Académique Documents
Professionnel Documents
Culture Documents
3
4
5
6
10
14
20
36
42
56
60
72
80
86
92
106
112
$33,419
$32,500
$20,040
$410,622
$207,539
$130,472
$9,650
$200,474
$175,638
$141,910
$245,104
$193,444
$100,474
$56,893
League Overview
For nearly a decade, the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization,
has been focused on establishing strong communities outside of the ballparks. Since 2003, the NYPL Charitable
Foundation encourages clubs to support the surrounding communities through staff volunteering, fundraising and
awareness events, and dontations to various organizations. Both the time and money given to the community organizations is always well received.
In 2014, the NYPL Charitable Foundation donated about $2 million to non-profits, charities, education, and
community organizations. The NYPL Charitable Foundation has also awarded $10,000 in scholarships to High School
Seniors that have impacted their communities. The communities have responded to the efforts of the clubs by supporting their home team and establishing building stronger relationships around the game of baseball.
The 2014 NYPL Annual awards recognize teams and individuals that show exceptional effort to create the best
baseball atmosphere for fans and communities. The Tri-City ValleyCats won the Vincent McNamara Outstanding Club
Award awarded to the club for extensive community and fan involvement. The Vermont Lake Monsters won the Leo
Pinckney Promotional Award given to the club for the best overall promotions and giveaways. Williamsport Crosscutters Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations, Gabe Sinicropi, won the Hon. Robert F. Julian Community &
Baseball Service Award for his range of volunteer work around the Williamsport area. Hudson Valley Renegades Senior Vice President and General Manager, Eben Yager, won the Robert Stedler Executive of the Year Award. Michelle
Skinner, ValleyCats Fan Development/Community Relations Manager, won the JoAnn Weber Female Executive/Staff
Member of the Year Award. Rick Zolzer, the Vice President of the Hudson Valley Renegades, won the Sam Nader Male
Executive/Staff Member of the Year Award.
The New York-Penn League Office Staff also support their community. League President and Chair, Ben Hayes,
is the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation, Inc. President & Chair, Charities Committee, Council of League
Presidents, MiLB Chair, Scubanauts International, Inc. President & Chair, and Combat Wounded Veteran Scuba Challenge Volunteer Divemaster & Boat Captain. Laurie K. Hayes, League Administrator is a Scubanauts International, Inc.
Volunteer, Combat Wounded Veteran Scuba Challenge Volunteer, and the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation, Inc. Volunteer Judge of the Scholarship Program.
The State College Spikes won the 2014 League Championship, for their first NYPL title. The Spikes used their
large crowds to raise $141,910 in 2014. With the help of volunteers, staff, and partners, the Spikes have had many
inspiring events that benefit the Central Pennsylvania Community. The Spikes also have a number of programs in
which they support children, such as Books and Baseball, Mascot Appearances, Spikes Student All-Star, and Safe and
Seen in the Ballpark.
More than 1,200 organizations benefited from the charitable work of all fourteen NYPL clubs in 2014. The
sum community donation of $1,958,179 is the highest donation value (2011: $1,683,216) since the Foundations
2003 inception. The Charitable Foundations motto: The Power of Baseball and The Power of Caring, serves as a
reminder of how the game of baseball can make a difference to the fans, friends, and communities of each home
team.
4
June 2014
The NEW YORK-PENN LEAGUE wishes to share its 9th annual New York-Penn League Community Benefit Report with you, our fans and communities. This 2014 Community Benefit Report is produced by New York-Penn League
Charitable Foundation, Inc., a Florida non-profit corporation & IRC 501(c)(3) charitable organization (the Foundation). The NEW YORK-PENN LEAGUE organized the Foundation in 2003 to provide focus and support for its collective
and individual charitable and community efforts.
Since 2003, the NEW YORK-PENN LEAGUEs charitable programs and initiatives have grown steadily year after
year. In 2014, the League raised, donated and otherwise facilitated, about $2 million in support of those in need, the
Leagues annual Scholarship Program, hurricane relief and other charitable programming.
We are very proud of the accomplishments of the Foundation, the NEW YORK-PENN LEAGUE, its Clubs, and
their ownership and staff. As President of the Foundation, I thank you, our fans and communities, for hosting our
14 Clubs and league office, and for your continued and generous support. We hope you enjoy this 2014 New YorkPenn League Community Benefit Report and you join us in assisting the poor, the young, and those with special needs
within our communities.
Most Sincerely,
NEW YORK-PENN LEAGUE CHARITABLE FOUNDATION, INC.,
Ben J. Hayes
President
5
Aberdeen IronBirds
Ripken Stadium - Aberdeen, MD
MLB Affiliate: Baltimore Orioles
Years in the NYPL: 2002-Present
2014 Attendance: 150,300
Charitable Summary
Our unique ability to thrive in such a small market stems from our deep roots in Harford County.
Cal Ripken Jr. retired from baseball knowing that he wanted to give back to the game by bringing a
professional franchise to his hometown. So when we say that weve become a community neighbor,
we arent speaking philosophically. We were ingrained in our community long before the foundation of
Ripken Stadium was ever laid. In 2014, we contiued our support for charitable organizations in the local
community through our R.O.C.S. initiative (Ripken Outreach and Community Service), which brought
together members of our staff to contribute our time & efforts toward a different causes each month.
R.O.C.S. events include Aberdeen Boys & Girls club clean up, Home Runs for the Homeless, Habitat for
Humanity, Aberdeen High tree planting, Challenger division buddy program and Empty Stock Fund col6
lection at IronBirds game. Our theme nights have always been a great way to boost awareness for meaningful causes while raising funds for organizations like Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America, Pathfinders
for Autism, Iron Meets Iron to benefit the RAACE Foundation. We are a franchise dedicated to providing
a fantastic experience to every person who passes through our gates. We are an ownership committed
to giving back to the game of baseball and to the community that surrounds us. We are a staff that calls
our fans by their first-name and treats everyone like family. The IronBirds just finished our 13th season in
Aberdeen, and with each passing year we eagerly look for more opportunities to build meaningful relationships with the people that also call this community home.
Staff helped raise money for the Special Olympics Maryland. The funds raised
help the thousands of children and adults with intellectual disabilities to experience the life-changing benefits of participating in the organizations year
round training and competition programsall at no cost to themselves or their
families. The Plunge has participants pledge a $50 donation to take a quick
swim in the Chesapeake Bay in mid-January however this years event was so
cold they had to move it to March.
Clean-Up Day
ROCS April (Aberdeen High School):
IronBirds and Ripken Baseball staff members went to the local Aberdeen High
School for a much needed clean-up day. While at the high school the staff performed tasks such as weeding, planting, trash pick-up and painting alongside city employees and students. This was a great opportunity to give back to the community that has given so much to the Ripken organization.
7
The Challenger Division provides baseball opportunities to those that are mentally and/or physically disabled young people ages 6-22. Staff buddied with players during one of their scheduled games.
In June, staff assisted in building a home in Harford County for Habitat for
Humanity.
The Harford Family House hosted annual Home Runs for the Homeless event at Ripken Stadium.
Staff set up tables and ran batting practice for event.
Staff donated money to purchase gift cards and gifts for a local family through the ARC of Northern Chesapeake Adopt a Family program. Staff purchased the items, wrapped and delivered to the
family before the holdiday.
8
Julie-Ann Festivo
Ian Clark
Connor OMalley
Account Representative
Cecil Co. Chamber
Member
Account Representative
Baltimore Co. Chamber
ALS Night
Rotary Clubs of Maryland
Monetary Donations
$2,000
$2,000
$2,467
$1,652
$1,100
$9,660
In Stadium Fundraising
Monetary Donations
Gift in Kind
Gift in Kind
$10,260
$4,280
$4,000
$ 5,219
$24,200
Auburn Doubledays
Falcon Park - Auburn, NY
MLB Affiliate: Washington Nationals
Years in the NYPL: 1958-1980,1982-Present
2014 Attendance: 44,640
Charitable Summary
The Auburn Community Non-Profit Baseball Association, Inc. was established by local citizens in 1958 for the purpose of operating a professional baseball franchise in Auburn, NY. Since
that time, the team has been a constant presence in the community and has formed long-lasting
partnerships with schools, churches, charities, and civic organizations. The Doubledays are committed to giving back to the community through donations, public appearances, and awareness
programs at Falcon Park.
10
One community volunteer was recognized at every Doubledays home game during the season.
The volunteers were selected by the United Way and received game tickets and concession vouchers compliments of Michaels & Smolak, a local law firm.
Baseball Clinic
Hillside Childrens Center
Doubledays players and coaches, team mascot Abner, and front office staff members made more
than 50 appearances throughout the community during the 2014 season. The Doubledays community outreach included visits to schools, libraries, senior living communities, and little league
fields.
The Auburn YMCA organized a three-day baseball clinic during the summer at Falcon Park. The clinic offered participating children the opportunity to learn baseball skills from
Doubledays players and coaches.
11
Corrections officers from the Auburn Correctional Facility organized a fire truck pull at Falcon
Park to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics New York. Doubledays players provided
encouragement and autographs for all participants at the event. Special Olympics athletes were
recognized in an on-field ceremony before the Doubledays game that night.
The Doubledays, Sugarman Law Firm, and Make-A-Wish hosted one wish kid at every Wednesday
home game during the season. Each wish kid received tickets to the game, a behind the scenes
tour of the ballpark that included a visit to the clubhouse, and threw the games ceremonial first
pitch.
The Auburn Doubledays partnered with Casey Park Elementary School, which is located directly behind the right field wall at Falcon Park, to encourage students to read more books. The
Doubledays rewarded all students at the school
who read five books during the months of April
and May with a free ticket to Casey Park Elementary School Night with the Auburn Doubledays.
Those students were also recognized on the
field prior to the game. Abner, the Doubledays
mascot, attended the schools reading rally in
March to help make the official announcement.
12
Lock-Up participant
Advisor
Bowl for Kids Sake participant
$25,000
$7,500
Batavia Muckdogs
Dwyer Stadium - Batavia, NY
MLB Affiliate: Miami Marlins
Years in the NYPL: 1939 - 1953,
1957 - 1959, 1961-Present
2014 Attendance: 33,376
Charitable Summary
The Muckdogs have worked hard to increase their community involvement over the past
several years. Through those efforts, the Muckdogs have been able to establish many positive
relationships within Batavia and the surrounding communities. Whether its through partnerships with charitable organizations, donations, or volunteering by the front office staff, the
Muckdogs can be found in and around the community all year round.
14
At each home game, the Muckdogs invite both Little League and Softball teams into the dugout
before the game. Each player and coach was given complimentary tickets to the ballgame. The
players are also announced by name with our players during the starting line-up and stand with
the Muckdogs during the signing of the National Anthem.
The Muckdogs, in partnership with the Genesee County Youth Bureau, offered a free evening movie at Dwyer Stadium for the entire community. Approximately 250 local families took advantage of
the event.
Throughout the season, the Muckdogs raffled off baseballs autographed by current and former MLB players, with all proceeds being
donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. In total, the Muckdogs were able to raise just over $1,500.
The Muckdogs hosted the kick-off event at Dwyer Stadium for the United Ways Day of Caring in
the Spring of 2014.
The Muckdogs partnered with Community Action of Orleans and Genesee Counties to collect personal care items for needy families in the area. At 2 games during the 2014 season, any fan who
donated an item would receive a free General Admission ticket. In total, the Muckdogs were able to
help Community Action to collect over 100 personal care items.
15
In partnership with the Hillside Family of Agencies, several free baseball clinics were organized in
conjunction with Muckdogs players. The kids had a chance to hang out with the pros, while learning the fundamentals of baseball. After each clinic, the players signed autographs, had a questions
and answer period, and ate lunch with all participants and staff.
This charitable program gives many disadvantaged youth and families the chance to attend a Muckdogs game. Area businesses and
organizations take part in the program by purchasing groups of
tickets to be donated and distributed to local organizations.
At the Muckdogs invited our local Volunteers for Animals to attend our annual Bark in the Park
event. They were on hand with dogs that were currently up for adoption and tables that the community could drop off any of the items that were on their wish list, such as dry kitten food, wet
canned dog food, cat litter, dog collars and leashes, paper towels and jars of peanut butter.
The Muckdogs staff took part in the Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Drive that helped raise funds
for families in need during the Holidays.
Walk MS
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
The Muckdogs and Dwyer Stadium served as the registration and start/finish spot for the Batavia
MS Walk in May of 2014. We also hosted their kick-off event before the MS Walk.
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The Muckdogs developed a reading program where children could earn free tickets to Muckdogs
games by reading books. As part of this program, the Muckdogs provided various schools and
libraries across local counties with customized bookmarks. On the back of these bookmarks, children had a parent, guardian, teacher, or librarian initial each time they complete a book. When a
child completed 10 books, they redeemed their bookmark at the Dwyer Stadium box office for a
free ticket. If a child read 20 books, they were entered into a drawing to win autographed memorabilia, opportunities to throw out a first pitch at a Muckdogs game and other great prizes.
The Muckdogs partnered with a local school program called Mission S.T.A.R.S. (Students Taking
Action to Recognize Soliders) to collect care packages to be sent to military personnel in Afghanistan. The students were looking to send items that are hard to find in a combat zone. That includes games, personal hygiene products, writing materials, reading materials, snacks and canned
foods.
Ed Randalls Bat for the Cure visited Dwyer Stadium on July 25th, 2014. The Muckdogs promoted
the cause through PA annoucements, signage in the ballpark and tabling in the concourse. The
Muckdogs players wore the Bat for the Cure wristbands during the game.
50/50 Raffles
Catholic Charities of WNY
The Muckdogs partnered with the Catholic Charities of WNY and allowed them to hold a 50/50
raffle at 2 games during the 2012 season. In total, Catholic Charities of WNY was able to raise $500
for their organization.
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Mascot/Player Apperances
The Muckdogs players and mascot are available for non-profit organizations free of charge. In total, the players made over 20 appearances this summer. They also visited a local pre-school for migrant families several times throughout the summer. Our mascot, Homer, made over 75 appearances throughout the year.
General Manager, Travis Sick, visited over 25 area schools and colleges to educate children about
basebal, the team, and the importance of education. He also took part in the local libraries summer
reading program by reading baseball related stories to children in
elementary grades several times throughout the summer.
18
In Stadium Fundraising
Monetary Donations
$300
$500
$500
$690
$300
$6,000
$1,500
$250
$250
$500
$9,790
$750
$9,500
Brooklyn Cyclones
MCU Park - Brooklyn, NY
MLB Affiliate: New York Mets
Years in the NYPL: 2001-Present
2014 Attendance: 231,628
Charitable Summary
The Brooklyn Cyclones are committed to establishing and maintaining positive relationships with neighboring communities. This organization has developed several programs that
benefit the people in those communities, both large and small. With Coney Island on the brink
of major changes, these relationships are more important than ever.
In 2014 The Cyclones received the Vincent McNamara Outstanding Club Award and have
been nominated the John H. Johnson Presidents trophy and the John Henry Moss Community
Service Award. In addition the Cyclones were nominated at the 2014 MiLB promotional seminar
for three golden bobbleheads with best theme night, Seinfeld Night, best in game promotion,
Elaine Dance Competition and best non game day event, Education Through Baseball.
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On Monday, August 4th the Cyclones celebrated Bay Ridge Night presented by Bay Ridge Cares.
Bay Ridge Cares is a non profit organization of neighbors dedicated to making our community a
better place by doing all the good they can, in all the ways they can, for as many people as they
can. We care about Bay Ridge ticket packages were sold to Bay Ridge companies for $300 and
$50 from each package purchased went to Bay Ridge Cares. Each business that participated in the
night also received a commercial on the scoreboard promoting local business. Also the first 2,500
fans in attendance received a Bay Ridge Cares heart shaped stress ball.
Every little leaguer dreams of running onto a professional field one day -- and now they can! The
Cyclones invited groups of youth baseball, softball, and little league teams -- in uniform -- onto the
field to stand side-by-side with the pros for the National Anthem during home games.
The Cyclones School Fundraising Program was designed to help raise much needed funds for
individual schools and youth sport teams throughout Brooklyn. The schools and organizations
were able to purchase significantly discounted tickets to sell for a one-of-a-kind group outing at
a Cyclones game. Depending on amount of tickets sold schools were given money back from the
Cyclones to help fund school programs. Students also had the ability to earn individual prizes by
reaching certain selling plateaus. Since the programs inception in 2006, nearly 200 NYC public
schools and local organizations participated and raised a total of over $200,000 for their organizations. This past year alone the School FUNdraising program raised nearly $100,000 for over 65 different schools.
During the 2014 season the Brooklyn Cyclones and MCU Park hosted two blood drives. The American Red Cross set up their blood donation trailers by the front gates where fans could stop in and
donate.
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On May 14th the Brooklyn Cyclones hosted the second annual Education Through Baseball Day.
4,000 students were on hand to learn lessons from prominent members of the sports discipline
and take in a college baseball game to apply what they had learned. Marc Ernay sports director for
1010Wins, Ron Schweiger Brooklyn Borough historian, Wayne McDonald sports finance teacher
at NYU and Daryl Hamilton former Mets major leaguer were all in attendance to teach kids about
math, journalism, history, and the importance of fair play. After the speakers the students were
treated to a old time baseball game where the Brooklyn Atlantics played and explained the evolution of baseball since the early 1900s. Each student that came to the day received a Diamond
Dreams handbook filled with fun baseball/classroom related activities and a ticket to come back to
a Cyclones game during the 2014 season.
The Brooklyn Cyclones teamed up with the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Muppets to make
Jessica and Avalon Mercados wish to meet the Muppets come true. Both girls were flown in from
Atlanta to New York to meet Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo the Great, Statler and Waldorf
and Sweetums. Mercado was quoted as saying It was hard not to act like a dork around them
once they started doing the voices. He even picked up my own Kermit the Frog and started doing
the voice for him. That was one of the best parts.
Flag Ceremony
Peace Corps
On June 17th, the Cyclones teamed up with the Peace Corps for
the first annual parade of flags. The Cyclones recognized over 100
Peace Corps and the New York residents who have served as Peace
Corps Volunteers with a Parade of Flags during the opening ceremonies. Peace Corps members also took part in a first pitch and
provided the National Anthem singer for the night.
22
Cyclones Diamond Dreams, an educational tour, was designed for students to use baseball as a
learning tool. The educational stadium tour went into the locker rooms, onto the field, and behind
the scenes to provide students with invaluable lessons in mathematics, history, and geography.
Each student that participated in our tours received two free tickets to a future game and our
Diamond Dreams Handbook filled with baseball/learning activities. This past year the Brooklyn
Cyclones were visited by approximately 5,000 kids from nearly 100 different schools.
The Cyclones turned to their fans to help make military appreciation night special for local service
men and women. Leading up to the night the cyclones asked fans to purchase 5 tickets at just $40
that could be distributed to members of the military to come to that nights game free of charge. In
return the Cyclones matched every ticket sold through this initiative. At final tally the team, sponsors and fans together allowed for over 1,500 active and retired military to attend the game for
free. The night also featured a member of each branch of the military taking part in a first pitch, the
navys color guard, men and women honored in an in between inning hometown hero ceremony
and servicemen signing both the National Anthem and God Bless America.
Kevin Mahoney, the General Manager for the Brooklyn Cyclones, rigorously trained this past season
for the 2014 New York City Marathon. Every morning during the 2014 season, before coming to
work, Kevin ran miles and raised money for ALS. Kevin has raised over $3,000 for ALS.
Mascot Appearances
Sandy the Seagull and PeeWee, our beloved mascots, have been seen all over Brooklyn, Long Island, Manhattan and Queens. From walking against numerous diseases or in memory of some
amazing people to visiting local hospitals and schools Sandy and PeeWee are easily recognizable
faces within the community.
23
On September 7th the Cyclones sponsored and took part in racing around Kaiser Park the annual
Coney Island Generation Gap Soap Box Derby! Twenty teams of kids including drivers and pushers
will compete for prizes in three categories: Speed, Design and Camaraderie. The Cyclones sponsored the event and had a car in the race decked out in Cyclones memorabilia. The Cyclones car
came in 3rd place and won recognition for camaraderie and leadership.
Breezy Point/ Rockaway Little Leagues Rockaway Little Leagues Free Baseball Clinic
On July 25th, Brooklyn Cyclones players, coaches and staff members, another year removed from
the devastation of hurricane Sandy, visited a field in Breezy Point for a free instructional clinic offered to all little leagues in the area. Participants in the clinic received free tickets to attend a Brooklyn Cyclones home game.
In March of 2014, with the NCAA tournament looming, Cyclones staff took part in the V Foundations Show Your Spirit Campaign. Staff members showed their
school pride by wearing college apparel to work and together
raised over $500 for the Jimmy V foundation.
Job Fairs
While the Cyclones were on the road the Brooklyn Cyclones hosted the 15th annual NYPD vs FDNY baseball game. All tickets for
the game were just $10 with a portion of the proceeds being donated to FDNY and NYPD charities.
In this stressful economic environment the Brooklyn Cyclones opened their doors to businesses
such as Luna Park, the Brooklyn Aquarium, and Estella Development for job/career fairs.
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Ed Randalls Bat for the Cure visited MCU Park on August 3rd,
2014. The Cyclones promoted the cause through pa reads, signage and tabling along the concourse. Ed Randall was also on
hand to throw a first pitch.
The Brooklyn Cyclones hosted the 2014 New York Penn League All Star game on August 19th,
and kicked off festivities with a Celebrity Softball Game. To start the Cyclones along with Municipal Credit Union presented Tic Toc Stop with at $5,000 check towards finding a cure for Tourette
Syndrome. After the game Craig Carton of WFAN, John Franco, former New York Mets closer, and
Boomer Esiason former NFL quaterback, took the ice bucket challenge on the field and called out
Fox News Rosanna Scotto and Z100s mourning host Elvis Duran. Though Rosanna and Elvis did not
partake in the challenge they donated $3,000 to both Tic Toc Stop and ALS.
Building off the 2013 Santa in the team store promotion the Cyclones gave their fans the opportunity to enjoy a pancake breakfast with Santa. For a $10 donation towards buying toys for less fortunate children of Coney Island families could come down to MCU Park and partake in a pancake
breakfast, courtesy of Toms Diner, holiday arts and crafts, and have their picture taken with Santa.
Over 50 people donated money and toys which were all donated to a local church toy drive.
The Brooklyn Cyclones partnered with MDA for their 2014 muscular dystrophy walk. Nearly 1,000
people were on hand and participated in a one mile walk around the warning track of MCU Park.
The event raised over $130,000 for MDA.
25
The Cyclones work with various organizations by donating tickets to games. Nearly 15,000 tickets
were donated in 2014 to groups in the area equaling nearly $100,000. These tickets were either
used by the group members to attend a game together, or used for fundraising purposes at organizational functions and raffles.
During five different Cyclones 2014 home games fans had the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win special one of a kind Jerseys off the players backs. This year featured a Sithe
Star Wars Jersey which raised money for the New York Penn League Charitable Foundation, a 90s is
all that slime jersey raising money for ALS, an Italian Heritage Night jersey for the Columbia Association, a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit jersey for Welcome Back Veterans, and an Irish Heritage Jersey
raising money for the Ancient Order of Hibernians Division 12.
In 2014 Coney Island saw a lot of business development including a brand new Applebees located
on surf avenue a block away from MCU Park. Being a good neighbor the Cyclones offered mascots
King Henry and Sandy the Seagull to dine with restaurant goers. The Cyclones ran the promotion
on their social media and fans flocked to the new Applebees location to dine with the duo and
enjoy some close up magic from King Henry.
The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge took the internet by storm during the summer of 2014. The Brooklyn
Cyclones jumped on board in support of ALs but of course had to put a Brooklyn twist on it. The
Cyclones front office staff teamed up with Nickelodeon for a Ice Bucket Slime Challenge. The staff in
turn nominated Sport Illustrated swim suit models Jess Perez and Ariel Meredith. On August 22nd
for the Brooklyn Beach Party theme night both models took the challenge on the field at MCU Park
in front of the Brooklyn faithful.
26
Batting Practice
PS 369
On July 21st before a Cyclones games 20 autistic children from PS 369 were brought onto the field
to take batting practice with Cyclones players. Cyclones outfielder Joe Tuschak threw batting practice while mascot and on field personality King Henry helped the kids work on their swing. After
batting practice the children and their teachers were lead up to a quite, air conditioned suite where
they enjoyed the game for free .
On August 21st, the Brooklyn Cyclones held Correction/Court Officer Appreciation night at MCU
Park. A combination of 50 court officers and corrections officers from around the New York area
were given tickets and honored on the field in a pre-game ceremony as well as awarded a first
pitch.
The Brooklyn Cyclones teamed up with the American Cancer Society and their Relay for Life campaign to bring Zumba for Life to MCU Park. Fans were able to purchase a $10 ticket through ACS
where $5 from each ticket went directly to ACS. Those that bought the ACS ticket were given entry
onto the field to take part in a pre game Zumba class promoting health and fitness as a preventative measure for cancer. Fans at the game that did not purchase the ACS ticket were given the option for a $5 donation to join the class. Over 500 people participated raising over $2,500 towards
the ACS mission.
27
The Cyclones hire students for season long internships from high school or college who are interested in perusing a career in the sports industry. Interns are compensated and have the opportunity to accrue school credits where applicable. In 2014 the Cyclones had an internship staff of 20
who got the chance to see first hand and participate in the inner workings of a professional baseball team.
On July 30th the Brooklyn Cyclones held NYPD Appreciation night at MCU Park. 30 officers from 30
different precincts around the New York area were given tickets and honored on the field in a pregame ceremony as well as awarded a first pitch. Cyclones fans were also treated to a special visitors,
PBA President, Patrick J. Lynch and NYPD Commissioner, William J. Bratton.
Building off of last years free camp The Brooklyn Cyclones partnered with HealthFirst for the 3rd
annual HealthFirst Kids Camps. For three days, spread throughout the season, children of local low
income families were treated to a free camp with Cyclones players on the field of MCU Park. Kids
who participated took part in hitting, fielding, and pitching drills and received free promotional
items from the Cyclones and HealthFirst.
28
Local troops of Boy Scouts were given the opportunity after a regular season game to sleep on the
field. Scouts set up their tents and sleeping bags and watched movies on the video board. Each
scout that participated earned a special Boy Scout/Brooklyn Cyclone patch and $1 for every ticket
sold through the boy scouts went to benefit Friends of Scouting.
Food Drive
City Harvest
The Brooklyn Cyclones teamed up with City Harvest for the month of August running game day
and virtual food drives. Cyclones fans helped collect over 500 items of food and raised over $200
in the fight against hunger.
In its inaugural season the Little Kids Big Stars program aimed to highlight the best and brightest
stars in youth baseball from every corner of the five-boroughs. The program was open to boys and
girls ages 5 to 14 and five winners were chosen once a week from April 12th through June 7th. Winners and nominees displayed a passion for baseball / softball, sportsmanship, a positive attitude,
served as a leader on their team, and was helpful to their coaches and teammates. Each winner was
rewarded with an exclusive invitation to a baseball clinic with Cyclones players and coaches,tickets
and on-field recognition prior to a game, access to the field for Cyclones batting practice, a chance
to throw a first pitch, a special T-Shirt for each honoree and recognition in the Cyclones 2014 Game
Program.
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In 2014, the Cyclones were fortunate enough to go directly into local schools to teach students
about the History of Baseball and the borough of Brooklyn. Our very own on field personality King
Henry performed nearly 180 assemblies in over 80 schools, giving a FREE history of baseball and
magic show to over 60,000 students. Schools that took on the Cyclones FUNdraiser program also
used these assemblies as a tool to motivate students to continue their efforts selling tickets and
raising money for the school.
In 2014 the Brooklyn Cyclones teamed up with their local YMCA for the 10th annual Take Your
Base 5K Run/Walk against. Over 1,200 people came out in support and helped raise over $10,000
for the Greater NYC YMCA Annual Campaign. Every dollar given to the YMCAs Annual Campaign
directly helps a child or family in need. The event has raised over $200,000 in its ten-year history.
Local troops of Girl Scouts were given the opportunity after a regular season game to sleep on the
field. Scouts set up their tents and sleeping bags and watched movies on the video board. Each
scout that participated earned a special Girl Scout/Brooklyn Cyclone patch. Previous to the game
the top individual Girl Scout Cookie seller was honored with a ceremonial first pitch.
Cyclones Authentics
STRIKE Program
Cyclones Authentics allowed fans to get their hands on unique pieces of Brooklyn baseball history
while raising money for great causes. A portion of the proceeds from these auctions were given to
our S.T.R.I.K.E Program that helps local little leagues and other local charitable endeavors.
Cyclones employees visited many local schools to speak with children of all ages about the ins and
outs of the sports industry from their personal experiences.
30
The Brooklyn Cyclones teamed up with Municipal Credit Union to launch the first ever MCU Youth
Baseball and Softball Clinic Series. The Clinics, which were open to children 7 - 14 years of age, were
held once a month throughout the Cyclones three month season. John Franco, MCU spokesperson
and Mets Hall of Fame Pitcher, served as the Head Coach of the Clinics. Current Cyclones players,
area high school coaches and players, and other special guests also served as volunteers to coach
Clinic participants. Youths participating in the Clinics took part in drills on fielding, running, throwing, and injury prevention/stretching. They also had the opportunity to take part in a question and
answer session with volunteer coaches and a photo op with John Franco. Each participant will also
receive four tickets to that evenings Brooklyn Cyclones game at MCU Park.
Baseball Month
Local Area Little Leagues
In 2014 May around MCU Park and the Brooklyn Cyclones was Baseball Month. Nearly 50 games
were played on Coney Island even before the Cyclones threw their first pitch. There were games for
children of all ages ranges from places like Plainedge Little League on Long Island, to Xavier High
School in Manhattan. Little leagues were able to book the field at a severely discounted rate for the
month, received PA announcements for the game as well as use of the scoreboard. Leagues were
also given tickets to a Cyclones home game as part of the package.
31
The Cyclones had already taken the slime bucket challenge and Sports Illustrated models responded and now it
was time for Cyclones fans to take the challenge. On Augsust 27th, 90s night, Cyclones fans were able to purchase
Cyclones buckets for a $5 donation to ALS for a chance to
come on the field post game for a group ice bucket challenge. Over 200 fans lined the field from first to third while
Cyclones mascots Sandy and Peewee and Cyclones pitcher
Kelly Secrest lead the countdown. That nights jersey off
the back raffle proceeds were also donated to ALS. Over
$5,000 dollars was raised through bucket and jersey sales.
Fans were able to bring their canine friends to a Cyclones home game. Pets and their owners were
then given the opportunity to take park in a parade around the warning track during a pregame
ceremony. Parked outside was an adoption truck, from Sean Casey Animal Shelter, where visitors
to the park could meet four legged companions and take
them home. Also at the front gates fans could take part in
pet licensing and microchiping. Petco joined with the Cyclones on Bark in the Park Night purchasing and distributing tickets to people and their pets to enjoy a night out at
MCU Park that they may otherwise have not been able to
do. Fans were also asked to bring cans of dog or cat food
that was donated to the Mayors Alliance for NYCs Animals
a coalition of more than 150 animal rescue groups and
shelters working with Animal Care & Control of NYC (AC&C)
to end the killing of healthy and treatable cats and dogs at
AC&C shelters.
32
Steve Cohen
General Manager
Lead Partner
Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Greg Conway
Manager, Ticket Operations
Volunteer
Billy Harner
Director of Media Relations
Volunteer
Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Volunteer
Coach
Josh Hernandez
Account Executive
Board of Directors
33
Kevin Mahoney
Assistant General Manager
President
Board of Directors
Gary Perone
Director of New Business Development
Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Advisor
President
Board of Directors
Board Member
Member
President
Ricky Viola
Account Executive
34
Kiwanis International
ACBL
Crohns and Colitis
MLB RBI
NYC Varsity League
N.Y. Professional Scouts Foundation
GNYSAA
Minor League Baseball Diversity Board
Greater N.Y. Sandlot Alliance
Knights of Columbus
$282
$250
$3,500
$100
$150
$150
$500
$200
$500
$100
$500
$125
$500
$1,313
$1,000
$1,566
$2,000
$2,000
$1,000
$3,000
$3,750
$4,880
In Stadium Fundraising
$370
$500
$300
$300
$500
City Harvest
$500
Muscular Dystrophy Association (walk)
$130,000
Knights of Pythias (50/50)
$3,000
Greater NY YMCA (take your base)
$10,300
Local Area Schools (FUNDraising program) $60,000
Childrens Cancer Research (launch a ball)
$500
STRIKE $56,486
Tic Toc Stop
$5,500
Gift In Kind
Merchandise Donations
$17,000
Ticket Donation
$90,000
Toys $8,000
In Stadium Fundraising
Monetary Donations
Gift in Kind
$266,286
$29,336
$115,000
Connecticut Tigers
Dodd Stadium - Norwich, CT
MLB Affiliate: Detroit Tigers
Years in the NYPL: 2010-Present
2014 Attendance: 78,118
Charitable Summary
The Connecticut Tigers take great pride in giving back to the community that supports us. In 2014, a record number of fans came to Dodd Stadium once again as the community continues to rally around the Tigers
and all the fun, exciting, and philanthropic events taking place at the stadium. The Tigers set new records for
total attendance as well as average attendance while celebrating the 20th season of Minor League Baseball at
Dodd Stadium.
Since arriving in 2010, the Tigers have made it their mission to turn Dodd Stadium into a community
gathering place for much more than just baseball. The Tigers were proud to host a number of charitable
events including the Southeastern CT Relay for Life and Bark for Life, Panera Bread/CT Sports Foundation
Spook-A-Thon, and more.
2014 saw the Second Annual Travis Brennan Heart & Hustle Award presented to two deserving winners; one a CT Tigers infielder noted for his heart and hustle both on the field and off, and a local girl with a
heart of gold. The award is in the name of and reflects the character of former CT Tigers Clubhouse Manager
Travis Brennan, who passed away during the early spring of 2013.
The Tigers are proud to be a valuable member of the Southeastern Connecticut community and continue to seek out ways to lend a hand and make a difference.
36
In 2013 the Tigers and the Norwich Bulletin began a new tradition with the annual Travis Brennan Heart & Hustle Award. Travis Brennan was the Tigers Clubhouse Manager for two season before passing away prior to the
2013 season. Travis was universally loved and respected and the Tigers felt it necessary to have his name live on
at Dodd Stadium for years to come. Each season fans will have the opportunity to vote for the Tigers player that
best exemplifies Heart & Hustle both on the field and in the community. Fans are
able to vote online for a $1 donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. A second
award is presented annually to a child in the community that exemplifies these
same characteristics. The 2014 winners were Will Maddox (Tigers) and Macayla
Schmidt (Community).
The Connecticut Tigers partnered for the first time with the Veteran Tickets Foundation in 2014. The Tigers donated four premium tickets to each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday game at Dodd Stadium. Through the Veteran Tickets Foundation, local military (either current or past), were able to take in a Tigers
game at no cost. The program furthered the teams commitment to honoring those that serve our country.
The Tigers and the American Red Cross once again teamed up in 2014 to present Blood Drives at Dodd Stadium
prior to three Tigers home games. On Friday, June 27; Friday, July 11; and Friday, August 15 fans had the opportunity to donate blood beginning at 1 pm at Dodd Stadium. All fans that donated blood received a free ticket to that
nights game courtesy of the American Red Cross.
For the second time the Tigers, Relay for Life of Southeastern CT, and American Cancer Society teamed up on Bark In The Park Day at Dodd Stadium
to add a Bark For Life fundraiser. Fans are invited to attend one game per
year at Dodd Stadium with their dog. This year if they made a donation to
the American Cancer Society they were able to participate in a pregame
lap around the warning track with their dog in addition to other fun doggy events throughout the day.
37
The Tigers mascot, C.T. the Tiger, along with his friend Tater the Gator made appearances
all across Southeastern Connecticut in 2014. C.T. and Tater added fun and excitement to
parades, little league events, kids days, festivals, and much more. In all, C.T. and Tater
donated over 75 hours of their time. The total value of time donated during 2014 was approximately $5,000.
Members of the Tigers front office gave their time during 2014 to speak at numerous local
schools, universities,and associations events.
Since 2010 the Connecticut Tigers have been a facility for the collection and storage of new and used baseball
equipment for Robertos Kids, an organization affiliated with the Roberto Clemente Foundation. The equipment is
then sent to Latin American countries to be used by those in need, to help grow the game of baseball!
Each season the Connecticut Tigers donate a portion of the total amount collected in parking fees to the Mayors
Pantry, a regional food bank that helps provide meals to those less fortunate. This season $5,852 was donated to
the Mayors Pantry.
The Connecticut Tigers were proud to team up with a group of community leaders to help plan for the Norwich
NEXTT Community Enhancement Plan. As part of the program, the group focused on the community of Taftville
as a pilot for many community events and programs to promote health, readiness to learn, and safety. The Tigers
hosted a free baseball clinic for 70 children from the Taftville community at Dodd Stadium on Thursday, August 7th.
Tigers players, coaches, and front office staff donated their time to put on a fun, safe clinic for a group of children
that otherwise may not have had the opportunity to have such an experience.
38
The Connecticut Tigers and Panera Bread teamed up for the fourth straight year to present the Panera Break SpookA-Thon at Dodd Stadium, benefiting the Backus Hospital Breast & Cancer Centers through the Connecticut Sports
Foundation. Throughout the day there was a Family 4K Cornstalk Walk, haunted clubhouse and dugout, costume
contests, inflatable games, and much more. The proceeds totaled $22,500 and went to the Connecticut Sports
Foundation, which was created by former Major Leaguer Jon Ellis to help the lives of families with children battling cancer. Through the CT Sports Foundation, the money raised at this event will be used to help patients of the
Backus Hospital Breast and Cancer Centers.
With so many strong ties to the military surrounding Southeastern Connecticut, the Tigers are
very active in supporting the military community. The 2014 Military Appreciation Night was
sponsored for the second straight year by The Better Business Bureau and its Military Line. As
part of this years festivities the Tigers wore special stars & stripe themed jerseys during that
nights game. Throughout the night the jerseys were put up for bid in a silent auction. The proceeds went towards a scholarship for a military family through the BBB Military Line. The total
amount collected in bids was $3,510 and every player and coachs jersey was sold!
CT Military All-Stars
Local Military Heroes
The Tigers teamed up with the Better Business Bureau and The Day
newspaper to present the first annual CT Military All-Stars program in
2014. Fans had the opportunity to submit their nomination for a military member with a tie to the State of Connecticut. From these nominations, a panel of judges selected nine to be honored at the annual
Military Appreciation Night. The first 1,000 fans through the gates received a baseball card set honoring these heroes and a special pregame ceremony introduced them to the crowd. The Tigers were extremely pleased to be able to honor these true heroes.
39
In an annual event, the Tigers hosted Ed Randalls Bat For The Cure and Prostate Cancer Awareness Night at Dodd
Stadium. This years event was June 26th. The Tigers players wore light blue wristbands in support and fans had the
opportunity to visit an informational table on the concourse where they also had the chance to enter a raffle to
win a team signed bat! Informational PSA videos were also displayed on the video board throughout the night. The
Tigers are proud to work with Ed Randall and his program annually to help strike out prostate cancer!
The Essex, CT-based non-profit, Bikes For Kids, Pfizer and the CT Tigers collaborated during the 2014 season to provide new bicycles and helmets to under-privileged young people in Norwich and New London, CT. Through the
program, 50 children came to Dodd Stadium to receive brand new bikes (with no cost to the families) on the field
before select Tigers home games throughout the summer. Following an on-field ceremony before each game, all
kids and their families enjoyed an evening of baseball.
For the fourth straight year the Tigers donated the use of Dodd Stadium for the Southeastern Connecticut Relay
For Life. This collaboration between The American Cancer Society and the Tigers celebrated the lives of people who
have battled cancer, remembered loved ones lost, and helped fight back against the disease. At the event, teams of
people camped out overnight and took turns walking or running
around the concourse at Dodd Stadium. Each of the teams that
participated had a representative on the track at all times during
the overnight event. In addition to the relay, there were musical
performances, and numerous other fun activities for the attendees to take part in. A large basket raffle also helped raise funds
for a very good cause! In total, the event was able to raise over
$111,791 for the American Cancer Society to help fund research
in the fight to cure cancer!
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Dave Schermerhorn
Assistant General Manager
Brent Southworth
Director of Sales
Monetary Donations
$500
$111,791
$22,500
$27,046
$3,510
$5,852
$7,000
$29,340
$165,347
$5,852
Charitable Summary
This year marked the 21st season of the Hudson Valley Renegades
providing an unique experience for fans throughout the Hudson Valley.
The Renegades have worked diligently over the past 21 seasons to create a positive, strong relationship within the Hudson Valley Community.
Our organization recognizes what it means to give back, and is grateful to be in a position to give to those who improve the quality of life
throughout our community. While creating a family fun environment
at the stadium, the front office staff has committed to our community
outreach programs and formed strong relationships with local organizations that are committed to building a positive change in our youth,
their families and the entire Hudson Valley community.
42
Fans gathered at Dutchess Stadium on September 11th to honor our heroes for the Hometown Heroes,
9/11 All-Star Tribute Game as the Military All-Stars took on the Bravest & Finest. The goal of this event is to
bring the community together and to remember those that we lost on September 11, 2001.
Every year, the Hudson Valley Renegades players and coaching staff get together and sign hundreds of
baseball cards and other Renegades memorabilia that will be donated to multiple nonprofit organizations
throughout the Hudson Valley. With the players and coaches generous participation, their signed items
help raise thousands of dollars for local organizations in the Hudson Valley community.
Turkey Bowl
Pitch for Kids
The Renegades and Pitch for Kids hosted a bowling tournament for families in the Hudson Valley. Prizes and incentives were given to the families that raised the most amount of money to sponsor the event.
The Renegades Pitch for Kids hosted their 12th annual Gades Shoot Out event that combines both golf
and Renegades games. Between holes while golfing, players participated in fun games that contain crazy
challenges and goodies. The event also held a raffle and auction at the end of the day.
Every Holiday season the Renegades host a Holiday Party & Toy Drive with Santa, Mrs. Claus and Santas
singing elf. Fans get to enjoy complimentary treats as well as take their photos with Santa. The event is free
of charge as we ask fans to donate an item to our Toy Drive. This year, we partnered with Astor Services for
Family and Children.
43
The Renegades and Pitch for Kids hosted its first ever Cornhole Tournament at Dutchess Stadium. Teams of
two entered to win prizes such as Renegades tickets and memorabilia.
Softball Game
Pitch for Kids
The Renegades Pitch for Kids hosted an all day softball tournament at
Dutchess Stadium, which resulted in a great turn out and a ton of fun.
Prizes and memorabilia were award to teams and the winners.
Kickball Tournament
Pitch for Kids
The Renegades Pitch for Kids Fun rekindled the favorite schoolyard
game at the annual Pitch for Kids Kickball Tournament. Over 20 teams participated in an elimination round
tournament where one team was named the Kickball Champions. All proceeds benefited the Renegades
Pitch for Kids Fund.
Gades Open
Pitch for Kids
Wiffle-ball-ooza
Pitch for Kids
This season marked the 4th annual Wiffle-ball-ooza Tournament hosted by the Renegades and Pitch for
Kids at Dutchess Stadium. Teams of ten players entered to win cash prizes, and every participant was
awarded with tickets for upcoming Renegades games.
44
Every season the Renegades and Pitch for Kids host a community camp for young baseball players in
Dutchess County. This was the only camp in the Hudson Valley where kids were able to learn from not one,
but two ex-major leaguers! Former New York Yankees pitcher Joe Ausanio and pitcher Rob Bell worked
with kids in our camp! Additionally, the Renegades Manager and a handful of players were there to assist
and help the kids develop and work on their baseball skills.
The 2nd Annual Hot Stove Banquet was a successful event put on by the
Renegades and Pitch for Kids. The event featured Don Mattingly, Shane
Spencer, Joe Ausanio, and Sweeny Murti. The evening also featured and
interview with the guests by Renegades PA Announcer, Rick Zolzer, along
with dinner, cocktail hour, photo and autograph sessions, and prizes for
those in Attendance.
The Hudson Valley Renegades and Pitch for Kids hosted their annual Jailbreak for Home 5k in May. With a
strong turnout, the community members of Dutchess County completed a 3.2 mile race starting from the
Jail and finishing at Dutchess Stadium home plate. The event also had a kids race around the bases. Prizes
were awarded to male, female, and age categories.
For this free event, the Hudson Valley Renegades opened Dutchess Stadium to the public to kick off spring
with multiple Easter Egg Hunts, art & crafts, inflatables, interactive games & Renegades prizes. The Renegades hosted 3 separate Easter Egg Hunts throughout the day giving children the opportunity to be
outside and active for the start of the season.
45
Every year the Hudson Valley Renegades host the Hudson Valley Baseball Classic between the Black Knights
of West Point vs. the Red Foxes of Marist College. The event is free to the public including a free pre-game
baseball clinic taught by the players and coaches of both college ball clubs. Fans were also able to enjoy
fireworks after the conclusion of the game. This year, we hosted a Helicopter Ball Drop on behalf of the
Dutchess County Regional of Commerce, Dutchess Outreach foundation. The not for profit sold balls that
where then dropped out of the helicopter following the game. The ball that landed in the glove, won a
prize on behalf of the Chamber organization.
The Hudson Valley Renegades organization, players and coaches partnered with the Childrens School of
Yoga to promote the health and well being of families throughout the Hudson Valley. The Hudson Valley
Renegades players & trainer joined the organization in conducting a 30-minute group feel good workout
for moms, dads and families on the field following the game at Dutchess Stadium. The Renegades players
& trainer worked with the children and parents in the community to teach the importance of health & fitness in ones everyday life.
Rascals Monster Bash at the ballpark provides children and their families a safe environment to trick or
treat on Halloween. With tons of activities for the kids (decorating your own trick or treat bag, making
your own candy apple, etc.) The Dutch allowed families in the Hudson Valley the opportunity to enjoy the
holiday festivities free of charge. After the event, one lucky family received the opportunity to bring Renegades Mascot, Rascal trick-or-treating in their neighborhood.
At every home game this season, the Renegades recognize a faculty or staff member of a local school
system for their outstanding work educating our youth. The honoree received four box seats to the game
in which they were being honored, as well as threw out a ceremonial first pitch to recognize his or her
achievements in front of students, parents, and thousands of Renegades fans.
46
In appreciation of those who go above and beyond to make our society a better place to live, the Hudson
Valley Renegades honored a Hometown Hero at every home game. If selected, the Hero received four
box seats to the game, and was named Honorary Captain for the night. The Hero accompanied the team
manager to the plate to exchange lineup cards, and also threw out a ceremonial first pitch as recognition
for his or her heroic actions.
The Hudson Valley Renegades hosted its third annual Comedy Show this year in support of the Renegades
Pitch for Kids Fund. A sold out crowd of over 300 people came out for a night of full entertainment featuring some of the great comedians of the Hudson Valley as well as comics that are known throughout the
country.
The Renegades Pitch for Kids Fund hosted a 3-day Home Run Derby at
Dutchess Stadium. Teams were able to participate in the Home Run Derby
Challenge as well as shag balls in the outfield.
The Renegades Pitch for Kids Hosted their first Annual Renegades Regional Car Show! The event displayed
some of the hottest rides in the Hudson Valley. Guests enjoyed food, prizes, and live music throughout the
day as the proceeds benefit the Renegades Pitch for Kids Fund.
47
The Hudson Valley Renegades teamed up with local nonprofits for Collection for a Cause days throughout the 2014 season. On the selected days, the Renegades asked fans to donate the selected items in exchange for $1 General Admission Tickets. These nights included:
- Wednesday, July 9th: Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse- Organization asked for donations of
diapers, baby wipes, and any non perishable snack foods.
- Tuesday, July 22nd: Food Bank- The Food Bank asked for donations of any canned goods.
- Thursday, August 7th: Dutchess Outreach- Donations of canned goods (Spaghetti Sauce, Large cans
of Meat Ravioli, Large cans of Soup (such as Chunky Campbells Soup or Pregresso), Canned Beef Stew,
Canned Chili with Meat, Canned Corn Beef Hash, Canned Tuna, Canned Potatoes/Yams, Canned or Instant
Macaroni and Cheese, Peanut Butter and Jelly, Canned Fruits & Vegetables).
- Monday, August 25th: YMCA- Oranizations asked for donations of any school supplies (ex: crayons,
markers, paper, tape, pens, pencils, erasers, chalk, etc).
Tom Hubmaster
Director of Stadium Operations
Rick Zolzer
Vice President
Joe Ausanio
Director of Baseball Operations
Vicky DeFreese
Director of Business Operations
Tim Merante
Head Groundskeeper
Kristen Huss
Assistant General Manager
Corinne Adams
Director of Marketing & Communication
Dave Neff
Manager of New Business
Dan Horne
Account Executive
Teri Bettencourt
Director of Food & Beverage
Bob Outer
Community Relations Specialist
Dominic Constantino
Director of Ticket Sales
Breven Zimmerman
Merchandise/Food & Beverage Assistant
Chris Winslow
Account Executive
$12
$648
$60
$66
$21
$264
$12
$18
$440
55
Jamestown Jammers
Russell E. Diethrick, Jr. Park - Jamestown, NY
MLB Affiliate: Pittsburgh Pirates
Years in the NYPL: 1994-Present
2014 Attendance: 24,246
Charitable Summary
The Jamestown Jammers pledge to support the residents, business, and programs of
the greater Jamestown area, and Chautauqua and surrounding counties. The Jamestown
Jammers will continue to support local and area programs that help better the quality of life.
56
Jammers offer a free youth skills clinic by the Jammers players and coaching staff.
The Jammers players go to youth programs/organizations for public appearances. They discuss
with the children about excising, healthy eating and how they became MiLB players.
Autism Awareness
Humane Society
57
John Pogorzelski
Sales & Operations Manager
Chautauqua Striders
58
Member
Member
Member
Youth Mentor
Assistant Coach
Youth Mentor
Aspire $500
Chautauqua County Humane Society
$150
WCA Hospital
$500
Non-profit ticket donations
Non-profit merchandise donations
Gift in Kind
In Stadium Fundraising
Ticket and Merchandise Donations
$5,000
$3,500
$1,150
$8,500
59
Lowell Spinners
Charitable Summary
The Lowell Spinners take pride in being the Merrimack Valleys team and an active member of the surrounding
community. Oftentimes, the team chooses to be involved in activities as silent partners. It is important for us to support various causes in the area while keeping a modest profile. There are, however, a few causes with which we promote our involvement. On a personal level, our front office members volunteer time in causes including the Lowell
General Hospital Cancer Walk, Special Olympics, the Boys and Girls Club, March of Dimes, The Paul Center and Cystic
Fibrosis/Cerebral Palsy Research. Also, the Spinners have made substantial inroads raising funds for the Joann Weber
Charitable Fund, founded in 2007 by Spinners owner Drew Weber in memory of his wife after a courageous three-year
battle with pancreatic cancer. Historically the organization has had a number of different charitable partnerships, beginning in 1998 with the Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce and their annual scholarship awards. Thousands of
dollars are given away and the winners were announced at a special pre-game ceremony at LeLacheur Park. In 1999
the concept of Spinners Charities was born, becoming a vital mechanism for the organization to quietly donate
funds to worthy causes in our community while keeping a low profile. When you attend a Spinners game, youll hear
birthday announcements and special welcomes. For each fan-requested announcement, $10 is donated towards
Spinners Charities, money which goes directly back into the Merrimack Valley community. Be it by dedicating a season to a particular charity, or taking an open approach and including as many charitable partners as possible throughout the year, the Spinners organization has a nightly charity tie-in for nearly every game or event at LeLacheur Park.
60
The Spinners continued community partnership with local libraries in 2014. Participating libraries have a dated
voucher for each Spinners home game, allowing patrons to purchase up to six tickets for half price. Vouchers may
be picked up at your local library and must be presented at the ticket office on the day of the game in order to receive the discount.
Field of Dreams
Local Little League Teams
Each day the Spinners provide two local teams the opportunity of a lifetime when they take the field at LeLacheur
Park prior to the game. The two teams compete in a one-inning game, with each player getting a chance at the
plate before retiring to the dugout for autographs and photos with the Spinners players.
Developed in 2005, the Spinners Spread the Love Tour caravan includes local celebrities,
media personalities and mascots, sent to local schools where they join the students in
making gifts for our veterans. Started initially with Valentines Day cards, the program has
expanded to include holiday cards in December and Red Sox pennants for Opening Day
in April. The gifts are then delivered by the caravan members in a visit to a local Veterans
Hospital.
The Lowell Spinners Pinch Hit Hero program allows for non-profit organizations to enjoy
a Lowell Spinners game courtesy of the support of the organization and local businesses.
Pinch Hit Heroes are treated to a Spinners game, plus a complimentary hot dog, soda and
bag of chips. Since the programs inception thousands of fans have come through the
gates at no cost.
Developed in 2005, the Spinners World Series is a high school tournament between four area schools in which a
player from each team wins a $1,000 college scholarship for his work within the community. The winning team
claims the Spinners Canaligator trophy for the year. All money raised at the gate is returned to the local community.
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Debuting in 2010, the Catholic High School World Series features a scholarship to honor Mickey Sullivan, the former
Athletic Director at Lowell Catholic High School who recently retired to fight his battle with cancer. The four teams
get a chance to call LeLacheur Park home, while one student claims the scholarship.
Baseball Buddies
At each home game, the Spinners invite local youth groups, from Little League teams to Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts,
into the dugout before the game and onto the field with the players during player introductions and the singing of
the national anthem.
The Spinners Speakers Bureau visited over 40 local community organizations at no cost to talk baseball, the industry, promotions and more. Schools, Kiwanis Clubs, Rotary, Lions, you name it, we spoke to it!
The Spinners had a special event June 25, 2014 as they retired the No. 25 of Ryan Westmoreland. Ryan was the NYPL
Top Prospect according to Baseball America in 2009. However in 2010, his life was forever altered when it was found
he suffered from a cavernous malformation. Surgery saved his life, but a second recurrence following a lengthy
rehab ended his career. The Spinners retired Ryans No. 25 and in doing so created a night to promote awareness
for the Angioma Alliance. Ryan was presented a special award from the alliance pre-game and funds were raised
throughout the night for the foundation.
Heroes Among Us
Military Heroes
Sponsored by Hanscom Federal Credit Union, the Heroes Among Us program allowed us to truly salute the
service of a service member and his or her family. Originally slated for just Saturday home games, so many worthy
submissions were received that the program was expanded to two additional dates. Each honoree was welcomed
into the park early for a private behind the scenes tour, meeting the team in the clubhouse and taking batting practice with the team in their own Spinners jersey. After a heartwarming introduction, each threw a ceremonial first
pitch before enjoying the game with their family from a luxury suite.
The Spinners once again dispersed across the community for Read Across America Day, March 2. The front office
and mascot family combined to visit 11 different schools to spread the importance of reading.
62
The Spinners partnered with LIAM Nation, for a special day at the park in the 2014. LIAM Nation benefits families
and friends who are connected to a loved one facing challenges such as an autistic child everyday. The money
raised will help give families alternate solutions for these challenges. The game allowed LIAM Nation to raise over
$1,000 which directly helped lead to the creation of a LIAM Nation Bowling League for the kids. A Boston Bruins
Stanley Cup ring was on hand for photographs and a silent auction and 50/50 contributed to the days fundraising.
Prior to the first pitch, the children and their helpers from the LIAM Nation T-Ball league took the field for a special
Field of Dreams before returning to take the field with the Spinners players for the National Anthem.
Military Day
Members of the Armed Forces
The Spinners annual Military Day continues to be a big hit for all involved. Members of the armed services, active
and retired, and their families received complimentary tickets and were honored in a pre-game ceremony. Military
members served as the honor guard, performed the National Anthem and God Bless America and threw out ceremonial pitches. The night also featured a special Canaligator Military Bobble Head for the first 1,000 fans, courtesy
of US Family Health Plan.
The Spinners annual Autism Awareness Day grew in 2014, as the team donned special Puzzle Piece style jerseys to
raise both awareness and funds for the G-Man Foundation, a local Autism Awareness organization. The day included a pre-game presentation, fundraising throughout the day and a toned down atmosphere to create a welcoming
environment for all.
The Spinners partnered with Ironstone Farm for a special 5-mile run and 2-mile walk event at the ballpark. The race
concluded with watching the Kentucky Derby on the Spinners high-definition video board while raising money for
Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm.
The Spinners once again partnered with the Career Center of Greater Lowell and the Valley Works Career Center to
present an opportunity for local residents to find full-time jobs. Over 50 different employers participated in 2014,
circling LeLacheur Park to meet the over 800 job seekers that attended over the course of the day in search of their
next opportunity.
63
The Spinners partnered with all Lowell Public Schools with a specific focus on the third graders. Each student who
read 40 books was rewarded with prizes ranging from Spinners tickets to food at the Spinners reading rewards
game. Over 900 students achieved the highest mark and nearly 2,500 tickets were awarded as part of the promotion. Canaligator and the Spinners staff visited nearly 20 elementary schools in the Lowell community to kick-off
and celebrate the program.
Birthday Requests
For each birthday and special request for the video board, a $10 donation is
made to Lowell Spinners Charities. In 2014, the program generated nearly
$2,000 in donations!
The Spinners held their fourth annual Bark in the Park night at LeLacheur
Park with nearly 100 dogs in attendance. Each dog received a pooch pass to enter, with the $5 cost being donated
directly to the Lowell Humane Society. The LHS was on hand as well, showcasing animals available for adoption in
addition to accepting donations for the shelter, with over $450 raised in $1 Puppy Kiss donations.
Law Enforcement personnel from across the state joined the Spinners for a special night at the ballpark. From the
four participating honor guards presenting the colors to the themed events throughout the night, officers from
around the region were honored.
In a partnership with Hannaford, the Spinners joined forces to collect food for the Merrimack Valley Food Bank. The
team exchanged tickets for non-perishable food items and collected nearly 600 pounds of food.
The Spinners will forever have one seat unoccupied for each and every LeLacheur Park event as the team dedicated
to the 92,000 American soldiers who have not returned home in the first ever ceremony of its kind. Originally dedicated in 2012, the seat was re-dedicated in 2014.
64
The Spinners FUNdraising Program once again offered local organizations the opportunity to raise much needed funds through Spinners baseball. Organizations could purchase discounted tickets to sell for a one-of-a-kind
group outing at a Spinners game. Depending on the amount of tickets sold, schools were given money back from
the Spinners to help fund their programs. In addition, each organization received a special FUNdraising code that
would return additional money to their efforts when supporters attended additional Spinners games.
The Spinners once again partnered with the American Red Cross to promote the gift of life at a time (summer) when
the need is highest. The team partnered to reward donors with tickets to a Spinners game while also promoting the
cause and the event at the park throughout the month of July.
In what has become a yearly tradition, the Spinners once again teamed up with Ed Randall to try and strike out
prostate cancer. Spinners players wore blue wristbands during the game to support of program. Fans also had a
chance to visit the Bat for the Cure table on the concourse to enter in a raffle to win a team signed blue bat. The
Spinners have supported Ed Randall and his program for the last several years and we look forward to a continuing
our relationship to strike out prostate cancer together!
One lucky fan packed their bags and headed on a Royal Caribbean Cruise for
two thanks to the teams season long raffle to benefit Lowell Spinners Charities. The season long-raffle generated over $1,000 for the charity!
The Spinners host two annual Scout Night Sleepovers, at LeLacheur Park,
inviting area scouts to bring their tent and grab some outfield grass. The
sleepovers attract over 1,500 campers and are a huge hit. The Scout Night
package includes game tickets, participation in a pre-game Scout Parade,
catch on the field, post-game movies, post-game run the bases, breakfast in the morning and the coveted Lowell
Spinners Scout Patch. The Spinners supplement the program with involvement during the offseason, speaking
with scouts on their goals and working with them on their community service projects.
65
The Ice Bucket Challenge took the world by storm and the Spinners were happy participants, with full participation
from the front office staff. The on-field staff got involved, with Manager Joe Oliver challenging the entire Spinners
roster, with the team doing it as a unit prior to a game. They passed the challenge on to the Spinners Dance Team,
who completed the task post game, all while raising both funds and awareness for ALS.
The Spinners hire students for season long apprenticeships from colleges across the country interested in pursuing a career in the sports industry. Associates have the opportunity to accrue school credits where
applicable. In 2015, the Spinners had a staff of nearly 25 students who
got the chance to see first hand and participate in the inner workings
of a professional baseball team. The program includes guest speakers
and field trips, to learn from other organizations, other executives and
create a well-rounded experience.
Mascot/Player Appearances
Playing just three months out of the year, the Spinners mascots ensure
the team has a presence in the community 12 months a year. Spinners mascots and Spinner players are available
for appearances in the community for non-profit organizations at no cost. The mascot appearances, presented by
Honey Dew Donuts, include soft toss balls for all children. Canaligator and his family made a record 233 appearances in 2014 and the players made an additional 12 appearances during the 38 game home schedule during the
season.
Mystery Ball
With the help of our friends throughout Minor League Baseball, the Spinners held their fourth annual Mystery Ball
grab bag. Randomly bagged autographed baseballs were sold for $10 each, with all proceeds benefiting Lowell
Spinners Charities, raising over $700.
Ballpark Tours
The Spinners welcome groups to get a behind the scenes look at the operations of LeLacheur Park in complimentary tours throughout the year. Many school and camp groups take the opportunity for a behind the scenes view of
the organization, visiting everywhere from the clubhouse and field to the Kids Area and Thomas the Tank Engine.
No tour is complete without each visitor having the opportunity to announce themselves over the LeLacheur Park
loud speaker.
66
The Honey Dew Donuts Kids Dugout was a special seating section at each of the Spinners home games. Fans
in the dugout received complimentary tickets, front of the line access for post-game Kids Run the Bases and a
Spinners/Honey Dew soft-toss ball. Local non-profits and youth groups were selected for the Honey Dew Dugout
by a group of Spinners and Honey Dew staffers based on merit and community involvement to enjoy a Spinners
game at no cost!
The Spinners once again hosted the Merrimack Valley and the March of
Dimes in the annual Walk for Babies, with the event kicking off at the
ballpark and finishing at home plate.
The Spinners partnered with the March of Dimes for a special night for
babies in 2014. The team wore specially designed March of Dimes jerseys, a portion of which were auctioned off the players back following
the game. The majority of the jerseys however were custom tailored with
patches in honor of babies, both those we lost and those who are now
living healthy lives. Each at-bat, the player was announced as Joe Smith
playing in honor of Baby Noah, and the entire family met the player following the game for a jersey exchange and photo. The night was capped
by an appearance from everyones favorite Purple Party Dude, Reggy!, whos purple was a perfect fit for the
March of Dimes.
Once again the Spinners hosted four Peanut Free nights at LeLacheur Park. A night where everyone can feel safe
coming to the ballpark, the Spinners take extra precautions so even the most severe peanut allergy suffers can
enjoy a ballgame. In addition to the nightly power washing of the stadium, a thorough walk-through by Spinners
staff is done to ensure no stray peanut shells or skins remain in the park. All peanut products are discontinued for
the evening and EMTs are on hand in case of any potential reaction. The games draw the most positive feedback
of any event held by the team in terms of allowing fans who may not otherwise be able to come to a game enjoy
an anxiety-free day at the park.
67
Tim Bawmann
President/General Manager
Founder
Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Steering Committee
Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Volunteer
Dan Beaulieu
Vice President; Facilities
Volunteer
Brian Lindsay
Vice President/Assistant General Manager
Special Olympics
Jon Boswell
Director of Media Relations
Volunteer
Board of Directors
Member
Rowley PTA
Ditson School PTO
Columbus Elem. Sch. PTO
Greenwood School PTO
Hajar School
Atkinson VFD
Methuen Ranger Band
Kennedy Middle Sch. PTO
Woburn Lions Club
Party for a Purpose
Cheer for Nicole
Wendys Walkers
Windham High Sch. PTO
Haverhill Att. School
Nancy King Golf Tourn.
Hunt Club
Friends of Chelmsford
Pine Glenn School PTO
Solaee for Stephanie
Granite State Marandors
Discovery School PTO
Brian Higgins Foundation
Lowell Charter Sch. PTO
South School PTO
Reading Ed. Foundation
Purpose School PTO
PMC Actonkins Ride
Hallmark VMA
Dracut Volleyball
Metheun Special Ed.
Bradford Ski Team
Burlington Rotary
Temple Emmanuel
LGM Cancer Walk
Lexington Ed. Foundation
Riverdale PTO
Run for Cancer
Salem Christian Sch. PTO
Hudson Rotary
Bolton School PTO
Hudson Library
Sacred Heart School PTO
Salem Youth Basketball
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$300
$370
$350
$400
$120
$200
$200
$300
$36
$120
$400
$36
$36
$300
$200
$36
$72
$180
$72
$72
$72
$72
$144
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$500
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$60
$98
$1,000
$250
$7,500
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$900
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$59
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$500
$500
$500
$500
$500
$500
$500
$500
$1,000
$1,000
$168
Whistler House
Eric Eknaian [High School World
Series Scholarship]
Circle Health Ball
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell
Pastoral Care at Salem Haven
Greater Lowell Chamber of Comm.
Byam Elem. School Walk-a-Thon
Caties Closet
Lowell General Hospital Team
Walk for Cancer Care
Andrew Rogers [High School
World Series Scholarship]
VNA of Greater Lowell
Greater Lowell Chamber of Comm.
IAABO Board 95
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell
Lowell Festival Foundation
United Way of Massachusetts
Parents of Tots
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell
Team Micky Ward Charities
Brookside Elementary School
Girls Inc. of Greater Lowell
Kiwanis Club of Lowell
Merrimack Repertory Theatre
Alvirne High School Band
Greater Merrimack Valley
Convention & Visitors Bureau
Ancient Order of Hibernians
Division #19
Lowell Summer Music Series
$95
$500
$1,128
$500
$50
$100
$286
$250
$3,000
$500
$150
$1,500
$2,800
$1,000
$350
$1,000
$75
$600
$500
$286
$500
$50
$125
$120
$1,500
$750
$1,000
$36,828
$49,438
$114,208
Charitable Summary
The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are one of the most visible and active organizations in the Mahoning Valley. In addition to providing affordable and family oriented entertainment, the Scrappers participate in a variety of community initiatives including but not limited to ticket fundraising with nonprofit
groups, community days at the ballpark highlighting local communities, over 125 mascot appearances
throughout the year, as well as raising awareness on health concerns facing area residents.
Outside of Eastwood Field the Scrappers frequently work with local school districts in Ohio and
Western Pennsylvania through the Junior Achievement program, annual College Fair, School Field Trip
Day and also by integrating new programs into curriculums. In 2014, the Scrappers worked with several
schools to promote healthy lifestyle choices with Scrappys Healthy Challenge. The staff looks forward to
growing the program this year, as well as highlighting the importance of literacy through Scrappys Scholars Reading Club developed for elementary school students. Both of these programs aim to instill goal
setting skills in addition to their primary focuses.
Through the above mentioned programs, off season events and sponsorship opportunities the Scrappers
partnerships with local businesses and charity organizations help us to strengthen relationships in the
Mahoning Valley and also to continue to grow our team as a community leader.
72
The Scrappers held its fourth Annual ALS Walk at Eastwood Field in October of 2014. The fundraising
event took place around the stadium and finished on the warning track. Participating teams had their
names scrolled on the stadium message center along with the ALS Association logo. The walk raised
$58,128.
The Scrappers held its tenth annual College Fair at a Scrappers game. The fair runs for two hours prior to
the game. Area high school juniors and seniors are invited to come out to visit with over 20 colleges and
universities participating in the event. The students have a card to take to each of the colleges that needs
to be stamped so they are entered to win the $850 scholarship. One lucky student is drawn during the
game and is recognized on field as the recipient.
The Scrappers hosted a three day youth baseball camp with the players and coaches. Participants got instruction from players and coaches on the fundamentals of baseball during a very interactive experience
with the team.
73
For a game, all promotions involved kid participants. Kids got to PA Announce, change the bases, get on
the radio, run the basesetc. Activities were based around the kids all game long.
The ticket fundraising program is available for nonprofit organizations. Groups can sell undated ticket
vouchers at a discounted rate and the group splits the amount 50/50.
The Scrappers hosted its sixteenth annual Trick or Treat at Eastwood Field. Trick or Treat at Eastwood Field is a fun and safe way
to celebrate Halloween for children age 12 and under. Local businesses participated by passing out candy to children dressed in
costumes as they walked around the concourse and stadium. The
stadium was filled with Halloween decorations, music and games
for the kids.
For three games, youth baseball and softball teams got a special $3 ticket rate to a Scrappers game. The
teams were also recognized at the games.
The Scrappers had three games designated as Faith Nights. One dollar for each ticket sold with the Faith
Night program was given to Second Harvest Food Bank.
As a part of the Novelis Recycling Night, the Scrappers held an aluminum can recycling drive at a game.
Any fan that brought a bag of cans to be recycled received a ticket voucher to an
upcoming Scrappers game and was also entered to win a new Trek Bike which was raffled off at the
game.
74
Fans could bring in school supplies to be donated to Homes For Kids and in return would get a free general
admission tickets to a game.
The Scrappers are very active in the community, bringing Scrappy the mascot out to over 125 appearances
throughout the year, including but not limited to fairs, festivals, schools, libraries, sponsor locations, parades, etc.
J.A. in a Day
Junior Achievement of Mahoning Valley
Scrappers front office staff members participated in Junior Achievements J.A. in a Day Program at a local
elementary school. Each Scrappers staff member had a second grade class to teach five different lessons
about business and finances.
Military Nights
The Scrappers held Military Wednesdays during every Wednesday home game throughout the season.
Anyone with a Military Identification Card got two free tickets to the game. The Military groups participated with Color Guards, First Pitches, Informational Tables in the concourse, etc.
75
Scrappys Reading Club included over 15,000 students from the tri-county area. Students that read five
books within the allotted time received a free ticket to a Scrappers game. Reading Club participants were
recognized with an on field parade at the games.
For every Monday home game, the Scrappers held the Every Monday Matters promotion. Fans could bring
in canned goods, new books or gently used sporting equipment to be donated to Second Harvest Food
Bank, Akron Childrens Hospital Mahoning Valley and Big Brothers Big Sisters. With each donation, the fan
would receive a free ticket to that nights game. At the game, different community organizations were recognized for their contributions to the valley.
Akron Childrens Hospital Mahoning Valley was the charity for the Scrappers annual 5K race in the morning on a Scrappers game day. They received a donation for each runner as well as sponsors that participated in the event. At the game, they participated in a ticket fundraiser and kicked off their change bandit
collection month long campaign at the game. In addition, the
Scrappers collected memorabilia from teams and sponsors and
it was auctioned off at the game. The event raised over $1,500
for Akron Childrens Hospital Mahoning Valley.
MS Walk
76
The Scrappers held their fourth Mystery Ball Sale with 120 baseballs from
MLB and MiLB teams with proceeds to Luke Holko, the little boy who was
injured in 2009 by a foul ball. Luke threw out a first pitch and met some of
the players. The event raised over $1,000 for Luke.
Strike Out Stroke Night took place at a Scrappers game and involved PSAs
about stroke, trivia, contests, speeches and informational literature about
the warning signs of stroke.
The Scrappers donate family four packs of tickets and promotional merchandise to over 400 nonprofit organizations within the community every season.
The Scrappers hosted the second annual High School Valley Classic game
in which select area high school players were invited to play in the classic at Eastwood Field. It was a great experience for the players as some of
them never played on a professional field and it was a great way to showcase the talent in the area.
77
Heather Sahli
Assistant General Manager, Marketing
Junior Achievement
Corporate Volunteer
Council
Chris Sumner
Director of Group Sales
Volunteer
Professional
Development/
Marketing Chair
Junior Achievement
Warren Kiwanis
Champion 8th Grade Basketball
Volunteer
Member
Coach
Matt Thompson
Assistant General Manager, Sales
Junior Achievement
United Way of
Trumbull County
78
Volunteer
Board Member
Courtney Perrino
Accounting Manager
Junior Achievement
Volunteer
Lucas Holko
$1,000
Akron Childrens Hospital Mahoning
Valley Golf Hole Sponsor
$250
HandsOn Volunteer Network
$240
Trumbull 100
$1,500
Kids In Education
$3,500
Teen Straight Talk
$380
Various Ticket Fundraisers
$2,946
Akron Childrens Hospital Mahoning Valley
$1,607
Boy Scouts
$294
POPS at the Ballpark Fundraiser
$55
Kiwanis of Niles
$330
Yellow Brick Place
$256
St. George Croation Center
$192
Warren Family Rescue Mission
$1,353
ALS Association
$136
YSU Baseball
$2,550
College Fair Scholarship Donation
$850
Knights of Columbus
$60
DSAV $260
American Heart Association
$98
Second Harvest Food Bank
$40
Kiwanis of Warren
$175
Wounded Warrior
$228
In Stadium Fundraising
ALS Walk
Scrappers Backers 50/50
MS Walk
United Way of Trumbull County
In Stadium Fundraising
Total Monetary Donations
Ticket and Merchandise Donations
$58,128
$14,053
$49,972
$5,000
$127,153
$18,300
$30,185
Charitable Summary
Located in the heart of Happy Valley, the State College Spikes have always believed in the importance of playing a leading role in the community. The Spikes community efforts led to a staggering total
of over $140,000 being raised, all of which went directly back into the Central Pennsylvania community.
The Spikes worked with over 50 non-profit organizations in 2013, and notable community events
that the Spikes were closely involved with included: Opening Ceremonies for the Special Olympics of
Pennsylvania, the Reverse Car Drawing for the American Cancer Societys Coaches vs. Cancer, Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association State Baseball Championships, 24 Hour Walk benefiting Habitat for
Humanity, and a free indoor Halloween trick-or-treating event.
The Spikes visited over 30 schools during 2013 and educated students with five school programs:
Healthy Home Runs, Project I.K.E. (Inspiring Kids to be Eco-Friendly), Spikes Student All-Stars, Spikes Essay
Contest, and Spikes Books and Baseball.
Giving back to the community has been the top organizational goal for the Spikes since their inaugural year of 2006. The Spikes strive on not only being in the baseball business but also in the memory
making business.
80
Over 30 schools and 8,000 students participated in the Spikes Books and Baseball reading program. Each child is rewarded with a game ticket for reading four books.
Mascot Appearances
The State College Spikes mascots performed over 150 mascot appearances in 2014. The Spikes
mascots visit hospitals, charity events, and other non-profit functions on a yearly basis.
Spikes Student All-Stars school program rewards students with two game tickets for exemplifying
good behavior or doing well in class. Over 30 schools participated in the program in 2014.
For the fifth year in a row, the Spikes partnered with over 20 Centre County United Way agencies.
Each agency held a fundraiser and promoted their groups at the ballpark.
Ben Love
Director of In-Game Entertainment
& Promotions
Coach
Centre Lacrosse
The Spikes hosted Safe and Seen at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, an event in partnership with Centre LifeLink EMS and radio station
B94.5 that provided a free safe outdoor trick-or-treat that over 2,000 people attended.
82
$32
$32
$32
$32
$48
$48
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$48
$32
$40
$32
$32
$40
$40
$40
$32
$40
$40
$40
$40
$32
$80
$16
$40
$40
$40
$40
$40
$40
$40
$60
$100
$60
$40
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$96
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
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Bradys Smile
The Liberty Ball, A Knight for
the Kids (THON)
Clearfield County Career and
Technology Center
East Juniata Girls Basketball
Slippery Rick Special Olympics
Fulton County Medical Center
Bellefonte Wrestling Association
American Legion Riders Post #281
The Pink Zone at Penn State
Our Lady of Victor Catholic Church
Western PA Police
Brookville YMCA
Band Bash Fundraiser
West Beaver Township Veterans
DuBois Lions Club
Middlecreek Area Comm. Center
Penn View Christian School
Relay for Life Centre Region
Dubois Christian Schools
Schuylkill Buddy Walk
DuBois Area Catholic School
Bob Perkins Fund
Clearfield Chamber of Commerce
Norma Soster Benefit
Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
West Branch Area School District
Boy Scout Troop 27
Houserville/Lemont PTO
Clearfield County 4-H Hot Shots
Hollidaysburg Catholic School
The Community Pool at Mill Hall
Nittany Lion Aquatic Club
Logan Bonar Benefit Bingo
$40
$40
$40
$40
$40
$40
$40
$40
$32
$50
$32
$100
$32
$32
$16
$48
$24
$32
$32
$16
$32
$700
$32
$32
$32
$24
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$16
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$32
$16
$32
$125
$125
$250
$250
$125
$125
$375
$125
$125
$125
$125
$125
$325
$125
$125
$125
$125
$450
$125
$125
$125
$125
$125
$250
$125
$375
$125
$125
$125
$75
$125
$275
$75
$125
$125
$125
$125
$250
$125
$125
$125
$325
$75
$125
$200
$125
$125
$75
$125
$125
$125
$125
$125
$125
$125
$125
$125
Monetary Donations
In Stadium Fundraising
$16,470
$122,855
$3,585
Charitable Summary
The Staten Island Yankees have been an important part of the Staten Island community since the
teams inception. During the 2014 season the Staten Island Yankees continued their efforts with many local and national charities and supported programs.
The Staten Island Yankees continually dedicate time, expertise, and resources to make a positive
impact in our community. The teams mascot, Scooter The Holy Cow, is likely the most well known figure
on Staten Island, attending hundreds of events each year. The front office staff also dedicates their time
volunteering for events, participating in fund raising walks and other fundraisers, and lending time and
expertise by sitting on various boards and committees. The organization also donates tickets and merchandise to organizations throughout the year.
The Staten Island Yankees have developed strong relationships with many community organizations throughout the years. The organization looks forward to continuing to grow these relationships and
to developing new partnerships in the future.
86
Scooter the Holy Cow, our fan-favorite mascot, travels all over the New York City area, advocating for many causes
for the greater good. Throughout the season, Scooter made appearances at the Walk to Defeat ALS, Relay for Life,
Snug Harbors SprinklerFest, local schools, summer camps and Little League games just to name a few.
Work/Study Program
Hungerford School
Touch-A-Truck
Staten Island Childrens Campaign
On May 18, 2014, the Staten Island Yankees hosted the 4th Annual Touch-A-Truck fundraising event, in support of
the Staten Island Childrens Campaign. It was a great time for all involved, with activities being held both inside
and outside of Richmond County Bank Ballpark. In the parking lot, kids could sit in and explore all kinds of different trucks, including a fire truck, CSU truck, dump truck and ambulance. Inside the stadium was face painting, tattoos, arts & crafts, with all sorts of prizes available. The trucks in the parking certainly dominated the event, but on
the field, several inflatables were set up to enjoy, and fans could even take a train ride around the warning track!
The Staten Island Yankees and the Staten Island Advance raised over $15,000 for the Staten Island Childrens Campaign.
The Staten Island Yankees partner each year with local schools to help raise funds for their educational programs, supplies, special projects, etc. Through this program, the team was able to donate over $36,000 to local schools.
For the first time in the organizations history, the Staten Island Yankees hosted Dog Days of Summer, allowing fans
to bring their dogs to the ballpark to enjoy a game. Around 100 dogs roamed Richmond County Bank Ballpark while
around $500 was given back to the organizations Angels on a Leash and Fur Friends in Need.
87
On July 12, 2014, the Staten Island Yankees and One on One Physical Therapy held the 3rd Annual High School
Baseball Senior Game and fundraiser for autism awareness at Richmond County Bank Ballpark. Six local Staten Island children were honored, Anthony Votto, Joseph Votto, Matthew Votto, Nick Sansevero, Steven Mussenden and
Nick DAmora, and the money raised benefited multiple autism organizations on Staten Island. For the baseball
game, there were 40 high school seniors from Staten Island public and private schools. Based on a criteria set forth
by One On One, one player was awarded $2,500 scholarship. Some of the raffles and prizes included New York Yankee tickets, autographed Mets and Yankees memorabilia, and gift baskets from local Staten Island businesses. Just
over $25,000 was raised.
On May 3, 2014, the Staten Island Yankees continued their partnership with the ALS Association Greater New York
Chapter to help strike out ALS for good. Members of Staten Island Yankees staff were on hand to participate in the
ALS Associations annual Walk to Defeat ALS along beautiful Hudson River Park. Scooter the Holy Cow was also there
to help kick off the walk in style, taking pictures and even warming up with the walkers. The Staten Island Yankees
are proud to lend their continued support in the fight against ALS, a cause dear to the entire Staten Island Yankee
family.
The Staten Island Yankees accommodated and provided tours for numerous local schools and youth groups throughout the 2014 season, showing
visitors a spectacular view of the Manhattan skyline.
During the 2014 season, the Staten Island Yankees honored four groups of
everyday heroes with the Everyday Heroes Jersey Giveaway Series. Jerseys themed around the New York Police Department, Fire Department of
New York, United States Military and breast cancer awareness were given to the first 2,500 fans in the ballpark, and
tickets were donated to each respective organization.
88
The New York Yankees HOPE Week initiative (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) is rooted in the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope
and encouragement to more than just the recipient of the gesture. The Staten
Island Yankees adopted the parent clubs initiative in 2011 and carried the
tradition into 2014 for a fourth season. During the week of Aug. 13, Staten
Island Yankees players, front office staff and Scooter the Holy Cow spent time
visiting different locations on Staten Island, brightening the day of many individuals. Activities included bowling at Rabs Country Lanes with members of
Lifestyles for the Disabled, playing baseball at the College of Staten Island with The Melissa Riggio Higher Education
Program, meeting and greeting residents of the Eger Nursing Home and an in-game Home Run for Life involving
members of the Rusi-Marke family in recognition of The Florina Rusi-Marke Comprehensive Breast Center at Staten
Island University Hospital.
Ed Randalls Fan for the Cure program visited Richmond County Bank Ballpark during two games in 2014 to raise
awareness for prostate cancer. Fans had the opportunity to visit Ed on the concourse to learn about prostate cancer
testing and get a chance to win the team autograph baseball bat. The Staten Island Yankees players wore the Fans
for the Cure blue wristbands during the game for this cause as well.
The Staten Island Yankees gave Boy Scouts from the New York City and New Jersey areas the opportunity to pitch a
tent and camp out on the field of Richmond County Bank Ballpark on two separate nights during the 2014 season.
In addition to camping out on the field, Scouts got to watch a movie on the video board with the Manhattan skyline
resting in the background. In total, more than $1,700 was donated back to the Greater New York and New Jersey
chapters.
On Sunday, June 15, the Staten Island Yankees partnered with the Ajellos to host a fundraising event at the Richmond County Bank Ballpark at St. George. All funds generated went to the Wounded Warriors Project. Also, the
first 2,500 fans in the ballpark received a Megans Lemonade Stand souvenir cup. This was the 3rd year of Megans
Lemonade Stand, and Megan was able to raise $7,225 for Wounded Warriors.
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The Staten Island Yankees front office helped brighten the day of many kids in the borough by donating teddy
bears to Surrogate Robert J. Gigantes Annual Holiday Teddy Bear Drive. The teddy bears were distributed to Staten
Island University Hospitals Pediatric Cancer Center, Hospice and The Bini Foundation.
Christmas-in-a-Box
Salvation Army
On December 16, 2014, Scooter the Holy Cow joined the Salvation
Army at the organizations toy drive in nearby Stapleton in Staten Island. In the spirit of the holiday season, each member of the Staten
Island Yankees front office fulfilled a childs wishlist, making sure as
many kids had a present to open on Christmas as possible. Scooter
was joined by New York Giants linebacker Jameel McClain as the two
handed gifts to local families.
Jillian Wright
Manager, Sponsorship Services
ALS Member
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$15,000
In-Stadium Fundraising
$4,800
$135
$15,000
$365
$12,600
$25,000
$7,225
$250
$35,000
$234
$1,486
Gift In Kind
$1,700
$600
$13,000
$102,000
$1,025
$9,300
$384
$15,000
$102,095
$128,009
Tri-City ValleyCats
Charitable Summary
In 2014, the Tri-City ValleyCats completed their 13th season in the Capital Region and drew a total of
169,316 fans to The Joe, the franchises best total attendance mark. The Cats saw an increase in average
attendance, drawing 4,241 fans per game. On the field, the Cats are coming off a 2014 season is which they
won their 3rd straight Stedler Division title and appeared in the New York-Penn League Championship for
the 4th time in 5 years. The Cats now have six division titles and two championship titles in their 13 year
history. More than ever the ValleyCats and their front office have planted firm roots in the local community
and continue to make a commitment to serve those in the Capital Region.
Many game theme nights promote positive initiatives, such as healthy living, going green, cancer
awareness, and stopping DWI. Other themes honor select members of the Capital Region, including Veterans Night and Community Heroes Night.
For the fifth consecutive year the Tri-City ValleyCats commissioned the 4-in-24 program in April.
On April 18th, the ValleyCats, along with their Community Partner BlueShield of Northeastern New York,
renovated four youth baseball fields in 24 hours through a coordinated, well-planned out effort that in92
On June 17, 2014 the ValleyCats hosted the first ever Education Day at The Joe. This special 10:00 AM start was
directed toward elementary school students and class field trips. The focus of the day was tying a baseball themed
curriculum in with the game and focusing on character development with our anti-bullying message. With crowd
of 5,507 students and teachers, the Cats had to bring in extra bleachers and seating areas.
Community Spotlight
First Niagara
During the 2014 season, First Niagara invited Capital Region nonprofits to set up an information table at each
ValleyCats home game. With 38 home games, 38 different nonprofits were able to spread their message to ValleyCats fans at The Joe. Each nonprofit received a Videoboard/PA welcome, 10 tickets to the game, and a table on
the busiest area of the concourse to distribute information and engage fans. These nonprofits, included St Jude
Childrens Research Hospital, the Bus Stop Club, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Literacy
Volunteers, Habitat for Humanity, and more.
4 in 24
On April 18th, the Tri-City ValleyCats worked with corporate partners and league volunteers to renovate four fields
in 24 hours. Tasks included cutting out the entire infield grass, raking and grading the dirt, leveling the playing
surface, laying out brand new grass and rebuilding the entire pitchers mound and home plate areas. Other work
included raking, painting, weed whacking, bullpen work, and laying stabilizer on the infield dirt. The first step was
to remove the old turf in the infield with a sod cutter. Once that was up, the infields were graded and leveled before
the new sod was laid. While this was going on, other members of our staff began re-building the pitchers mound
and home plate areas to league specifications. This included installing new clay to get these areas up to professional standards. The bases were also remeasured and set with new anchors.
This spring the ValleyCats hosted the Friday Night Lights series featuring some of the best Section II High School
Baseball rivalries. In total, twelve high school teams were able to play at The Joe over three Friday nights. Two of
the evenings benefited the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation and the ValleyCats will use the money to
rebuild Capital Region youth baseball and softball fields. The other match-ups were Coaches vs Cancer events and
proceeds were donated to the American Cancer Society. The participating schools helped by selling tshirts, tickets,
and by raising money for the cause.
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Albany Fire Extinguisher partnered with the ValleyCats for a fourth year to keep fans safe at home. During every
home ValleyCats game, fans were encouraged to register to win a fire extinguisher. In total, over 50 fire extinguishers were given to Cats fans.
Held on July 12th, the 5th Annual Capital Region Craft Brewers Festival was, once again, a success. With over 800
people showing up to sample the products of nearly 30 brewing companies, over $4,000 was raised to help finance
the ValleyCats Field Renovation Program through the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation.
Continuing the successful program started in 2013, the ValleyCats partnered with the Kiwanis Club of Troy once
again for Sunday Summer Reading. Families were invited to enter the stadium early and listen to ValleyCats players
read a book to the children. The Cats answered questions, took photos, signed autographs, and read the days book
aloud. Each child in attendance got to take home a copy of the days book courtesy of the Kiwanis Club of Troy.
Books were baseball themed and the team averaged 50-60 kids each week. The ValleyCats and Kiwanis hope to
continue to grow the program in future seasons by offering tickets to participants and other incentives for attending.
The First Annual Walk for Wishes was held at The Joe on Saturday, September 20th, 2014. With over 400 participants, the walk raised over $40,000 for Make-A-Wish of Northeastern NY. Walkers were invited to arrive early and
partake in face painting and other activities. The walk finished on the baseball field and then the activities continued for an afternoon of family fun.
In 2014, the Tri-City ValleyCats made over 150 mascot, street team and player appearances throughout the community, ranging from visiting the Childrens Hospital at Albany Medical Center and cooking breakfast for the Ronald
McDonald House to Little League Opening Days and baseball clinics, the ValleyCats made each appearance free of
charge.
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Partnering with CAP COM Federal Credit Union, the Cats Crew Kids Club offered members unique experiences and
exclusive merchandise throughout the year. Comprised of kids 12 and under, this club gained members admission
into one ValleyCats home game, a personalized birthday card, monthly email newsletter, quarterly mailed newsletters, 10% discount on merchandise, pre-game catch on the field, post-game run the bases, coupons and prizes from
sponsors and a kick-off party for all to join. New for the 2014 season, members were granted early admission for BP,
viewing fireworks from the Home Dugout (sometimes with the players!), and an Express Lane for running the bases
every Sunday. Each lanyard wearing member was treated like a VIP throughout the stadium.
The Fourth Annual Capital Region Series took place throughout the summer at Joe Bruno Stadium. Organized by
ValleyCats General Manager Rick Murphy, local businesses signed up to play in this double elimination tournament
which raised $3,000 for the ValleyCats Field Renovation Program through the New York-Penn League Charitable
Foundation.
On September 19-20, the Rensselaer County Relay for Life took place at Joe
Bruno Stadium raising over $48,000 for the American Cancer Society. With
nearly 300 participants, the Relay for Life event at The Joe has become a
summer staple that we look to continue for years to come.
Community Dugout
In 2014 the ValleyCats and corporate partner National Grid continued the Community Dugout program. This program provides complimentary ValleyCats tickets to non-profit organizations during the season.
R.I.D.E. Program
Rensselaer County Stop D.W.I.
In 2014, the Tri-City ValleyCats once again partnered with Rensselaer County Stop DWI, Black & White Taxi and DeCrescente Distributing Company to help crack down on drunk driving. The R.I.D.E. program (or Renssealer County
Invites Designated Drivers Everyday) encouraged fans to get home safe by filling out a R.I.D.E. voucher and receiving $15 towards their cab fare home. The program also encouraged designated drivers to register at each home
game to receive complimentary non-alcoholic beverages all game long.
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Throughout the summer, the Tri-City ValleyCats front office, players and even mascots traveled to local libraries to
read to kids who frequented that library. Each library was given a block of tickets which were then handed out to
the kids who completed that individual librarys summer reading program. The team distributed 2,000 tickets to
Summer Reading Night on August 27th courtesy of NY 529 College Savings Program. One family was selected
as the ValleyCats VIP Readers. The family of four was picked up at their library and taken to the game in a limousine.
At the park they had the VIP treatment from Premium Tickets, to a first pitch, and participation in on field activities,
as well as, an inning on the radio broadcast.
Game Night
Ed Randalls Bat for the Cure
The Tri-City ValleyCats hosted Ed Randalls Fans for the Cure on Monday, July 7th, 2014. Fans for the Cure had an
information table on the concourse, pregame PA announcements and video, and signage around the ballpark. The
event was highlighted with a visit from Ed Randall and the autographed team bat raffle.
Free Clinic
Chevy Youth Baseball
This past summer over one hundred area kids were invited to participate in a Chevy Youth Baseball Clinic at The
Joe from 9 AM - 1 PM on Sunday, July 20th. This free clinic was made possible by Chevy Youth Baseball as well as
the donated time and efforts of ValleyCats players and staff. Each child
also received lunch and a goodie bag.
GE Kids in Free
General Electric
On Saturday, July 5th and Saturday, August 30, 2014 kids were invited to
attend the ValleyCats game free of charge. General Electric sponsored
GE Kids In Free Day at the ballpark and families could receive up to 4 free
tickets with the purchase of each adult ticket. This year over 450 kids attended both ValleyCats game with postgame fireworks!
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In its second year, the Dash to the Diamond was a pregame fun run that ended on the field at The Joe. Participants received a commemorative tshirt, ticket to the game, and post run picnic. Held on August 3rd, the fun run
raised $150 for Girls, Inc of the Greater Capital Region.
The Tri-City ValleyCats identified a need for safe and well-maintained fields for youth sports organizations throughout the Capital Region. While the ValleyCats have renovated at least one youth field every year since 2003, the
demand continues to be so great that theCats offer a year-long program solely dedicated to renovating and improving youth playing fields. In 2014, the ValleyCats once again partnered with BlueShield of Northeastern New
York to create the Community Grounds Crew. This partnership allowed us to send crew members to various leagues
throughout the year to assist league volunteers with maintenance of their fields.
In 2014, the Tri-City ValleyCats continued to partner with with BlueShield of Northeastern New York to strike out
bullying. For each strikeout recorded by ValleyCats pitchers at home, BlueShield donated $10 dollars to the Capital
District YMCA to help fund their Reach Out For Youth Scholarship Program, which provides access to CDYMCA programs and services for children in need in the Capital Region. The Ks for Kids program also featured
anti-bullying presentations at area schools and libraries with ValleyCats
players and the teams mascot, SouthPaw. Fun activity books designed
to help children understand what bullying is and how to treat others
were also distributed at presentations, at ValleyCats home games, during
birthday parties held at the Joseph L. Bruno Stadium, and were available
through the ValleyCats Kids Club. In total, $3,000 was raised for the Capital District YMCA which was celebrated with a check presentation during
a ValleyCats home game.
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Gift In Kind
$3,000
$52
$92
$460
$560
PEF Region 8
$66
Catholic Charities Disabilities Services
$58
MTI Instruments
$66
Frederick Keys
$30
The Dunkin Donuts & Baskin-Robbins Comm. Found.
$300
Williamsport Crosscutters
$30
Mahoning Valley Scrappers
$30
Badger Elementary School
$20
CAP COM Cares Foundation
$100
Make-A-Wish of Northeast NY
$58
PFC Robert Felster USMC Memorial Bridge Fund
$500
Southwest Airlines (Make-A-Wish Foundation)
$1,350
Ronald McDonald House Charities Hockey League
$500
Equinox Resort
$180
The Food Pantries for the Capital District
$75
J Wyatt Spencer Mem. Scholarship Fund
$100
Lansingburgh Fire Dept
$80
Clifton Park Little League
$66
Potomac Nationals
$30
Albany Fire Dept
$58
Lehigh Valley IronPigs
$30
ST Michaels The Archangel Parish Family
$66
Sand Lake Center for the Arts
$66
Jacks Place
$58
Town of Colonie Senior Citizens Club
$58
Bettys Be Brave Foundation
$40
St Jude Childrens Research Hospital
$150
NYPL Charitable Found. (Comm. Grounds Crew)
$17,000
VA Hospital
$40
Consumer Directed Choices
$40
Boy Scout Troop
$80
Dominick Catalfamo Engineering Career Scholarship
$58
Cats Care
$20
Rensselaer County Deputy Sheriffs PBA
$58
Jamestown Jammers
$30
$58
$58
$98
$58
$66
$58
$58
$58
$58
$66
$66
$100
$40
$100
$100
$500
$58
$58
$95
$40
$48
$100
$58
$66
$58
$58
$66
$40
$48
$65
$90
$72
$60
$58
$500
$80
$350
$58
$50
$65
$48
$150
$78
$58
$75
$300
$55
$45
$55
$55
$55
$45
$55
$75
$50
$65
$45
$75
$68
$100
$80
$60
$50
$65
$65
$65
$65
$65
$230
$65
$65
$65
$65
$65
$45
$55
$65
$55
$65
$45
$65
$65
$58
$66
$85
$70
$75
Monetary Donation
In-Stadium Fundraising
Gift In Kind
Monetary Donation
$950
$100
$1,000
$53,714
$137,680
$2,050
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Charitable Summary
As the only professional sports team in the state of Vermont, the Vermont Lake Monsters understand the
importance of taking an active role in the community. The Lake Monsters organization strives to provide a fun and
exciting ballpark experience, while recognizing individuals and organizations for their hard work and dedication to
the community. As a way to share Americas Pastime with members of the local community, the Lake Monsters created the Share the Experience program. Since its inception in 2009, the Share the Experience program has given
youth, schools and charitable organizations the opportunity to come out to the ballpark and enjoy a Lake Monsters
game. The Lake Monsters also take part in many important outside programs and events to show support throughout the entire state.
As a way to give back to the local area, the Lake Monsters are continually donating their time and resources
to non-profit organizations and events. As a very well known figure throughout all of Vermont and its surrounding areas, the Lake Monsters mascot CHAMP attends many local initiatives and fundraisers. Some of these events
include the Make-A-Wish Foundations Walk for Wishes, the American Cancer Societys Strides against Breast Cancer
Walk, and the Travis Roy Foundation Wiffle Ball Tournament just to name a few.
The Lake Monsters organization has always encouraged residents, local businesses and other members of
the community to take an active role in giving back to those in need of support. Through many years of hard work,
the Vermont Lake Monsters have developed strong relationships with many community organizations and hope to
continue these relationships for years to come.
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Every year, the Lake Monsters organization hosts the Hit The Books program, sponsored by Price Chopper, which encourages children in grades K-8 to read throughout the summer. All Vermont schools are
invited to participate and any child who reads four books receives one child grandstand voucher that can
be used for any regular season game. This year, 122 students from all over Vermont and upstate New York
participated in the program and over $610 worth of tickets were distributed to the community.
The Lake Monsters host a Military Appreciation Night at Centennial Field sponsored by Revision Military
each season. All current and past Military members and their families are given complimentary tickets and
recognized all night long for their dedication and commitment to serving our country. Military members
serve as an honor guard, recently returned soldiers throw out ceremonial first pitches, and other military
members sing our National Anthem and God Bless America. A special video is
also shown where players gave thanks to our troops.
CHAMP is a well-known celebrity in Vermont who frequently makes appearances in the community both in and out of season. Champ made over 110
hours worth of appearances in 2014 including the Make-A-Wish Foundations
Walk for Wishes, The American Cancer Societys Strides against Breast Cancer
Walk, and the Travis Roy Foundation Wiffle Ball Tournament to provide support
to those living with spinal cord injuries. Organizations enjoy using CHAMPs
friendly and outgoing personality as a way to help make their events fun and
exciting. CHAMP attends all types of events including charity walks, local little
leagues events, community festivals, kids days, libraries etc. The total value of
Champs time donated this year was valued approximately at $11,000.
Ticket/Merchandise Donations
The Lake Monsters make ticket and merchandise donations to local non-profit organizations, charities, and
fans. In 2014, they donated over $12,000 worth of tickets and merchandise.
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This season, NBT Bank sponsored a promotion called Strike Out Hunger. Each time a Lake Monsters pitcher
threw a strikeout at home during the month of July, NBT Bank donated $10 to the Chittenden Emergency
Food Shelf. A total of 91 strikeouts were thrown during July 2014, which allowed for $910 to be donated to
the Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf.
In partnership with Farrell Distributing, the Lake Monsters offer free reserved seating tickets all season
long to any past or present military personnel and their families. In 2014, 617 tickets were given to men
and women who have served our country through the Heres to the Heroes program. Total value of tickets
donated this year was $4,936.
The Lake Monsters host two annual Scout Sleepovers at Centennial Field. Local troops of Boy Scouts and
Girl Scouts are invited out to a regular season home game and given the opportunity to camp out on the
field post-game. Scouts set up their tents and sleeping bags, watch a movie, then spend the night sleeping
under the stars at Centennial Field. In 2014, a record number of Scouts participated in this program, breaking the consecutive records set in 2012 and 2013.
Outstanding Students
This program honors students in grades K-12 across the state of Vermont who display hard work and dedication in school. Whether its
perfect attendance, a spectacular display of determination, or a stellar representation of the school in academics, this program recognizes Vermont students for their scholastic achievements. Each student
selected was invited to a game where they were recognized on the
field for their efforts and presented with a certificate. This year, 796
students were recognized and $3,980 worth of tickets were donated
to the program.
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The Lake Monsters developed a new school fundraising program to complement their already existing
fundraising program. In 2014, local organizations, schools, and little league teams sold over 11,336 Lake
Monsters tickets, for which they received a contribution back for the revenues that they generated. In total,
the Lake Monsters donated roughly $32,663 to these organizations.
The Share the Experience program is designed to give underprivileged youth and other non-profit groups
the opportunity to come out to the ballpark and enjoy a Lake Monsters game. Companies including McKenzie, Cabot, and The Tech Group made contributions in 2014 in order to donate Lake Monster tickets to
schools or youth charitable organizations. The participating companies donated $5,640 worth of tickets
this past season to help share the Lake Monsters experience with as many kids as possible. Money is also
contributed to this program through auctions held online and at Centennial field. Ballpark and online auctions contributed over $24,400 to the Share the Experience Program in 2014.
Every time a Lake Monsters player hits a homerun at Centennial Field, TD Bank donates $100 to the Vermont Special Olympics. This year the Monsters hit 19 homeruns for a total donation of $1,900. Since the
program started in 1998, the Lake Monsters have hit 247 home runs at Centennial Field for a total donation
of $26,600.
Player Appearances
Lake Monster players make an impact in the community by sharing their love of baseball during various
player appearances throughout the season. When not at the field or on the road, players donate their time
to local libraries where they read to children, answer questions, share stories, and sign autographs. Other
player appearances include autograph signings and question and answer sessions with Little Leaguers,
baseball clinics at Centennial Field, and local community festivals.
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Each season, the Lake Monsters host Pink in the Park night at Centennial Field to support Breast Cancer
Awareness. Players wear special pink jersey and pink ribbon pins are given out to fans in attendance.
Breast Cancer survivors are invited to throw out ceremonial first pitches and people are encouraged to
make a donation for Breast Cancer research.
This program honors students in grades K-12 across the state of Vermont who display hard work and dedication in athletics. In order to be recognized, students must be nominated by a coach. Each student who
was nominated was invited to a game to be recognized on the field for their efforts and presented with a
certificate. This year, 487 students were recognized at the game and $2,435 worth of tickets were donated
to the program.
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Nate Cloutier
Executive Director of Sales and Marketing
Board Member
Vermont Information Council
Committee Member
Bissonette Field Project
Youth Baseball and
Basketball Coach
Town of Hinesburg
Planning Commissioner
Town of Hinesburg
Board Member
Town of Hinesburg
Planning Commission
Key-Note Speaker
Youth Baseball Coach
Key-Note Speaker
Joe Doud
General Manager
Key-Note Speaker
Director of Membership
Board of Directors
Student Mentor
University of Vermont
Town of South Burlington
Various Local School
Local Schools
Burlington
Young Professionals
Everybody Wins!
Winooski High School
Field Auctions
Hit the Books
Monetary Donations
Gift in Kind
$12,000
$4,936
$3,980
$11,000
$2,435
$25,010
$41,113
$34,351
Williamsport Crosscutters
Bowman Field - Williamsport, PA
MLB Affiliate: Philadelphia Phillies
Years in the NYPL: 1994-Present
2014 Attendance: 61,249
Charitable Summary
The Williamsport Crosscutters strive to be a constructive force within their community. The organization maintains this positive role by developing strong ties with the people and businesses of the city and
surrounding communities. The Williamsport Crosscutters are committed to creating fun and rewarding
programs that will benefit the residents of the Susquehanna Valley.
Throughout the year, the Williamsport Crosscutters team with many organizations by donating tickets to games, merchandise and other memorabilia. These items are used for different events, each benefiting the local community. In all, thousands of tickets are donated to groups who may not have had the
means to experience the Crosscutters on their own.
Crosscutters staff members, as well as players and coaches, donate their time to the community,
racking up over 500 service hours in 2014 alone.
With corporate partners such as the Lycoming County United Way and Susquehanna Bank, the
Crosscutters are able to bring successful programs that raise thousands of dollars for the community. The
United Way Home Run Team has raised more than $142,000 over 21 years, and the Strikeouts for Stellar
Education program helped contribute over $5,000 to those less fortunate.
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For 18 seasons the Crosscutters have been promoting the importance of reading and education through
the Grand Slam Reading Program. Each spring, local elementary schools are invited to participate in the
program. Students attending the participating schools are encouraged to read, especially during the summer months and given a special Crosscutters bookmark to keep track of their reading. Students who read 4
books during the summer win two free tickets to a Crosscutters game. One lucky student was randomly
drawn from all participants as the Grand Prize winner and received a new laptop computer from Susquehanna Computer Innovations. Again this year nearly 30 schools participated, with almost 10,000 students
enrolled in the program.
In 2014, the Crosscutters held one food drive, one clothing drive and one toy drive at Susquehanna Bank
Park. Fans who donated any canned or non-perishable food item, gently worn apparel item, or new unwrapped toy during these drives received a General Admission ticket to that nights game for just $1. Over
400 pounds of food, 800 pounds of clothing and 117 new toys were collected and donated to the Central
PA Food Bank, The American Rescue Workers, and Toys for Tots, respectively, where it was distributed to
local families in need.
In June, the Crosscutters hosted the annual 5k Run for the Childrens Development Center of Williamsport. Runners and walkers had the chance
to compete against the Cutters manager and members of our coaching
staff. A total of $7,276 was raised for the CDC.
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The Williamsport Crosscutters partnered with Susquehanna Bank to deliver the Stikeouts for Stellar Education program. Throughout the 2014 season, Susquehanna Bank made a donation for every strikeout
thrown by a Cutters pitcher during home games. $5,000 was raised for CAPPA which benefits local, underpriveledged children.
Charitable Tuesdays
Throughout the season the Crosscutters provided local charitable organizations the opportunity to join
us at the ballpark and promote their programs. This initiative, in its second year, called Charitable Tuesdays highlighted one organization at each Tuesday game. The organization was interviewed on-field before the game, got to throw out the ceremonial first pitch, and was able to set up a table in our concourse
to distribute information to Cutters fans. Four organizations participated in this program in 2014.
This summer, the Crosscutters celebrated Military Appreciation night on July 5, capping off the Holiday
celebration with a special Stars N Stripes cap auction. The caps were worn by Cutters players and coaches,
and were auctioned off during the game. Proceeds from the auction benefited the Sgt. Sean Thomas foundation and local Masonic charities. Over $1,250 was raised.
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The Crosscutters again teamed up with businesses throughout the community to present the United Way
Home Run Team in 2014. Local businesses pledged to donated $25 each time a Cutters player hit a home
run at Historic Bowman Field. In 2014, this initiative raised over $6,600 for the Lycoming County United
Way. With the annual help of local businesses, the Home Run Team has raised more than $142,000 over 21
seasons.
Each year the Cutters donate tickets to organizations whose members would otherwise be unable to attend a game due to physical or economical limitations. In 2014 the Cutters donated 1,209 tickets to 25
organizations who participated in this program.
In August, the Crosscutters celebrated 155 days until Christmas with an Ugly Christmas Sweater Jersey
Auction. Cutters players and coaches donned these ugly jerseys during the game, as fans bid on them in
a silent auction. All proceeds from the auction benefited Toys for Tots. In total, $3,870 was raised.
The Crosscutters hosted the 8th annual Hot Stove Dinner and Auction in January, 2014, with proceeds from the event benefitting
Special Olympics Lycoming County. Guests speakers from both
the Phillies and the Crosscutters marked the night, including former Major Leaguers Tom OMalley and new Phillies Manager Ryne
Sandberg. The night also featured a live and silent auction of sports
memorabilia. More than 300 people attended this sold out event.
A portion of the ticket proceeds and all money raised from the auctions was donated to Special Olympics Lycoming County. In all,
$5,150 was raised.
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Gabe Sinicropi
VP Marketing, Public Relations
Volunteer
Board Member
Volunteer
Bell Ringer
Volunteer
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Monetary Donations
Special Olympics
Williamsport Kiwanis Club
Loyalsock Little League
Original League Little League
Lycoming County United Way
Williamsport Area High School
Gift in Kind
$5,150
$150
$50
$400
$600
$200
$27,682
$22,661
$6,550
Its not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.
-Mother Teresa
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