The game will go on, Democrats vs. Republicans

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In a time of increasing political division, the Clark County Democrats and Clark County Republican party decided to take a page from federal lawmakers and host a bipartisan softball game.

This coming Sunday the two local parties will face off in the first annual event coined “The Clark Cup.”

Members of the local Republican and Democratic party were thinking about ways they could bring people together after the 2016 election.

“It was Chuck’s (Green, a Democrat) idea, I quickly jumped on board with it,” Republican Chairman David Gellatly said. “The fact that most folks on both sides of the aisle are good people and would get along in everyday life should not be forgotten just because we have different views on some issues. If we keep this in mind, we can work together on a lot of things that make our community better as a whole.”

For a century, the Congressional baseball game has done just that – bring together members from both parties to engage in some friendly competition. This week tragedy struck during the Congressional baseball game when a man opened fire at a Republican member of Congress as they were practicing, wounding House Majority Whip Steve Scalise and four others.

The two local parties condemned the action, but ensured people their game will go on.

“We are working closely with the Clark County Sheriff’s office to ensure the safety and comfort of our attendees and players for the game on Sunday,” a statement read, adding both Gellatly and Clark County Democratic Chair Rich Rogers are committed to a safe, family oriented event.

The event will also serve as a fundraiser for “Santa’s Posse,” a local children’s charity.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been impacted by this morning’s shooting and both local parties are committed to moving forward and not letting this terrible act prevent us from promoting events to bring our community together,” the statement from Gellatly and Rogers reads. “We feel we could all use this reminder more than ever.”

The game is scheduled for 1 p.m., Sunday, June 18 at Luke Jensen Field in Vancouver.