Long Beach pro firefighters raise money for MDA

Posted Friday, June 3, 2011 12:00 am

James Toborg of Island Park hits one into the field.

Firefighter Charles Gussler shows off the trophies that the winning teams received.

Art Findlay/Herald

Long Beach professional firefighters Tom O’Dowd, left, Sam Pinto, George Gentilesco, Chris Troy, Mike Geller, Kerry O’Dowd and Charles “Moose” Gussler at the May 21 charity softball game. The Long Beach Professional Fire Fighters Local 287 organized the fundraiser, which benefits the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Arthur Findlay/Herald

Emily Webb

On May 21, the Long Beach Professional Fire Fighters Union Local 287 hosted its first annual softball tournament to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association, where eight teams gathered on the softball field at the Long Beach Recreation Department to play three rounds of softball.

The tournament raised more than $4,000 in proceeds, due in part to the sponsorship of local restaurants and businesses, who provided trophies and banners for the inaugural event. After an intense series of seven-inning games, the Knights of Columbus Royals emerged victorious from the quarter- and semi-finals to win the entire tournament.

In spite of the inclement weather that day, local families and MDA representatives cheered along the sidelines in support of the players, who competed for a good cause. Last year, Long Beach Professional Firefighters raised more $14,000 for the MDA through its “Fill The Boot” campaign.

Swingbellys BBQ rolled its mobile trailer into the ballpark and served food to both participants and spectators as they enjoyed music provided by a live DJ and other activities. Playing on the softball field until dusk, organizers said that tournament has paved the way for future charity events by giving back to the community.

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