Redden named Appalachian League Humanitarian of the Year 

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The Appalachian League announced that Bluefield’s Parker Redden (Delaware) was named the Humanitarian of the Year. The Humanitarian of the Year award is given to the Appalachian League player that has been judged to have made the most notable contributions in his community during the season through active participation in community service projects.

Redden works closely with Freedom Farms, a nonprofit, faith-based organization for at-risk youth in West Virginia. When the Ridge Runners were in town, Redden drove approximately 35 miles each way to help with meal preparation, maintenance, agricultural activities and his mentoring opportunities. Redden also delivered leftover food to Freedom Farms as quantities allowed so that waste was minimized. Baseball and softball lessons are an integral part of his focus with the youth. Redden and his family have also worked to establish a 4H club as an outlet for the kids from their day-to-day trials.

“Parker unselfishly gives of himself to others and conducts himself in such a way that you know that he understands that the game will end but his mission in life will continue,” said Ridge Runners general manager Rocky Malamisura. “Parker is the epitome of what we cherish most in athletes and what baseball teaches those who pay attention. We are so proud to have had such a young man as a member of the Ridge Runners.”

During the 2022 season, Redden volunteered for each of the Ridge Runners community service projects that were scheduled. The projects included working at local food pantries, stadium walkabouts with fans and autograph sessions. Redden also worked both kids camps as an instructor, mentored several local at-risk children and provided baseball lessons for numerous little league children.

“Parker was a catalyst in helping our organization educate and encourage the attitude and spirit of giving back,” said Bluefield manager Mike Weatherford. “Once his teammates recognized Parker’s contributions in Bluefield and the surrounding communities, it became enjoyable for our players to routinely volunteer. Parker was a leader in getting teammates involved off the field and that dedication to others followed him on the field.”

The 20-year-old catcher from Shady Spring, W.V., is heading into his sophomore year at the University of Delaware. Redden played in 15 games for the Ridge Runners this summer after he played for the Burlington Sock Puppets in 2021.

Good Deed Day Set for July 30th

(Trenton, NJ) – The Trenton Thunder are calling on their fans to support five local community organizations as part of the 12th Annual Good Deed Day at Trenton Thunder Ballpark on Saturday, July 30th. Good Deed Day is Day 3 of Cloudman’s Heroes Week

Good Deed Day will feature collection tables on Times Square (the area outside the ballpark) for the following non-profit organizations:

  • United Way of Greater Mercer County – School Supplies
  • HomeFront – Personal care items such as shampoo, soap, toiletries, etc
  • Mercer Street Friends – Non-Perishable Food Items
  • Pet Rescue of Mercer – Pet Food & Supplies
  • Trenton Thunder/Grand Slam We Care Foundation – Gently-Used Baseball Equipment

The United Way of Greater Mercer County will be collecting school supplies out front of the ballpark. For almost 100 years, United Way has been involved in our local community connecting people with resources, propelling individuals and families to reach their fullest potential. The Thunder have also been partnering with United Way of Greater Mercer County as an official collection site for non-perishable food items during the month of July.

HomeFront, an organization that helps families break the cycle of poverty, will collect personal care items such as shampoo, conditioner, lotion, bandaids, bar soap, toothpaste tubes and other toiletry items that will be put to use in their Family Preservation Center and other residences.

Mercer Street Friends Food Bank will be collecting non-perishable food items. The Mercer Street Friends Food Bank, established in 1987, leads the community response to hunger in Mercer County. Its mission is to alleviate hunger through food distribution, nutrition education and assistance, weekend and summer meals for children, advocacy and outreach. The Food Bank distributes 2.6 million pounds of food annually and helps to feed over 25,000 low-income children, adults and seniors at-risk for hunger.

Pet Rescue of Mercer will be at the ballpark collecting pet food and supplies. Pet Rescue of Mercer is an all volunteer non-profit group that rescues neglected, abused, and abandoned animals and finds quality homes for them. Adoptable dogs and cats are placed in foster homes until they can be found permanent homes.

On Saturday, July 30th, the Thunder will host the Williamsport Crosscutters at 6:30 pm. It’s also Thunder’s Faith & Family Night with fireworks after the game. Stick around after the fireworks for a Postgame Concert from members of the Hamilton Square Presbyterian Church.

All Thunder tickets are available by calling 609-394-3300, opt 4 or online at trentonthunder.com/tickets.

Dragons to Recognize “Community All Stars” Recipient During Game Tonight on July 22

Dayton, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons will recognize Chloe Adkins as a “Community All-Star” recipient during a special inning break of the Dragons game tonight on Friday, July 22 against Fort Wayne Tincaps at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. The game will start at 7:05 p.m.

At nine, Chloe Adkins has spent most of her life giving back to her community. Kettering and Dayton have been blessed by her activist nature since she was four years old.

Starting at the Kettering Backpack Program, Chloe helped to build bags for students in need of meals outside of school hours. She even donates a portion of any money she earns through allowance or other jobs to charities like Kettering Backpack.

Chloe’s mental compass seems to lead her directly to the causes in her community that need the most attention, and she does whatever she can to shed a light on that charity or program by getting the word out to encourage action.

When her school program needed more items to fill birthday-cake care kits, Chloe offered to record a video for social media to remind parents to get their donations in. And, when she learned cancer patients like herself needed blood donations, she recorded a video to encourage people to donate to local blood drives like the one she led with the Community Blood Center.

Now, she’s competing in a world-wide educational contest called the Invention Convention to fill a need in her community. Chloe is creating a fashion-forward design that provides confidence to patients while they get better with shirts with medical port coverings.

When she’s not volunteering, Chloe enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and doing regular kid stuff.

For all her work inspiring the community and making Dayton a better place—Chloe Adkins is our Community All-Star.

If you know other great individuals or organizations that are going above and beyond for our community, tell us about them! You can nominate an All-Star by telling us about them at daytondragons.com/communityallstar. The Dragons Community Al by the generous support of Flying Ace Express Carwash.

This is the third of five special Community All-Stars spotlights at Dragons games this season. Community All-Stars is presented Flying Ace Express Carwash. Additional tributes are scheduled for August 10 and September 1 each focused on a different individual or organization who have gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley.

The Dragons play at beautiful, downtown Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District and are scheduled to play 21 more home games during the regular season. Game times are 7:05 p.m. for Tuesday through Saturday games and 1:05 p.m. on Sundays. No Monday games are scheduled at this time. Gates open one hour prior to game time. Single-game tickets for all Dragons 2022 home games are available at www.daytondragons.com or by phone at (937) 228-2287.

Fighting Hunger: Renegades hosting food drive this Sunday

Hudson Valley Renegades players dropped off donations at the Fishkill Food Pantry during HOPE Week in June. (Hudson Valley Renegades

Wappingers Falls, N.Y. (July 15, 2022) – The Hudson Valley Renegades, in partnership with the Fishkill Food Pantry and Fishkill Little League, will be hosting a food drive at Dutchess Stadium on Sunday, July 17. The drive will collect goods for the Fishkill Food Pantry as part of the “Fishkill Serves” initiative created between the Renegades, the Fishkill Food Pantry and Fishkill Little League.

“With food insecurity in Dutchess County being a growing issue, we are thrilled to be able to help the Fishkill Food Pantry and make a positive impact on our local community,” said Marcella Costello, Community Partnerships Manager for the Renegades.

Last month during HOPE Week, the Renegades donated approximately 100 pounds of needed goods to the Fishkill Food Pantry.

The Fishkill Food Pantry encourages fans to donate the following most urgently needed items:

  • Healthy cold cereals
  • Healthy snacks for kids
  • Toilet paper
  • Paper towels
  • Napkins
  • Toiletries (Deodorant, toothpaste/toothbrushes, bar soap, body soap)

Fans who bring these items will be entered into a raffle to win one of five autographed items. Fans will receive one (1) raffle ticket for each individual urgent item from the above list. The Renegades will raffle the items periodically from the middle to the end of the game. Fans MUST be present at Dutchess Stadium to win.

“We need your help more than ever,” said Kristen Cullen, Executive Director of Fishkill Food Pantry. “With increased prices comes more food insecurity. We have three or four new families seeking assistance each week!”

In addition to the aforementioned items, the Fishkill Food Pantry has provided a list of needed items, which can be found by clicking here. In compliance with the EAT SMART NEW YORK initiative, the food pantry no longer distributes soda, juice or candy to its clients, and pasta is not needed at this time.

The Fishkill Food Pantry is located at 1153 Main Street, Fishkill, New York, 12524. They are open from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; 2:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. on Wednesday; and 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. on the first and third Saturday of every month.

The Renegades host the Greenville Drive on Sunday with first pitch at 2:05 p.m. Gates open at 1 p.m. There will be tables set up to receive donations at both the season ticket members gate and the main gate at Dutchess Stadium.

ABOUT THE HUDSON VALLEY RENEGADES

The Renegades are in their second season as the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees. They have played their home games at Dutchess Stadium in Wappingers Falls, N.Y. since 1994.

ABOUT DIAMOND BASEBALL HOLDINGS

Diamond Baseball Holdings (DBH) is a subsidiary of Endeavor, the global sports and entertainment company. DBH was formed in 2021 to support, promote, and enhance Minor League Baseball through professional management, best practices, innovation and investment. (DiamondBaseballHoldings.com).

Fidelis Care Food Drive from July 15-24; Donate for Free Tickets

Proceeds Benefit People to People

Beginning with the game of Friday, July 14, and running through Sunday, June 19, the Boulders will be conducting a food drive presented by Fidelis Care with benefits going to People to People to serve those in need in our community.

Non-perishable food items can be brought to our Will Call tent near the main gates and, as a Thank You from the Boulders, will receive a voucher redeemable for select home games this season.

WooSox Pitchers Strike Out Food Insecurity 

On Tuesday, Worcester Red Sox pitchers Brian Keller, Geoff Hartlieb, and Durbin Feltman visited the Worcester County Food Bank to take a closer look at the impact they are making for the city.

The pitchers toured the food bank alongside WooSox Founding Partner, Fallon Health. The Worcester-based company’s mission to improve health inspired the Strike Out Hunger campaign, which promotes food security.

At Polar Park’s Gate A entrance, named Fallon Health Square, each Sunday fans are asked to donate non-perishable food items in marked bins. This is just part of the twofold campaign in which “K”-marked cards are passed out to fans upon entrance to help celebrate the pitchers’ strikeouts.

The celebration is well deserved. For every WooSox strikeout, Fallon Health pledged to donate $50 to the Worcester County Food Bank.

The Worcester County Food Bank alone provides over 100,000 meals each week to families and community members in need. The food bank distributes food to communities across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, so these pitchers represent much more than just the Worcester community.

This tour of the facility allowed WooSox pitchers to see how each strikeout they collect helps put a meal on someone’s table.

Worcester County Food Bank CEO Jean McMurray told the pitchers, “Food insecurity may affect more than you think, you may be helping your own neighbors or a family three towns away.”

The players were all grateful to be making an impact on the community of Worcester. And the WooSox pitchers walked away with a little extra motivation heading into their homestand against the Charlotte Knights.

Giving HOPE: Gades participating in HOPE Week 6/7-12

WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. (June 1, 2022) – The Hudson Valley Renegades, the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, announced today their participation in HOPE Week. Renegades players and staff will participate in community service events throughout the Hudson Valley from Tuesday, June 7 through Sunday, June 12.

The Renegades participation in HOPE Week is in partnership with Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth), the Official Hospital Partner of the Hudson Valley Renegades.

The Yankees’ wildly popular and successful HOPE Week initiative (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) was introduced in 2009, and is rooted in the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope and encouragement to more than just the recipient of the gesture.

“Being able to participate in HOPE Week is one of the most special parts of being affiliated with the New York Yankees,” said Steve Gliner, President and General Manager of the Renegades. “Being able to touch people’s lives and make a difference through our and the Yankees’ commitment to community engagement is what we are all about as an organization.”

The Renegades 2022 HOPE Week program is as follows:

Tuesday, June 7th – Maria Fareri Children’s Health Services at MidHudson Regional Hospital

  • As part of the Westchester Medical Health Network, the Maria Fareri Children’s Health Services at MidHudson Regional Hospital provides emergency care for children from serious injuries to burns, scrapes, and bruises. Services include a child-friendly Pediatric Emergency Department, select Pediatric Surgical Services, dedicated Pediatric Inpatient Unit, Child Life services to support patients during care, and Caregiver services to support parents, siblings, and other family members during a patient’s care. Renegades players and staff will conduct room visits and participate in crafts projects with patients.

Thursday, June 9th – The Community at Brookmeade

  • Opened in 1977, The Community at Brookmeade offers apartment residences and a combination of lifestyle, services, and amenities designed with the need of active older adults in mind. Located in the village of Rhinebeck, New York, Brookmeade presently serves as a 120-bed facility for seniors aged 62 and above. The Community is committed to providing all residents with a lifestyle focus on quality, centered in wellness, and facilitated by competent and caring staff. Renegades players and staff will visit and engage with residents and participate in activity stations.

Friday, June 10th – Liberty Station

  • Hudson River Housing believes that those who served our country deserve the highest level of care, including quality, affordable housing. Hudson River Housing aims to meet the needs for the veteran community through specialized housing, transportation, advocacy, and care management. Operated by Hudson River Housing, Liberty Station was the first of three housing services available for veterans. Opened in 2014, Liberty Station offers a supportive living environment in the company of other veterans. Units are single room occupancy, with shared kitchen and bath facilities. Garden Street Housing and Poughkeepsie Commons also offer housing for veterans. Garden Street Housing offers low-cost housing with a preference for female veterans, with private baths and shared kitchen and common areas and Poughkeepsie Commons is a 72-unit apartment complex that offers 24 one-bedroom apartments exclusively for veterans. Veterans from Liberty Station, Garden Street Housing, and Poughkeepsie Commons will gather at Liberty Station to meet and engage with Renegades players and staff.

Saturday, June 11th – Disability, Dream & Do (D3)/ThinkDIFFERENTLY Camp

  • D3 and ThinkDIFFERENTLY collaborate to host camp in partnership with Hudson Valley Renegades. Disability, Dream & Do (D3) is a pro style practice with professional players at stadiums across the country. D3 participants have an opportunity to hit, throw, catch and run the bases with instruction from the best regardless of anyone’s limitations. The Disability Dream and Do (D3Day) sports camps were created by Dave Clark, the only pitcher in professional sports history to pitch on crutches, and Doug Cornfield, a former NCAA medal winning runner at Georgia, who himself had a child born with no arms. These camps allow professional players to interact with children with special needs in various drills and compete in sports with no limitations. In 2016, Dave Stevens, who was born without legs but played college football and minor league baseball, came on board as the D3 Day camps expanded to other cities in the US. Dave, Dave and Doug now put on camps all over the country and share their amazing stories as well as inspire others to look past a disability and turn it into an ability.
  • “ThinkDIFFERENTLY” is a call to action, a genuine challenge to determine if we have it within ourselves to look past our differences and treat others the way we would hope to be treated. Too often, too many with special needs are overlooked and their unique abilities ignored. Instead, we seek to lift each other up and embrace all residents of all abilities. Launched by Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro in 2015, the “ThinkDIFFERENTLY” initiative seeks to change the way individuals, businesses, organizations and communities relate to our neighbors with special needs.

Sunday, June 12th – Fishkill Food Pantry

  • The Fishkill Food Pantry was established as a mission program in 1985 to assist individuals and families in the Southern Dutchess area who are coping with financial emergencies and supply basic food needs. The people served are often referred to the Pantry by social service agencies, churches, schools, and family advocates. The Pantry is the largest food pantry in Dutchess County, serving families in Beacon, Beekman, Chelsea, Cold Spring, Fishkill, Glenham, Hopewell Junction, Hughsonville, Stormville, and Wappingers Falls. The Renegades will provide donations in the morning to the food pantry and host a food drive during Sunday’s game.

The Renegades Community Program and their participation in HOPE Week is presented by WMCHealth. Throughout the week, the Renegades host the Jersey Shore BlueClaws for a seven-game series at The Dutch. For more information on HOPE Week and the Renegades Community Program, visit www.hvrenegades.com and click on the Community tab.

ABOUT THE HUDSON VALLEY RENEGADES

The Renegades are in their second season as the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees. They have played their home games at Dutchess Stadium in Wappingers Falls, N.Y. since 1994.

ABOUT DIAMOND BASEBALL HOLDINGS

Diamond Baseball Holdings (DBH) is a subsidiary of Endeavor, the global sports and entertainment company. DBH was formed in 2021 to support, promote, and enhance Minor League Baseball through professional management, best practices, innovation and investment. (DiamondBaseballHoldings.com).

Sea Dogs hold food drive to benefit Good Shepherd Food Bank

 

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs, in partnership with Maine Credit Unions, will hold their annual Food Drive which will run from Monday, February 7th through Friday, February 25th. All the collected food items will be donated to the Good Shepherd Food Bank.

As in the past, this year’s food drive will be “Buy One, Bring One, Get One.” For every ticket purchased and every donated food item you bring, you will receive a free Sea Dogs ticket to the same game. For example, if you buy three tickets to the June 28th game and bring in three food items, you will receive three additional complimentary tickets of equal or lesser value to the June 28th game. The offer is good for Reserved, and General Admission seating, subject to availability.

Fans may take advantage of this offer by bringing their non-perishable food items to the Hadlock Field Box Office. The Sea Dogs Ticket Office is open Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Each year the Sea Dogs have been able to donate hundreds of food items to the Good Shepherd Food Bank thanks to the generosity of Sea Dogs’ fans.

The 2022 season will be the Sea Dogs’ 29th season in Portland and 20th as an affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. The Sea Dogs open the season on Friday, April 8th at Hadlock Field against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at Hadlock Field, online at www.seadogs.com, or by phone at 207-879-9500.

Delmarva Shorebirds 2021 Holiday Community Impact

 

After the silver anniversary season of Delmarva Shorebirds baseball, the ‘Birds were eager to join together with community leaders to keep the good times rolling with an emphasis on creating a positive impact in our community. From packing boxes for those in need, to holiday gift drives, parades, and more,

After the silver anniversary season of Delmarva Shorebirds baseball, the ‘Birds were eager to join together with community leaders to keep the good times rolling with an emphasis on creating a positive impact in our community. From packing boxes for those in need, to holiday gift drives, parades, and more, the Shorebirds carried their mission through the beginning of the offseason to lend a helping hand and spread some holiday cheer to those on Delmarva this holiday season.

Thanksgiving for Thousands

The Delmarva Shorebirds kicked off the holiday season by participating in Mountaire Farms annual Thanksgiving for Thousands. The Shorebirds have been involved with Mountaire Farms Thanksgiving for Thousands for many years now and helped Mountaire pack over 10,000 Thanksgiving boxes for families in need across Delmarva. This event is a favorite of the Shorebirds front office and was a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season.

Salvation Army Bell Ringing

An annual tradition, the Delmarva Shorebirds’ front office staff partnered with the Shorebirds’ Fan Club to participate in Salvation Army’s Bell Ringing in front of the Salisbury Walmart this holiday season. By participating in bell ringing, the Shorebirds were able to help the Salvation Army raise holiday funds for families in need in our community, while sharing a smile and holiday cheer with customers and Shorebirds fans.

Santa’s Letters

Next, Sherman and the Shorebirds visited Santa’s Letters in Dagsboro, Delaware to help ring in the Christmas season. This event spread Christmas cheer by allowing kids to play in the winter wonderland, drink hot chocolate, and put their letter to Santa in Santa’s mailbox. Sherman was very excited for Santa to read his letter! Sherman and the Shorebirds enjoyed helping Santa’s Letters spread the joy of the holiday season for those young and old. Despite the cold, Sherman’s feathers kept him warm!

Home Instead’s “Be a Santa to a Senior” Program

At the beginning of December, the Delmarva Shorebirds partnered with Home Instead for their “Be a Santa to a Senior” program. The Shorebirds decorated a Christmas tree in their front lobby and put ornaments from Home Instead that were labeled with gifts that seniors could use this holiday season. With the help of our amazing fans, the Shorebirds were able to give many presents to the seniors in our community through the “Be a Santa to a Senior” Program. Plus, Sherman visited the MAC Center with Home Instead to spread holiday cheer to the seniors as they received their gifts. This wonderful community initiative is something the Delmarva Shorebirds welcomed for the first time this season and plan to join forces with Home Instead for the years to come.

Holiday Parades

Sherman was a very busy bird this holiday season as he attended seven (7) Christmas parades across Delmarva. On November 29th, the Shorebirds started their parade route by attending the Pocomoke Christmas Parade followed by the Berlin Christmas Parade a few days after on December 2nd. Sherman and the Shorebirds had a double header on December 4th as Sherman shook his tailfeather at both Ocean City and Seaford Christmas parades. Sherman flew closer to the nest on December 5th as he spread holiday cheer at the Salisbury Christmas Parade giving his hometown fans a reminder that baseball will soon be back at Perdue Stadium. The Shorebirds ended the parade route with the Rehoboth Christmas Parade on December 6th and the Bridgeville Christmas parade on December 12th.

Halo Trees of Hope Festival

The Shorebirds donated a Shorebirds themed Christmas tree decked out with various memorabilia including Shorebirds bobbleheads, upper reserved tickets to a Shorebirds game, and a Shorebirds Suite Night, all valuing at $1000 to Halo’s first Trees of Hope Festival. The Shorebirds’ Christmas tree along with many other trees donated by organizations across Delmarva were auctioned off with the proceeds benefiting Halo Ministry and their mission of helping those experiencing homelessness in the area.

Jaycees Christmas Shopping Tour

Sherman and the Shorebirds helped the Jaycees with their annual Christmas Shopping Tour where they spread the Christmas cheer and gave out Christmas gifts to children in the area at the Salisbury Elks Lodge #817. The Jaycees do amazing work in the community each year, and the Shorebirds are always excited for the opportunity to join forces with such a wonderful organization.

Penguin Swim

Sherman attended Atlantic General Hospital’s annual Penguin Swim in Ocean City on New Year’s Day! He cheered on attendees as they dipped their tail feathers in the ocean. Sherman was a warm, friendly face for the participants who dunked themselves in the frigid waters. The proceeds of the event benefited the hospital and their mission of providing quality care to their community, and Sherman and the Shorebirds were proud to support such an incredible event.

The Delmarva Shorebirds were able to join forces with incredible community members this holiday season to give back to our supportive community and spread holiday cheer. The Shorebirds participated in recurring events that are beloved by the team as well as new ones that the Shorebirds hope to continue year after year. With the 2022 Delmarva Shorebirds’ season quickly approaching, the team will continue to fulfill its mission of making a positive impact on the community as well as gearing up for an exciting 2022 season of Shorebirds baseball that is bound to be one of the best years yet!

2021 Trash Pandas Community Impact Report 

 

The Rocket City Trash Pandas are thrilled to assist the North Alabama community by raising more than $100,000 in cash donations for non-profit organizations during the team’s inaugural season in 2021.

The funds were raised through a series of events throughout the season including Game-Worn Jersey Auctions, Dog Day Donations, and the Trash Pandas Food & Beverage Volunteer Program.

CLICK HERE to view the full 2021 Rocket City Trash Pandas Community Impact Report.

Highlights from 2021 include:

  • Five specialty game-worn jersey auctions featuring jerseys worn by Trash Pandas players and coaches during select home games. After the game, jerseys were auctioned with proceeds going to local non-profits that raised over $65,000 throughout the season.
  • The Trash Pandas Food and Beverage Volunteer Program allowed organizations to assist in operating concession stands during games with profits going to their organization, which collected over $47,000.
  • During each Wednesday home game, fans were invited to bring their four-legged friends to Toyota Field for Dog Day, with a $1 donation per dog going to an animal-related non-profit. Throughout 10 Dog Days, over $750 was collected.
  • Four drive-through food drives at Toyota Field where over 40,000 pounds of food was distributed at each event to provide more than 2,500 families with much-needed food during the pandemic.
  • Trash Pandas players took part in a Youth Instructional Camp where over 200 children aged 8-10 learned baseball fundamentals. Players also posed with rescue animals for a calendar photo shoot to help puppies find a new home.
  • Sprocket made dozens of appearances at special events such as school visits, Little League Opening Days, trade shows, visits with Trash Pandas partners, and delivering holiday meals to those in need.
  • Throughout the year, Toyota Field also hosted school groups ranging from elementary to college for behind-the-scenes tours of Toyota Field with stops including the press box, clubhouses, the field, and luxury suites.

The Trash Pandas are looking forward to continuing their work in the community as the 2022 season approaches. To learn more on how to get involved in Trash Pandas community events, please CLICK HERE to view the Community Tab at TrashPandasBaseball.com.

Opening Night at Toyota Field is set for Tuesday, April 12, 2022 at 6:35 p.m. against the Pensacola Blue Wahoos.

CHARLESTON DIRTY BIRDS TO GIVE AWAY 100 TURKEYS

The Charleston Dirty Birds will host a turkey giveaway to families just in time for the Christmas holiday. The event will take place at Appalachian Power Park on Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at 4pm.

Families in need of a turkey for the holidays are invited to stop by Appalachian Power Park on December 22nd to pick up a free turkey courtesy of the Charleston Dirty Birds, US Foods and Kroger. The event will begin at 4pm right inside the main gate at Appalachian Power Park and will end when all 100 turkeys are distributed. One turkey per household, first come first serve.

** EVENT DETAILS**

  • WHEN – Wednesday, December 22, 2021
  • WHERE – Appalachian Power Park
  • TIME – 4pm – all the turkeys are given away

“Kroger loves the Charleston community and is pleased to partner with the Dirty Birds to help provide a meal for those in need this holiday season” said James Menees, The Kroger Co. Corporate Affairs Manager.

“The Charleston Dirty Birds are thrilled to provide turkeys to families in need for the holiday season. We are thankful to US Foods and Kroger for their generous donation to make this possible. The Dirty Birds realize the importance of supporting the community, especially to those in need” said Mary Nixon, Vice-President of the Charleston Dirty Birds.

Opening Day for the Dirty Birds’ 2022 season is Thursday, April 21, 2022 at Appalachian Power Park against the Staten Island Ferry Hawks, with first pitch scheduled for 6:35pm. For more information, or to shop the Dirty Birds team store, visit www.dirtybirdsbaseball.com.

EVENT DETAILS

WHEN

Wednesday, December 22, 2021

WHERE

Appalachian Power Park

TIME

4pm – all the turkeys are given away

“Kroger loves the Charleston community and is pleased to partner with the Dirty Birds to help provide a meal for those in need this holiday season” said James Menees, The Kroger Co. Corporate Affairs Manager.

“The Charleston Dirty Birds are thrilled to provide turkeys to families in need for the holiday season. We are thankful to US Foods and Kroger for their generous donation to make this possible. The Dirty Birds realize the importance of supporting the community, especially to those in need” said Mary Nixon, Vice-President of the Charleston Dirty Birds.

Opening Day for the Dirty Birds’ 2022 season is Thursday, April 21, 2022 at Appalachian Power Park against the Staten Island Ferry Hawks, with first pitch scheduled for 6:35pm. For more information, or to shop the Dirty Birds team store, visit www.dirtybirdsbaseball.com.

Inaugural “WooSox Foundation Holiday Caravan” to Spread Joy Around Central Massachusetts this Week

Community Award Winners Josh Ockimey and Rich Gedman to join Smiley Ball, Woofster the WonderDog, and Santa in visits to charities.

WORCESTER, MA – Led by Josh Ockimey and Rich Gedman, two award-winning members of the Worcester Red Sox, the inaugural “WooSox Foundation Holiday Caravan” will visit charities from Leominster to Leicester and from Webster to Worcester this Wednesday through Friday, December 15-17.

Ockimey, the club’s first baseman and first-ever recipient of the WooSox Foundation’s “Heart of the Heart” award for community service, will team up with Gedman, his Hitting Coach, who won the charity’s inaugural eponymous “Geddy” award for his kindness and contributions to the community. Joining them are Mascots Smiley Ball and Woofster the WonderDog, along with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Last week, the WooSox were named Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY Champion among all 120 teams in the United States and Canada.

The Caravan, funded by generous donors from our community, begins on Wednesday morning just blocks away from Polar Park in the Canal District at St. John’s Food for the Poor, where representatives of the WooSox Foundation will serve breakfast to those in need. Other stops in Worcester include Abby’s House and Why Me & Sherry’s House, which the Caravan will visit on Wednesday, and the Worcester Public Library and UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center, which will be visited on Friday.

Stretching northward, the Caravan continues to Leominster on Thursday afternoon, with a visit to the Spanish American Center, which focuses on social, educational, and economic support to the Hispanic and Latino communities.

Southward, the troupe will travel to Webster, Mass. on Wednesday afternoon, to bring gifts to the talented students in Our Bright Future’s after-school program, which supports students’ academic needs and pursuits of robotics, arts and crafts, and sports. The charity is based in neighboring Southbridge, Mass.

West of Worcester, early Wednesday evening the excursion visits Leicester, site of the McAuley Nazareth Home for Boys. Partnering with Double Play Sports, home of the Junior WooSox in AAU Baseball, the visitors will bring gifts and play games with the residents of the home team.

Addressing some of the needs at the eastern end of Central Massachusetts, the Caravan will also spend time with foster families from Framingham’s Department of Children and Families in conjunction with the Wonderfund. Care packages comprising toys and books, as well as clothing and toiletries, will be presented. Assembled by Kits for Kids of Marlborough, the gifts provide fun as well as everyday essentials to the children.

“As we head into the holidays, we find joy in bringing joy to some of those in need of a smile,” said WooSox President Dr. Charles Steinberg, who is also president of the club’s foundation. “We are thrilled that one of the stars of WooSox ’21, Josh Ockimey, is returning to his summer home to warm the hearts of children in winter. And we are delighted that our native son and WooSox Hitting Coach, beloved Red Sox Hall of Famer Rich Gedman, will bring gifts and love to these children as well. For each child, it is a moment and a memory that we hope impacts and improves their precious lives.”

Ockimey, 26, hit 15 home runs and knocked in 45 runs in only 98 games for the WooSox in 2021. The lefty slugger, who has been in the Red Sox system all eight years of his professional career, has hit 40 home runs with 102 RBI in 220 games his past two seasons in Triple-A. The Philadelphia native has consistently been among the team leaders in community appearances.

The WooSox Foundation awarded its first “Geddy Award” to the Worcester native for his devotion to baseball, commitment to the community, and kindness to all.

Smiley Ball, born on World Smile Day in 2020, pays tribute to the Smiley Face, invented in Worcester in 1963 by the late advertising executive, Harvey Ball. Woofster the WonderDog, whom Smiley Ball adopted as a rescue dog at the Worcester Animal Rescue League, debuted on National Dog Day in August of 2021.

Santa and Mrs. Claus are longtime fans, having sewn and distributed red socks throughout the world. They are most familiar with the concept of a Polar Park.

Cutters Donate to American Rescue Workers

 

The Williamsport Crosscutters recently presented the American Rescue Workers with a check for $4,737.88, representing the proceeds from the team’s 50/50 raffles during from the 2021 season. The Crosscutters 50/50 raffle is presented by The Pitch In Charitable Foundation, a non-profit foundation of professional baseball teams.

This represents the fifth 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 population in their time of need.”

In the past five seasons, the Williamsport Crosscutters have donated over $31,000 to ARW through the foundation’s 50/50 raffle.

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Shown in the check presentation photo from left are; Cutters Vice President General Manager Doug Estes, ARW Business Administrator Dawn Astin, ARW Executive Director Sam Astin and Cutters Vice President of Marketing Gabe Sinicropi.

ABOUT THE AMERICAN RESCUE WORKERS: American Rescue Workers (ARW) is a faith based non-profit organization providing hunger and homelessness prevention services in Lycoming County since 1934. ARW cares holistically for men, women, and children who find themselves in an emergency situation or a homeless crisis by providing shelter and social services. The Williamsport American Rescue Workers is a part of the national ARW organization whose headquarters is also located in Williamsport.

Annually, ARW provides shelter to over 1,100 homeless men, women and children. 76,000 meals are served to shelter residents as well. A 3-day emergency supply of groceries is distributed to over 1,000 families per month and over $350,000 in emergency rental and utility assistance is given out to help keep families in their homes and from avoiding the homeless crisis. American Rescue Workers helps members of the community reach self-sufficiency through work programs, shelter, food, case management, and spiritual guidance.

American Rescue Workers operates 10 Thrift Stores across Central Pennsylvania, the Social Service Center, three shelters for men, women, and children, and American Rescue Workers Community Church.

ARW is primarily funded through the resale and recycling of donated goods in our 10 Thrift Store locations. Other critical annual funding comes from grants, as well as generous foundation, individual, and corporate donors.

Blue Wahoos Partner To Help Provide Holiday Meals For Those In Greatest Need 

 

A volunteer enthusiastically greeted Angie Ishee, the executive vice president of the Waterfront Rescue Mission, while she stood on the sidewalk entrance to Blue Wahoos Stadium.

“This kicks off a right kind of Thanksgiving, doesn’t it?” Ishee said.

A nod of approval became the common theme.

For the first time, the Blue Wahoos played a significant role in helping feed thousands of needy people on Thanksgiving Day as part of the facility’s “Feeding Of The 5,000” quest.

After executive chef Travis Wilson and sous chef Carl Sackman prepared more than 50 turkeys, a team of volunteers worked Thanksgiving Day morning to add complete dinner meals, then box the food into Styrofoam containers for delivery into the community.

“This is basically using our resources for the greater good,” Wilson said. “We have the high powered ovens, we have the space to do this. It is the least we can do to help.”

The stadium’s Better Homes & Garden Lounge became staging area for a unified effort to help people in need throughout the Pensacola area.

The initial efforts for Thanksgiving may be followed with help for Christmas meals that Waterfront Rescue Mission provides.

“It is a massive undertaking,” Ishee said. “The Blue Wahoos have been wonderful. This (stadium) provide a central location for our team of volunteers to come day and get the food prepared, loaded and sent out to places we are serving.”

It was the 72nd year that Pensacola’s Waterfront Rescue Mission has provided Thanksgiving meals to homeless, elderly shut-in people and others within the community in need.

The facility has done it with partnership of the Appleyard Agency. Company president Dick Appleyard said he got involved 35 or 40 years ago while his father, John Appleyard, was the company CEO and has stayed actively involved every year.

“I was part of trying to solve the problem,” Dick Appleyard said. “We knew the problem then and now the problem is front and center in the community.

“These guys at Waterfront Mission have been doing this now for nearly 75 years. They know their stuff. And at the end of the day, they are going to be part of the solution to help alleviate this problem of homelessness.”

Sackman said the Blue Wahoos kitchen area and the massive ovens enabled them to cook 41 turkeys at once.

“With turkeys, especially since they come frozen, thawing them is always what takes the longest,” said “When you have so many big turkeys together, they are basically giant ice cubes, so it keeps each one more frozen. These were all together.

“It takes over a week to thaw them out effectively.”

In 2020, Sackman and Wilson combined efforts to create takeout holiday meals the Blue Wahoos provided for Thanksgiving and Christmas. It enabled people to pre-order their family dinners, then pick up the food before each holiday.

“This time, they approached us and asked for our help and we said, sure we can make some turkeys,” Wilson said. “We have the space here to do things like this and the amount of ovens to use.”

All of the food and costs were donated. Appleyard said the plan will be to follow suit for Christmas meals.

“(Blue Wahoos) were a godsend to us,” he said. “The facility can be used for so many things. It is so fantastic.

Patriots Announce Tropical Storm Ida Relief Donations

 

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, have announced the recipients of the team’s fundraising efforts to assist those affected by the flooding and damage caused by Tropical Storm Ida.

$35,000 was raised by the team through an online auction, ballpark 50-50 raffles, and a donation match by the Kalafer family, Flemington Car & Truck Country Family of Brands, Clinton Honda, and Jaguar Land Rover Princeton.

“First we need to thank everyone that donated to our efforts, whether that was items for the auction or monetarily,” said Patriots President/General Manager Patrick McVerry. “They helped us raise a significant amount of money that was matched by our very generous ownership and the dealerships.”

The money raised through the Somerset Patriots Children’s Educational and Sportsmanship Foundation was earmarked to assist with recovery efforts for Central New Jersey residents and businesses.

The selected recipients of the fundraising efforts were:

The Food Bank Network of Somerset County: DONATE

(L to R): Sparkee, Gordon White, President of the Board of Directors; Steve Katz, Executive Director; Patrick McVerry, Sparky Lyle.

  • The donation will help distribute food and provide other basic human needs to those in Somerset County affected by the flooding and destruction caused by Ida.

Greater Somerset County YMCA: DONATE

(L to R): Sparky Lyle, Patrick McVerry, David Carcieri, President/CEO; Sparkee.

  • The donation will assist families and children through social programs designed to help them stay healthy and strong, as well as provide financial assistance to those displaced, underprivileged, or in need due to the impact of the storm.

The ARC of Somerset County: DONATE

(L to R): Jill Glassman, Director of Early Childhood Services; Chris Corvino, Associate Executive Director; Lauren Frary, Executive Director; Patrick McVerry, Sparky Lyle, Jen Prior, Sparkee.

  • The donation will help the organization assist those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families that were affected by the flooding and damage from the storm.

Somerset Health Care Foundation: DONATE

(L to R): Jessica Ust, Director of Development; Sparky Lyle, Donna Castronovo, Vice President, Foundation and Development; Sparkee, Patrick McVerry, Patrick Delaney, Chief Operating Officer at RWJUH Somerset.

  • The donation will be used to help displaced health care workers and hospital support staff due to the flooding and assist with their needs during the recovery.

Thomas J. Kavanaugh VFW Post 2290 (Manville): DONATE

(L to R): Sparky Lyle, Andy Henkel, Commander; Patrick McVerry, Sparkee.

  • The donation will be used to assist with the cost of shelter operations and aid the victims directly to help get back into their homes.

Checks were personally delivered on Monday, November 22nd and Tuesday, November 23rd by McVerry, Patriots Manager Emeritus Sparky Lyle, and Sparkee the Mascot.

“You really couldn’t ask for a better time to give than Thanksgiving week,” said Lyle. “To be able to say thank you to our friends doing such important work to help our community felt really good. And while the devastation to the area put a spotlight on their efforts, it’s really something they do all year long and deserves to be recognized.”

About the Somerset Patriots

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

www.somersetpatriots.com.