‘Fightin Cancer’ Night with Phillies PA Announcer Dan Baker!

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(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils are pleased to host ‘Fightin Cancer’ Night at FirstEnergy Stadium on Wednesday, May 25th. The stadium voice of the Phillies and cancer survivor Dan Baker will make an appearance as the R-Phils will honor and support the Darren Daulton Foundation throughout the night. Fans have the opportunity to pay tribute to their own loved ones by participating in the specialty ‘Fightin Cancer’ jersey program.

The R-Phils are proud to stand up and raise money and awareness for one of baseball’s most important fights. This night allows all types of cancer and all different battles to be recognized. We encourage our fans to join us in championing these fighters.

The Cancer Awareness jerseys the R-Phils will wear on May 25th will recognize all forms of cancer that individuals battle. The FIRST 25 families and friends that purchase 20 or more tickets for reserved seating or a picnic area for the May 25th game will have the opportunity to have a loved one represented during the game for no additional charge. The specialty jerseys will be personalized with the honoree’s name on the back. Players will receive a photo and bio of the honoree they are representing on the field. A special post-game jersey ceremony will take place with the 25 jersey honorees receiving their game-worn jersey on the field. If the honoree is present, they will receive the jersey. If the honoree has passed, the family will receive the jersey.

Dan Baker, best known for his public address announcing at Veterans Stadium, Lincoln Financial Field, and Citizens Bank Park, will be in attendance for a Meet and Greet. He will throw out a ceremonial first pitch and address the crowd. Baker is the longest tenured announcer in Major League Baseball. 2022 represents his 50th season after postponing the milestone due to his cancer and radiation treatment. He had a long stay in the hospital recovering, especially working to regain strength in his voice. After receiving cancer-free scans, the Phillies announced they would induct Baker to their prestigious Wall of Fame.

Please complete this form to reserve the opportunity for a jersey to be worn by a player during the May 25th Fightin Cancer game. A Reading Fightin Phils representative will contact you to confirm your submission and coordinate your group outing for the game on May 25.

The R-Phils have been consistent supporters of the Darren Daulton Foundation, whose mission is to provide financial support to families that are experiencing financial challenges due to treatment of a malignant primary brain tumor diagnosis. Former Fightin Darren “Dutch” Daulton underwent surgery to fight his glioblastoma. He put up a strong fight against cancer after going into remission once, and created this group to help others afflicted by the same disease. He will always be remembered as a giving and loving family member, friend, and teammate. The foundation helps his memory lives on this way. Daulton played 113 games in Baseballtown in 1983.

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

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region and was voted the #1 stadium in all of Double-A by MiLB’s Ben Hill. Follow the R-Phils at rphils.com, on Twitter and TikTok at @ReadingFightins, on Instagram @fightins, and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins_ for all information._

Nominate A Local Hero To Be Celebrated By The TinCaps

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Patriots And NJEA To Honor A+ Educators

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Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, have teamed up with New Jersey Education Association to honor A+ Educators.

The A+ Educator program is designed to recognize the work of teachers and education support professionals (ESPs) that provide an inclusive learning environment, engaging instruction and curriculum, encourages lifelong learning, and inspires a passion for education beyond the classroom and into the future.

CLICK TO NOMINATE YOUR FAVORITE EDUCATOR!

“We always appreciate the work of our educators and everything they do to help children learn in the classroom and achieve their goals beyond,” said Patriots President/General Manager Patrick McVerry. “This program is a way for our team to recognize a few of these very special people in the field of education that make a positive and lasting impact on students.”

The Patriots and NJEA are asking for nominations through the team’s website. Nominations will be accepted through an online entry form that will include a writeup of why teachers/ESPs should be considered for the honor. In order to be eligible, educators must work at a public school in Somerset, Middlesex, Union, Hunterdon, or Morris counties.

Nominations are now open and will end on Friday, June 10, 2022. 25 total teachers and ESPs will be selected by judges and honored on the Patriots website, social media platforms, at TD Bank Ballpark, and throughout the season. Selected educators will receive four complimentary tickets to enjoy a 2022 Patriots game.

The A+ Educator program continues the Patriots and NJEA’s partnership to honor education professionals that make a difference in the lives of their students and impact the community as a whole.

“The A+ Educator program is an exciting way for us to work with the Patriots and recognize the extraordinary work of our members,” said Meredith Barnes, Associate Director of Communications for NJEA. “The goal is to showcase some of our best public school educators out on the field at the ballpark and with the greater Somerset Patriots community through the team’s various multi-media platforms.”

About the Somerset Patriots

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

To learn more, visit: www.somersetpatriots.com

About NJEA

The New Jersey Education Association is proud of our great public schools, ranking #1 in the nation year after year. The mission of the NJEA is to advance and protect the rights, benefits, and interests of members, and promote a quality system of public education for all students. To learn more, visit: www.njea.org

Fans and Players to Join Together for Celebrate Your Faith Nights!

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(READING) – Minor League players from all over acknowledge their faith as a significant part of their journey to the Major Leagues. They are no different from the average person who tries to embody faith throughout their daily lives including all the highs and lows. The Reading Fightin Phils will host three different Celebrate Your Faith nights during the 2022 season. The first will take place on Thursday, June 16th, with two others scheduled for Thursday, July 14th, and Thursday, August 4th. Each Faith Night concludes with a spectacular post-game firework show.

On Celebrate Your Faith nights at FirstEnergy Stadium, players and fans come together to reflect on the impact that their respective faiths have had on their journeys. This is a great opportunity to see how faith moves throughout life. Sports offer a lot of joy and a lot of stress and fans can see how players utilize their belief system to handle daily challenges in the face of adversity and show true thanks in triumph.

A faith discussion will take place, where fans will have the opportunity to listen to players speak about its impact in their lives and careers. Fans are encouraged to participate in the question-and-answer session that will last for about 20 minutes. Typically two to four R-Phils athletes take part in the discussion.

The discussions are non-denominational and do not promote any specific beliefs. All faiths are welcome, and the room is often a mixed congregation. R-Phils players began speaking about their faith with fans during the 2003 season when about a dozen fans/groups took part in the program. The 2022 season will be the 18th year of the program’s existence.

“Celebrate Your Faith nights have become a fun forum for Reading Fightin Phils fans to learn about the lives of professional baseball players and how they are able to incorporate their faith into a lifestyle that makes it very difficult to stay connected with their friends, family, and their places of worship,” said Joe Bialek, Reading Fightin Phils Executive Director of Sales. Bialek moderates the discussions on Celebrate Your Faith Nights, and is also the liaison between the team and Baseball Chapel.

Groups of 20 or more are encouraged to book an outing to celebrate the evening with their church, youth group, or friends in faith. As a special bonus, each church may select one representative to throw out a free ceremonial first pitch prior to the game.

Celebrate Your Faith Nights in 2022:

Thursday, June 16th – 7:00 pm vs Portland Sea Dogs (Red Sox), Fireworks

Thursday, July 14th – 7:00pm vs New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Blue Jays), Fireworks

Thursday, August 4th – 7:00pm vs Hartford Yard Goats (Rockies), Fireworks

Groups (minimum 20) interested in attending a discussion and ballgame should contact Matt Koch at [email protected] or call 610-370-BALL.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region and was voted the #1 stadium in all of Double-A by MiLB’s Ben Hill. Follow the R-Phils at rphils.com, on Twitter and TikTok at @ReadingFightins, on Instagram @fightins, and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins for all information.

Curve Host Teacher Appreciation Night on April 23

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CURVE, PA – The Altoona Curve will celebrate Teacher Appreciation Night on Saturday, April 23 when the Curve host the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Toronto Blue Jays) at 4:00 p.m.

“Teachers fill such an important role in our lives as kids and they rarely receive the recognition they deserve for their efforts,” said Curve General Manager Nate Bowen. “I can’t think of a better way to finish off a successful school year than to honor some of the most impactful teachers in our community at a Curve game.”

Teacher Appreciation Night, presented by 1ST SUMMIT BANK, will honor individuals who lend their passion and skills to educating the next generation. Nominations for Teacher of the Year will be accepted through March 31 and all submissions can be made here.

“1ST SUMMIT BANK is continuously looking for ways to support the members of our community and this partnership with the Altoona Curve to recognize our local teachers presented a great opportunity,” said Sean McCool, Public Relations & Communications Manager at 1ST SUMMIT BANK. “Our teachers give so much of themselves, especially over the last two years. All of us at 1ST SUMMIT BANK commend the commitment of teachers in our community, and we want to recognize you for your efforts.”

The Curve will honor the Teachers of the Year with a pre-game ceremony where winners will receive a $100 cash prize as well as gifts from the Curve and 1ST SUMMIT BANK. All nominated teachers will receive two Grandstand tickets good for the Curve’s April 23 game at Peoples Natural Gas Field.

Teacher Appreciation Night will also host a Book Drive which will benefit elementary school students who come from a low-income background. Fans are asked to drop off books at the gate upon entrance and a suggested list of books will be made available here.

The Curve are slated to begin the 2022 season on Friday, April 8 with a three-game series against the Harrisburg Senators. For tickets and more information, visit AltoonaCurve.com, call 877.99.CURVE or stop by the PNG Field box office. Additionally, the Stockyard Team Store is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., during every home game and online 24/7/365.

WooSox Foundation Establishes “Tyler’s Teammates” Program in Memory of Paxton’s Tyler Trudell

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Partnership with Little Leaguer’s family will help provide equipment and registration for children to play ball throughout Central Mass.

Teammates, friends, and family of Tyler Trudell throwing a ceremonial first pitch at Polar Park on June 19, 2021.
Kate Foultz/Worcester Red Sox

WORCESTER, MA — In collaboration with his family, the WooSox Foundation is establishing “Tyler’s Teammates,” a program in memory of Tyler Trudell, the 13-year-old Paxton (MA) Little Leaguer whose unexpected death last May 13 shook his town and many others in Central Mass. Seeking to perpetuate the joy of the baseball-loving child, the program provides opportunity, equipment, and registration to regional youngsters who may not otherwise have the funds to partake in organized Diamond Sports.

Tyler’s family and teammates, with whom he played for eight years, will join Worcester Red Sox officials at Paxton Center School, this Monday, February 14, at 2 p.m. WooSox mascots Smiley Ball and Woofster the WonderDog will greet Tyler’s eighth grade classmates as well as his teammates, who will be commemorated as ambassadors of the program with custom T-shirts and certificates.

In Tyler’s memory, his mother, Lynn Trudell, has been crafting and selling bracelets with her devoted friends, and these proceeds are funding the program. In addition to being sold in Paxton at such locales as the Ten West Market at 10 West St. and online at ExercisingWell.com, the WooSox will offer these bracelets for sale at Polar Park, and add these proceeds to the program. Because Tyler sported jersey #2 after his favorite player, the Boston Red Sox’ Xander Bogaerts, Lynn asks all who purchase a bracelet to post a picture with “#2EverPresent” on social media.

“All of us with the Worcester Red Sox felt the loss of a little boy we didn’t even know,” said Dr. Charles A. Steinberg, who is President of the WooSox Foundation as well as of the WooSox. “Within hours of the news, we were moved to acknowledge his passing with a moment of silence. Several of us attended the wake, and we were touched by the sight of his teammates there in their Little League uniforms. The story and the people of Paxton touched us deeply.

“We were later inspired to learn that Tyler’s mom had been seeking to create something productive and constructive in a time of unimaginable grief, and we were touched even more so to learn of her family’s desire to help other little boys and girls experience the joy of playing ball that her son so loved. We are honored to be a partner with the Trudell family and all of Tyler’s Teammates.”

The WooSox plan to hold an equipment drive in early March, when aspiring ballplayers will be invited to Polar Park to pick out or donate equipment. In addition, the WooSox hope to honor “Tyler’s Teammates” and family at a “Paxton Day” home game at Polar Park this season. Program ambassadors will participate in ceremonies on the field and raise a flag in right-centerfield that displays the new, official “Tyler’s Teammates” logo.

Paxton Center School, part of the Wachusett Regional School District, accommodates students in Kindergarten through eighth grade. Tyler was a seventh-grader last year.

Those seeking information regarding donations and receiving equipment and registration funds may visit woosoxfoundation.org.

Scout Night Sleepover is back at FirstEnergy Stadium!

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(Reading, PA) –The Reading Fightin Phils invite you and your troop for our annual Scout Sleepover at FirstEnergy Stadium. Join us on Friday, August 5th for our 7:00pm game against the Hartford Yard Goats (Rockies), then stick around to set up camp in the outfield and an overnight stay at the ballpark. Troops and their guardians can feel both adventurous and safe sleeping under the stars. The game will include a post-game fireworks show thanks to Erlich, “Your local pest control experts!”

In addition to seeing the exciting R-Phils action, all scouts are able to participate in a pre-game parade around the field. All scouting ranks are welcome to join us for the evening.

Scouts will have the opportunity to pitch a tent and sleep under the stars while enjoying a movie on the comfort of the FirstEnergy stadium grass. There is an additional $10.00 charge for every scout, parent or chaperone that plans to stay for the sleepover. This option also includes a hot dog and soda with this package. We ask for an adult to accompany any Scout who is under the age of 18. Please do not use stakes on the field of FirstEnergy Stadium.

The R-Phils have special packages for groups that book 20 or more tickets that include reduced prices and all-you-can-eat buffets. Reserved seat tickets start as low as $7 per person. Options are also available for a delicious 2 ½ hour all-you-can-eat buffet in various areas throughout the stadium. Buffet options range from $25-$30 and offer an affordable and unique way to entertain your group while enjoying exciting game action.

Space is limited, so don’t miss this great opportunity to join us for your special night at FirstEnergy Stadium!

Contact Jon Nally at [email protected] or click this reservation form to schedule your Scout Troop sleepover at the ballpark today!

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region and was voted the #1 stadium in all of Double-A by MiLB’s Ben Hill. Follow the R-Phils at rphils.com, on Twitter and TikTok at @ReadingFightins, on Instagram @fightins, and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins for all information.

Military Appreciation Night at FirstEnergy Stadium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BlueClaws Recognize Staff on National Girls & Women In Sports Day

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The BlueClaws would like to recognize the 11 amazing women on our staff as part of National Girls & Women In Sports Day on February 2nd.

In the above photo, from left to right:

Bottom Row: Kayla Reilly (Director of Events & Operations), Jamie Bertram (VP of Promotions & Entertainment), Gianna Fiocco (Promotions Manager), Susan Wallace (Hospitality Manager)

Top Row: Haley Kopf (BlueClaws Sales Academy), Tori Boughton (Account Executive), Kristina Poetsch (BlueClaws Sales Academy), Jane Rogers (Administrative Coordinator), Rachael Pabon (Food & Beverage Coordinator), Jamie Wagner (Merchandise & Ticket Sales Manager).

We asked these staff members about working in the sports industry, their experiences, and their stories.

Kayla Reilly: For me, the best thing about working in sports is the relationships I have made across the industry and having the chance to work with incredible people from diverse and varied backgrounds. Honestly, I never thought I would be working in the sports industry. (I thought I would be teaching in an elementary school!) So it is always a *pinch me* moment when I realize how far I have come in the last few years and the historic events I have seen and been a part of.

Jamie Bertram: I love being able to take my artistic side and bringing that out in our theme nights, gate giveaways, jersey designs and in game experience. It is really cool to see what you have been working on for months come to life and thousands of people enjoying what you created. Being able to inspire and help other women break into the Sports Management world truly brings me joy and seeing them grow professionally and be so successful makes me very proud.

Gianna Fiocco: My favorite part about working in sports is getting to meet people from all walks of life, from local fans who enjoy a summer game at the stadium to game-day staff from all over the country, to managers from across the globe. I consider myself very lucky to work in an industry where I can learn from the diverse backgrounds of those I encounter on a daily basis. I am most proud of being a woman in such a male dominated industry. I have learned so much from the women that I work with, and am more successful everyday because of them. I am proud to be part of such an amazing team.

Susan Wallace: There is nothing like the thrill of working in sports! Every day is a new adventure, every game is like opening night! The sight of a packed stadium, the sound of the screaming fans, the smell of fresh popcorn popping… there’s nothing else like it! The highs are high, the lows are low, but the thrill of the game makes it all worth it! As a woman working in a previously male-dominated industry, I am most proud of how I am accepted and respected in my role. As the great Venus Williams once said, ‘Sports are a great place to show that equality can happen.’ ”

Haley Kopf: My favorite part about working in sports is the excitement of knowing you are part of a team that leads to the ultimate success of a sports organization. I also love the idea of networking and meeting new people in this industry. You never know who you are going to meet and how that can lead to new opportunities. I am most proud of the tremendous opportunity of growth for women in the sports industry. Seeing how far we have already come and the major advances we’ve taken inspires me to achieve my goals while hopefully inspiring the next generation of women to start their career in sports as well.

Kristina Poetsch: The best part about working in sports for me are the fan interactions! You never know when it could be a child’s first baseball game and getting to be a part of something like that is really special. What we do everyday leading up to the season is all for the fans and without them, the energy and atmosphere of the ballpark wouldn’t be the same. Just to be a woman in sports in general is what I’m most proud of and I think all women in sports can agree. Given that this is a predominantly male profession, it’s important for us women to be shown the same respect as our male colleagues. I love that the number of women working in sports has increased year after year, and it just goes to show you that women can do anything just as well (if not better) than men.

Jane Rogers: I am thrilled to be working in sports. It is a fast-paced environment and every day brings new challenges. Find your challenge, work hard at it, and you will feel engaged and fulfilled. Being a woman in sports for nearly 25 years, I don’t realize how fortunate I am. I’ve been lucky enough to work with so many talented people, cultivated many relationships and contributed to the professional development of many employees. I’ve always been someone that people look up to for advice. It’s been a pleasure sharing my work knowledge with everyone. Climbing the racks from an Office Manager to President/GM of a minor league baseball team is something I will always be proud of.

Jess Szewczyk (not pictured): I’m not a sports fan, but the design aspect of the sports industry is so fun. You can’t even imagine how many different things need to be designed for the stadium. I get to design everything from concession stand stadium signage to Star Wars theme night advertisements. And seeing my designs being used while the game is happening and the stadium is filled. Being a woman in a male-dominated industry is hard, but it’s also totally cool. I feel like the women in the office consistently prove that we deserve to be here just as much as the men do. And by working closely with our interns and assistants, we set a precedent for the future of sports by showing them that women do an exceptional job in all aspects of the sports industry.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

MODESTO NUTS RELEASE 2021 COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT

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MODESTO, CA – The report covers the 2021 fiscal year and discloses the Nuts contributions of over $170,000 to community related programs.

“It was an absolute honor to return in 2021 and offer Stanislaus County a safe, affordable place to enjoy friends, family & co-workers,” said Zach Brockman, General Manager of the Modesto Nuts. “We are supremely confident that our organization will complete that comeback in 2022 and get back to hosting more fans and attending more community events. Donations, in-kind services & direct support for quality-of-life projects in the Modesto area will return in full. We couldn’t be more excited for the future!“

With the help of The Parks Group and Mocse Credit Union, the Modesto Nuts began the Health and Wellness Program with over 10 schools enrolled and about 10,000 students participated. The Health and Wellness Program motivated children to focus on mental health, physical health, and cleanliness by offering performance-based incentives from Save Mart, Health Plan of San Joaquin, and The Modesto Nuts.

Non-profit organizations and little leagues used the Modesto Nuts ticket fundraising program to generate much needed funds. Additionally, the Nuts donated gift baskets which included game tickets, premium suites & autographed memorabilia.

Modesto front office donated their time generously to different organizations throughout the community. From school career fairs, to little league opening days, and much more; the Modesto Nuts were able to teach important values such as chasing dreams, having integrity and working hard for what they want.

In back to back years, the Modesto Nuts have doubled their community appearances. For more information on how you can have a Modesto Nuts representative at your event, please head to our Community Appearance Page.

CLICK HERE for the full 2021 Community Impact Report

###

About the Nuts:

The Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball team is the Class A Affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. For more information visit modestonuts.com or call 209-572-HITS (4487)

Inaugural “WooSox Foundation Holiday Caravan” to Spread Joy Around Central Massachusetts this Week

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Community Award Winners Josh Ockimey and Rich Gedman to join Smiley Ball, Woofster the WonderDog, and Santa in visits to charities.

WORCESTER, MA – Led by Josh Ockimey and Rich Gedman, two award-winning members of the Worcester Red Sox, the inaugural “WooSox Foundation Holiday Caravan” will visit charities from Leominster to Leicester and from Webster to Worcester this Wednesday through Friday, December 15-17.

Ockimey, the club’s first baseman and first-ever recipient of the WooSox Foundation’s “Heart of the Heart” award for community service, will team up with Gedman, his Hitting Coach, who won the charity’s inaugural eponymous “Geddy” award for his kindness and contributions to the community. Joining them are Mascots Smiley Ball and Woofster the WonderDog, along with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Last week, the WooSox were named Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY Champion among all 120 teams in the United States and Canada.

The Caravan, funded by generous donors from our community, begins on Wednesday morning just blocks away from Polar Park in the Canal District at St. John’s Food for the Poor, where representatives of the WooSox Foundation will serve breakfast to those in need. Other stops in Worcester include Abby’s House and Why Me & Sherry’s House, which the Caravan will visit on Wednesday, and the Worcester Public Library and UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center, which will be visited on Friday.

Stretching northward, the Caravan continues to Leominster on Thursday afternoon, with a visit to the Spanish American Center, which focuses on social, educational, and economic support to the Hispanic and Latino communities.

Southward, the troupe will travel to Webster, Mass. on Wednesday afternoon, to bring gifts to the talented students in Our Bright Future’s after-school program, which supports students’ academic needs and pursuits of robotics, arts and crafts, and sports. The charity is based in neighboring Southbridge, Mass.

West of Worcester, early Wednesday evening the excursion visits Leicester, site of the McAuley Nazareth Home for Boys. Partnering with Double Play Sports, home of the Junior WooSox in AAU Baseball, the visitors will bring gifts and play games with the residents of the home team.

Addressing some of the needs at the eastern end of Central Massachusetts, the Caravan will also spend time with foster families from Framingham’s Department of Children and Families in conjunction with the Wonderfund. Care packages comprising toys and books, as well as clothing and toiletries, will be presented. Assembled by Kits for Kids of Marlborough, the gifts provide fun as well as everyday essentials to the children.

“As we head into the holidays, we find joy in bringing joy to some of those in need of a smile,” said WooSox President Dr. Charles Steinberg, who is also president of the club’s foundation. “We are thrilled that one of the stars of WooSox ’21, Josh Ockimey, is returning to his summer home to warm the hearts of children in winter. And we are delighted that our native son and WooSox Hitting Coach, beloved Red Sox Hall of Famer Rich Gedman, will bring gifts and love to these children as well. For each child, it is a moment and a memory that we hope impacts and improves their precious lives.”

Ockimey, 26, hit 15 home runs and knocked in 45 runs in only 98 games for the WooSox in 2021. The lefty slugger, who has been in the Red Sox system all eight years of his professional career, has hit 40 home runs with 102 RBI in 220 games his past two seasons in Triple-A. The Philadelphia native has consistently been among the team leaders in community appearances.

The WooSox Foundation awarded its first “Geddy Award” to the Worcester native for his devotion to baseball, commitment to the community, and kindness to all.

Smiley Ball, born on World Smile Day in 2020, pays tribute to the Smiley Face, invented in Worcester in 1963 by the late advertising executive, Harvey Ball. Woofster the WonderDog, whom Smiley Ball adopted as a rescue dog at the Worcester Animal Rescue League, debuted on National Dog Day in August of 2021.

Santa and Mrs. Claus are longtime fans, having sewn and distributed red socks throughout the world. They are most familiar with the concept of a Polar Park.

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

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NEW YORK CITY, Dec. 6, 2021 — Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) today announced the Worcester Red Sox as their 2021 CommUNITY Champion Award winner. Nominees from each league were selected by their peers and were candidates for the overall award.

(Left to Right) Dan Rea, WooSox Executive VP & GM, team President Dr. Charles Steinberg, and Brooke Cooper, Vice President Marketing, after the WooSox received Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY Champion Award during the Baseball Winter Meetings in Orlando, FL.

CommUNITY Champion Award – Worcester Red Sox (Triple-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox)

In their inaugural season in Worcester, the Worcester Red Sox took every opportunity available to become a valued member of their new community. Whether they were hosting baseball clinics for children, building awareness for charities or providing scholarship opportunities, the WooSox always went above and beyond.

Since the announcement in August 2018 that the Worcester Red Sox were moving to Polar Park, the valuable perspective of fans and community leaders has been instrumental in shaping the franchise’s goals and values. The WooSox show their appreciation for those in their community on a nightly basis, using pregame ceremonies like “Hometown Hero,” “Heart of Worcester” and the ceremonial first pitch to recognize and honor the contributions of community leaders and unsung heroes.

Their nightly “In Debt to a Vet” promotion honors the sacrifice and bravery of local veterans, and all fans are invited onto the playing field following Saturday and Sunday games to enjoy the Polar Park experience with a game of catch or running the bases with friends and family.

In celebration of the diverse identities and cultures of the City of Worcester, the team introduced “Los Wepas de Worcester” in 2021 and highlighted a different Spanish-speaking country in each of the Copa de la Diversion games. From Mexico to Puerto Rico to El Salvador, Polar Park transformed into a hub of that country’s local culture, music and food during “Los Wepas” games. Hispanic and Latinx leaders were honored in pregame ceremonies, the national anthem of the featured country was performed, local vendors were invited to sell their food at concession stands and the on-field “Worcester Red Sox” jerseys were replaced by “Los Wepas de Worcester” jerseys, with “Wepas” being a Spanish expression of excitement.

In an effort to strengthen the organization’s spirit of empathy and inclusion and create a clearer understanding of how they can make baseball more inclusive and celebratory of differences, the club played host to several events throughout the season. In July, the WooSox hosted “Autism Acceptance Night,” where the volume of public address announcements and music was turned down across the ballpark to reduce stimulation and highlighted Polar Park’s Unum Sensory Room, which offers a quiet space for fans to take a break on the comfortable couches, borrow noise-reduction headphones and play with kinetic sand, fidget spinners and coloring books. In August, “Peanut Allergy-Friendly Nights” were introduced to allow a safe, stress-free experience for fans with peanut allergies to enjoy a game at Polar Park, and in September “Deaf Awareness Night” included an interpreter on the videoboard to communicate pregame ceremonies, in-game promotions and PA announcements.

The WooSox took advantage of the extended season by supporting Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and “Going Gold” in September 2021. The WooSox put the spotlight on children, families and heroes who are helping to conquer cancer. Dressed in gold, children and families in the battle as well as their nurses and doctors gathered in center field in the shape of a ribbon as fans raised gold signs from the stands to honor loved ones who are currently in, or have lost, their battle with cancer. In their inaugural season, the team and the WooSox Foundation collectively donated over $50,000 to UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center, which works to treat and cure cancer and provide resources and comfort.

The WooSox Foundation also launched the “WooSox Scholars” Program to provide college scholarships to ensure young students’ dreams of education are funded. In July 2021, four Worcester Public Schools eighth graders stepped onto the field in front of a crowd of cheering fans and were presented with various gifts from the team and a certificate honoring their achievement. The WooSox have already invested $40,000 into the college funds of local students in just one season.

The WooSox introduced the “WooSox Book Nook” in the Worcester Public Library — a collection of baseball-themed books donated by WooSox President Dr. Charles Steinberg and WooSox Chairman of the Board Larry Lucchino. The Book Nook provides young readers a chance to learn the history of baseball and the power of sports in community while developing their reading skills.

“We are so happy, so proud, and so grateful to so many for recognizing the special bond between the Worcester Red Sox and the Greater Worcester community,” said Worcester Red Sox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “Larry Lucchino has established charitable foundations with every franchise he has led, and he has committed that we would be active participants in the community; we are thrilled to honor that commitment. In particular, our thanks go to the leaders and the residents of ‘The Heart of the Commonwealth.’ Their compassion and excitement inspire these synergistic collaborations. May this year, our rookie year, only be the beginning.”

TULSA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA TO PRESENT “WALT DISNEY ANIMATION STUDIOS: A DECADE IN CONCERT”

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Concert will Feature Iconic Musical Moments Performed Live by a Symphony

Tulsa Symphony Orchestra presents Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “A Decade in Concert” on May 20, 2022 at ONEOK Field. Celebrating iconic musical moments from favorite films released over the last decade, this melodic journey explores Disney Animation’s latest stories through unforgettable film clips and scores performed live by a symphony orchestra. Tickets are now available at TulsaSymphony.org.

This thrilling performance includes music from “Moana” (2016), Academy Award®-winning “Zootopia” (2016), Academy Award-winning “Big Hero 6” (2014), Academy Award-winning “Frozen” (2013), “Wreck-It Ralph “(2012), “Winnie the Pooh” (2011), “Tangled” (2010), “Princess and the Frog” (2009), and “Bolt” (2008).

Once again filling Tulsa’s ONEOK Field with the magic of live music, this performance will feature the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra playing the music from Disney’s past decade while film clips play on the ballpark’s large video board. Children of all ages can experience entertaining family-oriented activities before the concert and enjoy special seating on the field. The evening will close with a brilliant fireworks display against the Tulsa skyline. Luxury boxes will also be available for purchase for an even more magical experience.

Keith C. Elder, Executive Director of the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra, said, “We are thrilled to bring live music back to the ballpark with this spectacular performance. We are honored to serve this wonderful community, and to bring this city together through the power of live music.”

ABOUT DISNEY CONCERTS

Disney Concerts is the concert production and licensing division of Disney Music Group, the music arm of The Walt Disney Company. Disney Concerts produces concerts and tours, and licenses Disney music and visual content to symphony orchestras and presenters on a worldwide basis. Disney Concerts’ concert packages include a variety of formats, such as “live to picture” film concerts and themed instrumental and vocal compilation concerts and range from instrumental-only symphonic performances to multimedia productions featuring live vocalists and choir. Numerous new concert packages and touring productions from Disney’s portfolio of studios, including Disney’s feature animation and live action studios, Pixar, Lucasfilm and Marvel, are currently in development. Current titles include the Star Wars Film Concert Series (Episodes IV-VIII), Toy Story, Aladdin, The Muppet Christmas Carol, Disney Princess – The Concert, Coco, The Lion King, Up and The Nightmare Before Christmas, which in 2019 accounted for over 900 performances in many of the world’s top concert venues.

About the Tulsa Symphony_
The Tulsa Symphony Orchestra is proud to celebrate 15 years as a vital community service organization that entertains, advocates, heals and inspires through musical excellence, innovation, and collaboration. Serving as the cornerstone of the arts in Tulsa, the TSO partners and collaborates with Tulsa Ballet, Tulsa Chorale, Philbrook Museum, Gilcrease Museum and Oklahoma Aquarium. A leader in classical music and music education, TSO presents over 30 major performances per season, which touch over 55,000 people in the Northeast Oklahoma region. At the forefront of the Orchestra is artistic integrity, collaborating with renowned artists such as Wynton Marsalis, Joshua Bell, Amy Grant, Eric Whitacre, Yefim Bronfman, and Hanson. For additional information about TSO, please visit our website at_ www.TulsaSymphony.org.

Fang Hosting Breakfast with Santa Presented by EatStreet on December 4 

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GRAND CHUTE, WI – Fang T. Rattler had to take a year off from hosting one of his favorite events and he is excited to announce the return of Breakfast with Santa presented by EatStreet in the Fox Communities Credit Union Fox Club at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium from 9:00am to 11:00am on Saturday, December 4. Make reservations by Wednesday, November 24 because there is limited space for this event.

The event is $10 for adults and $5 for children between the ages of three and twelve. Children aged two and under may attend for free. Breakfast includes eggs, pancakes, sausage, donut holes, coffee, and juice.

Santa will be the guest of honor and Fang will have a place for attendees to decorate Christmas cookies, too.

You may make a reservation for Breakfast with Santa in person at the ticket office, by calling (920) 733-4152, or online through the Timber Rattlers website.

Memberships for the 2022 Fang’s Kids’ Crew presented by Jack’s Pizza and Badger Sports Park will be available for purchase in early December. Membership is $30 and includes the following:

Official Kids’ Crew T-Shirt
Official Kids’ Crew Autograph Book
Official Kids’ Crew Drawstring Backpack
A 15% Discount in the Snake Pit Team Store
Twelve Reserved Seat Ticket Vouchers for free admission to all Sunday home games in the 2022 regular season
And more!

The Snake Pit Team Store will be open from 10:00am to 3:00pm on December 4 to allow attendees to get some early Christmas shopping done. There will be more information on extended holiday store hours, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday later this month.

Blue Wahoos Providing Trick-Or-Treat On The Diamond Friday In Halloween Event 

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Returning a Halloween-themed event to Blue Wahoos Stadium a year ago provided organizers with a new idea.

What about having Trick-or-Treat stations on the field, thus giving children a more wide-open, space and place to run around?

That will happen Friday night, beginning at 5 p.m. when the Blue Wahoos host a Halloween celebration night, sponsored by T-Mobile, and complete with popcorn, candy stations set up by area businesses, a Walt Disney movie, and a fireworks show above the stadium for families to enjoy.

Admission is $5 for the event and gates will open at 5 p.m. Friday to start the Trick-or-Treat procession.

“I love offering the stadium as a safe space for parents to have an alternative from, say, going door to door (in neighborhoods) for Halloween,” said Shannon Reeves, the Blue Wahoos events director. “I feel having businesses giving out candy in an open community space, still checks the boxes for kids to ‘Trick or Treat’, but also brings some comfort for wary parents who might not want kids to go door to door.”

The movie “Hocus Pocus” will be shown at 6 p.m. on the stadium video board. Ticket holders can either sit on the field (blankets only, no chairs), or utilize the stadium bowl seats to watch the film. Fireworks will follow. T-Mobile is providing popcorn bags for the first 500 people.

Following the movie, there will be a fireworks display to close out the event.

“To me, Hocus Pocus is your perfect, family, Halloween movie,” said Reeves, who wanted to ensure a movie did not contain violence or rough language. “It is a cult favorite and I think always will be. It is a fun, family movie.”

The Blue Wahoos have partnered with 30 area businesses, who will set up their stations along the perimeter of the field. A year ago, the Halloween night at the stadium utilized the concourses for Trick or Treat stations.

This time, it will enable people to purchase beverages and food at concessions areas without crowding the area.

“We’re excited about the plan to have everything on the field,” Reeves said. “The concourse is not super conducive to a Trick or Treat type of event with the main gate stairs in the middle. We wanted to give people the opportunity to go here, there, or everywhere and not be stuck in a line.

“Kids can run from booth to booth and have free reign of the stadium which I know parents will love. Get treats and then watch the movie.”

Incorporating local businesses was a popular pitch, she said.

“It gives those businesses a chance to come out, free of charge, and to have their businesses showcased in front of a large amount of people,” Reeves said.

“I think people really appreciated that. We were offering a chance to be part of a community event without having to pay anything.”

The Blue Wahoos held Halloween events in their early part of the team’s history. A year ago, the concept was brought back and revised during a time when the ongoing coronavirus pandemic cancelled many indoor Halloween events.

From that experience, the Blue Wahoos made the current revision.

“We had such a great turnout, such a great response,” Reeves said. “People were very grateful for it. We did it with a movie, which we had not done before in previous Halloween events.

“This gives us a chance to fulfill our mission again in the community. When we talked about this year, we decided on how to make this an even smoother, even better event.

“We’re just trying to give families a safe place to come, and give kids a safe place to come in their costumes. And not worry about traffic. Or not worry about running in the street.”

Friday’s event closes out a busy October at the stadium. In addition to a variety of smaller private events, Blue Wahoos Stadium has been a venue for the Soul Bowl youth football event, the Nitro Circus stunt bikes show, the First City Art Pumpkin Patch, along with two UWF football games.

‘It has been a banner October,” Reeves said. “We have seen probably the most diverse group of events in this stadium than I have ever seen. All of these events have brought in different audiences and demographics. And (Friday) will be a great finale to the month.”

WANT TO GO?

WHAT: Blue Wahoos Halloween Night

WHERE: Blue Wahoos Stadium.

WHEN: Friday, gates open at 5 p.m.

ADMISSION: $5 apiece.

FORMAT: Trick or Treat for children begins at 5 p.m. on the field with area businesses setting up stations. The Walt Disney movie, Hocus Pocus, will be shown at 6 p.m., followed by a fireworks display. Sponsor T-Mobile will provide popcorn bags.

TICKETS: Available online at www.bluewahoos.com or at the stadium box office.

PARKING: Available at stadium main lot, as well as the addition lots across street from ballpark.