$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-

The 7th Annual SC Veterans Upstate Salute Is November 6th at Fluor Field!

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The Drive are excited to team up with fellow Upstate Veterans Alliance partners General Electric, Prisma Health, and Michelin for the 7th Annual SC Veterans Upstate Salute! You’re invited to join us in this FREE celebration on Sunday, November 6th at Fluor Field, as we will honor our local veterans with an evening full of entertainment.

The Fluor Field gates will open at 3 PM. Highlights of the evening include a live concert from Colt Ford, a 21-gun salute, a Special Forces jump team performance, an aerial flyover by the Warbirds Flyover Team and opportunities throughout the evening on the Fluor Field concourse to meet community agencies supporting veterans and their families . The night will conclude with a spectacular fireworks show! The concession stands at Fluor Field will be open throughout the evening for your favorite food and drinks.

We hope to see you at the ballpark for this special event! Learn more about the event and claim your complimentary tickets HERE.

Bisons offer Military, First Responders up to four FREE Tickets to September 11 game

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The Buffalo Bisons today announced that they will host Military & First Responders Appreciation Day on Sunday, September 11 by offering up to FOUR FREE GAME TICKETS to First Responders and Active Duty/Veteran members of the Armed Forces so those that serve and sacrifice for our country can enjoy the Herd’s 1:05 p.m. game against Gwinnett Stripers with their friends and family.

The Bisons Military & First Responder Appreciation Day is presented by Hyundai. The game will also feature the Bisons customary postgame Kids Run the Base, presented by Platter’s Chocolates.

First Responders and Active Duty/Veteran Armed Forces members can claim their four free tickets by presenting a valid ID at the Sahlen Field Box Office starting at 10 a.m. on Sunday, September 11. Ballpark gates will open at 12:00 p.m. for the 1:05 p.m. game between the Bisons and the Stripers.

Additionally, all first responders and active duty/veteran members of the Armed Forces will receive 20% OFF their purchase at the Batter’s Box Gift Shop and the Bisons Team Shop in Sahlen Field while attending the game on Sunday, September 11 (some exclusions apply). There will also be a $5.00 discount for military and first responders for the Consumer’s Pub at the Park all-you-can-eat buffet on Sunday, September 11 (reservations can be made at PubatthePark.com | (716) 846-2100).

Woodpeckers Announce Sponsorship of The Big Tiny Project

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FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The Fayetteville Woodpeckers are sponsoring The Big Tiny Project, an initiative to support homeless and at-risk veterans. The Big Tiny Project, created by the Fayetteville-based nonprofit Off-Road Outreach, is a planned tiny home community designed to be a bridge between being on the street and permanent housing. All services will be free of charge to veterans.

The Woodpeckers Foundation and Community Leaders Program donated $10,000 to The Big Tiny Project to cover the renovation of three 290-square-foot tiny homes that will house homeless and at- risk veterans. Other sponsors of The Big Tiny Project include Lowe’s, Wells Fargo, the All-Veteran Group, U.S. Veterans Corps, Window World and ServiceSource.

The purpose of The Big Tiny Project is to provide up to 180 days of bridge housing to homeless and at- risk veterans. The Big Tiny Project will provide on-site support for navigating benefits, identification services, mental and physical health referrals, financial counseling and employment. In addition, veterans can utilize a food pantry, community garden and transportation services. The project is set to be completed by the start of 2023.

“We are incredibly thankful to the Woodpeckers Foundation for their support of The Big Tiny Project,” said Stacey Buckner, the director and founder of Off-Road Outreach. “This bridge housing program is long overdue in Fayetteville and will satisfy an immediate need. We can’t wait to show the impact this will have on our veterans.”

For more information on the Woodpeckers Foundation and Community Leaders Program, please visit www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com.

Johnson City Doughboys win 2022 Appy League Patriot Award

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JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. — The Appalachian League has announced the Johnson City Doughboys as its award winner for the Patriot Award for the 2022 season. The Patriot Award is awarded to the club that exhibits outstanding support of and engagement with the United States armed forces and veterans, both at the ballpark and in the community.

The Doughboys hosted the Spring Honor Flight of the Appalachian Highlands charity softball game at TVA Credit Union Ballpark at no charge to help raise funds to send local veterans to Washington D.C. at no cost to them. During the season the Doughboys offered a military discount on tickets at the box office, Salute to Heroes Night, and hosted military branches to visit the ballpark to meet fans. They also allowed the Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network to set up a booth on the concourse free of charge so they can meet fans and give out information for their program for military veterans. The Doughboys introduced a new weeknight promotion in 2022, U.S. Army Wednesdays. The U.S. Army recruiting office came out to each Wednesday night home game to interact with fans and promote the U.S. Army.

“In appreciation for all who have served and are currently serving, we are honored to show our support to all branches of the military,” said Doughboys general manager Kiva Fuller. “We look forward to growing the outreach for all military services offered in the Johnson City area and beyond at our JC Doughboys 2023 season home games.”

“I am thrilled for our team and front office staff to have won this award,” stated Boyd Sports vice president Jeremy Boler. “Our Johnson City staff has done an exceptional job working with our military veterans in our community. Having a military name like the Doughboys, it is very important to us to build relationships with and be involved with our veterans. We will continue to build off of this momentum and will continue our work with our local military veterans.”

Thunder Honor 100-Year-Old World War II Veteran

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(Trenton, NJ) Your Trenton Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance Group, were proud to honor 100-year-old World War II Veteran Dan Morgan during the game on Sunday, August 7th as part of the Thunder’s Cloudman’s Hometown Heroes Program.

Dan Morgan is a World War II Veteran where he served as an aviation machinist’s mate First Class in the United States Navy. Dan was born and raised right here in Trenton, then moved to Allentown, NJ where he raised his four daughters.

Dan was a volunteer fireman at the Hope Fire Department in Allentown and went on to be the Allentown Police Commissioner. Dan recently turned 100 years old and has always been an avid fan of baseball. He was at the Thunder game Sunday surrounded by the family he loves, watching the sport he loves.

Sunday’s game also featured an Honor Guard presenting the American flag from the Knights of Columbus – Regina Mundi Council (below).

Cloudman’s Hometown Heroes program recognizes and celebrates individuals and groups that perform inspirational, selfless acts of kindness in our community! Cloudman is always looking for hometown heroes to honor in front of Thunder fans at Trenton Thunder Ballpark. Opportunities include pre-game ceremonies and in-game ceremonies before the presentation of “God Bless America” in the 7th inning of every Thunder home game.

To nominate a Hometown Hero of your own to be recognized at Trenton Thunder Ballpark, click here!

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.

Trash Pandas To Host Military Tribute Night, Donut 5K Challenge 

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USA Patriots Softball Game set for September 10, Donut 5K Challenge on September 24

The Rocket City Trash Pandas today announced details for two events taking place at Toyota Field in September, the Military Tribute Night on Saturday, September 10, and the Rocket City Trash Pandas Donut 5K Challenge on Saturday, September 24

The Military Tribute Night on September 10 will be a celebration to pay tribute to our Armed Forces. In partnership with AUSA, the evening will feature pregame festivities such as a parachute team, large flag presentation, color guard, and more.

Team USA Patriots will take on Team AUSA in a softball game that night, before the evening will conclude with fireworks and a performance from Scotty Hasting, Nashville artists, and Army combat veterans. Tickets are now available and can be purchased by CLICKING HERE.

Tickets cost $10 in advance with the price increasing to $15 on September 10. Gates will open at 5 p.m. The USA Patriots will be hosting a pre-game meet and greet with an autograph signing on the concourse from 5:15-5:45 p.m. Scotty Hasting will then perform at 5:45. Following a patriotic pre-game display, the game will begin at 6:15 and last nine innings. Scotty Hasting, Nashville artists, and Army combat veterans will perform a post-game concert as well.

Group and hospitality options are available. To learn more, please call (256) 325-1403 extension 2.

Two weeks later, Toyota Field will host the Rocket City Trash Pandas Donut 5K Challenge, a great test of endurance for fans with an appetite. Participants will start inside Toyota Field then run to the designated donut pick up spot inside Town Madison. After eating at least three donuts, participants will make their way back to the Start/Finish line inside Toyota Field. The race will begin promptly at 8:30 a.m.

Medals will be awarded to the Top 3 Male and Female Finishers who complete the challenge by eating the donuts and crossing the finish line. Registration is now open by CLICKING HERE and costs $30 in advance, with the price going up to $50 on the day of the race. Registration will include a T-Shirt, Bib, Donuts for the challenge, access to the post-race celebration at the Inline Electric Rock Porch with one drink voucher included per participant, as well as a post-race healthy snack. The deadline to register and receive a T-Shirt is Sunday, September 4, and the deadline to register online is at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 21.

The Inline Electric Rock Porch will be open for spectators and participants to enjoy a nice cold beverage and to partake in a Build Your Own Bloody Mary Bar.

“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.

 

RiverDogs Partner with Breeze Airways for Random Acts of Nice-Ness Week

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The Charleston RiverDogs and Breeze Airways have announced plans for Random Acts of Nice-Ness Week. From July 6-9, RiverDogs players and staff, as well as Breeze Airways team members, will be out in the community volunteering at various locations and working to spread niceness around the Holy City. The week will culminate at the RiverDogs 6:05 p.m. contest against the Augusta GreenJackets on Saturday, July 9.

“As an organization, we are always looking for opportunities to support our community in the same way that they support us each season. The chance to have our players and staff visit several non-profits and spread niceness in the community over the next several days is something we are extremely excited about,” said RiverDogs President and General Manager Dave Echols. “Our partnership with Breeze Airways has been outstanding and we are happy to join with them over the next several days to do some good for the city of Charleston”.

The week commenced at MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital on Wednesday, July. The group played board games, air hockey and did arts and crafts with patients at the hospital.

On Thursday, July 7, the RiverDogs and Breeze Airways will continue the fun at Fisher House Charleston. The Fisher House provides temporary lodging for family members of Veterans who are receiving care at the Ralph A. Johnson VA Medical Center. From 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., players and staff members will host a backyard barbecue. The RiverDogs Food Truck will provide lunch while everyone stays entertained with traditional yard games including giant jenga and cornhole.

The niceness will continue at The Joe on Friday, July 8 when kids and staff members from Windwood Farms are welcomed to the ballpark for a Field Day in the outfield from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Players and coaches will join the children for games including a pizza box race, uniform dress-up relay and kickball. A picnic will be held for all attendees at Murray’s Mezzanine and they will receive tickets to that night’s game.

Early on Saturday, July 9 from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., the RiverDogs and Breeze Airways will be in RiverFront Park handing out Breeze Points, tickets to Saturday night’s game, merchandise and other fun gifts.

Everything will shift to The Joe during Saturday’s game, as fans in attendance will be on the receiving end of the niceness. Breeze team members will be making their way around the ballpark doing nice things for various fans, like buying them a hot dog or a beverage. In addition, Breeze will make a donation to each of the three non-profit organizations that were part of the volunteer events earlier in the week and give away one roundtrip flight to a lucky fan during each inning of the game. Following the contest, every fan in the ballpark will receive a bottle of bubbles and will send them airborne in unison along with Breeze.

“We are extremely excited to partner with the Charleston RiverDogs as we roll out the ‘Random Acts of Nice-Ness Week,’ it’s a really cool project and involves two fun organizations,” said Chris Plunkett, Breeze’s Charleston Base Leader. “Breeze continues to look for unique opportunities to support the Lowcountry community. We are sincerely grateful to serve Charleston and the surrounding areas.”

Breeze Airways is a new airline merging technology with kindness. Breeze provides nonstop service between underserved routes across the U.S. at affordable fares. With seamless booking, no change or cancellation fees and customized flight features delivered via a sleek and simple app, Breeze makes it easy to buy and easy to fly. Welcome to Breeze, Seriously Nice™ flights and fares.

Individual tickets to all home games are still available. Season tickets, Dog-E Coin plans, and group tickets, including options to the Segra Club at Riley Park, are already available at riverdogs.com/tickets or by contacting the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS). The Segra Club is also open for events year-round. Visit segraclub.com for more information.

Dragons to Recognize “Hometown Heroes” Honorees During Game on July 4

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DRAGONS TO RECOGNIZE “HOMETOWN HEROES” HONOREES DURING GAME ON JULY 4

Dayton, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons will recognize the 1487th Transportation Company of the U.S. Army as “Hometown Heroes” during a special inning break of the Dragons game on Monday, July 4 against the West Michigan Whitecaps at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. The game will start at 7:05p.m.

The Dayton Dragons shine the spotlight on the military, past and present, through the Hometown Heroes program. This program hosts military families at every Dragons game, recognizing outstanding military organizations, groups, and individuals.

Since its inception in 1873, the 1487th transportation company has participated in World War I, World War II, the Gulf War, and the Global War of Terror. Coming out of the Gulf War, the unit was designated as the “Iron Camels” due to their efforts in transporting vital supplies of food and water across Kuwait.

In 2020, the unit was called to transport critical supplies in Southwest Asia in support of Operations Spartan Shield (OSS) and Inherent Resolve (OIR.) From March to December of 2020, the Iron Camels successfully completed transportation missions including driving over 500,000 individual miles and supporting 115 military units. They conducted 90 missions to the Khabari Crossing in Kuwait, trans-loading multi-class supplies in support of OIR operations. These missions included the transport of Counter-Terrorism Equipment Fund Class VII for divestment operations and the retrograde of multi-class supplies.

In recognition of their efforts, they were awarded the Army Meritorious Unit Commendation for their exceptional conduct in performance of outstanding achievement and service. The award, which dates back to 1944, is only granted to units who exemplify these efforts for six continuous months or more, during military operations against an armed enemy.

The emblem is a scarlet ribbon with a gold, laurel leaf frame and is to be worn by service members on the right breast of their service coat.

The Dayton Dragons Hometown Heroes program is made possible by the generous support of the Dayton Development Coalition, Reynolds & Reynolds, and the Dayton Dragons. For more information, please visit daytondragons.com/hometownheroes.

BRYAN CRANSTON, AARON PAUL TO HOST “BREAKING BAD” MEMORABILIA SILENT AUCTION FOR CHARITY JULY 30 AT ISOTOPES PARK 

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The Albuquerque Isotopes today announced “Breaking Bad” stars Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul will host a silent auction Saturday, July 30 at Isotopes Park. The Emmy-winning actors are also scheduled to throw out the ceremonial first pitch and sing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” during that evening’s game.

Proceeds from the auction will benefit two local charities:

New Mexico Veterans Integration Centers**:** A resource for Veterans and their families in New Mexico, the VIC provides many services, including multiple housing assistance options, peer support, food and nutrition, and case management services to Veterans, their families, and the community.

Children’s Cancer Fund of New Mexico: From the moment a New Mexico child is diagnosed with cancer, the CCFNM is there to help. Generous donations directly support these children and their families in the following manner: Assistance for transportation costs, food vouchers, prizes for children and teens to help minimize the trauma of painful procedures, scholarship assistance and much more.

All silent auction items will be donated from the personal collections of both Cranston and Paul, who starred in the hit television series from 2008-2013. The auction—which will be held exclusively at Isotopes Park—will begin when the gates open at 5:30 pm and will last through the fifth inning. The specific auction items will be announced in the coming weeks. The auction winners will be invited to attend a private photo op with both Cranston and Paul during that night’s game.

“Albuquerque was our creative home throughout the run of Breaking Bad, and will always have a warm place in my heart,” Cranston said. “Now, Aaron and I thought we can do something to say thank you in the best way possible, by raising money for two very important charities that serve the ABQ community, while also having fun at the ballpark.”

“ABQ…we see you. Doing the math – the city has been the host to Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul for sixteen years! That is a long-term relationship,” Paul said. “We were so grateful the city was an important part of the stories, because it was a character as well. Thank you, Albuquerque. See you at the game, everyone!”

The auction will highlight a festive evening, as the 6:35 pm game vs. Las Vegas will feature Blake’s Lotaburger Green Chile Cheeseburgers Night and a post-game Fireworks Spectacular.

Cranston and Paul will be returning to Albuquerque, in part, to promote their Dos Hombres Mezcal which has become the number six Mezcal in North American sales in just under three years. Dos Hombres Margaritas will be available at Isotopes Park starting in mid-July.

An updated version of the Isotopes 2022 schedule is linked here. Fans can purchase individual tickets to all remaining Isotopes home games here. Information on group outings can be found here.

Scrappers & 910th Airlift Wing Partner for Operation Fly Together Campaign

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NILES, OH –The Mahoning Valley Scrappers (est. 1999) and Youngstown Air Reserve Station (est. 1955), home to the 910th Airlift Wing, have been pillars in the Mahoning Valley in Northeast Ohio for decades. Together, we’ve participated in ceremonies, flag salutes, fly overs, and more. With significant growth by both parties, the opportunity to rally the region even more has never been better.

Together, we are thrilled to announce the Mahoning Valley Scrappers Baseball Team is teaming with the 910th Airlift Wing for a Community Engagement Partnership campaign called “Operation Fly Together” beginning with the 2022 baseball season with the Warren Area Chamber of Commerce Education, Civic & Cultural Foundation as the primary sponsor.

With unique and creative marketing elements, this campaign is designed to celebrate the venerable C-130 Hercules tactical cargo aircraft and bring increased awareness to the local presence of 910th Airlift Wing and YARS in Northeast Ohio. This campaign will also bring together currently serving Reserve Citizen Airmen, civilians, and thousands of veterans within 50 miles of the base.

Since the Mahoning Valley Scrappers are leaders in fun, and experts at creating unique moments at the stadium and in the community, their team has created new specialty marketing components include a new logo, patch, flag, educational markers, caps and jersey that are unique to the ‘Operation Fly Together’ campaign.

Elements of this new Partnership will fall under five categories — Support, Honor, Educate, Celebrate and Community. Here are some details of each category of this new Partnership:

Support – To celebrate the C-130 Hercules and the ‘Operation Fly Together’ campaign in Mahoning Valley, the Mahoning Valley Scrappers will host “The 910th Airlift Wing ‘Operation Fly Together’ Night” in conjunction with the Scrappers game on Saturday, August 6, 2022. To support this exciting partnership, a new patch and logo have been created. This patch and logo will be used on the sleeve of a specialty jersey created specifically for the partnership of the 910th Airlift Wing and the Mahoning Valley Scrappers celebrating ‘Operation Fly Together.’ A new team cap featuring a “Winger” logo, inspired by the YARS Mascot Winger, has been created and players will wear these caps at the game. Additionally,

the Mahoning Valley Scrappers have developed a new merchandise line for the Team Store that features the ‘Operation Fly Together’ patch logo and the “Winger” logo. Mechandise is available now for pre-order here: https://scrappers.milbstore.com/collections/operation-fly-together

Honor – To honor the men and women assigned to Youngstown ARS and living throughout the surrounding greater Mahoning Valley area. A new ‘Operation Fly Together’ flag will be featured at Eastwood Field in honor of the campaign on ‘Military Appreciation Nights’ and “The 910th Airlift Wing ‘Operation Fly Together’ Night.” The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are continuing their ‘Military Appreciation Nights’. This weekly promotion has occurred at Eastwood Field for at least 15 seasons and will continue to occur during the 2022 season. Every Wednesday, military members can receive 2 free tickets to the Scrappers game. Military branches are recognized and featured on these days. Additionally, the Mahoning Valley Scrappers will host “The 910th Airlift Wing ‘Operation Fly Together’ Night” on August 6, 2022. During the game, the Scrappers will wear the specialty jerseys and caps; there will be in game/online auction of the game-worn specialty jerseys and caps; the 910th will have table displays at the game; the 910th’s Winger mascot will be in attendance and the members of the 910th Airlift Wing will participate in pre-game and in-game activities such as singing the National Anthem, ceremonial first pitches, pre-game ceremonies on field prior to the game, promotional videos during the game, kids activities, the 7th inning stretch and more.

Educate – To bring awareness about the C-130 Hercules and its history. The following items are being developed to accomplish this goal: C-130 Hercules educational marker signs throughout the concourse; C-130/Winger coloring sheets in Kids Fun Zone and a Winger marker in the Fun Zone.

Celebrate – To bring awareness in a fun and positive way with the general public. The following events and items are being developed to accomplish this goal: Kids meet and greet with Winger and 910th Airlift Wing members as well as special ticket and merchandise packages available for fans.

Community – To rally the community and bring positive awareness about the positioning of Youngstown Air Reserve Station in the community. In addition to the joint press event kicking off this Partnership, the following events are being planned to accomplish this goal: Mahoning Valley Scrappers Players visit to YARS and a Baseball clinic for 910th Airlift Wing Families.

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers Baseball Team and the 910th Airlift Wing are excited to team up for “Operation Fly Together.” We look forward to bringing this new Community Engagement Partnership campaign to the Mahoning Valley and continuing our efforts together for years to come.

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are one of six founding members of the MLB Draft League, joining the Frederick Keys, the State College Spikes, the Trenton Thunder, the West Virginia Black Bears and the Williamsport Crosscutters. For more information and to purchase tickets and merchandise, visit mvscrappers.com or contact the front office at 330-505-0000.

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WooSox Show Respect to Veterans, Current Soldiers on Military Appreciation Night 

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Worcester– On Friday, June 24, the Worcester Red Sox welcomed several members from our nation’s military, who were honored before their game against the Charlotte Knights (AAA, Chicago White Sox). The ceremony started with a ceremonial dropping of the massive American flag over the Worcester Wall in right field. Then, the WooSox welcomed several members of the Home Base Program. Following the Red Sox World Series Championships in 2004 and 2007, Red Sox Chairman Tom Werner and Larry Lucchino, the former Red Sox President and CEO, and current Chairman of the WooSox, brought the championship clubs to Walter Reed Army Medical Center on their White House visit. An enormous impact was left on both the veterans and the players. Once the Red Sox won the World Series in 2007, they had veterans from the Walter Reed Center deliver the players their World Series rings. After this chilling moment, Werner and Lucchino knew the Red Sox had an opportunity to make a difference with all veterans around the country. Soon after, the Red Sox organization formed a partnership with the Massachusetts General Hospital, pledging to help soldiers heal the invisible wounds of war. The Home Base Program has served a staggering 25,000 veterans while training over 85,000 clinicians. Representing the Home Base Program was Volunteer Coordinator Jose Navarro-Robles and Veteran Outreach Coordinator, and United States Navy veteran, Kevin Dillon.

Then, the WooSox welcomed a Dominican Republic immigrant and Purple Heart recipient, Alex Arriaga. Arriaga served in the Army National Guard from 2001 to 2007 in several missions, including Operation Iraqi. Following his tenure with the National Guard, Alex served as an employment and training manager for Veterans Inc. Currently, Alex serves his hometown as the Director of Worcester’s Veterans’ Services.

Every home game, the WooSox honor a local non-profit as the “Heart of Worcester”. On Friday, the Heart of Worcester was Veterans Inc. Located on Grove Street, Veterans Inc. is the national leader in ending homelessness among veterans at an astonishing rate of 85%. Since its creation, Veterans Inc. has served more than 85,000 veterans. Representing Veterans Inc. was Government Affairs Specialist Ray Carville.

Honored next as the Hometown Hero was Project New Hope. Founded in 2010, Project New Hope sets out to help United States veterans and their family members cope with challenges, stigmas, and fears they endure during or after their tenure in the U.S. Military. Honored pre-game was the foundation’s president and CEO, Bill Moore. Also honored was Sturbridge native Colonel Tom Stewart. After serving in the Massachusetts National Guard for 32 years, including deployment in Afghanistan, Stewart joined the Project New Hope Board Of Directors. Stewart was honored by throwing out a Ceremonial First Pitch.

Following the Hometown Hero ceremony, 10 brave men and women recited the oath of enlistment into the United States Marine Corps. Among those sworn in were: Jameson Latour (Southbridge), Jordan Santos (Southbridge), Jose Quintana (Worcester), Mario Frascolla (Worcester), Mathius Gonzalez (Worcester), Nicholas Flood (Worcester), Reagan Casey (Grafton), Ryan Greenwood (Auburn), Sudip Gajurel (Worcester), and Phuc Vuong (Worcester). Swearing them in was Staff Sergeant Nicholas F. Lamothe. After the ceremony, Staff Sergeant Nicholas F. Lamothe threw out a Ceremonial First Pitch.

Presenting the colors for the national anthem was the Worcester Fire Honor Guard. Singing the national anthem for his second time at Polar Park was Pepperell native Ewan Beauzil. A recent graduate of North Middlesex Regional High School with high honors, Ewan is departing on July 5th to join the United States Army. Much like his first rendition, Ewan delivered a flawless performance.

At the end of the 4th inning of every home game, the WooSox honor a veteran as part of their “In Debt to a Vet” program. On Friday, the WooSox honored Technical Sergeant Bruce L. Cordero. A native of Lynn, MA, Bruce has served in the United States Air Force since 2004. Bruce was greeted by the fans with a standing ovation.

The WooSox players showed up for the veterans, smacking four home runs, including two from Christian Stewart en route to a 10-2 victory. The win was the WooSox’ 5th in a row, pushing their record to two games over .500 as they make their midseason push at a division crown.

BlueClaws to Honor Fallen Heroes on Military Appreciation Night

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws will host their annual Military Appreciation Night, presented by OceanFirst Bank, on Thursday, July 7th, but this year, the night takes on an extra-special meaning as the team honors and hosts the families of New Jersey’s fallen heroes, military members that lost their lives in service to America.

During the game, BlueClaws players will be wearing special jerseys, each featuring the name of a fallen hero on the back. After the game, each BlueClaws player will present their jersey to the Gold Star family members in an on-field ceremony.

“These heroes mark the best of us,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “They have given their lives in support of the nation they serve. It is our honor to recognize their heroic achievements and the sacrifices of their families.”

Fans are encouraged to arrive early to the ballpark for a series of pre-game festivities including a wreath ceremony through which one wreath will be presented on behalf of each branch of the United States Military. There will also be a parade featuring members of the 87th FSS Youth Program from Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, and an honor guard featuring a local chapter from Disabled American Veterans.

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The night also includes a Troop Supply Drive. Fans are encouraged to donate razors, snacks, baby wipes, shampoo, soap, non-chocolate candies and sweets, sun block with SPF 40+, lip balm, writing utensils, silly string, deodorant, tissues, q-tips, white socks, batteries, insect repellent, and flashlights. This supply and care package drive is in conjunction with the Monmouth-Ocean Central Labor Council Military Committee, Monmouth-Ocean Building Trade Council, National Guard, Toms River Armory, A.R.M.S, and IBEW Local 400 Military Committee.

Donation locations will be set up outside the ballpark for fans to drop off their items.

The BlueClaws have partnered with Wreaths Across America on a one-of-a-kind program through which fans can both reserve a ticket to BlueClaws Military Appreciation Night on July 7th and sponsor a wreath to be laid at a soldier’s grave this December. There are several options for fans to participate in this one-of-a-kind program.

  • Sponsor a wreath and donate a ticket for a veteran to enjoy Military Appreciation Night for $15
  • Sponsor a wreath, donate a ticket for a veteran to enjoy Military Appreciation Night, and receive a ticket to the game for yourself for $25.

Click here to participate in the program. All tickets for veterans will be distributed directly through accredited channels.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They enter July within 33,381 fans of 8-million in their franchise history, which dates to 2001.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

CareSource, Dragons Team Up to Honor Local Veteran

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

CareSource Veteran Salute Honors William Zimmerman on June 26

DAYTON, Ohio –CareSource and the Dayton Dragons will host United States Navy veteran William Zimmerman during the CareSource Veteran Salute Program on Sunday, June 26, 2022, at 1:05PM when the Dayton Dragons take on the Lake County Captains at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. Sunday will be the third of five special CareSource Veteran Salute dates of the 2022 season.

The CareSource Veteran Salute Program provides veterans in the Dayton region with a once-in-a-lifetime experience to celebrate their service to their country. Each honoree has their story shared in front of the crowd at Day Air Ballpark, followed by a standing ovation in appreciation of the veteran’s hard work and dedication both in military and civilian accomplishments.

William Zimmerman’s Story

William Zimmerman, born and raised in Tipp City, graduated from Tippecanoe High School in 1964. He wanted to serve his country and enlisted in the Navy in December of 1965. William served 21 years in the military; four years active duty and 17 years in the reserves.

William began his career with the Navy in Pensacola, Florida. He was then moved to Long Beach, California for his second tour of duty. William recorded aviation flight information and repairs on assigned aircraft. His Vietnam service was aboard the USS Enterprise which was the first nuclear-powered ship to engage in combat by utilizing her aircraft against the Viet Cong at the height of the Vietnam War. In July of 1969, William returned to the United States – very happy to see the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco as his ship drew nearer.

William continued to serve in the Naval Reserves until he retired in February of 1990. While in the reserves, he decided to attend college and graduated in 1981 from Edison State Community College with a degree in Business Management. He played basketball while in college and even started his own income tax business that continued for 40 years.

William was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal with a Bronze Star and many other service and campaign medals. He exemplifies a veteran who loves his community and continues to give back through his local church and volunteering for local causes. William has two children, three grandchildren, and resides in New Carlisle with his wife, Janel. He enjoys spending time with his family, bowling, watching the Reds, and attending Dragons games. He recently started reading more routinely and has read over 200 books in the last three years.

To nominate a veteran in your life for the Veteran Salute Program, please visit daytondragons.com/veteransalute today.

CareSource’s Veteran Salute program highlights five veterans’ stories during the course of each season. Veterans who are chosen are honored at a Dragons game with an in-game ceremony and provided with VIP treatment during their special night. The program is an extension of CareSource’s continued commitment to serving special populations and its new efforts to support veterans through innovative health and life services programs. For more information about the Veteran Salute program, visit www.daytondragons.com/veteransalute.

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