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

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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

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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

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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 [email protected]

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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

Muckdogs meet young fans at YMCA

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BATAVIA, N.Y. — Four players from the Batavia Muckdogs began their day by making some new friends.

Marlins prospects Tanner Andrews, Sean Reynolds, Igor Baez and Chris Vallimont signed autographs and talked about their experiences playing professional baseball with young campers at GLOW YMCA in Batavia on Thursday.

The GLOW YMCA serves four counties in western New York through the Genesee County YMCA in Batavia, the Wyoming County YMCA in Warsaw, the Orleans County YMCA in Medina, Camp Hough located on the shores of Silver Lake in Perry and a virtual branch beginning to serve Livingston County out of the Village of Geneseo.

Have a picnic at the ballpark

Andrews was the Marlins’ 10th-round pick out of Purdue in June and has appeared in eight games this season, seven with Batavia. Reynolds was Miami’s fourth-round pick in 2016 while Vallimont was selected in the fifth round this summer from Mercyhurst High School. Baez signed with the Marlins as a free agent last August.

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

Providence Personal Injury Attorney, Rob Levine & Associates Partners with MiLB, PawSox, for Third Year, in Rob Levine Kid’s Corner Program

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Providence Injury and Disability Attorney Rob Levine continues his partnership with the Pawtucket Red Sox at McCoy Stadium for the 2018 season. The partnership, initiated by Rob Levine himself in the Fall of 2016 after attending a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, is coined the Rob Levine Kids Corner. The program invites children and community organizations focused on youth to attend a game at McCoy Stadium with Levine’s compliments. Rob Levine’s Kids Corner provides 20 tickets to every (approximately 70) home game during the PawSox season.

Kids Corner attendees receive VIP treatment while at McCoy. “We’re giving organizations and kids within our community the opportunity to attend a game, experience this all-American pastime, and create unique memories at McCoy Stadium,” says Levine. “Dozens of community programs have benefited from the Rob Levine Kids Corner, including the Boys and Girls Club, the local YMCA’s, school groups, and nonprofit organizations focused on youth and children. We encourage all community youth groups and programs to get involved so we can give this opportunity to as many children as possible, “Levine further states.

Levine is passionate and devoted to public services not only through his career as an attorney but also as a retired police officer, paramedic, and military police officer. This sponsorship among others, allow Levine and his Team to advocate for the community in which they live, work, and play. Rob Levine’s Kids Corner highlights their mission of helping those in need from a legal capacity as well as giving back to the community in many ways as often as he can.

“Thanks to Rob Levine, we are thrilled to be able to offer the Rob Levine’s Kids Corner and expand our guest list to provide many more individuals and organizations with a first-class experience at McCoy Stadium,” states Rob Crain, Sr VP of Sales and Marketing for the PawSox. “Rob Levine’s generosity and commitment to community, is amazing and we are proud to have him and his Team as our community partner,” Crain further states.

About Rob Levine and Associates

We know him as the Heavy Hitter and in his current occupation as an Attorney, helping individuals who have been hurt in an accident or who are disabled. However, you may not be aware of Rob Levine’s background. From an early age, Rob knew he had a calling. At sixteen, when most kids his age were simply out being kids, he became part of the Glen Rock Volunteer Ambulance Corps, holding a position of EMT (emergency medical technician). He was promoted within a year to Crew Chief. During his nine years of commitment and dedication, he rose through the ranks to become second-in-command of a fifty-person rescue squad. This was the beginning of his call to serve.

The next phase of Rob’s career took him to college for Administration of Justice and to the Rhode Island Army National Guard. There he served three years as a military police officer. After his national service and graduating from college, he took a step toward serving the community. He was hired as a police officer by the Central Falls Police Department. Seeing the many needs of the citizens of Central Falls during his first six months on the force, Rob decided it was time to do more. He began a writing project for a grant and secured sixteen thousand dollars for the department’s first K-9 Drug Enforcement unit. Upon his appointment as the K-9 Officer, he went to California for formal training. In addition to his patrol duty, Rob and his dog were instrumental in fighting the ever-present drug problem in the city.

His police work was not the only thing he was focused on, Rob also concentrated on his personal development. Rob began to attend law school, was learning how to fly helicopters, practicing in a Robison R-22, helicopter. After graduating from law school Rob retired from the police department and began to practice law continuing to help those in need. Rob also continued to feel the need to serve the community as a volunteer and became a Ski Patroller. Not being fully satisfied with his medical background as an emergency medical technician, Rob went back to school to become a paramedic. Rob now works and volunteers his time as a paramedic, riding on an ambulance, trying to make a difference.

His background and focus has always been on helping those in need and giving back to the community in many different capacities as often as he can. Rob Levine and Associates are personal injury attorneys helping individuals who have been hurt in an accident or who are disabled. The firm practices law and services Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut on injury cases. Rob Levine and Associates also handles social security disability and veterans disability cases on a regional and national level as well. Our team is available 24/7 to help you. Contact us for a FREE consultation at 800-742-3940 or visit our website for more information. Our Fee Free Policy ensures that you do not pay unless you win.

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

BlueClaws Charities Hands Out Grants to 40 Community Partner Organizations

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BlueClaws Charities completed their grant program, handing out grants to its Community Partner organizations.

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – BlueClaws Charities, the official 501c3 non-profit organization of the Lakewood BlueClaws, completed its 2017 grant program, handing out grants to 40 Community Partner organizations.

All Community Partners applied for and received a grant from BlueClaws Charities this year. Each applicant was asked to detail a specific use for the grant, with the requirement that all money received from BlueClaws Charities stays in Ocean & Monmouth Counties. A complete list can be found below.

“BlueClaws Charities is proud to be able to support such a wide-variety of organizations in our communities,” said Jim DeAngelis, the BlueClaws Vice President of Community Relations and Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities. “These organizations have pledged to keep all funds in Ocean & Monmouth Counties and they are doing spectacular work to assist the underserved. It is our pleasure to be able to lend financial support.”

BlueClaws Charities raises money throughout the year through special events like the Nine & Dine Golf Outing and Phillies Winter Banquet, through jersey and other specialty merchandise auctions, and a 50/50 raffle at each BlueClaws home game.

“Our fans and donors have been tremendously supportive of BlueClaws Charities over the years, and this year was no exception,” said DeAngelis. “We look forward to another successful season in 2018!”

The following organizations received a grant from BlueClaws Charities.

  • ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia to subsidize their Chapters Care Services Program for ALS patient families in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Alzheimer’s Association of Greater New Jersey to offset costs for a fundraising event to benefit New Jersey residents.
  • The Arc, Ocean County Chapter to subsidize costs associated with their major fundraising event, The Arc Walkathon.
  • The Ashley Lauren Foundation to assist children with cancer and their families through direct financial assistance.
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ocean County to provide group mentoring activities which enables children on their waiting list to become involved with the agency.
  • Boy Scouts of America, Jersey Shore Council to provide program support for their ScoutReach Cub Scout Pack at Clifton Elementary School in Lakewood.
  • Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey to help defray costs of criminal background checks on volunteers prior to assignments.
  • Cheer Dream Xplosion Foundation to purchase equipment for their special needs program.
  • Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation to improve the quality of life of those affected by the disease in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Daniela’s Wish to grant wishes to ill children in their communities.
  • David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation to support families in Ocean & Monmouth counties affected by a cancer diagnosis.
  • Dottie’s House to help funding their transitional housing program designed to provide survivors of domestic violence with tools, guidance and support to achieve financial and emotional independence.
  • Easter Seals New Jersey to provide individuals with disabilities and special needs the training and skills needed to independently work within their communities.
  • Emiliana’s Hope to spread cheer to pediatric cancer patients in the area.
  • Exit 82 Theatre Company to help fund their 2018 production season.
  • Family Options Adoptions to provide funding for birth parent scholarships and supplies for birth mothers that decide to parent.
  • Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore to help offer over 200 underserved girls from Lakewood the opportunity to attend the Girls Are Great summer day camp.
  • Go4TheGoal to help kids with cancer achieve their goals.
  • HABcore to help fund the supportive services program component of HABcore’s Rapid Re-Housing program in Ocean County.
  • Holiday Express to help provide a unique interactive holiday musical program, led by volunteer professionals, to individuals who are often forgotten by society and in need of kindness.
  • JAR of Hope to help fund research to eliminate Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
  • Kids Need More to enhance the lives of children, families, and young adults coping with cancer and life threatening illness.
  • LADACIN Network to support their integrated Child Care program to empower children with and without disabilities to work together to succeed in their future education.
  • Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund to assist the organization in its mission to aid wounded warriors and their families.
  • Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanities for repairs for the 21 Easter Seals group homes.
  • Ocean County Family Support Organization to help offset the costs of trips for our Youth Partnership program.
  • Ocean County Shrine Club to support the hospital’s MAGEC System, an adjustable magnetic growing rod used in a non-invasive, non-surgical manner to brace a child’s spine during childhood growth to minimize the progression of scoliosis.
  • Ocean County YMCA to help kids, families, and seniors in the community find assets in YMCA programs and memberships regardless of incomes and backgrounds.
  • Ocean’s Harbor House to provide for the fundamentals of setting up a household after youth graduate from the Transitional Living Program.
  • Ocean Partnership for Children to provide needy children and teens served by Ocean Partnership with winter attire, including hats, coats, boots, mittens, and gloves.
  • Piece of the Puzzle to purchase a computer desk and stool for their offices.
  • Parents of Autistic Children to provide a challenger sports league designed to offer a socialization opportunity through athletic participation between disabled students from different high school and middle schools in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Raising Hope for Others to assist with financial cost of organizing and running its major fundraiser.
  • RJM Sportsgroup to provide scholarships to Jackson Township graduates.
  • Saint Vincent DePaul Society to help pay for temporary sheltering for the homeless.
  • The Salvation Army of Ocean County to provide funding to their Feeding Program.
  • The Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide to help their Youth Council seeking to engage ambassadors in the prevention process.
  • The TEARS Foundation to provide assistance to families who have lost a child due to pregnancy or sustained the sudden loss of an infant or child in Monmouth & Ocean Counties.
  • Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund to provide a scholarship to graduating seniors.
  • United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties to purchase warm clothing for lower income children.

BlueClaws Charities, in addition to the grant program, supports hundreds of non-profit organizations with gift package donations, golf outing hole-in-one sponsorships, and specialty organizations such as OCEAN, Inc., a federal program that assists the less fortunate in the community. The “Tickets for Kids Program,” another BlueClaws Charities initiative, donates over 2,000 tickets to under-served youths in Lakewood and elsewhere in Ocean County.

Organizations that would like to become Community Partners can call Jim DeAngelis at 732-901-7000 ext 114. Community Partners raise money through a BlueClaws fundraiser outing and have the opportunity to volunteer in the FirstEnergy Park concession stands to raise additional funds. These organizations also receive exposure through on-field presentations, table displays, and on BlueClaws.com, plus they have special opportunities to hold events, such as charity walks, at FirstEnergy Park.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They crossed the 7-million fan plateau in 2017.

2018 BlueClaws ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com.

– BlueClaws Charities –

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

Chasers Nominated for John Henry Moss Community Service Award

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The Pacific Coast League has announced that the Omaha Storm Chasers’ franchise is the circuit’s nominee for Minor League Baseball’s John Henry Moss Community Service Award. Each league in Minor League Baseball nominated an organization, with the overall winner announced at the annual Baseball Winter Meetings in Orlando, Florida in December.

“A truly great organization is one that shows a high level of commitment to its own community,” stated Omaha Storm Chasers President and General Manager Martie Cordaro. “We are proud to be representing the Pacific Coast League with this nomination, which is a testament to the time and commitment of our front office staff, as well as the Kansas City Royals organization, to the Omaha Metro community.”

Over the course of the 2017 campaign, Chasers Charities, the charitable arm of the Omaha Storm Chasers, donated $808,182 to local charities, setting an all-time record in charitable giving for the fourth consecutive year. The Storm Chasers assisted over 1,500 different organizations, and were also visible in the community with over 420 mascot and player appearances. Front office employees also donated 740 hours of community service throughout the year.

73 different organizations were provided a platform at Werner Park at the Sprint Community Organization of the Night. Over $18,000 was raised through the McDonald’s and Huber Chevrolet Hurl the Pearl promotion for the Ronald McDonald House, while more than $21,000 was raised for various local charities including Methodist Hospital Founation and Moving Veterans Forward via four Jersey Auctions. Initiatives also included Hy-Vee Canned Food Sundays, with nearly 5,000 items donated to Heartland Hope Mission, in addition to Chasers FUNdamentals, with Chasers Charities teaming with DREAM to put on baseball clinics introducing youth to baseball.

Chasers Charities also offered the Chasin’ Dreams Grant, donating a total in excess of $9,000 to help non-profit organizations that operate youth softball/baseball programs make major renovations. Two Jackie Robinson Athletic Scholarships worth $1,000 each were also awarded through Chasers Charities and The Weitz Company, while partnering with the Nebraska State Treasurer’s Office for the 15th annual Why I Want To Go To College Essay Contest.

The Storm Chasers also held their third annual Chasers Community Week presented by Summit Dental, which included the Jirschele Family Memorial Golf Outing to help benfit the Muscular Dystrophy Association, as well as player appearances at Children’s Hospital and the Southwest YMCA and hosting Bellevue Buddy Baseball at Werner Park. The nine-day event culminated in hosting The Wall That Heals, an exhibit that featured a half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. The exhibit was open 24 hours a day from August 3-6 at Werner Park, with the Storm Chasers’ Military Appreciation game preceded the exhibit’s closing ceremonies.

Werner Park also served as a site for local organizations to use the stadium as a venue to host large-scale fundraisers. Those special events included the “Boxer 500” to benefit the Great Plains Colon Cancer Task Force, the “Walk to Defeat ALS”, SHARP Race towards Brain Aneurysm, Heart Heroes Run, and Nebraska 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb.

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

Chasers in the Community: August

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

Storm Chasers players and front office members participated in the third annual Chasers Community Week last month, which included visits to Southwest YMCA, Ronald McDonald House and Children’s Hospital. The Storm Chasers and Werner Enterprises were both honored to have The Wall That Heals at Werner Park which featured a half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. In total, front office staff members also combined to record 208 hours of community service in the month of August.

Community Week Recap (208.75 Hours from front office)

  • Storm Chasers players Christian Binford and Logan Moon played baseball with kids at the Southwest YMCA– July 31
  • Meals that Heals for Ronald McDonald House with Summit Dental – August 1
  • The Storm Chasers organization along with Werner Enterprises hosted The Wall That Heals, half-sized replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, at Werner Park – August 3-6
  • Storm Chasers players Christian Binford and Logan Moon visited Children’s Hospital  – August 4
  • Storm Chasers Players and Front Office Staff Members participated in Bellevue Buddy Baseball at Werner Park – August 5
  • The Omaha Storm Chasers organization teamed up with WOWT and First National Bank to Stuff the Bus – August 5

Community Events in August

  • Be the One Ralston Public Schools Kickoff – August 11
  • Stormy and Storm Chasers player Logan Moon attended the End of Summer Bash at First National Bank – August 12
  • Storm Chasers players Christian Binford and Terrance Gore visited with patients at Madonna Hospital– August 15
  • Focus on the Future Welcome at Papillion La Vista South High School – August 16
  • Heartland Hope Mission Pantry Sponsor of the Month – August 17
  • ALS Walk – August 19

Upcoming Community Events in September

  • St. Robert Bellarmine School Walk – September 15 (10:00am)
  • St. Stephen the Martyr Event – September 15 (9:00am)
  • Prairie Queen Fun Run – September 22 (9:00am)

Notable Mascot Appearances for August (over 40 appearances)

  • Fremont Raising Cane’s Ribbon Cutting – August 8
  • JDRF One Walk – August 19
  • Millard Days Parade – August 26
  • Bellevue Public Schools– August 31

Upcoming Scheduled Mascot Appearances for September

  • Child Saving Institute Touch A Truck – September 9
  • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Fundraiser – September 10
  • Turner BBQ – September 22
  • Down Syndrome Alliance Buddy Walk – September 30
  • HyVee Pinky Swear – September 30

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

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Bandits, American Bank donate $1,500 to YMCA

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

DAVENPORT, Iowa – Furthering the commitment to giving back to the local community, the Quad Cities River Bandits have donated $1,500 to the Scott County YMCA and Two Rivers YMCA. The funds were raised from ticket sales during the July 10 game at Modern Woodmen Park, which was sponsored by American Bank. The River Bandits annually donate more than $300,000 back to the Quad Cities community.

Scott County YMCA on the Iowa side and Two Rivers YMCA in Illinois will split the donation of funds raised from ticket sales to the 2,095 fans attending the game on Monday, July 10. American Bank was the title sponsor of the game, helping to facilitate the fundraising.

This is the latest in a long line of community efforts by the River Bandits. Already in 2017, the River Bandits have created the Bill Edmond seats, which honor the late local leader and provide two free box seats to every River Bandits game to deserving, underprivileged members of the Quad Cities community; expanded the club’s Bandit Scholars program, already the largest in all of Minor League Baseball, by adding Eastern Iowa Community College to its list of recipients; and partnered with the Bechtel Trust to create the new Carousel Corporation, a nonprofit designed to donate 100% of the proceeds from four new rides at Modern Woodmen Park back to underprivileged youth in the Quad Cities area.

“Paying for our young people to attend college and donating back to this great community are two things that we are delighted to do,” said team owner Dave Heller. “The River Bandits are 100 percent committed to making the Quad Cities the best possible place to live, work and raise a family for everyone who calls this great area home.”

In addition to the financial donations of over $300,000 a year, the River Bandits staff also volunteers over 1,000 hours of collective community service with local organizations, including the local YMCAs. The two locations receiving this specific donation are free to spend the money however they see fit. For more information on the charitable contributions of the River Bandits, or to request donations, contact Director of Community Relations Crystal Bowen at (563) 333-2736 or [email protected]

Chasers Players, Front Office Staff to Participate in Chasers Community Week

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

The Omaha Storm Chasers organization’s third annual “Chasers Community Week” presented by Summit Dental Health kicks off on Friday, July 29. Omaha Storm Chasers players and front office members will be volunteering their time throughout the Omaha Metro community from July 29-August 6. Details for each day of “Chasers Community Week” can be found below, which include players visiting Children’s Hospital and the Southwest YMCA, as well as participating in Buddy Baseball at Werner Park. In addition, the front office will help serve dinner at Ronald McDonald House, and volunteer at The Wall That Heals among many other events in the community.

Planned Events for “Chasers Community Week”

  • Saturday, July 29 – The Storm Chasers organization will be auctioning off Christmas sweater jerseys on Christmas in July presented by Mannheim Steamroller, with the proceeds benefitting Moving Veterans Forward. There will also be a lemonade stand hosted by the Storm Chasers and Summit Dental at Werner Park that evening, with proceeds benefitting the Open Door Mission.
  • Sunday, July 30 – The Storm Chasers organization hosts the first of two UnitedHealthcare Library Nights at Werner Park. This will be in addition to hosting First Responders and having interactive fire, police and medical displays, including a helicopter in the parking lot, on First Responders Night that evening.
  • Monday, July 31 – Several Storm Chasers players will be visiting Southwest YMCA starting at 11:00 a.m. to play a pickup game of baseball with kids at that location. That evening, the Storm Chasers organization’s second UnitedHealthcare Library Night will take place at Werner Park, in addition to a Drawstring Backpack Giveaway presented by Huber Chevrolet.
  • Tuesday, August 1 – Storm Chasers front office members along with Summit Dental Health employees will assist in cooking and serving dinner at the Ronald McDonald House.
  • Wednesday, August 2 – The organization will host their annual Jirschele Family Memorial Golf Outing at Tara Hills Golf Course to help benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association beginning at 9:00 a.m. The Wall That Heals, a half-scale duplication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., is also set to arrive at Werner Park that day thanks to Werner Enterprises. Storm Chasers players and front office members will also participate in the Leader Reader at the Children’s Museum. Storm Chasers front office members and a mascot will also be visiting Offutt Air Force Base that day.
  • Thursday, August 3 – The Wall That Heals, a half-scale replica of the Vietnam War Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. will be open beginning at 11:00am until the closing ceremonies take place at approximately 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 6.
  • Friday, August 4 – Storm Chasers players will be visiting with patients at Children’s Hospital.
  • Saturday, August 5 – Bellevue Buddy Baseball will take place at Werner Park at 9:00 a.m., with Storm Chasers players and front office members assisting in the morning event to support the Down Syndrome Alliance. The event will feature headshots and walk-up songs for the buddies playing baseball. Storm Chasers players and Casey will also be at First National Bank on 132nd & Center for their annual Stuff the Bus school supply drive.
  • Sunday, August 6 – The Storm Chasers organization salutes all former and current members of our armed forces on Military Appreciation Day at Werner Park. Following that day’s contest at approximately 6:00 p.m. will be a closing ceremony for The Wall That Heals, which will include the playing of “Taps”.

The Storm Chasers return to Werner Park to begin an eight-game homestand on Saturday, July 29, starting with a four-game set versus the Fresno Grizzlies. First pitch of the series opener is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. that evening.

Single game tickets for all remaining Storm Chasers home contests are still available, and can be purchased online at www.omahastormchasers.com, or by calling the Werner Park Ticket Office from noon until 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at (402) 738-5100.

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

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YMCA to share proceeds from Energize Night

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

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (June 2, 2017) – The Winston-Salem Dash and Energize Ministries are proud to announce that proceeds from their “Energize the Ballpark” concert with Sidewalk Prophets at BB&T Ballpark on Saturday, June 3, presented by Eanes Heating and Air Conditioning, will benefit the YMCA Camp Hanes to provide recovery from the tornado that came through the Triad area last week.

YMCA Camp Hanes in Stokes County sustained significant damage on Wednesday, May 24, when a tornado hit the area. Every single facility and program area was impacted, with varying amounts of damage.

However, since the storm came through, the summer camp has been hard at work trying to ensure it stays on schedule to open on June 11. Tree removal companies have been clearing trees, and insurance adjusters are on site, according to the Camp Hanes website. Also, water removal has occurred in multiple buildings.

“These community concerts are an annual part of our ministry, and even though we don’t plan it like this, the last couple of years, we have seen some unique needs pop up right before these events,” said Andy Bowersox, the Executive Director of Energize Ministries. “It has been our privilege to help connect and share the generosity of our audience with some of our community ministry partners. We love the influence of Camp Hanes and look forward to helping them rebuild after this storm.”

The first community clean up day is on Saturday, June 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., as interested individuals can assist with the restoring of Camp Hanes. The next will be on Tuesday, June 6, also from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Food and water will be provided for all the helpers, and children under twelve must be supervised by an adult.

Sidewalk Prophets, formed by lead singer Dave Frey and rhythm guitarist Ben McDonald, will be making their first-ever appearance at BB&T Ballpark. The group took home the GMA Dove Award for Best New Artist in 2010 and has had multiple songs crack the Top 20 Billboard Christian Singles chart.

Tickets to enjoy the concert are available in advance for $10 per person and can be purchased by contacting the Dash at (336) 714-6873 or [email protected]. Tickets will be good for both the game and the concert.

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