Community Corner
Local Organizers in Search of Help for the Upcoming Calli Murray Fundraiser
The 2nd Annual Play for Calli Ann event will feature competitive softball games, prizes and raffles, a barbecue and more!
Organizers are planning a two-day "Play for Calli Ann" fundraiser, set this year for July 28 and 29, and they're seeking volunteers, donations and sponsorships for this year's softball teams. The primary focus of the event is a fundraiser but the goal is to also raise awareness about the dangers of driving while distracted.
The proceeds of the event will go to Jeff and Ling Murray, whose daughter Calli when Kaitlyn Dunaway ran over the toddler and her mother in a crosswalk, leaving Sunrise Park. Police later confirmed that she was texting when she hit the two.
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helped to raise $5,000 for the Murray family, who continues to face financial hardship. Ling Murray is still undergoing physical therapy from the injuries she suffered in the accident.
The event features a men's softball tournament on Saturday, July 28 and a co-ed competitive softball tournament Sunday, July 29. Both games are being held at Magnolia Park. They are still accepting teams until a maximum of 12 teams are signed up for each day. On Sunday the band Jam Pact will be playing live as part of the planned activities.
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"This year we really want to make this a family event, for softball lovers and non-sports fans alike. We want to raise the awareness of distracted driving, and the importance of putting down the cell phone while behind the wheel. People don’t realize the effect they can have on others around them, in their car, and themselves," organizer Danielle Chamberlain said.
Organizers are also seeking help to cover essential costs, provide donations for the raffle, handle food and the bake sale, and organize activities for the kids such as face-painting. Also volunteers are needed for that weekend.
"I really hope to make this event more than just about softball and bring the community together," said Danielle Chamberlain, who is organizing the fundraiser with her boyfriend Darrel Cattani. "Any help would be much appreciated."
You can visit the Fundraiser Event Page on Facebook for more information.
If you're interested in donating or helping out in another way, contact Danielle Chamberlain at 707-478-0665 or Darrel Cattani at 707-349-0836
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Editor's note: Corrected to show band playing on Sunday not Saturday.
