For more information see: princegeorgesclassic.com
Press Release
OXON HILL, MD - The Prince George's Black Chamber of Commerce (PGBCC) will host the Third Annual Prince George's Classic, a three day cultural extravaganza that celebrates black college football, educational achievement, tradition, community pride and unity. This year's Classic will pit the North Carolina Central University Eagles (NCCU), led by head coach Rod Broadway, against the Bowie State University Bulldogs (BSU), led by head coach Mike Lynn, Jr. The kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m. at Bowie State University's Bulldogs Stadium on Saturday, September 30, 2006.
Joining PGBCC President Hubert "Petey" Green to make the official Classic announcement today was Congressman Al Wynn; Maryland Lieutenant Governor Michael Steele; Maryland State Senator Ulysses Currie; Prince George's County Council Member Douglas "J.J." Peters; Dr. John Deasy, CEO of the Prince George's County Public Schools; Dr. Calvin Lowe, president emeritus of Bowie State University; Dr. Patricia Pierce Ramsey, Bowie State University's interim president; Karen Price Ward, regional manager for Southwest Airlines; and Jay "Sky" Walker, former NFL quarterback.
"Although we have been hampered by rain for the past two years, canceling the Prince George's Classic has never crossed my mind," stated PGBCC President Green. "I know this is a great economic opportunity for Prince George's County, the State of Maryland and the DC/Baltimore metropolitan region.
A study conducted by RESI at Towson University, an independent research and consulting institute, indicates that a "classic" of this caliber can generate an estimated $15-$20 million for Prince George's County and create $6 million in labor income, which is equivalent to nearly 300 jobs.
Also in attendance at the press conference were Prince George's County Council Member Marilynn Bland; Stuart Simms, candidate for attorney general; Bobby Henry, candidate for Maryland state senator; as well as distinguished partners and supporters of the Classic.
"The Prince George's Classic weekend is a celebration of cultural excellence and educational achievement while showcasing the most affluent African-American community in the nation," said Prince George's County Executive Jack B. Johnson. "We are unwavering in our support for the Prince George's Classic and we extend a heartfelt welcome to every fan, friend and alumni of Bowie State University and North Carolina Central University."
The Third Annual Prince George's Classic features two of the top football teams in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), the nation's oldest black athletic conference. A rematch of the 2005 CIAA football championship game, this gridiron match-up should prove to be highly competitive. BSU let a 17-0 halftime advantage slip away in the championship game last year and lost 26-23 to North Carolina Central. NCCU leads the series against BSU with a 14-4-1 record since 1981.
"After a difficult selection process, we are confident that we chose two outstanding football programs at historically black colleges and universities to participate in the Prince George's Classic this year," stated Mike Little, president of the Prince George's Classic. "We are looking forward to a very exciting, action packed and competitive football game, especially given the history between these two teams."
Congressman Wynn added, "The third annual Classic will feature two top-notch teams in 'Gorgeous Prince George's.' The event will showcase the County and generate tourism dollars, mainly for small businesses. I am honored to have an event of this caliber continue to come to Prince George's County."
A number of exciting cultural and community events throughout Prince George's County are also planned for the Classic. This year's festivities include the much anticipated Battle of the Bands, Black College Showcase, a Welcome Reception, Golf Tournament, Fashion Show, Comedy Show, and will conclude with church services at Ebenezer AME Church in Fort Washington, MD.
The Third Annual Prince George's Classic is sponsored by Southwest Airlines, Columbia Bank, B&W Solutions, PhRMA and the Washington Informer. The State of Maryland and Prince George's County have both pledged support for this year's Classic and have been loyal supporters of the Classic for the past two years.
Tickets for the Third Annual Prince George's Classic football game will go on sale August 1st. Fans can purchase tickets at all Ticketmaster outlets; via the Internet at www.ticketmaster.com; or charge by phone at 202-397-SEAT, 703-573-SEAT, and 410-547-SEAT. General admission tickets are $10 for students with valid school identification and $20 for all others.
For the most current updates, ticket sales and additional information, please contact the Prince George's Classic office at 301-567-5747.
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