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-

WooSox Support Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month at “Karaoke for a Cure” Nov. 3

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Ten members of the Worcester Red Sox’ front office attended the Pancreatic Cancer Alliance’s “Karaoke for a Cure” event on Thursday, November 3, at the Manor in West Boylston.

The goal of the event was to raise awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer research and local patient care. Attendees had the opportunity to sing karaoke to compete for the title of “Karaoke for a Cure’s Best Singer.” Additionally, the event featured raffles, an auction, and a buffet.

Alex Richardson, Tim Quitadamo, Tayla Bolduc, Natalie Reid, Bryan Simmons-Hayes, George Lorin, Eric Olafsen, Danny Malm, Yasmine Museme, and Simi Stark represented the WooSox at the event. The WooSox showed their support by purchasing a table and donating items toward the raffles and auction.

“This night was filled with beautiful voices, laugher, and tears, as our community took another leap forward towards raising awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer,” said WooSox Director of Baseball and Game Day Operations, Alex Richardson. “Conquering cancer is one of our four pillars for the WooSox Foundation. We strive to support organizations such as the Pancreatic Cancer Alliance, who spotlight heroes, provide a respite to those receiving treatment, and offer a hug to those who could use just a little more love.”

Pancreatic cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. It also has the lowest survival rate. Richardson and the WooSox thank their community partners for helping them “go purple” during World Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, and for working to combat this deadly disease all year round.

RiverDogs to Auction Home White Jerseys from Championship Seasons

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Baseball fans will have the opportunity to bid on a piece of Charleston RiverDogs history over the next two weeks. The team announced plans to auction their game-used home white jerseys online beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday. The jerseys were donned for a majority of RiverDogs home games for the last six seasons, including the first two championship seasons in franchise history, 2021 and 2022. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital. The auction will conclude on Friday, October 21 at 7:00 p.m.

The recognizable white jerseys were each worn by several New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays prospects. The auction includes jerseys worn by Yankees all-star pitcher Nestor Cortes, Yankees pitcher Luis Gil, popular Pittsburgh Pirates infielder Hoy Park and Pirates pitcher Roansy Contreras. In addition, 18 of MLB Pipeline’s top 30 Rays prospects have worn jerseys that are part of the auction, including each of the organization’s top three farmhands, Taj Bradley, Curtis Mead and Carson Williams.

“We are thrilled to give baseball fans in Charleston and around the country an opportunity to own a significant piece of our franchise’s history,” said RiverDogs President and General Manager Dave Echols. “These jerseys have been worn in the handshake line more than any other in Minor League Baseball the last two seasons and have been worn by a collection of extremely talented baseball players.”

In total, 36 jerseys will be auctioned via the Charleston RiverDogs page on the MiLB Auctions website. Fans who place the winning bid on a jersey will also receive a 2021 replica championship ring and a 2022 championship banner.

Season tickets, Dog-E Coin plans, and group tickets, including options to the Segra Club at Riley Park, are available at riverdogs.com/tickets. The Segra Club is also open for events year-round. Visit segraclub.com for more information. The brand new RiverDogs Food Truck is available for your next event! Contact the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS) for more information.

$61,000 Awarded Through Home Runs For Heroes Program

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The 2022 Home Runs for Heroes Program wrapped up its 14th season scoring $61,000 in grants for 14 nonprofit partners serving local members of the United States Military and Veterans. Each charity partner was assigned an inning at the beginning of the season, and each home run hit at ShoreTown Ballpark during their designated inning scored a $1,000 donation.

“OceanFirst Foundation is honored to work our incredible Home Runs for Heroes partners and we’re proud to share that this special program has resulted in $560,000 in grants over 14 amazing Jersey Shore BlueClaws seasons. We take great pride in supporting the local heroes who protect and have served our great nation. Thank you Jersey Shore BlueClaws and Townsquare Media – 96.7/104.1 Cat Country for your partnership over the last 14 Seasons!” – Katherine Durante, Executive Director, OceanFirst Foundation.

“Deborah Hospital Foundation is a grateful partner with OceanFirst Foundation, Jersey Shore BlueClaws, and Townsquare. We’re extremely appreciative to have received a $4,000 grant from this year’s Home Runs for Heroes Program. The grant will support the HeroCare Connect program which provides high quality concierge healthcare navigation services to Veterans, active duty and retired military, and their dependents. We look forward to participating again next year. Go BlueClaws!” – Steve Toal, Chief Development Officer, Deborah Hospital Foundation.

“Military causes are very close to us all and we’re honored that OceanFirst Foundation has continued this amazing program with the BlueClaws once again,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “The program helps a grouping of amazing, local, charities that help veterans and we thank OceanFirst Foundation for their support.”

Recipient organizations included: American National Red Cross, Army Emergency Relief, Catholic Charities (Diocese of Trenton), Ma Deuce Deuce, Chariot Riders, Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund, Vetwork, Navy-Marine Corps Relief, National Guard State Family Readiness Council, GI Go Fund, Cape May Coast Guard Foundation, Jewish Federation of Southern Ocean County, Deborah Hospital Foundation, and Homes For All.

The $500,000 mark was eclipsed on the first home run of 2022, hit by DJ Stewart in the second game of the season on April 9th. Baron Radcliff led the team with seven home runs at ShoreTown Ballpark. Rixon Wingrove had six home runs and Carlos De La Cruz added five.

About OceanFirst Foundation
OceanFirst Foundation empowers organizations to think bigger, solve more problems, and make life better in the neighborhoods served by OceanFirst Bank. OceanFirst Foundation’s priorities include Health & Wellness, Housing, Improving the Quality of Life, and Youth Development and Education. Since 1996, OceanFirst Foundation has awarded more than 8,600 grants totaling more than $46 million to non-profits and schools within our footprint. Learn more at oceanfirstfdn.org.

About the Jersey Shore BlueClaws
The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. In 2022, they welcomed their 8-millionth fan to ShoreTown Ballpark since team’s 2001 inception. Additionally, the BlueClaws had 14 sellouts across the summer. Opening Night at the Jersey Shore is set for Tuesday, April 11th and 2023 ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale at BlueClaws.com or by calling 732-901-7000 option 3.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws/OceanFirst Foundation-

Luis Nevarez's Home Run for Life

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This is the fifth Home Run for Life game of the 2022 season. Your donation will be matched dollar for dollar by Horizon Transport to benefit Beacon Children’s Hospital.

There’s very little in life that can stand between a boy and his dog. The same sentiment holds true for 11-year-old Luis Nevarez and his pup, Daisy.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO BEACON CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

Recently, The Make-A-Wish Foundation granted Luis his wish with the pomeranian puppy.

In February of 2020, walking without balance, vomiting, and experiencing dizziness at school, his mother Claudia rushed him to Beacon Memorial Hospital in South Bend for a brain scan.

“It was the worst day of my life. I was afraid he could die,” said Claudia.

Their worst fears had come true. Luis was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer called malignant neoplasm of the cerebellum.

His first bout of radiation commenced shortly thereafter with chemotherapy treatments wrapping up in December of that year.

Luis is now in remission and continues to get MRI scans every three months.

Thank you to Horizon Transport for sponsoring this week’s Home Run for Life game. Every dollar raised during the game will be matched by Horizon Transport and will benefit Beacon Children’s Hospital. Horizon Transport, a highly respected leader in the RV world, is dedicated to the health and well-being of the children in our area. To make a donation, please click here.

Beacon Children’s Hospital is Michiana’s only community-owned, not-for-profit hospital designed just for kids!

Home Run for Life 2022 Dates (click each date to purchase tickets)

Thunder to Team Up With Vs. Cancer Foundation on August 17th

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(Trenton, NJ) – Your Trenton Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, has once again joined forces with the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation’s Vs. Cancer program to defeat childhood brain cancer – the deadliest disease affecting children in the United States.

Started by a pediatric brain cancer survivor and former collegiate athlete, Vs. Cancer empowers any sports team, any athlete, and any community to help kids with cancer. As a signature fundraising campaign of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, Vs. Cancer proceeds help fund local hospital programs for children battling brain tumors and other cancers, financial assistance and critical resources for patient families nationwide, and groundbreaking research to cure pediatric brain tumors – the deadliest form of pediatric cancer.

“The Thunder are proud to partner again with the Vs. Cancer Foundation,” said Thunder President and General Manager Jeff Hurley. “I can’t wait to see everyone at the ballpark on Wednesday, August 17th when we’ll shave our heads during the game to raise money for this important cause.”

In partnership with Vs. Cancer, and thanks to the generous support of friends, family and fans, the team is on its way to meeting their fundraising goal. You can contribute by making a donation here: FUNDRAISING PAGE

Dave Mays, the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation’s Senior Vs. Cancer Campaign Manager understands how vital these athletes are to the nonprofit’s mission. “Vs. Cancer athletes are changing the game for children with cancer. Brain cancer is the deadliest and most common form of cancer in children under 15, but each Vs. Cancer game gets us one step closer to a cure. Together we are fighting for healthier, happier futures.”

About the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation

Every day, 13 children and teens are diagnosed with a brain tumor, the deadliest and most common form of cancer in kids under 15. Every day after, they are in a fight for their life. It’s a fight the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation is here to help families win. A leader in the brain tumor and childhood cancer communities, PBTF’s mission of Care. Cure. Thrive. reflects its commitment to curing all pediatric brain tumors and transforming how children and their families are cared for. Since 1991, PBTF has provided strategic leadership and funding to accelerate the number of targeted therapies for children battling brain tumors today, while equipping families with the patient-family education, financial relief, and emotional support they need to navigate their child’s journey. The Vs. Cancer Foundation merged with the PBTF in 2016 and now is a signature fundraising campaign of the nonprofit. A world without childhood brain tumors is possible when we work together to put kids first. Learn more at www.curethekids.org. To get involved with Vs. Cancer, visit www.vs-cancer.org.

New Jersey’s Baseball Team | Big League Futures. Major League Fun.

The Trenton Thunder have drawn over 10 million fans over 28 years and have won the three major awards that Minor League Baseball teams can win; the Johnson Trophy for the “Nation’s Best Franchise”, the Larry MacPhail Trophy for Outstanding Club Promotion, and the Bob Frietas Award for Long-Term Success (Given by Baseball America). The team has given back over $7.5 million worth of goods, services, and monetary donations through Trenton Thunder Charities, under the Grand Slam We Care Foundation umbrella. The Thunder can be found online at trentonthunder.com, facebook.com/trentonthunder, twitter.com/trentonthunder, and on youtube.com/AATrentonThunder.

“BREAKING BAD/BETTER CALL SAUL” AUCTION RAISES $100,790 FOR CHARITY

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The Albuquerque Isotopes “Breaking Bad/Better Call Saul” silent auction raised $100,790. All of the proceeds will be split between the New Mexico Veterans Integration Centers and Children’s Cancer Fund of New Mexico.

Top three selling items:

Salamanca Cousin Boots – $10,600

Walter White Life-Size Bust: $7,000

“Better Call Saul” Pilot Script: $6,500

Thirteen of the 37 packages sold for $4,000 or more.

 

Largest crowd of season powers Paint the Park Pink win

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Spikes fans raised $9,265, the most-ever for a Paint the Park Pink Night, through the Jersey-off-the-Back Auction and 50/50 Drawing on Saturday to benefit the Mount Nittany Health Foundation.

BOX SCORE

PLAY-BY-PLAY

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – A crowd of 5,313 fans, the largest of the season for the State College Spikes at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, cheered on the Spikes on Saturday night as they took a 6-3 win over the Mahoning Valley Scrappers and raised the most funds in a single Paint the Park Pink Night presented by Mount Nittany Health.

Fans responded in full force to join the fight against breast cancer as together, they raised $9,265 in bidding on the Spikes’ special Pink and Black Jerseys to benefit the Mount Nittany Foundation and the work done by the Breast Care Center at Mount Nittany Health, as well as through the 50/50 Drawing at the ballpark.

The night was capped by the second straight night of FIREWORKS from the Field, as fans were invited onto the ballpark infield to see another spectacular lighting up the skies thanks to Mount Nittany Health. Three more shows remain on the 2022 schedule, with College Township presenting the action on Saturday, August 20, McClure Company presenting the show on Saturday, August 27, and Starfire Corporation presenting the show at the season finale on Sunday, September 4.

Saturday night’s crowd, many of whom were decked out in pink themselves to show their support for the fight, helped generate the Spikes’ (5-4 2nd half) late surge to take their third straight win. Ryan Chesney and DeAndre Shelton each took bases-loaded walks to break a 3-3 tie in the eighth inning, with Trent Taylor’s infield single bolstering the lead to three.

State College bounced back from going down 2-0 in the third on Dom Bucko’s RBI single and an error to plate a run in the fourth. Brody Perkes beat out an infield single to start the inning, then stole second and advanced a base on back-to-back flyouts, the last a Colin Adams sacrifice fly to score the run.

In the fifth, Nick Gile drove in his eighth run, the most for the Spikes in the second half, with a single to center field to score Shelton. A passed ball then brought in Taylor to give State College the lead.

In the eighth, Mahoning Valley (3-6 2nd half) tied the game on Adam Fogel’s RBI double before the power of pink drove the Spikes’ late flurry.

Spikes reliever Tristen Hudson (1-0) earned the win with 1 1/3 scoreless innings to close the game. Hudson, who recorded the final out for North Greenville in the NCAA Division II national championship game this June, gave up just one hit and recorded one strikeout to net his first MLB Draft League win.

Scrappers reliever Brenton Thomas (0-1) took the loss after being charged with all three of the Spikes’ eighth-inning runs in 1/3 of an inning on the mound. Thomas yielded one hit and four walks.

The Spikes and Scrappers are set to finish their four-game series at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park on Sunday, with State College looking for the sweep in the 4:05 p.m. contest. Right-hander Beau Nichols (0-1) will get the start for the Spikes, while right-hander Jarod Sprinkle (0-0) gets the ball for Mahoning Valley.

Sunday’s fun is headlined by Still Strong Night, featuring a special appearance from foundation co-founder, former NFL defensive lineman and proud Blue & White alum Devon Still. In addition to Still throwing out a first pitch and being part of the night’s activities, proceeds from the Spikes’ 50/50 drawing for the night will go to the Still Strong Foundation, and fans will have many ways to find out how to support the foundation and its cause.

It’s also a a Sunday Funday presented by Bigfoot Country Classics, with a Pre-Game Catch on the Field from 3:00-3:30 p.m., half-price hard seltzers from 3:00-5:00 p.m_.,_ and Kids Eat Free as the first 250 kids get a voucher good for a free hot dog, chips and soda.

Plus, it’s another Kids Run the Bases Home Run Edition after the game, presented by Mount Nittany Health.

Tickets for every game remaining in the second half of the Spikes’ biggest regular season home schedule in franchise history are available now. Tickets can be purchased by calling (814) 272-1711 or by visiting the Spikes Ticket Office in person from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Fans can also buy and download single-game tickets, and view the full 2022 promotional schedule, at the only source for authentic Spikes tickets online by visiting StateCollegeSpikes.com.

More ticket packages, including Flex Books and an array of group and hospitality options for the 2022 season, are currently on sale by calling the Spikes at (814) 272-1711. Additional information on all club ticketing options, as well as team news and schedule info, can be viewed at StateCollegeSpikes.com.

Catch all of the action of the Spikes’ game on Sunday via the Spikes Radio Network presented by Penn State Sports Medicine, Official Healthcare Provider of Penn State Athletics with Steve Jones and Joe Putnam on the call. The broadcast starts with Spikes Live! presented by Mount Nittany Health, on the air from Medlar Field at Lubrano Park at approximately 3:40 p.m.

The game can be viewed worldwide on the MLB Draft League streaming platform at MLBDraftLeague.com/streaming, along with the “Listen Live” link on StateCollegeSpikes.com and the TuneIn Radio app.

Charlie Ferguson’s Home Run for Life

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Four-year-old Charlie Ferguson has dreams of one day becoming a doctor, or a chef. So intrigued, in fact, that she was given a stethoscope of her own during a recent appointment.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO BEACON CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

In October of 2021, after experiencing random headaches, her mom Kelsie decided to take her to Beacon Children’s Hospital in South Bend for a CT scan. What followed was terrifying and unexpected.

“It was fast getting that news. In for a CT, 30 minutes later, my family doc called me and told me they found something. I was terrified and so was she,” said Kelsie.

Two days later, Beacon Children’s Neurosurgeon Dr. Daniel Fulkerson performed an emergency 12-hour surgery removing some, but not all, of a large tumor tucked away in Charlie’s brain stem.

A second surgery was performed months later, followed by three rounds of chemotherapy and six weeks of radiation that would remove most of what was left of the tumor.

“Beacon has been amazing. The staff, Dr. Fulkerson, everyone. Charlie is doing therapy now and we are very optimistic. We know she’ll be ok,” said Kelsie.

The near future may be uncertain for the Ferguson’s, but this close knit family has faith that Charlie will one day share her story of resilience with patients of her own.

Beacon Children’s Hospital is Michiana’s only community-owned, not-for-profit hospital designed just for kids!

Home Run for Life 2022 Dates (click each date to purchase tickets)

Bear Necessities: HVR holding inaugural Teddy Bear Toss on 7/27

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Wappingers Falls, N.Y. (July 22, 2022) –The Hudson Valley Renegades will be hosting a Teddy Bear Toss at Dutchess Stadium on Wednesday, July 27 immediately following that night’s game against the Brooklyn Cyclones. The event is part of the We Care Wednesday program, presented by Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth).

The Renegades encourage all fans to bring new teddy bears and stuffed animals to The Dutch for the game, but there will also be a limited number of teddy bears/plush dolls available for sale at the ballpark. Fans can purchase one doll for $3, or five dolls for $10. Proceeds from the sale will benefit WMCHealth’s Maria Fareri Children’s Healthcare Services at MidHudson Regional Hospital. Fans purchasing teddy bears at the game will be given ticket vouchers for a future Renegades game.

Additionally, providers from WMCHealth’s Maria Fareri Children’s Healthcare Services at MidHudson Regional Hospital will be offering a Teddy Bear Clinic for children who bring their favorite stuffed animal to the game or purchase a teddy bear at the ballpark.Stop by the WMCHealth table and say hello to the pediatrics team prior to Wednesday night’s game.

“Teddy Bear Tosses have been done in hockey for years, and we are so happy to be bringing one to The Dutch for the first time ever,” said Marcella Costello, Community Partnerships Manager of the Renegades. “A Teddy Bear Toss is a fun way for both the Renegades and our fans to make a meaningful difference in the life of children in our community.”

Following the game, fans are invited to throw their teddy bears on the field at The Dutch. The Bears will be collected by Renegades staff and donated to Cuddles from Cassidy, a Larchmont, New York-based non-profit organization whose mission is to provide comfort and joy to children battling life-threatening illnesses by providing cuddles (care packages with stuffed animals, toys, and tokes of love) to put smiles on their faces.

Additionally, the Renegades will be hosting a toy drive for Toys for Tots prior to their Christmas in July game on Tuesday, July 26. Toys will be collected at both the Season Ticket Member and Main Gates at Dutchess Stadium. Fans who bring a toy for donation will receive a ticket voucher for a future Renegades game.

Both Tuesday and Wednesday night’s games against the Brooklyn Cyclones are scheduled to begin at 7:05 p.m. at Dutchess Stadium. For tickets and more information, visit www.hvrenegades.com.

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).

Hope At Bat: Gades to host Hope At Bat game Wednesday

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The Hudson Valley Renegades will host their Hope At Bat game on Wednesday, June 29 as part of MiLB’s partnership with the American Cancer Society.

WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. (June 27, 2022) – Beginning summer 2022, professional baseball teams will join forces again to positively impact communities all across America. Minor League Baseball (MiLB) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) have announced a multi-year renewal of their long-time partnership. The renewal will see a reprisal of the Hope At Bat program – a fundraising and awareness campaign in support of cancer research – for the first time since the 2019 season.

The Hope At Bat initiative is designed to increase overall cancer awareness and raise critical funds for cancer research, while positively impacting the fan experience and community connectivity at MiLB stadiums across the country. Hope At Bat aims to educate fans about the importance of living a healthy lifestyle, as well as the importance of age-appropriate cancer screenings. All funding raised through the Hope At Bat program will support ACS’ cancer research efforts.

The Renegades will host their Hope At Bat game this week on Wednesday, June 29th vs. Brooklyn Cyclones. Hope At Bat takes place on a We Care Wednesday presented by Westchester Medical Center Heath Network (WMCHealth).

Two purple bats have been provided by MiLB, each to be signed by the team, one of which will be featured on the MiLB auction platform (with ACS as the beneficiary), and the other to be auctioned off locally with proceeds to benefit Gold Together. More details on the auction to follow.

Gold Together is the American Cancer Society initiative dedicated to increasing awareness of childhood cancer, supporting families facing a diagnosis, and raising funds to end childhood cancer. Funds raised directly support childhood cancer research, education, advocacy, and services, as well as promote cancer prevention efforts targeting children to help them reduce their risk for cancer later in life.

The Gold Together movement was created by childhood brain cancer survivor Cole Eicher, whose dream was to have a Gold Together team at every Relay For Life event, starting with his event in St. Petersburg, Florida. His vision was to raise childhood cancer awareness, support families facing childhood cancer, and connect those families to a lifetime of resources through the American Cancer Society.

Donations can be made to Gold Together by visiting Gold Together Champions Northeast RegionHERE or by purchasing tickets at gadesgroups.com and using the password “acshv”.

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).

Great Clips and Charlotte Knights Raise Over $30K to Support Children with Pediatric Brain Tumors

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Over $30,000 has been raised this year. (Laura Wolff/Charlotte Knights)

CHARLOTTE, NC — Every day, 13 children are diagnosed with a brain tumor, the deadliest form of childhood cancer. Great Clips and the Charlotte Knights, Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, partnered for the eighth year in a row to help change that with a donation of $33,353 to Vs. Cancer. The contribution was the most of any year since the partnership started in 2015 and makes the total contribution of the partnership over $76,000.

As a signature fundraising campaign of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, Vs. Cancer gives sports teams, athletes and communities the platform to help children with cancer. Proceeds help fund child life programs in Levine Children’s Hospital and lifesaving pediatric brain tumor research.

“Brain tumors are the most common form of cancer in children up to age 14, so our mission is to cure all pediatric brain tumors and transform how children and their families are cared for,” said Dave Mays, senior campaign manager for Vs. Cancer. “Community support in donations like this one is incredibly important in the fight for healthier, happier futures for children with cancer. We’re grateful to Great Clips, the Charlotte Knights and the Charlotte community overall for their continued support.”

For the past several weeks, customers visiting their Charlotte-area Great Clips salons could donate to the effort and local Great Clips franchisees contributed. In addition, several members of the Charlotte Knights staff led supporting fundraisers and shaved their heads to encourage donations.

“This campaign makes it clear how contributions of any size can add up, said Jim Bullard, a Great Clips franchisee. “We’re honored that, through the generosity of Great Clips customers and franchisees, we’re able to continue to support Vs. Cancer and the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation in their efforts.”

A check presentation to Vs. Cancer was held at the June 17 Knights game.

“We are very pleased to continue this important partnership with Great Clips and the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation,” stated Dan Rajkowski, chief operating officer for the Charlotte Knights. “It’s always very fulfilling to see our staff and our fans come together to help raise money for such an important cause.”

Great Clips is the official hair salon of the Charlotte Knights. For more information about North Carolina Great Clips salons, visit www.greatclips.com.

About Great Clips, Inc.
Great Clips, Inc. was established in 1982 in Minneapolis. Today, Great Clips has over 4,400 salons throughout the United States and Canada, making it the world’s largest salon brand. Great Clips is 100 percent franchised, and salons are owned locally by more than 700 franchisees across the U.S. and Canada. Great Clips franchisees employ more than 25,000 stylists. Great Clips® franchised salons provide value-priced, high-quality haircare for men, women and children. Getting a great haircut at a Great Clips® salon is more convenient than ever with Online Check-In, ReadyNext**®* *text alerts* and *Clip Notes**®. To check in online, visit GreatClips.com or download the free app. For more information about Great Clips, Inc. or to find a location near you, visit GreatClips.com.

About the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
Every day, 13 children and teens are diagnosed with a brain tumor, the deadliest and most common form of cancer in kids under 15. Every day after, they are in a fight for their life. It’s a fight the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation is here to help families win. A leader in the brain tumor and childhood cancer communities, PBTF’s mission of Care. Cure. Thrive. reflects its commitment to curing all pediatric brain tumors and transforming how children and their families are cared for. In 2016 the Vs. Cancer Foundation merged with the PBTF and now is a signature fundraising campaign of the nonprofit. Since 1991, PBTF has provided strategic leadership and funding to accelerate the number of targeted therapies for children battling brain tumors today, while equipping families with the patient family education, financial relief, and emotional support they need to navigate their child’s journey. A world without childhood brain tumors is possible when we stand together to effect real, meaningful change. Learn more at www.curethekids.org.

About the Charlotte Knights Charities
Charlotte Knights Charities, Inc. is the philanthropic base of the Charlotte Knights that actively supports and strengthens community programs through baseball that will enhance and grow the quality of life in the Charlotte area. CKC is organized to provide financial assistance to charitable organizations with the goal of advancing education, care, and to promote recreational activities to disadvantaged and underprivileged adults and children. The Charlotte Knights and CKC want to inspire, grow, and embrace the Charlotte community to create and leave a lasting legacy.

Wings, Golisano Children's Hospital Partner for All-Stars Initiative

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The Rochester Red Wings and UR Medicine’s Golisano Children’s Hospital have announced a partnership that will provide a unique gameday experience for patients and their families over the course of the 2022 baseball season.

The All-Star will receive a customized Red Wings jersey with name and number, as well as a Wings cap for each family member. They will also receive a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium including the clubhouse and press box while also getting to watch batting practice

“Our partnership with the Red Wings is a testament to the generous support we receive from the community all year long,” said Patrick Brophy, M.D., physician-in-chief of Golisano Children’s Hospital. “We are looking forward to this new relationship, and would like to thank the Red Wings for giving our patients a chance to take a break from the hospital and have some fun.”

The All-Star will also get a photo opportunity with Spikes and Mittsy and a Red Wings player or coach while getting to stand with said player or coach on the field for the National Anthem. Finally, the All-Star will be personally introduced as they deliver the game ball to the pitcher’s mound.

“We are proud to partner with the Golisano Children’s Hospital to honor some of their All-Stars at select games this season,” said Red Wings General Manager Dan Mason. “We strive to provide lifelong memories for our fans and we can’t wait to put some smiles on the faces of these All-Stars and their families.”

This All-Star initiative will come complete with a private Diamond Suite including tickets, a food and beverage package, VIP parking, yearbooks, and vouchers for a round of Speed Pitch and Bounce House.

Selection of each All-Star will be made by Golisano Children’s Hospital.

2022 All-Stars:
June 28: Ian

RWJBarnabas Health And Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey Host National Cancer Survivors Event with the Somerset Patriots

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Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, partnered with RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey to host National Cancer Survivors Night at TD Bank Ballpark on Tuesday, June 7.

Over 200 cancer survivors and their guests gathered at the ballpark in celebration of their strength and commitment to defeat cancer and inspire others to do the same.

13-year old cancer survivor Grace Eline and Dr. Rahul Parikh threw out ceremonial first pitches wearing Patriots home jerseys with “Beat Cancer” on the back.

“The opportunity to throw out the ceremonial first pitch alongside 13-year old cancer survivor Grace Eline, with more than 200 cancer survivors and their families in attendance, was inspirational,” said Dr. Parikh, Medical Director, Laurie Proton Therapy Center at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. “As an organization, the Somerset Patriots share our core values, and this was truly a special evening celebrating survivorship, while raising awareness for cancer research, treatment and prevention.”

Eline was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2018 and received her successful treatments including proton beam therapy at RWJBarnabas Health facilities- Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, the Laurie Proton Therapy Center at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, and the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. Grace is cancer free and living her life as a “normal” teenager.

The event was also part of Hope At Bat, a Minor League Baseball initiative designed to help save lives, celebrate lives and lead the fight for a world without cancer. The Patriots will be auctioning off a team signed purple bat through MiLB Auctions. The online auction will run until 9:00 pm on Thursday, June 30. The proceeds from the auction will benefit RWJBarnabas Health Oncology Services. Bidding can be done at https://bit.ly/3Q9vZfp.

“We were honored to open our home to so many cancer survivors, their families and friends,” said Patriots President/General Manager Patrick McVerry. “There isn’t a person whose life has not been impacted by this terrible disease. It was a special night recognizing the unbelievable strength of those that are battling and beating cancer and hopefully encourage others to join the fight.”

Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey is the state’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. Together RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute offer the most advanced cancer treatment options close to home.

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.

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

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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).