Jumbo Shrimp open registration for Feb. 15 National Anthem auditions

 

NATIONAL ANTHEM AUDITION REGISTRATION FORM

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp prepare to open their 2022 schedule of 72 home games on April 5, the club is inviting the talent of Northeast Florida to audition to perform the National Anthem before a Jumbo Shrimp home game during the upcoming season. Individuals and groups can now register for the club’s National Anthem auditions, to be held from 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday, February 15 at 121 Financial Ballpark.

The auditions will be held rain or shine. Interested individuals and groups may schedule an audition time by completing a registration form emailing it to director of promotions & special events David Ratz at [email protected].

Individuals or groups who performed during the 2021 Jumbo Shrimp season are not required to audition if they are interested in performing again in 2022. Such individuals or groups should still complete and email the registration form, indicating a past performance at a Jumbo Shrimp game.

“We always love listening to local individuals and groups perform to have an opportunity to open each Jumbo Shrimp game in the 2022 season,” said Jumbo Shrimp executive vice president/general manager Harold Craw. “Jumbo Shrimp games at 121 Financial Ballpark are community events, and we are looking forward to building another outstanding lineup of talent from the Northeast Florida community that will be among the highlights of each night of Affordable Family Fun.”

The Jumbo Shrimp’s full promotional schedule will be announced at a later date. Fans can secure tickets to these great dates by booking a season ticket package, mini plan or group outing – beginning at 24 people – by calling the Jumbo Shrimp’s front office at 904-358-2846.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at 121 Financial Ballpark. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by general manager Harold Craw. The club added its second Promotional Trophy in three years following the 2019 season. The 2021 season marked the return of Triple-A baseball in Jacksonville. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

Jumbo Shrimp invite non-profit organizations to fundraise at 121 Financial Ballpark

 

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are hosting an informational event for non-profit organizations seeking to find fun and creative ways to raise money during the 2022 season presented by FIS from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 9 at 121 Financial Ballpark.

The Jumbo Shrimp offer a wide variety of fundraising opportunities to help various entities such as youth sports teams, food banks, booster clubs, private schools, churches and military and civic groups to earn both money for their fundraising goals and gain added exposure for their cause at 121 Financial Ballpark. Programs include the operation of the ballpark’s concession stands and other portable ballpark food areas, as well as fundraising tickets, Launch-A-Ball and the Vystar Charity Begins at Home Program.

“This is an excellent opportunity to meet face-to-face and answer any questions about fundraising at 121 Financial Ballpark,” said Jumbo Shrimp executive vice president/general manager Harold Craw. “It has been so rewarding over the years to help a wide variety of non-profit organizations through our various programs, and we look forward to expanding our efforts for the 2022 season.”

Non-profits interested in joining the Jumbo Shrimp’s concession fundraising program should contact community relations manager Miranda Rossum at [email protected].

More information about fundraising opportunities can be found via this link.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at 121 Financial Ballpark. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by general manager Harold Craw. The club added its second Promotional Trophy in three years following the 2019 season. The 2021 season marked the return of Triple-A baseball in Jacksonville. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

Team Rubicon and Alight with the St. Paul Saints and Two Men and a Truck to Host Donation Drive for Afghan Families

ST. PAUL, MN (January 27, 2022) –

WHAT: Team Rubicon, a veteran-led disaster response nonprofit organization, and Minneapolis-based global humanitarian organization, Alight, will be hosting a donation drive for Afghan families who are transitioning off bases and into communities across Minneapolis and the surrounding area. As families move into homes, furniture, household goods, and other necessities are needed now more than ever. Team Rubicon and Alight are working with community partners to collect these items and help to set up homes and move in Afghan families.

The St. Paul Saints have generously offered the Plaza Entrance at CHS Field for the donation drive. The first 50 fans to make a donation will receive a voucher to redeem 2 free tickets to a select Saints home game in April.

In addition to assisting both organizations in moving Afghan families into homes, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK will be providing support and transportation to move all collected items to the warehouse. The first 100 fans to make a donation will receive a free coffee gift card from Two Men and a Truck.

WHO: Korey Schroeder, Sr. Associate of Operations and Resettlement Lead, Team Rubicon

Annie Nolte-Henning, Program Director for the Americas, Alight

Sean Aronson, VP of Broadcasting & Media Relations, St. Paul Saints

Sally Flinck, Director of Marketing and Communications, Two Men and a Truck

WHEN: Saturday, February 5 from 10am-1pm

**Interviews are available ahead of drive

WHERE: CHS Field- Plaza Entrance (between 5th and 6th St)

360 N Broadway St

St. Paul, MN 55101

Drive-up donations are requested from Wall Street turning East on 5th Street (towards CHS Field) and North on Broadway between 5th and 6th Streets. All community members, please stay in your vehicles as volunteers will greet you and help you remove items from your vehicles on Broadway between 5th and 6th Street.

LIST OF ITEMS REQUESTED

· Couch/Sofa (new)

· Pillows (new)

· Bedding (new)

· Mattress – twin and full (new)

· Comforter set, twin & full (new)

· Bath towel set (new)

· Car seats (new)

· Pressure cooker

· Tea pots

· Coffee carafe

· Dresser

· Pots & pans

· Toys

· Diapers (all sizes)

**All donated items should be new

**Due to warehouse space limitations, only items on the list will be accepted.

RSVP & INTERVIEW REQUESTS:

Joy Moh | **joy.moh@teamrubiconusa.org** | 626-552-6558

Chris Kindler | **ChrisK@WeAreAlight.org** | 651-428-5955

*About Team Rubicon *

Team Rubicon serves communities by mobilizing veterans to continue their service by leveraging their skills and experience to help people prepare, respond, and recover from disasters and humanitarian crises. Founded following the Haiti earthquake in 2010, the organization has grown to almost 150,000 volunteers across the United States and has launched over 800 operations both domestically and internationally. Amidst the COVID-19 outbreak, Team Rubicon has not only pivoted to be able to continue to deliver disaster response and rebuild services in core mission areas but has also expanded their scope of missions to meet community needs brought about by COVID. Visit www.teamrubiconusa.org for more information.

To donate to the Afghan families as they transition into communities, please visit the Amazon wishlists which is being updated daily to meet the needs of the families or visit https://teamrubiconusa.org/resettlement for more information.

ABOUT ALIGHT

Based in Minnesota since 1978, Alight is an international humanitarian organization, working to create conditions for refugees, migrants, asylum seekers, trafficked and displaced people to build full, meaningful lives. Providing health care, clean water, shelter, protection and economic opportunities to more than 3.5 million people in over 20 countries each year. Alight believes in the incredible creativity, potential and ingenuity of the displaced and works to shine a light on their humanity, the tremendous amount of good that’s already happening and the possibilities to do more. In 2020, Alight received the prestigious 4-Star Rating from Charity Navigator for the tenth consecutive year, celebrating a decade of impactful work.

Jumbo Shrimp to hold food & beverage job fairs Feb. 2 & 12

 

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – With the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp’s 2022 season of Affordable Family Fun on the horizon, the club has set two job fairs in February for 2022 seasonal food and beverage positions at 121 Financial Ballpark.

The Jumbo Shrimp will host job fairs from 4-7 p.m. on Wednesday, February 2 and 9 a.m.-noon on Saturday, February 12 at 121 Financial Ballpark.

The Jumbo Shrimp are seeking candidates for:

· Concessions Lead

· Concessions Floor Supervisor

· Warehouse Coordinator

· Suite Attendant

· Concessions Attendant

· Cook

· Bartender

· Warehouse Worker

· Party Deck Attendant

· Vending Hawker

· Kitchen Utility

· Kitchen Lead

· Office Coordinator

· Clean Team

Interested applicants may find full position descriptions and an application form at www.jaxshrimp.com. Applicants may bring a completed application to the job fair. All applicants should be prepared to interview at the job fairs and are encouraged to bring a resume and dress appropriately. Potential employees are subject to a background check and drug test.

Parking for the events will be in Lot P and applicants may enter through the Home Plate Gate at the corner of A Philip Randolph Blvd. and E. Adams St.

Open positions are for seasonal employment, including but not limited to 72 Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp home baseball games, additional stadium events and training.

The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are an equal opportunity employer.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at 121 Financial Ballpark. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by general Lead Harold Craw. The club added its second Promotional Trophy in three years following the 2019 season. The 2021 season marked the return of Triple-A baseball in Jacksonville. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

Gwinnett Stripers to Host Virtual National Anthem Auditions

 

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. – The Gwinnett Stripers are once again launching a virtual search for National Anthem performers.

All interested singers, vocal groups (five singers or less), and musicians can send a digital submission (video or audio) of their acapella or unaccompanied performance of the National Anthem to [email protected] by January 31.

Candidates will be judged on tone, pace (90 seconds or less), and clarity. Beginning in February, top candidates will be invited to participate in virtual auditions. No in-person auditions will be held. Those who have been chosen from the virtual auditions will be contacted to schedule a date to sing the National Anthem during the 2022 season.

The Gwinnett Stripers’ 2022 Home Opener at Coolray Field is set for Tuesday, April 12 vs. Nashville. Secure your 2022 tickets now by purchasing a Membership at GoStripers.com/memberships.

Jumbo Shrimp invite local students to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in essay contest

 

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – In anticipation of Black History Month in February, the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are inviting students to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by participating in the club’s annual essay writing contest.

In their essays, students will be asked to reflect on what Dr. King’s seminal “I Have a Dream” speech means to them. The winning students will receive Jumbo Shrimp prizes, as well as free tickets for their entire class to attend a 2022 Jumbo Shrimp regular season game at 121 Financial Ballpark.

“This contest provides a wonderful platform to encourage young writers to reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and to share their impressive writing with our community. The judges and I look forward to reading this year’s submissions,” said Jumbo Shrimp executive vice president/general manager Harold Craw.

The Jumbo Shrimp’s essay contest is open to all K-12 students in Duval County, Clay County and St. Johns County. Submissions will be divided into three categories (Grades K-5, 6-8 and 9-12, respectively). The contest will begin on Martin Luther King Jr. Day at 9 a.m. on Monday, January 17. All entries should be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, February 18 to [email protected], and must include the student’s name, age, grade and school. The submissions will be reviewed by a panel of local judges and the winners will be announced on Friday, February 25.

For any questions regarding the Jumbo Shrimp’s Dr. King “I Have a Dream” speech essay contest, please contact Manager of Community Relations, Miranda Rossum, at [email protected].

The contest is part of the club’s Black History Month celebratory efforts, which also includes The Duval County Public Schools’ African American History Task Force and Parent Academy presenting Family Movie Night: “Red Tails,” at 6 p.m. on Saturday, February 5 from 121 Financial Ballpark. Additional events for Black History Month will be announced at a later date.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at 121 Financial Ballpark. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by general manager Harold Craw. The club added its second Promotional Trophy in three years following the 2019 season. The 2021 season marked the return of Triple-A baseball in Jacksonville. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

Food and Beverage hosting Open Interview Day February 26

 

The Red Wings Food and Beverage Department are in search of highly motivated and customer-orientated employees to join their food and beverage team for the 2022 season! The Open Interview Day is Saturday, February 26 from 10 am – 2 pm.

The Red Wings will be hiring the following: concessions workers, picnic staff, suite attendants, suite runners, kitchen, and warehouse positions.

Applicants must be 18 years of age, and be fully vaccinated to apply. Interviews will be held at Frontier Field, visitors may park in the VIP parking lot and enter the facility through the Suites/Administrative Entrance adjacent to the box office.

Now Accepting Internship Applications for the 2022 Season

 

The Columbus Clippers offer internships during the baseball season. We will be interviewing qualified candidates for the 2022 season starting in January 2022. You may submit your cover letter and resume, starting on November 8, 2021, to the attention of Scott Ziegler. Please have all resumes in by January 5, 2022. They may be mailed, or emailed to the address listed below.

The internships will begin January 2022 and run through the end of the season. Selected candidates will be required to work a minimum of six office hours per week from late January through March. In addition, there will be occasional weekend club related functions. Once the regular season begins our interns will be required to work all home games and arrive at the stadium about 3 hours before the gates open. Internships are structured on a rotating basis whereas the intern will spend time within all departments of the organization. This may include Marketing, Promotions, Community Relations, Fan Development, Sales, Tickets, Media Relations and Stadium Operations.

All internship positions will be unpaid until the actual games begin and then there will be an hourly rate paid. We do not provide housing. Parking is provided free of charge at the ballpark and we will also provide a meal during the games. We strictly enforce organizational policies and reserve the right to terminate internships should there be disregard for this policy.

We will interview candidates whose credentials, experience, and interests best suit the needs of the available internship positions.

To be considered for an internship, applicants must be enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program.

Columbus Clippers
Attn: Mr. Scott Ziegler
330 Huntington Park Lane
Columbus, OH 43215
[email protected]

 

APPLY TODAY: Internships available for 2022 Season

 

The Bisons are now accepting applications for internship positions for the 2022 Baseball Season! APPLY TODAY

From working hands-on with the team’s video, promotional or merchandise departments to making great connections through sales and customer service, an internship with the Bisons will help you prepare for your career in the world of sports.

A full list of available positions and requirements can be found on the Bisons Internship Page. Applicants will be interviewed as applications/resumes are received, and there are a LIMITED NUMBER of internships available… so get yours in soon!

*Please note, all Bisons internships are unpaid and interns must be able to receive college credit.

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.

Minor League Baseball Announces 2021 CommUNITY Champion WooSox Capture Coveted Award from MiLB

NEW YORK CITY, Dec. 6, 2021 — Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) today announced the Worcester Red Sox as their 2021 CommUNITY Champion Award winner. Nominees from each league were selected by their peers and were candidates for the overall award.

(Left to Right) Dan Rea, WooSox Executive VP & GM, team President Dr. Charles Steinberg, and Brooke Cooper, Vice President Marketing, after the WooSox received Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY Champion Award during the Baseball Winter Meetings in Orlando, FL.

CommUNITY Champion Award – Worcester Red Sox (Triple-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox)

In their inaugural season in Worcester, the Worcester Red Sox took every opportunity available to become a valued member of their new community. Whether they were hosting baseball clinics for children, building awareness for charities or providing scholarship opportunities, the WooSox always went above and beyond.

Since the announcement in August 2018 that the Worcester Red Sox were moving to Polar Park, the valuable perspective of fans and community leaders has been instrumental in shaping the franchise’s goals and values. The WooSox show their appreciation for those in their community on a nightly basis, using pregame ceremonies like “Hometown Hero,” “Heart of Worcester” and the ceremonial first pitch to recognize and honor the contributions of community leaders and unsung heroes.

Their nightly “In Debt to a Vet” promotion honors the sacrifice and bravery of local veterans, and all fans are invited onto the playing field following Saturday and Sunday games to enjoy the Polar Park experience with a game of catch or running the bases with friends and family.

In celebration of the diverse identities and cultures of the City of Worcester, the team introduced “Los Wepas de Worcester” in 2021 and highlighted a different Spanish-speaking country in each of the Copa de la Diversion games. From Mexico to Puerto Rico to El Salvador, Polar Park transformed into a hub of that country’s local culture, music and food during “Los Wepas” games. Hispanic and Latinx leaders were honored in pregame ceremonies, the national anthem of the featured country was performed, local vendors were invited to sell their food at concession stands and the on-field “Worcester Red Sox” jerseys were replaced by “Los Wepas de Worcester” jerseys, with “Wepas” being a Spanish expression of excitement.

In an effort to strengthen the organization’s spirit of empathy and inclusion and create a clearer understanding of how they can make baseball more inclusive and celebratory of differences, the club played host to several events throughout the season. In July, the WooSox hosted “Autism Acceptance Night,” where the volume of public address announcements and music was turned down across the ballpark to reduce stimulation and highlighted Polar Park’s Unum Sensory Room, which offers a quiet space for fans to take a break on the comfortable couches, borrow noise-reduction headphones and play with kinetic sand, fidget spinners and coloring books. In August, “Peanut Allergy-Friendly Nights” were introduced to allow a safe, stress-free experience for fans with peanut allergies to enjoy a game at Polar Park, and in September “Deaf Awareness Night” included an interpreter on the videoboard to communicate pregame ceremonies, in-game promotions and PA announcements.

The WooSox took advantage of the extended season by supporting Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and “Going Gold” in September 2021. The WooSox put the spotlight on children, families and heroes who are helping to conquer cancer. Dressed in gold, children and families in the battle as well as their nurses and doctors gathered in center field in the shape of a ribbon as fans raised gold signs from the stands to honor loved ones who are currently in, or have lost, their battle with cancer. In their inaugural season, the team and the WooSox Foundation collectively donated over $50,000 to UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center, which works to treat and cure cancer and provide resources and comfort.

The WooSox Foundation also launched the “WooSox Scholars” Program to provide college scholarships to ensure young students’ dreams of education are funded. In July 2021, four Worcester Public Schools eighth graders stepped onto the field in front of a crowd of cheering fans and were presented with various gifts from the team and a certificate honoring their achievement. The WooSox have already invested $40,000 into the college funds of local students in just one season.

The WooSox introduced the “WooSox Book Nook” in the Worcester Public Library — a collection of baseball-themed books donated by WooSox President Dr. Charles Steinberg and WooSox Chairman of the Board Larry Lucchino. The Book Nook provides young readers a chance to learn the history of baseball and the power of sports in community while developing their reading skills.

“We are so happy, so proud, and so grateful to so many for recognizing the special bond between the Worcester Red Sox and the Greater Worcester community,” said Worcester Red Sox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “Larry Lucchino has established charitable foundations with every franchise he has led, and he has committed that we would be active participants in the community; we are thrilled to honor that commitment. In particular, our thanks go to the leaders and the residents of ‘The Heart of the Commonwealth.’ Their compassion and excitement inspire these synergistic collaborations. May this year, our rookie year, only be the beginning.”

Greene Donates Thousands of New Cleats to Youth Players

 

LOS ANGELES – Louisville Bats star pitcher Hunter Greene gave away 3,000 pairs of new baseball cleats (each valued around $100) to local kids and high school baseball players near his hometown in Los Angeles.

“I’m doing this because I have the platform to be able to give back,” Greene told CBS LA on Saturday (Nov. 27). “It’s important to spread the love, be able to provide kids with the best resources, the best equipment… Especially with the pandemic and COVID last year, it was really hard for families to put their money together and get the best of the best for their children. If I can help with that and make the kids feel special, that’s the ultimate goal. And I’m happy and proud to do that.”

View the full story/video here:

https://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2021/11/27/baseball-pitcher-hunter-greene-gives-away-thousands-of-cleats-to-kids-in-pacoima

Greene also previously donated new baseball equipment to the Kentucky Diamonds (a youth baseball program which provides sports opportunities for youth minorities who may otherwise be unable to afford them) in a postgame ceremony at Louisville Slugger Field in September. The baseball club publicly thanked Greene in a Facebook post here:

https://www.facebook.com/KYDiamondsBaseball/posts/939467600116670

Greene made his Triple-A debut with the Bats in 2021, finishing 5-8 with a 4.13 ERA and 79 strikeouts in 14 starts. He is currently ranked by MLB.com as the Cincinnati Reds’ No. 1 overall prospect.

Turkey Drive sponsored by Provident Bank to be held at Coca-Cola Park

 

Allentown, Pennsylvania (4 November 2021) – Provident Bank, New Bethany Ministries, and the Lehigh Valley IronPigs are partnering once again to hold a frozen turkey drive on Thursday, November 18 from 7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at Coca-Cola Park in Allentown, PA. Residents who visit the ballpark will be able to donate a frozen turkey (10-12 lb. preferred). The frozen turkeys will be collected in a refrigerated truck and stored until distribution later that afternoon. New Bethany Ministries has set a goal to collect and distribute 1,000 frozen turkeys to community-based nonprofits throughout the Lehigh Valley.

“New Bethany is truly grateful for the endless support from our community of volunteers and donors, especially now as we assist nonprofits from around the area in helping their clients celebrate Thanksgiving with a home-cooked meal,” said Marc Rittle, Executive Director of New Bethany Ministries. “Thanks to our partnership with Provident Bank and the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, hundreds of families throughout the Lehigh Valley will have a turkey this year.”

This is Provident Bank’s fifth consecutive year sponsoring the frozen turkey drive, which was an idea of Provident’s Bob Price, Senior Vice President/Relationship Manager, Commercial Lending. Bob is also a long-time board member of New Bethany Ministries, now in their 36th year of providing Thanksgiving meals to community residents. This is also the fifth consecutive year that the refrigerated truck is being donated by Tom Mesko, a longtime friend and customer of Provident Bank.

“We’re proud to partner with New Bethany Ministries and the Lehigh Valley IronPigs on this important initiative to support families of the Lehigh Valley. Involvement with the communities we serve and helping those in need is fundamental at Provident Bank,” said Chris Martin, Chairman and CEO.

Provident Bank employees will be on site to accept frozen turkeys outside of the Provident Bank Ticket Office at Coca-Cola Park. The first 500 people to donate a frozen turkey on Thursday, November 18 will receive a commemorative oven mitt. In addition, they will receive a coupon for 15% off their purchase at the Lehigh Valley IronPigs Clubhouse Store (coupon valid Thursday, November 18 only).

“For just this one time, it’s okay to ‘talk turkey’ instead of pork,” exclaimed IronPigs President and General Manager, Kurt Landes. “This is a wonderful opportunity for our fans and partners to provide a Thanksgiving turkey to support those throughout the Lehigh Valley who are unable to on their own. And Hambone appreciates and encourages the consumption of turkey on every holiday rather than other (gulp) alternatives.”

For more information on the frozen turkey drive, please visit ironpigsbaseball.com or call New Bethany Ministries at 610-691-5602.

About Provident Bank

Provident Bank, a community-oriented financial institution offering “Commitment you can count on” since 1839, is the wholly owned subsidiary of Provident Financial Services, Inc. (NYSE:PFS), which reported assets of $13.39 billion as of September 30, 2021. With $10.84 billion in deposits, Provident Bank provides a comprehensive suite of financial products and services through its network of branches throughout northern and central New Jersey, as well as Bucks, Lehigh and Northampton counties in Pennsylvania and Queens County in New York. The Bank also provides fiduciary and wealth management services through its wholly owned subsidiary, Beacon Trust Company and insurance services through its wholly owned subsidiary, SB One Insurance Agency, Inc. For more information about Provident Bank, visit www.provident.bank or join the conversations on Facebook (ProvidentBank) and Twitter (@ProvidentBank).

About New Bethany Ministries

New Bethany Ministries, in their 36th year of service to the Lehigh Valley, encompasses programs that provide food support, clothing, referral services, showers, financial management, permanent housing for men and women, wellness services, and transitional and permanent housing solutions. Their mission is to offer hope and support to people who experience poverty, hunger, and homelessness. NBM believes that all people, regardless of circumstances, should be treated with dignity and care without judgment. No one who seeks help is turned away. To learn more about New Bethany Ministries, find them on Facebook and Twitter @NewBethMin, or visit them on the web at www.newbethanyministries.org.

Follow the IronPigs on Twitter at @IronPigs and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/LHVIronPigs.

The IronPigs are presented by Capital BlueCross.

–#OinkOn–

Sherman Johnson Awarded With Twins Harmon Killebrew Award For Community Service

ST. PAUL, MN (October 1, 2021) – The Minnesota Twins today announced the 2021 Harmon Killebrew Award winners for outstanding minor league community service. Following the Hall of Famer’s death in 2011, the Twins have annually recognized a player from each of the organization’s full-season affiliates. Each player is nominated by their respective general manager for their service within the affiliate’s community. A plaque is awarded, in addition to an on-field presentation during spring training. Though opportunities for community involvement were limited in 2021 due to COVID restrictions, this year’s winners made the best of the circumstances to make an impact in their respective cities.

Infielder Sherman Johnson has been named the winner of the award representing Triple-A St. Paul. Johnson is passionate about reading and promoting literacy, and was active in the Saints’ Reading Tree program this past season. The program took place on the outfield grass prior to Sunday home games and featured a Saints player and a local author/illustrator reading books to kids. Johnson, 31, signed a minor league contract with the Twins on May 12 and began the season at Double-A Wichita, before being transferred to St. Paul on June 1. He batted a combined .202 (45-for-223) with 10 doubles, two triples, five home runs, 33 RBI, 36 runs scored and 46 walks in 75 games for the Saints and Wind Surge.

Right-handed pitcher Hector Lujan has been named the winner of the award representing Double-A Wichita, his third time earning the honor (2014 – Cedar Rapids and 2019 – Pensacola). The 27-year-old was recognized by the Wind Surge front office as the first player to reach out about community engagement opportunities, despite the limits imposed by the pandemic. Lujan was also quick to engage and interact with fans by signing autographs, and was always willing to assist the front office whenever needed. He went 3-2 with a 3.62 ERA (32.1 IP, 13 ER), nine walks and 33 strikeouts in 18 games for the Wind Surge, missing time due to injury.

Catcher Alex Isola has been named the winner of the award representing Single-A Cedar Rapids. Isola volunteered with the local Meals on Wheels chapter during the 2021 season, delivering meals to those in need in his free time and encouraging his teammates to do the same. The 23-year-old also spent significant time signing autographs for fans whenever possible, using the bullpen area as his base. Isola spent the entire 2021 season with the Kernels, his first full professional campaign, hitting .243 (88-for-362) with 15 doubles, 17 home runs, 52 RBI, 47 runs scored and 53 walks in 98 games.

Catcher Jeferson Morales has been named the winner of the award representing Single-A Fort Myers. Morales was recognized by the Mighty Mussels front office as a player who went above and beyond regarding fan interaction during the season, noting his constant willingness to interact with fans and sign autographs whenever he could. The 22-year-old split the 2021 minor league season between Fort Myers and Cedar Rapids, batting a combined .255 (84-for-329) with 24 doubles, 12 home runs, 53 RBI, 12 stolen bases and 54 runs scored in 96 games.

WooSox to Preserve Pawtucket Tradition by Sending Two Kids from its Boys & Girls Club to The World Series

2021 marks 71st anniversary of tradition established in 1950 by longtime American League Umpire Hank Soar.

(Left to right) Juan Luis Torres Caquias, Jeremy Torres (13), Michael Cute (11), and Matthew Cute stop by Polar Park before heading to Atlanta to attend The World Series.
Tim Quitadamo/Worcester Red Sox

WORCESTER, MA – Continuing a Rhode Island tradition that dates back 71 years, the Worcester Red Sox will send a pair of youngsters from the Boys & Girls Club of Pawtucket on an all-expense-paid trip to see Games 3 and 4 of the 2021 World Series at Truist Park in Atlanta, GA, this Friday and Saturday night.

Michael Cute, 11, and Jeremy Torres, 13, will be accompanied by their fathers, Matthew Cute and Juan Luis Torres Caquias. Both families are from Pawtucket.

“These kids are going to remember this experience for the rest of their lives,” said Boys & Girls Club of Pawtucket CEO, Jim Hoyt. “We’re grateful that the Worcester Red Sox are continuing this tradition that goes back decades, and that they haven’t forgotten about our kids in Pawtucket. It’s one of our favorite traditions.”

“I’ve had the pleasure of carrying on this amazing tradition for over three decades during my time in Pawtucket,” said WooSox Vice Chairman Mike Tamburro, the longtime president of the PawSox. “Now we get to continue this tradition from my hometown in Worcester and give them a proper send-off from our new home at Polar Park.”

The two children were randomly chosen during a Boys & Girls Club group outing at Polar Park this season. This year’s trip marks the 31st year that the franchise has sent two children from the Boys & Girls Club of Pawtucket, each accompanied by a parent, to baseball’s Fall Classic.

The tradition began in 1950 when the New York Football Giants’ longtime running back, Hank Soar, became an American League baseball umpire. Soar, who grew up in Pawtucket and graduated from what is now Tolman High School, had been discovered umpiring by Central Mass native Connie Mack, the legendary owner and manager of the Philadelphia Athletics. After Soar established the annual tradition of providing tickets to a pair of children, the City of Pawtucket assumed the responsibility before passing the torch to the Pawtucket Red Sox in 1990. After completing 50 years in Rhode Island in 2020, the club is sending the students this year for the first time as the Worcester Red Sox.

“I am pleased to see this longstanding tradition continue,” said Mayor of Pawtucket Donald R. Grebien. “It means so much for our youth to be able to have this opportunity and I am glad that the WooSox will be continuing to provide this great experience.”