$10,300 Raised For Charity With 2022 Home Runs

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Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, and their partners at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2137 have donated $10,300 to local non-profits through the Home Runs For Charity program.

For every home run hit by the Patriots at TD Bank Ballpark during the 2022 season, the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2137 generously donated $100 to help the community. Somerset’s offense hit a franchise record 205 home runs last season, including 103 in Bridgewater.

Seven non-profits have been selected by the team and organization to each receive $1,471.29. The benefiting non-profits are:

  • Alternatives, Inc.
  • Easter Seals of NJ
  • Matheny
  • SHIP (Samaritan Homeless Interim Program)
  • St. John’s Episcopal Church (Somerville)
  • Somerset Health Care Foundation
  • Operation Shoebox New Jersey

The Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2137 has a long history of charitable work supporting both local as well as national causes. The motto “people helping people” is the driving force behind their efforts to help those less fortunate throughout the community. Over the years, Bridgewater Aerie # 2137 has provided monetary support for programs that assist the homeless and hungry, funded scholarships for deserving high school seniors, donated to groups that assist our veterans as well as local police, fire and rescue groups.

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 are the reigning Eastern League Champions 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: somersetpatriots.com.

Hundreds Of Toys And Food Items Collected For Those In Need

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Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, collected hundreds of donated items during the team’s annual Holiday Toy and Food Drive on Saturday, December 10.

The event took place at the Team Store at TD Bank Ballpark and saw fans arrive throughout the day with new, unwrapped toys to benefit Central New Jersey Toys For Tots and non-perishable food items for the Food Bank Network of Somerset County.

As he has been doing for the past 20 years, Patriots Manager Emeritus Sparky Lyle was on site to meet fans, take pictures and sign autographs as a special thank you to all that donated.

“This is always a special event for me and everyone at the Somerset Patriots,” said Lyle. “I can’t believe how many toys came in. Some people showed up needing help getting carts full of donations from their cars. I think it was the most we ever collected in all the years of doing this. Our fans once again came through to bring some holiday cheer to those that need it the most this time of year.”

In addition to Lyle, team mascot Sparkee mingled with fans as holiday music played throughout the team store. The 2022 Eastern League Championship Trophy was also on display for pictures.

Shoppers were able to pick up team apparel and other novelties for Patriots fans on their holiday lists. Featured items included the recently released Marvel-inspired merchandise and championship gear.

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 are the reigning Eastern League Champions 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.

BlueClaws, RWJBarnabas Health to Host January 17th Blood Drive – Blood Levels at Critical Need

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws and RWJBarnabas Health will partner on an Emergency Blood & Platelet Drive at FirstEnergy Park on Tuesday, January 17th from 11:30 am until 5:30 pm. The current blood supply is at critical levels and the need for donors is extremely high.

Pre-registration is strongly recommended and can be made by clicking here or calling 732-235-8100 ext 221 or 248. There is limited availability within each 15-minute time slot to ensure social distancing protocols will be followed. While the need for blood is typically highest in the summer, the COVID-19 pandemic has further depleted the blood supply, making drives like these all the more important.

All donors are instructed to eat and drink prior to the donation and to bring a photo ID. Those that have been exposed to or cared for a positive COVID-19 patient within 28 days prior to the drive are not eligible to donate.

A screening will take place on the ground level before donors enter the lobby outside the ballpark.

All donors will receive two FREE BlueClaws tickets for the 2023 season and be a BlueClaws VIP experience for 20 people that includes a Luxury Suite and 20 Boardwalk and Mini Golf passes.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment.

-BlueClaws-

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-

BlueClaws Charities Suite Raffle Tickets Now On Sale

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities launched their annual Luxury Suite Raffle fundraiser, through which eight winners will each earn a 10-game share of a 2023 BlueClaws Luxury Suite.

Tickets are just $100 and only 300 raffle tickets are sold. Eight winners are selected through a drawing on March 31st that will be streamed live on the BlueClaws Facebook page at 3:00 pm.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE.

“This has been one of our best fundraisers over the last few years and we’re looking forward to another great raffle,” said Jim McNamara, Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities. “Suite Raffle tickets make great holiday gifts while supporting a great cause.”

There are several benefits to participation in the Suite Raffle. Each ticket holder receives the following:

– Four reserve seats to Opening Night at the Jersey Shore (set for April 11th)
– Claws Cove coupon valid for 25% off.
– Chance to purchase a BlueClaws Luxury Suite for special rate of $600 (an $850 value)

The eight winners will participate in a draft to select their games for the season. Each game includes 20 tickets in the private Suite. The BlueClaws season begins April 11th and runs through September 3rd. Ticket holders with multiple tickets can win multiple shares (for example, someone that wins with two of their tickets would win 20 games in a BlueClaws Luxury Suite).

Each Luxury Suite provides panoramic views of the stadium from a climate-controlled indoor area, which is completely furnished with cable and has 12 seats on the balcony. Luxury Suite ticket holders also have access to the Blue Wave Bar as well as wait service within the suite.

The proceeds from the raffle go to benefit BlueClaws Charities, a 501c3 organization and the official non-profit organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws. BlueClaws Charities supports local organizations through their annual Grant Program, plus hundreds of other organizations and fundraising events with contributions throughout the year.

*-BlueClaws Charities- *

HomePlate Catering & Hospitality Is Offering Concessions Fundraising Program 

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Bridgewater, New Jersey- HomePlate Catering & Hospitality, the concessions partner of the Somerset Patriots, is once again offering a program for local non-profit organizations to work at TD Bank Ballpark during the 2023 season to raise money for their charities.

CLICK HERE TO RECEIVE INFORMATION!

HomePlate Catering & Hospitality is looking for four to 40 people per group to run the two large concessions or various portable carts during the 69 Patriots home games this season. The season begins on Thursday, April 6 and will run through Sunday, September 10 with a chance of additional playoff games and events.

The organizations will earn a percentage of the revenue at each location worked with bonus incentive programs available.

The concessions fundraising program has been successful for many non-profit organizations including school sports and clubs, high school project graduations, little leagues, religious groups, and more.

HomePlate Catering & Hospitality is asking for a three event minimum for interested organizations.

For more information, or to sign-up your organization, please contact Aly McGrath, HomePlate Catering & Hospitality’s Director of Operations, at (908) 255-1427 or amcgrath@homeplatecatering.net.

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/

#

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-

Christmas With the Claws Food & Toy Drive Returns December 3rd at ShoreTown Ballpark

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities will host their annual Christmas food and toy drive, Christmas with the Claws, on Saturday, December 3rd from 10 am – 12 pm at ShoreTown Ballpark.

Santa will be at the ballpark for pictures, and his good friend Buster will be on hand too.

The event serves as a toy drive to benefit the Salvation Army of Ocean County and their annual Holiday Toy Shop. Fans are asked to bring unwrapped toys or non-perishable food. Donors will receive a ticket to Opening Night at the Jersey Shore, set for Tuesday, April 11th (one ticket per donor).

“Santa is very excited to return to ShoreTown for his annual visit and we’re looking forward to this great event,” said Jim McNamara, executive director of BlueClaws Charities. “Over the years, the BlueClaws family has been incredibly supportive of the Salvation Army and their toy drive and we hope that continues this holiday season.”

There will also be a station set up where kids can write letters to Santa, which will be sent off to the North Pole in time for Christmas! The BlueClaws will provide complimentary hot chocolate.

BlueClaws Charities will sell Mystery Bags at the event, which include merchandise and promotional items.

Finally, the Claws Cove will be open for holiday shopping with special sales and packages. New BlueClaws Marvel-inspired merchandise will be available. BlueClaws ticket representatives will be on hand as well for those that would like to give the gift of BlueClaws tickets this holiday season.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws. The organization recently distributed grants to 31 organizations that support the less fortunate around the Jersey Shore. A full list of grant recipients and programs can be found at BlueClaws.com.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws / BlueClaws Charities-

Holiday Toy And Food Drive Set For December 10

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Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, will be hosting a Holiday Toy and Food Drive at the Team Store at TD Bank Ballpark on Saturday, December 10.

The event will take place from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm in the Team Store located by the main gate of the ballpark.

New and unwrapped toys will be collected to donate to Central New Jersey Toys For Tots to bring holiday cheer to less fortunate children throughout the area.

The team will also be accepting donations of canned and non-perishable food items for the Food Bank Network of Somerset County to help fight hunger.

Patriots Manager Emeritus Sparky Lyle will be on site to meet fans, sign autographs, and take pictures from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. Sparkee the Mascot will also be at the event during those times.

The Team Store will feature 2022 Eastern League Championship apparel, Marvel-inspired merchandise, and much more. Parents will be able to sign their children up for the 2023 Somerset Sluggers Kids Club as well as book a birthday party at TD Bank Ballpark this upcoming season.

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 are the reigning Eastern League Champions 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: somersetpatriots.com.

BlueClaws Charities Accepting Applications For 2022 Grant Program

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities, the 501c3 foundation of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, is now accepting grant applications from area organizations. Organizations may apply for a grant through Friday, November 11th.

Click here to fill out a grant application. All applicants must be a 501c3 organization.

“Our goal each year is to provide grants to a wide variety of non-profit organizations throughout the Jersey Shore. The support we receive throughout the year enables us to do this and we encourage organizations to apply and take advantage of this opportunity,” said Jim McNamara, Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities.

Organizations are asked to provide specific details about where the grant money will be used. Priority will be given to organizations whose projects are based in Ocean & Monmouth Counties. Filling out an application does not ensure the receipt of a grant. Grant allocations will be made in November by the BlueClaws Charities Board of Directors.

BlueClaws Charities raises money in a variety of ways throughout the year. In-stadium fundraising includes a nightly 50/50 raffle, jersey auctions, scoreboard messages, and other miscellaneous raffles. BlueClaws Charities also raised money through Mystery Bags sold at games this summer.

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

-BlueClaws Charities-

Thunder and NJM Insurance Group Raise Money for Safe at Home Program

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(Trenton, NJ) – The Trenton Thunder is thrilled to announce that in conjunction with NJM Insurance Group, $10,850 was donated to the Miracle League of Mercer County as part of the Safe at Home Program. The Safe at Home partnership between the Trenton Thunder and NJM Insurance Group started in 2012 and has now raised $140,600 for local nonprofit organizations.

“We are grateful that NJM Insurance Group and Trenton Thunder selected the Miracle League of Mercer County as the 2022 charitable partner for the Safe-at-Home Program,” noted Dan Schweck, Executive Director of the Miracle League of Mercer County.”

In 2005, the program was the first Miracle League to form in the entire northeast region of the United States, and 15th overall. Now 17 years later, they are one of over 325 Miracle Leagues across the US, Puerto Rico, Canada, and Mexico.

“Moreover, our league participation has tripled in size since 2017, and we now operate 12 months a year,” Schweck added. “We continue to provide great opportunities to our participants because of tremendous community support from organizations like NJM and the Thunder.”

Through the Safe at Home Program, NJM Insurance Group makes an annual donation to a local nonprofit based on the total number of runs the Thunder score at all home games throughout the season.

“Our partnership with the Trenton Thunder is built upon our shared value of supporting the communities we are privileged to serve,” added Jeff Richardson, NJM Community Outreach & Events Coordinator. “Special thanks to my friend Dan Schweck for his passion and commitment in running the Miracle League here and just making it all happen.”

“This partnership has been very meaningful to us for the past decade,” said Thunder President and General Manager Jeff Hurley. “Together, the Trenton Thunder and NJM Insurance Group continue to make a special impact throughout the region and we’re looking forward to another successful year together in 2023.”

Other nonprofits that have been a part of the Safe at Home Program include: Children’s Home Society of NJ, Rescue Mission of Trenton, Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK), Anchor House Foundation, PEI Kids, Womanspace, Boys & Girls Clubs (Mercer County), Family Service Association of Bucks County, and the Bucks County Opportunity Council.

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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.

$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-

Patriots Welcomed Young Heart Patient As Part Of Yankees’ HOPE Week

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Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, welcomed four-year-old Nathaniel Montaque to TD Bank Ballpark as part of a Yankees’ HOPE Week event on Wednesday, August 24.

The Yankees’ HOPE Week initiative (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) is rooted in the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope and encouragement to more than just the recipient of the gesture. New York’s affiliates are encouraged to participate in the program as well and plan special events at their given ballparks and community.

“It was our first time going to a baseball game so we didn’t know what to expect but the experience was amazing,” said Nathaniel’s mother Natalie. “He is officially a baseball kid now and we are now lifelong Somerset Patriots fans.”

Nathaniel was born prematurely with ASD (atrial septal defect), a hole in the wall of his heart that divides the upper chambers, at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center at 31 weeks. His condition eventually required surgery to repair the hole in his upper heart, which was performed in March of 2021 at the Children’s Heart Center at Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility.

Thanks to pediatric cardiologist, Dr. Mark Michael, pediatric nurse practitioner, Kelly Thibault, the expert medical teams at both Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, and his incredible family support system, Nathaniel is healthy, active and doing great.

Organized by RWJBarnabas Health, the Official Health Care Provider of the Patriots, Nathaniel was joined by his parents, brother and aunt as he came to the ballpark to watch batting practice and meet the players and coaches of the 2022 team. Manager Dan Fiorito, top prospects Anthony Volpe, Everson Pereira, Austin Wells, Elijah Dunham and many others greeted the family, took pictures, and signed for the kids.

“Days like these are special for our team and organization,” said Fiorito. “It was great meeting Nathaniel and his family and being able to give him this unique experience. We know he is a special kid and everyone here wishes him continued health and even more brighter days ahead.”

In addition to the team autographed baseballs, Pereira gave Nathaniel a special bracelet that he wears for good luck as a gift. The luck continued on the field, as Pereira’s sixth inning triple started a rally that put Somerset up in the team’s 3-2 win over the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

Prior to the game, the Montaque family took a tour of TD Bank Ballpark and then were escorted down on the field where Nathaniel threw out a ceremonial first pitch joined by Dr. Michael and Kelly Thibault.

“It was a privilege to join Nathaniel for the ceremonial first pitch,” said Dr. Michael, pediatric cardiologist at the Children’s Heart Center at Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility. “He’s such an inspirational young boy and thanks to the Somerset Patriots, the entire family enjoyed an incredible gameday experience.”

Added Natalie,”Nathaniel enjoyed throwing the first pitch and even still wears the bracelet he received from Everson. The fireworks at the end was the cherry on top for him.”

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 Eastern 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: somersetpatriots.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation

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

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

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