by John Torenli
Randy Peers, the executive director of Brooklyn's Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow, announced Tuesday that New York's bravest, finest and boldest will be joined by the Port Authority Police Department for a charity softball tournament at Brooklyn's MCU Park next month.
The Battle of the Badges, which will feature three games running from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., will be held on the home turf of the Brooklyn Cyclones on Sept. 18.
The day will also include various family activities such as rides, clowns, face painting, the PAPD Pipes & Drums, NYPD Mounted Unit, and other entertainment.
"We are so excited the FDNY has joined the Battle of the Badges this year," Peers said. "With their support, we are anticipating an even larger crowd will come out to show their support for the players and for Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow!"
"The Battle of the Badges is for a good cause and will benefit the community," added Lt. George Ricco Diaz, the FDNY team captain.
"I'm always in full support of the other agencies because I think it creates a good solidarity, not only in the real serious work we do on a day-to-day basis, but it also creates a better relationships. After all, you can't have a real Battle of the Badges without the FDNY. We're going to give law enforcement a run for their money."
Angel Lopez, team captain for the Port Authority Police Department of NY & NJ and board member for Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow, conceived of the Battle of the Badges softball tournament last year.
"I created the tournament to benefit Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow because of my desire to give back to the community and give back to an organization that provided me with opportunities that have contributed to my successful career and the careers of many other New Yorkers," said Lopez, who is also a graduate of the program.
The Battle of the Badges is being sponsored by Morgan Stanley, Lutheran Healthcare, and Swiss Post. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available on the organization's Web site at www.obtjobs.org/index.php/101/. Tickets also are available for purchase online: $10 for General Admission, and $50 for the VIP Sky Deck Reception.
More than 1,100 guests enjoyed the first Battle of the Badges softball tournament held in 2009. The Port Authority Police Department of NY & NJ emerged victorious last year, winning the final game against the NYPD with a 2-0 blanking.
All proceeds from the Battle of the Badges will go to support the programs and services of Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow. The organization's mission is to help disadvantaged youth and adults recognize their own self-worth, and advance towards self-sufficiency and financial security through job training, academic reinforcement, improved life skills, job placement, and support services.
More information about the event and Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow is available at http://www.obtjobs.org/ or 718-369-0303.
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