Thrashers to Raise Funds for Atlanta Thrashers Foundation with Limited-Edition Holiday Cards Designed by Each Player

The Atlanta Thrashers will be selling limited-edition holiday cards decorated and signed by every Thrashers player to benefit the Atlanta Thrashers Foundation.

Fans can purchase and enjoy a full set of cards, including each player’s personally-designed card with a stamped autograph. The cards went on sale Friday, Dec. 10, on the Philips Arena concourse during the game between the Thrashers and Colorado Avalanche. The sets will be sold at games though Dec. 21, while supplies last.

Who: Atlanta Thrashers Foundation

What: Atlanta Thrashers Holiday Card Fundraiser, benefitting the Atlanta Thrashers Foundation

When: All Thrashers home games through December 21

(Cards will be available while supplies last)

Where: Philips Arena Concourse / 1 Philips Drive / Atlanta, GA 30303

Go to Website Posting of Holiday Cards for more information.

The Atlanta Thrashers Foundation is dedicated to supporting Georgia-based organizations committed to improving the lives of children. The Foundation will work with children’s charities and programs that focus on the areas of health, wellness, education and youth hockey development. Since its inception in 1999, the Thrashers Foundation has granted $4 million in overall donations and charitable contributions to more than 2,000 charities throughout Georgia.

New Archery Range Available at Flat Creek Public Fishing Area

A new archery range is open in middle Georgia at the Flat Creek Public Fishing Area, announces the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division. 

“Public shooting ranges are popular with hunters and recreational shooting sports enthusiasts,” says Division Shooting Sports Coordinator Jennifer Pittman.  “We were eager to add a range to this public fishing area as soon as it opened in 2009 – and thanks to great cooperative efforts, we are now able to make it available to the public.”

Construction for the range began in September of this year, with final completion accomplished later that month.  The range was built using Wildlife Restoration funds, with money coming from sportsmen through their purchases of firearms, archery equipment and ammunition.

The range offers a static area that includes both bullseye and 3-D targets from 10-50 yards.  There are additional 3-D targets, at varying distances, available along a walking trail. The range is open every day during daylight hours. 

For more information on archery or firearms ranges, visit www.georgiawildlife.com and select “Hunting” and then “Archery/Shooting Ranges.”

-----
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable @HookedonHistory
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter: @artsacrossga, @softnblue, @RimbomboAAG
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
Twitter: @FayetteFP

Clayton State to Hold “Laker Madness” on October 14

“Laker Madness,” the introduction of the 2010/2011 Clayton State University Laker basketball teams, will be held at the University’s Athletics & Fitness Center on Thursday, Oct. 14, starting at 10 p.m.

The event is free and open to the general public and will feature highlights from last season as people are entering the gym.

The program will start with student three-point and dunk contests, followed by a routine by the Clayton State cheerleaders.

Next, the Clayton State women’s team will be introduced, followed by a 15 minute scrimmage. Coach Dennis Cox will then speak to the crowd about what is coming up for the 2010/2011 season.

The team introductions, scrimmage and a talk by men's coach Gordon Gibbons will follow the women's session.

The entire program should take about 90 minutes.

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
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable @HookedonHistory
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter: @artsacrossga, @softnblue, @RimbomboAAG
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
Twitter: @FayetteFP
---
Also check out:
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
http://valueswevalue.blogspot.com
Twiter: @valueswevalue
www.HorizonsLTD.com
Twitter: @gardenemporium
www.SoftCoolers.com
Twitter: @SoftCoolersUSA
www.Chair-ity-Event.org
www.ClothesLessTraveled.org
Twitter: @cltthriftshop
---

NFL Players Association Announces Partnership with RisingSeniors.com

NFLPA tailors Training Camp for Life, a character and skills development program for the Inaugural Georgia Junior Bowl Game

The top junior high school football players in Georgia will get treated like the NFL’s best when they attend the first RisingSeniors.com event in Atlanta, January 4 to8, 2011. The unique five-day summit has an unprecedented format which concentrates on the overall education and development of these young athletes rather than just the game. The culminating contest known as The Georgia Junior Bowl will feature the best juniors in the state at Bobby Dodd Stadium on the campus of Georgia Tech. The game is but a fraction of the programming compared to the rest of the action packed week of events slated for the young student athletes. In compliance with the NCAA, the programs will be run just like the NFL’s Rookie Symposium to focus on key issues that deal with character and life skills development. The program was designed to assist the young men with the challenges which lie ahead as they will attend workshops on NCAA compliance, ACT and SAT test prep, drug-free sports, social media training, alternate careers in sports and choices and consequences. There will also be a special session on giving back to the community presented by Danny Wurfel, former Heisman Trophy winner and NFL Legend.

“It is imperative we educate these student-athletes on the life skills required to be prepared for the college transition and life after football,” said Willis Whalen, NFLPA Manager of Player Services and Development and Training Camp for Life creator. “The Georgia Junior Bowl provides Training Camp for Life with the unique platform to reach a key audience. We hope to provide these juniors with the tools that they need to be successful both on and off the field.”

“After attending the Rookie Symposium as an NFL draftee, I see what an impact this program could have on high school student athletes at this critical time in their lives,” said Izell Reese, current Vice President of the NFLPA Atlanta Chapter and former NFL Player (Cowboys, Broncos, Bills). “That is why I partnered with Joe Burns (Buffalo Bills) to create this much needed educational program. We are astounded by the support and participation we have already received from the community and other organizations.”

The NFL Players Association, joins Rawlings who has agreed to become the official football helmet and apparel sponsor of the football event. Other partners include Curing Kids Cancer (Official Community Service partner), Desire Street Ministries, The Atlanta Sports Council and The Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau.

About the NFLPA:
The NFL Players Association is the exclusive collective bargaining agent for all players employed by clubs of the National Football League. Founded in 1956, the NFLPA works to ensure that the rights and interests of NFL players are protected. In addition, the NFLPA strives to be a valuable resource and to maximize player opportunities on and off the field through membership programs and community activities. For further information, visit www.nflplayers.com.

About RisingSeniors.com
RisingSeniors.com is an educational program created to better assist high school junior student-athletes with their athletic, academic and social development. With many athletes ill-equipped for the college recruiting process, RisingSeniors.com’s mission is to prepare the student-athlete and their parents for their senior year, college and beyond. Students and their parents are selected to participate in a series of life skills seminars and an all star game at Georgia Tech’s Bobby Dodd Stadium on January 8th, 2011. For more information please visit www.risingseniors.com, RisingSeniors Facebook page, phone at 678-528-4141 or via email at info@risingseniors.com.

The McGladrey Classic Welcomes Active and Retired Military

/PRNewswire/ -- The McGladrey Classic announces that all active and retired military personnel will receive free admission to this official PGA TOUR event. The inaugural tournament, held Oct. 6-10, 2010, will be played at the Seaside course at Sea Island Golf Club in Georgia's Golden Isles.

"We appreciate the great sacrifices that our military personnel make to protect the safety and freedom of all Americans, and we want these men and women to have an opportunity to watch some of the greatest golfers on the PGA TOUR," said McGladrey Classic Executive Director Mark Love.

A special hospitality venue, The McGladrey Military Outpost provided by title sponsor McGladrey, will be located near the 9th green. Active and retired military simply need to show their military ID card to gain free entry to the tournament.

"It is a great honor to be able to host members of our military at the first McGladrey Classic," said C.E. Andrews, president and chief operating officer of RSM McGladrey. "We look forward to The McGladrey Military Outpost becoming one of the great traditions of our annual event."

Attendees will have a chance to watch Team McGladrey members Zach Johnson, Davis Love III, and Chris DiMarco, among many other PGA TOUR professionals compete in the tournament.

-----
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable @HookedonHistory
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter: @artsacrossga, @softnblue, @RimbomboAAG
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
Twitter: @FayetteFP

Eight Winners of Golf's Majors to Play in McGladrey Classic

/PRNewswire/ -- Unarguably, golf's Majors – the Masters, U.S. Open Championship, The Open Championship (commonly referred to as the British Open) and PGA Championship – draw the elite of the elite professional players.

The McGladrey Classic, an official PGA TOUR event, will host eight previous Major winners October 6 – 10 at Sea Island Golf Club, Saint Simons Island, Georgia. In addition to previously committed players Davis Love III, Zach Johnson and Lucas Glover, players Trevor Immelman, David Duval, David Toms, Justin Leonard and Lee Janzen will play the Seaside course, ranked one of the top 100 courses in the U.S. by Golf Magazine and Golf Digest.

Immelman won the Masters, Duval and Leonard the British Open, and Toms the PGA Championship. Love, Duval and Leonard also won The Players Championship, often referred to as the 5th Major. Another 5th Major winner, Henrik Stenson, has committed to play in The McGladrey Classic.

"Davis and I are extremely excited to introduce the PGA TOUR family to Georgia's beautiful Golden Isles. It's our dream to create an event that mirrors all our community is renowned for – its rich culture, storied past and extraordinary hospitality," said tournament executive director Mark Love. "We believe that when players and spectators come once, it will quickly become their annual Seaside tradition."

Tickets can be purchased online at www.mcgladreyclassic.com. Friday, September 24 is the last day to purchase tickets to be mailed. Tickets purchased after Friday can be picked up at Will Call, located in the event parking area at McKinnon Airport, near the Sea Island Golf Club entrance.

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

Special Olympics Georgia Celebrates First Eunice Kennedy Shriver Week Sept. 22-26

/PRNewswire/ -- Hundreds of golf enthusiasts and bowlers will celebrate the first celebration week of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the founder of Special Olympics Sept. 22-26

"Her legacy of inspiring change throughout her life will be recognized through a day of sports, meeting new people and contributions with the goal of championing hope, justice, faith and courage," said Special Olympics Georgia (SOGA) CEO Georgia Milton-Sheats.

"Eunice Kennedy Shriver week is an opportunity to demonstrate what Shriver has taught us by changing our perceptions of people with intellectual disabilities with sport and camaraderie," Milton-Sheats said.

SOGA is holding events to celebrate Shriver:

* Metro Atlanta residents support Special Olympics Georgia (SOGA) by attending THE TOUR Championship, presented by Coca-Cola at East Lake Golf Club Sept. 22-26. Daily grounds tickets are available for $60 each or several days can be purchased. For every ticket sold, SOGA receives 50 percent back, using the code TCSGSH.
* Similar to Shriver, Atlantans will rally against using the R-word and attend "Strike the R-Word! Bowl with Atlanta Hawks Forward Marvin Williams," Sept. 23 at 300 Atlanta. Tickets are $40 including bowling, shoe rental, drinks, appetizers, and a bowling T-shirt.


For more information about THE TOUR and the bowling event, visit www.SpecialOlympicsGA.org

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

It's 'Game On' for the 17th Annual Wendy's High School Heisman Award

/PRNewswire/ -- Wendy's® is looking for the next class of remarkable students who excel in academics, athletics and community involvement. Celebrating its 17th year, the 2010 Wendy's High School Heisman(TM) award application process is underway. Now through Oct. 3, 2010, eligible students (graduating class of 2011) can apply and submit their applications at www.WendysHeisman.com.

"I'm proud to be part of a program that honors young men and women who embody the spirit of the Heisman tradition of hard work, dedication and an outstanding record both on and off the field," said Archie Griffin, two-time collegiate Heisman Memorial Trophy winner (1974 - '75). "The Wendy's High School Heisman award recognizes those individuals who have put forth tremendous effort in the classroom, in sports and in the community to deliver excellence in all they do."

The Wendy's High School Heisman (WHSH) award is a joint program between Wendy's and the Heisman Memorial Trust, host of the Collegiate Heisman Memorial Trophy. Just as the Heisman is known for being the top award in college football, WHSH is known for being the most prominent award at the high school level. To date, more than 250,000 high school students have represented their schools.

The elite recognition of the WHSH award also gives students the leverage they need to shine on their college applications and stand apart from their peers in the competitive process. "Being recognized as the Wendy's High School Heisman Winner has opened so many doors for me and has reinforced my confidence in taking on whatever challenges and opportunities may arise," said Kyle Pollock, 2009 WHSH winner.

All eligible seniors may submit an application online through Oct. 3, 2010. The first 41,100 applicants will receive a Wendy's gift card randomly valued from $5 to $50. From the completed applications, one male and one female winner will be chosen to receive the Wendy's High School Heisman award. For more information, students can visit www.WendysHeisman.com, call (800) 205-6367 or contact their local high school principal, guidance counselor or athletic director. Students can also visit the WHSH fan page on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/wendyshighschoolheisman.

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

Six Gap Century Offers Two New Jersey Designs for All Cyclists

Two Weeks & 650 Spots Remain for Sept. 26 Bicycle Event

The countdown clock at www.cyclenorthgeorgia.com reads “15 Days” until the start of the 22nd Annual Six Gap Century & Three Gap Fifty, organized by the Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce. Registrations are still available for all three ride options on Sunday, September 26, 2010.  Only 650 spots remain for the popular bicycle tour of the North Georgia Mountains, from the ultra-challenging century, to the 58.4 three gap ride, and the 35-mile Valley Ride. The event is expected to reach its goal of 2,500 registered riders.
To commemorate one of the largest and oldest single-day bicycle tours in the Southeast, organizers have introduced two new souvenir jerseys created by Hincapie Sportswear.  There are a total of six different jersey designs from Hincapie for sale on the event web site. All jerseys are $65 online, and all registered riders receive 15% discount for an online purchase. Official Six Gap socks will also be available this year, available at the Bike Expo.

The 2010 Mountain Sunburst Six Gap and 2010 Blue Mountain Map Six Gap jerseys were specially designed by Hincapie Sportswear for this popular event. Both designs incorporate elements from the event logo on both sides of the jersey. Using the SmartDry® performance fabric, this jersey incorporates exclusive moisture management technology to wick perspiration away from the skin, keeping you drier and more comfortable.  Hincapie's exclusive SunSmart technology provides a 30+ Ultraviolet Protection Factor to help protect the skin from the harmful effects of UVA and UVB radiation. And Hincapie™ Gel-Grip waist keeps the jersey in place and prevents it from riding up in the back for superior comfort. Each short sleeve jersey has a full-length zipper and three roomy back pockets.

“We are very pleased to be the official jersey and sock provider to the Six Gap Century,” said Rich Hincapie, president of Hincapie Sportswear.  “I’ve done the ride before and it’s a fantastic route.  I think six Gap was one of our first century ride custom jersey customers, and we’ve seen the ride grow quite a bit over the years.  This year there are multiple jersey designs available, so there should be something that appeals to everyone.”
Blue Mountain Map jerseys are available for men in sizes small to 2XL in race cut and in sizes medium to 2XL in club cut. Women's jerseys are available in sizes x-small to medium in club cut.  Mountain Sunburst jerseys are available for men in sizes small to 2XL in race cut and in sizes small to 3XL in club cut. Women's jerseys are available in sizes x-small to large in club cut.

Hincapie Sportswear also creates the special award jerseys presented to the King of the Mountain and Queen of the Mountain competitions this year. Four individuals (two age groups for males and females) will be crowned as the top climbers in the Six Gap event, using a combined time for climbing Hogpen Gap and Wolfpen Gap. Of the two climbs, Hogpen Gap, on Georgia SR 348, rises to 3800 feet over 9.6 miles, and has a two-mile section with gradients of 12-14%.

The Six Gap Century covers a total of 11,200 feet of climbing over 104 miles. The Three Gap Fifty option covers almost 6,400 feet of climbing on a 58-mile route. And the new 35-mile Valley Ride has 2,900 vertical feet along the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The majority of participants are “Six Gappers”, with 86% being male and living in the Southeast. A total of 35 states and countries were represented last year on all rides, including California, Minnesota, and Texas. Proceeds from the event help fund community initiatives for the Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce, a 501 c (6) not-for-profit organization. The Six Gap Century has become one of the largest events for the chamber.

Online registration is $50 per person for any of the three ride options until September 23.  After that date, participants can register in Dahlonega for $55 per person at the Bike Expo on Saturday, September 25. The Bike Expo will be held on the Historic Dahlonega Square and it is free for all visitors. All participants are encouraged to attend the Bike Expo on Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. to pickup registration packets and visit sponsor exhibits.  Sunday event registration will near the start line at the Lumpkin County High School, two miles north of downtown Dahlonega, from 6:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

DETAILS:

• Six Gap Century – 7:30 a.m. start - Thisultra-challenging route takes you up and down six of the steepest climbs in the North Georgia Mountains, with more than 11,200 feet of vertical climbing over the 104-mile course. Elevations for the six gaps in this ride range from 2,949 feet to 3,490 feet.
• Three Gap Fifty – 8:30 a.m. start –Half the gaps for participants who want a shorter ride but just as much scenery and challenging climbs.  This course is 58 miles and elevations range from 3,109 feet to 3,280 feet.
• Valley Ride – 8:30 a.m. start - This 35-mile ride option is a great introduction to the rolling terrain in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, featuring the scenic areas of the Yahoola Valley and DeSoto Falls near Turner's Corner.
• KOM Competition –Two climbs will be timed for registered riders on the Six Gap route only. Timing will be computed using AMB ProChip System. There will be two age groups for males and females for a total of four winners – Male/Female (34 and under), Male/Female (35 and over). Only two climbs (Hog Pen and Wolf Pen) will be timed; the event is a ride, not a race. There were two winners in 2009 – Top Male, Eric Murphy (Athens, Ga) total KOM time 0:44:38.558, and Top Female, Debbie Milne (Belden, Miss) total KOM time 0:50:52:362.
• 2010 Bike Expo –Held Saturday, Sept. 25 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m on the Historic Dahlonega Square. All cyclists are encouraged to attend for early pick up of registration packets, to avoid long lines on Sunday morning.   The Bike Expo offers interactive exhibits and prizes from event sponsors. It is free and open to the public.
• Web Site –www.cyclenorthgeorgia.com 

SIX GAP CLIMBS AND ELEVATIONS::

• Neels Gap, 3139’/ 957 m (part of Three Gap)
• Jack’s Gap, 2960’/902 m
• Unicoi Gap, 2949’/899  m
• Hogpen Gap, 3480’/ 1061 m
• Wolf Pen Gap, 3345’/ 1019 m (part of Three Gap)
• Woody Gap, 3200’/ 975 m (part of Three Gap)

---
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter: @artsacrossga, @softnblue, @RimbomboAAG
---
Also check out:
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
http://valueswevalue.blogspot.com
Twiter: @valueswevalue
www.HorizonsLTD.com
Twitter: @gardenemporium
www.SoftCoolers.com
www.Chair-ity-Event.org
www.ClothesLessTraveled.org
Twitter: @cltthriftshop
---

The North Face Endurance Challenge Comes to Atlanta for the First Time

(BUSINESS WIRE)--For the first time in its four-year history, The North Face Endurance Challenge comes to Atlanta, Georgia on October 16-17, 2010. Named one of the 25 best running cities in America by Runner’s World magazine, Atlanta will host the two-day event that will feature 50-Mile, 50K, Half-Marathon and 10K race distances. This year’s event will also feature a Marathon, Marathon Relay, 5K race and runs for kids under 13.

“The Pine Mountain Ridge – on the southernmost edge of the Appalachian Mountain range – will offer a breathtaking fall foliage backdrop in mid-October.”

Hosted by internationally-recognized ultrarunner Dean Karnazes, The North Face Endurance Challenge Presented by Gore-Tex offers a unique running experience, welcoming people to push and exceed their personal limits on the trail. Following regional races in Bear Mountain, NY and Washington, DC, The North Face 2010 Endurance Challenge comes to Madison, WI and Atlanta before culminating with the championship in San Francisco. Each of the men’s and women’s regional Gore-Tex 50 Mile winners will take home $1,000. At the Championship, $10,000 each will go to the top male and female Gore-Tex 50 Mile finisher.

“The Atlanta race is a hardy test for trail runners of any level,” said Karnazes. “The Pine Mountain Ridge – on the southernmost edge of the Appalachian Mountain range – will offer a breathtaking fall foliage backdrop in mid-October.”

The Southeast Regional course will run through historic F.D. Roosevelt State Park in Pine Mountain, GA, which offers 42 miles of established trails. The course features a mixture of technical terrain with rocky rooted footing and some hard-packed trails, including plenty of water crossings and ascents/descents along the Pine Mountain Ridge, resulting in a tough test of off-road endurance.

“This is the first year the Endurance Challenge is coming to the southeast and we’re excited to build on our relationships with the Atlanta running community,” said Aaron Carpenter, Vice President of Marketing for The North Face. “With a new two-day format and family-oriented activities each day, the Endurance Challenge provides opportunities for athletes at every level to have fun.”

The North Face Endurance Challenge was awarded “Best Green Race Series” by Trail Runner magazine in 2009. In addition to The North Face Endurance Challenge, The North Face hosts global endurance events in Europe, Asia, Australia, South America and Canada. For more information about The North Face global endurance events check out www.thenorthface.com/endurancechallenge.

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

College Football Hall of Fame Relocation to Atlanta Making Great Strides

(BUSINESS WIRE)--The project to relocate the College Football Hall of Fame to Atlanta is making significant progress towards realizing the goal of creating a new immersive and interactive attraction that will celebrate the college football game day experience in a way never before seen.

“This new home of college football will be a true celebration of the sport, evoking all the emotions of the game day experience.”

Atlanta Hall Management, Inc. – the newly formed non-profit created to oversee the construction and management of the new facility – today made a number of announcements related to its continuing progress.

“We’ve achieved an incredible amount in planning what will be a highly entertaining, engaging and memorable attraction,” said Gary Stokan, Atlanta Hall Management and Chick-fil-A Bowl president and CEO. “This new home of college football will be a true celebration of the sport, evoking all the emotions of the game day experience.”

First among those was the selection of two finalist sites still under consideration for the new facility. Both sites are located in downtown Atlanta in close proximity to Centennial Olympic Park and the city’s core of museums and attractions, including the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola.

The first finalist site, owned by InterPark, encompasses 34,000 square feet and is located at the corner of Harris St. and Centennial Olympic Park Drive. The site is currently being used as a parking lot.

The second finalist site, owned by the Georgia World Congress Center Authority, is a 2.7-acre parking lot adjacent to Hall A of the Georgia World Congress Center convention complex, one-half block south of Centennial Olympic Park.

“We literally looked at dozens of possible sites to narrow it down to these two,” Stokan said. “Each site has its unique benefits and both will offer exciting opportunities for the grand opening of the new College Football Hall of Fame in March 2013.”

Atlanta Hall Management (AHM) is continuing to vet the two sites and is expected to make a final selection later this year with construction of the 50,000 square-foot, $50 million facility expected to be completed in March 2013.

AHM’s final agreement with the National Football Foundation, which was signed in July, provides an official license and empowers AHM to oversee all aspects of the project and provides rights to use the name “College Football Hall of Fame.”

“We couldn’t be more pleased with the amount of progress our partners in Atlanta have achieved,” said Steve Hatchell, National Football Foundation president and CEO. “Together, we have assembled a team of experts in every discipline necessary to deliver on the vision we all share for the new College Football Hall of Fame.”

Fundraising efforts continue to progress ahead of expectations. AHM announced that $31.5 million of the estimated $50 million has already been committed to the project.

Current financial commitments include $10 million in general obligation bonds from the State of Georgia, $5 million from the Chick-fil-A Bowl, $5 million from Chick-fil-A, Inc., $2.5 million from Coca-Cola, $1 million from the City of Atlanta’s ADA Economic Development Fund and up to $8 million in cash netting from $25 million in new market tax credits through the Atlanta Development Authority.

“With the funding currently in place, our goal to open the new College Football Hall of Fame is off to an incredibly positive start. We haven’t even gone into the marketplace with our sponsorship packages yet,” Stokan said. “The reality is that this will be a very attractive and dynamic asset for companies looking for a solid return on their investment.”

In addition to its cash commitment, Atlanta-based Coca-Cola has also committed several million dollars in marketing assets including Web, digital media and cross-promotional activities.

Chick-fil-A was the first company to commit as a corporate partner in the project, adding the Hall to its current college football sponsorships anchored by the Chick-fil-A Bowl and the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game. “We identified the College Football Hall of Fame early as a ‘can’t-miss’ opportunity,” said Steve Robinson, chief marketing officer for Chick-fil-A. “It fits perfectly into our portfolio of college sports properties because college fans have the high level of passion and loyalty we’re looking for.”

With the construction phase of the project expected to begin in August 2011, AHM disclosed its development team consisting of architects, real estate developer/program managers and exhibit designers.

TVS Design of Atlanta will serve as lead architects as a part of a joint venture with Turner Associates of Atlanta. Cousins Properties and Gude Management, another Atlanta-based joint venture, will perform the roles of developer and program manager. Gallagher and Associates of Washington D.C. will design the exhibit experience and work closely with TVS Design and Turner Associates to achieve an integrated look and feel with the building architecture.

During the approximate two-year construction process, the College Football Hall of Fame project will generate an estimated $91 million in economic impact for Georgia, while creating an estimated 884 jobs in metro Atlanta and will generate an estimated $4.9 million in state taxes for Georgia. The construction phase is also expected to generate $1.8 million in city tax revenue for Atlanta a study commissioned by Central Atlanta Progress stated.

“This will be a huge financial windfall for Atlanta and Georgia at a time when no one else is creating jobs,” Stokan said. “It will also provide a new tax revenue stream at a time when state sales tax revenues have declined.”

The College Football Hall of Fame relocation project was originally spearheaded by the Chick-fil-A Bowl, in partnership with the National Football Foundation. Representatives from the two organizations first announced plans to relocate the Hall to Atlanta from its current home in South Bend, Ind. last September.

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

First Annual Peachtree City Masonic Lodge Four Man Scramble Golf Tournament

Friday, October 1, Shotgun Start at 1:00PM Planterra Ridge Golf Course, Peachtree City Entry Fee is $75 per player and includes golf, range balls, a nice buffet lunch, prizes and awards and a change to win a new car with a hole in one! For information or to register contact Dan Tennant at 404-375-2115 or DanTennant@aol.com. Proceeds benefit Masonic Charities and American Cancer Society's Relay for Life.

Denny Hamlin to Drive #11 Sport Clips Toyota Camry This Weekend During NASCAR's Emory Healthcare 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway

/PRNewswire/ -- Denny Hamlin will make his 176th career NASCAR Sprint Cup Series start this weekend when he climbs behind the wheel of the #11 Sport Clips Toyota Camry at Atlanta Motor Speedway (AMS).

Sport Clips will serve as the primary sponsor of the #11 Toyota this weekend at Atlanta. It is the first time the long-time Joe Gibbs Racing partner in the Nationwide Series has sponsored a Sprint Cup Car. Sport Clips is headquartered in Georgetown, Texas and features more than 700 Sport Clips locations in 38 states. The franchise ranked in the top 100 overall and top 50 in growth for the sixth straight year in Entrepreneur Magazine's "Franchise 500."

Sunday night's race at AMS marks Hamlin's 11th Cup start at the 1.55-mile track. To date, he has recorded one top-five and three top-ten finishes at Atlanta. His best finish came in the fall of 2008 when he led 56 laps on his way to a third-place finish.

"It's exciting to have Sport Clips on board this weekend," says Hamlin. "They have been with Gibbs for a while now supporting the Nationwide teams and they've had a lot of success there. I am hoping to give them a good race this weekend on the Cup side - it would be fun to celebrate with them on Sunday night."

Green flag for the Emory Heathcare 500 will drop at 7:30 p.m. ET with live coverage on ESPN Television and PRN.

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

Let's Play Ball! A Night Out at the Ball Park with Outdoor Channel & Comcast

/PRNewswire/ -- Outdoor Channel, America's leader in outdoor TV, today announced plans for the pregame "Fields & Reels Outdoor Night" expo with the Atlanta Braves on Friday, September 10th. Willie Robertson of Outdoor Channel's "Buck Commander Protected by Under Armour" and "Benelli Presents Duck Commander" will headline the event with Braves alum Ryan Klesko to celebrate the night with area hunters, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. In partnership with Comcast, the network will offer activities and prizes at a co-branded booth prior to the Braves vs. St. Louis Cardinals game at Turner Field.

"We are excited to partner with the Atlanta Braves and Xfinity TV from Comcast, as the event gives outdoor enthusiasts and sports fans an opportunity to come together with their favorite stars who share the same passions," said Tom Hornish, COO at Outdoor Channel.

"We are thrilled to join forces with Outdoor Channel for the 'Fields & Reels Outdoor Night' expo. This event enables us to celebrate the outdoor lifestyle and reach avid outdoor enthusiasts and sports fans in the region," said Taylor Nipper, Director of Marketing, Comcast Atlanta Region.

The expo will be filmed for an upcoming episode of "Buck Commander," capturing Robertson singing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" during the seventh inning stretch and hosting an outdoor-themed Q&A session with good friend Ryan Klesko. "Buck Commander" is a reality-based TV show that follows Willie, aka "Boss Hogg," and current and former Major League Baseball superstars Matt Duff, Chipper Jones, Ryan Langerhans, Adam LaRoche and Tom "Tombo" Martin from batting practice to bow practice and from in-the-field to the outfield. Every episode highlights the camaraderie, comedy and antics of the six co-owners of the Buck Commander company, where the end of baseball season is only the beginning.

"Having been on 'Buck Commander' with Major League Baseball players, I am honored to be a part of such a marquee event for outdoor enthusiasts and baseball fans," commented Willie Robertson. "One of the major benefits of working with Outdoor Channel is getting to know other hunters. From baseball players to folks I meet on the road - we're all just a bunch of good ol' boys who share a love for the outdoors."

Visit the Outdoor Channel/Comcast booth at the expo for raffles and promotional giveaways, including hot-ticket posters which will only be available to the first 5,000 fans entering the stadium. Tickets for the Atlanta Braves vs. St. Louis Cardinals game are available at a discounted price with the promo code: OUTDOOR at www.braves.com/outdoor.

Outdoor Channel appears on Channel 210 on Xfinity TV from Comcast in the Atlanta market.

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

The Georgia Center presents “1980 Championship Year Revisited” photography exhibit

A pictorial exhibit of University of Georgia football by photojournalist Wingate Downs, “1980 Championship Year Revisited,” will be on display in Hill Atrium at the Georgia Center for Continuing Education Conference Center and Hotel, Sept. 1 – Jan. 7. The exhibit is free and open to the public. The Georgia Center is located at 1197 S. Lumpkin Street.

This exhibit profiles UGA’s 1980 National Championship football team. The collection tells the story of that successful football season and the players who made it possible. Downs captured the excitement of this legendary year of UGA football including Herschel Walker’s first day of practice, Walker’s touchdown at the Sugar Bowl and fans watching home games from the railroad tracks.

Downs is an Oglethorpe County resident and a graduate of UGA’s Henry W. Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication. He was chief photographer for the Athens Banner-Herald and Athens Daily News for 18 years, photo director of Athens Magazine for nine years, and stringer for the Associated Press and United Press International for 20 years in Athens. He earned more than 30 state and national awards for his news and advertising photography throughout his career, including an Instant Citation from the Associated Press. Downs’ photography has been printed by Life, Sports Illustrated, Newsweek, and People magazine, and many books on Athens and UGA sports, including Glory! Glory! Georgia’s 1980 Championship Season: The Inside Story by Lewis Grizzard and Loran Smith, and Dooley’s Dawgs: 25 Years of Winning Football at the University of Georgia, by Loran Smith and Vince Dooley. Downs currently operates a freelance photography business.

The Georgia Center is a unit of the University of Georgia Office of the Vice President for Public Service and Outreach. On UGA’s campus, the Georgia Center includes a full-service hotel with 200 rooms and suites, restaurants, ballroom, banquet areas, conference rooms, auditoriums, a fitness center, and a computer lab — all under one roof. For more information, see www.georgiacenter.uga.edu.


-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

Brunswick and the Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau Announces Sponsorship of Inaugural McGladrey Classic

Bureau welcomes fans to enjoy countless activities available on Georgia’s Coast on and off the course

Brunswick and The Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau (BGICVB) is delighted to be a top sponsor and welcome the inaugural McGladrey Classic, the PGA TOUR’s newest tournament, to coastal Georgia this October.

Contested on St. Simons Island at Sea Island Golf Club’s venerable Seaside course, The McGladrey Classic promises to be a stellar event as host Davis Love III, a longtime Golden Isles resident, and other PGA TOUR notables compete for the win. The McGladrey Classic offers spectators an exceptional experience including four days of world-class golf, and the Golden Isles will provide an idyllic backdrop for walks along beautiful beaches, luscious meals, limitless activities and warm Southern hospitality.

McGladrey, the tournament’s title sponsor, is one of the nation's leading assurance, tax and business consulting firms. Tournament proceeds will benefit Special Olympics and two local charities for children and families - the Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Georgia and Safe Harbor Children’s Center, located in The Golden Isles.

Located midway between Savannah, GA and Jacksonville, FL, The Golden Isles has been called “home” by numerous notable golfers. Renowned for the superior golf courses, coaching and teaching facilities, the region also provides a rich life off the course, making it a truly special location for residents and visitors to the area. The area’s culture, history and attractions will be showcased to all who visit during tournament week.

Area highlights include miles of sun-drenched beaches, 198 holes of golf, historic sites and museums, fishing and watersports, quaint specialty shops and galleries, nature programs, and more creating a memorable experience just steps away from the tournament gates. Local restaurants offer an abundance of options from fine dining to casual, waterfront meals. Accommodations range from convenient interstate hotels and bed-and-breakfast inns on the mainland, to a world-class island resort, private island retreats, historic seaside and riverfront hotels, golf and tennis resorts, rental cottages and campgrounds.

“The Golden Isles serves as the perfect backdrop for a spectacular golf event,” said Davis Love III, PGA TOUR member. “This is the special place I call home, and I am honored to have Brunswick and The Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau as a major sponsor of our tournament. I look forward to sharing my community and all it has to offer with spectators and players alike.”

For those seeking details and information about The Golden Isles, the BGICVB will be making frequent posts and sharing special tournament opportunities on its Facebook page. An interactive area map located on the page is also an excellent resource for those planning a visit to The Golden Isles.

“While spectators are guaranteed to enjoy top-notch golf on a world-class course, our primary goal is to ensure that visitors have all of the resources and information they need to extend fun beyond the golf course,” said Bill Tipton, Executive Director, BGICVB. “Our Facebook page is the ideal place for golf enthusiasts to learn about activities, dining and lodging information and is also a great place for fans to post questions about their trip and receive prompt, informative responses. We are delighted to be the resource for all things Coastal Georgia during The McGladrey Classic.”

For more information about The McGladrey Classic and to purchase tickets, please visit www.mcgladreyclassic.com.
---
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter: @artsacrossga & @softnblue
---
Also check out :
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
www.HorizonsLTD.com
Twitter: @gardenemporium
www.SoftCoolers.com
www.Chair-ity-Event.org
www.ClothesLessTraveled.org
Twitter: @cltthriftshop
---

Emory Healthcare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Race Names Terry “Mr. 500” Green as Grand Marshal

NASCAR fan and Lawrenceville native was Emory’s 500th heart transplant patient in 2008

When Emory Healthcare and Atlanta Motor Speedway officials began searching for the grand marshal of this year’s Emory Healthcare 500 Sprint Cup Series race, they didn’t have to search long or far to find the perfect candidate – and one who already possessed the perfect tailor-made nickname for such an occasion.

Lawrenceville native Terry “Mr. 500” Green has been named the grand marshal for this year’s race, to be held on Labor Day weekend at the Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Green’s story – and how he came to be known as “Mr. 500” – actually had nothing to do with automobile racing when the title was created back in March 2008, after he became the 500th heart transplant recipient at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta.

Green is also one of very few, if not the ONLY patient from Emory, who can actually say he was born twice in the same hospital and mean it. Not only did he receive his heart transplant at Emory almost 61 years to the day of his birth, but he was also born in the hospital, which no longer delivers babies (Emory University Hospital Midtown – previously Emory Crawford Long – has long since provided these services.)

While Emory University Hospital no longer delivers babies, Green can now claim – and really mean it – that he was literally born twice at Emory University Hospital.

“It was a very special feeling to have a new chance at life because of my heart transplant, and the fact that I was also the 500th person to receive a new heart at Emory was extra special,” says Green, who is a fifth generation Gwinnett County native. “To be named the grand marshal for the Emory Healthcare 500, an event that is such an incredible show, and means so much to Georgia and the Atlanta metropolitan area each year, is beyond a special surprise – it is an honor. I am so excited to see my first race in person, and I will forever carry with me the memory by being a part of such a special event.”

According to Dane Peterson, Chief Operating Officer for Emory University Hospital Midtown, having Green serve as the official grand marshal is a special treat for the Emory Healthcare family, as well as for Green and his family.

“When we began to discuss who we might have as the ceremonial starter for this event, it didn’t take very long at all for Terry’s name and story to jump right into the front of the pack,” says Peterson. “We were all very familiar with Terry’s incredible story, and since his transplant a few years ago, he has befriended Emory in many ways as one of our best known ambassadors. Once everyone quickly agreed that ‘Mr. 500’ should undoubtedly be our guy to officially start the engines Sunday night, the only question left was, ‘Is he a race car fan?’”

Green, who has never seen a race in person, is a fan – particularly of No. 29 Kevin Harvick. But just how did Green become a fan of Harvick, as opposed to any one of the other 42 race car drivers who will compete in Atlanta?

“Interesting story,” says Green. “One day I was in my local car dealership getting my vehicle serviced, and they were sponsoring a contest. The grand prize was a cruise ship vacation. I didn’t win the vacation … but I won a Kevin Harvick scale model vehicle. I’ve been following and rooting for him ever since.”

And speaking of cruise ships – it was aboard a cruise ship in the Caribbean during a vacation with his wife that Green suddenly suffered a severe heart attack. He was stabilized aboard the ship, and later on shore, before being transported back to Georgia and Emory for care. He would later learn that the doctors that treated him in the Caribbean were both Emory University School of Medicine trained physicians.

“You talk about another extra special link to this whole experience,” said Green. Not only was my life saved on foreign soil by doctors who learned their trade at Emory, but I would receive my transplant there, was born there, and will now forever be known as ‘Mr. 500’ for this once-in-a-lifetime event.”

And who is Green bringing to this year’s race? His wife? His son? A neighbor or co-worker?

“My au pair,” says Green.

“Lee Mitchell is actually a good buddy of mine who looked after me - along with my wife, Danette, and my son Taylor Green, who is a race fan, while I was at Emory waiting on my heart transplant. Even though my wife is not going, I know she’ll be watching for me on TV.”

The Emory Healthcare 500
The biggest Labor Day party in the USA is at Atlanta Motor Speedway for the Emory Healthcare 500 race weekend on Sept. 3 -5. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact the Atlanta Motor Speedway Ticket Office at (770) 946-4211, (877) 9-AMS-TIX, or visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.

Emory Heart Transplant Program
The Heart Transplant Program has been in existence at Emory University Hospital since 1985, when it performed the first heart transplant in Georgia. Today Emory’s patient survival rates are among the best in the country. Emory’s transplant program has an experienced multi-disciplinary team highly skilled in the care of heart transplant candidates and recipients. This team includes the Center’s cardiologists, a transplant surgeon, transplant coordinators, a social worker, psychiatrist, psychiatric clinical nurse specialist, pharmacist, clinical nutritionist, physical therapist, chaplain, staff nurses and a financial coordinator. Each member of this team offers a specialized service in the care of Emory transplant patients. 
---
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter: @artsacrossga & @softnblue
---
Also check out :
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
www.HorizonsLTD.com
Twitter: @gardenemporium
www.SoftCoolers.com
www.Chair-ity-Event.org
www.ClothesLessTraveled.org
Twitter: @cltthriftshop
---

First Ever 3D Broadcasts of US Open Spearheaded by Panasonic and CBS Sports

/PRNewswire/ -- The USTA today announced that consumer electronics giant Panasonic has become an official sponsor of the US Open in a new three-year agreement.

Working with CBS Sports, the USTA and Panasonic will spearhead the first-ever 3D broadcasts of the tournament. CBS Sports will produce 3D versions of all the Arthur Ashe Stadium matches that it broadcasts in High Definition on Labor Day Weekend and on Finals Weekend, September 10-12. These matches will be made available nationwide via DirecTV's exclusive dedicated 3D entertainment channel, "n|3D Powered by Panasonic" (DirecTV channel 103).

On-site at the 2010 US Open, Panasonic will have three 3D viewing galleries--a 3D Panasonic Showcase located in the former International Tennis Hall of Fame Gallery on the floor level of Louis Armstrong Stadium, and another in SmashZone, the US Open's interactive tennis experience for fans and families located in the state-of-the-art indoor facility and one more in the South Plaza area. Panasonic and DirecTV also will provide the US Open semifinal and final matches live in 3D to hundreds of TV retail outlets nationwide, including scores of Best Buy stores, as part of the September 10-12 "National 3D Demo Days" organized by the Consumer Electronics Association.

"We are very pleased to enter a new era of sports production with a new partner, Panasonic, and our long-time partner, CBS," said Lucy S. Garvin, USTA Chairman of the Board and President. "We continually explore new innovations for the US Open, and new ways to present our tournament to tennis fans. 3D technology is the wave of the future, and once again the US Open will be on the cutting edge."

"Panasonic is proud to support the US Open, on site and in homes throughout the country, by bringing live match action to tennis fans in immersive 3D," said Joseph M. Taylor, Chairman and CEO of Panasonic Corporation of North America. "Panasonic consumer and professional 3D displays will show the Arthur Ashe Stadium matches to spectators on site in Flushing Meadows, viewers nationwide can see them via DirecTV's exclusive 3D channel, 'n|3D powered by Panasonic,' and our professional 3D camcorder will be used to shoot interviews and other footage in 3D for CBS's production."

"CBS Sports is looking forward to using this groundbreaking technology during our coverage of the U.S. Open Tennis Championships," said Harold Bryant, Vice President, Production, CBS Sports. "With the court-level camera positions that will make viewers feel like they are right on the court, and the resonant sounds of the game and the spectators, tennis will be a spectacular sport to see in 3D."

The 3D broadcasts will use a separate production team and equipment from the traditional HD broadcasts of the tournament. Plans call for six camera rigs (each holding two high definition cameras), two special 3D production trucks, and a unique 3D-dedicated CBS Sports broadcast team. CBS has designed the 3D camera placements lower to the court than traditional TV locations, in order to capture the close-up and personal, athletic dimension of tennis that make 3D such a powerful experience.

Panasonic also will reach out to viewers with advertising geared to the new 3D technology during the CBS Sports broadcasts of the US Open. In order to view the US Open in 3D, fans must have 3D televisions and 3D eyewear and be subscribers to DirecTV.

The Panasonic sponsorship also include sponsorship of Arthur Ashe Kids' Day, the US Open's tennis and entertainment spectacular that serves as the unofficial opening to the tournament. In addition, Panasonic will have new, digital signage in the three stadiums and at most of the outer courts at the US Open.

The USTA is the national governing body for the sport of tennis in the U.S. and the leader in promoting and developing the growth of tennis at every level -- from local communities to the highest level of the professional game. A not-for-profit organization with 750,000 members, it invests 100% of its proceeds in growing the game. It owns and operates the US Open, the highest attended annual sporting event in the world, and launched the Olympus US Open Series linking 10 summer tournaments to the US Open. In addition, it owns the 90 Pro Circuit events throughout the U.S., is a minority owner and promotional partner of World TeamTennis, and selects the teams for the Davis Cup, Fed Cup, Olympic and Paralympic Games. The USTA philanthropic entity, USTA Serves, provides grants and scholarships and through tennis, helps underserved youth and people with disabilities to improve academics and strive for excellence. For more information on the USTA, log on to usta.com.

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

Eagle's Landing Country Club Named '2010 Georgia Course of The Year' by Georgia Golf Course Owners Association

/PRNewswire/ -- Eagle's Landing Country Club in Stockbridge has been recognized by the Georgia Golf Course Owners Association (GGCOA) as the "2010 Course of the Year." Eagle's Landing Country Club, a member of the ClubCorp family of clubs since 2000, offers a 27-hole, Tom Fazio-designed Championship course.

"The criteria we use to determine the award includes outstanding quality of the course, outstanding quality of management and ownership, contribution to the game of golf, and contribution to the community," said Cindy Acree, executive director of the GGCOA. "Eagle's Landing excels in all of these areas and was the clear choice to receive this year's award."

Since 2003, significant improvements to the course have included the opening of the New Nine, a new irrigation system with pump station for improved efficiency, renovation of greens to A1/A4 Bentgrass, renovation of greenside bunkers, and cart path replacement on the Creek Nine. In addition, this year the club developed a creative and cost-effective solution to erosion control by utilizing old cart path materials to stabilize creek bank areas.

In the last 13 months, Eagle's Landing has added more than 180 golf members to its roster, which is a testament to overall golf course conditioning and member support. The golf member growth and the quality of the golf course position the club strongly for the future.

Russ Curtis, CCM, has served as general manager at Eagle's Landing since 2002 and is a past Board member of GGCOA and a current Board member of the Georgia Chapter of Club Managers Association of America (CMAA). Superintendent Cecil Smith, with Eagle's Landing since 1998, has been the superintendent since 2001 and is active in the GCSAA. Lisa Chase, who has served as membership director at the club for more than 11 years, had the strongest performance in the company against sales plan in 2009.

Eagle's Landing is the host club to Georgia State University Men's and Women's golf teams. In 2010, the club hosted Eagle's Landing High School and Eagle's Landing Christian Academy golf teams as well as a fundraising golf event for Union Grove High School. Director of Golf Rick Burkardt, Head Golf Professional Mark Hall, and Director of Instruction Cathy Mant all actively teach players at all levels. The club, highly regarded in the Georgia golf community, has served as the venue site for the LPGA Tour 15 times.

Since 2002, the club has hosted the annual Charity Ball, which has raised more than $230,000 in net proceeds for local charities. The ClubCorp Charity Classic, founded three years ago, to date has raised approximately $30,000 solely at Eagle's Landing for worthy charities. The club is holding its 2010 event Sept 24. In the 15 years of LPGA tournament history at Eagle's Landing, more than $7.5 million was given to charities. The club has established a Charity Selection Board, which decides on local charities that will benefit from the club's charitable events and strives to be a good community supporter.

As GGCOA Course of the Year, Eagle's Landing is eligible to be named the National Course of the Year. Award winners will also be recognized at the National Golf Course Owners Association Luncheon at the Golf Industry Show in February in Orlando. Former GGCOA Courses of the Year include East Lake, Cuscowilla, RiverPines, Hawks Ridge, and Barnsley Gardens.

In addition to Eagle's Landing, ClubCorp owns or operates eight Atlanta-area properties, including Laurel Springs Golf Club, Bear's Best Golf Club, and the recently acquired Country Club of the South.

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

"Run the Farm" Scheduled Sept 25 at Cedargate Farms in Newnan

FOCUS organization to sponsor inaugural event to benefit children with disabilities and their families.
 
FOCUS,(www.focus-ga.org) a 27-year old non-profit that serves children with disabilities or medical conditions and their families, announces “Run the Farm for FOCUS” 5k trail run and 1 mile family walk Saturday, September 25 at beautiful Cedargate Farms (www.cedargatefarms.com) in Newnan. Registration is $20 through September 15 and $25 after September 15 and includes breakfast and a Run the Farm for Focus t-shirt.

This event is presented by E*Trade Financial (www.etrade.com), and sponsors include Chick-fil-A, Beaulieu Group, and Kroger.

“Run the Farm” replaces the annual Kool Kidz Classic Polo Tournament for 2010 due to a conflict with a national horse event scheduled at Cedargate Farms on the same day as the Kool Kidz Classic. Dr. Phil and Mrs. Ann Beegle’s desire for continued support of FOCUS resulted in their suggesting a family and fitness-oriented event at Cedargate Farms. For 2010, running shoes will replace hats; runners will love the trails and families can enjoy the beautiful countryside.

FOCUS Executive Director Lucy Cusick explains that FOCUS families often adjust their lives when they have a child with disabilities. “The change in events for 2010 is minor compared to what special needs parents do on a daily basis!” Cusick reports that FOCUS now offers its flagship programs to communities south of Atlanta and hopes this event will bring awareness to the needs of children with disabilities and their families. “We invite the entire community to ‘Run the Farm!’ ”

The 5k Trail Run will begin at 8:00 am and the 1 Mile Family Walk at 9:00 am. Chick-fil-A will provide breakfast to participants, and activities for children and families will begin at 9:30 am.

For more information and to register for go online, go to www.focus-ga.org or contact Lucy Cusick at FOCUS at 770-234-9111 or email runthefarm@focus-ga.org.

ABOUT FOCUS
FOCUS was founded to offer emotional, informational and physical support to families of children with disabilities or ongoing medical needs. FOCUS has grown to reach almost 3,000 families in metro Atlanta through a variety of programs including summer camp, family camp, support groups, community respite, hospital support and family activities. FOCUS is committed to serving ordinary families facing extraordinary circumstances and providing a sense of community.

Former Major League Baseball Player Roger Clemens Indicted, Charged with Obstruction of Congress, Making False Statements, and Committing Perjury Before Congressional Committee

United States Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. and Shawn Henry, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, announced today that Roger Clemens was indicted by a federal grand jury in Washington, D.C. and charged with one count of obstruction of Congress, three counts of making false statements, and two counts of perjury in connection with his February 2008 testimony before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

The indictment was returned today in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. If convicted of all charges, Clemens, 48, of Houston, Texas, faces a combined maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a $1.5 million fine. Under the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines, the range of imprisonment is presently 15-21 months.

In January and February 2008, the House Committee held a hearing titled, “The Mitchell Report: The Illegal Use of Steroids in Major League Baseball.” The hearing examined the allegations contained in a comprehensive report issued in December 2007 by former Senator George J. Mitchell titled, “Report to the Commissioner of Baseball of an Independent Investigation into the Illegal Use of Steroids and Other Performance Enhancing Substances by Players in Major League Baseball.” The Committee’s 2008 hearing followed a Committee hearing in March 2005 that was titled, “Restoring Faith in America’s Pastime: Evaluating Major League Baseball’s Efforts to Eradicate Steroid Use.”

During its 2008 hearing, the Committee took sworn testimony from Senator Mitchell, Clemens and several others. Clemens, a Major League Baseball pitcher from 1984 to 2007, made statements under oath denying his use of anabolic steroids and human growth hormone (HGH). Anabolic steroids and HGH are performance enhancing drugs. Following his testimony, the Committee formally referred this matter to the Department of Justice to investigate whether Clemens committed any federal crimes in connection with his testimony.

The charges in this federal grand jury indictment are a result of that referral. They are set forth in detail in the six-count indictment.

“The Department of Justice takes referrals from Congressional Committees very seriously. Americans have a right to expect that witnesses who testify under oath before Congress will tell the truth,” United States Attorney Machen stated. “Our government cannot function if witnesses are not held accountable for false statements made before Congress. Today the message is clear: if a witness makes a choice to ignore his or her obligation to testify honestly, there will be consequences.”

“The FBI has a responsibility to ensure the integrity of the investigative process is maintained, and that includes the obligation of witnesses to testify truthfully,” said FBI Assistant Director Henry. “This has been a long investigation, and I commend the special agents for their dedication collecting and analyzing the facts that have led to these charges.”

This is the Committee’s second referral to the Department of Justice that resulted from its investigation into steroid use in Major League Baseball. In February 2009, MLB player Miguel Tejada pleaded guilty to making misleading statements to Committee investigators concerning his knowledge of performance enhancing drugs. Tejada’s case stemmed from statements he made in August 2005.

The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, with the assistance of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation.

An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed a violation of criminal laws and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty.

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

Special Olympics Georgia Masters Bowling in Warner Robins and Horse Show in Perry Aug. 20-22

/PRNewswire/ -- Two Special Olympics Georgia State Games will be held in middle Georgia Aug. 20-22: the State Horse Show and State Masters Bowling. Nearly 900 athletes from all over Georgia will travel to Warner Robins to compete to be the best bowler and to Perry for equestrian competitions.

In Warner Robins, bowling competitions will be held at Gold Cup Warner Robins and Robins Lanes Air Force Base. This is the first of three years Masters Bowling will be in Warner Robins.

The Horse Show features more than 200 athletes from all over the state competing to be Georgia's best in showmanship, dressage, English and western riding, and riding trails at Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter in Perry.

The games are free and open to the public. Awards will be given out throughout the weekend.

All events are free and open to the public.

If you would like to be a volunteer, contact Leslie.Anderson@SpecialOlympicsGA.org or if you would like to be a sponsor, contact Kerri.Baldwin@SpecialOlympicsGA.org.

For more information about the games and for a schedule, visit www.specialolympicsga.org. Come be a fan in the stands.

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

Peter Westbrook Foundation (PWF) Teams Unite for 2010 U.S. National Fencing Championships

/PRNewswire/ -- The Peter Westbrook Foundation's athletes joined 6,500 others from around the country to compete for the distinction of being crowned the nation's best at the 2010 Summer National Championships. Held in Atlanta's Georgia World Congress Center, the annual event showcased some of the best fencers the United States has to offer competing for various titles. With a new generation of PWF athletes claiming four national championships, three silver medals, and five bronzes, the Peter Westbrook Foundation continued to further its tradition of distinct excellence.

This years National Champions include:
Junior Women's Foil; Nzingha Prescod
Junior Men's Sabre; Adrian Bak

Senior Men's Sabre Team; Adrian Bak, Dan Bak, Luther Clement & Konate Primus

Senior Women's Foil Team; Epiphany Georges, Demeca Homer, Kylie McGill & Nzingha Prescod

Highlighting the championships was the PWF Men's Sabre team capturing its 10th national team title. The team last won in 2008 with the help of 2000 Olympian, and long-time PWF pupil and mentor, Akhi Spencer-el. Now, as the Peter Westbrook Foundations head sabre coach, Ahki would help a new and younger PWF team recapture a title that he had been so crucial in attaining as a fencer. Composed of Daniel Bak (individual bronze medalist) and Adrian Bak (junior gold medalist), the team entered the field of 30 teams with modest ambitions but quickly found their collective stride and proved to be a formidable force as they eliminated some of the nations top teams.

Most notable of all, however, was the come-from-behind victory against defending champions Manhattan Fencing Center. Facing a team starting one Olympic medalist and one World Team member, the PWF was pitted as relative underdogs and was forced to fight back from an early deficit for the entirety of the match. In heroic fashion, displaying poise, composure and a will to win, Dan Bak would step up in the final bout to take the match by defeating Darryl Homer in a thrilling one touche finale, 45-44. The win would spur on victories in other events that had yet to compete. The PWF Senior Women's foil team would go on to claim the championship with landslide victories over their competitors. The Senior Men's Epee team and the Peter Westbrook Junior Sabre Team would go on to earn silver medals in their events as well.

"In all 19 years of the foundation, this national championships is the most exciting I've ever seen," exclaimed Peter Westbrook, founder of the Peter Westbrook Foundation. "Now, with our Olympians and Olympic medalists retired, we have unveiled a new generation of foundation champions. With their outstanding performances in Atlanta, this new crop has proven that they are capable of achieving and even surpassing the success of their predecessors."

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

Aflac Launches New Labor Day NASCAR Contest 'Finding The All-American Worker'

/PRNewswire/ -- Aflac, the No. 1 provider of voluntary and guaranteed-renewable insurance in the United States, today announced a nationwide search for the All-American Worker. A lucky winner will receive a trip for two to Atlanta for an exclusive behind the scenes experience at the Emory Healthcare 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway, including a meeting with NASCAR driver Carl Edwards.

Aflac's Finding The All-American Worker contest is being hosted on the newly launched Aflac Racing page on Facebook and runs through Aug. 18. To participate in the contest, entrants must explain how they, or someone they know, go above and beyond on the job and in their lives.

"I can't think of anything better than a Labor Day race to celebrate the spirit of the American workforce -- a workforce Aflac has under its wing," said Edwards.

The grand prize includes roundtrip airfare for two, 3-day/2-night hotel accommodations, ground transportation and $500 spending money. Entries must provide a detailed account of the nominee's line of work and why the person is deserving of the prize. Entries can be submitted online at the Aflac Racing Fan page on Facebook at Facebook.com/AflacRacing.

"For 55 years, Aflac has been helping the American workforce recover from illness or injury by offering voluntary insurance policies that help protect you financially when you need it most," said Danny Fleishman, vice president of sponsorships and emerging markets at Aflac. "Aflac's Finding The All-American Worker contest allows us to spotlight an inspiring person and also treat them to a one of a kind race day experience."

Public voting on the contest page will determine the top-five submissions based on the total number of votes received. From that group, Aflac will review and judge the semifinalist essays and determine a contest winner in August.

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

Petit commits $1.5 million cornerstone gift to GSU Athletics

Georgia State University hasn't played a football game yet, but the program has scored a key victory as alumnus and long-time benefactor Parker H. "Pete" Petit has made a $1.5 million commitment toward the GSU Football Practice Complex, representing the largest gift ever made to GSU athletics.

Head coach Bill Curry and the Panthers are preparing for their inaugural season, which kicks off Sept. 2 at the Georgia Dome. Team members begin preseason drills Wednesday.

Petit, who received his MBA from Georgia State's J. Mack Robinson College of Business, is chairman and chief executive officer of MiMedx Group, Inc., an integrated developer, manufacturer and marketer of biomaterial-based products. He previously served as chairman and CEO of Atlanta-based Matria Healthcare and other Healthdyne-related companies.

"I believe that having football at Georgia State University will provide numerous benefits for the students and the University," said Petit. "Under Coach Bill Curry, Panther football will add a new dimension to the excitement and enthusiasm that students will feel about their University experience.

"Coach Curry's character and leadership align exactly with that of President Mark Becker and the existing administration at GSU. This football program will create a more complete college experience at GSU, and it will certainly act as a catalyst for continuing the growth of the University."

Becker said, "'Pete' has been a loyal friend of Georgia State University for many years. He is a champion of higher education as evidenced by his gift to our Science Center, and we are deeply grateful for this cornerstone gift supporting GSU football."

"It is only fitting that 'Pete' is making this historic gift as we literally kick off our football program," said GSU Director of Athletics Cheryl L. Levick. "What an exciting week this is, with our inaugural team reporting to campus and beginning practice as we build toward our historic opening game on Sept. 2."

Located adjacent to campus at 188 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, the GSU Football Practice Complex features a 100-yard synthetic turf field and a 60-yard natural turf field with lights. The synthethic field was completed in March and utilized by the Panthers during spring practice, and the natural turf field is now also available for practice.

An existing structure on the property is being renovated and expanded to create a headquarters for Panther football, including a locker room for the team, as well as a state-of-the art weight room, expansive meeting space, an equipment room and an athletic training room.

The meeting rooms will be utilized by the Panthers this season, with the remaining phases to be completed as funding permits.

"The educational aspect of this project has been substantial, and one of the main instructors has been 'Pete' Petit," said Curry. "His unique involvement will enable us to provide our student-athletes with the facilities they need to be successful.

"'Pete' has been an inspiration to me for many years, and I am delighted to have him on our team."

The GSU Football Practice Complex will also be utilized by the University's new marching band, which debuts this fall.

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

UGA offers guaranteed gameday parking on campus for $120

 University of Georgia Parking Services is selling season long parking permits in the Carlton Street Parking Deck, North Campus Parking Deck and the Performing Arts Center Parking Deck for all six 2010 home football games.

Passes cost $120 plus shipping and handling and are sold exclusively at http://gamedaygameplan.com/ until 5 p.m. on Aug. 25. They will be sold on a first-come first-served basis.

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

Lung Cancer Alliance-Georgia Announces 2nd Annual No More Excuses 5K Run/1 mile walk

 Saturday, November 6, 2010 - Rain or Shine
Registration begins at 7:00 a.m.
Race/Walk begin at 8:00 a.m.


New Balance Atlanta @ North Point
7300 North Point Parkway
Alpharetta, GA 30022


 Pre-registration online: $20 per person
Race-day registration: $25 per person
Online at: www.nomoreexcusesrunwalk.kintera.org


/PRNewswire/ -- Yesterday, Lung Cancer Alliance-Georgia (LCA-GA) announced the return of the No More Excuses No More Lung Cancer 5K Run/Walk. Taking place on Saturday, November 6, 2010, the run/walk will raise awareness for lung cancer to help reduce the stigma of the disease, expand the grassroots movement for the disease and inspire others to join the cause to increase compassion and support to all those impacted by lung cancer.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death nationally and in Georgia. This year alone, more Georgians will lose their lives to lung cancer than breast, prostate and colon cancers--combined. More than 75% of those diagnosed never smoked at all or are former smokers who quit decades ago.

"Lung cancer affects men and women of all ages, ethnicities and lifestyles. It does not discriminate," said LCA-GA Co-Director and six-year stage IV lung cancer survivor, Ed Levitt. "All cancer patients deserve compassion and the best possible treatment regardless of their smoking history. LCA-GA is changing the face of lung cancer in Georgia and the No More Excuses Run/Walk helps us do just that."

LCA-GA's NO MORE EXCUSES 5K RUN/WALK offers participants a meaningful and inspirational avenue to support the lung cancer community in Georgia and beyond, as well as to honor loved ones touched by this disease. Proceeds from the event will help LCA-GA provide support, information and hope to the almost 6,000 Georgians diagnosed with lung cancer each year and their families as well as raising awareness and securing public health dollars for lung cancer research.

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter:  @GAFrontPage

Thrashers Re-Sign Restricted Free Agent Goaltender Ondrej Pavelec

The Atlanta Thrashers have re-signed restricted free agent goaltender Ondrej Pavelec to a multiple-year contract, according to General Manager Rick Dudley. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Pavelec, 22, appeared in 42 games during his first full NHL season, posting a 14-18-7 record with two shutouts, a 3.29 goals-against average and a .906 save percentage. The 6-3, 220-pound goaltender made a career-high 50 saves in a 3-1 victory on Oct. 31 at Ottawa and recorded his first career shutout, with a 38-save performance, on Nov. 13 vs. Los Angeles. Pavelec was also a member of the Czech Republic team at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, British Columbia.

The Kladno, Czech Republic, native has earned a 20-28-7 record with two shutouts, a 3.33 goals-against average and a .902 save percentage in 61 career NHL games over three seasons with the Thrashers from 2007 to 2010. Pavelec posted a 51-36-5 record with five shutouts, a 2.69 goals-against average and a .912 save percentage in 92 career games with the Chicago Wolves of the American Hockey League from 2007 to 2009. He also appeared in 24 post-season contests with the Wolves, registering a 16-8 record with two shutouts, a 2.34 goals-against average and a .921 save percentage, while helping Chicago capture the 2008 Calder Cup Championship.

Prior to his professional career, Pavelec earned 55-29-0 record with four shutouts, a 2.52 goals-against average and a .920 save percentage in 90 games with Cape Breton of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League from 2005 to 2007. He also spent two seasons with the Kladno organization in the Czech Republic from 2003 to 2005. Pavelec has represented his native Czech Republic in International Competition four times, including the Winter Olympics (2010), World Championships (2010), World Junior Championships (2007) and World Under-18 Championships (2005).

Pavelec was originally selected by the Thrashers in the second round, 41st overall, of the 2005 NHL Entry Draft.

Lower level season tickets for the 2010-11 Atlanta Thrashers are now available starting at less than $23 per game. For more information, please call 1-866-715-1500 or visit www.thrashersseasontickets.com.

City of Decatur Hosts Kick-Off Celebration for Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk & Fitness Program

City’s Active Living Board a model for encouraging residents to get out and get moving
Decatur Mayor Bill Floyd and former Olympian Jeff Galloway to speak at event

The City of Decatur is kicking its community fitness campaign up a notch by encouraging residents to join Team Decatur for the Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk & Fitness Program. The City is hosting an official Kick-Off Celebration event for the program on the Decatur Square Monday, July 26, 2010 from 6:00-8:00 p.m.

WHAT City of Decatur/Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk & Fitness Program Kick-Off Celebration

· Receive information about the Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk and free local runs and walks around the city.


· Drawings for gifts and certificates from Joan Rao, Leon’s, Big Peach Running, Fleetfeet, Decatur Boxing Club, and more.

· Other giveaways include balloons from Kaiser Permanente and City of Decatur Walking Tour Brochures

· Visit with local businesses including Decatur Boxing Club, Big Peach Running, FleetFeet Decatur, Decatur-DeKalb YMCA, Kick in the Fit, DeKalb Jazzercize, Kaiser Permanente, One Step At A Time, Phidippides, Decatur Active Living, Oh Baby Fitness, CrossFit Decatur, and the Decatur Business Association

· Event is FREE and open to the public

WHEN Monday, July 26, 2010, 6-8 p.m.

WHERE Decatur Square

GREETINGS/ Mayor Bill Floyd, City of Decatur

REMARKS Jeff Galloway, Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk Race Director and former Olympian

Luke Beno, MD, Pediatrician, Kaiser Permanente Decatur Medical Office

Scott Drake, Decatur Business Association

City of Decatur

MUSIC Morgan Rowe

STRETCH BREAK Cheryl Burnette, City of Decatur Active Living

GET FIT TRAINING Greg White, City of Decatur Active Living

Jeff Galloway, Phidippides

Representative, Big Peach Running, Decatur

Clay Scarborough, Fleet Feet, Decatur

Charles Cope, One Step At A Time

MUSIC Morgan Rowe

Decatur’s Active Living Department (formerly Parks & Recreation) has been hard at work developing opportunities to encourage residents to get out and get moving. In addition to adding bike lanes, walking trails and sidewalks around the city to make it more pedestrian friendly, they are also getting ready to launch the “Walk There! Decatur” program. The department has measured distances between a variety of community activity centers around the city and translated the distances into steps that will be posted on signs to encourage people to consider walking instead of driving.

Mayor Bill Floyd, 63, a former marathon runner who often walks to work himself, is proud of the active role his city has taken and the enthusiasm behind its involvement in the KP Corporate Run/Walk. “It’s an opportunity to show people that anyone can maintain a healthy and active lifestyle with a little effort and some reinforcement and support from friends, family and co-workers. And that’s what this is all about,” he said.

Race director Jeff Galloway applauds Decatur’s efforts. “I have never seen a city get behind something like this like the City of Decatur has,” he said. “It is truly inspiring and we hope that City’s excitement will encourage other cities in the metro area to do the same.”

Visit the KP Corporate Run/Walk site today at www.kpcorporaterunwalk.com and go to the registration page to sign up to be a part of Team Decatur. Be sure to click on Team Decatur. All Team Decatur participants receive:
8 weeks of Fitness Tips
Training schedules for beginners and experienced walkers and runners

Free runs and walks around the City of Decatur offered by Big Peach, One Step at a Time, FleetFeet Decatur, Decatur Active Living and more!

Fitness related discounts

An evening of fun and fitness

Free t-shirt

Race refreshments and more at the Team Decatur tent at the World's Largest Office Party

About the Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk & Fitness Program

The Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk & Fitness Program is a unique workplace-organized fitness program that began in 1983 in Atlanta with 900 participants from a handful of companies. Designed to inspire fun, fitness and camaraderie among Atlanta’s corporate community, the annual event attracts more than 15,000 participants from more than 350 companies and is one of the largest workplace organized corporate fitness events in the Southeast. Event highlights of the 28th run/walk event include an eight-week “Get Active Atlanta” training program, 5K run/walk, Best Self Atlanta Magazine Expo, free team and candid photos, awards ceremony, fireworks, music by Rupert’s Orchestra and hundreds of office picnics in downtown Atlanta adjacent to Turner Field. A portion of the proceeds benefits the Atlanta Braves Foundation and the Atlanta Community Food Bank. For more information, visit www.kpcorporaterunwalk.com.

TRAINING: July 26 – Sept. 16, Free 8-week “Get Active Atlanta” Training Program
Aug. 18 – Sept. 15, Complimentary Workouts at LA Fitness – all Metro Atlanta locations
5K RUN/WALK: September 16, 2010, 7:00 p.m., Downtown Atlanta, Turner Field
REGISTRATION: www.kpcorporaterunwalk.com

Online: May 1 – September 15, 2 p.m.

Mail: May 1 – September 10

In-person: September 9-15 (at Phidippides running/walking stores)
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter:
Facebook: Search for Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk & Fitness Program.
Twitter: twitter.com/kpcorprunwalk

In addition to seventh year title sponsor Kaiser Permanente, other sponsors for this year’s Corporate Run/Walk include Mercer, CBS Atlanta, DAVE FM, 680 The Fan Sports Radio, Best Self Atlanta magazine, FitAtlanta magazine, Clear Channel Outdoor and Phidippides.

About Kaiser Permanente of Georgia
Kaiser Permanente is Georgia’s largest not-for-profit health plan. Its mission is to provide high quality, affordable health care services to improve the health of its members and the communities it serves. Kaiser Permanente serves more than 230,000 members in a 28-county service area in metro-Atlanta with care focused on their total health and guided by their personal physicians, specialists, and team of health care providers. Expert and caring medical teams are supported by industry-leading technology and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the art delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Nationally, Kaiser Permanente is recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers, serving more than 8.6 million members in nine states and the District of Columbia. For more information, visit www.kp.org.

Clayton Staters Celebrate 2010 Peachtree Road Race

On Tuesday, July 6, a dozen members of the Clayton State family gathered on the University Quad to celebrate their participation in the 41st running of the Peachtree Road Race with a group photo in their race t-shirts. 
---

Photo: Clayton State 2010 Peachtree Road Race runners: Front row (left to right); Dr. Mark Daddona, Dr. Tim Hynes, Dr. Angelyn Hayes. Middle row (left to right); Dr. Patricia Todebush, Dr. Christine Smith, Vickie Fennell Smith. Back row (left to right); Cedric Hendrix, Todd Birchfield, Patrick Jones, Robert Holmes, Dr. Greg Kordecki, Joseph Echols. (Erin Fender photo)

---
In all, at least twice that many Clayton State faculty, staff, students, alumni and retirees participated in the 2010 version of the 10K race, including President Dr. Thomas J. “Tim” Hynes, Jr., who ran for the 13th time. Also running was Hynes’ son, Patrick Hynes of Brooklyn, N.Y., who finished 86th overall with an official time of 33:13. While President Hynes may not have beaten son Hynes to the finish line, he did note that he passed a lot of younger runners, undoubtedly a truism, since Hynes finished 1956th out of almost 51,000 finishers.

Another father/son combination in the race was retired Director of Auxiliary Services Robert Holmes and son Zack Holmes… who also finished ahead of dad.

“He ran with me for about a mile, then took off,” says father Holmes.

Also notable among Clayton State faculty and staff was the accomplishment of Assistant Track and Cross Country Coach Hugh Toro, who ran for the 39th consecutive time. Associate Professor of Accounting Dr. Greg Kordecki has also been a Peachtree regular – this was his 23rd consecutive race. As an added bonus, Kordecki’s 13-year old daughter and cross country/track enthusiast, Hilary Ma ZiHong Kordecki, spotted him in the cover page photo of Section C of the Monday, July 5 issue of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

“If you look carefully, you will find me near the left side of the photo in the fourth row of runners at the race start line. As a volunteer in the runner control line that separates world-class from sub-seeded athletes, I gave it all I had in a 200-yard dash at the start to make it to the side line safely,” he says.

After volunteering, he jumped in the race as bib number 35369. However, Hilary Kordecki, bib number 35370, did finish 47 minutes ahead of her dad. Of course, she is little younger. Also running from the School of Business was Joseph Echols (Conyers), an MBA student and staff member in the Clayton State Office of Recruitment and Admissions.

Several other Clayton Staters have participated in the race multiple times – Interim Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management Dr. Mark Daddona (seven consecutive, he was seeded with the “B” group, just behind President Hynes in “A”), Director of the Office of Career Services Dr. Angelyn Hayes (13 consecutive… she noted that she finished ahead of 5,000 people), Director of Grant and Contract Programs Vickie Fennell Smith (nine), Fayetteville resident and student Angela Goddard (five), student Patrick V. Jones (six), and Master of Arts in Liberal Studies student (and Union City resident) Rob Rogers (seven).

“It's part of the tapestry that is Atlanta. I tell all my friends that everyone living here should do it at least one time,” says Rogers.

Also in the race were Director of Counseling and Psychological Services Dr. Christine Smith, Associate Professor of Chemistry Dr. Patricia Todebush, and Telecommunications and Networking’s Todd Birchfield, who said he ran with 54,999 of his closest friends. He’s run Peachtree before, but not since 1981.

Clayton State alumni also took part. Forty-one year old Cedric Hendrix (East Point), a spring 2010 graduate, started in the “C” group.

Perhaps Jones had the best comment on the race.

“See you next year,” he said. A unit of the University System of Georgia, Clayton State University is an outstanding comprehensive metropolitan university located 15 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta.