DARBY, July 20, 2011 — State Sen. Anthony H. Williams’ Neighborhood to Neighborhood 2011 Summer of Peace continues to provide fun, safe and family-friendly events with an upcoming basketball tournament for youth ages 13 and up, who will have an opportunity to match their skills against local police officers.

The tournament will take place on Saturday, Aug. 6, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Darby Recreation Center, located at 10th Street and Ridge Avenue in Darby, Pa.

“This basketball tournament is a great way for our teenagers to meet and compete against the police officers who protect them and ensure their safety. I know teens look at the police as an authority to avoid, but I’m hopeful that this will give both the kids and police a chance to interact, engage is some friendly competition and foster a better sense of respect for one another,” Williams said. “Everyone is welcome to check out the games and enjoy a peaceful summer day with friends and neighbors.”

Those who come to watch the games will be treated to free popcorn, cotton candy, soft pretzels, water ice and fruit. There will also be a variety of activities and entertainment, including a DJ, line dancing and on-site constituent services with Sen. Williams’ staff.  Children’s activities include a Moon Bounce, games, face painting, character appearances, clowns, balloon art, water games and an arts and crafts table,

The event is part of Williams’ Neighborhood to Neighborhood 2011 Summer of Peace initiative. He introduced this initiative in lieu of his N2N Street Festival, which was suspended this year after a 20 plus-year run along Baltimore Avenue.

Williams instead opted to re-direct resources that normally went to the festival’s operation to community-based efforts that helped promote youth development and curb violence. So far, the initiative has funded some 50 mini-grants, gun buybacks and community cookouts throughout the 8th District.

To register to play, call Don Cave at 215-492-2980 or visit his website, www.senatoranthonyhwilliams.com
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