Softball game tonight will decide partisan superiority in the General Assembly, sort of.

 

A year after a bitter dispute over a lengthened game that led to a come-from-behind Democratic victory, elected officials tonight will hold their second-annual charity softball contest.

The focus of the Democrats and Republicans will be to raise money for Connecticut Children’s Medical Center in the contest, which will take place at Mill Woods Park in Wethersfield from 6 to 9 p.m. Democrats will be managed by Jason Bowsza of East Windsor, candidate for State Representative in the 57th Assembly District of Windsor/Ellington, while Republicans will be led by State Rep. Len Greene, Jr. of Seymour. 

The suggested donation is $20. 

“In the midst of talking to constituents and door-to-door campaigning, it truly is nice to be able to pause for one night and be a part of a bi-partisan effort that raises awareness for less fortunate children,” Bowsza said

Greene agreed, saying, “This is a night for both sides to come together to do something that everyone can agree on.  Raising money for such a good cause will hopefully go a long way toward bringing some relief to these kids.” 

  The 6-member umpiring crew includes Daniela Altimari of the Hartford Courant, Ken Dixon of the Connecticut Post and Hearst Connecticut Newspapers, Sue Haigh of the Associated Press, and Christine Stuart of CT News Junkie.  Handling duties behind home plate will be Neil Ayers of the Legislature’s Office of Fiscal Analysis.  Rob Wysock of the same office will round out the crew. CPTV sportscaster Francisco Graziano will call the game from the field.  WTIC FOXCT’s Laurie Perez, host of the Sunday public affairs program, “The Real Story,” will preside over the post-game ceremony and trophy presentation. The National Anthem will be sung by Sarah Hamby, a Democratic campaign staffer.  The mid-game stretch will feature a singing performance by Brie Johnston, a former Capitol staffer and current lobbyist. Wethersfield Mayor Donna Hemmann and Wethersfield State Representative Tony Guerrera.

CEO Martin Gavin of the Children’s Medical Center: “We were grateful to accept the generous proceeds raised from last year’s game and welcome the opportunity to once again bring both parties together for the children we treat every day,” he said

The event’s organizers are asking for contributions of $20, though charitable donations in any amount will be accepted.  Food and beverages will be provided courtesy of Salute restaurant of Hartford. 

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