2022 Shorebirds Summer Reading Program Presented by Caprichos Books Donated Over 200 Books

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SALISBURY, MD – The Delmarva Shorebirds Summer Reading Program presented by Caprichos Books rewards kids for completing their library’s summer reading program with two free tickets to a Shorebirds game.

For the 2022 season, over 30 libraries across Delmarva participated in the program and over 8,000 tickets were distributed to the participants. The Shorebirds and Caprichos Books visited 12 libraries with Sherman to read to the kids as well as facilitate a book exchange with books provided by Caprichos Books.

Through the book exchange, the Shorebirds were able to donate over 200 books to local free little libraries across Delmarva to help spread the joy of reading in our community. “We are very appreciative of Caprichos Books and our local libraries for helping us donate this incredible amount of books to little libraries on the Eastern Shore,” said Shorebirds Community Relations Manager, Sam Lehman. “Literacy on Delmarva is very important to the Shorebirds and something we like to expand upon each year through our community initiatives like the Summer Reading Program.”

Caprichos Books enjoyed partnering with the Shorebirds Summer Reading Program and the reach it had on the community. “This was such a great opportunity to visit all over Delmarva with the Shorebirds and I am proud of how many people we were able to reach in our first year partnership. Caprichos Books looks forward to continuing to meet and support readers and literacy programs with the Shorebirds and library partners,” explained Caprichos Books owner, Liz Decker

To learn more about the Shorebirds’ community initiatives, upcoming events, and the 2023 season, visit the shorebirds.com or follow the Shorebirds’ Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts.

Shorebirds to Host Walk-In Wednesdays Job Interviews!

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Salisbury, MD — The Delmarva Shorebirds and Professional Sports Catering will be hosting Walk-In Wednesdays with open interviews starting March 2 from 3-6 PM to fill various gameday roles. Professional Sports Catering is looking to fill the positions of cooks, suite attendants, catering attendants, and cashiers for the 2022 Shorebirds season.

How it works: Interested applicants can arrive to Arthur W. Perdue Stadium between 3-6 PM on Wednesdays, interview, and potentially be hired on the spot for the Shorebirds 2022 season! The whole process should take less than 30 minutes and all applicants are encouraged to fill out an application early by clicking here to expedite the process.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Shorebirds front office at 410-219-3112 or e-mail [email protected].

Black History Month Feature: Shorebirds Top 5 Black Players 

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In celebration of Black History Month, throughout February, teams across Minor League Baseball are taking a look back at five of the best Black players to suit up for their club.

While some of these standout performers went on to long and illustrious Major League careers, others simply had great Minor League careers or, in some cases, just one incredible season that went down as “a year for the ages.”

Here is a look at five of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for Delmarva Shorebirds.

CEDRIC MULLINS

Cedric Mullins, 27, started his major league career after being drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the 13th round of the 2015 MLB Draft. Making his MLB debut in 2018, Mullins developed across 4 different minor league teams, including the Delmarva Shorebirds in 2016 where he earned his first Orioles Organizational All-Star nod.

Raised in Snellville, Georgia where he attended Brookside High School, Mullins began his collegiate career at Louisburg College before transferring to Campbell University becoming the first person from Louisburg to make the MLB. After joining the Orioles organization, Mullins played parts of 5 seasons in the minors highlighted by his 2016 season with the Shorebirds where he hit .273 with 14 home runs, 55 RBI, and 30 stolen bases in 124 games.

After Delmarva, Mullins continued his upward trajectory moving up to Double-A and Triple-A the next few seasons bouncing between the Bowie Baysox and the Norfolk Tides. In 2018, Mullins got the call up from the O’s making his MLB debut on August 10, 2018.

Mullins debut was against the Red Sox bringing in 3 hits, 2 RBI, drawing a walk, and scoring 3 runs. Mullins’ fast start helped make a name for himself becoming the first Oriole in franchise history to earn three hits in his MLB debut and became only one of five players in MLB history to score three or more runs and collect two or more base hits in his debut.

From there, Mullins has continued to perfect is craft which shined through recently during the 2021 campaign. In 2021, Mullins hit for a .291 batting average and .518 slugging percentage turning in an impressive 30/30 season. Mullins dominant season resulted in being named a 2021-22 MLB All-Star as well as earning a Silver Slugger in the outfield.

MYCHAL GIVENS

Mychal Givens’ journey throughout the majors has been one to remember for the Delmarva Shorebirds and Orioles fans alike. Having a high school career that turned heads of MLB scouts, Givens has been racking up accolades throughout his baseball career.

During his high school playing days, Givens dominated winning two All-State selections and was selected to be in the Aflac All-American High School baseball game. Not stopping there, Givens earned the Jackie Robinson Award, given to the nation’s best high school baseball player, capping off a stellar high school career as one of the most highly touted prospects in 2009.

Instead of electing to play in college, Givens was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles as the 54th overall selection in the 2009 MLB draft. Entering the Orioles organization, Givens began his professional career as a shortstop with Delmarva before making the transition to the mound where he found his path to the big leagues.

After being brought back up to Delmarva in 2013, this time as a pitcher, Givens pitched 42.2 innings recording 36 strikeouts with a 4.22 ERA. After 5 years in the minors, Givens got the call-up to the Orioles on June 24, 2015 where he tossed a scoreless inning, striking out one batter.

Givens’ role throughout his tenure with the Orioles varied. Being used as a set-up man, relief pitcher, and sometimes a starter, Givens found himself in a utility role being able to fill many gaps in any pitching staff. Traded to Colorado and then Cincinnati at the end of the 2020 season, Givens ended his time with Baltimore notching a 3.32 ERA, 20 saves, and a WHIP rating of 1.137.

WILLIE HARRIS

Willie Harris continues to be one of the most memorable second basemen to ever play for the Shorebirds spending the better part of two seasons on the Eastern Shore including the 2000 championship season for Delmarva. Harris, recently selected to the Shorebirds silver anniversary team, was a table-setter for the Shorebirds scoring 106 runs in 2000 etching himself into the history books as no Shorebird has come within 15 runs of his single-season runs scored record.

The championship season was just the beginning for Harris. He jumped straight to Double-A Bowie in 2001, hitting .305 with 54 stolen bases in a full season with the Baysox. The O’s rewarded him with a September callup on September 2, 2001, and he played nine games with Baltimore to close out the season. His time at Camden Yards was brief, though; the Orioles traded him to the White Sox that offseason.

Harris became a key contributor for the White Sox, playing in 313 games for Chicago over the next four seasons. In 2006, Harris joined the Red Sox as a free agent and bounced around between the Braves, Nationals, Mets, and Reds before calling it quits in 2012 at age 34. He played in 1046 games over his 12 major league seasons, batting .238 with 39 home runs and 212 RBIs and 365 runs scored.

DARNELL MCDONALD

Darnell McDonald was a journeyman in MLB as an outfielder and member of the Baltimore Orioles, Minnesota Twins, Cincinnati Reds, Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and the Chicago Cubs after beginning his professional baseball career in Delmarva in 1998.

Originally a dual-sport athlete in baseball and football at Cherry Creek High School, McDonald was a two-time baseball All-American and essential contributor to one of the most successful high school sports dynasties in Colorado history. Exiting high school as a highly touted prospect, McDonald was recruited to play both football and baseball before making the decision to focus strictly on baseball.

Drafted late in the first round with the 26th overall pick in the 1997 MLB draft by the Baltimore Orioles, the Colorado native found his way to Delmarva quickly in his first season in the O’s system. Garnering high expectations as a first round draft pick, McDonald want on to have an illustrious career in the minors including a 134 game stint with the Shorebirds that fans surely will remember.

With Delmarva in 1998 after just 4 games in Frederick to start the year, McDonald was a force at the plate and on the bases. In that season alone, McDonald slugged for a .261 average and stole 35 bases which ended up being a professional career high. The success in Delmarva was just the beginning as McDonald would then quickly work his way up through the Orioles farm system on his journey to Baltimore.

In 2003, McDonald earned the call up to Triple-A Affiliate before eventually punching his ticket to the big leagues making his Major League Baseball debut on April 30, 2004. McDonald ended his career in Baltimore playing in just 17 games, before joining various other teams with his most notable seasons with the ’09 Cincinnati Reds and ’10 Boston Red Sox.

TIM RAINES JR.

Tim Raines Jr. is a name that stands out and is by far one of the most recognized players from his time with the Delmarva Shorebirds. Raines, son of MLB Hall Of Famer Tim Raines, attended Seminole High School in Sanford, Florida playing center field and entering the prospect circuit as a very promising player.

The Baltimore Orioles selected Raines in the 6th round pick, 189th overall, in the 1998 MLB draft. Coming to Delmarva in 1999, Raines quickly made a name for himself playing in 117 games collecting 103 hits with 34 extra-base hits. From there Raines quickly moved his way up through the minor league ranks making his MLB debut on October 1st, 2001.

On October 4th, 2001, Tim Raines Junior and Tim Raines Senior would become just the second father-son duo to play together in MLB history (first being Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr.). Raines did not play for Baltimore in 2002 but returned for another two seasons in ‘03. In three total seasons for the O’s, Raines hit .213 with seven RBI and no home runs in 75 total games.

Delmarva Shorebirds Announce 2022 Job Fair February 19, 2022!

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Salisbury, MD – The Delmarva Shorebirds, in conjunction with Professional Sports Catering, are excited to announce the upcoming Shorebirds Job Fair at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium on Saturday, February 19, 2022 from 10 AM – 1 PM. The Shorebirds and Professional Sports Catering will be hiring for all positions and candidates that are interested in working for the Shorebirds this season must show up for the Shorebirds Job Fair on Feb. 19.

The Delmarva Shorebirds and Professional Sports Catering are seeking people to fill a wide variety of roles for the 2022 season of Shorebirds baseball. Positions include Grounds Crew, the Flock, Pressbox, Amusements, food service jobs, and many more that can be located in the Shorebirds 2022 Job Fair application.

Job seekers are encouraged to fill out an application prior to the Shorebirds Job Fair, which can be found by clicking here, however, applications will be available at Perdue Stadium on the day of the Job Fair if needed. The interview process should take less than 30 minutes and candidates should refrain from returning their application to Perdue Stadium prior to February 19.

As a member of the Shorebirds staff, gameday employees will receive the following additional benefits:

  • Complimentary Tickets for friends and family to select Shorebirds games
  • Shorebirds Staff Shirt and Jacket for the season
  • Shorebirds Merchandise Employee Discount
  • Opportunity to be entered into an incentive program to win special prizes at the end of the season
  • Shorebirds end of the season staff party

The ideal candidate must be trustworthy, outgoing, reliable, and enthusiastic. All applicants must be 16 years of age or older by April 8 in order to work for the Shorebirds or Professional Sports Catering.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to [email protected] or call 410-219-3112.

The Shorebirds staff is vital to powering the Shorebirds each and every season and making the magic of Perdue Stadium a reality for fans. The Shorebirds encourage all candidates to show up to the Shorebirds Job Fair on February 19 to be part of the best crew on the shore!

Delmarva Shorebirds 2021 Holiday Community Impact

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After the silver anniversary season of Delmarva Shorebirds baseball, the ‘Birds were eager to join together with community leaders to keep the good times rolling with an emphasis on creating a positive impact in our community. From packing boxes for those in need, to holiday gift drives, parades, and more,

After the silver anniversary season of Delmarva Shorebirds baseball, the ‘Birds were eager to join together with community leaders to keep the good times rolling with an emphasis on creating a positive impact in our community. From packing boxes for those in need, to holiday gift drives, parades, and more, the Shorebirds carried their mission through the beginning of the offseason to lend a helping hand and spread some holiday cheer to those on Delmarva this holiday season.

Thanksgiving for Thousands

The Delmarva Shorebirds kicked off the holiday season by participating in Mountaire Farms annual Thanksgiving for Thousands. The Shorebirds have been involved with Mountaire Farms Thanksgiving for Thousands for many years now and helped Mountaire pack over 10,000 Thanksgiving boxes for families in need across Delmarva. This event is a favorite of the Shorebirds front office and was a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season.

Salvation Army Bell Ringing

An annual tradition, the Delmarva Shorebirds’ front office staff partnered with the Shorebirds’ Fan Club to participate in Salvation Army’s Bell Ringing in front of the Salisbury Walmart this holiday season. By participating in bell ringing, the Shorebirds were able to help the Salvation Army raise holiday funds for families in need in our community, while sharing a smile and holiday cheer with customers and Shorebirds fans.

Santa’s Letters

Next, Sherman and the Shorebirds visited Santa’s Letters in Dagsboro, Delaware to help ring in the Christmas season. This event spread Christmas cheer by allowing kids to play in the winter wonderland, drink hot chocolate, and put their letter to Santa in Santa’s mailbox. Sherman was very excited for Santa to read his letter! Sherman and the Shorebirds enjoyed helping Santa’s Letters spread the joy of the holiday season for those young and old. Despite the cold, Sherman’s feathers kept him warm!

Home Instead’s “Be a Santa to a Senior” Program

At the beginning of December, the Delmarva Shorebirds partnered with Home Instead for their “Be a Santa to a Senior” program. The Shorebirds decorated a Christmas tree in their front lobby and put ornaments from Home Instead that were labeled with gifts that seniors could use this holiday season. With the help of our amazing fans, the Shorebirds were able to give many presents to the seniors in our community through the “Be a Santa to a Senior” Program. Plus, Sherman visited the MAC Center with Home Instead to spread holiday cheer to the seniors as they received their gifts. This wonderful community initiative is something the Delmarva Shorebirds welcomed for the first time this season and plan to join forces with Home Instead for the years to come.

Holiday Parades

Sherman was a very busy bird this holiday season as he attended seven (7) Christmas parades across Delmarva. On November 29th, the Shorebirds started their parade route by attending the Pocomoke Christmas Parade followed by the Berlin Christmas Parade a few days after on December 2nd. Sherman and the Shorebirds had a double header on December 4th as Sherman shook his tailfeather at both Ocean City and Seaford Christmas parades. Sherman flew closer to the nest on December 5th as he spread holiday cheer at the Salisbury Christmas Parade giving his hometown fans a reminder that baseball will soon be back at Perdue Stadium. The Shorebirds ended the parade route with the Rehoboth Christmas Parade on December 6th and the Bridgeville Christmas parade on December 12th.

Halo Trees of Hope Festival

The Shorebirds donated a Shorebirds themed Christmas tree decked out with various memorabilia including Shorebirds bobbleheads, upper reserved tickets to a Shorebirds game, and a Shorebirds Suite Night, all valuing at $1000 to Halo’s first Trees of Hope Festival. The Shorebirds’ Christmas tree along with many other trees donated by organizations across Delmarva were auctioned off with the proceeds benefiting Halo Ministry and their mission of helping those experiencing homelessness in the area.

Jaycees Christmas Shopping Tour

Sherman and the Shorebirds helped the Jaycees with their annual Christmas Shopping Tour where they spread the Christmas cheer and gave out Christmas gifts to children in the area at the Salisbury Elks Lodge #817. The Jaycees do amazing work in the community each year, and the Shorebirds are always excited for the opportunity to join forces with such a wonderful organization.

Penguin Swim

Sherman attended Atlantic General Hospital’s annual Penguin Swim in Ocean City on New Year’s Day! He cheered on attendees as they dipped their tail feathers in the ocean. Sherman was a warm, friendly face for the participants who dunked themselves in the frigid waters. The proceeds of the event benefited the hospital and their mission of providing quality care to their community, and Sherman and the Shorebirds were proud to support such an incredible event.

The Delmarva Shorebirds were able to join forces with incredible community members this holiday season to give back to our supportive community and spread holiday cheer. The Shorebirds participated in recurring events that are beloved by the team as well as new ones that the Shorebirds hope to continue year after year. With the 2022 Delmarva Shorebirds’ season quickly approaching, the team will continue to fulfill its mission of making a positive impact on the community as well as gearing up for an exciting 2022 season of Shorebirds baseball that is bound to be one of the best years yet!

Shorebirds and Concord Pet Foods & Supplies Donate over $2,500 in Pet Supplies and $900 in cash to Humane Society of Wicomico County

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Through the Shorebirds Wag Your Tail Tuesday promotion during the 2021 season, the Shorebirds and Concord Pet Foods & Supplies were able to raise over $2,500 worth of pet supplies to donate to the Humane Society of Wicomico County. In addition, through Wag Your Tail Tuesdays and Shorebirds Season Ticket Holders, the Shorebirds were able to raise an additional $900 in cash to donate to the Humane Society of Wicomico County to aid in their efforts of finding forever homes for animals.

Through the Shorebirds Wag Your Tail Tuesday Promotion hosted every Tuesday starting on June 15, 2021, the Shorebirds and Concord Pet Foods & Supplies teamed up to allow fans to bring their dog to Perdue Stadium to watch a Shorebirds game. In turn, fans were able to gain free admission for their dogs if they donated a toy, treats, food, or paper towels to the Humane Society of Wicomico County. Through this initiative, the Shorebirds and Concord Pet Foods & Supplies were able to raise over $2,500 worth of pet supplies that were donated to the Humane Society of Wicomico County earlier this month.

“Through partners like Concord Pet Foods & Supplies, we are able to positively impact our community in a variety of different ways like the Wag Your Tail Tuesday Promotion,” said Shorebirds General Manager Chris Bitters. “We love seeing all the dogs at Perdue Stadium and we are thrilled to have been able to partner with Concord Pet Foods & Supplies, our Season Ticket Holders, and fans to donate pet supplies and a monetary donation to the Humane Society.”

In addition to the donation of pet supplies, the Shorebirds also teamed up with Season Ticket Holders and Concord Pet Foods & Supplies to raise an additional $900 to donate to the Humane Society of Wicomico County. Prior to the season, Season Ticket Holders were given the opportunity through the Shorebirds Season Ticket Holder rollover incentive program to donate a portion of their tickets to a charity of their choice. Through this program and monetary donations collected through the Wag Your Tail Tuesday promotion, the Shorebirds were able to provide the Humane Society of Wicomico County with an additional $900 to support their efforts in finding animals their forever home.

In total, the Shorebirds, Concord Pet Foods & Supplies, and Season Ticket Holders were able to raise over $3,400 in pet supplies and monetary donations to support the Humane Society of Wicomico County.

For more information on Shorebirds community initiatives, merchandise, season tickets, and anything in regards to the Shorebirds, please visit theshorebirds.com. Also, you can stay tuned in with everything leading up to the 2022 season of Shorebirds baseball slated to begin April 8, 2022 against the Fredericksburg Nationals by following the Shorebirds on social media on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Shorebirds Raise over $4,900 for Operation We Care through 9/11 Patriotic Jersey Auction

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On Saturday, September 11, 2021, the Delmarva Shorebirds wore special patriotic jerseys to honor the 20th anniversary of all those lost through the terrible attacks of September 11, 2001. Through the patriotic jersey auction, the Shorebirds were able to raise $4,916.52 for Operation We Care to support the men and women who serve in the military and as first responders. In addition, Operation We Care will be donating a portion of the proceeds to the Department of MD VFW Family Assistance Program.

“Operation We Care is a great initiative that the Shorebirds are proud to support each and every year,” explained Shorebirds General Manager Chris Bitters. “Our men and women in our military, hospitals, and first responders have been battling on the front lines throughout the pandemic and we are thrilled to support them by donating to Operation We Care to aid in their efforts.”

The special patriotic jerseys honored all our military branches with all the service marks located on the back of each jersey. On the front of the jersey underneath the Shorebirds script, was the United States official seal with stars and stripes located just below each player’s jersey number. On the right sleeve of each jersey, the Shorebirds placed a Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States badge in support of all veterans and those who have served our country. The jersey auction was held online from September 11 to September 22 with fans having the opportunity to bid on these special, game-worn autographed jerseys.

On September 11, 2021, the Shorebirds hosted a special patriotic night to honor the lives lost during the September 11th attacks presented by Pohanka of Salisbury. The night featured the players wearing these patriotic jerseys, special in-game tributes, and the night capped with the final fireworks show of the year presented by Pohanka of Salisbury.

For more information on jersey auctions, merchandise, season tickets, and anything in regards to the Shorebirds, please visit theshorebirds.com. Also, you can stay tuned in with everything leading up to the 2022 season of Shorebirds baseball slated to begin April 8, 2022 against the Fredericksburg Nationals by following the Shorebirds on social media on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Shorebirds and Valvoline Instant Oil Change Collect Over 200 Books to Donate to Local Little Free Libraries!

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Throughout the 2021 season, the Delmarva Shorebirds and Valvoline Instant Oil Change collected books for children to donate to local Little Free Libraries through the Wicomico Rotary Club.

In partnership with Valvoline Instant Oil Change, every Tuesday night, fans had the opportunity to bring new or gently used books to the Shorebirds game in exchange for a $5 Flock Shop Merchandise Discount through the Tuesday Merch Book Exchange Promotion. In total, the Shorebirds collected over 200 books to donate to the local little free libraries of the Eastern Shore.

“We are very appreciative of our generous fans and their donations to the little free libraries throughout our local community” explained Shorebirds General Manager Chris Bitters. “By partnering with Valvoline Instant Oil Change, we are thrilled to be able to assist in growing youth literacy in our community and extending the reach of the Wicomico Rotary Club’s initiative to impact as many lives as possible through reading.”

Residents will be able to start picking up these books in little free libraries very soon scattered throughout the local community.

To learn more about Shorebirds community initiatives, merchandise, season tickets, and anything in regards to the Shorebirds, please visit theshorebirds.com. Also stay tuned for 2022 season information as the Shorebirds are slated to begin April 8, 2022 against the Fredericksburg Nationals by following the Shorebirds’ Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram social media pages.

Shorebirds to host Hocus Pocus Halloween Movie Night and Trick or Treating Event Saturday, October 23 presented by T-Mobile

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On Saturday, October 23, the Delmarva Shorebirds will be hosting a special Halloween Movie Night featuring the film Hocus Pocus along with Trick or Treating prior to the film at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium presented by T-Mobile. Gates will open for Trick or Treating at 5 PM on the second level concourse with the movie Hocus Pocus being shown on the Shorebirds high definition videoboard beginning at approximately 6:30 PM.

Admission to the Shorebirds Movie Night is $5 per person, which includes entry for Movie Night and Trick or Treating along with one (1) free small popcorn and a canned Pepsi product or bottled water. To purchase tickets for Shorebirds Movie Night, please visit theshorebirds.com and all kids 3 and under get in free. The Shorebirds encourage people to buy tickets in advance online at theshorebirds.com or by clicking here as a limited number of walk-up tickets will be available on the day of the event at the gates.

“The Shorebirds are excited to partner with T-Mobile to host another Movie Night and incorporate Trick or Treating into the festivities this season,” explained Shorebirds General Manager Chris Bitters. “We are thrilled to continue to bring the community together after a successful 2021 season and partner with great local businesses like T-Mobile for fun and exciting community events here at Perdue Stadium.”

Parking for the event will be free and candy will be distributed by local businesses on Delmarva. If your business is interested in reserving a table to market your brand and pass out candy, please contact Ben Vigliarolo by email at [email protected] or call the office at 410-219-3112. Booth space is limited to the first 20 businesses.

Concessions and bathrooms will be open during the event and fans will be able to choose a seat anywhere in the seating bowl on a first-come, first-serve basis. In addition, if fans want to sit on the grass berm located down the left field line, the Shorebirds recommend bringing a blanket, pillows, etc. to sit on during the show.

For any questions, please call the Shorebirds front office at 410-219-3112 or email the Shorebirds at [email protected]. The Shorebirds thank you for your support and can’t wait to see you for Shorebirds Movie Night with Trick or Treating prior to the show on October 23 presented by T-Mobile.

2021 Perdue Strike Out Hunger Challenge On Delmarva Delivers 173,000 Meals For Hunger Relief

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SALISBURY, MD. (Tuesday, September 22, 2021) — As part of Perdue Farms’ “Delivering Hope To Our Neighbors®” hunger-relief initiative, the company teamed with the Delmarva Shorebirds minor league baseball team and three Delmarva Peninsula food banks to deliver 173,000 meals across the region’s communities in the season-long 2021 Perdue Strike Out Hunger Challenge on Delmarva.

“The impact of the pandemic has brought so much uncertainty and challenge to individuals and families struggling with food insecurity on the Delmarva Peninsula,” said Kim Nechay, executive director of the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation. “After pausing the Strike Out Hunger Challenge last year because of the pandemic, we’re pleased that this year’s campaign once again provided a collaborative platform to raise public awareness about the problem of hunger and food insecurity and deliver much-needed relief to our neighbors in the communities where we live and work.”

According to research from the food banks, on average one in seven people on the Delmarva Peninsula are challenged by food insecurity. One third of that food-insecure population is children.

Since 2011, Perdue, the Shorebirds, food banks and the community at-large have embraced the Strike Out Hunger Challenge to generate more than 1.2 million meals for those in need on Delmarva.

“The Delmarva Shorebirds are so proud of this collaborative partnership that continues to put food on the table for so many of our neighbors in need during these difficult times,” said Jimmy Sweet, assistant general manager of the Delmarva Shorebirds. “We look forward to continuing our work with Perdue in this important effort to improve the quality of life on Delmarva.”

To drive this year’s Perdue Strike Out Hunger Challenge on Delmarva, Perdue Farms issued a $15,000 challenge grant funded by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Foundation — the charitable giving arm of the company — to benefit the Eastern Shore Branch of the Maryland Food Bank, the Food Bank of Delaware and the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore.

Each of the food banks were required to engage the Delmarva community to raise the equivalent of 10,000 meals in order to claim their equal share of the first $10,000 of the Foundation challenge grant. This included any combination of pounds of food collected, monies collected and donated, or volunteer hours throughout the duration of the Shorebirds’ season. Perdue also donated $10 for each time the Shorebirds’ pitchers struck out an opposing batter, up to $5,000.

“This annual campaign remains a pivotal part of the Maryland Food Banks’ ability to meet the needs of those who struggle to feed their families,” said Jennifer Small, senior regional program director for the Eastern Shore branch of the Maryland Food Bank. “As a result of our longstanding partnership with Perdue Farms and the Delmarva Shorebirds, and the support committed through the Perdue Strike Out Hunger Challenge on Delmarva, we are able to provide more food to Eastern Shore Marylanders challenged by food insecurity.”

As Chad Robinson, community relations manager for the Food Bank of Delaware, explains, “We are so grateful for Perdue’s leadership with this annual initiative. Partners like Perdue play a critical role in not only raising much needed funds, but bringing awareness of the critical issue that so many in our community face.”

About the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation
The Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation, the charitable giving arm of Perdue Farms, was established in 1957 by company founder Arthur W. Perdue and is funded through the estates of Arthur W. Perdue and Frank Perdue. As part of our belief in supporting the communities where and with whom we do business, the Foundation provides grants on behalf of Perdue Farms in communities where large numbers of our associates live and work. At Perdue Farms, we believe in responsible food and agriculture®.

About Perdue Farms

We’re a fourth-generation, family owned, U.S. food and agriculture company. Through our belief in responsible food and agriculture, we are empowering consumers, customers, and farmers through trusted choices in products and services.

The premium protein portfolio within our Perdue Foods business, including our flagship PERDUE® brand, Niman Ranch®, Panorama Organic Grass-Fed Meats®, Coleman Natural®, and Yummy®, as well as our pet brands, Spot Farms® and Full Moon®, is available through various channels including retail, foodservice, club stores, and our direct-to-consumer website, PerdueFarms.com.

Perdue AgriBusiness is an international agricultural products and services company.

Now in our company’s second century, our path forward is about getting better, not just bigger. We never use drugs for growth promotion in raising poultry and livestock, and we are actively advancing our animal welfare programs. Our brands are leaders in no-antibiotics-ever chicken, turkey, pork, beef and lamb, and in USDA-certified organic chicken and beef. Learn more at Corporate.PerdueFarms.com.

About the Delmarva Shorebirds

The Delmarva Shorebirds were founded in 1996 and have been the Class-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles since 1997. The Shorebirds have won two South Atlantic League championships in 1997 and 2000 and were named the MiLB.com Minor League Team of the Year in 2019 after going 90-48 in the regular season. Based in Salisbury, Maryland, the Shorebirds are proud to represent the entire Delmarva Peninsula and have hosted two SAL All-Star Games in 1999 and 2011. The Shorebirds are owned by 7th Inning Stretch, LP, based in Stockton, California headed by Chairman Tom Volpe and President Pat Filippone.

Shorebirds & Preston Automotive Group Raise Over $10,000 in Funds and Toys to Support the Fight Against Cancer

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SALISBURY, MD – On August 6, 2021, the Delmarva Shorebirds and Preston Automotive Group teamed up to host Flock for a Cure night at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium to support and raise awareness for those affected by cancer. During the game, the Shorebirds wore special jerseys that allowed fans to place the names of loved ones affected by cancer on the jersey and place bids on these authentic, game-worn jerseys.

Through both fans purchasing a name space on the jersey and the Flock for a Cure jersey auction, the Shorebirds and Preston Automotive Group were able to raise $8,366 for local charities and purchase over $1,000 in toys to donate to Brooke’s Toy Closet!

“Our community is and always will be a top priority for the Shorebirds and we are thrilled to help out many organizations through the tremendous success of this jersey auction,” explained Shorebirds General Manager Chris Bitters. “Initiatives like this are vital to powering our community and would not happen without the support of partners like Preston Automotive Group that allow us to positively impact Delmarva.”

“The meaning behind Flock for Cure is near and dear to our hearts and we know that cancer has unfortunately impacted many other’s lives as well,” said President of the Preston Automotive Group, David Wilson Jr. “Community is one of our core values at the Preston Automotive Group and we are grateful to have had this opportunity to partner with the Shorebirds to give back to organizations that do so much for our local community members in need.”

Over the last couple of seasons, the Shorebirds have partnered with Brooke’s Toy Closet to collect toys for children who are hospitalized in the TidalHealth Peninsula Regional Emergency Department. Through this year’s Flock for a Cure Jersey Auction and fans’ donations on Flock for a Cure Night presented by Preston Automotive Group, the Shorebirds were able to collect over $2,000 worth of toys to donate to Brooke’s Toy Closet.

“Hospitals, for all the good they do, can be an unsettling place at times for kids,” said Denise Billing, President, TidalHealth Foundation, “Donations like this from the Shorebirds help our healthcare team to be able to relieve some of that anxiety by providing that child a toy at a time they need a smile. We appreciate the Shorebirds doing something special for our youngest patients.”

In addition, the Shorebirds and Preston Automotive Group were able to raise an additional $1,000 to donate to Brooke’s Toy Closet to purchase more toys in the future for other children who are admitted in the TidalHealth Peninsula Regional
Emergency Department.

The Flock for a Cure jersey auction also raised proceeds for two other charities helping further our local community and support the fight against cancer.

Through the auction, the Shorebirds and Preston Automotive Group donated $3,683 to both the Brooke Mulford Memorial Fund at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore and Relay for Life, helping grow both of their initiatives in the fight against cancer.

“On behalf of the American Cancer Society and Relay For Life of Wicomico, I would like to thank the Delmarva Shorebirds and Preston Automotive Group for their generous donation and support in the life saving work of the American Cancer Society,” said Relay for Life of Wicomico Chair Ashley Clevenger. “ We have all been touched by Cancer in very personal ways, and through events such as Relay For Life we are uniting with countless others to fight this vicious disease globally, as well as locally within our Community. Together we can imagine a world without Cancer, knowing all of our efforts ARE making a difference!”

In total, the Shorebirds and Preston Automotive Group raised $8,366 for Brooke’s Toy Closet, Brooke Mulford Memorial Fund at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, and Relay for Life while also donating over $2,000 worth of toys to Brooke’s Toy Closet at TidalHealth helping Flock for a Cure Night result in a terrific success.

Bid on Special Shorebirds Patriotic Jerseys TODAY!

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

The Delmarva Shorebirds will be wearing special Patriotic Jerseys on Saturday, September 11, 2021 to honor the 20th anniversary of 9/11 with proceeds benefitting Operation We Care. The jerseys are auctioned off online from Saturday, September 11 to Sunday, September 19 and fans can place their bids starting at noon on September 11, 2021 on these authentic game-worn, autographed jerseys by clicking here or the button below.

Bids start at $100 increasing in increments of $10 and fans can choose whether to have the jersey shipped to them or picked up at the stadium at checkout. In addition, auctions will end between the hours of 7:30 PM and 9:00 PM on Sunday, September 19. If a bid is placed with less than 5 minutes left in the auction, 5 minutes will be added extending the auction.

After the jersey auction is completed, the Shorebirds will reach out to the winners to inform everyone when the jerseys are ready for pickup or the timeline to be mailed out

If you have any questions, please feel free to call the office at 410-219-3112 or email the Shorebirds at [email protected].

Shorebirds to host Salisbury Drive-Thru Flu Clinic Friday, October 9 at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

TidalHealth’s Salisbury Drive-Thru Flu Clinic is returning for its 26th season on Friday, October 9, 2020 at Arthur W. Perdue (Shorebirds) Stadium at the intersection of Route 50 and Hobbs Road from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Seasonal quadrivalent flu vaccinations will be administered to individuals 13 years of age or older (13-17 please bring a parent or legal guardian to sign consent). A physician’s order is not necessary. Flu shots at the TidalHealth Salisbury Drive-Thru Clinic will be FREE.

TidalHealth will not be providing any COVID-19 testing at this event. In accordance with COVID-19 safety precautions, all clinical and non-clinical staff working the Drive-Thru Flu Clinic will be in appropriate personal protective equipment. Direct contact with participants will be limited. TidalHealth is also asking participants to please wear protective masking in their vehicles when in contact with any staff members at the flu clinic.

Flu vaccinations are encouraged for anyone over the age of 6 months, but especially for people over the age of 65, people with heart or lung disorders, immunosuppressant diseases or diabetes. Participants are encouraged to wear a short-sleeved shirt that will provide easy access to the upper arm. The vaccine being administered is effective for everyone meeting the age restrictions.

Mark your calendars and plan to attend TidalHealth’s Salisbury Drive-Thru Flu Clinic on Friday, October 9 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

Shorebirds Baseball Camp Set for August 25 – 27

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

The Delmarva Shorebirds are excited to announce that we will be hosting a 3-day Shorebirds Baseball Camp from August 25 – 27 with each day running from 9 AM to 12 PM. The camp is limited to the first 50 people ages 5 – 12 and will be led under the instruction of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore baseball staff including Hawks Head Coach Brian Hollamon.

“We have a tremendous relationship with Coach Hollamon and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and are excited to partner together for the Shorebirds Baseball Camp,” said Shorebirds General Manager Chris Bitters. “Throughout these unprecedented times, we all have been forced to adapt, but we are thankful that we are still going to be able to host our annual baseball camp and continue to teach the game of baseball to our youth with first-class instruction from Coach Hollamon and his staff.”

The camp will run from 9 AM to 12 PM each day from August 25 through August 27 and costs $120 per camper for the entire event. Each camper will receive lunch after each day and one Camp T-Shirt that is all included with your child’s registration for the Shorebirds Baseball Camp. To register for this event, please click here or go to our website at www.theshorebirds.com.

Coach Hollamon has been the skipper of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore since August of 2017 as 2020 marked his 3rd season with the Hawks. Hollamon is a fixture in the Delmarva baseball community, after coaching Parkside High School to 14 straight winning seasons, two-state finalist appearances, and earning the accolades of Bayside South Coach of the Year three times and District 8 Coach of the Year twice before taking the helm for the NCAA Division 1, University of Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks.

All campers are required to bring their own equipment and campers will not be permitted to share equipment due to local and state health guidelines. Baseballs will be provided and we ask that all campers please arrive in proper baseball attire by 8:45 AM each day.

Parents are allowed to watch the camp inside Arthur W. Perdue Stadium, but will be required to wear a mask until reaching their seat. Campers should wear a mask when arriving to the stadium, but will not be required to wear masks when participating in athletic activities and the Shorebirds will be sanitizing all frequently touched areas throughout the event.

To register, please visit theshorebirds.com by clicking here. If you have any questions at all in regard to the event, please email [email protected] or call 410-219-3112.

Delmarva Shorebirds Announce Inaugural Fly Together Virtual 5K

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

SALISBURY, MD. — The Delmarva Shorebirds are excited to announce their first-ever Fly Together Virtual 5K with all the proceeds going towards Operation We Care from May 7 – 10. The Shorebirds Virtual 5K is family fun for all and we encourage you to get up and get active while supporting a great cause.

There are two different ways for people to participate in the Shorebirds Fly Together Virtual 5K with registration open now until May 10. The first option — $10 — includes your entry into the 5K and a certificate of completion. The second option — $20 — includes entry into the 5K, certificate of completion, and 2 Upper Reserved Tickets to a Shorebirds future game date (Exclusions Apply and Based on Availability).

“We are excited to kick off our first-ever Fly Together Virtual 5K to help support our community, Operation We Care, and all those fighting on the front lines against COVID-19,” said Shorebirds General Manager, Chris Bitters. “The Fly Together Virtual 5K is a community-focused event that provides a fun, healthy, and safe activity for all people as we await the beginning of baseball season.”

How the Fly Together Virtual 5K works is simple. All you have to do is register online at www.theshorebirds.com, grab your walking/running shoes, and walk or run a 5K. Once you have completed the 5K, send your pictures and/or times to the Delmarva Shorebirds via social media using the hashtag #FlyTogether, and don’t forget to wear some Shorebirds gear!

“We hope everyone is able to join us for the Fly Together Virtual 5K to support a great cause in Operation We Care,” said Bitters. “Our goal with the 5K is to bring everyone together, but apart with a fun community activity as we continue to fight through these challenging times together as a community.”

Lastly and possibly the best part, you can walk/run the 5K all from your home in one shot or you can split it up over the course of the weekend. For more information in regard to the Fly Together Virtual 5K or to register, please visit the Shorebirds website at www.theshorebirds.com.

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The Delmarva Shorebirds are the Class-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles. The Shorebirds are owned by 7th Inning Stretch, LLC, which also owns the Stockton Ports of the California League and the Everett AquaSox of the Northwest League.

The Shorebirds will celebrate their 25th season in 2020 and have entertained over five million fans since beginning play at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury, Maryland in 1996. The team captured South Atlantic League titles in 1997 and 2000 and successfully hosted the South Atlantic League All-Star Game in 1999 and 2011.

For more information on the Shorebirds, call 410-219-3112 or visit theshorebirds.com