Appalachian League celebrates 2022 charitable contributions

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CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The Appalachian League announced that the league’s charitable outreach grew to more than $3.4 million of gift-in-kind and monetary donations this year. Additionally, the league and its clubs volunteered more than 11,000 hours of community service.

The league’s reach impacts the towns and cities their 10 teams call home across North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. Appalachian League executives, team staff members and players volunteered through food pantries, reading programs, baseball clinics, toy drives, youth centers, hospital visits and numerous service organizations.

“As league members, we appreciate the opportunity to continue giving back through volunteering, donating and providing outreach to the communities that have supported our clubs for more than 100 years,” stated Elizabethton River Riders GM and Appalachian League Charity Committee Chair Kiva Fuller.

In January, Appy League representatives participated in the 27th annual MLK Day of Service. Volunteering in 11 communities across four states, team members were involved with food pantries, book drives, local YMCA and libraries, as well as the House of Hope and Good Samaritan Ministries.

In conjunction with the League All-Star Game, league executives volunteered at the City Gate Dream Center in Burlington, N.C. Along with moving items to the center’s storage unit, the group packaged and bundled diapers for families in need.

On the day of the All-Star Game, the Sock Puppets hosted a successful Play Ball youth clinic at Burlington Athletic Stadium where all 2022 All-Stars participated.

Prior to the GM meeting in Bluefield on Oct. 18, Appalachian League clubs participated in a service project at the Bluefield Union Mission. A total of 19 league and club representatives packaged meals and prepared personal hygiene kits for families in need.

More details and a full breakdown of the 2022 Appy League Community Impact Report can be found here.

The 2023 Appy League season begins Tuesday, June 6. The full schedule for the upcoming season can be found here.

The Appalachian League is a part of USA Baseball and powered by MLB. For more information on the Appalachian League, please visit appyleague.com or follow the league on Twitter and Instagram (@AppyLeague).

WooSox Foundation Contributes $1,000 to Jingle Bell Toy Drive Benefiting Boys & Girls Club of Worcester 

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Representatives of the Worcester Red Sox gathered at “El Basha” at Park Ave in Worcester on December 7 at a fundraiser hosted by the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Reserve Deputy Association to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Worcester.

Toys and funds were collected to ensure as many kids as possible in Worcester can enjoy presents and gifts during the holiday season with their loved ones. George Lorin, Kevin Hartigan, Alex Richardson, Diane Flanagan, Eric Olafsen, and mascot Smiley Ball were among the WooSox officials on hand with Sheriff Lew Evangelidis to present the check to Boys & Girls Club Executive Director, Liz Hamilton.

“On behalf of the children and staff of the Boys & Girls Club of Worcester, I wish to express our appreciation of the WooSox and everyone who made this year’s toy drive a success,” said Executive Director Liz Hamilton. “We serve more than 8,000 youth annually, and nearly 500 attend our three Clubhouses every day. We know these toys will make an impact on our kids during the holiday season.”

“Each year during the holiday season, the WooSox want to spread as much joy as possible to children and families throughout Central Mass,” said Alex Richardson, the WooSox’ director of baseball and game day operations. “It’s always a pleasure to support our community partners at the Boys & Girls Club of Worcester, and we’re glad we could help make this year’s Jingle Bell Toy Drive a success.”

Second Annual “WooSox Foundation Holiday Caravan” to Spread Joy Around Central MA

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Community Award Winners Ryan Fitzgerald and Red Sox Hall of Famer Rich Gedman to join Smiley Ball, Woofster the WonderDog, Roberto the Rocket, and Santa in visits to charities, schools, and community organizations

WORCESTER, MA – Led by Infielder Ryan Fitzgerald and Hitting Coach Rich Gedman, two award-winning members of the Worcester Red Sox, the 2022 “WooSox Foundation Holiday Caravan” will be spreading cheer across the Heart of the Commonwealth this Monday, December 19 through Wednesday, December 21.

Fitzgerald, the club’s super utility infielder and second-ever recipient of the WooSox Foundation’s “Heart of the Heart” Community Spirit Award, will team up with Gedman, his Hitting Coach, who was inducted into the Red Sox Hall of Fame in May of this year. Joining them are Mascots Smiley Ball, Woofster the WonderDog, and Roberto the Rocket, along with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The WooSox Foundation “Care-A-Van,” presented by Bank of America, is the team’s mobile RV that was unveiled in March of 2022 and will assist the WooSox in executing all of the good deeds scheduled for next week.

The impactful holiday gestures begin on Monday at Why Me & Sherry’s House when the team will bring gifts and essentials to toddlers and teens who are battling cancer. The group will also visit TLK Sports, a Worcester-based community organization that emphasizes the importance of teamwork and relationship building through a number of sports including baseball. The WooSox, in partnership with the Junior WooSox, will wrap up Monday evening at Nazareth home in Leicester to show their support for foster children by bringing winter hats and an assortment of surprise gifts.

On Tuesday, December 20, the Caravan continues in Polar Park’s backyard at the Canal District’s St. John’s Food for the Poor, where the WooSox will assist in providing breakfast to some of the neighborhood’s neediest population. The team will head from St. John’s to Abby’s House in Worcester, where toys and treats will be provided to women and children.

The caravan will continue its busy day on Tuesday at 11 am at UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center, where care packages filled with toys, books, and everyday essentials will go to kids who are in treatment. For the second straight year, the club has partnered with Kits for Kids, a Marlborough based organization that has provided care packages around the holidays to children in need for over 13 years.

The WooSox will wrap up their Tuesday afternoon with the Worcester Education Collaborative, where together they will donate tablets and keyboards to children at the Guild of St. Agnes in Worcester. The caravan will head to the YMCA Central Community Branch, then back to Polar Park, where fans will have the opportunity to meet Ryan Fitzgerald in the WooSox Team Store from 5:30-7:00 pm on Tuesday evening.

“I’m looking forward to being back in Worcester around Christmas time and help give back to this community that has had my back all season long,” said Ryan Fitzgerald, who in 2022 became the first Minor League player to have his own merchandise line. “The WooSox are always doing great things in the community and it’s a pleasure to help out in any way I can.”

The WooSox will conclude their 2022 Holiday Caravan on Wednesday with visits to Abby Kelley Foster Elementary School, and Gates Lane Elementary School, where the club established a mentoring program this past March 4 in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Massachusetts.

“What an honor it is to visit these children and organizations who deserve the smiles that our mascots so often inspire,” said WooSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “And how fortunate we are to have such caring souls who wear the WooSox uniform: Ryan Fitzgerald and Red Sox Hall of Famer Rich Gedman embody the dreams of all of the children of this region. Meeting Fitzy and Geddy, shaking their hands, and learning their stories can turn a moment into a memory and perhaps even a turning point in life. We thank the schools and wonderful charities who perform these good deeds every single day for the opportunity to stop by, say hello, and wish everyone a happy holiday season with best wishes for a happy, healthy new year.”

Media interested in covering any portion of the team’s 2022 Holiday Caravan can reach out to Vice President of Community & Player Relations Joe Bradlee at [email protected] for further guidance.

Reno Aces Partners with JAKKS Pacific for Annual Toy Donations to Benefit Local Charities

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RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces have been spreading joy with thousands of toys to local charities during its annual toy donation in partnership with JAKKS Pacific throughout the holiday season. This year, the Aces have partnered with the following eight local charities for its toy donation:

Ashlee’s Toy Closet

Boys and Girls Club of Truckee Meadows

Greater Nevada Credit Union

Reno Rodeo Foundation

Tahoe Truckee Toys for Tots

Washoe County Sherriff’s Office

Washoe County Toys for Tots

Women and Children’s Center of the Sierra

“Over the years, our partnership with JAKKS Pacific has been phenomenal. Thanks to the friendship between our owner Herb Simon and Stephen Berman, JAKKS CEO, the Aces ensure every toy donated brings a local child in need some joy,” said Reno Aces President Eric Edelstein. “We can’t thank the Northern Nevada community enough for the support they provide the Aces, and these toys are a chance for us to give back to those less fortunate in the region.”

JAKKS Pacific Co-Founder and CEO Stephan Berman and Aces owner Herb Simon have been longtime friends, partnering for over a decade to make toy donations. The partnership has led to thousands of toys being donated to various charities in Nevada and Central Indiana.

The Reno Aces are slated to open the 2023 season at Greater Nevada Field on Friday, March 31st, against the Las Vegas Aviators, Triple-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics. Season Memberships are available via RenoAces.com, texting “MEMBER” to 21003, or calling (775) 334-7000.

-ACES-

Hundreds Of Toys And Food Items Collected For Those In Need

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Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, collected hundreds of donated items during the team’s annual Holiday Toy and Food Drive on Saturday, December 10.

The event took place at the Team Store at TD Bank Ballpark and saw fans arrive throughout the day with new, unwrapped toys to benefit Central New Jersey Toys For Tots and non-perishable food items for the Food Bank Network of Somerset County.

As he has been doing for the past 20 years, Patriots Manager Emeritus Sparky Lyle was on site to meet fans, take pictures and sign autographs as a special thank you to all that donated.

“This is always a special event for me and everyone at the Somerset Patriots,” said Lyle. “I can’t believe how many toys came in. Some people showed up needing help getting carts full of donations from their cars. I think it was the most we ever collected in all the years of doing this. Our fans once again came through to bring some holiday cheer to those that need it the most this time of year.”

In addition to Lyle, team mascot Sparkee mingled with fans as holiday music played throughout the team store. The 2022 Eastern League Championship Trophy was also on display for pictures.

Shoppers were able to pick up team apparel and other novelties for Patriots fans on their holiday lists. Featured items included the recently released Marvel-inspired merchandise and championship gear.

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.

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-

SRP Park Hosts 9th Annual Auggie’s Holiday BUZZar & Toys for Tots Drive

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Get into the Holiday Spirit December 10th at SRP Park

NORTH AUGUSTA, SC – The Augusta GreenJackets, Single-A Affiliate of the Atlanta Braves are excited to continue Auggie’s Holiday BUZZar for the 9th year on Saturday December 10th at SRP Park from 10am-1pm. This is one of our most popular community events and we look forward to decking the park in holiday cheer!

Auggie’s Holiday BUZZar is a free event for individuals and families, dogs are welcome to attend (remaining on the concourse). Shop local as over 50 small CSRA businesses and individuals will be set up on the concourse to wrap up your Holiday shopping. Guests can have their picture taken with Santa in the Hive Pro Shop, and of course Auggie will be present for photos and holiday cheer. The North Augusta School of Dance returns, showcasing their holiday dance moves at 10:30am, 11:30am, and 12:30pm.

New this holiday season, guests can participate in the Hot Chocolate 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk, partnered with Fleet Feet of Augusta. This unique race allows you SRP Park field access to take a jog around the warning track four times and grab a nice Hot Chocolate at the finish line. Grab your best Ugly Sweater for a contest prior to the race. The run is FREE to all, strollers are allowed, however dogs are not permitted on the field for the run.

“We’re excited to continue this favorite holiday event to wrap up the year,” states GreenJackets Director of Marketing, Catie Jagodzinski. “We look forward to this event each holiday season and the fun it brings to SRP Park. With so many wonderful vendors, North Augusta School of Dance, our new partnership with Fleet Feet Augusta and appearances by Auggie and Santa, it’s an excellent Saturday afternoon event!”

SRP Park is also a Toys to Tots location and guests can bring new, unwrapped gifts to be donated to an amazing cause and be entered to win prizes. Shepeard Community Blood Center will be present for those interested in donating during the event. All donors will receive a FREE t-shirt for their donation. Those looking to donate blood can schedule their appointment here: https://bit.ly/3OUrlBQ .

Concessions will be available featuring your fan favorite menu items and cold beverages. Stock up for the fan in your life as the Hive Pro Shop will be open with holiday specials and new merchandise available for the GreenJackets fan on your shopping list.

More information about the event and the full list of vendors attending is available here: https://www.milb.com/augusta/community/auggies-fall-market

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ABOUT THE AUGUSTA GREENJACKETS

The Augusta GreenJackets are the Single A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. 2023 Augusta GreenJackets Full, Half and 20-game season seat memberships 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).

For team merchandise or more information visit www.greenjacketsbaseball.com. 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

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.

Breakfast with Santa returns to Clover Park on Dec. 3rd

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PORT ST LUCIE, Fla. – The 6th annual New Horizons Breakfast with Santa will be held this Saturday from 8 a.m. – noon at Clover Park. The event is free for youth 17 and under. Adult admission is $5 or adults can bring an unwrapped gift or gift card to the toy drive.

The holiday celebration features an all-you-can-eat breakfast, photos with Santa, games, prizes, cookie decorating, card making, face painting and more. The goal of Breakfast with Santa is to create wholesome memories that will last a lifetime.

The event is sponsored by the St. Lucie Mets, Stewart Materials, Boys and Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County, Children’s Services Council of St. Lucie County, Treasure Coast Photography Center, Fred Stalls of Waterstone Mortgage, Terilco Events & Décor, Keller William Jupiter, Hilton Garden Inn, Mary Kay – Jerry Koedyker, Aramark, Pat Austin and Southern Eagle Distributing.

“This event is so much fun for kids of all ages, from all backgrounds – creating memories they will carry with them throughout their lives as a cherished holiday tradition,” William Wims, CEO of New Horizons, said. “Wholesome activities in a safe, family-friendly environment have a positive impact on the children in our community.”

The all-you-can-eat menu includes scrambled eggs, pancakes, bacon, sausage, juice and hot chocolate. The Treasure Coast Photography Center will be taking photos of attendees with Santa that they can take home, and the Children’s Services Council will give away free grade-level books as well.

Donated toys and gift cards will be given to children and teens from low-income and foster families associated with New Horizons.

Additional funds raised at Breakfast with Santa help purchase supplies for children’s programs at New Horizons that improve engagement and enhance the therapeutic experience.

For more information about Breakfast with Santa please visit www.nhtcinc.org or call 772-672-8333.

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.

WooSox Foundation Joins Worcester County Sheriff for 2022 Winter Coat Drive

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For the second consecutive year, the WooSox Foundation showed their support for the Worcester County Sheriff Reserve Deputy Association’s Annual Winter Coat Drive, led by Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis.

In a period spanning five days in the middle of October, more than 4,000 brand new winter coats were distributed to people in need throughout Worcester County, thanks to the support of hard-working volunteers and generous sponsors who support the drive every year.

Stops were made at community organizations and non-profits in Gardner, Fitchburg, Leominster, Worcester, Webster, Southbridge, and Milford to distribute winter coats before the colder winter months are upon us.

“It’s our pleasure to continue to show our support for the Worcester County Sheriff’s Winter Coat Drive,” said WooSox Vice President of Community & Player Relations Joe Bradlee. “We’re always blown away by the enthusiasm and showing of support from everyone involved, along with the sheer quality of the winter coats that are distributed every year. This is a coat drive that makes a real impact for people in this region.”

The WooSox Foundation sent Smiley Ball along with several staff members to help distribute the coats at each stop along the way.

“Our Winter Coat Drive is an important initiative that we look forward to every year, because it allows us to provide winter coats to so many people in this community who need them,” said Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis. “All of us at the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office are grateful to our sponsors who help us make this happen, and we thank the WooSox Foundation for their continued support of this great cause.”

Christmas With the Claws Food & Toy Drive Returns December 3rd at ShoreTown Ballpark

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JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities will host their annual Christmas food and toy drive, Christmas with the Claws, on Saturday, December 3rd from 10 am – 12 pm at ShoreTown Ballpark.

Santa will be at the ballpark for pictures, and his good friend Buster will be on hand too.

The event serves as a toy drive to benefit the Salvation Army of Ocean County and their annual Holiday Toy Shop. Fans are asked to bring unwrapped toys or non-perishable food. Donors will receive a ticket to Opening Night at the Jersey Shore, set for Tuesday, April 11th (one ticket per donor).

“Santa is very excited to return to ShoreTown for his annual visit and we’re looking forward to this great event,” said Jim McNamara, executive director of BlueClaws Charities. “Over the years, the BlueClaws family has been incredibly supportive of the Salvation Army and their toy drive and we hope that continues this holiday season.”

There will also be a station set up where kids can write letters to Santa, which will be sent off to the North Pole in time for Christmas! The BlueClaws will provide complimentary hot chocolate.

BlueClaws Charities will sell Mystery Bags at the event, which include merchandise and promotional items.

Finally, the Claws Cove will be open for holiday shopping with special sales and packages. New BlueClaws Marvel-inspired merchandise will be available. BlueClaws ticket representatives will be on hand as well for those that would like to give the gift of BlueClaws tickets this holiday season.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws. The organization recently distributed grants to 31 organizations that support the less fortunate around the Jersey Shore. A full list of grant recipients and programs can be found at BlueClaws.com.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws / BlueClaws Charities-

Holiday Toy And Food Drive Set For December 10

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Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, will be hosting a Holiday Toy and Food Drive at the Team Store at TD Bank Ballpark on Saturday, December 10.

The event will take place from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm in the Team Store located by the main gate of the ballpark.

New and unwrapped toys will be collected to donate to Central New Jersey Toys For Tots to bring holiday cheer to less fortunate children throughout the area.

The team will also be accepting donations of canned and non-perishable food items for the Food Bank Network of Somerset County to help fight hunger.

Patriots Manager Emeritus Sparky Lyle will be on site to meet fans, sign autographs, and take pictures from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. Sparkee the Mascot will also be at the event during those times.

The Team Store will feature 2022 Eastern League Championship apparel, Marvel-inspired merchandise, and much more. Parents will be able to sign their children up for the 2023 Somerset Sluggers Kids Club as well as book a birthday party at TD Bank Ballpark this upcoming season.

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.

Bear Necessities: HVR holding inaugural Teddy Bear Toss on 7/27

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Wappingers Falls, N.Y. (July 22, 2022) –The Hudson Valley Renegades will be hosting a Teddy Bear Toss at Dutchess Stadium on Wednesday, July 27 immediately following that night’s game against the Brooklyn Cyclones. The event is part of the We Care Wednesday program, presented by Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth).

The Renegades encourage all fans to bring new teddy bears and stuffed animals to The Dutch for the game, but there will also be a limited number of teddy bears/plush dolls available for sale at the ballpark. Fans can purchase one doll for $3, or five dolls for $10. Proceeds from the sale will benefit WMCHealth’s Maria Fareri Children’s Healthcare Services at MidHudson Regional Hospital. Fans purchasing teddy bears at the game will be given ticket vouchers for a future Renegades game.

Additionally, providers from WMCHealth’s Maria Fareri Children’s Healthcare Services at MidHudson Regional Hospital will be offering a Teddy Bear Clinic for children who bring their favorite stuffed animal to the game or purchase a teddy bear at the ballpark.Stop by the WMCHealth table and say hello to the pediatrics team prior to Wednesday night’s game.

“Teddy Bear Tosses have been done in hockey for years, and we are so happy to be bringing one to The Dutch for the first time ever,” said Marcella Costello, Community Partnerships Manager of the Renegades. “A Teddy Bear Toss is a fun way for both the Renegades and our fans to make a meaningful difference in the life of children in our community.”

Following the game, fans are invited to throw their teddy bears on the field at The Dutch. The Bears will be collected by Renegades staff and donated to Cuddles from Cassidy, a Larchmont, New York-based non-profit organization whose mission is to provide comfort and joy to children battling life-threatening illnesses by providing cuddles (care packages with stuffed animals, toys, and tokes of love) to put smiles on their faces.

Additionally, the Renegades will be hosting a toy drive for Toys for Tots prior to their Christmas in July game on Tuesday, July 26. Toys will be collected at both the Season Ticket Member and Main Gates at Dutchess Stadium. Fans who bring a toy for donation will receive a ticket voucher for a future Renegades game.

Both Tuesday and Wednesday night’s games against the Brooklyn Cyclones are scheduled to begin at 7:05 p.m. at Dutchess Stadium. For tickets and more information, visit www.hvrenegades.com.

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).

CLOTHING DRIVE AT FIRSTENERGY STADIUM ON JUNE 28

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

(READING) – FirstEnergy Stadium is proud to host a large clothing drive in conjunction with The Real Church 516. On Tuesday, June 28 from 8:00AM – 4:00 PM, they will be giving away over 7,000 pieces of clothing, shoes and more! All items are free of charge and are donated by Amazon, so everything is quality items in good condition. Please spread the word!

Things have been challenging for everyone over the past few years, and The Real Church is looking to give back to the community. Thanks to sponsors and the City of Reading, the greater community is welcome to come by FirstEnergy Stadium for any clothing and shoes that they made need. Items are in all sizes, so there is something for everyone.

​In September of 2016 Pastor Earl and his wife Shandale, started The REAL CHURCH. The REAL CHURCH is a non-denominational church that truly focuses on REAL Faith, REAL Worship, REAL People. Be REAL with yourself and watch what God will do in your life. Earl and Shandale are called to help people grow in a church setting without legalism, without judging, and without compromising the gospel of Jesus Christ.

FirstEnergy Stadium is the Double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies and the home of the Reading Fightin Phils. The stadium is located at 1900 Centre Avenue, Reading, PA 19605.

Team Rubicon and Alight with the St. Paul Saints and Two Men and a Truck to Host Donation Drive for Afghan Families

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

ST. PAUL, MN (January 27, 2022) –

WHAT: Team Rubicon, a veteran-led disaster response nonprofit organization, and Minneapolis-based global humanitarian organization, Alight, will be hosting a donation drive for Afghan families who are transitioning off bases and into communities across Minneapolis and the surrounding area. As families move into homes, furniture, household goods, and other necessities are needed now more than ever. Team Rubicon and Alight are working with community partners to collect these items and help to set up homes and move in Afghan families.

The St. Paul Saints have generously offered the Plaza Entrance at CHS Field for the donation drive. The first 50 fans to make a donation will receive a voucher to redeem 2 free tickets to a select Saints home game in April.

In addition to assisting both organizations in moving Afghan families into homes, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK will be providing support and transportation to move all collected items to the warehouse. The first 100 fans to make a donation will receive a free coffee gift card from Two Men and a Truck.

WHO: Korey Schroeder, Sr. Associate of Operations and Resettlement Lead, Team Rubicon

Annie Nolte-Henning, Program Director for the Americas, Alight

Sean Aronson, VP of Broadcasting & Media Relations, St. Paul Saints

Sally Flinck, Director of Marketing and Communications, Two Men and a Truck

WHEN: Saturday, February 5 from 10am-1pm

**Interviews are available ahead of drive

WHERE: CHS Field- Plaza Entrance (between 5th and 6th St)

360 N Broadway St

St. Paul, MN 55101

Drive-up donations are requested from Wall Street turning East on 5th Street (towards CHS Field) and North on Broadway between 5th and 6th Streets. All community members, please stay in your vehicles as volunteers will greet you and help you remove items from your vehicles on Broadway between 5th and 6th Street.

LIST OF ITEMS REQUESTED

· Couch/Sofa (new)

· Pillows (new)

· Bedding (new)

· Mattress – twin and full (new)

· Comforter set, twin & full (new)

· Bath towel set (new)

· Car seats (new)

· Pressure cooker

· Tea pots

· Coffee carafe

· Dresser

· Pots & pans

· Toys

· Diapers (all sizes)

**All donated items should be new

**Due to warehouse space limitations, only items on the list will be accepted.

RSVP & INTERVIEW REQUESTS:

Joy Moh | **joy.moh@teamrubiconusa.org** | 626-552-6558

Chris Kindler | **ChrisK@WeAreAlight.org** | 651-428-5955

*About Team Rubicon *

Team Rubicon serves communities by mobilizing veterans to continue their service by leveraging their skills and experience to help people prepare, respond, and recover from disasters and humanitarian crises. Founded following the Haiti earthquake in 2010, the organization has grown to almost 150,000 volunteers across the United States and has launched over 800 operations both domestically and internationally. Amidst the COVID-19 outbreak, Team Rubicon has not only pivoted to be able to continue to deliver disaster response and rebuild services in core mission areas but has also expanded their scope of missions to meet community needs brought about by COVID. Visit www.teamrubiconusa.org for more information.

To donate to the Afghan families as they transition into communities, please visit the Amazon wishlists which is being updated daily to meet the needs of the families or visit https://teamrubiconusa.org/resettlement for more information.

ABOUT ALIGHT

Based in Minnesota since 1978, Alight is an international humanitarian organization, working to create conditions for refugees, migrants, asylum seekers, trafficked and displaced people to build full, meaningful lives. Providing health care, clean water, shelter, protection and economic opportunities to more than 3.5 million people in over 20 countries each year. Alight believes in the incredible creativity, potential and ingenuity of the displaced and works to shine a light on their humanity, the tremendous amount of good that’s already happening and the possibilities to do more. In 2020, Alight received the prestigious 4-Star Rating from Charity Navigator for the tenth consecutive year, celebrating a decade of impactful work.