WooSox Foundation Honors gala celebrates those who made impact throughout Central Mass.

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Polar Park resembled a Hollywood set Saturday, December 3.

Glitz, glamour and a strong sense of community were center stage as part of the inaugural WooSox Foundation Honors gala. The philanthropic arm of the WooSox focus on four pillars – education, social justice, conquering cancer and diamond sports – and the team honored those who make an impact in Central Mass.

“It’s great to bring so many people together from across this community that our foundation really focuses on,” said Joe Bradlee, the WooSox vice president of baseball operations and community relations. “We’re recognizing people who really made an impact in all those areas and that’s why tonight is so special.”

Red Sox Hall of Fame broadcaster Joe Castiglione emceed the sold-out event of 250 people.

Former Worcester School Superintendent Maureen Binienda was honored in the field of education. The social justice honoree was Tim Garvin from the United Way of Central Massachusetts.

Conquering cancer, especially pediatric cancer, is close to Larry Lucchino’s heart. The WooSox are engaged in every way possible to rid the world of this terrible disease, so it was fitting that UMass Memorial Hospital’s pediatric oncologist, Dr. Peter Newberger, was honored for his research to find a cure.

“We described a lot of milestones on the journey to Polar Park, but this is a milestone in the growth of the WooSox Foundation,” said club President Dr. Charles Steinberg. “A Christmas time event that brings everybody together, overlooking their civic jewel while we celebrate our community partners holds promise to be a marvelous annual event.”

Burncoat High School’s Kasie Vuong, a WooSox Scholar, was met with a standing ovation after reciting a poem she wrote.

No one understands and appreciates the impact baseball can have on a young child in Central Mass more than Rich Gedman. The native son grew up only a hit-and-run from Polar Park and he’s engaged in every aspect of the WooSox’ connection to youth baseball and softball. The Red Sox Hall of Famer was honored as Diamond Sports recipient. The team also announced that the WooSox Foundation’s annual charity golf tournament has been renamed in Gedman’s honor.

“He’s such an amazing guy, so it only made sense for him to be the first recipient of this award tonight,” Bradlee said. “Everybody in this community is so proud of him and happy to have him in action in Worcester.”

During the season, the WooSox continually honor teachers, nurses, first responders, children from the Boys & Girls Club and Make-A-Wish Foundation. Gedman is always on the field participating in the pregame ceremonies because he understands the impact all of these people and organizations have in the community.

Gedman grew up on Lafayette Street and as a boy, along with his brother and sister, would walk past the site where Polar Park now sits on their way to the YWCA. The siblings would also walk up Washington Street on their way to the library, or down Madison to The Boys Club on Ionic Avenue.

“When I was a little boy I needed many of those different outreaches,” Gedman explained. “All those places and people had a hand on my life, so to watch that they’re still going on and still having an impact is very moving to me.”

Speaking about his childhood in Worcester brings back so many memories for Gedman.

“I feel so lucky to have grown up here,” he said. “It allowed me to be able to deal with what I had to deal with when I played. Growing up here prepared me for my baseball life. It’s really incredible to me. To watch what’s going on here and to watch it transform the city is special for me.”

Proceeds from the event will benefit the WooSox Scholars program, which annually awards college scholarships of $10,000 to four eighth graders in Worcester Public Schools. Those students were in attendance and recognized Saturday night, including Dalton Le, from South High School; Helene Sanchez-Navidad, from Claremont Academy; Jakayla Edmond Weeks, from Doherty High School; Kasie Vuong, from Burncoat High School; Marenity Gonzalez-Giza, from North High School; Erika Gutierrez, from South High School; Sincere Politano, from University Park Campus School and Farzana Darwishi, from Wachusett Regional High School.

During the event, the WooSox recognized the 23rd anniversary of the Worcester 6. Prior to the team opening Polar Park in 2021, the club officially retired jersey No. 6, which represents the six fallen firefighters – Paul Brotherton, Jerry Lucey, Tom Spencer, Tim Jackson, Jay Lyons and Joe McGuirk – who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Cold Storage and Warehouse Co. fire Dec. 3, 1999.

At the conclusion of the awards presentation, a special guest arrived and invited attendees to the WooSox’ clubhouse for a post-dinner celebration. When they walked through the doors, 2004 Red Sox World Series hero Keith Foulke was waiting with the trophy in his hands.

The inaugural WooSox Foundation Honors gala was a success.

“It’s amazing to me how (the WooSox) have made this connection to Worcester, and the city has made a connection back,” Gedman said. “This (gala) is their way of recognizing people who promote a better culture.”

Victory Field to Host Food Drive-Thru Distribution Event on Monday, Dec. 12

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INDIANAPOLIS – In partnership with Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana and Indiana WIC, the Indianapolis Indians are set to host a food drive-thru distribution event at Victory Field on Monday, Dec. 12. Food distribution from Gleaners’ Mega Fresh Mobile Pantry begins at 3 PM and continues until 5 PM.

“One of Indianapolis’ greatest challenges is combating food hunger,” said Randy Lewandowski, Indianapolis Indians president and general manager. “We are thrilled to partner with Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana and Indiana WIC in welcoming hundreds of Central Indiana families to this year’s food distribution event.”

Families must enter Victory Field’s parking lot off West Street. After receiving their boxed goods, vehicles will exit the lot onto Maryland Street.

“We’re pleased to partner with Indiana WIC and the Indianapolis Indians on another mobile distribution at Victory Field,” said Fred Glass, president/CEO of Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana. “Times are tough for so many people right now, particularly families with young children. With the holidays approaching, families are struggling to balance basic needs like food, with a desire to make the season special for their kids.”

“Indiana WIC is so excited to be partnering with the Indianapolis Indians and Gleaners Food Bank in finding new and creative ways to connect Hoosier families with food resources,” explained Laura Chavez, director of Indiana WIC. “We hope this drive-thru event allows families to help meet their needs for healthy food.”

The Indians open their 2023 season on March 31 at Victory Field. Full season, half season and mini plans are now on sale, and group and premium reservations may also be made. For more on the Indians, visit IndyIndians.com or contact the Victory Field Box Office at (317) 269-3545 or [email protected].

*About the Indianapolis Indians
*The Indianapolis Indians are the professional Triple-A baseball club affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. In continuous operation since 1902, the organization believes in creating affordable and memorable experiences for fans so they can grow closer together with family, friends and the community through the game of baseball. The Indians play their home games at Victory Field, a 13,750-seat ballpark located in downtown Indianapolis and White River State Park. The venue opened in 1996 and has received numerous national accolades as one of the best minor league ballparks in the United States. The team has led Minor League Baseball in combined total attendance over the past 12 seasons. In 2018, the organization was recognized as Ballpark Digest Team of the Year. It was also named a 2019 Best Places to work by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce.

*About Victory Field
*Victory Field opened its gates on July 11, 1996, as home to the Indianapolis Indians, the professional Triple-A baseball club affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. The ballpark is one of many attractions in White River State Park and downtown Indianapolis and is often recognized as one of the best minor league stadiums in the country. The Vic hosts 70-plus Indians games each year, and it also hosts the annual Indiana High School Baseball State Championships, Victory Field Classic, City-County Championships and non-baseball events including The Links at Victory Field, Flicks movie nights, charity walks and private events. The 13,750-seat ballpark is a community gathering place for family, friends and colleagues to enjoy Indians baseball, public events and beautiful views of the Circle City skyline.

About Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana Gleaners was founded in 1980 and is a respected leader within Feeding America, the nation’s food bank network. Since that time, Gleaners has distributed more than 800 million pounds of food and critical grocery products through nearly 250 hunger relief agencies, schools and community partners serving needy Hoosiers. In addition to food distribution to agencies, we serve our most vulnerable populations, seniors and children, through specialty programs such as Gleaners2Go, Home Delivery, School-Based Pantries, Mobile Pantries, Summer Meals for Kids, and Senior Hunger Initiative programs. Charity Navigator has recognized Gleaners as a 4-Star organization, the highest rating for charity demonstrating fiscal management and accountability. In addition, Gleaners is an accredited charity with the Better Business Bureau and has earned a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar. To learn more, visit www.gleaners.org.

About Indiana WIC
*Since 1974, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children *(WIC) has provided healthy food, quality nutrition services, breastfeeding support, health screenings, healthcare, and social services referrals for millions of expectant and new parents, babies, and young children. WIC’s targeted services are demonstrated to improve birth outcomes and support positive child growth and development, helping to grow a healthier next generation. To find out more information about Indiana WIC visit www.wic.in.gov and follow us on Twitter and Facebook @IndianaWIC.

Second Annual “Trick-or-Treat at Polar Park” Oct. 30 Attracts More Than 3,000 Fans

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On Sunday, October 30, the Worcester Red Sox welcomed more than 3,000 fans for the second annual “Trick-Or-Treat at Polar Park.” The event was free to the public and allowed youngsters to participate in a multitude of activities. Starting at 2 p.m., trick-or-treating took place in Suites 14 through 22, where several staff members from the WooSox passed out candy and trinkets. Downstairs along the first base concourse, fans could participate in a pumpkin decorating contest, judged by WooSox staff, including mascots Smiley Ball and Woofster the WonderDog. Fans were allowed to bring in a previously-decorated pumpkin, or they could decorate on the spot using supplies provided by the club.

In addition to the decorating contest, there was also a costume contest, in which the winning fan was awarded four DCU Club tickets to a WooSox game in 2023, along with a large bag of candy. Halloween-themed music played around the park as families took pictures in front of backdrops in Sections 9 and 13.

Pixar’s “Coco” played on the left field videoboard as fans caught the movie from the seating bowl and inside the DCU Club with movie-themed snacks and adult beverages.

The event will be held again next Halloween with some potential tweaks.

“We plan on making the event a full concourse operation, with concessions available for purchase,” said WooSox Ambassador Marianna Colantuono, who was instrumental in planning the event. “This is to prevent waiting in a long line for candy. We also plan to give trick-or-treaters and their families the opportunity to buy dinner next year.” The dinner option will allow families to stay for the duration of the movie instead of having to leave to eat dinner.

“The most rewarding part of planning and executing this event was seeing the multitude of smiling faces.” Colantuono added. “A few fans commented on how they loved that it was a free event. I also heard various languages spoken! As Polar Park is a gathering space for the different cultures that inhabit the city, it was heart-warming to see that in action. I also loved seeing the kids recognize each other’s costumes. Seeing them chat and take pictures with one another was very sweet to witness.”

The WooSox plan to do more festive events throughout the year as they continue to be a monumental part of the Worcester community.

Before the Halloween festivities, Canine Companions hosted “DogFest New England” at Polar Park, where Furry friends and families enjoyed activities, inspiring speakers, dog demonstrations, and other entertainment to benefit the nonprofit organization that ensures that guide dogs are free of charge for individuals and families who need them.

WooSox Support Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month at “Karaoke for a Cure” Nov. 3

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Ten members of the Worcester Red Sox’ front office attended the Pancreatic Cancer Alliance’s “Karaoke for a Cure” event on Thursday, November 3, at the Manor in West Boylston.

The goal of the event was to raise awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer research and local patient care. Attendees had the opportunity to sing karaoke to compete for the title of “Karaoke for a Cure’s Best Singer.” Additionally, the event featured raffles, an auction, and a buffet.

Alex Richardson, Tim Quitadamo, Tayla Bolduc, Natalie Reid, Bryan Simmons-Hayes, George Lorin, Eric Olafsen, Danny Malm, Yasmine Museme, and Simi Stark represented the WooSox at the event. The WooSox showed their support by purchasing a table and donating items toward the raffles and auction.

“This night was filled with beautiful voices, laugher, and tears, as our community took another leap forward towards raising awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer,” said WooSox Director of Baseball and Game Day Operations, Alex Richardson. “Conquering cancer is one of our four pillars for the WooSox Foundation. We strive to support organizations such as the Pancreatic Cancer Alliance, who spotlight heroes, provide a respite to those receiving treatment, and offer a hug to those who could use just a little more love.”

Pancreatic cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. It also has the lowest survival rate. Richardson and the WooSox thank their community partners for helping them “go purple” during World Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, and for working to combat this deadly disease all year round.

Girl Scout Discovery Day this Sunday at Fluor Field

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Join us on Sunday, November 20 from 1PM – 4PM at Fluor Field for a day of Girl Scouting! All girls are welcome whether current Girl Scouts or just thinking about joining. Families will take part in Girl Scout activities and traditions like archery, camp songs, circuit building and other STEM activities, S’mores making with solar ovens, and more!

Girl Scouting offers every girl the opportunity to make friends, explore new interests, be herself and make her world a better place!

Admission is absolutely free! Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase on site.

Donald Driver Charity Softball Game Scheduled for Sunday Night on June 4

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GRAND CHUTE, WI – There will be softball under the lights on Sunday, June 4, 2023. Donald Driver, Jordy Nelson, Green Bay Super Bowl Champions, and current stars will come together for the Donald Driver Charity Softball Game at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium at 7:05pm on that date. The event will raise money for the Donald Driver Foundation and additional local and player charities.

Fans may purchase a package that includes one ticket to the Donald Driver Charity Softball Game and three vouchers for a 2023 Timber Rattlers home game starting at 11:00am on Thursday, November 17. Packages are $71 for reserved, $101 for box, and $126 for premium box.

Single-game tickets for the Donald Driver Charity Softball Game will be available for purchase on Tuesday, November 22 at 11:00am.

Tickets for the softball game are $75 for a premium box seat (first two rows), $50 for a standard box seat, $29 for a reserved bleacher seat, and $15 for a general admission grass seat. There are also a limited number of patio tables – which seat four – available at $287. The patio tables will include a softball autographed by Driver and Nelson.

There are 117 All-You-Can-Eat seats available for this game for $90 per seat. There are 69 All-You-Can-Eat seats down the first base line. The new Home Plate Club that is part of the current renovations at Neuroscience Group Field will have 48 All-You-Can-Eat seats. This ticket includes admission to the game, an all-you-can-eat picnic for 90 minutes, and two beverages (beer, soda, or water).

Additionally, all 87 seats in Section 100 are $87 and tickets include a Jordy Nelson autographed softball.

“I am excited to see Jordy Nelson’s return, and to feature Super Bowl Champions and current stars competing,” said Driver. “Please buy tickets early and you can win a meet and greet with Jordy and me! Go Pack Go!!”
Fans who purchase tickets before November 29 will be entered in a drawing with the winners being able to meet Donald Driver and Jordy Nelson before the softball game.

“I am looking forward to returning to Wisconsin as we keep the Softball Game tradition going,” said Nelson.

More participants will be announced closer to the date of the event.

Fans who are planning on attending the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers game against the Peoria Chiefs on June 4 should note that the start time of that game has been moved from 1:10pm to 12:10pm. The stadium and the parking lot will be cleared after the conclusion of the Timber Rattlers game.

The schedule for the softball event is as follows:
Parking Lot Opens: 4:30pm
Stadium Gates Open: 5:15pm
Sponsor Softball Game: 5:30pm
Home Run Derby: 6:15pm
Softball Game Starts: 7:05pm

The game will raise money for the Donald Driver Foundation, other player charities, and local charitable organizations. The mission of the Donald Driver Foundation is to display Strong Hands, Strong Minds, and Loving Hearts to serve as a hand up, not a handout. The Donald Driver Foundation has a core focus in serving underprivileged children and families by addressing health & wellness, safety, and education & career development.

Fans may begin to purchase tickets for just the Donald Driver Charity Softball Game at 11:00am on Tuesday, November 22. Tickets are available in one of the following ways: Over the phone at (920) 733-4152, in person at the Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office, or through the internet at timberrattlers.com.

BlueClaws Accepting Nominations for Military Appreciation Night Jersey Ceremony

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws will once again honor military heroes through a special post-game ceremony after the July 6th Military Appreciation Night game, which is presented by OceanFirst Bank. This program recognizes and remembers military heroes that are no longer with us, and dedicated their lives to service to the nation. The team is now collecting nominations for military veterans to include in the ceremony. Fans are encouraged to fill out the form linked below.

CLICK HERE to fill out the nomination form.

“These military servicemen and servicewomen are the best of us,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “This ceremony from Military Appreciation Night last season was one of the most moving moments of the year and we’re looking forward to honoring additional heroes in 2023.

“We know there are so many worthy honorees for this program and thank everyone in advance for their nominations.”

Part of the nomination process asks nominators to describe the reasons, with information about their service, as to why they are most deserving.

The BlueClaws will select a group of heroes from the nominations. Each hero will have their name on the back of one special jersey worn by the BlueClaws at the Military Appreciation Night game. After that game, each player or coach will present the jersey to the respective families on the field.

The BlueClaws have several additional 2023 military-based initiatives.

Wreaths Across America Donation Package

The BlueClaws have partnered with Wreaths Across America on a program through which fans can sponsor a wreath to be laid at the gravesite of a veteran but also donate a ticket to a military member for Military Appreciation night at the ballpark.

There are two levels to the partnership:

  • For $15, fans will sponsor a wreath and donate a ticket for Military Apprecition Night.
  • For $25, fans will sponsor a wreath, donate a ticket, and receive a ticket of their own.

CLICK HERE to participate.

Vets Night Out

Through the Vets Night Out program, presented by OceanFirst Bank, fans can donate tickets for veterans and military personnel to attend the Military Appreciation Night game at ShoreTown Ballpark.

Donation levels include Platinum (100 tickets donated for $1,000), Gold (50 tickets donated for $50, Silver (25 tickets donated for $250), and Bronze (10 tickets donated for $100). Donor benefits at each level include complimentary tickets to the Military Appreciation Night game on July 6th, among others. Platinum donors also receive a complimentary Luxury Suite outing to an April/May game in 2023, subject to availability.

CLICK HERE for additional information.

Vet Tix

The BlueClaws have a limited number of four-packs of tickets for the July 6th Military Appreciation Night game now available on VetTix.org.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

Woodpeckers To Host Annual ‘Fayetteville Holiday Lights’ Event 

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FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The Fayetteville Woodpeckers **will host ‘Fayetteville Holiday Lights’ for fifteen days this December at Segra Stadium in the heart of downtown. Fayetteville Holiday Lights, presented by **AEVEX Aerospace, will take place December 8th – 23rd from 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. each night.

The event will include tens of thousands of holiday lights around the stadium, with displays on the concourse and a path of walk-through lights on the warning track of the field. Each night will bring a different theme, including fireworks, Christmas-themed characters, Beers & Cheers, and more. Patrons can also get their picture taken with Santa and participate in holiday crafts for free.

Not only will Fayetteville Holiday Lights give joy to families for the holiday season, but it will give back to the community as well. Community members and organizations can participate in the “Trees for Charity” portion of the event. Organizations can purchase a tree for $200 (which includes a six-foot live tree and tree stand) and partner with a local 501(c)(3) non-profit of their choice to decorate the tree for display during the duration of Fayetteville Holiday Lights. Throughout the event, spectators will vote on the best decorated tree and cash prizes will be awarded to the three non-profits with the most votes, courtesy of the Fayetteville Woodpeckers and the Woodpeckers Foundation. To purchase a tree, visit the following link: https://form.jotform.com/fayettevillewoodpeckers/trees-for-charity

Tickets for Fayetteville Holiday Lights are available now. Adult tickets are $10 and children’s tickets (12u) are $8 if you buy in advance. If purchased the day of, tickets will be an additional $2. All current or former military will receive $1 off their ticket with proof of ID at the Truist Box Office. To purchase tickets for Fayetteville Holiday Lights or for more information on the event, visit our website or call the front office at (910) 339-1989.

Dragons Veteran Salute Program, presented by CareSource, Continues in 2023

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DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons and CareSource, a nonprofit multistate health plan, are continuing their commitment for the Dayton Dragons Veteran Salute program, presented by CareSource. The program is an extension of CareSource’s commitment to improve the lives of complex populations including veterans and their families through innovative programs and partnerships to support their health and well-being.

The Dragons Veteran Salute program, presented by CareSource, is open to any military veteran in the Miami Valley. Veterans will be selected from entries submitted between now and May of 2023. Selected veterans will be recognized at a Dayton Dragons home game during an inning break at Day Air Ballpark, April through September 2023. Each veteran receives VIP treatment during their night including in-game recognition, a luxury suite, food and beverage, a special gift, and more.

“Partnering with the Dayton Dragons to recognize local veterans is a perfect way to elevate their stories and thank them for their service,” said Richard Topping, President of CareSource Military & Veterans. “CareSource is proud to serve veterans, military and their families, and we work hard to support their unique health and wellness needs.”

Since 2019, CareSource and the Dayton Dragons have honored over 20 local veterans and their families with a special experience at the ballpark.

“The Dragons are thrilled to continue partnering with CareSource in this effort to honor local veterans,” said Robert Murphy, President of the Dayton Dragons. “We look forward to continue recognizing these individuals who have served our country and sharing their stories with our fans at Day Air Ballpark.”

Nominations for the Dragons Veteran Salute program, presented by CareSource, are open to the public. Any living military veteran from the Miami Valley is eligible to be nominated. To nominate a veteran, go to www.daytondragons.com/veteransalute

About CareSource

CareSource is nationally recognized for leading the industry in providing member-centric health care coverage. The company’s managed care business model was founded in 1989 and today CareSource is one of the nation’s largest Medicaid managed care plans. Headquartered in Dayton, Ohio, the company has built a legacy of providing quality health care coverage for Medicaid consumers. In addition to Medicaid coverage, CareSource has a diverse offering of insurance plans on the Health Insurance Marketplace. The company also offers Medicare Advantage plans that help consumers close the gap of coverage as they age. CareSource serves more than 2 million members across six states supported by a growing workforce of 4,500.

For more, visit www.caresource.com, follow @caresource on Twitter, or like CareSource on Facebook.

More Information on the Dayton Dragons

The Dayton Dragons are the affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play 66 home games at beautiful Day Air Ballpark, in the heart of the Water Street District. Deposits for 2023 season tickets are being accepted now. For information about season tickets, including the new Business Club and Family Club, contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at [email protected], or go to daytondragons.com. Information is also available regarding hospitality areas and sponsorship opportunities.

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Catch The 30th Annual Soul Bowl On Saturday At Blue Wahoos Stadium

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CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

The 30th annual Soul Bowl will be played at Blue Wahoos Stadium on Saturday, October 15 from 9:00 AM until 6:30 PM. The full-day youth football festival pits the crosstown rival SYSA Tigers against the East Pensacola-Magee Field Rattlers in five different age-division games.

The fun-filled day at the ballpark will begin with the kickoff of the first game at 9:00 AM with subsequent games following at 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM. Age divisions include 6-under, 8-under, 10-under, 12-under, and 14-under.

Gates will open at 8:00 AM. Tickets purchased in advance are $9 and include access to all five games. V.I.P. tickets are available for $50 which include access to the full day of football and an exclusive chef-prepared meal in the Hancock-Whitney Club at the ballpark from 12:00-2:00 PM. General Admission and V.I.P. tickets are available AT THIS LINK.

Outside of the ballpark, a family-fun tailgate experience will be set up, offering a variety of Soul Food, food trucks, and vendors to guests. Stadium concessions will also be open and available inside the stadium. Food and beverage purchased from the event vendors may be brought into the stadium, but other outside food and drink is prohibited.

The 2022 Soul Bowl is made possible through the support of Troy Rafferty and Levin Papantonio Law Firm, Cox Communications, and Florida Blue.

Indians to Hold Indianapolis Indians Charities Bowling Event at Woodland Bowling Center on Saturday, Nov. 12 

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INDIANAPOLIS – The Indianapolis Indians today announced that the organization’s nonprofit Indianapolis Indians Charities will hold a commemorative charity bowling event at Woodland Bowling Center from 12-4 PM on Saturday, Nov. 12. The inaugural IIC Bowling Event is in remembrance of longtime Indians front office employee Brad Morris, who was an avid bowler and owned six perfect 300 scores in his bowling career.

The IIC Bowling Event features 70 available bowling lanes and sponsorship opportunities. Individuals or groups interested in bowling may sign up here, and businesses interested in title, contest or signature bar sponsorships may learn more here. All proceeds from the event benefit Indianapolis Indians Charities.

“Brad was a beloved member of our organization for 27 years, and he made Indianapolis his home while never forgetting his Pennsylvania roots,” said Randy Lewandowski, Indianapolis Indians president & general manager. “We look forward to welcoming friends and family of Brad to honor and celebrate his life at one of his favorite locations away from the ballpark, the local bowling alley.”

The IIC Bowling Event also includes a raffle giveaway and silent auction. The event is open to bowlers of all ages and levels of experience, from rookies to seasoned bowlers like Brad himself.

For more information, contact Indians community outreach coordinator Rylee Horn at [email protected] or (317) 269-3542, extension 278.

Boo Bash 2023 at BayCare Ballpark

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CLEARWATER, Fl. – The City of Clearwater Parks & Rec Department, along with the Threshers, invite the community to the 2023 edition of Boo Bash at BayCare Ballpark. This free, family-friendly Trick-or-Treat event is on October 31st from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Local businesses and vendors will be passing out candy to kids on the concourse as families walk table to table. Hay rides, games and an on-field costume parade highlight the evening. The playground, concessions, and facilities will be open.

BayCare Ballpark is located at 601 N Old Coachman Rd in Clearwater.

Boomer’s Drive-Thru Trick or Treat Returns October 28

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The Williamsport Crosscutters, in association with the City of Williamsport, have announced the return of Boomer’s Drive-Thru Trick or Treat, a free trick or treating experience for children and their families. The event will take place in the Muncy Bank Ballpark parking lot on Friday, October 28 from 6pm-9pm and is sponsored by UPMC, the UPMC Health Plan and Backyard Broadcasting.

The event will be hosted by Boomer, the Cutters popular mascot, and give children age 14 and under in costume, the opportunity for a fun, safe, trick or treating experience. Over twenty other exhibitors, including some of Boomer’s mascot buddies, are slated to be part of Boomer’s Drive-Thru Trick or Treat.

Crosscutters Vice-President of Marketing and Public Relations Gabe Sinicropi stated, “Due to the overwhelming attendance over the past two years, we have added an extra hour so that we can accommodate as many children as possible.” Over 800 kids passed through the event in 2022.

All participants will be required to stay inside their vehicle as they receive treats from the Williamsport Crosscutters and other area businesses. Those attending are required to enter the Muncy Bank Ballpark lot via the West 4th Fourth Street entrance only. Entry to the stadium property will close at 9pm. All vehicles will exit at the back of the stadium on Blaine Street.

Any local businesses who would like to be part of this event, at no charge, can contact the Cutters at (570) 326-3389.

Mason’s Monster Mash Returns to Segra Park October 27

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COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies today announced that they will be hosting the second annual Mason’s Monster Mash at Segra Park Thursday, October 27 from 6-8 pm. Mason’s Monster Mash will utilize Segra Park’s outdoor concourse to allow kids to trick-or-treat around the ballpark with family and friends.

In addition to trick-or-treating, there will be crafts for children, a limited concessions menu will be sold including alcoholic beverages for parents, some inflatables from the SCU Kids Zone will be open and Mason will be in costume to take pictures with trick-or-treaters.

General Admission tickets for the event are available for $5 and children two and under can enter for free. Tickets are now available to purchase online here. This event will follow Segra Park’s cashless policy. Mason’s Monster Mash sold out in its inaugural year at 500 attendees and the event is expected to sell out again this year.

Chris Lane comes to Segra Park Saturday for the Big Red Barn Retreat Fall Jam sponsored by Sonic Drive-In. Tickets start at $25. Fans can purchase tickets for the concert here. For more information about events at Segra Park, please visit ColumbiaFireflies.com.

WooSox and Country Bank Present Inaugural Police vs. Fire Baseball Classic

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On Monday, September 26, Polar Park hosted the Inaugural Police vs. Fire baseball classic, presented by Country Bank. A century-old tradition between the Worcester Fire and Worcester Police Departments was restored.

In memoriam to late Worcester Police Officer Enmanuel “Manny” Familia, all proceeds benefited the Manny 267 Foundation. Officer Familia made the ultimate sacrifice on June 4, 2021, when he dove into Green Hill Pond in an attempt to save a drowning teenage boy.

The foundation distributes “Manny Tubes,” life saving floatation devices, to police departments across the country to provide water safety training for their officers and swimming lessons for children.

The game was headlined by an opening ceremony. Firefighters and police officers gathered on the steps of St. John’s Church to pay respects to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. They then marched down Temple Street, Green Street, over Canal Street, and entered Polar Park through Plymouth Street. Once they arrived at Polar Park, these brave members of our community were greeted by a giant American flag suspended between two fire trucks. Serenaded by cheers from a packed Polar Park, the players made their way onto the field to line up for the national anthem.

Worcester Police Officer Tom Hurley delivered a beautiful rendition of the national anthem while the players were lined up on their respective baselines. Hurley then performed an original song called, “A Hero Doesn’t Live Here Anymore,” which he wrote to honor his late colleague and dear friend, Enmanuel “Manny” Familia.

The Ceremonial First Pitch was delivered by Police Chief Steven M. Sargent and Acting Deputy Fire Chief Adam Roche. David O’Rourke, a Worcester Police Officer, and his son, who has played for the Minnesota Twins and New York Mets, Ryan O’Rourke, caught these simultaneous first pitches.

Honorary Captains Ava Roy and Eric Familia delivered the game ball to the mound. Ava lost her heroic father , Christopher Roy, on December 9, 2018, when he and his fellow Firefighters fought a terrible basement fire in a three-story apartment building. Wrapping up a very emotional pre-game ceremony, the family of Manny Familia; Morgan Menard, daughter of Firefighter Jason Menard, who gave his life on November 13, 2019; Lieutenant Governor Karyn Politio; Worcester Mayor Joeseph M. Petty; City Councilors Donna Colorio, George Russell, Kate Toomey, and Sarai Rivera; and Acting City Manager of Worcester, Eric Batista, all delivered the two most important words in baseball: “Play Ball!”

The game went on without a hitch, as the scoring started early when Police jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the first inning. The Fire Department responded quickly, as they tied it and then took the lead over the next two innings.

Mother Nature did not cooperate, as the rain brought a lengthy delay, which inevitably turned into a cancellation. Worcester Fire took home the 3-2 victory in a shortened 2½-inning game.

On a night filled with so much emotion, the brave men of our community were able to distract us and take our minds away from such terrible things. Baseball can provide just that, an escape from the outside world.

$15,670 was raised for the Manny 267 Foundation. Country Bank presented the check to the WooSox Familia, a new WooSox Foundation program that supports the Manny 267 Foundation. This money will be used to help provide and support water safety training for numerous Police departments throughout our country. We look forward to this event becoming an annual tradition in the wonderful world of Worcester.