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 at 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.
"We'll have more than enough to have at least four teams, from the local chiefs and departments I've talked to," he said. "We're trying to get everyone in Callaway County involved.
"If we have more, than we'll go until everyone's played, then do winners and losers until we have an ultimate winner."
There will be United Way volunteers will be on hand to man the event and sell T-shirts. Hammonn noted New Bloomfield Mayor Mike Lowe and County Commissioner Gary Jungermann will be among the umpires.
Hammonn said the agencies will play for a traveling trophy and bragging rights, and he hopes to host the event at different ball fields in the county each year.
He noted that while skill at softball wasn't a requisite for police, firefighters and paramedics; the event should still have plenty of fun for ball fans of all ages.
"We encourage everyone. I imagine it's going to be pretty comical, but we should have a good time," Hammonn said. "We hope to see everyone there."
If you go:
What: Inaugural Callaway County Guns, Hoses and Back Boards softball tournament
Where: New Bloomfield ball fields
When: 4:30 p.m. June 29
Who: Teams from Callaway County law enforcement agencies, fire departments and EMS
Cost: $2 for adults, $1 for children, free for children 5 and under. Drinks and food also available; all proceeds to benefit the Callaway County United Way.