Fisher Cats Create Fund to Support Families of First Responders

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Manchester, N.H. – The New Hampshire Fisher Cats, the Double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, and the Fisher Cats Foundation are proud to introduce a new charitable initiative to support the families of New Hampshire Police and Firefighters in need: The First Responders Fund.

The Fisher Cats were inspired by the bravery of Captain Steve DeRuisseaux as well as all firefighters, police, and EMS who work day and night to keep our communities safe. After reaching out to Captain DeRuisseaux to offer support following is heroic actions last November, the Captain suggested creating a way to support all First Responders and the parties worked together to create the Fisher Cats First Responders Fund.

The fund will officially launch as part of First Responders Night at Delta Dental Stadium on Thursday, August 11 at 7:05 p.m.

Fifty percent of the proceeds from the individual tickets sold on First Responders Night will benefit the fund, as well as the in-game 50/50 raffle and boot pass collection. The Fisher Cats Foundation will also make a $2,500 donation and contribute a portion of the funds from the annual Granite State Baseball Dinner to the cause.

The Fisher Cats are proud to have iHeartMedia as a promotional partner for the First Responders Fund.

“These men and women put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities,” Fisher Cats President Mike Ramshaw said. “As part of the First Responders Fund, we’ll work with local police and fire departments to identify families in need, and we’ll support those families through our fundraising efforts.”

“I would like to thank the Fisher Cats organization for their initiative in supporting the Greater Manchester First Responders,” Manchester Fire Chief Andre R. Parent said. “Fire, Police and EMS all serve our community unconditionally to provide emergency services to our citizens in their greatest times of need. Often times, First Responders find themselves in need of help also. This initiative will help our members overcome some unforeseen obstacles in their personal lives. Thank you very much for stepping up to the plate and being a valuable community partner.”

“On behalf of the Manchester Police Department, I would like to personally express our gratitude to the Fisher Cats Foundation First Responder Fund for their commitment and support of all First Responders in the greater Manchester area and New Hampshire,” Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg said. “The Fisher Cats organization has always been an excellent community partner and their commitment to all first responders has never wavered and for that we are grateful.”

“Every day, the men and women of the Manchester Police and Fire Departments put their lives on the line to keep our community safe,” Mayor Joyce Craig said. “The New Hampshire Fisher Cats are a fantastic partner with the City of Manchester, and I’m so thankful for their recognition of our local first responders and for their continued support of our community.”

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats established the Fisher Cats Foundation to be a catalyst for the betterment of communities throughout the region by supporting youth programs that encourage education and promote healthy living. Through the generous support of players, employees, sponsors, and fans, the Fisher Cats Foundation continuously works to make a positive impact throughout New Hampshire and north-central Massachusetts.

The Fisher Cats Foundation supports a wide variety of non-profit organizations and coordinates several fundraising programs and events. Efforts are focused on two cornerstone initiatives, hosting the Granite State Baseball Dinner benefiting the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD), and providing scholarships to college-bound New Hampshire and Massachusetts students. Since its inception in 2006, the Fisher Cats and the Fisher Cats Foundation have provided more than $5.8 million in monetary and in-kind donations to thousands of non-profit organizations throughout the region.

The Fisher Cats return home to Delta Dental Stadium to play the Reading Fightin Phils (Phillies affiliate) Tuesday, April 26 – Sunday, May 1. Tickets for the six-game homestand and all home games this season can be found at NHFisherCats.com, via email at [email protected], over the phone at (603) 641-2005, or in-person at the Fisher Cats box office at 1 Line Drive in Manchester.

Twelve $2,500 scholarships will be awarded to local high school student-athletes

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Manchester, N.H. — The New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Toronto Blue Jays Double-A affiliate) and the Fisher Cats Foundation are pleased to open applications for the 2022 Scholar-Athlete Scholarship program at NHFisherCats.com starting Tuesday, February 1.

Twelve $2,500 scholarships will be awarded to local high school student-athletes: ten from New Hampshire and two from northern Massachusetts. Scholarship recipients will be notified by May 31, and honored on the field at Delta Dental Stadium during a Fisher Cats game this season.

High school seniors, click here apply for the Scholar-Athlete Scholarship

Since 2007, the Fisher Cats Foundation has awarded over $395,000 to graduating seniors through the Scholar-Athlete Scholarship program.

“We’re proud to continue this annual tradition; it’s one of the most rewarding things we do each season,” said Fisher Cats President Mike Ramshaw. “We’ve been so inspired by the number of applications we’ve received over the years, and look forward to helping further the education of these outstanding student-athletes.”

Scholarship recipients will be selected using criteria that includes academic achievement, athletic achievement, and active citizenship.

For more information, email Fisher Cats Foundation Executive Director Stephanie Fournier at [email protected].

Fisher Cats Opening Day is scheduled for Tuesday, April 12, with a magnet schedule giveaway from Eastern Propane & Oil and a spectacular postgame Atlas Fireworks show. For more information, visit NHFisherCats.com.

NH Little League World Series Team to be Honored at Saturday’s Fisher Cats Game

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Manchester, N.H. – The New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Blue Jays Double-A affiliate) are proud to honor the North Manchester Hooksett 11/12 All-Stars, who advanced to the final eight of this year’s Little League World Series, with an on-field ceremony before Saturday night’s game against the Portland Sea Dogs (Boston Red Sox) at Delta Dental Stadium.

The team will take the field and be recognized approximately 20 minutes before the game, which is scheduled to begin at 7:05 p.m. Saturday’s festivities will also include a postgame Atlas Fireworks show, presented by Bellwether Community Credit Union.

Tickets are available at NHFisherCats.com, over the phone at (603) 641-2005 or at the Fisher Cats Box Office at One Line Drive in Manchester.

“We can’t wait to honor these players, coaches, and families on Saturday,” said Fisher Cats President Mike Ramshaw. “We followed every game with pride, and loved hearing the cheers from Fisher Cats fans when we gave Little League World Series updates on our video board. We’ve been so inspired by this team and how well they represented New Hampshire, and we’re thrilled to have them join us at the ballpark.”

North Manchester Hooksett became the first New Hampshire team to reach the Little League World Series in 15 years. The team clinched a trip to Williamsport with a 5-0 win over Peabody, MA on August 13, and advanced to the final eight after defeating Nolensville, Tennessee and Lake Oswego, Oregon.

“Competing at the Little League World Series takes endless passion, talent and hard work,” said Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig. “This team made Manchester proud, and I know the entire community can’t wait to honor these young athletes and celebrate their historic run.”

The Fisher Cats begin a six-game series with the Sea Dogs on Tuesday at 6:05 p.m. The teams will complete a suspended game from July 4 before a regularly scheduled seven-inning game. Portland will play at Delta Dental Stadium through Sunday, September 5. Tickets are available at nhfishercats.com.

Granite State Baseball Dinner Goes Virtual Nov. 21

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MLB Players and Red Sox Legends Will Attend Remotely to Help Raise Funds for CHaD and the Fisher Cats Foundation

Manchester, N.H. – The New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Toronto Blue Jays Double-A affiliate) will host a virtual edition of the Granite State Baseball Dinner at 7 p.m. on Saturday, November 21 in a continued effort to raise funds for the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock and the Fisher Cats Foundation. Over $1.75 million has been donated as part of this event since 2007.

Presented by Northeast Delta Dental, the event will be broadcast on Facebook Live from the state-of-the-art studio at Events United in Derry, NH. Events United has hosted a number of high-profile events despite the challenges of 2020, including the Dropkick Murphy’s “Streaming Up From Boston” St. Patrick’s Day Concert.

A group of baseball celebrities will attend remotely and participate in the annual question & answer session, including Blue Jays catcher Danny Jansen, Blue Jays coach John Schneider, and Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Oliver Drake. Red Sox greats like Bernie Carbo, Oil Can Boyd, Luis Tiant and Dick Drago will also be on hand, along with two legends of women’s professional baseball, Lois Youngen and Sue Zipay. Viewers can submit questions in the Facebook Live comment section.

“We’re proud to continue the Granite State Baseball Dinner tradition, regardless of how many obstacles this year has thrown at us,” said Fisher Cats President Mike Ramshaw. “Supporting our community means everything to this organization, and we’re committed to raising funds for these worthy charities any way we can.”

Five Ways to Donate

1. Pack the Park for Kids

Starting today and continuing through the end of the Baseball Dinner, the Fisher Cats begin a mission to virtually Pack the Park for Kids. A $10 donation at NHFisherCats.com will digitally mark off one of the 6,500 seats at Delta Dental Stadium, and add to the $1.75 million that has been donated as part of the event since 2007.

2. Sponsorship Opportunities

Several elements of the broadcast are available for sponsorship, including the VIP reception, question & answer session, video commercials, and more. Click here to view the full sponsorship form.

3. Online Silent Auction

The annual silent auction returns at NHFisherCats.com, featuring sports memorabilia like a Rafael Devers autographed baseball, and priceless experiences like private batting practice at Delta Dental Stadium with an overnight stay at the Hilton Garden Inn.

4. Online 50/50 Raffle

It’s a ballpark tradition in digital form — every donation adds to the grand total, with a raffle drawing at the end of the night. Half of the funds go to CHaD and the Fisher Cats Foundation, and the other half go to one lucky winner.

5. Dinner Packages, Delivered!

It wouldn’t be the Granite State Baseball Dinner without a delicious meal. Celebrations Catering will offer home deliveries of family dinners, bottled wine, charcuterie boards, and more to enjoy during the show. All proceeds will benefit CHaD and the Fisher Cats Foundation.

Baseball Celebrities

Danny Jansen is the starting catcher for the Toronto Blue Jays, who enjoyed a breakout season with the Fisher Cats in 2017. Previously known as a defensive specialist, Jansen hit .323 and earned a spot in the Eastern League All-Star Game in New Hampshire. Just over a year later, he was suiting up for the Blue Jays, and began his MLB career with a six-game hitting streak.

John Schneider led the vaunted 2018 Fisher Cats to an Eastern League Championship as the youngest manager in team history. The following year, he joined Fisher Cats All-Stars Bo Bichette, Cavan Biggio, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in Toronto as a Major League Coach with the Blue Jays.

Worcester, MA native Oliver Drake earned a spot on the Tampa Bay Rays playoff roster during their run to the World Series this season. The former US Naval Academy pitcher kept the Yankees off the board during a strong inning of relief in the ALDS.

Luis Tiant, affectionately known as ‘El Tiante’, was one of the most dominant, durable pitchers of his generation. Over 19 seasons, he dazzled lineups with his overpowering stuff and unique, back-to-the-hitter wind-ups. A three-time All-Star, he shined for the Red Sox from 1971-78, perhaps making his biggest impact for the 1975 American League Champions.

In Game 6 of the 1975 World Series, Bernie Carbo hit one of the most memorable home runs in Red Soxhistory. Facing elimination and a three-run deficit in the bottom of the eighth inning, Carbo was brought in to pinch hit with two on and two out. He drilled a game-tying blast to center field, and the Red Sox eventually prevailed in the 12th inning on a Carlton Fisk homer.

Dennis Ray “Oil Can” Boyd pitched for the Boston Red Sox (1982-89), Montreal Expos (1990-91) and Texas Rangers (1991) during his 10-year career. He won a career-high 16 games during the Red Sox 1986 American League Championship season, and started Game 3 of the World Series against the Mets.

Dick Drago spent 13 years in the major leagues as a pitcher for the Red Sox, Royals, Angels, Mariners, and Orioles, and pitched in the iconic 1975 Red Sox – Reds World Series.

Sue Parsons Zipay of Hingham, MA played for the Rockford Peaches of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League in the 1950s. She is the Founder and President of American Girls Baseball, which develops, manages, and promotes training and instructional programs for girls and women in the game of baseball.

Lois Youngen spent four years in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, catching a perfect game with the South Bend Blue Sox in 1953. Lois Youngen Ball Field in West Eugene, OR is named after her.

The primary beneficiary of the Granite State Baseball Dinner is the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD). CHaD, New Hampshire’s comprehensive, full-service children’s hospital, is committed to providing outstanding compassionate care for children and their families. Offering primary, specialty, and tertiary care to the children of New Hampshire, Vermont, and beyond, their focus includes keeping all kids healthy and safe.

In addition to raising valuable funds for the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock, the donation total will help fund the Fisher Cats Foundation Scholarship program, which provides $2,500 college scholarships to 12 student-athletes every season.

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats established the Fisher Cats Foundation to be a catalyst for the betterment of communities statewide by supporting youth programs that encourage education and promote healthy living. Through the generous support of players, employees, sponsors, and fans, the Fisher Cats Foundation continuously works to make a positive impact throughout New Hampshire and north-central Massachusetts. As the primary funding source for the team’s philanthropy, the Fisher Cats Foundation supports a wide variety of non-profit organizations and coordinates several fundraising programs and events. Since its inception in 2006, the Foundation and the Fisher Cats have provided more than $5.7 million in monetary and in-kind donations to thousands of non-profit organizations.

For more information about the charitable Granite State Baseball Dinner, presented by Northeast Delta Dental, please call the Box Office at (603) 641-2005 or visit nhfishercats.com.

Fisher Cats Support Granite United Way COVID-19 Relief Fund

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Manchester, N.H. – The New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Blue Jays Double-A affiliate) have introduced a new donation program to support COVID-19 relief efforts.

The Fisher Cats will make $12 and $6 donations to the Granite United Way COVID-19 Relief Fund through two new donation packages:

For $24, fans will receive four undated Fisher Cats ticket vouchers and a $12 donation will be made to the relief fund.

For $12, fans will receive two undated Fisher Cats ticket vouchers and a $6 donation will be made to the relief fund.

The donation packages are now available for purchase in the Fisher Cats online store.

“We’ve been so inspired with how our community has rallied together during these challenging times,” said Fisher Cats President Mike Ramshaw. “We’re doing everything we can to help, and we’re proud to offer an incentive for fans to donate to the Granite United Way COVID-19 Relief Fund.”

Granite United Way is committed to ensuring that our community’s most vulnerable families have the support they need to weather the short- and long-term impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak. Granite United Way’s COVID-19 Relief Fund rapidly deploys resources to community-based organizations that are offering emergency relief to families and individuals in need.

“During these unsettling times, one of the greatest things we’ve seen is our community pulling together,” said Patrick Tufts, President and CEO of Granite United Way. “We have built a strong partnership with the Fisher Cats and know that their efforts will benefit those who are affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, both with immediate needs and in the long term.”

Fisher Cats single game tickets are on sale now, starting at just $8. To learn more, call (603) 641-2005, or visit www.nhfishercats.com.

The Rivalry: Red Sox – Yankees Greats Highlight Granite State Baseball Dinner

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MANCHESTER, N.H. – The New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays), the Fisher Cats Foundation, and the Ted Williams Foundation have confirmed the initial group of guests for the 2019 Granite State Baseball Dinner, presented by Northeast Delta Dental.

This year’s fundraising event will be held on Saturday, November 23 at 5 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton Manchester Downtown Hotel Expo Center. Since 2007, the event has hosted over 13,000 guests and donated more than $1.75 million to the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD) and the Fisher Cats Foundation. Tickets are available at NHFisherCats.com.

Hall of Famers Goose Gossage and Wade Boggs headline the 2019 celebrity guest list, along with several other Red Sox and Yankees legends: Bucky Dent, Bill Lee, Luis Tiant, Rico Petrocelli and Bob Stanley. The players will sign autographs from 5 – 7 p.m., and share stories from their careers and the greatest rivalry in baseball during the subsequent dinner program.

New Hampshire’s own Chris Carpenter  will join the festivities, as the 2005 Cy Young Award Winner and two-time World Series Champion continues to donate his time to raise funds for the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock and the Fisher Cats Foundation.

Goose Gossage, a 2008 Hall of Fame inductee, will make his first appearance at the Granite State Baseball Dinner. Gossage pitched for nine teams in his 22 big league seasons, including seven with the Yankees (1978-1983, 1989). He was a nine-time All-Star and led the major leagues in saves for three years, including the 1978 World Series Championship season.

First Ballot Hall of Famer Wade Boggs will attend the dinner for a third time. A career .328 batter with 3,010 hits, he was the only player in the 20th century with seven straight 200-hit seasons. Boggs played 11 years in Boston to begin his career (1982-1992), and won the 1996 World Series with the Yankees. He spent his last two seasons in Tampa Bay, and in 1999 he became the first player to join the 3,000 hit club with a home run. Boggs entered the Hall of Fame wearing a Red Sox cap in 2005, and had his number 26 retired at Fenway Park in 2016.

Bucky Dent, a prominent figure in the Red Sox – Yankees rivalry, will make his Granite State Baseball Dinner debut. Dent is best known for his three-run home run in the 1978 American League East Tiebreaker Game. With New York trailing 2-0 in the top of the seventh, Dent’s go-ahead homer eventually led the Yankees to a 5-4 victory and a playoff berth. He was named 1978 World Series MVP, hitting .417 with 7 RBI in the six-game series win over the Dodgers.

Red Sox greats and popular baseball dinner mainstays Bill Lee, Bob Stanley, Rico Petrocelli and Luis Tiant — who all played against Gossage and Dent in the 1970s — will return to Manchester in 2019.

“When it comes to the best rivalries in sports, it doesn’t get any better than Red Sox – Yankees,” said Fisher Cats President Mike Ramshaw. “The Red Sox have had the upper hand in recent years, but there’s a lot of history between these two teams, and I know this year’s celebrity guests will have plenty of stories to tell.”

Tickets for this year’s event are $80 and can be purchased at NHFisherCats.com and by calling 603-641-2005.

Doors to the event will open at 5 p.m. with a silent auction and an autograph session with the honored guests from 5-7 p.m. The dinner and the evening’s program will begin at 7 p.m.

The primary beneficiary of the dinner is the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD). CHaD, New Hampshire’s comprehensive, full-service children’s hospital, is committed to providing outstanding compassionate care for children and their families. Offering primary, specialty, and tertiary care to the children of New Hampshire, Vermont, and beyond, their focus includes keeping all kids healthy and safe.

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats established the Fisher Cats Foundation to be a catalyst for the betterment of communities statewide by supporting youth programs that encourage education and promote healthy living. Through the generous support of players, employees, sponsors, and fans, the Fisher Cats Foundation continuously works to make a positive impact throughout New Hampshire and north-central Massachusetts. As the primary funding source for the team’s philanthropy, the Fisher Cats Foundation supports a wide variety of non-profit organizations and coordinates several fundraising programs and events. Since its inception in 2006, the Foundation and the Fisher Cats have provided more than $5.7 million in monetary and in-kind donations to thousands of non-profit organizations.

The Ted Williams Foundation works to preserve and build on the rich tradition of our national pastime through education and outreach. Proceeds from the Granite State Baseball Dinner are instrumental in the Foundation’s mission to provide youth baseball programs and scholarships for deserving student-athletes. The Foundation is also an active partner with the Rays, Red Sox, Twins, Orioles & Phillies Organizations raising funds to provide assistance to their many charitable programs including the Boys & Girls Club, Pediatric Cancer, Animal Shelters and youth Diabetes programs.

For more information about the charitable Granite State Baseball Dinner, presented by Northeast Delta Dental, please call the Box Office at (603) 641-2005 or visit www.nhfishercats.com.

For tickets and information, visit www.nhfishercats.com.

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

Baseball Dinner Has Donated Over $1.7 Million

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Manchester, N.H. – Continuing the team’s holiday tradition, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Blue Jays Double-A affiliate) announced today that the proceeds generated from the 2018 Granite State Baseball Dinner brought the overall donation total above $1.7 million since 2007.

Through sponsorship donations, ticket sales, silent and live auctions, and raffle ticket sales, a donation of over $91,000 from this year’s event will benefit the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD), the Ted Williams Foundation, and the Fisher Cats Foundation.

Presented by Northeast Delta Dental, the 2018 dinner welcomed first-time guests like First Ballot Hall of Famer Steve Carlton, 2004 World Series Champion Orlando Cabrera, and Big Red Machine staple George Foster. The event also featured two of the only MLB first round draft picks to come out of New Hampshire: Chris Carpenter (1993) and Grant Lavigne (2018).

The Fisher Cats will open the 2019 season on Thursday, April 4 at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium against the Binghamton Rumble Ponies (New York Mets). Full and Half-Season Tickets and Mini-Ticket Plans are currently on sale, and each features a variety of benefits, gifts, and experiences. To learn more, stop by the box office at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium, call (603) 641-2005, or visit www.nhfishercats.com.

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

Army vs. Celebrity Softball Game Kicks Off All-Star Festivities

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Manchester, N.H. – The New Hampshire Fisher Cats, Double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, have announced the rosters for the Army vs. NH Celebrity Softball Game. The opening event of the Northeast Delta Dental Eastern League All-Star Classic, scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, July 11, will be followed by the Jordan’s Furniture Tempur-Pedic Home Run Derby at 6:30 p.m. Gates and the Samuel Adams Brewhouse will open at 4:30 p.m. Tickets to Tuesday’s festivities and Wednesday’s All-Star Game are still available at NHFisherCats.com/allstar, or by calling (603) 641-2005.

Army Roster

Sergeant First Class Shaun Delbene (Player/Coach) – Chester, N.H. native who has served 11 years in the Army, including a tour in Afghanistan in 2010.

Command Sergeant Major Lore Ford – served in the Army and the N.H. Army National Guard since 1988, deployed in Operation Desert Storm, Desert Shield and Iraqi Freedom.

First Sergeant Jeremy Chaisson – Henniker, N.H. resident with over 20 years of experience as an Army mechanic. Deployed to Iraq in 2004 and Kuwait in 2010.

Staff Sergeant Sara McPherson – has served in the Army for nine years, including a tour in Afghanistan.

Sergeant Timothy Heckerman – Also known as “Smash,” he has been a soldier for nine years.

Major Brian Fernandes – Weare, N.H. native with 16 years of active service. Deployed to Afghanistan in 2004.

Sergeant Jesus Salamanca – Nine years of service in the Army.

Specialist Russell Small (Ret. Army) – Deerfield, N.H. native who served in the Army National Guard from 1993 to 2001.

Sergeant Trisha Ford (Ret. Army) – Served as a military police officer from 1994-1999.

First Sergeant Jeff Garand – Joined the Army in 1991, and was deployed to Haiti in 1994 and Iraq in 2004. Now assigned to the 12th Civil Support Team out of Concord, N.H.

Specialist Steve Delbene (Ret. Army) – Boscowen, N.H. native who served in the Army from 1981-1986.

Sergeant First Class Kevin Harvey – Has been a soldier for over 24 years.

NH Celebrity Roster

Jamie Staton – Sports Anchor at WMUR-TV

Nicole Barreira – “Chef Nicole,” Corporate Chef of T-Bones & Cactus Jack’s

Greg Kretschmar – “The Godfather” and Host of Greg & The Morning Buzz on Rock 101

Ronnie Ortegon – Fisher Cats Hitting Coach

Marga Bessette – Host of “NH in the Morning” at 95.7 WZID

Jack Heath – Host of the New Hampshire Today Radio Show on WGIR 610 AM

Andy Fermin – Fisher Cats Position Player Coach

Lauren Percy – Miss New Hampshire 2017

Greg LaRocca – Former Major League Baseball Player

Brian Pike – Fisher Cats Strength & Conditioning Coach from Gorham, N.H.

Honorary Player – Elliot Perry

After the softball game, the festivities continue with the Jordan’s Furniture Tempur-Pedic Home Run Derby at 6:30 p.m. (bracket shown below). First pitch of the Eastern League All-Star Game is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. on Wednesday, July 12.

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

Baseball Dinner Donates Over $127K

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In the spirit of the holiday season, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats announced today the proceeds generated by the 2016 Granite State Baseball Dinner, presented by Northeast Delta Dental. Through sponsorship donations, ticket sales, silent and live auctions, and raffle ticket sales, more than $127,000 was donated from the Nov. 19 event to benefit the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD), the Ted Williams Foundation, and the Fisher Cats Foundation.

“We’re honored to host this event every year, and we’re proud of the impact it makes in our community,” said Art Solomon, Fisher Cats owner and Chairman of the Fisher Cats Foundation board. “The work of our Foundation is at the forefront of what we do as an organization, and we’re so thankful for the support of all of the sponsors and fans who make the Baseball Dinner successful each year.”

“On behalf of everyone at CHaD, especially the kids and families we serve, I would like to express our deepest thanks for the wonderful partnership we have with the New Hampshire Fisher Cats,” said Dr. Keith Loud, Director, Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock. “The Granite State Baseball Dinner committee, the Fisher Cats staff and the entire Fisher Cats’ organization are truly champions for kids. They make a difference for all the children of our region, but especially those who are sick and injured, and for that we are extremely grateful.”

“This announcement has become a holiday tradition for us, and it means so much to our staff and the entire Fisher Cats family,” said Fisher Cats President Mike Ramshaw. “The Baseball Dinner is the highlight of our offseason. It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to donate to these great charities, and the support of our fans and partners in the community really makes a difference.”

“We are honored to participate in the Granite State Baseball Dinner every year,” said Ted Williams Foundation Executive Director Dave McCarthy. “Through our partnership with the Fisher Cats and CHaD, and the generosity of the sponsors, fans, and athletes, we can further our initiatives to honor and celebrate the game of baseball.”

Since the Fisher Cats became involved with the dinner in 2007, more than $1.5 million has been donated to the three charitable groups.

In addition to the main fundraising efforts of the event, the Fisher Cats and Primary Bank partnered to host a coat drive to benefit New Horizons for New Hampshire. Dinner patrons donated dozens of coats, which will be used by New Horizons to provide warm clothing for those in need during the winter months.

The 2016 dinner featured another unique panel of celebrity guests, including New Hampshire native and Cy Young Award winner Chris Carpenter and Hall of Famer Wade Boggs. Additional guests included former Red Sox Luis Tiant, Lou Merloni and Rich Gedman, along with pitching greats Denny McLain and Scott McGregor.

Several Granite Staters were also featured at the head table, including minor league infielder Michael Fransoso of Portsmouth and pitchers Carson Cross of Brentwood, and Nashua’s Kevin McGowan.

A group of New England prospects also attended the event, including Alex Powers of Hyannis, Mass. and the Cincinnati Reds farm system, Keene State standout and Orioles prospect Cody Dube, and former St. Thomas Aquinas High School (Dover, N.H.) star Ryan McKenna, who Baltimore drafted in the fourth round last year.

The Fisher Cats were honored to host two members of the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team, Brian Gentilotti and Matthew Pennington, as well as 2012 Paralympic gold medalist Victoria Arlen of Exeter.

The dinner tradition will continue in 2017 on Saturday, Nov. 19.

The Fisher Cats open the 2017 season on Thursday, April 6, versus the recently renamed Binghamton Rumble Ponies (AA-New York Mets). On July 12, the team will host the 2017 Northeast Delta Dental Eastern League All-Star Classic at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium featuring the top prospects from each of the league’s 12 teams.

Fisher Cats full and half-season tickets are available now and feature a wide variety of benefits, including reserved seating for the 2017 Northeast Delta Dental Eastern League All-Star Classic, up to $100 in Fisher Cash, access to exclusive events like on-field batting practice, team autograph signings and more. Visit nhfishercats.com for more information.

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

TD Bank Presents Kids Run the Show Aug. 19

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MANCHESTER, N.H. – The New Hampshire Fisher Cats announced today that the team has signed 13 young fans to one-day front office contracts. Presented by TD Bank, “Kids Run the Show” will give these youngsters, ages 6-16, a chance to orchestrate the fun and excitement of a Fisher Cats game on Friday, August 19.

Key positions on New Hampshire’s staff will be filled as follows:

General Manager: Mark Basnett – Manchester, NH

Radio Broadcaster: Logan Purvis – Manchester, NH

PA Announcer: Mitchell Forman – Hudson, NH

Group Sales Manager: Aiden Daniel – Fremont, NH

Public Relations Director: Brandon Lurvey – Concord, NH

Guest Services Manager: Maddy Dionne – Henniker, NH

Promotions Assistant: Malachy Crowell – Derry, NH

Groundskeeper: Graham Kuhlmann – Manchester, NH

Scorekeeper: Owen Moushegian – Nashua, NH

Box Office Director: Zachary Levigne – Manchester, NH

Ticket Takers/Ushers:

Isabelle Henderson – Lawrence, MA

Emily King – Nashua, NH

Christian Morency – Manchester, NH

“This is such an exciting event every year, watching young kids experience a night at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium the way we do,” said Fisher Cats President and General Manager Rick Brenner. “Our goal is to create as much fun and excitement as possible for all of our fans, and partnering with TD Bank for this promotion is one of the most unique ways we do that.”

“TD Bank is proud to support the New Hampshire Fisher Cats and what better way to do so then to sponsor Kids Run the Show,” said Steve Webb, NH Market President. “The lucky kids chosen get to learn about all the details and hard work that go on behind the scenes for each and every game…and develop an even deeper love for the game of baseball.”

Friday’s game will feature live music from local artist David Anthony and a spectacular Atlas Fireworks show after the final out. The Fisher Cats will host the Altoona Curve (Pittsburgh Pirates Double-A affiliate), with first pitch scheduled for 7:05 p.m. Tickets are available now at nhfishercats.com/tickets.

About TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank®

TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is one of the 10 largest banks in the U.S., providing more than 8 million customers with a full range of retail, small business and commercial banking products and services at approximately 1,300 convenient locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Metro D.C., the Carolinas and Florida. In addition, TD Bank and its subsidiaries offer customized private banking and wealth management services through TD Wealth®, and vehicle financing and dealer commercial services through TD Auto Finance. TD Bank is headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J. To learn more, visitwww.tdbank.com. Find TD Bank on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/TDBankand on Twitter at www.twitter.com/TDBank_US.

TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is a member of TD Bank Group and a subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank of Toronto, Canada, a top 10 financial services company in North America. The Toronto-Dominion Bank trades on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges under the ticker symbol “TD”. To learn more, visit www.td.com.

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

Scholarship Applications Now Available

Foundation to award $30,000 in scholarships to N.H., Mass. students

The 2014 class of Fisher Cats Foundation Scholarship Winners.
The 2014 class of Fisher Cats Foundation Scholarship Winners.

New-Hampshire-Fisher-Cats-logo-2013The New Hampshire Fisher Cats and the Fisher Cats Foundation have announced the application process is now open for the 2015 Fisher Cats Foundation Scholar-Athlete Scholarships. The Foundation will award 12 scholarships to outstanding scholar-athletes from New Hampshire and Massachusetts who demonstrate academic excellence, significant athletic achievement, and active civic involvement. Each award is $2,500 and includes recognition at a Fisher Cats game during the 2015 season.

Fisher-Cats-Foundation-logo-2013Applications are available simply by visiting the Fisher Cats’ website, www.nhfishercats.com, and clicking the heading COMMUNITY. Students can also find the application by clicking SCHOLARSHIP REGISTRATION at www.NHScholars.org.

Applications are due by 5 p.m. on April 30, 2015. A letter of recommendation from the applicant’s coach, FAFSA documentation, and the student’s high school transcript in an electronic format must be uploaded with the application.  All applicants will be evaluated on academic performance, athletic achievement, and citizenship.

Candidates for the Fisher Cats Foundation Scholar-Athlete Scholarships must be residents of New Hampshire or Massachusetts who are graduating from high school in 2015. Candidates must be planning to enroll in a four-year degree program or planning to attend a local community college or technical school in the fall. Candidates do not need to be studying in any particular field.

Three of the scholarships have additional significance. The Chris Carpenter Award is named after New Hampshire native and National League Cy Young Award-winning pitcher, Chris Carpenter. The Swymer Family Scholarship is presented annually to a student who has overcome a barrier on the way to attending college. The Easter Seals Veterans Count Scholarship goes to a student whose parent or guardian is an active, reserve, or veteran member of the United States military.

In 2015, the Fisher Cats Foundation will award a total of $30,000 in scholarships with $5,000 of that amount earmarked to a pair of scholarships for Massachusetts students. Through 2014, the Fisher Cats have presented $230,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors since 2007.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Granite State Baseball Dinner Donates $142,000

Annual charity event has donated more than $1.28 million since 2007

NewHampshireFisherCats_2014-12-17

New-Hampshire-Fisher-Cats-logo-2013In the offices of the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock in Manchester today, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats announced the proceeds from the 2014 Granite State Baseball Dinner, presented by Northeast Delta Dental. Through sponsorship donations, ticket sales, silent and live auctions, and raffle ticket sales, $142,049 was donated to benefit CHaD, the Ted Williams Foundation, and the Fisher Cats Foundation at the annual gala on Nov. 22.

CHaD-Hospital-logo“It is with great pride that our organization gets to host this event and present this check every year,” said Art Solomon, Fisher Cats owner and Chairman of the Fisher Cats Foundation board. “The work of our Foundation is near and dear to my heart, but this event in particular means so much because of the impact it is able to make. We are so thankful for the support of all of the sponsors and fans who continue to make this event so meaningful each year.”

“Each year during the holiday season we are able to make this announcement, and it means so much to our team and our staff,” said Fisher Cats President & General Manager Rick Brenner. “It takes a lot of dedicated people donating a lot of their time and resources to make this event successful, but this announcement and presentation today, and the work of these great charities, is the reward for those efforts. We know these funds will assist these groups with the important and necessary services they provide our communities.”

Since the Fisher Cats became involved with the dinner in 2007, it has generated more than $1.28 million for the three charitable groups. CHaD has received more than $558,000 to support its mission to provide world-class care to families and kids throughout the northeast. The Fisher Cats Foundation has used a similar amount to help fund more than $3.5 million in monetary and in-kind donations since its inception in 2006. The Ted Williams Foundation has been gifted with nearly $173,000 to continue its efforts to promote the history and tradition of baseball while also providing outreach to community groups and scholarships to high school students.

The 2014 dinner featured a unique panel of celebrity guests, including New Hampshire legend and Cy Young Award winner Chris Carpenter. Red Sox star Brock Holt co-headlined the event alongside Carpenter, as well as several popular former Red Sox, including Luis Tiant, Rich Gedman, and Lou Merloni. Other guests with major league connections included Cy Young winners Denny McLain and Dwight ‘Doc’ Gooden, All-Stars Bob Stanley and Gary Matthews, and Claudia Williams, author and daughter of Hall-of-Famer Ted Williams.

Several Granite Staters also featured at the head table, including minor league infielder Michael Fransoso of Portsmouth and pitcher Derrick Sylvester of Franklin. Miss New Hampshire Megan Coolely was joined by 2012 Paralympic gold medalist Victoria Arlen of Exeter.

The dinner tradition will continue in 2015 on Saturday, Nov. 21.

The Fisher Cats will open the 2015 season on Thursday, April 9, at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium against the New Britain Rock Cats (Colorado Rockies). Full and Half-Season Tickets are currently on sale, and feature a variety of benefits and experiences. To learn more, stop by the box office at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium, call (603) 641-2005, or visit www.nhfishercats.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Scholar-Athlete Scholarship Winners Announced

Winners to be recognized at Saturday’s game against Reading

New-Hampshire-Fisher-Cats-logo-2013The New Hampshire Fisher Cats and the Fisher Cats Foundation have named their 2014 Scholar-Athlete Scholarship winners. Ten graduates from New Hampshire high schools and two from northern Massachusetts have all earned a $2,500 scholarship based on their athletic and academic achievements in high school, and will be celebrated in an on-field ceremony prior to the Fisher Cats’ game on Saturday, August 2, against the Reading Fightin Phils at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium.

Fisher-Cats-Foundation-logo-2013“These students have had remarkable high school careers, and we are proud to recognize them as our Class of 2014 scholarship winners,” said Art Solomon, Fisher Cats owner and chairman of the Fisher Cats Foundation board. “Not only have they excelled in school and on the fields and courts, but each has displayed a commitment to making their communities better places to live. We look forward to recognizing these students as they prepare for college at the ballpark this weekend.”

The scholarship recipients were selected based upon criteria of academic excellence, athletic achievement, and active citizenship in the community. Money for the scholarships was raised through several Foundation endeavors, most notably the Granite State Baseball Dinner, which surpassed $1 million in fundraising at its annual event last November. With these scholarships, a total of $230,000 have been awarded through this program since 2007.

The Fisher Cats Foundation will award three special scholarships among the twelve – the Swymer Family Scholarship, offered annually to a student who has overcome a barrier and gone on to college; the Chris Carpenter Scholarship, named in honor of New Hampshire native and National League Cy Young Award Winner Chris Carpenter; and the Easter Seals Veterans Count Scholarship, presented to a New Hampshire graduate whose parent or guardian is an active, reserve, or veteran member of the United States Military.

A full list of this year’s winners is below.

*Quinn Connelly (Spaulding High School/Rochester, N.H.) – Quinn was a member of the varsity basketball team and served as team captain his senior year. He played in the state semi-finals twice and graduated in the top 10 of his class. Quinn will attend the University of New Hampshire in the fall to study business administration.

*Shannon Corcoran (Londonderry High School/Londonderry, N.H.) – Shannon was the co-captain of the varsity dance team. She was also a member of Latin, French, and Math Honor Societies, as well as the National Honor Society. Shannon will attend Clemson University and plans to be a member of the Clemson dance team. She has earned this year’s Easter Seals Veterans Count Scholarship.

*Carmen Giampetruzzi (Trinity High School/Manchester, N.H.) – A three-sport standout, Carmen was a member of the varsity football, basketball, and baseball teams at Trinity. He was a member of the Principal’s List. He will pursue baseball and study biology this fall at Boston College.

*Samarth Gupta (Acton-Boxborough High School/Acton, Mass.) – Samarth was the president of his class as well as a three-season captain of the cross country and track teams. He was also a four-year letter winner in both sports. Samarth will attend Harvard University in the fall studying government.

*Sarah King (Nashua High School North/Nashua, N.H.) – Sarah was a member of the varsity volleyball team as well as a member of the National Honor Society. She plans to attend Butler University next year to study pharmacy.

*Patrick Martin (Wilton-Lyndeborough High School/Wilton, N.H.) – This year’s Swymer Family Award recipient, Patrick was named Wilton-Lyndeborough Male Athlete of the Year in 2013 and 2014. He was a member of the varsity baseball and basketball teams. Patrick will attend St. Joseph’s College of Maine where he plans to study history/secondary education.

*Molly McCabe (Bishop Guertin High School/Brookline, N.H.) – Molly was a four-year letter winner in cross country and indoor and outdoor track at Bishop Guertin. She is a member of the National Honor Society and a four-year Gold Honor Roll Student. Molly will attend Boston College in the fall.

*Abigail McDonough (Portsmouth High School/Greenland, N.H.) – Abby was a member of the varsity softball and basketball teams at Portsmouth High. There, she held high or highest honors for all four years. Next year she will attend the University of New Hampshire.

*Walters Ndi (Concord High School/Concord, N.H.) – Wally was Concord High School’s Male Athlete of the Year and an All-Conference running back. He was a member of the varsity football, wrestling and track teams. He plans to study exercise science next year.

*Dillon Sylvester (Franklin High School/Franklin, N.H.) – Dillon is this year’s winner of the Chris Carpenter Award. He served as the Valedictorian for his class as well as a member of the varsity soccer, basketball, and indoor and outdoor track and field teams. He will attend Bentley University this fall to study business.

*Morgan Wallingford (Dover High School/Dover, N.H.) – Morgan was named the MVP of Dover High School’s varsity gymnastics team for the last three years. A 2014 NH Scholar, she will attend the University of New Hampshire in the fall.

*Nicole Woods (Beverly High School/Beverly, Mass.) – Nicole played on the varsity field hockey, ice hockey, and lacrosse teams at Beverly High School. She was selected as one of the top 70 high school players in the country for USA Field Hockey Futures Elite Championships. She will attend the University of Louisville where she will play field hockey.

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats established the Fisher Cats Foundation to be a catalyst for the betterment of communities statewide by supporting youth programs that encourage education and promote healthy living. Through the generous support of players, employees, sponsors, and fans, the Fisher Cats Foundation continuously works to make a positive impact throughout New Hampshire and north central Massachusetts. As the primary funding source for the team’s philanthropy, the Fisher Cats Foundation supports a wide variety of non-profit organizations and coordinates several fundraising programs and events. Since its inception in 2006, the Foundation and the Fisher Cats have provided more than $3.5 million in monetary and in-kind donations to over 4,000 non-profit organizations.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Fisher Cats, Citizens Bank ‘Taking the Show’ to Manchester South

New-Hampshire-Fisher-Cats-logo-2013The Fisher Cats and Citizens Bank announced today that Manchester South Little League has been chosen as the inaugural winner in the ‘Take the Show on the Road’ promotion. Through a partnership with Citizens Bank, the Fisher Cats will bring their entertainment experience to the fields of Manchester South on Saturday, June 21. Three other leagues – Londonderry Athletic and Field Association (LAFA), Concord Little League, and Hollis/Brookline Cal Ripken – have been awarded consolation prizes based upon the sportsmanship qualities represented by their leagues.

“We received a number of outstanding entries, detailing how the leagues in New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts are not only developing outstanding athletes, but outstanding young people through their programs,” said Fisher Cats President Rick Brenner. “These tales of sportsmanship and integrity highlight the best of youth sports. We are excited to bring our show to Manchester South for a great day of baseball and family fun later this month.”

“Citizens Bank was thrilled to see all the entries highlighting so many healthy, active recreational activities taking place in New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts thanks to youth baseball leagues,” said Joseph Carelli, President, Citizens Bank and RBS Citizens, New Hampshire. “We are proud to partner with the New Hampshire Fisher Cats to bring ‘Take the Show on the Road” to Manchester South Little League and look forward to the event.”

“Manchester South Little League is honored and excited to have been chosen for such a fun, unique promotion,” said Manchester South Little League President Kim Roy. “Sportsmanship and fair play are the guiding principles of our players, coaches, and parents, and to be recognized for those efforts gives us great pride. I know our league will be ready to help the Fisher Cats and Citizens Bank create a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our players and fans.”

On June 21, the Fisher Cats will bring their inflatable games, mascot, PA announcer, promo team, and turf manager to the Manchester South Little League Farm League All-Star Game at Precourt Park off South Willow Street. The first 200 fans to attend the game will also receive a Fisher Cats hat courtesy of Citizens Bank.

As consolation prizes, LAFA will receive a free night in a luxury suite at a Fisher Cats game this summer. Concord and Hollis/Brookline each will receive 25 tickets to a game with a VIP Stadium Tour.

Before the Fisher Cats head to Manchester South, the team will be home for a three-game homestand June 17-19 against the Altoona Curve (Pittsburgh Pirates). The series features a baseball giveaway and an Atlas Fireworks Show after the final game on the 19th. Tickets are available by visiting www.nhfishercats.com, stopping by the box office at the ballpark, or by calling (603) 641-2005. For more information on the above events, please contact Tom Gauthier at tgauthier@nhfishercats.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Golf Classic Raises more than $56,000 for CAC

NewHampshireFisherCats_2014-06-12

 

New-Hampshire-Fisher-Cats-logo-2013The New Hampshire Fisher Cats and the Fisher Cats Foundation announced today the second annual Fisher Cats Foundation Charity Golf Classic raised more than $56,000 for Child Advocacy Centers of New Hampshire. The tournament was held Monday, June 2, at Stonebridge Country Club in Goffstown, N.H.

“This event once again demonstrates the generosity of our partners and friends, who joined us for an enjoyable day that raised money for such an important cause,” said Art Solomon, Fisher Cats owner and the chairman of the Fisher Cats Foundation board. “We are very proud to be able to present this money to the Child Advocacy Centers of New Hampshire as they continue their work to support and advocate for the victims of child abuse throughout New Hampshire.”

Fisher-Cats-Foundation-logo-2013The main event sponsors, Elliot Hospital and Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, were joined by dozens of generous partners and golf foursomes to support the work of CAC divisions throughout the state. In addition to sponsorship and golf entry fees, additional funds were raised through raffles, which featured a wide array of donated prizes. The event also featured a lobster-and-steak lunch preceding the awards ceremony.

On the course, the team from Brady Sullivan Properties came in first place overall with a score of 61. Individual prize winners included Matt Healey, who hit the longest drive, and Joe Morrison, who took home closest-to-the-pin honors.

Child-Advocacy-Centers-of-NHAbout the Child Advocacy Centers

The Child Advocacy Centers of New Hampshire are nationally accredited programs providing forensic interviews and coordinated support services to child victims of crime and their families free of charge. Since opening their doors, the Child Advocacy Centers (CAC) throughout New Hampshire have provided services to thousands of children. In addition, family advocacy services are provided, children and families are connected to community resources, and the CAC remains a support to families as the criminal case moves through the legal system. The CAC in partnership with multidisciplinary team members ensures a less traumatic investigative process, family connection to community resources, and higher prosecution rates.

About the Fisher Cats Foundation

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats established the Fisher Cats Foundation to be a catalyst for the betterment of communities statewide by supporting youth programs that encourage education and promote healthy living. Through the generous support of players, employees, sponsors, and fans, the Fisher Cats Foundation continuously works to make a positive impact throughout New Hampshire and north central Massachusetts. The Fisher Cats Foundation supports a wide variety of non-profit organizations and coordinates several fundraising programs and events. Efforts are focused on two cornerstone initiatives, hosting the Granite State Baseball Dinner benefitting the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD), and providing scholarship to college bound New Hampshire and Massachusetts students in partnership with the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation. Since its inception in 2006, the Fisher Cats and the team foundation have provided more than $3.5 million in monetary and in-kind donations to over 4,000 non-profit organizations.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.