BlueClaws Charities Releases 2019 Community Impact Report

 

LAKEWOOD, NJ – The Lakewood BlueClaws and BlueClaws Charities have released their 2019 Community Impact Report including information on BlueClaws Charities, presented by DiFeo Kia, grant recipients and club community involvement throughout the year.

“BlueClaws Charities and the entire BlueClaws staff is proud to be a key part of the community throughout the year,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “From BlueClaws games themselves to events and fundraising around the area 12 months a year, to supporting a series of tremendous Community Partner organizations, being a leading member of the community is something that we take great pride in. We look forward to expanding our involvement further in 2020!

To read the 2019 Community Impact Report, click here.

BlueClaws Charities handed out cash grants to 39 Community Partners in 2019 and all organizations that applied received a grant. These organizations, ranging from local branches of national charities to smaller local organizations, each create a positive impact in the community in a different way.

“Our BlueClaws Charities Community Partner organizations are helping lead the way around the Jersey Shore in working with the underserved and underprivliged around the area,” said BlueClaws Vice President of Community Relations Jim DeAngelis, also the Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities. “We are proud to note that all grant money stays in Ocean & Monmouth Counties and is put to great use locally.

“We thank our great sponsor, DiFeo Kia, and everyone that supported BlueClaws Charities events and fundraising efforts to make these grants possible.”

Grant fundraising included special events, both in and outside the stadium, throughout the year.

In May, the BlueClaws hosted their 19th annual ALS Celebrity Waiter Event, benefiting the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, the principal charity of the Phillies. This year’s event was held at Quaker Steak & Lube in Brick. The Celebrity Waiter Event has raised over $120,000 for the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia in its history.

In August, BlueClaws Charities hosted their annual golf outing at Lakewood Country Club. The 10th annual event, a “Nine and Dine” format, includes golf, dinner, and special auctions plus appearances by BlueClaws players and coaches.

Additional funding came from the nightly 50/50 raffle which took place at all BlueClaws home games. Each pool total averaged over $2,000 with an average of more than $1,000 being returned to winners.

BlueClaws Charities also raised money through BlueClaws jersey auctions during the year. In 2019, the BlueClaws did the following jersey auctions for BlueClaws Charities: Players Day, Grateful Dead, Margaritaville Night at the Park, BruceClaws, Military Appreciation Night, and Pork Roll, Egg & Cheese. A special pink jersey auction on Breast Cancer Awareness Night benefitted the American Cancer Society. Fans were able to bid either online or through a mobile device, enabling bidding from all over the world. This process raised additional funds for BlueClaws Charities and their Community Partners.

The BlueClaws and BlueClaws Charities partner with OceanFirst Bank and OceanFirst Foundation on several programs that benefit area military personnel. The Home Runs for Heroes program, which just completed its 11th year, generates a donation from OceanFirst Foundation to a local military-based non-profit for each BlueClaws home run hit at FirstEnergy Park. In 2019, the program raised $38,000 for local organizations. Further, through the Vets Night Out program, presented by OceanFirst Bank, tickets are donated to military members through accredited channels.

Additional events during the year included a Challenger Clinic at which the developmentally disabled were able to learn baseball from BlueClaws players and Major League alumni. Troop and School Supply Drives were held at the ballpark during games and the 19th annual Breakfast With Buster holiday food and toy drive was held in December, collecting non-perishable food and unwrapped toys to benefit the Salvation Army of Ocean County.

Through the Phillies Step-Up Program, BlueClaws players participated in over 261 hours of community service during the year. This included events at the ballpark and around the community such as a free clinic put on by the Ocean County Parks Department featuring BlueClaws players.

BlueClaws staff members served on event committees for nine different area non-profit organizations. Staff members served on the Board of Directors of seven different non-profit organizations and five Chambers of Commerce.

The BlueClaws fundraising program also proved profitable for area organizations and event committees. In 2019, over $143,000 was raised through the BlueClaws fundraising program, through which organizations purchase BlueClaws tickets and re-sell them to their constituents to raise money. For additional information on that program, contact a BlueClaws representative at 732-901-7000 option 3.

In-Kind donations included ticket vouchers or other contributions to 924 organizations plus 65 additional packages including merchandise or hospitality outings.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 of the Lakewood BlueClaws. The organization supports its Community Partners in Monmouth and Ocean Counties with cash grants and other organizations with in-kind donations throughout the year.

The Lakewood BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. BlueClaws ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com. Opening Night of the 2020 season is on Thursday, April 16th.

– BlueClaws –

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

FirstEnergy Stadium Pays Tribute to All who Served with Annual Veterans Day Ceremony

 

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils will celebrate and honor those who served on Monday, November 11thin hosting the sixth annual Veterans Day ceremony at FirstEnergy Stadium. The R-Phils, in partnership with Savage 61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, will be presenting the Veterans Day Wreath in front of the Veterans Monument at FirstEnergy Stadium at 1 p.m.

All veterans and military members are encouraged to attend, and the event is open to the general public.

Local community leaders will join R-Phils front office members at the ceremony, in which the American Legion Gregg Post 12 will lay a wreath in front of the ballpark’s dog tag monument near the entrance to FirstEnergy Stadium. The monument pays tribute to all members of the United States military who sacrificed to protect the United States of America.

Snacks and refreshments will be provided by the Fightin Phils upon conclusion of the ceremony in the Steve Moyer Subaru Team Store.

Originally called Reading Municipal Memorial Stadium, FirstEnergy Stadium was completed in 1951 and was named in honor of the servicemen and women who risked their lives in defense of their country. In 1999, a statue in the form of giant dog tags was placed in front of the stadium in a special rededication ceremony to honor the area’s veterans.

Beginning with the 2014 season, the Fightins have honored a specific veteran at each home game with a ceremonial flag service. The veteran, or his or her family, is recognized with a video tribute and ovation prior to the start of the game. The flag flies by the dog tag statue at the stadium’s main entrance, and is given to the veteran or veteran’s family following the game.

Prior to the start of the 2016 season, the Fightin Phils also unveiled a permanently unoccupied black seat in FirstEnergy Stadium. This seat pays tribute to the tens of thousands of military service personnel who were prisoners of war or have been declared missing in action.

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

FirstEnergy Stadium to Host 13th Annual Eastern PA Toy Run

 

(Reading, PA) – FirstEnergy Stadium will welcome the 13th Annual Eastern PA Toy Run, presented by Classic Harley-Davidson, on Sunday, November 3rd from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Tompkins VIST Bank Plaza.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the United States Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program and The Children’s Home of Reading. Guests will be admitted to the holiday event by presenting a new, unwrapped toy of any value or by making a monetary donation that will be used to purchase additional toys for children.

Attendees who donate to the cause will also be treated to a free hot dog and drink, and enjoy live music in the VIST Bank plaza. Santa Claus will be on hand for photos from noon to 2 p.m.

Enjoy live music beginning at 12 pm with a performance by “Stupak Gallagher”

The Steve Moyer Subaru Fightin Phils Team Store will be open during the event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Everything in the store will be 20% off, with some merchandise discounted up to 50%.

Motorcycle registration for the Toy Run will begin at 9 a.m. at Classic Harley-Davidson. Santa Claus will lead the ride as it departs from Classic Harley-Davidson on Route 183 at 11 a.m. and follows a 25-mile course before arriving at America’s Classic Ballpark at approximately noon. All motorcycles, Jeeps, and classic cars are welcome to participate in the Eastern PA Toy Run with a donation of an unwrapped toy.

The Eastern PA Toy Run began in 2007 after the Berks County Toys for Tots motorcycle run was nearly cancelled due to the deployment of the Marine Corps Reserve Unit. Multiple motorcycle runs combined and teamed with the Fightin Phils in order to continue benefitting Toys for Tots in Berks and Lebanon counties as well as The Children’s Home of Reading.

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

Crosscutters Accepting Applications for Hot Stove Dinner Charity

 

The Williamsport Crosscutters are now accepting applications from area non-profits for the 14th Annual Hot Stove Dinner & Auction to take place January 15, 2020 at the Genetti Hotel in Downtown Williamsport. The event will feature ESPN’s Tim Kurkjian and other baseball celebrities to be announced.

 

Each year, a portion of the proceeds from the evening are donated to a local non-profit.  “Our Hot Stove Banquet is one of the highlights of the off season,” stated Gabe Sinicropi the team’s Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations. “We look forward to another night of fun and the opportunity to raise needed funding for a worthy local charity.”

 

Local non-profit agencies who wish to be considered must complete and return a short application by November 14, 2019. The application is available online at the link below, at the Cutters offices at Historic Bowman Field or you can request an application by emailing sarah@crosscutters.com.

 

A full guest list and ticket details regarding the annual dinner will be announced in the coming weeks. Businesses wishing to receive sponsorship information for the event may contact the Crosscutters at (570) 326-3389.

CLICK TO DOWNLOAD APPLICATION

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

Boo Bash at Spectrum Field is October 31st!

Boo Bash returns to Spectrum Field on Thursday, October 31st, from 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m for a night of candy and costumes! The free, safe, and family-friendly Trick-or-Treat event is hosted by the City of Clearwater and the Threshers. Join us for over 25 candy stations on the concourse donated by local businesses, photo ops, and the on-field costume parade and hayrides.

Admission and parking is free. Home plate and left field concession stands, the playground, and Tiki Bar will be open.

Spectrum Field is located at 601 N Old Coachman Rd. in Clearwater and the office may be reached at 727-712-4300.

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

OceanFirst Foundation Donates $38,000 Through Home Runs for Heroes

 

LAKEWOOD, NJ – OceanFirst Foundation donated $38,000 to area non-profit organizations and military-based programs through the 2019 Home Runs for Heroes Program. The program is a partnership between the BlueClaws, OceanFirst Foundation, and Townsquare Media.

“We are honored to once again partner with the OceanFirst Foundation for this amazing program,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “Our men and women of the military, both veterans and active, risk their lives to keep us safe here at home. This program is a great way to give back and we thank OceanFirst Foundation for their support.”

“The 2019 season was a great success and we’re delighted that BlueClaws home runs resulted in $38,000 of donations by OceanFirst Foundation. This brings our eleven year total awarded through Home Runs for Heroes to $376,000. We thank the BlueClaws organization and Townsquare Media for giving us the opportunity to work together to bring much needed relief to local military families with special needs,” said Katherine Durante, Executive Director of OceanFirst Foundation.

Home Runs for Heroes grants provide financial support to charities that meet the emergency basic needs of veterans and local service men and women – active and retired – and their families during difficult times. Non-profits were paired with each inning of the game and each BlueClaws home run hit at FirstEnergy Park meant a $1,000 donation to the charity (or charities) corresponding with the inning in which the home run was hit.

The program has now completed 11 seasons and raised $376,000 towards different organizations. See the full 2019 donation table below:

Organization Inning Home Runs Total
Cape May Coast Guard 1st 1 $1,000
American National Red Cross / GI Go Fund 2nd 3 $3,000
Deborah Heart & Lung Hospital Foundation / Vetgroup 3rd 3 $3,000
Chariot Riders / National Guard State Family Readiness Council 4th 1 $1,000
Army Emergency Relief / Navy Marine Corps. Relief Society 5th 5 $5,000
Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Southern NJ / Catholic Charities (Trenton) 6th 1 $1,000
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8867 (Brick) / Operations 1st Response 7th 2 $2,000
Lt. Dennis Zilinski II Memorial Fund 8th 3 $3,000
Citizens Veteran Advisory Committee 9th + Extras 4 $4,000

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. The team will open their 20th season at FirstEnergy Park on Thursday, April 16th. 2020 ticket packages are currently available by calling 732-901-7000 option 2 or online at BlueClaws.com/Tickets.

Since its founding in 1902, OceanFirst Bank has built a solid reputation and legacy as a good neighbor and responsible corporate citizen. The Bank’s strong commitment to helping families, organizations, schools and communities throughout central and southern New Jersey meet their financial needs has spanned several generations, reaching new heights in 1996 with the creation of OceanFirst Foundation. The Foundation provides grants to organizations that meet community needs within the OceanFirst market. Since its inception, OceanFirst Foundation has contributed in excess of 7,500 grants totaling more than $39 million to over 900 local charities throughout central and southern New Jersey.

– BlueClaws / OceanFirst –

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

Dinner Under the Stars Supports Baseballtown Charities

 

(Reading, PA) – America’s Classic Ballpark hosted the fourth annual Diamonds & Dreams Dinner Under the Stars on Thursday night, with all proceeds from tickets sold donated directly to Baseballtown Charities.

In 2002, the R-Phils established Baseballtown Charities, a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization founded to keep baseball alive in Reading, so children can benefit from the many life lessons the game teaches. Since that time, Baseballtown Charities has been a part of many projects throughout the community.

The Dream League was formed to give those with physical and mental disabilities the chance to enjoy the game of baseball. Teams play on a custom-designed turf field that accommodates wheelchairs and other assistive devices while helping to prevent injuries. The Dream League was created to allow anyone with physical or cognitive disabilities to play baseball, and there are no age requirements or barriers to participate.

In addition to the Dream League, Baseballtown Charities’ key projects have included the opening of Gordon Hoodak Stadium, Baer Park, and Oakbrook Park, and the creation of the Rip It for Life program, which provides local children and adolescents the opportunity and instruction to grow as players, and as people.

Thursday’s Dinner Under the Stars event welcomed attendees with a cocktail hour on the diamond, featuring Stockertown Beverage, Sly Fox Brewing Company, St. Boniface Brewing Company, and Adelphia Seafood.

President of Baseballtown Charities Chuck Domino, Fightin Phils General Manager/Vice President of Baseballtown Charities Scott Hunsicker, and Executive Director of Baseballtown Charities Tonya Petrunak presented opening remarks, and recognized Dream League/Rip It for Life players and contributors in attendance.

With tables strewn across the outfield grass, attendees enjoyed a delicious dinner featuring the work of local chefs Tim Twiford (Redners Market), Josenoly Capitle (Crowne Plaza), Brad Fisher (Berkshire Country Club), and George Zeppos (Willoughby’s on Park). A variety of desserts were provided by Cakes & Candies by Maryellen, Sweet Ride Ice Cream, and Sweet Street Desserts. The Uptown Band performed to a sea of guests adorned in white, as part of the night’s “Beisbol Blanco” theme.

The event also gave a spotlight to families who have been positively affected by the endeavors of Baseballtown Charities. Guests had the opportunity to hear the uplifting stories of Melissa Noyes and her son Ryan, and Miriam Feliciano.

To donate to Baseballtown Charities, visit https://one.bidal.net/baseballtown. For more information on Baseballtown Charities and the Dream League, visit www.baseballtown.org.

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

IronPigs raise more than $26K on ‘Strike Out Cancer’ Night

The Lehigh Valley IronPigs in conjunction with Air Products, the Lehigh Valley Health Network Cancer Institute and the Lehigh Valley Cancer Community raised $26,100 while donating 450 IronPigs game tickets to those fighting cancer, or aiding the fight versus cancer, and their families for the special “Strike Out Cancer Night” game on Tuesday, August 20. All proceeds from the game were donated to the “Strike Out Cancer’ initiative.

For the second straight season, IronPigs fans, Air Products, the Lehigh Valley Health Network Cancer Institute, our sponsors and the entire Lehigh Valley Cancer Community made this night a memorable one”, said IronPigs President and General Manager Kurt Landes. “The entire community came out in such a strong way and we couldn’t be more thankful for the impact this night has made in the community and in helping to raise valuable funds for the fight against cancer.”

“Strike Out Cancer Night” has now raised just over $40,000 over the past two seasons combined. Last season, over $14,000 was raised in the first ever “Strike Out Cancer Night”.

Nine local organizations – Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley, Angel 34 Foundation, Life Always Facing Forward, Julia’s Grace Foundation, Cancer Support Community, Dream Come True, Boutique at the Rink, Women’s 5K Classic and the American Cancer Society were on-hand to help make this night memorable for the 8,551 fans who were in attendance on Tuesday evening. Each organization will share in the proceeds in helping to further their specific missions.

The highlight of the night, in the middle of the 5th inning, featured every fan in attendance standing in silence holding their “Strike Out Cancer” placard honoring their loved ones who are battling or have battled cancer.

All proceeds from the evening’s 50/50 raffle went towards the Strike Out Cancer initiative along with the proceeds from all Strike Out Cancer T-Shirt sales. The IronPigs donated $4 per ticket from the tickets purchased for the night through a special “Strike Out Cancer” link.

The team also hosted a raffle and sold a unique Purple Ribbon Drink Special throughout the game with all proceeds supporting “Strike Out Cancer.”

A list of additional sponsors who helped make this night possible: • Keystone Canna Remedies
• Olympus
• Buckno Lisicky & Company
• Bennett Toyota
• Joe’s Battery and Tire
• Diversified Refrigeration
• PALCS
• Clemens
• Apgar Oil
• Buzzi Unicem, USA
• Piramal Critical Care
• ASR Media
• KD & Son Heating
• Jean Roth
• Lehigh-Northampton Airport

The 2019 IronPigs season is the team’s 12th as the top affiliate for the Philadelphia Phillies and 12th at Coca-Cola Park. Follow the IronPigs on Twitter at @IronPigs and like them on Facebook via Facebook.com/LHVIronPigs.

The 2019 IronPigs season is presented by Capital BlueCross.

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

Breast Cancer Awareness Night a Home Run

The BlueClaws hosted Breast Cancer Awareness Night in conjunction with the American Cancer Society on Thursday night.

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – The BlueClaws and the American Cancer Society partnered on a successful Breast Cancer Awareness Night on Thursday at FirstEnergy Park. The event raised money through jersey and hat sales and included special ceremonies honoring survivors.

BlueClaws players and coaches wore special pink jerseys and caps that were auctioned off to benefit the American Cancer Society, netting almost $4,000.

There are a limited number of fitted hats and adjustable hats that are still available in the Claws Cove. All proceeds from these caps will benefit the American Cancer Society. These hats can be purchased online (fitted, adjustable).

PHOTO GALLERY – Click here to view a photo gallery.

“The American Cancer Society was thrilled to partner with the BlueClaws in helping to raise both money and awareness at the game on Thursday,” said Jennifer Lefthand, Senior Manager of Community Development for the American Cancer Society. “It was a special night, attended by many cancer survivors and we look forward to more events like this in the future.”

Video: Breast Cancer Awareness Night

Additionally, the BlueClaws honored several breast cancer survivors on the field before the game. These honorees were selected from a group of nominees submitted over the previous weeks through BlueClaws.com.

The crowd of 7,986 was the team’s third largest of the season and marked the 18th sell-out crowd of 2019.

The BlueClaws won the game 3-2 on a two-run walk-off home run by Ben Pelletier in the bottom of the ninth inning.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. The BlueClaws have fireworks following games on August 16th, 17th, and 29th with the home schedule running through August 29th. Tickets are available by calling 732-901-7000 option 2 or online at BlueClaws.com.

– BlueClaws –

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

BlueClaws Charities Hosts Nine & Dine Golf Outing

BlueClaws Charities hosted their Nine and Dine Golf Outing at Lakewood Country Club.

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – BlueClaws Charities, presented by DiFeo Kia, hosted their 10th annual Nine and Dine charity golf outing on Wednesday at Lakewood Country Club.

The golf outing, which featured BlueClaws players as event VIPs, raises money for BlueClaws Charities and their Community Partner organizations. 44 golfers and nine BlueClaws players attended the event.

BlueClaws Charities works with 40 local Community Partners throughout the year on full marketing and promotional initiatives. At the conclusion of each season, organizations receive a grant after filling out an application detailing the local programs to be supported.

Video: BlueClaws Charities Nine + Dine Golf Outing

“The BlueClaws Charities Nine & Dine Golf Outing was a hole-in-one,” said Jim DeAngelis, BlueClaws Charities Executive Director. “We’d like to thank our event partners, our outstanding hosts at Lakewood Country Club, and our participants for their continued support. We are already looking forward to our 11th annual outing next year!”

The event’s title sponsor was the Garden State Law Enforcement Officer’s Association. The reception sponsor was The Office Restaurant & Lounge of Toms River. Finally, the cart sponsors were New Jersey Natural Gas, NJR Home Services, and IBEW-Local 400.

Upcoming BlueClaws Charities events include a School Supply Drive at BlueClaws games on August 9th and 16th. Additionally, BlueClaws Charities will host their 50/50 raffle at all remaining BlueClaws home games in 2019.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 organization of the Lakewood BlueClaws.

– BlueClaws Charities –

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

IronPigs announce scholarship winners

The Lehigh Valley IronPigs announced Tuesday that four gameday employees will each receive $500 towards their college education in the first season of the team’s scholarship program. To be eligible, gameday employees must work at least one full year with the team.

The winners are:

  • Avita DeMieri (Plaza Ice Cream)
  • Leah Fastenau (Jaindl Smoke Shack)
  • Samantha Ganser (Hot & Fresh Pizza)
  • Andrew Malozzi (Home Plate Ice Cream)

Avita DeMieri has worked with the IronPigs for three years for Food and Beverage at the Yuengling’s Ice Cream stand (TD Bank Plaza). DeMieri will attend the University of Pittsburgh in the fall and major in nursing.

Leah Fastenau has worked with the IronPigs for two years for Food and Beverage at the Jaindl Smoke House (Section 118). Fastenau will attend the University of Minnesota in the fall and major in special education.

Samantha Ganser has worked with the IronPigs for two years for Food and Beverage at the Hot & Fresh Pizza (Section 108). Ganser will be attend Lafayette College and major in Biochemistry.

Andrew Malozzi has worked with the IronPigs for three years for Food and Beverage at Home Plate Ice Cream (Section 113). Malozzi is attending Florida State University and majoring in Actuarial Science and Economics.

For more information regarding the IronPigs Scholarship Program, fans can call the IronPigs at 610-841-PIGS (7447) or can go online to ironpigsbaseball.com/scholarship.

The 2019 IronPigs season is the team’s 12th as the top affiliate for the Philadelphia Phillies and 12th at Coca-Cola Park. Follow the IronPigs on Twitter at @IronPigs and like them on Facebook via Facebook.com/LHVIronPigs.

The 2019 IronPigs season is presented by Capital BlueCross.

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

Fightins, Capital BlueCross Announce Return of Outstanding Student Program

The Reading Fightin Phils, in partnership with Capital BlueCross, have announced the return of the Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student Program for the 2019 season. The program is designed to raise funds for participating schools in the club’s surrounding community.

The Outstanding Student Program is a unique incentive-based program which recognizes and rewards hard-working students. Through the program, students are given an opportunity to celebrate their achievements with their families at a designated Fightin Phils home game. The Fightins have given back $9,400 to local schools since the program began.

Schools can register now to take part in the Outstanding Student Program this season, at no cost to the schools.

Each school decides its own method of selecting its “Outstanding Students,” and every student recognized by his or her school receives two FREE tickets to a Fightins game, an Outstanding Student Medal from a Fightins player, and a photo with the Crazy Hot Dog Vendor during a pregame Outstanding Student Ceremony. This year’s ceremonies will take place on April 25, April 29, April 30, May 7, May 12, and May 16.

For each free ticket that is used, and for any additional tickets that are purchased by family members through the Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student Program, the participating school receives $1 back.

School teachers, administrators, or PTO/PTA representatives can sign their school up now for the 2019 season by contacting the Fightin Phils Director of Education Todd Hunsicker at 610-375-8469 x.206 or by email at thunsicker@fightins.com.

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

BlueClaws, Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore Announce Community Partnership

The BlueClaws have announced a partnership with the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore.

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The Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore and the Lakewood BlueClaws announced an expanded community partnership that includes a Girl Scout Family Night scheduled at FirstEnergy Park in Lakewood on Friday, June 21, at 7:05 p.m. Thousands of Girl Scouts of all ages, their families and friends will participate in the evening that will feature activities that showcase programming offered by Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore and the impact those programs make in girls’ lives.

The baseball game is the signature 2019 event of the updated partnership between the Girl Scouts and the BlueClaws. “The Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore have always enjoyed the strong support of the BlueClaws,” said Eileen M. Higgins, CEO, Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore. “Our new community partnership takes our collaboration to another level and will directly benefit our girls.”

Staff from both the Girl Scouts and the BlueClaws are working closely together to ensure the game against the West Virginia Power is unlike any other Girl Scout baseball experience. Planned highlights include pre-game and in-game activities such as an on-field parade, contests, exciting Girl Scout exhibitions and post-game fireworks. Gates open for pre-game activities at 6:00 p.m.

“The BlueClaws are very excited to partner with the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore for what promises to be a full night of fun on June 21st,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “Girl Scouts and their families from all around the Shore will be able to take part in the best of the BlueClaws – from the boardwalk games, to great food, and fantastic post-game fireworks show!”

Tickets for Girl Scout Night are $11 each and include a hot dog, fountain soda, ice cream and one free boardwalk game. There is an optional on-field overnight open to registered Girl Scouts for an additional $10 and includes a movie, snacks and continental breakfast the following morning. Ticket proceeds will benefit local programs and activities for Girl Scouts from Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit BlueClaws.com/GirlScouts. For groups of 20 or more, please contact Elias Riginos, Group Sales Manager, at (732) 901-7000 ex. 125.

About Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore
Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore serves more than 10,000 girls ages 5-18 in Monmouth and Ocean counties, providing a time-tested leadership experience that inspires and motivates them to take action for themselves and their communities. For over 100 years, Girl Scouts has helped girls become women of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. For information on how to join, volunteer, partner or donate, visit JerseyShoreGirlScouts.org or call (800) 785-2090.

About the BlueClaws
The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. Having drawn over 7.3 million fans since 2001, they recently opened a brand-new Family Mini Golf Course, Toyota World of Lakewood Home Run Pavilion featuring top boardwalk games, and Biergarten at FirstEnergy Park.

Opening Night, presented by Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, at FirstEnergy Park is Thursday, April 4th at 6:35 pm. 2019 ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com.

– BlueClaws / Girl Scouts –

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

Local Program Recipient of Phillies Charities, Inc. Grant

The Philadelphia Phillies recently announced that their charity arm, Phillies, Charities, Inc., has awarded a $15,000 grant to Family Promise of Lycoming County.

Family Promise of Lycoming County brings the community together to help families regain their housing, their independence, and their dignity. Family Promise aims to help children and their families who are facing homelessness.

“Each year, Phillies Charities reaches out to us to provide information about worthy charities in our area,” said Sarah Budd the Crosscutters Director of Ticket Operations & Community Relations. “We are elated they chose to support Family Promise of Lycoming County, an organization with a great track record of success in our community.”

Family Promise Director Jenny Hull stated, “Family Promise of Lycoming County is so grateful and humbled to receive this wonderful gift from Phillies Charities. With this significant contribution we are able to continue to serve homeless families and provide services to the children of Lycoming County.”

Representatives from Family Promise, accompanied by Crosscutters representatives, will be in attendance on Thursday, December 6, at the Phillies Charities, Inc. Holiday Giving Party at Citizens Bank Park, where they will be recognized and saluted along with other award recipients by the organization for their charitable efforts.

In the past year, more than $1.2 million was awarded by Phillies Charities, Inc. to charitable organizations in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and near the Phillies spring training and minor league affiliates. Phillies Charities, Inc. serves as the fundraising arm of the Phillies organization and awards grants to a variety of charitable organizations each year. For more information on Phillies Charities, Inc. please visit www.phillies.com/community.

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

13th Annual Hot Stove Banquet to Benefit NAMI

The Williamsport Crosscutters 13th Annual Hot Stove Banquet will be held on Wednesday, January 16 in the Grand Ballroom of the Genetti Hotel in Williamsport. The event is presented in part by Panda Patriot Power, River Valley Transit, WRAK 1400AM, and the Williamsport Sun-Gazette.

A portion of the proceeds from this year’s event will be donated to the local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of North Central PA is very excited and honored to be selected as the beneficiary of the Hot Stove Banquet charity funds,” stated NAMI chairperson Carol Sides. “We will utilize the donation towards educational opportunities for our community on mental health awareness, suicide prevention and suicide awareness.”

Guests at this year’s event include former Phillies outfielder Gary “Sarge” Matthews, ESPN baseball analyst Tim Kurkjian and from the Academy Award nominated movie “Field of Dreams”, actor Dwier Brown.

Matthews, a first round draft pick of the San Francisco Giants in 1968, hit .281 in his 16-year major league career with 234 home runs and 978 RBI’s. Matthews was the National League Rookie of the Year in 1973 with the San Francisco Giants and the MVP of the National League Championship Series in 1983 with the Phillies. After his playing and coaching career, he was a popular broadcaster for the Phillies from 2007-2013.

Kurkjian has covered baseball since 1978 and has been a baseball writer, reporter, analyst and host at ESPN since 1998. He has been a regular on Baseball Tonight and Sportscenter. Kurkjian has been part of ESPN’s coverage of the MLB Little League Classic the last two years at Williamsport’s BB&T Ballpark.

Brown, an actor for 37 years, has appeared in hundreds of films, plays and televisions shows, but it was his role as Kevin Costner’s father, John Kinsella, in “Field of Dreams” that changed his life.

The evening will consist of a full-course dinner, live and silent auctions of sports memorabilia along with interviews and question and answer segments with the special guests. Additionally, Brown will speak about the making of “Field of Dreams” and the special bond between fathers, sons and the game of baseball. Other highlights of the event include the inductions of the latest members to the Bowman Field Hall of Fame and the Lycoming County Sports Walk. Those inductees are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

The ballroom doors open at 5:30 PM with the dinner and entertainment portion of the event kicking off at 6:30 PM. An autograph session will take place at the close of evening.

Tickets are $59 per person and can be purchased by calling the Cutters offices at (570) 326-3389 or ordering online at the link below. This event is a virtual sell-out every year, so fans are encouraged to purchase tickets now. Reserved seating is assigned on a first-come, first-serve basis as tickets are ordered. Business sponsorships for the event are also available.
Tickets – Order Now!

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