Citizens Hose Fire/Rescue/EMS set to host second professional wrestling fundraiser

Harrison residents can take in the excitement of a professional wrestling event for the second straight year, as the Battle in Birdville returns to the township.

According to Jim Erb, Director of Citizens Hose Fire/Rescue/EMS, the fundraiser will be a lively family- oriented event.

“Any age can come and enjoy, from children to grandparents,” he said.

The throwdown, hosted by Citizens Hose, is set for 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 27 at 965 Burtner Road.

The wrestling show will be put on by the Keystone State Wrestling Alliance (KSWA), which has shown an affinity toward local fundraisers. It is expected to last for about 2½ hours.

Owner Bobby Orkwis calls KSWA’s wrestling the “less flippy-floppy” and “more fan-friendly” version of professional wrestling.

“The wrestlers are approachable, and there’s a lot of give and take because the audience is so close,” he said.

As for the “why wrestling?” question, Erb said they wanted to provide an element of entertainment for their fundraiser.

“We just wanted to host something that residents of the community could enjoy, something that could help build friendships with neighbors and other families,” Erb said.

In addition to the main attraction, attendees may enjoy live music from local musician John Melnick, a 50-50 raffle, a basket raffle with prizes donated from local businesses.

There will be numerous concession stands open at 1 p.m.

This year, an increased number of businesses donated raffle prizes Erb said. Raffle winners will find their baskets contain a range of goodies, from $100 gift cards to coolers to cigar boxes.

Food will be offered from local vendors, such as Hot Ash Wood Fired Pizza, Harrison’s BBQ and Little C’s Concessions.

All proceeds will benefit the Citizens Hose general fund. Last year, the event raised about $3,000 for the organization, Erb said.

Erb and Orkwis encourage community members to come out and enjoy the event.

“Anyone who comes can expect to have a good time,” Orkwis said.

Tickets for the wrestling show cost $15 for adults or $12 for children 12 and younger. To buy tickets or for more information, call 724-889-6485 or 412-726-1762.