Freehold may enjoy day at baseball game

Freehold may
enjoy day at
baseball game
BY CLARE MARIE CELANO
Staff Writer

FREEHOLD — Lakewood’s got it. Howell and Jackson have it, too. Even Brick has what Freehold Borough may soon have as well — a Town Day with the Lakewood BlueClaws baseball team at First Energy Park.

Borough officials recently discussed the possibility of joining the ranks of surrounding municipalities that have signed up for a Town Day at the stadium.

The BlueClaws are a minor league affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. The team offers communities an opportunity to promote their businesses, youth sports, service clubs, senior groups and other organizations.

Participating towns have the ability to build and form the event around their community and its message. Municipal officials will have the opportunity to throw out the first pitch and be acknowledged on the field prior to the start of the game. This time can also be used to recognize an individual within the community — such as a firefighter, a police officer or a teacher — with a first pitch and or public address announcement.

Video clips and/or songs pertaining to the municipality can be featured on the stadium’s video board.

Along with the entertainment, a town night will help local organizations raise money for their cause, according to material furnished by the team.

Every youth sports team or activities club that purchases 500 fund-raiser tickets will be able to participate in a pre-game parade on the field. During this presentation, the BlueClaws will acknowledge any championship, all-star or outstanding teams, or players or clubs. Incentives such as recognition on the video board, group seating and discounted tickets are part of the program as well.

The goal of the program is to promote community awareness, build community pride and togetherness, and promote local businesses. The team’s goal is to provide a fun, affordable family event.

Councilman Kevin Kane spoke in support of the community’s participation with the BlueClaws and recalled when the borough participated in similar events at Philadelphia Phillies games in the 1970s.

Councilwoman Sharon Shutzer expressed support for an event that would highlight the borough in a positive way.

Representatives of the borough are expected to contact the BlueClaws to follow up on the idea of being part of a town day at the Lakewood stadium.