ALS Celebrity Waiter Event on May 29th

Annual event raises money for the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia

LakewoodBlueClaws_2013-05-06

 

LAKEWOOD, NJ – The 13th annual ALS Celebrity Waiter Event will take place at TGI Friday’s in Brick on Wednesday, May 29th.

The annual event raises money for the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, the principal charity of the Philadelphia Phillies, and has brought over $120,000 to the organization in the event’s first 12 years.

BlueClaws players will serve as servers and hosts while coaches, including Lakewood manager and former Phillies second baseman Mickey Morandini, will serve as bartender helpers.

“Last year’s event at TGI Friday’s in Brick was a great success,” said BlueClaws General Manager Brandon Marano. “We’re excited to bring the event back to TGI Friday’s and continue what was been a tremendous event for a great cause.”

There will be two dinner seatings: 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm and 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. Fans can reserve a table by calling TGI Friday’s directly at 732-262-0937.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, including 15% of every dinner bill (excluding alcohol) from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm and all tips from dinner bills during the same three hour period.

In addition, there will be a silent auction with a series of great items, from which all proceeds will be donated to the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia. Companies wishing to donate items for the gift auction can do so by contacting TGI Friday’s of Brick at the number above.

BlueClaws Charities, the official non-profit foundation of the Lakewood BlueClaws, is a 501c3 organization that has donated over $500,000 in the last four years to area non-profit organizations and fundraising events.

– BlueClaws Charities –

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lakewood BlueClaws. Click here to view the original story.

Adopt-a-Field Program Returns

Four Area Little League Fields to Receive Much-Needed Help

Moosic, Pa. – When the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre baseball franchise spent 2012 on the road, it still had its home at heart. The team christened a program that focused on rejuvenating area Little League fields. Even though the now-RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) have a home of their own in the beautifully reconstructed PNC Field, the Adopt-a-Field Program is back and better than ever.

What began with two teams getting the annual makeover, one each from Lackawanna County and Luzerne County, has blossomed into a four-team program in 2013. A Facebook contest chose the four lucky recipients. It gets underway Wednesday, May 1 when Scranton’s Marvine Dutch Gap Little League gets some love for its field. On June 3, the attention shifts to the Avoca/Dupont Little League. Come June 14, the RailRiders will adopt the South Scranton Little League field before closing things out on June 27 at Staback Park in Archbald.

“Let’s spread the wealth a bit and bring the beauty of the new PNC Field to the Little League fields right here in our communities,” said RailRiders team president/GM Rob Crain. “I love this program. We as a franchise are committed to doing what we can for our neighbors and this is one of the most fun and directly impactful efforts we can provide.”

The program provides an individualized evaluation and athletic field maintenance clinic to the chosen leagues. More than the initial facelift the RailRiders’ raw manpower provides, the teams will be taught how to keep up that same professional-level look for years to come. Last season, Moosic Little League and Kingston/Forty Fort Little League were the benefactors of the program’s launch.

“This is a great opportunity to provide those maintaining local Little League fields with the knowledge needed to maintain a safe and beautiful playing surface,” said the team’s director of field operations, Steve Horne. “Many leagues don’t have the tools, manpower or guidance needed to keep their fields in good shape. Hopefully, after our crew comes in to help get them started, we can develop a plan that will benefit the leagues and their players for years to come.”

The makeover will get underway at 8 a.m. on each date listed above and will run until around 5 p.m. Media members and fans are invited to document and watch the progress throughout the day. Below are the addresses of the four sites:

Marvine Dutch Gap, 170 Wells, Scranton 18508

Avoca/Dupont, Mill & Commerce Streets, Avoca 18641

South Scranton, 430 Meadow Ave., Scranton 18505

Staback Park, Eynon Jermyn Rd., Archbald 18403

The RailRiders are in the midst of a nine-day, eight-game road trip before returning home for an eight-game homestand on Monday, May 6. It starts with the first of four against the Indianapolis Indians (Pittsburgh Pirates) at 6:35 p.m. Fans will be able to dine on just a few dimes with dollar hot dogs all night long at PNC Field. Great ticket packages, group deals and single-game tickets are available. With no upper deck at PNC Field anymore, every seat in the ballpark provides the supreme views and intimacy that make minor league baseball so special at incredibly affordable prices. For more information, please visit the team’s official website, www.swbrailriders.com, or call 570-969-BALL (2255).

– SWB RailRiders – All Aboard! –

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees. Click here to view the original story.

Cutters announce new Charitable Tuesdays program

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The Williamsport Crosscutters are proud to announce Charitable Tuesdays as a brand new community effort for the 2013 season.

The Crosscutters will be recognizing local charities and non-profit organizations at every Tuesday home game this season.  The program will give one organization per Tuesday game the opportunity to have a presence at Historic Bowman Field for the purpose of educating Cutters’ fans about their organization.

The organization of the game will have space in the concourse of Historic Bowman Field to display and distribute promotional literature and materials.  Selling or collecting monetary donations of any kind is not permitted.

In addition, each organization will receive the following to promote themselves during the game:

  • On-field, pre-game interview to talk about the organization
  • Ceremonial 1st Pitch by a representative of the organization
  • In-game interview live on the Cutters’ radio broadcast
  • (4) reserved box seat tickets to the game

Interested organizations can register to participate in the Charitable Tuesdays program by contacting Sarah Budd at (570)326-3389 or by email at sarah@crosscutters.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Williamsport Crosscutters. Click here to view the original story.

Spikes announce 2013 school programs

Programs expected to reach over 15,000 Central PA school children

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Spikes mascots, players and staff can visit your school as part of each program

The State College Spikes have announced the team’s roster of 2013 school programs. Each program has a unique theme and focus, but the common goal is to use the fun Spikes brand to supplement classroom curriculum in the areas of reading, writing, exercising, eating healthy and living an eco-friendly lifestyle.

Most programs are supplemented by school assemblies involving mascots, players and front office staff, and all programs offer K-8 students the opportunity to earn free tickets and experiences at Spikes home games upon completion of fun program tasks. Last year, the Spikes reached over 15,000 Central PA school children in Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Huntingdon, Mifflin and Juniata Counties.

Below are capsules of the Spikes 2013 school programs:

Healthy Home Runs presented by Mount Nittany Health
The Spikes and Mount Nittany Health are offering this school program, which is designed to promote a healthy lifestyle through nutrition and physical activity. Ike the Spike and representatives from Mount Nittany Health will visit schools to hold a kick-off assembly (which can be held outside or inside). During the assembly, K-6 students will be educated on the importance exercise and nutrition before having the opportunity to take “Ike’s Fun Fit Challenge.” Students who complete the simple and fun physical fitness challenge will be rewarded with one complimentary Bullpen Box ticket and an on-field recognition ceremony during the Spikes’ Healthy Home Runs Day at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park on Saturday, August 3, 2013.

Project I.K.E presented by Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority
Project I.K.E. is a collaboration between the Spikes and Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority teaching children about the importance of “going green” and incorporating eco-friendly practices in their daily lives. The acronym in the program title stands for “Inspiring Kids to be Eco-Friendly” and targets children in grades K-8. The Spikes, Ike the Spike and a representative from the Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority will host educational school assembly visits for each participating school. Project I.K.E. also offers complimentary tours of Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, which demonstrates how the Spikes recycle and go green in the world’s first LEED Certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) ballpark. As part of the program, students will be given an educational packet to complete, which can be redeemed for one complimentary Bullpen Box Ticket to a 2013 Spikes home game.

Spikes Student All-Star Program presented by Chick-fil-A and PSEA
In partnership with Chick-fil-A and the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA), the Spikes Student All-Stars program provides K-8 teachers around the region with a tool to reward students with free tickets to a Spikes game based on whatever criteria the teacher would like to establish in his/her own classroom. Each teacher within the Spikes geographic region receives six (6) forms to distribute to students. The program encourages teachers to incentivize students based on excellence in a subject, dramatic improvement in a subject, or by showing classroom leadership. Any student chosen will be provided with a free ticket to one of three pre-determined 2013 Spikes home games (July 7, August 4 and August 25), and will be honored as part of a special pre-game, on-field recognition ceremony.

Books and Baseball Program presented by National Penn Bank
The Spikes and National Penn Bank have partnered for the Books and Baseball reading program for the 2013 season. This program encourages students to complete a reading program by rewarding them with free Spikes tickets upon completion. Participating students will receive a special bookmark to keep track of the books they read. Any participating student that reads four books under the supervision of their teacher or parent will earn one free ticket for a designated Books and Baseball game during the 2013 season (July 6, July 27 and August 24). At those games, participants will be honored from the field for their participation and completion of the programs. The program includes a free assembly and reading presentation with the National Penn Bank Nook Monster at any of the participating schools. Books and Baseball is designed for students in grades K-8.

Spikes Essay Contest
The Spikes Essay Contest is for K-8 students to creatively share their experiences and thoughts about the State College Spikes through pictures or essays. The contest is divided into three different grade levels: K-1, 2-4 and 5-8. Students in kindergarten through first grade are encouraged to include drawings along with one sentence for the theme “If I were Ike the Spike.” The second to fourth grade group will be asked to write a short essay entitled “If I coached the Spikes.” Fifth to eighth graders will be encouraged to write a 300 or less word essay entitled “If I could create a new food item for the Spikes, it would be (blank).” A winning essay will be chosen in each of the three age groups and those winners will earn tickets to a 2013 Spikes home game for their entire grade. The submission deadline for the Spikes Essay Contest is June 1.

There is no cost for school to participate in any 2013 Spikes school program. Teachers or administrators interested in participating in any of the State College Spikes school programs can contact Spikes Community Relations Manager David Wells at 814-272-1711 ext. 331 or dwells@statecollegespikes.com.

The Spikes, the Class-A Short-Season affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, will open the club’s eighth season on Monday, June 17 at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park against the rival Williamsport Crosscutters (Philadelphia Phillies). The Spikes will be home for 38 regular season home dates between June 17 and August 30. Single-game tickets for the upcoming 2013 season will go on sale to the public starting Friday, April 26 at 4 p.m. Season Tickets, Value Plans, McDonald’s Flex Books and an array of group and corporate hospitality options are currently available and can be reserved by calling (814) 272-1711. All Spikes ticket options can be viewed at State College Spikes.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the State College Spikes. Click here to view the original story.

Gloves for Kids Drive

The SeaWolves, have announced a Gloves for Kids Drive to collect equipment for youth baseball and softball players in the Erie community.  The project is a joint effort between the SeaWolves and the SeaWolves Student Ambassadors.

The SeaWolves Student Ambassador Program provides area high school students with opportunities to learn about careers in sports and participate in community service projects such as the Gloves for Kids Drive.

The SeaWolves and SeaWolves Student Ambassadors are collecting new or gently used baseball and softball equipment, including gloves, balls, youth bats, and catcher’s gear, from now through April 20.  Fans are invited bring their items to the game on Saturday, April 20 or drop off equipment in advance at the SeaWolves Ticket Office.  Items collected will be donated to Erie area youth organizations including Boys and Girls Baseball in Erie, Inc.

“The SeaWolves want to encourage kids in our community to play ball ,” said SeaWolves President Greg Coleman.  “We’d like to thank the Student Ambassadors and SeaWolves fans alike for lending their support so we can give deserving kids the resources they need to get out and play.”

Thanks to support from SeaWolves sponsors, each fan that donates a glove or other youth baseball equipment will receive a complimentary ticket any SeaWolves home game from May 25-June 6, 2013.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Erie SeaWolves. Click here to view the original story.

2013 Grant Beneficiaries Announced

Lehigh-Valley-IronPigsIronPigs Charities presented by The Air Production Foundation, a non-profit organization striving to provide educational and recreational opportunities for children in the Greater Lehigh Valley area, will award a total of $85,700 in cash grants to 20 non-profit organizations during Thursday’s sold-out Phillies Winter Banquet featuring 1,100 guests at the Sands Events Center. Since debuting in 2007, IronPigs Charities has contributed a total in excess of $550,000 in cash grants and $215,000 in in-kind donations to dozens of local non-profit entities.

“Without question, this is the most rewarding night of the year for our organization,” remarked IronPigs Charities President Kurt Landes. “Make no mistake; these contributions would not be possible without the loyal support of our fans and business partners. We are truly humbled by the generous backing that IronPigs Charities receives and we look forward to continuing to make a tangible impact in our wonderful community.”

IronPigs-Charities-LogoOne of the annual highlights of the Winter Banquet event is the distribution of grants to local non-profit organizations. In fact, over $280,000 has been distributed at this event alone since debuting in 2008.

The 2013 beneficiaries along with a brief synopsis of their benefitting programs are listed below:

  • Allentown School District Foundation: An after-school intra-district middle school baseball program will be started in Allentown School District. At current, the Allentown School District does not have a baseball program at the middle school level. This program will allow for dozens of 6th, 7th and 8th graders to play baseball.
  • Boys and Girls Club of Bethlehem: Mind, Body and Soul are the three components of the Triple Play program. The multi-faceted program is designed to help young people become healthy and active while forming new relationships.
  • Boys and Girls Club of Easton: The Triple Play program consisting of the Mind, Body & Soul components, addresses a need for low-income youth to get more structured exercise in sports, explore healthy nutrition and learn social skills.
  • Community Bike Works: Children participate in a three month “Earn a Bike” program in which they receive instruction on bike mechanics, bike safety, employment skills and business concepts. At the successful conclusion of the program they earn a bike and a helmet.
  • Easton Police Athletic League: New uniforms and equipment will be purchased for the Easton Police Athletic League’s wrestling program. This program serves 50 youth from the Easton area.
  • Family YMCA of Easton, Phillipsburg & Vicinity: The Family YMCA Summer Youth Basketball League serves boys and girls ages 8 to 18. This program supports 80 youth and focuses on low income families.
  • Friends of the Allentown Parks: The Queen of the Court will give girls in the city of Allentown the opportunity to play basketball. Nearly 100 girls are expected to participate in the four week program.
  • Lehigh County Conference of Churches: The Aspires mentoring program addresses the health and wellness of at-risk youth in the Allentown School District. The IronPigs Charities grant will fund ten weeks of recreational and educational group activities.
  • Lehigh County Youth Association: LCYA serves over 100 youth who participate in a variety of sports, including baseball. The IronPigs Charities grant will provide new catchers equipment, a pitching machine, new bases as well as field maintenance equipment.
  • Lehigh Valley Zoo: The Lehigh Valley Zoo’s Wildlife & Wellness Program is a nature inspired health and fitness after-school program to benefit primarily disadvantaged, school-age youth in our community.
  • Lower Macungie Youth Association: After receiving a 2012 grant for field maintenance related items, Lower Macungie Youth Association will now receive funding for a storage shed for the items that were purchased last year.
  • Mikayla’s Voice: This June, Mikayla’s Voice will be hosting a one-of-a-kind triathlon for children with and without disabilities. Children with physical disabilities will participate in all three phases of a triathlon with a little help from their friends.
  • Miracle League of the Lehigh Valley: Their mission is to provide an all-inclusive baseball program for children with various special needs. The IronPigs Charities grant will provide uniforms and equipment for the nearly 300 players in the league.
  • Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley: Golden Dippers Ice Cream Parties will take place at the Children’s Hospital at Lehigh Valley Health Network for children battling cancer who are hospitalized. Additionally, PCFLV will celebrate the end of chemotherapy treatments with a Last Round of Chemo party.
  • Sacred Heart Hospital: An afternoon program of health and wellness will provide over 400 low-income youth with fitness activities, healthy snacks, fresh fruits and vegetables and a backpack giveaway filled with school supplies.
  • Salvation Army: The Breaking Barriers Fitness Camp will teach youngsters how to get fit, how the body works and the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. Each child will receive a personalized workout routine after the instructional sessions.
  • Special Olympics Lehigh County: A full course of track and field events will be setup for over 500 Special Olympics Athletes at Whitehall High School.
  • Valley Youth House: Valley Youth House will be building “Pigtown” as the fifth element of the adventure course at Camp Fowler. Throughout the year nearly 850 youth will participate in the adventure course.
  • YWCA of Bethlehem: The YWCA will give over 50 girls the opportunity to learn the game of golf. Held at Southmoore Golf Course and Wedgewood Golf Course, the young women will learn the necessary skills needed to play in tournaments throughout the area.

Philadelphia Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro, Jr., manager Charlie Manuel along with Dave Brundage (IronPigs manager), C Erik Kratz and INF Kevin Frandsen headline the sold-out 2013 Phillies Winter Banquet presented by The Air Products Foundation, Coca-Cola and the Lehigh Valley Health Network to be held on Thursday at the brand-new Sands Events Center in Bethlehem. Other Phillies dignitaries include Benny Looper (Asst. GM), Joe Jordan (Dir., Player Development) and Steve Noworyta (Asst. Dir., Player Development).

The Phillies Winter Banquet beneficiary, IronPigs Charities, is a recognized 501(c) (3) non-profit organization on the state and federal level.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs.  Click here to view the original story.

Community Organization of the Night Program Filled for 2013

All 72 Slots for 2013 Season Booked in 6 ½ Business Days

MOOSIC, Pa. – The public said it wanted to be involved with the new PNC Field. The depths of that yearning are still being realized. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders’ Community Organization of the Night Program was announced just last week. In 6 ½ business days, all 72 available nights were claimed by non-profit groups that benefit NEPA.

The 72 non-profit groups, one for each home game, will receive a tip of the cap and more throughout the 2013 season. The groups chosen will own the night on the front porch of NEPA. In addition to receiving four free field reserve seats, each group will also have a concourse table allowing it to pass out information on its organization and cause. Beyond that personal face-to-face time, each group will be have a live pre-game interview on the field that will be shown to all in attendance on PNC Field’s state-of-the-art video board. The message will be further spread with a live in-game interview on the RailRiders’ radio broadcast.

“From the minute we officially released the program, my phone has been ringing off the hook with the wonderful non-profit organizations of Northeast Pennsylvania,” said the team’s community relations manager Ryan Beardsley. “I’m so proud we can provide a service such as this to our local non-profit agencies that work tirelessly and selflessly to improve the lives of others.”

The Community Organization of the Night receives other perks like a ceremonial first pitch, its logo getting some time to shine on the video board and most of all, the chance to interact with the very folks touched by its efforts.

The RailRiders’ 2013 season gets underway with the grand opening of a reconstructed PNC Field on April 4 when the defending IL champion Pawtucket Red Sox come to town for a rematch of their 2012 playoff clash with SWB. It will mark the first “Thirsty Thursday” promotion of the year with $1 beer specials and $1 Pepsi products along with a pre-game live band performance and post-game fireworks. Club seating, partial and full-season ticket plans are now available.

– SWB RailRiders – All Aboard! –

 

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees. Click here to view the original story.

Cutters banquet raises over $4,000 for YWCA

Phillies pitcher Justin DeFratus (left) was one of the featured guests at the Cutters Hot Stove event.
Phillies pitcher Justin DeFratus (left) was one of the featured guests at the Cutters Hot Stove event.

With a star-studded guest list and a jam-packed Genetti Ballroom, the Williamsport Crosscutters 7th Annual Hot Stove Banquet was a great success while raising over $4,000 for charity.

On a snowy winter night in Williamsport, Phillies pitcher Justin DeFratus, 2-time Cy Young Award winner Denny McLain, local hero Tom O’Malley & Phillies front office personnel entertained attendees with stories and answered audience questions.

The night, presented by HB Rentals, Woodlands Bank, WRAK Radio and the Williamsport Sun-Gazette, was also highlighted by live and Chinese auctions that featured a wealth of sports memorabilia including a bat signed by Phillies all-star first baseman Ryan Howard, baseballs signed by Phils catcher Carlos Ruiz, pitcher Cole Hamels, hall-of-famers Rod Carew, Dave Winfield and many others.

Other highlights of the event included the induction of Lou Hunsinger, Jr. into the Bowman Field Hall of Fame. Hunsinger, the President of the Bowman Field Commission and longtime baseball historian was part of a group that helped salvage hundreds of historic baseball photos in danger of being lost to posterity from the files of The Grit newspaper and publishing company. Through those efforts, the Grit Baseball Photograph Collection was donated to the James. V. Brown Library and subsequently inventoried, organized and cataloged.

A portion of the proceeds from the evening were donated to YWCA of Northcentral PA whose mission is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. At the conclusion of the festivities, the YWCA was presented with a check for $4,075.

The Crosscutters 15th anniversary season opens on June 18 at Historic Bowman Field. Season tickets, bonus books and group packages are currently available and can be purchased online at ww.crosscutters.com or by calling the Cutters at (570) 326-3389.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Williamsport Crosscutters. Click here to view the original story.

RailRiders Plan Salute to Military

Searching for Area Foursomes to Honor Each Game

The team has honored our nation's armed forces in the past, but it will become a nightly event at the reconstructed PNC Field in 2013.
The team has honored our nation’s armed forces in the past, but it will become a nightly event at the reconstructed PNC Field in 2013.

MOOSIC, Pa. – The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders’ community outreach continues. Today, the team announced a new initiative for the 2013 season that will pay tribute to those that serve in our nation’s armed forces and their loved ones in NEPA.

Each 2013 home game will spotlight these local heroes with recognition on the video board at PNC Field, the opportunity to throw out a ceremonial first pitch, and four field reserved seats to enjoy the game. The team is actively searching for a title sponsor of the program that will all the more solidify PNC Field as NEPA’s community ballpark.

“I could not be more thrilled to create a program like this that in some small way helps say thank you to those in uniform and their loved ones,” said Rob Crain, president and general manager of the club. “Many kids look up to our ballplayers, and we certainly appreciate that, but these are the true heroes living right next door to us.”

Area veterans, active military and families thereof are encouraged to submit their military story to the team’s community relations department. E-mails can be sent to SWB’s community relations manager, Rachel Mark, at rmark@swbyankees.com. Or fans may mail their tales to the address below:

SWB RailRiders
ATTN: Community Relations
50 Glenmaura National Blvd., Suite 101
Moosic, PA 18507

-All Aboard-

 

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Click here to view the original story.

SWB’s “Big Reveal” & Red Cross Partner for Sandy Relief

A New Jersey for New Jersey Coincides With “Big Reveal”

Scranton-Wilkes-Barre-YankeThe Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees have announced a partnership with the local Red Cross offices to collect money and non-perishable food for New Jersey victims of Hurricane Sandy. As part of the “New Jersey for New Jersey” collaboration, the two entities will accept donations at Genetti Manor on Wednesday, Nov. 14. The effort coincides with the club’s “Big Reveal” of a new team name, logo, colors, etc. To incentivize participation, the very first official team jersey for the club’s soon-to-be-revealed rebranding will go to one of the generous donors.”It feels good to do good,” said Rob Crain, president and general manager of the SWB Yankees. “We have donated to those in our backyard of NEPA. It just seems right to also use this tremendous opportunity of a once-in-a-lifetime fan experience to carry goodwill to our neighbors heavily affected by this tragic storm.”

Each dollar or non-perishable canned good donated that night will result in one entry for a raffle that will reward one lucky fan with the hottest piece of sportswear in NEPA.

American-Red-Cross-vertical“In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, many lives have been irrevocably changed,” said Carmon Flynn, executive director of the Red Cross of Lackawanna, Bradford-Sullivan, Susquehanna and Wyoming. “Fundraising efforts such as this one help our neighbors in New Jersey weather the effects of Superstorm Sandy and empower the American Red Cross to provide a quick and compassionate response. Whether it is a meal, a warm blanket or a place to sleep, our community’s support of the Red Cross makes this possible. We are grateful to our partners with the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees for holding this benefit.”

Remember, the team’s “Big Reveal” party will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14, at Genetti Manor, 1505 Main Street, Dickson City. The free event is open to the public.

At the event, the long-awaited new team name will be announced, along with the unveiling of new logos and player uniforms. The family-friendly party will also feature free food and beverages (alcohol excluded), inflatable games, jugglers, caricature artists, face painters, balloon artists and much more.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Wilkes-Barre Yankees. Click here to view the original story.

IronPigs Announce Drive to Benefit Lakewood

LehighValleyIronPigs_2012-11-09

The Lehigh Valley IronPigs are asking fans for their support of a fellow Phillies affiliate, the Lakewood BlueClaws, in an effort to assist in the relief efforts for those impacted in the Lakewood community by the devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy.

“Our entire organization has been deeply saddened by Hurricane Sandy’s devastation throughout the region, including in Lakewood, New Jersey, where the community of a fellow Phillies affiliate has been deeply affected,” said IronPigs General Manager Kurt Landes. “We ask our fans to assist our efforts in any way possible during our week-long drive to support the Lakewood community.”

Beginning on Saturday, November 10, fans are encouraged to bring the following items to the Majestic Clubhouse Store or the Lehigh Valley IronPigs front offices located at Coca-Cola Park to support the Lakewood community drive.

Here is an updated list of items needed:

  • Work Gloves & Latex Gloves
  • Flashlights
  • Batteries
  • Bleach and other Cleaning Products
  • Rakes
  • Contractor Bags
  • Packing Tape
  • Markers (Sharpie-type)
  • Paper Towels
  • Rags
  • Sponges
  • Mops & Buckets
  • Firewood
  • Shelf Milk
  • Storage Bins
  • Cereal
  • Gatorade

Donations will be accepted at Coca-Cola Park through Saturday, November 17.

In addition to the IronPigs and the BlueClaws, the Reading Phillies and Trenton Thunder are also asking those in their local communities to assist the Lakewood community relief efforts. Staff members from all of the clubs will be distributing the donated items during volunteer efforts in Lakewood on November 19.

For more information, please contact the IronPigs front office at (610) 841-PIGS (7447).

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Click here to view the original story.

IronPigs’ Wives Hosting Sock & Underwear Drive

LehighValleyIronPigs_2012-08-01

The IronPigs player’s wives are hosting the 2nd annual Sock and Underwear Drive prior to the IronPigs-Bisons game on August 8, 2012, at Coca-Cola Park. The drive will benefit the Lehigh County Conference of Churches, Allentown Rescue Mission and New Bethany Ministries.

For each and every donation, fans will receive raffle tickets to win a variety of great autographed memorabilia. Receive one raffle ticket for each newly packaged pair of socks or piece of underwear donated. Raffle tickets will also be available for purchase with proceeds benefiting the Sock and Underwear Drive.

Last season, more than 2,500 items were collected and an additional $4,500 was raised with each organization receiving a $1,500 donation in addition to the socks and underwear.

For more information on the Drive, please contact Sarah Marten at smarten@ironpigsbaseball.com.

Single-game tickets, mini plans and group tickets for all IronPigs home games presented by Capital BlueCross, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Coca-Cola Park Ticket Office, online at www.ironpigsbaseball.com or by calling (610) 841-PIGS.

The Lehigh Valley IronPigs are dedicated to providing family-friendly entertainment and are the only Minor League team to offer bubbles to fans entering the AT&T Plaza and balloons for all children exiting Coca-Cola Park.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Click here to view the original story.

Join the Senators to Bowl for Kids’ Sake

Bowl with your favorite player in first ever bowling event

Harrisburg, PA – What could be more fun than bowling with your favorite Harrisburg Senators player, nothing! The good news for all of you bowlers and just people that enjoy bowling, you’re in luck! On Sunday, July 22, the Senators are Bowling For Kids’ Sake.

Following the game that day against New Britain at 2:00 p.m., the Senators head to the Red Crown Bowling Center.  The bowling event takes place from 7:00 p.m. to approximately 9:00 p.m.  Each participant bowls two games with a player or member of the coaching staff.  The cost is $40 per person, $100 for a team of three or $130 for a team of four. The cost includes your shoe rental, two games of bowling, food, and drinks. The event benefits the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region.

In addition to the bowling, a raffle will take place throughout the event. Each raffle ticket is $2 or a baseball bat length for $20.  The list of items is growing and all of the proceeds benefit the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region.

This event will sell out quickly, so be sure to purchase your tickets quickly for this unique opportunity to spend time bowling with your favorite player!  Tickets are available online here or by phoning the Harrisburg Senators at 717-231-4444 and asking for Emily Winslow.

Tickets for Senators’ games are available on game days 10:00 a.m. until the end of the game, and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until the end of the game. Box office hours on non-game days are Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tickets are available via telephone during the same hours as the box office hours. Tickets are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, online at www.senatorsbaseball.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Harrisburg Senators. Click here to view the original story.

Greg Gross ALS Auction Returns Saturday

Memorabilia Auction Benefits ALS Association

Current Phillies hitting coach is bringing his ALS auction to Reading on Saturday. (Associated Press)
Current Phillies hitting coach is bringing his ALS auction to Reading on Saturday. (Associated Press)

Current Philadelphia Phillies hitting coach and former R-Phils hitting coach Greg Gross is once again bringing his ALS Auction to FirstEnergy Stadium this season with a handful of great items that you won’t find anywhere else.

This Saturday, May 5, the R-Phils along with Gross will once again hold this great event at America’s Classic Ballpark when the team takes on the Erie SeaWolves at 6:05 p.m. The night also features one of the first post-game fireworks shows of 2012 thanks to Carpenter Technology Corporation.

During his time with Philadelphia (1979-1988), Gross began working to help fight ALS and remained dedicated to the battle. ALS is cause near and dear to the world of baseball and is commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, named after the New York Yankees Hall of Famer who was diagnosed with the disease in 1939.

VIST Financial Plaza gates open at 4:05 p.m. and fans are encouraged to check out some great autographed memorabilia. All fans will have the opportunity to bid on these great auction items. Below is a list of the items that will be up for auction:

  • Home Plate signed by the 2012 Phillies infield (Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins, Freddy Galvis, Placido Polanco, and Carlos Ruiz)
  • Pitcher’s Rubber signed by Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, and Cole Hamels
  • Carlos Ruiz Chest Protector (autographed)
  • Ryan Howard signed slip cover (autographed)
  • Shane Victorino Batting Helmet (autographed)
  • Jonathan Paplebon Batting Practice Jersey (autographed)
  • Vance Worley game-worn spikes (autographed)
  • Steve Carlton autographed ball (autographed)
  • Hunter Pence game-worn spikes (autographed)
  • Chase Utley game-used bat (autographed)
  • Jim Thome game-used bat (autographed)
  • Cliff Lee autographed baseball
  • Jimmy Rollins autographed baseball
  • Carlos Ruiz autographed baseball

Tickets for all regular season Reading Phillies home games, as well as Baseballtown All-Star Classic Events, are available online at www.RPhils.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, or in person at the R-Phils Ticket Office located at FirstEnergy Stadium. Fans can also add the all-you-can eat Deck Buffett wristband to any order for only $12.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the R-Phils. Click here to view the original story.

Cutters banquet raises $4,500 for charity

Bresnahan inducted into Bowman Field Hall of Fame

Phillies GM Ruben Amaro, Jr. (left) is interviewed during the Cutters Hot Stove festivities.
Phillies GM Ruben Amaro, Jr. (left) is interviewed during the Cutters Hot Stove festivities.

With a star-studded guest list and a jam-packed Genetti Ballroom, the Williamsport Crosscutters 6th Annual Hot Stove Dinner & Auction with the Phillies was a great success while raising $4,500 for charity.

On a cold winter night in Williamsport, Phillies GM Ruben Amaro, Jr, former Phillie Andy Tracy, former Phillies GM Ed Wade and others entertained attendees with stories and answered audience questions.

Tracy, who will manage the Crosscutters in 2012, discussed his excitement about his first year as a manager this summer in Williamsport and helping young players advance through the Phillies farm system. In talking about ending his playing days after the 2011 season, he remarked, “I was ready to enter the next phase of my baseball career.”

The night, presented by HB Rentals, Woodlands Bank, WRAK Radio and the Williamsport Sun-Gazette, was also highlighted by live and Chinese auctions that featured a wealth of sports memorabilia including a bat signed by Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco, baseballs signed by Phils catcher Carlos Ruiz, hall-of-famers Goose Gossage, Rod Carew, Jim Rice and many others.

Other highlights of the event included the induction of Dave Bresnahan into the Bowman Field Hall of Fame. Bresnahan played for the Double-A Williamsport Bills in 1987 and gained national and worldwide notoriety for his trick play that involved using a potato instead of a baseball in a game that season against the Reading Phillies.

At the event, Bresnahan entertained the audience by describing in detail the trick play and it’s planning. The play was ruled illegal and Bresnahan was released by the parent Cleveland Indians the next day. He made numerous TV and radio appearances across the nation in the days, weeks and years following the stunt which has been dubbed “The Great Potato Caper”.

A portion of the proceeds from the evening were donated to Andrew’s Special Kids Foundation. The foundation’s mission is to “Provide special needs children with every opportunity in life which will enable them to reach their full potential by providing them with adaptive equipment, special education opportunities, safety equipment, therapies and financial assistance for out of state travel.”

At the conclusion of the festivities, Dean & Amy Kriebel the founders of the charity along with their son Andrew, accepted a check for $4,500 to help the charity and its mission.

The Crosscutters 2012 season opens on June 18. Season tickets, bonus books and group packages are currently available and can be purchased online at www.crosscutters.com or by calling the Cutters at (570) 326-3389.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Williamsport Crosscutters. Click here to view the original story.