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First responders line up for a play during last year’s Battle of the Heroes. FILE
The Easton Foundation is teaming up with Life Church to hold its 10th annual Battle of the Heroes at Habersham’s Raider Stadium on Saturday, Aug. 12. The evening gets underway at 7 p.m with a flag football game pitting Habersham and Banks County first responders against those of Hall County.
After the game, Kathy Nicholson of My Country WCON will emcee on-field ceremonies before Whitfield Funeral Home puts on their Firework Extravaganza. A host of local vendors will be on site for patrons of all ages to enjoy.
Aside from marking the game’s 10th anniversary, this year’s event will include honors for fallen Banks County first-responder Richie Alford, who passed away after saving two swimmers earlier this year. Alford is remembered as an upstanding man in his work, family life and in the community as a whole. He was also heavily involved with Battle of the Heroes over the years.
“Richie was always hyping others up and encouraging unity between both teams on the field and in the line of duty,” says Easton Foundation President Casey Lizama. “He would give the shirt off his back for anyone and was one of the most genuine, caring people.”
Postgame festivities will include a new “Richie Alford Circle of Honor” presentation – a special ceremony recognizing all fallen first-responders in the community and region as a whole.
Additionally, the Alford family will be honored at halftime.
“We hope our entire community will show up to support our great vendors, local youth, first responders, and to honor a man that served his community with kindness unlike any other,” said Lizama.
The Easton Foundation is a nonprofit based in Habersham County. Following the tragic death of local teen Easton Singleton in 2012, his beloved friend Casey Lizama started the 501(c)(3) to help other teens stricken with loss while simultaneously encouraging youths to connect with their community and become leaders. Each year, the Easton Foundation gives out numerous scholarships around the Northeast Georgia community – enabling teens to pursue their dreams of post-secondary education.
Local businesses and individuals within the community and surrounding areas are encouraged to give to the Easton Foundation through monetary sponsorships or gift-in-kind donations.
Volunteers are still needed for the event. Anyone looking to assist with and/or learn more about Battle of the Heroes and the Easton Foundation can visit eastonfdn.com.