PEABODY — From local legends of the game to a city council showdown, there will be a lot of buzz on the local diamonds over the Labor Day weekend.
On Friday, Sept. 1, the Peabody City Council takes on its counterparts from Salem for a charity softball game benefiting Citizens Inn and Haven from Hunger.
This is the fourth year the two councils have faced off, with Peabody looking to keep its winning streak alive.
“We’re 3-0, and I’d really like to see us go 4-0,” said Peabody Councilor-at-Large Tom Gould, who organizes the event alongside Salem Councilor-at-Large Elaine Milo.
Milo said she’s looking forward to seeing Salem break into the win column.
“I think Salem’s chances of victory this year is as good as ever,” she said. “Let’s remember that the real winner is Haven from Hunger for all the great work they do.”
First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Sept. 1 at Cy Tenney Field on Johnson Street. The public is welcome to attend and all proceeds from sales of hot dogs, hamburgers, and soda, as well as donations, will benefit Citizens Inn and Haven from Hunger.
On Labor Day, the charity baseball action switches over to Emerson Park. Peabody and Lynnfield police officers will take on the North Shore All Stars for the 61st Annual Labor Day Baseball Game.
In recent years, Peabody native and former Red Sox and St. Louis Cardinals pitcher John Tudor has called in some former teammates and foes to take on the local constabulary. Last year’s stars included all-time Red Sox favorites and nickname hall-of-famers Bill “Spaceman” Lee and Dennis “Oil Can” Boyd.
The event is scheduled to start at 9 a.m. and all proceeds benefit Cops for Kids with Cancer and The Jimmy Fund. In addition to the game, there will be face painting, food vendors, and other fun-filled family activities throughout the day.