Archives for November 2019

20th Annual Breakfast With Buster Holiday Food & Toy Drive on December 7th

 

LAKEWOOD, NJ – The BlueClaws will hold their 20th annual Breakfast With Buster Holiday Food & Toy Drive on Saturday, December 7th from 9 am until 11 am at FirstEnergy Park. Buster and Santa Claus will be on hand to collect food and toys for the holidays.

The BlueClaws will have bagels, coffee, and hot chocolate available for all fans in attendance that day.

Attendees are encouraged to bring new, and unwrapped toys, and non-perishable food items. All donations will be collected by the Salvation Army of Ocean County, a BlueClaws Charities Community Partner.

“It’s hard to believe we’ve reached our first ’20 Year Event,’ but this is one that we’ll be hosting for the 20th time this year,” said BlueClaws Charities Executive Director Jim DeAngelis. “It’s been supported by the community in an amazing fashion of the years and we look forward to another great event this year.

“It’s our goal to help those less fortunate and we thank everyone for their support of this event this holiday season.”

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment.

BlueClaws 2020 Membership Plans and Group Outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com.

– BlueClaws –

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

SeaWolves Announce Chace Numata Scholarship

Purchase a Chace Numata T-shirt. Proceeds benefit the Chace Numata Scholarship

Chace Numata Scholarship Information and Application

The Erie SeaWolves, Double-A Affiliate of the Detroit Tigers, announced today that the team has established the Chace Numata Scholarship in honor of the SeaWolves catcher who tragically passed away in September.

The SeaWolves Community Fund will award a minimum of four (4) $1,000 scholarships annually to Erie-area senior student-athletes participating in varsity baseball or softball. Honorees will be selected based on their accomplishments, contributions to a team, and their positive impact on the lives of others.

Fundraising efforts for the scholarship will begin immediately. Starting today, fans can purchase Chace Numata yellow jersey tees featuring his number (#10) and the hashtag #LiveLikeNumi. Numata T-shirts are available at the UPMC Park Team Store and online at SeaWolves.com. All proceeds from T-shirt sales will benefit the scholarship. Additional fundraising efforts will be announced in the near future.

Those wishing to donate to the Chace Numata Scholarship can send checks payable to the SeaWolves Community Fund to:

SeaWolves Community Fund

ATTN: Numi Scholarship

110 E. 10th Street

Erie, PA 16501

Scholarship applications are now being accepted. Completed applications will be due by February 15, 2020. All candidates for the scholarship must be nominated by a teacher or coach. The teacher or coach must attach a letter of recommendation describing the candidate’s:

  1. Positive impact on the lives of others
  2. Contributions to improving a team
  3. Accomplishments on and off the field
  4. Experiences or traits that make the candidate an exceptional scholarship nominee

Eligible student applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. College-bound senior currently attending high school and playing varsity baseball or varsity softball in Erie County, PA.
  2. Must be attending a 4-year college or university in the fall of 2020; candidate is NOT required to participate in collegiate athletics.
  3. Minimum grade point average of 2.5.
  4. Demonstrate the value of being a good teammate and a kind, positive influence on others.

A selection committee, including SeaWolves players, front office staff and the Numata family will determine the scholarship winners. There will be no discrimination regardless of gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation. The selection committee will not base its decisions in any way on the employment status of an applicant or the employment status of the applicant’s parents/guardians.

ABOUT CHACE NUMATA

Chace Numata was a switch-hitting catcher with the Erie SeaWolves, the Double-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. He passed away during the 2019 baseball season at the age of 27. “Numi” played 10 professional seasons in the Phillies, Yankees and Tigers organizations and was a leader on and off the field. He was a talented baseball player and a world-class teammate. It didn’t matter if you were a professional athlete or a young child, Chace made you feel welcome. His smile was contagious and unrelenting, and his fun-loving personality could light up any environment.

ABOUT THE SEAWOLVES COMMUNITY FUND

The SeaWolves Community Fund is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to improving the lives of children and adults in the greater Erie region. The SeaWolves Community Fund places a special emphasis on supporting youth programs focused on baseball, education, and wellness by developing partnerships with those who share in our mission.

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

BlueClaws to Match Vets Night Out Donations Thru November 15th

LAKEWOOD, NJ – This week, as the nation honors veterans and military personnel, the BlueClaws have announced they will match all donations to the club’s Vets Night Out program, presented by OceanFirst Bank.

The program provides veterans and active military personnel with tickets to select BlueClaws games each season, including Military Appreciation Night. The tickets are donated through accredited channels such as VetTix.com and claimed by certified personnel.

“The BlueClaws are proud to work with the area business community to support veterans and active military personnel,” said Joe Ricciutti, BlueClaws President & General Manager.

“We also recognize that while their loved ones are serving on active duty, there is often a family stationed at one of our great military bases, worried and waiting for them to safely return. We want to also give them an opportunity to enjoy a night with the BlueClaws. We want to be a place where families can go to put the real world on the back burner, even for just a few hours, and enjoy some baseball, mini golf, boardwalk games, ice cream and family time.”

Vets Night Out donors receive benefits as well based on the donation levels noted below:

PLATINUM ($1,000) – This level includes 100 tickets donated to military personnel. Donors will receive on-field and website recognition plus 10 tickets to select Vets Night Out games in 2020, a table display (date TBD), and a game in a BlueClaws Luxury Suite (Date TBD).

GOLD ($500) – This level includes 50 tickets donated to military personnel. Donors will receive on-field and website recognition plus eight tickets to select Vets Night Out games in 2020 and a table display (date TBD).

SILVER ($250) – This level includes 25 tickets donated to military personnel. Donors will receive on-field and website recognition plus four tickets to the 2020 Military Appreciation Night game.

BRONZE ($100) – This level includes 10 tickets donated to military personnel. Donors will receive on-field recognition and two tickets to the 2020 Military Appreciation Night game.

Each donation made through November 15th will be matched by the BlueClaws, doubling the opportunities for veterans to attend BlueClaws games in 2020.

To participate, call Adam Polsky at 732-901-7000 ext 147.

Since 2009, the BlueClaws and OceanFirst Foundation have partnered on Home Runs for Heroes, a program through which the foundation makes a donation to military-based non-profit(s) for each BlueClaws home run hit at FirstEnergy Park. $38,000 was donated in 2019 and over $350,000 has been donated over the duration of the program.

Additionally, the BlueClaws honor veterans at each game through their Salute the Troops in-game promotion, presented by CareOne.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment.

Ticket packages and group outings for the team’s 20th season at the Shore are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com.

– BlueClaws –

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

DBJ Selects Dragons, Robert Murphy for Community Awards

 

Dayton, Ohio-The Dayton Dragons have been honored as the Miami Valley’s “Customer Service Business of the Year” for the second straight year by the Dayton Business Journal. Additionally, Dragons President Robert Murphy has been selected as the 2019 Executive of the Year in the Dayton-area business community by the DBJ.

The Dragons and winners of other 2019 Dayton Business Journal awards were honored on Thursday night at the Dayton Business Journal gala at the Schuster Performing Arts Center. The Business of the Year awards program has celebrated the region’s best in business for 17 years.

“Thanks to Dayton Business Journal for selecting the Dayton Dragons for these honors,” said Murphy. “The Dragons have the best fans in sports in a great community with great corporate support. Our staff works hard to make each of our 70 home dates each season a special event for our guests, and this recognition is a reflection of our team’s commitment and dedication to being a difference-maker for our community.”

The Dragons completed their 20th season in 2019. They hold the longest streak of consecutive sold-out dates in the history of sports in North America. The streak is active at 1,385 straight sell-outs, starting with the Dragons first game on April 27, 2000.

For 14 straight years, the Dragons have finished first in the nation in season attendance for all Minor League Baseball clubs below the Triple-A level, and their 20 years have marked the top 20 seasons in attendance at the Single-A level in Minor League Baseball history.

Murphy has received several other local and national awards over the last several months. In April, he was selected for induction into the Dayton Business Journal Forty-Under-40 Hall-of-Fame, the highest honor in the program. Murphy was selected as professional baseball’s 2019 Executive of the Year by Ballpark Digest after being named 2018 Minor League Baseball Executive of the Year by Baseball America.

The Dragons will open their 21st season in the Midwest League on April 9, 2019 when they host the Great Lakes Loons.

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Attached photo, from left: Robert Murphy, Dragons President; Brandy Guinaugh, Assistant General Manager; Brad Eaton, Vice President of Corporate Partnerships; Eric Deutsch, Executive Vice President.

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

BlueClaws Charities Announces 2019 Grant Recipients

 

BlueClaws Charities raises money throughout the year across various platforms such as special fundraising events like their Nine & Dine charity golf outing, BlueClaws jersey auctions, a nightly 50/50 raffle that is held at home games. At the conclusion of the season, money raised is distributed through a grant application process.

“We are very proud to support these outstanding Community Partner organizations,” said BlueClaws Charities Executive Director Jim DeAngelis. “Not only are these groups on the ground helping the underserved in our communities, but we are pleased that all grant money stays local here in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.”

Find the organizations and grant descriptions below:

American Cancer Society – To help fund rides to treatment for cancer patients, a free place to stay when a patient needs to travel for treatment, as well as free wigs for patients.

ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia – To help subsidize our Care Services Program that offers programs and services to families living with ALS at no cost and who live in the surrounding communities of BlueClaws Charities.

Alzheimer’s Association Greater New Jersey Chapter – To support youth in our area who are experiencing Alzheimer’s in their family.

The Arc, Ocean County Chapter – To support the general operating budget of the agency in order to continue to provide and support 1,500 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Ashley Lauren Foundation – To assist children with cancer and their families through direct family financial assistance.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ocean County – To fund current community mentorship programs.

Jersey Shore Council, Boy Scouts of America – To provide direct support to our Scoutreach (youth at risk) Cub Scout pack at the Clark Elementary School in Lakewood, New Jersey.

Brodie Fund – To financially assist families with pets fighting cancer.

Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey – To help defray the cost of criminal background checks completed on all volunteers prior to assignments.

David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation – To provide direct financial aid to New Jersey families affected by cancer during the holiday season.

Dottie’s House – To offset the cost of a backflow repair at the facility.

Easterseals New Jersey – To ensure the continuation of employment services programs featuring skills evaluation, resume building, interview skills in addition to placing our participants into jobs within the community.

Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore – To purchase a storage shed to allow the robotics team to store their robot and its components.

Go4theGoal – To support our Kart 4 Kids program in local hospitals that will bring smiles to kids battling cancer.

Guidinglight House Inc. – Fund housing and program services to female veterans transitioning out of the military.

HABcore Inc. – To help fund the supportive services program component of HABcore’s Rapid Re-Housing Program in Ocean County.

JAR of Hope – To bring awareness directed to finding a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

JF Party Dragon – To purchase food for those in need in Ocean County.

Kids Need More – To enhance the lives of children, families, and young adults coping with cancer and life-threatening illness.

LADACIN Network – To support our Child Care and Preschool program which integrates children with and without disabilities.

Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Fund – To assist our organization in its mission of aiding and assisting our wounded warriors and their families.

Mya Lin Terry Foundation – To support our Friends of Michael Campaign, sibling support of oncology children.

NJ TEARS Foundation – To provide assistance to families who have lost a child due to pregnancy or infant loss or sudden loss of a school-aged child in New Jersey with programs offered through our Center for Child Loss in Wall.

Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity – To support elderly neighbors in their progressing age and the infirmities that often come with it by providing safety-related maintenance (such as grab bars and wheelchair ramps) and other home repairs necessary to alleviate structural violations, serious health issues, and code violations.

Ocean County Family Support Organization – To offset the costs of trips for our Youth Partnership Program.

Ocean County Shrine Club – To purchase surgical hardware to scoliosis patients at Shriners Hospital for Children, Philadelphia, specifically, metal instrumentation including, but not limited to, surgical rods and cages used in spinal fusion implant procedures to straighten severe curvatures.

Ocean’s Harbor House – To provide housing for homeless, abused, neglected, and tossaway youth between the ages of 16 and 21, serving Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

Ocean Partnership for Children – To provide emergency fund for youth and famliies for immediate needs that cannot be secured at no cost or covered by Medicad or flex funds.

Piece of the Puzzle – To expand our special education curriculum for students with autism and developmental disabilities.

Parents of Autistic Children – To provide a challenger sports league designed to offer a socialization opportunity, through athletic participation, between disabled students and their typically developing peers.

Probation Association of New Jersey Education Fund – To foster and enhance educational/training opportunities for members of PA/NJ through the operation of an annual training conference.

Raising Hope for Others, Inc. – To offset costs of their August fundraiser.

RJM Sportsgroup – To provide support for students in the Jackson school districts with scholarships.

Salvation Army of Ocean County – To support our weekly soup kitchen, which serves 50-100 meals per week.

Seabrook Village – To support the Library at Seabrook Village.

Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide – To support our Ocean County Youth Wellness Summit. This summit is specifically designed to provide students, school administrators, and school staff with the necessary resources needed to encourage and support overall wellness, including the prevention of teen suicide and other upstream prevention measures.

Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund – To provide scholarships for graduating high school seniors.

United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties – To purchase warm clothing for lower-income children.

USO of Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey – To provide funding for 2020 activities and events in support of the annual Month of the Military Child Celebrations throughout April.

BlueClaws Charities unveiled their 2019 Community Impact Report earlier this week. You can view the report by clicking here.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 of the Lakewood BlueClaws. The organization supports its Community Partners in Monmouth and Ocean Counties with cash grants and other organizations with in-kind donations throughout the year.

The Lakewood BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. BlueClaws ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com. Opening Night of the 2020 season is on Thursday, April 16th.

– BlueClaws –

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

Spectrum Field Food and Beverage Job Fair on November 21

Spectrum Field Food & Beverage Job Fair from 12-4 p.m. on November 21 

The Philadelphia Phillies and Clearwater Threshers at Spectrum Field are hiring seasonal gameday staff for the 2020 season! Interviews will be conducted on site for Food & Beverage positions, and applications for other departments will be accepted at the Food & Beverage Job Fair on Thursday, November 21, from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Positions and interviews available on Nov. 21 (flyer image)

  • Stand Lead
  • Vending Lead
  • Concourse Lead
  • Warehouse
  • Cashiers
  • Cooks
  • Bartenders
  • Runners

Philadelphia Phillies Spring Training is February 22 – March 23; Phillies 2020 Spring Training schedule

Clearwater Threshers summer season is April 9 – September 6; Threshers 2020 summer schedule

Spectrum Field is located at 601 N Old Coachman Rd in Clearwater.

QUESTIONS? Call Justin Stone at 727-712-4401 or email JStone@threshersbaseball.com

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

Ballpark Digest Honors Cougars for Commitment to Charity

 

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars, minor league affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been announced as the 2019 Ballpark Digest Commitment to Charity Award winner. Since 2015, the award has been handed out to the team that has shown growth in their charitable giving and community programs making the Cougars one out of 160 teams across the country to be recognized by Ballpark Digest for their charitable outreach this season.

In 2018, the organization announced A Million Smiles campaign with a fundraising goal of $1 million. The goal was surpassed thanks in part to over 20 local programs that have been put into place via the Kane County Cougars Baseball Foundation, including the Cougars Reading Club and the Summer Reading Program which helped raise over $750,000.

This season, two new programs were implemented to expand the organization’s community outreach with Mental Health Awareness and Deaf Awareness Night. Local charities were selected that focus on improving the quality of lives for those who deal with mental illness and hearing impairments. For each strikeout recorded by a Cougars pitcher during those two nights, the Kane County Cougars Baseball Foundation made a $100 donation with a portion of the total proceeds provided to the selected charities.

Another unique program that was recently implemented is in partnership with AmazonSmiles. Fans who purchase items on Amazon can select the Kane County Cougars Foundation as their desired charity to receive one percent of the purchase and assist in the expansion of the Foundation’s local reach.

“Our goal has always been not only to give back to our community, but also to honor the people of our community,” said Cougars owner Dr. Bob Froehlich. “Each of our programs is focused on how we can give back and it has helped us to strengthen our community relationships. When people hear the name Kane County Cougars, they know that we are about more than just baseball.”

The Cougars 30th anniversary season kicks off on Thursday, April 9 at 6::30 PM against the Cedar Rapids Kernels. For updates on tickets and promotions, follow the Cougars on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 180 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez, Kyle Schwarber and Willson Contreras.

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

VA Medical Center, Curve host veterans recognition event

 

CURVE, Pa. – The Altoona Curve and James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center will hold a joint veterans recognition event on Friday, November 8 at 9 a.m. in the second floor auditorium at the VA’s Pleasant Valley Boulevard location.

The Curve will present a donation to assist in approving the quality of life of veterans who use the local VA. The money was raised during the team’s June 7 jersey auction when Curve players and coaching staff wore specialty uniforms to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of D-Day.

“The 75th Anniversary of D-Day game was one of the most memorable nights of our 2019 season,” said Curve general manager Derek Martin. “In addition to the special uniforms that were worn, we had a World War II Stuart Tank and reenactors at the ballpark that night, which really brought to life the sense of pride we have for our veterans. Our partnership with the VA Medical Center on the D-Day jersey auction was a perfect fit and we couldn’t be more grateful for what they do for our community’s veterans.”

“The Altoona Curve have been one of our strongest community partners,” said VA Medical Center Director Sigrid Andrew, “they have demonstrated a strong commitment to our Veterans and to our local VA hospital.”

The Curve have partnered with the VA Medical Center for many years and has included the recognition of veterans at games, hospital visits by the players and staff in addition to donated tickets for disabled veterans living at the VA.

Friday’s event is part of a week-long recognition that includes 15 speaking engagements, three parades, and events at each of the VA’s five community-based outpatient clinics. The week wraps around Veterans Day (Monday, November 11) and concludes on Saturday, November 16 at 7 p.m. with the Saint Francis men’s basketball team hosting American University in their Military Appreciation Day, which they have partnered with the VA Medical Center for the past two years.

For more information, please call the James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center Public Affairs at 814-943-8164 ext. 7404 or 814-569-3386.

The Altoona Curve, 2010 and 2017 Eastern League Champions, have been the Double-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates since 1999. For tickets or more information, visit AltoonaCurve.com, call 877.99.CURVE or stop by the PNG Field box office. Additionally, the Stockyard Team Store is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on non-gamedays and online 24/7/365. 

 

-CURVE-

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

BlueClaws Charities Releases 2019 Community Impact Report

 

LAKEWOOD, NJ – The Lakewood BlueClaws and BlueClaws Charities have released their 2019 Community Impact Report including information on BlueClaws Charities, presented by DiFeo Kia, grant recipients and club community involvement throughout the year.

“BlueClaws Charities and the entire BlueClaws staff is proud to be a key part of the community throughout the year,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “From BlueClaws games themselves to events and fundraising around the area 12 months a year, to supporting a series of tremendous Community Partner organizations, being a leading member of the community is something that we take great pride in. We look forward to expanding our involvement further in 2020!

To read the 2019 Community Impact Report, click here.

BlueClaws Charities handed out cash grants to 39 Community Partners in 2019 and all organizations that applied received a grant. These organizations, ranging from local branches of national charities to smaller local organizations, each create a positive impact in the community in a different way.

“Our BlueClaws Charities Community Partner organizations are helping lead the way around the Jersey Shore in working with the underserved and underprivliged around the area,” said BlueClaws Vice President of Community Relations Jim DeAngelis, also the Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities. “We are proud to note that all grant money stays in Ocean & Monmouth Counties and is put to great use locally.

“We thank our great sponsor, DiFeo Kia, and everyone that supported BlueClaws Charities events and fundraising efforts to make these grants possible.”

Grant fundraising included special events, both in and outside the stadium, throughout the year.

In May, the BlueClaws hosted their 19th annual ALS Celebrity Waiter Event, benefiting the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, the principal charity of the Phillies. This year’s event was held at Quaker Steak & Lube in Brick. The Celebrity Waiter Event has raised over $120,000 for the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia in its history.

In August, BlueClaws Charities hosted their annual golf outing at Lakewood Country Club. The 10th annual event, a “Nine and Dine” format, includes golf, dinner, and special auctions plus appearances by BlueClaws players and coaches.

Additional funding came from the nightly 50/50 raffle which took place at all BlueClaws home games. Each pool total averaged over $2,000 with an average of more than $1,000 being returned to winners.

BlueClaws Charities also raised money through BlueClaws jersey auctions during the year. In 2019, the BlueClaws did the following jersey auctions for BlueClaws Charities: Players Day, Grateful Dead, Margaritaville Night at the Park, BruceClaws, Military Appreciation Night, and Pork Roll, Egg & Cheese. A special pink jersey auction on Breast Cancer Awareness Night benefitted the American Cancer Society. Fans were able to bid either online or through a mobile device, enabling bidding from all over the world. This process raised additional funds for BlueClaws Charities and their Community Partners.

The BlueClaws and BlueClaws Charities partner with OceanFirst Bank and OceanFirst Foundation on several programs that benefit area military personnel. The Home Runs for Heroes program, which just completed its 11th year, generates a donation from OceanFirst Foundation to a local military-based non-profit for each BlueClaws home run hit at FirstEnergy Park. In 2019, the program raised $38,000 for local organizations. Further, through the Vets Night Out program, presented by OceanFirst Bank, tickets are donated to military members through accredited channels.

Additional events during the year included a Challenger Clinic at which the developmentally disabled were able to learn baseball from BlueClaws players and Major League alumni. Troop and School Supply Drives were held at the ballpark during games and the 19th annual Breakfast With Buster holiday food and toy drive was held in December, collecting non-perishable food and unwrapped toys to benefit the Salvation Army of Ocean County.

Through the Phillies Step-Up Program, BlueClaws players participated in over 261 hours of community service during the year. This included events at the ballpark and around the community such as a free clinic put on by the Ocean County Parks Department featuring BlueClaws players.

BlueClaws staff members served on event committees for nine different area non-profit organizations. Staff members served on the Board of Directors of seven different non-profit organizations and five Chambers of Commerce.

The BlueClaws fundraising program also proved profitable for area organizations and event committees. In 2019, over $143,000 was raised through the BlueClaws fundraising program, through which organizations purchase BlueClaws tickets and re-sell them to their constituents to raise money. For additional information on that program, contact a BlueClaws representative at 732-901-7000 option 3.

In-Kind donations included ticket vouchers or other contributions to 924 organizations plus 65 additional packages including merchandise or hospitality outings.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 of the Lakewood BlueClaws. The organization supports its Community Partners in Monmouth and Ocean Counties with cash grants and other organizations with in-kind donations throughout the year.

The Lakewood BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. BlueClaws ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com. Opening Night of the 2020 season is on Thursday, April 16th.

– BlueClaws –

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

Weyauwega Baseball Diamond Receives Makeover from Rattlers Grounds Crew

 

GRAND CHUTE, WI – The Weyauwega Community Baseball Field received a makeover courtesy of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers before the snow started to fall. The field was chosen in a random drawing of participants in a fundraising program that was available to youth baseball programs during the 2019 season.

The Timber Rattlers grounds crew edged the diamond, leveled the playing surface, and cleaned up the fence line at the Little League field.

“The City of Weyauwega is very grateful to have been selected for this work and for the graciousness of the Timber Rattlers to use their time and talents to better community ball fields such as ours,” said city administrator Jeremy Schroeder. “We extend a huge thank you to the Timber Rattlers and their staff for the work at the community park ball diamond.”

The fund raising program in 2020 will allow youth sports leagues and eligible non-profit organizations to purchase undated Timber Rattlers ticket vouchers at $7, resell the vouchers for $12, and keep the difference for their group.

There are some exciting new additions coming to the 2020 fund raising program this offseason. Contact Kyle Fargen at (920)733-4152 Ext. 225 or kfargen@timberrattlers.com for the latest information on how you can participate next season.

Ticket packages for the 2020 season are available online through timberrattlers.com, over the phone at (920) 733-4152 or (800) WI-TIMBER or in person at the Timber Rattlers Box Office located at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium. The box office is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.

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

Applications being accepted for 2020 Youth Field Renovations

 

TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats are currently accepting applications for the 2020 ‘4 in 24’ youth field renovation project, which will take place in April and feature infield overhauls of four youth baseball/softball fields. It’s a milestone year for the renovation program, as the number of fields renovated reaches 40 since the program’s inception.

The ValleyCats continue their strong partnership with Hannaford Supermarkets and BlueShield of Northeastern New York on this impactful community initiative. The scope of work includes laying brand new grass, rebuilding the pitcher’s mound and home plate areas, grading and raking the baselines, installing a new pitching rubber, plate, bases and more.

“Our mission for this project since day one was to fulfill our duty as ambassadors of the game by impacting as many youth ballplayers in our communities as possible,” said ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan. “We are extremely thankful to our tremendous partners in this endeavour, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets. Together, we have helped to provide safe and well-maintained ball fields for thousands of youth ballplayers in the Capital Region and beyond.”

“Each year, BlueShield employees alongside volunteers from the Tri-City ValleyCats and Hannaford Supermarkets roll up their sleeves and rally around this program,” said Nicky Chlopecki, Manager, Community Relations, BlueShield of Northeastern New York. “As we approach a milestone year for 4 in 24, BlueShield is as proud as ever to be part of this extraordinary initiative that continues to impact the communities where we live, work and play.”

“As a committed community partner, Hannaford is thrilled to be a part of a program that has such a positive and long-lasting impact on our local neighborhoods. Improving these fields not only provides kids with a safe place to play ball, but also provides an opportunity to discover a love of an active and healthy lifestyle,” said Hannaford Supermarkets Community Relations Specialist Brian Fabre. “We are pleased to continue to partner with the ValleyCats and BlueShield of Northeastern New York during a milestone year for this outstanding initiative.”

Youth baseball and softball organizations interested in having their field renovated may submit an application online at tcvalleycats.com, and are encouraged to send in current photos with their submissions prior to any snowfall.

The ValleyCats began assisting with youth field renovations since 2003, renovating one ballfield each year. In 2011 the program grew into the ambitious “4 in 24” project, with the Tri-City ValleyCats and their partners renovating four local youth playing fields in a 24-hour time period.

APPLY ONLINE>>

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

Stripers Launch New “Veterans Pack” for Veterans Day

 

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. – In honor of Veterans Day, the Gwinnett Stripers have created a new “Veterans Pack” for 2020, available for purchase by service men and women and their families only at Coolray Field on November 11 and 12.

Each pack includes one Field Box ticket to four patriotic-themed Stripers games (Opening Night on April 16, Salute to Armed Forces on May 22, Memorial Day on May 25, and Independence Day on July 4), plus a Stripers camo cap, all for just $55 (a value of $97).

The Veterans Pack is available to all service members and their dependents who provide a military ID or other proof of service at the Coolray Field Ticket Office on November 11 and 12. The Stripers camo cap will be available at Bobby’s Tackle Team Store immediately upon purchase, while the tickets will be available for pick-up during the Stripers Preseason Party on March 8.

Also, in observance of Veterans Day, the Stripers will give fans the opportunity to sign a giant card thanking our local military for their service. The card will be available to sign at Bobby’s Tackle Team Store from Thursday, November 7 through Tuesday, November 12.

“In addition to our season-long military ticket offer, we wanted to create a ticket pack that shows our appreciation for all service members and their families by offering them a special price on a prime seat to our most patriotic games,” said Stripers Vice President and General Manager Adam English. “The Veterans Pack is one of many ways we plan to honor our local military at Coolray Field in 2020.”

The Coolray Field Ticket Office will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 11 and Tuesday, November 12 for Veterans Pack purchases. Fans with questions can email striperstickets@braves.com or call 678-277-0340.

The Stripers also offer a military and first responder price for every Stripers home game, available for purchase at GovX.com.

For information about all Gwinnett Stripers ticket options for 2020, including Memberships, Groups, Youth Parties, and more, visit GoStripers.com.

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

TinCaps Auctioning Off Game-Worn Jerseys

 

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Fort Wayne TinCaps are auctioning off game-worn jerseys at TinCapsJersey.com. Proceeds from the auction will be donated to the TinCaps CARE program.

The jerseys up for auction are the team’s San Diego Padres jerseys that were worn by players and coaches during Sunday games at Parkview Field from 2017-19. The jerseys are white with navy piping and “PADRES” across the chest. The uniform numbers 1-39 are available, with the exception of 6, 19, 31, and 35, which are retired by the Padres.

The TinCaps’ Padres jerseys were sported by some of baseball’s top prospects, including nine who’ve already reached the major leagues. See list below.

NOTE: The No. 23 jersey worn by Fernando Tatis Jr. in 2017 is not up for auction. The team is preserving that jersey for historical purposes. As an 18-year-old, Tatis set the franchise’s single-season home run record with 21. He made San Diego’s roster in 2019 and instantly became one of the most exciting players in the big leagues. The team issued a new No. 23 jersey worn by players in 2018 and ’19. That jersey is available to bid on. 

The jersey auction is live and runs through 5 p.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, Nov. 20.

Fans are encouraged to bid on jerseys regardless of their location. Winners who live outside of the area can make arrangements to have their jersey delivered by mail.

Thanks in part to financial support from the Padres, the TinCaps CARE program allows the team to donate tickets to non-profit organizations in the Fort Wayne area that benefit members of the community facing hardships. In 2019, the TinCaps donated more than 1,000 tickets to 18 different non-profits.

Jerseys For Auction Worn By Players Who’ve Reached the Major Leagues

  • No. 11: RHP Pedro Avila
  • No. 14: RHP Ronald Bolanos
  • No. 16: LHP Adrian Morejon
  • No. 24: RHP Andres Munoz and RHP David Bednar
  • No. 25: LHP Nick Margevicius
  • No. 26: LHP Logan Allen and RHP Michel Baez

Jerseys For Auction Worn By Current Top 30 Padres Prospects

  • No. 3: INF Gabriel Arias
  • No. 4: C Luis Campusano
  • No. 8: LHP MacKenzie Gore
  • No. 9: INF Xavier Edwards, INF Gabriel Arias, and OF Buddy Reed
  • No. 12: INF Esteury Ruiz and C Blake Hunt
  • No. 13: INF Owen Miller
  • No. 15: INF Tucupita Marcano
  • No. 18: OF Jeisson Rosario and RHP Reggie Lawson
  • No. 20: INF Hudson Potts
  • No. 22: LHP Joey Cantillo and RHP Mason Thompson
  • No. 25: LHP Ryan Weathers
  • No. 26: RHP Luis Patino
  • No. 28: OF Tirso Ornelas and RHP Mason Thompson

A complete rundown of who wore each jersey is available at TinCapsJersey.com.

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

Chihuahuas Team with El Paso Electric to Host Career Prep Series for High School Students

 

EL PASO – November 4, 2019 – The El Paso Chihuahuas have teamed with El Paso Electric to offer high school students a look into the sports industry. The El Paso Chihuahuas Career Prep Program presented by El Paso Electric gives students a chance to learn about some of the careers within the sports industry outside of the playing field.

The career prep program, which take place at Southwest University Park, provides students with an inside look into the Chihuahuas organization. The one-day program is a classroom-style setting with instruction from Chihuahuas front office employees. It is designed for students interested in business, marketing, operations or other careers in the sports industry.

Throughout the day-long program, students will practice problem solving skills, create a in-game promotion, and get an inside understanding of the sports industry.

“It is a privilege to partner with El Paso Electric to provide such an incredible learning opportunity for high school students in our region,” said MountainStar Sports Group Sr. Vice President and General Manager Brad Taylor. “We all want these students to start looking for careers they will love.”

The program aims to prepare students who attend with the skills and knowledge for continuing education and the importance of internships and experience in the industry in an effort to prepare them for future success.

“El Paso Electric is a firm believer in the importance and value internships can have on a student’s education and career choice, which is why the Company offers various internship opportunities, including high school students in the region,” shares El Paso Electric Interim CEO Adrian J. Rodriguez. “With expanding industries in the borderplex area, our youth can explore a variety of career options all while staying local and helping move our community forward.”

The Chihuahuas Career Prep Program presented by El Paso Electric is open to high school students who are participating in a business and/or marketing class. Schools may apply for the program and classes will be chosen on a first come first served basis. Teachers may request dates beginning November 4th through December 6th (excluding November 27-November 29), and January 6th through January 31st.

For scheduling information, contact Kate Lewis at (915) 242-2029 or klewis@epchihuahuas.com.

Dates & Schools are listed below.

November 4 Socorro High School
Novemver 17 Pebble Hills High School
November 19 Chapin High School
December 2 Parkland High School
December 6 Canutillo High School
January 8 Del Valle High School
January 17 Bel Air High School
January 23 Austin High School

FirstEnergy Stadium Pays Tribute to All who Served with Annual Veterans Day Ceremony

 

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils will celebrate and honor those who served on Monday, November 11thin hosting the sixth annual Veterans Day ceremony at FirstEnergy Stadium. The R-Phils, in partnership with Savage 61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, will be presenting the Veterans Day Wreath in front of the Veterans Monument at FirstEnergy Stadium at 1 p.m.

All veterans and military members are encouraged to attend, and the event is open to the general public.

Local community leaders will join R-Phils front office members at the ceremony, in which the American Legion Gregg Post 12 will lay a wreath in front of the ballpark’s dog tag monument near the entrance to FirstEnergy Stadium. The monument pays tribute to all members of the United States military who sacrificed to protect the United States of America.

Snacks and refreshments will be provided by the Fightin Phils upon conclusion of the ceremony in the Steve Moyer Subaru Team Store.

Originally called Reading Municipal Memorial Stadium, FirstEnergy Stadium was completed in 1951 and was named in honor of the servicemen and women who risked their lives in defense of their country. In 1999, a statue in the form of giant dog tags was placed in front of the stadium in a special rededication ceremony to honor the area’s veterans.

Beginning with the 2014 season, the Fightins have honored a specific veteran at each home game with a ceremonial flag service. The veteran, or his or her family, is recognized with a video tribute and ovation prior to the start of the game. The flag flies by the dog tag statue at the stadium’s main entrance, and is given to the veteran or veteran’s family following the game.

Prior to the start of the 2016 season, the Fightin Phils also unveiled a permanently unoccupied black seat in FirstEnergy Stadium. This seat pays tribute to the tens of thousands of military service personnel who were prisoners of war or have been declared missing in action.

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