Nominate A Local Hero To Be Celebrated By The TinCaps

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The Fort Wayne TinCaps, along with OmniSource LLC and Steel Dynamics Inc., are saluting our local heroes throughout the 2022 season and need your help!

The team is seeking nominations for military (active duty and veterans), first responders, healthcare workers, and educators to be honored as our “Hero of the Game” at Parkview Field.

Selected nominees will receive VIP treatment. This includes tickets to the game for them and their family, plus in-game recognition.

If you have a friend or family member you’d like to see recognized, click here to enter a nomination.

Questions can be directed to TinCaps Assistant Director of Marketing & Promotions Morgan Olson at [email protected].

Regardless of the status of MLB’s lockout, the TinCaps are set to begin their 2022 season at Dayton on April 8. Opening Day at Parkview Field is Tuesday, April 12 (6:35 p.m.) against the South Bend Cubs. Tickets to all games are on sale at TinCapsTickets.com, by calling 260-482-6400, and at the Parkview Field Ticket Office.

Click here for the team’s 2022 promotional schedule, including Military Appreciation Day presented by OmniSource, Steel Dynamics, and the San Diego Padres, on Sunday, June 26 (1:05 p.m.). Complimentary tickets for that game are available to military families at this link.

Military Appreciation Night at FirstEnergy Stadium

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(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils will salute the men and women who have fought for our country and freedom. On Tuesday, June 14th the R-Phils will celebrate Military Appreciation Night at America’s Classic Ballpark when the team takes on the Portland Sea Dogs (Red Sox) at 7:00pm. Fans can have the opportunity to honor a special military member in their life by reserving a group outing to receive a personalized game-worn jersey. Plus, be one of the first to enter the gate to get a unique R-Phils giveaway celebrating Flag Day!

On Flag Day, each Fightins player will wear a custom jersey dedicated to one who has served or is currently serving in the nation’s armed forces during the game. Players will receive a photo & bio prior to the game of the military member they are representing. A special post-game jersey ceremony will take place with the 25 military honorees or their families thanks to Savage 61 Auto Group & 830 AM WEEU.

If you have a loved one that you would like honored during the game, please consider bringing out a group of family and friends. Groups that purchase 20 or more reserved seats or picnic area tickets to the June 14 game can have a personalized jersey worn by a member of the R-Phils recognizing a veteran or a member of the active military for no additional charge. This opportunity is limited to the first 25 groups. To honor a special military member in your life, click here.

The first 2,000 fans age 15 and over will receive a celebratory R-Phils Flag Day Patriotic T-Shirt. All fans will have the chance to show our local veterans and active military some love and support.

FirstEnergy Stadium, built as Reading Municipal Memorial Stadium in 1951, was named in honor of the service men and women who gave their lives for the country. 48 years later in 1999, a statue in the form of giant dog tags was placed in front of FirstEnergy Stadium in a special rededication ceremony to honor the area’s veterans.

To further pay tribute to the sacrifices made by our veterans, the Fightins fly a Ceremonial Flag to honor and tell the story of a specific veteran each home game. The ceremonial flag flies by those giant dog tags near the stadium’s main entrance, thanks to Savage 61. After the game, the flag is lowered and given to the family.

Before each game, the Fightin Phils raise a ceremonial flag to pay tribute to their memory and tell their story while welcoming their family to the game.

“FirstEnergy stadium was built to honor the service men and women from our community who gave their lives for our country,” said Fightin Phils General Manager Scott Hunsicker. “America’s Classic Ballpark is not just a stadium, it’s a memorial. It is only fitting that those who have protected America are remembered at every game here at America’s Classic Ballpark. We hope that everyone attends our games will be fully aware the stadium is a memorial to the veterans of our community.

Help us continue to show support and gratitude for all active and retired service personnel by joining us at our Military Appreciation Night on Tuesday, June 14th.

Please complete this form to reserve the opportunity for a jersey to be worn by a player during the June 14th game. A Reading Fightin Phils representative will contact you to confirm your submission and coordinate your group outing.

Contact Matt Koch at [email protected] with any questions!

Timber Rattlers Give Back Announces End-of-Year Funds Raised

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GRAND CHUTE, WI – Timber Rattlers Give Back, the official 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, raised more than $185,000 through the Foundation’s events, programs, donations, and fundraising initiatives in 2021.

“The Timber Rattlers are fortunate to live in a supportive community and the team works hard to develop and implement programs and events to give back to the community,” said Dayna Baitinger, Director of Community Relations for the team.

Nine jersey auctions held during the season were the main fundraisers for the Timber Rattlers this year. The auctions included team-worn jerseys based on promotions for the Udder Tuggers, Los Cascabeles, Military Appreciation, Milwaukee Brewers, and Video Game.

The team is finalizing their jersey designs for the 2022 season and will unveil those designs early next year.

The annual Charity Golf Outing which was held on Tuesday, September 21 was another significant fundraiser. Nearly 100 area golfers and front office personnel collected $15,000 through the golf and raffles that were held after the outing.

An almost daily driver of donations to Give Back was the 50/50 Raffle that was held during every home game during the 2021 season. Fifty percent of all money raised during each night’s raffle went to the person with the winning ticket and the other fifty percent went to the foundation. There was over $65,000 raised for charity through the raffle during the year. The largest fund-raising night of the 50/50 raffle during the 2021 season was on Saturday, August 14 with the winner collecting $2,304 and the same amount going to Give Back.

Whiffer’s Fitness Program and Fang’s Reading Club were popular program run by the team for area youth through the mascots. The reading club is an incentive-based program that allows schools in Northeastern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula to get children from Kindergarten through fifth grade involved in reading. The fitness program helped to get kids in the Fox Cities to get and stay active.

Wisconsin front office members tended to their on-site vegetable garden to grow and harvest over 400 pounds of food in the Greenstone Farm Credit Services Ballpark Garden at Neuroscience Group Field. The harvest was taken to St. Joe’s Food Pantry. Fang celebrated his birthday in August with his annual Cans for Cake food drive and over 500 pounds of non-perishable food items were collected and donated to St. Joe’s.

Some of the charities helped by the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers in 2021 included Make-A-Wish Wisconsin, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Fox Valley Veterans Council, Children’s Cancer Family Foundation of Northeast Wisconsin, St. Joe’s Food Pantry, Harvest of Hope Fund, Hunger Task Force, Community Christmas, Fond du Lac Salvation Army, The Salvation Army-Fox Cities, Treffert Center, and Miracle League of the Fox Valley.

Additionally, 2,000 hats were presented to area Little League programs. Numerous other charities received over 10,000 ticket vouchers to be used in their own fundraisers by the Rattlers.

Timber Rattlers Give Back was established in 2019 and is dedicated to making a positive difference in our community. We aim to provide financial support and help raise awareness of charitable causes in the Fox Valley community in the areas of education, youth sports, and basic needs by using the platform made possible by Minor League Baseball and stadium ownership.

Thank you to everyone who assisted in our charitable works in 2021. We could not have accomplished this without the support of the players, coaches, and community. We look forward to growing Give Back even more in 2022.

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

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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.”

Hooks Fans Donate Nearly $65,000 in 2021

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CORPUS CHRISTI – Via the Astros Foundation Share2Care 50/50 Raffle, Whataburger Field patrons donated $64,840 to seven Coastal Bend organizations during Hooks games this past season.

USO South Texas, Amos Rehabilitation Keep, Mosaic Project of South Texas, Je’Sani Smith Foundation, Goodwill Industries of South Texas, Corpus Christi Police Officers Association and Corpus Christi Professional Firefighters Association were beneficiaries of the 2021 50/50 raffle.

“Thank you Hooks fans for joining us at the ballpark and helping out these great causes,” Hooks General Manager Brady Ballard said. “We were excited to bring the Astros Foundation Share2Care Raffle to Whataburger Field, and it’s become a highlight of the gameday experience.

“Our partners, members and fans have stepped up during these challenging times. We are incredibly grateful for their support and, during this week of Thanksgiving, want affirm our commitment of being an active and positive participant in the community.”

USO South Texas serves NAS Corpus Christi and NAS Kingsville, connecting military service members to family, home and country. Amos Rehabilitation Keep, or ARK, rehabilitates marine turtles and marine birds from the coastal zone of Mustang Island and St. Joseph Island. The Mosaic Project of South Texas remembers victims of hate crimes and violence, and advocates for the civil rights of LGBTQ Americans. The mission of the Je’Sani Smith Foundation is to save lives by providing education, awareness, and water skills training on beach safety, rip currents and other coastal hazards.

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 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.

Patriots Announce Tropical Storm Ida Relief Donations

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

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

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

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

The selected recipients of the fundraising efforts were:

The Food Bank Network of Somerset County: DONATE

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

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

Greater Somerset County YMCA: DONATE

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

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

The ARC of Somerset County: DONATE

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

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

Somerset Health Care Foundation: DONATE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Somerset Patriots

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

www.somersetpatriots.com.

BlueClaws Charities Announces Grant Recipients

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities announced a list of 31 organizations that received a grant from the organization.

BlueClaws Charities, the official non-profit organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, raises money throughout the year as part of a series of initiatives. These include a 50/50 raffle at BlueClaws home games, specialty fundraising events like the team’s Virtual Hot Stove held this year in March, merchandise sales, and more.

Grant money will once again be kept within Ocean & Monmouth Counties.

“We are delighted to once again distribute grants to these deserving non-profit organizations in our communities,” said BlueClaws Charities President Kevin Fenstermacher. “Our mission is to help those less fortunate around the Jersey Shore, and these grants to 31 unique organizations will benefit those in need.”

Below, find a list of organizations to receive a grant (organizations are listed alphabetically):

  • ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, to subsidize their care services program for families of patients diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) in Monmouth & Ocean Counties.
  • A Need We Feed, to provide meals to veterans, seniors, elementary school children, and families in Ocean County.
  • The Arc, Ocean County Chapter, to offer fitness classes twice a week for program participants.
  • The Ashley Lauren Foundation, to provide financial assistance to families with children diagnosed with cancer.
  • The Brodie Fund, for financial assistance to families that have a pet diagnosed with cancer.
  • Brody’s Crew, to purchase drawstring bags with items like stress balls, sanitizer, glow sticks, silly string, and more, in honor of what would have been Brody’s 6th birthday, to support inpatient families at CHOP.
  • Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey, to help onboard new volunteers for the organization, which provides supportive services to people who are 60 and older and can no longer drive.
  • Child Care Resources, to support their Diaper Bank, providing diapers and wipes to individuals and organizations in Monmouth County.
  • David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation, to provide financial assistance, wellness services, and hope to Jersey Shore families affected by a cancer diagnosis.
  • Easterseals New Jersey, to ensure continuation of employment services programs featuring skills evaluation, resume building and interview skills to help place participants into jobs within the local community.
  • Exit 82 Theatre Company, to help purchase a new refrigerator for concessions at performances.
  • Family Promise of Southern Ocean County, to provide emergency shelter to homeless children and their families throughout Ocean County.
  • Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, to purchase chairs needed for their Program Activity Center in Farmingdale, which supports Girl Scout fundraisers and girl programs throughout the year.
  • Homes Now, to assist the nearly 250 individuals and families who reside in Homes Now housing units with food items, cleaning supplies, activities, and more.
  • Jersey Shore Council of the Boy Scouts of America, to offset the costs related to Scouting, such as registration fees, uniforms, and program fees, for families at the Jersey Shore.
  • JF Party Dragon, to purchase food for local food pantries
  • Kids Need More, for an event to support children under 18 and their families dealing with a cancer diagnosis.
  • LADACIN Network, to support their Give and Take Child Care Center in Monmouth County, which provides services for children with complex physical and developmental disabilities or delays and typically developing children.
  • Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Fund, towards the sponsorship of a service dog.
  • Ma Deuce Deuce, to support a Audrey’s Toy Chest, an initiative to ensure Christmas occurs for local veteran families in need.
  • The Mya Lin Terry Foundation, for siblings of those with pediatric cancer.
  • Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity, for a home repair project to help subsidize the increased costs incurred after the pandemic.
  • Ocean County Family Support Organization, to support their youth partnership, made up of youth between 12-21 living in Ocean County with behavioral, emotional, mental health, and developmental challenges.
  • Ocean County Shrine Club, to support the 20 pediatric patients of Philadelphia Shriners’ Hospital for Children based in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Ocean Partnership for Children, to support the needs of the youth served, including food, clothing, and community activities.
  • Ocean’s Harbor House, to provide shelter, support, and services for vulnerable youth including at their 12-bed shelter.
  • Parents of Autistic Children (POAC), to support their Challenger Sports League to offer a socialization opportunity through athletic participation between disabled students and their non-disabled peers.
  • Raising Hope for Others, to support their annual golf outing held in August of 2022.
  • Seabrook Village, to provide books and magazines for residents at their senior living community.
  • Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide, to distribute 200 behavioral health toolkits to students attending Monmouth/Ocean County schools.
  • The Salvation Army, to support their Hearty Helpings, which serves the hungry at their Toms River, with the purchase of additional cookware and containers.
  • Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund, to provide financial aid to first responders, their spouse, and children struggling with finances due to medical burdens from sickness or injury.
  • United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties, to support an annual coat drive for local pre-school to middle-school aged children.

“We are very grateful to those that supported BlueClaws Charities throughout the year and look forward to additional fundraising events soon,” said Fenstermacher.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws.

-BlueClaws Charities-

Home Runs for Heroes Scores Record-Breaking $91,000 For Charities

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – OceanFirst Foundation has awarded $91,000 to 16 non-profits through its Home Runs for Heroes partnership with the Jersey Shore BlueClaws and Townsquare Media. Each home run hit by the Jersey Shore BlueClaws at FirstEnergy Park during the 2021 season scored a $1,000 donation from OceanFirst Foundation for designated charities that helps to meet the emergency and basic needs of local Veterans and members of the United States Armed Forces. Townsquare Media has donated promotional support to each of the charity partners since the program’s inception. In the thirteen seasons of Home Runs for Heroes, a total of $499,000 in grants have been awarded to charities supporting our nation’s heroes.

“92.7 WOBM and Beach Radio 104.1 are honored to play a small role in the success of this wonderful program which supports active and retired members of the military and their families. The shore area is home to many of our veterans and Home Runs for Heroes is a terrific initiative by OceanFirst Foundation and Jersey Shore BlueClaws to help and honor those who have worn the uniform. Townsquare Media will continue to support this program in any way we can,” stated Kevin Williams, Director of the Shore Sports Network, Townsquare Media.

“The BlueClaws are honored to partner with OceanFirst Foundation on this program once again this year,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “The money donated goes to amazing organizations around the Jersey Shore helping the true heroes in our community. We’re thrilled the BlueClaws hit so many home runs this season leading to record donations from OceanFirst Foundation!”

“We are proud to work with the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, Townsquare Media, and our 16 charity partners that bring relief and resources to our heroes and their families facing challenging circumstances. They have earned our support and admiration through their sacrifice and service to our great nation,” said Katherine Durante, Executive Director of OceanFirst Foundation.

Grants were awarded to: American National Red Cross ($6,000), Army Emergency Relief ($7,000), Cape May County Coast Guard Community Foundation ($6,000), Catholic Charities Diocese of Trenton ($7,000), Chariot Riders Inc./Horses for Heroes ($6,000), Deborah Hospital Foundation/HeroCare Connect ($6,000), GI Go Fund ($7,000), Homes for All ($6,000), Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II, Memorial Fund ($5,000), Ma Deuce Deuce ($5,000), National Guard State Family Readiness Council ($5,000), Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society ($5,000), Operation First Response ($3,000), Recalibrate ($5,000), VetGroup ($5,000), and Volunteers of America ($7,000).

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, Youth Development and Education. Since 1996, OceanFirst Foundation has awarded more than 8,400 grants totaling more than $43 million to over 1,500+ non-profits and schools. Learn more at oceanfirstfdn.org.

About the BlueClaws

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. Over 7.8 million fans have come out to FirstEnergy Park to see BlueClaws games since the team’s 2001 inception. The team enhanced their already state-of-the-art ballpark in 2001 with the addition of a mini golf course, the Boardwalk, presented by Toyota World of Lakewood, and the Sand Bar, a special bar setting that also hosts live music throughout the season.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws / OceanFirst Foundation –

Shorebirds Raise over $4,900 for Operation We Care through 9/11 Patriotic Jersey Auction

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On Saturday, September 11, 2021, the Delmarva Shorebirds wore special patriotic jerseys to honor the 20th anniversary of all those lost through the terrible attacks of September 11, 2001. Through the patriotic jersey auction, the Shorebirds were able to raise $4,916.52 for Operation We Care to support the men and women who serve in the military and as first responders. In addition, Operation We Care will be donating a portion of the proceeds to the Department of MD VFW Family Assistance Program.

“Operation We Care is a great initiative that the Shorebirds are proud to support each and every year,” explained Shorebirds General Manager Chris Bitters. “Our men and women in our military, hospitals, and first responders have been battling on the front lines throughout the pandemic and we are thrilled to support them by donating to Operation We Care to aid in their efforts.”

The special patriotic jerseys honored all our military branches with all the service marks located on the back of each jersey. On the front of the jersey underneath the Shorebirds script, was the United States official seal with stars and stripes located just below each player’s jersey number. On the right sleeve of each jersey, the Shorebirds placed a Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States badge in support of all veterans and those who have served our country. The jersey auction was held online from September 11 to September 22 with fans having the opportunity to bid on these special, game-worn autographed jerseys.

On September 11, 2021, the Shorebirds hosted a special patriotic night to honor the lives lost during the September 11th attacks presented by Pohanka of Salisbury. The night featured the players wearing these patriotic jerseys, special in-game tributes, and the night capped with the final fireworks show of the year presented by Pohanka of Salisbury.

For more information on jersey auctions, merchandise, season tickets, and anything in regards to the Shorebirds, please visit theshorebirds.com. Also, you can stay tuned in with everything leading up to the 2022 season of Shorebirds baseball slated to begin April 8, 2022 against the Fredericksburg Nationals by following the Shorebirds on social media on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

M-Braves, MDPS hosting First Responder & Military Appreciation Night on Saturday, 9/11

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PEARL, MS – On Saturday, September 11, the Mississippi Braves, in partnership with the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, and commissioner Sean Tindell, will remember and honor the bravery of American citizens and first responders on the 20th Anniversary of the 9/11 attacks with special pregame events, videos, and patriotic post-game fireworks.

All first responders, active-duty and retired military, and Mississippi Department of Public Safety employees will receive two complimentary tickets to the 6:05 pm game against the Montgomery Biscuits. The tickets will be available at the Trustmark Park box office by simply presenting your work ID or law enforcement badge.

“This will be the first time in team history the M-Braves have had a home game at Trustmark Park on September 11,” added Pete Laven, vice president, and general manager of the Mississippi Braves. “As an organization, we want to pay our respects to all of those that lost their lives on that day 20 years ago and honor them and our local first responders through our national pastime.”

Before the first pitch, the Mississippi Highway Patrol Honor Guard will present the evening’s colors, and the 172nd Airlift Wing of the Mississippi Air National Guard will perform a pregame flyover.

The first-place Mississippi Braves are playing their final homestand of the regular season this week through Sunday. For tickets and more information on promotions, or postseason ticket, fans can visit mississippibraves.com or call 888-BRAVES4.

First Responders & Military Appreciation Night on September 11

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MOOSIC, PA (September 6, 2021) – Scranton/Wilkes-Barre will host First Responders & Military Appreciation Night on September 11 when the RailRiders take on the Rochester Red Wings at PNC Field. In appreciation of those men and women who support and sacrifice daily for our nation, the RailRiders are offering two free tickets to all first responders as well as active duty and veterans of our Armed Forces.

Gates open at 5:00 P.M. on September 11 and the first pitch against the Washington Nationals Triple-A affiliate is set for 6:05.

First responders and active duty/veteran Armed Forces members can claim their two free field reserved tickets by presenting a valid ID at the PNC Field Box Office this week. The box office will be open at 4:00 P.M. Tuesday through Friday prior to the RailRiders games against the Red Wings. On Saturday, September 11, the box office will open at 3:00 P.M.

For more information, visit swbrailriders.com or call (570) 969-BALL.

Baysox Host Military Appreciation Event Sept. 18

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Bowie, Md: The Bowie Baysox will salute those who have served or are currently serving in our nation’s armed forces during Military Appreciation Night, presented by Valor Home, on Saturday, September 18, 2021, when the Baysox host the Altoona Curve, Double-A Affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates at 6:35 pm.

The event takes place during the Baysox final weekend of the 2021 regular season and will feature a host of themed activities, events, fundraisers and tributes to military personnel to show support and gratitude for all active and retired service personnel.

During the game, Baysox players and coaches will wear specially designed jerseys for the event that will be auctioned during the game. A portion of the auction proceeds will benefit the Travis Manion Foundation. Manion was an experienced Iraq war veteran who paid the ultimate sacrifice in 2007 while leading a counterattack against enemy forces. Additional information on Travis Manion and the Travis Manion Foundation can be found at TravisManion.org.

A portion of ticket sales proceeds for this game will also benefit the Travis Manion Foundation. To purchase tickets and support this effort, fans can go to Baysox.com/tickets, select the September 18 game date, enter the code VALOR (all caps) in the special offer code box and purchase tickets. Five dollars of each ticket purchased for the Sept. 18 game through the special offer code will benefit the Travis Manion Foundation.

Active and retired members of the military can also take advantage of a Baysox military ticket discount on Reserved Seat Tickets (200 seating level) and General Admission Tickets for this event. To purchase, go to Baysox.com, call 301.464.4865 or stop by the Baysox Ticket Office at Prince George’s Stadium.

“When the opportunity arose to work with the Bowie Baysox, Valor Home jumped at the chance to partner with them to honor our region’s military. Our company is a veteran based and centric organization that believes in giving back” said Brian Bauer, Co-Owner of Valor Home. “The old saying is: give back till it hurts. Al Kincaid, our co-founder says, “Give back till it feels good!” We believe that the foundation and spirit of America is alive and well in the game of baseball. We are honored to take part in Military Appreciation Night. Let’s play ball!”

“The Bowie Baysox have a long track record of supporting and hosting our region’s military and veterans” said Baysox Assistant General Manager Phil Wrye. “With over 20 years of hosting Navy Night and programs to bring service members from Joint Base Andrews, Fort Meade, AMVETS and more to the ballpark, we are excited to partner with Valor Home on this very special event.”

The Bowie Baysox are the Double-A Affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles. The Bowie Baysox 2021 season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. To keep up with Baysox news, visit baysox.com and be sure to follow the Baysox on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

Join the OKC Dodgers for Military Celebration Night Friday

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

 

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers will honor the service and dedication of local military members and their families Friday during Military Celebration Night when the Dodgers play the Albuquerque Isotopes at 7:05 p.m. at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

Dodgers players and coaches will take the field wearing special commemorative green, camouflage and gold jerseys as well as camouflage hats. Their game-worn jerseys will be auctioned off via the DASH Auction app, which is available for free via the App Store and Google Play Store. Proceeds from the jersey auction will benefit the OKC Dodgers Baseball Foundation.

Special festivities throughout the game will culminate with postgame fireworks presented by SpringHill Suites.

“We are proud to honor the sacrifices and commitments made by our local service members and their families and show how appreciative the Oklahoma City community is for their service,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “We look forward to celebrating them with this special evening Friday.”

Area service members are scheduled to participate in several pregame events, including the presentation of colors with a large flag in the outfield, the singing of the national anthem and a ceremonial first pitch. The VFW, American Legion, Army and Marines will have information about their organizations available throughout the concourse.

The OKC Dodgers continue their homestand and open a six-game series tonight against the Albuquerque Isotopes at 7:05 p.m. before Friday’s Military Celebration Night at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

Saturday’s 7:05 p.m. game is the third and final OKC 89ers Night of the season, presented by Courtyard Marriott. The Dodgers will take the field as the Oklahoma City 89ers in a nod to the franchise’s history.

Kids can run the bases following Sunday’s 2:05 p.m. game and Monday’s game will have a special 12:05 p.m. first pitch on Labor Day. The series then wraps up with a 7:05 p.m. game on a $2 Tuesday, featuring $2 select beer, soda and bottled water from a line of Budweiser and Pepsi products. COOP Ale Works draft beer will also be available at a special rate of $3.

Tickets are available by visiting okcdodgers.com/tickets. For additional information, please call the Dodgers front office at (405) 218-2182.

Dash Announce Hometown Heroes USA Celebration

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

 

The Winston-Salem Dash are teaming up with Salem One for a Hometown Heroes USA event at Truist Stadium on Saturday, September 11 to honor all service members and first responders (active and retired). The Dash will take on the Bowling Green Hot Rods, an affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays, at 6:00 p.m.

Service members and first responders (and one guest) can take advantage of a special $5 offer that includes their game ticket and a voucher for a hot dog, chips, and a Pepsi product. Additional tickets that include the food and beverage voucher can be purchased for $16. The first 500 service members and first responders to purchase tickets will be eligible to receive a free pair of OnCloud athletic shoes at the game, courtesy of Veterans Service of the Carolinas. Fans should register for shoes when purchasing their tickets, and the shoes generally run a half size small. All tickets through this offer must be reserved by Wednesday, September 1.

“We are proud to partner with Salem One to recognize those who have served our country at home and abroad,” said Dash President C.J. Johnson. “September 11 seemed like the perfect date to honor members of the armed forces and police, fire and emergency response personnel whose selfless acts help provide the freedom and security we are all able to enjoy.”

For more information and to purchase tickets contact Bobby Lemons by calling 336-714-6860 or emailing [email protected]. This offer is not available online.

Penultimate Homestand Includes Military Appreciation and Opera Night

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

 

The Charleston RiverDogs continue to own the best record in the Low-A East and return to The Joe for their penultimate homestand of 2021 to battle the Columbia Fireflies next week. The series, which runs from August 17-22, will consist of seven games in six days. The RiverDogs will take a big step toward clinching a berth in the postseason with a successful series on the field.

The homestand includes plenty of reasons for fans to be excited. On Wednesday, the RiverDogs meet the Fireflies in a doubleheader on Pride Night where the team will wear Charleston Rainbows uniforms in the nightcap. Friday features our third Military Appreciation Night of the season, as well as Opera Night. The team will close out the homestand by taking on their Perros Santos identity for the final two games of the series on Saturday and Sunday. Here is the full lineup:

Tuesday, August 17, 7:05 p.m.: Dog Day: There are only two more chances to enjoy a ballgame with man’s best friend this season. Bring the pup along to the ballpark for each and every Island Coastal Lager Dog Day, when we encourage you to #TakeItEasy. This week’s featured breed will be the French Bulldog! Fans can also enjoy $2 hot dogs and $2 beers. Tuesday games are presented by 96.9 the Wolf.

Wednesday, August 18, 5:05 p.m. (Doubleheader): Pride Night/Wicked Wednesday: Enjoy two games for the price of one! We’ll throw it back to a previous era in Charleston baseball history and play as the Charleston Rainbows. The entire night will also be a celebration of inclusiveness with our friends from Charleston Pride and MUSC Health. The Rainbows jerseys will be part of a jersey auction throughout the night. You will have a chance to leave with a game-worn uniform from one of our players! As is the case for every Wednesday at the ballpark, we will celebrate craft beer and throw in some wicked good fun thanks to Wicked Weed.

Thursday, August 19, 7:05 p.m.: Thirsty Thursday: Dust off the bell bottoms and join us for a funky ‘70s-themed night at The Joe. $1 beers are available throughout the park on each Budweiser Thirsty Thursday this season! That’s right, you can grab a $1 beer (or two) no matter where you are in the ballpark. Don’t forget, DJ Natty Heavy will be dropping beats on the Ashley View Pub. He may have even add some disco hits to the mix! Thursday games are presented by 95SX.

Friday, August 20, 7:05 p.m.: Military Appreciation Night/Opera Night/Red Shirt Friday/Post-Game Fireworks: On this night, we will celebrate the classical music tradition of opera with themed games, trivia and a t-shirt toss alongside the Holy City Arts and Lyric Opera. The RiverDogs will also open the weekend with a gigantic tribute to military members on Boeing Red Shirt Friday. Members of the military will receive free tickets to the game. Retired and active military members can call the RiverDogs box office to receive the discount code. The team will make their new inductions into the Hall of Honor prior to the game. Once again, on the final day of the work week, the RiverDogs and Boeing invite you to wear red in support of those who serve our country. On the field, the team will participate as well, wearing special red jerseys. The night will be capped with another fireworks spectacular presented by REV Federal Credit Union. Friday games are presented by 103.5 WEZL.

Saturday, August 21, 6:05 p.m.: Perros Santos Weekend/LED Light Show: The RiverDogs will spend the weekend suiting up as Los Perros Santos de Charleston as part of Minor League Baseball’s Copa de la Diversión initiative. Along with MUSC Health and Berkeley Electric Cooperative, we’ll celebrate the local Latin American culture with special uniforms, music courtesy of DJ Luigi and Spanish public address announcements. Our opponents, the Columbia Fireflies, will join in on the fun, playing as Chicharrones de Columbia. Following the game, stick around for a post-game light show featuring our LED lights at The Joe. Saturdays are presented by ABCNews4 and MyTV Charleston.

Sunday, August 22, 5:05 p.m.: Perros Santos Weekend/Family Sunday/Jewish Heritage Night/Strike Out Stigma Night: The RiverDogs will spend the weekend suiting up as Los Perros Santos de Charleston as part of Minor League Baseball’s Copa de la Diversión initiative. Along with MUSC Health and Berkeley Electric Cooperative, we’ll celebrate the local Latin American culture with special uniforms, music courtesy of DJ Luigi and Spanish public address announcements. Our opponents, the Columbia Fireflies, will join in on the fun, playing as Chicharrones de Columbia. In addition, we are partnering with the Charleston Jewish Federation for Jewish Heritage Night. It’s also Strike Out Stigma Night with information and resources available on mental illness and substance abuse. Parking is free and kids will be invited to run the bases following the game! This Sunday’s game is presented by Star 99.7.

Playoff tickets for the Low-A East Championship Series in September are on sale now at riverdogs.com. For a limited time, fans who purchase tickets to the team’s first home playoff game will receive all subsequent home games for free. Purchase playoff tickets here.

All RiverDogs tickets for the 2021 season are available for purchase online and will be delivered digitally. Once purchased, tickets can be printed at home or scanned on a phone. For answers to frequently asked questions, fans are encouraged to visit the RiverDogs Digital Ticket Guide. In addition to tickets, the entire RiverDogs gameday experience will be cashless including parking, the team store and concessions. Fans who do not have credit or debit cards will be able to use cash to purchase gift cards at Fan Services on gamedays. Masks are no longer required, but suggested for non-vaccinated guests. The RiverDogs also have a no bag policy, with the exception of medical bags, diaper bags, and clutch-style purses no larger than 6.5in x 4.5in.

RiverDogs season tickets, flexible ticket plans, and group tickets, including options to the Segra Club at Riley Park, are now available for the 2021 campaign at riverdogs.com/tickets or by contacting the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS). A full schedule for the 2021 season is available at riverdogs.com.