Statement: New Jersey’s MiLB Teams to Host Vaccination Clinics at Ballparks This Summer

 

The BlueClaws, Trenton Thunder, and Somerset Patriots will partner with RWJBarnabas Health on vaccination clinics this summer at each team’s respective ballparks. The teams released this joint statement.

New Jersey’s three Minor League Baseball teams are honored to partner with RWJBarnabas Health on vaccination clinics at our ballparks this summer. Part of being at the front porch of our respective communities is working closely with those in position to best keep our communities safe.

“We are delighted to work with our Minor League Baseball partners to provide COVID-19 vaccinations at their ballparks,” said Margie Heller, Vice President, Strategic Global Partnerships at RWJBarnabas Health. “These community-based vaccination clinics are great way for us to offer these lifesaving vaccines in a fun environment to those who are interested.”

Our three vaccination clinics will help lessen the impact of COVID-19, and additionally provide another benefit – an enjoyable night out at the ballpark with families and friends.

Additional details will be announced shortly.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

BlueClaws Baseball Is For Everyone – Team to Host Second Pride Night on June 4th

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws baseball is for everyone! That continues to be the team’s message as the BlueClaws prepare for their second Pride Night, to be held on June 4th.

The BlueClaws held their first Pride Night, presented by Coca-Cola, in 2019 in front of a capacity, sold-out crowd at FirstEnergy Park. While their second Pride Night in 2020 was cancelled by the pandemic, the team remains undeterred and excited for Pride Night 2021.

“We consider ourselves to be a very open and inclusive organization and proud member of the community,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “We want to show the LGBT community that they are, and always will be, welcome at BlueClaws games!”

“It seems so simple–players should be judged on their athletic ability–not by who they love or how they identify. Unfortunately, the sports world can often be the deepest, darkest place in the closet. That’s why Garden State Equality is proud to partner with the Jersey Shore BlueClaws on their annual Pride Night–an evening that sends a message of positivity to LGBTQ people and their families,” said Christian Fuscarino, executive director of Garden State Equality. You have to imagine how inspiring it is for all those young kids sitting in the stands—who might be gay or transgender—when they look up and see their home team saying: ‘It’s okay to be who you are. We support you.’ That’s life changing.”

Pride Night includes a BlueClaws Pride Night cap giveaway for the first 1,500 fans that will be handed out beginning when the gates open at 6:00 pm. First pitch against the Brooklyn Cyclones, affiliate of the New York Mets, is at 7:05 pm and fans are encouraged to stay for post-game fireworks.

Order Tickets: Order tickets online by clicking here.

The BlueClaws will also be wearing special jerseys that will be auctioned off during the game.

Before the game, the BlueClaws will run a panel discussion with Christian Fuscarino of Garden State Equality and Joe Votruba of NJ 101.5 on the 1,857-square foot video board.

Aziza Callahan, a Garden State Equality member, will sing the National Anthem.

“BlueClaws games are about a fun night out with your friends, family, and colleagues. It’s about relaxing, laughing, and having a great time together. This notion has nothing to do with sexual orientation, race, gender, or economic status. It’s a universal notion of affordable, wholesome entertainment. It’s nice to be able to celebrate that with the community.”

Additional resources will be made available for fans at the game. Those interested in attending the night or partnering with the BlueClaws are encouraged to email [email protected].

Tickets are currently available in reserve seating pods, Lawn pods on the two outfield grass berms, concourse picnic tables, and concourse high-top tables around the ballpark. Tickets to Pride Night and all remaining BlueClaws home games can be purchased at BlueClaws.com.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

Home Runs for Heroes Returns in 2021

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – OceanFirst Foundation, the BlueClaws and Townsquare Media are set to once again partner on Home Runs for Heroes, a unique program through which OceanFirst Foundation donates to military-based non-profits for each home run hit by the BlueClaws at home this summer.

Since debuting in 2009, the program has raised $376,000 for military-based non-profit organizations.

“We thank the Jersey Shore BlueClaws organization and Townsquare Media for their continued partnership that brings much needed relief to local military families and Veterans,” said Katherine Durante, Executive Director of OceanFirst Foundation.

Added BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti: “Members of our armed forces deserve our ultimate praise and we are honored to be a part of this program. Thank you to OceanFirst Foundation for their generous support of these great organizations.”

“92.7 WOBM and Beach Radio 104.1 are proud to partner once again with the Jersey Shore BlueClaws

and OceanFirst Foundation to promote the positive contributions these amazing organizations are making to active and retired members of the military,” said Kevin Williams of Townsquare Media. “It is an honor to play a part in Home Runs for Heroes.”

Every home run hit at FirstEnergy Park means a donation to the corresponding organization(s) tied to each inning of the game. The list of innings and organizations appears below:

1st Inning – American National Red Cross, Homes for All

2nd Inning – Army Emergency Relief, Catholic Charities of Trenton – Ocean Community

3rd Inning – Ma Deuce Deuce, Vetgroup Inc.

4th Inning – Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fun, Recalibrate

5th Inning – GI Go Fund, Volunteers of America

6th Inning – Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society

7th Inning – Cape May County Coast Guard Community Foundation

8th Inning – Chariot Riders Inc., Deborah Hospital Foundation

9th Inning + Extras – Operation First Response

Each BlueClaws home run at the Jersey Shore this summer doesn’t just help win that day’s game, but it helps support military-based non-profits in the area.

The BlueClaws are the Shore’s top spot for affordable, family entertainment. They have drawn 7.7 million fans through their first 19 seasons and open the 2021 season on May 4th against Hudson Valley.

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 8,200 grants totaling more than $42 million to over 1,900+ local charities and schools. Learn more at oceanfirstfdn.org.

Townsquare Media is is a community-focused digital media, digital marketing solutions, and radio company focused outside the top 50 media markets in the United States.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

BlueClaws, RWJBarnabas Health Partner on May 10th Blood Drive

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws and RWJBarnabas Health will partner on a special blood drive to be held at FirstEnergy Park on Monday, May 10th from 11:30 am – 5:30 pm.

Registration is strongly encouraged 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.

All donors are instructed to eat and drink prior to the donation and to bring a photo ID. Masks or cloth face coverings are required for entry. 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 complimentary BlueClaws tickets and a commemorative t-shirt. Donors will also be entered to win a BlueClaws VIP experience for 20 that includes a night in a Luxury Suite, and 20 boardwalk and mini golf passes.

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

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

BlueClaws Charities Suite Raffle Winners Announced

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities drew their seven Luxury Suite Raffle winners on Monday. Each winner earns a 10-game share of a 2021 BlueClaws Luxury Suite.

The seven winners (in order of drawing) are:

  • Mark Zrebiec of Little Egg Harbor
  • Erica Kelly of Barnegat
  • Melissa Lauer of Jackson
  • Scott Feirstein of Hazlet
  • Larry Casele of Pine Beach
  • Thomas O’Hara of Tinton Falls
  • Jim Schatzle of Colts Neck

You can watch the drawing in the player below.

Those looking to support BlueClaws Charities can do so by purchasing a fan cutout that will be displayed during BlueClaws games this season.

Cutouts are just $35 and proceeds will benefit BlueClaws Charities. Additionally, fans will be able to keep their cutouts at the conclusion of the season.

To book your cutout, click here.

-BlueClaws Charities-

Apply Today For Open Food & Beverage Positions: Job Fair This Week

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws are hiring for select food & beverage gameday positions and will host a Job Fair at the ballpark this week!

The team currently has PART TIME opportunities available for the 2021 season in our Food & Beverage Department. These positions will provide you the opportunity to gain valuable work experience while working in a fun, fast-paced environment! We are looking for RELIABLE individuals who will show up to work when they say they will work!

HOW TO APPLY – Click here to apply for these positions or stop by the ballpark this week.

JOB FAIR TIMES – The BlueClaws will host a Job Fair for these food & beverage positions at the following times this week:

  • Wednesday, March 24th: 3 pm – 5 pm
  • Thursday, March 25th: 6 pm – 8 pm
  • Friday, March 26th: 10 am – 1 pm
  • Saturday, March 27th: 9 am – 11 am

Those interested can come to ballpark at that time for in-person interviews. Proper safety protocols will be followed and masks are required.

Click here to download an application for seasonal employment that can be brought to the Job Fair. If unavailable to print, applications will be able to be filled out in person.

The team will be hiring for the following positions:

  • Cashiers
  • Concessions Vendors
  • Food Prep
  • Kitchen Associates
  • Ice Cream Servers
  • Warehouse

General job functions:

  • Help operate a top-end food & beverage operation at a professional baseball ballpark
  • Provide world class customer service to enhance the guest experience
  • Exhibit a fun, friendly fan service-oriented attitude and professional appearance at all times

Requirements:

  • Pass a background check (18 years and older)
  • 16 years of age or older
  • Be neat and presentable at all times
  • Be able to stand for long periods of times
  • Available to work nights and weekends

The BlueClaws are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

BlueClaws Hiring for Select Food & Beverage Department Positions

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – There is still time to join the BlueClaws team this summer as the team is still hiring for select food & beverage positions this summer at the ballpark.

The team will be conducting interviews and hiring for the following gameday positions in the Food & Beverage Department:

  • Concessions Cashiers
  • Line Cooks
  • Stand Cooks

HOW TO APPLY – Email your resume and other information to Kathryn Raso at [email protected].

All positions are part-time and pay $12 per hour. Positions run through the duration of the baseball season. Click here for a 2021 BlueClaws schedule.

Job applicants must be able to work nights, weekends, and holidays depending on the schedule.

The BlueClaws host Hudson Valley on May 4th for Opening Night at the Jersey Shore, presented by Jenkinson’s Boardwalk.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

BlueClaws to Host Virtual Job Fair; Applications Currently Being Accepted

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The annual BlueClaws Job Fair is going virtual! The team’s application process for seasonal, gameday positions is now open and runs through February 19th.

The team will hold online interviews with job applicants between February 22nd and 27th.

Click here to fill out an application.

The team will be hiring for the following positions: ticket takers, security, parking attendants, housekeeping personnel, concessions cashiers, bartenders, line cooks, stand cooks, beer vendors, merchandise associates, kids zone attendants, production (camera operators, line score operators, official scorer, gameday starts stringer, show control, instant replay) and promotions (mascot, in-game entertainment).

Applicants are instructed to select the top three positions in which they’d be interested in working.

“In many ways, our gameday staff serves as the lifeblood of our entire operation,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “They play such a vital role and we look forward to welcoming in new members of the community to the BlueClaws family in 2021.”

All positions are part-time and pay $12 per hour. Positions run through the duration of the baseball season. A full schedule will be available at a later date.

Job applicants must be able to work nights, weekends, and holidays depending on the schedule.

Upon completion of the application, a member of the BlueClaws front office will reach out to arrange a time to interview.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. Over 7.7 million fans have come to see the BlueClaws since their 2001 inception. The team will celebrate their 20th Anniversary Season this summer.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

National Hat Day – $5 Hats to Support BlueClaws Charities

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – As part of National Hat Day on Friday, and through Sunday, select BlueClaws hats will be available through the BlueClaws team store (online orders only) for just $5 with all proceeds going to BlueClaws Charities!

Click here to purchase your hats.

These include select fitted caps among other hats and the hats at this link are the only ones eligible.

Jersey Shore BlueClaws On-Field Caps

Jersey Shore BlueClaws fitted caps are currently available via pre-order by clicking here. They are expected to ship in February.

About BlueClaws Charities

BlueClaws Charities, the team’s official 501c3 organization, supports a wide variety of non-profit, locally-based Community Partner organizations around the Jersey Shore with grants as well as hundreds of area fundraising events throughout the year.

-BlueClaws-

BlueClaws to Host RWJBarnabas Health Blood Drive on January 13th

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws and RWJBarnabas Health will partner on a special blood drive to be held at FirstEnergy Park on Wednesday, January 13th from 11:30 am – 5:00 pm.

Registration is strongly encouraged 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. Masks or cloth face coverings are required for entry. 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 complimentary BlueClaws tickets and a commemorative t-shirt. Donors will also be entered to win a $50 gift card and a BlueClaws VIP experience for 20 that includes a night in a Luxury Suite, a ceremonial first pitch, and 20 boardwalk and mini golf passes.

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

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

Gift of Baseball Program Commences TODAY To Benefit Local Non-Profits

 

The Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, are pleased to announce the return of the Gift of Baseball Program for the holidays. The Gift of Baseball program provides tickets to underprivileged families for the chance to share the fun of Thunder Baseball .

For each ticket purchased before January 4, the Thunder will provide tickets to 2021 games through various non-profit partners and the Grand Slam We Care’s Tickets for Kids program.

“Attending the family-friendly and fun environment that we have cultivated at ARM & HAMMER Park over the years is a privilege that not every family in Mercer, Bucks and Burlington County has,” said Thunder GM/COO Jeff Hurley. “I am thrilled to partner with so many great local organizations that allow some of those families to enjoy the experience of Thunder Baseball.”

In the 15 years of the Gift of Baseball Program, the Thunder have donated over 11,000 tickets to area nonprofits.

Ticket purchases made between Tuesday, December 8 and January 4 of FLEX packages will trigger a matching donation to Thunder non-profit partners. FLEX Tickets are redeemable for any 2021 Trenton Thunder home game. Purchase your FLEX Vouchers prior to December 24th 11:59pm and receive complementary food vouchers with your purchase! LINK

The 2021 season at ARM & HAMMER Park will feature the Trenton Thunder in the inaugural season of the MLB Draft League commencing in May, 2021.

For more information on Thunder baseball visit www.TrentonThunder.com or call 609-394-3300.

BlueClaws Charities Christmas Cruise-Thru on December 12th

Drive-through event to include appearance by Santa; toy drive to benefit Salvation Army of Ocean County

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – Santa Claws is coming to the Jersey Shore! BlueClaws Charities will host their first Christmas Cruise-Thru in the parking lot of FirstEnergy Park on Saturday, December 12th from 10 am until 12 pm. The event, which takes place exclusively in vehicles, serves as a toy drive benefiting the Salvation Army of Ocean County.

This event replaces the annual _Breakfast With Buster Holiday Food & Toy Drive_, which could not be held this year in its traditional form due to COVID-19 regulations.

Beginning at 10 am, cars will pull into the lot at FirstEnergy Park and stop at four different stations.

  1. Item Collection – we will be collecting unwrapped toys and non-perishable food to benefit the Salvation Army of Ocean County.
  2. Letters to Santa – children are encouraged to bring letters for Santa. We’ll collect them and send them off to the North Pole!
  3. Picture with Buster and Santa – Santa and Buster will take a picture in front of each car, which we’ll then email to everyone after the event.
  4. Hot Chocolate – the BlueClaws will deliver hot chocolate to each car as a thank you for their participation.

“We’ve welcomed Santa to FirstEnergy Park for the last two decades, and while we can’t do that in the traditional manner this year, we wanted to still offer local families the chance to see Santa and for kids to drop off their letters,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “Plus, our community has been immensely supportive of the Salvation Army and their food and toy drive over the years, and that is especially important in 2020.”

Each vehicle will also receive a coupon code that can be used online for 25% off in the Jersey Shore BlueClaws Team Store. Orders must be placed by December 16th to ensure Christmas delivery.

Fans will never leave their vehicle at the event. BlueClaws staff members will be wearing masks at all times.

BooClaws Spooktacular Comes to FirstEnergy Park on October 30th

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – Get ready for a spooky night out with the family and celebrate Halloween with the BlueClaws on Friday, October 30th. The first BooClaws Spooktacular, presented by RWJBarnabas Health, NJR Home Services and the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore comes to FirstEnergy Park with gates opening at 6:00 pm.

The team will screen Hocus Pocus on the 1,857 square-foot video board beginning at 7:00 pm.

Additionally, the night includes a costume parade for kids, and fun, safe, and low-contact trick-or-treating with food provided by Bimbo Bakeries featuring Takis and Entenmann’s, plus additional candy from Hershey’s.

TICKET INFORMATION – Tickets are just $10 and includes popcorn plus soda or water. CLICK HERE to order online.

Due to current state regulations regarding outdoor gatherings, only 450 tickets will be sold.

“This is certainly a unique Halloween around the Shore, but the BlueClaws are excited to help do what we can to provide a fun and safe option for families,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “We look forward to a spooky, fun, and safe Halloween!”

Everyone is encouraged to come dressed up. Fans are permitted to bring lawn chairs or blankets to watch the movie from the field.

All kids will automatically be signed up for Home Run Membership in the BlueClaws Kids Club, and five random kids will win a 5-Game BlueClaws Mini Plan for the 2021 season.

Masks are required when moving about the ballpark, while in line for entrance or food, while in the restrooms, or in the team store. Groups must be seated in a socially-distant manner, at least 6-feet from other groups. Fans are permitted to sit either in the stands or on the field. Click here for a rundown of BlueClaws safety and sanitation procedures.

This event has a rain date of Sunday, November 1st.

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

-BlueClaws-

OceanFirst Foundation Honors Non-Profits as Part of Home Runs for Heroes

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – OceanFirst Foundation made donations to 16 organizations that support military personnel on Friday as part of an adjusted version of the Home Runs for Heroes program. The ceremony took place during the Party in the Park fireworks event at FirstEnergy Park.

Since 2009, OceanFirst Foundation has donated to non-profit organizations for each BlueClaws home run hit at FirstEnergy Park. Despite the 2020 season being canceled, the organization still to 16 organizations.

The following organizations received a donation from OceanFirst Foundation.

  • American Red Cross
  • Army Emergency Relief (Fort Dix)
  • Cape May Coast Guard Community Foundation
  • Catholic Charities (Diocese of Trenton)
  • Deborah Hospital Foundation
  • GI Go Fund
  • Homes for All/Hands For All
  • Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey
  • Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Foundation
  • Ma Deuce Deuce
  • National Guard State Family Readiness Council
  • Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society
  • Operation First Response
  • Recalibrate
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars – Brick Post 8867
  • Vetgroup

“The BlueClaws are proud to partner with OceanFirst Foundation on the Home Runs for Heroes Program and we thank them for their support of these amazing organizations even in this unique year,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “Even without a BlueClaws season, we are thrilled to see OceanFirst Foundation donate to these many worthy causes all over the Shore.”

“We thank the Lakewood BlueClaws organization and Townsquare Media for providing the opportunity to work together to bring much needed relief to local military families and Veterans during these difficult times. We’re pleased to have provided $408,000 in grants over the years of our partnership.” said Katherine Durante, Executive Director of OceanFirst Foundation.

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

-BlueClaws-

BlueClaws Launch “Jersey Shore Hometown Heroes”

 

LAKEWOOD, NJ – The BlueClaws have launched the Jersey Shore Hometown Heroes Program to recognize those going above and beyond to help the community during the current pandemic.

Through the program, fans from around the Shore can nominate those that have shown to be true community heroes, serving the community during the current time of need. Selected nominees will be recognized digitally and later when BlueClaws baseball returns.

“Throughout the Jersey Shore, we have seen doctors, nurses, EMTs, police, fire fighters, teachers, grocery store workers, restaurant workers, and many others go above and beyond in helping those at the Jersey Shore during the current pandemic,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti.

“The BlueClaws want to play a part in recognizing these deserving men and women.”

While the start of the BlueClaws season is currently on hold, the team will collect nominations through BlueClaws.com (click here to nominate) from fans around the Shore to nominate those most-deserving.

Throughout the delay in the season, the BlueClaws will highlight nominees through the club’s social media channels and on BlueClaws.com. Upon the return of baseball, the BlueClaws will then recognize these deserving groups and individuals in the ballpark and in the Catch of the Day game program.

“We hope to be able to showcase the best of our community,” said Ricciutti. “While many of us wait at home for a return to our normal lives, these individuals risking their lives in support of the Jersey Shore at large.”

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. The 2020 season will be the team’s 20th at the Jersey Shore.

You can follow the BlueClaws on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or visit their official website at BlueClaws.com.

-BlueClaws-