$10,300 Raised For Charity With 2022 Home Runs

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Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, and their partners at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2137 have donated $10,300 to local non-profits through the Home Runs For Charity program.

For every home run hit by the Patriots at TD Bank Ballpark during the 2022 season, the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2137 generously donated $100 to help the community. Somerset’s offense hit a franchise record 205 home runs last season, including 103 in Bridgewater.

Seven non-profits have been selected by the team and organization to each receive $1,471.29. The benefiting non-profits are:

  • Alternatives, Inc.
  • Easter Seals of NJ
  • Matheny
  • SHIP (Samaritan Homeless Interim Program)
  • St. John’s Episcopal Church (Somerville)
  • Somerset Health Care Foundation
  • Operation Shoebox New Jersey

The Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2137 has a long history of charitable work supporting both local as well as national causes. The motto “people helping people” is the driving force behind their efforts to help those less fortunate throughout the community. Over the years, Bridgewater Aerie # 2137 has provided monetary support for programs that assist the homeless and hungry, funded scholarships for deserving high school seniors, donated to groups that assist our veterans as well as local police, fire and rescue groups.

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 are the reigning Eastern League Champions 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: somersetpatriots.com.

Dayton Community, Day Air Credit Union, and the Dayton Dragons Help Raise Over $34,000 in Holiday 50/50 Raffle

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DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons Foundation and Day Air Credit Union announced today that $17,327.50 will be presented to the Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc. after completion of a special holiday online 50/50 raffle. The 50/50 raffle began on December 1 and continued until December 14. A total of $34,655 was generated and was split equally between the Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc. and the lucky winner.

“We’re thankful to have been chosen by the Dayton Dragons and Day Air Credit Union as the charity partner in this fun, online raffle. Both organizations have proven committed to making the Dayton region a better place to live. This event was a perfect fit for us since all proceeds will benefit our mission of providing a “home away from home” for families of hospitalized military men and women,” said Chris Stanley, Executive Director at Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc.

“We’re thrilled with the Miami Valley’s response to our annual holiday raffle and thrilled to be able to present over $17,000 to another great local charitable program located at the Dayton VA – the Fisher House this holiday season,” said Dragons President, Robert Murphy. “We are thankful for our partnership with Day Air Credit Union in making this happen.”

“Day Air is committed to strengthening our community, and our partners at the Dayton Dragons share this same passion.” Day Air Credit Union CEO and President, Bill Burke said. “We’re proud that our efforts this holiday season led to a significant donation for the Dayton VA Fisher house and ensured vulnerable veterans and their families receive much-needed support.”

Fisher House Foundation builds comfort homes where military & veteran families can stay free of charge. The Fisher Houses offer physical and emotional support to our servicemen and servicewomen, providing the opportunity for military and Veteran families to stay together and support each other when a loved one is undergoing medical treatment. These homes are located at military and VA medical centers around the world. Fisher Houses have up to 21 suites, with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, laundry facilities, a warm dining room, and an inviting living room. To learn more about how you can help, visit www.fnhi.org.

Throughout the 2022 season, the Dragons conducted 50/50 raffles, raising thousands of dollars for local charities and the Dragons Foundation. The Pink Ribbon Girls, CultureWorks, and others received money from the raffle, along with the Dragons Foundation, which provides necessary funding and resources to support the countless donations, charitable giving requests, in-kind donations, unique game experiences, and community wide Dragons programs.

More Information:_ 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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Dragons Holiday “50/50 Raffle” Grows Over $10,000

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With less than a week left, Miami Valley residents can win big and give back to Fisher House Foundation.

DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons Foundation special online 50/50 raffle, presented by Day Air Credit Union, with proceeds benefitting the Fisher House (Dayton VA Medical Center Campus), has grown to over $10,000.

With less than a week left until the end (Wednesday, December 14), one lucky fan will win 50% of the jackpot. The other half of the net proceeds will benefit the Fisher House.

Raffle tickets are now available online at www.DaytonDragons5050.com in the following amounts:

  1. $10.00 receives Two (2) Raffle Tickets; or
  2. $25.00 receives Ten (10) Raffle Tickets; or
  3. $50.00 receives Forty (40) Raffle Tickets

Each ticket purchased will be considered one (1) entry into the raffle. Fans must be 18 years or older and be in the state of Ohio at the time of purchase to enter. The winning ticket number will be announced on December 15, 2022. Buy tickets now and find the official rules at www.DaytonDragons5050.com

“Each season, we host 50/50 raffles inside Day Air Ballpark and online to support various causes in our community through the Dragons Foundation” said Dragons President, Robert Murphy. “We’re excited to host a fully online sales effort to benefit a great local charitable program located at the Dayton VA – the Fisher House. We are also very pleased to partner with Day Air Credit Union in making this happen. We feel it’s a wonderful way to help those in need during the holiday season.”

“Day Air is proud to support local organizations who share our commitment to the community,” Day Air Credit Union CEO and President, Bill Burke said. “This holiday season, we’re once again excited to partner with the Dayton Dragons to sponsor this unique and fun opportunity for members and our community to give to the Fisher House at the Dayton VA.”

“We’re thankful to have been chosen by the Dayton Dragons and Day Air Credit Union as the charity partner in this fun, online raffle. Both organizations have proven committed to making the Dayton region a better place to live. This event was a perfect fit for us since all proceeds will benefit our mission of providing a “home away from home” for families of hospitalized military men and women,” said Chris Stanley, Executive Director at Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc.

This online 50/50 raffle website uses geo-tracking; you must be located in the state of Ohio when you participate. As such, you must allow location settings on your computer/device for it to recognize your location and to participate. There may be some instances where a work/company computer will block the site. If this occurs, please note you should be able to use your cell phone or personal device or home computer to participate.

Fisher House Foundation builds comfort homes where military & veteran families can stay free of charge. The Fisher Houses offer physical and emotional support to our servicemen and servicewomen, providing the opportunity for military and Veteran families to stay together and support each other when a loved one is undergoing medical treatment. These homes are located at military and VA medical centers around the world. Fisher Houses have up to 21 suites, with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, laundry facilities, a warm dining room, and an inviting living room. To learn more about how you can help, visit www.fnhi.org.

BlueClaws Charities Announces 2022 Grant Recipients

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities, the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, has announced grant recipients for their 2022 grant program. 40 organizations, all of which operate at the Jersey Shore, will use the grant money to help Jersey Shore-based programs and initiatives.

BlueClaws Charities raises money throughout the year in several ways, including the daily 50/50 raffle at BlueClaws games, special jersey and other miscellaneous auctions, the sale of mystery merchandise bags in the Claws Cove, and through other initiatives.

“We’re grateful to hand out grants to these 40 deserving organizations and are proud that all of the grants will directly benefit residents of Ocean & Monmouth counties,” said Jim McNamara, Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities.

“We’d also like to thank all of the fans and supporters that contributed to our fundraising throughout 2022 to make these grants possible,” McNamara added.

Below, find the 2022 grant recipients (alphabetical order).

21, Plus Inc. – for their Main Street Greens hydroponic farm, proceeds of which benefit individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia – for their Care Services Program to provide for patients with ALS around the Jersey Shore.

American Cancer Society – for patient service programs that assist cancer patients in Ocean & Monmouth Counties including their Road to Recovery program which provides rides for patients to and from treatments.

American Littoral Society – to their Beach Grasses in Classes program, an initiative designed to engage students in Monmouth and Ocean Counties in ecological restoration and stewardship by planting and growing beach and marsh grasses.

Barnegat / Waretown Little League – to purchase uniforms and additional equipment for players in their Challenger Division.

Bridging The Gap for Veterans – for their Hometown Heroes program which recognizes and thanks a frontline worker for their service.

Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey – to help defray the costs of mandatory volunteer background checks. Volunteers provide a variety of tasks for the disabled and homebound elderly in the area.

Child Care Resources of Monmouth County – to purchase diapers and wipes for families in need in helping to address diaper insecurity in Monmouth County.

Children’s Specialized Hospital Foundation – to support treatment and research initiatives of Children’s Specialized Hospital including new facilities opening in Toms River and Eatontown.

Community Options – to support the Cupid’s Chase 5K race that benefits adults with developmental disabilities in their program.

David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation – to provide financial assistance for families affected by a cancer diagnosis in Ocean & Monmouth Counties. This grant will provide a special holiday for two area families.

Easterseals New Jersey – to offset the cost of fuel to help transport adults with disabilities to social activities, concerts, fitness events, museums, and festivals.

Epilepsy Services of New Jersey – to support the 12th annual Paint the Pony Purple event at the Stone Pony, a family friendly day with live bands and activities in support of people affected by epilepsy and their loved ones.

Exit 82 Theatre Company – to provide programming including both their mainstage season of four musicals/plays and creative and performing arts academy productions of three junior musicals/one high school-college musical.

Family Promise of Southern Ocean County – to provide gift cards for new outfits and toiletries for families in need in addition to haircuts for parents and potential applicants for job interviews.

Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore – to support Innovation Station, an education program designed to meet the needs of disadvantaged girls so they can pursue STEAM in high education and throughout their careers.

Homes Now, Inc – to help construct and monitor quality housing, enhancing the lives of income-restricted families, veterans, individuals with special needs, seniors and women/children survivors of domestic violence.

Jake’s Got This – to help offset the cost of sending children with special needs to a week-long physical therapy program not covered by insurance.

Jersey Shore Council, Boy Scouts of America – to help underwrite the cost of Scouting for low to moderate programs that are run throughout Ocean County.

JP Party Dragon – for food that will be donated to local food pantries and people in need throughout Ocean County.

Kids Need More – to benefit their holidays program, an event for children and families in Ocean or Monmouth Counties that are dealing with a diagnosis of cancer or other life-threatening illness.

LADACIN Network – towards their Give and Take Child Care program, which offers early care and learning for children between the ages of six weeks and nine years old.

Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund – to help funding Soldier Dogs for Dennis, which provides aDA approved service dogs to wounded warriors suffering from PTSD and/or TBI injuries.

Lunch Break – to purchase Chromebooks for their Alliance for Success students, a program that promotes youth development through constructive use of time, reinforcing emotional health, building self-esteem, and fostering a commitment to learning.

Ma Deuce Deuce (Ma22) – to provide presents to children of local veterans in Ocean and Monmouth Counties.

Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity – to build and repair homes through their Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative that provide moderate to low-income homeowners critical repairs and ADA modifications.

Ocean County Family Support Organization – to offset the cost of their youth partnership camping trip in June of 2023 for youths in Ocean County with behavioral, emotional, developmental, and mental health challenges.

Ocean County YMCA – to support the Y for All Financial Assistance Program to ensure no one is turned away from the Y due to an inability to pay.

Ocean Partnership For Children – to further support groups created by the organization such as Your Authentic Self (for LGBTQ+ youth), Girls Empowerment Group, and Boys Empowerment Group Game Changers.

Ocean’s Harbor House – for general operating support providing shelter, programs, and services for homeless and vulnerable teens and young adults in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.

Parents of Autistic Children (POAC) – to support programs in Ocean & Monmouth Counties benefiting families that include children with autism and to allow these families to access recreation in the community in a safe and tolerant atmosphere.

Raising Hope for Others – to support and offset costs related to their sixth annual golf tournament that benefits Mary’s Place by the Sea, Cancer Institute of NJ, and the Lustgarten Foundation.

RJM Sports Group – to help fund scholarships given to students that graduate from the Jackson school system each year.

Seabrook Senior Living – to help make improvements to the library at their Tinton Falls senior living facility.

Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide – to support the Ocean County Youth Wellness Summit, a day-long event hosted by SPTS and designed to provide students, school administrators, and school staff with the necessary resources needed to encourage and support overall wellness, including the prevention of teen suicide.

The Arc, Ocean County Chapter – to support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their Supported Employment and Trial Work Experience programs.

The Mya Lin Terry Foundation – to provide financial and additional resources to pediatric cancer patients in the Jersey Shore community.

The TEARS Foundation, NJ Chapter – to install a cuddle cot, bassinet that is used when a family experiences the loss of their baby and placed into the room with the bereaved family, at Southern Ocean Medical Center.

The Village of Children & Families – to support local foster and adoptive families including through clothing drives, shoe drives, and diaper drives plus through Family Fun Days for adoptive families.

United Way of the Monmouth and Ocean Counties – to support their Warmest Wishes Coat Drive for local preschool, elementary, and middle school children in need.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

Win Big in the Dragons Holiday “50/50 Raffle”

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Win Big in the Dragons Holiday “50/50 Raffle”

Presented by Day Air Credit Union Benefitting the Fisher House (Dayton VA Medical Center Campus)

DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons Foundation has launched a special online 50/50 raffle, presented by Day Air Credit Union, with proceeds benefitting the Fisher House (Dayton VA Medical Center Campus).

Starting Thursday, December 1 through Wednesday, December 14, one lucky fan will win 50% of the jackpot. The other half of the net proceeds will benefit the Fisher House. The starting jackpot will begin at $5,000.

“Each season, we host 50/50 raffles inside Day Air Ballpark and online to support various causes in our community through the Dragons Foundation” said Dragons President, Robert Murphy. “We’re excited to host a fully online sales effort to benefit a great local charitable program located at the Dayton VA – the Fisher House. We are also very pleased to partner with Day Air Credit Union in making this happen. We feel it’s a wonderful way to help those in need during the holiday season.”

“Day Air is proud to support local organizations who share our commitment to the community,” Day Air Credit Union CEO and President, Bill Burke said. “This holiday season, we’re once again excited to partner with the Dayton Dragons to sponsor this unique and fun opportunity for members and our community to give to the Fisher House at the Dayton VA.”

“We’re thankful to have been chosen by the Dayton Dragons and Day Air Credit Union as the charity partner in this fun, online raffle. Both organizations have proven committed to making the Dayton region a better place to live. This event was a perfect fit for us since all proceeds will benefit our mission of providing a “home away from home” for families of hospitalized military men and women,” said Chris Stanley, Executive Director at Fisher/Nightingale Houses, Inc.

Raffle tickets are now available online at www.DaytonDragons5050.com in the following amounts:

  1. $10.00 receives Two (2) Raffle Tickets; or
  2. $25.00 receives Ten (10) Raffle Tickets; or
  3. $50.00 receives Forty (40) Raffle Tickets

Each ticket purchased will be considered one (1) entry into the raffle. Fans must be 18 years or older and be in the state of Ohio at the time of purchase to enter. The winning ticket number will be announced on December 15, 2022. Buy tickets now and find the official rules at www.DaytonDragons5050.com

This online 50/50 raffle website uses geo-tracking; you must be located in the state of Ohio when you participate. As such, you must allow location settings on your computer/device for it to recognize your location and to participate. There may be some instances where a work/company computer will block the site. If this occurs, please note you should be able to use your cell phone or personal device or home computer to participate.

Fisher House Foundation builds comfort homes where military & veteran families can stay free of charge. The Fisher Houses offer physical and emotional support to our servicemen and servicewomen, providing the opportunity for military and Veteran families to stay together and support each other when a loved one is undergoing medical treatment. These homes are located at military and VA medical centers around the world. Fisher Houses have up to 21 suites, with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, laundry facilities, a warm dining room, and an inviting living room. To learn more about how you can help, visit www.fnhi.org.

WooSox Wrap Up Month of Giving with Veterans Day and Thanksgiving Activities and Events

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The Worcester Red Sox and WooSox Foundation wrapped up a busy November with a slew of community events and good deeds to carry the club into what’s poised to be another busy month in December.

More than 150 veterans gathered in Polar Park’s DCU Club for the club’s 8th Annual Veterans Steak Dinner, presented by Country Bank on Thursday, November 10. Veterans from all over the region were treated to a complimentary steak meal prepared by WooSox Executive Chef Tom Whalen. The WooSox welcomed vets from organizations such as Veterans Inc., Project New Hope, Clearpath New England, Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, Korean War Veterans of Massachusetts, Green Meadows, and other local V.F.W.’s.

Veterans at the dinner received “thank you” cards from Ms. Kara Lynch’s 5th grade class at Gates Lane Elementary School in Worcester, and were treated to a beautiful rendition of the Star Spangled Banner by Alan Swartz of Leominster, MA.

On Veterans Day the following day, WooSox mascot Smiley Ball stopped by Veterans Inc.’s Pancake Breakfast and marched in the City of Worcester’s Annual Veterans Day Parade with community leaders and elected officials.

On Wednesday, November 16, the WooSox welcomed 50 fourth graders to Polar Park from Worcester’s Jacob Hiatt Magnet School, and the students enjoyed a turkey feast prepared by Chef Tom Whalen.

The WooSox began the week of Thanksgiving by volunteering at Friendly House, a Worcester-based non-profit located less than a mile from Polar Park that offers social services, feeding programs, housing services, and youth programs for underserved residents throughout the city.

WooSox representatives were also joined by their community partners from the Worcester Railers, and together they helped Friendly House Executive Director Trish Appert distribute food to those in need just days before Thanksgiving.

After Friendly House, the WooSox traveled to El Buen Samaritano, a food pantry in Worcester’s Main South neighborhood, where they helped distribute food to those in need alongside Robyn Kennedy, State Senator in Worcester’s 1st District. The WooSox Foundation made $500 donations to both Friendly House and El Buen Samaritano.

On Tuesday, November 22, the WooSox Foundation deployed its Care-A-Van, presented by Bank of America, to help fix up a softball field in Sturbridge, MA. The team was joined by their corporate partners from AbbVie, in addition to Sturbridge Town Manager Robin Grimm, who was instrumental in alerting club officials of the field’s needs.

Reno Aces Fans Raise Over $22,000 in Theme Jersey Auctions

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RENO, Nev. – From Doctor Strange to SpongeBob SquarePants, Margaritaville, and more, the players and coaching staff wore a wide range of jerseys beyond their standard red, white, and blues during their Pacific Coast League Championship run at Greater Nevada Field.

This season, the Aces partnered with six Reno-area charities, Reno Rodeo Foundation, JOIN Inc., Eddy House, Communities in Schools of Nevada, Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation, and Disabled American Veterans, with each theme jersey night that included a jersey auction.

After a final tally of each theme-jersey auction, the Reno Aces are proud to announce a total of $22,374.18, with each of the six beneficiary charities receiving $3,729.

“The sense of giving that the Aces fans showcased this year to our charitable partners was remarkable with every dollar raised,” said Reno Aces Community Relations Manager Mary Knezovich. “These jerseys allow the winner to have a one-of-a-kind Reno Aces piece of history, and every winning bid helps the Northern Nevada community.”

Eddy House –

“Eddy House is very grateful to the Reno Aces for donating the proceeds of their jersey auction! Eddy House is Northern Nevada’s only shelter serving youth 18 to 24. When youth come to us, they have full access to our wide range of services, including immediate needs such as shelter, food, and showers, as well as case management, workforce development, therapy, and more. This money will help us to continue to provide these services as the demand increases with the cold weather. Thank you!”

Reno Rodeo Foundation –

“What most people don’t realize about the Denim Drive is that 100% of all donations go directly to these children,” said Debby Herman, Reno Rodeo Foundation President. “The support from the Reno Aces will directly benefit our program and the amazing impact the proceeds from the Marvel Jersey auction with have for children who have experienced the unimaginable”

“The Denim Drive program has evolved to providing Reno Rodeo Foundation purchase cards to social works so the kids can pick out their new clothing and hygiene items” said Clara Andriola, Executive Director of the Reno Rodeo Foundation. “Social workers have shared this process gives them a sense of pride, calms their anxiety from the trauma, boosts their confidence and allows them to express their individual style while teaching them crucial life skills that help them feel normal, especially during a time when everything the children know and own has been ripped away from them.”. The Reno Aces generous donation sends a message that someone really cares about them.”

Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation –

“Northern Nevada is a beautiful place to live because of great community partners like the Reno Aces. Your donation is greatly appreciated, and more important than ever, it offers Help, Hope, and Courage to families from the moment their child is diagnosed through survivorship. The Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation can provide services to ensure local families can overcome the financial and emotional burdens of a childhood cancer diagnosis. In the last 20 years, our foundation has provided over $7 million in direct financial assistance to local children. Your support helps assist approximately 120 children with needs such as medical, household, educational, and travel expenses related to treatment. We can provide this support because of donors like you. We appreciate the Reno Aces and recognize the significant impact of their donation. Thank you for helping make a difference for our youngest cancer warriors and their families.”

Communities in Schools of Nevada –

“We’re grateful that the Reno Aces and the Aces fans help put the “Communities” in our name through the jersey auction event! With the funds raised through this generous donation, we are able to continue our work in helping the almost 9,000 students in 13 schools throughout Washoe County by eliminating barriers to staying in school and graduating. Thank you to everyone who bid and won!”

The Reno Aces theme-jersey auctions will return in 2023, with the first one set for May, and additional auctions will run on select Saturdays throughout the season.

Baseball returns to Greater Nevada Field on Friday, March 31st, as the Reno Aces 2023 Opening Day will include a battle against their Silver State rivals, the Las Vegas Aviators, Triple-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics. To purchase tickets or for more information about the Reno Aces, visit www.renoaces.com.

-ACES-

Fireflies Announce Holiday Lights Community Initiative 

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COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies today announced that they will host Six Weeks of Giving during Fireflies Holiday Lights. Six Weeks of Giving is a series of holiday drives benefitting six local community organizations. Each organization will host a week-long drive that guests can support by bringing donation items with them to Fireflies Holiday Lights to help aid those in need this holiday season. For the inaugural Six Weeks of Giving, the Fireflies have partnered with Toys for Tots, Oliver Gospel Mission, Epworth Children’s Home, Harvest Hope, Edventure and Pawmetto Lifeline.

“Christmas and the holidays are a season of giving, and we wanted to make sure that we kick off the Fireflies Holiday Lights tradition with a way for our community to give back to those in need,” said Fireflies Team President, Brad Shank. “Our team always wants to serve our community in everything that we do, and we are excited to partner with these six great organizations to provide an opportunity for our guests to be able to give while they are out enjoying this amazing light show.”

The schedule for the drives is as follows:

  • November 21-27: Toy drive benefitting Toys for Tots
  • November 28-December 4: Clothing drive benefitting Oliver Gospel Mission
  • December 5-11: Cleaning supplies drive benefitting Epworth Children’s Home
  • December 12-18: Canned food drive benefitting Harvest Hope
  • December 19-24: Book drive benefitting Edventure Children’s Museum
  • December 26-31: Pet food drive benefitting Pet Soup from Pawmetto Lifeline

Detailed lists of items needed for each drive can be found on Fireflies social media channels and on FirefliesHolidayLights.com.

Holiday Lights attendees can also expect to hear bells ringing as they approach Segra Park every evening as the Fireflies have partnered with the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign to be a kettle host site during all 42 nights of lights this holiday season.

Fireflies Holiday Lights starts at Segra Park November 19 and run through December 31. The lights will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Tickets for all 42 nights of lights are on sale now. For tickets or more information about the event, including ticket pricing and promotions, visit FirefliesHolidayLights.com.

$61,000 Awarded Through Home Runs For Heroes Program

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The 2022 Home Runs for Heroes Program wrapped up its 14th season scoring $61,000 in grants for 14 nonprofit partners serving local members of the United States Military and Veterans. Each charity partner was assigned an inning at the beginning of the season, and each home run hit at ShoreTown Ballpark during their designated inning scored a $1,000 donation.

“OceanFirst Foundation is honored to work our incredible Home Runs for Heroes partners and we’re proud to share that this special program has resulted in $560,000 in grants over 14 amazing Jersey Shore BlueClaws seasons. We take great pride in supporting the local heroes who protect and have served our great nation. Thank you Jersey Shore BlueClaws and Townsquare Media – 96.7/104.1 Cat Country for your partnership over the last 14 Seasons!” – Katherine Durante, Executive Director, OceanFirst Foundation.

“Deborah Hospital Foundation is a grateful partner with OceanFirst Foundation, Jersey Shore BlueClaws, and Townsquare. We’re extremely appreciative to have received a $4,000 grant from this year’s Home Runs for Heroes Program. The grant will support the HeroCare Connect program which provides high quality concierge healthcare navigation services to Veterans, active duty and retired military, and their dependents. We look forward to participating again next year. Go BlueClaws!” – Steve Toal, Chief Development Officer, Deborah Hospital Foundation.

“Military causes are very close to us all and we’re honored that OceanFirst Foundation has continued this amazing program with the BlueClaws once again,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “The program helps a grouping of amazing, local, charities that help veterans and we thank OceanFirst Foundation for their support.”

Recipient organizations included: American National Red Cross, Army Emergency Relief, Catholic Charities (Diocese of Trenton), Ma Deuce Deuce, Chariot Riders, Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund, Vetwork, Navy-Marine Corps Relief, National Guard State Family Readiness Council, GI Go Fund, Cape May Coast Guard Foundation, Jewish Federation of Southern Ocean County, Deborah Hospital Foundation, and Homes For All.

The $500,000 mark was eclipsed on the first home run of 2022, hit by DJ Stewart in the second game of the season on April 9th. Baron Radcliff led the team with seven home runs at ShoreTown Ballpark. Rixon Wingrove had six home runs and Carlos De La Cruz added five.

About OceanFirst Foundation
OceanFirst Foundation empowers organizations to think bigger, solve more problems, and make life better in the neighborhoods served by OceanFirst Bank. OceanFirst Foundation’s priorities include Health & Wellness, Housing, Improving the Quality of Life, and Youth Development and Education. Since 1996, OceanFirst Foundation has awarded more than 8,600 grants totaling more than $46 million to non-profits and schools within our footprint. Learn more at oceanfirstfdn.org.

About the Jersey Shore BlueClaws
The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. In 2022, they welcomed their 8-millionth fan to ShoreTown Ballpark since team’s 2001 inception. Additionally, the BlueClaws had 14 sellouts across the summer. Opening Night at the Jersey Shore is set for Tuesday, April 11th and 2023 ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale at BlueClaws.com or by calling 732-901-7000 option 3.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws/OceanFirst Foundation-

Cutters Donate to American Rescue Workers

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The Williamsport Crosscutters recently presented the American Rescue Workers with a check for $7,626, representing the proceeds from the team’s 50/50 raffles during the 2022 season. The nightly 50/50 raffle is presented by the Crosscutters and the Pitch In Charitable Foundation, a non-profit foundation of professional baseball teams.

This represents the sixth straight season that the team has donated it’s 50/50 proceeds to the American Rescue Workers. Cutters Vice-President of Marketing Gabe Sinicropi stated, “The American Rescue Workers is a great organization, run by great people, doing great work. We know that the donated funds are put to good use, helping the most vulnerable in our community in their time of need.”

In the past six seasons, the Williamsport Crosscutters have donated over $39,000 to ARW through the foundation’s 50/50 raffle.

Woodpeckers Announce Sponsorship of The Big Tiny Project

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FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The Fayetteville Woodpeckers are sponsoring The Big Tiny Project, an initiative to support homeless and at-risk veterans. The Big Tiny Project, created by the Fayetteville-based nonprofit Off-Road Outreach, is a planned tiny home community designed to be a bridge between being on the street and permanent housing. All services will be free of charge to veterans.

The Woodpeckers Foundation and Community Leaders Program donated $10,000 to The Big Tiny Project to cover the renovation of three 290-square-foot tiny homes that will house homeless and at- risk veterans. Other sponsors of The Big Tiny Project include Lowe’s, Wells Fargo, the All-Veteran Group, U.S. Veterans Corps, Window World and ServiceSource.

The purpose of The Big Tiny Project is to provide up to 180 days of bridge housing to homeless and at- risk veterans. The Big Tiny Project will provide on-site support for navigating benefits, identification services, mental and physical health referrals, financial counseling and employment. In addition, veterans can utilize a food pantry, community garden and transportation services. The project is set to be completed by the start of 2023.

“We are incredibly thankful to the Woodpeckers Foundation for their support of The Big Tiny Project,” said Stacey Buckner, the director and founder of Off-Road Outreach. “This bridge housing program is long overdue in Fayetteville and will satisfy an immediate need. We can’t wait to show the impact this will have on our veterans.”

For more information on the Woodpeckers Foundation and Community Leaders Program, please visit www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com.

RiverDogs Partner with Breeze Airways for Random Acts of Nice-Ness Week

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

The Charleston RiverDogs and Breeze Airways have announced plans for Random Acts of Nice-Ness Week. From July 6-9, RiverDogs players and staff, as well as Breeze Airways team members, will be out in the community volunteering at various locations and working to spread niceness around the Holy City. The week will culminate at the RiverDogs 6:05 p.m. contest against the Augusta GreenJackets on Saturday, July 9.

“As an organization, we are always looking for opportunities to support our community in the same way that they support us each season. The chance to have our players and staff visit several non-profits and spread niceness in the community over the next several days is something we are extremely excited about,” said RiverDogs President and General Manager Dave Echols. “Our partnership with Breeze Airways has been outstanding and we are happy to join with them over the next several days to do some good for the city of Charleston”.

The week commenced at MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital on Wednesday, July. The group played board games, air hockey and did arts and crafts with patients at the hospital.

On Thursday, July 7, the RiverDogs and Breeze Airways will continue the fun at Fisher House Charleston. The Fisher House provides temporary lodging for family members of Veterans who are receiving care at the Ralph A. Johnson VA Medical Center. From 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., players and staff members will host a backyard barbecue. The RiverDogs Food Truck will provide lunch while everyone stays entertained with traditional yard games including giant jenga and cornhole.

The niceness will continue at The Joe on Friday, July 8 when kids and staff members from Windwood Farms are welcomed to the ballpark for a Field Day in the outfield from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Players and coaches will join the children for games including a pizza box race, uniform dress-up relay and kickball. A picnic will be held for all attendees at Murray’s Mezzanine and they will receive tickets to that night’s game.

Early on Saturday, July 9 from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., the RiverDogs and Breeze Airways will be in RiverFront Park handing out Breeze Points, tickets to Saturday night’s game, merchandise and other fun gifts.

Everything will shift to The Joe during Saturday’s game, as fans in attendance will be on the receiving end of the niceness. Breeze team members will be making their way around the ballpark doing nice things for various fans, like buying them a hot dog or a beverage. In addition, Breeze will make a donation to each of the three non-profit organizations that were part of the volunteer events earlier in the week and give away one roundtrip flight to a lucky fan during each inning of the game. Following the contest, every fan in the ballpark will receive a bottle of bubbles and will send them airborne in unison along with Breeze.

“We are extremely excited to partner with the Charleston RiverDogs as we roll out the ‘Random Acts of Nice-Ness Week,’ it’s a really cool project and involves two fun organizations,” said Chris Plunkett, Breeze’s Charleston Base Leader. “Breeze continues to look for unique opportunities to support the Lowcountry community. We are sincerely grateful to serve Charleston and the surrounding areas.”

Breeze Airways is a new airline merging technology with kindness. Breeze provides nonstop service between underserved routes across the U.S. at affordable fares. With seamless booking, no change or cancellation fees and customized flight features delivered via a sleek and simple app, Breeze makes it easy to buy and easy to fly. Welcome to Breeze, Seriously Nice™ flights and fares.

Individual tickets to all home games are still available. Season tickets, Dog-E Coin plans, and group tickets, including options to the Segra Club at Riley Park, are already available at riverdogs.com/tickets or by contacting the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS). The Segra Club is also open for events year-round. Visit segraclub.com for more information.

BRYAN CRANSTON, AARON PAUL TO HOST “BREAKING BAD” MEMORABILIA SILENT AUCTION FOR CHARITY JULY 30 AT ISOTOPES PARK 

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

The Albuquerque Isotopes today announced “Breaking Bad” stars Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul will host a silent auction Saturday, July 30 at Isotopes Park. The Emmy-winning actors are also scheduled to throw out the ceremonial first pitch and sing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” during that evening’s game.

Proceeds from the auction will benefit two local charities:

New Mexico Veterans Integration Centers**:** A resource for Veterans and their families in New Mexico, the VIC provides many services, including multiple housing assistance options, peer support, food and nutrition, and case management services to Veterans, their families, and the community.

Children’s Cancer Fund of New Mexico: From the moment a New Mexico child is diagnosed with cancer, the CCFNM is there to help. Generous donations directly support these children and their families in the following manner: Assistance for transportation costs, food vouchers, prizes for children and teens to help minimize the trauma of painful procedures, scholarship assistance and much more.

All silent auction items will be donated from the personal collections of both Cranston and Paul, who starred in the hit television series from 2008-2013. The auction—which will be held exclusively at Isotopes Park—will begin when the gates open at 5:30 pm and will last through the fifth inning. The specific auction items will be announced in the coming weeks. The auction winners will be invited to attend a private photo op with both Cranston and Paul during that night’s game.

“Albuquerque was our creative home throughout the run of Breaking Bad, and will always have a warm place in my heart,” Cranston said. “Now, Aaron and I thought we can do something to say thank you in the best way possible, by raising money for two very important charities that serve the ABQ community, while also having fun at the ballpark.”

“ABQ…we see you. Doing the math – the city has been the host to Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul for sixteen years! That is a long-term relationship,” Paul said. “We were so grateful the city was an important part of the stories, because it was a character as well. Thank you, Albuquerque. See you at the game, everyone!”

The auction will highlight a festive evening, as the 6:35 pm game vs. Las Vegas will feature Blake’s Lotaburger Green Chile Cheeseburgers Night and a post-game Fireworks Spectacular.

Cranston and Paul will be returning to Albuquerque, in part, to promote their Dos Hombres Mezcal which has become the number six Mezcal in North American sales in just under three years. Dos Hombres Margaritas will be available at Isotopes Park starting in mid-July.

An updated version of the Isotopes 2022 schedule is linked here. Fans can purchase individual tickets to all remaining Isotopes home games here. Information on group outings can be found here.

Annual Jacob's Village, Otters Benefit Game Scheduled for June 30

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Jacob’s Village and the Evansville Otters announced the 16th annual benefit game at Bosse Field is scheduled for June 30 at 6:35 p.m. when the Otters take on the Joliet Slammers.

On June 30, 100% of game sponsorships and a portion of gate tickets sales will benefit Jacob’s Village. The proceeds from the game will enable Jacob’s Village to provide accessible housing for people with disabilities and help Jacob’s Village residents live independently.

“We would like to thank the Evansville Otters organization for their long-standing support of Jacob’s Village and our mission for many years,” Jacob’s Village Development Director Laura Hurt said.

“It’s been a wonderful partnership with the Evansville Otters, and over our 16-year history, we have raised over $210,000 to support people with disabilities.”

The mission of Jacob’s Village is to develop a safe, walk-able neighborhood community where people with disabilities and older adults can find meaningful relationships, housing that is affordable and accessible, and activities that encourage active minds and bodies.

“This will be a fun, family-friendly game. We invite the community to come out on Thursday, June 30 to enjoy exciting Otters baseball, a big fireworks show after the game ahead of July 4, free popcorn provided by Wolk Financial, Thirsty Thursday, a big half-pot, live DJ, and more!” Hurt added.

“This partnership was created 16 years ago and has turned into a big fundraiser for Jacob’s Village,” Otters Vice President, Sales Joel Padfield said. “It brings in a lot of fans that our players love to play in front of. It will be a fun, special night at Bosse Field.”

$5 general admission tickets for this year’s game may be purchased at all G.D. Ritzy’s locations, Bosse Field and Jacob’s Village. The Bosse Field box office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, visit their website at www.jacobsvillage.org.

There’s no place like Bosse Field, so get your tickets now!

The Evansville Otters are the 2006 and 2016 Frontier League champions.

The Otters play all home games at historic Bosse Field, located at 23 Don Mattingly Way in Evansville, Ind. Stay up to date with the Evansville Otters by visiting evansvilleotters.com, or follow the Otters on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

For more information, visit evansvilleotters.com or call (812) 435-8686.

Giving HOPE: Gades participating in HOPE Week 6/7-12

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. (June 1, 2022) – The Hudson Valley Renegades, the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, announced today their participation in HOPE Week. Renegades players and staff will participate in community service events throughout the Hudson Valley from Tuesday, June 7 through Sunday, June 12.

The Renegades participation in HOPE Week is in partnership with Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth), the Official Hospital Partner of the Hudson Valley Renegades.

The Yankees’ wildly popular and successful HOPE Week initiative (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) was introduced in 2009, and is rooted in the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope and encouragement to more than just the recipient of the gesture.

“Being able to participate in HOPE Week is one of the most special parts of being affiliated with the New York Yankees,” said Steve Gliner, President and General Manager of the Renegades. “Being able to touch people’s lives and make a difference through our and the Yankees’ commitment to community engagement is what we are all about as an organization.”

The Renegades 2022 HOPE Week program is as follows:

Tuesday, June 7th – Maria Fareri Children’s Health Services at MidHudson Regional Hospital

  • As part of the Westchester Medical Health Network, the Maria Fareri Children’s Health Services at MidHudson Regional Hospital provides emergency care for children from serious injuries to burns, scrapes, and bruises. Services include a child-friendly Pediatric Emergency Department, select Pediatric Surgical Services, dedicated Pediatric Inpatient Unit, Child Life services to support patients during care, and Caregiver services to support parents, siblings, and other family members during a patient’s care. Renegades players and staff will conduct room visits and participate in crafts projects with patients.

Thursday, June 9th – The Community at Brookmeade

  • Opened in 1977, The Community at Brookmeade offers apartment residences and a combination of lifestyle, services, and amenities designed with the need of active older adults in mind. Located in the village of Rhinebeck, New York, Brookmeade presently serves as a 120-bed facility for seniors aged 62 and above. The Community is committed to providing all residents with a lifestyle focus on quality, centered in wellness, and facilitated by competent and caring staff. Renegades players and staff will visit and engage with residents and participate in activity stations.

Friday, June 10th – Liberty Station

  • Hudson River Housing believes that those who served our country deserve the highest level of care, including quality, affordable housing. Hudson River Housing aims to meet the needs for the veteran community through specialized housing, transportation, advocacy, and care management. Operated by Hudson River Housing, Liberty Station was the first of three housing services available for veterans. Opened in 2014, Liberty Station offers a supportive living environment in the company of other veterans. Units are single room occupancy, with shared kitchen and bath facilities. Garden Street Housing and Poughkeepsie Commons also offer housing for veterans. Garden Street Housing offers low-cost housing with a preference for female veterans, with private baths and shared kitchen and common areas and Poughkeepsie Commons is a 72-unit apartment complex that offers 24 one-bedroom apartments exclusively for veterans. Veterans from Liberty Station, Garden Street Housing, and Poughkeepsie Commons will gather at Liberty Station to meet and engage with Renegades players and staff.

Saturday, June 11th – Disability, Dream & Do (D3)/ThinkDIFFERENTLY Camp

  • D3 and ThinkDIFFERENTLY collaborate to host camp in partnership with Hudson Valley Renegades. Disability, Dream & Do (D3) is a pro style practice with professional players at stadiums across the country. D3 participants have an opportunity to hit, throw, catch and run the bases with instruction from the best regardless of anyone’s limitations. The Disability Dream and Do (D3Day) sports camps were created by Dave Clark, the only pitcher in professional sports history to pitch on crutches, and Doug Cornfield, a former NCAA medal winning runner at Georgia, who himself had a child born with no arms. These camps allow professional players to interact with children with special needs in various drills and compete in sports with no limitations. In 2016, Dave Stevens, who was born without legs but played college football and minor league baseball, came on board as the D3 Day camps expanded to other cities in the US. Dave, Dave and Doug now put on camps all over the country and share their amazing stories as well as inspire others to look past a disability and turn it into an ability.
  • “ThinkDIFFERENTLY” is a call to action, a genuine challenge to determine if we have it within ourselves to look past our differences and treat others the way we would hope to be treated. Too often, too many with special needs are overlooked and their unique abilities ignored. Instead, we seek to lift each other up and embrace all residents of all abilities. Launched by Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro in 2015, the “ThinkDIFFERENTLY” initiative seeks to change the way individuals, businesses, organizations and communities relate to our neighbors with special needs.

Sunday, June 12th – Fishkill Food Pantry

  • The Fishkill Food Pantry was established as a mission program in 1985 to assist individuals and families in the Southern Dutchess area who are coping with financial emergencies and supply basic food needs. The people served are often referred to the Pantry by social service agencies, churches, schools, and family advocates. The Pantry is the largest food pantry in Dutchess County, serving families in Beacon, Beekman, Chelsea, Cold Spring, Fishkill, Glenham, Hopewell Junction, Hughsonville, Stormville, and Wappingers Falls. The Renegades will provide donations in the morning to the food pantry and host a food drive during Sunday’s game.

The Renegades Community Program and their participation in HOPE Week is presented by WMCHealth. Throughout the week, the Renegades host the Jersey Shore BlueClaws for a seven-game series at The Dutch. For more information on HOPE Week and the Renegades Community Program, visit www.hvrenegades.com and click on the Community tab.

ABOUT THE HUDSON VALLEY RENEGADES

The Renegades are in their second season as the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees. They have played their home games at Dutchess Stadium in Wappingers Falls, N.Y. since 1994.

ABOUT DIAMOND BASEBALL HOLDINGS

Diamond Baseball Holdings (DBH) is a subsidiary of Endeavor, the global sports and entertainment company. DBH was formed in 2021 to support, promote, and enhance Minor League Baseball through professional management, best practices, innovation and investment. (DiamondBaseballHoldings.com).