“Meet Your Heroes”

For Immediate Release

“Meet Your Heroes”

MPRD bringing Mobilians, service members, first responders together at weekend events

Mobile, Ala. — The Mobile Parks and Recreation Department (MPRD) is partnering with the Alabama Army National Guard and local first responders for a trio of exciting events this weekend.

Beginning Friday, Aug. 8, MPRD’s “Hoops & Heroes” basketball series will bring National Guardsmen together with members of the Mobile Police Department (MPRD) and Mobile Fire-Rescue Department (MPRD) for a exciting basketball showcase. “Hoops & Heroes” will take place at the James M. Seals. Jr. Community Center, located at 540 Texas Street, from 5 to 7 p.m.

Our officers, firefighters and service members are excited to show off their game. More than a friendly competition, this event is meant to bring the community and first responders together so Mobilians can meet the men and women serving them. The first tip-off is slated for 5 p.m., and after the action, first responders and recruiters will be available to talk with anyone interested in a career in public service.

“Our purpose is to connect with the community,” MFRD’s Fire Service Driver Markell Jones said. “We hope this event will challenge the thoughts of who we are and what we are as a department.”

The Alabama Army National Guard and MFRD are also double-booked for Saturday, Aug. 9, appearing first at MPRD’s “Back 2 School Bash” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Mardi Gras Park, where there will be giveaways, food, games and rock-wall climbing. Afterward, they’ll be stopping by for some stiff competition at MPRD’s “Adult Field Day” at Sage Herndon Park from 6 to 9 p.m.

This event is sure to make anyone feel nostalgic with classic field day games like sack races and tug-of-war for adults 21 and up. There will also be lots of giveaways and prizes!

“I’m ecstatic to be a part of such an incredible weekend,” said SSG Don Farris of the Alabama Army National Guard. “With the collaboration of professionals from MPRD, MFRD, and the MPD, these initiatives hold the promise of strengthening connections between our communities and its front-line heroes.”

So, come out to support, compete against, and meet your local first responders and recruiters this weekend! The “Hoops & Heroes” and “Back 2 School Bash” events are free and open to the public. “Adult Field Day” is free to participants age 21 and up but requires advance registration.

For additional information contact Media Relations Manager, Dale Liesch at (251) 508-8532 or follow the Mobile Parks and Recreation Department on Facebook.