Missing Children Featured on Volcanoes Stadium Signs Found

KEIZER, Ore — The Salem-Keizer Volcanoes, Short Season-A Affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, are excited to announce that all four children featured on the Missing Children Signs displayed at Volcanoes Stadium this past summer have been safely located and found.

In partnering with the BairFind Foundation, the Volcanoes featured Miranda Acosta, Lillian Lange, Valerie Miller, and Nakira Scott throughout Volcanoes Stadium during the 2016 season on BairFoundation Missing Children signs.

The BairFind Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to finding missing children confirmed in August that Miranda, Lillian, and Valerie had been located and just recently that Nakira had been found on November 21 in Portland, Oregon.

The Foundation would like to point out that the number one proven method to finding missing children is to have as many eyes as possible looking. If you or someone you know has any information on the whereabouts of a missing child, please call 1-800-THE-LOST.

The Volcanoes plan to continue their very successful partnership with the BairFoundation in 2017. “Whatever role we can play in helping reunite children with the families is very important to us,” said Volcanoes’ President of Business Operations Luke Emanuel. “We’re delighted with the success and look forward to providing assistance, as needed, in the future.”

The Volcanoes Stadium Box Office and Team Store are both open year-round on all business days from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information regarding 2017 ticketing packages, and additional requests, call the Volcanoes Stadium Box Office at 503-390-2225 or visit volcanoesbaseball.com

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

Shuckers Hit Home Run with Community Contributions and Initiatives in 2016

BILOXI, MS – During the Biloxi Shuckers second season, the team continued to give back to the community. The Shuckers have become a resource for local organizations including non-profits and schools by helping to raise funds and awareness through various methods.

The Shuckers and its concessionaire, Spectra Food Services & Hospitality raised over $178,000 for local nonprofits and donated over $30,000 of in-kind contributions. Through Shuckers initiatives including the Ticket Fundraising Program, In-Stadium Auctions and Spectra NFP Fundraising Program which benefits qualified local 501 (c) (3) nonprofit groups through concessions, the club led the ten-member Southern League for In-Stadium Fundraising.

Among the highlights of the organization’s 2016 charitable work included providing a platform for: Habitat for Humanity, Biloxi Miracle League, Mississippi Center for Autism and Related Learning Disabilities, Jackson County Animal Shelter, Memorial Hospital Foundation and Favre 4 Hope, Special Olympics, Salvation Army of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, ALS Association, American Cancer Society and Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art.

“We give back to our community because we believe we have a responsibility to do so,” stated Shuckers Community Relations and Promotions Coordinator Jenifer Truong. “Whether it’s local schools or non-profits, the Shuckers offer not only a chance to raise funds for your organization, but also awareness to a large audience.”

In addition to the organization’s charitable contributions, Shuckers’ season ticket holders donated just over 1,500 tickets to local non-profits, military personnel and their families, and first responders. The organization also made frequent mascot and player appearances in the community and members of the Shuckers front office also joined forces to record over 200 hours of community service in 2016.

Spectra’s NFP program seeks to provide qualified nonprofit groups and civic organizations a unique fundraising opportunity. Groups provide volunteers to assist with concession stand operations as cashiers, vendors, and stand workers. Those organizations work to reach fundraising goals while providing great service to fans.

“Involving area nonprofit organizations in our operation has helped us hit a home run with the community and Shuckers’ fans,” said Spectra General Manager Mike Brulatour. “Since the opening of MGM Park in June 2015, thousands of volunteers have raised over $300,000 for their respective charities. The commitment and dedication of these volunteers has enabled us to provide a consistent level of exceptional customer service to our patrons while supporting the Mississippi Gulf Coast communities which we serve. Spectra Food Services and Hospitality strives to be a strong partner with the Biloxi Shuckers and a valued member of the Gulf Coast business community.”

Organizations interested in partnering with Spectra or the Shuckers may contact Mike Brulatour at mike_brulatour@comcastspectacor.com or Jenifer Truong at jtruong@biloxishuckers.com.

The Biloxi Shuckers are the Double-A Affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The Shuckers play at MGM Park in Biloxi, Mississippi. For more information please visit biloxishuckers.com and follow us on Twitter @biloxishuckers and at facebook.com/biloxishuckers.com.

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

PawSox Charitable Foundation Adopts Family of 6

This holiday season, members of the PawSox front office “adopted” a local family in partnership with the Pawtucket Soup Kitchen. Thanks to donations from front office members, the PawSox were able to purchase gifts for family’s 4 children.

Paws, the team’s mascot, delivered the wrapped gifts to the family on Saturday at the Pawtucket Soup Kitchen’s annual Ernie Marot Memorial Adopt-a-Family Christmas Party. PawSox front office members joined Paws in spreading cheer to underprivileged families in the area.

The Pawtucket Soup Kitchen provides nearly 40,000 meals a year to families in need, many of which the PawSox and our generous players are happy to serve. This year, the PawSox/Skeffington Charitable Foundation proudly sponsored the Soup Kitchen’s Thanksgiving and Christmas meals.

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

Cutters & NYPL Foundation Donate to the American Rescue Workers

The Williamsport Crosscutters and the New York-Penn League Foundation recently donated over $8,000 to the American Rescue Workers. The donation represented the proceeds from the New York-Penn League Foundation 50/50 Raffle held at Cutters games in 2016.

“We were delighted to have the American Rescue Workers as a partner in our nightly 50/50 raffle and look forward to assisting them in their mission again in 2017,” said Cutters Vice-President of Marketing and Public Relations, Gabe Sinicropi. “The amount generated exceeded our expectations and we want to thank all of our fans for their support.”

This past season, the Crosscutters utilized the services of 50/50 Central, a company that provides electronic 50/50 raffle services to many sports teams across the U.S.

Monies generated from the 50/50 raffle go directly to the New York-Penn League Foundation and are then distributed to the American Rescue Workers.

The mission of the American Rescue Workers, founded in 1884, is to give spiritual and material aid to those in need.

The New York-Penn League and its 14 member clubs created the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, in 2003. The mission of the Foundation is to provide focus and support for the collective and individual charitable and community efforts of the New York-Penn League, its Clubs, and their staff.

### CUTTERS BASEBALL…FUN ON THE CUTTING EDGE###

Photo Identifier- Members of the Williamsport Crosscutters present a check for $8,151.22 to the American Rescue Workers. The check represents the proceeds from the team’s 2016 50/50 raffles.

(L-R) Sarah Budd – Crosscutters Dir. of Community Relations, Col. Dawn Astin – ARW Co-Commanding Officer, Col. Sam Astin- ARW Co-Commanding Officer, Doug Estes – Crosscutters Vice-President/General Manager

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

River Cats, K-LOVE, and Raley’s bring Holiday cheer with bear drive

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA – The Sacramento River Cats are excited to partner with Raley’s and K-LOVE for a Holiday “Buster Cozy” teddy bear drive on Sunday, December 18th. The three organizations are coming together to benefit families and children in need this Holiday season.

Customers visiting Raley’s Loomis on Sunday, December 18th between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. will have the opportunity to purchase a “Buster Cozy” teddy bear at time of check out. All proceeds from these bears will benefit Raley’s Food for Families, an organization that helps provide meals to families. While this program is important year-round, Food for Families is especially impactful during the holiday months and every bit of support goes a long way.

After purchasing a “Buster Cozy”, customers will then have the option to donate their merry teddy bear to the River Cats and K-LOVE. In turn, the bears will be gifted to the Child Abuse Prevention Center and from there, the bears will make their way to children as cuddly holiday gifts. In addition, all those that donate their bears to the River Cats and K-LOVE will receive two tickets to a 2017 River Cats game.

Santa Claus and Dinger will also be joining the drive on the 18th, further spreading holiday cheer to fans and customers.

The “Buster Cozy” holiday teddy bears are available at Raley’s locations across Northern California. The River Cats and K-LOVE will join Santa Claus and Dinger at Raley’s Loomis for this very merry bear drive on Sunday, December 18th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

***

The Sacramento River Cats are the Triple-A affiliate of the three-time World Champion San Francisco Giants. The team plays at Raley Field in West Sacramento, consistently voted one of the top ballparks in America. River Cats Season Tickets, Mini-Plans, and Flex Plans can be purchased for the 2017 season by calling the River Cats Ticket Hotline at (916) 371-HITS (4487). For more information about the River Cats, visit www.rivercats.com. For information on other events at Raley Field, visit www.raleyfield.com.

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

Local Program Recipient of Phillies Charities, Inc. Grant

The Philadelphia Phillies recently announced that their charity arm, Phillies, Charities, Inc., has awarded a $10,000 grant to Montoursville based K’s For Cancer.

K’s for Cancer is a 501(c)(3) public charity created in the memory of Justin Flannery Hilton. The organization raises money to provide direct and immediate support for everyday items like gas, food, and more for cancer patients and their families in Lycoming County.

Each year, Phillies Charities, Inc. awards dozens of local charities and organizations who are making an impact in the Phillies’ major league and minor league community.

“Each year, Phillies Charities reaches out to us to provide information about worthy charities in our area,” said Sarah Budd the Crosscutters Director of Ticket Operations & Community Relations. “We are elated they chose to support K’s For Cancer, an organization we have supported for a number of years.”

Representatives from K’s For Cancer, accompanied by Crosscutters representatives, will be in attendance on Tuesday, Dec. 13, at the Phillies Charities, Inc. Holiday Giving Party at Citizens Bank Park, where they will be recognized and saluted along with other award recipients by the organization for their charitable efforts.

In the past year, more than $1.2 million was awarded by Phillies Charities, Inc. to charitable organizations in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and near the Phillies spring training and minor league affiliates. Phillies Charities, Inc. serves as the fundraising arm of the Phillies organization and awards grants to a variety of charitable organizations each year. For more information on Phillies Charities, Inc. please visit www.phillies.com/community.

The Crosscutters 2017 home opener is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, June 20 against the State College Spikes. For more information visit www.crosscutters.com or call (570) 326-3389.

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

3rd Annual Auggie’s Holiday BUZZar & Toys for Tots Drive

AUGUSTA, GA: The Augusta GreenJackets, South Atlantic League affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, have announced the Third Annual “Auggie’s Holiday BUZZar” presented by the Augusta Chronicle, Kicks 99, HD 98.3, 93.9 Bob FM and WRDW Channel 12/26. Join the GreenJackets for this FREE event open to the public at Lake Olmstead Stadium on Saturday, December 10th from 11 AM to 2 PM.

“This year we’ve added some extra BUZZ to this annual tradition with the vendor fair and we’re excited to have the CSRA come out and do their holiday shopping at the Lake,” stated Tom Denlinger, GreenJackets General Manager. “Toys for Tots is such a great organization and is in need of lots of toys this holiday season. We hope you’ll come, bring a toy and enjoy the FUN with us. ”

The GreenJackets are planning an event with FUN for the whole family, including (but not limited to):

  • Toys for Tots Drive – bring an unwrapped toy and receive a FREE Hot Dog & Coca-Cola Soda
  • HUGE Vendor Fair with over 40 uniquely different vendors (listed below)
  • FREE Pictures and meet and greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus (11AM-1PM)
  • Appearance by the GreenJackets mascot, Auggie
  • First 100 fans receive a complimentary cupcake, courtesy of Piece of Cake Bakery
  • Inflatables for Kids (Moon Bounce, Obstacle Course, Wiffle Ball)
  • Discounts on GreenJackets Merchandise in the Hive Pro Shop – Spin the Wheel of FUN to see how much you save
  • Opportunity to purchase GreenJackets Holiday Packages – perfect gift for the fan in your life
  • Complimentary Coffee and Hot Chocolate
  • Ahmen Korner Bar & Grill open with grilled items, nachos & cheese, cold beverages available for purchase

New to the 3rd Annual Auggie’s Holiday BUZZar we have a HUGE Vendor Fair for all of your holiday shopping needs. The whole family is encouraged to come out and visit the following vendors in the BUZZar:

  • Air Plant Terrariums and Gardens from Janet, Anne’s Farm at Walden Woods, Avon, Baby Baby Couture, Blue Willow Botanical & Soap Company, Cyanotype prints, patches and more from Lindsay, Distressed Timber Designs, Doyle’s Candles, CRUNCH Fitness, Goat Milk soap and products from Cindy, Grand Canyon University, Handmade Bath Product from Leslie, Handmade Beaded Jewelry and Holiday Knick Knacks from Lindsay, Handmade crafts, blankets and more from Harry, Handmade crochet items and bags from Janet, Handmade Jewelry and Hand Painted Plaques from Dyanna, Jamberry Hand and Nail Care/Art, JB Pen Turning, LulaRoe, Macaroni Kid Augusta, Mary Kay, Moonbeam Muchness, Nothing In Particular, Ornaments, shot glasses and more from Erica, Osborne Books, Paparazzi Jewelry, Perfectly Posh, Plexus Worldwide, Pure Romance, Rodan+Fields Skincare, Scrapbooks and gift sets also more from Marie, Second Chance Woodcrafts, Southern Siding, SportClips, Wells Fargo, WOW Internet and Cable, Younique and MUCH MORE to come as well!

The GreenJackets are excited to host Touch a Truck as a part of the festivities. Families are encouraged to join us and see the following vehicles at Lake Olmstead Stadium:

  • Ambulance from SouthStar Ambulance, Fire Truck from Richmond County Fire, Humvee from Georgia Army National Guard, Kubota Mower from J&B Tractor, Police Car from Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, Toro Mower from Jerry Pate Turf & Irrigation, Tractor from White Cap and more to come.

As a part of “Auggie’s Holiday BUZZar,” the GreenJackets are offering vendors the opportunity to set up. For more information contact Shannon Mitchell at (706) 922-WINS (9467) or email smitchell@greenjacketsbaseball.com. The fee is $20, and you must provide your own table and chairs.

All GreenJackets Ticket Packages, including the all-new 6-Game Flex Holiday Package, Full, Half, and Weekend Packages are on sale now for the 2017 Season. For more information, including pricing and benefits on all plans, visit www.GreenJacketsBaseball.com or contact the GreenJackets Front Office at (706) 922-WINS (9467).

To stay up to date during the off season sign up for the ‘Jackets Buzz e-newsletter by visiting

www.GreenJacketsBaseball.com/thebuzz.

– GreenJackets –

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

Paws for Presents Toy Drive 2016

Paws for Presents Toy Drive is BACK as the Chihuahuas Foundation, El Paso Fire Department and Operation Santa partner together again in 2016

EL PASO – November 30, 2016 -The El Paso Chihuahuas Foundation and the El Paso Fire Department present “Paws for Presents” for the third year, a holiday toy drive assisting Operation Santa, a Fort Bliss-based charity.

The drive will run from Thursday, December 1st through Saturday, December 24th. The Chihuahuas and the Fire Department request all gifts be new and not gift wrapped for children up to the age of 13. Monetary donations are also welcome with checks made payable to Operation Santa.

Anyone that brings a new toy for donation at the Durango Team Shop (located at 1 Ballpark Plaza on Durango St) during their normal operating hours will receive a 5% holiday savings upon check out on your entire purchase. Fans can also donate new or gently used toys at any of the 34 El Paso neighborhood fire stations.

“Santa Chico” will also be available for a meet/greet and picture time in the Durango Team Shop on the first three Saturdays in December (December 3rd, 10th & 17th) from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Donate a toy, do some holiday shopping and take a family picture with Chico!

The Durango Team Shop will be open for all your gift shopping needs from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Monday through Saturday, and 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on Sundays through December 24th.

“It’s a privilege for the Chihuahuas to team up with our local fire department and Operation Santa to provide gifts for kids this time of year,” said Brad Taylor, El Paso Chihuahuas general manager.

Operation Santa, in its 59th season, distributes toys and bicycles to military families, the Boys and Girls Club of El Paso and clinics in Juarez, Mexico. The non-profit, located on Fort Bliss, has donated millions of toys and tens of thousands of bikes to the military and civilian communities.

For more information on the Paws for Presents Toy Drive call (915) 242-2043.

PAWS FOR PRESENTS TOY DRIVE

WHAT: “Paws for Presents”, a toy drive benefiting Operation Santa. Toys must be new and unwrapped for children up to the age of 13. Monetary donations also accepted.

WHEN: Thursday, December 1st through Saturday, December 24, 2016.

WHERE: El Paso Chihuahuas Team Shop on Durango and El Paso Fire Department’s 34 stations

3rd Annual Auggie’s Holiday BUZZar & Toys for Tots Drive

AUGUSTA, GA: The Augusta GreenJackets, South Atlantic League affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, have announced the Third Annual “Auggie’s Holiday BUZZar” presented by the Augusta Chronicle, Kicks 99, HD 98.3, 93.9 Bob FM and WRDW Channel 12/26. Join the GreenJackets for this FREE event open to the public at Lake Olmstead Stadium on Saturday, December 10th from 11 AM to 2 PM.

“This year we’ve added some extra BUZZ to this annual tradition with the vendor fair and we’re excited to have the CSRA come out and do their holiday shopping at the Lake,” stated Tom Denlinger, GreenJackets General Manager. “Toys for Tots is such a great organization and is in need of lots of toys this holiday season. We hope you’ll come, bring a toy and enjoy the FUN with us. ”

The GreenJackets are planning an event with FUN for the whole family, including (but not limited to):

  • Toys for Tots Drive – bring an unwrapped toy and receive a FREE Hot Dog & Coca-Cola Soda
  • HUGE Vendor Fair with over 40 uniquely different vendors (listed below)
  • FREE Pictures and meet and greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus (11AM-1PM)
  • Appearance by the GreenJackets mascot, Auggie
  • First 100 fans receive a complimentary cupcake, courtesy of Piece of Cake Bakery
  • Inflatables for Kids (Moon Bounce, Obstacle Course, Wiffle Ball)
  • Discounts on GreenJackets Merchandise in the Hive Pro Shop – Spin the Wheel of FUN to see how much you save
  • Opportunity to purchase GreenJackets Holiday Packages – perfect gift for the fan in your life
  • Complimentary Coffee and Hot Chocolate
  • Ahmen Korner Bar & Grill open with grilled items, nachos & cheese, cold beverages available for purchase

New to the 3rd Annual Auggie’s Holiday BUZZar we have a HUGE Vendor Fair for all of your holiday shopping needs. The whole family is encouraged to come out and visit the following vendors in the BUZZar:

  • Air Plant Terrariums and Gardens from Janet, Anne’s Farm at Walden Woods, Avon, Baby Baby Couture, Blue Willow Botanical & Soap Company, Cyanotype prints, patches and more from Lindsay, Distressed Timber Designs, Doyle’s Candles, CRUNCH Fitness, Goat Milk soap and products from Cindy, Grand Canyon University, Handmade Bath Product from Leslie, Handmade Beaded Jewelry and Holiday Knick Knacks from Lindsay, Handmade crafts, blankets and more from Harry, Handmade crochet items and bags from Janet, Handmade Jewelry and Hand Painted Plaques from Dyanna, Jamberry Hand and Nail Care/Art, JB Pen Turning, LulaRoe, Macaroni Kid Augusta, Mary Kay, Moonbeam Muchness, Nothing In Particular, Ornaments, shot glasses and more from Erica, Osborne Books, Paparazzi Jewelry, Perfectly Posh, Plexus Worldwide, Pure Romance, Rodan+Fields Skincare, Scrapbooks and gift sets also more from Marie, Second Chance Woodcrafts, Southern Siding, Wells Fargo, WOW Internet and Cable, Younique and MUCH MORE to come as well!

The GreenJackets are excited to host Touch a Truck as a part of the festivities. Families are encouraged to join us and see the following vehicles at Lake Olmstead Stadium:

  • Ambulance from SouthStar Ambulance, Fire Truck from Richmond County Fire, Humvee from Georgia Army National Guard, Kubota Mower from J&B Tractor, Police Car from Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, Toro Mower from Jerry Pate Turf & Irrigation, Tractor from White Cap and more to come.

As a part of “Auggie’s Holiday BUZZar,” the GreenJackets are offering vendors the opportunity to set up. For more information contact Shannon Mitchell at (706) 922-WINS (9467) or email smitchell@greenjacketsbaseball.com. The fee is $20, and you must provide your own table and chairs.

All GreenJackets Ticket Packages, including the all-new 6-Game Flex Holiday Package, Full, Half, and Weekend Packages are on sale now for the 2017 Season. For more information, including pricing and benefits on all plans, visit www.GreenJacketsBaseball.com or contact the GreenJackets Front Office at (706) 922-WINS (9467).

To stay up to date during the off season sign up for the ‘Jackets Buzz e-newsletter by visiting

www.GreenJacketsBaseball.com/thebuzz.

– GreenJackets –

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

Cougars Announce Annual Winter Coat Drive Begins December 1

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced the kick off for the organization’s annual winter coat drive. Beginning Thursday, December 1 fans are welcome to stop by the Cougars administrative office at Northwestern Medicine Field (34W002 Cherry Lane, Geneva, IL 60134) between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to donate winter coats for those in need this holiday season.

Donations of new or gently-used winter coats for infants, children and adults are all encouraged. Fans will receive one (1) undated reserved seat ticket voucher valid for a 2017 regular season Cougars game with each donated item. There is a maximum of 10 complimentary ticket vouchers per fan.

In partnership with the Salvation Army Tri-City Corps, all donated coats will be given to area families in need of cold-weather outerwear this winter.

The Cougars are requesting that all gently-used winter coats be donated by Saturday, December 17 at 11 a.m.

For more information, contact the Cougars front office at 630-232-8811.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates on tickets and promotions for the 2017 season

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 151 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

***

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

Support The Children’s Home Society of New Jersey with Ticket Purchases This Holiday Season

The 12th 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 before January 2, the Thunder will provide tickets for families in the Holiday Gift Outreach program run by the Children’s Home Society of New Jersey to attend a 2017 Thunder game.

“Sharing the experience of a baseball game with family and friends is special and we are thrilled to partner with the Children’s Home Society of New Jersey to provide that opportunity to deserving families,” said Thunder GM/COO Jeff Hurley.

In the first 11 years of the Gift of Baseball program, the Thunder have donated 7,924 tickets to CHSofNJ.

“Trenton Thunder continues to be a strong and caring community partner,” praised Donna Pressma, President & CEO of CHSofNJ. “The Children’s Home Society of New Jersey is honored to have the opportunity through their generosity to offer the Gift of Baseball to so many of our children and families.

The emphasis on family values that the Thunder and CHSofNJ shares has remained a high priority for both organizations throughout their 11-year partnership.

“Family outings are often too rare for our children,” said Pressma. “Spending a day at the ballpark watching our home team play with determination and heart gives hope and makes memories that our children will keep for the rest of their lives. Thank you Trenton Thunder and all of your caring fans who make this possible.”

2017 Mini Plans are on sale now. Mini plans include five or six of the most popular games on the schedule, free food at each a game, a free Thunder gift, complimentary tickets to Opening Night and a select night in the picnic area, 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 that best fit their schedule. This flexible plan includes, a $1 savings on every ticket, a free food option, free tickets to Opening Night and a complimentary ticket in the Picnic Area as well as a limited edition Thunder gift. More information can be found here: PIC-A-PLANS

Season Tickets are available as either a full (70 games) or half (35 games) and include added value like early entry, a picnic with the players, bus trips 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 2017 season, the 24th in franchise history, will begin at ARM & HAMMER Park on April 13 when the Thunder host the Portland Sea Dogs (Boston Red Sox) at 7:00 p.m. Single game tickets will go on sale in March 2017. For more information on the Thunder, visit www.TrentonThunder.com or call 609-394-3300.

BlueClaws Charities Completes Grant Program With Grants to 35 Local Partner Organizations

LAKEWOOD, NJ – BlueClaws Charities, the official 501c3 organization of the Lakewood BlueClaws, handed out grants to 35 partner organizations as part of their 8th annual grant distribution.

BlueClaws Charities Community Partner organizations, all 501c3s that work with the BlueClaws throughout the year, were eligible to apply for a grant and all organizations that applied for a grant received one.

Each applicant was asked to detail a specific use for the grant, with the requirement that all money received from BlueClaws Charities stays in Ocean & Monmouth Counties. A complete list can be found below.

“BlueClaws Charities is excited to support such a wide variety of outstanding, local, non-profit organizations,” said Jim DeAngelis, BlueClaws Charities Executive Director. “These organizations are on the ground working with the underserved in our communities, doing spectacular work. It is an honor for BlueClaws Charities to be able to assist.”

BlueClaws Charities, a registered 501c3 organization, raises money at all 70 BlueClaws home games. A 50/50 raffle, special jersey auctions, and miscellaneous programs are used to raise money during games. The annual “Phillies Winter Banquet,” “ALS Celebrity Waiter Event,” “Bowling With the BlueClaws,” and the “BlueClaws Charities Nine & Dine Golf Outing” are additional fundraising initiatives conducted by BlueClaws Charities.

“Our fans and donors have been tremendously supportive of BlueClaws Charities over the years, and this year was no exception,” said DeAngelis. “We look forward to another successful season in 2017!”

Below, find a list of organizations and programs supported through the annual BlueClaws Charities grant program:

  • ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia – For patient care services to help the 50 ALS patient families living in Monmouth & Ocean Counties.
  • American Heart Association – For their Heart Walk, a community event that encourages physical activity to help lower risk factors that can lead to heart disease.
  • Arc of Ocean County – For their mission of helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities be accepted and valued as citizens of the community.
  • Ashley Lauren Foundation – For assisting children with cancer and their families through direct financial assistance.
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ocean County – For providing group mentoring activities to children on their waiting list of 180 children, enabling them to be involved with the agency.
  • Boot Campaign – For raising awareness and assistance for military families and personnel especially relating to the unique challenges they face during and post-service.
  • Caregiver Volunteers – For defraying the cost of criminal background checks completed on volunteers prior to assignments.
  • Cheer Dream Scoliosis Foundation – For assisting children with medical needs in their facility.
  • Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation – For improving the quality of life for children and adults affected by the diseases.
  • Daniela’s Wish – For granting wishes to sick children in the community.
  • Dottie’s House – For providing safe housing for women and their children through a program that empowers them to become self-sufficient and free from violence.
  • Easter Seals New Jersey – For installing a new ram and deck to an existing residential home for Easter Seals program participants.
  • Exit 82 Theatre Company – For funding their 2017 production season with selected shows.
  • Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund – For providing scholarships for Brick Township High Schools.
  • Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore – For supporting their summer outreach initiative Girls Are Great, which sends underserved girls to camp.
  • Go4TheGoal – For helping kids with cancer in the program achieve their goals.
  • Interfaith Hospitality Network – For supporting their mission of providing emergency shelter and other urgently needed services to a growing number of homeless families in Ocean County.
  • Kids Need More – For enhancing the lives of children, families, and young adults coping with cancer and life-threatening illness.
  • LADACIN Network – For enhancing the program offerings at their Adult Day Habilitation program with a new horticulture gardening and farming experience.
  • Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund – For aiding their mission of aiding and assisting our wounded warriors and their families.
  • Mary’s Place By the Sea – For supporting the oncology massage program for women with cancer.
  • NJ Tears Foundation – For promoting pregnancy and infant loss awareness and support in Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
  • Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity – For assisting in building a home for a single mother and two children in Ocean County.
  • Ocean County Family Support Organization – For assisting in their spring camping trip for youth partnership.
  • Ocean Partnership for Children – For assisting needy youth families during the holiday season.
  • Ocean County Shrine Club – For the Shriners Hospital’s Surgical Navigation System for Children’s Spine Injuries.
  • Ocean County YMCA – For helping kids, families, and seniors in the community find the assets they need in YMCA programs and memberships regardless of incomes and backgrounds.
  • Ocean’s Harbor House – For supplementing the salary of a Life Skills counselor working with homeless youths in their Transitional Living Program.
  • Opportunity Knocks – For assisting in long-term community placement of the disabled.
  • Parents of Autistic Children – For providing a challenger sports league designed to offer a socialization opportunity for disabled students and developing peers in Ocean and Monmouth Counties.
  • Piece of the Puzzle – For technology to help students with autism learn and practice vocational skills.
  • Raising Hope for Others – For assisting the organization with financial costs for organizing and running their major fundraising events.
  • Salvation Army – For funding their feeding program for local underserved.
  • St. Vincent DePaul Society – For helping to fund temporary sheltering of local homeless.
  • United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties – For acquiring hats, coats, gloves, and scarves to help keep children warm this winter.

BlueClaws Charities, in addition to the grant program, supports hundreds of non-profit organizations with gift package donations, golf outing hole-in-one sponsorships, and specialty organizations such as OCEAN, Inc., a federal program that assists the less fortunate in the community. The “Tickets for Kids Program,” another BlueClaws Charities initiative, donates over 2,000 tickets to under-served youths in Lakewood and elsewhere in Ocean County.

Organizations that would like to become Community Partners can call Jim DeAngelis at 732-901-7000 ext 114. Community Partners raise money through a BlueClaws fundraiser outing and have the opportunity to volunteer in the FirstEnergy Park concession stands to raise additional funds. These organizations also receive exposure through on-field presentations, table displays, and on BlueClaws.com, plus they have special opportunities to hold events, such as charity walks, at FirstEnergy Park.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League and New Jersey in attendance in each year of existence and will reach the 7-million fan plateau in 2017.

– BlueClaws Charities –

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

New PawSox Scholars Program to Provide College Scholarships to Area Middle Schoolers

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Representative Carlos Tobon (State Representative for Pawtucket’s District 58), Mayor James Diossa (Mayor of Central Falls), Ethan Hoke (PawSox Scholar from Central Falls), Dr. Charles Steinberg (PawSox President), Charlisa Kollie (PawSox Scholar from Pawtucket), Mayor Don Grebien (Mayor of Pawtucket), and Representative Jean Philippe Barros (State Representative for Pawtucket’s District 59).

PAWTUCKET, RI – The Pawtucket Red Sox and the PawSox/Skeffington Charitable Foundation today announced the creation of the PawSox Scholars program, in which two middle school students each receive college scholarships of $10,000 from the PawSox/Skeffington Charitable Foundation. The funds will be paid directly to the colleges of their choice for tuition and books upon matriculation.

The children include one from Pawtucket and one from neighboring Central Falls.

Charlisa Kollie, 13, an 8th-grader at Pawtucket’s Samuel Slater Junior High School, and Ethan Hoke, 14, an 8th-grader at Central Falls’ Dr. Earl Calcutt Middle School, were selected from among 196 applications. The two school systems oversaw the administration of the application process.

“The PawSox Scholars program funds the dream of college,” said PawSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg, who made the announcement. “We know that children face destructive temptations in adolescent life, and we hope that the PawSox Scholars program is an incentive to stay the straight and narrow in both scholastics and citizenship.”

The Pawtucket and Central Falls school systems invited eighth graders to submit applications, including essays. School administrators narrowed the field, and PawSox officials selected the two winners from among the finalists.

“We all know that children are the heartbeat of our community, and that education is the equalizer,” said Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien. “We are grateful to the PawSox Foundation for providing this opportunity of a college education, and for being such a generous community partner.”

“We are so proud of Charlisa Kollie and all of our Pawtucket students,” said Pawtucket Superintendent Patti DiCenso. “This program can dramatically change the lives of our children. It provides hope-an essential element of a child’s education.”

“All of us in Central Falls owe a debt of gratitude to the PawSox Foundation,” said Central Falls Mayor James Diossa. “This scholarship not only sends a message to Ethan Hoke, it sends a message to all of the children of our community. It says, ‘We believe in you, we support you, and we will do whatever we can to ensure that you acquire a great college education.'”

“Ethan wrote a beautiful essay about his love of Central Falls,” said Central Falls Superintendent Victor Capellan. “At his young age, he demonstrated the wisdom that one good deed begets another. It was touching and inspiring to read his thoughtful words.”

“Only through partnership can an innovative program come to fruition,” Steinberg said. “We thank Mayor Grebien and Mayor Diossa, as well as the School Boards and Superintendents for their extraordinary spirit of cooperation.”

PawSox Chairman Larry Lucchino and Steinberg led the creation of similar programs in San Diego (Padres Scholars) and Boston (Red Sox Scholars). In 2011, the Red Sox Scholars program was Major League Baseball’s first-ever recipient of the Commissioner’s Award for Philanthropic Excellence.

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

Baysox Accepting Nominations, Donations for Holiday Hope

BOWIE, Md – 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 aided dozens of area families and 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.

“There are some area families that go through tough circumstances around the holiday season,” said Baysox Marketing Director Brandan Kaiser. “The Baysox are honored to be able to assist them through Louie’s Holiday Hope Project.”

“We are happy to continue our partnership with the Louie’s Holiday Hope Project,” said Shawna Lindberg, Clinical Supervisor at Bowie Youth & Family Services. “We have witnessed this wonderful work, which has impacted so many Bowie families in need. This project has made it possible for parents to provide their families a special meal or gifts for the holiday season.”

To ensure that the program reaches as many families as possible, the Baysox welcome help from fans. Members of the community can nominate families that need assistance by e-mailing info@baysox.com. Submissions should include your name and daytime phone number. 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. 2, 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 28) to donate to local families in need.

The Baysox encourage other local groups and organizations to participate in Louie’s Holiday Hope Project. Local organizations that would like to make a contribution to the program can e-mail info@baysox.com or call the Baysox front office at (301) 805-6000. More information about the program is also available on our website.

The Bowie Baysox season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. The Baysox season has ended, but the team will return in 2017 to celebrate its 25th Season. The team’s 2017 home opener will be Thursday, April 14 against the Harrisburg Senators at 6:35 p.m. To keep up with Baysox news during the offseason, visit baysox.com

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

“Trick-or-Suite” event raises record donation amount

RENO – The Reno Aces Baseball Club and Reno 1868 FC are thrilled to announce that a record amount of food items were donated by over 3,500 attendees at Greater Nevada Field’s annual “Trick-or-Suite” event.

The event allowed children to “trick or treat” on the suite level in advance of Halloween, with admission being $3 or three canned food items per child. Accompanying adults were permitted free entry. Various games, a bounce house and an appearance by Reno Aces mascot “Archie” added to the fun-filled evening.

“Giving back to the community is our main motive,” said Winter Moreno, promotions and community relations coordinator for the Reno Aces and Reno 1868 FC. “Hosting an event like this allows us the opportunity to raise charitable items for a greater cause, while enjoying the many costumes and smiling faces from all participants.”

All proceeds benefited the Food Bank of Northern Nevada.

Both clubs send their appreciation to all volunteers, including the Reno Fire Department and Reno Police Department.

2017 Aces season memberships are on-sale now at www.renoaces.com or by calling (775) 334-4700. Follow the club during the offseason on Twitter (@Aces) or like the team on Facebook. To purchase a Reno 1868 FC founding membership or 2017 season membership, call (775) 334-7001 or visit www.reno1868fc.com. You can follow the club on Twitter (@reno1868fc) or like the team on Facebook.

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