CHICAGO — The Illinois Sports Facilities Authority (ISFA), developer, owner and operator of U.S. Cellular Field, today announced they will play host to the 9th annual Chicago Police Department vs. Chicago Fire Department Charity Baseball Classic on Saturday, August 30, 2008 at 1:00 p.m.

“We are honored to host this yearly tradition where local heroes come together to play baseball and raise money to benefit the families of the fallen men and women who have proudly served our City,” said Illinois Sports Facilities Authority’s Chief Executive Officer Perri Irmer.

“The CFD Bravest is looking forward to taking the field against a very strong police department team, but we’re confident we will prevail,” said Tom Ryan, President of the Chicago Firefighters Union Local 2.  “We would like to thank ISFA and the Chicago White Sox for hosting the game and making it all possible.”

“The Chicago Police Department is glad to be back at U.S. Cellular Field this year, where it all started,” said Sergeant Dave Harris, member of CPD’s Target Response Unit, and 3rd baseman for Chicago’s Finest.

Proceeds from the game will benefit local charities including the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation, the Gold Star Families, the Chicago Fire Department Gold Badge Society and the Chicago Firefighters Paramedic Memorial Park, who assist the families of fallen Chicago policemen and firefighters.  Since 2001, the charity game has raised more than $150,000.

Festivities for the charity classic begin at 11:30 a.m. in Lot B with a ‘block party’ that includes a CFD fire engine and ladder and displays featuring the CPD Canine and Mounted Units, D.A.R.E., G.R.E.A.T. and the 9th District CAPS (Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy) office.

Opening ceremonies for this year’s game consist of a musical procession with Pipes and Drums and flags posted by the uniformed Color Guard and a helicopter fly-over.  The national anthem will be sung by Becky Moran, daughter of Chicago Fire Department’s firefighter and 3rd baseman, Ozzie Moran.

Tickets are $5 and can be purchased on game day at U.S. Cellular Field.  Tickets are also available for purchase in advance from members of both teams.  Children are admitted free with a paying adult.  Gates open at 12:30 p.m.  Free parking is available to general public in Lot B.

Chicago’s ‘finest’ and ‘bravest’ are pleased to be sponsored by the Advanced Health Medical Group for their 2008 baseball season finals