Athletes Around the State Compete in Statesboro at Fall State Games This Weekend

/PRNewswire-/ -- More than 1,000 athletes from around the state will compete in various sports at the State Fall Games in Statesboro Oct. 2-4. This is the second of three years Fall Games will be in Statesboro.

The Games will feature:
-- Long Distance Running/Walking
-- Cycling
-- Golf
-- Softball
-- Bocce

The games will begin with the Opening Ceremony at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 at Statesboro High School. All events and ceremonies are free to the public, so bring the whole family and "Be a Fan."

Competition will be Friday, Saturday and Sunday with medals being awarded throughout the weekend. Venues will be located at Mill Creek Regional Park near Georgia Southern University, except for golf. Golf will be held at Forest Heights Country Club. A schedule is available at www.SpecialOlympicsGA.org. Olympic Town, the center of celebration of Fall Games, will be from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3 at Mill Creek Park. Olympic Town goers will enjoy arts and crafts, and music.

If you would like to volunteer, please contact Leslie Anderson at SOGA at Leslie.Anderson@SpecialOlympicsGA.org.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Thrashers Agree to Terms with Unrestricted Free Agent Forward Maxim Afinogenov

The Atlanta Thrashers have agreed to terms on a contract with unrestricted free agent forward Maxim Afinogenov, according to Executive Vice President and General Manager Don Waddell. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Afinogenov (ah-fihn-ah-GEHN-ahf), 30, recorded two points (one goal, one assist) in three pre-season games for the Thrashers after joining the team during training camp on a professional try-out agreement.

A veteran of nine NHL seasons, Afinogenov has recorded 334 points (134 goals, 200 assists) in 569 games with the Buffalo Sabres, including 32 power play goals and 20 game-winning goals. Last season, the 6-0, 190-pound right wing tallied 20 points (six goals, 14 assists) in 48 games with the Sabres. He has also appeared in 49 playoff games for Buffalo, recording 23 points (10 goals, 13 assists).

During his NHL career, Afinogenov has tallied 20-or-more goals on three occasions, including the 2006-07 season when he recorded a career-best 23, and has surpassed the 60-point mark twice, including a career-high 73 points (22 goals, 51 points) in 2005-06. In 2005-06, he also set career highs with 11 power play goals, 241 shots on goal and 84 penalty minutes.

A native of Moscow, Afinogenov has represented Russia in international competition on 11 occasions, including the 2002 and 2006 Winter Olympic Games. He has also represented his country in the World Cup of Hockey (2005), the World Championships (1999, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2005 and 2008) and the World Junior Championships (1998 and 1999).

Afinogenov, who was originally selected by Buffalo in the third round, 69th overall, of the 1997 NHL Entry Draft, spent three seasons with Dynamo Moscow in Russia prior to his NHL career.

Atlanta Thrashers Season Tickets for the 2009-10 regular season start as low as $10 per game and are available by visiting atlantathrashers.com or calling (866) 715-1500.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Atlanta Thrashers to Host Annual Face-Off Event for Season Ticket Holders on Thursday, Oct. 1, at Philips Arena from 6-9 p.m.

The Atlanta Thrashers will host their annual Face-Off Event at Philips Arena on Thursday, Oct. 1, from 6-9 p.m. The event gives season ticket holders a first glance at the 2009-10 Atlanta Thrashers roster and a chance to meet and interact with all of their favorite players, coaches and management.

Doors will open at 6 p.m. with team introductions beginning at 6:45 p.m. Other activities scheduled include an autograph session with all members of the team, interactive games and an equipment sale.

What: Atlanta Thrashers Face-Off Event
Who: Atlanta Thrashers Players, Coaches and Staff
When: Thursday, Oct. 1, from 6-9 p.m.
Where: Philips Arena

Atlanta Thrashers Season Tickets for the 2009-10 regular season start as low as $10 per game and are available by visiting atlantathrashers.com or calling (866) 715-1500.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Pombo Takes the Win While Megenbier Claims the Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Championship at Road Atlanta

/PRNewswire/ -- For the third consecutive race weekend, the drivers of the SCCA Pro Racing Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup had to navigate a rain-soaked track on race day. This added an interesting but familiar twist to the final race of the year, which was contested on the 12-turn, 2.54-mile road course at Road Atlanta.

When the drivers arrived at the track, they saw that the series' technicians had installed the grooved Pirelli rain tires that would make their 14 laps of racing action more manageable. When the race began, Juan Pablo Sierra Lendle held the lead he gained from winning the pole position, but it didn't take Mark Pombo long to show who is boss on his home track. The Duluth, Georgia native took the lead in Turn 10 on the first lap, and he never looked back. The top three race finishers included Pombo, Andrew Cordeiro (2nd) and Juan Pablo Sierra Lendle (3rd).

"There's something about racing in the rain that really works well for me because the two races I've won this year have been on a wet track," Pombo said. "This win is really bittersweet for me because if it weren't for a couple of bad breaks, I feel as though I might have had a chance to fight with Timmy (Megenbier) for the Championship. However, I think it's pretty neat that I've won the first race for the series last year and my final race this year. I'll be too old to race in the Jetta TDI Cup again next year, so it's great to be able to go out on top."

While Pombo took the Road Atlanta trophy, there was another race going on today. Timmy Megenbier and Andy Lee came into the weekend fighting for the series Championship and its $100,000 prize. Megenbier brought a 39-point lead into the race, and it was apparent from the start that he was taking a conservative approach to the race in order to maintain his spot on top. Naturally, the rain caused several dramatic spins and accidents, but the pair was able to avoid trouble with Lee placing sixth and Megenbier 11th. While Lee was able to cut into the Melrose Park, Illinois native's lead, Megenbier's mid-pack finish was enough to maintain a 29-point advantage over Lee and give him the Championship. Pombo's race win vaulted him two positions in the standings to third.

"I knew what I had to do to achieve my ultimate goal of winning the Championship," Megenbier said. "After being on the podium nearly every race this season, it was a real challenge to hold myself back so that I didn't potentially risk my season. I had a couple of close calls out there today with the rain and people spinning in front of me, but thankfully I was able to hold on. Being named the Champion is a dream come true for me, and my hope is that this will lead to much bigger things for me down the road."

While the series' regulars had previous experience battling the elements, the guest drivers experienced an added obstacle today. However, both journalist Jeremy Shaw and Aerosmith guitarist Brad Whitford avoided trouble, with Shaw placing 12th and Whitford 18th.

"This entire weekend was quite the experience for me," Whitford said. "First of all, I was driving a totally different car than I have competed in before. Secondly, I have never raced in the rain. Add the two together, and it sounds like a recipe for disaster. However, I was able to keep the car on track and in one piece for the entire race. Considering the conditions, I was really amazed at how well these cars held up to the demands of racing. Several years ago, nobody would have guessed that you could race a diesel, but these Jetta TDIs are awesome little cars, and I think the fans that showed up early to the track today got a great show."

At the end of the day, it was fitting that tire grip and handling were the two factors that decided the race. First year series sponsor Pirelli had brought more than 100 tire dealers to the track, and they got to see first hand how the products perform under challenging conditions.

"While I'm sure that some of the drivers weren't pleased to see the rain today, I don't think we could have asked for a better demonstration of our product," said Rafael Navarro, Pirelli Director of Media Communications and Motorsports. "Our involvement in this series has far surpassed our expectations, and I look forward to a bright future with Volkswagen and continuing to contribute to the environmentally-conscious spirit of the series in 2010."

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Valdosta State University to Add Women's Soccer in 2011

Valdosta State will field women's soccer as an intercollegiate sport beginning in 2011, according to an announcement made by VSU President Patrick Schloss and Athletic Director Herb Reinhard during a press conference at the University Center Wednesday.

"I am pleased to announce the addition of women's soccer as the 12th intercollegiate and sixth women's sport at Valdosta State," said Schloss in making the announcement. "We will join the Gulf South Conference as one of nine schools to sponsor this sport. We feel that we are well positioned geographically to become a power in this sport and look forward to seeing this new team uphold the proud tradition that is Valdosta State Athletics."

Reinhard indicated that a national coaching search will begin within the next 3 weeks and that the University planned on having its newest coach in place during the later winter or early spring months of 2010.

"Our timeline includes getting a coach in here as quickly as possible," he said. "That will give whoever leads our new program basically all of 2010 and the first half of 2011 to get everything involved with starting a new program, including recruiting, scheduling and buying equipment, completed."

Both Schloss and Reinhard pointed to the support of the Valdosta State campus and Valdosta community as a major factor in choosing VSU's newest Division II program.

"I would like to say that we really appreciate the Student Government Association for their support and input as we have moved forward with adding another sport at Valdosta State," Schloss added. "Likewise, the support from our community, which has already stepped forward with offers of funding, has been unbelievable. The response from all parties has been positive and shows that they believe in this move and how it will benefit the University as a whole."

Reinhard also added that much of the infrastructure for the new program has already been put in place, making the decision to add women's soccer easier.

"We planned ahead when building the new Athletic Fieldhouse," he concluded. "The infrastructure, including locker rooms and coaches offices, was included with the new Fieldhouse. Additionally, we have the space behind that building to build a playing surface, along with two football practice fields."

Women's soccer will be the first sport Valdosta State has added since the school began women's volleyball in 1995. In addition to becoming the ninth GSC school to sponsor the sport, VSU will become the 21st NCAA institution to participate in the sport in the state of Georgia, including the seventh Division II program. One of the nation's fastest growing sports among females, girls soccer is currently sponsored by 310 high schools in the state of Georgia.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Braves Manager Bobby Cox agrees to contract extension

The Atlanta Braves announced yesterday that they have agreed to terms with manager Bobby Cox on a one-year contract extension through the 2010 season and that the team's entire coaching staff will be brought back next year.

In addition, Cox has announced that he will retire from managing at the conclusion of the 2010 campaign, thus bringing to an end one of the greatest managerial careers in the history of the game. As part of Cox's contract extension, he has been given a five-year consulting agreement, from 2011 to 2015, where he will advise and consult in all areas of Baseball Operations, including the Major League Club, spring training, minor league operations and scouting. In addition, Cox will work with the office of the President on special business projects.

The winningest manager in Braves franchise history, Cox is in his 28th season as a big-league skipper and his 24th year at the Braves' helm (1978-81, 1990-present). He owns 2,408 career wins, placing him fourth on the all-time victory list and second among active managers. Cox has recorded 2,053 wins with the Braves and another 355 in four seasons (1982-85) with the Toronto Blue Jays. He and Hall of Fame manager Joe McCarthy are the only two managers in history to post six 100-win campaigns.

"Bobby and I have been talking about this for some time," Braves Executive Vice President and General Manager Frank Wren said. "We are very excited that Bobby, who is one of the best and most respected managers in the history of baseball, will again be managing our club in 2010. Personally, it has been a true honor and a pleasure to work with such a great manager and leader. Bobby is one of the true icons of our game."

"I share with all of our great Braves fans the excitement over the good news of Bobby's signing a 2010 contract extension," said Braves President John Schuerholz. "It has been my good fortune to share a personal relationship and professional partnership with Bobby since 1991. Together we have shared in the most remarkable, sustained period of Braves baseball excellence while winning 14 consecutive Division titles, five National League Championships and, of course, the World Championship in 1995. It has been an honor and pleasure to work side by side with Bobby Cox. We are thrilled with his return as manager in 2010 and with his continued association with us for many years to follow."

The 68-year-old Cox has guided Atlanta to Major League Baseball's best overall record since 1991 (1,747-1,252). Since then, the Braves have earned a 14 division championships, five National League pennants and a World Series title. Cox has guided his clubs to 66 postseason wins - second all-time to the Dodgers' Joe Torre (77).

"I am very excited and honored to be making plans for next year," said Cox. "While I have decided that 2010 will be my last season in the dugout, I want to make it clear that we will all be working as hard as ever to win another World Championship for the city of Atlanta and our great Braves fans. I really can't express how proud I am of our team, and how thankful I am that Frank and John have given me the opportunity to retire with the organization that I've been with for almost 30 seasons."

Cox has earned four Manager of the Year awards from the Baseball Writers Association of America and an unprecedented eight Manager of the Year honors from the Sporting News. No other skipper has won the Sporting News award more than three times since the magazine started its balloting in 1936.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Run for University of West Georgia Almost Here

Early registration for the 24th annual Run for UWG (University of West Georgia) is ongoing through Friday, Sept. 25, ending at 5 p.m. Registering early guarantees a tee shirt and reduced rates of $10 for individuals and $15 for families. All fees go toward the Annual Fund and student scholarship. After September 25 registration increases by $5.

The event features three races suitable for every age beginning with a Tot-Trot for ages 2 to 6, a one-mile walk/run and a 5K event. The 5K race will have awards for the top three finishers in a variety of age and gender divisions ranging from 11 years to 70 and over.

The race date is October 1 and registration forms should be mailed or delivered to the Alumni House on Maple Street. Forms are available at the Alumni House and online at the Development and Alumni Relations site, http://www.westga.edu/alumni.
Call 678-839-6582 for more information.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Clayton State Foundation to Host Annual Town and Gown Golf Tournament October 12

The Clayton State University Foundation’s Annual Town & Gown Golf Tournament will be held on Monday, Oct. 12 at Crystal Lake Country Club, 100 Crystal Lake Blvd., Hampton, Ga., with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m. and a shotgun start at 10 a.m.

Proceeds from the tournament will benefit the Excellence Fund of the Clayton State University Foundation, which is primarily used to provide scholarships for students in the Clayton State Honors Program.

The entry costs are $500 per four-person team or $150 per individual, if received by Oct. 5. Team entries after Oct. 5 are $600 and individual entries are $200. Awards will include first and second team prizes, along with raffle prizes.

Sponsorships are also still available for the tournament. There are various levels of sponsorship, including; Event Sponsors ($5000), Co-Tournament Sponsors ($2500), Laker Sponsors ($1000), Luncheon Sponsors ($200) and Cart Sponsors ($150). Individual holes are also available for sponsorship at $150 per hole. For more information on sponsorship, call Clayton State Director of Development Reda Rowell at (678) 466-4474. To obtain a registration form for the tournament, call (678) 466-4470.

A unit of the University System of Georgia, Clayton State University is an outstanding comprehensive metropolitan university located 15 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

1st Annual Baseball Family Fun Day and Home Run Derby at Home Plate

Please join us at The 1st Annual Baseball Family Fun Day and Home Run Derby at Home Plate on Saturday, October 3rd benefiting Team Colin and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

The Guest of Honor list is growing!!!

** Atlanta Braves Pitcher, Tim Hudson **
** Atlanta Braves 1st Baseman, Adam LaRoche **
** Former Cy Young winner, Steve Bedrosian **

Chick-fil-A will give the winner of each age group in the Home Run Derby a 1 year supply of Chick Fil-A Sandwiches* and the bragging rights to go along with it!! :)

This FREE family fun event will feature inflatables, crafts, firetrucks, face painting, food, games, skills challenges, raffle prizes, and much more!! :)

Be a SUPERHERO!!
Spread the Word!
Let's End CF!!

Utah Flash to Host Open Tryout in Atlanta

Single-day tryout will be held at Clayton State University Athletics and Fitness Center

The Atlanta Hawks’ NBA Development League Affiliate, the Utah Flash, will be holding a one-day tryout at Clayton State University. The tryout will take place at the Athletics and Fitness Center at 10 a.m. on Oct. 24.

In the past two seasons the Flash have selected at least two players from the open tryout to join the team in training camp. Multiple players from the open tryout can be selected for an opportunity to be on the Flash opening day roster. Utah head coach Brad Jones can bring up to 17 players to training camp and opening day rosters will be trimmed to 10 players.

“The opportunities provided by the Flash and the NBA D-League are very unique,” Jones said. “I know that there is untapped talent out there, and the open tryouts allow us to find those players that can excel in the Development League and beyond.”

“There are no prerequisites for the tryout,” Jones said. “Show up, play hard and smart, and that is all we ask.”

Players should arrive at Clayton State University, 2000 Clayton State Blvd. Morrow, GA by 9:30 a.m. on Oct. 24. Workouts begin at 10:00 a.m. Players will compete in skills and conditioning drills prior to dividing into teams for several game-type scrimmages.

Interested players should complete a registration form, as well as a player release and eligibility form. Both are available at utahflash.com or can be sent via email by contacting drew@utahflash.com. Players that register early should remit a cashier’s check for $150 made payable to the Utah Flash. Day of camp registrants will pay $175 by either cash or cashier’s check.

The Flash will begin preseason training camp Nov. 15 before traveling to Tulsa for their first regular season game on Nov. 27. Flash season tickets are still available and can be purchased by phone at (801) 434-HOOP or online by visiting www.utahflash.com.

PLAYER CONTACT: Utah Flash Front Office / (801) 434-4667
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Atlanta Braves say "Thank you" during Fan Appreciation Weekend, October 2 - 4

The Atlanta Braves will thank their fans for a season of tremendous support during "Fan Appreciation Weekend," October 2-4, when the Braves host the Washington Nationals. Many special events are planned including free post-game concerts, valuable prize giveaways, post-game fireworks shows, and autograph and Q & A sessions with Braves alumni Sid Bream and Bruce Benedict.

The weekend will jump start with a free post-game concert with pop and country's newest musical sensation and Georgia native, Jessie James, on Friday evening and will culminate with a free Creedence Clearwater Revisited post-game concert presented by Delta Air Lines on Sunday.

Braves memorabilia, including Braves jerseys, autographed baseballs, bats, photos, lineup cards, and one-of-a-kind items including a catcher's mask signed by Brian McCann and a framed collection of baseballs autographed by each member of the 2009 Atlanta Braves team will be up for auction and on sale during the Atlanta Braves Foundation memorabilia sale throughout Fan Appreciation Weekend.

Atlanta Braves Fan Appreciation Weekend schedule:

Friday, October 2 - Atlanta Braves vs. Washington Nationals, 7:35 p.m.

Jessie James free post-game concert
Valuable prize giveaways throughout the game
Publix Friday Night Fireworks after the game
Hightide Blues, a Southern rock group with a modern feel that has performed at major music festivals including Bonnaroo, will entertain fans pre-game in Fan Plaza
Braves Foundation memorabilia sale all weekend in the Hank Aaron room at aisle 128

Saturday, October 3 - Atlanta Braves vs. Washington Nationals, 7:10 p.m.

Valuable prize giveaways throughout the game
Publix Saturday Night Fireworks after the game
Braves Foundation memorabilia sale all weekend in the Hank Aaron room at aisle 128

Sunday, October 4 - Atlanta Braves vs. Washington Nationals, 1:35 p.m.

Creedence Clearwater Revisited free post-game concert presented by Delta
Pre-Game Parade for all children 14 and under. Young fans who want to take part in a pre-game parade around the field can line up at the Hank Aaron Ramp (aisle 129).
Four F-18 fighter jets from Oceana Naval Base in Virginia Beach, VA, will perform a flyover at the conclusion of the National Anthem.
Braves alumni Sid Bream and Bruce Benedict will sign autographs and participate in a Q & A session before the game in Fan Plaza.
Valuable prize giveaways throughout the game
Braves Foundation memorabilia sale all weekend in the Hank Aaron room at aisle 128

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
www.artsacrossgeorgia.com
Arts Across Georgia

Thrashers Trim Training Camp Roster by 10 Players

Nine Assigned to Chicago (AHL); One Released

The Atlanta Thrashers have assigned nine players to the Chicago Wolves of the American Hockey League, according to Executive Vice President and General Manager Don Waddell. Additionally, one player was released from his try-out contract.

Forwards Angelo Esposito, Riley Holzapfel, Rylan Kaip, Andrew Kozek, Jordan LaVallee, Brett Sterling and Anthony Stewart, along with defenseman Chad Denny and goaltender Peter Mannino will report to Chicago. Forward Kevin Doell, who is under contract with the Wolves, has been released from Atlanta’s training camp.

The Thrashers opened their pre-season schedule in Nashville on Sept. 17 and Tampa Bay on Sept. 18, earning a 0-1-1 record. The team will host Carolina on Monday, Sept. 21 (7 p.m.), Nashville on Wednesday, Sept. 23 (7 p.m.) and Tampa Bay on Sunday Sept. 27 (5 p.m.) prior to the opening of the 2009-10 NHL Regular Season when the Lighthing visit at Philips Arena on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 7 p.m.

Atlanta Thrashers Season Tickets for the 2009-10 regular season start as low as $10 per game and are available by visiting atlantathrashers.com or calling (866) 715-1500.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Piedmont Sports and Orthopaedic Surgery Opens in Ellijay

Piedmont Mountainside Welcomes Rodney D. Fields, M.D., to its Medical Staff

Piedmont Mountainside Hospital (PMH) welcomes orthopaedic surgeon Rodney D. Fields, M.D., to its medical staff. On Monday, Sept. 14, Dr. Fields and Piedmont Healthcare opened Piedmont Sports and Orthopaedic Surgery in Ellijay.

“We are thrilled Dr. Fields has decided to join the Piedmont family,” said Mike Robertson, president and CEO of Piedmont Mountainside Hospital. “He has extensive experience and knowledge in his field. His expertise and outstanding reputation will be a great addition to the Piedmont Mountainside medical staff.”

Dr. Fields is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon practicing in Ellijay, Ga. He was born in Ohio and attended medical school at the University of Miami School of Medicine in Florida. He completed his internship and residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami.

After his residency, Dr. Fields completed a sports medicine fellowship at the Minneapolis Sports Medicine Center with David Fisher, M.D., who served as a team physician for the Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Timberwolves. Following the fellowship, he served a scholarship commitment in the U.S. Air Force as an orthopaedic surgeon for the 1st Fighter Wing at Langley Air Force Base in Langley, Va.

Dr. Fields then resided in Champaign, Ill., where, in addition to his general orthopaedic practice, his duties included team physician for the University of Illinois Fighting Illini.

For the past six years Dr. Fields has resided and practiced in Ellijay. His new office, Piedmont Sports and Orthopaedic Surgery, will be temporarily located at 772 Maddox Drive, Suite 116, East Ellijay, GA 30540, until the permanent location opens at 309 Highland Parkway, Suite 200, East Ellijay, GA 30540. To schedule an appointment, call 706-698-2663.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Savannah Tire Hockey Classic on January 14-16, 2010

The Savannah Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) and the Greater Savannah Sports Council announce that the Savannah Tire Hockey Classic will return to the Savannah Civic Center on January 14-16, 2010. Savannah Tire has signed a three-year deal to become the title sponsor of the Hockey Classic through 2012.

The Savannah Tire Hockey Classic will celebrate its 12th year by expanding to a third night with two new teams, The Citadel and University of South Carolina, which will play in a kickoff rivalry game on Thursday, January 14, 2010. Also returning to the ice will be the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, University of Florida and Florida State University in the traditional matchups on Friday and Saturday night to battle for the Thrasher Cup. A new event logo has been unveiled to incorporate Savannah Tire as the title sponsor.

“On behalf of Savannah Tire employees and customers, I am honored to announce that the Savannah Hockey Classic is now the Savannah Tire Hockey Classic,” said Trey Cook, Chief Operating Officer of Savannah Tire. “Savannah Tire is thrilled to be involved with the Greater Savannah Sports Council and this premier sporting event and look forward to an exciting 2010 Savannah Tire Hockey Classic.”

“The Savannah CVB is very excited to see the Savannah Tire Hockey Classic expand into the South Carolina market which will surely bring more visitors to our beautiful city,” said Joseph Marinelli, President of the Savannah CVB.

For more information about the Savannah Tire Hockey Classic, please contact Ben Wilder at 912.644.6414 or bwilder@savannahvisit.com. For more media information, please contact Melissa Yao at 912.644.6431 or myao@savannahvisit.com.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Two Mercerians Among Seven in 2010 Georgia Sports Hall of Fame Induction Class

Two Mercerians were among the seven individuals announced Thursday as the new inductions into the the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame. The Honors Court met on Thursday and selected Al Ciraldo, Edward Everett, Ernie Johnson, Sam Mitchell, Larry Rakestraw, Ronald Simmons and Suzanne Yoculan as the Hall of Fame Class of 2010. These seven individuals were chosen from an eligible pool of 252 nominees as those men and women who best exemplify the tradition of sports excellence in the State of Georgia.

“Georgia is truly blessed to have such a wide array of talented people in the world of sports,” said GSHF Executive Director Jacquelyn Decell. “It is our privilege each year to be able to give voice to the citizens of our state in congratulating our inductees on a job well done.”

The 2010 Induction Class highlights the broad range of sports in which Georgia’s athletes excel. The class includes two broadcasters, a golfer, a basketball player, a multi-sport athlete, a football player, and a gymnastics coach. The combined careers of those selected span six decades.

Sam Mitchell was a two-year starter on the basketball team at Columbus (Ga.) High School where he earned All-City honors. From there, he went on to lead Mercer University to the TAAC Championship and a berth in the NCAA Tournament in 1985, and he remains Mercer’s all-time leading scorer with 1,986 points. Mitchell played professionally in Canada and France before joining the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves in 1989. He is second only to Kevin Garnett in all-time scoring and rebounding in Timberwolves’ franchise history. As head coach of the Toronto Raptors, Mitchell was named NBA Coach of the Year in 2007.

Edward Everett is a native of Macon where he attended both Lanier High School and Mercer University. Everett began winning golf tournaments at the age of 11 in 1955 at the Macon Junior Tournament and continued to win tournaments as an amateur and professional for more than 40 years. Among his many tournament victories are the Rose City Open in 1973, 1975, and 1976; the Perry Classic in 1990; the Georgia Senior Open in 1997 and 2000; and the National PGA Senior Club Professional Championship in 1997.

Al Ciraldo was born in Akron, Ohio but spent 43 years as the play-by-play announcer for Georgia Tech football and basketball games beginning in 1954. Over his career he called 416 football games and 1,030 basketball games for the Yellow Jackets including Georgia Tech’s 1990 Citrus Bowl victory over Nebraska and the basketball team’s Final Four appearance the same year. Ciraldo’s signature kickoff call, “Toe meets leather”, remains famous throughout college football.

Ernie Johnson grew up in Vermont before becoming a pitcher for the Boston Braves, Milwaukee Braves, and Baltimore Orioles. Johnson’s greatest contribution to baseball came as the iconic voice of the Atlanta Braves from 1966–1999. Named Georgia Sportscaster of the Year in 1977, 1983, and 1986, he also won three regional Emmy Awards in 1993, 1995, and 1997. Johnson was elected to the Atlanta Braves Hall of Fame in 2001.

Larry Rakestraw is a native of Atlanta where he attended West Fulton High School. At West Fulton, he was a four year letterman in baseball and football and a three year letterman on the basketball team. In 1959 he was named to the All-State Football Team and was selected as the Back of the Year by the Atlanta Touchdown Club. As a baseball player and football player at the University of Georgia, Rakestraw was named MVP of the baseball team in 1961 and threw for 407 yards against Miami in 1963 to break the NCAA record for passing yards at that time. He went on to play professional football for the Chicago Bears and Atlanta Falcons and has won numerous amateur golf tournaments since his retirement from the NFL.

Ronald Simmons was born in Perry and led Warner Robins High School to the state and national championships in 1976 as a defensive lineman. He played college football at Florida State and has been credited by Bobby Bowden as one of the key players in beginning the long run of success for the Seminoles. Simmons was a Consensus All-American at FSU in 1979 and 1980 and finished his career with 25 sacks and 44 tackles for a loss. Drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the third round of the 1981 NFL draft, he chose to play in the USFL and later became a professional wrestler.

Suzanne Yoculan led the University of Georgia’s Women’s Gymnastics Team to one of the greatest runs of success in any sport in NCAA history. Over her 26 year career, the Gym Dogs won 16 SEC titles and 10 NCAA titles including five consecutive national championships from 2005-2009. Yoculan coached 37 gymnasts that won NCAA individual championships and 58 gymnasts that garnered a total of 306 All-America honors. She was named National Coach of the Year five times and SEC Coach of the Year eight times. Yoculan retired from coaching in 2009 with a career record of 836-117-7.

The 2010 Georgia Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held in Macon in February.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
www.artsacrossgeorgia.com
Arts Across Georgia

Atlanta Hawks Individual Game Tickets To Go On Sale Sept 19 at 10 a.m.

Atlanta Hawks individual game tickets for the 2009-10 preseason and regular season go on sale this Saturday, September 19, at 10 a.m. They will be available for purchase by visiting www.hawks.com, calling 1-800-4NBA-TIX, and by visiting the Philips Arena Box Office or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets for all games start at $10. The Hawks’ first regular season game is only 42 days away as the Countdown to Opening Night begins!

The 41-game regular season home schedule tips off on Wednesday, October 28 against Danny Granger and the Indiana Pacers. Other notable opponents at Philips Arena include league MVP LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers (December 29 and April 14); the defending World Champion Los Angeles Lakers on March 3; Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and the Boston Celtics on January 8 and January 29; Dwyane Wade and the Miami Heat (November 18 and February 10); and Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic on Thanksgiving Night (November 26) and March 24.

The popular Chick-fil-A® Family Nights promotion returns this season, where fans can purchase four tickets and four Chick-fil-A® chicken sandwich combo meal coupons starting at $89, for specially selected home games.

New this year is Aaron’s “Lucky Dog Wednesday’s,” where 300 level tickets will be available for $15. Additionally, the Hawks are offering fans the opportunity to purchase metroPCS “Unlimited Eat Seats” in selected sections of Philips Arena. Starting at $37, this unique offer includes a game ticket and all you can eat hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, popcorn and soft drinks throughout the game.

The Hawks are also featuring a “Kids Day” promotion for all Sunday home games, where children 12-and-under will receive a free ticket with purchase of at least one regularly priced ticket. As in the past, college students and military personnel can purchase tickets for 50-percent off.

Additional ticket offers will be announced at a later time and a complete list of promotions is available at www.hawks.com. The start times for the majority Atlanta’s home games will be 7 p.m. for Monday-through-Thursday and Saturday games, 7:30 p.m. on Fridays, with varying tipoff times for the team’s five Sunday contests. Four of the Hawks home games will be nationally-televised this season, and the start times for those contests are 8 p.m.

Atlanta Hawks 2009-10 season tickets start as low at $10 per game and are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.hawks.com or calling 1-866-715-1500. New this year, fans also have the option of purchasing the exciting 13-game Playoff Plan, which includes the home opener and 12 additional games versus 2009 playoff teams – including the Lakers, Cavaliers, and Celtics. Groups of 20 or more can guarantee their ticket purchases before the public on-sale date by placing a deposit through the Hawks ticket sales department at 1-866-715-1500 or www.hawks.com. Individual regular season game tickets will go on sale at a later date. The Hawks, a member of the National Basketball Association since 1949, play in the Southeast Division, along with the Charlotte Bobcats, Miami Heat, Orlando Magic and Washington Wizards.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Georgia Governor's Challenge Set for September 14

The Kinderlou Forst Golf Club in Valdosta hosts the 2009 Governor's Challenge Golf Tournament on September 14.

The Shotgun Start using the 4 Man Scramble format will begin at both 8 am and 1 pm.

For more information, contact Rhonda Barnes at 229-671-2480 or Steve Singley at 229-219-2300.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Thrashers and SportSouth Announce 61-Game Television Schedule for 2009-10

Play-by-Play Announcer Matt McConnell to Join Analyst Darren Eliot in the SportSouth Booth

The Atlanta Thrashers and SportSouth, the team’s regional cable partner, have announced the 61-game television schedule (see attached) for the 2009-10 NHL regular season. In all, 61 of the Thrashers 82 regular-season games will be televised locally, including 60 games on SportSouth and one on FOX Sports South. Thrashers games to be broadcast by SportSouth in HD will be released at a later date.

Coverage of the Thrashers 2009-10 regular season will begin on opening night, Saturday, Oct. 3, when they host the Southeast Division-rival Tampa Bay Lightning at Philips Arena at 7 p.m. Overall, 27 home games and 34 road games will be televised throughout the season. Thirty-two of the final 33 road games will be televised by SportSouth, as well as 42 of the team’s final 47 games of the season.

Throughout the season, several key match-ups will be televised including 19 games against Southeast Division rivals (Carolina, Florida, Tampa Bay and Washington), all four games against the 2009 Stanley Cup-champion Pittsburgh Penguins (Nov. 21, Jan. 5, April 3 and April 10) and the Thrashers lone match-up against 2009 Western Conference-champion Detroit Red Wings (Nov. 25). SportSouth’s coverage also highlights several intra-conference games, televising 13 of the Thrashers contests against Western Conference opponents, incuding match-ups against Chicago (Feb. 13), Columbus (Nov. 5 and March 11) and Anaheim (Jan. 26).

Matt McConnell, the Thrashers original television play-by-play announcer, returns to the SportSouth broadcast booth for the 2009-10 season. McConnell served as the television voice of the team from 1999-00 to 2002-03, and is entering his fifth season in a play-by-play role for the Thrashers. During the 2006-07 and 2007-08 seasons, he co-hosted SportSouth’s Thrashers LIVE and also served as a fill-in announcer for select Thrashers games over the past two seasons.

Darren Eliot, who has served as the Thrashers television analyst since the team’s inception, will join McConnell in the SportSouth broadcast booth for all televised games. In addition to game telecasts, McConnell and Eliot will also co-host Thrashers LIVE expanded post-game coverage on SportSouth.

Thrashers’ telecasts on SportSouth are available in Georgia and South Carolina, as well as Alabama (excluding the Huntsville/Decatur DMA) and Mississippi (excluding Mississippi counties in the Memphis DMA and the counties of Pontotoc, Union, Lee, Itawamba, Prentiss and Tishomingo in the Columbus/Tupelo/West Point DMA).

Atlanta Thrashers Season Tickets for the 2009-10 regular season start as low as $10 per game and are available by visiting atlantathrashers.com or calling (866) 715-1500.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Thrashers Announce Training Camp Schedule

Camp Opens on Sept. 12; Practices and Media Availability Begin Sept. 13

The Atlanta Thrashers will open their 2009 Training Camp on Saturday, Sept. 12 with physicals and medical testing, and will begin on-ice sessions starting Sunday, Sept. 13 at 9 a.m. at the team’s practice facility in Duluth, Ga (Please see the attachment for a complete schedule).

Camp will open with players split into three practice groups before being reduced to two groups on Sept. 16 and one group on Sept. 22. A complete roster and breakout of teams will be provided following the conclusion of the Prospect Evaluation Tournament held in Traverse City, Michigan from Sept 6-10.

Beginning Sept. 13, media availability with players will be held following their on and off-ice workouts. There will be no access in the morning before practices. Head Coach John Anderson will be made available daily surrounding the player access period. Requests for Executive Vice President and General Manager Don Waddell will be accommodated pending his availability. All schedules are subject to change.

Atlanta Thrashers Season Tickets for the 2009-10 regular season start as low as $10 per game and are available by visiting atlantathrashers.com or calling (866) 715-1500.

Atlanta Hawks Sign Veteran Center Jason Collins

The Atlanta Hawks have signed veteran center Jason Collins, according to Executive Vice President/General Manager Rick Sund. Per team policy, terms were not announced.

“Jason provides us with additional size and a good interior defensive presence,” Sund said. “He has extensive experience, having started in two NBA Finals with the Nets, and is another player with strong character and leadership qualities.”

An eight-year veteran, Collins spent last season with the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he appeared in 31 games (22 starts), and averaged 1.8 ppg and 2.3 rpg.

He spent his first six-and-a-half seasons with the New Jersey Nets, where he appeared in 510 contests (starting 404 of them) before he was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies on February 4, 2008 in exchange for Stromile Swift. He then came to the Timberwolves as part of an eight-player deal on June 26, 2008 that also involved Kevin Love and O.J. Mayo.

Collins has played in 572 career regular season games, including 429 starting assignments, averaging 4.2 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 1.0 apg in 23.4 mpg (.410 FG%, .648 FT%). Collins also has significant postseason experience, playing in 75 playoff games (3.7 ppg, 4.4 rpg), including two trips to the NBA Finals with the Nets in 2002 and 2003.

The native of Southern California played four seasons at Stanford University alongside twin brother Jarron (now of the Utah Jazz). He earned Honorable Mention All-America by the Associated Press and was named to the All Pac-10 First Team in 2001, after putting in 14.5 ppg and 7.8 rpg. Collins attended Harvard-Westlake Prep in North Hollywood, California.

Jason Paul Collins was born December 2, 1978 in Northridge, California. He will wear uniform number 34.

Atlanta Hawks 2009-10 season tickets start as low at $10 per game and are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.hawks.com or calling 1-866-715-1500. New this year, fans also have the option of purchasing the exciting 13-game Playoff Plan, which includes the home opener and 12 additional games versus 2009 playoff teams – including the Lakers, Cavaliers, and Celtics. Groups of 20 or more can guarantee their ticket purchases before the public on-sale date by placing a deposit through the Hawks ticket sales department at 1-866-715-1500 or www.hawks.com. Individual regular season game tickets will go on sale at a later date. The Hawks, a member of the National Basketball Association since 1949, play in the Southeast Division, along with the Charlotte Bobcats, Miami Heat, Orlando Magic and Washington Wizards.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---