Callaway to host emergency responder softball tourney

Proceeds to benefit county United Way

On June 29, some of Callaway County's first responders aim to take a break for an evening and put on a show.

Local law enforcement, fire department and EMS officials will be taking part in the inaugural "Guns, Hoses and Back Boards" exhibition softball tournament, 4:30 p.m. at the New Bloomfield ball fields. Proceeds from ticket sales and food and drink will go the Callaway County United Way.

New Bloomfield Police Chief Chris Hammonn said he came up with the idea from a similar tournament played in Cole County, in which he has participated as a volunteer Jefferson City firefighter.

"I suggested it to Tanya (Duvall) and after she heard that idea, it spiraled into something bigger and bigger," Hammonn said. "It went to Kathy (Richey Liddle, Executive Director of the Callaway County) United Way and she jumped on board."

Hammonn said he has so far approached the North Callaway Fire Protection District, Auxvasse, Holts Summit, Fulton police departments the county sheriff's office and the ambulance district to play for the crowd.

To help the tornado-stricken people of Dumas and surroundings, donations can be made to the Delta Area Disaster Relief Fund, care of the Delta Area Community Foundation, P.O. Box 894, Dumas, AR, 71639, or through the Arkansas Community Foundation, 700 S. Rock St., Little Rock, AR, 72202.