Pink Ribbon Girls Survivor Celebration Night at the Ballpark

Dayton, Ohio – The Pink Ribbon Girls (PRG) and the Dayton Dragons will host a Survivor Celebration on Tuesday, June 21, at 7:00 p.m., when the Dayton Dragons take on the Lake County Captains at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District.

The Pink Ribbon Girls provide transportation to and from treatment, housecleaning kits, and peer support and education to breast and gynecological cancer patients at their greatest time of need. The organization has the mission of making sure “No one travels this road alone” and serves anyone regardless of their age, stage, or socio-economic status.

The Pink Ribbon Girls will be in attendance at the game to promote awareness and to celebrate the breast cancer and gynecological cancer survivors they have helped. Proceeds from the Dragons 50/50 for the entire week (June 21 to June 26) will go towards the services and programs of the Pink Ribbon Girls.

If you want to learn more about how you can help support The Pink Ribbon Girls, check out their website here at: pinkribbongirls.org

Great Clips and Charlotte Knights Raise Over $30K to Support Children with Pediatric Brain Tumors

Over $30,000 has been raised this year. (Laura Wolff/Charlotte Knights)

CHARLOTTE, NC — Every day, 13 children are diagnosed with a brain tumor, the deadliest form of childhood cancer. Great Clips and the Charlotte Knights, Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, partnered for the eighth year in a row to help change that with a donation of $33,353 to Vs. Cancer. The contribution was the most of any year since the partnership started in 2015 and makes the total contribution of the partnership over $76,000.

As a signature fundraising campaign of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, Vs. Cancer gives sports teams, athletes and communities the platform to help children with cancer. Proceeds help fund child life programs in Levine Children’s Hospital and lifesaving pediatric brain tumor research.

“Brain tumors are the most common form of cancer in children up to age 14, so our mission is to cure all pediatric brain tumors and transform how children and their families are cared for,” said Dave Mays, senior campaign manager for Vs. Cancer. “Community support in donations like this one is incredibly important in the fight for healthier, happier futures for children with cancer. We’re grateful to Great Clips, the Charlotte Knights and the Charlotte community overall for their continued support.”

For the past several weeks, customers visiting their Charlotte-area Great Clips salons could donate to the effort and local Great Clips franchisees contributed. In addition, several members of the Charlotte Knights staff led supporting fundraisers and shaved their heads to encourage donations.

“This campaign makes it clear how contributions of any size can add up, said Jim Bullard, a Great Clips franchisee. “We’re honored that, through the generosity of Great Clips customers and franchisees, we’re able to continue to support Vs. Cancer and the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation in their efforts.”

A check presentation to Vs. Cancer was held at the June 17 Knights game.

“We are very pleased to continue this important partnership with Great Clips and the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation,” stated Dan Rajkowski, chief operating officer for the Charlotte Knights. “It’s always very fulfilling to see our staff and our fans come together to help raise money for such an important cause.”

Great Clips is the official hair salon of the Charlotte Knights. For more information about North Carolina Great Clips salons, visit www.greatclips.com.

About Great Clips, Inc.
Great Clips, Inc. was established in 1982 in Minneapolis. Today, Great Clips has over 4,400 salons throughout the United States and Canada, making it the world’s largest salon brand. Great Clips is 100 percent franchised, and salons are owned locally by more than 700 franchisees across the U.S. and Canada. Great Clips franchisees employ more than 25,000 stylists. Great Clips® franchised salons provide value-priced, high-quality haircare for men, women and children. Getting a great haircut at a Great Clips® salon is more convenient than ever with Online Check-In, ReadyNext**®* *text alerts* and *Clip Notes**®. To check in online, visit GreatClips.com or download the free app. For more information about Great Clips, Inc. or to find a location near you, visit GreatClips.com.

About the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
Every day, 13 children and teens are diagnosed with a brain tumor, the deadliest and most common form of cancer in kids under 15. Every day after, they are in a fight for their life. It’s a fight the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation is here to help families win. A leader in the brain tumor and childhood cancer communities, PBTF’s mission of Care. Cure. Thrive. reflects its commitment to curing all pediatric brain tumors and transforming how children and their families are cared for. In 2016 the Vs. Cancer Foundation merged with the PBTF and now is a signature fundraising campaign of the nonprofit. Since 1991, PBTF has provided strategic leadership and funding to accelerate the number of targeted therapies for children battling brain tumors today, while equipping families with the patient family education, financial relief, and emotional support they need to navigate their child’s journey. A world without childhood brain tumors is possible when we stand together to effect real, meaningful change. Learn more at www.curethekids.org.

About the Charlotte Knights Charities
Charlotte Knights Charities, Inc. is the philanthropic base of the Charlotte Knights that actively supports and strengthens community programs through baseball that will enhance and grow the quality of life in the Charlotte area. CKC is organized to provide financial assistance to charitable organizations with the goal of advancing education, care, and to promote recreational activities to disadvantaged and underprivileged adults and children. The Charlotte Knights and CKC want to inspire, grow, and embrace the Charlotte community to create and leave a lasting legacy.

RWJBarnabas Health And Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey Host National Cancer Survivors Event with the Somerset Patriots

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, partnered with RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey to host National Cancer Survivors Night at TD Bank Ballpark on Tuesday, June 7.

Over 200 cancer survivors and their guests gathered at the ballpark in celebration of their strength and commitment to defeat cancer and inspire others to do the same.

13-year old cancer survivor Grace Eline and Dr. Rahul Parikh threw out ceremonial first pitches wearing Patriots home jerseys with “Beat Cancer” on the back.

“The opportunity to throw out the ceremonial first pitch alongside 13-year old cancer survivor Grace Eline, with more than 200 cancer survivors and their families in attendance, was inspirational,” said Dr. Parikh, Medical Director, Laurie Proton Therapy Center at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. “As an organization, the Somerset Patriots share our core values, and this was truly a special evening celebrating survivorship, while raising awareness for cancer research, treatment and prevention.”

Eline was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2018 and received her successful treatments including proton beam therapy at RWJBarnabas Health facilities- Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, the Laurie Proton Therapy Center at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, and the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. Grace is cancer free and living her life as a “normal” teenager.

The event was also part of Hope At Bat, a Minor League Baseball initiative designed to help save lives, celebrate lives and lead the fight for a world without cancer. The Patriots will be auctioning off a team signed purple bat through MiLB Auctions. The online auction will run until 9:00 pm on Thursday, June 30. The proceeds from the auction will benefit RWJBarnabas Health Oncology Services. Bidding can be done at https://bit.ly/3Q9vZfp.

“We were honored to open our home to so many cancer survivors, their families and friends,” said Patriots President/General Manager Patrick McVerry. “There isn’t a person whose life has not been impacted by this terrible disease. It was a special night recognizing the unbelievable strength of those that are battling and beating cancer and hopefully encourage others to join the fight.”

Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey is the state’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. Together RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute offer the most advanced cancer treatment options close to home.

About the Somerset Patriots

The Somerset Patriots are the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate and develop today’s top minor league talent into the pinstriped superstars of tomorrow for MLB’s winningest team. The Patriots compete in the Double-A Northeast League and play their home games at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ, where fans of all ages and levels of baseball fandom get to enjoy the unique experience that is minor league baseball. To learn more, visit: www.somersetpatriots.com.

Homestand Highlights: Stripers Celebrate Memorial Day, Raise Awareness for ALS and Cancer  

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. – The Gwinnett Stripers will celebrate Memorial Day by transforming into the Gwinnett Peaches, honor those afflicted by ALS and cancer, and give away Button Gwinnett Specialty Jersey replicas during a six-game series against the Louisville Bats (Cincinnati Reds) from May 30 to June 5 at Coolray Field.

Here’s a full look at the homestand:

Monday, May 30 – Stripers vs. Louisville Bats (Cincinnati Reds)

Game Time: First pitch is at 7:05 p.m.

Gates Open: 6:00 p.m.

  • Gwinnett Peaches Retro Specialty Jersey: There’s no crying in baseball as the Stripers become the Gwinnett Peaches! Players and coaches will wear uniforms reminiscent of the Rockford Peaches of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League to celebrate the women who played professionally during the Second World War. These specialty jerseys will be available for purchase via online auction.
  • Memorial Day with Fireworks: Stick around after the game for a Memorial Day fireworks display.

Wednesday, June 1 – Stripers vs. Louisville Bats (Cincinnati Reds)

Game Time: First pitch is at 7:05 p.m.

Gates Open: 6:00 p.m.

  • Wet Nose Wednesday: Free admission for dogs with paid owner on The Bank. Upgrade to a Doggie Bag which includes a ticket, hot dog, and Stripers dog bandana for just $14. With support from New Country 101.5.
  • Xolos de Gwinnett: The Stripers will transform into the Xolos de Gwinnett to honor Gwinnett County’s rich Hispanic heritage and culture.

Thursday, June 2 – Stripers vs. Louisville Bats (Cincinnati Reds)

Game Time: First pitch is at 7:05 p.m.

Gates Open: 6:00 p.m.

  • ALS Lou Gehrig Day: Join the Stripers and support your local ALS Association chapter as we remember the legacy of Lou Gehrig and all those lost to the disease that bears his name.
  • Thirsty Thursday™: Every Thursday night, fans (age 21 and up) can get select 12-ounce domestic beers for just $2 each, and margaritas from Cutwater Spirits for just $5 each, presented by Michelob Ultra.

Friday, June 3 – Stripers vs. Louisville Bats (Cincinnati Reds)

Game Time: First pitch is at 7:05 p.m.

Gates Open: 6:00 p.m.

  • Shut Out Cancer Night: The Stripers recognize cancer survivors, remember the fights of our friends and loved ones, and raise awareness to combat all forms of cancer.
  • Fireworks Friday: A spectacular fireworks display follows each Friday night game.

Saturday, June 4 – Louisville Bats (Cincinnati Reds)

Game Time: First pitch is at 6:05 p.m.

Gates Open: 5:00 p.m.

  • Button Gwinnett Replica Jersey Giveaway: The first 1,000 fans will receive their own replica “Button Gwinnett” jersey, modeled after the Stripers’ popular Patriotic uniforms from 2021. Available in medium and XL sizes only. Please note, this giveaway is ONE PER PERSON, and fans with extra tickets will not be permitted to exit the ballpark and re-enter to claim additional jerseys. Presented by Gwinnett Daily Post.

Sunday, June 5 – Stripers vs. Louisville Bats (Cincinnati Reds)

Game Time: First pitch is at 1:05 p.m.

Gates Open: 12:00 p.m.

  • Sunday Funday: A special matinee game for families, with Pre-Game Catch on the Field and Post-Game Kids Run the Bases, presented by Georgia United Credit Union.

Single-game tickets for all Stripers’ home games are on sale now at GoStripers.com/tickets.

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The Gwinnett Stripers are the Triple-A International League affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. The 2022 season is the team’s 13_th_ at Coolray Field in Lawrenceville, Ga. For tickets, team merchandise, or more information, visit GoStripers.com. Follow the Stripers on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at GoStripers.

MiLB and the American Cancer Society to bring back annual cancer fighting initiative

Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) today announced a multi-year renewal of its long-time partnership with the American Cancer Society (ACS). The renewal will see a reprisal of the “Hope At Bat” program – a fundraising and awareness campaign in support of cancer research – for the first time since the 2019 season. The initiative will launch in June in support of National Cancer Survivors Month and continue through the remainder of the 2022 season in MiLB ballparks across the country.

“MiLB constantly strives to work with great partners and provide new opportunities to make a positive impact in our communities,” said Kurt Hunzeker, MLB’s Vice President of Minor League Business Operations. “Our long-standing partnership with American Cancer Society certainly has allowed us to help fight cancer nationwide by raising awareness and charitable donations for cancer research, and we are excited to start our next chapter together this season.”

As an Official Charity Partner of Minor League Baseball, ACS will have cancer survivors and caregivers participate in ceremonial first pitch events and fans and players will have the opportunity to create “I Go To Bat For….” cards as part of in-game tributes to those who are currently battling, or have previously battled cancer. All teams will be auctioning off two team autographed purple bats featuring the Hope At Bat logo with the proceeds from one bat going to a local cancer fighting organization and the other raising funds for ACS’ national campaign.

MiLB teams will hold a fundraiser on behalf of ACS to assist in their battle against cancer with local youth baseball and softball teams playing a part in the fundraising efforts. Any youth team that raises over $1,000 for ACS in the month of June will receive a special ballpark trip and experience with their local MiLB team.

Future years of the program will feature players wearing purple-themed attire during games to help honor and celebrate those who have fought cancer or are currently battling cancer, as well as a digital cancer assessment tool that fans can use to understand their cancer risk.

“We are very excited about working with MiLB, their teams and their local communities all across the country,” said Sheri Barros, Vice President of Sports Alliances for the American Cancer Society. “Hope at Bat is awareness with action, raising much needed funds and providing important information to the public about cancer risk. We couldn’t be more grateful.”

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About Minor League Baseball

Minor League Baseball consists of 120 teams across four classification levels (Single-A, High-A, Double-A and Triple-A) that are affiliated with Major League Baseball’s 30 teams. Fans flock to MiLB games to see baseball’s future stars and experience the affordable family-friendly entertainment that has been a staple of MiLB since 1901. For more information, visit MiLB.com.

About the American Cancer Society_
The American Cancer Society is on a mission to free the world from cancer. We invest in lifesaving research, provide 24/7 information and support, and work to ensure that individuals in every community have access to cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. For more information, visit cancer.org._

First Horizon Park to Host Clip In 4 The Cure

The Nashville Sounds Baseball Club announced today that First Horizon Park will host Clip In 4 The Cure on Saturday, March 26 at 8:00 a.m. Nashville’s inaugural relay-style cycling event supports cancer initiatives at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center and Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

Participants can register as a team of four (4) or individually. Each bike allows for four team members, one for each cycling hour of the event. Each hour of the relay pairs a live DJ with a Nashville spin instructor, creating four exhilarating hours to sweat it out and help beat cancer.

The cycling sessions run in 45-minute increments beginning at 8:00 a.m. and finishing at 11:45 a.m. The stationary cycling will take place on the concourse level of First Horizon Park.

Registration is live and can be found here. All attendees will be given the opportunity and are encouraged to fundraise for their team. All registration fees will be credited toward fundraising, and every dollar raised will go directly toward lifesaving research and innovative patient care with the ultimate goal of creating a world without cancer.

Clip In 4 the Cure will continue to follow guidance from hospital leadership pursuant to CDC updates for social distancing, masking, vaccination and testing guidelines. Event organizers will communicate protocols and updates to participants via email prior to the event.

The Nashville Sounds are the Triple-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers and play at First Horizon Park. Season ticket memberships for the 2022 season are on sale now. Opening Day is scheduled for Tuesday, April 5 at 6:35 p.m. For more information call 615-690-4487 or e-mail [email protected].

‘Fightin Cancer’ Night with Phillies PA Announcer Dan Baker!

 

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils are pleased to host ‘Fightin Cancer’ Night at FirstEnergy Stadium on Wednesday, May 25th. The stadium voice of the Phillies and cancer survivor Dan Baker will make an appearance as the R-Phils will honor and support the Darren Daulton Foundation throughout the night. Fans have the opportunity to pay tribute to their own loved ones by participating in the specialty ‘Fightin Cancer’ jersey program.

The R-Phils are proud to stand up and raise money and awareness for one of baseball’s most important fights. This night allows all types of cancer and all different battles to be recognized. We encourage our fans to join us in championing these fighters.

The Cancer Awareness jerseys the R-Phils will wear on May 25th will recognize all forms of cancer that individuals battle. The FIRST 25 families and friends that purchase 20 or more tickets for reserved seating or a picnic area for the May 25th game will have the opportunity to have a loved one represented during the game for no additional charge. The specialty jerseys will be personalized with the honoree’s name on the back. Players will receive a photo and bio of the honoree they are representing on the field. A special post-game jersey ceremony will take place with the 25 jersey honorees receiving their game-worn jersey on the field. If the honoree is present, they will receive the jersey. If the honoree has passed, the family will receive the jersey.

Dan Baker, best known for his public address announcing at Veterans Stadium, Lincoln Financial Field, and Citizens Bank Park, will be in attendance for a Meet and Greet. He will throw out a ceremonial first pitch and address the crowd. Baker is the longest tenured announcer in Major League Baseball. 2022 represents his 50th season after postponing the milestone due to his cancer and radiation treatment. He had a long stay in the hospital recovering, especially working to regain strength in his voice. After receiving cancer-free scans, the Phillies announced they would induct Baker to their prestigious Wall of Fame.

Please complete this form to reserve the opportunity for a jersey to be worn by a player during the May 25th Fightin Cancer game. A Reading Fightin Phils representative will contact you to confirm your submission and coordinate your group outing for the game on May 25.

The R-Phils have been consistent supporters of the Darren Daulton Foundation, whose mission is to provide financial support to families that are experiencing financial challenges due to treatment of a malignant primary brain tumor diagnosis. Former Fightin Darren “Dutch” Daulton underwent surgery to fight his glioblastoma. He put up a strong fight against cancer after going into remission once, and created this group to help others afflicted by the same disease. He will always be remembered as a giving and loving family member, friend, and teammate. The foundation helps his memory lives on this way. Daulton played 113 games in Baseballtown in 1983.

Contact Matt Koch at [email protected] with any questions!

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region and was voted the #1 stadium in all of Double-A by MiLB’s Ben Hill. Follow the R-Phils at rphils.com, on Twitter and TikTok at @ReadingFightins, on Instagram @fightins, and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins_ for all information._

Chasers Community Celebration Series presented by PayPal to highlight causes, showcase communities throughout 2022 season

 

PAPILLION, Neb. – The Omaha Storm Chasers are proud to share plans for the Chasers Community Celebration Series presented by PayPal, new for the 2022 season. The initiative, which features eight nights during the 2022 season, is designed to highlight different groups, showcase underrepresented communities, and raise awareness for various causes.

Games featuring the Chasers Community Celebration Series presented by PayPal are as follows: Thurs., April 28 (Mental Health Awareness), Thurs., May 5 (Gender Equality Night), Thurs., May 19 (All-Abilities Night), Thurs., June 9 (Pride Night), Thurs., June 23 (Diversity Night), Wed., July 6 (Senior Health Awareness), Thurs., Aug. 25 (Cancer Awareness), and Thurs., Sept. 22 (Copa de la Diversión).

“Through our new Chasers Community Celebration Series presented by PayPal, we are eager to showcase and recognize many diverse groups and causes at Werner Park in 2022,” Storm Chasers President Martie Cordaro said. “As we were creating the series, it was key to find the right partner that aligns with our community values. PayPal is that partner and we are grateful for their parallel vision.”

“Diversity, Inclusion, Equity & Belonging are top priorities here at PayPal,” PayPal Senior Director of Global Customer Service Steve Wallace said. “We are excited to partner with the Omaha Storm Chasers, who share our passion to create a more inclusive community here in the metro. The Chasers Community Celebration Series is an outstanding way to bring people together to create awareness and drive support for organizations that are making a difference in our area. We are thrilled to be a part of this program and are looking forward to an exciting summer at beautiful Werner Park.”

The first game of the Chasers Community Celebration Series presented by PayPal will be on Thurs., April 28 and highlight the importance of Mental Health by showcasing local organizations and businesses focusing on mental health, including the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention of Nebraska.

Gender Equality Night on Thurs., May 5 features the Women’s Center for Advancement and will celebrate gender equality opportunities through sports. All-Abilities Night on Thurs., May 19 will empower people of all abilities and feature The Ollie Web Center while the Storm Chasers also host additional groups and organizations that make a positive impact on supporting those with all abilities.

The Storm Chasers’ annual Pride Night is scheduled for Thurs., June 9 and will celebrate the LGBTQ community while highlighting Heartland Pride. Diversity Night on Thurs., June 23 will feature the Urban League of Nebraska while bringing awareness to diversity and inclusion initiatives and celebrating different ethnicities and heritages across the Omaha metro.

Wednesday, July 6 highlights Senior Health Awareness and features The Alzheimer’s Association. The Storm Chasers will host a Senior’s Fair with local businesses and organizations tailored to those 55-and-up before the game and also host pre-game Senior Bingo. Cancer Awareness Night on Thurs., Aug. 25 will bring awareness and show support for those battling any type of cancer, celebrate cancer survivors, and feature the Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Foundation.

The final game of the Chasers Community Celebration Series presented by PayPal will double as the Storm Chasers’ annual Copa de la Diversión Night. It will showcase the Latino Center of the Midlands while the team plays as the Cazadores de Tormentas for the fourth straight season as part of Minor League Baseball’s Copa de la Diversión initiative to embrace the culture and values that resonate with local Hispanic and Latino communities.

The Omaha Storm Chasers are scheduled to begin the 2022 season on April 5 at Indianapolis before welcoming fans to Werner Park for the home opener on April 12 vs. Louisville. The full 2022 schedule can be found here and single-game tickets are now available here.

For more tickets and more information, please visit omahastormchasers.com, call the Werner Park Ticket office at (402) 738-5100, and follow the team on social media. You can follow the team on Twitter @omastormchasers, on Instagram @omahastormchasers, and “like” the team on Facebook at facebook.com/omahastormchasers.

Honor a Loved One Affected by Cancer with the Drive’s Special Package

 

The Greenville Drive, along with Bon Secours and the American Cancer Society, will be creating a specially designed Survivors jersey to honor and celebrate those in our community affected by cancer.

Packages are available for Drive fans to celebrate their loved one by including their name in the jersey design and each opportunity also comes with tickets to a 2022 Drive game as well as a donation back to the American Cancer Society.

The Drive will proudly wear these jerseys during their home game at Fluor Field on Sunday, May 8th and we will auctioning off the players’ jerseys during the game to raise additional funds to fight this terrible disease.

To learn more about the packages and how you can reserve a spot for your loved one, CLICK HERE.

Fightins to Host Breast Cancer Awareness Night

 

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils are pleased to host a Breast Cancer Awareness night at America’s Classic Ballpark, FirstEnergy Stadium on Sunday, May 15th at 5:15pm. Thanks to the Reading Hospital McGlinn Cancer Institute, the R-Phils will honor those who are battling, have survived or have lost their fight to cancer. Families and friends can honor a loved one through our personalized pink Breast Cancer Awareness jerseys as the Fightins take on the Bowie Baysox (Orioles).

The Reading Fightin Phils players will wear special themed jerseys honoring 25 different women who have battled breast cancer, either in the past, or currently. The first 25 families and friends that purchase 20 or more tickets for reserved seating or a picnic area for the Sunday, May 15th game will have the opportunity to have a loved one represented on a jersey during the game for no additional charge.

About 1 in 8 U.S. women will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. Most of us know or have been these women. It is important to recognize the struggle and bravery of these women whether they have won or lost their battle with cancer. The R-Phils continue to admire the strength of these women and help to build awareness and funds to battle cancer.

The pink specialty jerseys will be personalized with the honoree’s name on the back. Players will receive a photo and bio of the honoree they are representing on the field. A special post-game jersey ceremony will take place with the 25 jersey honorees receiving their game-worn jersey on the field. If the honoree is present, they will receive the jersey. If the honoree has passed, the family will receive the jersey.

Please complete this form to reserve the opportunity for a jersey to be worn by a player during the May 15th game. A Reading Fightin Phils representative will contact you to confirm your submission and coordinate your group outing for the game on May 15.

Fans can also celebrate and enjoy a belated Mother’s Day with their mom or mother figure! The first 1,500 women will receive a theme giveaway upon entry. This day can be difficult for some fans, especially those who have lost a relative to cancer. Take the time to remember the special women in your life and celebrate them with a beautiful family outing at America’s Classic Ballpark.

Contact Matt Koch at [email protected] with any questions!

_America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region and was voted the #1 stadium in all of Double-A by MiLB’s Ben Hill. Follow the R-Phils at rphils.com, on Twitter and TikTok at @ReadingFightins, on Instagram @fightins, and like them on Facebook via_www.facebook.com/fightins for all information.

Timber Rattlers Give Back Announces End-of-Year Funds Raised

 

GRAND CHUTE, WI – Timber Rattlers Give Back, the official 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, raised more than $185,000 through the Foundation’s events, programs, donations, and fundraising initiatives in 2021.

“The Timber Rattlers are fortunate to live in a supportive community and the team works hard to develop and implement programs and events to give back to the community,” said Dayna Baitinger, Director of Community Relations for the team.

Nine jersey auctions held during the season were the main fundraisers for the Timber Rattlers this year. The auctions included team-worn jerseys based on promotions for the Udder Tuggers, Los Cascabeles, Military Appreciation, Milwaukee Brewers, and Video Game.

The team is finalizing their jersey designs for the 2022 season and will unveil those designs early next year.

The annual Charity Golf Outing which was held on Tuesday, September 21 was another significant fundraiser. Nearly 100 area golfers and front office personnel collected $15,000 through the golf and raffles that were held after the outing.

An almost daily driver of donations to Give Back was the 50/50 Raffle that was held during every home game during the 2021 season. Fifty percent of all money raised during each night’s raffle went to the person with the winning ticket and the other fifty percent went to the foundation. There was over $65,000 raised for charity through the raffle during the year. The largest fund-raising night of the 50/50 raffle during the 2021 season was on Saturday, August 14 with the winner collecting $2,304 and the same amount going to Give Back.

Whiffer’s Fitness Program and Fang’s Reading Club were popular program run by the team for area youth through the mascots. The reading club is an incentive-based program that allows schools in Northeastern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula to get children from Kindergarten through fifth grade involved in reading. The fitness program helped to get kids in the Fox Cities to get and stay active.

Wisconsin front office members tended to their on-site vegetable garden to grow and harvest over 400 pounds of food in the Greenstone Farm Credit Services Ballpark Garden at Neuroscience Group Field. The harvest was taken to St. Joe’s Food Pantry. Fang celebrated his birthday in August with his annual Cans for Cake food drive and over 500 pounds of non-perishable food items were collected and donated to St. Joe’s.

Some of the charities helped by the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers in 2021 included Make-A-Wish Wisconsin, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Fox Valley Veterans Council, Children’s Cancer Family Foundation of Northeast Wisconsin, St. Joe’s Food Pantry, Harvest of Hope Fund, Hunger Task Force, Community Christmas, Fond du Lac Salvation Army, The Salvation Army-Fox Cities, Treffert Center, and Miracle League of the Fox Valley.

Additionally, 2,000 hats were presented to area Little League programs. Numerous other charities received over 10,000 ticket vouchers to be used in their own fundraisers by the Rattlers.

Timber Rattlers Give Back was established in 2019 and is dedicated to making a positive difference in our community. We aim to provide financial support and help raise awareness of charitable causes in the Fox Valley community in the areas of education, youth sports, and basic needs by using the platform made possible by Minor League Baseball and stadium ownership.

Thank you to everyone who assisted in our charitable works in 2021. We could not have accomplished this without the support of the players, coaches, and community. We look forward to growing Give Back even more in 2022.

Wind Surge Give Back 2021

 

2021 was a year full of firsts for the Wichita Wind Surge. In addition to bringing affiliated baseball back to Wichita, the inaugural season was also an opportunity for the Wind Surge to give back to a community that has rallied so much support around the new stadium and new team. Various programs and partnerships were put in place to help support several non-profit and philanthropic organizations around the Wichita and Sedgwick County community.

Cancer Awareness Night

The first of many valuable partnerships involved the Wind Surge joining forces with Central Kansas Cancer Center and McPherson College. This alliance was aimed at raising funds and awareness for the battle against cancer. The Wind Surge designed a unique Cancer Awareness Jersey that was worn by each player during the 2021 Cancer Awareness Night at Riverfront Stadium. After the game, these game- worn jerseys were auctioned off to raise money for the American Cancer Society. We were happy to donate $4,375 to the American Cancer Society to aid in their fight to find a cure for cancer.

Schwechheimer Family Foundation

The Schwechheimer Family Foundation also made its debut during the 2021 season. A 501(c)(3) organization, the Schwechheimer Family Foundation aims to support and foster underserved community members and bring the history of Wichita baseball back to life. The corporation seeks to provide opportunities for the general public to increase their understanding of Wichita’s baseball history and community pursuits. Fundraising efforts for the foundation included a 50/50 raffle during all home games, auctioning off specialty military appreciation jerseys, and the sale of 2021 inaugural season patches which featured late managing general partner, Lou Schwechheimer.

Home Runs for Charity

During the 2021 season, Wind Surge fans also witnessed our collaboration with Fidelity Bank and League 42 in our Home Runs for Charity fundraising sponsorship. League 42 is a non-profit organization, founded in July 2013, that has a goal of ensuring that urban children can have an opportunity to play baseball without the exorbitant costs of playing in organized leagues. Through this sponsorship, each time a Wind Surge player hit a homerun during a Wind Surge home game, Fidelity Bank and the Wind Surge would donate $100 to League 42. During the 2021 season, Fidelity Bank and the Wichita Wind Surge proudly donated $6,900 to League 42 in order to assist the organization in fulfilling their mission.

Outside the Ballpark

Our passion for giving back to the community did not stop with the end of the baseball season in late September. During the off season, many members of the Wind Surge front office continue to volunteer their time and efforts in the community. Staff have participated in many ways, including volunteering with the Kansas Food Bank, Salvation Army, Toys for Tots and Operation Holiday Wearhouse.

Planning for the 2022 season is well underway, and that includes the integration of community partnerships and collaboration. The 2022 season will feature many new community partnerships, and we are looking forward to continuing our mission of giving back to Wichita and surrounding communities.

To learn more about our community initiatives email Our Community Engagement Coordinator at [email protected] Want to request a Wind Surge donation gift for your next charity event? Click here to fill out a request!

Minor League Baseball Announces 2021 CommUNITY Champion WooSox Capture Coveted Award from MiLB

NEW YORK CITY, Dec. 6, 2021 — Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) today announced the Worcester Red Sox as their 2021 CommUNITY Champion Award winner. Nominees from each league were selected by their peers and were candidates for the overall award.

(Left to Right) Dan Rea, WooSox Executive VP & GM, team President Dr. Charles Steinberg, and Brooke Cooper, Vice President Marketing, after the WooSox received Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY Champion Award during the Baseball Winter Meetings in Orlando, FL.

CommUNITY Champion Award – Worcester Red Sox (Triple-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox)

In their inaugural season in Worcester, the Worcester Red Sox took every opportunity available to become a valued member of their new community. Whether they were hosting baseball clinics for children, building awareness for charities or providing scholarship opportunities, the WooSox always went above and beyond.

Since the announcement in August 2018 that the Worcester Red Sox were moving to Polar Park, the valuable perspective of fans and community leaders has been instrumental in shaping the franchise’s goals and values. The WooSox show their appreciation for those in their community on a nightly basis, using pregame ceremonies like “Hometown Hero,” “Heart of Worcester” and the ceremonial first pitch to recognize and honor the contributions of community leaders and unsung heroes.

Their nightly “In Debt to a Vet” promotion honors the sacrifice and bravery of local veterans, and all fans are invited onto the playing field following Saturday and Sunday games to enjoy the Polar Park experience with a game of catch or running the bases with friends and family.

In celebration of the diverse identities and cultures of the City of Worcester, the team introduced “Los Wepas de Worcester” in 2021 and highlighted a different Spanish-speaking country in each of the Copa de la Diversion games. From Mexico to Puerto Rico to El Salvador, Polar Park transformed into a hub of that country’s local culture, music and food during “Los Wepas” games. Hispanic and Latinx leaders were honored in pregame ceremonies, the national anthem of the featured country was performed, local vendors were invited to sell their food at concession stands and the on-field “Worcester Red Sox” jerseys were replaced by “Los Wepas de Worcester” jerseys, with “Wepas” being a Spanish expression of excitement.

In an effort to strengthen the organization’s spirit of empathy and inclusion and create a clearer understanding of how they can make baseball more inclusive and celebratory of differences, the club played host to several events throughout the season. In July, the WooSox hosted “Autism Acceptance Night,” where the volume of public address announcements and music was turned down across the ballpark to reduce stimulation and highlighted Polar Park’s Unum Sensory Room, which offers a quiet space for fans to take a break on the comfortable couches, borrow noise-reduction headphones and play with kinetic sand, fidget spinners and coloring books. In August, “Peanut Allergy-Friendly Nights” were introduced to allow a safe, stress-free experience for fans with peanut allergies to enjoy a game at Polar Park, and in September “Deaf Awareness Night” included an interpreter on the videoboard to communicate pregame ceremonies, in-game promotions and PA announcements.

The WooSox took advantage of the extended season by supporting Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and “Going Gold” in September 2021. The WooSox put the spotlight on children, families and heroes who are helping to conquer cancer. Dressed in gold, children and families in the battle as well as their nurses and doctors gathered in center field in the shape of a ribbon as fans raised gold signs from the stands to honor loved ones who are currently in, or have lost, their battle with cancer. In their inaugural season, the team and the WooSox Foundation collectively donated over $50,000 to UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center, which works to treat and cure cancer and provide resources and comfort.

The WooSox Foundation also launched the “WooSox Scholars” Program to provide college scholarships to ensure young students’ dreams of education are funded. In July 2021, four Worcester Public Schools eighth graders stepped onto the field in front of a crowd of cheering fans and were presented with various gifts from the team and a certificate honoring their achievement. The WooSox have already invested $40,000 into the college funds of local students in just one season.

The WooSox introduced the “WooSox Book Nook” in the Worcester Public Library — a collection of baseball-themed books donated by WooSox President Dr. Charles Steinberg and WooSox Chairman of the Board Larry Lucchino. The Book Nook provides young readers a chance to learn the history of baseball and the power of sports in community while developing their reading skills.

“We are so happy, so proud, and so grateful to so many for recognizing the special bond between the Worcester Red Sox and the Greater Worcester community,” said Worcester Red Sox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “Larry Lucchino has established charitable foundations with every franchise he has led, and he has committed that we would be active participants in the community; we are thrilled to honor that commitment. In particular, our thanks go to the leaders and the residents of ‘The Heart of the Commonwealth.’ Their compassion and excitement inspire these synergistic collaborations. May this year, our rookie year, only be the beginning.”

BlueClaws Charities Announces Grant Recipients

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities announced a list of 31 organizations that received a grant from the organization.

BlueClaws Charities, the official non-profit organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, raises money throughout the year as part of a series of initiatives. These include a 50/50 raffle at BlueClaws home games, specialty fundraising events like the team’s Virtual Hot Stove held this year in March, merchandise sales, and more.

Grant money will once again be kept within Ocean & Monmouth Counties.

“We are delighted to once again distribute grants to these deserving non-profit organizations in our communities,” said BlueClaws Charities President Kevin Fenstermacher. “Our mission is to help those less fortunate around the Jersey Shore, and these grants to 31 unique organizations will benefit those in need.”

Below, find a list of organizations to receive a grant (organizations are listed alphabetically):

  • ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, to subsidize their care services program for families of patients diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) in Monmouth & Ocean Counties.
  • A Need We Feed, to provide meals to veterans, seniors, elementary school children, and families in Ocean County.
  • The Arc, Ocean County Chapter, to offer fitness classes twice a week for program participants.
  • The Ashley Lauren Foundation, to provide financial assistance to families with children diagnosed with cancer.
  • The Brodie Fund, for financial assistance to families that have a pet diagnosed with cancer.
  • Brody’s Crew, to purchase drawstring bags with items like stress balls, sanitizer, glow sticks, silly string, and more, in honor of what would have been Brody’s 6th birthday, to support inpatient families at CHOP.
  • Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey, to help onboard new volunteers for the organization, which provides supportive services to people who are 60 and older and can no longer drive.
  • Child Care Resources, to support their Diaper Bank, providing diapers and wipes to individuals and organizations in Monmouth County.
  • David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation, to provide financial assistance, wellness services, and hope to Jersey Shore families affected by a cancer diagnosis.
  • Easterseals New Jersey, to ensure continuation of employment services programs featuring skills evaluation, resume building and interview skills to help place participants into jobs within the local community.
  • Exit 82 Theatre Company, to help purchase a new refrigerator for concessions at performances.
  • Family Promise of Southern Ocean County, to provide emergency shelter to homeless children and their families throughout Ocean County.
  • Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, to purchase chairs needed for their Program Activity Center in Farmingdale, which supports Girl Scout fundraisers and girl programs throughout the year.
  • Homes Now, to assist the nearly 250 individuals and families who reside in Homes Now housing units with food items, cleaning supplies, activities, and more.
  • Jersey Shore Council of the Boy Scouts of America, to offset the costs related to Scouting, such as registration fees, uniforms, and program fees, for families at the Jersey Shore.
  • JF Party Dragon, to purchase food for local food pantries
  • Kids Need More, for an event to support children under 18 and their families dealing with a cancer diagnosis.
  • LADACIN Network, to support their Give and Take Child Care Center in Monmouth County, which provides services for children with complex physical and developmental disabilities or delays and typically developing children.
  • Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Fund, towards the sponsorship of a service dog.
  • Ma Deuce Deuce, to support a Audrey’s Toy Chest, an initiative to ensure Christmas occurs for local veteran families in need.
  • The Mya Lin Terry Foundation, for siblings of those with pediatric cancer.
  • Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity, for a home repair project to help subsidize the increased costs incurred after the pandemic.
  • Ocean County Family Support Organization, to support their youth partnership, made up of youth between 12-21 living in Ocean County with behavioral, emotional, mental health, and developmental challenges.
  • Ocean County Shrine Club, to support the 20 pediatric patients of Philadelphia Shriners’ Hospital for Children based in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Ocean Partnership for Children, to support the needs of the youth served, including food, clothing, and community activities.
  • Ocean’s Harbor House, to provide shelter, support, and services for vulnerable youth including at their 12-bed shelter.
  • Parents of Autistic Children (POAC), to support their Challenger Sports League to offer a socialization opportunity through athletic participation between disabled students and their non-disabled peers.
  • Raising Hope for Others, to support their annual golf outing held in August of 2022.
  • Seabrook Village, to provide books and magazines for residents at their senior living community.
  • Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide, to distribute 200 behavioral health toolkits to students attending Monmouth/Ocean County schools.
  • The Salvation Army, to support their Hearty Helpings, which serves the hungry at their Toms River, with the purchase of additional cookware and containers.
  • Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund, to provide financial aid to first responders, their spouse, and children struggling with finances due to medical burdens from sickness or injury.
  • United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties, to support an annual coat drive for local pre-school to middle-school aged children.

“We are very grateful to those that supported BlueClaws Charities throughout the year and look forward to additional fundraising events soon,” said Fenstermacher.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws.

-BlueClaws Charities-

WooSox are “Going Gold” for Childhood Cancer Awareness Night, Set for Friday, September 24, 6:35 PM

Resilience of those in the fight will be celebrated with pregame ceremony, in-game tribute, and postgame gold-themed fireworks show.

 

WORCESTER, MA – September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and the Worcester Red Sox will pay tribute by “going gold” for their final Friday night game at Polar Park this inaugural season, scheduled for September 24 at 6:35 PM. Gold ribbons will be painted on the field in foul territory, players will have the option of wearing gold wristbands, and more than 100 childhood cancer patients and their families will be invited to help form a human gold ribbon in the outfield during the WooSox’ pregame ceremonies. At the end of one inning, tentatively set for the 3rd inning, the players from both teams will hold gold placards, as will fans, media, and broadcasters, each inscribed with the name of someone who has been in the battle.

The families who are participating come to the WooSox via Dana-Farber’s Jimmy Fund Clinic, the Make-a-Wish Foundation of Massachusetts & Rhode Island, the Tomorrow Fund, the UMass Memorial Health Cancer Center, and Why Me & Sherry’s House. All are community partners of the WooSox and the WooSox Foundation.

In advance of the night, the WooSox will present a check for more than $50,000 on Wednesday, September 22 to UMass Memorial Medical Center, the exclusive health care provider of the WooSox. On Friday, the WooSox Foundation will present another $10,000 to the Jimmy Fund Clinic. WooSox fans raised those funds at Polar Park in advance of last month’s Red Sox/ Jimmy Fund Radio Telethon on WEEI and NESN.

Worcester Red Sox Principal Owner and Chairman Larry Lucchino is the Chairman of the legendary Jimmy Fund. The Dana-Farber Institute has saved Lucchino’s life three times.

“It is part of our Red Sox ethos to partner with the Jimmy Fund, part of our Worcester ethos to partner with UMass Memorial, and part of our Pawtucket heritage to partner with the Tomorrow Fund,” Lucchino said. “We are also joining forces with local charities, such as Why Me? and Sherry’s Place, with more to come in the future. All of Red Sox Nation should be aware of the long history we have of fighting this cruel, miserable disease. We should be aware of the strides we have taken, the heroic research going on right now, and the miles we have to go before we conquer cancer.”

Fans will find the gold placards at their seat, and after writing the name of the person whom they want to remember or honor, they will rise as one at the end of the third inning. Fans with general admission tickets may pick up the placards and permanent markers at tables around the ballpark.

Following the game, the WooSox will present their final fireworks show of the season, gold-themed with inspiring music about perseverance, strength, and compassion from “Rocky,” Rachel Platten, and others. The fireworks spectacular is presented by UniBank.

The WooSox invite fans to help make Polar Park a sea of gold on Childhood Cancer Awareness Night and donate to the WooSox Foundation as part of its ongoing commitment to fight childhood cancer. Fans may donate by visiting marked tables around the ballpark, scanning the QR code located on the back of their gold placard, or by visiting woosoxfoundation.org. Tickets

for the game may be purchased online at polarpark.com, by phone at (508) 500-8888, or in person at the Polar Park Ticket Office at 100 Madison Street.