Showcasing Job & Career Opportunities throughout the CSRA

*2022 CSRA Job & Career Fair set for Tuesday, August 30th *

Showcasing Job & Career Opportunities throughout the CSRA

NORTH AUGUSTA, SC: The Augusta GreenJackets, Single-A Carolina League affiliate of the Atlanta Braves, are excited to announce that on Tuesday, August 30th, while the GreenJackets take on the Salem Red Sox (Red Sox) at 7:05 p.m., SRP Park will play host to the 2022 CSRA Job & Career Fair from 6-8 p.m. Fans who bring a resume to the SRP Park Box Office can get a $5 General Admission/Standing Room Only ticket which will gain them admission into the ballpark for both the GreenJackets game, and the Job & Career Fair.

“We look forward to hosting this annual event at SRP Park to showcase the great employment and career opportunities throughout the region,” stated GreenJackets Vice President Tom Denlinger. “This is going to be a unique event where GreenJackets guests can not only enjoy an entertaining night of baseball, but they will also have the opportunity to see opportunities available in the region and network with local businesses and colleges in the CSRA.”

Businesses and Colleges from the CSRA that are scheduled to attend include: Aiken Technical College; Augusta Technical College; Augusta University Health; Augusta University; Bridgestone; Cintas, City of North Augusta, Coke United Augusta, E-Z-GO/Textron; Family Y of Greater Augusta, Georgia Army National Guard; Leidos; SRP Federal Credit Union; TaxSlayer; and more.

Along with the Job & Career Fair, it’s also the final First Responder Tuesday presented by Academy Sports and Outdoors. All Fire, Police, and EMS can receive $2 off reserved or general admission (standing room only) ticket options with valid ID at the SRP Park Box Office. It’s also our final $2 TWOs-day of the season where from 6-8pm SRP Park features $2 Hotdogs, Nachos, Fresh Popped Popcorn, Coca-Cola Fountain Products and Miller Light Drafts.

Fans are encouraged to pre-register for the Job & Career Fair by clicking here: https://bit.ly/AGJ-JobFair-Registration

Fans who bring a resume to the SRP Park Box Office can get a $5 General Admission/Standing Room Only ticket which will get them admission into the ballpark for both the GreenJackets game, and the Job Fair. For more information, fans can go to the SRP Park Box office, visit GreenJacketsbaseball.com or call (803) 349-WINS (9467).

Tickets start at only $9. To learn more or purchase your tickets visit www.greenjacketsbaseball.com/tickets

Stay up to date on all things GreenJackets and Events at SRP Park by following us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and sign up for the ‘Jackets Buzz e-newsletter today by visiting https://atmilb.com/3yr4mrw

About SRP Park/Augusta GreenJackets

The Augusta GreenJackets are the Single-A Carolina League Affiliate of the Atlanta Braves playing in the state of the art SRP Park located in North Augusta, SC. 2022 Augusta GreenJackets season seat memberships and individual tickets are on sale now. To learn more about the benefits and to get in on the action, visit www.gjmembers.com or call (803) 349-WINS (9467).

SRP Park is the anchor piece of Riverside Village, a live, work, “playball” development which includes apartment living, retail, restaurants, class “A” office space, and a Crowne Plaza Hotel and Conference Center. To learn more about SRP Park and hosting events and availability, visit www.thesrppark.com.

-GreenJackets –

WooSox Foundation and Country Bank Present Worcester “Police vs. Fire Baseball Classic at Polar Park”

WORCESTER, MA — The WooSox Foundation and Country Bank will bring to Polar Park a century-old tradition when Worcester Police Officers and Worcester Firefighters take the field in the inaugural “Police vs. Fire Baseball Classic,” Monday, September 26, at 6 p.m. Gates open at 4:30 p.m.

All tickets are $10, and fans are welcome to sit wherever they like. Visit polarpark.com/policefire.

All proceeds will benefit the Manny 267 Foundation, which honors and celebrates the life of the late Worcester Police Officer Enmanuel “Manny” Familia, who made the ultimate sacrifice on June 4, 2021, when he heroically dove into Green Hill Pond to attempt to save a drowning teenage boy.

The foundation distributes “Manny Tubes” (life-saving flotation devices) to police departments throughout the country to provide water safety training for officers and swimming lessons for children.

Before the game, the WooSox will honor the family and friends of Manny Familia, as well as the Worcester 6 and the three firefighters who have perished in the line of duty since.

The children of Manny Familia and Firefighter Christopher Roy, 14-year-old Jovan Familia and 13-year-old Ava Roy, will serve as honorary captains.

“Ever since we set foot in Worcester, we have felt the compelling compassion that the people of this city exude for our fallen firefighters,” said WooSox President Dr. Charles Steinberg. “When we lost Manny Familia last summer, that emotion flowed right into Polar Park, where officers from a vast region congregated, and where Manny’s son threw a memorable Ceremonial First Pitch. We are honored to present an event that brings us all together in a blend of respect, sentiment, and joy.

“Stories abound from Police Chief Steve Sargent and from our friends at the Worcester Historical Museum about the long history of baseball played in Worcester, by police and firefighters, by factory workers, and of course, by rising professional players,” Steinberg continued. “Establishing this baseball game as a charity event, with our friends from Country Bank, allows us to use the power of baseball to help police officers and children, here and elsewhere. These are the deeds we love to do.”

“Country Bank is honored to partner with the Worcester Red Sox Foundation in presenting the Police vs. Fire game,” said Paul Scully, President and CEO of Country Bank. “We have been a longtime supporter of the Police and Fire Departments across the many markets we serve. The critical work these departments do each and every day truly makes a difference for our communities. It is our privilege to take part in such a monumental event, and we are excited to see how this game unfolds and look forward to supporting this game for years to come.”

“All officers from our department who are participating are very excited to start a longstanding tradition with this baseball game,” said Worcester Police Officer Justin Manzello. “Some of the most memorable moments during my six years with the Worcester Police Department have come during the various sporting events where we face off against our brothers and sisters of the Fire Department. It gives us a chance to get together outside of work and relive old memories, as many of us competed against each other as kids growing up in the city.”

“The Worcester Fire Department is looking forward to partnering with the Worcester Police, Country Bank, and the Worcester Red Sox for this great cause,” said Deputy Fire Chief Adam Roche. “This will be a great event to engage the community and support the tremendous work of the Manny 267 Foundation.”

“In the wake of loss and tragedy comes a spirited and friendly competition in the name of healing and camaraderie between the Worcester Fire Department and Worcester Police Department, said Acting City Manager Eric D. Batista. “I am proud of the leadership and of every member among these two departments who selflessly serve our community and residents, both on and off the job. Worcester never forgets and will forever honor our fallen heroes. Now let’s play ball!”

Saints Announce Winners Of Inaugural Jimmy Lee Umpire Awards, Headlined By Larry Gallagher, As Part of Minor League Baseball's “The Nine” Initiative

ST. PAUL, MN — (August 5, 2022) – Umpires are rarely honored for their hard, often underappreciated work, let alone with an award named for a man as well-respected as the late, great Jimmy Lee. To provide the recognition they so richly deserve, the Saints have introduced an initiative to promote the importance of, and the need for, great umpires and have selected seven winners in the inaugural Jimmy Lee Umpire Awards class.

The following exemplary umpires will be honored during a pregame ceremony celebrating Jimmy Lee and his impact on the Saint Paul community, prior to the Saints August 9 home game:

Lifetime Achievement in Umpiring – Larry Gallagher and Bryan DeVos

Most Dedicated Umpire – Duane Reed & Peyton Yurek

Rookie Umpire of the Year – Nathan O’Brien

Young Umpire of the Year – Ethan Agre

Most Improved Umpire – Chase Hebel

Both baseball and softball umpires were nominated by their league’s assignors in five different categories and a panel including Saints leadership and leaders in the officiating community selected the final award winners. This class of winners is headlined by one of the most respected umpires in Minnesota, Larry Gallagher.

The 82-year-old Gallagher retired in 2020 after 59-years as an umpire and is the Dean of the Northwest Umpires Association. During his final year playing catcher at Augsburg in 1961, an umpire working one of the games thought Gallagher would be a good ump, based on the fact he had been a catcher his entire life. Gallagher, who had a passion for the game and a teaching degree, agreed with the sentiment and thus a long and storied career began.

By his estimation, Gallagher believes he umpired well over 5,000 games and acquired the nickname “Dr. Balk.” A typical season saw Gallagher umpire between 100-150 games, and he was known for studying the rule book intently.

Gallagher got his opportunity to umpire in the Major Leagues in 1979 when the umpires went on strike at the start of the season. In his first Major League game on May 3, he was the first base umpire as the Minnesota Twins hosted the Detroit Tigers at Metropolitan Stadium. All told, Gallagher umpired seven games in the Major Leagues, two behind the plate.

He continued umpiring at various levels of amateur baseball as well as officiating high-school football, basketball, and wrestling. He was a high-school physical-education teacher and coach until he retired in 1999. In addition to umpiring, which he still does, Gallagher is a baseball rules interpreter and coordinator for the Minnesota State High School League.

The Jimmy Lee Umpire Award will be an annual honor given out by the Saints to the most deserving umpires in the area. The award is named after one of the most well-respected officials in Minnesota history. Jim “Jimmy” Lee was born in Vicksburg, Mississippi, moved to St. Paul when he was 23, and got a job with a downtown bank. He was involved in sports and played on the Uptown Sanitary Shop and the Twin Cities Colored Gophers, two of the most renowned Black baseball teams at the time. He became a local referee in both football and basketball and an umpire in baseball, considered by many the greatest official in the area at all three sports. He was the first black baseball umpire in the Big 10. He wrote columns for the _Minneapolis Spokesman _for over a decade. Lee was inducted into the Minnesota High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame (1972), the Minnesota Softball Hall of Fame (1982) and posthumously into the Minnesota State High School League Hall of Fame in 2013.

This is the second of two nights promoting “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport, provide new opportunities for youth baseball and softball participation, further diversify the business of baseball, and embrace millions of passionate fans throughout MiLB’s 120 communities nationwide.

The award ceremony will take place prior to the Tuesday, August 9 game between the Saints and the Columbus Clippers.

Saints tickets continue to be a tremendous value. Tickets begin at $5 for the Treasure Island berm seating, $6 bleacher seats, $15 for outfield reserved, $18 for drink rail, infield reserved, and home plate reserved. Friday home games with Post-Game Fireworks are an additional $2 per ticket. Post-Game Fireworks Supershows (September 4) are an additional $3 per ticket. Tickets purchased on the day of the game are an additional $2 per ticket. Children under the age of 12 and seniors 65 and older receive $1 off the admission price. Children under 2 that don’t require a seat are free.

ValleyCats and American National Insurance to Honor 9 Community Heroes at “The Joe”

TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats and American National Insurance Company have partnered again this season to recognize nine heroes within the Capital Region community during a special on-field ceremony prior to tonight’s rubber match against the Ottawa Titans.

The “Home Run Community Heroes Starting Nine” is chosen through an online fan nomination process. The ‘Cats and American National Insurance encourage fans to nominate hospital staff, health care workers, military personnel, law enforcement, firefighter/EMS agencies, non-profit organizations, as well as teachers, volunteers, children, and everyday people that have helped make a positive impact within the Capital Region!

This year’s honorees are:

  • Cody Alessi, 7th Grade Student
  • Lindsey Bedell, Teacher, Corinth Elementary School
  • Jason Chevrier, Superintendent, Schodack Central School District
  • Chris DelVecchio, Communications Officer, Rensselaer County Public Safety
  • Heather McKenna, Physical Therapist, Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital
  • Jamie Panichi, Investigations Sergeant, Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office
  • Casey Rowland, Teacher, Sand Creek Middle School
  • John Soychak, Paramedic, North Greenbush Ambulance
  • Trevor Taylor, Teacher, School 12, Troy City School District

The ValleyCats and American National Insurance Company’s Glenmont Office will recognize our nine community heroes in a special on-field ceremony beginning at approximately 6:05 PM ahead of tonight’s game against the Ottawa Titans.

For tickets, stop by the box office, call 518-629-CATS, or log on to tcvalleycats.com. Enter the promo code “HERO” at checkout for discounted tickets.

Beckett Richards, 8-year-old cancer survivor, will celebrate his Anthem Home Run for Life at a Dragons Game

Dayton, Ohio—Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Ohio and the Dayton Dragons will host 8-year-old Beckett Richards during the iconic Anthem Home Run for Life program on Wednesday, August 3, when the Dayton Dragons take on the Peoria Chiefs at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District.

The Anthem Home Run for Life program provides children in the Dayton region who are battling serious medical conditions with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Each honoree gets to take a lap around the bases at Day Air Ballpark during a Dragons home game while the crowd cheers them on.

Beckett’s Story

It was Wednesday, January 10, 2018, when Beckett Richards was rushed to the hospital after a phone call that changed his life. After recent blood tests, doctors were concerned with his white blood cell count – Beckett tested at 48,000 where the standard range is around 4,000 – 8,000. These numbers were indicators for leukemia. Not only that, but his red blood cell count was very low, he was anemic, and he needed a blood transfusion immediately.

Beckett’s parents, Kelly and Nathan, picked up their family and rushed to the hospital. This 3-year-old received a bone marrow biopsy and a spinal tap confirming his diagnosis: acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). This cancer, while having an 80% success rate, was going to take Beckett through a long 4-year journey. During that time, he received around 12 types of chemotherapy, 92 port infusions, over 1,200 oral chemo doses, among many other medications and procedures.

Beckett’s journey was difficult, and just as the family was learning to cope with this change, COVID was sweeping the nation. Kelly and Nathan agreed that they couldn’t risk Beckett being exposed at school during this time. They had taken him and his brother out of classes and homeschooled them while he received treatment.

The steroids, chemotherapy, and infusions are difficult on a child’s body, and with Beckett having an extremely low immune system, can be even harder. During this difficult journey, Beckett was diagnosed with Veno-Occlusive Disease (VOD) from the high doses of medication. He was experiencing body discomfort, a bloated abdomen, and liver failure.

Beckett’s journey with cancer is coming to a happy ending as he is in ‘remission’ having had his final treatment in April of 2021. Beckett will be returning to school at Harold Schnell and has the heart of a fighter. During his journey, Beckett reminded himself to “be strong” which drove him to finally ring the Survivors Bell at the hospital.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons applaud all those who have been instrumental in Beckett’s life, including his mom, dad, older brother, and his entire medical team.

To learn more about Anthem Home Run for Life, please visit www.daytondragons.com/hrfl.

More Information:_ The Dayton Dragons are the affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds and play a 66-game home schedule at beautiful Day Air Ballpark_ in the heart of the Water Street District. Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons group tickets, lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at [email protected], or on the web at daytondragons.com.

Senators and First National Bank Partner for “Homefield Makeover” Initiative

The Harrisburg Senators and First National Bank, the largest subsidiary of F.N.B. Corporation (FNB), are pleased to announce the start of their “Homefield Makeover” initiative which gives one local youth baseball or softball league an updated field. The renovation will consist of $10,000 in goods and services from the Senators and FNB.

The goal of the initiative is to provide a safe, playable field for a local youth sports league. The field makeover will take place this fall so the field is ready for the upcoming youth baseball and softball season. Members of the Senators front office and FNB employees are donating their time to help with the field renovation. The renovation will tentatively take place in October with a grand opening slated for the 2023 season.

One youth baseball or softball league will be chosen for the field makeover based on an application process. The nature of the renovation will be based on the needs of the field chosen and could vary from fencing to supplying new infield dirt. Field equipment, such as rakes and shovels, will be donated to the league for upkeep of the field, along with a professional consultation with the Harrisburg Senators Grounds Crew team. Leagues can apply on the Senators website (www.senatorsbaseball.com). Leagues may apply beginning Tuesday, August 2 and applications close Tuesday, August 16.

“This is an idea that was part of a brainstorming session with our partners at First National Bank,” said Senators President Kevin Kulp. “We are always wanting to collaborate on community initiatives together and this is one that we plan on starting this year. To be able to help provide our kids a safer and more professional place to play baseball or softball is very exciting. The plan is that this is something that will be done annually so that we can touch more parts of our community over the years.”

“First National Bank is proud to continue to partner with the Senators on new community outreach projects that drive change in our region,” said Tony Sacco, Regional Market Executive and President of FNB’s Capital Region. “The Homefield Makeover initiative is representative of our commitment to improving the communities we serve and will create better places for local teams and their families to play.”

The Senators offices are open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. Tickets for any game this season are available online 24 hours a day or in person at the box office or over the phone during normal business hours. For information about Sensylvania Club Season Memberships please call the Senators at 717-231-4444 or visit the Senators online at www.senatorsbaseball.com. You can find the Senators on Facebook at facebook.com/senatorsbaseball or @hbgsenators on Twitter.

Blue Wahoos Help Make My Wish Experience Memorable For 10-Year-Old Boy, Ailing Mother 

Victor Victor Mesa, the favorite player for 10-year-old Hudson Furness, joins with his mother, Mandi Furness, during batting practice Wednesday. (Daniel Venn)

When you have been battling an illness so long that hospital visits have been routine since childhood, it becomes a lot simpler to identify the good days when they come.

On a not-too-hot Monday afternoon, 38-year-old mother Amanda “Mandi” Furness had a good day.

She looked on as her 10-year-old son, Hudson, played a game of baseball with his friends on the field of Blue Wahoos stadium as her father, Herb, secured the pitching mound. Her wheelchair was pulled up to the fence in the dugout, her family laughing and cheering beside her. With tears welled underneath her sunglasses, she was acutely aware and grateful for every second.

Furness spent many days and nights in the hospital throughout her childhood, but it wasn’t until 2009 that doctors diagnosed her illness as lupus. She received a multiple sclerosis diagnosis in 2020.

Her mobility is now limited and her vision comes and goes. But she still decks herself out in pink, from her bright, painted toenails up to a chunky, pastel necklace. With each new round of treatment, she has been taken in and cared for by her sister,

Christin Keeney, and her sister’s husband, Thomas, who is more like a brother than a brother-in-law. Her mom and dad have continued to be her support system since she was a little girl. Her mother still only leaves the hospital to shower, a routine dating back to the days before Furness ever received a diagnosis.

“(Dad) is my hero, my mother is my best friend,” she said. “I struck the lottery.”

When she decided she had had enough of hospital admissions two months ago, Furness was told by doctors it was time to prepare to say goodbye to her family.

It was a task she felt prepared for, even writing letters to her son to be delivered at life milestones she may not be around to witness. When Furness was given a wish by the Covenant Care Foundation, she decided to do something not for herself, but for her son, and wished for him and his friends to be able to play baseball at Blue Wahoos Stadium.

For people surprised by her decision to spend the once in a lifetime wish on a child’s baseball game, she simply replied, “That’s just because you’ve never seen my son play baseball.” Aaron West, vice president of the Covenant Care Foundation, said the nonprofit health care organization has granted 2,600 wishes for seriously or terminally ill people like Furness since they launched the My Wish program in 2018.

With the help of community donors and partners, they have helped veterans into planes for their final flight, sent patients out on fishing expeditions and have even organized baptisms and weddings.

“We add life to days when days are limited in life,” West said. With her son Hudson’s help, lately Furness has been feeling a renewed zest for life, even training to walk across the Pensacola Bay Bridge. Though she is not ready yet, each day she gets a little stronger.

With each step she practices at home, Hudson will chime in and say, “That’s one step closer to walking that bridge,” she said.

Despite her looming diagnosis she continues to make progress “The doctors cannot explain it, but I’m getting better,” Furness said. “Science only goes so far. Then comes God.”

She watched with each fielded ball or run that Hudson scored as all his fears disappeared for a moment and he could focus on having fun. “That is a really cool wish for a mama, because she could have wished for just about anything,”

Angela Bottesini, senior director for My Wish said. “She wanted to create an environment as if they were one of the real-deal players.”

Furness’ father, Herb Westphal, thought back on the days when he would watch his daughter play softball in Germany as he coached.

“She was a tough little girl,” he recalled. Now he warms up with his grandson out on the baseball diamond, who has been following in his mother’s footsteps for as long as he can remember. Watching the two worlds collide hit home. “My daughter has been sick for a very long time,” he said. “For some reason, she’s here now. … It means the world.”

West said each wish averages out to have an impact on 13 people when it is granted. Hudson’s baseball team looked on as he was presented with a baseball autographed from every Blue Wahoos player, and every eye turned as the boy folded into his mother, one hand gripping the signed baseball and other looped around his mom’s neck.

“Nothing. You know what’s better than this? Nothing,” he told his mom

Spokane Indians and Les Schwab Tires Team Up to Restore Fairchild AFB Softball Fields

The Spokane Indians and Les Schwab Tires teamed up in support of our Armed Forces and restored a pair of softball fields at Fairchild Air Force Base on Tuesday, July 19th as part of the team’s Community Fields Project presented by Les Schwab Tires.

“We always enjoy supporting baseball and softball at a grassroots level in our community and getting the chance to do it for our friends at Fairchild was especially meaningful,” said Otto Klein, Spokane Indians Senior Vice President. “We’re grateful for the sacrifices they’ve made and hope they enjoy utilizing these refurbished fields.”

Indians front office staff and members of the grounds crew as well as volunteers from Les Schwab removed weeds and rocks, added new sod to the infield skirt, spread field conditioner, installed new mounds and bases on both fields, and striped and prepped the fields.

“Les Schwab is proud to invest time and resources into events and organizations that promote responsibility, hard work and serving the community – values our company believes in,” said Chris Zimmerman, Airway Heights Les Schwab Store Manager. “We are happy to have the opportunity to support our friends at Fairchild.”

Additional supplies and materials for the project were made possible by supporting sponsors AAA and Bulldog Rooter.

Previously restored fields include War Veterans Memorial Field in Wellpinit, Washington in 2021 and Glover Field (now Redband Park) in Peaceful Valley in 2017.

Through the Community Fields Project, the Indians and partners have pledged to restore a minimum of one baseball/softball field in the Spokane region each year. Suggestions for new fields to be included in the program can be submitted to: [email protected].

Louisville Bats Partner with Louisville Sports Commission to Collect Sports Equipment

LOUISVILLE, KY- The Louisville Bats have partnered with the Louisville Sports Commission (LSC) and Humana to host a drive to collect new and outgrown youth baseball and softball equipment to support the LSC’s Playing It Forward program. Items collected will be distributed later this year to youth in Louisville’s marginalized areas.

The program’s goal is to help eliminate the cost of equipment as a barrier for kids to participate in organized sports. The equipment collection will help Louisville-area kids take part in sports in their own neighborhoods as a means to getting and staying active.

The event will take place tomorrow night, Tuesday, July 26 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. at Louisville Slugger Field before the Louisville Bats host game one of a six game series with the Columbus Clippers (Triple-A Affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians).

Collections will be taking place at all four of the primary entrances into the ballpark. Fans who donate sports equipment will receive a voucher good for a free hot dog, small popcorn and small Pepsi.

Fans can purchase tickets to tomorrow night’s game via the following link:

[LSC’s Playing It Forward Program]

**More About the Louisville Sports Commission**

The Louisville Sports Commission (LSC) is a Louisville, Kentucky-based 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to create a legacy of economic and social vitality through sports. The LSC attracts and hosts sporting events and activities that have a positive economic impact on Louisville, enhance the area’s image as a premier sports destination, promote healthy lifestyles and improve the quality of life for community members of all ages. More information is available online at www.louisvillesports.org, www.facebook.com/louisvillesportscommission and @SportsinLou on Twitter and Instagram.

Good Deed Day Set for July 30th

(Trenton, NJ) – The Trenton Thunder are calling on their fans to support five local community organizations as part of the 12th Annual Good Deed Day at Trenton Thunder Ballpark on Saturday, July 30th. Good Deed Day is Day 3 of Cloudman’s Heroes Week

Good Deed Day will feature collection tables on Times Square (the area outside the ballpark) for the following non-profit organizations:

  • United Way of Greater Mercer County – School Supplies
  • HomeFront – Personal care items such as shampoo, soap, toiletries, etc
  • Mercer Street Friends – Non-Perishable Food Items
  • Pet Rescue of Mercer – Pet Food & Supplies
  • Trenton Thunder/Grand Slam We Care Foundation – Gently-Used Baseball Equipment

The United Way of Greater Mercer County will be collecting school supplies out front of the ballpark. For almost 100 years, United Way has been involved in our local community connecting people with resources, propelling individuals and families to reach their fullest potential. The Thunder have also been partnering with United Way of Greater Mercer County as an official collection site for non-perishable food items during the month of July.

HomeFront, an organization that helps families break the cycle of poverty, will collect personal care items such as shampoo, conditioner, lotion, bandaids, bar soap, toothpaste tubes and other toiletry items that will be put to use in their Family Preservation Center and other residences.

Mercer Street Friends Food Bank will be collecting non-perishable food items. The Mercer Street Friends Food Bank, established in 1987, leads the community response to hunger in Mercer County. Its mission is to alleviate hunger through food distribution, nutrition education and assistance, weekend and summer meals for children, advocacy and outreach. The Food Bank distributes 2.6 million pounds of food annually and helps to feed over 25,000 low-income children, adults and seniors at-risk for hunger.

Pet Rescue of Mercer will be at the ballpark collecting pet food and supplies. Pet Rescue of Mercer is an all volunteer non-profit group that rescues neglected, abused, and abandoned animals and finds quality homes for them. Adoptable dogs and cats are placed in foster homes until they can be found permanent homes.

On Saturday, July 30th, the Thunder will host the Williamsport Crosscutters at 6:30 pm. It’s also Thunder’s Faith & Family Night with fireworks after the game. Stick around after the fireworks for a Postgame Concert from members of the Hamilton Square Presbyterian Church.

All Thunder tickets are available by calling 609-394-3300, opt 4 or online at trentonthunder.com/tickets.

PawSox Heritage Day at Polar Park

On Saturday, July, 9, the Worcester Red Sox paid tribute to their Pawtucket Red Sox history and Rhode Island roots. In order to commemorate their 50 years in Pawtucket, the WooSox transformed back to the PawSox, wearing their old jerseys and hosting their old mascots.

Worcester hosted more than 500 fans, friends, and employees from their time spent in RI, including some who have been watching the team since 1970. Former Red Sox and PawSox player Ken Ryan was in attendance to take pictures and sign autographs for fans throughout the day. Ken is a native of Pawtucket who has deep ties with the organization.

The WooSox also continue a tradition that was held at McCoy Stadium: the “Scout Sleepover,” where Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts are invited to camp out overnight on Polar Park’s outfield grass. The sleepovers were implemented in Worcester last season and this was the third of the season.

Among those honored in the pre-game ceremonies were the Pawtucket YMCA and the Pawtucket Boys and Girls Club. Both were longtime community partners of the organization during its time in Pawtucket. Representing the YMCA were leaders Charlene Lamountain, Jennifer Cantone, and Joemeli Garcia-Torres. For over 72 years, children from the Boys and Girls Club received tickets to attend a World Series game, a tradition started by local umpire Hank Soar.

Representing the Boys and Girls Club of Pawtucket were Phil Ayoub, Arthur Kaufman, Joe Fleming, and Matt Bergeron. Also in attendance was State Representative Carlos Tobon, who was a member of the program and currently serves as first Vice Chair of the House of Veterans’ Affairs Committee and a member of the House Innovation, Internet, and Technology Committee.

Throwing a Ceremonial First Pitch was former PawSox and current WooSox photographer and talented singer Tayla Bolduc. A Pawtucket native, Bolduc was a huge fan of the PawSox growing up before following her beloved team to Worcester.

Honored as the Hometown Hero was the president and CEO of the Rhode Island Foundation, Neil Steinberg. Steinberg’s leadership has helped raise over $600 million in funds since 2008. He also led the charge in creating the Crater Roger Williams Scholarship and the Andrew Scholarship.

Next, the WooSox honored a group of employees who worked for both the PawSox and WooSox. First up was “The King of Baseball,” and former president of the Pawsox, and current vice chairman of the WooSox, Mike Tamburro. Also honored was public relations stalwart, Senior Vice President of Communications Bill Wanless; Senior Vice President of Corporate Partnerships Michael Gwynn; corporate sponsorships member Mike Lyons; Vice President of Ticket Operations Sammy Soccoia-Beggs; Senior Vice President of Marketing and Assistant General Manager Brooke Cooper; Chief Ambassador and five-generation Rhode Islander Rick Medeiros; and ushers Steve Martin, Tony Souza, Graham Watkins, Russell Giles, Brendan Teller, and Louann Valleta.

The pre-game ceremonies concluded with the singing of the national anthem and the Game Ball to the Mound presentation. The anthem was performed by the Private Label, a barbershop quartet that performed the anthem at McCoy Stadium over 40 times. The game ball was delivered by a 10-year-old Pawtucket native named Brayden.

Honored on Saturday during the “In Debt to a Vet” ceremony was Sergeant Dan Foley, who served in Vietnam in 1969 and 1970; Staff Sergeant and Major Jack Dean, who is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and Army and served in the Vietnam war; Petty Officer First Class Thomas Newell, who served in the United States Navy from 1974-1996 and is a former PawSox Season Ticket Holder; and E-4 Specialist Joseph Vadnais, who is a veteran of the United States Army, serving from 1990-1995.

The WooSox lost a close game, 3-2, to the Scranton Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, the Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, but for hundreds of fans, it was still an impactful day.

RiverDogs Named “Small Business of Year” by Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce

The Charleston RiverDogs have been selected as the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce’s “Small Business of the Year”. The award is presented annually to an outstanding small business who has demonstrated value in community engagement, entrepreneurship, employee relations, leadership and performance.

“We are humbled to receive this honor from the Chamber of Commerce. As we work with many other small businesses in the Lowcountry on a daily basis, we know that there are a myriad of great candidates for an award like this,” said RiverDogs President and General Manager Dave Echols. “Our success is based in large part on our partnerships with other businesses in the area and the community that supports us every season.”

Following the cancellation of the 2020 season and significant restrictions for the 2021 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the RiverDogs have enjoyed an incredible bounce back year in 2022. Attendance figures are returning to pre COVID-19 numbers, and the Segra Club is exceeding expectations for booking special events, allowing the organization to launch the RiverDogs Food Truck, while also increasing the number of full time RiverDogs staff.

The 2022 campaign has also allowed the RiverDogs to return to active community engagement. The RiverDogs have quickly re-established their leadership role with area youth baseball programs, local military, diversity and inclusion initiatives, literacy and advocating for children’s health.

“We are thrilled to announce the Charleston RiverDogs as our 2022 Small Business of the Year,” said Bryan Derreberry, President and CEO of the Charleston Metro Chamber. “The RiverDogs have had an incredible impact on our community and continue to demonstrate incredible leadership.”

The RiverDogs and other award recipients will be celebrated at The Honors event hosted by the Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, September 7 at the American Theater. Throughout the evening, the Chamber of Commerce will present The Honors Awards, honoring companies and individuals who have provided exceptional advancements to the Charleston region, including the prestigious Joseph P. Riley Leadership Award.

Tickets for all RiverDogs games are still available! Visit riverdogs.com to secure your seats now. Season tickets, Dog-E Coin plans, and group tickets, including options to the Segra Club at Riley Park, are available at riverdogs.com/tickets. The Segra Club is also open for events year-round. Visit segraclub.com for more information. The brand new RiverDogs Food Truck is available for your next event! Contact the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS) for more information.

Pack the Camper School Supply Drive Announced

Pelicans team up with Campers Inn RV, WMBF for local school supply drive

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (July 21, 2022) – With the new school year fast approaching, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans have teamed up with Campers Inn RV and WMBF News to host a school supply drive at Pelicans Ballpark August 2 through 5. With the donation of any school supplies fans will receive a free wristband to the Rockin’ Jump Fun Zone at Pelicans Ballpark. The wristband is valued at $5 and is available to kids 12 and under.

“The kickoff to the school year is always an exciting time but the lead up can also be stressful for many parents and teachers as school supply shopping can add up,” said Ryan Canella, Assistant General Manager of Sales for the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. “We are excited to partner with Campers Inn RV and WMBF News as we do our best to help the children of our community start the year with everything they need to excel in the classroom.”

The Pelicans will take on the Lynchburg Hillcats, affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians, during the August series. All school supply donations should be dropped off at Guest Services during one of the designated games. A suggested list of supplies, courtesy of Horry County Schools, is listed below:

  • No. 2 Pencils
  • Nylon Pencil Pouch
  • Pack of Washable Markers
  • Box of Crayons – 24 Count
  • Pack of Glue Sticks
  • Notebook Paper
  • Colored Pencils
  • One Subject Notebook
  • Pocket Folders
  • Pack of Multi-Colored Highlighters
  • Binder (1.5”)
  • Divider Tabs
  • Earbuds

Fighting Hunger: Renegades hosting food drive this Sunday

Hudson Valley Renegades players dropped off donations at the Fishkill Food Pantry during HOPE Week in June. (Hudson Valley Renegades

Wappingers Falls, N.Y. (July 15, 2022) – The Hudson Valley Renegades, in partnership with the Fishkill Food Pantry and Fishkill Little League, will be hosting a food drive at Dutchess Stadium on Sunday, July 17. The drive will collect goods for the Fishkill Food Pantry as part of the “Fishkill Serves” initiative created between the Renegades, the Fishkill Food Pantry and Fishkill Little League.

“With food insecurity in Dutchess County being a growing issue, we are thrilled to be able to help the Fishkill Food Pantry and make a positive impact on our local community,” said Marcella Costello, Community Partnerships Manager for the Renegades.

Last month during HOPE Week, the Renegades donated approximately 100 pounds of needed goods to the Fishkill Food Pantry.

The Fishkill Food Pantry encourages fans to donate the following most urgently needed items:

  • Healthy cold cereals
  • Healthy snacks for kids
  • Toilet paper
  • Paper towels
  • Napkins
  • Toiletries (Deodorant, toothpaste/toothbrushes, bar soap, body soap)

Fans who bring these items will be entered into a raffle to win one of five autographed items. Fans will receive one (1) raffle ticket for each individual urgent item from the above list. The Renegades will raffle the items periodically from the middle to the end of the game. Fans MUST be present at Dutchess Stadium to win.

“We need your help more than ever,” said Kristen Cullen, Executive Director of Fishkill Food Pantry. “With increased prices comes more food insecurity. We have three or four new families seeking assistance each week!”

In addition to the aforementioned items, the Fishkill Food Pantry has provided a list of needed items, which can be found by clicking here. In compliance with the EAT SMART NEW YORK initiative, the food pantry no longer distributes soda, juice or candy to its clients, and pasta is not needed at this time.

The Fishkill Food Pantry is located at 1153 Main Street, Fishkill, New York, 12524. They are open from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; 2:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. on Wednesday; and 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. on the first and third Saturday of every month.

The Renegades host the Greenville Drive on Sunday with first pitch at 2:05 p.m. Gates open at 1 p.m. There will be tables set up to receive donations at both the season ticket members gate and the main gate at Dutchess Stadium.

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).

Fidelis Care Food Drive from July 15-24; Donate for Free Tickets

Proceeds Benefit People to People

Beginning with the game of Friday, July 14, and running through Sunday, June 19, the Boulders will be conducting a food drive presented by Fidelis Care with benefits going to People to People to serve those in need in our community.

Non-perishable food items can be brought to our Will Call tent near the main gates and, as a Thank You from the Boulders, will receive a voucher redeemable for select home games this season.