A friendly battle for charity is about to return to Peace River at this year’s Battle of the Badges.
The function will be held on March 21 starting at 6 p.m. at the Baytex Energy Centre.
“This is the fifth year for Battle of the Badges,” says organizer and firefighter Simon Lavoie.
“We kind of let the crowd dictate if we should keep doing it or not and we always get a good reception.”
Lavoie says both teams have a lot of interest from people in emergency services, noting their teams are comprised of firefighters, police, emergency responders, correctional officers, and many other badge-wearing heroes.
“It’s a really good fundraiser and you can come out to support your emergency services and see them battle it out on the ice,” Lavoie says, adding the game may help if you need a little laugh, too.
“You can come see who is better, but this year it will be the firefighters who take the victory. RCMP have won it every year so far and we’re hoping to change that.”
Funds raised this year will be donated to Sugar Plum Daycare, Peace Playland and Northern Trek.
“We have a local firefighter named Julian Bergeron that runs every year to raise money for the Canadian Fallen Firefighter Foundation,” says Lavoie.
“This year he’s doing a kayak ride from Grande Prairie to Peace River, raising money. He had to buy some equipment and we’re going to help him pay for that with the rest of his portion going to the foundation.”
Lavoie says it’s a family-friendly event and cost-effective to bring the whole family. Entrance is either $10 or bring a food bank item to donate for your entry. Children 12 and under get in for free.
Lavoie urges residents and people in the region to come out to watch their favourite first responders play for charity.
Spectators attending will also have the chance to participate in the Puck Toss for $2 per puck and a chance to win four Edmonton Oilers tickets or a TV.
Food concessions and beer gardens will also be open.
For more information contact Lavoie at peaceriverbattleofthebadges@gmail.com
Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter