Giving Thanks: Student luncheon a success

 

MOOSIC, PA (November 21, 2019) – The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and their charitable arm, the SWB Pinstripes Foundation, hosted the first of two holiday luncheons on Wednesday, November 20, at PNC Field in the Geisinger Champions Club. Over 230 middle and high school-aged Life Skills and Special Education students from across Northeastern Pennsylvania were in attendance along with their teachers and class aides.

“We were absolutely thrilled with the turnout,” said Jordan Maydole, the RailRiders Director of Community Relations. “We had a great group from nine different local schools. After a delicious lunch prepared by Legends, students made Thanksgiving-themed crafts, met with our mascot CHAMP and received a gift card to the team store. The day was free of charge to these students and their teachers thanks to donations to the SWB Pinstripes Foundation.”

“Many of the students we met today and even several of the teachers,” Maydole continued, “had never been on a class field trip before or had ever visited PNC Field. I can’t tell you how special it was to see them all enjoying a good meal, getting their CHAMP dolls and RailRiders hats in the team store, taking pics with CHAMP, and getting to escape from the classroom for an afternoon!”

A second holiday luncheon will be held on December 12 for elementary and early middle school-aged children and will feature appearances by Santa and CHAMP.

Donations to help fund these and other initiatives through the SWB Pinstripes Foundation can be made by clicking here.

For more information on the SWB Pinstripes Foundation, please contact Jordan Maydole or Amy Miller in the RailRiders front office at (570) 969-BALL or visit swbrailriders.com.

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

West End Christian Community Center Named Banquet Charity

 

The Williamsport Crosscutters have announced that the West End Christian Community Center of Williamsport has been chosen as the charity beneficiary for the 14th Annual Hot Stove Banquet to be held on Wednesday, January 15 in the Grand Ballroom of the Genetti Hotel in Williamsport. The event is presented in part by Panda Patriot Power, River Valley Transit, WRAK 1400AM, and the Williamsport Sun-Gazette.

The West End Christian Community Center’s mission is to provide services and programs to help meet the communities social, emotional and spiritual needs. The charity serves over 3,000 people annually through programs such as its soup kitchen, which serves over 13,000 meals per year and Shoe Express, providing over 500 pairs of new shoes annually to needy children.

“We are so thankful to be chosen as the beneficiary for the 2020 Hot Stove Banquet,” said WECCC’s Executive Director Todd Penman. “As close neighbors in Williamsport, it will be wonderful working as partners with the Crosscutters, resulting in more ability to help the community through the programs and services at the West End Christian Community Center.”

 

Special guests for the banquet include Phillies legend Greg Luzinski and ESPN baseball analyst Tim Kurkjian.

Luzinski played eleven seasons in Philadelphia (1970-1980) before finishing his career with the Chicago White Sox. He was a 4-time NL All-Star with Philadelphia (1975-1978) and was a member of the Phillies first World Series championship team in 1980.

Kurkjian, has covered baseball since 1978 and has been a baseball writer, reporter, analyst and host at ESPN since 1998. He has been a regular on Baseball Tonight and SportsCenter. Kurkjian has been part of ESPN’s coverage of the MLB Little League Classic the last three years at Williamsport’s BB&T Ballpark.

The evening will consist of a full-course dinner, live and silent auctions of sports memorabilia along with interviews and question and answer segments with the special guests. Other highlights of the event include the inductions of the latest members to the Bowman Field Hall of Fame and the Lycoming County Sports Walk.

The ballroom doors open at 5:30 PM with the dinner and entertainment portion of the event kicking off at 6:30 PM. A limited autograph session will take place at the close of evening.

Tickets are $59 per person and can be purchased by calling the Cutters offices at (570) 326-3389 or ordering online at the link below. This event is a sell-out every year, so fans are encouraged to purchase tickets now. Business sponsorships for the event are also available.

The Crosscutters 2020 home opener is scheduled for Friday, June 19 as Williamsport hosts the rival State College Spikes.

Purchase Hot Stove Banquet Tickets HERE

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

Cougars Announce New Military Partnership with Folds of Honor

Portion of the proceeds from Legacy Brick sales will be donated to Folds of Honor scholarship funds

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars, minor league affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have announced a new military partnership with Folds of Honor. Both organizations will work together on multiple initiatives including the Legacy Brick program, Military Appreciation Night and Hometown Heroes.

The Cougars launched the Legacy Brick program prior to the 2015 season. Fans can purchase a custom legacy brick etched with a special message, their name or the name of a family member or friend. All bricks are permanently displayed outside Northwestern Medicine Field near the entrance to Gate 3. Moving forward, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of each legacy brick will benefit Folds of Honor and the work that they’re doing to provide scholarships for the dependents of our military heroes.

For more information about brick sizing, visit kccougars.com.

“The Folds of Honor mission is singular, to provide educational scholarships to the spouses and children of wounded and fallen service members,” said Larry Robinson, Advisory Member for the Chicago Board of Directors. “In 12 short years, we have been able to provide almost 25,000 scholarships, which helps military families achieve their dream of attending college. We are honored to partner with the Kane County Cougars to help us on our mission to honor their sacrifice and educate their legacy.”

In addition to the Legacy Brick program, military members, both active duty and veterans, are honored throughout the season with a special night set aside to celebrate and show appreciation. In addition, select nights feature a Hometown Hero who is honored on the field in-between innings for their heroic actions and service.

“As an organization, the Kane County Cougars are very passionate about our support for America’s men and women that have been deployed around the world to protect our freedom,” said Curtis Haug, Vice President and General Manager of the Cougars. “We are proud to partner with Folds of Honor Chicago to assist in their quest to provide educational support for the families of America’s fallen and disabled service members.”

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

About the Kane County Cougars

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

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

Hot Rods Announce Second-Annual Charity Dinner and Silent Auction

 

BOWLING GREEN BALLPARK (Bowling Green, KY) — The Bowling Green Hot Rods, Class-A Affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays and member of the Midwest League, are excited to announce their second-annual Charity Dinner sponsored by Van-Meter Insurance featuring guest speaker and two-time MLB All-Star Rob Dibble. The event will take place on January 30, 2020, at the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green and will feature a silent auction.

Dibble, who made stops with the Cincinnati Reds, Chicago White Sox, and Milwaukee Brewers over a seven-year career, will join the Hot Rods for their second-annual Charity Dinner. While the right-handed reliever was best known for being a member of the 1990 World Series Champion Reds team and a member of the “Nasty Boys” bullpen, he’s also enjoyed a successful career after baseball.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Norton Children’s Hospital, Stuff the Bus, and Kids on the Block. There will also be a silent auction and bar during the event, as well.

“We’re excited to host another charity dinner and partner with these three organizations,” said Hot Rods COO/General Manager Eric C. Leach. “Last years’ event was fantastic and we’re looking forward to another incredible night!”

In January of 2019, the Hot Rods hosted their inaugural dinner featuring Hall of Famer George Foster with great success. The event raised over $5,100 for local charities. As an organization, the Hot Rods donated $300,000 in gifts, in-kind donations, and donations back to South Central Kentucky.

“The Bowling Green Hot Rods are a vital community partner for not only Stuff the Bus but numerous outlets,” said Tony Rose of Stuff the Bus and host of the Tony Rose Show. “We are in debt to the Hot Rods and their incredible front office for allowing us to be part of their programs that help us with our mission statement of creating a level playing field for all students.”

The event will start at 5:00 PM with a meet-and-greet with Dibble until 5:30 PM. A meet-and-greet with the general public with the guest speaker will begin at 5:30 PM and conclude at 6:30 PM, when dinner will begin.

Tables are available for $400 while individual tickets are on sale for $40. Tickets can be purchased over the phone at 270-901-2121, www.bghotrods.com or at Bowling Green Ballpark prior to the event.

Ticket packages for the 2020 season are on sale now! Fans can choose from a Holiday pack that includes six tickets and an All-Star shirt for $60 and an All-Star Holiday Pack with six tickets, tickets to both the 2020 Midwest League Home Run Derby and Fanfest, as well as an All-Star Game ticket and a tee-shirt for $85! Individual tickets will be available beginning in February 2020. For the event package information please visit www.bghotrods.com or call 270-901-2121.

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Hot Rods Baseball

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

SWB Pinstripes Foundation hosting holiday luncheons at PNC Field

 

MOOSIC, PA (November 19, 2019) – The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and their charitable arm, the SWB Pinstripes Foundation, will host two luncheons this holiday season. The first, a Thanksgiving meal, is slated for Wednesday, November 20, at 11:30 AM in the Geisinger Champions Club at PNC Field and will serve 200 middle and high school-aged Life Skills and Special Education students from across Northeastern Pennsylvania.

“We are pleased to welcome these students, their teachers and aides to PNC Field for a Thanksgiving lunch,” said Jordan Maydole, the RailRiders Director of Community Relations. “After lunch, the children will create a Thankgiving-themed craft to prepare for the upcoming holiday and get pictures with our mascot, CHAMP. We expect a great crowd and hope to create impactful meaning and memories along the way.”

These luncheons are free for the students and staff in attendance and made possible through donations to the SWB Pinstripes Foundation over the last year. A second holiday lunch will be held on December 12 for elementary and early middle school-aged children and will feature appearances by Santa and CHAMP. Students in attendance at either luncheon will also receive a $25 gift card to the RailRiders team store.

“The SWB Pinstripes Foundation remains firm in the commitment to the underserved and underprivileged in our area,” said Amy Miller, the manager of the SWB Pinstripes Foundation. “To provide these free holiday meals and to continue our outreach in the community, we rely on the generosity of our donors. We are still accepting donations to support our next event and encourage those who can get involved to be a part of what we are doing here in NEPA.”

For more information on the SWB Pinstripes Foundation, please contact Jordan Maydole or Amy Miller in the RailRiders front office at (570) 969-BALL or visit swbrailriders.com.

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

Keys Care Grant Recipients Announced for 2020

 

FREDERICK, MD -The Frederick Keys are excited to announce their Frederick Keys Care grant recipients for 2019-20. Keys Care supports local non-profit organizations in Frederick County who provide direct aid to disadvantaged youth and young adults. The Keys Care Fund is part of the Community Foundation of Frederick County’s Universal Grant Application funding program. Grants are awarded each fall for the next calendar year, while any Frederick County 501 (c) (3) organization which provides direct aid to county youth is eligible to apply for a grant.

Started in 1999 as the Joel A. Stephens Memorial Fund, Keys Care was created to honor the memory of Stephens, a former Orioles farmhand. Passing away at only 22 years old due to colon cancer, Joel’s commitment to community service and helping young people set him apart as a player.

Since Keys Care was founded, over $90,000 in grants has been awarded to local youth-based organizations. For the 2019-20 grant period, over $11,000 will be given out to five different organizations.

Advocates for Homeless Families: Strives to achieve permanent solutions to homelessness by providing access to housing, education, employment and supportive services to Frederick County families who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness. This year’s grant supports enriching after-school and summer activities for approximately 20 children, ages 3-14 who participate with their families in transitional and rapid rehousing programs. Funding would support activities such as karate, tennis, dance, cooking, athletics, church and day camp as well as pool passes for all participating children ($1,500).

Blessings in a Backpack: Provides weekend backpacks of food to children from Pre-K through eighth grade who depend on school meals as their primary source of nutrition Monday-Friday. Starting in 2015-16, a special request was made to assist special needs young adults. These 18-21-year-olds Success Program students have recently received high school certificates and deal with the stresses of food insecurity over weekends and school breaks as they learn life skills in order to live independent and productive lives. This year’s grant will help provide food to 15 low-income Success Program students for a fifth straight year ($1,500).

Student Homelessness Initiative Partnership (SHIP): Provides urgent resources and critical services to the hundreds of Frederick County youth experiencing homelessness each year. Funding benefits the New Horizons Academy which provides academic and life skills that will help homeless students get back on track or remain on track for a successful high school graduation. For five weeks each summer, Frederick County youth who experience homelessness can participate in morning instruction from one of four courses mandatory for graduation. After lunch, each student participates in one hour of life skills instruction ($2,000).

YMCA of Frederick County: The Kids Unlimited program provides summer camps for children with autism and other special needs. This program was founded to give these children a safe, nurturing and enriching summer program. Prior to Kids Unlimited, there was no summer program to serve children with special needs. Grant funds will be used to support this program, which will give participants a chance to have fun with arts and crafts, sensory activities, cooking, sports and group games. Field trips will be planned, while integration with other camp programs will help campers develop social skills and enjoy other fun opportunities ($2,200).

Goodwill Industries of Monocacy Valley: A program aimed at youth between 14-24 years old, who may have a disability and who has a parent that is a veteran, deceased or may have a serious illness. This program is designed to work with 2-3 youth in empowerment in all areas of their lives under a holistic framework. A GIMV Youth Coordinator would work directly with each individual to design a personal development plan specifically designed to empower and promote growth ($3,829.56).

All fund recipients will be recognized prior to a 2020 Keys game and are invited to the annual Frederick Keys Care Charity Golf Classic. Fans who want to learn ways to donate to Frederick Keys Care can visit fredererickkeys.com and click on the “Community” tab.

A link to the entire schedule for the Keys 2020 season is available here while fireworks shows are scheduled for Fridays and Saturday night games and other select games during the season. To stay tuned for the latest team news and for ticket information fans can visit frederickkeys.com and follow the team on Twitter (@frederickkeys), Facebook and Instagram (@frederickkeys.com).

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

Chasers in the Community 2019 Review

 

The Omaha Storm Chasers in conjunction with Chasers Charities and Spectra Food Services and Hospitality donated $571,229.19 to numerous Omaha Metro charities in 2019, with the Storm Chasers aligning with more than 300 different organizations. Storm Chasers front office members also combined for nearly 600 hours of community service in the Omaha Metro this year.

“Relationships and community are imperative to what this organization is about,” said Storm Chasers President Martie Cordaro. “Werner Park is a community center so we have a responsibility to Sarpy County and the Omaha Metro to continue to be engaged by being present and giving back.”

During the 2019 season, the Storm Chasers organization provided a platform for 70 non-profit organizations at Werner Park as its Community Organization of the Night. The McDonald’s and Huber Chevrolet Hurl the Pearl promotion also raised $13,378 for the Ronald McDonald House. In addition, $21,395 was donated to various Omaha Metro charities, including Make-a-Wish Nebraska, Gold Glove Charities and Food Bank for the Heartland, through six different Jersey Auctions throughout the season. More than 4,000 canned goods were also donated to Heartland Hope Mission through the Storm Chasers’ Hy-Vee Canned Food Sunday promotion.

A total of $10,865.20 was also raised through the Storm Chasers’ Omaha Potholes promotion to help repair local little league fields with City of Bellevue Recreation and DC West Youth Sports damaged by historic floods this spring, along with matching donations from the Kansas City Royals and Detroit Tigers organizations. The Storm Chasers organization’s relationship with Minor League Baseball and the efforts of President and General Manager Martie Cordaro also helped secure a joint $50,000 donation from Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association to Team Rubicon to support Winter Storm Ulmer disaster relief efforts.

The Storm Chasers organization was also visible throughout the Omaha Metro community, as the combined number of mascot and player appearances totaled nearly 300. Chasers Charities in partnership with The Weitz Company also awarded two $1,000 college scholarships through the Jackie Robinson Scholarship program to Jaden Ferguson and Damicah Dutton-Burton.

Furthermore, the Storm Chasers and Spectra Food Services and Hospitality once again provided local non-profit organizations and community groups to raise funds by volunteering at concessions stands during the season. A total of $51,531 was raised by those volunteers through this program.

In addition, over 9,000 cocktails were sold in the Jack Daniel’s Club over the course of the 2019 season, raising over $4,500 in partnership with Jack Daniel’s for Operation Ride Home.

A full overview of the Storm Chasers’ 2019 Community Relations efforts can be found online at this link: https://www.milb.com/omaha/community/home

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

Indians Set New Records for Charitable Giving

 

INDIANAPOLIS – For the third consecutive year, the Indianapolis Indians set a franchise record for total charitable giving. Including monetary donations and in-kind contributions, the Tribe gave back $583,623 to community organizations in fiscal year 2019. The Indians operate with a fiscal year of October 1-September 30.

Earlier this offseason, the team announced a new 501(C)(3) organization, Indianapolis Indians Charities, focused on uplifting Central Indiana youth and families through partnerships with local nonprofits who work in youth development, family success, education and neighborhood development.

Of the $583,623 in charitable contributions in 2019, $307,823 came from monetary donations to community events and in-stadium fundraising during Tribe games. The other $275,800 came from gifts in-kind of donated tickets, merchandise and mascot appearances.

“The Indians have been a community asset for a long time, and we continue to value our role in giving back,” said Indians President and General Manager Randy Lewandowski. “One of the most impactful ways we work with our partners is providing them the platform of Victory Field and the nearly 600,000 fans that attend home games each season. Now we’re finding new ways to work outside our walls, like Indianapolis Indians Charities and the continued dedication of our staff volunteering their time around Central Indiana.”

The Indians front office volunteered for 40 organizations in 2019, totaling more than 1,486 hours, another team record. The club instituted a staff volunteer program last season that allows employees to volunteer for local organizations during office hours throughout the year. Tribe players also got involved, making 40 appearances for 175 service hours.

Fans were instrumental in two initiatives in 2019-specialty jersey auctions and Thirsty Thursdays at Victory Field. The Indians auctioned off eight specialty jerseys for themes ranging from the team’s new Circle City alternate logo to MARVEL Super Heroes to Indy 500 Night to Stars & Stripes on Independence Day. Fan participation from the auctions drove the total donation for the season to nearly $55,500, another franchise record.

Thirsty Thursdays also received strong fan support in 2019. The new promotion offered discounted soda and draft domestic, premium and craft beer, including $1 from every Sun King craft beer purchase going to a different local nonprofit every Thursday night. The Tribe donated nearly $10,000 to eight non-profits through the Thursday promotion.

Tickets for the 2020 season of Indianapolis Indians baseball are on sale now in full- and half-season plans, plus mini and flex plans. Groups can also purchase tickets for the new Elements Financial Club, a social VIP space scheduled to open in time for Opening Night on Thursday, April 9. Single-game tickets go on sale March 1.

For more on the Indianapolis Indians, visit IndyIndians.com.

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

Michael Chavis Headlines 2020 Sea Dogs Hot Stove Dinner

 

Tickets for the event will go on sale at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, November 13th. Individual tickets for the event are $80.00. Reserved tables of ten are available for $750.00. Tickets can be purchased through the Sea Dogs ticket office by calling 207-879-9500 or online at www.seadogs.com. The event is expected to sell out.

Doors open at 5:30 PM with the Silent Auction running from 5:30 to 7:00 PM. A buffet dinner will be served at 6:30 PM and the program will begin at 7:00 PM. The program will consist of conversations with each guest hosted by Sea Dogs’ radio broadcaster Mike Antonellis.

Chavis made his Double-A debut with the Sea Dogs in 2017, hitting .250 (62-for-248) with 14 homers and 39 RBI in 67 games. He was named the 2017 Red Sox Minor League Offensive Player of the Year after hitting .282 with 313 HR and 94 RBI between High-A Salem and Portland. Chavis made his Major League debut in 2019 and hit .254 (88-for-347) with 18 HR and 58 RBI in 95 games for the Red Sox. His 18 HR and 58 RBI are both the most by a Red Sox in their debut season since Ellis Burks had 20 HR and 59 RBI in 133 games in 1987. Boston drafted Chavis with the 26th overall pick in the 2014 June Draft out of Sprayberry High School in Marietta, Georgia.

All proceeds from the dinner and silent auction will benefit the official charity of the Portland Sea Dogs’; the Strike Out Cancer in Kids Program. The Strike Out Cancer in Kids Program was established in 1995 to raise money for the Maine Children’s Cancer Program. For every strikeout that a Sea Dogs’ pitcher throws money is raised through generous pledges of businesses and individuals. In the 25-year history of the program, nearly five million dollars has been raised.

Previous guests for this event have included Jackie Bradley Jr., Johnny Damon, Keith Foulke, Pedro Martinez, Trot Nixon, and Jason Varitek.

The Sea Dogs open the 2020 season on the road in Hartford, CT on Thursday, April 9th. The home opener is set for Thursday, April 16th at 6:00 PM against the Trenton Thunder (Yankees). Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased by calling the Sea Dogs Ticket Office at 207-879-9500 or online at www.seadogs.com. Book your nine-inning vacation!

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

– BlueClaws –

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

SeaWolves Announce Chace Numata Scholarship

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

Chace Numata Scholarship Information and Application

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

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

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

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

SeaWolves Community Fund

ATTN: Numi Scholarship

110 E. 10th Street

Erie, PA 16501

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

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

Eligible student applicants must meet the following criteria:

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

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

ABOUT CHACE NUMATA

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

ABOUT THE SEAWOLVES COMMUNITY FUND

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

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

BlueClaws to Match Vets Night Out Donations Thru November 15th

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

– BlueClaws –

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

DBJ Selects Dragons, Robert Murphy for Community Awards

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BlueClaws Charities Announces 2019 Grant Recipients

 

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

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

Find the organizations and grant descriptions below:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seabrook Village – To support the Library at Seabrook Village.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

– BlueClaws –

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

Spectrum Field Food and Beverage Job Fair on November 21

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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