Support Our Troops, Be A Lakewood BlueClaws Celebrity

When the stars come out to play at Lakewood's First Energy Park in June, you might be one of them. All you need to do is to support America's men and women in uniform.

The Lakewood BlueClaws are looking for captains for two teams of notables in the June 17 Celebrity Hitting Challenge. The winners will be chosen from among everyone who donates to the club's 2013 Troop Supply Drive. It starts during FanFest on March 2 and continues through Opening Day, April 4.

On the BlueClaws' collection list are collecting razors, snacks, baby wipes, shampoo, soap, non-chocolate candies, sun block with SPF 40 or higher, lip balm, pens and pencils, silly string, deodorant, tissues, cotton swabs, white socks, batteries, insect repellent, and flashlights.

FanFest marks the start of regular-season ticket sales and is actually an event in itself, with music, kids'activities, food and entertainment. Donations can be given up until the first Opening Day pitch. Winners will be drawn between innings.

The Celebrity Hitting Challenge on June 17 is the preamble to the 2013 South Atlantic League All-Star Game, June 18 at First EnergyPark. Captains will mingle with the celebrities on the field, be introduced to the crowd through the public address system, get VIP accomodations and watch the proceedings while nestled in special lifeguard chairs in the outfield.

Other major drive participants include the National Guard, Toms River Armory, A.R.M.S and IBEW Local 400's Military Committee in Wall Township.

Fans can donate game tickets to military members' families during five We Salute You Wednesdays during the season. Kevin Fenstermacher handles the details at 732-901-7000, extension 115.

See more about the upcoming season at BlueClaws.com.