$61,000 Awarded Through Home Runs For Heroes Program

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The 2022 Home Runs for Heroes Program wrapped up its 14th season scoring $61,000 in grants for 14 nonprofit partners serving local members of the United States Military and Veterans. Each charity partner was assigned an inning at the beginning of the season, and each home run hit at ShoreTown Ballpark during their designated inning scored a $1,000 donation.

“OceanFirst Foundation is honored to work our incredible Home Runs for Heroes partners and we’re proud to share that this special program has resulted in $560,000 in grants over 14 amazing Jersey Shore BlueClaws seasons. We take great pride in supporting the local heroes who protect and have served our great nation. Thank you Jersey Shore BlueClaws and Townsquare Media – 96.7/104.1 Cat Country for your partnership over the last 14 Seasons!” – Katherine Durante, Executive Director, OceanFirst Foundation.

“Deborah Hospital Foundation is a grateful partner with OceanFirst Foundation, Jersey Shore BlueClaws, and Townsquare. We’re extremely appreciative to have received a $4,000 grant from this year’s Home Runs for Heroes Program. The grant will support the HeroCare Connect program which provides high quality concierge healthcare navigation services to Veterans, active duty and retired military, and their dependents. We look forward to participating again next year. Go BlueClaws!” – Steve Toal, Chief Development Officer, Deborah Hospital Foundation.

“Military causes are very close to us all and we’re honored that OceanFirst Foundation has continued this amazing program with the BlueClaws once again,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “The program helps a grouping of amazing, local, charities that help veterans and we thank OceanFirst Foundation for their support.”

Recipient organizations included: American National Red Cross, Army Emergency Relief, Catholic Charities (Diocese of Trenton), Ma Deuce Deuce, Chariot Riders, Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund, Vetwork, Navy-Marine Corps Relief, National Guard State Family Readiness Council, GI Go Fund, Cape May Coast Guard Foundation, Jewish Federation of Southern Ocean County, Deborah Hospital Foundation, and Homes For All.

The $500,000 mark was eclipsed on the first home run of 2022, hit by DJ Stewart in the second game of the season on April 9th. Baron Radcliff led the team with seven home runs at ShoreTown Ballpark. Rixon Wingrove had six home runs and Carlos De La Cruz added five.

About OceanFirst Foundation
OceanFirst Foundation empowers organizations to think bigger, solve more problems, and make life better in the neighborhoods served by OceanFirst Bank. OceanFirst Foundation’s priorities include Health & Wellness, Housing, Improving the Quality of Life, and Youth Development and Education. Since 1996, OceanFirst Foundation has awarded more than 8,600 grants totaling more than $46 million to non-profits and schools within our footprint. Learn more at oceanfirstfdn.org.

About the Jersey Shore BlueClaws
The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. In 2022, they welcomed their 8-millionth fan to ShoreTown Ballpark since team’s 2001 inception. Additionally, the BlueClaws had 14 sellouts across the summer. Opening Night at the Jersey Shore is set for Tuesday, April 11th and 2023 ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale at BlueClaws.com or by calling 732-901-7000 option 3.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws/OceanFirst Foundation-

Cutters Donate to American Rescue Workers

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The Williamsport Crosscutters recently presented the American Rescue Workers with a check for $7,626, representing the proceeds from the team’s 50/50 raffles during the 2022 season. The nightly 50/50 raffle is presented by the Crosscutters and the Pitch In Charitable Foundation, a non-profit foundation of professional baseball teams.

This represents the sixth straight season that the team has donated it’s 50/50 proceeds to the American Rescue Workers. Cutters Vice-President of Marketing Gabe Sinicropi stated, “The American Rescue Workers is a great organization, run by great people, doing great work. We know that the donated funds are put to good use, helping the most vulnerable in our community in their time of need.”

In the past six seasons, the Williamsport Crosscutters have donated over $39,000 to ARW through the foundation’s 50/50 raffle.

Space Cowboys to Present Check to Candlelighters on Sept. 2

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(SUGAR LAND, Texas) *– The *Sugar Land Space Cowboys today announced they will be presenting a $17,805 check to Candlelighters during their game on Sept. 2 at *Constellation Field, *raised from jersey auctions throughout the season.

The Space Cowboys raised their highest dollar amount and more than doubled their previous high through jersey auctions benefitting Candlelighters. The Space Cowboys have held jersey auctions benefitting Candlelighters with the help of Constellation since the franchise debuted in 2012.

“Constellation is proud to support the wonderful mission and work of Candlelighters, which has a tremendous impact on families providing support in times of great need,” said Kevin Klages, senior vice president of mass markets for Constellation. “Our employees have energetically rallied and raised funds, including through brisket sales and sheer ingenuity. Thank you Candlelighters for your tireless work to support families in our community.”

Board members from Candlelighters will be on hand to receive the check from a Space Cowboys representative during their Sept. 2 game vs. the Albuquerque Isotopes, with a first pitch of 7:05 p.m.

“We are incredibly honored to have the support of the Sugar Land Space Cowboys. Not only do they raise vital funding for Candlelighters programs and services through the jersey raffles, they also help spread awareness and provide fun experiences for children with cancer and their families! Our annual night at the ballfield serves hundreds of cancer family members, giving them the opportunity to make long-lasting memories and forget about cancer treatment for a day!” said Carly Bradshaw, Candlelighters Director of Programs and Communications. “The whole Space Cowboys organization goes above and beyond to make our Candlelighters kiddos feel extra special and appreciated – we are so grateful for such a meaningful community partnership.”

Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Family Alliance provides emotional, educational and practical support to families of children with cancer.

“We are thankful and proud to partner with an organization that positively impacts the lives of so many people and families,” said Space Cowboys General Manager, Tyler Stamm. “We look forward to continuing our Space Cowboys jersey auctions at Constellation Field to support Candlelighters for many years to come.”

BlueClaws to Honor Fallen Heroes on Military Appreciation Night

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws will host their annual Military Appreciation Night, presented by OceanFirst Bank, on Thursday, July 7th, but this year, the night takes on an extra-special meaning as the team honors and hosts the families of New Jersey’s fallen heroes, military members that lost their lives in service to America.

During the game, BlueClaws players will be wearing special jerseys, each featuring the name of a fallen hero on the back. After the game, each BlueClaws player will present their jersey to the Gold Star family members in an on-field ceremony.

“These heroes mark the best of us,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “They have given their lives in support of the nation they serve. It is our honor to recognize their heroic achievements and the sacrifices of their families.”

Fans are encouraged to arrive early to the ballpark for a series of pre-game festivities including a wreath ceremony through which one wreath will be presented on behalf of each branch of the United States Military. There will also be a parade featuring members of the 87th FSS Youth Program from Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, and an honor guard featuring a local chapter from Disabled American Veterans.

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The night also includes a Troop Supply Drive. Fans are encouraged to donate razors, snacks, baby wipes, shampoo, soap, non-chocolate candies and sweets, sun block with SPF 40+, lip balm, writing utensils, silly string, deodorant, tissues, q-tips, white socks, batteries, insect repellent, and flashlights. This supply and care package drive is in conjunction with the Monmouth-Ocean Central Labor Council Military Committee, Monmouth-Ocean Building Trade Council, National Guard, Toms River Armory, A.R.M.S, and IBEW Local 400 Military Committee.

Donation locations will be set up outside the ballpark for fans to drop off their items.

The BlueClaws have partnered with Wreaths Across America on a one-of-a-kind program through which fans can both reserve a ticket to BlueClaws Military Appreciation Night on July 7th and sponsor a wreath to be laid at a soldier’s grave this December. There are several options for fans to participate in this one-of-a-kind program.

  • Sponsor a wreath and donate a ticket for a veteran to enjoy Military Appreciation Night for $15
  • Sponsor a wreath, donate a ticket for a veteran to enjoy Military Appreciation Night, and receive a ticket to the game for yourself for $25.

Click here to participate in the program. All tickets for veterans will be distributed directly through accredited channels.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They enter July within 33,381 fans of 8-million in their franchise history, which dates to 2001.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

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

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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.

Louisville Bats Team Up with UMPS CARE

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LOUISVILLE, KY – The Louisville Bats today announced that they are partnering with the UMPS CARE Charities and have donated a host of items to their annual online auction being hosted by MLB.com.

Bats fans can visit the official MLB auction site to bid on a signed Aristides Aquino jersey or a Tickets + First Pitch package. Fans can also view a wider range of the UMPS CARE live auctions at the UMPS CARE Charities main page.

UMPS CARE Charities was founded through the compassion of Major League Baseball (MLB) umpires. UMPS CARE provides financial, in-kind and emotional support for America’s youth and families in need. Founded in 2006, UMPS CARE provides VIP experiences to participants from youth-based organizations and military families, visits to pediatric hospitals (complete with Build-A-Bear furry friends) and college scholarships. In addition, UMPS CARE supports families facing financial need within the baseball community.

Wichita Wind Surge donate $5,000 to Tornado Relief

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*Wichita Wind Surge donate $5,000 to Tornado Relief
*Schwechheimer Family Foundation donates $5,000 to United Way of the Plains

The Wichita Wind Surge announced a $5,000 donation from the Schwechheimer Family Foundation to the United Way of the Plains as the beginning of the team’s season-long efforts to support Andover Tornado Relief.

The Schwechheimer Family Foundation is a 501c3 entity established by the Wind Surge to operate the Wichita Baseball Museum and to support non-profits and underserved youth throughout the Wichita community. “No one is more in need than those members of our community who have been adversely impacted by the recent tornado,” said Foundation President Jane Schwechheimer.

The $5,000 donation is the first of several programs the Wind Surge plan to execute throughout the 2022 season. “We know it will be a long road to recovery for the many families and community members who have been affected by this devasting disaster,” said Schwechheimer. “We want them to know the team supports them, not just in the moment but long term.”

In the coming weeks, the Wind Surge will donate proceeds from jersey auctions held in conjunction with the Major League Baseball/Minor League Baseball memorabilia auction site, in addition to coordinating a school-supply drive with donations earmarked for Prairie Creek Elementary School, a Wind Surge Reading Program School, and the Andover YMCA. A back- to-school night is also being planned for this fall.

Additional details on these programs will be posted on www.WindSurge.com as they become available.

Woodpeckers Establish Youth Baseball Team with Boys & Girls Club 

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FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. —The Fayetteville Woodpeckers have partnered with the Boys & Girls Club to establish a youth baseball team. The “Junior Woodpeckers” provide members of the Boys & Girls Club with the opportunity to participate in baseball. As a 12U team, the “Junior Woodpeckers” compete in the Fayetteville Parks and Recreation youth baseball league.

The Woodpeckers Foundation and Community Leaders Program donated $10,000 to the Boys and Girls Club to cover the costs of fees, uniforms and other expenses related to the baseball season. Uniforms include custom-made “Junior Woodpeckers” jerseys with the Fayetteville Woodpeckers logo on the sleeve. The purpose of the initiative is to provide children with the opportunity to compete in youth sports without financial barriers. The “Junior Woodpeckers” team is part of the Community Leaders Program, which supports youth sports and military initiatives in the Fayetteville area.

Members of the “Junior Woodpeckers” team will be showcased at the Fayetteville Woodpeckers game on Saturday, June 18th as the Fayetteville Woodpeckers take on the Fredericksburg Nationals. For more information on the Fayetteville Woodpeckers, or to buy tickets for the game on June 18th, please visit www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com.

Sod Poodles, Fairly Group Announce 'Home Runs For Hope'

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Amarillo, TX – The Amarillo Sod Poodles, Fairly Group, and Hope Choice are proud to partner for the 2022 season, providing Home Runs For Hope. For every Sod Poodles home run hit throughout the 2022 season, Fairly Group will donate $1,000 to Hope Choice.

Hope Choice is a ministry-based organization that offers services for individuals and families who are facing everyday struggles and cultural pressures. Hope Choice opened its doors in 1998 as a crisis pregnancy center and has since expanded its services to include mentoring programs as well as character-building programs in more than 90+ schools. Hope Choice and its school-based programs reach 24,000 students each month. Their mentoring groups are designed to teach character values and help build self-esteem in young people who face a variety of challenges in their daily lives.

“We exist to equip, mentor, and strengthen future generations”, said Hope Choice Executive Director, Candy Gibbs. “With programs from kindergarten through college and classes to equip moms and dads for every stage of life; we are seeing generations transformed daily. We are honored to serve our community alongside you and are thrilled to partner with the Sod Poodles for the 2022 season! Shield to shield! Go Soddies!”

“The Sod Poodles are excited to once again partner with the Fairly Group to raise awareness and funds for an incredible local charitable organization helping build and strengthen our panhandle community”, said Tony Ensor, President, and General Manager of the Sod Poodles. “A home run is one of the most exciting parts of a baseball game. It brings hope and joy to our fans just like Hope Choice works toward providing kids and young adults the resources to choose hope in every area of their lives.”

“It is not possible to adequately explain how Hope Choice has inspired our family personally, and our community for the last two decades,” said Alex Fairly, CEO of Fairly Group. “We are honored to help support the impact work they do.”

The Sod Poodles have already hit 17 home runs through 12 games in 2022, helping raise $17,000 for Hope Choice. During the eighth inning of every Sod Poodles home game this season, the team will update the current total ‘Home Runs For Hope’, and the amount of money raised to assist Hope Choice and its mission.

For more information about Hope Choice, please visit www.HopeChoice.com

Fisher Cats Create Fund to Support Families of First Responders

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Home Runs For Heroes Reaches Half-Million in Donations

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – When DJ Stewart homered on Saturday onto the grass berm above the left field wall at ShoreTown Ballpark, it meant far more than the first BlueClaws home run of the year, and Stewart’s 16th professional home run. This particular blast brought OceanFirst Foundation’s donations to $500,000 in the history of the Home Runs for Heroes Program.

Home Runs for Heroes, which began in 2009, pairs military-based non-profit charities and charitable programs with each of the nine innings in a game. Each BlueClaws home run hit at ShoreTown Ballpark means a $1,000 donation for the corresponding organization(s). Since select innings have multiple organizations tied in, some home runs, including Stewart’s on Saturday, generate $2,000 in donations.

“OceanFirst Foundation is excited to be back for a 14th season of Home Runs for Heroes alongside our long-time partners – the Jersey Shore BlueClaws and Townsquare Media. This year, we have 14 amazing charity partners that serve our nation’s military heroes and veterans in times of need,” said Katherine Durante, Executive Director of the OceanFirst Foundation. “We are honored to be able to give back to our heroes through this program and wish the BlueClaws another record-breaking season!”

Stewart’s home run came in the fourth inning, raising $1,000 each for both Chariot Riders and the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund.

“On behalf of Townsquare Media and its shore radio stations (92.7 WOBM, 94.3 The Point, 105.7 The Hawk, Cat Country 96.7/104.1) as well as our Shore Sports Network we are honored to be part of this program again,” said Kevin Williams, Director of the Shore Sports Network. “Home Runs for Heroes not only provides financial support for these amazing organizations but it allows them to have a greater presence in the community so the public is aware of what they do for former and active duty military members and their families.”

Entering this year, OceanFirst Foundation had donated $499,000, including over $90,000 last year alone when the BlueClaws hit a franchise record 52 longballs at home

This year’s participating charities are as follows:

  • 1st Inning – American National Red Cross
  • 2nd Inning – Army Emergency Relief
  • 3rd Inning – Catholic Charities (Diocese of Trenton), Ma Deuce Deuce
  • 4th Inning – Chariot Riders, Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund
  • 5th Inning – Vetwork, Navy-Marine Corps Relief
  • 6th Inning – National Guard State Family Readiness Council, GI Go Fund
  • 7th Inning – Cape May Coast Guard Foundation, Jewish Federation of Southern Ocean County
  • 8th Inning – Deborah Hospital Foundation
  • 9th Inning (and Extras) – Homes for All

“Military organizations and programs are of such high importance to the BlueClaws, and we’re proud to be a part of this program,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “When the BlueClaws hit home runs here at ShoreTown Ballpark, they don’t just help our team win, but they provide material support to our military heroes. Here’s to a summer of home runs!”

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. Since their 2001 inception, they have drawn over 7.8 million fans. In 2018, the team added the Manasquan Bank Mini Golf course and boardwalk games to the offerings. They re-branded to the Jersey Shore BlueClaws heading into the 2021 season.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

Hooks & Reliant Launch All-Star Educators Program to Recognize Outstanding Coastal Bend Teachers

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The Corpus Christi Hooks Baseball Club and Reliant have teamed up to reward outstanding local public-school teachers with a $1,000 grant for school supplies through the new All-Star Educators Program.

A panel of judges will award 15 educators based on STEAM curriculum, student impact and teaching style, as well as any unique challenges the educator has overcome. STEAM instructors develop strategies and techniques to educate students in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math.

School administrators can submit nominees for this program at cchooks.com/educators. The deadline for submissions is May 15.

“Teachers play an incredibly important role in building up the next generation, and Reliant is honored to help them achieve this noble goal,” said Elizabeth Killinger, president, Reliant. “We can’t wait to see how this new program benefits both educators and students in the Coastal Bend community.”

Each winner will receive $1,000 toward the purchase of school supplies and special on-field recognition at a Hooks game this summer.

“We want to thank Reliant for joining our Community Leaders Program and helping to make All-Star Educators possible,” said Brady Ballard, Hooks General Manager. “We know local teachers work hard to advance our community and continue to endure challenges, often including buying basic school supplies out of their own pocket. In partnership with Reliant, we hope to recognize some of the best educators in the Coastal Bend and help them make an even greater impact.”

Storm Chasers, Chasers Charities, share winners of 2022 Chasin’ Dreams grants 

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PAPILLION, Neb. – The Omaha Storm Chasers, in conjunction with Chasers Charities, are proud to announce the recipients of the first round of the Chasin’ Dreams Grant.

Cycle 1 recipients of the Chasin’ Dreams Grant include Junior Cougars Baseball, 4SA (non-profit arm of 4Seams Academy), and the Elkhorn Athletic Association. The grant provides funding to local non-profit organizations that help youth baseball and/or softball programs to help with major renovations at their facilities.

Junior Cougars Baseball will use funding to renovate the backstop at Omaha Gross Catholic High School’s baseball field, which is used by the high school team, the Junior Cougars’ U8-U14 teams, legion teams, and men’s over-30 and over-40 teams.

“The support of the Omaha Storm Chasers for our field project is so appreciated,” Junior Cougars Baseball, Inc. President Jim Hempel said. “It will allow us to replace our 30-year-old backstop with some much-needed updates. It will make the field safer and provide our fans with a much better viewing experience.”

4SA, which acquired fields at Aspen Park in the Sun Valley neighborhood in Bellevue, will use funding for fencing, new sod, and dugouts for fields used for free camps and clinics, tournaments and games for 4Seams Academy travel teams, as well as provide free/discounted field use for low-income teams.

“The Chasin’ Dreams Grant will help 4SA build a home field for hundreds of baseball & softball players throughout the Omaha/Metro area,” Co-Owner of 4Seams Academy and Secretary of 4SA Sean Schrader said. “The Grant will help with the cost of bringing these fields up to date. 4SA will build or is in the process of building roofs over the dugouts and installing fences at each field. It will also help with much needed equipment, such as mounds, bases, and paint for our future home. Future renovations include padded backstops, safety netting and permanent outfield fencing. 4SA appreciates everything the Omaha Storm Chasers have donated and want to thank them for their generosity”

The Elkhorn Athletic Association will use funding to add roofs to the existing dugouts at Arbor View Elementary Field, which is used by Elkhorn youth.

“Elkhorn Athletic Association is honored and thankful to receive a grant for building dugout covers on Arbor View Elementary School baseball field from the 2022 Chasin’ Dreams community outreach program,” EAA Executive Director Bruce O’Neel said. “EAA has a long-standing relationship with the Omaha Storm Chasers and enjoys having EAA night at Werner Park each year for our players and families. We admire and respect the Omaha Storm Chasers for being community-minded and investing in youth sports.”

The next and final round of applications for a 2022 Chasin’ Dreams grant is due by July 1 and can be found online here. For more information, organizations are encouraged to contact Community Relations Coordinator Jenna Kniss at [email protected] or by phone at (402) 738-2193.

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.

CHARLESTON DIRTY BIRDS TO DONATE PORTION OF MERCHANDISE SALES IN MARCH TO MARCH OF DIMES

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CHARLESTON DIRTY BIRDS TO DONATE PORTION OF MERCHANDISE SALES IN MARCH TO MARCH OF DIMES

The Dirty Birds will donate 10 cents of every dollar sold of merchandise to March of Dimes for the remainder of March

CHARLESTON, WV (March 8, 2022) – The Charleston Dirty Birds announce that for the remainder of the month of March, 10 cents of every dollar sold of merchandise will be donated to the local March of Dimes organization.

For 80 years, March of Dimes has helped millions of babies survive and thrive. Now they are building on that legacy to level the playing field for all moms and babies, no matter their age, socio-economic background or demographics. March of Dimes support moms throughout their pregnancy, even when everything doesn’t go according to plan. They advocate for policies that prioritize their health, support radical improvements to the care they receive and pioneer research to find solutions to the biggest health threats to moms and babies.

“It is important for us as an organization to assist in the fundraising efforts of organizations such as the March of Dimes. As a staple in the Charleston community, we must do our part in contributing to the greater good and this partnership with the March of Dimes is just the beginning” said Dirty Birds’ Vice President, Mary Nixon.

Opening Day for the Dirty Birds’ 2022 season is Thursday, April 21, 2022, at Appalachian Power Park against the Staten Island Ferry Hawks, with first pitch scheduled for 6:35pm. Season tickets and mini plans are on sale now. Individual tickets to go on sale Wednesday, March 9. For more information, or to shop the Dirty Birds team store, visit www.dirtybirdsbaseball.com.

The Charleston Dirty Birds are a member of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball – The first Partner League of Major League Baseball, a player gateway to the major leagues, and a leader in baseball innovation. ALPB has sent over 1,000 players to MLB organizations while drawing 44 million fans to its family friendly ballparks over its 24-year history. For more information visit www.atlanticleague.com

Patriots And Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 2137 Donate $9,700 For 2021 Home Runs

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

 

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, and their partners at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2137 have donated $9,700 to local non-profits through the Home Runs For Charity program.

For every home run hit by the Patriots at TD Bank Ballpark during the 2021 season, the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2137 generously donated $100 to help the community. Somerset’s offense hit a franchise record 175 home runs last season, including 97 in Bridgewater.

Eight non-profits have been selected by the team and organization to each receive $1,212.50. The benefiting non-profits are:

  • Here Alternatives, Inc
  • Easter Seals of NJ
  • Matheny Medical & Education Center
  • Hugs for Brady Foundation
  • Samaritan Homeless Interim Program
  • St. John’s Episcopal Church
  • The Beez Foundation
  • Operation Shoebox New Jersey

The Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2137 has a long history of charitable work supporting both local as well as national causes. The motto “people helping people” is the driving force behind their efforts to help those less fortunate throughout the community. Over the years, Bridgewater Aerie # 2137 has provided monetary support for programs that assist the homeless and hungry, funded scholarships for deserving high school seniors, donated to groups that assist our veterans as well as local police, fire and rescue groups.

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.