Hooks Fans Donate Nearly $72,000 in 2022

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dayton Community, Day Air Credit Union, and the Dayton Dragons Help Raise Over $34,000 in Holiday 50/50 Raffle

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DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons Foundation and Day Air Credit Union announced today that $17,327.50 will be presented to the Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc. after completion of a special holiday online 50/50 raffle. The 50/50 raffle began on December 1 and continued until December 14. A total of $34,655 was generated and was split equally between the Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc. and the lucky winner.

“We’re thankful to have been chosen by the Dayton Dragons and Day Air Credit Union as the charity partner in this fun, online raffle. Both organizations have proven committed to making the Dayton region a better place to live. This event was a perfect fit for us since all proceeds will benefit our mission of providing a “home away from home” for families of hospitalized military men and women,” said Chris Stanley, Executive Director at Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc.

“We’re thrilled with the Miami Valley’s response to our annual holiday raffle and thrilled to be able to present over $17,000 to another great local charitable program located at the Dayton VA – the Fisher House this holiday season,” said Dragons President, Robert Murphy. “We are thankful for our partnership with Day Air Credit Union in making this happen.”

“Day Air is committed to strengthening our community, and our partners at the Dayton Dragons share this same passion.” Day Air Credit Union CEO and President, Bill Burke said. “We’re proud that our efforts this holiday season led to a significant donation for the Dayton VA Fisher house and ensured vulnerable veterans and their families receive much-needed support.”

Fisher House Foundation builds comfort homes where military & veteran families can stay free of charge. The Fisher Houses offer physical and emotional support to our servicemen and servicewomen, providing the opportunity for military and Veteran families to stay together and support each other when a loved one is undergoing medical treatment. These homes are located at military and VA medical centers around the world. Fisher Houses have up to 21 suites, with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, laundry facilities, a warm dining room, and an inviting living room. To learn more about how you can help, visit www.fnhi.org.

Throughout the 2022 season, the Dragons conducted 50/50 raffles, raising thousands of dollars for local charities and the Dragons Foundation. The Pink Ribbon Girls, CultureWorks, and others received money from the raffle, along with the Dragons Foundation, which provides necessary funding and resources to support the countless donations, charitable giving requests, in-kind donations, unique game experiences, and community wide Dragons programs.

More Information:_ The Dayton Dragons are the affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play 66 home games at beautiful Day Air Ballpark, in the heart of the Water Street District. Deposits for 2023 season tickets are being accepted now. For information about season tickets, including the new Business Club and Family Club, contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at [email protected], or go to daytondragons.com. Information is also available regarding hospitality areas and sponsorship opportunities._

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Dragons Holiday “50/50 Raffle” Grows Over $10,000

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With less than a week left, Miami Valley residents can win big and give back to Fisher House Foundation.

DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons Foundation special online 50/50 raffle, presented by Day Air Credit Union, with proceeds benefitting the Fisher House (Dayton VA Medical Center Campus), has grown to over $10,000.

With less than a week left until the end (Wednesday, December 14), one lucky fan will win 50% of the jackpot. The other half of the net proceeds will benefit the Fisher House.

Raffle tickets are now available online at www.DaytonDragons5050.com in the following amounts:

  1. $10.00 receives Two (2) Raffle Tickets; or
  2. $25.00 receives Ten (10) Raffle Tickets; or
  3. $50.00 receives Forty (40) Raffle Tickets

Each ticket purchased will be considered one (1) entry into the raffle. Fans must be 18 years or older and be in the state of Ohio at the time of purchase to enter. The winning ticket number will be announced on December 15, 2022. Buy tickets now and find the official rules at www.DaytonDragons5050.com

“Each season, we host 50/50 raffles inside Day Air Ballpark and online to support various causes in our community through the Dragons Foundation” said Dragons President, Robert Murphy. “We’re excited to host a fully online sales effort to benefit a great local charitable program located at the Dayton VA – the Fisher House. We are also very pleased to partner with Day Air Credit Union in making this happen. We feel it’s a wonderful way to help those in need during the holiday season.”

“Day Air is proud to support local organizations who share our commitment to the community,” Day Air Credit Union CEO and President, Bill Burke said. “This holiday season, we’re once again excited to partner with the Dayton Dragons to sponsor this unique and fun opportunity for members and our community to give to the Fisher House at the Dayton VA.”

“We’re thankful to have been chosen by the Dayton Dragons and Day Air Credit Union as the charity partner in this fun, online raffle. Both organizations have proven committed to making the Dayton region a better place to live. This event was a perfect fit for us since all proceeds will benefit our mission of providing a “home away from home” for families of hospitalized military men and women,” said Chris Stanley, Executive Director at Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc.

This online 50/50 raffle website uses geo-tracking; you must be located in the state of Ohio when you participate. As such, you must allow location settings on your computer/device for it to recognize your location and to participate. There may be some instances where a work/company computer will block the site. If this occurs, please note you should be able to use your cell phone or personal device or home computer to participate.

Fisher House Foundation builds comfort homes where military & veteran families can stay free of charge. The Fisher Houses offer physical and emotional support to our servicemen and servicewomen, providing the opportunity for military and Veteran families to stay together and support each other when a loved one is undergoing medical treatment. These homes are located at military and VA medical centers around the world. Fisher Houses have up to 21 suites, with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, laundry facilities, a warm dining room, and an inviting living room. To learn more about how you can help, visit www.fnhi.org.

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-

Woodpeckers head Second Annual “Backpacks for Patriots”

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FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The Fayetteville Woodpeckers are teaming up with the Military Luggage Company, Off-Road Outreach, Fayetteville Area Operation Inasmuch, and Veterans Services of the Carolinas for the second annual “Backpacks for Patriots” program. This initiative provides backpacks and other essential items for unhoused veterans and low-income military families.

The Woodpeckers Foundation and Community Leaders Program have donated $7,500 for the purchase of 200 backpacks from the Military Luggage Company. The backpacks and essential items will be distributed to unhoused veterans and low-income military families on Monday, January 9th, 2023, at Operation Inasmuch. Several other services will also be available to those in need at this event.

The Fayetteville Woodpeckers will be collecting donations for Backpacks for Patriots over the duration of their annual Fayetteville Holiday Lights, which runs December 8th through 23rd, 2022. Attendees are encouraged to bring new, packaged donations of paper towels, toilet paper, athletic clothing, handwarmers, deodorant and over-the-counter medicine. In return for donating, attendees will receive a voucher for a discounted ticket to the Fayetteville Holiday Lights night of their choosing. Donations will be collected beside the Truist Box Office at Segra Stadium nightly from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. during Fayetteville Holiday Lights.

Backpacks for Patriots is part of the Community Leaders Program, which supports youth sports and military initiatives. For more information about the Woodpeckers, Community Leaders Program, or Fayetteville Holiday Lights, please visit https://www.milb.com/fayetteville

Win Big in the Dragons Holiday “50/50 Raffle”

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Win Big in the Dragons Holiday “50/50 Raffle”

Presented by Day Air Credit Union Benefitting the Fisher House (Dayton VA Medical Center Campus)

DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons Foundation has launched a special online 50/50 raffle, presented by Day Air Credit Union, with proceeds benefitting the Fisher House (Dayton VA Medical Center Campus).

Starting Thursday, December 1 through Wednesday, December 14, one lucky fan will win 50% of the jackpot. The other half of the net proceeds will benefit the Fisher House. The starting jackpot will begin at $5,000.

“Each season, we host 50/50 raffles inside Day Air Ballpark and online to support various causes in our community through the Dragons Foundation” said Dragons President, Robert Murphy. “We’re excited to host a fully online sales effort to benefit a great local charitable program located at the Dayton VA – the Fisher House. We are also very pleased to partner with Day Air Credit Union in making this happen. We feel it’s a wonderful way to help those in need during the holiday season.”

“Day Air is proud to support local organizations who share our commitment to the community,” Day Air Credit Union CEO and President, Bill Burke said. “This holiday season, we’re once again excited to partner with the Dayton Dragons to sponsor this unique and fun opportunity for members and our community to give to the Fisher House at the Dayton VA.”

“We’re thankful to have been chosen by the Dayton Dragons and Day Air Credit Union as the charity partner in this fun, online raffle. Both organizations have proven committed to making the Dayton region a better place to live. This event was a perfect fit for us since all proceeds will benefit our mission of providing a “home away from home” for families of hospitalized military men and women,” said Chris Stanley, Executive Director at Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc.

Raffle tickets are now available online at www.DaytonDragons5050.com in the following amounts:

  1. $10.00 receives Two (2) Raffle Tickets; or
  2. $25.00 receives Ten (10) Raffle Tickets; or
  3. $50.00 receives Forty (40) Raffle Tickets

Each ticket purchased will be considered one (1) entry into the raffle. Fans must be 18 years or older and be in the state of Ohio at the time of purchase to enter. The winning ticket number will be announced on December 15, 2022. Buy tickets now and find the official rules at www.DaytonDragons5050.com

This online 50/50 raffle website uses geo-tracking; you must be located in the state of Ohio when you participate. As such, you must allow location settings on your computer/device for it to recognize your location and to participate. There may be some instances where a work/company computer will block the site. If this occurs, please note you should be able to use your cell phone or personal device or home computer to participate.

Fisher House Foundation builds comfort homes where military & veteran families can stay free of charge. The Fisher Houses offer physical and emotional support to our servicemen and servicewomen, providing the opportunity for military and Veteran families to stay together and support each other when a loved one is undergoing medical treatment. These homes are located at military and VA medical centers around the world. Fisher Houses have up to 21 suites, with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, laundry facilities, a warm dining room, and an inviting living room. To learn more about how you can help, visit www.fnhi.org.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trenton Thunder Recognized with Governor’s Award for Honoring Veterans

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(Trenton, NJ) – Your Trenton Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance Group, are proud to have been presented with an award recognizing ongoing efforts to honor veterans at Trenton Thunder Ballpark. The award commends the Thunder “for their dedication to the values of our State, and ensuring our Veterans are recognized, honored, and valued for their bravery.”

The New Jersey’s Governor “We Value Our Veterans” Employer Award was awarded by NJ Governor Phil Murphy during a ceremony at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial and Vietnam Era Museum on November 11th. Trenton Thunder President and General Manager Jeff Hurley accepted the award at the ceremony Friday, where Hamilton Township and Mercer County were also honored, along with other municipalities and businesses.

The Trenton Thunder have a long-standing tradition of honoring veterans at the ballpark during games with our annual Hometown Heroes Night, featuring a pregame ceremony recognizing military veterans, first responders, and local heroes. They also honor a local hero every game during the 7th inning just prior to the singing of God Bless America.

The award reads:

“In grateful appreciation of your extraordinary efforts to promote a military friendly environment for the Veterans of our great State. As Governor of the State of New Jersey, I commend Trenton Thunder for their dedication to the values of our State, and ensuring our Veterans are recognized, honored, and valued for their bravery.” – Philip D. Murphy, Governor of the State of New Jersey

You can learn more about the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial and Vietnam Era Museum on their website here: https://www.njvvmf.org/

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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.

BlueClaws Accepting Nominations for Military Appreciation Night Jersey Ceremony

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws will once again honor military heroes through a special post-game ceremony after the July 6th Military Appreciation Night game, which is presented by OceanFirst Bank. This program recognizes and remembers military heroes that are no longer with us, and dedicated their lives to service to the nation. The team is now collecting nominations for military veterans to include in the ceremony. Fans are encouraged to fill out the form linked below.

CLICK HERE to fill out the nomination form.

“These military servicemen and servicewomen are the best of us,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “This ceremony from Military Appreciation Night last season was one of the most moving moments of the year and we’re looking forward to honoring additional heroes in 2023.

“We know there are so many worthy honorees for this program and thank everyone in advance for their nominations.”

Part of the nomination process asks nominators to describe the reasons, with information about their service, as to why they are most deserving.

The BlueClaws will select a group of heroes from the nominations. Each hero will have their name on the back of one special jersey worn by the BlueClaws at the Military Appreciation Night game. After that game, each player or coach will present the jersey to the respective families on the field.

The BlueClaws have several additional 2023 military-based initiatives.

Wreaths Across America Donation Package

The BlueClaws have partnered with Wreaths Across America on a program through which fans can sponsor a wreath to be laid at the gravesite of a veteran but also donate a ticket to a military member for Military Appreciation night at the ballpark.

There are two levels to the partnership:

  • For $15, fans will sponsor a wreath and donate a ticket for Military Apprecition Night.
  • For $25, fans will sponsor a wreath, donate a ticket, and receive a ticket of their own.

CLICK HERE to participate.

Vets Night Out

Through the Vets Night Out program, presented by OceanFirst Bank, fans can donate tickets for veterans and military personnel to attend the Military Appreciation Night game at ShoreTown Ballpark.

Donation levels include Platinum (100 tickets donated for $1,000), Gold (50 tickets donated for $50, Silver (25 tickets donated for $250), and Bronze (10 tickets donated for $100). Donor benefits at each level include complimentary tickets to the Military Appreciation Night game on July 6th, among others. Platinum donors also receive a complimentary Luxury Suite outing to an April/May game in 2023, subject to availability.

CLICK HERE for additional information.

Vet Tix

The BlueClaws have a limited number of four-packs of tickets for the July 6th Military Appreciation Night game now available on VetTix.org.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

Dragons Veteran Salute Program, presented by CareSource, Continues in 2023

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DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons and CareSource, a nonprofit multistate health plan, are continuing their commitment for the Dayton Dragons Veteran Salute program, presented by CareSource. The program is an extension of CareSource’s commitment to improve the lives of complex populations including veterans and their families through innovative programs and partnerships to support their health and well-being.

The Dragons Veteran Salute program, presented by CareSource, is open to any military veteran in the Miami Valley. Veterans will be selected from entries submitted between now and May of 2023. Selected veterans will be recognized at a Dayton Dragons home game during an inning break at Day Air Ballpark, April through September 2023. Each veteran receives VIP treatment during their night including in-game recognition, a luxury suite, food and beverage, a special gift, and more.

“Partnering with the Dayton Dragons to recognize local veterans is a perfect way to elevate their stories and thank them for their service,” said Richard Topping, President of CareSource Military & Veterans. “CareSource is proud to serve veterans, military and their families, and we work hard to support their unique health and wellness needs.”

Since 2019, CareSource and the Dayton Dragons have honored over 20 local veterans and their families with a special experience at the ballpark.

“The Dragons are thrilled to continue partnering with CareSource in this effort to honor local veterans,” said Robert Murphy, President of the Dayton Dragons. “We look forward to continue recognizing these individuals who have served our country and sharing their stories with our fans at Day Air Ballpark.”

Nominations for the Dragons Veteran Salute program, presented by CareSource, are open to the public. Any living military veteran from the Miami Valley is eligible to be nominated. To nominate a veteran, go to www.daytondragons.com/veteransalute

About CareSource

CareSource is nationally recognized for leading the industry in providing member-centric health care coverage. The company’s managed care business model was founded in 1989 and today CareSource is one of the nation’s largest Medicaid managed care plans. Headquartered in Dayton, Ohio, the company has built a legacy of providing quality health care coverage for Medicaid consumers. In addition to Medicaid coverage, CareSource has a diverse offering of insurance plans on the Health Insurance Marketplace. The company also offers Medicare Advantage plans that help consumers close the gap of coverage as they age. CareSource serves more than 2 million members across six states supported by a growing workforce of 4,500.

For more, visit www.caresource.com, follow @caresource on Twitter, or like CareSource on Facebook.

More Information on the Dayton Dragons

The Dayton Dragons are the affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play 66 home games at beautiful Day Air Ballpark, in the heart of the Water Street District. Deposits for 2023 season tickets are being accepted now. For information about season tickets, including the new Business Club and Family Club, contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at [email protected], or go to daytondragons.com. Information is also available regarding hospitality areas and sponsorship opportunities.

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Gwinnett Stripers’ Veterans Packs Return for 2023

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LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. – In observance of Veterans Day, the Gwinnett Stripers are once again offering a Veterans Pack for the 2023 season. Packs are on sale for a limited time only, from November 10-12.

Veterans Packs are available to all service members and their dependents and may be purchased online at GoStripers.com or at the Coolray Field box office (open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) from November 10-11. Packs will be available online-only on November 12.

For just $75 (a value of $163), each Veterans Pack includes:

  • One (1) Field Box ticket to four patriotic-themed Stripers 2023 home games, including Opening Night (March 31), Salute to Armed Forces (May 26), Independence Day (July 4), and Fan Appreciation Night (September 22).

  • One (1) Stripers Patriotic T-Shirt

  • Invite to watch Stripers Batting Practice on the field on May 26

  • On-Field Recognition at Salute to Armed Forces on May 26

All Veterans Pack tickets and Patriotic T-Shirts will be available for pick-up during the Stripers Preseason Party in February.

Fans with questions about the Veterans Pack can email [email protected] or call 678-277-0340.

Gwinnett Stripers’ Opening Night Coolray Field is set for Friday, March 31 vs. Jacksonville. Memberships for 2023 are on sale now by calling the Coolray Field Ticket Office at 678-277-0340. For more information, visit GoStripers.com/memberships.

Segra Stadium to Host Annual “United for Veterans”

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FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The Fayetteville Woodpeckers will host the annual “United for Veterans” event on Friday, November 11th from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Segra Stadium. This event is free, open to the public and will have activities for all ages.

United for Veterans will feature a resource fair that will bring dozens of organizations together, offering services for veterans and military families. Among these will be organizations providing education services, medical information, employment assistance, mental health care, housing, fitness, recreational activities and more.

Along with the resource fair, there will be family activities around the concourse and a “Woodpeckers Yard Sale,” in which exclusive Woodpeckers jerseys and other items will be available for purchase. The Woodpeckers will also collect donations at this event for unhoused veterans. Anyone is welcome to bring donations such as shoes, handwarmers, paper towels, toilet paper and athletic clothing.

United for Veterans is one of over fifteen events happening in Cumberland County during Heroes Homecoming, a weeklong celebration of veterans and military families, organized by the Fayetteville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Heroes Homecoming is honoring the “Heroes at Home,” military families and spouses, along with veterans and active-duty members. Heroes Homecoming kicks off on Saturday, November 5th with the annual Veterans Day parade, and festivities continue through Saturday, November 12th.

For more information about United for Veterans or other upcoming events, please visit www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com.

Honored: Gades recognized for commitment to Veterans

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Wappingers Falls, N.Y. (October 18, 2022) – The Hudson Valley Renegades, the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, were recognized for their dedication and commitment to veterans throughout the Hudson Valley at the Veterans of Foreign Wars state conference in Albany on Saturday, October 15.

The Renegades were honored for their Veteran of the Game program, sponsored by AARP New York. At each game from July through the end of the 2021 season, the Veteran of the Game program hosted active and retired military families and honored them with a special on-field ceremony and jersey presentation in the third inning.

“While we can never fully pay back the sacrifices that our veterans have made to ensure our freedom, the Veteran of the Game program was something special that we could do to show a small token of our appreciation,” said Marcella Costello, Renegades Community Partnerships Manager. “It was one of the most moving parts of our games, and we are looking forward to continuing the program for years to come.”

“AARP NY was proud to show our support for the brave men and women who serve our country through the Renegades’ Veteran of the Game program,” said Robyn Haberman, associate state director of Community Engagement for AARP. “There are so many selfless heroes deserving of recognition, and AARP is committed to not only helping tell their stories but to providing resources and information that empower them as well.”

The proclamation from the VFW states: “The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States express our sincere appreciation of your support to our veterans through community work of the Hudson Valley Renegades in honoring and highlighting local veterans at team events.”

The Renegades are committed to supporting veterans in the Hudson Valley in ways beyond the Veteran of the Game program, hosting an annual Veterans Appreciation Night, where the team re-brands as the Hudson Valley Veterans with military-inspired uniforms. Thousands of veterans in surrounding counties come to Dutchess Stadium for special pre-game ceremonies and the game that evening. The specialty jerseys are then auctioned off to support the Mental Health America of Dutchess County’s Vet2Vet program and their myriad services for local veterans.

Service to veterans was also a key cornerstone of the Renegades’ participation in the Yankees’ HOPE Week initiative (Helping Others Persevere & Excel). Renegades players, coaches and front office staff all visited the residents at Liberty Station in Poughkeepsie, a housing complex for veterans which offers a supportive living environment in the company of other vets.

More information on the Veteran of the Game sponsored by AARP New York can be found here. More information on the Renegades Community Program presented by Westchester Medical Center Health Network can be found here.

ABOUT THE HUDSON VALLEY RENEGADES

The Hudson Valley Renegades are the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees in the South Atlantic League. The Renegades begin their 2023 season at home on Friday, April 7 with a three-game series against the Greensboro Grasshoppers. For more information, please visit hvrenegades.com or call 845-838-0094.

ABOUT DIAMOND BASEBALL HOLDINGS

Diamond Baseball Holdings (DBH) was formed in 2021 to support, promote and enhance Minor League Baseball Clubs affiliated with Major League Baseball through professional management, best practices, innovation and investment (DiamondBaseballHoldings.com).

$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.