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

/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.

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

/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.

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

/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.

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NFL Players Association Announces Partnership with RisingSeniors.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SOGA is holding events to celebrate Shriver:

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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College Football Hall of Fame Relocation to Atlanta Making Great Strides

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“My au pair,” says Green.

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

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

Emory Heart Transplant Program
The Heart Transplant Program has been in existence at Emory University Hospital since 1985, when it performed the first heart transplant in Georgia. Today Emory’s patient survival rates are among the best in the country. Emory’s transplant program has an experienced multi-disciplinary team highly skilled in the care of heart transplant candidates and recipients. This team includes the Center’s cardiologists, a transplant surgeon, transplant coordinators, a social worker, psychiatrist, psychiatric clinical nurse specialist, pharmacist, clinical nutritionist, physical therapist, chaplain, staff nurses and a financial coordinator. Each member of this team offers a specialized service in the care of Emory transplant patients. 
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Peter Westbrook Foundation (PWF) Teams Unite for 2010 U.S. National Fencing Championships

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Petit commits $1.5 million cornerstone gift to GSU Athletics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

/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.

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

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.

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

/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.

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Governor Perdue Places Friendly Independence Bowl Wager with Governor Rick Perry

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

/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.

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GSU Athletics announces football ticket plans, changes to 2010 schedule

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.

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Thrashers to Host Girls’ & Women’s Hockey Weekend on Saturday, Oct. 24

Annual Event Surrounding Game against the San Jose Sharks at Philips Arena to Recognize Female Participation in Hockey in the Southeast

The Atlanta Thrashers, along with USA Hockey, are hosting Girls’ & Women’s Hockey Weekend on Saturday, Oct. 24, surrounding their game against the San Jose Sharks at Philips Arena at 7 p.m.

The annual showcase, which includes several events and activities throughout the day, is dedicated to recognizing female participation in hockey throughout the Southeast. This year’s event will feature two-time member of the United States women’s Olympic hockey team and Harvard graduate Julie Chu.

Chu will participate in several events, including an on-ice clinic for girls and women, along with members of the Thrashers Hockey Development Team, at Philips Arena from 1-3 p.m. She will also address participants in the showcase from 6-6:45 p.m. to discuss her experiences in the sport and will hold a meet-and-greet with members of the Women’s Sports Foundation’s Go Girl Go program.

Also planned for the event are special pre-game introductions of 12 local girls hockey players (ages 6-16), who will skate onto the ice along with their counterparts from the Thrashers and Sharks starting line-ups prior to the national anthem. Girls and women hockey players will also be featured on-ice during both intermissions in a scrimmage and shootout, respectively.

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