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Changes at the Fresno Grizzlies: All Your Questions Answered!

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Joanne Lui

Joanne Lui is a social media and fashion addict who has lived in Fresno since she was four, and sometimes accidentally says she was born and raised in Fresno. She was actually born in Hong Kong. She loves shopping and the St. Louis Cardinals, and is equally likely to be found in heels or a baseball cap - sometimes both. She blogs about designer bargain hunting and charitable fashion companies at www.shoesoffmyfeet.com
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Four years ago, Fresno Grizzlies fans were shook when the San Francisco Giants chose to end their affiliation with the team after a long and successful partnership. The Houston Astros took their place. People didn’t understand why. They threatened to stop supporting the Grizzlies. Some asked why another California team couldn’t come in, like the A’s or the Dodgers.

Me? I got on my laptop and started typing like mad. I wrote a quasi-viral post for FresYes titled, “My Love Letter to the Fresno Grizzlies,” with an impassioned plea as to why we should support our boys no matter what. It ended up landing me a spot on the Grizzlies’ Community Advisory Board, where I’ve been serving ever since, getting an up close look as the team flourished in their partnership with the Astros, winning a Triple-A National Championship and sending players on to win a World Series.

fresno grizzlies answers

Photo courtesy of the Fresno Grizzlies

In those four years, the Grizzlies firmly established themselves as a quintessentially Fresno brand. Meaning, no matter what happens, no matter what Major League team the Grizzlies are affiliated with, Triple-A baseball is here for the Central Valley to enjoy, with great young players, fabulous promotions, and a community-centric mindset.

So when it was announced a couple weeks ago that the Astros would be leaving Fresno to return to Texas, and the Washington Nationals had signed a two-year deal to send players to Fresno, I wasn’t concerned. But fans were once again left with a lot of confusion. Reading their comments on social media reminded me that not everyone has the inside track on minor league baseball and understands how all of this works. It can be complicated. So I’m setting out to answer some of the biggest questions, with help from Grizzlies President Derek Franks.

fresno grizzlies answers

Fresno Grizzlies President Derek Franks with the Houston Astros 2017 World Series Trophy at Chukchansi Park. Photo courtesy of the Fresno Grizzlies.

Question: How does all this affiliation stuff work?

Answer: The Pacific Coast League (PCL) franchise that is owned by Fresno Sports & Events, LLC, gives the Grizzlies a guaranteed right to have a Major League Baseball affiliation. MLB and Minor League (MiLB) clubs sign what are called Player Development Contracts (PDCs) on a two- or four-year basis.

“The system was set up in a way that the contracts are up for renewal in even years, so that is when you will typically see change,” Derek says. “The financial terms of the PDC relationship is set forth in the contract that binds the MLB and MiLB together, called the Professional Baseball Agreement (PBA). Those terms state who pays for what in the day-to-day operation of the MiLB club. The MLB club supplies the team and coaches, and pays the salaries. The MiLB club pays for the travel up to a max number of players and coaches, and so on…”

It’s worth noting that when Fresno Sports & Events, LLC, took over ownership of the Grizzlies this past spring, they signed a lease agreement at Chukchansi Park through 2036. So I’m not kidding when I say that baseball is here to stay in Fresno.

fresno grizzlies answers

Photo courtesy of Fresno Grizzlies

Question: Why did the Astros decide to leave Fresno?

Answer: There was always a strong possibility the Astros would leave town at the end of the season, and the reasons had nothing to do with Fresno or any sort of ill will towards our city or the Grizzlies. In the end, it all boiled down to geography and family. The Astros naturally embraced the idea of returning to Texas to partner with the Round Rock Express. Paving the way for the move was the fact that Round Rock is owned by Ryan-Sanders Baseball. Ryan as in Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan. He is an executive advisor to the owner of the Astros, and his son, Reid Ryan, is the president of the Astros.

“We respect their decision and understood when we first signed with them it was likely the relationship would last only four seasons,” Derek says. “We are indebted to the Astros for the great quality of teams we’ve had the last four years.”

It’s worth noting that of the 15 other cities currently in the PCL, nine have had multiple MLB affiliates during Fresno’s time in the league. Five cities have had three or more affiliate changes in that time. In other words, this is all kind of normal!

Question: Why didn’t the A’s come to Fresno? Or the Dodgers?

Answer: MLB and MiLB relationships are a complicated dance with lots of moving pieces. Or as Derek describes it, “The process is like musical chairs, but nobody can pull away a chair. Everyone gets a seat.”

First, only the MLB teams whose PDC contracts were up this year could consider Fresno and vice versa. The Dodgers were not one of them. Furthermore, they own a share of the Oklahoma City Dodgers minor league team that they are affiliated with, so a future move is highly unlikely.

It’s not just one entity or the other who gets to make the decision. According to Derek, “I think the MLB clubs carry more weight, but at the end of the day, the process allows for mutual agreement on the PDC.”

So why did Oakland decide to go to Las Vegas instead of Fresno? We can all only speculate, Derek included. The Las Vegas 51’s just built a brand-new stadium that was likely a draw. And Vegas has a much bigger airport. It’s not always just about the physical distance between the MLB and Triple-A teams.

“The PCL is a brutal travel league—toughest in the MiLB—and Vegas has many direct flights to almost every PCL city,” Derek says.

That’s not to say Fresno is not a great place to play ball. We still have one of the nicest stadiums in the MiLB (trust me, travel to some of the other cities and you’ll see)! And the new ownership team is committed to making tons of upgrades and improvements in coming years.

fresno grizzlies answers

Derek Franks speaks at the recent ground-breaking for a new social area currently under construction at Chukchansi Park. Photo Courtesy of Fresno Grizzlies

“Chukchansi Park is a world class ballpark that plays more neutral for pitchers/hitters in a hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League,” Derek says. “We also play in a city that has baseball weather. People look at me cross-eyed when I say that because of the heat, but the lack of rainouts helps managers and farm directors keep players on the field and in their routines.”

(Side note: You only have to look at the combined number of rainouts and delays in the recent PCL playoff series between the Memphis Redbirds and Oklahoma City Dodgers to know Derek is preaching #TRUTH. Who wants to play a double-header at the end of a make-or-break series?!)

Question: But the Washington Nationals? Really? Why should I care or keeping going to games?

Answer: First of all, the Nationals are an excellent ball club with a strong farm system—the same one that developed players like Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper. Although they didn’t make the playoffs this year, they still finished second in their division. It’s not like we suddenly became the affiliate of a sub-.500 team. Expect the Nats to be contenders in coming years, with some real players to watch coming through Fresno.

“The Nats have at least two prospects in MLB.com’s Top 100 Today and have seen two others that were ranked high—Juan Soto and Victor Robles—see time in the big leagues in 2018,” Derek says.

fresno grizzlies answers

Courtesy of the Fresno Grizzlies.

But way more importantly, being a Grizzlies fan is about supporting Fresno and loving baseball. The players may be different, but the passion for the game is the same. You will still get to experience professional baseball in a way more up close and far less expensive manner than going to a Major League game. And keep in mind, there are 30 cities in the entire country who have a Triple-A baseball team. I think we as Fresnans forget how lucky we are to have the Grizzlies.

The Grizzlies staff remains committed to bringing some of the best entertainment in the city to the ballpark as well. Expect to see even better promotions and bigger events than ever before. I can’t wait to see how many of their theme nights end up on ESPN next year.

So come out to the ballpark. Buy those ticket packages. Cheer on our home team. Because that’s who they are. Not the Giants. Not the Astros. Not the Nationals. The Fresno Grizzlies. And I for one can’t wait to see what they do next.

Fresno Grizzlies will honor fallen firefighters in upcoming game

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Joanne Lui

Joanne Lui is a social media and fashion addict who has lived in Fresno since she was four, and sometimes accidentally says she was born and raised in Fresno. She was actually born in Hong Kong. She loves shopping and the St. Louis Cardinals, and is equally likely to be found in heels or a baseball cap - sometimes both. She blogs about designer bargain hunting and charitable fashion companies at www.shoesoffmyfeet.com
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As the last weeks of summer come upon us, my beloved baseball season is also drawing to a close! I can’t believe there are only two home stands left for the red-hot, division-leading Fresno Grizzlies. The good news is, I’m warning you now so you can mark your calendars and figure out which games you want to go to!

As always, the Grizzlies have some excellent promotions planned, including some designed to benefit very important causes.

Grizzlies honor fallen firefighters

CAL FIRE Night benefits firefighters’ families

The biggest one is CAL FIRE Night this Friday, Aug. 10, benefitting the families of Brian Hughes and Braden Varney, who died while battling the still-burning Ferguson Fire. Five dollars from every ticket purchased in advance at this link will be given to the fund, while two dollars will be donated from every walk-up ticket bought the night of the game. The Grizzlies have partnered with local law firm McCormick Barstow to kick-start the funding with $2,500.

A moment of silence for fallen firefighters will be observed before first pitch, which is at 7:05 p.m. There will also be a silent auction of autographed, game-worn jerseys from this season during the game, with all proceeds donated directly to the families.

Other upcoming promotions 

Want another way to enjoy baseball while doing some good? The Grizzlies have also partnered with United Way to hold a school supplies drive for underprivileged children. Fans who donate socks, underwear or school supplies in any amount between Aug. 9–12 will receive a free ticket voucher good for any game in the upcoming home stand, Aug. 9–15. Donations will be taken at gates 1, 2, and 6.

And of course it wouldn’t be the Fresno Grizzlies if they didn’t have an extra special promotion up their sleeves. This time, it’s Bruce Lee vs. Chuck Norris Night, on Thursday, Aug. 9! There will be a ninja star throwing range at the ballpark, as well as special “Nunchuck Churros” for one night only. Pick a team for just $20: This deal includes a ticket to the game and a “Team Bruce” or “Team Chuck” T-shirt. The purchase of this package also enters fans in a contest to win one of twelve $50 gift cards to the Grizzlies team store.

Grizzlies honor fallen firefighters

Food and entertainment deals for the whole family

If you’re wanting a good deal for food and entertainment, the Grizzlies have got you covered there, too. Most notably, hot dogs will be just 25 cents on Sunday, Aug. 12. Fans who show their Save Mart receipt or Save Mart app at the box office will also receive $5 off each ticket that day.

Other deals worth considering:

  • At the game on Thursday, Aug. 9, from the time gates open at 6:05 p.m. to first pitch at 7:05 p.m., you can buy a burger, fries, and 12-ounce beer for just $5.
  • On Monday, Aug. 13, you can get two tickets, two hot dogs, two sodas, two Fresno Chaffee Zoo vouchers, and two Pieology pizza or salad vouchers, all for just $25!
  • For Taco Tuesday on Aug. 14, in addition to 2-for-1 field box and club tickets, fans can enjoy $2 tacos, sodas, and churros through the fifth inning. You can also receive a voucher for two free tacos if you purchase a 24-oz Dos Equis can.

Grizzlies honor fallen firefighters

I just gave you a whole bunch of reasons why you should go to a Fresno Grizzlies game before the end of the season, so I hope one of them will entice you to head out to Chukchansi Park.

Visit the Grizzlies website to buy tickets in advance and get full details on all of the promotions. Enjoy the rest of your summer, and go Grizzlies! Hopefully, they’ll make the play-offs so we can have a little more baseball in September!

TTT8 is this week! Here’s everything you need to know

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Mike Oz

Mike Oz is a Fresno-based journalist, taco fanatic, and all-around chill dude. When he’s not covering baseball for Yahoo Sports, he organizes Tacos, Brews & Jams and Taco Truck Throwdown. He also hosts Ozmosis on New Rock 104.1, Sunday nights at 9 p.m. Follow @mikeoz on Twitter and Instagram or follow @TacosBrewsJams and @TacoTruckThrowdownfor taco updates.

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Not sure if you’ve heard, but here in Fresno, tacos are kind of a big deal.

We’ve proven that year after year at our Taco Truck Throwdown. And people around the country know the deal. The Central Valley’s Mexican food scene just got a huge write-up at Eater.com, and a good chunk of it included the Fresno taco scene.

Good timing, because Taco Truck Throwdown 8 is this week. It’s your chance to taste the greatness that happens in your own backyard. Last year, our event attracted 20,000 people who ate more than 50,000 tacos. This year, we’re looking to go even bigger.

I’m Mike Oz, one of the founders and organizers of Taco Truck Throwdown, and a dude who goes to entirely too many local taco spots. And if you want the scoop on TTT8, you’ve come to the right place.

FresYes.com asked me break down some of the common questions we get about Taco Truck Throwdown and tell you everything you need to know about this week’s event.

Trust me when I tell you, there’s no better place to sample the Fresno taco scene all in one place than TTT8!

TTT8What days are Taco Truck Throwdown this year?

Good question. TTT8 is Thursday, July 19, and Friday, July 20. Yes, two days again. There’s been some confusion because last year’s event was Friday and Saturday. When you’re building around a baseball team’s schedule, you gotta be flexible. I swear it’s happening Thursday and Friday this year — don’t listen to what your cousin’s friend said on Facebook.

What’s happening Thursday?

Thursday is the same Taco Truck Throwdown you know and love. It takes place during the Fresno Grizzlies game against the Sacramento RiverCats, with 30 taco trucks spread around the concourse level of the stadium. This is the night our panel of judges picks the best taco. Doors open at 5 p.m. and tacos are sold until the end of the Grizzlies game. To get in, you need a ticket to the baseball game — any ticket — and then you can join our giant taco party.

What’s happening Friday?

Friday we’re going big on entertainment! We’ve stepped it up HUGE this year by booking Mexican music legend Ramon Ayala — who is basically the Elvis of Norteño music. We’ve also got hip-hop legend DJ Quik, making this a one-of-a-kind meeting of two icons. We feel like it’s the perfect combo for Fresno. We’ve also got the World Taco-Eating Championships with the pros from Major League Eating, which are worth the price of admission alone. Last year, Joey Chestnut ate a record 92 tacos. It was wild. Joey’s not back this year, but last year’s No. 2 finisher is hoping to take the crown. That’s Matt “Megatoad” Stonie, who is pretty damn famous too. You’ve probably seen some of his extreme eating YouTube videos.

For Day 2, all of the taco trucks are on the baseball field, which is a fun way to eat tacos. We’ll also have Lucha Xtreme wrestling, live music from 40 Watt Hype, Califas, and DJ Kay Rich. We have a taco-themed art show featuring a long list of talented local artists. Gates open at 5 p.m. and we close at 1:30 a.m.

And the taco trucks are there for both days?

Yes. Day 1 around the stadium concourse and Day 2 on the field.

TTT8

So about this taco-eating contest …

Yes! It’s going to be fantastic. We have the same people you see on the famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest coming to Fresno. Matt Stonie, who is a YouTube star and the No. 3 eater in the world, is coming, so are some of the biggest competitive-eating pros in the world. We’ll also have one local eater going against the pros. Whoever wins our amateur competition on Thursday night will advance to the finals on Friday. On Thursday, the first person to eat 20 tacos wins. If you want to be a part of that, email rortiz@fresnogrizzlies.com.

What’s new this year?

One fun addition is something you won’t find anywhere else. With the help of Fresno Ideaworks, we’ve constructed a taco-themed mini golf course that will be part of Chukchansi Park for TTT8. Trust me, you’re gonna want to Instagram the heck out of this.

We’ve also partnered with Ordrslip — a great local company that makes mobile-ordering apps for restaurants — to create a brand new VIP experience. Our VIPs for Friday night will be able to order tacos directly from their phones using Ordrslip’s technology. People in the VIP section will have their choice of eight trucks and the tacos will be delivered right to the VIP area. If that sounds amazing, don’t wait around. We’re limiting VIP tickets to 200.

TTT8

 

What’s the ticket situation?

You need a ticket for each day. On Thursday, you need a baseball ticket. As you know, those range in price depending on where you want to sit. On Friday, tickets cost $25 for general admission and $75 for front-row VIP seats (which also includes taco vouchers and drink tickets). Paying $25 tickets to see Ramon Ayala is a good deal — $25 for everything we’ve got planned? It’s a tremendous bargain.

Tickets are available online or at the Fresno Grizzlies box office, which is open 9 a.m. until the seventh inning on game days.

How about my kids?

Usual Grizzlies policy applies — kids under 3 are free. If they don’t like tacos, that’s cool. Some of the regular stadium concessions will be open, too.

I’ve heard I have to use taco vouchers to buy tacos. How do those work?

Taco vouchers are the currency of Taco Truck Throwdown (instead of paying cash at the trucks, you use vouchers). They cost $2.50 and each voucher is good for one taco at any taco truck you want. Here’s a good tip: You can buy your taco vouchers in advance at the Fresno Grizzlies box office. One less line, right?

On Friday, you’ll also be able to buy different items from each truck — burritos, quesadillas, carne asada fries, etc. You’ll just need to use taco vouchers, so items would cost two, three or four vouchers. Each truck sets its own menu.

TTT8

What’s the best time to come if I just want to eat as many tacos as possible?

This is my favorite question because I think Taco Truck Throwdown requires a good strategy. It’s like going to Disneyland. You need to go in with a gameplan. If your goal is to sample as many tacos as possible, be there when the doors open each day — 5 p.m. The crowds won’t be as big, and you can plow through the taco trucks. Same goes for later in the event.

I’ve heard the lines are long, is that true?

They have been in the past, yes. We’re not going to lie about that. Any event with thousands of people is going to have lines. The last two years, lines have been better. Last year in particular, spreading it out to two days proved to really help. That’s not to say you won’t have to wait — you will. But we’re hoping we’ve found the right ratio of trucks to people that will help move things along.

What taco trucks do I HAVE to try?

That’s like asking me my favorite kid. There are so many good ones. Please don’t make me pick. I love them all.

El Mexicano is our defending champion, so they should be on your list, for sure. From there, our roster includes people who have been serving great tacos in the Fresno area for years like Guadalajara, Tacos Mazatlan, Los Toritos, and Ortega’s. There’s a new generation of trucks looking to cement their legacies too — La Imperial, La Jacka, and Taqueria Jaliscience, among them.

We’ve also got a lot of new trucks this year. Eight by my count, that includes Steve’s Tacos, Chuy’s Tacos, Taco Bout It, Taqueria La Authentica, and La Vaporera.

TTT8

Are there vegetarian/vegan options?

Yes! La Jacka is already a favorite among local vegans for their jackfruit tacos. The Pita Kabob Truck has cauliflower tacos. A few trucks — Chuy’s Tacos, Las Adas Manzanillo and a couple others — also have fish taco options.

Any last words?

The best places to get updates on the event are our Instagram and Facebook page. Hope to see you at TTT8. Bring all your friends!

“Coming to Fresno”: Eat McDowell’s and watch the Zamunda Lions play Thursday

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This year marks the 30th anniversary of the film Coming to America, and Thursday, June 21, the Fresno Grizzlies will pay homage to the milestone with Coming to Fresno Night. Except, the “Fresno Grizzlies” will technically have the night off as the Houston Astros’ Triple-A club will play for one game as the “Zamunda Lions”—with uniforms to match.

Coming to Fresno

Fans of the movie will have plenty of chances to re-live its greatness, transported back to either the fictional African country, Zamunda, or Queens, NY, where the bulk of the movie took place. Here’s what else you can expect from Coming to America Night:

  • The game-worn Zamunda Lions jerseys will be available for fans to bid on in an online auction beginning the following day, with the winners receiving their on-field jersey autographed by the player. Auction proceeds will benefit United Way Fresno and Madera Counties.
  • One concession stand will be transformed into “McDowell’s” for one night only, a tribute to the Queens Boulevard fast food joint owned by Lisa’s dad Cleo McDowell in Coming to America. According to the Grizzlies, “Just so there’s no confusion with another restaurant of some renown, they have the golden arches, Chukchansi Park has the golden archs. Their buns have sesame seeds, the buns in Fresno have no seeds.” Fans will be able to buy “Big Micks” made to order and fries at McDowell’s inside the ballpark throughout the game.
  • Zamunda Lions and Coming To Fresno apparel and merchandise will be available in the Fresno Grizzlies Team Store during the game, including replica jerseys and the on-field New Era 59/50 cap.
  • Cover band The Box will perform pre-game, post-game, and between innings as Randy Watson’s band “Sexual Chocolate.” 

Game starts at 7:05 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the Chukchansi Park box office, or anytime at FresnoGrizzlies.com, starting as low as $10. 

Coming to Fresno

Coming to Fresno

Additional Grizzlies promotions this weekend

Also happening this weekend at Chukchansi Park:

  • The Princess Ball will take place Friday, June 22. In the Cantina on the third base/left field side of the stadium, eight of your favorite movie princesses will be available for photo ops. The event will include a special light-up dance floor and princess sing-alongs. Tickets to the game will be FREE for kids 12 and under in princess or make-believe costumes (receive tickets at the box office). Postgame fireworks will follow the action on the field. Game starts at 7:05 p.m. 
  • On Saturday, the Fresno Grizzlies will pay homage to the 2008 “Wonder Dogs” with a double-header. Two seven-inning games will have a roughly 30-minute break in-between. In game two, the Grizzlies will wear tribute jerseys and caps to the 2008 NCAA Division I Baseball National Champions, the “underdogs to “Wonder Dogs” Fresno State Bulldogs, as they celebrate the 10-year anniversary of their win in the College World Series. In-between games, members of the 2008 Fresno State national title team will be honored on the field. Wonder Dogs apparel, including replica jerseys and the on-field New Era 59/50 cap will also be available in the Fresno Grizzlies Team Store during the game. The celebration of Fresno State Athletics will include former Bulldogs football player and current Detroit Lions offensive lineman Kenny Wiggins signing autographs during the game. Game starts at 5:05 p.m.

For updates on future Fresno Grizzlies games and promotions, make sure to follow the team on Facebook, on Twitter, and/or on Insta.

6 reasons you should go to a Grizzlies game

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It’s my favorite time of year again! Time for the crack of the bat, the smell of freshly grilled burgers, and the special feeling that comes from cheering along with a crowd of fellow fans.

I’m talking, of course, about the opening of baseball season. For us in the Fresno area, that means welcoming back the Fresno Grizzlies, complete with stadium renovations and new ownership that promise to make a trip to Chukchansi Park more fun than ever before.

Opening Day is just around the corner, so I want to highlight the top six reasons you should go to a Grizzlies game this month, and even give you a chance to win free tickets to the first game on April 10! 

1. It’s a Better Value Than Ever

The new ownership group that purchased the Grizzlies during the off-season is committed to keeping baseball in Fresno, and making it accessible for the whole community. That means lower ticket prices and, maybe more importantly, the cheapest beer in minor league baseball. The price for a 20 oz. draft beer is dropping from $8 to $5 for every game!

go to a Grizzlies game

Photo Courtesy of Fresno Grizzlies.

There are plenty of other great deals, too. Opening Day is a Taco Tuesday, which means the team will take the field as the Fresno Tacos, and there will be $2 specials for authentic tacos from local trucks, churros, and sodas (and free tacos for the first 1,000 fans through the gate!).

Monday Madness provides two reserved tickets, two hot dogs, two sodas, two Fresno Chaffee Zoo vouchers, and two Pieology pizza or salad voucher—all for $25.

But perhaps the best deal of all is the Friends and Family Membership. For $229, you will get six tickets to every Monday-Thursday game all season long, along with invites to exclusive events like player autograph sessions and stadium tours, as well as discounted $10 weekend tickets. Purchase a membership here.

2. Post-Game Entertainment

Entertainment at a Grizzlies game extends beyond baseball. On April 13, a ticket will get you into the game as well as post-game fireworks and a concert by Christian recording artist Ryan Stevenson as a part of Christian Fellowship Night.

As is Grizzlies tradition, there will also be fireworks after Opening Day, as well as every Friday home game. Who decided those are just for Fourth of July, anyway?! (Even though there will, of course, be fireworks at the July 4 game.)

If you’ve never experienced the spectacular show at Chukchansi Park, it’s a must. They’re set off just over the scoreboard, making it a very up-close fireworks display.

go to a Grizzlies game

Fireworks after a game last season. Super professional photography courtesy of me.

3. Stars and Barks

Saturday, April 14, is the perfect night to bring the whole family out to Chukchansi Park — and I do mean the whole family, four-legged members included. It’s the first Bark in the Park of the season, benefiting Valley Animal Center. Bring your dogs to the game and sit in a special designated section in right field. Tickets and canine waivers can be found here. Advance purchase is required. Five dollars from each canine ticket will be donated to the local no-kill shelter.

go to a Grizzlies game

Photo Courtesy of Fresno Grizzlies.

For the kids, Saturday is also a time to enjoy NASA Night. There will be live demos of Moon and Mars portals, an “Ask a Scientist” booth, rocks from Mars, telescopes, and more “edu-tainment” out on the concourse.

4. Honor Vietnam Veterans

Another special event is happening at the ballpark on April 28. Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans will be hosting an event to honor local Vietnam vets before the game. The organization is working with Amvets and the Grizzlies to give a proper “welcome home” ceremony to veterans who may have encountered protests and/or didn’t receive recognition when they returned from the Vietnam War because of the political climate at the time. Organizers are planning recognition on the field, a military salute, a formal flag ceremony, speeches by city and military officials, and a fly-over.

Vietnam veterans can get two free tickets to the game by entering the code “VETERANS” on the following website. If you or your company would like to sponsor the event, you can find details here.

5. Celebrate the World Champs

When you strip it down to the basics, Chukchansi Park is simply a place to watch really good baseball. Four of the last eight World Series-winning teams were affiliated with the Grizzlies, including last year’s Houston Astros. Several players who played with the Astros last year will begin the season in Fresno, as will five of the Astros’ top 30 prospects.

go to a Grizzlies game

Photo Courtesy of Fresno Grizzlies.

The Grizzlies will have giveaways to celebrate the Astros’ World Series triumph all season long, beginning with the Replica Championship Ring Giveaway for the first 5,000 fans through the gate on April 28. The Astros just unveiled the ring, and it’s a beauty!

6. Free tickets

[Ed. note: Contest has ended; congrats to our winner!] What better reason to go to a game than free tickets? If you’re our lucky winner, I’m sure this will become your number one reason.

We’re giving away four vouchers to Opening Day! Simply click here and fill out the form to enter to win all four vouchers, which you will exchange for tickets at the Fresno Grizzlies box office on Tuesday, April 10. One winner will be chosen at random and must be able to pick up vouchers from the FresYes Realty office during business hours on Monday, April 9, 2018.

…

For a full list of this season’s events and promotions, visit the Fresno Grizzlies website or follow the team on Facebook. Tickets for games can be purchased online or at the Chukchansi Park box office.

4 family-friendly activities to help you welcome spring in FresYes

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JoAnn Hallum

Houseplant killing optimist- freelance writer -kid herder

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It’s officially spring! Spring is a favorite season for me because I’m most adventurous at 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Since the flowers are blooming and the air is clear (shout out to the mountains I forgot about in my backyard!), I’ve compiled a list of things you should do to welcome spring in Fresno. 

1. Celebrate spring at the Shinzen Friendship Garden

No one knows how to celebrate a seasonal change like the Shinzen Friendship Garden. Tucked inside Woodward Park, this tranquil gem is home to a large bonsai collection, as well as countless picturesque scenes composed of water and plants.

I’ve mentioned their fall festival in the past, and now the Spring Cultural Faire is coming up soon. On Saturday, April 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. you can enjoy the spring blooms, participate in a bonsai silent auction, watch a Hmong fashion show, and more! There will be food, beverages, and vendors as well, so bring cash to shop and eat your way through the garden. Plus, if you haven’t seen McLane High School’s Art Venture work yet, their latest project will be on display here.

Admission is $3 for kids 4-14 and $7 for adults. Families are $20, and members get a discount. The complete schedule of events is here. For more information, visit the Shinzen Friendship Garden website here or check out their Facebook event page here.

welcome spring

​Bonsai trees at the Shinzen Friendship Garden in Woodward Park

2. Take yourself out to the ball game

Time for peanuts and Cracker Jack! Time to ROOT ROOT ROOT for the home team! Okay, calm down.

Anyway, it’s nearly baseball season and the Fresno Grizzlies’ opening night game will take place Tuesday, April 10 against the Tacoma Rainiers. Not only will there be fireworks after the game, but this opener falls on Taco Tuesday! Expect $2 tacos, churros, and sodas.

There’s no better way to spend a spring evening than under the stars eating a taco and rooting for your favorite team. For tickets (they start at $9) click here, and for more information about the opening night game, check out the Facebook event page here.

welcome spring

3. Say goodbye to winter sports

Perhaps you don’t associate springtime with snow, but thanks to some impressive weather in March, the local ski scene at China Peak is open for business daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Monday, April 2. This might be your last chance to enjoy some skiing.

If you want to double down on fun, the Sequoia Brewing Company Ski Bus is taking its final run for the regular season on April 2. For $49 you can catch a ride to the mountain—it also includes your lift ticket. The bus leaves Sequoia Brewing Company at Champlain and Perrin at 7:30 a.m. and returns at 5:30 p.m. For tickets and more information about the SBC bus, click here.

There will be one more special SBC bus run on April 7. The occasion? The 60th anniversary of the resort. You can purchase lift tickets here for special “retro” rates. Although the $5 rates from the 1950s are sold out, there are still some 1998 and 2008 prices available if you hurry. You can follow China Peak on Facebook for current updates and weather conditions on the mountain—just click here.

welcome spring

Photo courtesy of China Peak Facebook page

4. Explore the great outdoors in your own backyard

At FresYes.com, we always like to explore a good hiking trail, and now is a great time to start planning your next adventure. To start, check out 3 Must-See Hiking Trails here. You should probably try to make 2018 the year to see them all.

If you’re looking for hiking a little closer to home, there’s a lot to choose from. You can try mountain biking at Woodward Park (find more information here), a hike along the Hidden Homes Trail (complete with oversize animal homes to visit), or consider a visit to the San Joaquin Fish Hatchery.

I know it sounds a little fishy (heh), but you’ll be hooked once you check out this family friendly, free place. Not only can you see a ridiculous amount of trout and salmon, there’s a fantastic playground (fish-themed of course) and walking trail that is perfect for kids of all ages.

Find out all the details (including my review of the bathroom situation, because I’ve got your back), here.

welcome spring

Small Fry Children’s Trail on the San Joaquin River Parkway

Of course, this is just scratching the surface of fun spring activities in the 559, but with bonsai trees, baseball, skiing, and fish hatcheries, I think there’s a fair chance something will catch your eye. If not, drop your favorite FresYes spring activity in the comment section.

The Grizzlies’ Fresno Famous tournament lets you vote on weird ballpark food

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If you’re not a fan of basketball, you can feel a little left out during March Madness. Putting together brackets and watching as teams get eliminated/advance—it all seems like fun.

Luckily, the Fresno Grizzlies have found a way for us non-basketball types to get in on the action. They’ve created the Fresno Famous bracket for that one thing all Americans can’t seem to get enough of: weird ballpark food creations.

Grizzlies' Fresno Famous tournament

If you’ve been to Chukchansi Park in recent years, you’ve probably tried at least one of the eight foods represented in the bracket: 

  • Frankenslice: A pepperoni pizza slice with a hot dog in the crust. 
  • Chorizo Mac & Cheese Dog: Hot dog topped with spicy chorizo mac ‘n cheese.
  • Jack & Coke Churros: Deep fried churros filled with Jack & Coke custard.
  • Oreo Taco: An Oreo-flavored waffle shell filled with cookies ‘n cream ice cream topped with Oreo cream filling and mini Oreos.
  • Elote Corndog: A corndog breaded in classic elote ingredients—masa, dry cheese, chili spices.
  • Urban Legend Sliders: Pulled pork sliders topped with Coca-cola syrup and Pop Rocks. 
  • Grizzly Eggs: Cream cheese and buffalo sauce deviled egg wrapped in bacon and deep fried then tossed in more buffalo sauce.
  • The Chickle: A dill pickle hollowed and stuffed with Nashville Hot pulled chicken.

They’re all amazing, but ONLY ONE CAN BE CHAMP. (I vote Chickle, mostly for the name).

Voting is happening now on FresnoGrizzlies.com. The bracket will run through the actual Final Four, the first weekend of April, when the champ will be crowned. The winning food item will then be available throughout the Grizzlies’ first homestand, April 10 through April 16.

So vote now!

Fresno Famous food tournament

Fresno Famous food tournament

Fresno Famous food tournament

Grizzlies ending the season with a Princess Ball and Oreo Taco Night

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Joanne Lui

Joanne Lui is a social media and fashion addict who has lived in Fresno since she was four, and sometimes accidentally says she was born and raised in Fresno. She was actually born in Hong Kong. She loves shopping and the St. Louis Cardinals, and is equally likely to be found in heels or a baseball cap - sometimes both. She blogs about designer bargain hunting and charitable fashion companies at www.shoesoffmyfeet.com
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If there’s one thing the Fresno Grizzlies know, it’s how to have fun. Even if you’re not a baseball fan (which is an idea I find inconceivable), you can’t go to a game and not have a good time.

Whether it’s food, entertainment or special theme nights, there’s something for everyone. And although the season is winding down, the Grizzlies are making a run at the playoffs, and there is plenty of other excitement in store for the final few games.

grizzlies oreos

One popular theme night coming up on Friday, Aug. 18 is the Princess Ball. Kids who show up in costume will be given a free ticket to the game.

Among the princesses in attendance will be Beauty, Anna & the Snow Queen, Elena, Moana, and Rapunzel and her man, Flynn. Captain America and Wonder Woman will be guarding the entrance to the ball, which will take place in the cantina area. There, fans can take photos with characters, as well as participate in sing-alongs of beloved songs.

grizzlies oreos

Oreo Taco Night Inspired by a True Love of the Cookie

Another night that the whole family—and whole city—can look forward to is the Oreo Taco Night on Thursday, Aug. 24. The team will be sporting Oreo-themed jerseys that will be auctioned off for charity, and frozen treat shop Cream will be on hand to make Oreo ice cream tacos, first dreamed up by Grizzlies Director of Marketing Sam Hansen for Oreo’s “My Oreo Creation Contest.”

Sam is a prolific collector of Oreos. He has more than 60 different flavors of Oreos from around the world. I asked him where the interest came from.

“I have always been a huge fan of marketing and promotions and also packaging and design,” Sam said. “When I started to notice that Oreo was extending its iconic brand by releasing flavor variations and hybrids like the Cakester in the late ‘90s, I started saving the packages. Once I had access to my own freezer I began using the same model I use for my sneaker collection: ‘One to rock, one to stock.’ With Oreos, it is ‘One to eat, one to freeze.’ ”

Grizzlies Marketing Earns National Attention

This is only the latest of many genius promotions that Sam has created in his time at the Grizzlies. He’s responsible for Taco Truck Throwdown, the Grizzlies playing as the Tacos on Tuesday nights, the Frankenslice pizza, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle night, and much, much more.

Grizzlies oreos

Taco tots are just one of many creations that have sprung from the mind of Sam Hansen.

“My favorite promos absorb all elements of the stadium and game and turn the experience into more than a show. We want to create great memories,” Sam said. “Promotions like our TMNT Night in 2014 provided us not only with unique jerseys that instantly went viral, but also with collaborative themed merchandise that set sales records in the team store. TMNT characters interacted with fans on the concourse and between inning skits. We had head shots, food, and a lunchbox gate giveaway, all encompassing the TMNT theme.”

Thanks to Sam, the Grizzlies have become well known in the sports world for its marketing and theme nights. What are the essential elements for a good promotion?

“We usually look for two main elements when deciding on promotions. One, is there a local cultural connection for us? Things that are quintessentially Central Growlifornian, [such as] tri-tip, Jerry Tarkanian, taco trucks, etc.,” Sam said. “Two, if we notice that something is up-trending in popular culture: Pokémon Go, TMNT, taco trucks. Our biggest successes have been when we have a theme like taco trucks that balances the two.”

As for ideas that haven’t made it? Well, most of those are top secret. But Sam did spill one that he’s still hoping will be approved someday: “A Ninja Theme Night that includes a throwing star range. Fans would also be asked to sign a petition ending the senseless law ‘section 22410’ that bans throwing stars in California. How can someone be a real ninja if they aren’t allowed to carry throwing stars?”

And that, ladies and gents, is a pretty good summation of everything that makes Sam Hansen a genius. Imagination, guts, and determination.

grizzlies oreos

Additional Promotions

In addition to the promos mentioned in the beginning of my post, there’s a few others of note.

  • Friday, Aug. 25 is Christian Fellowship Night. After the game and Friday night fireworks, Christian artist David Dunn will be performing a special live concert. Groups that purchase tickets can also take advantage of a deal where each person will receive an additional ticket for the game on Aug. 26 or 27. For more information, contact Brandon Aurecchione at baurecchione@fresnogrizzlies.com or 559-320-2535.
  • The Grizzlies will once again have their 4, 3, 2, 1 promotion, where the fourth-to-last game of the season (Oreo Taco Night) will have $4 tickets, the third-to-last game will have $3 tickets, then second-to-last is $2 and final game will be only $1.
  • Speaking of the final game of the season, Sunday, Aug. 27 will be Fan Appreciation Night. Promotional items from the season will be given away to randomly chosen fans throughout the game.

If none of this is enough to convince you, well then, how about free tickets? Sign up now for the FresYes Insider weekly newsletter for a chance to win a set of ticket vouchers this weekend! We gave away 24 vouchers last weekend and are giving away 24 more tomorrow. 

For more information on the Fresno Grizzlies, check out their website or follow them on Facebook.