$10,300 Raised For Charity With 2022 Home Runs

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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 $10,300 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 2022 season, the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2137 generously donated $100 to help the community. Somerset’s offense hit a franchise record 205 home runs last season, including 103 in Bridgewater.

Seven non-profits have been selected by the team and organization to each receive $1,471.29. The benefiting non-profits are:

  • Alternatives, Inc.
  • Easter Seals of NJ
  • Matheny
  • SHIP (Samaritan Homeless Interim Program)
  • St. John’s Episcopal Church (Somerville)
  • Somerset Health Care 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 are the reigning Eastern League Champions 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: somersetpatriots.com.

Hundreds Of Toys And Food Items Collected For Those In Need

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Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, collected hundreds of donated items during the team’s annual Holiday Toy and Food Drive on Saturday, December 10.

The event took place at the Team Store at TD Bank Ballpark and saw fans arrive throughout the day with new, unwrapped toys to benefit Central New Jersey Toys For Tots and non-perishable food items for the Food Bank Network of Somerset County.

As he has been doing for the past 20 years, Patriots Manager Emeritus Sparky Lyle was on site to meet fans, take pictures and sign autographs as a special thank you to all that donated.

“This is always a special event for me and everyone at the Somerset Patriots,” said Lyle. “I can’t believe how many toys came in. Some people showed up needing help getting carts full of donations from their cars. I think it was the most we ever collected in all the years of doing this. Our fans once again came through to bring some holiday cheer to those that need it the most this time of year.”

In addition to Lyle, team mascot Sparkee mingled with fans as holiday music played throughout the team store. The 2022 Eastern League Championship Trophy was also on display for pictures.

Shoppers were able to pick up team apparel and other novelties for Patriots fans on their holiday lists. Featured items included the recently released Marvel-inspired merchandise and championship gear.

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 are the reigning Eastern League Champions 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.

Flying Squirrels win MiLB CommUNITY Champion Award

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SAN DIEGO, Calif. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels have been named the recipient of the 2022 Minor League Baseball CommUNITY Champion Award, MiLB announced on Sunday night.

The CommUNITY Champion Award recognizes a Club that demonstrates an outstanding, ongoing commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within their local community and the baseball industry. The award was presented during the Opening Night Reception and Awards Program of the Baseball Winter Meetings at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront.

“Making an impact in the community is a pillar of our organization,” Flying Squirrels CEO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “We strive to be a valuable community partner and aim to use our platform to make positive impacts in the Richmond region. We are grateful for this recognition from Minor League Baseball and for our community.”

In 2022, Flying Squirrels Charities expanded its areas of focus in an effort to fully encompass all the ways the Flying Squirrels impact the greater Richmond community. The newly rebranded Flying Squirrels Charities focuses on four pillars: Education, Athletics, Social Determinants and Inclusion. Flying Squirrels Charities raises funds through a number of avenues including in-stadium initiatives during the season and events around the region all year.

With Flying Squirrels Charities this year, the team has partnered to support local organizations including Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation, Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Richmond, Friendship Circle of Virginia (FCVA), Metropolitan Junior Baseball League (MJBL), Fox Elementary School and more.

The Flying Squirrels are visible in the greater Richmond community well beyond the baseball months. Mascots Nutzy and Nutasha have made more than 400 community appearances this year around the Commonwealth of Virginia. Additionally, Flying Squirrels front office staff, players and coaches have volunteered this year with organizations and events including children’s hospitals, Miracle Leagues, Feed More, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Salvation Army and others.

The Flying Squirrels continue to promote educational causes in schools around the Richmond region, including the “Go Nuts for Reading Program,” which challenges elementary and middle school students to read eight books over a two-month span to receive a free ticket to a Flying Squirrels game. This year, more than 10,000 students from 68 participating schools completed the challenge.

The Flying Squirrels launched their Executive Trainee Program, offering opportunities to students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities the opportunity to gain hands-on, professional experience working in various capacities with the team. The program is designed to create a more diverse and inclusive workforce with the goal of elevating more minorities into leadership positions throughout the professional baseball industry.

Through these and many other initiatives, the Flying Squirrels aim to make Richmond a better, more inclusive place, while simultaneously helping grow the game of baseball.

The Flying Squirrels open the 2023 season on Friday, April 7 at The Diamond against the Reading Fightin Phils. Ticket packages for the 2023 season are available now at SquirrelsBaseball.com.

HomePlate Catering & Hospitality Is Offering Concessions Fundraising Program 

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Bridgewater, New Jersey- HomePlate Catering & Hospitality, the concessions partner of the Somerset Patriots, is once again offering a program for local non-profit organizations to work at TD Bank Ballpark during the 2023 season to raise money for their charities.

CLICK HERE TO RECEIVE INFORMATION!

HomePlate Catering & Hospitality is looking for four to 40 people per group to run the two large concessions or various portable carts during the 69 Patriots home games this season. The season begins on Thursday, April 6 and will run through Sunday, September 10 with a chance of additional playoff games and events.

The organizations will earn a percentage of the revenue at each location worked with bonus incentive programs available.

The concessions fundraising program has been successful for many non-profit organizations including school sports and clubs, high school project graduations, little leagues, religious groups, and more.

HomePlate Catering & Hospitality is asking for a three event minimum for interested organizations.

For more information, or to sign-up your organization, please contact Aly McGrath, HomePlate Catering & Hospitality’s Director of Operations, at (908) 255-1427 or amcgrath@homeplatecatering.net.

Holiday Toy And Food Drive Set For December 10

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Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, will be hosting a Holiday Toy and Food Drive at the Team Store at TD Bank Ballpark on Saturday, December 10.

The event will take place from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm in the Team Store located by the main gate of the ballpark.

New and unwrapped toys will be collected to donate to Central New Jersey Toys For Tots to bring holiday cheer to less fortunate children throughout the area.

The team will also be accepting donations of canned and non-perishable food items for the Food Bank Network of Somerset County to help fight hunger.

Patriots Manager Emeritus Sparky Lyle will be on site to meet fans, sign autographs, and take pictures from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. Sparkee the Mascot will also be at the event during those times.

The Team Store will feature 2022 Eastern League Championship apparel, Marvel-inspired merchandise, and much more. Parents will be able to sign their children up for the 2023 Somerset Sluggers Kids Club as well as book a birthday party at TD Bank Ballpark this upcoming season.

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 are the reigning Eastern League Champions 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: somersetpatriots.com.

Curve Charities Inaugural Gala Set For Saturday, February 4

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CURVE, PA –Altoona Curve Charities, a 501c3 organization, are pleased to announce the inaugural Curve Charities Roaring Twenties Gala on Saturday, February 4 will take place at the Jaffa Shrine.

The fundraiser features a special appearance from Curve alumni and former Pittsburgh Pirate Neil Walker as well as live music from local party rock band, Shallow 9, and a silent auction featuring sports memorabilia and several Curve-related items.

Walker, now a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates Broadcast team, played two seasons with Altoona in 2006 and 2007 before making his major league debut with the Pirates in 2009. His 12-year major league career included seven years with the Pirates and stops with the New York Mets, Milwaukee Brewers, New York Yankees, Miami Marlins and Philadelphia Phillies; concluding after the 2020 season. In 1,306 career games, he produced a .267 batting average, 238 doubles, 22 triples, 149 home runs and 609 RBI.

The themed gala will take place at the Jaffa Shrine, located at 2200 Broad Ave in Altoona, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are available for $100 for two tickets (individual tickets cannot be purchased) and includes dinner and a limited open bar. The event will conclude at 10:00 p.m.

Sponsorship opportunities are available, and packages include unique advertising opportunities, a package of tickets to the Gala as well as access to a Pre-event VIP reception for attending representatives. For more information on Sponsorship opportunities, including pricing, contact Jess Knott at [email protected]

For more information on the gala, click here.

Altoona Curve Charities is a 501(c)(3) organization devoted to supporting local youth programs and organizations that promote exercise, health, activity and education for the betterment of youth and community. Altoona Curve Charities provides support to local organizations for the betterment of Altoona and the surrounding areas.

Altoona Curve Charities will enable the Altoona Curve to support more programs that align with our mission. Charitable contributions of both time and funds will allow for continued expansion of our existing community relations department programs both in Altoona and the surrounding area.

For tickets and 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.

Susquehanna Township Baseball Association to Receive ‘Homefield Makeover’

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HARRISBURG, PA. – The Harrisburg Senators are excited to partner with First National Bank, the largest subsidiary of F.N.B Corporation, and Black Landscape for its ‘Homefield Makeover’ initiative that will provide a field renovation to one local youth baseball or softball league. After receiving applications from over 15 different leagues, Susquehanna Township Baseball Association (STBA) has been selected as the beneficiary.

The renovation will take place at Stabler Field (4353 Kaby St., Harrisburg, PA 17110) on Tuesday, November 15, 2022. Various projects will be worked on at the field including removal of the infield grass, capping the fence, and extending the baselines. This will allow for a safer and more versatile field.

The projects will be completed by volunteers and staff members from the Senators, First National Bank, Black Landscape, and STBA.

The Senators offices are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily during the offseason. The 2023 home opener is Tuesday, April 11, against the Richmond Flying Squirrels. For information about Sensylvania Club Season Memberships or group tickets please call the Senators at 717-231-4444 or visit the Senators online at www.senatorsbaseball.com. You can find the Senators on Facebook at facebook.com/senatorsbaseball or @hbgsenators on Twitter.

Leadership Akron Awards Ken Babby and the Akron RubberDucks ‘The Read Family Difference Maker’ Award

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Akron, OH (October 6, 2022) – Leadership Akron presented the 2022 Read Family Difference Maker Award to Ken Babby and the Akron RubberDucks at a ceremony on September 28, 2022. Each year, the award recognizes an individual or group of individuals whose efforts have been instrumental in expanding the scope or impact of Leadership Akron’s mission and work.

In January 2015, Ken Babby launched a monthly speaker series for Leadership Akron Alumni members and Torchbearers called Leadership on Main. This speaker series highlights change-making leaders from different sectors each month, and it has become an essential monthly event for many Leadership Akron alumni members.

“Ken Babby and the Akron RubberDucks have been instrumental in advancing Leadership Akron’s work since Ken Babby took over ownership of the team ten years ago,” states Justin Hilton, President & CEO of Leadership Akron. “The Akron RubberDucks host hundreds of Leadership Akron participants each year, helping inspire, strengthen, and empower leaders to create a greater Akron.”

The Read Family Difference Maker Award, created in July 2017, honors the Read family, Roger, Judy, and Scott, in recognition of their involvement in advancing the mission and work of Leadership Akron, promoting community leadership, and strengthening the Akron community’s well-being. Each year, the award recognizes an individual or group of individuals whose efforts have been instrumental in expanding the scope or impact of Leadership Akron’s mission and work.

To show gratitude, two sculptures were created by Zeber Martell, one for the Akron RubberDucks to display in its offices at Canal Park and a second for Ken Babby. And, as Scott Read noted when presenting the award, “…this event has been a work of love by the entire Akron RubberDucks staff that is greatly appreciated by the alumni of Leadership Akron.”

Leadership Akron would like to also thank the organizations that have been involved in the preparation and maintenance of the site for the Read Family Difference Maker Award, including the City of Akron, Summit Metro Parks, Cascade Locks Park Association, Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition, and Environmental Design Group, as well as Michael Marras, who created the original sculpture at the site, titled “Together We Grow.”

For more information on Leadership Akron, please visit LeadershipAkron.org.

# # #

About Leadership Akron: Since its founding in 1984, with the purpose to connect leaders to advance community, Leadership Akron has served over 1300 graduates who remain involved in the community. The Leadership Akron Alumni Association serves as an ongoing hub for leaders to connect and collaborate. Its graduates share a common commitment to serving the community and working together to strengthen the Akron area. Visit leadershipakron.org to learn more about Leadership Akron program offerings.

The Akron RubberDucks are the Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians. The RubberDucks season at Canal Park begins on Thursday, April 6 against the Erie SeaWolves. Fans can purchase tickets by calling 330-253-5151 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, or visit akronrubberducks.com/. For more information about the team, please call 330-253-5151, visit the website at akronrubberducks.com, Facebook page facebook.com/AkronRubberDucks, or on Twitter @AkronRubberDuck, and Instagram @akronrubberducks.

Hall of Famer Andre Dawson headlining Flying Squirrels’ Hot Stove

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RICHMOND, Va. – Hall of Fame outfielder Andre Dawson will headline the Richmond Flying Squirrels’ 2022 Charity Hot Stove presented by Performance Foodservice on Thursday, November 10 at the Altria Theater, the team announced on Thursday.

The annual Hot Stove raises funds for the initiatives of Flying Squirrels Charities, which focuses on education, athletics, inclusion and social determinants. Tickets and sponsorship packages are available now here.

“We are thrilled to be back in person for our Hot Stove fundraiser, benefitting the great community work of Flying Squirrels Charities,” Flying Squirrels CEO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “We very much look forward to an entertaining program at the beautiful Altria Theater featuring our first Baseball Hall of Fame guest, Andre Dawson.”

For the first time, the Flying Squirrels’ Hot Stove will be held at the historic Altria Theater. The main program will take place on the stage from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Doors will open for attendees with stage tickets at 6:30 p.m. Stage tickets are on sale now for $25.

Attendees with ballroom and VIP tickets will be able to enter beginning at 5 p.m. for hors d’oeuvres, drinks, live music with DJ Ron, an autograph session, silent auction items, a 360° photobooth and more. Ballroom tickets are on sale now for $100.

The program will feature special conversations with Dawson, Virginia native and Texas Rangers interim manager Tony Beasley, Flying Squirrels manager Dennis Pelfrey and Flying Squirrels outfielder Jacob Heyward. More guests, including the winner of the Paul Keyes RBI Award, will be announced at a later date.

Dawson played 21 major league seasons for the Montreal Expos, Chicago Cubs, Florida Marlins and Boston Red Sox from 1976-1996. During his career, he was named an All-Star eight times, won eight Gold Glove Awards, was the National League Rookie of the Year in 1977 and was named the National League MVP in 1987. He was inducted to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2010.

Tickets and more information are available online here, by phone at 804-359-3866 (FUNN) or in person at the Flying Squirrels’ offices.

Flying Squirrels hosting annual ‘Squirrel-O-Ween’ on Oct. 28

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RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels will host “Squirrel-O-Ween,” an annual Halloween celebration, at The Diamond on Friday, Oct. 28, the team announced on Friday.

The annual event will include free trick-or-treating along the concourse at The Diamond and will take place from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Squirrel-O-Ween provides a safe and funn environment for children to trick-or-treat through the stadium. There will also be hayrides around the warning track of The Diamond’s playing surface.

Everyone is encouraged to come out dressed up for a chance to win prizes in a Halloween costume contest. The Flying Squirrels have also teamed up with Woofy Wellness Ranch for a dog Halloween costume contest with K9 prizes for the winners.

Nutzy and Nutasha will be on hand to take pictures with fans.

Free parking is available in the lots at The Diamond.

The Flying Squirrels open the 2023 season at The Diamond on Friday, April 6, 2023. To stay up to date with the Flying Squirrels during the non-baseball season, visit SquirrelsBaseball.com.

Curve Charities To Support Local Youth Programs and Organizations That Promote Exercise, Health, Activity and Education 

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CURVE, PA – Altoona Curve Charities, a 501c3 organization devoted to supporting local youth programs and organizations, is pleased to announce that Grant Applications are available now to area non-profits that promote healthy living for the betterment of youth and community.

The 2023 Grant Program will accept applications from nonprofit organizations that specifically support local youth programs and organizations that promote exercise, health, activity, and education. Grants may be awarded in the form of financial assistance or facility renovations by our staff and groundskeeper, depending on the needs of the organization.

“We’re pleased to announce this grant program today and take the next step in our impact on the well-being of our community,” said Curve General Manager, Nate Bowen. “Any organization that supports young members of our community is welcome to connect with us and apply for a grant and we look forward to seeing all the ways that we can support our next generation through this program.”

Organizations looking to participate in the Grant Program are encouraged to submit their application between October 1 and December 15 and must be submitted through the online form located here.

Curve charities has raised money throughout the 2022 season through events, a 50/50 raffle during games and through donations from members of the community to create an ever-lasting impact on the communities that Curve fans reside in. For additional information on Altoona Curve charities, reach Director of Community Relations and Social Media, Annie Choiniere at [email protected]

Season Ticket packages for the 2023 season are on sale now, for more information on packages, click here. Flex books, group tickets, mini plans, as well as a full 2023 schedule with game times will be made available later.

For tickets and 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.

‘Stuff a Bus’ Food Drive, Berks Encore Senior Expo to be Held at FirstEnergy Stadium

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(READING, PA) – FirstEnergy Stadium is proud to host the ‘Stuff a Bus’ food drive and the Berks Encore Senior Expo this fall. The event will take place on Wednesday, October 5th from 9am-2pm. Berks Area Regional Transportation Authority (BARTA) will be organizing and accepting donations to support Helping Harvest’s food assistance programs as well as dog and cat food to benefit Humane Pennsylvania. This will be throughout the entirety Berks Encore Senior Expo event which is expected to have more than 75 vendors in attendance.

Individuals are asked to please bring a non-perishable food or personal hygiene item to help our greater Reading community. BARTA will donate all proceeds to Helping Harvest to aid Berks and Schuylkill counties. Each year over 100,000 people receive assistance from their fresh food bank. Make a difference by dropping off some of your favorite non-perishable items to help Stuff a Bus.

In addition, BARTA will be taking dry bags of Dog & Cat Food to benefit Humane Pennsylvania. From January through July of 2022, Spike’s Pet Pantry has given away over 100,000 pounds of pet food to those in need. Help stock Spike’s Pet Panty to ensure no pet in Berks or Lancaster County and beyond goes hungry

“This event will provide much-needed assistance to the community in many different ways!” said Anthony Pignetti, the R-Phils Executive Director of Business Development. “We are thrilled to partner with these influential local businesses to help the surrounding area. This is a great opportunity to come together and provide aid, while also enjoying a day at America’s Classic Ballpark!”

The Reading Fightin Phils are excited to be host to a big community event that will benefit citizens of all ages. Seniors can browse around the merchants for the Expo, while anyone can stop by for a hot dog and soda from the concessions stands. The R-Phils are excited to have classic ballpark fair open for business! There will be live entertainment to enjoy a relaxing day outdoors. Demonstrations for meals and activities will also take place.

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

R-Phils Seek Eager Applicants for Winter Internship

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The Reading Fightin Phils, Class AA affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, are seeking hard working, goal-oriented and enthusiastic individuals for our 2023 internship program. Interns will handle day-to-day operational tasks and learn how the organization prepares for the upcoming season. The Internship program will provide a great opportunity for interns looking to immerse themselves in a full-service sports and entertainment venue.

Upperclassman and recent college graduates have the opportunity to get directly involved and gain hands on experience in multiple aspects of Minor League Baseball including; ticket operations, merchandise, customer service, sales, concessions, public relations, stadium operations, graphic design and many other aspects of the sports industry. Interns work directly with the front office staff to get an overview of all of the different positions. Each intern will be a valuable piece of our operation and will work on meaningful tasks that directly contribute to the success of the R-Phils.

Interns are hired on a rolling basis beginning in November, January and May. Internships can last 3-10 months depending on the department. Full time interns may work approximately 25-40 a week during the offseason and up to 80 hours a week during the season. The winter internship asks employees to be creative and have attention to detail as the team plans for a full season of baseball and entertainment.

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter to [email protected] or call 610-375-8469 x 0.

Check out the Fightin Phils intern alumni and their current jobs: Reading Fightin Phils Alumni

Patriots Welcomed Young Heart Patient As Part Of Yankees’ HOPE Week

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Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, welcomed four-year-old Nathaniel Montaque to TD Bank Ballpark as part of a Yankees’ HOPE Week event on Wednesday, August 24.

The Yankees’ HOPE Week initiative (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) is rooted in the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope and encouragement to more than just the recipient of the gesture. New York’s affiliates are encouraged to participate in the program as well and plan special events at their given ballparks and community.

“It was our first time going to a baseball game so we didn’t know what to expect but the experience was amazing,” said Nathaniel’s mother Natalie. “He is officially a baseball kid now and we are now lifelong Somerset Patriots fans.”

Nathaniel was born prematurely with ASD (atrial septal defect), a hole in the wall of his heart that divides the upper chambers, at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center at 31 weeks. His condition eventually required surgery to repair the hole in his upper heart, which was performed in March of 2021 at the Children’s Heart Center at Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility.

Thanks to pediatric cardiologist, Dr. Mark Michael, pediatric nurse practitioner, Kelly Thibault, the expert medical teams at both Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, and his incredible family support system, Nathaniel is healthy, active and doing great.

Organized by RWJBarnabas Health, the Official Health Care Provider of the Patriots, Nathaniel was joined by his parents, brother and aunt as he came to the ballpark to watch batting practice and meet the players and coaches of the 2022 team. Manager Dan Fiorito, top prospects Anthony Volpe, Everson Pereira, Austin Wells, Elijah Dunham and many others greeted the family, took pictures, and signed for the kids.

“Days like these are special for our team and organization,” said Fiorito. “It was great meeting Nathaniel and his family and being able to give him this unique experience. We know he is a special kid and everyone here wishes him continued health and even more brighter days ahead.”

In addition to the team autographed baseballs, Pereira gave Nathaniel a special bracelet that he wears for good luck as a gift. The luck continued on the field, as Pereira’s sixth inning triple started a rally that put Somerset up in the team’s 3-2 win over the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

Prior to the game, the Montaque family took a tour of TD Bank Ballpark and then were escorted down on the field where Nathaniel threw out a ceremonial first pitch joined by Dr. Michael and Kelly Thibault.

“It was a privilege to join Nathaniel for the ceremonial first pitch,” said Dr. Michael, pediatric cardiologist at the Children’s Heart Center at Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility. “He’s such an inspirational young boy and thanks to the Somerset Patriots, the entire family enjoyed an incredible gameday experience.”

Added Natalie,”Nathaniel enjoyed throwing the first pitch and even still wears the bracelet he received from Everson. The fireworks at the end was the cherry on top for him.”

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 Eastern 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: somersetpatriots.com.

Flying Squirrels, Richmond Raceway to host 8th annual Turn Left Golf Classic

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RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels and Richmond Raceway on Monday announced the return of the 8th Annual Turn Left Golf Classic presented by Cranemasters on Monday, Oct. 24 at Independence Golf Club.

The Turn Left Golf Classic was created in 2014 to benefit Flying Squirrels Charities and Richmond Raceway Cares, two 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. The tournament returns to Independence Golf Club for the first time since 2018.

“We look forward to another memory-making Turn Left Golf Classic presented by Cranemasters in conjunction with our friends at Richmond Raceway,” Flying Squirrels CEO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “This event has raised valuable funds throughout the years to benefit the excellent community work of Flying Squirrels Charities and Richmond Raceway Cares. We look forward to another festive event that will benefit our community for years to come.”

The Turn Left Golf Classic is a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Prizes will be allotted to the top foursome and a post-event lunch is included with the registration price. Sponsorship opportunities and foursome spots are available at nascarfoundation.com/turnleftclassic. A ticket to the Richmond Flying Squirrels game on Sunday, Oct. 23 will be included with each registration.

“When Richmond Raceway and the Richmond Flying Squirrels get together, you know it is going to be a memorable event in the community,” Richmond Raceway President Lori Collier Waran said. “The Turn Left Golf Classic will once again be an exciting event that brings RVA together to benefit our community.”

“We’re very excited and honored to be partnering with Richmond Raceway and the Richmond Flying Squirrels,” said Giff Breed, President, Pros, Incorporated. “I’m sure we’ll have the greens running as fast as a straightaway on the backstretch at Richmond Raceway.”