Eastern League – Page 20

Thunder Charities Awards Grants To Four Local Non-Profits

December 12, 2014

The Thunder announced today that it has awarded grants to four locally based non-profit organizations through the 2014 Thunder Charities Community Grant Program.

The following organizations are receiving grants through the 2014 Community Grant Program:

Organization	Program	Grant Amount
Every Child Valued	After School Program	$2,500
Mercer Street Friends	Trenton Digital Initiatives	$2,500
NAMI Mercer NJ, Inc	Just Kids	$1,500
Hope Loves Company	Camp HLC	$1,000

TOTAL = $7,500

This year, three of the four organizations received grants in the full amount that was requested on their application. With its third year now complete, the Thunder Charities Community Grant Program has awarded $31,650 to charities in our region. The Thunder has donated over $5.4 million in goods, services and monetary donations to community organizations in its 21 year history.

“It’s great to see fun events like the ‘Thunder Charities Treasure Hunt’ raise the funds that allow us to to support so many worthwhile organizations,” said TJ Jahn, Thunder Director of Community Relations.

Thunder Charities grants are awarded annually with the goal to support organizations that enhance the educational opportunities and quality of life for children as well as programs that support the betterment of the local community in general. Applications are now available for 2015. To make a cash donation to the 2015 fund or to support Thunder Charities in another way, please reach out to TJ Jahn at 609-394-3300 ext 188 or tj@trentonthunder.com.

The Thunder, the Double A Affiliate of the New York Yankees, will begin the 2015 season at ARM & HAMMER Park on Thursday, April 16. Season tickets, group outings, Pic-A-Plans, and Mini Plan renewals are on sale now. Single game tickets will go on sale in March 2015. For more information about tickets, fans should call 609-394-3300 or visit trentonthunder.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Trenton Thunder. Click here to view the original story.

Rock Cats Extend Thanks to Local Community with Annual Thanksgiving Food Donations

November 25, 2014

Baseball Club Will Again Warm Holiday for Local Families

The New Britain Rock Cats Baseball Club, the Double-A Eastern League Affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, will once again donate non-perishable food items – along with Thanksgiving turkeys and Holiday food baskets – to local families who might otherwise go without during this great American holiday. The Presentation will take place today, November 25 at 4:30 PM at The Friendship Center (85 Arch Street) in New Britain. All media is welcome to the event.

This is the 15th consecutive year that the Rock Cats will make such donations to assist their neighbors in need.

The Rock Cats Foundation recently hosted its annual World Series Party at New Britain Stadium and collected from season ticket holders and sponsors, non-perishable food items which will be donated to The Friendship Center, the locally-based non-profit that provides both a home and related community supports for homeless and otherwise disadvantaged persons living in greater New Britain. The Center also works with many families who have moved out of their shelter and are seeking to live independently in the community.

The Rock Cats are pleased to be partnering with Stew Leonard’s of Newington and Trader Joe’s to provide Thanksgiving food baskets to families served by the Friendship Center. This year’s Thanksgiving baskets – which will contain a turkey, stuffing, and other assorted food items necessary to prepare the traditional dinner – will be distributed to families who The Friendship Center is transitioning out of their shelter and into independent community living arrangements.

“We are so thankful to help bring the spirit of the holiday to local families in need,” Rock Cats General Manager Tim Restall said. “Our annual Thanksgiving Dinner deliveries are made possible only by our tremendous fans and local businesses that support the Rock Cats Foundation each year.”

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Britain Rock Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Holiday Purchases Will Benefit The Children’s Home Society of New Jersey

November 25, 2014

The tenth annual Trenton Thunder Gift of Baseball program begins today, giving fans the chance to share the experience of cheering on the hometown team with underprivileged families in our community. For each Season Ticket, Pic-A-Plan and Mini Plan purchased between November 24 and December 19, the Thunder will provide tickets for families in the Holiday Gift Outreach program run by Children’s Home Society to attend a 2015 Thunder game.

“Our fans and corporate partners deserve a big “thank you” for supporting this initiative every year,” said Thunder General Manager Will Smith. “We’re hoping even more families can visit ARM & HAMMER Park next season thanks to our fans’ holiday shopping.”

In its first nine years, the Gift of Baseball program has allowed the Thunder to donate a total of 6,344 tickets to the Children’s Home Society.

“We are so grateful to the Trenton Thunder for once again sharing this wonderful ‘Gift of Baseball’ with the children we serve,” said Donna C. Pressma, CHSofNJ President and CEO. She continued, “This gift allows hundreds of our children to experience a live baseball game. It is a chance to make memories that last a lifetime, and we cannot thank the Trenton Thunder enough for always thinking of our CHSofNJ children and families.”

2015 Trenton Thunder Mini Plans go on sale December 1st. Mini plans include five or six of the most popular games on the schedule, free food at each game, a Trenton Thunder hat, a complimentary ticket to Opening Night and start as low as $60. More information about Mini Plans can be found here: MINI PLANS

Pic-A-Plans allow fans to choose any 10 or more games and like Mini Plans include free food, a limited edition hat and a free Opening Night ticket. More information about Pic-A-Plans can be found here: PIC-A-PLANS

Season Tickets are available as either a full (71 games) or half (36 games) and include a lot of perks such as early entry, special events and more. More information about Season Tickets can be found here: SEASON TICKETS

The Children’s Home Society of New Jersey provides at-risk children and their families with a range of services that empower them to achieve their potential. They are child-oriented, family focused, community based, and outcome-oriented.

The Thunder will begin the 2015 season at ARM & HAMMER Park on Thursday, April 16 against the Portland Sea Dogs (Red Sox). Single game tickets will go on sale in March 2015. For more information about tickets, fans should call 609-394-3300 or visit TrentonThunder.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Trenton Thunder. Click here to view the original story.

Thunder & NJM Score For T.A.S.K.

November 24, 2014

(Caption:) Paying a visit to the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK) along with Boomer, the Trenton Thunder mascot, are, from left, Patricia Hartpence, Assistant Vice President for Corporate Giving, NJM Insurance Group; Cindy Berger, NJM's Community Outreach Events Coordinator; and Will Smith, General Manager and Chief Operating Officer of the Thunder. Boomer hands NJM's donation check to Xiumei Chen, Manager of Finance and Administration for TASK. — (Caption:) Paying a visit to the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK) along with Boomer, the Trenton Thunder mascot, are, from left, Patricia Hartpence, Assistant Vice President for Corporate Giving, NJM Insurance Group; Cindy Berger, NJM’s Community Outreach Events Coordinator; and Will Smith, General Manager and Chief Operating Officer of the Thunder. Boomer hands NJM’s donation check to Xiumei Chen, Manager of Finance and Administration for TASK.

The Trenton Thunder, the Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, scored 298 runs on their way to 31 victories at ARM & HAMMER Park this season, but the real winner this season was the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK) thanks to NJM Insurance Group and their Safe at Home program.

As part of the Safe at Home program, NJM made a $14,900 donation, based on $50 per run scored at ARM & HAMMER Park, to TASK. With this season’s donation, NJM’s Safe at Home program has donated more than $45,000 to local non-profits over the last three years.

“Thanks to the hard work of the Thunder offense this season and NJM Insurance, the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen can continue their mission of feeding those that are hungry and offer programs that encourage self sufficiency and improve the quality of life of their patrons,” said Thunder Director of Community Relations T.J. Jahn. “This program is precisely the type of program that the Trenton Thunder strive to promote; one that includes a great corporate partner, NJM, and enriches our community and its residents.”

“In their 21 seasons in Trenton, the Thunder have truly become an institution,” said NJM Corporate Communications Administrator Eric Stenson. “We share the Thunder’s commitment for our capital city. The Safe at Home program provides NJM a wonderful opportunity to benefit an institution like TASK, which makes such a big difference in the lives of so many people in our community.”

The 2015 season, the 22nd in franchise history, will begin on April 9 at Erie with the home opener scheduled for April 16 against the Portland Sea Dogs. Season tickets and group outings are on sale now by calling 609-394-3300. For the full schedule and more team information, please visit trentonthunder.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Trenton Thunder. Click here to view the original story.

Living World War II Veterans to be Celebrated in 2015

November 11, 2014

Fightins’ Ceremonial Flag Service to now include WWII vets

Fightins General Manager Scott Hunsicker made the announcement regarding the Ceremonial Flag Service now honoring World War II veterans at the Veterans Day Ceremony.

Starting with the 2015 season, the Reading Fightins, Double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, will now be honoring living World War II veterans at each home game during the Savage61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Ceremonial Flag Service, the club announced at the Veterans Day Wreath-Laying Ceremony on Tuesday.

The World War II veterans will be honored, in addition to fallen veterans of all wars, nightly during a pre-game ceremony beside their family and friends. During the ceremony, the Fightins will tell each veteran’s story and present the veteran with a Ceremonial Flag as a token of appreciation for all that they have done in protection of the United States of America.

“When we announced the Ceremonial Flag Service last season, we had no idea how well our fans and the community would receive the nightly program and because of this, we wanted to allow living veterans of World War II to be celebrated alongside their families during the 2015 season,” said Fightins General Manager Scott Hunsicker. “This is the least we could do to give them proper respect and admiration for risking their lives in the line of battle. We thank Tim Profit and Savage 61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram for stepping up and underwriting this important program as well as all of our military programs.”

Last season, the Fightins honored fallen veterans of all wars during a pre-game ceremony by flying a Ceremonial Flag near the giant dog tags at the main entrance to honor a specific veteran each home game. Before each home game, the Fightins raised a ceremonial flag to tribute to their memory and welcomed their family to the game. The flag was then lowered and given to the family following the game.

Reservations for the Savage61 Ceremonial Flag Service will be taken for the 2015 season. Those interested can call 610-370-BALL ext. 293 to reserve a date. Anyone interested in paying tribute or honor to a veteran is asked to call that number with their preference of a game date. Available game dates are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Over the years, the Fightins have continued to discover new ways to honor Berks County’s veterans. Originally named Reading Municipal Memorial Stadium, FirstEnergy Stadium was completed in 1951 and named in honor of the servicemen and women who risked their lives in defense of their country. 48 years later in 1999, a statue in the form of giant dog tags was placed in front of FirstEnergy Stadium in a special rededication ceremony to honor the area’s veterans.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Reading Fightin Phils. Click here to view the original story.

Wells Fargo Donates $1,000 to Baseballtown Charities

November 3, 2014

Donation made possible through Community Connections Giving Program

Baseballtown Charities would like to thank Wells Fargo’s Community Connections Giving Program for their donation of $1,000.

Through the program, Wells Fargo’s retail banking stores explore the needs of their local communities and select a nonprofit organization to receive a grant. This year, Wells Fargo will award close to $300,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations and schools across Pennsylvania.

The grants are part of the company’s broader support of its communities. In 2013, Wells Fargo invested more than $14 million in nonprofit organizations and schools and team members volunteered more than 46,000 hours throughout Pennsylvania.

Baseballtown Charities, a non-profit 501 (c)(3) entity, was founded in 2002 in association with the Reading Fightin Phils in order to keep baseball alive in Reading through charitable donations to underprivileged youth who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to play baseball. The organization also pays tribute to Reading’s rich baseball history.

Since its inception in 2002, the Baseballtown trademark has played a necessary part in the baseball community of Berks County. Under the Baseballtown namesake, FirstEnergy Stadium has played host to the High School All-Star Game and the Olivet’s Boy’s and Girl’s Club Championship. Each year, the organization crowns the King or Queen of Baseballtown to honor the past by recognizing that individual’s accomplishments and contributions to baseball/softball.

Perhaps the biggest accomplishment the organization has overtaken was the construction of Gordon Hoodak Stadium at Lauer’s Park in 2006. Through contributions exceeding $900,000, the youth ballpark was built in a neighborhood that is quickly returning to its glory days. It sits on the grounds of Lauer’s Park Elementary School, named for the former stadium where Babe Ruth and Shoeless Joe Jackson both played. The original housed several professional teams and hosted barnstorming tours from 1907-1941. Reading’s own baseball legend, the late “Broadway” Charlie Wagner, former Red Sox pitcher and roommate Ted Williams, began his career there.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Reading Fightin Phils. Click here to view the original story.

Baysox Accepting Nominations, Donations for Holiday Hope

October 21, 2014

The Bowie Baysox announce today that Louie’s Holiday Hope Project returns to brighten the holiday season for local families in need this year. Beginning now and continuing through the month of November, the team will be accepting nominations for families that need assistance this holiday season. The Baysox will also be collecting gently used coats, new socks and other warm clothing to be donated to area families.

Louie’s Holiday Hope Project began in 2007 and touched 13 families with 38 children last year. This year, the team is proud to partner with Prince George’s County Fire/EMS department, the Bowie Police Department and Bowie Youth & Family Services to help as many families as possible.

“The Baysox and Louie are happy to help some area families in need during the holiday season,” said Baysox Marketing Director Brandan Kaiser. “We truly appreciate the assistance we receive from our partners and fans throughout the year which allows Holiday Hope to brighten the lives of some great kids.”

“We’ve partnered with Louie’s Holiday Hope Project for the last several years and have been impressed with all that has been done to make the holiday special for so many Bowie families,” said Bowie Youth & Family Services Director Wendy Wilcox. “Without this assistance, many area parents would not be able to prepare a special meal or provide gifts for their children.”

To ensure that the program reaches as many families as possible, the Baysox welcome help from their fans. Members of the community can nominate families that need assistance by visiting www.baysox.com and filling out the Louie’s Holiday Hope Project form under the Community tab on the website. The team will not be able to help everyone that is nominated, but will consider as many options as possible. A Baysox staff member may contact the submitter for additional details or clarification, but all submissions remain confidential. Nominations must be received by Friday, Dec. 5, at 5 p.m.

Prince George’s Stadium will also serve as a collection point for warm clothes and sock donations in conjunction with Louie’s Holiday Hope Project. The team invites fans to bring gently used winter coats, new socks and other warm clothing to the Baysox front office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Monday, November 24) to donate to local families in need.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Bowie Baysox. Click here to view the original story.

Squirrels Nominated For John Henry Moss Community Service Award

October 7, 2014

Richmond Tabbed by Eastern League for Award in 5th Season

The Richmond Flying Squirrels, Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, are pleased to announce that the organization has been nominated by the Eastern League of Professional Baseball Clubs for the 2014 John Henry Moss Community Service Award. The league nominates just one team for the award, presented annually by Minor League Baseball.

The John Henry Moss Community Service Award is bestowed upon a club that demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within their local community and within the baseball industry.

Community impact has been a foundational focal point for the Squirrels since their inception in 2010. The Squirrels’ nomination comes following a season in which they continued to expand many of their community aims. That included the launch of the Squirrels’ new non-profit arm, Flying Squirrels Charities, created with the goal of growing opportunities for local children. The first major fundraising campaign for Flying Squirrels Charities was “Smooch-a-Pig,” which included the involvement of 10 local celebrities and benefitted “Operation Renovation.” The campaign, which endeavored to rebuild 12 little league fields for the Richmond City Department of Parks & Recreation, raised over $60,000.

“There are many awards that the Squirrels as an organization would be delighted to receive,” said Flying Squirrels’ Vice President & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell. “However, this nomination is of particular significance to us. Community service is the bedrock of the Squirrels’ organization, and it is gratifying that our sustained effort continues to have a profound impact.”

The Squirrels continue to be one of the most active teams in professional sports within their community. Among their other programs and highlights:

“Go Nuts for Reading Program (39,000 student participants)
Flying Squirrels Art Contest (5^th Year)
Score an “A”, Score a Ticket Program
Kroger Squirrels Tails Kids Club (24,000 Members)
In-Season Youth Camps
Drives (Food, Books, School Supplies, Blood)
Mustaches for Kids Program
Ed Randall’s Bat for the Cure
Charitable Events (Turn Left Golf Classic, Hot Stove Banquet, Nutzy’s Rotary Funn Run, Squirreloween, Puritan Cleaners Coats for Kids Drive, etc.)
450 Mascot Appearances Annually (Local Schools, Businesses, Non-Profits, Festivals, etc.)
30 Player and Coaches Appearances During the 2014 Season (200+ Hours of Community Service)
Executive Speaking Engagements (100+ in 2014)
ASK Fun Walk & 5K (Ask Foundation – 9^th Annual)
Camp Warrior
Flying Squirrels Regional Youth Baseball Tournament
Monetary Gifts & Gifts In-Kind ($150,000)

The John Henry Moss Community Service Award is named after the longtime, former South Atlantic League president, who founded the SAL and presided over it for a half-century (1959-2008).

The John Henry Moss Community Service Award will be presented at the Baseball Winter Meetings, which will be held in San Diego, CA, from December 7-11.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Richmond Flying Squirrels. Click here to view the original story.

Fightin For Cerebral Palsy Ready to Rumble on Sept. 20

August 27, 2014

Night of boxing from King’s Promotions set for Saturday, September 20th at 6:00 p.m.

Baseballtown will be getting ready to rumble on Saturday, September 20th when FirstEnergy Stadium hosts Fightin For Cerebral Palsy, a boxing event to benefit Cerebral Palsy. The night will feature exciting boxing matches from King’s Promotions. Proceeds from the event benefit Cerebral Palsy thanks to King’s Promotions.

Bell time for the event is at 6:00 p.m. with Tompkins VIST Bank Gates opening at 5:00 p.m.

Ringside tickets cost $25 while general admission is just $15. Tickets are available by calling King’s Boxing at 610-587-5950.

King’s Gym opened in Reading in 1995 as a way to get youngsters off the streets and involved in more positive activities. The name “KING” stands for “Kids In Need of Guidance and gym owner Marshall Kauffman has spent years using the sport of boxing as a way for both his professional and amateur boxers to feel good about themselves through confidence and pride.

KING’s Promotions was formed in 1994 and has since put on many successful amateur and professional fight cards in the mid-Atlantic region. In 2005, local businessman Jeff Nigrelli joined Marshall as a partner in KING’s Promotions. They have since put on several sold-out fight cards at the Riveredge Complex in Reading and have recently expanded to boxing events at the spacious and modern Sovereign Center in downtown Reading, Pennsylvania.

Fans can get more ticket information by visiting Fightins.com, calling the Fightin Phils Ticket Office at 610-370-BALL, or by visiting the Fightin Phils Ticket Office in person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Reading Fightin Phils. Click here to view the original story.

Red Cross Blood Drive at FirstEnergy Stadium

August 10, 2014

Presenting Donors Receive Four Tickets to a Fightins Game

The Reading Fightin Phils and the American Red Cross invite you to donate blood In Memory of Frank Mascaro on Monday, August 11th, from 10:00am to 3:00pm.

You can help J.P. Mascaro & Sons reach their goal of 1,000 pints of blood for the Red Cross by August 2014.

All presenting donors receive four tickets to Reading Fightin’ Phils game on August 16th.

The American Red Cross is facing a looming blood shortage leading to an urgent need for donors of all blood types to roll up a sleeve and give. Since May, donations through the Red Cross are down approximately 8 percent, resulting in about 80,000 fewer donations than expected. The number of donors continues to decline and the shortfall is significant enough that the Red Cross could experience an emergency situation in the coming weeks.

“Many people say they never fully understood the importance of donating blood until they or someone they love needed it,” said Colin Riccobon, External Communications Manager of the Red Cross Northeastern Pennsylvania Blood Services Region. “Summer months are always a challenging time for blood collections, and there are patients depending on donors every day to give them hope.”

WHAT: Blood Drive

WHEN: Monday, August 11th, 10:00am to 3:00pm

WHERE: FirstEnergy Stadium
1900 Centre Avenue
Reading, PA 19612

WHO: Reading Fightin Phils

How to donate blood
Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Reading Fightin Phils. Click here to view the original story.

Scholar-Athlete Scholarship Winners Announced

July 31, 2014

Winners to be recognized at Saturday’s game against Reading

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats and the Fisher Cats Foundation have named their 2014 Scholar-Athlete Scholarship winners. Ten graduates from New Hampshire high schools and two from northern Massachusetts have all earned a $2,500 scholarship based on their athletic and academic achievements in high school, and will be celebrated in an on-field ceremony prior to the Fisher Cats’ game on Saturday, August 2, against the Reading Fightin Phils at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium.

“These students have had remarkable high school careers, and we are proud to recognize them as our Class of 2014 scholarship winners,” said Art Solomon, Fisher Cats owner and chairman of the Fisher Cats Foundation board. “Not only have they excelled in school and on the fields and courts, but each has displayed a commitment to making their communities better places to live. We look forward to recognizing these students as they prepare for college at the ballpark this weekend.”

The scholarship recipients were selected based upon criteria of academic excellence, athletic achievement, and active citizenship in the community. Money for the scholarships was raised through several Foundation endeavors, most notably the Granite State Baseball Dinner, which surpassed $1 million in fundraising at its annual event last November. With these scholarships, a total of $230,000 have been awarded through this program since 2007.

The Fisher Cats Foundation will award three special scholarships among the twelve – the Swymer Family Scholarship, offered annually to a student who has overcome a barrier and gone on to college; the Chris Carpenter Scholarship, named in honor of New Hampshire native and National League Cy Young Award Winner Chris Carpenter; and the Easter Seals Veterans Count Scholarship, presented to a New Hampshire graduate whose parent or guardian is an active, reserve, or veteran member of the United States Military.

A full list of this year’s winners is below.

*Quinn Connelly (Spaulding High School/Rochester, N.H.) – Quinn was a member of the varsity basketball team and served as team captain his senior year. He played in the state semi-finals twice and graduated in the top 10 of his class. Quinn will attend the University of New Hampshire in the fall to study business administration.

*Shannon Corcoran (Londonderry High School/Londonderry, N.H.) – Shannon was the co-captain of the varsity dance team. She was also a member of Latin, French, and Math Honor Societies, as well as the National Honor Society. Shannon will attend Clemson University and plans to be a member of the Clemson dance team. She has earned this year’s Easter Seals Veterans Count Scholarship.

*Carmen Giampetruzzi (Trinity High School/Manchester, N.H.) – A three-sport standout, Carmen was a member of the varsity football, basketball, and baseball teams at Trinity. He was a member of the Principal’s List. He will pursue baseball and study biology this fall at Boston College.

*Samarth Gupta (Acton-Boxborough High School/Acton, Mass.) – Samarth was the president of his class as well as a three-season captain of the cross country and track teams. He was also a four-year letter winner in both sports. Samarth will attend Harvard University in the fall studying government.

*Sarah King (Nashua High School North/Nashua, N.H.) – Sarah was a member of the varsity volleyball team as well as a member of the National Honor Society. She plans to attend Butler University next year to study pharmacy.

*Patrick Martin (Wilton-Lyndeborough High School/Wilton, N.H.) – This year’s Swymer Family Award recipient, Patrick was named Wilton-Lyndeborough Male Athlete of the Year in 2013 and 2014. He was a member of the varsity baseball and basketball teams. Patrick will attend St. Joseph’s College of Maine where he plans to study history/secondary education.

*Molly McCabe (Bishop Guertin High School/Brookline, N.H.) – Molly was a four-year letter winner in cross country and indoor and outdoor track at Bishop Guertin. She is a member of the National Honor Society and a four-year Gold Honor Roll Student. Molly will attend Boston College in the fall.

*Abigail McDonough (Portsmouth High School/Greenland, N.H.) – Abby was a member of the varsity softball and basketball teams at Portsmouth High. There, she held high or highest honors for all four years. Next year she will attend the University of New Hampshire.

*Walters Ndi (Concord High School/Concord, N.H.) – Wally was Concord High School’s Male Athlete of the Year and an All-Conference running back. He was a member of the varsity football, wrestling and track teams. He plans to study exercise science next year.

*Dillon Sylvester (Franklin High School/Franklin, N.H.) – Dillon is this year’s winner of the Chris Carpenter Award. He served as the Valedictorian for his class as well as a member of the varsity soccer, basketball, and indoor and outdoor track and field teams. He will attend Bentley University this fall to study business.

*Morgan Wallingford (Dover High School/Dover, N.H.) – Morgan was named the MVP of Dover High School’s varsity gymnastics team for the last three years. A 2014 NH Scholar, she will attend the University of New Hampshire in the fall.

*Nicole Woods (Beverly High School/Beverly, Mass.) – Nicole played on the varsity field hockey, ice hockey, and lacrosse teams at Beverly High School. She was selected as one of the top 70 high school players in the country for USA Field Hockey Futures Elite Championships. She will attend the University of Louisville where she will play field hockey.

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats established the Fisher Cats Foundation to be a catalyst for the betterment of communities statewide 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. As the primary funding source for the team’s philanthropy, the Fisher Cats Foundation supports a wide variety of non-profit organizations and coordinates several fundraising programs and events. Since its inception in 2006, the Foundation and the Fisher Cats have provided more than $3.5 million in monetary and in-kind donations to over 4,000 non-profit organizations.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Support the Vs. Cancer Foundation on August 23

July 29, 2014

Join Senators’ players in shaving your head for cancer

The Harrisburg Senators are thrilled to announce that they are teaming up with the Vs. Cancer Foundation for a major fundraising event on Saturday, August 23 at Metro Bank Park. The event will take place before, during and after the Senators game that evening against the Trenton Thunder.

Several Harrisburg Senators’ players are shaving their heads to show solidarity including Colin Bates, Robert Benincasa, Mitch Canham, Brian Dupra, Tyler Herron, Scott McGregor, Derek Self and John Simms. As a way to encourage fans to donate, the players will have their heads shaved at the conclusion of the game on August 23, on the field, in full view of everyone to watch it happen.

Fans will also have the opportunity to have their heads shaved thanks to Polished Salon & Spa. They are donating their time that night and fans can have their heads shaved for charity during the game for a donation of just $10.

All of the proceeds benefit charity with half benefitting childhood cancer research and half given to the Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital. Harrisburg Senators’ players and front office members are creating fundraising pages, as well as a one Senators team page, where fans can donate. For more information about the Senators’ event, or to donate, please visit senators.vs-cancer.org.

Teams participating from all over the country consist of youth, high school, college and minor league baseball organizations.

In 2013, the Vs. Cancer Foundation helped 40,663 kids battling cancer. That number is expected to grow this year.

The Vs. Cancer Foundation was founded by Chase Jones, who played baseball at the University of North Carolina. Before his career could be a success, he left practice one day in 2006 with a terrible headache. After getting checked, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 brain cancer.

In a move of solidarity, his teammates shaved their heads to support Jones at the time. Now a cancer survivor, Jones started the non-profit organization dedicated to saving the lives of children by funding international cancer research projects and supporting local children’s hospitals. Jones played for the Tar Heels from 2007-11 and started the foundation in 2012. So far since 2012, the organization has raised more than $1 million.

Tickets are available on game days 9:00 a.m. until the end of the game, and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until the end of the game. Box office hours on non-game days are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tickets are available via telephone during the same hours as the box office hours. Tickets are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, online at www.senatorsbaseball.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Harrisburg Senators. Click here to view the original story.

Pig-Smooching Raises Nearly $40,000

July 21, 2014

Ten Local Leaders Bring Home the Bacon for Area Youth

The Richmond Flying Squirrels Charities, the non-profit foundation of the Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, are pleased to announce that the inaugural Smooch-A-Pig charity fundraising campaign raised nearly $40,000 for Richmond area youth athletics. Ten dedicated local business leaders and celebrities (listed below) executed vigorous fundraising campaigns for the honor of smooch Parker the Rally Pig at home plate during the Squirrels game on July 17^th. While all of the participants went “whole hog” in their tireless efforts, Dan Schmitt from RMC events brought in the most bacon and won the privilege to kiss Parker. Schmitt brought along chocolates and a rose to give the celebrity swine and the two shared a special moment at home plate (photos attached) prior to the game. All the proceeds raised will go directly to “Operation Renovation,” a dedicated community impact project to renovate 12 Richmond youth baseball facilities (details below).

The Smooch-A-Pig Participants:

Jon Bibbs, Richmond Prep School Administrator
Matt DiNardo, WRIC TV Meteorologist
Jack and Melissa, 103.7 Play
Cla Meredith, Former MLB Player
Barry Moore, Volvo of Midlothian
Kim Scheeler, Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce President & CEO
Dan Schmitt, RMC Events President
Latrell Scott,Virginia State University Head Football Coach
Norman Way, Puritan Cleaners Director of Operations
Lisa Watkins, Coca-Cola East Region Key Account Development Manager

“We can’t thank these ten leaders enough for their extraordinary efforts,” Flying Squirrels Chief Executive Manager Chuck Domino said. “These candidates share our vision for what Operation Renovation can do for the community. The money raised here is an important start of what will be an ongoing effort from Flying Squirrels Charities.”

The four phases for Operation Renovation are projected as follows:
Phase 1- build 24 dugouts on 12 designated youth baseball fields in Richmond
Phase 2 – improve these same playing fields
Phase 3 – develop the Henderson Complex into a Little League Complex, including the concessions building
Phase 4– recover and renovate unused fields as demands dictate.

Operation Renovation Youth Baseball Fields

Battery Park, 2000 Fendall Ave.
Bellemeade, 1800 Lynhaven Ave.
Bill Robinson, 701 N. 37^th St.
Blackwell, 16^th & Everett St.
Calhoun, 436 Calhoun St.
Chandler, 201 E. Brookland Park Blvd.
Hotchkiss (Two Fields), 701 E. Brookland Park Blvd.
Lucks Field, Rodgers & T St.
Powhatan, 5051 Northampton Ave.
Westover (Two Fields), 1301 Jahnke Rd.

Although the inaugural Smooch-A-Pig campaign is over, additional information and donations can still be made to Flying Squirrels Charities through the website www.smoochapig.com. Any individuals or business interested in getting involved with Operation Renovation and Flying Squirrels Charities can contact Squirrels Charity Liaison/Media Relation Manager Jay Burnham at 804-482-6791 or email at jay.burnham@squirrelsbaseball.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Richmond Flying Squirrels1. Click here to view the original story.

Fisher Cats, Citizens Bank ‘Taking the Show’ to Manchester South

June 17, 2014

The Fisher Cats and Citizens Bank announced today that Manchester South Little League has been chosen as the inaugural winner in the ‘Take the Show on the Road’ promotion. Through a partnership with Citizens Bank, the Fisher Cats will bring their entertainment experience to the fields of Manchester South on Saturday, June 21. Three other leagues – Londonderry Athletic and Field Association (LAFA), Concord Little League, and Hollis/Brookline Cal Ripken – have been awarded consolation prizes based upon the sportsmanship qualities represented by their leagues.

“We received a number of outstanding entries, detailing how the leagues in New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts are not only developing outstanding athletes, but outstanding young people through their programs,” said Fisher Cats President Rick Brenner. “These tales of sportsmanship and integrity highlight the best of youth sports. We are excited to bring our show to Manchester South for a great day of baseball and family fun later this month.”

“Citizens Bank was thrilled to see all the entries highlighting so many healthy, active recreational activities taking place in New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts thanks to youth baseball leagues,” said Joseph Carelli, President, Citizens Bank and RBS Citizens, New Hampshire. “We are proud to partner with the New Hampshire Fisher Cats to bring ‘Take the Show on the Road” to Manchester South Little League and look forward to the event.”

“Manchester South Little League is honored and excited to have been chosen for such a fun, unique promotion,” said Manchester South Little League President Kim Roy. “Sportsmanship and fair play are the guiding principles of our players, coaches, and parents, and to be recognized for those efforts gives us great pride. I know our league will be ready to help the Fisher Cats and Citizens Bank create a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our players and fans.”

On June 21, the Fisher Cats will bring their inflatable games, mascot, PA announcer, promo team, and turf manager to the Manchester South Little League Farm League All-Star Game at Precourt Park off South Willow Street. The first 200 fans to attend the game will also receive a Fisher Cats hat courtesy of Citizens Bank.

As consolation prizes, LAFA will receive a free night in a luxury suite at a Fisher Cats game this summer. Concord and Hollis/Brookline each will receive 25 tickets to a game with a VIP Stadium Tour.

Before the Fisher Cats head to Manchester South, the team will be home for a three-game homestand June 17-19 against the Altoona Curve (Pittsburgh Pirates). The series features a baseball giveaway and an Atlas Fireworks Show after the final game on the 19th. Tickets are available by visiting www.nhfishercats.com, stopping by the box office at the ballpark, or by calling (603) 641-2005. For more information on the above events, please contact Tom Gauthier at tgauthier@nhfishercats.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Golf Classic Raises more than $56,000 for CAC

June 12, 2014

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats and the Fisher Cats Foundation announced today the second annual Fisher Cats Foundation Charity Golf Classic raised more than $56,000 for Child Advocacy Centers of New Hampshire. The tournament was held Monday, June 2, at Stonebridge Country Club in Goffstown, N.H.

“This event once again demonstrates the generosity of our partners and friends, who joined us for an enjoyable day that raised money for such an important cause,” said Art Solomon, Fisher Cats owner and the chairman of the Fisher Cats Foundation board. “We are very proud to be able to present this money to the Child Advocacy Centers of New Hampshire as they continue their work to support and advocate for the victims of child abuse throughout New Hampshire.”

The main event sponsors, Elliot Hospital and Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, were joined by dozens of generous partners and golf foursomes to support the work of CAC divisions throughout the state. In addition to sponsorship and golf entry fees, additional funds were raised through raffles, which featured a wide array of donated prizes. The event also featured a lobster-and-steak lunch preceding the awards ceremony.

On the course, the team from Brady Sullivan Properties came in first place overall with a score of 61. Individual prize winners included Matt Healey, who hit the longest drive, and Joe Morrison, who took home closest-to-the-pin honors.

About the Child Advocacy Centers

The Child Advocacy Centers of New Hampshire are nationally accredited programs providing forensic interviews and coordinated support services to child victims of crime and their families free of charge. Since opening their doors, the Child Advocacy Centers (CAC) throughout New Hampshire have provided services to thousands of children. In addition, family advocacy services are provided, children and families are connected to community resources, and the CAC remains a support to families as the criminal case moves through the legal system. The CAC in partnership with multidisciplinary team members ensures a less traumatic investigative process, family connection to community resources, and higher prosecution rates.

About the Fisher Cats Foundation

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats established the Fisher Cats Foundation to be a catalyst for the betterment of communities statewide 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 benefitting the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD), and providing scholarship to college bound New Hampshire and Massachusetts students in partnership with the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation. Since its inception in 2006, the Fisher Cats and the team foundation have provided more than $3.5 million in monetary and in-kind donations to over 4,000 non-profit organizations.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.