or June 12 games. Prior to each, the Northwest Arkansas Naturals will honor these Most Improved Students with a pre-game parade on the field where they’ll be recognized in front of the crowd. Note that the pre-game recognition on Wednesday, June 7 will occur in-between games since it is a doubleheader.

Teachers were asked to submit nominations of student(s) in their class who have shown the most improvement since the start of the school year. Measuring improvement in the classroom can be very subjective, so the guidelines for student nominations were left up to the discretion of each teacher as they could nominate students that made strides with their behavior, social involvement, academic improvement or any combination of these.

For more information on the Mercy Kids Most Improved Student Program fans can visit www.nwanaturals.com, call (479) 927-4900, email groups@nwanaturals.com, or stop out at the Administrative Office at Arvest Ballpark.

Follow the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Twitter @NWANaturals all throughout the year by using the hashtag #NaturalPastime and #CrowntoCrown for information on tickets, groups, promotions, roster, standings, statistics, and Naturals alumni in the Major Leagues.

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

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

Drillers to Partner with MiLB for Sun Safety Initiative

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) today announced the launch of a partnership with the American Cancer Society to promote sun safety measures.

The Cover Your Bases initiative will provide over 75,000 free sunscreen samples, provided by Bullfrog Sunscreen and Blue Lizard Sunscreen, to Minor League Baseball fans at over 80 ballparks between Memorial Day and June 30. In addition to the free sunscreen samples, participating Minor League Baseball clubs will provide fans information on skin cancer and measures they can take to proactively reduce the risk of cancerous developments due to overexposure to UV rays.

The Tulsa Drillers will be one of the participating clubs in this initiative as they will be handing out 1,000 sample packages of Blue Lizard Sunscreen at their matinee home game at ONEOK Field on Monday, June 12th. During that day, the Drillers will be reminding fans in various ways of the benefits of being safe in the sun, while warning them of the risks of excessive sun exposure.

“Minor League Baseball has long been a staple of summertime in America, and being outdoors increases the risk of overexposure to the sun and its potentially damaging rays,” said Minor League Baseball President and CEO Pat O’Conner. “This partnership will help educate our fans on ways they can enjoy summer activities safely, as well as methods of cancer prevention and treatment.”

The American Cancer Society recommends:

• Seek shade: Avoid being outdoors in direct sunlight too long between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV light is strongest.

• Protect your skin with clothing: When you are out in the sun, wear clothing to cover your skin. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or long skirts cover the most skin and are the most protective. A tightly woven fabric protects better than loosely woven clothing. If you can see light through a fabric, UV rays can get through, too.

• Wear a hat: A hat with at least a 2- to 3-inch brim all around is ideal because it protects areas that are often exposed to intense sun, such as the ears, eyes, forehead, nose, and scalp.

• Wear sunglasses that block UV rays

• Use sunscreen: Use an SPF 30 or higher broad spectrum sunscreen. Ideally, about one ounce, about a shot glass or palmful, should be used to cover the arms, legs, neck, and face of the average adult. Sunscreen needs to be reapplied at least every two hours to maintain protection.

“Each year, more than 3 million people develop skin cancer, the most common of all cancers,” said Sharon Byers, chief development and marketing officer, American Cancer Society. “This partnership gives us an opportunity to educate baseball fans about being sun smart.”

#MiLB#

About Minor League Baseball

Minor League Baseball, headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, is the governing body for all professional baseball teams in the United States, Canada, and the Dominican Republic that are affiliated with Major League Baseball® clubs through their farm systems. Fans are coming out in unprecedented numbers to this one-of-a-kind experience that can only be found at Minor League Baseball ballparks. In 2016, Minor League Baseball attracted 41.3 million fans to its ballparks to see the future stars of the sport hone their skills. From the electricity in the stands to the excitement on the field, Minor League Baseball has provided affordable family-friendly entertainment to people of all ages since its founding in 1901. For more information, visit www.MiLB.com.

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

NATURALS FUNDRAISING PROGRAM ON RECORD PACE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NATURALS PARTNER WITH GRAND LAKE CASINO ON WINNING FOR CHARITY PROMOTION

SPRINGDALE, Ark – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals and Grand Lake Casino are proud to support the Northwest Arkansas community by partnering on a new ‘Winning for Charity’ promotion that will be instituted during regular season home games.

For each Naturals’ victory at Arvest Ballpark during the 2017 regular season, Grand Lake Casino will donate $100 to a local charity. For all April and May wins, the donation will be given to Lifeline of Northwest Arkansas, proceeds from June and July victories will be given to Cancer Charity 4 Life, and Arkansas Children’s Northwest will be the beneficiary of wins in August.

“Grand Lake Casino is committed to giving back” said Grand Lake Casino General Manager Dusty Logan. “The Northwest Arkansas community are our neighbors and we are so pleased to partner with the Naturals to donate to charities that do such great work in the Northwest Arkansas area.”

The ‘Winning for Charity’ partnership with Grand Lake Casino continues with the Northwest Arkansas Naturals’ tradition of giving back to the local community as the Naturals’ ticket fundraising program has helped raise over $100,000 in six straight seasons for area groups, including over $20,000 in the first homestand of 2017 alone. In addition to the ticket fundraising program, the organization has also contributed to over 200 non-profit events and silent auctions so far this year.

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

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

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

ANNUAL FREE YOUTH BASEBALL CLINIC SET FOR SATURDAY, MAY 13

SPRINGDALE, Ark. – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals will partner with Great Day Farms once again on the tenth annual FREE Youth Baseball Clinic that will take place at Arvest Ballpark from 2 p.m. until 3:45 p.m. on Saturday, May 13 in advance of that night’s 6:05 p.m. game against the Tulsa Drillers, the Double-A Los Angeles Dodgers.

The Youth Baseball Clinic is open to children ages 6-12 and will cover instruction of key baseball fundamentals, including hitting, fielding, pitching, and base running. All kids that register will receive a complimentary 1B/3B Reserved ticket to that night’s game that features a Salvador Perez ‘Gold Glove’ Bobblehead Giveaway for the first 2000 fans in attendance courtesy of CCF Brands. Perez, an illustrious 2011 alum, is a four-time Gold Glove winner, the 2016 Silver Slugger winner for catcher in the American League, and was the 2015 World Series MVP. In addition, all clinic participants that attend the game that night will be recognized on the field prior to first pitch.

Instruction during the clinic will be given by select members of the Naturals’ team and coaching staff. Following the instruction portion of the clinic, an autograph session will occur on the concourse on the 1st base side for approximately 15 minutes before the ballpark is cleared in preparation for that night’s game against Tulsa.

There is a registration form titled YOUTH BASEBALL CLINIC REGISTRATION FORM located on the Naturals website, nwanaturals.com, under the TICKETS & PROMOTIONS tab that interested parents can fill out to register their son or daughter for the clinic. The FREE Youth Baseball Clinic is also open to local youth coaches as they may also fill out the form for their respective players. The deadline to register for the event is Friday, May 5 but participants are encouraged to sign up quickly, as previous events have filled to capacity prior to the deadline. Check-in begins at Arvest Ballpark at 1:30pm on the day of the event so we ask that you arrive early as participation is limited to the first 500 children. Participants are asked to only bring their glove and wear proper baseball attire.

Following the FREE Youth Baseball Clinic, Arvest Ballpark will be cleared and then the gates will re-open at 4:35 p.m. for the Naturals game against the Tulsa Drillers that is scheduled to begin at 6:05 p.m. If you have any questions regarding the clinic or game, please call (479) 927-4900 or email streetteam@nwanaturals.com.

In The Northwest Arkansas Naturals will host the San Antonio Missions, the Double-A Affiliate of the San Diego Padres, on Thursday, April 6 at 6:25 p.m. for Opening Day of Season 10 of Naturals Baseball at Arvest Ballpark.

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

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

NATURALS, WHATABURGER TEAM UP ON FIELD OF DREAMS PROGRAM

SPRINGDALE, Ark. – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are excited to team up with Whataburger again on the Field of Dreams program for the 2017 season, which will begin at Arvest Ballpark on Thursday, April 6 at 6:25 p.m. for Opening Day.

The Naturals Field of Dreams program presented by Whataburger is one of the most popular programs offered at Arvest Ballpark and is seen as an integral part of the Naturals baseball experience. The program gives kids a unique game day experience and is offered at all 70 home games. More than 2,200 kids have participated in the program over the past three seasons as the Naturals Field of Dreams program is open to all youth teams, not just baseball, softball and T-ball teams.

Whether it is for a pre-season or post-season party or just an outing during the year, the Naturals invite youth teams from across the region to take part in an action packed day at Arvest Ballpark. Before the Naturals game begins, teams will take an exclusive VIP behind-the-scenes tour of Arvest Ballpark, be introduced on the field, recognized on the HD videoboard and given the opportunity to take the field with their favorite Naturals prior to the game for the National Anthem. Each player will also receive a coupon courtesy of Whataburger that is redeemable at any of their Northwest Arkansas locations.

“We’re excited to partner with the Naturals to make it an extra special season for some of our youth teams,” said Whataburger Director of Operations Mark Wallace. “There’s nothing better than seeing the smiles on all the kids’ faces and we’re proud to bring the community together for a fun ballpark experience.”

The Naturals encourage all coaches, players, family and friends to take advantage of the Field of Dreams program through discounted group tickets and food combos that are offered as part of the experience. The Naturals guarantee that groups will be seated together in the best available section as group rates start as low as $7 for seats within the seating bowl.

To reserve your team a spot for a game during the 2017 season, please visit our website www.nwanaturals.com and download the Field of Dreams flyer located under the Groups and Events tab. Fans can also contact Brad Ziegler with the Naturals at (479) 927-4069 or brad@nwanaturals.com for more information about the program and date availability throughout the year.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals will host the San Antonio Missions, the Double-A Affiliate of the San Diego Padres, on Thursday, April 6 at 6:25 p.m. for Opening Day of Season 10 of Naturals Baseball at Arvest Ballpark.

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

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

WALMART, NATURALS JOIN FORCES ON MILITARY APPRECIATION SUNDAYS

SPRINGDALE, Ark. – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are extremely proud to join forces with Walmart on our Military Appreciation Sundays. Military Appreciation Sundays presented by Walmart were created to honor the men and women that serve or have served in the United States Military by giving them special recognition in advance of every Sunday home game.

Military Appreciation Sundays presented by Walmart will take place at all 11 Sunday home games this year. The nominated men and women that are selected for the program will be recognized and honored with an on-field or videoboard recognition during a special pre-game ceremony, four (4) complimentary Super Premium tickets, and a special certificate of recognition.

Whether it’s to honor a friend, relative, or to reunite a recently returned home veteran with their family, we ask that interested fans visit our website www.nwanaturals.com and fill out one (1) of the forms located under the Community tab titled Walmart Military Appreciation Nomination Form or the Printable Walmart Military Appreciation Form. If you’ve selected the printable form we’d ask that you fill it out and email or fax it to the Naturals at the contact information listed on the nomination form. You may also drop it off at our Administrative Office located at Arvest Ballpark between 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday.

On Memorial Day 2013, Walmart introduced the Veterans Welcome Home Commitment which guaranteed a job offer to any eligible, honorably discharged U.S. veteran who was within 12 months of active duty. The initial goal was to hire 100,000 veterans by the end of 2018. In May 2015, Walmart announced the expansion of this projection with a new goal of hiring 250,000 veterans by the end of 2020. The company also changed the eligibility from within 12 months of active duty to any veteran honorably discharged since we announced the original commitment. Since Memorial Day 2013, Walmart has offered jobs to more than 150,000 veterans through the Veteran Welcome Home Commitment and more than 19,000 have been promoted to roles of higher pay and greater responsibility. To explore career options with the company visit walmartcareerswithamission.com.

In addition to Military Appreciation Sundays, the Naturals will continue to offer a Military discount at every home game. A Military ID, when shown at the Arvest Ballpark Box Office, is valid for a $1 discount off the regular ticket price to home games.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals will host the San Antonio Missions, the Double-A Affiliate of the San Diego Padres, on Thursday, April 6 at 6:25 p.m. for Opening Day of Season 10 of Naturals Baseball at Arvest Ballpark.

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

-Naturals-

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

RoughRiders donate to Jerry Walker Fund

The RoughRiders Foundation presented a $3,000 check to the Jerry Walker Fund on Tuesday in Little Elm. (Frisco RoughRiders)

FRISCO, Texas (February 14, 2017) – The Frisco RoughRiders today donated $3,000 to the Jerry Walker Fund in a check presentation alongside the Little Elm Police Department.

Little Elm Chief of Police Rodney W. Harrison and several officers attended the event at the Little Elm Public Safety Building, with the check presented on behalf of the RoughRiders by Breon Dennis, Executive Director of RoughRiders Foundation.

“On behalf of the Little Elm Police Department, I would like to thank the RoughRiders Baseball organization for their support of the Walker Family and LEPD,” Chief of Police Harrison said. “We sincerely appreciate the entire baseball community for their contributions to the Jerry Walker Fund and the care they have shown to the men and women of our police force. We could not ask for better neighbors.”

Funds were raised during the Texas Rangers Winter Caravan at Dr Pepper Ballpark on Jan. 28.

Walker died in the line of duty on Jan. 17. He left behind a wife and four children.

About the Jerry Walker Fund

Donations can be made to the Assist the Officer Foundation, Attn: Jerry Walker Fund, 1412 Griffin St. East, Dallas, TX 75215.

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play their games at beautiful Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance in each of the last 12 seasons (2005-2016). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg and Scott Sonju. The new ownership group, together with the city of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise improvements over the past two seasons, investing more than $7 million in a wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including a new state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store, and the newest and biggest creation, the 174-foot Choctaw Lazy River. The upgrades made prior to the 2015 season earned the Riders and the City of Frisco “Best Ballpark Renovation” of 2015 by Ballpark Digest. The same publication also honored the Choctaw Lazy River as the best ballpark improvement over $1 million for the 2016 season. More than 140 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball, including All-Stars Chris Davis, Adrian Gonzalez, Ian Kinsler, and Nelson Cruz, as well as current Rangers stars Elvis Andrus, Rougned Odor, and Nomar Mazara. For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders and Dr Pepper Ballpark, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact Art Garcia at AGarcia@RidersBaseball.com or Ryan Rouillard at RRouillard@RidersBaseball.com.