Mudcats Join MiLB’s CommUNITY First Campaign

 

ZEBULON, N.C., April 28, 2020 – The Carolina Mudcats today announced they are joining MiLB CommUNITY First, a new national initiative developed by Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) in conjunction with Feeding America®, to raise funds for local food banks and to honor individuals risking their lives on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mudcats fans are encouraged to visit MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst through May 31 to donate. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and the Carolina Mudcats as the recipient of their donation to direct funds to the Triangle and East Wake community. For every $10 donated, the Mudcats will donate one ticket to a future home game to a local hero of the pandemic.

School closures, rising unemployment and rising poverty due to quarantine and extended stay-at-home orders have disproportionately impacted people already at risk of hunger and could result in an estimated additional 17.1 million people experiencing food insecurity in the next six months, according to Feeding America. As the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization with a network of more than 200 affiliates, Feeding America has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.

In response, contributions from Mudcats fans and Minor League Baseball will help ensure families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic are fed and cared for during these uncertain times. Join the national campaign by donating and selecting “Carolina Mudcats” at MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst and use #MiLBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

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About Carolina Mudcats
The Carolina Mudcats are the proud Carolina League, Class-A Advanced affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. First established in 1991, the two-time Southern League Champion Mudcats are entering their 30th consecutive season of baseball at Five County Stadium in Zebulon, N.C. The Mudcats are owned and operated by the Milwaukee Brewers.

About Feeding America
Feeding America® is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs, we provide meals to more than 40 million people each year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Individuals, charities, businesses and government all have a role in ending hunger. Donate. Volunteer. Advocate. Educate. Together we can solve hunger. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

Fayetteville Woodpeckers Join Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY First Campaign

 

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – The Fayetteville Woodpeckers announced today they are joining MiLB CommUNITY First, a new national initiative developed by Minor League Baseball in conjunction with Feeding America, to raise funds for local food banks and to honor individuals risking their lives on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Woodpeckers fans are encouraged to visit MILB.com/CommUNITYFirst starting today, April 28th through May 31st to donate. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and the Fayetteville Woodpeckers as the recipient of their donation to direct funds to Fayetteville’s Second Harvest Food Bank of Southeastern North Carolina. For every $10 raised, the Woodpeckers will donate one ticket to a future home game this season or in 2021 to a local hero of the pandemic. Additionally, the club has pledged to match up to $3,000 of the donation amount contributed to this initiative from their team charity, The Fayetteville Woodpeckers Fund.

“We admire Minor League Baseball’s activity during this challenging period,” said Mark Zarthar, President of the Fayetteville Woodpeckers. “They have continued to engage with baseball fans throughout the nation and support the small businesses that are MiLB clubs. The CommUNITYFirst initiative will leverage the scale of our platform to both feed the hungry and honor those on the front lines. We are proud to partner with MiLB and Feeding America.”

School closures, rising unemployment and poverty due to quarantine and extended stay-at-home orders have disproportionately impacted people already at risk of hunger and could result in an estimated additional 17.1 million people experiencing food insecurity in the next six months, according to Feeding America. As the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization with a network of more than 200 affiliates, Feeding America has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.

In response, contributions from Fayetteville Woodpeckers fans and Minor League Baseball will help ensure families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic are fed and cared for during these uncertain times. Join the national campaign by donating and selecting Fayetteville Woodpeckers at https://milbstore.com/products/milb-community-first and use #MILBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

 

Book Smart: READing RailRoad Returns for 2020

 

MOOSIC, PA (April 15, 2020) – The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are pleased to announce the return of their READing RailRoad program this spring and summer. Schools across the state have been required to remain closed for the remainder of the academic year, with continued education turning to homeschooling and online offerings. The RailRiders reading program allows children aged 4-13 the chance to read five books and be rewarded for their work with a free ticket to an upcoming home game at PNC Field.

“As parents and guardians look to help their children’s education, we are happy to bring back this great program,” said Jordan Maydole, the RailRiders Director of Community Relations. “The READing RailRoad is a simple way to have your child read five books, get the reward of a free baseball ticket and the satisfaction of accomplishment in these unusual times.”

Parents and guardians must register their child or children by sending their name, their phone number, their child’s name and their mailing address to Jordan Maydole. Each participant can download and print their own READing RailRoad bookmark to track the books that they read. As each book is finished, the reading log on the bookmark must be completed and the parent/guardian must initial each numbered box. When all five books are read, parents must send a completed copy or photo of the bookmark to [email protected].

The READing RailRoad program is limited to one bookmark and free ticket per child. Parents may purchase tickets for family and friends when redeeming the child’s free ticket voucher at the E-Auto Box Office at PNC Field once it reopens. The ticket voucher is valid for one 2020 regular season home game once the schedule begins and those tickets are subject to availability. Vouchers will be mailed to each participating household once the child has completed reading five books, the parent or guardian sends a photo or copy of the child’s completed bookmark (with parent initials) to [email protected] and as soon as the RailRiders staff is back in the office at PNC Field. Participants must finish the five books and submit proof of completion by June 19, 2020, to be eligible for their free ticket voucher.

More information and the printable bookmark are available now at swbrailriders.com.

Salem Red Sox Raise Over $1700 for Non-Profits

 

Salem, Virginia (April 9, 2020) – The Salem Red Sox raised over $1700 during the recent “I Miss Baseball” fundraising campaign. Partnering with local vendor Press Press Merch, the collaboration included the development of a limited edition “I Miss Baseball” Salem Red Sox t-shirt. The efforts focused on supporting non-profits in Southwest Virginia, during the COVID-19 crisis.

“The Salem Red Sox wanted to find a way to give back to our local community in this time of need,” said Group Sales Manager, Alex Michel. “While we do not have the daily escape that sports gives us, we felt we wanted to spread positivity by creating a t-shirt that helps give to our local non-profit organizations that we partner with and support.”

Over 130 t-shirts were purchased during the campaign, with 2019 Salem Red Sox outfielder Tyler Esplin purchasing 30 for the Lake Bluff U12 travel baseball team in his hometown of Lake Bluff, Illinois. With each purchase, fans received one t-shirt and two undated tickets for the 2020 season, with proceeds going to the non-profit of their choice. Additionally, the Red Sox announced a matching campaign in which every donation made, the team would provide two complimentary tickets for healthcare workers at Carilion and other healthcare facilities. Esplin chose to donate his tickets and proceeds to Carilion Children’s.

“We were excited to partner with the Salem Red Sox during this initiative”, said Greg Szechenyi, owner of Press Press Merch. “This was a fun and engaging way to connect with our communities and local non-profits, all while supporting our local professional baseball team.”

While the Salem Red Sox season is currently postponed, the Red Sox continued to develop unique ways to stay connected to the fans near and far away. Follow the Salem Red Sox on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay up-to-date on daily activities and information.

The Salem Red Sox are the Advanced-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox and call Salem Memorial Stadium in Salem, Virginia home. The team was founded in 1968 and purchased by Fenway Sports Management in December of 2007.

 

School of Snappy Reading Club and Worksheets 

 

April 13, 2020

Snappers Educational Tools

Beloit, WI – The Beloit Snappers are providing educational tools for children in the community to continue working on all core school subjects from the comfort of home. Completing these worksheets and challenges gives your child the opportunity to win prizes while also continuing to practice their valuable skills.

All worksheets can be found on our Educational Resources tab on our website, on the Beloit Snappers Facebook page and the Beloit Snappers Twitter page.

The Snappers Reading Club is sponsored by McDonald’s and completing the form can get your child a 4-piece McNuggets voucher and a free reserve ticket for a future Snappers game. Read to or with your children for at least 25 minutes per day, five days a week for four weeks and keep a log using the worksheet provided.

The Reading Club Challenge begins on Monday April 13, 2020 and goes through Monday May 11, 2020. To be eligible for this challenge, your child must be between the ages of 4-12.

Educators Credit Union and the Snappers have teamed up to provide children with Snappy’s School Worksheets. This baseball related packet is complete with Math, English, Science, Geography, History, and other fun activities to encourage learning while away from school.

These are designed to keep your child busy while learning and having fun! For any questions, please contact Kat Grzeszkiewicz at [email protected] .

Bulls Launch Wool E.’s Reading Club

 

The Durham Bulls announced today the launch of Wool E.’s Reading Club, in partnership with Amica Insurance. The inaugural season of this program will reach approximately 5,000 students from Durham Public Schools.

The mission of this program is not only to reward students for making time outside of the classroom to read, but also to improve overall literacy in the Triangle. While sports promote health and physical activity through exercise, reading develops the brain, a muscle that also needs exercise. Reading stimulates the mind and allows students to grow in their language skills. This helps them to better listen and engage with peers, educators and the school curriculum.

Our goal is to empower 5,000 K-5 Triangle students to read at least 40,000 hours in 2020. Participants will receive a custom Wool E.’s Reading Club bookmark and be rewarded with a Bulls branded prize every time they reach a new base by completing the assigned segment of reading. Students who submit a completed bookmark, equal to 500 minutes of reading, will receive a complimentary ticket to a Durham Bulls game thanks to Amica Insurance.

“We are excited to launch this reading program as a way to encourage Triangle students to invest in their education,” Durham Bulls Vice President – Baseball Operations Mike Birling said. “Hopefully the incentives we provide to participating students will get them excited about not only reading, but also Durham Bulls baseball.”

The Bulls look to start the 2020 season strong at their home opener on Thursday, April 9, 2020 against the Charlotte Knights. Season memberships and group outings are available now at durhambulls.com or by calling 919.956.BULL.

Sod Poodles Announce Reading Program Presented by Kumon

The Amarillo Sod Poodles announced today the launch of their brand-new reading program presented by Kumon Math and Reading Center of Amarillo.

The program’s mission is to help promote literacy and education among local Amarillo and Canyon students by providing incentives when they reach specific goals. The program is completely free for participating schools and is set to impact approximately 9,000 students in Amarillo and Canyon school districts in levels K-7.

“The Sod Poodles are committed to making a continued positive impact in our great community,” said Tony Ensor, President and General Manager of the Sod Poodles. “We are excited and proud to launch this motivating and fun program heading into our sequel season to promote lifelong reading and education to the future leaders of this community.”

“Kumon Math and Reading Center of Amarillo is proud to announce our new partnership with the Amarillo Sod Poodles, who share our mission to help children succeed in life!” said Vibha Patel, owner of Kumon Math and Reading Center of Amarillo. “This is a new, multi-year marketing partnership between the world’s largest after-school learning program and the first-ever Sod Poodles Reading Program. In addition to enhancing math and reading skills, Kumon helps children gain confidence and improve critical thinking skills that are essential to succeed inside and outside of the classroom. This partnership provides a unique opportunity to reach children of all ages and emphasize the importance of learning and reading through sports. By providing a fun goal for our children, reading can be made easy for the whole family and increase reading fluency by just reading 10 minutes a night! We want to encourage our children to see a whole new world through books!”

“We look forward to partnering with the Sod Poodles on this reading incentive program,” said Denise Blanchard, AISD Program Director for Community Partnerships. “The ability to read and read well is imperative to the success of our students.”

Intended as a five-week program, students are encouraged to “complete a game” by reading nine books that are appropriate to their particular level of reading comprehension.

Like a baseball game, the program is divided into a nine-inning format. For every book a student finishes, they complete an inning. After the first three innings are completed and he/she moves on to innings four through eight, the students earn incentives from program sponsors including Whataburger, Cinergy, McDonald’s, Sonic, and Gatti’s.

After a student finishes the ninth (final) inning, they receive a free voucher for a Sod Poodles game and are entered in a drawing to win a prize on behalf of Kumon Math and Reading Center of Amarillo.

All materials for the free reading program will be provided and delivered to schools by the Amarillo Sod Poodles. The program is scheduled to run from March 2 to April 3.

To kick off the program, Sod Poodles team mascot RUCKUS will be attending school assemblies to promote the program and get students excited.

For information on how to be a part of next year’s Sod Poodles reading program presented by Kumon, call the front office at 806-803-7762 or email [email protected]. The Sod Poodles host their 2020 home opener at HODGETOWN on Thursday, April 16 against the Arkansas Travelers (Seattle Mariners Double-A affiliate) for a three-game set. First pitch for the 2020 home opener is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

For the most up-to-date news on the Sod Poodles along with detailed information on promotions, follow the team on social media @sodpoodles on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For questions and more information, call 806-803-7762 or email [email protected].

 

Kazoo’s Reading Program Promotes Childhood Literacy

 

A visit from Kazoo is certainly one way to break up a long day at school.

On February 6th, Oakcrest Elementary students received a visit from Kazoo and the Blue Wahoos as part of Kazoo’s Reading Program. In two 30-minute sessions, hundreds of thrilled Pensacola youngsters read Kazoo Makes the Team and witnessed a performance from the mascot himself. The kids left with a bookmark and a challenge: read four books in one month and receive a free ticket to a 2020 Blue Wahoos game.

In its existence, the reading program has made countless visits to local schools in Florida and Alabama, working to promote literacy and a love of reading early in life. In 2019 alone, Kazoo made trips to 32 schools and met 14,000 students, who combined to read over 56,000 books.

“The Blue Wahoos helped us celebrate literacy,” said JC Cotton, Assistant Principal of Florosa Elementary School in Mary Esther. “To hear the screams and see our kids’ faces when Kazoo popped out from behind the curtain was absolutely tremendous. Kazoo and the Blue Wahoos did a terrific job of sharing their love of reading with our kids. Definitely a memorable moment from our school year!”

The reading program is just one part of the organization’s mission to make Pensacola the greatest place to live; the Wahoos and the Studer Family of Companies believe that investing in the area’s kids is the best way to strengthen the community and improve quality of life.

Your child’s school can still sign up to participate in Kazoo’s Reading Program! Share this article with their teachers and encourage them to submit a form for their class here.

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

Round Rock Express Release 2020 Community Awareness Nights

 

ROUND ROCK, Texas – The Round Rock Express are proud to host 13 unique community awareness nights and drives during the 2020 season, the team announced on Wednesday morning. During Round Rock’s promotional rollout for the upcoming season, the Express also announced the return of Pints & Pups and Round Rock Chupacabras, as part of Minor League Baseball’s Copa de la Diversión campaign, which will each take place once a month at Dell Diamond.

The Express kick off their 2020 community awareness nights schedule with Deaf Awareness Night, benefiting the Texas School for the Deaf on Wednesday, April 22 at 7:05 p.m. against the Omaha Storm Chasers (Kansas City Royals affiliate).

On Sunday, April 26, the team will host a book drive to benefit Carver Elementary School during the 1:05 p.m. game against the Iowa Cubs (Chicago Cubs affiliate).

A day later, on Monday, April 27, the Express will host a special 11:35 a.m. Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Day benefiting the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Round Rock’s annual Cancer Awareness Day is scheduled for 1:05 p.m. on Sunday, May 17 against the San Antonio Missions (Milwaukee Brewers affiliate). St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will be both the presenting sponsor and beneficiary on the special afternoon when the team honors all those impacted by cancer.

On Monday, May 18, the Express will host a backpack drive to benefit Foster Angels of Central Texas during the 7:05 p.m. game against San Antonio.

Next up, on Wednesday, June 3, Round Rock will host its inaugural Diabetes Awareness Night, benefiting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, during the team’s 7:05 p.m. game against the Nashville Sounds (Texas Rangers affiliate).

On Sunday, June 7, the E-Train will hold a toy drive to benefit the Salvation Army during the 6:05 p.m. game against Nashville.

Autism Awareness Night, benefiting the Autism Society of Texas, returns to Dell Diamond on Wednesday, June 17 for the 7:05 p.m. game against the Las Vegas Aviators (Oakland Athletics affiliate).

The Express will be accepting donations of school supplies to benefit the Round Rock ISD Partners in Education Foundation on Sunday, July 5 against the Oklahoma City Dodgers (Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate).

Round Rock’s first-ever Cerebral Palsy Awareness Night is scheduled for Wednesday, August 5 at 7:05 p.m. The night will benefit Cerebral Palsy Awareness Transition Hope during the game against the El Paso Chihuahuas (San Diego Padres affiliate).

On Thursday, August 20, the Express are teaming up with Texas Humane Heroes to hold a pet supply drive during the 7:05 p.m. game against Oklahoma City.

Later that month, Round Rock will host Alzheimer’s Awareness Night to benefit Alzheimer’s Texas on Monday, August 31 at 7:05 p.m. as the Memphis Redbirds (St. Louis Cardinals affiliate) come to town.

Finally, during the last home game of the season on Monday, September 7 against the Missions, the Express will hold a children’s coat drive benefiting Coats for Kids, presented by the Junior League of Austin. Fans who donate a coat will receive a general admission outfield lawn ticket to that day’s game.

Fans who donate to one of Round Rock’s other five drives throughout the season will receive a voucher for two reserved tickets to a future Sunday-Thursday regular-season game in 2020, subject to availability and some exclusions apply.

A full list of Round Rock’s community awareness nights and drives is below:

 Date Game Time Opponent Community Awareness Night or Drive
April 22 7:05 p.m. Omaha Storm Chasers
(Kansas City Royals affiliate)		 Deaf Awareness Night

benefiting the Texas School for the Deaf
April 26 1:05 p.m. Iowa Cubs
(Chicago Cubs affiliate)		 Book Drive

benefiting Carver Elementary School
April 27 11:35 a.m. Iowa Cubs
(Chicago Cubs affiliate)		 Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Day

benefiting the Multiple Sclerosis Society
May 17 1:05 p.m. San Antonio Missions
(Milwaukee Brewers affiliate)		 Cancer Awareness Day

benefiting and presented by St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
May 18 7:05 p.m. San Antonio Missions
(Milwaukee Brewers affiliate)		 Backpack Drive

benefiting Foster Angels of Central Texas
June 3 7:05 p.m. Nashville Sounds
(Texas Rangers affiliate)		 Diabetes Awareness Night

benefiting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
June 7 6:05 p.m. Nashville Sounds

(Texas Rangers affiliate)

 Toy Drive

benefiting the Salvation Army
June 17 7:05 p.m. Las Vegas Aviators

(Oakland Athletics affiliate)

 Autism Awareness Night

benefiting the Autism Society of Texas
July 5 6:05 p.m. Oklahoma City Dodgers

(Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate)

 School Supply Drive

benefiting Round Rock ISD Partners in Education
August 5 7:05 p.m. El Paso Chihuahuas

(San Diego Padres affiliate)

 Cerebral Palsy Awareness Night

benefiting Cerebral Palsy Awareness Transition Hope
August 20 7:05 p.m. Oklahoma City Dodgers
(Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate)		 Pet Supply Drive

benefiting Texas Humane Heroes
August 31 7:05 p.m. Memphis Redbirds

(St. Louis Cardinals affiliate)

 Alzheimer’s Awareness Night

benefiting Alzheimer’s Texas
September 7 11:35 a.m. San Antonio Missions

(Milwaukee Brewers affiliate)

 Children’s Coat Drive

benefiting Coats for Kids
presented by the Junior League of Austin

Once a month in 2020, Dell Diamond is going to the dogs! Fans are invited to bring their dogs to the ballpark for Pints & Pups night, presented by Supercuts, on April 23, May 7, June 4, July 16, August 20 and September 3. Each event coincides with discounted draft beer specials as part of Firetrol Protection System’s The Original Thirsty Thursday. Back in 2020, The Original Thirsty Thursday features 24 oz. domestic beers for $5 as well as 24 oz. craft beers for $6.

As part of Minor League Baseball’s Copa de la Diversión campaign, the Round Rock Chupacabras are set to make six appearances throughout the season. The Express will transform into the Chupacabras on April 26, May 5, June 18, July 19, August 7 and September 4. For more information on Round Rock’s fearsome alter ego, visit RRChupacabras.com.

The full list of Pints & Pups as well as Round Rock Chupacabras dates are below:

Date Game Time Opponent Event
April 23 7:05 p.m. Omaha Storm Chasers (Kansas City Royals affiliate) Pints & Pups
April 26 1:05 p.m. Iowa Cubs (Chicago Cubs affiliate) Round Rock Chupacabras
May 5 7:05 p.m. Memphis Redbirds (St. Louis Cardinals affiliate) Round Rock Chupacabras
May 7 7:05 p.m. Memphis Redbirds (St. Louis Cardinals affiliate) Pints & Pups
June 4 7:05 p.m. Nashville Sounds (Texas Rangers affiliate) Pints & Pups
June 18 7:05 p.m. Las Vegas Aviators (Oakland Athletics affiliate) Round Rock Chupacabras
July 16 7:05 p.m. Iowa Cubs (Chicago Cubs affiliate) Pints & Pups
July 19 6:05 p.m. Iowa Cubs (Chicago Cubs affiliate) Round Rock Chupacabras
August 7 7:05 p.m. El Paso Chihuahuas (San Diego Padres affiliate) Round Rock Chupacabras
August 20 7:05 p.m. Oklahoma City Dodgers (Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate) Pints & Pups
September 3 7:05 p.m. Memphis Redbirds (St. Louis Cardinals affiliate) Pints & Pups
September 4 7:05 p.m. San Antonio Missions (Milwaukee Brewers affiliate) Round Rock Chupacabras

Fans can now purchase tickets to each of the 23 dates featuring a community awareness night or drive, Pints & Pups event or Round Rock Chupacabras appearance online at RRExpress.com.

Round Rock’s promotional rollout continues on Thursday, February 13 with the announcement of nearly two dozen Express theme nights, then concludes with the unveiling of nightly promotions that fans can enjoy during each Express home game in 2020. Corresponding groups of single game tickets will be on sale each day during the promotional rollout.

Single game ticket pricing for the 2020 season is as follows:

Ticket Type Sections Advanced Purchase* Day-of-Game Purchase*
Diamond Reserved 114-124, Rows 1-10 and Section 119 Starting at $20.00 Starting at $22.00
Infield Reserved 114-124, Rows 11 & up Starting at $18.00 Starting at $20.00
Reserved 110-113, 125-128 Starting at $16.00 Starting at $18.00
Home Run Porch 206-209 Starting at $12.00 Starting at $14.00
Lawn General Admission Starting at $9.00 Starting at $10.00
Rockers Under Home Run Porch Starting at $20.00 Starting at $22.00
4 Topps Top of Section 123 Starting at $120.00** Starting at $120.00**

* plus tax                             ** includes seating for four

The Express kick off the 2020 season on Thursday, April 9 against the newest member of the Pacific Coast League, the Wichita Wind Surge (Miami Marlins affiliate) at 7:05 p.m. at Dell Diamond. Select single game tickets as well as full season and mini season membership plans are on sale now. For more information on the Express, visit RRExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!

Worcester Red Sox Create “The WooSox Foundation” to Benefit the City, the Region, and the Commonwealth

Education to be first area of focus: Worcester Public Library and Worcester Public Schools to be first beneficiaries– WPL Foundation to receive $25,000 donation; Library to receive books to begin a “Baseball Book Nook”

WORCESTER, MA – As promised in the Community Benefits Agreement with the City of Worcester and the Worcester Community Labor Coalition, the Worcester Red Sox today announced the creation of the “WooSox Foundation” to benefit the people and the charities of the city, the region, and the Commonwealth.

The foundation’s first area of focus will be education, and two of the first beneficiaries will be the Worcester Public Library Foundation and the Worcester Public Schools.

The foundation will donate $25,000 to the library, and will also donate books from the personal libraries of the club’s Principal Owner & Chairman, Red Sox Hall of Famer Larry Lucchino, as well as Vice-Chairman and Worcester native Mike Tamburro, and club President Dr. Charles Steinberg. Each has amassed a collection in their more than 40 years in baseball. The books will begin a “Baseball Book Nook” at the library.

Worcester Public Schools middle schoolers will be eligible to become “WooSox Scholars,” another club commitment in the CBA. The program will provide college scholarships of $10,000 each to four academically talented students. The first recipients will be the Class of 2021, selected in this coming school year and announced at Polar Park in the spring of 2021.

The WooSox Foundation will also create and operate a variety of programs to benefit students at each grade level, from WooSox Mentors for elementary school students to Dream Careers presentations for high school students. The foundation will also present small stipends to teachers in a new “MVT” program for Worcester’s “Most Valuable Teachers.”

In addition, the WooSox will host “Worcester School Days” each year for at least the first five years, when every Worcester student from Kindergarten through 12th grade-more than 24,000 children each year-receive a ticket to a ballgame at Polar Park.

The foundation will also present programs that help students learn the international social significance of such baseball stars as Jackie Robinson, Roberto Clemente, and the Red Sox’ own Luis Tiant, Pedro Martinez, and David Ortiz.

“We are eager to fulfill the obligations that we offered in the Community Benefits Agreement,” Lucchino said. “Establishing the WooSox Foundation and announcing that the Worcester Public Library and the Worcester Public Schools will be immediate beneficiaries begin that process and help us demonstrate our intense desire to be more than a ballclub. We commit to being active participants in this community and in its charitable life.”

Lucchino also established philanthropic foundations with the Baltimore Orioles, San Diego Padres, and Boston Red Sox, and expanded the depth and breadth of the PawSox Foundation.
“Our public library and our schools are vitally important in fostering the education and academic development of our youth,” said Worcester City Manager Edward M. Augustus, Jr. “We thank the Worcester Red Sox and the generosity of the WooSox Foundation in supporting both our students and all those in the community that utilize our library.”

“Worcester’s biggest asset is its young people, and nothing is more important than educating our children,” said Harvard Professor and Worcester native Paul Reville, a former Massachusetts Secretary of Education and an advisor to the WooSox. “These Red Sox gifts to our students and our library not only strengthen education in this community, but signal that in Worcester, learning is the top priority.”

More information can be found on the newly-formed website WooSoxFoundation.org.

Modesto Nuts Release 2019 Community Impact Report

 

The report covers the 2019 fiscal year and discloses the Nuts contributions of over $375,000 to community related programs.

“Our community is the backbone of everything we do, without it we cannot exist.” said Zach Brockman, General Manager of the Modesto Nuts. “In the coming years, we will be continuing to increase our community footprint and we invite all of our current and potential partners to join us in this initiative.”

With the help of The Parks Group and Mocse Credit Union, the Modesto Nuts Reading Program involved around over 80 schools and over 35,000 local students. The Reading Program motivated children to reach their reading goals by offering performance-based incentives from Save Mart, Chuck E. Cheese, Taco Bell, and The Modesto Nuts.

Non-profit organizations and little leagues used the Modesto Nuts ticket fundraising program to generate much needed funds. Additionally, the Nuts donated gift baskets which included game tickets, premium suites & autographed memorabilia to over 200 different local charities.

Modesto Nuts players, coaching staff, and front office donated their time generously to different organizations throughout the community. From school career fairs, to little league opening days, and much more; the Modesto Nuts were able to teach important values such as chasing dreams, having integrity and working hard for what they want.

In back to back years, the Modesto Nuts have doubled their community appearances. For more information on how you can have a Modesto Nuts representative at your event, please head to our Community Appearance Page.

CLICK HERE for the full 2019 Community Impact Report

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About the Nuts:

The Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball team is the California League Class A-Advanced Affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. The Modesto Nuts is the Central Valley’s place for family, fun, affordable entertainment. For more information on season tickets, group rates, sponsorships and more visit modestonuts.com or call 209-572-HITS (4487).

Students can win ceremonial first pitch in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. essay contest

 

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – With Black History Month upcoming, the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are asking students what Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have A Dream” speech means to them. The club’s essay contest will reward the winning students with free tickets for their entire class to attend a Jumbo Shrimp regular season game at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville, as well as a classroom visit by either Scampi or Southpaw.

The Jumbo Shrimp’s essay contest is open to all K-12 students in Duval County, Clay County and St. Johns County. Submissions will be divided into three categories (Grades K-5, 6-8 and 9-12, respectively). The contest will begin on Martin Luther King Jr. Day at 9 a.m. on Monday, January 20. All entries should be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, February 21 to win@jaxshrimp.com, and must include the student’s name, age, grade and school.

Following the submission process, each category will have their respective winners notified by email and announced on Friday, February 28.

For any questions regarding the Jumbo Shrimp’s Dr. King “I Have A Dream” speech essay contest, please contact Director of Community Relations Andrea Williams at andrea@jaxshrimp.com.

UP NEXT: The Jumbo Shrimp’s 2020 Home Opening Day is Wednesday, April 15 against the Biloxi Shuckers at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Season tickets, mini plans and group outings are on sale now. Visit www.jaxshrimp.com or call 904-358-2846 to secure yours today.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by General Manager Harold Craw. The club added its second Promotional Trophy in three years following the 2019 season. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

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

Sea Dogs to Hold Food Drive

 

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs, in partnership with Maine’s Credit Unions, will hold their 19th annual Food Drive which will run from Friday, January 16th through Friday, January 31st. All the collected food items will be donated to the Good Shepherd Food Bank.

As in the past, this year’s food drive will be “Buy One, Bring One, Get One.” For every ticket purchased and every donated food item you bring, you will receive a free Sea Dogs ticket to the same game. For example, if you buy three tickets to the June 17th game and bring in three food items, you will receive three additional complimentary tickets of equal or lesser value to the June 17th game. The offer is good for Box Seats, Reserved, General Admission, and Pavilion seating (excluding All-You-Can-Eat tickets); subject to availability.

Fans may take advantage of this offer by bringing their non-perishable food items to the Hadlock Field Box Office. The Sea Dogs Ticket Office is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

“Maine credit unions are deeply committed to ending hunger in our state,” said Todd Mason, President/CEO of the Maine Credit Union League. “We believe we have a responsibility to help Mainers gain access to healthy, nutritious meals, and identify the root causes of hunger in our communities. We applaud the Sea Dogs for hosting its annual food drive and are pleased to be a part of this important effort to collect donations and raise awareness about the severity of hunger in Maine. It is a great partnership and one we are proud to support.”

Each year the Sea Dogs have been able to donate hundreds of food items to the Good Shepherd Food Bank thanks to the generosity of Sea Dogs’ fans.

The Portland Sea Dogs open the 2020 season on Thursday, April 9th in Hartford, Connecticut with the home opener scheduled for Thursday, April 16th at 6:00 PM against the Trenton Thunder. Tickets for all Sea Dogs home games are currently on sale and can be purchased online at seadogs.com or by calling 207-879-9500.

Grizzlies Give Back More Than $1M in 2019

Chukchansi Park thrived in 2019, playing home to more than 135 non-profit events, with a total of nearly 25,000 attendees. The Grizzlies also gave more than $1 million in monetary and in-kind donations, which was the most in Minor League Baseball’s Triple-A Pacific Coast League.

The Fresno Grizzlies take pride in assisting, rewarding and supporting worthwhile causes throughout the Central Valley. In 2019, the Grizzlies and Chukchansi Park were grateful to help out so many individuals and organizations.

“Giving back to the community is in our DNA at the Fresno Grizzlies, and these efforts extend far beyond the baseball diamond,” said Madeline Hamada, Community Engagement Manager. “Grizzlies’ programs and community initiatives are helping fulfill our vision of giving back and making the Central Valley a better place to live.”

Non-profit events held at the ballpark included the Cen Cal Fury softball clinic, the Downtown Academy graduation, the Valley Children’s water safety presentation and the Exceptional Needs Formal. Also, the Fresno American Indian Health Project company retreat, Valley PBS end-of-year awards and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Walk held their events in the friendly confines of Chukchansi Park.

“The Grizzlies are an integral part of Downtown Fresno and we are so thankful for the team’s exceptional community contributions,” stated Lee Brand, Fresno mayor. “The array of events that Chukchansi Park hosted last year clearly demonstrate the organization’s dedication to the City and its residents.”

Besides these non-profit events, the Grizzlies continued a trio of programs with amazing community benefits. Junior Grizzlies, a 10-week, non-competitive, adaptive baseball league for children and adults with mental and physical disabilities had more than 160 children and adults participate during the 2019 season. Wild About Reading, which incentivizes students to read frequently celebrated its 16th season in 2019. Since 2012, Wild About Reading has reached 95,000 students with more than 160 schools involved. Finally, Making the Grade allows area schools to reward hard-working students with an afternoon at Chukchansi Park. Nearly 20,000 students and 224 schools participated this year.

Overall, the Grizzlies gave $1,038,310 in monetary and in-kind donations during 2019. $65,500 was raised in ticket fundraisers for non-profits and little leagues, $11,500 was earned through theme jersey auctions, $10,530 was raised through food donations to the Poverello House through the Zero Waste Policy and $10,500 was awarded in Farm Grown Scholarships. On top of that, the Grizzlies front office spent 400 plus hours volunteering around the Central Valley. If you would like to help around your community, join one of these amazing events or be apart of helping the Grizzlies in 2020, click here to learn more.

#Growlifornia

ABOUT THE FRESNO GRIZZLIES

The Fresno Grizzlies, Triple-A affiliate of the 2019 World Series Champion Washington Nationals, are a member of the 16-team Pacific Coast League (PCL) and one of 30 clubs in the world playing the highest level of Minor League Baseball. The team plays at Chukchansi Park in Downtown Fresno, which is also a year-round community venue, hosting a myriad of other special events beyond Grizzlies’ games, such as concerts, festivals, high school baseball and over 100 non-profit community events every year. The Grizzlies enter the 2020 season – their 23rd in Fresno – on the momentum of the fifth championship in 10 years by their big league affiliate. The team celebrated their own PCL title in 2015.

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

RiverDogs Announce “Reading Around the Bases” and “Education Days” 2020

 

CHARLESTON, S.C. – For the better part of the last three decades the Charleston RiverDogs have made youth literacy a focus of their community outreach strategy. Now, for the fourth year in a row, Charleston’s Minor League Baseball team is proud to announce its joint program with the Charleston County School District, “Reading Around the Bases.” The program began during the 2016-2017 school year to encourage literacy in a fun and interactive manner.

On Tuesday, January 21, 23 elementary schools throughout Charleston County will start a 10-week baseball-themed incentive program. Each student will receive a Reading Challenge packet that includes a score card, tracking sheet, and their very own personal baseball card.

To move around the bases on the score card, a student must read 100 pages for a single, 200 pages for a double, 300 pages for a triple, and 500 pages for a home run. Students also earn points for their class depending on how far they advance and how many times they “round the bases” on the score card. Top readers from each participating school will be recognized at Joseph P. Riley Jr., Park during the annual Education Day game on Wednesday, May 27.

Special guests from the RiverDogs will visit schools in the District throughout the 10 weeks to provide encouragement, fun, and serve as volunteer readers.

“We are so thankful one of the premier sports organizations in our state is committed to literacy and education,” said Karolyn Belcher, CCSD’s Chief Academic Officer. “The RiverDogs bring so much energy to our schools, classrooms, and most importantly, our students, through this initiative.”

The unofficial kickoff event for “Reading Around the Bases” this year will be at Memminger Elementary School in Downtown Charleston on Tuesday, January 21 at 1:00pm. Media outlets are invited to attend.

In addition to the reading program, the RiverDogs announce their annual “Education Day” games for the 2020 season. This year those games will fall on Wednesday, April 15th and Wednesday, May 27th. Both games will begin at 11:05 a.m. with gates opening at 10:00 a.m. Lowcountry area schools are invited to both games on a first come, first serve basis. Limited number of tickets are available for this “field trip.” To sign up, visit www.riverdogs.com or contact Charleston RiverDogs Director of Community Relations Brooke Swetenburg at communityrelations@riverdogs.com.

“Reading Around the Bases continues to be an integral part of the RiverDogs’ community outreach plan.” added RiverDogs President and General Manager Dave Echols. “This program is an excellent way for our team and staff to support and ‘Make Fun’ with local youth in an interactive manner, while making a difference in our backyard.”

For more information on “Reading Around the Bases,” please contact Christy James, CCSD’s Library and Media Services Specialist and Textbook Coordinator, at (843) 937-6300, or Brooke Swetenburg with the RiverDogs at (843) 723-7241.

About the Charleston County School District

Charleston County School District (CCSD) is the second largest school system in South Carolina representing a unique blend of urban, suburban, and rural schools that span 1,000 square miles along the coast. CCSD serves more than 50,000 students in 86 schools and specialized programs. With approximately 6,100 employees district wide, CCSD is the fourth largest employer in the region.

CCSD offers a diverse, expanding portfolio of options and specialized programs, delivered through neighborhood, charter, magnet, IB (international baccalaureate), and Montessori schools, and is divided into three Learning Communities. Options include specialized programs in science, engineering and mathematics; liberal arts; music and other creative and performing arts; career and technical preparation programs; and military and other public service enterprises.

On the heels of their third straight year eclipsing 300,000 fans through the turnstiles, the RiverDogs have already begun preparations for another season down at The Joe. RiverDogs season tickets, partial season plans, and group tickets, including options to the Riley Park Club, are now available for the 2020 campaign at riverdogs.com/tickets or by contacting the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS). The RiverDogs begin their home schedule on April 9th when they host the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers at The Joe. A full schedule and list of game times for the 2020 season is available at riverdogs.com.

–RIVERDOGS–

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