December 5, 2007

The New Orleans Hornets announced today the schedule for the team’s annual Season of Giving initiative, which features charitable events and donations in the weeks leading up to their “Holiday at the Hive” game, presented by People’s Health on Saturday, Dec. 22 against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

"We serve a greater purpose in this community than playing basketball," said Hornets Owner George Shinn. "The holiday season in New Orleans is unlike any other in the country, and giving back to our community and those in need is part of what the holiday spirit is all about.”

For the first week of giving, the Hornets are teaming up with Mayor Nagin to support the Mayor’s Annual Toy Drive. Fans attending the Hornets games on Wednesday, Dec. 5, Friday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 9 are asked to bring a new and unwrapped toy worth $5 or more in return for a voucher that is redeemable for two tickets to a future Hornets game.

This Saturday, Hornets staff and local volunteers will partner with NBA Cares and KaBOOM!, a national nonprofit organization, to rebuild a playground in the morning and early afternoon. Next week players will partner with Feed the Children to provide food and personal care boxes to 800 families. On Wednesday, Dec. 12 the Hornets host their annual senior’s luncheon presented by People’s Health and Piccadilly, that includes music, prizes and an appearance by the newest senior dance team, the Used To Bees.

Shinn and wife Denise will host a shopping spree for local children on Tuesday, Dec. 18 and two days later Chris Paul and Bobby Jackson will take 100 children to Toys R’ Us for presents. The Shinns will then visit Bridge House to distribute new shoes and socks to 100 clients on Friday, Dec. 21.

Capping off the Season of Giving, People’s Health will present “Holiday at the Hive” during the Hornets vs. Timberwolves game. The first 8,000 fans in attendance will receive a Peoples Health Fleur De Bee holiday ornament and Santa Claus himself will be on hand at the Arena for photos. The Hornets will also participate in The Salvation Army's annual Red Kettle campaign this holiday season.