Hooks Fans Donate Nearly $72,000 in 2022

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CORPUS CHRISTI – The Corpus Christi Hooks awarded over $70,000 this past season to several local non-profits through contributions made by fans towards the Astros Foundation Share2Care 50/50 raffle.

Non-profit recipients included CC RIMZ, Texas State Aquarium, Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast & Louisiana, Dr. Hector P. Garcia Memorial Foundation, The Traveling Library, USO South Texas, Corpus Christi Police Officers Association & Corpus Christi Professional Firefighters Association, Military Order of the Purple Heart Foundation Chapter 598, Goodwill Industries of South Texas, Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas, Coastal Bend Food Bank and Rainbow Room.

“Thank you to our fans who make this possible, their support impacts more than just baseball as shown by the diversity of 50/50 raffle recipients in 2022,” Hooks General Manager Brady Ballard said. “The Astros Foundation Share2Care Raffle continues to be a gameday staple and creates a win-win experience for both our fans and the community.”

CC RIMZ promotes adaptive sports within the Coastal Bend. Texas State Aquarium aims to engage people with animals, inspire appreciation for our seas, and support wildlife conservation. The mission of Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast & Louisiana is to create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. The Dr. Hector P. Garcia Memorial Foundation was created to expand awareness of his legacy and the continued relevance of his fight for equal rights for all. The Traveling Library provides knowledge to those in need by providing literature and other resources that are needed. USO South Texas serves NAS Corpus Christi and NAS Kingsville, connecting military service members to family, home and country.

The Corpus Christi Police Officers Association and Corpus Christi Professional Firefighters Association advocate for the safety and well-being of first responders and citizens through community action and support of local non-profit organizations. The Military Order of the Purple Heart Foundation Chapter 598 was formed for the protection and mutual interest of all who have received the decoration and offers youth programs focused on fostering patriotism and good citizenship among America’s youth. Goodwill Industries of South Texas provides job training, placement services, and other Coastal Bend-based programs for people who have barriers to their employment.

The Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas promotes the advancement of women in public, corporate and civic life through education, personal and professional development. Coastal Bend Food Bank fights hunger and promotes wellness through food distribution and nutrition education. Rainbow Room provides hope for abused and neglected children.

Storm Chasers Highlight 2022 Community Service Efforts

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PAPILLION, Neb. – The Omaha Storm Chasers and Chasers Charities have announced highlights of the community service efforts achieved during the 2022 season. In a year which saw an increase in community service opportunities, the Storm Chasers were excited about continuing to build upon recent successes as well as increase their presence in the community. Through their efforts, the Omaha Storm Chasers front office and players committed 683.50 hours in volunteering at over 70 community organizations within the Omaha Metro.

The Chasers’ efforts allowed $23,695 in grants to be awarded to local non-profit youth baseball and softball organizations for field and facility improvements. The Chasers were also able to raise over $36,000 for five local non-profit partners through the jersey auctions during select games in the 2022 season.

“Being a part of and giving back to our local community that supports us is a fundamental pillar of the Omaha Storm Chasers organization,” said VP and General Manager Laurie Schlender. “It is vitally important that we use our platform to help create awareness for these organizations so that they can continue to do such valuable work in our community.”

The 2022 season once again saw fans get involved in important causes. 6,206 cans of non-perishable food was donated through the Hy-Vee Canned Food Sunday promotion and $10,000 was raised for the Ronald McDonald House Charities through the Leonard Management McDonald’s and Woodhouse Auto Family Hurl the Pearl promotion which saw fans purchase softie baseballs to be thrown into the back of a truck driven around the field.

Additional highlights include raising over $15,900 through the Chasers Charities garage sales, two $1,000 scholarships through the Jackie Robinson Athletic Scholarship presented by Weitz Company, $4,000 donated to Playsmart via the Werner Enterprises RBI promotion, and $3,381.50 donated to Operation Ride Home through a partnership with Jack Daniel’s, Republic National Distributing, and Spectra Food Services.

For more information or to see how you can get involved in the Omaha Storm Chasers community service efforts, visit omahastormchasers.com or follow the team on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Appalachian League celebrates 2022 charitable contributions

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CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The Appalachian League announced that the league’s charitable outreach grew to more than $3.4 million of gift-in-kind and monetary donations this year. Additionally, the league and its clubs volunteered more than 11,000 hours of community service.

The league’s reach impacts the towns and cities their 10 teams call home across North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. Appalachian League executives, team staff members and players volunteered through food pantries, reading programs, baseball clinics, toy drives, youth centers, hospital visits and numerous service organizations.

“As league members, we appreciate the opportunity to continue giving back through volunteering, donating and providing outreach to the communities that have supported our clubs for more than 100 years,” stated Elizabethton River Riders GM and Appalachian League Charity Committee Chair Kiva Fuller.

In January, Appy League representatives participated in the 27th annual MLK Day of Service. Volunteering in 11 communities across four states, team members were involved with food pantries, book drives, local YMCA and libraries, as well as the House of Hope and Good Samaritan Ministries.

In conjunction with the League All-Star Game, league executives volunteered at the City Gate Dream Center in Burlington, N.C. Along with moving items to the center’s storage unit, the group packaged and bundled diapers for families in need.

On the day of the All-Star Game, the Sock Puppets hosted a successful Play Ball youth clinic at Burlington Athletic Stadium where all 2022 All-Stars participated.

Prior to the GM meeting in Bluefield on Oct. 18, Appalachian League clubs participated in a service project at the Bluefield Union Mission. A total of 19 league and club representatives packaged meals and prepared personal hygiene kits for families in need.

More details and a full breakdown of the 2022 Appy League Community Impact Report can be found here.

The 2023 Appy League season begins Tuesday, June 6. The full schedule for the upcoming season can be found here.

The Appalachian League is a part of USA Baseball and powered by MLB. For more information on the Appalachian League, please visit appyleague.com or follow the league on Twitter and Instagram (@AppyLeague).

Second Annual “WooSox Foundation Holiday Caravan” to Spread Joy Around Central MA

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Community Award Winners Ryan Fitzgerald and Red Sox Hall of Famer Rich Gedman to join Smiley Ball, Woofster the WonderDog, Roberto the Rocket, and Santa in visits to charities, schools, and community organizations

WORCESTER, MA – Led by Infielder Ryan Fitzgerald and Hitting Coach Rich Gedman, two award-winning members of the Worcester Red Sox, the 2022 “WooSox Foundation Holiday Caravan” will be spreading cheer across the Heart of the Commonwealth this Monday, December 19 through Wednesday, December 21.

Fitzgerald, the club’s super utility infielder and second-ever recipient of the WooSox Foundation’s “Heart of the Heart” Community Spirit Award, will team up with Gedman, his Hitting Coach, who was inducted into the Red Sox Hall of Fame in May of this year. Joining them are Mascots Smiley Ball, Woofster the WonderDog, and Roberto the Rocket, along with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The WooSox Foundation “Care-A-Van,” presented by Bank of America, is the team’s mobile RV that was unveiled in March of 2022 and will assist the WooSox in executing all of the good deeds scheduled for next week.

The impactful holiday gestures begin on Monday at Why Me & Sherry’s House when the team will bring gifts and essentials to toddlers and teens who are battling cancer. The group will also visit TLK Sports, a Worcester-based community organization that emphasizes the importance of teamwork and relationship building through a number of sports including baseball. The WooSox, in partnership with the Junior WooSox, will wrap up Monday evening at Nazareth home in Leicester to show their support for foster children by bringing winter hats and an assortment of surprise gifts.

On Tuesday, December 20, the Caravan continues in Polar Park’s backyard at the Canal District’s St. John’s Food for the Poor, where the WooSox will assist in providing breakfast to some of the neighborhood’s neediest population. The team will head from St. John’s to Abby’s House in Worcester, where toys and treats will be provided to women and children.

The caravan will continue its busy day on Tuesday at 11 am at UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center, where care packages filled with toys, books, and everyday essentials will go to kids who are in treatment. For the second straight year, the club has partnered with Kits for Kids, a Marlborough based organization that has provided care packages around the holidays to children in need for over 13 years.

The WooSox will wrap up their Tuesday afternoon with the Worcester Education Collaborative, where together they will donate tablets and keyboards to children at the Guild of St. Agnes in Worcester. The caravan will head to the YMCA Central Community Branch, then back to Polar Park, where fans will have the opportunity to meet Ryan Fitzgerald in the WooSox Team Store from 5:30-7:00 pm on Tuesday evening.

“I’m looking forward to being back in Worcester around Christmas time and help give back to this community that has had my back all season long,” said Ryan Fitzgerald, who in 2022 became the first Minor League player to have his own merchandise line. “The WooSox are always doing great things in the community and it’s a pleasure to help out in any way I can.”

The WooSox will conclude their 2022 Holiday Caravan on Wednesday with visits to Abby Kelley Foster Elementary School, and Gates Lane Elementary School, where the club established a mentoring program this past March 4 in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Massachusetts.

“What an honor it is to visit these children and organizations who deserve the smiles that our mascots so often inspire,” said WooSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “And how fortunate we are to have such caring souls who wear the WooSox uniform: Ryan Fitzgerald and Red Sox Hall of Famer Rich Gedman embody the dreams of all of the children of this region. Meeting Fitzy and Geddy, shaking their hands, and learning their stories can turn a moment into a memory and perhaps even a turning point in life. We thank the schools and wonderful charities who perform these good deeds every single day for the opportunity to stop by, say hello, and wish everyone a happy holiday season with best wishes for a happy, healthy new year.”

Media interested in covering any portion of the team’s 2022 Holiday Caravan can reach out to Vice President of Community & Player Relations Joe Bradlee at [email protected] for further guidance.

BlueClaws Charities Announces 2022 Grant Recipients

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities, the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, has announced grant recipients for their 2022 grant program. 40 organizations, all of which operate at the Jersey Shore, will use the grant money to help Jersey Shore-based programs and initiatives.

BlueClaws Charities raises money throughout the year in several ways, including the daily 50/50 raffle at BlueClaws games, special jersey and other miscellaneous auctions, the sale of mystery merchandise bags in the Claws Cove, and through other initiatives.

“We’re grateful to hand out grants to these 40 deserving organizations and are proud that all of the grants will directly benefit residents of Ocean & Monmouth counties,” said Jim McNamara, Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities.

“We’d also like to thank all of the fans and supporters that contributed to our fundraising throughout 2022 to make these grants possible,” McNamara added.

Below, find the 2022 grant recipients (alphabetical order).

21, Plus Inc. – for their Main Street Greens hydroponic farm, proceeds of which benefit individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia – for their Care Services Program to provide for patients with ALS around the Jersey Shore.

American Cancer Society – for patient service programs that assist cancer patients in Ocean & Monmouth Counties including their Road to Recovery program which provides rides for patients to and from treatments.

American Littoral Society – to their Beach Grasses in Classes program, an initiative designed to engage students in Monmouth and Ocean Counties in ecological restoration and stewardship by planting and growing beach and marsh grasses.

Barnegat / Waretown Little League – to purchase uniforms and additional equipment for players in their Challenger Division.

Bridging The Gap for Veterans – for their Hometown Heroes program which recognizes and thanks a frontline worker for their service.

Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey – to help defray the costs of mandatory volunteer background checks. Volunteers provide a variety of tasks for the disabled and homebound elderly in the area.

Child Care Resources of Monmouth County – to purchase diapers and wipes for families in need in helping to address diaper insecurity in Monmouth County.

Children’s Specialized Hospital Foundation – to support treatment and research initiatives of Children’s Specialized Hospital including new facilities opening in Toms River and Eatontown.

Community Options – to support the Cupid’s Chase 5K race that benefits adults with developmental disabilities in their program.

David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation – to provide financial assistance for families affected by a cancer diagnosis in Ocean & Monmouth Counties. This grant will provide a special holiday for two area families.

Easterseals New Jersey – to offset the cost of fuel to help transport adults with disabilities to social activities, concerts, fitness events, museums, and festivals.

Epilepsy Services of New Jersey – to support the 12th annual Paint the Pony Purple event at the Stone Pony, a family friendly day with live bands and activities in support of people affected by epilepsy and their loved ones.

Exit 82 Theatre Company – to provide programming including both their mainstage season of four musicals/plays and creative and performing arts academy productions of three junior musicals/one high school-college musical.

Family Promise of Southern Ocean County – to provide gift cards for new outfits and toiletries for families in need in addition to haircuts for parents and potential applicants for job interviews.

Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore – to support Innovation Station, an education program designed to meet the needs of disadvantaged girls so they can pursue STEAM in high education and throughout their careers.

Homes Now, Inc – to help construct and monitor quality housing, enhancing the lives of income-restricted families, veterans, individuals with special needs, seniors and women/children survivors of domestic violence.

Jake’s Got This – to help offset the cost of sending children with special needs to a week-long physical therapy program not covered by insurance.

Jersey Shore Council, Boy Scouts of America – to help underwrite the cost of Scouting for low to moderate programs that are run throughout Ocean County.

JP Party Dragon – for food that will be donated to local food pantries and people in need throughout Ocean County.

Kids Need More – to benefit their holidays program, an event for children and families in Ocean or Monmouth Counties that are dealing with a diagnosis of cancer or other life-threatening illness.

LADACIN Network – towards their Give and Take Child Care program, which offers early care and learning for children between the ages of six weeks and nine years old.

Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund – to help funding Soldier Dogs for Dennis, which provides aDA approved service dogs to wounded warriors suffering from PTSD and/or TBI injuries.

Lunch Break – to purchase Chromebooks for their Alliance for Success students, a program that promotes youth development through constructive use of time, reinforcing emotional health, building self-esteem, and fostering a commitment to learning.

Ma Deuce Deuce (Ma22) – to provide presents to children of local veterans in Ocean and Monmouth Counties.

Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity – to build and repair homes through their Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative that provide moderate to low-income homeowners critical repairs and ADA modifications.

Ocean County Family Support Organization – to offset the cost of their youth partnership camping trip in June of 2023 for youths in Ocean County with behavioral, emotional, developmental, and mental health challenges.

Ocean County YMCA – to support the Y for All Financial Assistance Program to ensure no one is turned away from the Y due to an inability to pay.

Ocean Partnership For Children – to further support groups created by the organization such as Your Authentic Self (for LGBTQ+ youth), Girls Empowerment Group, and Boys Empowerment Group Game Changers.

Ocean’s Harbor House – for general operating support providing shelter, programs, and services for homeless and vulnerable teens and young adults in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.

Parents of Autistic Children (POAC) – to support programs in Ocean & Monmouth Counties benefiting families that include children with autism and to allow these families to access recreation in the community in a safe and tolerant atmosphere.

Raising Hope for Others – to support and offset costs related to their sixth annual golf tournament that benefits Mary’s Place by the Sea, Cancer Institute of NJ, and the Lustgarten Foundation.

RJM Sports Group – to help fund scholarships given to students that graduate from the Jackson school system each year.

Seabrook Senior Living – to help make improvements to the library at their Tinton Falls senior living facility.

Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide – to support the Ocean County Youth Wellness Summit, a day-long event hosted by SPTS and designed to provide students, school administrators, and school staff with the necessary resources needed to encourage and support overall wellness, including the prevention of teen suicide.

The Arc, Ocean County Chapter – to support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their Supported Employment and Trial Work Experience programs.

The Mya Lin Terry Foundation – to provide financial and additional resources to pediatric cancer patients in the Jersey Shore community.

The TEARS Foundation, NJ Chapter – to install a cuddle cot, bassinet that is used when a family experiences the loss of their baby and placed into the room with the bereaved family, at Southern Ocean Medical Center.

The Village of Children & Families – to support local foster and adoptive families including through clothing drives, shoe drives, and diaper drives plus through Family Fun Days for adoptive families.

United Way of the Monmouth and Ocean Counties – to support their Warmest Wishes Coat Drive for local preschool, elementary, and middle school children in need.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

Victory Field to Host Food Drive-Thru Distribution Event on Monday, Dec. 12

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INDIANAPOLIS – In partnership with Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana and Indiana WIC, the Indianapolis Indians are set to host a food drive-thru distribution event at Victory Field on Monday, Dec. 12. Food distribution from Gleaners’ Mega Fresh Mobile Pantry begins at 3 PM and continues until 5 PM.

“One of Indianapolis’ greatest challenges is combating food hunger,” said Randy Lewandowski, Indianapolis Indians president and general manager. “We are thrilled to partner with Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana and Indiana WIC in welcoming hundreds of Central Indiana families to this year’s food distribution event.”

Families must enter Victory Field’s parking lot off West Street. After receiving their boxed goods, vehicles will exit the lot onto Maryland Street.

“We’re pleased to partner with Indiana WIC and the Indianapolis Indians on another mobile distribution at Victory Field,” said Fred Glass, president/CEO of Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana. “Times are tough for so many people right now, particularly families with young children. With the holidays approaching, families are struggling to balance basic needs like food, with a desire to make the season special for their kids.”

“Indiana WIC is so excited to be partnering with the Indianapolis Indians and Gleaners Food Bank in finding new and creative ways to connect Hoosier families with food resources,” explained Laura Chavez, director of Indiana WIC. “We hope this drive-thru event allows families to help meet their needs for healthy food.”

The Indians open their 2023 season on March 31 at Victory Field. Full season, half season and mini plans are now on sale, and group and premium reservations may also be made. For more on the Indians, visit IndyIndians.com or contact the Victory Field Box Office at (317) 269-3545 or [email protected].

*About the Indianapolis Indians
*The Indianapolis Indians are the professional Triple-A baseball club affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. In continuous operation since 1902, the organization believes in creating affordable and memorable experiences for fans so they can grow closer together with family, friends and the community through the game of baseball. The Indians play their home games at Victory Field, a 13,750-seat ballpark located in downtown Indianapolis and White River State Park. The venue opened in 1996 and has received numerous national accolades as one of the best minor league ballparks in the United States. The team has led Minor League Baseball in combined total attendance over the past 12 seasons. In 2018, the organization was recognized as Ballpark Digest Team of the Year. It was also named a 2019 Best Places to work by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce.

*About Victory Field
*Victory Field opened its gates on July 11, 1996, as home to the Indianapolis Indians, the professional Triple-A baseball club affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. The ballpark is one of many attractions in White River State Park and downtown Indianapolis and is often recognized as one of the best minor league stadiums in the country. The Vic hosts 70-plus Indians games each year, and it also hosts the annual Indiana High School Baseball State Championships, Victory Field Classic, City-County Championships and non-baseball events including The Links at Victory Field, Flicks movie nights, charity walks and private events. The 13,750-seat ballpark is a community gathering place for family, friends and colleagues to enjoy Indians baseball, public events and beautiful views of the Circle City skyline.

About Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana Gleaners was founded in 1980 and is a respected leader within Feeding America, the nation’s food bank network. Since that time, Gleaners has distributed more than 800 million pounds of food and critical grocery products through nearly 250 hunger relief agencies, schools and community partners serving needy Hoosiers. In addition to food distribution to agencies, we serve our most vulnerable populations, seniors and children, through specialty programs such as Gleaners2Go, Home Delivery, School-Based Pantries, Mobile Pantries, Summer Meals for Kids, and Senior Hunger Initiative programs. Charity Navigator has recognized Gleaners as a 4-Star organization, the highest rating for charity demonstrating fiscal management and accountability. In addition, Gleaners is an accredited charity with the Better Business Bureau and has earned a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar. To learn more, visit www.gleaners.org.

About Indiana WIC
*Since 1974, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children *(WIC) has provided healthy food, quality nutrition services, breastfeeding support, health screenings, healthcare, and social services referrals for millions of expectant and new parents, babies, and young children. WIC’s targeted services are demonstrated to improve birth outcomes and support positive child growth and development, helping to grow a healthier next generation. To find out more information about Indiana WIC visit www.wic.in.gov and follow us on Twitter and Facebook @IndianaWIC.

WooSox Wrap Up Month of Giving with Veterans Day and Thanksgiving Activities and Events

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The Worcester Red Sox and WooSox Foundation wrapped up a busy November with a slew of community events and good deeds to carry the club into what’s poised to be another busy month in December.

More than 150 veterans gathered in Polar Park’s DCU Club for the club’s 8th Annual Veterans Steak Dinner, presented by Country Bank on Thursday, November 10. Veterans from all over the region were treated to a complimentary steak meal prepared by WooSox Executive Chef Tom Whalen. The WooSox welcomed vets from organizations such as Veterans Inc., Project New Hope, Clearpath New England, Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, Korean War Veterans of Massachusetts, Green Meadows, and other local V.F.W.’s.

Veterans at the dinner received “thank you” cards from Ms. Kara Lynch’s 5th grade class at Gates Lane Elementary School in Worcester, and were treated to a beautiful rendition of the Star Spangled Banner by Alan Swartz of Leominster, MA.

On Veterans Day the following day, WooSox mascot Smiley Ball stopped by Veterans Inc.’s Pancake Breakfast and marched in the City of Worcester’s Annual Veterans Day Parade with community leaders and elected officials.

On Wednesday, November 16, the WooSox welcomed 50 fourth graders to Polar Park from Worcester’s Jacob Hiatt Magnet School, and the students enjoyed a turkey feast prepared by Chef Tom Whalen.

The WooSox began the week of Thanksgiving by volunteering at Friendly House, a Worcester-based non-profit located less than a mile from Polar Park that offers social services, feeding programs, housing services, and youth programs for underserved residents throughout the city.

WooSox representatives were also joined by their community partners from the Worcester Railers, and together they helped Friendly House Executive Director Trish Appert distribute food to those in need just days before Thanksgiving.

After Friendly House, the WooSox traveled to El Buen Samaritano, a food pantry in Worcester’s Main South neighborhood, where they helped distribute food to those in need alongside Robyn Kennedy, State Senator in Worcester’s 1st District. The WooSox Foundation made $500 donations to both Friendly House and El Buen Samaritano.

On Tuesday, November 22, the WooSox Foundation deployed its Care-A-Van, presented by Bank of America, to help fix up a softball field in Sturbridge, MA. The team was joined by their corporate partners from AbbVie, in addition to Sturbridge Town Manager Robin Grimm, who was instrumental in alerting club officials of the field’s needs.

Fireflies Announce Holiday Lights Community Initiative 

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COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies today announced that they will host Six Weeks of Giving during Fireflies Holiday Lights. Six Weeks of Giving is a series of holiday drives benefitting six local community organizations. Each organization will host a week-long drive that guests can support by bringing donation items with them to Fireflies Holiday Lights to help aid those in need this holiday season. For the inaugural Six Weeks of Giving, the Fireflies have partnered with Toys for Tots, Oliver Gospel Mission, Epworth Children’s Home, Harvest Hope, Edventure and Pawmetto Lifeline.

“Christmas and the holidays are a season of giving, and we wanted to make sure that we kick off the Fireflies Holiday Lights tradition with a way for our community to give back to those in need,” said Fireflies Team President, Brad Shank. “Our team always wants to serve our community in everything that we do, and we are excited to partner with these six great organizations to provide an opportunity for our guests to be able to give while they are out enjoying this amazing light show.”

The schedule for the drives is as follows:

  • November 21-27: Toy drive benefitting Toys for Tots
  • November 28-December 4: Clothing drive benefitting Oliver Gospel Mission
  • December 5-11: Cleaning supplies drive benefitting Epworth Children’s Home
  • December 12-18: Canned food drive benefitting Harvest Hope
  • December 19-24: Book drive benefitting Edventure Children’s Museum
  • December 26-31: Pet food drive benefitting Pet Soup from Pawmetto Lifeline

Detailed lists of items needed for each drive can be found on Fireflies social media channels and on FirefliesHolidayLights.com.

Holiday Lights attendees can also expect to hear bells ringing as they approach Segra Park every evening as the Fireflies have partnered with the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign to be a kettle host site during all 42 nights of lights this holiday season.

Fireflies Holiday Lights starts at Segra Park November 19 and run through December 31. The lights will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Tickets for all 42 nights of lights are on sale now. For tickets or more information about the event, including ticket pricing and promotions, visit FirefliesHolidayLights.com.

Christmas With the Claws Food & Toy Drive Returns December 3rd at ShoreTown Ballpark

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities will host their annual Christmas food and toy drive, Christmas with the Claws, on Saturday, December 3rd from 10 am – 12 pm at ShoreTown Ballpark.

Santa will be at the ballpark for pictures, and his good friend Buster will be on hand too.

The event serves as a toy drive to benefit the Salvation Army of Ocean County and their annual Holiday Toy Shop. Fans are asked to bring unwrapped toys or non-perishable food. Donors will receive a ticket to Opening Night at the Jersey Shore, set for Tuesday, April 11th (one ticket per donor).

“Santa is very excited to return to ShoreTown for his annual visit and we’re looking forward to this great event,” said Jim McNamara, executive director of BlueClaws Charities. “Over the years, the BlueClaws family has been incredibly supportive of the Salvation Army and their toy drive and we hope that continues this holiday season.”

There will also be a station set up where kids can write letters to Santa, which will be sent off to the North Pole in time for Christmas! The BlueClaws will provide complimentary hot chocolate.

BlueClaws Charities will sell Mystery Bags at the event, which include merchandise and promotional items.

Finally, the Claws Cove will be open for holiday shopping with special sales and packages. New BlueClaws Marvel-inspired merchandise will be available. BlueClaws ticket representatives will be on hand as well for those that would like to give the gift of BlueClaws tickets this holiday season.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws. The organization recently distributed grants to 31 organizations that support the less fortunate around the Jersey Shore. A full list of grant recipients and programs can be found at BlueClaws.com.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws / BlueClaws Charities-

Holiday Toy And Food Drive Set For December 10

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Somerset Patriots

The Somerset Patriots are the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate and develop today’s top minor league talent into the pinstriped superstars of tomorrow for MLB’s winningest team. The Patriots are the reigning Eastern League Champions and play their home games at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ, where fans of all ages and levels of baseball fandom get to enjoy the unique experience that is minor league baseball. To learn more, visit: somersetpatriots.com.

Thunder Cares Presents ‘Give Thanks’ Food Drive

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Storm Baseball’s official non-profit ‘Thunder Cares’ and in partnership with The Dream Center of Lake Elsinore is hosting a month-long food drive from November 1st – November 21st to supply food to Lake Elsinore families in need this holiday season.

Please stop by The Diamond Stadium, our front office will be open and available for deliveries from 10 AM-4 PM every weekday, excluding weekends.

The Lake Elsinore Storm is proud to support our community and different local organizations by providing donation items and fundraising support throughout the year. These donations are made possible through Thunder Cares.

Thunder Cares is a 501c3 non-profit that was established through an ongoing partnership with the Inland Empire Community Foundation. Proceeds raised through Thunder Cares benefit local charities, youth sports, military, first responders, and other local groups in need.

WooSox Infielder Ryan Fitzgerald and Pitcher Durbin Feltman Headline Inaugural “Thank You Care-A-Van” Sept. 29 through Oct. 1

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After wrapping up their season finale in Rochester, WooSox Infielder Ryan Fitzgerald and pitcher Durbin Feltman lead the club’s Inaugural “Thank You Care-A-Van” that ran from Thursday, September 29, and wrapped up at David Prouty High School in Spencer during their homecoming on Saturday, October 1.

The Care-A-Van began at Elm Park Elementary School in Worcester at 10:00 AM, where Feltman and Fitzgerald read to children, and where the club also partnered with the Juniper Outreach Foundation to install a food pantry in the school. Founded in February of 2020, the Juniper Outreach Foundation helps combat food insecurity in the Worcester Public Schools and provides basic necessities to children in need.

From Elm Park, the WooSox headed to Worcester’s Net of Compassion on Main Street, where they distributed food and supplies to some of the city’s homeless population, and they concluded the afternoon at the Boys & Girls Club of Worcester, where they played interactive games with kids in the club’s after-school program.

“It was a pleasure to stick around Worcester for a few days after our season ended,” said WooSox infielder and 2022 Community Spirit Award winner, Ryan Fitzgerald. “Worcester has been a community that’s supported us all season long, and it was a lot of fun to be able to give back with my friend and teammate Durbin Feltman.”

UMass Memorial Hospital was the WooSox’ first stop of the day on Friday, September 29, to cheer up kids going through a challenging time in their Children’s Medical Center. After UMass, the ballplayers spoke to the baseball program at Worcester Academy, along with students in their sports marketing program. Friday wrapped up at the Worcester Public Library for a reading in the “WooSox Book Nook,” followed by a dinner with veterans at Worcester’s Veterans Inc.

“It was great being in Worcester for a few days, doing good deeds throughout this community,” said WooSox pitcher Durbin Feltman. “Worcester was an awesome city to pitch in all season long, and being able to give back for a few days after our season ended was the perfect way to begin the off-season.”

The players and WooSox club officials also attended Anna Maria College’s groundbreaking on Saturday for their new multi-purpose baseball field at noon October 1, and spent the remainder of the afternoon at David Prouty High School’s homecoming in Spencer, taking photos and signing autographs in the school’s gymnasium.

Just days later, on October 4, Spencer and East Brookfield residents voted “Yes” in a special election on a ballot initiative to pay for a $112 million renovation of David Prouty High School.

Cutters Donate to American Rescue Workers

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

The Williamsport Crosscutters recently presented the American Rescue Workers with a check for $7,626, representing the proceeds from the team’s 50/50 raffles during the 2022 season. The nightly 50/50 raffle is presented by the Crosscutters and the Pitch In Charitable Foundation, a non-profit foundation of professional baseball teams.

This represents the sixth straight season that the team has donated it’s 50/50 proceeds to the American Rescue Workers. Cutters Vice-President of Marketing Gabe Sinicropi stated, “The American Rescue Workers is a great organization, run by great people, doing great work. We know that the donated funds are put to good use, helping the most vulnerable in our community in their time of need.”

In the past six seasons, the Williamsport Crosscutters have donated over $39,000 to ARW through the foundation’s 50/50 raffle.

9th Annual Line Drive Canned Food Drive

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

9th Annual Line Drive Canned Food Drive

Free Baseball Clinic at SRP Park on October 29th

NORTH AUGUSTA, SC – The Augusta GreenJackets, Single-A Affiliate of the Atlanta Braves, in conjunction with Complete Game, are excited to announce the 9th Annual Line Drive Canned Food Drive FREE Baseball Clinic in memory of Terry Childers Sr. on Saturday, October 29th from 11:00 am – 12:30 pm.

“We are honored to be able to host this annual tradition in partnership with Matt Childers, the Childers Family and Complete Game,” stated GreenJackets Vice President Tom Denlinger. “No matter what your skill level we invite you to come take advantage of a morning full of FREE professional instruction, bring canned food to help us stuff the bins for Golden Harvest and celebrate the legacy of Terry Childers Sr.”

In memory of Terry Childers Sr., families across the CSRA are invited to come and take part in this FREE clinic & Canned Food Drive benefiting Golden Harvest Food Bank. Families are encouraged to bring canned goods and other non-perishable food items to be donated to Golden Harvest Food Bank, who will be on site to collect.

You can also bring items anytime between now and October 29th to the Complete Game facility at 3855 Washington Rd or to the Hive Pro Shop at SRP Park (187 Railroad Avenue, North Augusta). You do not have to participate in the clinic to bring food donations! Over the past Eight years, 3,000 meals have been collected with over 4,100 lbs. of donated goods! Come join us for this awesome event in our community!

Register online at www.playpscg.com. Go to all registrations for your free registration. Any questions, contact Complete Game at (706) 814-5916

“We are extremely excited to partner with the Augusta GreenJackets and Golden Harvest Food Bank for the 9th Annual “Line Drive Can Drive,” stated Complete Game Owner Matt Childers. “For nine consecutive years Tom Denlinger and his staff with the GreenJackets have sponsored and helped us host this event! This event is held in Memory of my father Terry Childers Sr. Myself along with my family and the staff at Complete Game are honored to give back to the community that my father loved so much. Giving back to the community with a FREE Baseball clinic while also organizing a food drive for our local food bank is our favorite time of the year! Terry Childers Sr. loved baseball and loved serving in this community. He was a board member on the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Augusta and we feel that this event is something wonderful to do in his memory.”

Event Details:

  • Saturday, October 29th from 11:00am-12:30pm
  • SRP Park, 187 Railroad Ave, North Augusta, SC 29841
  • Enter by the main entrance
  • Giving back to the community with a FREE baseball clinic – beginning to experienced players welcome
  • Professional instruction from Complete Game
  • All players ages 5-15
  • Bring canned food items and non-perishable food items to benefit Golden Harvest Food Bank
  • Opportunity to support the community together and have some FUN
  • Register in advance click here: https://www.esoftplanner.com/v3/planner/camps.php?access=0dG81LSVxNmo65bAt2SEsZ6Hpw==
  • Onsite registration available day of as well

Prior to the start of the 2023 season, you can check out these fun, upcoming events scheduled at SRP Park! To learn more, visit https://thesrppark.com.

  • Paceline Opening Ceremonies and Outfield Music Festival– October 15, 2022
  • Dugout Movie Theater Presents Ghostbusters Afterlife – October 28
  • CSRA Walk for Water – November 12, 2022
  • Palmetto Peach Half Marathon, 10 K, 5 K – November 26
  • 9th Annual Auggie’s Holiday BUZZar and Toys for Tots Drive – December 10

About Complete Game

Complete Game is an Amazing Indoor Baseball & Softball Facility. Batting cages, pitching lanes, Hit Trax software for Baseball & Softball. Complete Game has an awesome staff of personal instructors and coaches for all positions for baseball & softball that offer individual lessons and group camps. You can visit Complete Game any day or take advantage of their monthly memberships! The Cosmic Birthday Parties are a big Hit! End of the season team functions and group Events held under the Black Lights with Music! Check us out at 3855 Washington Rd. Martinez, Ga. 30907 or at our website www.playpscg.com. They take reservations every day for parties and group Events!

About SRP Park/Augusta GreenJackets

The Augusta GreenJackets are the Single A affiliate of the 2021 World Series Champion Atlanta Braves. 2023 Augusta GreenJackets Full, Half and 20-game season seat memberships are on sale now. To learn more about the benefits and to get in on the action, visit www.gjmembers.com or call (803) 349-WINS (9467).

For team merchandise or more information visit www.greenjacketsbaseball.com. Stay up to date on all things GreenJackets and Events at SRP Park by following us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and sign up for the ‘Jackets Buzz e-newsletter today by visiting https://atmilb.com/3yr4mrw

SRP Park is the anchor piece of Riverside Village, a live, work, “playball” development which includes apartment living, retail, restaurants, class “A” office space, and a Crowne Plaza Hotel and Conference Center. To learn more about SRP Park and hosting events and availability, visit www.thesrppark.com.

-GreenJackets-

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

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

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

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

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

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

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

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