Dunkin’ Donuts & the Binghamton Mets Team Up

Score 200 Pounds of Coffee for the Food Bank of the Southern Tier

Binghamton Mets officials joined Dunkin’ Donuts franchisees to donate 200 pounds of coffee to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier prior to the Mets’ final game of the season on Labor Day. The donation – the equivalent of more than 10,000 cups of coffee – was fueled by a season-long partnership between the Mets and Dunkin’ Donuts.

During the 2012 season, Dunkin’ Donuts pledged to donate one pound of coffee to the Food Bank for every double play turned at home by the Mets. Led by a cast of infielders, Binghamton recorded 52 double plays at home to generate a 52 pound donation of Dunkin’ Donuts coffee to the Food Bank. Dunkin’ Donuts and its Southern Tier franchisees contributed an additional 148 pounds to bring the total donation to 200 pounds of Dunkin’ Donuts coffee.

“Our partnership with the Binghamton Mets is designed to capture the excitement of each double play and turn it into a tangible benefit for the Food Bank of the Southern Tier,” said Eric Stensland, upstate New York field marketing manager for Dunkin’ Donuts. “Binghamton players did a terrific job this season and we’re proud to make a donation to an organization that continues to have such a positive impact on the community.”

“Many of us look forward to a cup of coffee each morning and see it as an essential part of starting our day,” said Missy Goetschius, community and public relations manager for the Food Bank of the Southern Tier. “We are extremely grateful that Dunkin’ Donuts and the Binghamton Mets teamed up to give back to our food bank. Now we can provide coffee for thousands of residents in need throughout our area.”

Each week, over 11,000 individuals visit a hunger-relief agency served by the Food Bank of the Southern Tier. In 2011, the Food Bank distributed nearly seven million pounds of food to neighbors in need across the six Southern Tier counties of Broome, Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben, Tioga, and Tompkins.

“The Binghamton Mets are proud to take part in this outstanding initiative to benefit the Food Bank,” said Binghamton General Manager Jim Weed. “Our organization is deeply committed to giving back to our fans and to the community at large. Dunkin’ Donuts has been a great partner and we applaud its commitment to the Food Bank and those it serves.”

The Dunkin’ Donuts and Binghamton Mets partnership has included a number of fan and community initiatives at NYSEG Stadium during the 2012 season.

Join the Senators to Bowl for Kids’ Sake

Bowl with your favorite player in first ever bowling event

Harrisburg, PA – What could be more fun than bowling with your favorite Harrisburg Senators player, nothing! The good news for all of you bowlers and just people that enjoy bowling, you’re in luck! On Sunday, July 22, the Senators are Bowling For Kids’ Sake.

Following the game that day against New Britain at 2:00 p.m., the Senators head to the Red Crown Bowling Center.  The bowling event takes place from 7:00 p.m. to approximately 9:00 p.m.  Each participant bowls two games with a player or member of the coaching staff.  The cost is $40 per person, $100 for a team of three or $130 for a team of four. The cost includes your shoe rental, two games of bowling, food, and drinks. The event benefits the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region.

In addition to the bowling, a raffle will take place throughout the event. Each raffle ticket is $2 or a baseball bat length for $20.  The list of items is growing and all of the proceeds benefit the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region.

This event will sell out quickly, so be sure to purchase your tickets quickly for this unique opportunity to spend time bowling with your favorite player!  Tickets are available online here or by phoning the Harrisburg Senators at 717-231-4444 and asking for Emily Winslow.

Tickets for Senators’ games are available on game days 10:00 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, 10:00 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.

Greg Gross ALS Auction Returns Saturday

Memorabilia Auction Benefits ALS Association

Current Phillies hitting coach is bringing his ALS auction to Reading on Saturday. (Associated Press)
Current Phillies hitting coach is bringing his ALS auction to Reading on Saturday. (Associated Press)

Current Philadelphia Phillies hitting coach and former R-Phils hitting coach Greg Gross is once again bringing his ALS Auction to FirstEnergy Stadium this season with a handful of great items that you won’t find anywhere else.

This Saturday, May 5, the R-Phils along with Gross will once again hold this great event at America’s Classic Ballpark when the team takes on the Erie SeaWolves at 6:05 p.m. The night also features one of the first post-game fireworks shows of 2012 thanks to Carpenter Technology Corporation.

During his time with Philadelphia (1979-1988), Gross began working to help fight ALS and remained dedicated to the battle. ALS is cause near and dear to the world of baseball and is commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, named after the New York Yankees Hall of Famer who was diagnosed with the disease in 1939.

VIST Financial Plaza gates open at 4:05 p.m. and fans are encouraged to check out some great autographed memorabilia. All fans will have the opportunity to bid on these great auction items. Below is a list of the items that will be up for auction:

  • Home Plate signed by the 2012 Phillies infield (Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins, Freddy Galvis, Placido Polanco, and Carlos Ruiz)
  • Pitcher’s Rubber signed by Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, and Cole Hamels
  • Carlos Ruiz Chest Protector (autographed)
  • Ryan Howard signed slip cover (autographed)
  • Shane Victorino Batting Helmet (autographed)
  • Jonathan Paplebon Batting Practice Jersey (autographed)
  • Vance Worley game-worn spikes (autographed)
  • Steve Carlton autographed ball (autographed)
  • Hunter Pence game-worn spikes (autographed)
  • Chase Utley game-used bat (autographed)
  • Jim Thome game-used bat (autographed)
  • Cliff Lee autographed baseball
  • Jimmy Rollins autographed baseball
  • Carlos Ruiz autographed baseball

Tickets for all regular season Reading Phillies home games, as well as Baseballtown All-Star Classic Events, are available online at www.RPhils.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, or in person at the R-Phils Ticket Office located at FirstEnergy Stadium. Fans can also add the all-you-can eat Deck Buffett wristband to any order for only $12.

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

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

Louie Honors Reading Program Poster Winners

The Baysox lovable mascot Louie made visits to two local schools last week to congratulate some very special students. Louie wanted to congratulate the winners of the annual poster contest that kicks off the Read and Hit a Home Run Reading Program.

Caroline Kerr of Crofton Middle School in Crofton, Md. and Caroline Cooney of Whitehall Elementary School in Bowie, Md., each received special visits from Louie to receive their prizes.

Louie would also like to congratulate Southern Maryland winner Myles Williams of William B. Wade Elementary School in Waldorf, Md., who has moved out of the area and was unable to claim his prize.

The students’ poster designs were selected as the winner for all schools in their respective regions. Caroline Kerr was the winner in Anne Arundel, Howard and Queen Anne’s counties and Caroline Cooney was the winner in Prince George’s and Montgomery counties.

Louie surprised the winners during special school assemblies, rewarding them with a framed poster of the design, 12 Baysox tickets and a collection of Baysox gear. The students also get a chance to throw out a ceremonial first pitch before the Baysox Reading Night game for their county.

Prince George’s County winner Caroline Cooney’s parents were told ahead of time that their daughter was the winner and they were on hand for the presentation. “I am so proud of Caroline,” said Julie Cooney. “She loves drawing and to have something she has done selected is beyond words. I am so excited.”

Caroline Kerr’s Language Arts teacher Diane Wagner was thrilled that her student was the one selected to be the Anne Arundel County winner. “Caroline is an exemplary student, the kind of student that I wish I had 30 of,” Wagner said. “She is a straight A student, she is involved in athletics and she is well-liked. I can’t think of a more deserving young lady.”

The Baysox would like to thank Read and Hit a Home Run Reading Program sponsor Educational Systems Federal Credit Union for their support of the program. This is the eighth year that Educational Systems Federal Credit Union has sponsored the reading program.

In all, 224 schools are registered to participate in the reading program this year. Any student in participating schools who reads at least four books is rewarded with a free ticket to a Baysox game. Louie will be visiting students throughout the weeks leading up to the season to show them how fun reading can be.

Akron Aeros Lend a Paw to Summit County Animal Control

Akron-AerosThe Aeros front office staff fell head over paws as they traveled to the Summit County Animal Control to cheer up homeless, yet hopeful, dogs and cats last Tuesday, January 24.

The Summit County Animal Control takes in stray animals in the greater Akron area, aiming to reunite owners with lost pets, find homes for animals eligible for adoption and providing dog licensing required by the state.

Their mission exemplifies the county’s goals to “protect the health, safety and well-being of citizens and animals…through law enforcement, compassion towards animals and promotion of responsible pet ownership.”

Like all of the Summit County Animal Control volunteers, the Aeros staff had the freedom to roam the facility and partake in anything from walking, bathing, watering and playing with animals of their choice.

“We want our volunteers to want to come back again,” Summit County Animal Control Manager CHRISTINE FATHEREE said.

This open attitude left staff members feeling their time spent was not only efficient, but even more valuable.

“I enjoyed this experience because it gave me the opportunity to work with many animals. It was gratifying knowing that just a simple walk or exercise really put a wag in their tail,” Aeros Food and Beverage Director NATE MICHEL said.

Every staff member left with warm and fuzzy feeling and an outfit covered in hair to match, yet they wouldn’t want it any other way.

As part of the “Helping Hands Program,” the Aeros staff volunteers at local non-profit organizations each month in order to reach out to the Akron-Canton community.

For information on volunteer opportunities with the department or how to adopt an animal, call (330) 643-2845. For additional Akron Aeros community outreach efforts, visit akronaeros.com.

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Group Sales Representative Mitch Cromes gets love from our four-legged friends.
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Lene Spahn, Media Relations Coordinator and IT Specialist, is smitten with this kitten.

 

Cats Receive Honor from the Friendship Service Center

ROCK CATS RECEIVE HONOR FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE

left to right: Steve Kunsey (Rock Cats), Amy Helbling (Rock Cats), Jason Howey (Okay Industries), and Rocky the Rock Cat
left to right: Steve Kunsey (Rock Cats), Amy Helbling (Rock Cats), Jason Howey (Okay Industries), and Rocky the Rock Cat
left to right: Steve Kunsey (Rock Cats), Pam Vatti (Liberty Bank), Rocky the Rock Cat, Amy Helbling (Rock Cats)
left to right: Steve Kunsey (Rock Cats), Pam Vatti (Liberty Bank), Rocky the Rock Cat, Amy Helbling (Rock Cats)

The Friendship Service Center of New Britain – a decades-old community-based organization dedicated to assisting the area’s poor and disadvantaged – took time at its 43rd Annual Meeting yesterday to recognize the Rock Cats as their “2011 Business of the Year.” The New Britain franchise enjoys a proud history of supporting worthy community causes and, as such, has been pleased to partner with the Friendship Service Center for several years.

Located on Arch Street, the Center provides a range of essential community living services, including emergency shelters and transitional and permanent housing, to families in need.  Ms. Ellen Perkins Simpson serves as the organization’s Executive Director.

Assistance to the Center from the Rock Cats has come in many different forms including food and clothing donations, the provision of complimentary tickets to ball games, and the delivery of Thanksgiving Dinners and other Holiday gifts to families identified by FSC.

Another of the Rock Cats’ fabulous sponsors – Liberty Bank – was also present at yesterday’s event and took the occasion to present the Friendship Service Center with a check for $3,700! As a valued partner of the Rock Cats, Liberty Bank set aside $100 each time a New Britain player blasted a home run during the 2011 Season. As the ‘Cats swatted 37 round ‘trippers, Connecticut’s oldest mutual bank put together a kitty of $3,700 – and yesterday generously donated the entire amount to FSC!  What a great gesture – and a wonderful cause. Bravo to all parties!

By the way, Liberty Bank noted that they plan to open their 44th branch location at 747 Farmington Avenue in New Britain in the Spring. Maybe some of next year’s home runs will bounce off their new roof!
This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Britain Rock Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Fisher Cats Staff Gives Back During Holiday Season

Manchester, NH – Fisher Cats front office members were in the holiday spirit as they volunteered their time and resources for several community organizations this week. On Thursday, they spent the day volunteering with non-profit organizations for the Fisher Cats Day of Caring. Earlier in the week, the team participated in the Salvation Army’s Adopt-a-Family program, contributing gifts to brighten the holidays of a local family.

“This is one of the most enjoyable weeks for our team every year,” said Rick Brenner, Fisher Cats President. “Getting to work with these organizations on such worthy causes is a privilege for our entire staff. We are honored to be able to partner with them as they enhance the holiday season for so many families.”

The annual Fisher Cats Day of Caring arranges for staff members to spend the day with a non-profit organization each December. This year, some of the staff headed to New Horizons for New Hampshire to assist its staff with the preparation of holiday food deliveries. At the Manchester Animal Shelter, another group helped the morning crew of workers with their daily chores, including walking and feeding dogs and cats and general cleaning around the shelter.

Prior to the Fisher Cats Day of Caring, the entire staff contributed a bundle of gifts as they adopted a family for the holidays. In conjunction with the Salvation Army, staff provided toys, clothing, and Fisher Cats tickets and merchandise to a family in need in southern New Hampshire.

Participation in these programs has been a holiday tradition for the Fisher Cats front office for several years. During that time, the team has worked with several non-profits organizations.

Opening Day is Thursday, April 12, 2012, at 6:35 PM against the New Britain Rock Cats, Double-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. Fisher Cats 2012 Mini-Ticket Plans and Season Tickets are on sale now at the Fisher Cats Ticket Office at 1 Line Drive, Manchester, NH 03101, online at www.nhfishercats.com, or by calling the Fisher Cats at 603-641-2005.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Akron Aeros Help Paint A Picture for Hope

The Akron Aeros front office staff made their way to ACCESS earlier this month to help the local shelter prepare recreational rooms at their facility.

Upon arrival, the staff got straight to work with paint and brushes in hand. They started with painting a Teen Room, and then moved to painting an office at ACCESS.

“It was inspiring to volunteer at a place like ACCESS. To think of all of the individuals they help after these people have been turned down elsewhere, really puts things into perspective. Our staff has really enjoyed this experience, paint clothes and all,” Aeros Suites, Picnics and Community Relations Coordinator NICOLE BLUM said.

ACCESS, or The Akron Citizens’ Coalition for Emergency Shelter Services, was created to meet the need for the 625 monthly requests for shelter in the Akron area. With only 150 beds available and just 18 reserved for women and children, ACCESS helps fill the void by providing emergency shelter for those women and children. ACCESS also provides meals, group support, children’s programming, parental programming, and a Care Clinic.

“When I picked up a brochure after leaving ACCESS, I read the first line, ‘Providing Help When It’s Needed The Most.’ That quote seems to resonate throughout this organization. They certainly help those in need to the best of their ability. But there’s always more that can be done. That’s where volunteers come in,” Aeros Executive Vice President/COO JIM PFANDER said.

As a part of their ‘Helping Hands’ program, the Aeros volunteer at local non-profit organizations such as ACCESS. Next month, the Aeros will assist The Battered Women’s Shelter of Summit County.

For information on ACCESS, visit access-shelter.org, and for additional Akron Aeros community outreach efforts, visit akronaeros.com.

Director of Sales, Greg Berry and Manager of Promotions, Calvin Funkhouser prepare the Teen Room before painting at ACCESS shelter in Akron.
Aeros staff is all hands on deck, painting the Teen Room at ACCESS.

Akron Aeros Volunteer at Salvation Army in More Ways Than One

The Akron Aeros front office staff traveled to The Salvation Army’s Akron Citadel last month, extending their Helping Hands program in the facility’s soup kitchen, pre-school and storage rooms.

The Aeros had the opportunity to see the dynamics of an organization that helps the local community in such diverse ways. The staff assisted with food preparation and dispersion in the soup kitchen, while mingling with those dining and the full-time volunteer staff.

Others assisted at the preschool, helping to prepare and deliver lunches to the kids, while spending quality time before naptime for the children.

The staff also worked behind the scenes, sorting and organizing the Salvation Army’s arts and crafts supplies, donations and records.

“I was able to volunteer on all different ends of the spectrum. You really get a chance to see how dedicated The Salvation Army is to the community. We especially loved spending time with the kids, and they were really enthusiastic. That’s what makes this Helping Hands program so rewarding,” said NICOLE BLUM, Aeros Suites, Picnics and Community Relations Coordinator.

Based on the Christian faith, The Salvation Army aims to fulfill their motto, “Doing the most good,” which was evident to the Aeros staff, who left with a clearer vision of the organization and its purpose. From church services, to after school programs, and providing financial assistance, shelter and free meals, the Salvation Army’s Akron Citadel epitomizes their 135-year-old motto.

Each month, the Akron Aeros front office staff volunteers at locally based organizations as a part of their Helping Hands program. In addition to the Salvation Army, the Aeros plan to assist Akron’s Habitat for Humanity as their next venture.

For information on the Salvation Army and its locations, visit salvationarmyusa.org, and for additional Akron Aeros community outreach efforts, contact Nicole Blum at 330.253.5151 x310 or visit akronaeros.com

The staff gathers for a group photo after serving hot meals during the Salvation Army lunch hour.

Akron Aeros Lend a Green Thumb at Hale Farm and Village

The Akron Aeros were delighted to aid Hale Farm and Village in their yearly gardening and grounds preparation, Wednesday, May 11.

The Aeros traveled just a few miles north of Canal Park to the Western Reserve Historical Society’s Hale Farm and Village, an outdoor living history museum, reflecting Northeastern Ohio life of the mid-1800’s.

Upon arrival, the Akron Aeros office staff was split into groups, cleaning and weeding lines of oak trees and the village’s vegetable garden. Equipped with shovels, buckets and gloves, the staff enjoyed getting their hands dirty and soaking up the sunny May day.

While touring the village the staff also had the chance to witness live historical re-enactments performed for local elementary school children.

“It was a great opportunity to contribute at Hale Farm. It’s such a unique place for the community to visit and learn about history right before their eyes. We were proud to assist in some way so that the community can continue to take advantage of all Hale Farm has to offer,” Aeros Suites, Picnics and Community Relations Coordinator NICOLE BLUM said.
As part of the “Helping Hands Program,” the Aeros volunteer at a local charity each month in order to reach out to the Akron-Canton community. Next month, the office staff will volunteer at the Salvation Army.

Dan Foust, Assistant General Manager, Media and Marketing, takes a break from gardening to smile for the camera.
Aeros’ office interns David Dugan and Jason Thomas collect weeds for removal.

Akron Aeros, Fans Turn Triple Play: Donations Made to Alabama Tornado Relief Fund, Relay for Life & Local Challenger Baseball League This Past Weekend

The Akron Aeros were pleased to contribute to three worthwhile causes this past weekend.

Friday night, the Aeros teamed up with TTR Shipping of Stow, OH, to collect donations for the Alabama Tornado Relief Fund. Aeros fans stepped up donating more than 1,300 items, including clothing, toys, toiletries and non-perishable food items to the cause. These donations helped fill a 53’ tractor trailer that left Akron this weekend en route to Alabama.

As part of the team’s Breast Cancer Awareness Day, the Aeros wore special pink jerseys on Mother’s Day. Throughout the game, fans had the opportunity to bid on game-worn jerseys of the entire roster with proceeds benefitting Relay for Life. Aeros fans raised more than $2,800 for the continued search for a cure for cancer.

Following Sunday’s Aeros game, the local Challenger baseball leagues of Barberton, Canton, Tallmadge, and Tuscarawas County played a game at Canal Park.  Challenger Baseball provides children and young adults from ages five to 22 with special needs the opportunity to play baseball. Aeros front office members, players and coaches participated in Sunday’s event with the challenger participants, by helping them run the bases and field ground balls, as well as signing autographs and posing for a team photo following their game.

The Akron Aeros also donated autographed merchandise to the Barberton Challenger League to raise funds for the State Tournament they are hosting in July. The silent auction raised nearly $500 for the tournament.

“We had an amazing weekend at Canal Park and Aeros fans showed heart-warming generosity in support of those in need. The Aeros would like to thank those fans who brought items to donate to the Alabama Tornado Relief Fund and those who contributed to Relay for Life. Our entire front office staff and players enjoyed hosting the Challenger Baseball group and hopefully created some fantastic memories for all participants,” Aeros Chief Operating Officer JIM PFANDER said.

For information on additional Akron Aeros community outreach efforts, visit akronaeros.com

Nicole Blum, Community Relations Coordinator, sorts boxes of items donated by Aeros’ fans last Friday. (Photo courtesy of Akron Aeros)
Aeros players high-five their Challenger Baseball teammates. (Photo courtesy of Akroon Aeros)
The Akron Aeros pose with the Challenger Baseball team for a group photo after Sunday’s game. (Photo courtesy of Akron Aeros)

Akron Aeros Staff Volunteers at Mobile Meals for April Community Service Project

The Akron Aeros office staff took a break from the ballpark on Tuesday, April 19 to volunteer at Akron’s own local non-profit, Mobile Meals, as their monthly community service venture.

The group met at the Kenmore Senior Community Center and split into five driving routes to distribute frozen, hot and special-diet meals to residence in the Kenmore area. Elaine Seyerle, Mobile Meals’ Director of Case Management, showed the staff how to decipher routes and read food orders, helping the group to deliver a portion of the 3,500 meals the organization provides daily to the elderly, disabled individuals and children.

“I really enjoyed delivering the food. Everyone greeted us at the door with a smile. I could just see how grateful they were,” said TYLER McNUTT, Akron Aeros Sales Associate.

After the routes were completed, the Aeros staff arrived at the Mobile Meals headquarters for an education session and a tour of the facility.

“It’s amazing to see all of the work that goes on behind the scenes. They are truly a great asset to this community, and I really hope other people take notice and volunteer,” said MIKE LINK, Akron Aeros Group Sales Representative.

Mobile Meals offers not only meal and supplement delivery, but also grocery shopping services, dining centers and nutrition education and counseling to North Eastern Ohio.

For more information on volunteering and getting involved with Mobile Meals, visit their website at www.mobilemealsinc.org.

Aeros’ staff Brett Joyce, Nate Michel and Sierra Sawtelle organize driving routes for their meal deliveries.
Aeros’ staff Nicole Blum and Steve Baer help one another with loading meals into the vehicles.

Centrix Bank Community Outing Fundraising Program Raises $109,869.15 for Local Community in 2010

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats, Double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, and Centrix Bank today announce that the Centrix Bank Community Outing Fundraising Program helped to raise $109,869.15 for various organizations in the local community during the 2010 baseball season through ticket sales, 50/50 raffles and concessions sales at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium.

“Centrix Bank is delighted to again partner with the Fisher Cats to raise greatly needed money in support of numerous local charitable organizations: made even more important during this challenging economic period,” said Joe Reilly, President and CEO of Centrix Bank.

Through the Centrix Bank Community Outing Fundraising Program, non-profit organizations can retain up to $4 for every ticket they sell for a Fisher Cats game, along with a portion of the funds raised through 50/50 raffles and special concessions sales. Groups are also able to raise awareness for their causes through flyers, concourse displays and on-field presentations at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium.  The Fisher Cats and the Fisher Cats Foundation have helped to generate over $1.6 million for 1,900 regional non-profit organizations by making donations, in-kind donations and by hosting 482 fundraisers at the ballpark.

“We are fortunate to work along side Joe Reilly and Centrix Bank in our efforts to have a positive impact in the community,” said Fisher Cats President Rick Brenner.  “Being able to help the non-profit organizations in our area raise money and awareness for their causes is something we try to do whenever we can.”

Centrix Bank is a full-service commercial bank offering highly personalized and responsive service to small to medium sized businesses and professionals, municipalities and not-for-profits throughout New Hampshire. For more about Centrix Bank, please visit www.centrixbank.com.

$157, 861.68 Raised at Granite State Baseball Dinner

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats, Double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, today announced that $157, 861.68 was raised for charity at the Granite State Baseball Dinner, presented by Northeast Delta Dental, on November 20, 2010.  Monies raised through dinner ticket sales, raffle tickets and silent and live memorabilia auctions benefit the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD), the Ted Williams Museum and the Fisher Cats Foundation.

“We are thrilled to have held another successful evening of fundraising and entertainment with so many friends, fans, business partners and volunteers at the Granite State Baseball Dinner, presented by Northeast Delta Dental,” said Fisher Cats owner and chairman of the Fisher Cats Foundation board Art Solomon.  “Thanks to the courtesy of our special guests and the generosity of our community, many wonderful memories were made to go along with meaningful financial contributions toward the worthy charities.”

“On behalf of everyone at CHaD, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the entire Fisher Cats organization, the Ted Williams Museum and the hard working volunteer committee members who helped make the Granite State Baseball Dinner a resounding success,” said Paul Merguerian, MD, Director of CHaD.  “As New Hampshire’s only comprehensive, full service children’s hospital, we are extremely grateful for the Fisher Cats’ generous commitment to the children and families of NH.  It is because of acts of generosity and kindness like this that we are able to provide the very best care for all our state’s children regardless of their family’s ability to pay.  Thank you Fisher Cats-you are number one in our book.”

CHaD, the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock, is New Hampshire’s only NACRI approved, comprehensive, full-service, family-centered children’s hospital.  CHaD offers compassionate care for the most critically ill and injured children throughout New Hampshire and Vermont, and beyond, regardless of a family’s ability to pay. The proceeds received from the Granite State Baseball Dinner help CHaD further its mission to provide each child the best care, in the right place, at the right time, every time.  CHaD’s facilities include a comprehensive, full-service hospital in Lebanon, which is also home to northern New England’s only Level-I Pediatric Trauma Center, and outpatient facilities offering a full array of specialty care in Lebanon, Manchester, Nashua and Dover.  In southern New Hampshire alone, there are 53 specialists in over 16 pediatric specialties delivering care close to home for kids with chronic and acute illnesses. As a part of the renowned Dartmouth Medical School, with its stellar reputation for innovative research, CHaD’s physicians are among the first to know about advancements in technology and clinical practice, which translates to the best care for patients.

The goal of the Ted Williams Museum is to preserve and build on the rich tradition and heritage of our national pastime in a mission of outreach and education.  The proceeds received from the Granite State Baseball Dinner are instrumental in ensuring the museum’s continued existence and in providing for numerous youth baseball programs and scholarships for deserving student athletes.  The Museum also provides assistance to charitable organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club, the Children’s Dream Fund, the Pediatric Cancer Foundation and many more.

“We are so thrilled to be a part of a truly special event that brings fans and their sports heroes together, all for a selfless and commendable cause,” said Ted Williams Museum and Hitters Hall of Fame Executive Director Dave McCarthy. “We’d like to thank our partners the New Hampshire Fisher Cats and CHaD, and everyone who generously opened up their hearts to help us in furthering our mission of celebrating baseball through outreach and education.”

The Fisher Cats Foundation is a statewide charitable organization dedicated to bettering the lives of young people by supporting CHaD and providing scholarships to college-bound New Hampshire and Massachusetts students.  In 2010, the Fisher Cats Foundation awarded $30,000 in scholarships to 12 high school seniors and has awarded a total of $110,000 in scholarships since 2007.  With proceeds from the Granite State Baseball Dinner, the Fisher Cats Foundation also makes contributions to local and regional non-profit organizations such as City Year, the American Red Cross, the Monarchs Care Foundation, the Bella Tucker Fund and many more.

Fisher Cats Partake in Annual Day of Caring

Members of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats front office spent Wednesday morning volunteering their services at the New Hampshire Food Bank in Manchester and the Londonderry Toys for Tots as a part of the club’s annual Day of Caring.  The Fisher Cats front office also participated in the Salvation Army’s Adopt-a-Family program and contributed gifts to local family in need during the holidays.

“It’s the very least that we can do as an organization and as individuals,” said Fisher Cats President Rick Brenner.  “These special organizations and their volunteers work tirelessly to make a positive difference in so many lives, especially during the holidays. We’re just honored to lend a hand.”

Half of the Fisher Cats staff headed to the New Hampshire Food Bank warehouse in Manchester where they assisted the Food Bank staff in sorting donated food items in preparation for delivery.  The other half of the Fisher Cats staff visited the Londonderry Toys for Tots headquarters and helped with organizing donated toys and readying them for distribution.

Earlier in the week, a local family participating in the Salvation Army’s Adopt-a-Family program visited Merchantsauto.com Stadium and received gifts including toys, clothes and Fisher Cats merchandise donated by each member of the Fisher Cats front office staff.

“There is no better feeling than knowing you can help to make someone’s holiday season a little bit brighter,” said Danielle Matteau, Fisher Cats Executive Director of Marketing and Public Affairs.  “As a staff, we just feel fortunate that we are able to make a difference.”