August 11, 2009
Gary Davidson
Public Information Officer

REGISTRATION UNDERWAY FOR 2009 CHARITY FISHING TOURNAMENT

It’s an inshore fishing tournament and children’s charity fundraiser all rolled into one, and it’s one of the hottest tickets in town. Sheriff Ben Johnson’s Battle of the Badges Inshore Fishing Tournament returns to New Smyrna Beach next month for the third consecutive year, and anglers already are lining up for a spot in the popular event. Based at Riverside Park in New Smyrna Beach, the day-long activities set for Sept. 19 also will feature midway games, a children’s fishing clinic, a boat show, local vendors and a food court. At the conclusion of the fishing tournament, Gilly’s Pub 44 in New Smyrna Beach will host an after-party that will include the awards ceremony and live music. And it’s all for a good cause -- the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches.

“Local support for this event continues to be absolutely amazing,” said Sheriff Johnson. “This is a fun way to enjoy the outdoors and show your support for the children of Florida.” Organized by the Sheriff’s Office’s Charity Committee, the Battle of the Badges fundraiser has been going on since 2002. It was transformed into a fishing tournament in 2007 and continues to grow in popularity. Approximately 320 fishermen participated in last year’s tournament, and more than 40 anglers already are registered for this year’s tournament. The event serves as an annual fundraiser for the Youth Ranches, which operates an assortment of community-based residential care, family counseling, camping programs and foster care to neglected, abused and at-risk children throughout Florida. “It has been extremely gratifying over the years to see the community get behind such a worthwhile cause,” said Sheriff Johnson. “Thanks to all of our sponsors and participants and the efforts of our Charity Committee, we’re looking forward to another great event this year.”

The entry fee for the fishing tournament is $30 for junior anglers and $60 for adults. Cash, trophies and merchandise will be awarded to the top angler in each category. More information about registering for the fishing tournament can be obtained by contacting Sandi Awad at (386) 254-4660 or by e-mail at sawad@vcso.us. Tournament rules and entry forms can be downloaded at the event web site, www.badgebattle.com/.