West End Christian Community Center Named Banquet Charity

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase Hot Stove Banquet Tickets HERE

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

Hot Rods Announce Second-Annual Charity Dinner and Silent Auction

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

Hot Rods Baseball

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

Keys Care Grant Recipients Announced for 2020

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chasers in the Community 2019 Review

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Indians Set New Records for Charitable Giving

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Michael Chavis Headlines 2020 Sea Dogs Hot Stove Dinner

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BlueClaws Charities Announces 2019 Grant Recipients

 

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

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

Find the organizations and grant descriptions below:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seabrook Village – To support the Library at Seabrook Village.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

– BlueClaws –

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

VA Medical Center, Curve host veterans recognition event

 

CURVE, Pa. – The Altoona Curve and James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center will hold a joint veterans recognition event on Friday, November 8 at 9 a.m. in the second floor auditorium at the VA’s Pleasant Valley Boulevard location.

The Curve will present a donation to assist in approving the quality of life of veterans who use the local VA. The money was raised during the team’s June 7 jersey auction when Curve players and coaching staff wore specialty uniforms to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of D-Day.

“The 75th Anniversary of D-Day game was one of the most memorable nights of our 2019 season,” said Curve general manager Derek Martin. “In addition to the special uniforms that were worn, we had a World War II Stuart Tank and reenactors at the ballpark that night, which really brought to life the sense of pride we have for our veterans. Our partnership with the VA Medical Center on the D-Day jersey auction was a perfect fit and we couldn’t be more grateful for what they do for our community’s veterans.”

“The Altoona Curve have been one of our strongest community partners,” said VA Medical Center Director Sigrid Andrew, “they have demonstrated a strong commitment to our Veterans and to our local VA hospital.”

The Curve have partnered with the VA Medical Center for many years and has included the recognition of veterans at games, hospital visits by the players and staff in addition to donated tickets for disabled veterans living at the VA.

Friday’s event is part of a week-long recognition that includes 15 speaking engagements, three parades, and events at each of the VA’s five community-based outpatient clinics. The week wraps around Veterans Day (Monday, November 11) and concludes on Saturday, November 16 at 7 p.m. with the Saint Francis men’s basketball team hosting American University in their Military Appreciation Day, which they have partnered with the VA Medical Center for the past two years.

For more information, please call the James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center Public Affairs at 814-943-8164 ext. 7404 or 814-569-3386.

The Altoona Curve, 2010 and 2017 Eastern League Champions, have been the Double-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates since 1999. 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 4 p.m. on non-gamedays and online 24/7/365. 

 

-CURVE-

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

BlueClaws Charities Releases 2019 Community Impact Report

 

LAKEWOOD, NJ – The Lakewood BlueClaws and BlueClaws Charities have released their 2019 Community Impact Report including information on BlueClaws Charities, presented by DiFeo Kia, grant recipients and club community involvement throughout the year.

“BlueClaws Charities and the entire BlueClaws staff is proud to be a key part of the community throughout the year,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “From BlueClaws games themselves to events and fundraising around the area 12 months a year, to supporting a series of tremendous Community Partner organizations, being a leading member of the community is something that we take great pride in. We look forward to expanding our involvement further in 2020!

To read the 2019 Community Impact Report, click here.

BlueClaws Charities handed out cash grants to 39 Community Partners in 2019 and all organizations that applied received a grant. These organizations, ranging from local branches of national charities to smaller local organizations, each create a positive impact in the community in a different way.

“Our BlueClaws Charities Community Partner organizations are helping lead the way around the Jersey Shore in working with the underserved and underprivliged around the area,” said BlueClaws Vice President of Community Relations Jim DeAngelis, also the Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities. “We are proud to note that all grant money stays in Ocean & Monmouth Counties and is put to great use locally.

“We thank our great sponsor, DiFeo Kia, and everyone that supported BlueClaws Charities events and fundraising efforts to make these grants possible.”

Grant fundraising included special events, both in and outside the stadium, throughout the year.

In May, the BlueClaws hosted their 19th annual ALS Celebrity Waiter Event, benefiting the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, the principal charity of the Phillies. This year’s event was held at Quaker Steak & Lube in Brick. The Celebrity Waiter Event has raised over $120,000 for the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia in its history.

In August, BlueClaws Charities hosted their annual golf outing at Lakewood Country Club. The 10th annual event, a “Nine and Dine” format, includes golf, dinner, and special auctions plus appearances by BlueClaws players and coaches.

Additional funding came from the nightly 50/50 raffle which took place at all BlueClaws home games. Each pool total averaged over $2,000 with an average of more than $1,000 being returned to winners.

BlueClaws Charities also raised money through BlueClaws jersey auctions during the year. In 2019, the BlueClaws did the following jersey auctions for BlueClaws Charities: Players Day, Grateful Dead, Margaritaville Night at the Park, BruceClaws, Military Appreciation Night, and Pork Roll, Egg & Cheese. A special pink jersey auction on Breast Cancer Awareness Night benefitted the American Cancer Society. Fans were able to bid either online or through a mobile device, enabling bidding from all over the world. This process raised additional funds for BlueClaws Charities and their Community Partners.

The BlueClaws and BlueClaws Charities partner with OceanFirst Bank and OceanFirst Foundation on several programs that benefit area military personnel. The Home Runs for Heroes program, which just completed its 11th year, generates a donation from OceanFirst Foundation to a local military-based non-profit for each BlueClaws home run hit at FirstEnergy Park. In 2019, the program raised $38,000 for local organizations. Further, through the Vets Night Out program, presented by OceanFirst Bank, tickets are donated to military members through accredited channels.

Additional events during the year included a Challenger Clinic at which the developmentally disabled were able to learn baseball from BlueClaws players and Major League alumni. Troop and School Supply Drives were held at the ballpark during games and the 19th annual Breakfast With Buster holiday food and toy drive was held in December, collecting non-perishable food and unwrapped toys to benefit the Salvation Army of Ocean County.

Through the Phillies Step-Up Program, BlueClaws players participated in over 261 hours of community service during the year. This included events at the ballpark and around the community such as a free clinic put on by the Ocean County Parks Department featuring BlueClaws players.

BlueClaws staff members served on event committees for nine different area non-profit organizations. Staff members served on the Board of Directors of seven different non-profit organizations and five Chambers of Commerce.

The BlueClaws fundraising program also proved profitable for area organizations and event committees. In 2019, over $143,000 was raised through the BlueClaws fundraising program, through which organizations purchase BlueClaws tickets and re-sell them to their constituents to raise money. For additional information on that program, contact a BlueClaws representative at 732-901-7000 option 3.

In-Kind donations included ticket vouchers or other contributions to 924 organizations plus 65 additional packages including merchandise or hospitality outings.

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

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

– BlueClaws –

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

TinCaps Auctioning Off Game-Worn Jerseys

 

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Fort Wayne TinCaps are auctioning off game-worn jerseys at TinCapsJersey.com. Proceeds from the auction will be donated to the TinCaps CARE program.

The jerseys up for auction are the team’s San Diego Padres jerseys that were worn by players and coaches during Sunday games at Parkview Field from 2017-19. The jerseys are white with navy piping and “PADRES” across the chest. The uniform numbers 1-39 are available, with the exception of 6, 19, 31, and 35, which are retired by the Padres.

The TinCaps’ Padres jerseys were sported by some of baseball’s top prospects, including nine who’ve already reached the major leagues. See list below.

NOTE: The No. 23 jersey worn by Fernando Tatis Jr. in 2017 is not up for auction. The team is preserving that jersey for historical purposes. As an 18-year-old, Tatis set the franchise’s single-season home run record with 21. He made San Diego’s roster in 2019 and instantly became one of the most exciting players in the big leagues. The team issued a new No. 23 jersey worn by players in 2018 and ’19. That jersey is available to bid on. 

The jersey auction is live and runs through 5 p.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, Nov. 20.

Fans are encouraged to bid on jerseys regardless of their location. Winners who live outside of the area can make arrangements to have their jersey delivered by mail.

Thanks in part to financial support from the Padres, the TinCaps CARE program allows the team to donate tickets to non-profit organizations in the Fort Wayne area that benefit members of the community facing hardships. In 2019, the TinCaps donated more than 1,000 tickets to 18 different non-profits.

Jerseys For Auction Worn By Players Who’ve Reached the Major Leagues

  • No. 11: RHP Pedro Avila
  • No. 14: RHP Ronald Bolanos
  • No. 16: LHP Adrian Morejon
  • No. 24: RHP Andres Munoz and RHP David Bednar
  • No. 25: LHP Nick Margevicius
  • No. 26: LHP Logan Allen and RHP Michel Baez

Jerseys For Auction Worn By Current Top 30 Padres Prospects

  • No. 3: INF Gabriel Arias
  • No. 4: C Luis Campusano
  • No. 8: LHP MacKenzie Gore
  • No. 9: INF Xavier Edwards, INF Gabriel Arias, and OF Buddy Reed
  • No. 12: INF Esteury Ruiz and C Blake Hunt
  • No. 13: INF Owen Miller
  • No. 15: INF Tucupita Marcano
  • No. 18: OF Jeisson Rosario and RHP Reggie Lawson
  • No. 20: INF Hudson Potts
  • No. 22: LHP Joey Cantillo and RHP Mason Thompson
  • No. 25: LHP Ryan Weathers
  • No. 26: RHP Luis Patino
  • No. 28: OF Tirso Ornelas and RHP Mason Thompson

A complete rundown of who wore each jersey is available at TinCapsJersey.com.

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

Indians Specialty Jersey Auctions Break Records

 

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indianapolis Indians announced today the team and its fans raised $55,461 through specialty jersey auctions in 2019, a record-breaking total for one of the club’s most popular promotions every season. The funds were raised through in-park auctions benefiting seven different nonprofit organizations.

“Specialty jersey auctions have held a prominent place on the Indianapolis Indians promotions calendar for the past ten years, which speaks to their popularity among our fans and partners,” said Indianapolis Indians President and General Manager Randy Lewandowski. “It’s important we use our platform as a long-standing community partner to lift up those around us. We’re focused on helping Central Indiana youth and families, and the Victory Field experience is one way we can do it.”

The 2019 beneficiaries were Folds of Honor Indiana (May 3 – Indy 500), Indiana National Guard Relief Fund (July 4 – Stars & Stripes), Children’s TherAplay Foundation (July 6 – Spider-Man), Teachers’ Treasures (July 20 – Prospects Night), Riley Children’s Foundation (August 3 – The Incredible Hulk), Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Indiana (August 17-18 – PAW Patrol, August 23-24 – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles), and Special Olympics (Postseason – Circle City).

Earlier this offseason, the Tribe announced the creation of Indianapolis Indians Charities, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to helping youth and families grow stronger together, learn more and live healthier lives. It will support organizations across Central Indiana who serve in youth development, family success, education and neighborhood development. Established in 1902, the Indians are formalizing their community outreach for the first time in franchise history.

For more information or to purchase a 2020 ticket package, visit IndyIndians.com or call (317) 269-3545.

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

Grand Slam We Care Foundation Makes Donation To Support American Red Cross – Puerto Rico

Pictured (L-R) Lydia Rios (VP, Marketing and Sponsorships – Trenton Thunder), Ana Montero (Recovery Executive Officer – American Red Cross, Puerto Rico Chapter), Carmen Garcia, Esq

The Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, are pleased to announce that The Grand Slam We Care Foundation, the Thunder’s 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization, has made a $2,000 donation in support of on-going relief efforts in the wake of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico.

As part of the Thunder’s participation in MiLB’s Copa de la Diversion campaign, the franchise raised money through ticket fundraisers, 50-50 donations and special experiences in the ballpark to support the American Red Cross’ Puerto Rico chapter in their on-going relief efforts.

“One of the most rewarding parts of my time here at the Thunder has been the impact our organization can make on communities not only right here in Mercer County, but, in communities that are important to our fans,” said Thunder GM/COO Jeff Hurley. “Once we started to engage with our local Latino community we found that a program of this nature would be paramount to them and I am thrilled that our Grand Slam We Care Foundation could find a way to support the American Red Cross’ Puerto Rico chapter in their continued relief efforts for those affected in their community.”

El Trueno de Trenton took the field for four games during the 2019 season and will once again take the field in 2020. Dates for next season will be announced at a later date as part of the 2020 Promotional Schedule.

For more information on Thunder baseball visit www.TrentonThunder.com or call 609-394-3300.

Braves Donate to United Way, Danville-Pittsylvania Cancer Association

DANVILLE, Va. – The Danville Braves donated over $2,600 to the United Way of Danville-Pittsylvania County and the Danville-Pittsylvania Cancer Association from fundraisers during the 2019 season.

In total, the Danville Braves have given over $48,000 in goods and services to Danville and the surrounding communities in 2019.

The Braves charitable contributions for the United Way came from the second annual D-Braves 5K, presented by HomeTrust Bank. The event had over 65 participants and the route of the race finished inside the Danville Braves stadium. In total, the Danville Braves were able to raise nearly $1,500 for the efforts of the United Way, who support 16 organizations across the greater Danville-Pittsylvania County area. For more information about the good work that the United Way does in Danville and surrounding areas, visit unitedwaydpc.org.

The donation for the Danville-Pittsylvania Cancer Association comes from the D-Braves Star Wars night on July 19, presented by Centra Health, where fans could purchase game-worn jerseys from Danville Braves players and coaches. On that date, Braves players touted special Han Solo jerseys. The proceeds of the sale totaled over $2,200. The Braves also sent over $1,100 to the Centra Foundation. In total, the Danville Braves have raised over $18,000 as a result of the jersey auction sales over the past nine seasons.

DPC provides financial, educational and emotional support to cancer patients in the Danville and Pittsylvania County area. Donations to the organization aim to defray the cost of cancer-related prescriptions, equipment, supplies, transportation reimbursement, nutritional supplements, as well as other special needs. For more information about the organization, visit www.danvillevacancer.org.

For more information about the Braves community initiatives or information about the 2020 season, visit dbraves.com or follow the Danville Braves on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

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

Just Announced: Nightmare at the Ballpark

 

In partnership with the Big Sky High School Drama Department, the Missoula Osprey have announced their first ever Nightmare at the Ballpark. The series of SPOOKTACULAR events will be held from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. on October 18, 19, 25, 26, 30 and 31.

For just $10 a ticket, guests will be invited to tour the transformed Ogren Park Allegiance Field Clubhouses and experience 10 scenes that will be sure to leave you feeling haunted!

Along side Missoula Osprey staff, the BSHS Drama Department will play an integral part in set design, creativity, and will participate as actors in the Haunted House’s scenes. Through this partnership, the Missoula Osprey will donate $5,000 to the BSHS Drama Department, so be sure to come early and often to support these kids and all of their hard work.

Tickets are available for pre-order now at missoulaosprey.com, at the MSO Hub Box Office, and will be available for purchase at the stadium each night the Haunted House is active. For more information, call 406-543-3300, visit missoulaosprey.com, or stop by the MSO Hub at 140 N. Higgins during regular business hours.

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

Keys Win Matt Minker Community Service Award

FREDERICK, MD -The Frederick Keys are excited to announce that they have been named the winner of the Carolina League’s Matt Minker Community Service Award. This award is given out to the team that best demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within its community.

It marks the first time that the Keys have received this award as an organization after the Minker Award became a team honor in 2014. When it was an individual award, Jacob Julius brought home the honor in 2013.

“We are thrilled to be recognized with the Minker award,” said Keys Director of Marketing Erin Lawson. “Building long-lasting community partnerships is a hallmark of Frederick Keys baseball. We look forward to expanding our footprint throughout Frederick County and beyond in the years to come through community programs, donations, appearances and other initiatives.

The Keys were recognized for their efforts in 2019 thanks in large part to charitable giving, donations and strong community programs. Over the last year, the Keys have donated more than $10,000 through the team’s charitable foundation-Frederick Keys Care. Beneficiaries included the YMCA, Heartly House, Student Homelessness Initiative Partnership (SHIP), Advocates for Homeless Families, Blessings in a Backpack and Sophie and Madigan’s Playground. Over the last three years, close to $50,000 has been raised for Keys Care through the team’s Charity Golf Classic, Mystery Ball, 50/50 raffles and more.

In 2019, the Keys made donations to over 500 different organizations. These included game tickets, suites, marketing booths, jerseys, hats and autographed memorabilia. Combined, these donations were valued at just over $47,000. The Keys also hosted a Toys for Tots Drive and worked with Orioles Advocates on the Cardboard 2 Leather Program as well as the United Way’s Stuff the Bus program. To go with this, non-profit groups raised $14,500 through the Keys Pack the Park program and over $30,000 through the Charity Concession Program.

Strong community programs remained a staple of Keys baseball in 2019, with the Keys distributing 58,000 summer reading bookmarks to libraries in seven counties. Students who completed their library’s summer reading program could then come to a Keys game. Young fans were honored for their scholastic achievements through the team’s Report Card Program and were challenged to be active for 60 minutes a day leading up to Family Fitness Weekend.

The Keys worked hand-in-hand with non-profit groups during the United Way’s annual Day of Action, Make a Difference Thursday and hosted several charity softball games to raise money for the Police Activities League and for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Specific games also raised awareness for the American Cancer Society, Heartly House and the Frederick Arts Council. These games also involved the team wearing a special hat or jersey which raised money for each organization.

Keys players were active in the community this year, attending over 80 events in the Frederick community and surrounding areas along with Keys mascot Keyote. Keys players participated in a pre-game softball game with Challenger Little League, made sign language videos with students from the Maryland School of the Deaf and served as camp counselors for the team’s baseball camp. Individually, Cameron Bishop was named the winner of the Orioles prestigious Elrod Hendricks Minor League Community Service Award.

A link to the entire schedule for the Keys 2020 season is available here. Fireworks dates and a full Keys promotional schedule for 2020 will be announced at a later date. To stay tuned for the latest team news and for ticket information fans can visit frederickkeys.com and follow the team on Twitter (@frederickkeys), Facebook and Instagram (@frederickkeys.com).

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