BlueClaws Charities Announces 2022 Grant Recipients

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities, the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, has announced grant recipients for their 2022 grant program. 40 organizations, all of which operate at the Jersey Shore, will use the grant money to help Jersey Shore-based programs and initiatives.

BlueClaws Charities raises money throughout the year in several ways, including the daily 50/50 raffle at BlueClaws games, special jersey and other miscellaneous auctions, the sale of mystery merchandise bags in the Claws Cove, and through other initiatives.

“We’re grateful to hand out grants to these 40 deserving organizations and are proud that all of the grants will directly benefit residents of Ocean & Monmouth counties,” said Jim McNamara, Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities.

“We’d also like to thank all of the fans and supporters that contributed to our fundraising throughout 2022 to make these grants possible,” McNamara added.

Below, find the 2022 grant recipients (alphabetical order).

21, Plus Inc. – for their Main Street Greens hydroponic farm, proceeds of which benefit individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia – for their Care Services Program to provide for patients with ALS around the Jersey Shore.

American Cancer Society – for patient service programs that assist cancer patients in Ocean & Monmouth Counties including their Road to Recovery program which provides rides for patients to and from treatments.

American Littoral Society – to their Beach Grasses in Classes program, an initiative designed to engage students in Monmouth and Ocean Counties in ecological restoration and stewardship by planting and growing beach and marsh grasses.

Barnegat / Waretown Little League – to purchase uniforms and additional equipment for players in their Challenger Division.

Bridging The Gap for Veterans – for their Hometown Heroes program which recognizes and thanks a frontline worker for their service.

Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey – to help defray the costs of mandatory volunteer background checks. Volunteers provide a variety of tasks for the disabled and homebound elderly in the area.

Child Care Resources of Monmouth County – to purchase diapers and wipes for families in need in helping to address diaper insecurity in Monmouth County.

Children’s Specialized Hospital Foundation – to support treatment and research initiatives of Children’s Specialized Hospital including new facilities opening in Toms River and Eatontown.

Community Options – to support the Cupid’s Chase 5K race that benefits adults with developmental disabilities in their program.

David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation – to provide financial assistance for families affected by a cancer diagnosis in Ocean & Monmouth Counties. This grant will provide a special holiday for two area families.

Easterseals New Jersey – to offset the cost of fuel to help transport adults with disabilities to social activities, concerts, fitness events, museums, and festivals.

Epilepsy Services of New Jersey – to support the 12th annual Paint the Pony Purple event at the Stone Pony, a family friendly day with live bands and activities in support of people affected by epilepsy and their loved ones.

Exit 82 Theatre Company – to provide programming including both their mainstage season of four musicals/plays and creative and performing arts academy productions of three junior musicals/one high school-college musical.

Family Promise of Southern Ocean County – to provide gift cards for new outfits and toiletries for families in need in addition to haircuts for parents and potential applicants for job interviews.

Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore – to support Innovation Station, an education program designed to meet the needs of disadvantaged girls so they can pursue STEAM in high education and throughout their careers.

Homes Now, Inc – to help construct and monitor quality housing, enhancing the lives of income-restricted families, veterans, individuals with special needs, seniors and women/children survivors of domestic violence.

Jake’s Got This – to help offset the cost of sending children with special needs to a week-long physical therapy program not covered by insurance.

Jersey Shore Council, Boy Scouts of America – to help underwrite the cost of Scouting for low to moderate programs that are run throughout Ocean County.

JP Party Dragon – for food that will be donated to local food pantries and people in need throughout Ocean County.

Kids Need More – to benefit their holidays program, an event for children and families in Ocean or Monmouth Counties that are dealing with a diagnosis of cancer or other life-threatening illness.

LADACIN Network – towards their Give and Take Child Care program, which offers early care and learning for children between the ages of six weeks and nine years old.

Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund – to help funding Soldier Dogs for Dennis, which provides aDA approved service dogs to wounded warriors suffering from PTSD and/or TBI injuries.

Lunch Break – to purchase Chromebooks for their Alliance for Success students, a program that promotes youth development through constructive use of time, reinforcing emotional health, building self-esteem, and fostering a commitment to learning.

Ma Deuce Deuce (Ma22) – to provide presents to children of local veterans in Ocean and Monmouth Counties.

Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity – to build and repair homes through their Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative that provide moderate to low-income homeowners critical repairs and ADA modifications.

Ocean County Family Support Organization – to offset the cost of their youth partnership camping trip in June of 2023 for youths in Ocean County with behavioral, emotional, developmental, and mental health challenges.

Ocean County YMCA – to support the Y for All Financial Assistance Program to ensure no one is turned away from the Y due to an inability to pay.

Ocean Partnership For Children – to further support groups created by the organization such as Your Authentic Self (for LGBTQ+ youth), Girls Empowerment Group, and Boys Empowerment Group Game Changers.

Ocean’s Harbor House – for general operating support providing shelter, programs, and services for homeless and vulnerable teens and young adults in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.

Parents of Autistic Children (POAC) – to support programs in Ocean & Monmouth Counties benefiting families that include children with autism and to allow these families to access recreation in the community in a safe and tolerant atmosphere.

Raising Hope for Others – to support and offset costs related to their sixth annual golf tournament that benefits Mary’s Place by the Sea, Cancer Institute of NJ, and the Lustgarten Foundation.

RJM Sports Group – to help fund scholarships given to students that graduate from the Jackson school system each year.

Seabrook Senior Living – to help make improvements to the library at their Tinton Falls senior living facility.

Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide – to support the Ocean County Youth Wellness Summit, a day-long event hosted by SPTS and 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.

The Arc, Ocean County Chapter – to support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their Supported Employment and Trial Work Experience programs.

The Mya Lin Terry Foundation – to provide financial and additional resources to pediatric cancer patients in the Jersey Shore community.

The TEARS Foundation, NJ Chapter – to install a cuddle cot, bassinet that is used when a family experiences the loss of their baby and placed into the room with the bereaved family, at Southern Ocean Medical Center.

The Village of Children & Families – to support local foster and adoptive families including through clothing drives, shoe drives, and diaper drives plus through Family Fun Days for adoptive families.

United Way of the Monmouth and Ocean Counties – to support their Warmest Wishes Coat Drive for local preschool, elementary, and middle school children in need.

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

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

Portland Sea Dogs and KeyBank team up for KeyBank Assists Program 

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PORTLAND, Maine – Portland Sea Dogs and KeyBank, a long-time sponsor, are collaborating on a #KeyBank Assists in-game promotion to support Westbrook-based nonprofit Woodfords Family Services. For every assist recorded by the Sea Dogs during all 69 home games throughout the entire season, KeyBank pledges a donation of $10 per assist, up to $10,000 total for the season.

“The Sea Dogs are proud to continue our partnership with KeyBank to help generate awareness and funds for local non-profits,” stated Geoff Iacuessa, the president and general manager of the Portland Sea Dogs. “KeyBank shares our commitment to the community, together we can hit out of the park to help make a lasting impact.”

Woodfords Family Services is a nonprofit organization committed to supporting and including people with special needs and their families in Maine communities. To learn more about the work of Woodfords Family Services visit woodfords.org.

KeyBank’s involvement in the Sea Dog’s in-game promotion is part of the bank’s #KeyBank Assists program, launched in 2020 to support local businesses and communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through #KeyBankAssists, KeyBank has already invested more than $1 million in their communities during a challenging time. KeyBank has worked to support over 250 small businesses in their markets and provided contributions to over 100 community organizations.

Last season the Sea Dogs and KeyBank partnered for the #KeyBank Assists program, where the Sea Dogs compiled 942 assists, resulting in a $9420.00 donation from KeyBank to Cooking for Community.

KeyBank currently has 42 branches in Maine. The bank has sponsored the Portland Sea Dogs since the inaugural season in 1994.

Learn more about KeyBank Assists at www.key.com/keybankassists.

Sea Dogs now offering sensory kits

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Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs in partnership with Saco Bay Kids Pediatric Therapy are now offering sensory kits for fans attending a game with sensory sensitivities.

The kits will help individuals comes to a game and enjoy themselves with accommodations. Each bag includes noise-reducing headphones to help block out crowd noise, antiglare sunglasses to help with lighting, a communication card, and fidgets to help focus on the game and less on the crowd around.

The bags are available at every Sea Dogs home game this season at Hadlock Field. Fans wishing to utilize a sensory kit may visit the Fidium Fiber Guest Services Desk in the concourse to check out a kit.

“We are happy to partner with Saco Bay Pediatric Kids Therapy to improve our ability to assist and accommodate guests with sensory needs,” said Sea Dogs President, Geoff Iacuessa. “Our objective is to provide an inclusive and seamless experience for all guests for all events including those with sensory needs.”

Sea Dogs tickets are available for all 2022 Sea Dogs games. Tickets can be purchased online at seadogs.com or by calling the ticket office at 207-879-9500. Tickets purchased in advance range between $11 and $13 for adults and between $8 and $12 for kids (16 and under) and seniors (62 and over).

Lehigh Valley IronPigs to introduce “Pigs Care” Program

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IronPigs and Air Products team up to incorporate program that will work with fans with non-visible disabilities

Allentown, Pennsylvania (16 June 2022) – The Lehigh Valley IronPigs, together with Air Products, are introducing the “Pigs Care” Program at Coca-Cola Park. The “Pigs Care” Program is designed to better help all fans to be able to fully enjoy their experience at Coca-Cola Park.

The “Pigs Care” program provides the opportunity for any guest with an invisible or visible disability to stop at the Lehigh Valley Institute for Surgical Excellence Guest Services window at Coca-Cola Park to receive a “Pigs Care” lanyard. While the guest utilizes Coca-Cola Park and its services, IronPigs employees will be able to discreetly help and assist those with lanyards and provide an additional amount of assistance, understanding and patience during the guest’s trip to the ballpark.

Many guests who have non-visible disabilities live and face barriers often in their daily lives, including a lack of understanding and negative attitudes. Fans can now choose to wear the “Pigs Care” lanyard to discreetly identify that they may need support, help or just a little more time in the merchandise store, in line at concession stands or perhaps reaching their seats.

“We are grateful to be working with Air Products on implementing this new program that will benefit any guests who may have visible or non-visible disabilities,” said IronPigs President and General Manager Kurt Landes. “The Pigs Care Program reinforces our message of making sure every guest that comes through the gates at Coca-Cola Park has a positive and memorable experience, regardless of their ability.”

The “Pigs Care” Program is believed to be the first of its kind in both Major League and Minor League Baseball. Non-visible disabilities may include autism, chronic pain, and learning difficulties as well as mental health conditions, severe anxieties, sensory loss, speech impairments and respiratory conditions. Although you may not be able to see these invisible impairments and conditions, they still exist and impact a significant size of the population.

“At Air Products, we believe that every person belongs and matters and we are honored to partner with IronPigs to support and celebrate people of all abilities,” said Laurie Hackett, Community Relations Director at Air Products.

Fans who are interested in learning more about the “Pigs Care” Program will be able to visit the Lehigh Valley Institute for Surgical Excellence Guest Services located on the main concourse behind section 106/107 at Coca-Cola Park during an IronPigs game. Fans can also go to ironpigsbaseball.com for more information.

Follow the IronPigs on Twitter at @IronPigs and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/LHVIronPigs.

The IronPigs are presented by Capital BlueCross.

–#OinkOn–

Free Community Baseball Clinic and Annual Disability Dream and Do/Think Differently (D3 Day) Event Planned For Hudson Valley Renegades Involvement in MLB’s PLAY BALL Weekend

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WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. (June 8, 2022) –The Hudson Valley Renegades have teamed up with Major League Baseball and have planned two exciting events for the upcoming weekend. The Renegades will be taking part in PLAY BALL Weekend, a baseball-wide initiative designed to give back to each local community throughout Major League and Minor League Baseball.

A free community baseball clinic will be offered at Dutchess Stadium following the 2:05 PM game on Sunday, June 12. All who sign up to attend the clinic will receive two free tickets to the game. Registration openings are still available for this event at the following link: https://hudsonvalleyrenegades.leagueapps.com/events/3122884.

The clinic is free and features members of the Renegades coaching staff and players from the Renegades Collegiate Baseball Team. Renegades Manager Tyson Blaser will lead the clinic which is open to the first 100 children ages 8-16, and will feature 90 minutes of baseball drills and fun. Clinic participants will also receive a free T-shirt and free subscriptions to both MLB.TV and MiLB.TV.

The Renegades annual D3/Think Differently Day will be on Saturday, June 11th at Dutchess Stadium from 10 a.m. until noon. The Disability Dream and Do (D3Day) sports camps were created by Dave Clark, the only pitcher in professional sports history to pitch on crutches, and Doug Cornfield, a former NCAA medal winning runner at Georgia, who himself had a child born with no arms. These camps allow professional players to interact with children with special needs in various drills and compete in sports with no limitations.

In 2016, Dave Stevens, who was born without legs but played college football and minor league baseball, came on board as the D3 Day camps expanded to other cities in the US. Dave, Dave and Doug now put on camps all over the country and share their amazing stories as well as inspire others to look past a disability and turn it into an ability. This event is full and no further registration slots remain.

The Renegades are handing out 200 Franklin bat and ball sets to participants of both events. More than 60 Minor League teams and all 30 Major League teams will participate in PLAY BALL Weekend. Clubs will be hosting a variety of events all throughout the weekend designed to engage young fans and share the fun of playing baseball and softball. For more information visit www.MLB.com/play-ball/weekend.

For more information on the Renegades camp, please call the Renegades office at 845-838-0094 or email Marcella Costello at [email protected].

ABOUT THE HUDSON VALLEY RENEGADES

The Renegades are in their second season as the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees. They have played their home games at Dutchess Stadium in Wappingers Falls, N.Y. since 1994.

ABOUT DIAMOND BASEBALL HOLDINGS

Diamond Baseball Holdings (DBH) is a subsidiary of Endeavor, the global sports and entertainment company. DBH was formed in 2021 to support, promote, and enhance Minor League Baseball through professional management, best practices, innovation and investment. (DiamondBaseballHoldings.com).

Annual Jacob's Village, Otters Benefit Game Scheduled for June 30

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EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Jacob’s Village and the Evansville Otters announced the 16th annual benefit game at Bosse Field is scheduled for June 30 at 6:35 p.m. when the Otters take on the Joliet Slammers.

On June 30, 100% of game sponsorships and a portion of gate tickets sales will benefit Jacob’s Village. The proceeds from the game will enable Jacob’s Village to provide accessible housing for people with disabilities and help Jacob’s Village residents live independently.

“We would like to thank the Evansville Otters organization for their long-standing support of Jacob’s Village and our mission for many years,” Jacob’s Village Development Director Laura Hurt said.

“It’s been a wonderful partnership with the Evansville Otters, and over our 16-year history, we have raised over $210,000 to support people with disabilities.”

The mission of Jacob’s Village is to develop a safe, walk-able neighborhood community where people with disabilities and older adults can find meaningful relationships, housing that is affordable and accessible, and activities that encourage active minds and bodies.

“This will be a fun, family-friendly game. We invite the community to come out on Thursday, June 30 to enjoy exciting Otters baseball, a big fireworks show after the game ahead of July 4, free popcorn provided by Wolk Financial, Thirsty Thursday, a big half-pot, live DJ, and more!” Hurt added.

“This partnership was created 16 years ago and has turned into a big fundraiser for Jacob’s Village,” Otters Vice President, Sales Joel Padfield said. “It brings in a lot of fans that our players love to play in front of. It will be a fun, special night at Bosse Field.”

$5 general admission tickets for this year’s game may be purchased at all G.D. Ritzy’s locations, Bosse Field and Jacob’s Village. The Bosse Field box office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, visit their website at www.jacobsvillage.org.

There’s no place like Bosse Field, so get your tickets now!

The Evansville Otters are the 2006 and 2016 Frontier League champions.

The Otters play all home games at historic Bosse Field, located at 23 Don Mattingly Way in Evansville, Ind. Stay up to date with the Evansville Otters by visiting evansvilleotters.com, or follow the Otters on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

For more information, visit evansvilleotters.com or call (812) 435-8686.

Segra Park is Certified Sensory Inclusive 

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COLUMBIA, SC – KultureCity has partnered with the Columbia Fireflies to make Segra Park and all of the programs and events that the venue hosts to be sensory inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests and fans with a sensory issue that visits Segra Park.

The certification process entailed the staff at Segra Park being trained by leading medical professionals on how to recognize those guests and fans with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Sensory bags, equipped with noise canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads will also be available to all guests at Segra Park who may feel overwhelmed by the environment.

Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions (1 in 6 individuals). One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to over stimulation and noise, which is an enormous part of the environment in a venue like Segra Park. With its new certification, the Columbia Fireflies are now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when attending any event at Segra Park.

Prior to attending an event, families can download the free KultureCity App where one can view what sensory features are available and where they can access them. Also, on the App is the Social Story which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying an event at Segra Park.

“Our communities are what shape our lives and to know that the Columbia Fireflies are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing. We’re honored to partner with Segra Park to provide a truly inclusive experience for all fans and guests!” said Uma Srivastava, Executive Director of KultureCity.

“We are excited to partner with KultureCity and make Segra Park a more accommodating place for guests that have sensory challenges,” said Brad Shank, Fireflies Team President. “A ballpark can be overwhelming with a lot of sensory input, and by providing options to help in situations where some of our fans are feeling over-stimulated our team continues to strive to make Segra Park inclusive for everyone and Fun For ALL.”

KultureCity is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using its resources to revolutionize and effect change in the community for those with sensory needs, not just those with autism. Since the program’s inception, KultureCity has created over 900 sensory-inclusive venues in 5 countries: this includes special events such as the NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, MLB World Series, and MLB All Star Weekend. KultureCity has won many awards for its efforts, including the NASCAR Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award in 2017 and the 2018 Clio Sports Silver for social good in partnership with Cleveland Cavaliers/Quicken Loans Arena. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ Quiet Space Sensory Room at Quicken Loans Arena was a finalist for the 2018 Stadium Business Award, KultureCity was named one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2019 and 2020 by FastCompany and recently won the Industry Partner Award in TheStadiumBusiness Design & Development Awards 2019.

Danville Otterbots announce ballpark sensory room, expand inclusivity efforts

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The Danville Otterbots will host a ribbon cutting ceremony for their new Ballpark Sensory Room, presented by The Hughes Center, on Friday, April 29, 2022, at 10 a.m. Since the club’s inception in January 2021, the Otterbots have been dedicated to providing a welcoming and inclusive ballpark for every member of the community. The sensory room will provide opportunities for children with sensory sensitivities and their families to be able to enjoy Otterbots games and non-baseball ballpark events all year long.

While some fans look forward to the sights, sounds and smells of being at the ballpark, those who are averse to the traditional hustle and bustle of baseball games will now have the opportunity to cheer on the Otterbots all season long. Located on the concourse in the right field Kids Zone, the Otterbots ballpark sensory room is equipped with cuddle swings, fidget boards, soft LED lights, wall-to-wall padding, uniquely textured rugs, sound-deadening headphones, comfortable chairs, sensory-friendly fidget toys and a blackout curtain. The curtain can be opened to reveal a window overlooking the Kids Zone, so parents can maintain a view of non-sensory averse siblings or friends during their time in the sensory room.

“Since our first day in Danville, our goal has been to build a product and atmosphere that provides entertainment for every single member of our community, and every visitor to Danville and the Southside Virginia region,” said Otterbots general manager Austin Scher. “We took tremendous strides towards reaching that goal in our inaugural season, but we knew we still had work to do. By constructing a sensory room on the concourse, we are now able to provide opportunities for children and families with sensory aversions to enjoy the ballpark and have a space dedicated to ensuring that their enjoyment is comprehensive.”

The ballpark sensory room is presented by The Hughes Center, who partnered with the Otterbots to outfit the space with appropriate activities and infrastructure to accommodate all levels of need. Materials were provided in-part by Columbia Forest Products, and construction was completed by Otterbots spring ballpark operations intern, United States military veteran and civil engineer, Luca Cicilese. The Otterbots prioritize their community, and could not be more grateful to these community partners for their support in bringing the sensory room to life.

“The Hughes Center is excited to partner with the Otterbots to create this awesome addition to the baseball stadium,” said Alison Waymouth, director of business development for The Hughes Center. “The sensory room will be another piece of inclusion added to the park that welcomes and supports everyone in our local community while also extending a warm welcome to surrounding areas. Our goal is to have an outlet for all to have a positive, relaxing and accommodating experience. The noise and excitement at a game can be overwhelming, but the sensory room offers a place to reset and make it more enjoyable and accessible for everyone.”

Danville’s American Legion Field will be the first park in the Appalachian League to have a dedicated sensory-friendly room inside the gates, and one of few in non-MLB ballparks. The Otterbots join the Brooklyn Cyclones, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and Rochester Red Wings as non-MLB ballparks to have a sensory room on-site.

All members of the media and the Southern Virginia community are invited to attend the sensory room ribbon cutting ceremony Friday, April 29, 2022, at 10 a.m. Parking is available in the main lot, and the ceremony will take place on the right field concourse in front of the sensory room. Please send all RSVPs and inquiries to [email protected].

As Opening Night on June 2 approaches, the Otterbots have more news on ballpark improvements and community programming set to be announced in the coming weeks. Single-game tickets will be available in early May.

Otterbots season tickets, flex packs, group outings and corporate partnerships are currently available for the 2022 season. For more information, call 434-554-4487, email [email protected], or stop by the front office.

Tarpons partner with Curemark on Sensory Safe Suite

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The Tampa Tarpons are excited to team up with Curemark, LLC this season.

Suite 4 will be available to one family per-game to experience the Tarpons game. The Curemark Suite will provide a comforting, relaxing, and less stimulating space for families with children on the autism spectrum and with special needs to experience a Tarpons game while still being fun and functional. This allows guests in the suite to decompress and enjoy baseball with their family away from the louder, hectic and often over-stimulating environment in other areas of the ballpark.

Families can request use of Suite 4 by filling out this request form.

For more information on the Curemark Sensory Safe Suite, please email [email protected].

Segra Stadium Earns Sensory Inclusive Certification

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The Fayetteville Woodpeckers will offer a sensory friendly environment at Segra Stadium beginning this season. The stadium earned sensory inclusive certification in February with 50% of the Woodpeckers front office completing a training through KultureCity, a national nonprofit that advocates for sensory needs. This new initiative will promote an accommodating experience for all guests and fans with a sensory condition.

The Woodpeckers Foundation supplied $1,000 to the initiative, which included the purchase of certification, five sensory bags and one weighted lap pad. Segra Stadium will have sensory bags available for check out at the guest services table behind section 125. Included in every sensory bag are headphones, fidget tools and verbal cue cards. Fans will also be able to check out a weighted lap pad for use.

Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD, and other similar conditions. One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to over simulation and noise. With its new certification, Segra Stadium is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible.

For more information on the Fayetteville Woodpeckers or the Woodpeckers Foundation, please visit www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com. The Woodpeckers open their third season of play in Kannapolis on April 8th and return for their home opener on April 12th against the Salem Red Sox.

Patriots Announce Tropical Storm Ida Relief Donations

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Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, have announced the recipients of the team’s fundraising efforts to assist those affected by the flooding and damage caused by Tropical Storm Ida.

$35,000 was raised by the team through an online auction, ballpark 50-50 raffles, and a donation match by the Kalafer family, Flemington Car & Truck Country Family of Brands, Clinton Honda, and Jaguar Land Rover Princeton.

“First we need to thank everyone that donated to our efforts, whether that was items for the auction or monetarily,” said Patriots President/General Manager Patrick McVerry. “They helped us raise a significant amount of money that was matched by our very generous ownership and the dealerships.”

The money raised through the Somerset Patriots Children’s Educational and Sportsmanship Foundation was earmarked to assist with recovery efforts for Central New Jersey residents and businesses.

The selected recipients of the fundraising efforts were:

The Food Bank Network of Somerset County: DONATE

(L to R): Sparkee, Gordon White, President of the Board of Directors; Steve Katz, Executive Director; Patrick McVerry, Sparky Lyle.

  • The donation will help distribute food and provide other basic human needs to those in Somerset County affected by the flooding and destruction caused by Ida.

Greater Somerset County YMCA: DONATE

(L to R): Sparky Lyle, Patrick McVerry, David Carcieri, President/CEO; Sparkee.

  • The donation will assist families and children through social programs designed to help them stay healthy and strong, as well as provide financial assistance to those displaced, underprivileged, or in need due to the impact of the storm.

The ARC of Somerset County: DONATE

(L to R): Jill Glassman, Director of Early Childhood Services; Chris Corvino, Associate Executive Director; Lauren Frary, Executive Director; Patrick McVerry, Sparky Lyle, Jen Prior, Sparkee.

  • The donation will help the organization assist those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families that were affected by the flooding and damage from the storm.

Somerset Health Care Foundation: DONATE

(L to R): Jessica Ust, Director of Development; Sparky Lyle, Donna Castronovo, Vice President, Foundation and Development; Sparkee, Patrick McVerry, Patrick Delaney, Chief Operating Officer at RWJUH Somerset.

  • The donation will be used to help displaced health care workers and hospital support staff due to the flooding and assist with their needs during the recovery.

Thomas J. Kavanaugh VFW Post 2290 (Manville): DONATE

(L to R): Sparky Lyle, Andy Henkel, Commander; Patrick McVerry, Sparkee.

  • The donation will be used to assist with the cost of shelter operations and aid the victims directly to help get back into their homes.

Checks were personally delivered on Monday, November 22nd and Tuesday, November 23rd by McVerry, Patriots Manager Emeritus Sparky Lyle, and Sparkee the Mascot.

“You really couldn’t ask for a better time to give than Thanksgiving week,” said Lyle. “To be able to say thank you to our friends doing such important work to help our community felt really good. And while the devastation to the area put a spotlight on their efforts, it’s really something they do all year long and deserves to be recognized.”

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.

BlueClaws Charities Announces Grant Recipients

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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-

LP Frans Stadium to Host Disability Dream & Do Camp

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

 

HICKORY, NC – Six local Rotary Clubs, with the generous support of the Hickory Crawdads and their parent club, the Texas Rangers, are offering a Dave Clark Disability Dream & Do (D3Day) Baseball Camp to children and young adults with varying disabilities along with their families and caregivers on Saturday, August 28th at LP Frans Stadium. The camp will run approximately from 10am-12pm.

The camp is a professional style baseball camp and will be staffed by numerous volunteers from the Crawdads, the Rotary Clubs, and the baseball teams from Lenoir-Rhyne University and Catawba Valley Community College.

The camp is free to participants. Pre-registration is required at www.D3Day.com. Interested families should select “events” on the website; then click on the Crawdads logo. A tab for participant registration is on the left-hand menu. All participants will receive a free t-shirt and cap, and lunch will be provided. Volunteers may also pre-register by selecting the volunteer registration tab on the same menu.

“The Crawdads organization is about making life-long memories and we can’t wait to be a part of the Disability Dream and Do Camp and help do just that for the participants and their families,” Crawdads General Manager Douglas Locascio said.

The Rotary project has been titled “The 100 Years of Rotary Disability Camp” to celebrate 100 years of Rotary service to local communities. According to Kelly Farr, president of the Rotary Club of Hickory, it is a demonstration of how Rotary does good in the world.

“Rotary is a huge international organization, and our local clubs support a number of worldwide projects but we especially value service to the local communities,” Farr said. “This project allows six clubs to join hands and offer something very special to the often underserved and forgotten population of wonderful disabled children.”

D3Day sports camps were created by Dave Clark, the only pitcher in professional baseball history to pitch on crutches, and Doug Cornfield, a medal winning runner at Georgia, who himself has a son born without arms. The Crawdads’ camp will also feature Emmy award-winning ESPN analyst Dave Stevens who was born without legs but played college football and hockey as well as professional baseball.

The Dave Clark camps allow children with any disability to interact with college and professional athletes in various drills and compete in sports with no limitations. There will be various stations to learn baseball skills and a “high five game.” The event will conclude with an award ceremony for participants.

Check-in for the camp will begin at 9:45am and will wrap up with lunch at noon.

M-Braves to host Autism Awareness Day on Sunday at Trustmark Park

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

 

PEARL, MS – The Mississippi Braves have partnered with William Carey University to help raise awareness and funds for the fight against Autism this Sunday, July 22, when the M-Braves host the Biloxi Shuckers at 2:05 pm.

Mississippi Braves players and coaches will wear special Autism Awareness jerseys, featuring the Braves logo across the chest with Autism Awareness puzzle pieces. A silent auction will be held at Trustmark Park beginning when gates open at 1:00 pm for fans to bid on each player and coach’s jersey. The current M-Braves roster features 11 of the Atlanta Braves top 30 prospects, including 2019 first-round selections Shea Langeliers and Braden Shewmake. Immediately following the game, players will autograph their jerseys for the auction winners. In addition, the jerseys will be signed by the player that wears them. The silent auction will end after the last out of the 6th inning.

Proceeds to the jersey auction will benefit TEAAM, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of Mississippians with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Disabilities, Developmental Disabilities, or Specific Learning Disabilities by cultivating and enhancing family and community supports.

“TEAAM has been honored to support the autism community now for more than two decades,” added Dr. Mark H. Yeager, executive director of TEAAM Autism. “We have just completed our 21st summer of providing summer camp fun for youth and adults with autism. Over those years we have seen numerous families benefit from what we see as our mission, providing community-based experiences and access to recreational events such as this event partnering with the Mississippi Braves! It is partnerships such as these with William Carey University and the Mississippi Braves that allow us to continue to grow the opportunities for individuals and their families. And of course, we are honored to have both Mississippi teams on the field for our day in the sun!”

The M-Braves and William Carey University aim to create an environment that will allow families dealing with Autism to enjoy a day at Trustmark Park while raising awareness for Autism, a disorder that affects one in 59 American children. Sunday is also Family Fun Day, with post-game kids run the bases after the game.

“William Carey University is proud to support the efforts of Dr. Yeager, our faculty member and coordinator of our special education department, and his TEAAM organization in all of the work they do in the field of autism,” said Ben Burnett, Ph.D., executive vice president at WCU. “He has dedicated his entire career to serving those with special needs and WCU is proud to have him teaching and leading on our campus.”

For tickets to Sunday’s game and information on upcoming promotions, visit mississippibraves.com, or call 888-BRAVES4.

Edgar Snyder & Associates and Altoona Curve Team Up on “Bases for Bikes” Campaign

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

 

CURVE, PA – The Altoona Curve and the law firm of Edgar Snyder Associates are pleased to announce the return of the “Bases for Bikes” campaign that provides adaptive bicycles to children with disabilities. This is the eighth year that Edgar Snyder & Associates has sponsored the program.

With each stolen base by an Altoona Curve player this season, Edgar Snyder & Associates will make a $50 donation to Variety the Children’s Charity to support Variety’s “My Bike” program. Variety the Children’s Charity began the “My Bike” program in 2012; the program works toward the goal of providing each child the chance to feel the wind in his or her hair along with the fun and adventure of riding a bike.

“We’re so grateful to be a part of this exciting partnership. The support by Edgar Snyder & Associates and the Altoona Curve has been incredible, and through Bases for Bikes, we will impact more kids with disabilities by giving them an adaptive bike made just for them,” said Variety’s CEO, Charlie LaVallee.

“It has been an honor to support Variety the Children’s Charity throughout the years. The excitement that we have seen on children’s faces as they ride a bike for the very first time is indescribable. Variety gives them and their families a childhood joy they might not otherwise have had, and we’re proud to partner with the Altoona Curve to spread that joy to even more kids,” said Michael Rosenzweig, Managing Partner of Edgar Snyder & Associates.

Through 17 games this season, the Curve have stolen 15 bases. Ji-Hwan Bae, Cal Mitchell, and Canaan Smith-Njigba lead the team with three stolen bases each. Daniel Amaral and Ethan Paul have each stolen two bases, while Rodolfo Castro and Oneil Cruz have each stolen on base on the season.

The Curve begin a six-game series with the Erie SeaWolves (Detroit Tigers) on Tuesday night. Friday May 28 is a Free Shirt Friday to the first 1,000 fans, presented by James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center. There will also be post-game fireworks on Saturday May 29th, presented by Furrer Beverage and M&T Bank, and Sunday May 30th, presented By Super 8, Blair Candy, Penn Highlands Healthcare and Furrer Beverage.

For tickets or more information, visit AltoonaCurve.com, call 877.99.CURVE or stop by the PNG Field box office. Additionally, the Stockyard Team Store is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., during every home game and online 24/7/365.