(Waldorf, Md., Jan. 11, 2018) - The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs have once again partnered with Educational Systems Federal Credit Union to bring back the “Pinch Onto Books” reading program for 2018.
Since their inaugural season in 2008, the Blue Crabs have partnered with schools in the surrounding five counties to help motivate students to further their reading. Each student that signs up for the program is hand-delivered by the team a “Pinch Onto Books” bookmark. Students are then asked to read a minimum of four books, tracking their progress on the back of the special bookmarks. Once the student has read the minimum amount of books, the bookmark can be taken to the box office and exchanged for a ticket to the annual Reading Program Night at the ballpark. This year’s Reading Night is Saturday, May 12, 2018.
“The “Pinch Onto Books” Program is a great opportunity to partner with the school systems for a fantastic cause,” said General Manager Courtney Knichel. “This program has been one of our biggest community involvement projects since the very beginning, with the students looking forward to the assembly and game every year.”
Each school is also given the opportunity to have their bookmarks delivered as part of a Reading Assembly, hosted by the Blue Crabs mascot, Pinch. On top of that, the three schools that have the most participation are rewarded with a Pizza Party with Pinch.
This all leads into the big night, as all participating schools come together at the ballpark to celebrate Reading Program Night. All students in the program have the opportunity to go on the field and participate in a pre-game parade and the high-five tunnel for the players entering the field. The winning classrooms will then be announced in a special on-field ceremony, recognizing their accomplishments throughout the school year.
“Reading Program Night is always a special night for the organization and the schools,” said Kristine Perry, Blue Crabs Marketing Manager. “It is a celebration of these students’ successes and allows us to acknowledge their accomplishments in the classroom.”
The team opens the 2018 season on April 27th at home against the Long Island Ducks. To save your seat at the ballpark for the upcoming season and other team news, visit www.somdbluecrabs.com or call 301-638-9788.
About the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs
The Blue Crabs play 126 regular season games in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball Clubs. The Blue Crabs play at Regency Furniture Stadium in Waldorf, Maryland with affordable family fun. The franchise will begin its 11th season in April 2018. Please call 301-638-9788 or visit http://www.somdbluecrabs.com for more information.
About the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB)
The Atlantic League has been a leader in professional baseball and a gateway to Major League Baseball since 1998. Over 38 million fans have attended Atlantic League games and more than 900 players and 50 managers and coaches have joined MLB organizations directly from the ALPB. The Atlantic League emphasizes winning baseball games, showcasing the talent of top-caliber players and offering affordable family entertainment.
For more information, please visit www.AtlanticLeague.com.
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