Appalachian League celebrates 2022 charitable contributions

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).

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

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.

BlueClaws Charities Announces 2022 Grant Recipients

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-

MetroWest YMCA Honors Larry and Stacey Lucchino with Inaugural “Dream Big Award”

On Wednesday, November 9, the MetroWest YMCA presented Larry Lucchino, chairman and principal owner of the Worcester Red Sox, and wife Stacey Lucchino with the inaugural “Dream Big Award” at their gala & auction at the Verve Hotel in Natick.

Nearly 200 people, including a handful of WooSox front office members, were on hand to support Larry, Stacey, and the YMCA’s worthy mission of empowering youth throughout the MetroWest region.

The MetroWest YMCA serves the towns of Ashland, Framingham, Holliston, Hopkinton, Natick, Sherborn, Sudbury, and Wayland—all of which are towns that the WooSox seek to be more active in, Larry stated when accepting his award.

“Stacey and I are humbled to receive the inaugural ‘Dream Big Award’ from the MetroWest YMCA,” he said. “It’s our pleasure to be supporting this worthy cause, and the WooSox look forward to building an enhanced connection with communities throughout the MetroWest region as we prepare for 2023 and beyond.”

In addition to the WooSox Foundation’s Platinum sponsorship, the WooSox donated two suites for games in 2023, which each raised more than $3,000 during the live auction. WooSox President Dr. Charles Steinberg generously donated his personal suite as one of them, which he made available as a surprise to a lucky bidder.

“I’m proud to have the MetroWest YMCA be an official member of WooSox Nation and look forward to exploring new ways that the WooSox and the Y can work together,” said MetroWest YMCA President Rick MacPherson. “Having three World Series trophies and Smiley Ball in attendance also provided some added fun and made the evening that much more special.”

The WooSox plan to recognize the MetroWest YMCA at a game in 2023 to be announced later this offseason. Fans can visit www.woosox.com for all marketing and promotional updates.

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.

Vancouver Canadians and RBC Announce RBC We Care Wednesdays

VANCOUVER, BC – The Vancouver Canadians and RBC are pleased to announce the 2022 debut of RBC We Care Wednesdays, a brand-new community spotlight campaign that will highlight the efforts, impact, and achievements of 10 local charities through public awareness, a ticket fundraiser and in-stadium events that showcase each charity at Nat Bailey Stadium.

“We are honoured to partner with the Vancouver Canadians to celebrate 10 incredible charities who are making such an important impact in local communities across British Columbia,” said Todd Shewfelt, Regional Vice President, Business Financial Services, RBC Royal Bank. “My Team RBC colleagues and I are extremely excited to join the Canadians at iconic Nat Bailey Stadium to support our community partners. The charities we have selected for RBC We Care Wednesdays are organizations that we have long-standing relationships with through donations, sponsorships and countless employee volunteer hours and fundraising. That’s why we can’t wait to join baseball fans at The Nat this season to thank these charities for all that they are doing to help care for our communities.”

During each RBC We Care Wednesday, fans at the ballpark will be introduced to one of the following 10 charities:

May 4 – BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, works with communities across British Columbia to raise funds for essentials including life-saving equipment, research into childhood diseases, a wide range of medical staff and community child health education programs.

May 18 – Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland, whose vision is to see all young people realize their full potential and whose mission is to enable life-changing mentoring relationships to ignite the power and potential of young people.

June 1 – United Way British Columbia, serves Central and Northern Vancouver Island, Lower Mainland, Thompson Nicola Cariboo, Southern Interior, Trail and District, and East Kootenay and exists to drive positive impact and lasting change by delivering resources and support for the people who need it most.

June 15 – YMCA of Greater Vancouver, a charity that has cares for kids, shapes leaders for tomorrow and helps generations of people come together to find support, get healthier and make friends for life.

June 29 – JA British Columbia, brings important educational experiences to thousands of students annually across British Columbia. Through these programs that focus on financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship, JABC aims to inspire, prepare, and empower BC youth for lifelong success.

July 13 – Greater Vancouver Food Bank, whose mission is to create empowering environments that provide and promote access to healthy food, education, and training.

July 27 – Challenger Baseball, a division of Baseball BC that provides an opportunity for children with cognitive or physical disabilities to enjoy the full benefits of participation in baseball at a level structured to their abilities.

August 3 – Out On Screen, a professional arts organization with two key program initiatives: the annual Vancouver Queer Film Festival and Out In Schools, a province-wide educational program aimed primarily at high school students with program delivery across the education system that engages high school students using film and video to address homophobia, transphobia, and bullying.

August 24 – BGC South Coast BC, proudly serving over 10,000 children, youth and families annually, providing fun, safe spaces to learn, grow and heal.

Sept 7 –* Foundry*, a province-wide network of integrated health and social service centres for young people ages 12-24. Foundry Centres provide a one-stop-shop for young people to access mental health care, substance use services, primary care, social services and youth and family peer supports.

Each charity will benefit from a special fundraising code that fans can use to purchase tickets. A portion of the ticket purchase price will go directly to support the charity. A special pregame ceremony, interactive activities on the concourse – including Meet & Greets with RBC Olympians – and other events around the ballpark will take place during each RBC We Care Wednesday. Stay up-to-date with event plans for each RBC We Care Wednesday by visiting CanadiansBaseball.com/Community/RBCWeCareWednesdays.

About RBC

Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 88,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada’s biggest bank, and one of the largest in the world based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our 17 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries. Learn more at rbc.com_._

We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/community-social-impact_._

APERÇU DE RBC

La Banque Royale du Canada est une institution financière mondiale définie par sa raison d’être, guidée par des principes et orientée vers l’excellence en matière de rendement. Notre succès est attribuable aux quelque 88 000 employés qui mettent à profit leur créativité et leur savoir‑faire pour concrétiser notre vision, nos valeurs et notre stratégie afin que nous puissions contribuer à la prospérité de nos clients et au dynamisme des collectivités. Selon la capitalisation boursière, nous sommes la plus importante banque du Canada et l’une des plus grandes banques du monde. Nous avons adopté un modèle d’affaires diversifié axé sur l’innovation et l’offre d’expériences exceptionnelles à nos 17 millions de clients au Canada, aux États‑Unis et dans 27 autres pays. Pour en savoir plus, visitez le site rbc.com_._

Nous sommes fiers d’appuyer une grande diversité d’initiatives communautaires par des dons, des investissements dans la collectivité et le travail bénévole de nos employés. Pour de plus amples renseignements, visitez le site https://www.rbc.com/collectivite-impact-social/index.html_._

Annual West Michigan Whitecaps Fundraiser has a New Look in February

 

Comstock Park, MI – – Tuesday, January 4, 2022 – – The Whitecaps Community Foundation announced a new look for their annual fundraiser in 2022. Past events were featured as a banquet and the Detroit Tigers caravan was the highlight. This year’s event will again support local youth baseball and softball, but with a few changes.

This February, the Whitecaps will celebrate The Golden Age of Baseball, during what is now called the Whitecaps Winter Gala presented by Eastbrook Homes. Proceeds benefit the YMCA Ted Rasberry Youth League and the Detroit Tigers Foundation, an affiliate of Ilitch Charities.

Since its inception, the Ted Rasberry Youth League has given more than 30,000 children a chance to play baseball and softball each summer. The program provides uniform hats and t-shirts, teaches kids baseball skills, provides healthy meals, helps kids make long-lasting friendships and the opportunity for fun during the summer.

“In classic Whitecaps tradition, we’re stepping up our entertainment game this year,” said Whitecaps Community Relations Manager, Jenny Garone. “Not only is the event in downtown Grand Rapids at the Public Museum, but we’ll also have live music, an auction, a strolling dinner, and guests will be dressed in 1920s attire as we’re celebrating the Golden Age of Baseball.”

Former major leaguer Craig Monroe is scheduled to speak at the gala (see attached photos, biography below). Monroe played six seasons with the Detroit Tigers during a career that spanned nine years: 2001– 2009.

“Baseball is what we do” Garone added. ‘We’re thrilled to be joined by former Tiger Craig Monroe who will visit and give a keynote talk. It’s all about raising funds so kids get the opportunity to have fun next summer. It’s a tradition and a party West Michigan won’t want to miss. We expect a sellout.”

The Whitecaps and the venue continue to monitor the community spread of COVID 19 and how current transmission rates may impact masking and vaccination requirements for this event. Further updates on these requirements will be provided in the coming weeks.

The Whitecaps Community Foundation The Golden Age of Baseball Winter Gala presented by Eastbrook Homes is Thursday, February 3rd at 6:00 p.m. at the Grand Rapids Public Museum.

Tickets are available at now at https://WCFgala22.givesmart.com.

About West Michigan Whitecaps: The Whitecaps minor league baseball team was established in 1994. The Whitecaps are the High- A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers and play in the Eastern Division of the High-A Central League. The team’s home games are played in West Michigan’s favorite, largest, outdoor, multi-purpose venue, LMCU Ballpark. For more information on Whitecaps and LMCU Ballpark visit whitecapsbaseball.com or contact Steve VanWagoner at [email protected] or 616.318.8949.

About Craig Monroe: Former Tigers outfielder Craig Monroe returns for his 11th season as a studio analyst for the Detroit Tigers on Bally Sports Detroit. He also occasionally serves as an analyst on game broadcasts.

• Monroe played nine seasons in the majors with the Texas Rangers (2001), Detroit Tigers (2002-07), Chicago Cubs (2007), Minnesota Twins (2008) and Pittsburgh Pirates (2009). He was originally drafted in the eighth round of the 1995 MLB First-Year Player Draft by the Rangers.

• The Texarkana, TX, native joined the Detroit Tigers organization on February 1, 2002, when he was selected off waivers from the Rangers. He played his first full season in 2003, hitting 23 home runs.

• On July 19, 2006, Monroe hit a grand slam home run off Javier Vazquez of the Chicago White Sox that was decisive in the Tigers’ 5-2 win. A career .252 hitter, he recorded career highs with 28 homers and 92 RBI with Detroit in 2006. He also hit five home runs in the 2006 postseason, which culminated in a World Series appearance. Monroe tied the Tigers’ career postseason record set by Hall of Famer Hank Greenberg.

• Craig and his wife, Kasey, have three children, Morgan, Cannon and Collin.

• Follow Monroe on Twitter at @CMo_27

Patriots Announce Tropical Storm Ida Relief Donations

 

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, have announced the recipients of the team’s fundraising efforts to assist those affected by the flooding and damage caused by Tropical Storm Ida.

$35,000 was raised by the team through an online auction, ballpark 50-50 raffles, and a donation match by the Kalafer family, Flemington Car & Truck Country Family of Brands, Clinton Honda, and Jaguar Land Rover Princeton.

“First we need to thank everyone that donated to our efforts, whether that was items for the auction or monetarily,” said Patriots President/General Manager Patrick McVerry. “They helped us raise a significant amount of money that was matched by our very generous ownership and the dealerships.”

The money raised through the Somerset Patriots Children’s Educational and Sportsmanship Foundation was earmarked to assist with recovery efforts for Central New Jersey residents and businesses.

The selected recipients of the fundraising efforts were:

The Food Bank Network of Somerset County: DONATE

(L to R): Sparkee, Gordon White, President of the Board of Directors; Steve Katz, Executive Director; Patrick McVerry, Sparky Lyle.

  • The donation will help distribute food and provide other basic human needs to those in Somerset County affected by the flooding and destruction caused by Ida.

Greater Somerset County YMCA: DONATE

(L to R): Sparky Lyle, Patrick McVerry, David Carcieri, President/CEO; Sparkee.

  • The donation will assist families and children through social programs designed to help them stay healthy and strong, as well as provide financial assistance to those displaced, underprivileged, or in need due to the impact of the storm.

The ARC of Somerset County: DONATE

(L to R): Jill Glassman, Director of Early Childhood Services; Chris Corvino, Associate Executive Director; Lauren Frary, Executive Director; Patrick McVerry, Sparky Lyle, Jen Prior, Sparkee.

  • The donation will help the organization assist those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families that were affected by the flooding and damage from the storm.

Somerset Health Care Foundation: DONATE

(L to R): Jessica Ust, Director of Development; Sparky Lyle, Donna Castronovo, Vice President, Foundation and Development; Sparkee, Patrick McVerry, Patrick Delaney, Chief Operating Officer at RWJUH Somerset.

  • The donation will be used to help displaced health care workers and hospital support staff due to the flooding and assist with their needs during the recovery.

Thomas J. Kavanaugh VFW Post 2290 (Manville): DONATE

(L to R): Sparky Lyle, Andy Henkel, Commander; Patrick McVerry, Sparkee.

  • The donation will be used to assist with the cost of shelter operations and aid the victims directly to help get back into their homes.

Checks were personally delivered on Monday, November 22nd and Tuesday, November 23rd by McVerry, Patriots Manager Emeritus Sparky Lyle, and Sparkee the Mascot.

“You really couldn’t ask for a better time to give than Thanksgiving week,” said Lyle. “To be able to say thank you to our friends doing such important work to help our community felt really good. And while the devastation to the area put a spotlight on their efforts, it’s really something they do all year long and deserves to be recognized.”

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. To learn more, visit:

www.somersetpatriots.com.

At the Table with The Greenville News Comes to Fluor Field March 10

 

The moment you realize your life is going to go in a different direction, and that everything you’ve worked for, and how you’ve always defined yourself, is changing.

That’s the moment six local athletes will share at the next At the Table with The Greenville News event March 10 at Fluor Field. The event in partnership with The Greenville Drive is part of The Greenville News’ culinary storytelling series, which marries illuminating personal stories and creative cuisine.

The six athletes will tell stories of passion, loss, dedication and resolve, and of the day they decided to essentially break up with their pro career.

Participating storytellers are:

  • Bretton Cameron, who retired from the Greenville Swamp Rabbits hockey team
  • Blakely Mattern, soccer player and J.L. Mann High graduate
  • John Harkes, coach of the Greenville Triumph and former USMNT soccer player
  • Levon Kirkland, former Pittsburgh Steeler and Clemson graduate
  • MarieAnn “Mo” Newman, former professional bodybuilder and current bodybuilding judge
  • Madison Younginer, a Mauldin High grad who pitched for the Atlanta Braves

Wilberto Sauceda, executive chef at Fluor Field will put his skills to the test to create a small plates menu inspired by each of the athletes.
The Greenville Drive is the venue sponsor for this event, and money raised will go to benefit the Greenville YMCA.
Tickets are $50 and include six dishes and an evening of stories you’ve never heard. The event is 7 p.m., Tuesday, March 10 at the Champions Club located at Fluor Field. Tickets are available here

 

IronPigs Charities presents $53,400 in Community Grants

IronPigs Charities, the philanthropic branch of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, announced the 20 recipients of the 2020 Community Grants. Grants, which totaled $53,400, were provided to the following organizations in support of educational and recreational programs for youth in the Greater Lehigh Valley, especially those in underserved populations or those who are differently abled. IronPigs Charities has donated $1,081,329 since 2007.

“These grants are made possible through the proceeds of multiple fundraising events conducted during our season,” said IronPigs Charities Executive Director Diane Donaher. “We received 80 grant applications from many worthy community non-profits. While the decision was difficult, we are excited that the projects selected by our Board of Directors will use the funds to provide positive experiences for children that often go without these sometimes-transformational opportunities because of economic and other access barriers. We thank all Lehigh Valley IronPigs fans for their support of IronPigs Charities. It is through your generous donations that these grants are possible.”

Here’s a full list of the 20 recipients of the 2020 Community Grants:

Bethlehem Area Public Library
Boys & Girls Club of Allentown
Boys & Girls Club of Easton
Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center
Camelot for Children
Center for Vision Loss
Children’s Home of Easton
Community Bike Works
Diakon-Adoption Program
Easton Community Center
Greater Valley YMCA
Lehigh Valley Center for Independent Living
Mikayla’s Voice
Miracle League of the Lehigh Valley
Northeast Community Center
Northern Lehigh Recreation Authority
Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley, Inc.
The Salvation Army
Wilson Area LINCS Family Center
YWCA Bethlehem

IronPigs Charities is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, the cornerstone of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs’ commitment to the Lehigh Valley community and is presented by the Air Products Foundation.

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

JetHawks Announce 2019 Holiday Caravan

JetHawks Announce 2019 Holiday Caravan

Lancaster, CA – The Lancaster JetHawks, High-A California League affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, are excited to announce plans for this year’s JetHawks Holiday Caravan. Each year the Holiday Caravan gets bigger as the JetHawks organization continues its efforts to support the needs of the Antelope Valley, and this year will be our biggest year yet!

The Caravan will kick off this evening at the Antelope Valley YMCA Gobble Wobble Fun Run, and continues tomorrow at the YMCA 5k/10k Turkey Trot. The JetHawks are proud to be a presenting sponsor of the Gobble Wobble Fun Run, and also share that AVTA’s Stuff-A-Bus will be at the location both days for you to donate toys for local children in need.

“Being involved in the community is something our organization focuses on year round,” stated JetHawks Executive Vice-President Tom Backemeyer. “The Holiday Caravan is just a small part of how our organization tries to give back to our community each year, and we constantly want to ensure that it is growing.”

The Caravan will continue throughout the Holiday Season with the JetHawks visiting several different organizations in the community. Along the way, the team will be handing out toys to kids, donated by the Flight Crew Booster Club, and delivering Holiday cheer throughout the Antelope Valley. All dates below are set, and additional locations will be added throughout December. Follow the JetHawks on Facebook and Instagram for the most up-to-date information!

Confirmed JetHawks Holiday Caravan Events:

Wednesday, November 27 – Antelope Valley YMCA Gobble Wobble – 3:00pm

Thursday, November 28 – Antelope Valley YMCA 5K/10K Turkey Trot- 7:30am

Friday, December 6 – City of Hope Holiday Party – 3:00pm

Saturday, December 7 – Lancaster Chamber Christmas Parade – 10:00am

Saturday, December 7 – Grace Resources Grocery Distribution – 11:30am

Wednesday, December 11 – William J Pete Knight Veterans Home – 12:00pm

Saturday, December 14 – Palmdale Christmas Parade – 10:00am

Saturday, December 14 – Lancaster Magical BLVD – 5:00pm

For more information on getting involved or on how to donate to this year’s Caravan, please contact Jules Clyne with the JetHawks, at 661-726-5400 or julianna@jethawks.com.

The JetHawks kick off the 2020 season in Lancaster with the Home Opener slated for April 9! Learn more at JetHawks.com

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

Keys Care Grant Recipients Announced for 2020

 

FREDERICK, MD -The Frederick Keys are excited to announce their Frederick Keys Care grant recipients for 2019-20. Keys Care supports local non-profit organizations in Frederick County who provide direct aid to disadvantaged youth and young adults. The Keys Care Fund is part of the Community Foundation of Frederick County’s Universal Grant Application funding program. Grants are awarded each fall for the next calendar year, while any Frederick County 501 (c) (3) organization which provides direct aid to county youth is eligible to apply for a grant.

Started in 1999 as the Joel A. Stephens Memorial Fund, Keys Care was created to honor the memory of Stephens, a former Orioles farmhand. Passing away at only 22 years old due to colon cancer, Joel’s commitment to community service and helping young people set him apart as a player.

Since Keys Care was founded, over $90,000 in grants has been awarded to local youth-based organizations. For the 2019-20 grant period, over $11,000 will be given out to five different organizations.

Advocates for Homeless Families: Strives to achieve permanent solutions to homelessness by providing access to housing, education, employment and supportive services to Frederick County families who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness. This year’s grant supports enriching after-school and summer activities for approximately 20 children, ages 3-14 who participate with their families in transitional and rapid rehousing programs. Funding would support activities such as karate, tennis, dance, cooking, athletics, church and day camp as well as pool passes for all participating children ($1,500).

Blessings in a Backpack: Provides weekend backpacks of food to children from Pre-K through eighth grade who depend on school meals as their primary source of nutrition Monday-Friday. Starting in 2015-16, a special request was made to assist special needs young adults. These 18-21-year-olds Success Program students have recently received high school certificates and deal with the stresses of food insecurity over weekends and school breaks as they learn life skills in order to live independent and productive lives. This year’s grant will help provide food to 15 low-income Success Program students for a fifth straight year ($1,500).

Student Homelessness Initiative Partnership (SHIP): Provides urgent resources and critical services to the hundreds of Frederick County youth experiencing homelessness each year. Funding benefits the New Horizons Academy which provides academic and life skills that will help homeless students get back on track or remain on track for a successful high school graduation. For five weeks each summer, Frederick County youth who experience homelessness can participate in morning instruction from one of four courses mandatory for graduation. After lunch, each student participates in one hour of life skills instruction ($2,000).

YMCA of Frederick County: The Kids Unlimited program provides summer camps for children with autism and other special needs. This program was founded to give these children a safe, nurturing and enriching summer program. Prior to Kids Unlimited, there was no summer program to serve children with special needs. Grant funds will be used to support this program, which will give participants a chance to have fun with arts and crafts, sensory activities, cooking, sports and group games. Field trips will be planned, while integration with other camp programs will help campers develop social skills and enjoy other fun opportunities ($2,200).

Goodwill Industries of Monocacy Valley: A program aimed at youth between 14-24 years old, who may have a disability and who has a parent that is a veteran, deceased or may have a serious illness. This program is designed to work with 2-3 youth in empowerment in all areas of their lives under a holistic framework. A GIMV Youth Coordinator would work directly with each individual to design a personal development plan specifically designed to empower and promote growth ($3,829.56).

All fund recipients will be recognized prior to a 2020 Keys game and are invited to the annual Frederick Keys Care Charity Golf Classic. Fans who want to learn ways to donate to Frederick Keys Care can visit fredererickkeys.com and click on the “Community” tab.

A link to the entire schedule for the Keys 2020 season is available here while fireworks shows are scheduled for Fridays and Saturday night games and other select games during the season. To stay tuned for the latest team news and for ticket information fans can visit frederickkeys.com and follow the team on Twitter (@frederickkeys), Facebook and Instagram (@frederickkeys.com).

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

Keys Win Matt Minker Community Service Award

FREDERICK, MD -The Frederick Keys are excited to announce that they have been named the winner of the Carolina League’s Matt Minker Community Service Award. This award is given out to the team that best demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within its community.

It marks the first time that the Keys have received this award as an organization after the Minker Award became a team honor in 2014. When it was an individual award, Jacob Julius brought home the honor in 2013.

“We are thrilled to be recognized with the Minker award,” said Keys Director of Marketing Erin Lawson. “Building long-lasting community partnerships is a hallmark of Frederick Keys baseball. We look forward to expanding our footprint throughout Frederick County and beyond in the years to come through community programs, donations, appearances and other initiatives.

The Keys were recognized for their efforts in 2019 thanks in large part to charitable giving, donations and strong community programs. Over the last year, the Keys have donated more than $10,000 through the team’s charitable foundation-Frederick Keys Care. Beneficiaries included the YMCA, Heartly House, Student Homelessness Initiative Partnership (SHIP), Advocates for Homeless Families, Blessings in a Backpack and Sophie and Madigan’s Playground. Over the last three years, close to $50,000 has been raised for Keys Care through the team’s Charity Golf Classic, Mystery Ball, 50/50 raffles and more.

In 2019, the Keys made donations to over 500 different organizations. These included game tickets, suites, marketing booths, jerseys, hats and autographed memorabilia. Combined, these donations were valued at just over $47,000. The Keys also hosted a Toys for Tots Drive and worked with Orioles Advocates on the Cardboard 2 Leather Program as well as the United Way’s Stuff the Bus program. To go with this, non-profit groups raised $14,500 through the Keys Pack the Park program and over $30,000 through the Charity Concession Program.

Strong community programs remained a staple of Keys baseball in 2019, with the Keys distributing 58,000 summer reading bookmarks to libraries in seven counties. Students who completed their library’s summer reading program could then come to a Keys game. Young fans were honored for their scholastic achievements through the team’s Report Card Program and were challenged to be active for 60 minutes a day leading up to Family Fitness Weekend.

The Keys worked hand-in-hand with non-profit groups during the United Way’s annual Day of Action, Make a Difference Thursday and hosted several charity softball games to raise money for the Police Activities League and for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Specific games also raised awareness for the American Cancer Society, Heartly House and the Frederick Arts Council. These games also involved the team wearing a special hat or jersey which raised money for each organization.

Keys players were active in the community this year, attending over 80 events in the Frederick community and surrounding areas along with Keys mascot Keyote. Keys players participated in a pre-game softball game with Challenger Little League, made sign language videos with students from the Maryland School of the Deaf and served as camp counselors for the team’s baseball camp. Individually, Cameron Bishop was named the winner of the Orioles prestigious Elrod Hendricks Minor League Community Service Award.

A link to the entire schedule for the Keys 2020 season is available here. Fireworks dates and a full Keys promotional schedule for 2020 will be announced at a later date. To stay tuned for the latest team news and for ticket information fans can visit frederickkeys.com and follow the team on Twitter (@frederickkeys), Facebook and Instagram (@frederickkeys.com).

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

Chukars Celebrating Jerseys For Charity Program

 

Idaho Falls, ID – The Idaho Falls Chukars at 4 PM on Friday will be presenting the funds raised by the Jerseys For Charity program inside the front office at Melaleuca Field. This year the Chukars donned six different special jerseys in support of community charities.

The East Idaho Public Health Department Mammogram Voucher Program, EIRMC Auxiliary, the Idaho Falls Community Food Basket, Mountain View Charity, the John L Scott Foundation, YMCA STEM Scholarship Fund, Haven, and City of Refuge are the programs supported by the money raised from these jerseys. These programs are sponsored by East Idaho Regional Medical Center, Idaho Potato Commission, Teton Cancer Institute, John L Scott Real Estate, Elevation Labs and the International Institute of Massage Therapy respectively. Representatives from these charities will be at Melaleuca Field to collect the money raised by the jersey auctions for their specific charities.

Following the presentation, members of the Chukars front office will head over to Buffalo Wild Wings at Snake River Landing to display the Pioneer League Championship Trophy. Fans can take a photo with the trophy from 5-7 PM and there will be order forms available for 2019 Pioneer League Championship T-Shirts.

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

Flick-or-Treat returns to Raley Field this October

West Sacramento, Calif. – Flick-or-Treat is presented by Horizon Charter Schools, and is back for its fifth year at Raley Field on Saturday, October 27. To mark the season of Día de los Muertos, the event will feature a screening of the 2017 smash hit Disney and Pixar film, Coco. This instant classic was the winner of numerous accolades, including Academy Awards for Best Animated Film and Best Original Song (“Remember Me”). The movie will be played on the Raley Field videoboard following a fun-filled evening of trick-or-treating, games and prizes.

Various local partners and organizations, including California Family Fitness, West Sacramento Police, Bogle Vineyards, YMCA of Superior California, Blue Star Moms, and K-LOVE will be in attendance, handing out treats and other goodies. Additional pre-movie activities include Día de los Muertos themed games, arts and crafts, a costume contest, and much more. Trick-or-treating and other activities are scheduled from 4:30 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. The movie screening is scheduled to start at 6:00 p.m.

Trick-or-treating and family-friendly activities will begin when gates open at 4:30 p.m. Tickets for all children are $4 while adults are $6. Tickets can be purchased online or by visiting the Round Table Ticket Office at Raley Field. This event is rain or shine.

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About the Sacramento River Cats

The Sacramento River Cats are the Triple-A affiliate of the three-time World Champion San Francisco Giants. The team plays at Raley Field in West Sacramento, consistently voted one of the top ballparks in America. River Cats Season Tickets, Mini-Plans, and Flex Plans can be purchased for the upcoming 2019 season by calling the River Cats Ticket Hotline at (916) 371-HITS (4487). For more information about the River Cats, visit www.rivercats.com. For information on other events at Raley Field, visit www.raleyfield.com.

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