Firecracker tourney returns

By: 
Staff Report

The Firecracker softball benefit tournament that was once an Independence Day weekend tradition in Wilmington makes its return this year.
Organizer Dan Brimer said he’s shooting for participation from 10 to 12 teams. He has several already signed up, but can accept more.
Play will start Friday, July 5, in the North Island Park. The last game is scheduled to begin Saturday, July 6, at 8 p.m.
After a break for the community fireworks show, there will be a fundraiser home run derby, with proceeds benefiting the city’s police, fire and Emergency Services and Disaster Agency personnel.
Sign-up for the softball tournament is $250 per team. Proceeds will benefit the rehabilitation of the Chamber of Commerce Santa House.
Call Brimer at 815-342-5116 to register. The registration deadline is Tuesday, July 2.
Registration details for the home run derby are pending, but anyone interested can contact Brimer for information.
Food and treats will be available at the Lions Club’s food trailer both days.
“People are excited. In its heyday, people stayed in town, it was part of their weekend,” Brimer commented.
The last Firecracker softball tourney was held in 2011; the last organized by Brimer was in 2009.