Autism Awareness Night to Take Place On April 16

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, have announced the team will host Autism Awareness Night at TD Bank Ballpark on Saturday, April 16 for their 6:35 p.m. game versus the Erie Seawolves (Detroit Tigers).

Autism Awareness Night will focus on education and fundraising for organizations from the community. The team has partnered with The Center School, New Horizons in Autism, and Devereux of New Jersey for the game.

There will be three breakout educational sessions provided by The Center School in a luxury suite during the game. Suite 308 will be used as a sensory-friendly area for families as needed.

Participating community organizations will be able to arrive early for a spacial orientation parade around the warning track of the playing field and then join a pre-game arc around the infield. Interested individuals and groups should arrive at the ballpark no later than 6:00 p.m. to participate.

GET TICKETS!

The National Anthem will be performed by Barbara Toland and Ridge Buddy Ball Baseball Club will serve as that evening’s Baseball Buddies.

Throughout the game, the Patriots will recognize some individual accomplishments and successes of the community through the use of PA and scoreboard announcements.

The Patriots Team Store will be selling autism-themed jerseys online prior to the game and onsite during the event while supplies last. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the partnering non-profit organizations in attendance.

BUY A JERSEY NOW!

The first 500 kids in attendance will also receive an Autism Awareness puzzle of Sparkee courtesy of White Castle by stopping by the partner tables on the main concourse.

About the Somerset Patriots

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

TinCaps Auctioning Off Authentic Jerseys Worn By Team

 

*FORT WAYNE, Ind. *— Before the team’s new season begins, the Fort Wayne TinCaps are auctioning off authentic jerseys previously worn by players and coaches. The squad’s batting practice tops from the 2021 season are available to bid on at TinCapsJersey.com, with proceeds benefitting local non-profit organizations.

Last season’s roster featured top San Diego Padres prospects, like Robert Hassell III, who MLB.com rates not only as the Padres’ top outfielder prospect, but also the 37th best prospect in baseball overall. Meanwhile, San Diego’s best pitching prospect, MacKenzie Gore, also made a start for the TinCaps last season. Gore, who spent the full 2018 campaign in Fort Wayne, is also one of MLB.com’s Top 100 overall prospects.

Other top-30 rated Padres prospects whose jerseys are up for auction include left-handed starting pitcher Ethan Elliott, infielder Euribiel Angeles, catcher Brandon Valenzuela, right-handed relief pitcher Kevin Kopps, and outfielders Agustin Ruiz and Tirso Ornelas. Meanwhile, right-handed pitcher Anderson Espinoza was a top San Diego prospect who was then traded to the Chicago Cubs last year.

See below for a full list of who wore each jersey number.

In partnership with the Padres, the auction will support the TinCaps CARE program, which allows the team to donate tickets to non-profit organizations that benefit members of the Fort Wayne community facing hardship.

The auction is open through Thursday, April 7.

The TinCaps begin their 2022 season at Dayton on Friday, April 8. This season’s roster will be released by the Padres in early April. Players are currently at spring training in Peoria, Arizona.

Opening Day at Parkview Field is Tuesday, April 12 (6:35 p.m.) against the South Bend Cubs. Tickets are available at TinCapsTickets.com, by calling 260-482-6400, and at the Parkview Field Ticket Office.

Fort Wayne TinCaps 2021 Uniform Numbers

1. INF / OF Reinaldo Ilarraza

  1. OF Jawuan Harris, INF Zack Mathis
  2. INF Ethan Skender, LHP Cody Tyler

5. Hitting Coach Jonathan Mathews, INF Ripken Reyes

7. INF Luis Almanzar

8. RHP Gabe Mosser

9. OF Dwanya Williams-Sutton, OF Grant Little, OF Angel Solarte

11. C Jonny Homza

12. OF Robert Hassell III, INF / OF Olivier Basabe, C Andelson Arias, INF Chris Givin

13. RHP Carlos Guarate, OF Michael Curry, RHP José Geraldo

14. RHP Kevin Kopps, C Adam Kerner

15. LHP Ethan Elliott, LHP Gabe Morales, LHP Michell Miliano

16. RHP Sam Keating

17. INF Euribiel Angeles, INF Yorman Rodriguez, RHP Brandon Komar, RHP Edgar Martinez

20. INF Justin Lopez

21. Fielding Coach Felipe Blanco

22. LHP Danny Denz

23. RHP Anderson Espinoza, LHP Noel Vela

24. RHP Edwuin Bencomo, LHP Erik Sabrowski

25. Pitching Coach Jimmy Jones

26. LHP MacKenzie Gore, INF Seamus Curran, C Victor Duarte, RHP Luke Boyd

27. RHP Felix Minjarez, LHP Mason Feole

28. C Brandon Valenzuela, OF Tirso Ornelas, INF Kelvin Melean

29. RHP Austin Smith

32. OF Agustin Ruiz, RHP Connor Lehmann

33. LHP Fred Schlichtholz, LHP Sam Williams

34. RHP Chase Walter

36. RHP Wen-Hua Sung, INF Kelvin Alarcon

37. RHP Moises Lugo

OKC Dodgers and LifeShare Encourage Organ Donation with Continued Partnership

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers proudly continue their partnership with LifeShare of Oklahoma to help raise awareness for organ, eye and tissue donation and encourage Oklahomans to register as LifeShare Everlasting Fans.

The start of the OKC Dodgers baseball season April 5 coincides with National Donate Life Month and guests at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark can sign up during any Dodgers’ game to become LifeShare Everlasting Fans and register as an organ, eye and tissue donor. Those who register during games at the promotions kiosk, located on the concourse behind section 109, will receive a limited-edition T-shirt.

During the previous two baseball seasons combined, more than 2,200 people have registered to become an organ donor at OKC Dodgers games and more than 5,000 people have registered to become an organ donor via the partnership since 2016.

“LifeShare is honored to partner with the Oklahoma City Dodgers again to share about the importance of registering as an organ, eye, and tissue donor,” said Jeffrey Orlowski, President and Chief Executive Officer of LifeShare. “This year, we hope to see more Dodger fans registering to be donors at the promotions table on the concourse, so together we can save more lives.”

LifeShare of Oklahoma is a nonprofit, federally designated and statewide organ procurement organization dedicated to the recovery of organs and tissue for transplant purposes. LifeShare, created in 1986, works closely with three transplant centers and 145 health care organizations in Oklahoma to facilitate donation and the organization’s core purpose is save lives, according to its website.

National Donate Life Month began in 2003 and is celebrated in April to “help raise awareness about donation, encourage Americans to register as organ, eye and tissue donors and to honor those that have saved lives through the gift of donation,” according to the Donate Life America website.

The OKC Dodgers open the 2022 baseball season at 7:05 p.m. April 5 against the Albuquerque Isotopes at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on a $2 Tuesday, featuring $2 select beer, soda and bottled water from a line of Budweiser and Pepsi products. COOP Ale Works draft beer will also be available at a special rate of $3. Fireworks are also scheduled to follow the game.

Tickets for all April, May and June OKC Dodgers’ games are available online at okcdodgers.com. Season ticket and group packages are also available for purchase and Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark is open to host a variety of unique events year-round. Visit okcdodgers.com or call (405) 218-2182 for more information.

Amarillo Sod Poodles Community Driven Programs For 2022 Season



AMARILLO, Texas – The Amarillo Sod Poodles are excited to announce details of its 2022 programs aimed towards shining a light on local non-profits and small businesses for the 2022 season. The club will return the Small Business Spotlight sponsored by Carpet Tech, the Charity Spotlight sponsored by Brick & Elm, and Launch-A-Ball sponsored by KTBlack Services.

All three programs are designed specifically to help hard-working, local small businesses and non-profit organizations raise awareness and funds to continue to provide their goods and services to the Texas Panhandle and surrounding areas.

Each organization that signs up for our Small Business and Charity Spotlight will be provided the following elements during any of the 69 Sod Poodles regular-season home games at no cost. Groups or individuals will receive a marketing table on the main concourse to showcase their organization, in-park recognition via a live public address announcement, and scoreboard recognition. They can also have someone from their organization do a live on-air interview during the Sod Poodles Radio Broadcast to further promote their organization or small business. In addition, these programs come with a ceremonial first pitch and four tickets to the game for which the group or business owners will be recognized.

Sign-ups are on a first-come, first-served basis based on availability throughout the season. To sign up for our Small Business Spotlight, please fill out this form. Our Charity Spotlight form can be found HERE.

The Sod Poodles are also excited for the return of Launch-A-Ball presented by KTBlack Services. This program along with our Concessions Fundraising Program are exclusively for area non-profit groups (schools, churches, etc) looking for a fun way to raise money during a Sod Poodles 2022 home game. Each game, one organization receives numbered tennis balls to sell (3 for $5) from a table on the concourse, around the ballpark, and in the suite level. The non-profit group will receive 50% of gross sales for their Launch-A-Ball game.

Fans who purchase from Launch-A-Ball groups will have the opportunity to toss their numbered ball(s) towards a target in left-field after the game is over. The fan with the winning toss will receive the other 50% of the nightly jackpot or a prize from one of many other local businesses partnered with the Sod Poodles.

Along with the 50% of gross Launch-A-Ball sales for their game, each organization will also receive in-park recognition via a live public-address announcement and the opportunity to display promotional materials at their table to promote their cause and interact with local community members. To be eligible to participate in Launch-A-Ball, groups and organizations are first required to participate in a Sod Poodles ticket fundraiser which will further help benefit the organization. For further information or with any help getting signed up for any of these three programs, please email Sod Poodles Community Relations Manager, Austin Jackson ([email protected]).

Sign-Ups are currently open for the 2022 season. The Sod Poodles will start their season at HODGETOWN on Friday, April 8 when they host the Midland RockHounds, the Double-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics. For the most up-to-date information regarding the Sod Poodles 2022 season including single-game tickets, group and hospitality options, news, and promotions, you can follow the Sod Poodles on social media @SodPoodles or visit the team website www.SodPoodles.com. For more information, call (806) 803-7762 or email [email protected].

Harrisburg Senators Partnering with Youth Baseball and Softball Leagues

HARRISBURG, PA – The Harrisburg Senators are thrilled to announce a new youth baseball and softball sponsorship program. The new program begins with the 2022 season and is another way the Senators are working with local communities.

In this program, youth baseball and softball leagues receive:

  • A $300 sponsorship check to the league from the Senators
  • ·A 3’ x 8’ Senators banner to be hung on an outfield fence or other high profile location at the youth league ballpark throughout the 2022 season.
  • Additional easy fundraising opportunities that can raise each youth league an extra $400 or more.

For more information on this program contact JK McKay, Director of Community Relations, at 717-231-4444 or via email at [email protected].

To apply online please go here.

The Senators offices are open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. The 2022 home opener is Tuesday, April 12, against the Portland Sea Dogs. 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.

Scrappers Announce Partnership with Down Syndrome Association of the Valley with Specialty Team Jersey Auction

NILES, OH – The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are excited to unveil the first of a series of five specialty jersey nights during the 2022 season. The Scrappers have partnered with the Down Syndrome Association of the Valley to create a specialty jersey that the Scrappers players will wear for Down Syndrome Awareness Night on Friday, July 22nd against the State College Spikes. Game worn jerseys will be auctioned off in person at the game and also online at mvscrappers.com and LiveSource. Jersey proceeds will benefit the Down Syndrome Association of the Valley.

“The Down Syndrome Association of the Valley truly values its partnership with the Mahoning Valley Scrappers and appreciates the support and generosity that they provide not only to nonprofits such as ours, but to the entire community”, states Michele Jones, DSAV President and Co-Founder. “Our goal at DSAV is to create opportunities in which individuals with Down syndrome can actively participate in society and reach their full potential. The Scrappers’ community minded reach ensures that individuals with Down syndrome are included in the local community and in fact, even feature them. This type of generosity gives wings to the dreams of individuals with Down syndrome and their families across the region.”

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are set to open the 2022 season at Eastwood Field on Thursday, June 2 against the West Virginia Black Bears. Opening Night will also feature fan favorites post-game fireworks and Buck Night. Scrappers ticket packages and sponsorship opportunities are on sale now. To stay up to date with the Scrappers in the off-season or for more information, visit mvscrappers.com or contact the front office at 330-505-0000.

Wind Surge Fundraising Program

If you are a non-profit, sports team, or charity looking to raise money for your organization, the Wind Surge Fundraising Program is for you! The Fundraising program requires just three simple steps. The first one is picking a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Sunday game you would like to attend. Next, you purchase a certain number of tickets based on your organization’s needs and sell them for $15 each. Lastly, your organization can receive up to $6 for each ticket sold. This is a great opportunity for your organization to raise money while having fun and earning up to 40% on every ticket you sell!

There are three different ticket options and different benefits that come with each option. Ticket Option one consists of selling 50-90 tickets and earning $4 for every ticket sold. Ticket Option two includes selling 100-199 tickets and earning $5 back for every ticket sold. The third Ticket Option will consist of selling 200+ tickets and earning $6 for every ticket sold.

To learn more and the benefits of each ticket options visit here or contact [email protected]

Drillers Release Details on 2022 Community Programs and Activities

The Tulsa Drillers are partnering with a number of local organizations this season on several important and fun activities at ONEOK Field. Some of the partnerships will highlight a few of the many individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make our community better, while others will provide unique opportunities for young fans. Lastly, some of the partnerships will bring much-needed funds to organizations that provide valuable resources to so many.

Below is a listing and explanation of all of these great and worthwhile activities.

Williams Make-a-Difference Wednesdays

The Williams Make-a-Difference Wednesdays program strives to serve the underprivileged. This program works to provide a night of entertainment to those in the Tulsa Community whose resources are limited.

“Experiencing an evening at the ballpark is something many of us take for granted, but for some, it’s a rare and treasured outing,” says Sara Delgado, Director of Brand and Corporate Social Responsibility for Williams. “The Williams’ Make-a-Difference Wednesdays program gives young people the chance to be a kid and get outdoors and make memories to last a lifetime.”

McElroy Manufacturing Community Spotlight

Select organizations can receive complimentary Wednesday night tickets and meal coupons. If your organization would like to help the Make-a-Difference program, click here.

The McElroy Manufacturing Community Spotlight is a unique opportunity for local, non-profit organizations to engage with the citizens of DrillVille at no cost. It also is a great way to educate communities, recruit volunteers, and share the resources that these nonprofits can provide to our community.

“McElroy Manufacturing is proud to partner with The Tulsa Drillers in their Community Spotlight program for the 2022 season,” said McElroy Manufacturing Executive VP, Finance & Treasury Donna M. Dutton. “There are many worthwhile nonprofits in Tulsa. These organizations continually work to make a difference in the lives for many of our neighbors. We are excited to recognize and celebrate all of the work the nonprofits and their volunteers do to make Tulsa a better community for us all.”

To apply, click here.

Ferguson KIA Field of Dreams

The Ferguson KIA Field of Dreams program is a once in a lifetime opportunity for future baseball and softball stars to share the field with the Drillers of today and the Los Angeles Dodgers of the future! This FREE package includes 20 tickets for the team, a team photo, an appearance on the ONEOK Field videoboard and the opportunity to be on the field for the National Anthem.

“Ferguson KIA is proud to launch our Field of Dreams partnership with the Drillers,” said Stephen Hill General Sales Manager of Ferguson Superstore. “Youth sports can be a pivotal piece of shaping the future of Tulsa, and this program offers our kids the chance to watch those who play their sport on an elite level up close.”

To nominate your youth team to participate in the free Ferguson KIA Field of Dreams program click here.

South Pointe Auto Group Hometown Hero

South Pointe Auto Group Hometown Hero is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on Tulsans who have achieved outstanding accomplishments, both home and abroad. Past Heroes have included military veterans, teachers, first responders, essential workers and many others!

“South Pointe Auto Group is proud to sponsor the Tulsa Drillers Hometown Hero program,” said Chris Cox, South Pointe Auto Group General Manager. “South Pointe supports the community, and honoring local heroes is a great way for us to show our appreciation to these outstanding individuals.”

To nominate a South Pointe Auto Group Hometown Hero click here.

Whataburger Whata Team

Throughout the 2022 season, Whataburger will provide FREE tickets for youth baseball or softball teams to enjoy a game at ONEOK Field and to have a unique, on-field experience. One lucky member of the team will be able to go onto the field during a break in play and try to throw a strike to win their team $300 and free Whataburger in the Whataburger Whata Team Experience!

For a chance to be selected for this one-of-a-kind contest click here.

The People of Oklahoma Oil and Natural Gas Teacher of the Game

During the season, the people of Oklahoma Oil and Natural Gas (OERB) will honor a Teacher of the Month at selected Drillers’ games. Each teacher will be brought onto the field and presented with a personal check for $5,000, while a $2,000 donation will be made to their school.

Also, if a Drillers player during the 2022 season “drills” the OERB “Hit it Here” sign, located beyond the ONEOK Field centerfield fence, the people of Oklahoma Oil and Natural Gas will donate $5,000 to a local school to benefit its Science & Math Department.**

Hornsby’s Bullpen Kids Club Presented by TulsaKids Magazine

Family FUNday Sunday at ONEOK Field just got even better! Kids, ages 14 and under, who sign up for the Hornsby’s Bullpen Kids Club will receive FREE tickets on the Ferguson KIA Lawn for all seven 2022 Sunday day games, a birthday card from Hornsby and #SoMuchMore!

“We are excited to team up with Hornsby’s Bullpen Kids Club and to provide young fans with so many fun opportunities this season. We hope that you can join in on the fun,” said Tulsa Kids Editor Betty Casey.

To sign up your child, click here.

Fireflies Launch New Volunteer Fundraising Opportunity

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies today announced a new in-game volunteer program to help benefit local organizations seeking ways to fundraise. The Fireflies are looking for dedicated volunteers who are passionate about giving back to the community to join the Fireflies game day team. Organizations who participate in the Volunteer Fundraising Program will work alongside Fireflies staff members in a concession stand or in the SCU Kids Zone during Fireflies games to raise money for their organization, event or cause. Organizations eligible for the program include, but are not limited to, Parent Teacher Associations, Booster Clubs, Community Event Planning Committees, Rotary Clubs and other Non-Profit Organizations.

The Volunteer Fundraising Program requires each organization to provide a minimum of six (6) volunteers to work four (4) games during the upcoming 2022 season. After volunteers complete their four games of service, the Fireflies will donate $750 to their organization in recognition of their time. Should organizations have more than six volunteers, the Fireflies will donate an additional $125 for each volunteer who participates in the program.

“This program provides a unique opportunity for fans to see what it’s like to help make life-long memories at Segra Park from our Game Day worker’s perspective,” said Fireflies Team President, Brad Shank. “It is also a great way for us to give back to different non-profits and organizations in our community. We’re really excited to have a positive impact on a lot of different organizations in the Midlands through the launch of this volunteer program.”

Fireflies home games are primarily staffed by the Fireflies Game day Experience Team who help make a trip to Segra Park an unforgettable experience for hundreds of thousands of fans each year. Volunteers in the Volunteer Fundraising Program will work right alongside Game day Experience Team members. In concessions, volunteers will work in various locations throughout the ballpark running registers and assisting with food and order preparation. In the SCU Kids Zone, volunteers will assist with Kids Zone ticket sales and will work to ensure the safety of children on the inflatables.

Organizations can learn more and sign up for the new Volunteer Fundraising Program online here.

The Fireflies 2022 season begins at Segra Park Friday, April 8 at 7:05 pm vs the Augusta GreenJackets (the Class-A Affiliate of the World Series Champion Atlanta Braves) and features a post-game firework show. Tickets for Opening Night, and all 2022 Fireflies home games, are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at FirefliesTickets.com, by calling the Fireflies Box Office at 803-726-4487 or by visiting the Fireflies Box Office in-person at Segra Park. Individual game ticket prices range from $5 to $12 and premium seating options are available starting at $14 per person. All tickets will be sold on a first come first serve basis and are based upon availability.

BlueClaws, Girl Scouts of Jersey Shore Set For June 17th Girl Scout Family Night



The BlueClaws and the Girl Scout of the Jersey Shore announced a continuation of their community partnership that is headed by Girl Scout Family Night, set for Friday, June 17th. Thousands of Girl Scouts of all ages, their families, and friends will participate in the evening that will feature activities that showcase programming offered by the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore and the impact those programs make in girls’ lives.

“Friendship, adventure, and making a difference are hallmarks of the Girl Scout experience. At Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, we have welcomed 2,500 new members and are serving over 10,000 total members in Monmouth and Ocean County. Girl Scouts has been a force for positive change and a champion of girl ambition for 110 years. We are grateful to the BlueClaws for being a member of the Girl Scout family and supporting the next generation of changemakers,” said Heather Coburn, Chief Executive Officer for the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore.

Girl Scout Family Night includes a full and unique experience for Girl Scouts from the gates opening until the last fan departs! Before the game, Girl Scouts take part in a pre-game parade around the warning track. There will be other on-field activities and promotions, plus fireworks after the game!

“Girl Scout Family Night is one of our most popular and fastest-growing nights on the calendar over the last few years,” said Bob McLane, BlueClaws Senior VP of Ticket Sales & Service. “We’re very much looking forward to June 17th and welcoming in Girl Scouts from all over the Jersey Shore!”

Tickets for Girl Scout Family Night are just $15 and include a hot dog, soda, novelty ice cream. There is an optional on-field overnight open to registered Girl Scouts for an additional $10 and includes a viewing of “Raya and the Last Dragon,” snacks and continental breakfast the following morning. Ticket proceeds will benefit local programs and activities for Girl Scouts from Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

To purchase ticket for a troop, click here. For additional information, click here or contact Jamie Wagner at 732-901-7000 ext 177.

About Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore

Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore serves more than 10,000 girls ages 5-18 in Monmouth and Ocean counties, providing a time-tested leadership experience that inspires and motivates them to take action for themselves and their communities. For over 100 years, Girl Scouts has helped girls become women of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. For information on how to join, volunteer, partner or donate, visit JerseyShoreGirlScouts.org or call (800) 785-2090.

About the BlueClaws

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment, having drawn over 7.8 million fans since 2001. Opening Night at the Jersey Shore, presented by Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, is set for Friday, April 8th at 7:05 pm. For ticket information, visit BlueClaws.com/Tickets.

– BlueClaws / Girl Scouts –

WooSox Foundation “Care-A-Van” to Debut Throughout Worcester This Weekend, Presented by Bank of America

New, large vehicle will provide free COVID-19 tests as well as gifts at Gates Lane Elementary School, Net of Compassion, and Worcester Public Library.



WORCESTER, MA — This upcoming weekend, the WooSox Foundation will debut its “Care-A-Van,” presented by Bank of America, while providing gifts and performing acts of goodwill at locations throughout the Heart of the Commonwealth.

This afternoon from 12:45 – 1:30 p.m., the Foundation will visit students at Gates Lane Elementary School at 1238 Main Street, where last week the Worcester Red Sox launched the “WooSox Mentors” program in partnership with Worcester Public Schools and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Massachusetts. The Foundation will bring small gifts for students and staff at the school, who will also be invited to tour the inside of the Care-A-Van.

Saturday afternoon at 1:00 p.m., the Foundation will drive the Care-A-Van to Net of Compassion at 674 Main Street to donate blankets and other supplies. Net of Compassion is a nonprofit organization that directly provides food, clothing, shelter, showers, and recovery support to individuals on the streets of Worcester.

Afterward, the Care-A-Van will hand out 180 free COVID-19 tests (90 boxes) throughout the community, in partnership with the City’s Health and Human Services Department. Then, the Foundation will pass out small gifts at the Vaccine Equity Clinic taking place at Worcester Public Library, located at 3 Salem Square.

The inside of the Care-A-Van features a shower, toilet, sink, fridge, and couch. Books and clothing items will be stored inside as well.

The RV fits eight people while in motion but can accommodate up to 15 when stationary. The outside of the vehicle is wrapped by WooSox Foundation artwork, as well as the Bank of America logo, and the logo of Camping Word, where the RV was purchased.

Established on January 28, 2020, the WooSox Foundation comprises four pillars: education, social justice, conquering cancer, and diamond sports. The Care-A-Van will become a staple of the social justice pillar by expanding the Foundation’s presence within neighborhoods, groups, and communities in the City of Worcester and throughout Central Massachusetts. It will be used to deliver food, clothing, and other supplies, as well as a space to provide job readiness support, medical services, and other forms of aid.

The Care-A-Van’s ribbon cutting ceremony with members of the WooSox and Bank of America will be held in the coming weeks.

“We’re committed to keeping our community healthy, stronger, and connected,” said Ed Shea, President of Bank of America Central Massachusetts. “Partnering with the Worcester Red Sox on the Care-A-Van will allow us to address local needs and create opportunity for our friends and neighbors. We are particularly pleased to be associated with the WooSox and their fans, who have brought so much excitement and energy to the area.”

“This Care-A-Van, made possible by Bank of America, is a bold and visible step in our efforts to use the goodness of baseball to help achieve social justice and community unity,” said Dr. Charles A. Steinberg, the President of the WooSox and the WooSox Foundation. “As we use this vehicle to enhance the lives of families in our region, the imagination is our limit—and our imagination is unlimited. We thank Bank of America for this generous and impactful contribution. We look forward to touching thousands of lives, one at a time.”

Blue Wahoos Receive Sports Tourism Award At Pensacola Sports Awards Banquet 

 

During the height of the coronavirus pandemic, the Blue Wahoos became innovators and award winners.

Those elements were honored Feb. 24 during the annual Pensacola Sports Awards Banquet at the Pensacola Yacht Club, sponsored by Cox Communications.

The Blue Wahoos received the Sports Tourism Award for 2020, after creating the nation’s first Airbnb experience at a ballpark in a year without baseball, along with the other creative ways to bring people to Blue Wahoos Stadium and fulfill the team’s mission to improve the quality of life in the Pensacola community.

Blue Wahoos vice president Alex Sides accepted the award on a special night celebrating the varied success stories with athletes and teams in the Pensacola area. Pensacola Sports was founded in 1955 and is the oldest sports association in Florida.

Pensacola Sports created the Sports Tourism Award several years ago as a way to recognize an organization or group of individuals who make a significant contribution to generating tourism to Pensacola and advancing the community’s awareness.

The Blue Wahoos were able to do that in a number of ways in 2020, after all levels of Minor League Baseball were cancelled prior to the 2020 season due to the first onslaught of COVID-19. The team’s front office staff went to work to transition into an events company and Airbnb experience.

In a time where family entertainment options were greatly limited, the Blue Wahoos staged more than 200 events, along with the 75 nights of Airbnb guests from 30 different states.

It earned the Blue Wahoos the Bob Freitas Award from Baseball America as the Double-A organization of the year. The Blue Wahoos also earned the prestigious Golden Bobblehead Award for best overall promotion during the MILB Innovators Summtt, held virtually in 2020.

At the Feb. 24 Pensacola Sports banquet, event emcee Dan Shugart recognized all of the achievements and provided the gathering with awareness of how the Blue Wahoos survived a year without baseball.

The team also won other awards that year.

Team owners Quint and Rishy Studer decided in April 2020 not to reduce staffing or lay off employees and were able to keep the entire front office staff employed the entire year.

The Blue Wahoos have been able to attract visitors from across the country, either to attend games, or simply visit the stadium during non-event days to browse in the team store or simply walk around and experience the bayfront stadium.

The Blue Wahoos were joined by Five Flags Speedway, winner of the 2021 Sports Tourism Award, in earning recognition for impact in the community.

Tides Organization to Continue Youth Field Renovation Project

 

The Norfolk Tides today announced the return of The Youth Field Makeover Project, a contest in which a local youth field will be renovated by Tides groundskeepers and front office staff. This field makeover will include an upgrade to the playing surface, an improvement to existing dugouts, based on need. The recipient of the makeover will be determined by a fan vote on the Tides website in March.

“Year in and year out, this is a special project that allows our staff to give back to very deserving members of the Hampton Roads community” said Tides General Manager Joe Gregory. “Each time we help renovate a field, we’re just thrilled to be making a difference.”

Those interested in having the Tides make over their facility should submit a picture of their field to Heather McKeating at [email protected]. Along with the photo, fans are asked to include a brief synopsis of why their league’s field should receive this enhancement. The deadline to submit this information is March 11, with online voting set to take place on the Tides website after March 14.

Since the inaugural renovation in 2012, the Tides have renovated 15 local fields: Eason’s Crossroads (Gates, NC), Ocean View Little League (Norfolk), Smithfield Recreation Association (Smithfield), Bennett’s Creek Little League (Suffolk), Phoebus Little League (Hampton), Shore Little League (Nassawadox), Cradock Little League (Portsmouth), Little Creek National (Norfolk), Gloucester Youth Baseball (Gloucester), Surry County Pony Baseball (Surry), Deer Park Youth Field (Newport News), Plaza Little League (Virginia Beach), Thalia/Malibu Baseball (Virginia Beach), Churchland Little League (Portsmouth) and Albemarle (North Carolina).

The project is made possible thanks to the Tides Youth Baseball Fund, a program established by the Tides in 1990 as a way to raise money for youth baseball and softball programs in Hampton Roads. The Youth Baseball Fund is partially financed by scoreboard announcements at Harbor Park throughout the season, and those wishing to make a donation directly to the Youth Baseball Fund can do so via norfolkides.com under the “Harbor Park” section.


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Aces, Greater Nevada Credit Union to host Community Partner Ticket Fundraising Program webinar

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces, in partnership with Greater Nevada Credit Union, will be hosting a virtual kickoff event for their Community Partner Ticket Fundraising Program on Wednesday, February 23rd. The Zoom webinar will feature Aces president Eric Edelstein and GNCU chief experience officer Danny DeLaRosa, who will unveil the 2022 program details.

“The Reno Aces are proud to partner with Greater Nevada on an enhanced Community Partner Ticket Fundraising program for the 2022 season,” said Edelstein. “Organizations in Northern Nevada will have more access to funds than ever before, and we look forward to discussing opportunity for involvement at the kickoff event on February 23rd.”

The program was originally created in 2016, and has helped more than 200 local organizations raise over $300,000 collectively. This year, the program will provide even more opportunity for groups, thanks to additional donation offerings courtesy of GNCU. As part of the program, organizations can sell Aces tickets and receive a portion of the proceeds. Details regarding GNCU’s additional donation offerings will be explained in the webinar.

“Greater Nevada Credit Union wants to assist non-profits in raising much-needed funds to support their community work”, said Wally Murray, president and CEO of Greater Nevada Credit Union. “We are keenly aware that the pandemic disrupted fundraising for many worthwhile charities. The Community Partners program at Greater Nevada Field is another way we are showing Greater Nevada’s ongoing commitment to the organizations serving others and making a positive impact throughout the region.”

All organizations in Northern Nevada with fundraising interest are encouraged to attend the event which starts at 4:00pm PT, and can RSVP for the event by clicking here.

Altoona Curve Launch Charitable Nonprofit

 

CURVE, PA – The Altoona Curve are pleased to announce the launch of Altoona Curve Charities, a 501c3 organization devoted to supporting local youth programs and organizations that promote exercise, health, activity, and education for the betterment of youth and community.

Altoona Curve Charities provides support to local organizations for the betterment of Altoona and the surrounding area by contributing time and funds that align with the Curve’s mission.

“The Curve have long been community partners, focused on improving the lives of all of our fans and the creation of Altoona Curve Charities will give us another tool to support programs and organizations that work toward that goal,” said Curve General Manager Nate Bowen. “We look forward to engaging with many of our existing relationships with community partners and forging new ones in 2022.”

Local support from Curve Charities has already touched the Altoona area with its contributions to a field renovation at the East End Little League in 2018 with new sod, infield dirt and edging led by the Altoona Curve Grounds Crew. The renovation came after East End Little League’s field suffered thousands of dollars in damage from vandalism and drew hundreds of neighbors, community members and Curve Front Office employees to donate their time to creating a brand-new, safe environment for kids to play baseball.

“The renovation of East End Little League was the first step for our organization toward taking a more pro-active approach in support of local youth baseball and softball,” said Curve Charities Director, Annie Choiniere. “Our 2022 Grant Program will accept applications in the fall and we look forward to creating rewarding experiences on the diamond for kids all over Blair County through this program.”

Applications for the 2022 Curve Charities Grant Program, which will be accepted from October 1 to December 15, 2022, can be submitted by visiting www.milb.com/altoona/community/altoona-curve-charities

In addition to the Grant Program, Curve Charities will oversee and administrate a 50/50 raffle at Curve home games in 2022, presented by Loyal Gaming Rewards.

Fans can purchase 50/50 raffle tickets at every Curve game and one lucky fan will win 50% of the total amount collected during each game, with the remainder going to support Curve Charities’ 2022 programming. Winners will be pulled at Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday games at Peoples Natural Gas Field with winning tickets posted at www.milb.com/altoona/community/altoona-curve-charities/5050

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