Sports Stuff Georgia

Glads Throttle Florida 6-2, Maintain Division Lead

2012-01-08T14:39:00.001-08:00

The Gwinnett Gladiators dominated the Florida Everblades 6-2 Saturday night at the Arena at Gwinnett Center to put more distance between the South Division rivals. The Glads (17-9-6-3) extended their division lead over the Blades (18-14-1-2) while snapping Florida’s seven-game regulation unbeaten streak.

Captain Paul Flache notched his second goal on the season to put the Gladiators on top in the first period with a shot between the five-hole of Everblades netminder Pat Nagle at the 7:00 mark. Tyler Murovich and Chris Clackson picked up the assists.

It was déjà vu for Gwinnett’s defenseman Dallas Jackson as he sniped a powerplay goal just inside the blue line to put the Glads up 2-0, just 55 seconds into the man advantage in the first. Jackson scored a similar goal in Friday’s win over Florida. Gladiators Justin Milo and Nikita Kashirsky tallied a point each eith assists on the goal.

The third goal of the period started with a pass from Gladiators defenseman Brad Miller to Colin Vock who passed the puck to Murovich. The Pittsburgh, PA native then danced though the defense to sneak it under the glove hand of Nagle to give the Glads a 3-0 advantage 14:47 into the first.

Forward Matt Marquardt posted the first goal of the game for the Blades at 18:59 in the opening period. Marquardt was recently acquired in a trade by Florida with the Bakersfield Condors. Regardless, Gwinnett led through one period 3-1.

Returning forward Bendickson fell right into sync with the team when he notched a goal for the Glads with a backhanded marker under the stick side of Nagle in the second period. Clackson and Flache collected helpers on the fourth goal for Gwinnett.

At 10:03 into the middle period, Everblade forward Mathieu Roy had a goal with an assist from Trevor Bruess to make the score 4-2.

Late in the third period, Gwinnett’s Shane Sims collected the second powerplay goal for the Glads with a rocket from the point at the 16:12 mark. Kashirsky and Milo added their second point each for the game with the helpers.

Pat Galivan put the nail in the coffin with an empty netter with a 1:05 left in the game to give the Glads a 6-2 advantage. Galivan tallied his 11th goal on the season and snapped a 12-game scoreless drought.

Marc Cheverie collected his fourth win of the season with 30 saves.

The Glads will be back in the Arena at Gwinnett Center next Saturday to take on the Greenville Road Warriors at 7:05 p.m.

1980 Dawgs, Georgia Football Legends and Others at the Varsity on Saturday

2011-11-25T03:09:00.001-08:00

The crew from "1980 Dawgs" will once again be joined by Georgia Football Legends, Scott Woerner, Rex Robinson and possibly other members of the 1980 team. They will be at the Varsity on North Ave, before and after the game on Saturday where they will be meeting fans, signing copies of "1980 Dawgs" DVDs and talking Georgia football. DVD copies will be available for purchase. The "1980 Dawgs" movie ( www.1980dawgs.com ) has been getting great reviews. It contains in-depth interviews with 27 players, coaches and media members from that season, combined with key game footage highlights of each game - a perfect gift for Bulldog fans, just in time for the holidays.

Where: The Varsity, North Ave., Atlanta.
When: This Saturday, 9:00 am - 11:30 am and right after the game for two hours.

Long Time Racer to Hit 31st Annual Peachtree City Classic

2011-08-12T15:05:00.000-07:00

He hasn’t run all previous 30 Classic races, but he ran the first one in 1981, has run most of them since, and plans to run the next one this October. In 1981 Bill Brackin was living in Riverdale and heard about a race over in Peachtree City that he wanted to do. He ran it and was so impressed with the scenic cart paths, that he decided he wanted to move to PTC to live. He did just that a couple of years later and has been a fixture in the Fayette County road racing scene ever since. Bill says that as best as he can recollect, the race started and finished at City Hall in those early days. But as the race grew in stature and popularity, it eventually moved to the Fred Brown Amphitheater where it still is today. Bill will be lacing up his shoes again this year for the 31st edition.

The races will take place Saturday, October 15th, along the scenic golf cart paths of Peachtree City. It is one of the most popular runs not only in Georgia, but in the Southeast as well. The race is unique in its use of paved cart paths for the race. This scenic race is run mostly on the paths through the greenbelt areas, by lakes, through small tunnels, in the beautiful planned community of Peachtree City. The 15K was voted the best 15K course in Georgia by Georgia Athlete Magazine and always a sellout, so participants are strongly encouraged to register early. This year’s race director, George Martin, is looking forward to the using computerized timing chips for the tenth consecutive year.

The Classic actually consists of three different races: a women’s 5K, a men’s 5K, and the 15K open. All races are run on separate TAC-certified courses, and start and finish at the Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater. The 5K races for men and women are open to the first 800 entrants in each category. The popular 15K is open to the first 1500 entrants. All finishers in the different races will receive a special commemorative edition technical shirt to mark the 31st year of this Classic event.

A Pre-Race Expo will be held at the Fred Brown Amphitheater on Friday, October 14th, from 4:30 – 8:30 PM. A Race Day Expo will be held on Saturday from 7:00 – 11:00 AM also at the Frederick Brown Amphitheater. The Expos will include health and fitness products, sponsors, and selected vendors.

Applications are available at various locations in Peachtree City, Newnan, and Fayetteville, including local recreation departments, libraries, and sporting goods stores. Applications are also available at World Gym, Ultimate Fitness, T&G All Sports, Smith and Davis, Play It Again Sports, and AIS Computers. You can also register on line at www.ptcrc.com If you have any further questions about the race, you can send e-mail to ptcclassic@aol.com

Fayette Senior Services Adds 10K to Annual Run/Walk and Establishes New “Fayette Charity Classic” to Benefit Fayette County Non-profits

2011-08-01T17:43:00.000-07:00

Fayette Senior Services (FSS) annual March For Meals 5K/1 Mile Run Walk will have a new look and expanded purpose when the 4th annual event is held next year on March 17, 2012. Thanks to help from the City of Fayetteville and the Fayetteville Police Department, FSS will be adding a challenging new 10K route to its existing 5K and 1 mile run/walk. In addition, FSS has renamed the event The Fayette Charity Classic with proceeds to not only benefit non-profit Fayette Senior Services, but other Fayette County charities as well. The Fayette Charity Classic 10K as well as the 5K will both be USA Track and Field (USATF) certified and qualifiers for the Peachtree Road Race.

Dawn Davis, FSS Health, Wellness, and Program Manager is the event’s race director. Davis worked closely with Capt. Lynn Crawshaw of the Fayetteville Police Department to develop the route that begins at Fayette Senior Services Life Enrichment Center located at 4 Center Drive in Fayetteville (across from the Fayette County Justice Center). Says Davis, “By expanding the event to include a 10K we are able to leverage the success of our former March For Meals Run/Walk. Our goal was to attract a larger audience to a fitness activity and in turn increase awareness–and financial support–for the programs and services that we provide to our community’s seniors.” Davis adds, “We then took our expanded event one step further and designed it to help other Fayette County charities, many of which continue to face challenges as a result of the current economy. It’s a win-win for Fayette Senior Services, the charities who wish to participate, and the community as a whole.”

Event details and registration packets are still being finalized and are expected to be available soon. Anyone interested in receiving more information should send their name, address, and phone number to FCClassic@fayss.org.About Fayette Senior Services, Inc. For more than 30 years, Fayette Senior Services, Inc. (FSS), a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, has been making a meaningful difference in the emotional, social, and physical well-being of older adults; preserving their independence, improving their quality of life, and connecting them to the community. FSS offers supportive services such as Meals On Wheels, Transportation, In-Home Personal Care/Homemaker Services, Information Assistance, Care Management, and more. For active older adults age 50 and better, Fayette Senior Services Life Enrichment Center offers a wide variety of social, leisure, fitness and recreational activities and the award-winning Ultimate Café. For more information visit www.FayetteLifeEnrichment.org or call 770-461-0813.

Peachtree City: 5K to Stop Sex Trafficking; Wellspring Living, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization

2011-08-01T17:40:00.000-07:00

5K run sponsoring Wellspring Living, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to aid in the rehabilitation and restoration of women and children who have suffered childhood sexual abuse and exploitation. The Stop Injustice Run draws more than 250 participants each year around the Atlanta area. Teams of 12 or more are encouraged to register and name their team by August 26th in order to have team name listed on the T-shirt. Prizes will be given to the 1st and 2nd place runners in each division. Each participant will receive a T-shirt and official time card.

WHY: To benefit the organization’s recovery homes and educational and therapeutic programs designed for women and children seeking a refuge from human trafficking.

Registration Fee: $30

Saturday, September 17, 2011 at 8:00 a.m.

The Bridge Community Center
225 Willowbend Road
Peachtree City, GA

***BACKGROUND: There are approximately 100 girls under the age or 18 who are sexually trafficked on a typical night in Georgia. The average life expectancy of a girl in forced prostitution is 7 years with homicide or HIV/AIDS as the cause of death. Wellspring Living offers residential rehabilitation programs and advocates for victims of childhood sexual abuse and exploitation.

Gladiators Narrow Coaching Candidates

2011-07-31T13:46:00.000-07:00

Gwinnett Gladiators President Steve Chapman announced Friday that the candidates for the team’s coaching search have been narrowed to three finalists: Steve Weeks, Leigh Mendelson and John Wroblewski. The organization plans to name their second head coach in team history to replace Jeff Pyle within the next seven days. Pyle was named the head coach of the Texas Stars of the American Hockey League on July 13th.

Over the past two weeks, the Gladiators received over 50 inquiries from interested applicants concerning the position. After a detailed preliminary review and screening process, the list was narrowed to about a dozen candidates for phone interviews.

“The sheer number and quality of the applicants was quite impressive,” said Chapman. “It was very difficult to pare the applicants down to a workable number, but that is certainly a good problem to have. It’s also a tribute to the solid reputation established by the Gladiators organization within the professional hockey community to see such a large number of qualified coaches express their interest in leading this team.”

Weeks served as an assistant coach for the Atlanta Thrashers for eight seasons from 2001-2010. Prior to his time with the Thrashers, Weeks spent eight seasons with the Carolina Hurricanes (and previously Hartford Whalers) organization from 1993 to 2001 as an assistant coach and scout. He played 13 NHL seasons from 1980 to 1993 with the New York Rangers, Hartford Whalers, Los Angeles Kings, Ottawa Senators, Vancouver Canucks and the New York Islanders. Prior to turning pro, he played four seasons at Northern Michigan University where he helped the Wildcats to the 1980 “Frozen Four”.

Mendelson was an assistant coach with the Utah Grizzlies last year during the 2010-2011 season and he helped the Grizzlies advance to the Western Conference Semifinals before falling to the Victoria Salmon Kings. He served as an interim head coach with the Norfolk Admirals of the AHL during the 2009-10 season posting a 7-7-2 record during his time behind the bench. He was also an assistant with the Atlantic City Boardwalk Bullies during the 2001-2002 season.

Wroblewski served as an assistant coach for the Wheeling Nailers last season and helped the Nailers advance to the Eastern Conference Finals. Prior to that, he served as an Assistant Head Coach for the United States National Development Team from 2007 – 2010. Wroblewski skated four seasons in the ECHL with the Fresno Falcons from 2003 through 2007 amassing 299 total points during his pro career while also serving as Team Captain in his final two seasons. Before turning pro, Wroblewski played four seasons at the University of Notre Dame from 1999 to 2003 and also served as Team Captain in his final season of collegiate hockey.

“All three candidates bring quality coaching experience and significant leadership abilities to the table,” said Chapman. “Honestly, any one of these three would be great choices.”

Relative to a new affiliation agreement, the Gladiators are in discussions with three separate NHL hockey teams about the possibility of a working relationship. The team hopes to make an announcement on their affiliation plans in the next 2 to 4 weeks.

The Gladiators are members of the ECHL, the Premier “AA” Hockey League and play all home games at the 11,355-seat Arena at Gwinnett Center, located just off I-85 on Sugarloaf Parkway in Duluth.

Nelms at the Helm for New Senoia Raceway Inaugural Weaterless Boat Race

2011-07-31T12:32:00.000-07:00

July 31, 2011 (Senoia, GA) Michael Nelms has won his share of racing at the 3/8ths mile clay oval just west of Senoia, GA. But, he has never been the victor in a more bizarre way than he was on Saturday night when he crashed, smashed and bashed his way to victory in the inaugural ‘waterless boat race’ at New Senoia Raceway.

“This car has been beaten up before,” explained an amused Nelms along a junk filled front stretch. “But, I have never run into a boat on a race track.”

Nelms survived the fifteen minute crash-filled special event featuring various vehicles pulling old boats around the track without the assistance of any wheeled trailers. The Newnan stock car racing veteran outlasted fellow Newnan competitor Ricky Payton as the crowd of 1,027 fans cheered with excitement.

The path to victory was not in the fastest driver with his boat, but the only one remaining with the boat intact at the end of the event. To the delight of the younger fans in attendance, the strategy was to knock your opponents boat from it’s race car power source. The end result was a track full of disabled boats and cars trying to avoid the carnage.

“That was a blast,” said third place finisher Josh ‘Boom Boom’ Ballard of Griffin. “He (Nelms) got me caught up in the third turn and snagged my boat off against the wall. All I saw was the boat being smashed into pieces and then the car felt a lot lighter. I knew he got my boat.”

Other winners in the weekly stock car racing action included Locust Grove’s Racin’ Jason Williams in the Mike Wheeler’s Automotive & Transmission Late Models, LaGrange’s Tod Dard in the Crown Security Crate Late Models, Marcus Caswell of Newnan in the Newnan Bonding B Cadets, Carrollton’s Clifton Moran in the Summit Racing Equipment Hobby Stocks and Dusty Jones, also of LaGrange, in the Mini Stocks.

Williams out dueled current points leader Lavon Sparks in the Late Model division. The fierce competitors were separated by only eleven points entering their 25-lap main event. The Phenix City, AL, driver, Sparks, tried to stay with the hottest driver at New Senoia Raceway, Williams, at the drop of the green, but Williams showed his muscle once again holding him off and snagging the lead from the drop of the green.

While Williams, Sparks and Thomaston’s Shane Fulcher pulled away from the pack, Newnan’s Scott Duffey and Thomaston’s Laddie Fulcher were in a classic New Senoia Raceway battle for the number four spot. Duffey and Fulcher swapped the spot back and forth twice on lap nine before Duffey slid to the high side in turn two. After the two made contact exiting the turn, Duffey clipped the outside retaining wall which caused the race’s first caution.

Up front, Sparks would get close, but was never able to get a good enough run to squeak past Williams. The end result was Williams bringing home his eighth feature win of the season including four straight in the month of July. Sparks would settle for second again with Shane Fulcher third. Fayetteville’s Glenn Morris would fight his way to the number four spot and Newnan’s Nicky Prosser would take home his first top five of the season finishing fifth.

On the strength of his fourth consecutive win, Williams is now within eight points of the top spot in the standings for the Mike Wheeler’s Automotive & Transmission Late Models. Lavon Sparks has led the race for the championship since opening week this past April and was crowned the mid-season champion two weeks ago. This Saturday, August 6, is a double points night for all the divisions at New Senoia Raceway. At the last double points event in early June, Sparks out ran Williams to increase his lead on the points. Williams has been chipping away at that lead ever since.

Tod Darda is working on his points position in the Crown Security Crate Late Models. Darda finds himself in a regional points battle for the NeSmith Crate Series title and his current win streak at New Senoia Raceway is helping him climb the rankings.

Darda picked up his sixth race of the season and third straight on Saturday night. He held off Phenix City’s Russ Ogletree for the win. Ogletree was the dominant driver early in the season winning three feature races. But, Saturday night’s runner-up has not visited victory lane at New Senoia Raceway since the first weekend of May.

Carrollton’s Carey Smith returned on Saturday night and started scratch on the field. Smith was the hard charger of the night as he scooted past competitors to snare a top five finish.

Current track point’s leader Doug Ludwig of Grantville finished in the number four spot while LaGrange’s Dennis Hale was third behind Darda and Ogletree.

“They are not getting any easier,” said Darda afterwards. “Eighty-eight (Ogletree) pressured me the entire race. I could not make any mistakes.”

Newnan’s Marcus Caswell went from the outhouse to the penthouse this week in the Newnan Bonding B Cadets. Caswell had his driveshaft come up through the cockpit of his race car a week ago Saturday night narrowly missing serious injury. This week, Caswell shot out to the lead and never looked back posting the wire to wire victory over Stockbridge’s Jeff Carter and Fayetteville’s TJ Joiner. Last week’s victor, Blake Griffin of Grantville finished fourth followed up by newcomer Richard Davis of Griffin in fifth.

Short fields in the Summit Racing Equipment Hobby Stocks and Mini Stocks disappointed fans, but still produced great racing action with Clifton ‘Hog Head’ Moran picking up his eleventh win of the season for the Hobby Stocks. Moran outlasted Kerry Carden for the win. Brook’s Carden claimed his best finish of the season with a second place run. Newnan’s Rusty ‘Rocketman’ Johnson came home third.

LaGrange’s Dusty Jones walked away to his seventh win of the season in the Mini Stock division. Barnesville’s Gary Parker finished in the runner-up spot followed by Griffin’s Bo Chambers and Whitesburg’s Dorough Bright.

Parker’s second place finish coupled together with Bright’s fourth place finish has tightened up the points battle for the four cylinder stock car racing division. Parker has slashed the points lead to seven points as the duo heads into this Saturday’s double points night. The point separation is three positions on the race track.

The double points opportunity this Saturday, August 6 allows the drivers in all weekly divisions to move up spots or move closer to their nearest competitors in the season point standings. The top ten in each division will be awarded prize money at the end of the season this September.

Family fun is also planned again for Saturday night as the track will host it’s Kid’s Bicycle Races. Children of all ages are invited to bring their bicycles to New Senoia Raceway where officials will separate the group into age categories and conduct fun-filled bicycle races along the front stretch and around the high banks of the track. All participants should bring their bike helmets.

The pit gates open at 5:00pm. The grandstands open at 6:00pm. Hot laps begin just after 7:00pm with racing set to go green at 8:00pm. Grandstand admission is only $12 for adults with kids six through twelve admitted for five bucks. Children five and under are admitted for free.

For additional information on New Senoia Raceway, visit the speedway website at www.newsenoiaraceway.com, join their family of friends on Facebook or call the speedway at 770-599-6161.

By Katherine Adams

OFFICIAL RESULTS FROM SATURDAY, JULY 30, 2011

Mike Wheelers Automotive & Transmission Late Models

Feature: 1-Jason Williams, Locust Grove 2-Lavon Saprks, Phenix City, AL 3-Shane Fulcher, Thomaston 4-Glenn Morris, Fayetteville 5-Nicky Prosser, Senoia 6-Laddie Fulcher, Thomaston 7-Scott Duffey, Newnan Fast Qualifier: Williams (15.203 seconds)

Crown Security Crate Late Models

Feature: 1-Tod Darda, LaGrange 2-Russ Ogletree, Phenix City, AL 3-Dennis Hale, LaGrange 4-Doug Ludwig, Grantville 5-Carey Smith, Carrollton 6-Trey White, Jenkinsburg 7-Troy Tyson, Fayetteville 8-Kyle Lowry, Covington 9-Roger Cassell, Franklin 10-Todd Mitchell, LaGrange Fast Qualifier: Darda (15.870 seconds)

Newnan Bonding B-Cadets

Feature: 1-Marcus Caswell, Newnan 2-Jeff Carter, Stockbridge 3-TJ Joiner, Lithia Springs 4-Blake Griffin, Grantville 5-Richard Davis, Griffin 6-Corey Payton, Newnan 7-Chris Carr, Newnan 8-Buck Williams, Watkinsville 9-Lee McElwaney, Newnan

Summit Racing Equipment Hobby Stocks

Feature: 1-Clifton Moran, Carrollton 2-Kerry Carden, Brooks 3-Rusty Johnson, Newnan 4-Mike Jenkins, Brooks 5-Zak Sockwell, Newnan

Mini Stocks Feature: 1-Dusty Jones, LaGrange 2-Gary Parker, Barnesville 3-Bo Chambers, Griffin 4-Dorough Bright, Whitesburg

Gladiators Announce Schedule for 9th season at Gwinnett Arena

2011-06-06T17:54:00.000-07:00

The Gwinnett Gladiators announce the schedule for the 2011-2012 season as the team returns for their 9th season in the ECHL in October of 2011.

Opening Weekend at the spectacular Gwinnett Arena (seating capacity: 11,355) is scheduled for Friday, October 21st and Saturday, October 22nd, as the “I-85 Series” continues when the Gladiators host the Road Warriors from Greenville, South Carolina. The Gladiators have posted an impressive 6-0-2 record all-time in regular season home openers.

The weekend prior, the Gladiators will open the season on the road with a pair of games against the Florida Everblades on Friday, October 14th and Saturday, October 15th. It will be the second consecutive season that the Gladiators will open the season on the road and against the Everblades in Estero, FL.

Many Gladiators games have turned into annual events featuring various community, charitable, and holiday themes, and those traditions will continue during the 2011-2012 season. For the 9th consecutive season, the Gladiators will host the annual Thanksgiving Night matchup and Kroger Food Drive on Thursday, Nov. 24th. The Gladiators will again feature the “Kids Day Out” MLK Jr. holiday matinee matchup on Monday, January 16th, the hugely popular annual Teddy Bear Toss returns on Saturday, January 14th, and the team will host a special St. Patrick’s Day celebration on Saturday, March 17th.

Of the Gladiators 36 home games during the 2010-11 season, 27 games are on either Friday, Saturday or Sunday. Start times for all home games remain unchanged from last season with all games starting at 7:05 p.m. except Friday games, which will begin at 7:35 p.m., and Sunday games, which will again start at 4:05 p.m. As previously established, the Gladiators annual Kids Day Game on the MLK Jr. Holiday will start at 12:30 p.m.

The Gladiators will face each team from the ECHL’s Eastern Conference at least one time at the Gwinnett Arena during the 2011-12 season. The Gladiators will see the defending Eastern Conference Champion Kalamazoo Wings on Sunday, February 12th while ECHL newcomer Chicago Express will visit the Gwinnett Arena on Saturday, February 11th. In addition, the Gladiators will host the Greenville Road Warriors eight times, the South Carolina Stingrays and the Florida Everblades seven times, the Cincinnati Cyclones and Trenton Devils three times each, the Wheeling Nailers and Elmira Jackals two times and the Reading Royals and Toledo Walleye once each at the Gwinnett Arena.

Gwinnett Gladiators 2011-2012 Schedule

Friday, October 14th @ Florida

Saturday, October 15th @ Florida

Friday, October 21st vs. Greenville

Saturday, October 22nd vs. Greenville

Wednesday, October 26th @ Trenton

Friday, October 28th @ Wheeling

Saturday, October 29th @ Reading

Tuesday, November 1st vs.. Florida

Saturday, November 5th vs. Reading

Sunday, November 6th vs. Toledo

Wednesday, November 9th @ Elmira

Friday, November 11th @ Toledo

Saturday, November 12th @ Toledo

Sunday, November 13th @ Chicago

Friday, November 18th vs.. South Carolina

Saturday, November 19th @ South Carolina

Sunday, November 20th @ South Carolina

Thursday, November 24th vs. Wheeling

Friday, November 25th vs.. Wheeling

Saturday, November 26th @ South Carolina

Wednesday, November 30th @ Florida

Friday, December 2nd @ Florida

Saturday, December 3rd @ Florida

Thursday, December 8th @ Greenville

Saturday, December 10th vs. South Carolina

Sunday, December 11th vs.. South Carolina

Thursday, December 15th vs. Florida

Friday, December 16th @ South Carolina

Saturday, December 17th @ South Carolina

Tuesday, December 20th @ South Carolina

Monday, December 26th vs.. South Carolina

Wednesday, December 28th vs. South Carolina

Friday, December 30th vs.. Florida

Friday, January 6th vs. Florida

Saturday, January 7th vs.. Florida

Thursday, January 12th @ Greenville

Friday, January 13th @ Greenville

Saturday, January 14th vs. Greenville

Monday, January 16th vs. Greenville

Friday, January 20th vs. Florida

Saturday, January 21st @ Greenville

Sunday, January 22nd @ Greenville

Thursday, January 26th vs. Elmira

Saturday, January 28th vs. Elmira

Sunday, January 29th vs. Trenton

Friday, February 3rd vs. Greenville

Saturday, February 4th vs. Greenville

*Friday, February 10th vs. Florida

Saturday, February 11th vs. Chicago

Sunday, February 12th vs.. Kalamazoo

Tuesday, February 14th @ Greenville

Friday, February 17th @ Chicago

Saturday, February 18th @ Kalamazoo

Monday, February 20th @ Cincinnati

Wednesday, February 22nd @ Cincinnati

Friday, February 24th @ South Carolina

Saturday, February 25th @ South Carolina

Wednesday, February 29th vs. South Carolina

Friday, March 2nd vs. Trenton

Saturday, March 3rd vs. South Carolina

Sunday, March 4th vs. Trenton

Tuesday, March 6th @ Greenville

Saturday, March 10th vs. Cincinnati

Sunday, March 11th vs. Greenville

Wednesday, March 14th vs.. Cincinnati

Friday, March 16th vs. Cincinnati

Saturday, March 17th vs. Greenville

Friday, March 23rd @ Greenville

Saturday, March 24th @ Greenville

Wednesday, March 28th @ Florida

Friday, March 30th @ Florida

Saturday, March 31st @ Florida

The Gladiators are members of the ECHL, the Premier “AA” Hockey League and play all home games at the 11,355-seat Arena at Gwinnett Center, located just off I-85 on Sugarloaf Parkway in Duluth.

Repeat Winners Create a Freeze Frame at New Senoia Raceway

2011-06-05T17:34:00.000-07:00

Saturday night’s results at New Senoia Raceway were a freeze frame from the previous Saturday night as all winners from May 28th repeated as winners on June 4th with the only exception in the Mini Stocks.

Racin’ Jason Williams repeated in the Mike Wheelers Automotive & Transmission Late Models as did his teammate Doug Stevens in the Crown Security Crate Late Models. Billy Bright, Sr. picked up the laurels for the second straight week in the Newnan Bonding B Cadets while Clifton ‘Hog Head’ Moran won for the sixth time in the Summit Racing Equipment Hobby Stocks. The only change in the winner’s line-up from the previous week was in the Mini Stocks where Dusty Jones claimed the victory, but Jones was piloting the same four cylinder stock car that won the previous week with Eric Hogsed behind the wheel.

Locust Grove’s Williams paced the field of Late Models for the entire 25 lap feature race. He was pressured for several laps at the mid-point of the contest by Thomaston’s Shane Fulcher, but pulled away in the end to garner his second straight win and third of the season. The final order also pulled Williams and Fulcher closer to current point’s leader Lavon Sparks who finished third. The three drivers enter this Saturday’s (June 11) double points contest separated by only eleven markers.

Griffin’s Doug Stevens capped his week with a second straight trip to victory lane for the Crown Security Late Models. Stevens bookended a win at Rome Speedway on Sunday evening with the back to back victories at New Senoia Raceway. LaGrange’s Tod Darda followed Stevens across the finish line with Grantville’s Doug Ludwig nabbing third place.

The best race of the night for the Crown Security Crate Late Models was the battle for fourth, fifth and sixth. Waco’s Tim Bright, Jr., Newnan’s Parrish Duncan and Jenkinsburg’s Trey White swapped positions throughout the 25-lap main event. White snuck past Duncan at lap seven before moving past Bright with only ten circuits remaining. Bright and Duncan fought back, but White held off all the challenges to finish in the number four spot. Duncan would come home fifth and Bright would end up one lap down in sixth.

A four car pile-up at the beginning of the Newnan Bonding B Cadet feature started when Lithia Spring’s pilot TJ Joiner lost the grip in turn four and spun in front of the hard charging field. Union City’s Billy Bright, Jr. was caught in the melee for the second straight week while West Point’s Charlie Garrett and Gay’s Jay Conner also plowed in behind.

When the action resumed Union City’s Billy Bright, Sr. bested the field for the second straight week. Teammate and son Billy Bright, Jr. recovered from the early race wreck to finish second. Villa Rica’s ‘Smokin’ Joe Hillman finished third. Bright, Sr. showcased his familiar fedora hat during the victory lane interview and was quickly dubbed the ‘Cat in the Hat’ by the New Senoia Raceway track announcer.

Carrollton’s Clifton ‘Hog Head’ Moran bounced back from an initial start altercation with Locust Grove’s Wilson Boozer to snare his sixth win of the season in the Summit Racing Equipment Hobby Stocks. Newnan’s Rusty ‘Rocketman’ Johnson finished second while Barnesville’s Eddie Albitron gained his second straight top three finish of the season. Temple’s Steven Parker and Brook’s Kerry Carden rounded out the first five.

A classic New Senoia Raceway battle formed in the mighty Mini Stock class Saturday night. Barnesville’s Gary Parker was chasing down Douglasville’s Matt Black while Whiteburg’s Dorough Bright and LaGrange’s Dusty Jones charged through the pack. Jones came from the back row of the starting field to snare fourth by the second circuit of the 15-lapper.

Jones made his way past Parker on lap eight and set his sights on Black who had bolted out to a several car length lead over the race for second. Dorough Bright continued Parker’s descent on a lap 10 restart which set the stage for the final five laps.

Black used the high side of the track while Jones worked the bottom side. Bright followed closely as did Parker waiting for the chance to move up a spot or two. Jones worked the low side to perfection coming out of turn four to receive the white flag. He powered past Black on the final lap to snare the victory in the same car that won the previous Saturday only with Eric Hogsed behind the wheel. Black would come home second, Dorough Bright third followed by Parker and Newnan’s Joe Spencer.

The Mini Stocks final tally would change after Matt Black’s mustang was found to be outside the rules and was disqualified. Black’s engine was found to have solid lifters which are not allowed in the class at New Senoia Raceway. The disqualification cost Black his position, points and prize money for the night. The result drops the recent high school graduate out of the points lead and hands it back over to Dorough Bright. The two drivers have swapped the lead back and forth over the past three races.

The highlight of the night for the track’s youngest race fans was New Senoia Raceway’s newest promotion of allowing the kids to ride in the race cars prior to the racing action. Hundreds of kids hopped on board with their favorite driver to ride along for a few controlled laps on the high banked 3/8ths mile clay oval.

This Saturday night, New Senoia Raceway will entertain the kids again as they present the Kid’s Box Car Races. This special event allows kids to create their own race cars made from cardboard boxes. The young race fans should cut openings in the box for their arms and head (they must wear the boxes). They should decorate, paint and make-up their box car racers with numbers, sponsors and racing decals. The track will award prizes for the best decorated, designed and engineered box car racers. The kids will also have the opportunity to participate in Box Car races where they will wear their creations while racing each other.

The fun, family oriented event will also feature a full night of stock car racing with double points on the line for the drivers in the Mike Wheeler’s Automotive & Transmission Late Models, Crown Security Crate Late Models, Newnan Bonding B Cadets, Summit Racing Equipment Hobby Stocks and the Mini Stocks. The Bombers have also been added to the racing action this Saturday, June 11th.

The pit gates open at 5:00pm Saturday. The grandstands open at 6:00pm. Hot laps begin just after 7:00pm with racing set to go green at 8:00pm.

For additional information on New Senoia Raceway, visit the speedway website at www.newsenoiaraceway.com, join their family of friends on Facebook or call the speedway at 770-599-6161.

By Katherine Adams

OFFICIAL RESULTS FROM SATURDAY, JUNE 4, 2011
Mike Wheelers Automotive & Transmission Late Models

Feature: 1-Jason Williams, Locust Grove 2-Shane Fulcher, Thomaston 3-Lavon Sparks, Phenix City, AL 4-Glenn Morris, Fayetteville 5-David Burton, Fayetteville 6-Laddie Fulcher, Thomaston Fast Qualifier: Williams (15.349 seconds)

Crown Security Crate Late Models

Feature: 1-Doug Stevens, Grffin 2-Tod Darda, LaGrange 3-Doug Ludwig, Grantville 4-Trey White, Jenkinsburg 5-Parrish Duncan, Newnan 6-Tim Bright, Jr., Waco 7-Russ Ogletree, Phenix City, AL Fast Qualifier: Stevens (15.692 seconds)

Newnan Bonding B-Cadets

Feature: 1-Billy Bright, Sr., Union City 2-Billy Bright, Jr., Union City 3-Joe Hillman, Villa Rica 4-Marcus Caswell, Newnan 5-TJ Joiner, Lithia Springs 6-Jeff Carter, Stockbridge 7-Corey Payton, Newnan 8-Chris Carr, Newnan 9-Jay Conner, Gay 10-Charlie Garrett, West Point

Summit Racing Equipment Hobby Stocks

Feature: 1-Clifton Moran, Carrollton 2-Rusty Johnson, Newnan 3-Eddie Albitron, Barnesville 4-Steve Parker, Temple 5-Kerry Carden, Brooks 6-Zak Sockwell, Newnan 7-Randy Futral, Covington 8-Bill Brown, Loganville 9-Brandon Jones, Newnan 10-Wilson Boozer, Locust Grove

Mini Stocks Feature: 1-Dusty Jones, LaGrange 2-Dorough Bright, Whitesburg 3-Gary Parker, Barnesville 4-Joe Spencer, Newnan 5-Matt Thompson, Douglasville 6-Matt Swancey, Hogansville 7-Robbie Scardon, Senoia 8-Rocky Johnson, Douglasville 9-Stephen Hill, LaGrange DNS-Bobby Arnold, Newnan DQ-Matt Black, Douglasville

"Be a Fan. Bring out the Champion in Everyone!" Special Olympics Georgia State Summer Games May 20-22

2011-05-19T06:09:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Special Olympics of Georgia (SOGA) will host its annual State Summer Games for more than 2,000 athletes and coaches May 20-22 at Emory University.

Athletes will compete in aquatics, flag football, athletics, soccer, badminton, volleyball, tennis, gymnastics, and table tennis, with medals awarded throughout.

"It is great to see the athletes have the perfect opportunity to shine at Summer Games. The athletes have worked very hard leading up to this weekend and will be so excited," said SOGA CEO Georgia Milton-Sheats.

Friday morning, a Law Enforcement Torch Run press conference will be held outside the State Capitol steps at 9:30 a.m. Elected officials and law enforcement officers have been invited. Law enforcement officers from agencies all over the state have teamed up with SOGA in a 1,000-mile torch relay across the state leading up to the State Summer Games. The "Flame of Hope" will light the cauldron at Opening Ceremony to signify the opening of the games.

Opening Ceremony will take place at 7:30 p.m. at Emory's McDonough Field. The parade of athletes will be led by Grand Marshal Mattias Schnorf, Defender for the Atlanta Silverbacks, and will be escorted by the Law Enforcement Torch Run Officers from across the state.

The games are free and open to the public. Parking is free at Peavine Parking deck.

-----

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

Roswell Cycling Festival April 30

2011-04-09T09:46:00.000-07:00

Lots of fun for the entire family

April 30 -
Mountain Bike Activities at Big Creek Mountain Bike Trail
Riders experience 2 new pump tracks - one for beginners and the other for intermediate/advanced riders. A small circular course with berms and rollers professionally built to teach the skills necessary to safely participate in true off-road trails.

Sunday - May 1
Roswell Criterium on Canton Street
A professional and Amateur bicycle race in Roswell's Historic District. Beginning mid-morning, racers compete throughout the day, culminating with pro-riders in the last two races. Racers reach amazing speeds and provide thrills and chills for spectators who are watching. Along with amateur and professional racers, the event will add a new feature this year - a Fat Tire Crit. The Fat-Tire Crit features mountain bikes with knobby (fat) tires in a race around the criterium course, providing thrilling bike handline. Special demonstrations, exhibits, will be provided by Specialized Bicycles, Roswell Bicycles, SCRAM, and FELT.

Roswell Mayor's Recreation Ride
A recreational ride featuring three options: a free family 6-mile tour around old town Roswell; a 20-mile Challenge route; and a 40-mile Workout. Free demonstration rides on the course will be offered by Roswell Bicycles, Specialized Bicycles and Felt Bicycles. Register to use one of these state-of-the-art bicycles by calling 770-642-4057.

Kids Bicycle Safety Rodeo
The Safety Rodeo takes place at the Roswell UMC parking lot on Mimosa Blvd. All participants have the opportunity to ride the race course in the afternoon as the Criterium focuses on Children.

Moving Parts of the Arts: Bicycle Art Display around the Streets of Roswell
Enjoy browsing the works of art created from bicycles, bicycle parts and accessories. You will be amazed at the creativity. Coordinated by the Roswell Cultural Arts Board, this is a fun way to bring attention to the Cycling Festival while showcasing the arts.

www.roswellcriterium.com
www.roswellcyclingfestival.com

Sen. Brown Bill to Preserve Music/Sports Halls of Fame

2011-03-25T11:41:00.000-07:00

Video Lottery Terminals Would Help

Sen. Robert Brown (D-Macon), will file a bill next week suggesting an alliance between the Georgia Lottery Corporation, the Georgia Music Hall of Fame Authority and the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame Authority. The bill will allow video lottery machines in both halls of fame and would increase Lottery revenues, increase revenues for the halls of fame and increase people presence in downtown Macon, where both halls of fame have operated since their inception.

“I see this as a win-win,” Sen. Brown said. “Much controversy has surrounded the Music Hall of Fame and the Sports Hall of Fame because they have not been self sufficient financially. After these tremendous structures were built, the attendance did not match projections. Now, the taxpayers are forced to pick up the slack. At the same time, several cities are arguing that they can run the halls better than Macon can. That is simply not true. This bill will correct the problem by bringing people to the halls and providing non-taxpayer funding. Downtown Macon businesses will benefit from the increased people traffic to what will be a unique and fresh entertainment district.”

In the legislation, Sen. Brown outlines a plan where both halls of fame authorities would partner with the Georgia Lottery. Video lottery terminals would be placed inside the halls of fame (blocked off so only adult access would be allowed). Some have suggested the Halls were over built; this plan would provide a way to economize space. The authorities, then, would become lottery retailers, gaining commissions on sales just like any other retailer. The proceeds would help cover operating costs.

“This bill is only the beginning of a plan,” Sen. Brown said. “The legislative session is almost over, so it is too late to see passage this year. However, we can begin discussions and refine the proposal. By next year’s session of the General Assembly, I hope legislators will move forward and execute a plan in a way that will benefit all Georgians.”

A recent decision by the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame Authority keeps it in Macon, despite plans from others Georgia cities to woo the museum. At the end of this month, the Georgia Music Hall of Fame Authority will vote on bids by Macon, Athens, Dunwoody and Woodstock to determine where that museum will call home. In the mean time, local money from Middle Georgia governments is going toward the halls to keep them financially stable. Brown says local taxpayer money should not be used to support a state facility. This bill would provide the needed non-taxpayer revenue stream to ensure the halls a long and prosperous life.

Hotter Temperatures Mean More Hit Batsmen in Baseball

2011-03-10T09:01:00.000-08:00

During spring training, Major League pitchers work on fine-tuning their mechanics and strengthening their legs so they don't break down during the dog days of summer.

It's doubtful these pitchers will give much thought to what the July heat might do to their brains, but perhaps they should.

A new study led by researchers from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business has found pitchers whose teammates get hit by a pitch are more likely to retaliate and plunk an opposing batter when the temperature reaches 90 degrees than when it is cooler. But if no one has been hit in the game, then high temperatures have little effect on a pitcher's behavior.

"We found that heat does not lead to more aggression in general," said Richard Larrick, a management professor at Fuqua. "Instead, heat affects a specific form of aggression. It increases retribution."

Major League statistics show there were 1,549 incidents of hit batsmen last season, an average of .64 hit-by-pitch incidents per game. Most pitchers are not intentionally beaning batters, as a hit batsman automatically proceeds to first base and increases the chances that his team will score, Larrick said. Despite that advantage, pitchers and team managers admit they sometimes target batters on purpose.

"When a batter is hit by the opposing team, his teammates don't know if it was an accident or deliberate," said Larrick, who also holds an appointment in the department of psychology and neuroscience. "We think hotter temperatures make a pitcher more likely to see the action as deliberate and hostile. And once a pitcher feels provoked, hotter temperatures increase feelings of revenge."

The study, which appears in the March 2011 issue of the journal Psychological Science, examined 57,293 Major League Baseball games from 1952 through 2009 -- roughly 4.5 million matchups between a pitcher and a hitter. Temperature was more predictive of struck batsmen if the opposing team's pitcher had already beaned one or more hitters. For example, if temperatures were in the 50s during a game, there was a 22 percent chance a pitcher would hit a batter if a precipitating pitch occurred in the first inning of a game. When temperatures were in the 90s, the retaliation risk rose to 27 percent.

To make sure other factors weren't confounding the link between temperature and hit batsmen, the researchers analyzed variables that might affect a pitcher's performance, including indicators of pitcher inaccuracy such as wild pitches, and other measures such as errors by the team, the year the game was played, where the game was played, inning and score.

"It was important to sort out whether heat tends to increase aggressive behavior, such as retribution, or whether it leads pitchers to be less accurate with their pitches," said Larrick.

Larrick, a longtime St. Louis Cardinals fan, first examined the link between heat and pitcher retaliation as a graduate student, but couldn't amass enough data -- at least not by poring through microfilms. He decided to revisit the question more recently because historical play-by-play game transcripts have been posted online by dedicated baseball fans.

As an expert in behavioral science, Larrick expected to find a connection between heat and aggression. "There are decades of research showing heat leads to aggression, like finding more violent crime in the summer," he said. "But in crime statistics, it's hard to really determine if it's heat or other things. One of the nice things about studying baseball is that we're able to control for factors besides heat."

Larrick said he was surprised that the "a batter for a batter" tradition of retaliation does not always hold. "Baseball fans will tell you the sport's code of honor dictates you're supposed to hit a player on the other team when your player has been hit," he said. "Nobody seems to be aware that players apply the rule much more at high temperatures than at cool temperatures."

Other authors of the study include Andrew Carton of Fuqua; Thomas A. Timmerman, Tennessee Technological University; and Jason Abrevaya, University of Texas.
The research report is available online at: http://pss.sagepub.com/content/early/2011/02/23/0956797611399292.full.pdf+htm

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

Fiesta Atlanta Announces 5K Race Benefiting Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

2011-03-02T07:36:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Lanza Group, LLC is announcing the inaugural Fiesta Atlanta 5 Que?, a 5k race/walk to Fiesta Atlanta. Fiesta Atlanta celebrates Cinco de Mayo and Latino culture with a daylong music festival on Sunday, May 1. Children's Healthcare of Atlanta has been selected to be the beneficiary of the race.

"Children's Healthcare of Atlanta is a natural beneficiary for the race," says Lanza Group President Ralph E. Herrera. "They serve an overwhelming percentage of Hispanics in Atlanta, and a great way for us to raise awareness and give back to the community at large."

The Fiesta Atlanta 5 Que? race encourages the Hispanic community and all families to participate in healthy, active lifestyles. The 5k race will begin at 8:30 a.m. and end at 10 a.m. in Centennial Olympic Park, with live music and an awards ceremony. Portions of the proceeds will benefit Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and their mission to helping kids get back to being kids. Please visit our race registration page on active.com to register.

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta is a not-for-profit pediatric health care system that strives to enhance the lives of children through excellence in patient care, research and education. Offering access to more than 30 pediatric specialties, Children's manages more than half a million patient visits annually at three hospitals and 17 neighborhood locations and is one of the largest clinical care providers for children in the country.

Fiesta Atlanta, the Southeast's largest Cinco de Mayo celebration, is a free, daylong festival that includes a full day of live Latin music on two stages, with national and local recording artists. The children's stage lineup includes lively, colorful acts including Mexican folkloric dancers, clowns, musicians and storytellers. Artists will be selling handmade crafts while vendors will be selling delicious Latin foods.

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

Georgia's Cyclists are Pedaling Hard to Stop Diabetes at Local Tour de Cure Event

2011-02-23T12:18:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- In an effort to reduce the growing prevalence of diabetes, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGa), is the premiere sponsor of the Atlanta Tour de Cure® (TDC) on Sunday, May 15, 2011 at Bouckaert Farm in Fairburn, Georgia. This multi-faceted ride is the American Diabetes Association's (ADA) annual national cycling event benefitting diabetes research and advocacy to help change the future of diabetes and help stop its devastating complications.

The American Diabetes Association's Tour de Cure event is more than just a fun day outdoors. Participating in the Tour is about giving hope to the 26 million people currently living with diabetes, as well as to their families and their friends – ultimately finding a cure and preventing the threat faced by the 57 million Americans currently at risk.

To further enhance this commitment, Morgan Kendrick, BCBSGa president has been appointed as the Tour's Executive Sponsor, where he will be responsible for communicating the importance of BCBSGa's partnership with the ADA to both internal and external audiences throughout the state, in addition to serving as a corporate contact for other companies interested in joining the event.

"I am honored to serve as the Executive Sponsor and have already joined our BCBSGa Blue Blazers team," said Morgan Kendrick, president, BCBSGa. "In fact, we are encouraging our employees to support this cause by joining our cycling team or to volunteer their time at the event. The Tour provides a great opportunity for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia's employees to join together for a day of fun, fitness and entertainment."

"More than likely we all know someone impacted by diabetes," continued Kendrick. "I know that's true for me and true for a majority of our 3,200 employees across the state. We really want Georgians to know that we've joined the movement to stop diabetes."

Individuals and teams composed of co-workers, family and friends will be taking the ride of their life and will join the groundswell of a combined 40,000-plus cyclists and volunteers who will be participating in events across the country. Tour de Cure is designed for all skill levels from the occasional rider to the experienced cyclist and offers five routes, including:

* 10-Mile Fun Ride: This Family-Friendly Fun Ride is accessible to all ages and fitness levels, featuring a flat, enjoyable road that stretches along a serene area of the Silk Sheets trail.
* 14-Mile Ride: The 14-mile ride offers a moderate challenge while being safe and scenic. Frequent rest stops and plenty of SAG patrols make this ride a great choice for everyone, from the beginner to intermediate cyclist.
* 34-Mile Ride: The 34-mile ride is the perfect choice for an intermediate cyclist. This scenic route offers a greater challenge and yet is fully supported by our SAG vehicles and full rest stops.
* 62-Mile Metric Century: This 62-mile metric century features a fun yet challenging ride through the Silk Sheets - a perfect choice for the advanced cyclist or a rider who wants an even greater challenge. Full route support ensures a safe ride from start to finish.
* 100-Mile Century: This 100-mile century is a true test of endurance – best suited for the experienced cyclist. Traversing 100 miles on Fairburn's (Silk Sheets) best roads guarantee an unforgettable experience.

"We are truly excited to have Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia as a sponsor of this momentous national event here in Georgia," said Michael Gault, Senior Executive Director, Atlanta/North Georgia Region American Diabetes Association. "Their contributions will help provide needed funds to help the nearly 26 million Americans living with diabetes – including more than 1 million Georgians."

"I encourage other Georgia companies and individuals to start their own team because every dollar raised benefits diabetes research," said Kendrick.

The Tour de Cure raises funds through registration fees and pledges collected by the individual cyclists. To register visit: www.diabetes.org/atlantatourdecure or call Aimee Simpson at 404-320-7100 x3034.

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

Thousands to Hit the Streets in the Fight Against Hunger on March 13

2011-02-12T14:16:00.001-08:00

More Than 10,000 Metro Atlantans Expected to Participate in Hunger Walk/Run

Unemployment remains at record levels in Georgia, causing many more people to seek help to feed their families. The Atlanta Community Food Bank (ACFB) and others are working harder than ever to meet the continued demand and are hoping Hunger Walk/Run 2011 will bring out a record number of participants to help raise funding, awareness and hope for the issue of hunger.

The Food Bank, along with five other local hunger-relief programs and thousands of metro Atlantans will gather at Turner Field’s Green Lot on Sunday, March 13 to walk and run through Downtown, marking the 27th year of the annual event. Gates open at Noon and the walk/run steps off at 2 p.m.

The number of people needing emergency food assistance in metro Atlanta has risen to a critical level in recent years. According to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey report released in September 2010, nearly 1.6 million Georgians are living in poverty, up from 1.4 million in 2008. So far this fiscal year, the ACFB’s distribution to its more than 700 nonprofit partner agencies has increased by 40 percent.

“Hunger – Walk for It – Not Away from It,” is the mantra for Hunger Walk/Run 2011 organizers who are serious about responding to the need, recruiting record numbers of participants, and raising more funds than ever. “The Hunger Walk/Run is one of our most important fundraisers each year,” said Bill Bolling, founder and executive director of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. “As a number of recent studies have shown, more and more people are struggling to put food on the table. The money raised at this event will help us continue to meet the growing need here in metro Atlanta, now and in the coming months.”

While the Walk/Run addresses a serious problem, it doesn’t run short on fun. Participants will be energized by the full scope of activities such as a 22 foot slide, a golf chip-shot area, and a children’s obstacle course to get everyone excited about, and energized for, the event. “This is a fun and memorable event for everyone,” said Holly Royston, Hunger Walk/Run manager. “In addition to the 5K walk and run, we’re creating an exciting, festival atmosphere in the Green Lot to kick off the afternoon. Our stage show will feature a performance by Sounds of Essence, as

well as Brenda Wood from 11Alive and Mara Davis from 92.9 davefm serving as our emcees. We’ll have music and giveaways from 92.9 davefm, 104.7 The Fish and V103/WAOK. There is so much to do before you even take that first step on the route!”

Walkers and runners will step off at Turner Field just outside Monument Grove, and travel a scenic, historic route throughout downtown Atlanta with live performers supporting them along the way – performers include STRATOGEEZER, Praise in Motion dancers and Emerson Drummers drum core, among others.

While “day-of” registration will be available, participants are encouraged to register online at www.HWR2011.org and invite friends and family to join them at the event or make a donation. The runners’ registration fee is $25, which includes a special Hunger Walk/Run moisture wicking t-shirt. There is no charge for walkers to participate, but a $25 donation is encouraged, and those donating or collecting $25 or more will receive an official Hunger Walk/Run 2011 t-shirt.

Once again, Episcopal Charities Foundation, Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, Lutheran Services of Georgia, Presbytery of Greater Atlanta, and St. Vincent De Paul Society are partnering with ACFB to recruit participants and raise funds. As the only race in the community that benefits more than just one nonprofit, Hunger Walk/Run has become a beloved tradition. From families and individuals to faith groups and corporate teams, this event offers the rare occasion to bring people together from almost every race, generation and religion in metro Atlanta.

The committee worked hard to add some fresh ideas on fundraising last year, helping to raise over $500,000. “With an event that has been around for a while, we were especially surprised by the generosity of the community,” said Royston. “We hope to build on the momentum and raise even more this year!”

The Hunger Walk began as a small volunteer event created in response to domestic and international hunger issues in 1984. The Atlanta Community Food Bank has helped organize the Hunger Walk/Run every year since it began, and in 1988 it became a special project of the Food Bank. Since then, millions of dollars have been raised, helping to feed hundreds of thousands of people who struggle with hunger or the threat of hunger.

For more information on Hunger Walk/Run 2011, visit www.HWR2011org, call 404-892-3333 ext. 1246, or email hungerwalk@acfb.org for more information. We’ll see you there!

Special Olympics Georgia State Winter Games in Cobb County Set for This Weekend

2011-01-19T07:02:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Athletes from all over Georgia will compete in Special Olympics Georgia's State Indoor Winter Games, sponsored by Stadion Money Management, in Cobb County this weekend.

About 1,800 participants from all over Georgia will compete Jan. 21-23 at various locations in Cobb County. Athletes will compete in basketball, ice skating, bowling, floor hockey, powerlifting, artistic gymnastics and roller skating. Southeast Powerlifting is also being held during the weekend at the Crowne Plaza on Powers Ferry. The games are free and open to the public.

The Games' Opening Ceremony is at 7:30 p.m. at Cobb Civic Center in Marietta. At Opening Ceremony, every athlete and coach will wear red and white scarves knitted by volunteers from all over the country. Grand Marshals are the four World Games athletes who will compete in Greece in July. The highlight of the night is the lighting of the cauldron by a law enforcement officer and an athlete, signifying the Flame of Hope for athletes and the community. This year is the Law Enforcement Torch Run's 25th Anniversary. It is SOGA's largest grassroots fundraiser.

Competitions will continue Saturday and Sunday at various locations, including The Cooler, Brunswick Zone, Marietta Middle School, and Cobb County Civic Center. The full schedule and a link to make a donation is available at www.SpecialOlympicsGA.org.

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

Thrashers Place Forward Evander Kane on Injured Reserve and Recall Forwards Tim Stapleton and Spencer Machacek from Chicago (AHL)

2011-01-09T18:53:00.001-08:00

The Atlanta Thrashers have placed forward Evander Kane on Injured Reserve, retroactive to Jan. 5, and have recalled forwards Tim Stapleton and Spencer Machacek from the Chicago Wolves (AHL), according to General Manager Rick Dudley.

Kane, 19, has appeared in 40 games this season, recording 26 points (13 goals, 13 assists) and ranking third on the team in goals. The 6-2, 195-pound, left wing has earned 52 points (27 goals, 25 assists) in 106 career NHL games with the Thrashers (2009-10 to 2010-11).

The Vancouver, British Columbia, native was selected in the first round, fourth overall, of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.

Stapleton, 28, has seen action in 10 games with Atlanta this season after originally being signed as an unrestricted free agent on Nov. 30. His NHL totals include three goals in 20 career games with Atlanta (2009-10 to 2010-11) and Toronto (2008-09). Stapleton added a shootout goal in a Thrashers 3-2 victory over the Boston Bruins on Dec. 30.

The 5-9, 180-pound center has contributed with two points (two assists) in two games with the Wolves this season. Prior to signing with Atlanta he registered 15 points (eight goals, seven assists) in 20 games with the San Antonio Rampage (AHL). The Forest Park, Illinois, native has earned 160 points (66 goals, 94 assists) in 174 career games over four AHL seasons with Portland (2005-06), Toronto (2008-09), Chicago (2009-10 to 2010-11) and San Antonio.

Machacek, 22, has seen action in 39 games with the Wolves while registering 33 points (14 goals, 19 assists), which ranks third on the team. The 6-1, 200-pound right wing has tallied 130 points (57 goals, 73 assists) in 195 career AHL games with Chicago (2008-09 to 2010-11). Machacek, who played two games with the Thrashers during the 2008-09, made his NHL debut on March 16, 2009 vs. Washington.

The Lethbridge, Alberta, native was selected by the Thrashers in the third round, 67th overall, of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. Secure the option to purchase 2011 NHL Stanley Cup Playoff seats by ordering pro-rated Atlanta Thrashers Season Tickets, or build your own flex plan by selecting the games that work best for you. For more information, please call 1-866-715-1500 or visit www.thrashersseasontickets.com. Individual game tickets for all home games are on sale at all Ticketmaster Ticket Outlets and the Philips Arena Box Office, or online at www.atlantathrashers.com.

Clayton State Announces “Take a Kid to the Game” Date

2011-01-06T19:44:00.001-08:00

Come support the Lakers at their men’s & women’s basketball games

The Clayton State men’s and women’s basketball teams are inviting local youth for its annual NCAA® Basketball “Take A Kid to the Game®” on Saturday, Jan. 22. The Laker women and men will be playing host to Peach Belt Conference rival North Georgia College & State University. The women’s game tips off at 5:30 p.m., followed with the men’s game at approximately 7:30 p.m. All Laker home basketball games are played at the Athletics & Fitness Center on the campus of Clayton State University in Morrow.

Area youth (13 & under) are invited to attend this special date and receive a free ticket and free popcorn with the purchase of a full-priced ($5) adult ticket. Youth will have the opportunity to experience the college game-day atmosphere and some exciting action as they watch the Lakers compete for a win.

Clayton State is hosting one of more than 700 games that will be played across the nation as part of the Take A Kid to the Game (TAKG) program in its 16th season. The project is a grass roots initiative that attracts the nation’s youth and encourages adults to take kids to area college basketball games.

“We are thrilled to invite area youth to our campus and have them help as we cheer on the Lakers to victory. It is our hope that adults in the community will bring their children out to experience a collegiate athletic event at Clayton State,” says Mason Barfield, director of Athletics at Clayton State. “We’re expecting a crowd to take part in the intense basketball action at our games!” Tickets for these special games can be purchased at the door, beginning one hour before the scheduled tipoff time. For more information, contact Clayton State at (678) 466-4679 or visit http://athletics.clayton.edu/ on the web. NCAA Basketball® is a national sponsor of the Take A Kid to the Game program.

Atlanta Motor Speedway Ignites Enthusiasm with Changes to 2011 Friday Night Drags Season

2011-01-06T12:55:00.001-08:00

Atlanta Motor Speedway officials are infusing new energy into their popular Friday Night Drags series by updating the championship structure and amending the series rules for the upcoming 2011 season.

Friday Night Drags, the Speedway’s summer drag racing series, will feature five new drag racing classes and a unique championship points structure in order to create more-competitive racing in 2011. The changes include:

Five new Friday Night Drags racing classes, including four new motorcycle divisions: Diesel Truck; Super Sport Bike; Street Motorcycle; Cruiser Motorcycle; and Dirt Bike.
Two new Show-N-Shine car show classes: Street Rod (1949 and prior stock or custom vehicles) and Motorcycle.
A mid-season champion will be crowned in each racing division after six points races and points will be reset entering the second half of the overall 2011 season. The mid-season and second-half champions will match race at the end of the season to determine the 2011 Friday Night Drags season champion in each division.
The Three-Win Rule will require competitors who accumulate three wins in entry-level divisions to graduate to advanced classes.
Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine champions will be honored during Atlanta Motor Speedway’s 2011 NASCAR Labor Day weekend of night racing.

“Friday Night Drags continues to grow each year, but for 2011 we are adding several new elements to make this year’s drag racing program even better,” said Ed Clark, Atlanta Motor Speedway president and general manager. “The enhancements made for the 2011 season – new classes for racing and show cars, an updated method for crowning champions and the Three-Win Rule – should result in the most-competitive season in the five-year history of Friday Night Drags.”

In addition to the announced rules changes for the 2011 season, Atlanta Motor Speedway officials also released the upcoming schedule for Friday Night Drags. The Speedway will play host to 16 Friday Night Drags events in 2011, including 12 points races running from June 3 through Aug. 19, preceded by four non-points events for testing beginning on April 29.

2011 Friday Night Drags Schedule

April 29 Friday Night Drags Non-Points Opener & Show-N-Shine

May 6 Friday Night Drags Non-Points Event & Show-N-Shine

May 13 Friday Night Drags Non-Points Event & Show-N-Shine

May 20 Friday Night Drags Non-Points Event & Show-N-Shine

June 3 Friday Night Drags Season Points Opener & Show-N-Shine

June 10 Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine

June 17 Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine

June 24 Friday Night Drags Double Points Night & Show-N-Shine

July 1 Friday Night Drags, Show-N-Shine and Fireworks

July 8 Friday Night Drags Mid-Season Championship & Show-N-Shine

July 15 Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine

July 22 Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine

July 29 Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine

Aug. 5 Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine

Aug. 12 Friday Night Drags Double Points Night & Show-N-Shine

Aug. 19 Friday Night Drags Championship Night & Show-N-Shine

For more information about Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine, visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com or call 770-946-4211. You can also download this year’s rulebook and procedures by following this link http://www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/documents/2011_rulebook.pdf.

Atlanta Braves Announce 2011 Braves Country Caravan, Presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors

2011-01-04T13:48:00.000-08:00

Coming to a Town Near You, January 24 – February 5, 2011

Braves players, coaches, alumni, broadcasters, and executives prepare to hit the road, visiting fans in Atlanta and throughout the Southeast in the second annual Braves Country Caravan

The Atlanta Braves are taking their show on the road and coming to a town near you, January 24 – February 5, during the second annual Braves Country Caravan, presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors. With more than 25 stops in Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, the Braves will travel more than 3,000 miles and meet thousands of fans during a two week stretch before the team heads to Orlando for Spring Training.

Atlanta Braves players, coaches, alumni, broadcasters, and team executives will make community appearances at children’s hospitals, schools, and military bases, and will host autograph signings at Academy Sports + Outdoors stores and other locations including Publix Super Markets around Atlanta and in cities throughout the Southeast including: Macon, Augusta, Athens, and Columbus, Georgia; Birmingham, Montgomery, and Auburn, Alabama; Greenville, Spartanburg, and Columbia, South Carolina; Knoxville, Chattanooga, Madison, and Nashville, Tennessee; and Charlotte, North Carolina.

Preliminary 2011 Braves Country Caravan Schedule

A complete schedule of community appearances and autograph signings in each market will be announced prior to each caravan stop.

Monday, January 24: Macon, Georgia
· Community appearance to be announced
· 4:00 – 5:30 p.m - Autograph signing Academy Sports + Outdoors
1689 Eisenhower Parkway
Macon, GA 31206
(478) 785-2300

Tuesday, January 25: Columbia, South Carolina and Augusta, Georgia
· Community appearance to be announced
· 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. - Autograph signing at Academy Sports + Outdoors in Evans
4210 Washington Road
Evans, GA 30809
(706) 210-6100

Wednesday, January 26: Birmingham, Alabama
· Community appearance to be announced
· 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. CST - Autograph signing at Academy Sports + Outdoors in Hoover
2810 John Hawkins Pkwy
Hoover, AL 35244
(205) 403-6145

Thursday, January 27: Atlanta area
· Season Ticket Holder Q & A and Lunch at TBA location
· Braves Autograph Signing
Publix Super Market Location TBA

Friday, January 28: Atlanta and Athens, Georgia
· Season Ticket Holder Q & A and Lunch at TBA Location
· 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. - Autograph signing at Academy Sports + Outdoors in Athens
3505 Atlanta Highway (at Timothy Rd.)
Athens, GA 30606
(706) 354-5620

Saturday, January 29: Columbus, Georgia, and Montgomery and Auburn, Alabama
· Community appearance to be announced
· 12 – 1:30 p.m. CST - Autograph signing Academy Sports + Outdoors in Montgomery
8610 Eastchase Pkwy
Montgomery, AL
(334) 215-2800
· 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. CST Autograph signing Academy Sports + Outdoors in Auburn
2325 Bent Creek Road
Auburn, AL 36830
(334)466-5500

Sunday, January 30: Greenville, South Carolina
· Community appearance to be announced
· 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. – Autograph signing at Academy Sports + Outdoors in Greenville
59 Woodruff Industrial Lane
Greenville, SC 29607
(864) 254-5900

Monday, January 31: Atlanta area
· Community appearances and autograph signings to be announced

Tuesday, February 1: Knoxville and Chattanooga, Tennessee
· Community appearances and autograph signings in Knoxville to be announced
· 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. – Autograph Signing at Academy Sports + Outdoors in Chattanooga
2220 Hamilton Place Blvd
Suite 150
Chattanooga, TN 37421
(423) 490-2300

Wednesday, February 2 Atlanta area
· Season Ticket Holder Q & A and Lunch at TBA Location
· Braves Autograph Signing
Publix Super Market Location TBA

Thursday, February 3 Charlotte, North Carolina and Spartanburg, South Carolina
· Community appearance and autograph signing in Charlotte to be announced
· 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. – Autograph signing at Academy Sports + Outdoors
100 Peachwood Centre Dr
Spartanburg, SC 29301
(864) 216-8960

Friday, February 4: Atlanta area
· Season Ticket Holder Q & A and Lunch at TBA Location
· Braves Autograph Signing
Publix Super Market Location TBA

Saturday, February 5: Madison and Nashville, Tennessee
· 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. CST - Autograph signing at Academy Sports + Outdoors
2350 Gallatin Pike North
Madison, TN 37115
(615) 855-6900
· Community appearance to be announced

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

2010-12-13T08:01:00.001-08:00

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

2010-10-25T08:06:00.000-07:00

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

2010-10-12T13:27:00.000-07:00

“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

2010-10-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

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

2010-09-28T04:42:00.000-07:00

/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

2010-09-22T08:02:00.000-07:00

/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

2010-09-21T06:10:00.000-07:00

/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

2010-09-16T05:45:00.000-07:00

/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

2010-09-11T17:49:00.000-07:00

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

2010-09-08T05:59:00.000-07:00

(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

2010-09-05T14:02:00.000-07:00

(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

2010-09-03T12:21:00.001-07:00

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

2010-09-02T07:16:00.001-07:00

/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

2010-09-02T07:12:00.000-07:00

/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

2010-08-30T09:03:00.001-07:00

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

2010-08-26T13:19:00.000-07:00

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

2010-08-26T11:37:00.000-07:00

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

2010-08-25T09:47:00.000-07:00

/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

2010-08-23T15:59:00.000-07:00

/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

2010-08-23T06:07:00.000-07:00

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

2010-08-19T17:38:00.000-07:00

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

2010-08-18T08:47:00.000-07:00

/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

2010-08-13T17:36:00.000-07:00

/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'

2010-08-09T14:11:00.000-07:00

/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

2010-08-05T08:42:00.000-07:00

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

2010-08-03T06:29:00.000-07:00

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

2010-07-30T04:59:00.000-07:00

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

2010-07-22T14:00:00.001-07:00

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

2010-07-21T17:39:00.000-07:00

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

2010-07-06T19:30:00.000-07:00

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.

Gatorade(R) National Baseball Player of the Year: Kaleb Cowart

2010-06-04T05:52:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire/ -- In its 25th year of honoring the nation's best high school athletes, The Gatorade Company, in collaboration with ESPN RISE, today announced Kaleb Cowart of Cook High School (Adel, Ga.) as its 2009-10 Gatorade National Baseball Player of the Year. Cowart was surprised with the news while he was taking a baseball team photo at Cook High School by 13-year Major League Baseball veteran Delino DeShields, also a Gatorade State Baseball Player of the Year as a high school senior.

"It felt great to surprise Kaleb with the Gatorade National Baseball Player of the Year award and welcome him into one of the most prestigious legacy programs in high school sports," said DeShields, who stole 463 bases in his distinguished career, capping the 1997 season as the National League leader in triples. "Gatorade has been on the sidelines fueling athletic performance for years, so to be recognized by a brand that understands the game and truly helps athletes perform is a huge honor for these kids."

By claiming the 219th National Player of the Year trophy to be awarded in the program's 25-year history, Cowart joins two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year Dwight Howard (2003-04, Southwest Atlanta Christian, Atlanta) and 2010 NCAA Final Four MVP Maya Moore (2006-07, Collins Hill, Suwanee), both of whom were ultimately named Gatorade High School Athletes of the Year, as the only high school athletes from the state of Georgia to earn Gatorade National Player of the Year recognition in any sport.

The award, which recognizes not only outstanding athletic excellence, but also high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the field, distinguishes Cowart as the nation's best high school baseball player. A national advisory panel comprised of sport-specific experts and sports journalists helped select Cowart from more than 473,000 high school baseball players nationwide. Cowart is now a finalist for the prestigious Gatorade Male High School Athlete of the Year award, to be presented at a special afternoon ceremony prior to The ESPY Awards in July.

The 6-foot-3 1/2, 195-pound senior right-handed pitcher and switch-hitting third baseman led the Hornets (31-5) to the Class 2A best-of-three state championship series this season, where they handed eventual champion Calhoun High (35-1) its only loss of the year before falling, two games to one. Cowart finished 10-1 on the mound along with a save, posting a 1.05 ERA and collecting 116 strikeouts in 73 innings. At the plate, he batted .654 with 11 home runs, 59 RBIs and 55 runs scored, concluding his senior campaign with a 1.206 slugging percentage, a.721 on-base percentage and 36 stolen bases in 36 attempts. His 2010 batting average ranks second all-time in state history among single-season totals.

A 2009 Aflac All-American, Cowart is a three-time First Team All-State selection and is rated the nation's No. 6 prospect in the Class of 2010 by Perfect Game USA and No. 13 by Baseball America.

Cowart graduated with a 94.5 GPA in the classroom. He has volunteered in association with the Cook High Anchor Club, participating in service projects to assist needy local families and children as well as blood-donation drives and a literacy-outreach initiative for elementary-age students. He has also donated his time on behalf of his Fellowship Baptist Church. A past member of the Cook High Student Leadership Team, which facilitates freshman assimilation on campus, Cowart has also served as an Adel-Cook Recreation Department youth sports volunteer.

"I think Cowart has the chance to become the next Chipper Jones," said Cook High Head Coach Bob Owsley. "He has all the skill and tools it takes to succeed at a very high level. He's without a doubt the best player I have ever coached."

Cowart has signed a National Letter of Intent to play baseball on scholarship at Florida State University this fall, but is projected as an early round selection in next week's Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft.

"Without question, Kaleb is deserving of recognition as the nation's best high school baseball player based on his statistics on the field and the impact his accomplishments have had on Cook High School's success," said Gatorade Senior Vice President of Sports Marketing Jennifer Storms. "But he is also a shining example to peers and aspiring young players of what a leader and a student-athlete should be. He represents everything we hope for in a Gatorade Player of the Year recipient."

The Gatorade Player of the Year program annually recognizes one winner in the District of Columbia and each of the 50 states that sanction high school football, girls volleyball, boys and girls cross country, boys and girls basketball, boys and girls soccer, baseball, softball, and boys and girls track & field, and awards one National Player of the Year in each sport. The selection process is administered by ESPN RISE and the Gatorade high school sports leadership team, which work with top sport-specific experts and a media advisory board of accomplished, veteran prep sports journalists to determine the state winners in each sport.

To celebrate the award's 25th anniversary, Gatorade wants you to vote for the All-Time Greatest Baseball Player of the Year at www.gatorade.com/POY25. For more information on the Gatorade Player of the Year program, including nomination information, a complete list of former winners, and future announcement dates, visit the Gatorade Player of the Year Web site at http://playeroftheyear.gatorade.com/, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GatoradePOY or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Gatorade.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter: @GAFrontPage

'Be a Fan': Special Olympics Georgia State Summer Games May 21-23

2010-05-19T04:56:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire/ -- About 2,600 athletes and coaches from all over Georgia will compete in Special Olympics Georgia (SOGA) State Summer Games May 21-23 at Emory University. Athletes will compete in athletics, aquatics, soccer, soccer skills, badminton, volleyball, table tennis, tennis, and gymnastics.

The games, which are free and open to the public, begin Friday, May 21, with the Opening Ceremony at 8 p.m. at Emory's McDonough Field with a parade of athletes. Leading the parade of athletes is Atlanta Falcons Running Back Jason Snelling. Opening's emcee is WSB-TV retired sports anchor Bill Hartman.

Competitions will be Saturday and Sunday, with medals being awarded throughout the weekend. Events will be held at the Woodruff P.E. Center and Candler Soccer Field on Emory's campus.

Parking is free at Peavine Parking deck. For more information about the games and a map of Emory, visit www.specialolympicsga.org.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter: @GAFrontPage

Atlanta Braves to honor Tom Glavine with Braves Hall of Fame induction and number retirement on Aug. 6

2010-05-12T10:59:00.000-07:00

The Atlanta Braves will pay tribute to their former pitcher Tom Glavine on Friday, August 6 by inducting him into the Braves Hall of Fame and retiring his uniform number. The induction will take place at a special luncheon and the uniform number retirement will occur in a pre-game ceremony that night before the Braves take on the San Francisco Giants.

"Tom has been, and continues to be, a very special part of the Atlanta Braves organization," said Atlanta Braves President John Schuerholz. "There's no greater honor than inducting him into our Hall of Fame and making sure his Braves uniform number 47 is retired and finds its rightful place alongside other great Braves Hall of Famers."

Glavine's number 47 will be the seventh Braves uniform number to be retired, joining Hank Aaron (44), Eddie Mathews (41), Dale Murphy (3), Phil Niekro (35), Warren Spahn (21) and Greg Maddux (31). The Braves also retired the number 42 along with all Major League Baseball teams to honor Jackie Robinson.

Glavine, who is currently a special assistant to team president John Schuerholz and is also a broadcaster on some Braves radio and TV broadcasts, spent 19 years in the Braves organization. He was drafted by the Braves in 1984 and was with the team through the 2002 season before he was signed as a free agent with the New York Mets. After five seasons with the Mets, Glavine returned to the Braves in 2008.

He ranks 21st on the Major League Baseball's career victory list, with 305, and he ranks fourth for most wins by a left-handed pitcher behind Warren Spahn, Steve Carlton and Eddie Plank. In 518 starts for the Braves, Glavine compiled a 244-147 record with a 3.41 ERA.

Glavine won the National League Cy Young Award in 1991 and again in 1998. In 1995 he was named the World Series MVP after going 2-0 with a 1.29 ERA in the Braves' championship win over the Cleveland Indians.

He will join Hank Aaron, Bill Bartholomay, Lew Burdette, Skip Caray, Del Crandall, Ralph Garr, Tommy Holmes, Ernie Johnson, David Justice, Herman Long, Bill Lucas, Greg Maddux, Eddie Mathews, Dale Murphy, Kid Nichols, Phil Niekro, John Sain, Paul Snyder, Warren Spahn, Ted Turner, and Pete Van Wieren in the Braves Hall of Fame.

Tickets are available for the August 6 game at www.braves.com/tickets, the Braves ticket office at Turner Field, by calling Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000, or at any Ticketmaster outlet.

The location for the Hall of Fame luncheon is still to be determined, but for information regarding tickets fans can call 404-614-2310.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter: @GAFrontPage

17th Annual Hustle for Hope 5K Run-Walk May 1, Fairburn

2010-04-27T18:00:00.001-07:00

17th Annual Hustle for Hope 5K Run-Walk will be held Saturday, May 1, 2010 at Lester Road Christian Church, 3900 Newton Road, Fairburn, GA 30213. A 100 meter Heroes of Hope race will be held for our friends with special needs. This will be a fun filled day for the entire family. All proceeds from the race benefit Southwest Christian Care, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing quality hospice care for terminally ill patients, children with special needs, seniors, and their families. For more information or to register visit our website at www.SWChristianCare.org or call 770-969-8354

Jamal Crawford Wins 2009-10 NBA Sixth Man Award Presented by Kia Motors

2010-04-27T17:15:00.000-07:00

The Atlanta Hawks’ Jamal Crawford, who came off the bench in all 79 games in which he appeared this season, is the winner of the 2009-10 NBA Sixth Man Award presented by Kia Motors as the league’s best player in a reserve role, the NBA announced today.

Crawford received 580 of a possible 610 points, including 110 of a possible 122 first-place votes, from a panel of 122 sportswriters and broadcasters throughout the United States and Canada. Jason Terry of the Dallas Mavericks, who won the award last season, finished second with 220 points and Anderson Varejao of the Cleveland Cavaliers finished third with 126 points.

In order to be eligible for this award, players had to have come off the bench in more games than they started. Players were awarded five points for each first-place vote, three points for each second-place vote and one point for each third-place vote.

As part of its support of the Sixth Man Award, Kia Motors America will donate a 2011 Kia Sorento CUV on behalf of Crawford to Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta. Kia Motors will present a brand new Sorento, the Official Vehicle of the NBA, to the charity of choice of each of four 2009-10 season-end award winners as part of the “The NBA Performance Awards Presented by Kia Motors.” Following this season, Kia Motors will have donated a total of 12 new vehicles to charity since the program began in 2008.

Crawford, Atlanta’s second leading scorer at 18.0 ppg, led the league in that category among players who didn’t start a game and paced the team in scoring 27 times. He ranked seventh overall in three-point field goals (163) and 18th in free throw percentage (.857). Over the last 40 years, only Ricky Pierce (1989-90, 23.0 ppg) posted a higher scoring average without starting a single game. His 163 three-pointers were the second most by a bench player since Chuck Person of the Indiana Pacers connected for 164 in 1991-92. Crawford recorded nine four-point plays, bringing his all-time NBA-leading career total to 28. The 6-5 guard scored at least 20 points 32 times, including one 30-point effort. Crawford scored his 10,000th career point at Golden State Feb. 21, and dished out his 2,500th career assist at Sacramento Nov. 4.

The 2009-10 NBA Sixth Man Award presented by Kia Motors is part of a series of on-court performance awards called “The NBA Performance Awards Presented by Kia Motors.” The series, currently in its third season, is a significant part of the multiyear marketing partnership between Kia Motors America and the NBA, and also includes the Most Improved Player, Defensive Player and Most Valuable Player of the Year awards. It also includes the Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Month presented by Kia Motors, which are awarded during the regular season. For more information on the “The NBA Performance Awards Presented by Kia Motors” visit www.NBA.com/performanceawards.

Below are the voting results for the 2009-10 NBA Sixth Man Award presented by Kia Motors:

2009-10 NBA SIXTH MAN AWARD PRESENTED BY KIA MOTORS VOTING

Player Team 1st 2nd 3rd 580
Jamal Crawford Atlanta 110 10 - 580
Jason Terry Dallas 6 48 46 220
Anderson Varejao Cleveland 2 32 20 126
Manu Ginobili San Antonio 2 17 14 75
JR Smith Denver - 4 21 33
Lamar Odom LA Lakers 1 6 2 25
Paul Millsap Utah 1 2 4 15
Carl Landry Sacramento - 2 6 12
Udonis Haslem Miami - - 5 5
Marcus Thornton New Orleans - 1 - 3
Kyle Lowry Houston - - 1 1
Jared Dudley Phoenix - - 1 1
Kevin Love Minnesota - - 1 1
Al Harrington New York - - 1 1

ALL-TIME NBA SIXTH MAN AWARD PRESENTED BY KIA MOTORS WINNERS

1982-83 Bobby Jones, Philadelphia 76ers
1983-84 Kevin McHale, Boston Celtics
1984-85 Kevin McHale, Boston Celtics
1985-86 Bill Walton, Boston Celtics
1986-87 Ricky Pierce, Milwaukee Bucks
1987-88 Roy Tarpley, Dallas Mavericks
1988-89 Eddie Johnson, Phoenix Suns
1989-90 Ricky Pierce, Milwaukee Bucks
1990-91 Detlef Schrempf, Indiana Pacers
1991-92 Detlef Schrempf, Indiana Pacers
1992-93 Clifford Robinson, Portland Trail Blazers
1993-94 Dell Curry, Charlotte Hornets
1994-95 Anthony Mason, New York Knicks
1995-96 Toni Kukoc, Chicago Bulls
1996-97 John Starks, New York Knicks
1997-98 Danny Manning, Phoenix Suns
1998-99 Darrell Armstrong, Orlando Magic
1999-00 Rodney Rogers, Phoenix Suns
2000-01 Aaron McKie, Philadelphia 76ers
2001-02 Corliss Williamson, Detroit Pistons
2002-03 Bobby Jackson, Sacramento Kings
2003-04 Antawn Jamison, Dallas Mavericks
2004-05 Ben Gordon, Chicago Bulls
2005-06 Mike Miller, Memphis Grizzlies
2006-07 Leandro Barbosa, Phoenix Suns
2007-08 Manu Ginobili, San Antonio Spurs
2008-09 Jason Terry, Dallas Mavericks
2009-10 Jamal Crawford, Atlanta Hawks
---
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

Evander Holyfield Makes History... Again!

2010-04-14T10:47:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Rocky Balboa couldn't have told a better story than Evander Holyfield. Saturday night, the 47-year-old Holyfield became the oldest man to capture the World Heavyweight Championship, the fifth time in his storied career that the "Real Deal" has captured world title honors. With the crowd at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas chanting, "Holyfield! Holyfield!," the boxing legend stopped Francois Botha with a right hook at 2:05 remaining in the eighth round to become the new WBF World Heavyweight Champion. The knockout win improves Holyfield's career record to 43-10-2, with 28 KOs.

"For me, this win represents the power of faith," Holyfield said. "I wanted to show people that you can win and achieve your goals no matter what because through God all things are possible."

Holyfield also said that he looks forward to bringing renewed attention and excitement to the Heavyweight Division.

The 47-year-old Holyfield was fighting for the first time since December 2008. He has always been known for his innovative, scientifically-based training methods, which have kept his body in peak condition well past the age when most fighters have retired. He soon will be introducing his own line of revolutionary nutritional products to the public to help people look and feel their best.

Next, Holyfield has his sights set on David Haye and the Klitschko brothers, Wladimir and Vitali, who all hold other major versions of the World Title. Following Saturday's victory, Holyfield issued a challenge to settle the score in the ring.

"There's only one world, so there should only be one World Heavyweight Champion," Holyfield said. "I am going to be the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion of the World again."

Holyfield is represented by Womble Carlyle Corporate & Securities/Sports & Entertainment attorney Bernard H. Coleman, Jr.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter: @GAFrontPage

Atlanta Braves, Georgia Aquarium, Stone Mountain Park, World of Coca-Cola, and Six Flags Over Georgia Team Up to Launch MVP Package

2010-04-07T17:48:00.000-07:00

Ticket combo packages at substantial savings available now at: braves.com/mvp

The Atlanta Braves have teamed up with the Georgia Aquarium, Stone Mountain Park, World of Coca-Cola, and Six Flags Over Georgia to launch the MVP Ticket Package, which includes admission to all five attractions for $89.00, a savings of almost 37%.

The $89.00 Most Valuable Package includes:

· An Outfield Pavilion ticket to any Braves game in 2010 (retail value $28.00)

· A Six Flags Over Georgia admission ticket (retail value $44.99)*

· A Georgia Aquarium admission ticket (retail value $26.00)

· Stone Mountain One-Day All Attractions Pass (retail value $27.00)*

· World of Coca-Cola admission ticket (retail value $15.00)

Total retail value: $140.99 – Total Savings: $51.99

*Please refer to braves.com/mvp for Six Flags and Stone Mountain Park operating schedule and hours.

Fans can also choose from an assortment of ticket combination packages including:

· Triple Play Ticket Pack: An Upper Box ticket to any Braves game in 2010 + admission to two of the other MVP attractions (Georgia Aquarium, Stone Mountain Park, World of Coca-Cola, or Six Flags Over Georgia) starting at $44.50

· Double Play Ticket Pack: An Upper Box ticket to any Braves game in 2010 + admission to one other MVP a

ttraction (Stone Mountain Park, World of Coca-Cola, or Six Flags Over Georgia) starting at $24.50 · The Big Catch: An Outfield Pavilion ticket to any Braves game in 2010 + admission to Georgia Aquarium for $37.00

---
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

Bremen BRIDGE Festival to Help Combat Drug Usage in West Georgia

2010-04-05T16:04:00.000-07:00

PRNewswire/ On your mark! Get set! Go! Registration for the 5K Run / Walk at the Third-Annual Bremen BRIDGE Festival is now available www.BremenBridgeFest.com. This annual family celebration will take place on Saturday, May 15, 2010 and will benefit BRIDGE, a West Georgia program designed to Bring Rescue in Drug Gripped Environments. The emphasis of this year's event is that Bremen is building a Bridge to help our pre-teens and teens find the right path to a drug free life.

In addition to the 5K, there will be activities for the whole family to enjoy including live entertainment including a Bremen Idol competition - music and other performances, a series of athletic competitions hosted by the Bremen Recreation Department, an antique car exhibit, a community prayer, drug awareness and community clean-up projects and food vendors. Visitors will also have the chance to learn about living healthier with on-site information booths and complimentary basic health screenings.

"Including the Fun Run, this annual event helps us to promote health among our participants and raise funds to help BRIDGE continue to teach our children the benefit of living well, including saying no to drugs," said Dr. William Parrish, a physician with Primary Care of Bremen and co-chair of the BRIDGE organization. "It's an issue that affects the entire community, but is also one we can help resolve together." Adds Chief Keith Pesnell, Co-Chair Chair of BRIDGE, "To keep our teens drug free, we have to educate and remind our kids and ourselves, and lead by example."

To register for the 5K Run / Walk or become a sponsor or vendor, please call 404-961-2230 or email interest to: info@BremenBridgeFest.com. Additional information is available at www.BremenBridgeFest.com.
---
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

Multi-Grammy Winning Performer Rob Thomas to Take Part in Dow Live Earth Run for Water

2010-03-28T16:06:00.000-07:00

Register to Run or Walk Now at www.liveearth.org/run to See

Rob Thomas Perform Live in Downtown Atlanta

Live Earth Donates $1 to Haiti for U.S. Registrations Received Today through March 18th

Live Earth, organizer of The Dow Live Earth Run for Water, and Atlanta Track Club, race director for the Atlanta event, today announced that Rob Thomas, multi-platinum three-time GRAMMY Award-winner Rob Thomas, will perform live at the Atlanta event taking place at Pemberton Place, adjacent to the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium. The largest worldwide water initiative on record to help combat the global water crisis, The Dow Live Earth Run for Water is a series of 6km run/walks (the average distance many women and children walk every day to get water), culminating with a water education village and live musical performances, taking place in 80 cities across 40 countries around the world, to raise awareness and funds that will help solve the global water crisis. Pete Wentz, Angelique Kidjo, Alexandra Cousteau, and Jenny Fletcher have already been announced to support events on April 18th.

“I am thrilled to be participating in this important event to bring clean, safe drinking water to the women and children around the world walking 6km every day to sustain their families,” said Rob Thomas. “I encourage the Atlanta community to come out on April 18th because together we can make a difference in the lives of so many.”

Funds raised from the events will benefit Global Water Challenge, a coalition of non profit organizations working to bring clean, safe drinking water to millions of people worldwide. This includes innovative projects that provide clean drinking water to communities in Haiti, Central America, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia. GWC has invested in previous projects with donations going towards improving access to water in schools and supporting local entrepreneurs who provide market-based solutions. Beginning today, Live Earth will donate $1 for each U.S. registration received between now and March 23 for a special Haiti relief fund through GWC coalition partners CARE, Catholic Relief Services, Population Services, and UNICEF to implement safe drinking water programs on the ground in Haiti. People interested in supporting the Haiti relief fund should register for a Dow Live Earth Run for Water run/walk event in the U.S. before April 1st via The Active Network at http://liveearth.org/run, using promotional code HAITI.

“The money raised from these events will help thousands of people in the developing world get access to clean drinking water. We look forward to investing these funds and impacting lives,” said Paul Faeth, President of Global Water Challenge.

Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper is dedicated solely to protecting and restoring the Chattahoochee River Basin – the drinking water source for 3.5 million people. Established in 1994, UCR works to advocate and secure the preservation and stewardship of the Chatahoochee River, its tributaries and watershed, for the people, fish and wildlife that depend on the river system. The Chattahoochee is considered the most used water resource in Georgia, and is one of the most threatened rivers in the United States.

This event will raise awareness about the threats the Chattahoochee faces as well as helping to fund UCR’s work in the field, patrolling the river system, monitoring water quality, educating our community, and more,” said Sally Bethea, Executive Director and Riverkeeper for UCR.

Atlanta's Dow Live Earth Run for Water event will take place in downtown Atlanta with the start/finish at the Water Village area located at Pemberton Place, adjacent to the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium. The 6km course will take participants through nearby neighborhoods. The Dow Live Earth Run for Water will start at 8:45 a.m. with the Rob Thomas performance following the run/walk. Thomas will perform songs from his acclaimed current album, cradlesong which includes the chart topping singles “Someday” and “Her Diamonds”.

“As the premier running organization in Atlanta, the Atlanta Track Club is excited to help organize this run/walk to drive awareness of both the global and regional water crisis,” said Tracey Russell, Executive Director of the Atlanta Track Club.

People in Atlanta can register for the Dow Live Earth Run for Water run/walk today via The Active Network at http://liveearth.org/run. All participants will receive a free online ActiveTrainer plan to help them prepare for the event. A portion of all registration fees for the Atlanta event will go directly to Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper and Global Water Challenge.

“Live Earth is honoured to have Rob Thomas as part of this global movement to help raise awareness for the global water crisis”, said Kevin Wall, Founder of Live Earth. “Through his commitment, we are able to connect with a wider audience on this important issue and ultimately encourage them to participate in this movement to bring clean, safe, drinking water to the nearly one billion people on this planet in need.”

The Dow Live Earth Run for Water is a global movement focused on the actions individuals can take to effectively address the issue. People are encouraged to START solving the problem today, RUN in a Dow Live Earth Run for Water run/walk in their community or organize their own run/walk through the Friends of Live Earth program, SAVE water in their home and local community through conservation efforts, GIVE money to support clean, safe water projects and SPEAK UP by signing the Live Earth petition to add water as a basic human right to the U.N. Declaration of Human Rights.

“As the title sponsor for the Dow Live Earth Run for Water, Dow is committed to bringing the science, technology and “human element” it will take to help solve one of the world’s greatest challenges – the global water crisis,” said Ian Barbour, general manager at Dow Water & Process Solutions, a business unit of Dow. “On April 18, 2010, Dow’s 52,000 employees will join people from around the world to help millions of people around the world gain access to safe, clean drinking water.”

For more information about the Dow Live Earth Run for Water visit www.liveearth.org, and to participate in the Atlanta event, please visit www.livearth.org/run.

About the Atlanta Track Club
The Atlanta Track Club is a non-profit organization established to inspire and engage the community to achieve health and fitness through running. With over 9,000 members, the ATC is the second largest running organization in the United States. In addition to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Peachtree Road Race – the largest running event in the US – and the Atlanta Half Marathon, the Atlanta Track Club directs more than 25 running events per year. For more information on the Atlanta Track Club, please visit atlantatrackclub.org.

About Global Water Challenge
GWC is a diverse coalition that consists of leading organizations working to provide creative and sustainable solutions for universal access to safe drinking water and sanitation. GWC’s mission is to generate a global movement to meet the urgent need for safe water and sanitation by spurring collective awareness and investment in water supply/sanitation innovation by corporate, public, and nongovernmental actors. Our challenge is to reach people with the tools and education they need to empower themselves. Access to clean water and sanitation leads to healthier, longer and more productive lives, and breaks the cycle of poverty. Water and sanitation are not just human rights, they are human necessities. More information about Global Water Challenge can be found at http://www.globalwaterchallenge.org.

About Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper
Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper (UCR) is a nonprofit environmental advocacy group whose mission is to protect and preserve the Chattahoochee River, its tributaries and watershed, for the people, fish, and wildlife that depend upon it. The Chattahoochee provides drinking water for 3.5 million people but is constantly threatened by overuse, pollution, and waste. Since being founded in 1994, UCR has stopped the flow of hundreds of millions of gallons of untreated sewage into the river system. UCR patrols the river, holds polluters accountable, and works with individuals, businesses, and policy-makers to ensure that we have a healthy river system and enough clean drinking water for now and in years to come. UCR has more than 4500 members and was the 11th licensed program in the international Waterkeeper Alliance. Learn more at www.chattahoochee.org.

About Live Earth
Founded by Emmy-winning producer Kevin Wall, in partnership with former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, Live Earth was built upon the belief that entertainment has the power to transcend social and cultural barriers to move the world community to action. A for-profit company, Live Earth seeks to leverage the power of entertainment through integrated events, media and the live experience to ignite a global movement aimed at solving the most critical environmental issues of our time. More information about Live Earth can be found at http://liveearth.org.

About Dow
Dow combines the power of science and technology with the “Human Element” to passionately innovate what is essential to human progress. The Company connects chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help address many of the world’s most challenging problems such as the need for clean water, renewable energy generation and conservation, and increasing agricultural productivity. Dow’s diversified industry-leading portfolio of specialty chemical, advanced materials, agrosciences and plastics businesses delivers a broad range of technology-based products and solutions to customers in approximately 160 countries and in high growth sectors such as electronics, water, energy, coatings and agriculture. In 2009, Dow had annual sales of $45 billion and employed approximately 52,000 people worldwide. The Company’s more than 5,000 products are manufactured at 214 sites in 37 countries across the globe. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted. More information about Dow can be found at www.dow.com.
---
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

Atlanta Hawks Star Josh Smith and NBA Ledend Steve Smith Get New Jobs at Official NBA Shop at Champs Sports

2010-03-28T13:45:00.000-07:00

Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith and NBA legend Steve Smith will help excite Atlanta basketball fans for the all-new Official NBA Shop at Champs Sports at Lenox Mall in Atlanta.

The public is invited, and fans will have the chance to shop with Josh and Steve and have them help them pick out adidas NBA gear. They will also spend time working the register and meeting fans.

Josh will switch out of the navy and red of his Hawks uniform, and Steve will put down his NBA TV microphone to dawn the official uniform of Champs Sports employees and become a personal shoppers for a few lucky fans.

Fans that attend will also have the opportunity to enter raffles to win signed adidas NBA gear, Hawks tickets, and other prizes.

Monday, March 29
3:00 – 4:00 PM
Champs Sports @ Lenox Square Mall
3393 Peachtree Road NE, Space 2020
Atlanta, GA 30326

About the Official NBA Shop at Champs Sports

In February 2010, the NBA, adidas and Champs Sports partnered to launch the official NBA Shop at Champs Sports. The shop has debuted in 69 Champs Sports stores across the country and will be in their remaining 486 stores nationwide by the start of the 2010-11 NBA season. The NBA Shop at Champs Sports is a dedicated retail space featuring a wide assortment of adidas NBA performance and lifestyle apparel, including on-court products, fashion collections, and exclusive adidas NBA apparel and accessories year round. adidas is the league’s official uniform and apparel provider.

Thrashers Recall Forward Tim Stapleton from Chicago (AHL)

2010-03-27T18:23:00.001-07:00

The Atlanta Thrashers have recalled forward Tim Stapleton from the Chicago Wolves of the American Hockey League, according to Executive Vice President and General Manager Don Waddell.

Stapleton, 27, has registered 58 points (29 goals, 29 assists) in 71 games with Chicago this season. The 5-9, 160-pound right wing has set a new career high in goals, while ranking eighth in the league and second on the club. He leads the Wolves with three shorthanded goals, ranks second in points and plus/minus rating (plus-24), and is third in assists.

The La Grange, Ill., native made his NHL debut last season, scoring one goal in four games with the Toronto Maple Leafs. In 150 career AHL games with Portland, Toronto and Chicago he has posted 142 points (57 goals, 85 assists).

Stapleton was acquired by the Thrashers on July 1, 2009 along with defenseman Pavel Kubina from Toronto in exchange for defenseman Garnet Exelby and forward Colin Stuart. He was originally signed by the Maple Leafs as a free agent on June 6, 2008.

Tickets for all regular-season Thrashers games at Philips Arena can be purchased by visiting atlantathrashers.com, calling (800) 326-4000, or by visiting the Philips Arena Box Office or any Ticketmaster Ticket Outlet.
---
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

geneRACEtion 2010 Saturday May 22 at 8am

2010-03-12T19:20:00.000-08:00

Grant Park, Atlanta

Show your support for Kate's Club and Senior Citizens Services as we walk, run and race to raise awareness and funding for two deserving groups in our community.

The event will take place in Grant Park outside of Zoo Atlanta, and is open to all fitness levels, with everything from a 2K fun run/walk to a Peachtree Road Race 10K qualifier event, plus great after race festivities.

Go to www.generacetion.org to register today and find out about great pledge-raising and fund raising opportunities you can engage in to help these great causes.

Cost: $25 pre-reg by 5/21/10; $30 up to race day.

---
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

Ehrler with Commanding Lead at FLW Tour Event

2010-03-06T09:47:00.000-08:00

Pros are competing for a top award of up to $125,000 this week plus valuable points in the hope of qualifying for the Forrest Wood Cup which will be held Aug. 5- 8 at Lake Lanier in Atlanta, Ga., where they could win as much as $600,000 – the sport’s biggest award.

Melton Wins Co-Angler Title, $25,000

BRANSON, Mo. (March 5, 2010) – National Guard pro Brent Ehrler of Redlands, Calif., caught a 5-bass limit weighing 14 pounds, 6 ounces Friday to maintain the lead at the FLW Tour event presented by Cabela’s on Table Rock Lake advancing to the top-5 as the crucial No. 1 seed. With a three-day catch of 15-bass weighing 52-14 he now holds a 13-pound, 15-ounce lead in the tournament going in to the final day of competition.

“I feel very fortunate,” said Ehrler, who will be making his 21st top-10 appearance which includes six tour wins in just five years. “I have never been in this position before (leading by nearly 14 pounds). I once saw FLW Tour pro David Fritts go into the final day of competition with an 18-20 pound lead and I thought, wow, that would be real nice. Now, I’m just real nervous.”

Ehrler had been fishing the same underwater point all week long and hopes it holds out one more day. He believes that it’s a staging area right now and the fish are just waiting there for the water to warm up. It’s an area that goes from deep to shallow with a lot of timber and rocks. He has been enjoying an incredible early bite and really hasn’t caught any keepers past noon. All but about five pounds of his total weight have come from this magical area.

Rounding out the top-5 pros and advancing to the final day’s competition are:

2nd: Ron Shuffield, Bismarck, Ark., five bass, 14-4 for a three day total of 13 bass, 38-15
3rd: Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., four bass, 9-14 for a three day total of 14 bass, 38-14
4th: Greg Pugh, Cullman, Ala., four bass, 9-5 for a three day total of 13 bass, 38-8
5th: Mike Wurm, Hot Springs, Ark., three bass, 7-9 for a three day total of 13 bass, 37-12

The rest of the top-10 pros include some of the greatest anglers in the world and they are:

6th: National Guard pro Scott Martin, Clewiston, Fla., 10 bass, 35-14, $17,000
7th: Mark Rose, Marion, Ark., 14 bass, 34-9, $16,000
8th: Andy Morgan, Dayton, Tenn., 13 bass, 33-6, $15,000
9th: Adam Wagner, Cookeville, Tenn., 13 bass, 32-4, $14,000
10th: Folgers pro Scott Suggs, Bryant, Ark., 12 bass, 31-11, $13,000

Overall there were 238 bass weighing 600 pounds, 1 ounce caught by 148 pros Friday. The catch included only 11 five-bass limits.

Pros are competing for a top award of up to $125,000 this week plus valuable points in the hope of qualifying for the Forrest Wood Cup which will be held Aug. 5- 8 at Lake Lanier in Atlanta, Ga., where they could win as much as $600,000 – the sport’s biggest award.

Shane Melton of Greentown, Ind., won the Co-angler Division and $25,000 Friday with a three-day total of 9 bass weighing 26 pounds, 10 ounces followed by Brad Roberts of Nancy, Ky., in second place with 8 bass weighing 26-1 worth $9,862.

Melton opened the tournament in first place and never looked back. On Wednesday he had the only five bass limit weighing 13-9 while fishing with pro Bryan Thrift of Shelby, N.C. On Thursday, he maintained the lead on the strength of three bass weighing 6-15 while fishing with pro Mark Rose of Marion, Ark. He sealed the win Friday with only one-bass weighing 6-2 while fishing with pro Chad Morgenthaler of Coulterville, Ill.

“I have been nervous all day,” said Melton, who earned his first FLW Tour co-angler victory. “I just had a great week, I got to fish with my heroes, some of the best anglers in the world and I am just thrilled. I was so nervous up on stage I forgot my wife’s name! I still can’t believe it Fishing is my peace. Phenomenal is the only way to describe this week.”

While fishing with three different pros one of the only things that remained consistent for Melton was his bait. He caught all his fish using Mann’s Sting Ray Grub in deep water.

Rounding out the top-10 co-anglers are:

3rd: Mark Myers, Cedar Falls, Iowa, seven bass, 18-13, $7,395
4th: Van Roy Foster, Jr., Dalton, Ga., five bass, 16-5, $4,928
5th: Sean Stepp, Stafford, Va., five bass, 16-4, $3,942
6th: Todd Lee, Jasper, Ala., five bass, 15-9, $2,955
7th: Teddy Bradley, Mishawaka, Ind., seven bass, 15-6, $2,462
8th: Mike Foree, Osage Beach, Mo., six bass, 13-12, 1,968
9th: Jerry Willis, Atlanta, Ga., five bass, 13-4, $1,722
10th: Chad Parks, Olive Branch, Miss., six bass, 13-2, $1,475

Co-anglers are also fishing for valuable points that could help them qualify for the 2010 Forrest Wood Cup.

Overall there were 83 bass weighing 227 pounds, 10 ounces caught by 148 co-anglers Friday. The catch included only one five-bass limit.

The remaining five pros will take off at 7 Saturday morning from Table Rock State Park Marina located at 380 State Park Marina Road (Highway 165 South) in Branson. Saturday’s final weigh-in will be held at the Branson Convention Center located at 200 West Main Street in Branson, Mo., beginning at 4 p.m.

Fans will be treated to a Family Fun Zone & Outdoor Expo at the Branson Convention Center; the event continues on. Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. prior to the final weigh-in. There will be a drawing for a Can-Am ATV and rod and reel combos will be given to the first 300 kids under 14 in attendance on Saturday. The Family Fun Zone & Outdoor Expo includes Ranger boat simulators, the opportunity to interact with professional anglers, enjoy interactive games, activities and giveaways provided by sponsors, and the opportunity to learn more about the sport of fishing and other outdoor activities. All activities are free and open to the public. For a full schedule of events, additional information and to register for the ATV, visit FLWOutdoors.com/tablerock.

Coverage of the Table Rock Lake tournament will be broadcast in high-definition (HD) on VERSUS. “FLW Outdoors,” will air April 18 from 12:30 to 1:30 ET. “FLW Outdoors,” hosted by Jason Harper, is broadcast to approximately 500 million households worldwide.
---
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

Thrashers Acquire Evgeny Artyukhin from Anaheim for Nathan Oystrick and a Conditional Draft Choice in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft

2010-03-02T06:26:00.001-08:00

The Atlanta Thrashers have acquired forward Evgeny Artyukhin from the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for defenseman Nathan Oystrick and a conditional draft choice in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, according to Executive Vice President and General Manager Don Waddell.

Artyukhin, 26, has appeared in 37 games this season with the Ducks, posting nine points (five goals, four assists). The 6-4, 255-pound right wing set career highs in games played (73), goals (six) and penalty minutes (151) during the 2008-09 season with the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The Moscow, Russia, native has tallied 42 points (14 goals, 28 assists) and 282 penalty minutes in 182 career NHL games with the Ducks and Lightning. Artyukhin also appeared in five NHL playoff games with the Lightning during the 2005-06 season, tallying one goal. He has earned 37 points (14 goals, 23 assists) in 102 career American Hockey League games with Hershey and Springfield.

Artyukhin was originally selected by the Lightning in the third round, 94th overall, of the 2001 NHL Entry Draft.

Oystrick, 27, has recorded 23 points (seven goals, 16 assists) and a plus-six rating in 41 games with the Chicago Wolves (AHL) this season. He appeared in 53 games with the Thrashers during his rookie season in 2008-09, recording 12 points (four goals, eight assists).

The 6-0, 205-pound defenseman has tallied 114 points (37 goals, 77 assists) in 203 career AHL games with the Wolves. He has earned 17 points (three goals, 14 assists) in 39 AHL post-season contests and helped the Wolves capture the 2008 Calder Cup.

The Regina, Saskatchewan, native was selected by the Thrashers in the seventh round, 198th overall, of the 2002 NHL Entry Draft.

Tickets for all regular-season Thrashers games at Philips Arena can be purchased by visiting atlantathrashers.com, calling (800) 326-4000, or by visiting the Philips Arena Box Office or any Ticketmaster Ticket Outlet.
---
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

Thrashers Reassign Goaltender Peter Mannino to Chicago (AHL)

2010-02-27T08:40:00.000-08:00

The Atlanta Thrashers have reassigned goaltender Peter Mannino to the Chicago Wolves of the American Hockey League, according to Executive Vice President and General Manager Don Waddell.

Mannino, who was recalled on Feb. 24, has appeared in 24 games this season with Chicago, posting an 18-3-0 record with a 1.97 goals-against average and a .934 save percentage, ranking second in the AHL in both categories. The 6-1, 190-pound goaltender, who has set a new career-high in wins this year, is unbeaten in his last 10 decisions and has earned a 15-1-0 mark in his last 17 games overall. Mannino was named the AHL Goaltender of the Month for January after posting a 6-1-0 record with a 1.28 goals-against average and a .958 save percentage.

The Farmington Hills, Mich., native has appeared in 58 career AHL games over two seasons with Bridgeport and Chicago, posting a 35-15-12 record with two shutouts, a 2.40 goals-against average and a .903 save percentage. Mannino has also appeared in three National Hockey League games, all coming in the 2008-09 season with the New York Islanders, earning a 1-1-0 mark.

Prior to his professional career, Mannino earned a 63-32-5 record with 15 shutouts, a 2.36 goals-against average and a .917 save percentage in 103 career games with the University of Denver from 2004-05 to 2007-08. He helped lead the Pioneers to the 2005 NCAA National Championship and left as the school’s all-time leader in shutouts.

Mannino, 26, was signed by the Thrashers as a free agent on July 6, 2009.

Tickets for all regular-season Thrashers games at Philips Arena can be purchased by visiting atlantathrashers.com, calling (800) 326-4000, or by visiting the Philips Arena Box Office or any Ticketmaster Ticket Outlet.
---
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

Bobsled Teams Prepare for Weekend Events

2010-02-21T10:33:00.000-08:00

Photo: Bobsled pilot Army Sgt. Mike Kohn of the Virginia National Guard, front right, leads his four-man squad at the start of a U.S. World Cup team trials race in this 2009 file photo. Each of the three U.S. Olympic bobsled teams competing in the 2010 Winter Olympics is piloted by former or current National Guard members. U.S. Army photo by Tim Hipps

The three men's U.S. Olympic bobsled teams -- all to be piloted by a current or former National Guard member -- are ready for action this weekend.

Army Sgt. John Napier of the Vermont National Guard, Army Sgt. Mike Kohn of the Virginia National Guard and Steven Holcomb, a former member of the Utah National Guard, resumed their training at Whistler Sliding Center here Feb. 17.

"This is amazing," said Napier, who is scheduled to drive USA II with Steve Langton aboard. "It feels great to be sliding again, especially on this track. It's so fast and so fun. I love driving here. It's one of the most incredible feelings to guide a sled down this course. I can't wait to do it again tomorrow."

Napier arrived in Canada on Feb. 8 and spent several days in Vancouver, where he attended the opening ceremonies for the XXI Olympic Winter Games. He said it made him yearn to become a lifelong Olympian.

On the eve of his return to a bobsled track, Napier discussed the pre-competitive Olympic experience.

"Fifteen years of hard work to get here," he said. "I told a lot of people I would go through 10 times the troubles and sufferings to make it to this point, now that I know what it's about. I was fighting for something before I really knew what it was and didn't know what it was for. But now I know.

"Now I've witnessed it, and I'm like, 'Man, I'm hungry to keep going more, too,'" Napier continued. "I want four more Olympics after this. Being here all week and seeing the atmosphere and all the help of the volunteers, and just to see how large of an operation it is and how small a piece of the puzzle we are, is kind of cool. The ceremony was the big point that really stood out and said, 'Wow, you've made it.'"

His brief time out of the sled, however, made Napier itch to get back to work.

"We need to be on ice; we're bobsledders," Napier said. "Being here and having to wait for several days was difficult, so it feels amazing being [at the track] tonight."

Kohn will drive USA III. "I love this track," he said. "I really feel like this track suits my driving style well. I'll be honest; I was a little nervous, but we're from the U.S., and we don't back down from a challenge.

"I had a lot of help from the coaches and the other drivers," Kohn added, "plus, Todd Hays shared some of his lines with me. This track isn't nearly as difficult as I thought. I just need to dial it in and iron a few things out."

Holcomb, the reigning four-man world champion, will drive USA I with Curt Tomasevicz aboard.

"This is fantastic," Holcomb said. "The ice is smooth and in great condition. It's what you expect Olympic ice to be. It feels so nice to be back on ice again, because we've been waiting around for 10 days for this moment. It's nice to get after it again."

The bobsledders will make two more training runs down the track today. Competition is set for two heats each tomorrow night and the afternoon of Feb. 21. The medal ceremony is scheduled at 7 p.m. PST Feb. 21.

(Special to American Forces Press Service. Author Tim Hipps works in the U.S. Army Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command public affairs office.)

---
Community News You Can Use
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

FLW Tour to Visit Table Rock Lake Where Temperatures Expected to be Cold, but Bite Hot

2010-02-17T17:42:00.000-08:00

Fish Should be Plentiful at First Stop of FLW Tour

After last week’s cancelation due to severe weather conditions on the Red River FLW will visit Table Rock Lake in Branson, Mo., March 3-6 for what is now the first of five stops on the FLW Tour circuit. Hosted by the Branson/Lakes Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, the tournament will feature as many as 300 top bass anglers casting for top awards up to $125,000 cash in the Pro Division and up to $25,000 cash in the Co-angler Division.

“I am looking forward to this stop,” said Chevy pro Anthony Gagliardi of Prosperity, S.C., who won the 2009 event on Table Rock Lake. “Having won here last year I have a lot of confidence going into this tournament, I would rather be going here than anyplace else.”

“Everyone is going to be catching fish, there just won’t be as many big ones caught,” added Gagliardi. “The fish will bite; the cold is probably going to impact the fisherman more than the fish.”

“I was disappointed in the fact that the Red River event got canceled last week, but I believe it was 100% the right decision that FLW made, it was what needed to be done. However, that being said, with only five tournaments to qualify for the Forrest Wood Cup there will be less room for error, it’s going to be a game of points and the one thing you don’t want to have is a really bad finish.”

With water temperatures expected to be between 40 – 50 degrees anglers should expect a slow retrieve according to FLW pro Kathryn Ealey, who will be fishing Table Rock Lake for the first time, patience will be key. She will be looking for bait fish in hopes of getting a reaction bite from the bass.

Anglers will take off from Table Rock State Park Marina located at 380 State Park Marina Road (Highway 165 South) in Branson at 7 each morning. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday weigh-ins will also be held at the marina beginning at 3 p.m. Saturday’s final weigh-in will be held at the Branson Convention Center located at 200 West Main Street in Branson beginning at 4 p.m.

The fish will definitely be biting, according to pro Ish Monroe.

“The fish are used to cold weather,” he said. “I think it is going to take 65 – 70 pounds to win this tournament. Anglers will be catching all varieties of bass, smallmouth, bigmouth, and spotted. The key is going to be taking advantage of opportunities in order to reel the big ones in. I am excited to fish Table Rock, this is my third time fishing it competitively; my first time I finished in the top-20, my second the top-10, and this time I expect to do even better.”

Fans will be treated to a Family Fun Zone & Outdoor Expo at the Branson Convention Center on Friday from 5 p.m.-9 p.m. and Saturday prior to the final weigh-in from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be a drawing for a Can-Am ATV and rod and reel combos will be given to the first 300 kids under 14 in attendance on Saturday. The Family Fun Zone & Outdoor Expo includes Ranger boat simulators, the opportunity to interact with professional anglers, enjoy interactive games, activities and giveaways provided by sponsors, and learn more about the sport of fishing and other outdoor activities. All activities are free and open to the public. For a full schedule of events, additional information and to register for the ATV, visit FLWOutdoors.com/branson.

In FLW Tour competition, anglers are also vying for valuable points in hopes of qualifying for the 2010 Forrest Wood Cup, the world championship of bass fishing. This year’s Cup will be in Atlanta Aug. 5-8 on Lake Lanier.

Coverage of the Table Rock Lake tournament will be broadcast in high-definition (HD) on VERSUS. “FLW Outdoors,” will air April 18 from 12:30 to 1:30 ET. “FLW Outdoors,” hosted by Jason Harper, is broadcast to approximately 500 million households worldwide.
---
Community News You Can Use
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

Thrashers Place Defenseman Boris Valabik on Injured Reserve

2010-02-10T18:29:00.001-08:00

The Atlanta Thrashers have placed defenseman Boris Valabik on the Injured Reserve list, according to Executive Vice President and General Manager Don Waddell.

Valabik, 23, suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) on Feb. 5 at Washington and will require surgery at a future date.

The 6-7, 245-pound defenseman has appeared in 23 games with the Thrashers this season, posting two assists and a plus-two rating. He missed the first 16 games of the season with an ankle injury.

The Nitra, Slovakia, native has earned seven assists in 80 career NHL games, all with Atlanta, and 20 points (four goals, 16 assists) in 119 American Hockey League games with the Chicago Wolves. He has also appeared in 32 AHL post-season contests, helping the Wolves capture the 2008 Calder Cup Championship.

Valabik was selected by the Thrashers in the first round, 10th overall, of the 2004 NHL Entry Draft.

Tickets for all regular-season Thrashers games at Philips Arena can be purchased by visiting atlantathrashers.com, calling (800) 326-4000, or by visiting the Philips Arena Box Office or any Ticketmaster Ticket Outlet.
---
Community News You Can Use
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

Batter Up! Teams are forming now!

2010-02-10T13:39:00.000-08:00

Softball Tournament to benefit Fayette County’s Homebound Seniors

To raise awareness and funds for programs that help Fayette County's homebound seniors remain independent and improve their quality of life, the community is invited to participate in Fayette Senior Services “Hit One for the Homebound” softball tournament on April 10, 2010 at Mead Fields in Peachtree City. The games are scheduled to begin at 8 a.m.

The tournament will have two divisions, one for men's teams and the other will be co-ed play. Awards will be given for the top three teams in both divisions. The tournament will follow USSSA rules, which allows players of all skill levels to enjoy the games.

Dawn Davis, FSS Health & Wellness Coordinator and Tournament Director states, “We are challenging local businesses, churches, and individuals to assemble teams and help us “Hit One for the Homebound”. The in-home services we provide such as personal care, light housekeeping, and Meals On Wheels help hundreds of homebound senior citizens with their basic needs so they can live independently in their own home. The Hit One for the Homebound Softball Tournament is a fun way for us to raise awareness for the specialized needs of the homebound.”

Space is limited to 24 teams so sign up early! A minimum 10-person team is required to play but teams may have as many players as they like on their roster. Applications and tournament guidelines are available online at www.fayetteseniors.org or at Fayette Senior Services Life Enrichment Center located at 4 Center Drive in Fayetteville. The application fee is $300 per team ($400/team after April 2, 1010). For more information contact Dawn Davis at 770-461-0813 ext. 124 or at ddavis@fayss.org.

Fayette Senior Services, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. This past year, Fayette Senior Services delivered more than 40,000 Meals on Wheels to hundreds of Fayette County seniors. Other services include Transportation, Adult Day Care Referral Service, Information & Assistance, In-Home Personal Care/Homemaker Services, Case Management, and Tool Team Home Repair Service.
---
Community News You Can Use
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

Postponed Hawks at Wizards Game Rescheduled

2010-02-08T18:58:00.001-08:00

The National Basketball Association announced today the rescheduling of the Atlanta Hawks at Washington Wizards game that was postponed on Saturday, Feb. 6. The Hawks and Wizards will make up that game on Thursday, March 11 at 7:00 p.m. ET at Verizon Center in Washington D.C.

Run for the Gold / Bear Tracks

2010-02-07T13:13:00.000-08:00

Oak Grove & Burch Elementary School
5K Run/Walk and 1 mile Fun Run
March 6, 2010

Lace up your shoes for a great morning of running in Peachtree City’s quiet neighborhoods and paths. Oak Grove Elementary’s Seventh Annual Run for the Gold 5K Run and 1 mile Fun Run/Walk will take place on March 6, 2010, beginning at 8 am. This year, we are teaming with Burch Elementary’s Bear Tracks Run

Early registration is $15.00 for participants with a $60 cap for all families. Phantom runners - those who wish to support Run for the Gold but are unable to run - may purchase a T-Shirt for $10.00. Registration after February 26, 2010 is $20.00. Applications are available online at www.oges.org.

Peachtree Road Race Applications will be available; this is one of the first opportunities to register. Please read the application for complete details.

For more information, contact runforthegold@fcboe.org.
---
Community News You Can Use
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

Thrashers Recall Goaltender Kari Lehtonen from Chicago (AHL)

2010-02-07T11:55:00.000-08:00

The Atlanta Thrashers have recalled goaltender Kari Lehtonen from the Chicago Wolves of the American Hockey League, according to Executive Vice President and General Manager Don Waddell.

Lehtonen, who was assigned to the Wolves for conditioning on Jan. 22, posted a 1-1-2 record with a 2.67 goals-against average and a .899 save percentage in four outings with Chicago. His stint with the Wolves marked his first game action since April 11, 2009, when he made 33 saves in a win vs. the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The Helsinki, Finland, native has posted a 94-83-17 record with a 2.87 goals-against average and a .912 save percentage in 204 NHL games, all with the Thrashers. Lehtonen holds Thrashers franchise records by a goaltender in games played (204), wins (94), save percentage (.912) and shutouts (14).

The 6-4, 215-pound goaltender set single-season team records and career-highs during the 2006-07 season in games played (68), starts (66), wins (34), shutouts (four), save percentage (.912), minutes (3,934), shots (2,075) and saves (1,892).

Lehtonen was selected by the Thrashers in the first round, second overall, of the 2002 NHL Entry Draft.

Tickets for all regular-season Thrashers games at Philips Arena can be purchased by visiting atlantathrashers.com, calling (800) 326-4000, or by visiting the Philips Arena Box Office or any Ticketmaster Ticket Outlet.
---
Community News You Can Use
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

Atlanta Hawks at Washington Wizards Game Postponed

2010-02-06T13:45:00.001-08:00

The National Basketball Association game scheduled for this evening between the Atlanta Hawks and the Washington Wizards at Verizon Center has been postponed due to severe weather conditions in the Washington, D.C. area. As a result of those conditions, neither the Hawks nor Wizards were able to fly to Washington after their respective games last night. The date for the rescheduled game will be announced at a later time.

Start Time for Tonight’s Thrashers Game at Philips Arena Changed to 7:30 p.m.

2010-02-06T13:44:00.001-08:00

Due to inclement weather in the Washington, D.C. area, which caused travel delays for the Thrashers return to Atlanta, tonight’s game vs. Florida Panthers at Philips Arena will be pushed back to 7:30 p.m. Philips Arena doors will still open at 6 p.m.

Tickets for all regular-season Thrashers games at Philips Arena can be purchased by visiting atlantathrashers.com, calling (800) 326-4000, or by visiting the Philips Arena Box Office or any Ticketmaster Ticket Outlet.

Atlanta Teen, the 'Next Tiger Woods,' Gets Dream Shot to Compete Against the World's Best Female Golfers

2010-02-04T13:24:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Atlanta teen golf prodigy, Mariah Stackhouse, can now say sometimes dreams do come true. The 15-year-old golf phenom was surprised today by her favorite golfer, top LPGA player, Christina Kim, who showed up at her North Clayton High School to personally invite her to compete in the first-ever Mojo 6 (www.themojo6.com), a unique golf tournament being held in Jamaica, April 15-16, 2010. Stackhouse, believed to be the youngest player ever to win the Georgia Women's Amateur Championship in its 80-year history, will compete against the world's leading female golfers, including Christina Kim, Suzann Pettersen and Paula Creamer.

Stackhouse, who has been playing golf since she was two, has already been compared by many familiar with the game as being the "next Tiger Woods." Stackhouse also was the 2007 Atlanta Junior Golf Grand Champion and won the 2007 Georgia State Golf Association (GSGA) Girls Championship; and two years ago, scored a 65 in a Southeastern Junior Tour event.

"I'm thrilled to surprise Mariah with the invitation to compete against the world's best female golfers at The Mojo 6," said Christina Kim. "The Mojo 6 is poised to start a new era in golf. It was already exciting to participate because of the new format being unveiled. Now, with the addition of Mariah, it'll truly be a special event. She's already quite a golfing talent, and is a fantastic representative of the future of women's golf. I'm sure she has a long career ahead of her, and I can't wait to see her in action at The Mojo 6."

Creators of The Mojo 6, Joy Stephenson & Olympic champion Ed Moses offered Stackhouse one of the tournaments highly coveted sixteen (16) spots, stating "When we launched Mojo last year, we wanted it to be about more than creating compelling content, we wanted to create a platform to inspire people to reach for their dreams, and help others do the same. Inviting Mariah to join The Mojo 6 is certainly part of that mission, and we can't wait to see her play Raceway Golf."

Stackhouse and 15 top LPGA golfers will be the first to play Raceway Golf (TM) airing on CBS on May 1st and 2nd. Raceway Golf is a new, innovative golf format introduced by Mojo designed to draw out the competitive personalities of LPGA pros through intense showdowns. At The Mojo 6 this spring, the participants will battle Raceway Golf style as they try to knock each other out of the running for the $1 million purse. (*note: Ms. Stackhouse's winnings, as an amateur, will be donated to charity).

"It's an honor for Mariah to be invited to compete against some of the world's top female golfers," said Ken Stackhouse, Ms. Stackhouse's father and primary coach. "When the Mojo team contacted us with this idea, the hardest part was not to tell Mariah before the surprise! We just always tell her to do the best she can, and we're looking forward to going to Jamaica this spring to give Mariah the opportunity to play with the sport's best athletes."

Played over two days, this LPGA sanctioned tournament pits 16 players against each other to battle out a series of six-hole matches to crown a winner. "Mojo is working closely with the government of Jamaica, through its Ministry of Youth, Sport and Culture, and Ministry of Tourism, as well as with the LPGA, to make Raceway Golf exciting for the golfing world as well as those who may not have watched golf in the past," noted Mojo co-founder and president, Joy Stephenson.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter: @GAFrontPage

NFL Ticket Exchange by Ticketmaster Launches for Super Bowl XLIV

2010-01-28T04:10:00.000-08:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Building on the record success of its regular-season and post-season sales, the National Football League (NFL) and Ticketmaster are taking the NFL Ticket Exchange to South Florida for Super Bowl XLIV.

“The Super Bowl is one of the biggest sporting events of the year and for thousands of football fans from around the world, it’s the game they’ve always dreamed of attending”

Powered by Ticketmaster, the Official Ticket Exchange of the NFL provides fans with the ability to buy and sell tickets for Super Bowl XLIV through a convenient and secure, league-approved marketplace with the exclusive ability to electronically validate every ticket sold. Fans can access the NFL Ticket Exchange online at NFL.com/TicketExchange or by calling 888-635-5944.

Additionally, the NFL and Ticketmaster are providing football fans added convenience and security with two authorized NFL Ticket Exchange retail locations in South Florida. During Super Bowl week, a walk-up retail location for the NFL Ticket Exchange will be open in the Essex House Hotel, 1001 Collins Ave., in South Beach; and on game day, the NFL Ticket Exchange will operate for the very first time from an authorized location at Sun Life Stadium, giving fans the unprecedented opportunity to buy and sell guaranteed authentic Super Bowl tickets at the stadium up until kickoff.

“We are pleased to be able to offer our fans this safe and reliable service for the Super Bowl and, for the first time on game day, at the stadium,” said Neil Glat, the NFL’s Senior Vice President of Corporate Development. “The Super Bowl is unlike any other live entertainment event and we’re looking forward to working with Ticketmaster to offer this valued service to fans.”

“The Super Bowl is one of the biggest sporting events of the year and for thousands of football fans from around the world, it’s the game they’ve always dreamed of attending,” said Greg Consiglio, Ticketmaster’s Executive Vice President of Business Development. “We want to make sure that every fan who wants to experience this celebrated event has the opportunity to purchase guaranteed authentic tickets from a 100% secure marketplace, which is why we’re bringing the NFL Ticket Exchange to South Florida.”

Super Bowl XLIV will be played on February 7, 2010, at Sun Life Stadium in South Florida.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter: @GAFrontPage

Gladiators to wear Atlanta Knights Themed Jerseys during “Pink in the Rink” Weekend Feb 12th thru 14th

2010-01-22T18:47:00.000-08:00

The Gwinnett Gladiators 3rd Annual “Pink in the Rink” weekend dedicated to cancer research fundraising is scheduled for February 12th, 13th and 14th at the Arena at Gwinnett Center. The general public is invited to attend with tickets starting at just $10 for either of the three days. In addition, the Gladiators will wear a special one-of-a-kind commemorative throwback-style jerseys honoring the Atlanta Knights for all three games during the weekend.

For the third consecutive season, the Gladiators will skate on pink ice at the Arena at Gwinnett Center for all three games of the “Pink in the Rink” weekend. The pink-tinted ice surface is a tradition started during the Gladiators inaugural “Pink in the Rink” weekend in 2008 when the main focus was women’s cancer research.

In conjunction with the event, the players don special limited-edition jerseys featuring an exclusive one-time design. For the 3-games this season, the specialty-themed jerseys will honor the Atlanta Knights. The Gladiators will pay tribute to the Knights - the team played in the International Hockey League from 1992 thru 1995 winning an IHL Turner Cup League championship in 1994. The unique Knights style jersey creates a memorable and limited collectible keepsake of the weekend as they will be auctioned off as part of the "Pink in the Rink" fundraising efforts following Sunday's game. During the team's first six seasons, the annual jersey auction has raised an average of $34,000 for local area charities.

The Gladiators are looking to top last year’s mark of $53,000 raised during "Pink in the Rink" over two games. This season, the Gladiators will partner with the American Cancer Society and Sport of Giving as recipients of a majority of the money raised during the weekend. Fundraising efforts during "Pink in the Rink" that will benefit all involved organizations include funds raised from the sale of fundraising tickets to the Gladiators games during the weekend, multiple silent auctions at the games, selected "Pink in the Rink" merchandise, raffles and a portion of the proceeds from the Gladiators specialty-themed Jersey auction.

Over $140,000 has been raised during "Pink in the Rink" Weekend in the first two years of the fundraiser. Fans who wish to participate and support the cause can make a donation at the Georgia Lottery Fan Information Booth located on the main lobby of the Arena at Gwinnett Center of either of the three games of "Pink in the Rink".

The Gladiators continue their 7th season in the ECHL on Saturday, January 23rd @ Florida at 7:30 p.m. The Gladiators are the AA affiliate of the Atlanta Thrashers and Columbus Blue Jackets and play all home games at the 11,355-seat Arena at Gwinnett Center, located just off I-85 on Sugarloaf Parkway in Duluth.
---
Community News You Can Use
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---

NFL Donates More Than $2 Million for Red Cross Disaster Response in Haiti

2010-01-17T06:15:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- The National Football League (NFL) and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) are donating $500,000 to the American Red Cross to aid victims of the earthquake in Haiti. The NFL and its network partners will run pregame and in-game messages during the weekend's playoff games valued at $1.5 million to promote donations. In addition, NFL owners and players are making their own personal donations.

A national PSA will air during each playoff game this weekend promoting donations to the Red Cross via www.redcross.org. The PSA will feature New Orleans Saints linebacker Jonathan Vilma and San Diego Chargers defensive end Jacques Cesaire, two players with Haitian-born parents.

There will be in-stadium video board and PA messages, in all four stadiums hosting games this weekend, promoting the Red Cross text-to-give program. The Minnesota Vikings will have a collection drive at their stadium gates for this weekend's game and they will run an in-game PSA featuring running back Adrian Peterson.

"The generous contribution of the NFL and the NFLPA is critical to the ability of the American Red Cross to provide help and hope for the people of Haiti during their time of need," said Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the American Red Cross. "We are rushing supplies and disaster management staff to Haiti in the aftermath of this earthquake, and are very grateful the support of the NFL and the NFLPA for our humanitarian mission."

The American Red Cross is on the ground in Port-au-Prince, along with Red Cross teams from around the world. Among these Red Cross representatives are engineers, surgeons and family linking specialists. These teams will establish field hospitals, restore water and sanitation systems, distribute supplies and restore family links facilities. In addition, the Red Cross is performing triage, first aid, addressing urgent needs and mobilizing a massive response operation in Haiti. A base camp has been secured near the airport with warehousing facilities for relief supply staging.

The Red Cross continues to see an outpouring of support and concern from the public. People who want to help those affected by the Haitian earthquake can make a donation via RedCross.org or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.

The Red Cross is also receiving money through a third party mobile fundraising effort sponsored by Mobile Accord. Mobile donors can text "Haiti" to 90999 to send a ten dollar donation to the Red Cross. The funds will go to support the Red Cross relief efforts in Haiti.

At this time, what the Red Cross needs most are financial contributions - whether by check, online or by phone. Things like clothes are not helpful right now because there is nowhere to store them, no one to sort them, and it would be difficult to transport the items to Haiti. One good way to turn clothes into cash is to have a garage sale and then donate the money to the relief efforts.

About the NFL-NFLPA Disaster Relief Fund

Created in 2001 to assist organizations directly and indirectly affected by the events of September 11, the NFL-NFLPA Disaster Relief Fund is a collaborative endeavor of the National Football League and the NFL Players Association. Its goal is to improve the quality of life and help rebuild communities affected by large-scale tragedies. Since its inception, the NFL-NFLPA Disaster Relief Fund has provided aid to those affected by the events of September 11, 2001, the 2004 tsunami in Southeast Asia, Hurricane Katrina and the 2007 San Diego Wildfires.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization -- not a government agency -- and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org/.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter: @GAFrontPage

Cheerleading Safety Leaders Merge to Strengthen Safety Message and Expand Reach

2010-01-12T07:35:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- The leading organizations for cheerleading safety education and training have merged. The American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators (AACCA) and the National Council for Spirit Safety Education (NCSSE) are pleased to announce the merger effective Jan. 12.

There are more than 70,000 cheerleading coaches across the United States working with youth, junior high, high school, all star and college cheerleaders. The shared mission of these two nonprofits is to provide educational resources and training opportunities to these coaches, as well as school administrators, coaches and the cheerleaders themselves.

AACCA, founded in 1988, has had successful safety partnerships with the National Collegiate Athletic Association and the National Federation of State High School Associations and is widely recognized as a safety education and rule making body. AACCA has developed safety rules for all levels of cheerleading, developed the AACCA Safety Certification Course and has recently made the course available online.

"We've made great strides in addressing safety issues, and this merger puts us in a better position to continue addressing those concerns," says Jim Lord, Executive Director of AACCA. "It's very exciting to think of the effect we can have on safety by combining our expertise and resources. Together, we will be able to continue development of safety initiatives and educational programs that will directly benefit cheerleaders and their parents, coaches and administrators at every level, from youth to college, school to all star."

The NCSSE has successfully developed a comprehensive coaches' educational series incorporating teaching principles, strategies and techniques. Internationally, the NCSSE has established a strong foothold in the United Kingdom and has developed partnerships with established organizations in nine other countries.

Debbie Bracewell, Executive Director of NCSSE, is enthusiastic about the potential impact of the merger, both domestically and abroad. "This move strengthens and enhances our mission of providing comprehensive safety training and certification programs for the continued development of cheer and dance team coaches. We can better serve the cheerleading community here in the United States as well as globally, where cheerleading is growing steadily."

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter: @GAFrontPage

Governor Perdue Places Friendly Independence Bowl Wager with Governor Rick Perry

2009-12-28T13:45:00.000-08:00

Governor Sonny Perdue placed a friendly wager with Texas Governor Rick Perry over the outcome of today’s Independence Bowl game between the University of Georgia Bulldogs and Texas A&M University Aggies.

“In 2007, Governor Perry graciously flew the Georgia flag at the Texas Capitol after the Warner Robins Little Leaguers defeated Texas for the U.S. championship in route to their World Series title,” said Governor Perdue. “Now in the Christmas Season Governor Perry is seeking to redeem himself with another wager. However, I am confident that Coach Richt and the Bulldogs will deliver for Georgia and the Atlanta Community Food Bank.”

In the spirit of friendly competition both Governors agreed to wager food supplies for a local food pantry. When Georgia defeats Texas A&M, Governor Perdue will donate the winnings to the Atlanta Community Food Bank.

Governor Perry however had a different take on the outcome of tonight’s game.

“Georgia has a tremendous football program, but they’re going to find out the hard way just why Texas is the center of the football universe,” Gov. Perry said. “As an Aggie myself, you might say I’m biased, but I’ve seen this team grow each week under Coach Sherman, and I know the Aggies will take home a victory and send the Bulldogs back home to Georgia.”

The Atlanta Community Food Bank is located at 732 Joseph E. Lowery Blvd., NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30318. Donations can also be made online at www.acfb.org.

"We are grateful to Governor Perdue, not only for his confidence in our Georgia Bulldogs, but in the his gesture to support our work of helping those most in need,” said Bill Bolling, Executive Director of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. “We consider this a win-win situation and want to thank both governors for making this a wager that works for everyone."

The Independence Bowl takes place in Shreveport, La. This year’s game begins at 5 p.m. EDT.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Georgia Tech Athletic Department Launches First Mobile App

2009-12-18T06:10:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Marking its first foray into the mobile arena, Georgia Tech's Athletic Department released today a free mobile app covering football and men's and women's basketball. Produced in-house by Georgia Tech sports information and marketing staff using Whoop's web-based Creative Studio (www.whoop.com), Georgia Tech's rich media mobile app is designed to work on many different mobile phones, offering up-to-the-minute live updates of games, news feeds, team and player statistics, schedules, audio and video highlights, and links to ticket sales. There's also direct access to Athletic Director Dan Radakovich's "The Good Word" blog.

"Like many college athletic departments, Georgia Tech has been bombarded with pitches from mobile web site builders and iPhone app developers," said Wayne Hogan, associate athletic director for public relations. "Because of its limitations, a mobile web site wasn't our first priority and building just an iPhone app didn't make sense strategically because it would have excluded many of our students, alumni, fans and media who carry other mobile devices, like Blackberry or Windows Mobile phones. So when we saw Whoop's do-it-yourself mobile platform in action, which lets us build and control our own mobile channel and reach all different types of phones, we jumped at the opportunity."

"As one of the world's premier institutes of higher learning and a perennial sports leader in the ACC with rabidly passionate football and basketball fans, Georgia Tech is an ideal client for us," said Jeff Wilson, EVP of sales and marketing of Whoop. "With this new mobile app, Tech fans will be able to stay engaged with their teams wherever and whenever they want. It's like having their own personal college sports channel on their mobile phone."

Georgia Tech's mobile app was built in the Whoop Creative Studio, a web-based platform that's as easy to use as PowerPoint. In opening up mobile app creation to non-developers, Whoop makes it simple for schools, companies, agencies and organizations to produce and publish their own mobile channels, quickly and affordably.

To download the Georgia Tech mobile app, text the word "Jackets" to 53000 and follow the instructions. Standard messaging rates apply.

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

Special Olympics Georgia Receives $80,000 Grant From the UPS Foundation

2009-12-16T17:23:00.000-08:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Special Olympics Georgia received an $80,000 grant from The UPS Foundation, the charitable arm of UPS (NYSE:UPS) . The grant will be used to support the year-round program of training and competition in 23 Olympic-type sports for individuals with intellectual disabilities throughout Georgia. Special Olympics Georgia (SOGA) offers five State Games each year and over 500 local (county) meets, tournaments and competitions and offers opportunities for thousands of volunteers. This grant from UPS will enable SOGA to continue to offer programming to almost 23,000 athletes at no cost to the individual or their family!

Georgia Milton-Sheats, Chief Executive Officer of Special Olympics Georgia, said, "Special Olympics Georgia is thrilled to be the recipient of a grant from The UPS Foundation. We admire the high energy and high level of enthusiasm the UPS volunteers show at all Special Olympics events and the athletes love it to! We are thankful to have a strong working partnership with UPS and value our relationship and everything that UPS does to support the 22,769 children and adults involved in Special Olympics Georgia."

Established in 1951 and based in Atlanta, GA, The UPS Foundation identified specific areas where its backing clearly impacts social issues. In support of this strategic approach, The UPS Foundation has identified the following focus areas for giving: non-profit effectiveness, economic & global literacy, encouraging diversity, community safety and environmental sustainability.

In 2008, The UPS Foundation distributed $46.9 million worldwide through grants that benefit organizations such as Special Olympics Georgia and provide support for building stronger communities.

"The UPS Foundation is committed to funding impactful programs that make a meaningful difference in our communities - so we are proud to support Special Olympics Georgia's efforts," said Ken Sternad, President of The UPS Foundation.

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

Limited Two-Day Kentucky Derby, Oaks Ticket Packages Go on Sale Wednesday at Tickets.Churchilldowns.Com

2009-12-12T05:10:00.000-08:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--For the first time in its storied history, Churchill Downs will give the general public an opportunity to purchase special two-day ticket packages to its world-famous Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks via the racetrack’s new online box office, http://tickets.churchilldowns.com.

A limited number of seats – 3,000 for Oaks Day on Friday, April 30 and 3,000 for Derby Day on Saturday, May 1 – have been allocated for this online exclusive and will go on sale Wednesday, Dec. 16 at noon EST.

Prices for the two-day bundled seat packages range from $172 for individual first floor grandstand bleacher seats on both days to $6,390 for a six-seat box in the third floor clubhouse with daily access to the exclusive Secretariat Lounge.

“The Kentucky Derby and its sister race, the Kentucky Oaks, are extraordinary spectacles that people all over the world hope to experience at least once in their lifetime,” said Kevin Flanery, Churchill Downs Racetrack president. “This holiday season, we’ve set aside approximately 6 percent of our inventory to make it easier for the Louisville community, sports fans and entertainment seekers to obtain these usually hard-to-get reserved seats through our new and convenient online box office.

“For the last few years, we’ve tried to make more tickets available to the general public through last minute ticket lotteries and select on-track promotions. People camped out overnight in the cold and waited in long lines just to have a chance to grab Derby tickets in our on-track lottery. They don’t have to do that now; the tickets are just a mouse-click away. This is a more convenient continuation of that effort, with modest and premium price points available in our supply.”

This online exclusive offer will include third-floor clubhouse box seats in sections 312-314 (50 boxes or 300 seats); first-floor clubhouse box seats in section 111 (166 boxes or 996 seats); second-floor grandstand bleacher seats in sections 222-225 (300 seats); and first-floor grandstand bleacher seats in sections 121-128 (1,404 seats). Those who want to purchase box seats must purchase the entire box, which includes seats for six.

The third-floor clubhouse box seat packages include admission to the luxurious Secretariat Lounge, an exclusive, upscale, indoor hospitality area that will feature premium gourmet food, an open bar, televisions, betting kiosks and live music between races.

Customers can also advance purchase general admission tickets to the 136th running of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands for $40 and the Kentucky Oaks for $25.

Ticket prices vary based on location. There is a purchase limit of six seats or one box per order. Tickets must be purchased with a Visa credit or debit card. Minimal ticket processing charges will apply.

This offer is exclusive to http://tickets.churchilldowns.com; no sales will be made in person or by submitting letters, e-mail or telephone calls to Churchill Downs.

Two-Day Kentucky Derby & Kentucky Oaks Reserved Seat Tickets (Limit 6 Per Person)

First-Floor Grandstand Bleacher Seats

(Sections 121-128; total of 1,404 seats)

* Section 128 – $172 per seat (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)
* Section 127 – $183 per seat (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)
* Section 126 – $188 per seat (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)
* Section 125 – $195 per seat (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)
* Section 124 – $197 per seat (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)
* Section 123 – $200 per seat (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)
* Section 122 – $202 per seat (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)
* Section 121 – $207 per seat (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)

Second-Floor Grandstand Bleacher Seats

(Sections 222-225; total of 300 seats)

* Section 225 – $214 per seat (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)
* Section 224 – $218 per seat (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)
* Section 223 – $222 per seat (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)
* Section 222 – $225 per seat (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)

First-Floor Clubhouse Box Seats

(Section 111; total of 166 boxes or 996 seats)

* Section 111 – $1,500 per six-seat box (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)

Third-Floor Clubhouse Box Seats with Access to Exclusive Secretariat Lounge

(Sections 312-314; total of 50 boxes or 300 seats)

* Section 312 – $6,132 per six-seat box (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)
* Section 313 – $6,204 per six-seat box (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)
* Section 314 – $6,390 per six-seat box (includes Oaks Day and Derby Day)

It has never been easier to purchase tickets to Churchill Downs, thanks to the fresh technology at http://tickets.churchilldowns.com. The easy-to-navigate, one-stop shop Website designed by SeatAdvisor, Inc. allows patrons to seamlessly view, choose and purchase exact reserved seat locations throughout the vast facility.

In addition to the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks, customers can purchase packages to other 2010 events at Churchill Downs, including six “Downs After Dark” nighttime racing events scheduled for June 11, June 18, June 25, July 2, Oct. 31 and Nov. 19.

Customers are advised to visit http://tickets.churchilldowns.com frequently as inventory is continually added.

Purchasers of tickets through this online offer will agree to not resell these tickets at a premium in excess of the amount shown on the ticket or to package these tickets for resale together with hospitality, travel or other services and to not purchase – either directly or indirectly – more than the “per person” ticket limit (six seats) established for this online offer. Churchill Downs reserves the right, at its sole and absolute discretion, to cancel ticket purchases, including without limitation, voiding online transactions and refunding amounts paid by persons violating these conditions of sale. See http://tickets.churchilldowns.com for the complete terms and conditions of this online offer.

Churchill Downs, the world’s most legendary racetrack, has conducted Thoroughbred racing and presented America’s greatest race, the Kentucky Derby, continuously since 1875. Located in Louisville, the flagship racetrack of Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ Global Select Market: CHDN) also operates Trackside at Churchill Downs, which offers year-round simulcast wagering at the historic track. Churchill Downs will host the 136th running of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands on Saturday, May 1 and the Kentucky Oaks on Friday, April 30. The track will conduct its 2010 Spring Meet from Saturday, April 24 through Sunday, July 5. Churchill Downs is scheduled to host the Breeders’ Cup World Championships for a record seventh time on Nov. 5 and 6, 2010. Churchill Downs tickets are available at tickets.churchilldowns.com or by calling (502) 636-4400. Additional information about Churchill Downs can be found on the Internet at www.churchilldowns.com.

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

The Enmark Savannah River Bridge Run Scheduled for Saturday, December 5, 2009

2009-12-02T06:13:00.000-08:00

It’s that time of year again; the time to register to be a part of the Southeast’s most exciting bridge run, the Enmark Savannah River Bridge Run on Saturday, December 5, 2009. Learning more about the Bridge Run just got a whole lot easier with the launch of the newly redesigned Web site, www.SavannahRiverBridgeRun.com.

The Enmark Savannah River Bridge Run is an annual event attracting thousands of participants, race enthusiasts and funseekers from Savannah, the Lowcountry and across the U.S. each
year. The Bridge Run gives participants the chance to cross Savannah’s Talmadge Bridge, a 1.4-mile span at a 5.5% grade, 196 feet above the Savannah River, on foot.

The Enmark Savannah River Bridge Run has something for everyone – races, awards, and a fun
after-race party with food, refreshments, music and more. It features the LIFESTATS 5K Run/Walk, a 10K Run, a Double-Pump Race, a Team Challenge, the Double-Pump Team Challenge and a 1/4 mile Kids Run.

Friends, family, fans and race spectators are invited to join us as we cheer on the Bridge Run participants in downtown Savannah on Saturday, December 5. The 10K Race will start at 9:00 a.m., the Life Stats 5K Race starts at 8:15 a.m. and the 1/4 mile Kids Run starts at 8:00 a.m. The LIFESTATS 5K Race begins across the Savannah River on Hutchinson Island and ends in front of the Savannah Civic Center. The 10K Race starts in front of the Chatham County Court House on Montgomery Street and finishes in front of the Savannah Civic Center. To view the race map, please visit www.SavannahRiverBridgeRun.com.

Registration is available online at www.active.com. Register from November 1 – December 3 and the entry fee is $30. Packet Pickup will be at the Expo located inside the Savannah Civic Center on Friday, December 4. Participants that register at the Expo will pay $35. The entry fee includes a t-shirt and refreshments. Participants cannot register on the day of the race.

Presented by Enmark and organized by the Greater Savannah Sports Council, the Enmark Savannah River Bridge Run benefits the Cancer Care Research Pavilion at St. Joseph's/Candler.
For registration, race details and information contact Fleet Feet Sports of Savannah at (912) 355-3527 or visit www.SavannahRiverBridgeRun.com.

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

GSU Athletics announces football ticket plans, changes to 2010 schedule

2009-11-23T05:46:00.000-08:00

Season tickets for the inaugural 2010 Georgia State football season at the Georgia Dome will go on sale on Monday, Dec. 7 at 8 a.m.

The 2010 schedule, which kicks off at the Georgia Dome on Thursday, Sept. 2 versus Shorter, now includes seven home games with the addition of Lamar. The Panthers, coached by Bill Curry, will now host Lamar on Nov. 6, while the home game against Lambuth has been moved to Sept. 11. The Panthers also host Jacksonville State (Sept. 18), Morehead State (Oct. 2), Savannah State (Oct. 9), and North Carolina Central (Oct. 16).

"The response to our new football program has been overwhelmingly positive every step of the way, and the Georgia State community is anxious to be a part of history in our inaugural season," said Director of Athletics Cheryl L. Levick. "Not only will our fans be able to cheer for the first football team in Georgia State history, but they will watch our new marching band and sing our new fight song."

The majority of the lower level seats at the Georgia Dome range in price from $72 - $125 for the seven-game package, with Georgia State faculty and staff receiving a 20 percent discount off those prices. Active military personnel also receive the 20 percent discount.

Premium mid-field season ticket packages range from $150 - $400, including a tax-deductible donation to the Panther Athletics Club (PAC). PAC members will also have the opportunity to purchase priority parking.

Georgia State athletics also announced "The Huddle," an exclusive section of 300 ultra-premium seats located at midfield and priced at $2,500 per pair (must be purchased in pairs). The total cost includes a tax-deductible contribution to the PAC and provides season ticket holders with access to the exclusive Owner's Club, premiere Priority Parking and many other amenities.

Georgia State students will be admitted free with their valid Panther Card identification. A total of 11,217 seats have been reserved for students, including 7,670 in the lower level.

"Taking care of the needs of the Georgia State students was very important in this process," said Kosha Irby, Senior Associate Director of Athletics for External Operations. "This is their football team, and their support is crucial to our success."

In addition to traditional student seating, Georgia State will also offer students the opportunity to upgrade to a reserved seat for just $35. This option should appeal to GSU's professional and non-traditional students, Irby said.

"We want to immerse Georgia State football in the Atlanta community," said Irby. "We are offering the opportunity to see exciting college football in a first-class facility at a variety of price points, making Georgia State football a great value.

"Our games will be accessible to alumni of any age, to faculty and staff, to families, to local businesses and of course to our student body."

Fans can begin purchasing tickets Dec. 7 at 8 a.m. by calling the Georgia State ticket office at 1.866.GA.STATE or online at www.GeorgiaStateSports.com.

On that day, Georgia State Athletics will open the Sports Arena from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for those who wish to purchase their tickets in person. Refreshments will be served, the Georgia State football coaches and cheerleaders will be on hand, and door prizes will be offered, including authentic mini-helmets.

Fans who have already made season ticket deposits will be contacted by ticket office staff to select their price point. Seat selection for all price levels, including priority seats, will take place next spring.

2010 INAUGURAL GEORGIA STATE FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

Thursday Sept. 2 SHORTER GEORGIA DOME
Saturday Sept. 11 LAMBUTH GEORGIA DOME
Saturday Sept. 18 JACKSONVILLE STATE GEORGIA DOME
Saturday Sept. 25 at Campbell Buies Creek, N.C.
Saturday Oct. 2 MOREHEAD STATE GEORGIA DOME
Saturday Oct. 9 SAVANNAH STATE GEORGIA DOME
Saturday Oct. 16 NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL GEORGIA DOME
Saturday Oct. 23 at Old Dominion Norfolk, Va.
Saturday Oct. 30 at South Alabama Mobile, Ala.
Saturday Nov. 6 LAMAR GEORGIA DOME
Saturday Nov. 20 at Alabama Tuscaloosa, Ala.

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

Special Olympics Georgia Competition Week in Middle Georgia: State Horse Show, Southeast Powerlifting Invitational and an Announcement About Games

2009-11-10T16:26:00.000-08:00

Special Olympics Georgia Competition Week in Middle Georgia: State Horse Show, Southeast Powerlifting Invitational and an Announcement About Games to be Held in Warner Robins

/PRNewswire/ -- Special Olympics will hold three events in the Macon area this week: an announcement about a state games moving to Warner Robins in August 2010 on Thursday, and the State Horse Show in Perry and the Southeast Powerlifting Invitational in Macon this weekend, Nov. 13-15.

-- 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.
-- Also during the weekend, more than 100 Special Olympics athletes from
Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and
Georgia are competing in the Southeast Powerlifting Invitational. The
weekend-long competition will be held at the Ramada Plaza Hotel in
Macon.
-- Thursday, a press conference will be held at 10:30 a.m. at Warner
Robins City Hall to announce that the State Masters Bowling is coming
to Warner Robins Aug. 20-22, 2010.

All events are free and open to the public.

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

Trout Unlimited's Gold Rush Chapter Schedules 1st Annual Fly Fishing Challenge at Frog Hollow

2009-11-07T06:18:00.001-08:00

The Gold Rush Chapter of Trout Unlimited, based in Dahlonega, has announced that it will sponsor the first annual Gold Rush Cup Fly Fishing Challenge to be held on the beautiful and picturesque waters of the Chestatee River.

The venue, which has been carefully chosen, is one of the most popular trophy trout streams in the United States, Frog Hollow in Lumpkin County. This year's event will take place on Saturday, Nov. 21, from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. (a rain date will be provided). Directions to the venue can be found online at www.goldrushtu.org or www.froghollowflyfishing.com.

Attendance is open to the public with fly casting and tying demonstrations being provided by Gold Rush Chapter members. Food and drink will be available for purchase. Event tickets are $5.00 per person; children 12 and under are free. A number of raffle items will also be available.

This is a fly fishing challenge which will permit two-person teams of contestants to match their skills against other teams to earn a $1,000 grand prize, plus two quality, custom-made fly rods. Individual awards will be given for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. Registration to compete is open to the general public, on a first come basis, and the deadline for entry is Thursday, Oct. 1. Participants must be members of the national organization of Trout Unlimited; membership is open to the general public (see www.tu.org). A maximum of 10 two-person teams will be permitted; however, a minimum of five two-person teams must be registered for the event to take place.

A $500, non-refundable registration and entry fee for each two-person team is required. Business or corporate gold level sponsorship of a team or for a business/corporate booth is $200, and silver level sponsorships are $50. In the event an insufficient number of participants register for this event, all funds for individuals and businesses will be returned.

A kick-off dinner will be hosted at the site of the tournament in Frog Hollow on the Friday night before the competition;. It will begin at 5 p.m.; and the cost is $10.00 per person. A participant captain's meeting will also be held at Frog Hollow on the evening prior to the tournament.

This is a two-person team event which will be conducted according to Gold Rush tournament committee rules and regulations. More details about the event, as well as a detailed listing of the rules, are posted on the Gold Rush Chapter website at www.goldrushtu.org. All proceeds from this event will go to Trout Unlimited, a 501 (C)(3), non-profit organization.

The mission of Trout Unlimited's Gold Rush Chapter, is to conserve, protect, and restore the coldwater fisheries and their watersheds in the North Georgia area, while assisting the T.U. national organization to do the same at the national level.

In addition to the monthly chapter meetings, the Gold Rush Chapter is actively involved in conservation efforts that include assistance to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Forestry Service to ensure and enhance the environment and to perpetuate fish species by constructing and maintaining various stream structures. The chapter also initiates and works with other organizations in stream cleanup, assists with stocking of streams, and monitors water quality conditions of local streams. The chapter has been engaged in teaching the sport of fly fishing and conservation practices at several locations including North Georgia College and State University, Brenau University, and Lumpkin County Middle and High Schools, Outdoor Activity Day at Unicoi, and Kids' Day at Amicalola Park. The chapter has also supported the efforts of "Project Healing Waters fly Fishing" by providing volunteer and equipment assistance to their programs in the area. According to Healing Waters, these events serve military personnel and veterans who have been wounded, injured, or disabled to aid their physical and emotional recovery by introducing or rebuilding the skills of fly fishing and tying and by using and enjoying these skills on fishing outings and as a lifelong recreation.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---