Fightins Donate $3,073 to Local Schools

As part of the Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student program, the Reading Fightin Phils have donated $3,073 to participating schools in the club’s surrounding community. Schools will be able to support students and contribute to the educational process with the funds donated through the program.

“We’re happy to have been able to donate $3,073 to local schools through the Capital BlueCross ‘Live Fearless’ Outstanding Student program, and we are hoping to donate even more money next season and beyond as the program grows,” said Fightins General Manager Scott Hunsicker. “We can’t thank Capital BlueCross enough for sponsoring this program and putting us in a position to be able to donate this money to the schools.”

Below is a list of the 32 schools that have participated in the program.

School
Berks Christian School
Bethel Elementary School
Colebrookdale Elementary School
Conrad Weiser East Elementary School
Conrad Weiser High School
Conrad Weiser Middle School
Conrad Weiser West Elementary School
Denver Elementary School
Goddard Sanatoga
Goddard Wyomissing
Green Valley Elementary School
Greenwich Elementary School
Hamburg High School
Hamburg Middle School
Jacksonwald Elementary School
Kutztown Elementary School
New Hanover Elementary School
Oley Valley Elementary School
Oley Valley Middle School
Penn Bernville Elementary School
Perry Elementary School
Pine Grove Elementary School
Pottsgrove Middle School
Robeson Elementary School
Rupert Elementary School
Schuylkill Haven Elementary School
Spring Ridge Elementary School
Tilden Elementary School
Washington Elementary School
Whitfield Elementary School
Willow Creek Elementary School
Wilson West Middle School

The Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student Program is a unique incentive-based program designed to recognize and reward 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. Each student who participated in the program during the 2016 season received two tickets to a game, a pre-game meet-and-greet with a Fightin Phils player, individual recognition during a pre-game ceremony, and an Outstanding Student medal from the Crazy Hot Dog Vendor.

For each ticket purchased or redeemed through the Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student Program, the participating school received $1 back.

The Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student Program is a five-year program that runs through the 2019 season. Schools can sign up now for the 2017 season by contacting the Fightin Phils Director of Educational Programs, Music, & Game Presentation Todd Hunsicker at 610-375-8469 x.206 or by e-mail at thunsicker@fightins.com. Dates are available in May. The program is easy to implement, and your school receives a check from the Fightin Phils.

Season tickets for the 2017 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Dream League Field comes to Berks County

Reading, Pa., Oct. 26, 2016 – Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League, a non-profit organization based in Reading, Pa., raised more than $650,000 towards building Berks County’s first baseball field for special needs players at their kick off Diamonds and Dreams Dinner Under the Stars event hosted by the Reading Fightin Phils at FirstEnergy Stadium on Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016.

At the Diamonds and Dreams Dinner Under the Stars event, the 300 community and business leaders in attendance were introduced to 11 of the leagues’ future players and treated to meals from four of the area’s finest chefs including: Chef Brad Fisher from Berkshire Country Club, Chef Tim Twiford from the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Chef Dave Brennan from Panevino, and Chef Devin Schwartz & Owner Operator George Zeppos from Willoughby’s on Park. Proceeds from the event will help build the Baseballtown Dream League’s Savage 61 Field of Dreams complex custom-designed for those with physical and developmental disabilities.

“Parents of special needs players in the Miracle League in Lehigh County tell us how their children live for the days when they’re playing baseball. But for many families, the distance to the Lehigh County fields is inaccessible,” said Chuck Domino, president of Baseballtown Charities. “We’re thrilled to partner with the Reading Fightin Phils and community leaders to be able to support the first special needs field in Berks County that can serve families in Greater Reading and surrounding areas.”

Baseballtown Charities was established in 2002 and has since raised more than $1 million to build Gordon Hoodak Stadium, a field of dreams in the heart of inner-city Reading, which has provided more than 1,000 boys and girls who otherwise might not have had the opportunity with a chance to participate in the game. Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League recently expanded its campaign to give those with physical and developmental disabilities the same chance to experience the magic of baseball and thrill of playing on the diamond through custom-designed, turf fields that accommodate wheelchairs and other assertive devices while helping to prevent injuries.

The Savage 61 Field of Dreams is slated to open Fall 2017. Baseballtown Charities will continue to raise funds to support the Baseballtown Dream League complex. Baseball town is also recruiting community members to serve as volunteer “angels” to assist Dream League players at every game.

Parents and community members interested in signing up children, volunteering or donating can email Baseballtown Charities at baseballtown@fightins.com for more information.

About Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League

Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in Reading, Pa. that focuses on making dreams come true one pitch at a time. The Savage 61 Field of Dreams will be constructed at Relevant Sports Complex in Temple, Pa. Since 2002, Baseballtown Charities has worked to build inclusive baseball diamonds as well as bonds between players, teammates and supportive communities. For more information, visit www.baseballtowndreamleague.com.

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

Kraras Named Ceremonial Flag Service Honoree for Opening Night

Local business leader and World War II Veteran Gus Kraras will be celebrated on Opening Night as part of the Ceremonial Flag Service.
Local business leader and World War II Veteran Gus Kraras will be celebrated on Opening Night as part of the Ceremonial Flag Service.

Celebration of local business leader and World War II veteran kicks off 2015 Ceremonial Flag Service

Reading-Fightin-Phils-2014Local business leader and World War II veteran Gust “Gus” Kraras will be honored April 17th on Fightins Opening Night as part of the Savage61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Ceremonial Flag Service Honoree. Kraras’ celebration on Opening Night kicks off the Ceremonial Flag Service for the 2015 season.

In 1950, FirstEnergy Stadium was built as a memorial to the veterans of our community. To bring even more attention to this, a ceremonial flag flies in front of America’s Classic Ballpark at each home game to honor one specific veteran. For the 2015 season, living World War II veterans, in addition do any veterans that have passed, may be honored with the Ceremonial Flag Service. The addition of living World War II honorees is new for 2015 , and on Opening Night, Gus Kraras will become the first of what the Fightins hope will be many World War II veterans to be honored at the ballpark this season.

“The ceremonial flag honoring a veteran became an important, and emotional part of the Fightins game presentation in 2014”, said Fightins General Manager Scott Hunsicker. “In 2015, we really want to engage the families of World War II veterans, and honor these brave men and women. When discussing what World War II veteran should be the first to be honored on Opening Night, we immediately thought of Gust Kraras. He’s a great man. His dedication and contributions to our country and our community are incredible. Plus, he actually sold hot dogs here at the ballpark when it first opened in 1951! We are so excited to honor Gust Kraras on Opening Night, and we invite all the families of World War II Veterans to please contact us so we can honor your loved one as well.”

Born in 1921, Kraras immigrated to the United States in 1938 from Greece when he was just 17 years old. He was living in Nashville during the Pearl Harbor attacks, and a day later, he decided to volunteer into the United States, but wasn’t able to since he wasn’t yet a citizen. He overcame this issue by requesting his draft board to advance his draft number and shortly thereafter, was in the Army and assigned to the Field Artillery.

In 1943, Kraras asked to be transferred to the newly-formed Greek Battalion at Camp Carson, Colorado. Nearly 300 volunteered to be sent on a special mission to occupied Greece and from that, only 173 men and 10 officers were sent. That group was part of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), which later evolved into what we now know as the CIA.

Following their extensive training, Kraras and the rest of the Greek Battalion was sent to Cairo, Egypt. On their second day, his group was picked as one of the two that received paratrooper training. Because of Army regulations at the time, Kraras and his party had to volunteer to become paratroopers. The next day, the selected troops went to the then-Palestine to attend British Paratrooper School. In the U.S. Army Paratrooper Schools, training typically lasted 90 days. Kraras training at the British Paratrooper School lasted just three days and five jumps.

Now in Greece, Kraras’ platoon’s missions were all very similar. They would be responsible for blocking highways and waiting for German convoys. Once they would find a convoy, they would dismantle the first and last truck using bazookas and then take on the convoy with everything they had. They would then take off up through the mountains and hide as Germans would attempt to find them-they never did.

Kraras was honorably discharged on November 15, 1945 and he took up residence in Reading where his brother John lived with his family. He went into business with his brother and later, opened up several restaurants in the Reading area and in Wildwood, New Jersey. The Kraras family went on to own and operate numerous restaurants and hotels in the seaside town for over five decades.

He met his wife Stella Dialectos upon returning from the war and married in 1946. They had three children: Chris Kraras, Angel Kraras Cammarano, and Patricia Kraras Donahue. Gus is still involved actively in his business ventures and church community in the Reading and Wildwood areas.

The World War II veterans will be honored, in addition to fallen veterans of all wars, nightly during a pre-game ceremony beside their family and friends. Before each home game, the Fightins raised a ceremonial flag to tribute to their memory and welcomed their family to the game. The flag will then lowered and given to the family following the game. During the ceremony, the Fightins will tell each veteran’s story and present the veteran with a Ceremonial Flag as a token of appreciation for all that they have done in protection of the United States of America.

Reservations for the Savage61 Ceremonial Flag Service are now being taken for the 2015 season. Those interested can call 610-370-BALL ext. 293 to reserve a date. Anyone interested in paying tribute or honor to a veteran is asked to call that number with their preference of a game date. Available game dates are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The Fightins will kick off the 65th season of baseball at America’s Classic Ballpark on Friday, April 17th when they host the Richmond Flying Squirrels, Double-A affiliate of the 2014 World Series Champion San Francisco Giants, at 7:05 p.m. Tickets for the 2015 season can be purchased online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, or by visiting the FirstEnergy Stadium Ticket Office.

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

Living World War II Veterans to be Celebrated in 2015

Fightins’ Ceremonial Flag Service to now include WWII vets

Fightins General Manager Scott Hunsicker made the announcement regarding the Ceremonial Flag Service now honoring World War II veterans at the Veterans Day Ceremony.
Fightins General Manager Scott Hunsicker made the announcement regarding the Ceremonial Flag Service now honoring World War II veterans at the Veterans Day Ceremony.

Reading-Fightin-Phils-2014Starting with the 2015 season, the Reading Fightins, Double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, will now be honoring living World War II veterans at each home game during the Savage61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Ceremonial Flag Service, the club announced at the Veterans Day Wreath-Laying Ceremony on Tuesday.

The World War II veterans will be honored, in addition to fallen veterans of all wars, nightly during a pre-game ceremony beside their family and friends. During the ceremony, the Fightins will tell each veteran’s story and present the veteran with a Ceremonial Flag as a token of appreciation for all that they have done in protection of the United States of America.

“When we announced the Ceremonial Flag Service last season, we had no idea how well our fans and the community would receive the nightly program and because of this, we wanted to allow living veterans of World War II to be celebrated alongside their families during the 2015 season,” said Fightins General Manager Scott Hunsicker. “This is the least we could do to give them proper respect and admiration for risking their lives in the line of battle. We thank Tim Profit and Savage 61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram for stepping up and underwriting this important program as well as all of our military programs.”

Last season, the Fightins honored fallen veterans of all wars during a pre-game ceremony by flying a Ceremonial Flag near the giant dog tags at the main entrance to honor a specific veteran each home game. Before each home game, the Fightins raised a ceremonial flag to tribute to their memory and welcomed their family to the game. The flag was then lowered and given to the family following the game.

Reservations for the Savage61 Ceremonial Flag Service will be taken for the 2015 season. Those interested can call 610-370-BALL ext. 293 to reserve a date. Anyone interested in paying tribute or honor to a veteran is asked to call that number with their preference of a game date. Available game dates are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Over the years, the Fightins have continued to discover new ways to honor Berks County’s veterans. Originally named Reading Municipal Memorial Stadium, FirstEnergy Stadium was completed in 1951 and named in honor of the servicemen and women who risked their lives in defense of their 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.

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

Wells Fargo Donates $1,000 to Baseballtown Charities

Donation made possible through Community Connections Giving Program

Reading-Fightin-Phils-2014Baseballtown Charities would like to thank Wells Fargo’s Community Connections Giving Program for their donation of $1,000.

Through the program, Wells Fargo’s retail banking stores explore the needs of their local communities and select a nonprofit organization to receive a grant. This year, Wells Fargo will award close to $300,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations and schools across Pennsylvania.

The grants are part of the company’s broader support of its communities. In 2013, Wells Fargo invested more than $14 million in nonprofit organizations and schools and team members volunteered more than 46,000 hours throughout Pennsylvania.

Baseballtown Charities, a non-profit 501 (c)(3) entity, was founded in 2002 in association with the Reading Fightin Phils in order to keep baseball alive in Reading through charitable donations to underprivileged youth who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to play baseball. The organization also pays tribute to Reading’s rich baseball history.

Since its inception in 2002, the Baseballtown trademark has played a necessary part in the baseball community of Berks County. Under the Baseballtown namesake, FirstEnergy Stadium has played host to the High School All-Star Game and the Olivet’s Boy’s and Girl’s Club Championship. Each year, the organization crowns the King or Queen of Baseballtown to honor the past by recognizing that individual’s accomplishments and contributions to baseball/softball.

Perhaps the biggest accomplishment the organization has overtaken was the construction of Gordon Hoodak Stadium at Lauer’s Park in 2006. Through contributions exceeding $900,000, the youth ballpark was built in a neighborhood that is quickly returning to its glory days. It sits on the grounds of Lauer’s Park Elementary School, named for the former stadium where Babe Ruth and Shoeless Joe Jackson both played. The original housed several professional teams and hosted barnstorming tours from 1907-1941. Reading’s own baseball legend, the late “Broadway” Charlie Wagner, former Red Sox pitcher and roommate Ted Williams, began his career there.

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

Fightin For Cerebral Palsy Ready to Rumble on Sept. 20

Night of boxing from King’s Promotions set for Saturday, September 20th at 6:00 p.m.

Reading-Fightin-Phils-2014Baseballtown will be getting ready to rumble on Saturday, September 20th when FirstEnergy Stadium hosts Fightin For Cerebral Palsy, a boxing event to benefit Cerebral Palsy. The night will feature exciting boxing matches from King’s Promotions. Proceeds from the event benefit Cerebral Palsy thanks to King’s Promotions.

Bell time for the event is at 6:00 p.m. with Tompkins VIST Bank Gates opening at 5:00 p.m.

Ringside tickets cost $25 while general admission is just $15. Tickets are available by calling King’s Boxing at 610-587-5950.

King’s Gym opened in Reading in 1995 as a way to get youngsters off the streets and involved in more positive activities. The name “KING” stands for “Kids In Need of Guidance and gym owner Marshall Kauffman has spent years using the sport of boxing as a way for both his professional and amateur boxers to feel good about themselves through confidence and pride.

KING’s Promotions was formed in 1994 and has since put on many successful amateur and professional fight cards in the mid-Atlantic region. In 2005, local businessman Jeff Nigrelli joined Marshall as a partner in KING’s Promotions. They have since put on several sold-out fight cards at the Riveredge Complex in Reading and have recently expanded to boxing events at the spacious and modern Sovereign Center in downtown Reading, Pennsylvania.

Fans can get more ticket information by visiting Fightins.com, calling the Fightin Phils Ticket Office at 610-370-BALL, or by visiting the Fightin Phils Ticket Office in person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Red Cross Blood Drive at FirstEnergy Stadium

Presenting Donors Receive Four Tickets to a Fightins Game

Reading-Fightin-Phils-2014The Reading Fightin Phils and the American Red Cross invite you to donate blood In Memory of Frank Mascaro on Monday, August 11th, from 10:00am to 3:00pm.

You can help J.P. Mascaro & Sons reach their goal of 1,000 pints of blood for the Red Cross by August 2014.

All presenting donors receive four tickets to Reading Fightin’ Phils game on August 16th.

American-Red-CrossThe American Red Cross is facing a looming blood shortage leading to an urgent need for donors of all blood types to roll up a sleeve and give. Since May, donations through the Red Cross are down approximately 8 percent, resulting in about 80,000 fewer donations than expected. The number of donors continues to decline and the shortfall is significant enough that the Red Cross could experience an emergency situation in the coming weeks.

“Many people say they never fully understood the importance of donating blood until they or someone they love needed it,” said Colin Riccobon, External Communications Manager of the Red Cross Northeastern Pennsylvania Blood Services Region. “Summer months are always a challenging time for blood collections, and there are patients depending on donors every day to give them hope.”

WHAT:   Blood Drive

WHEN:    Monday, August 11th, 10:00am to 3:00pm

WHERE:   FirstEnergy Stadium
1900 Centre Avenue
Reading, PA 19612

WHO:        Reading Fightin Phils

How to donate blood
Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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

Redcay Strong Community Day Slated for June 14th

Fundraiser for Derrick Redcay and family to be held at FirstEnergy Stadium

ReadingFightinPhils_2014-05-27
On June 14th, the Fightins will be holding the Redcay Strong Community Day at FirstEnergy Stadium. (Brad Drey)

Reading-Fightin-Phils-2014Following the overwhelming support from the Muhlenberg Township community to raise funds for the Derrick Redcay Strong fund on Saturday, May 3rd’s game, the Reading Fightin Phils will be hosting Redcay Strong Community Day at FirstEnergy Stadium on Saturday, June 14th from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. thanks to Savage 61, Forino, and Lowe’s.

Admission to the event is free for all ages. A $10 wristband for unlimited access to children’s activities during the afternoon will also be available at the event.

Derrick-Redcay-StrongAs part of the day’s festivities, Savage 61 will be donating a brand new 2014 Dodge Dart to be raffled off at $10/ticket. All money earned through the raffle will go to the Redcay Strong fund. Savage 61 will also be coordinating a handicap accessible van for Derrick and his family.

Lowe’s will also be donating supplies to the Redcay family in order for them make the family garage accessible for Derrick.

The event benefits the Derrick Redcay Strong fund, which has been set up to assist with the ongoing expenses related to the support and care of Derrick and his family. Local fire companies, ambulance, police department, township, and school officials have joined forces with his church Alsace Lutheran in the fundraising efforts.

On April 24, 18 year-old Muhlenberg High School senior Redcay suffered a rare stroke to his spinal cord that severed his nerves at the C4-C6 area. As a result, Redcay no longer has sensations and movement below his neck and needs assistance with breathing, which his family hopes is temporary.

Derrick is a member of the high school varsity baseball team, the Alsace Lutheran Church Youth Group, and is a member of the National Technical Honor Society, earned by maintaining a 3.5 GPA since the 9th grade. Derrick is also a volunteer firefighter with the Goodwill Fire Company, helping out at a 5-alarm blaze in the township less than 24 hours before he was stricken. Derrick has been accepted to the University of New Haven to study Fire Science.

Volunteers from the Redcay Strong fund will be on hand June 14th to sell Redcay Strong t-shirts, bracelets, and decals with the proceeds going to the fund.

The day of fun will feature live music on the Weston Center Winning Smiles Stage. In addition, businesses, organizations, and individuals will be running stands, games, and activities throughout Tompkins VIST Bank Plaza. A list of the activities can be found below:

•   Face Painting-Goodwill Fire Company
•   Gatorade/Lemonade Stand-Mason Yeager
•   Bake Sale-Alsace Lutheran Church
•   Dunk Tank-Reading Education Association
•   Chair Massage-BTI
•   Cotton Candy-Ethosource
•   Moon Bounce-Ethosource
•   Pony Rides (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.)-Ananda Farm
•   Door Prizes/Raffle-Lori Pottinger
•   Kids Fire Fighter Hose Shoot-Temple Fire Company
•   Children’s Games (Duck Pone, Lollipop Tree, and more)-Alsace Lutheran Church
•   Fish Pond-Mary Heister
•   Bean Bag Toss-Muhlenberg Ambulance
•   Chair Massage Station-United Artists

Fightin Phils concession stands will be open during the event from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

For more information regarding the Redcay Strong fund and how you can donate, visit RedcayStrong.org.

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

Dusty Wathan Hosting Catching Clinic on March 30th

Fightins skipper to teach advanced catching skills for up-and-coming catchers

Fightins manager Dusty Wathan will be hosting a catching clinic on March 30th from 5:00 to 6:15 p.m. for catchers ages eight & up. (Ralph Trout)
Fightins manager Dusty Wathan will be hosting a catching clinic on March 30th from 5:00 to 6:15 p.m. for catchers ages eight & up. (Ralph Trout)

As the Reading Fightin Phils prepare for the 2014 season, manager Dusty Wathan is giving local youth catchers a chance to do the same for their respective baseball seasons at the Dusty Wathan Catching Clinic on Sunday, March 30th from 5:00 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. The clinic will provide players ages eight through college aged the opportunity to work on advanced catching skills with the Fightins skipper.

Sign-up to Wathan’s coaching clinic cost $60 per person and $50 per person if you sign up three or more individuals. To reserve your spot in the clinic, sign up via Fightins.com or call 610-370-BALL.

A former major league catcher, Wathan had a 14-year career playing in the Seattle Mariners, Florida Marlins, Milwaukee Brewers, Kansas City Royals, Cleveland Indians, and Philadelphia Phillies minor league systems. He made his major league debut in 2002 with the Royals, going 3-for-5 with an RBI in three games.

Wathan is heading into his seventh season managing at the minor league level where he has a record of 138-146 in the past two seasons as manager of the Fightin Phils. Since he took over the reins in 2012, Wathan has seen 14 of his players, including Darin Ruf, Cody Asche, and Jonathan Pettibone, go on to make their debuts in the majors. He has also had a major hand in the development of standout Phillies catching prospects Cameron Rupp, Tommy Joseph, and Sebastian Valle.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Reading Fightin Phils. Click here to view the original story.

Baseballtown Charities Complete Baer Park Renovation

Eight month project reaches finish line thanks to generous donations from Colonial Oaks Foundation and Wyomissing Foundation

ReadingFightinPhils_2014-01-27

 

After close to eight months of fundraising and construction, Baseballtown Charities, in conjunction with the Reading Fightin Phils, has completed the Baer Park Renovation Project in the northwest section of the City of Reading. The project, first announced in May, was made possible through nearly $90,000 in donations from Colonial Oaks Foundation and the Wyomissing Foundation and private donors through Baseballtown Charities.

“Baseballtown Charities is very pleased with the completion of the renovations at historic Baer Park,” said President of Baseballtown Charities Chuck Domino. “We are anxious to see the kids and parents enjoy the improvements starting this spring. A special thanks to the Colonial Oaks Foundation and the Wyomissing Foundation as well as many other community minded donors who stepped up to the plate to allow Baseballtown Charities to continue our mission of improving the lives of our inner city youth through the sport of baseball.”

Construction on the field began in late summer after a joint cleanup effort from members of the Reading Fightin Phils and students at Alvernia University. The project included a total replacement of the bleachers, major field renovations, and the installation of a chain-linked fence that encompasses the entire facility.

The large scale renovations to Baer Park have earned the praise of city officials, including Mayor Vaughn Spencer.

“On behalf of the City of Reading, I would like to thank Baseballtown Charities, the Colonial Oaks Foundation, and the Wyomissing Foundation, as well as, the other donors,” said Mayor of Reading Vaughn Spencer. “The renovations at Baer Park will improve the lives of our city youth by providing them with a much improved facility.

The project was the first among several fields identified by Baseballtown Charities and the City of Reading Parks and Recreation Commission as area in dire need. Like Baer Park, most of the targets have fallen in repair since their heyday and will hopefully see a revival thanks to the non-profit organization.

“The Reading Recreation Commission is excited for the youth of Reading and the community to begin to enjoy the newly renovated Baer Park this spring,” said Reading Recreation Commission Executive Director Daphne Klahr. “The new turf, fencing, bleachers, and field improvements will be the catalyst for future baseball programming at the park and hopefully marks the beginning of the revitalization of the Northwest Reading community. A big thank you to Chuck Domino and Baseballtown Charities for seeing this project through to completion as well as [to] the Wyomissing Foundation, the Colonial Oaks Foundation and all of the individuals and businesses whose financial support made the project possible. The Reading Recreation Commission looks forward to continuing their partnership with Baseballtown Charities to help improve inner-city parks and ball fields for Reading youth.”

Baer Park was named after the 19th Century Reading Railroad magnate George Baer. Located in the 15th Ward of the City of Reading, the park features a lighted baseball field, tennis courts, basketball courts, a playground, a concession stand and a stone field house on its nine acres of land.

Today, Baer Park is a nerve center of activity in the 15th Ward. On any given day, hundreds of youth can be found using the various attractions or having fun by spending time with friends. Throughout the spring and summer, the park’s baseball field is home to numerous city baseball and softball organizations. It is also the home field for junior high teams from the Reading School District.

On top of donations from the Colonial Oaks Foundation and Wyomissing Foundation, funds were raised at Reading Fightin Phils home games in the summer of 2013. The centerpiece of the team’s fundraising efforts came late in the season when first baseman Jim Murphy donated his prized 1991 Jaguar XJ6 Sovereign for a raffle. Fans came out in droves to support the cause thanks to Murphy’s Jaguar and raised over $5,000 for Baseballtown Charities.

As an unconventional means of raising awareness and funds for a non-profit, the raffle helped cement Reading as the Eastern League’s nominee for the inaugural John Henry Moss Community Service Award presented by Minor League Baseball.

Baseballtown Charities, a non-profit 501(c)(3) entity, was founded in 2002 in association with the Reading Phillies in order to keep baseball alive in Reading through charitable donations to underprivileged youth who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to play baseball. The organization also pays tribute to Reading’s rich baseball history.

Since its inception in 2002, the Baseballtown trademark has played a necessary part in the baseball community of Berks County. Under the Baseballtown namesake, FirstEnergy Stadium has played host to the High School All-Star Game and the Olivet’s Boy’s and Girl’s Club Championship. Each year, the organization crowns the King or Queen of Baseballtown to honor the past by recognizing that individual’s accomplishments and contributions to baseball/softball.

Perhaps the biggest accomplishment the organization has overtaken was the construction of Gordon Hoodak Stadium at Lauer’s Park in 2006. Through contributions exceeding $900,000, the youth ballpark was built in a neighborhood that is quickly returning to its glory days. It sits on the grounds of Lauer’s Park Elementary School, named for the former stadium where Babe Ruth and Shoeless Joe Jackson both played. The original housed several professional teams and hosted barnstorming tours from 1907-1941. Reading’s own baseball legend, the late “Broadway” Charlie Wagner, former Red Sox pitcher and roommate of Ted Williams, began his career there.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Reading Fightin Phils. Click here to view the original story.

Fightins to Host 7th Annual Eastern PA Toy Run

Sunday’s event to benefit Toys for Tots and The Children Home of Reading

toys_for_tots
The 7th Annual Eastern PA Toy Run will benefit Toys for Tots and The Children’s Home of Reading.

On Sunday, November 3rd, the Reading Fightin Phils will be hosting the 7th Annual Eastern PA Toy Run presented by Classic Harley-Davidson from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in VIST Bank Plaza at FirstEnergy Stadium.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the United States Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program and The Children’s Home of Reading. Folks 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.

Motorcycle registration for the toy run will begin at 8:30 a.m. at Classic Harley-Davidson. Santa Claus will lead the ride as it departs from Classic Harley-Davidson on Route 183 at 11:00 a.m. and follows a 25-mile course until arriving at America’s Classic Ballpark for an estimated noon arrival. All motorcycles, Jeeps, and classic cars are welcome to participate in the Eastern PA Toy Run with a donation of an unwrapped toy or game.

Upon his arrival at noon, Santa will be available in the Yuengling Hometown Tap Room until 2:00 p.m. for photos with those on both the naughty and the nice list. He and his helpers will also present this year’s Santa’s Choice Awards to his favorite classic car, Jeep, and motorcycle. Winners will receive an official Eastern PA Toy Run trophy.

Along with Santa Claus, Lebanon Levi from the hit Discovery Channel series “Amish Mafia” will be on hand for autographs with a small donation to Toys for Tots.

Attendees and participants will be served complimentary hot dogs and beverages as part of the event. There will also be live music on the Weston Center Winning Smiles Stage throughout the day.

For those looking at getting a jump on holiday shopping, the Fightins Mitchell & Ness Team Store will be open with deals on team apparel and caps. A portion of merchandise profits from Sunday will also be donated to Toys for Toys and The Children’s Home of Reading.

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

Season tickets, mini-plans, and group tickets for the 2014 season at FirstEnergy Stadium are available by visiting Fightins.com, calling the Fightin Phils Ticket Office at 610-370-BALL, or by visiting the Fightin Phils Ticket Office in person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

 

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

Fightins Looking to Help Charities in Season of Giving

Franchise announces community outreach program in time for holiday season

The 2013 Season of Giving will directly aid local non-profit and charitable organizations throughout the holiday season.
The 2013 Season of Giving will directly aid local non-profit and charitable organizations throughout the holiday season.

In cooperation with many of the non-profit and charitable organizations throughout the region, the Reading Fightin Phils are launching the 2013 Season of Giving in the Mitchell & Ness Fightins Team Store this holiday season.

Starting with the Toys for Tots collection on Sunday, November 3, the Fightin Phils will give back 20% of your purchase when you mention your participating organization at checkout during the Season of Giving. The proceeds raised through the Season of Giving will go directly to the organizations. Shoppers can support the community organizations until Christmas Eve on December 24.

“In the spirit of the holidays, we’re bringing back the Season of Giving as a way to say thanks to the hard-working non-profit community,” said Director of Community Relations Mike Robinson. “This is a way for us to spread some cheer towards local organizations while raising awareness for their efforts.”

Once the Season of Giving begins, the team store’s hours will expand to 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday through Friday and 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday.

Organizations interested in taking part in the 2013 Season of Giving can reach out to Director of Community Relations Mike Robinson at mrobinson@fightins.com or Merchandising Manager Zack Haas at zhaas@fightins.com for additional information.

Fans will have the chance to support the first Season of Giving organization this Wednesday at the Charlie Adams Farewell Broadcast where team store purchases from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. will aid the Exeter Public Library.

Season tickets, mini-plans, and group tickets for the 2014 season at FirstEnergy Stadium are available by visiting Fightins.com, calling the Fightin Phils Ticket Office at 610-370-BALL, or by visiting the Fightin Phils Ticket Office in person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Food Allergy Awareness Peanut Free Game

Fightin Phils to offer fans with peanut allergies the opportunity to see game at FirstEnergy Stadium on Thursday, August 22

No peanuts or peanut products will be sold or let into FirstEnergy Stadium on Thursday, August 22.
No peanuts or peanut products will be sold or let into FirstEnergy Stadium on Thursday, August 22.

Peanuts and baseball have gone together since 1908 when “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” was written by Jack Norworth and Albert Von Tilzer. For some fans a day at the ballpark wouldn’t be the same without a bag of peanuts, while others can’t even attend a game with the threat of peanut shells in the air.

Peanut allergy is one of the most common food allergies. Children with this allergy has been on the rise over the past decade, and usually battle for their entire life. Peanuts can cause a serve, potentially fatal, allergic reaction from peanut and peanut products. Trace amounts of peanut can cause an allergic reaction.

On Thursday, August 22 the Reading Fightin Phils have decided to have a food allergy awareness peanut free game to accommodate these fans. This will give fans with a peanut allergy the opportunity to watch America’s pastime live and in person.

On Thursday night, no peanuts or peanut products will be sold inside of FirstEnergy Stadium for the first time this season. Red section 5 have been steam washed, cleaned and designated as the peanut allergy section. Not only can fans finally come out to a game without fear of peanuts, they can also sit together with fellow fans who suffer from this allergy during the Fightin Phils game.

Thursday night the VIST Bank Plaza gates will open at 5:00 pm for a happy hour with $1 off beer and a pre-game concert featuring Vuja De thanks to Miller Lite. Members of the Redner’s Fightin Phils Kids Club can enjoy a happy half-hour from 5:00-5:30 pm with free Phunland. There will also be Berks Bards Poetry Contest. The seating bowl opens at 6:00 pm for the 7:05 pm game. There will be a post-game fireworks show thanks to Pepsi. Following the fireworks Vuja De will perform a post-game concert thanks to Yuengling.

Tickets are available online at Fightins.com, calling the Fightin Phils Ticket Office at 610-370-BALL, or by visiting the Fightin Phils Ticket Office in person at FirstEnergy Stadium.

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

Ed Randall’s Bat for the Cure to Visit Baseballtown

Annual baseball road trip to raise prostate cancer awareness on Aug. 26

Ed Randall's Bat for the Cure will raffle a 32" baby blue wooden bat signed by the Fightin Phils on Aug. 26. (Ed Randall's Bat for the Cure)
Ed Randall’s Bat for the Cure will raffle a 32″ baby blue wooden bat signed by the Fightin Phils on Aug. 26. (Ed Randall’s Bat for the Cure)

READING, Pa.—Ed Randall’s Bat for the Cure Baseball Road Trip will be making a stop in Baseballtown to raise awareness for prostate cancer and early detection for those attending the Monday, August 26th game at 7:05 p.m.

On August 26th, Fightin Phils players and staff will be donning blue wristbands during the game to shed light on prostate cancer awareness. There will also be public address announcements throughout the night encouraging men to stop by the table for more information. For those that stop at the table, Ed Randall’s Bat for the Cure will raffle a 32″ baby blue wooden bat signed by the Fightin Phils and emblazoned with the Bat for the Cure logo.

The visit to FirstEnergy Stadium is one of nearly 170 that Bat for the Cure will make in 2013. Since starting in 2007, the Baseball Road Trip has become the largest healthcare initiative in the history of Minor League Baseball. Each year, representatives from the organization spread the word about the benefits of early detection.

Founded in 2003, Ed Randall’s Fans for the Cure was created to help inform the American public about prostate cancer. A nationally known baseball broadcaster based in New York City, Randall is a prostate cancer survivor who established the non-profit group after being given a second chance at life. Over the past few years, Fans for the Cure has spun off Bat for the Cure in 2007 with their first annual Minor League Prostate Cancer Awareness and Education Road Trip.

The organization has grown to include a notable group of prostate cancer survivors on the Legends for Life Advisory Board, including Hall of Famers Brooks Robinson, Frank Robinson, Carlton Fisk, and Phil Niekro. Arnold Palmer, Jim Boeheim, Jim Calhoun, and Marv Levy also have lent their voices to promote awareness.

Tickets for the August 26th game are available online via Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, or in-person at the Fightin Phils Ticket Office. The first 2,500 fans 15 and over will receive a Cole Hamels and Carlos Ruiz Salt & Pepper Shaker thanks to Unique Pretzels. It is also Military Appreciation Night with a FREE ticket giveaway for all active military and veterans. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Fightin to Save Lives: Blood Drive

The Reading Fightin Phils and American Red Cross have teamed up for a special cause

Bill Richards is a Fightin Phils Junior Associate that has been working in the front office since January.
Bill Richards is a Fightin Phils Junior Associate that has been working in the front office since January.

On Thursday, August 8 the Reading Fightin Phils and American Red Cross will be hosting a blood drive in Bill Richards’ name. We are asking for you to stop by America’s Classic Ballpark and help by donating some blood. The blood drive will be held in the Ryan Howard Batting Tunnel (1900 Centre Avenue, Reading, PA 19601) from 2:00 to 6:00 pm. Please call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit www.redcrossblood.org to schedule an appointment to donate.

  • Date: Thursday, August 8
  • Time: 2:00 – 6:00 PM
  • Location: Ryan Howard Batting Tunnel at FirstEnergy Stadium
  • Schedule a Donation Time

B Strong B Rich

Diagnosis: Bill Richards was recently diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare type of bone cancer affecting roughly 200 people a year in the United States. His fight agains the disease will undoubtedly last for years, but we remain hopeful that he will eventually go into remission and live a happy life for years to come.
ReadingFightinPhils2_2013-07-31

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