Live CHQ, Chautauqua County's talent attraction and retention initiative, will again partner with the Jamestown Tarp Skunks to host a Community Buyout Night on Thursday at Russell E. Diethrick Park. The Community Buyout Night will feature the visiting Niagara Falls Americans, with free admission for all fans courtesy of Live CHQ and its two affiliate agencies, the Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency (CCIDA) and the Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG). The theme for the evening is "A Salute to Chautauqua County's First Responders and Healthcare Professionals," with pregame recognition planned for first responders and health care workers in attendance.
Beyond the on-field action, Community Buyout Night is designed as a full ballpark experience that encourages fans to arrive early, meet local organizations, and enjoy family-friendly activities before the first pitch. Pregame festivities are scheduled to begin at 5:00 PM and will include a touch-a-truck event featuring a variety of first responder vehicles on site for fans to explore and learn more about the important work done throughout Chautauqua County.
Fans will also have an opportunity to meet and take photos with Whiffy, the Tarp Skunks mascot. Several local healthcare organizations and volunteer fire departments are expected to host information tables during the pregame period, providing opportunities to connect with residents, share resources, and highlight ways community members can get involved.
As part of the game welcome, representatives from the CCIDA and CCPEG will distribute free Live CHQ chip clips to the first 500 fans through the gate. Just prior to the start of the game, the Tarp Skunks will also host a special first pitch ceremony honoring first responders in attendance, with newly appointed Jamestown Police Chief Scott Forster selected as this year's honoree.
Free tickets for Community Buyout Night will be available at Russell E. Diethrick Park the night of the game. Volunteer firefighters, local law enforcement, and EMS workers may also pick up tickets at their designated stations. A limited number of tickets will also be available at both CCIDA office locations in Jamestown and Dunkirk. Any first responder group interested in arranging tickets may contact the Jamestown Tarp Skunks directly at (716) 705-5600.
Additional information about the Jamestown Tarp Skunks, the team's 2026 season, and a printable schedule is available at the team's website.
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