May 19, 2008

Orlando, Fla. – The Orlando Magic Youth Foundation’s (OMYF) Black Tie and Tennies Charity Gala, along with a 50 percent match from The McCormick Foundation, raised $501,760 at this year’s event, a five percent increase over last year’s Gala. The OMYF is a fund of The McCormick Foundation.

The annual Black Tie & Tennies Charity Gala, along with the Player Championship for Charity Golf Tournament and on-line auctions, represent the most significant fundraisers of the OMYF.

“Our 2008 Gala was a huge success and we hope to build upon the success of this wonderful event,” said Vice President of Community Affairs and Government Relations Linda Landman-Gonzalez. “Through OMYF we are able to impact at-risk youth and their families in Central Florida. The foundation affords us the opportunity to uphold our mission of being world champions both on and off the court.”

The Orlando Magic Youth Foundation, a fund of The McCormick Foundation, is committed to helping every child in Central Florida realize their full potential, especially those most at risk, by supporting programs and partnerships that empower families and change lives. The OMYF is supported through a team effort by Magic players, coaches, staff and the DeVos Family, in partnership with season ticket holders, corporate partners, fans and the community. Nearly $14 million has been granted to local non-profits that support the mission statement.

Orlando’s NBA franchise since 1989, the Magic’s mission is to be world champions on and off the court, delivering legendary moments every step of the way. On the court, Orlando has won three division championships (1995, 1996, 2008), had four 50-plus win seasons, and won the Eastern Conference title in 1995. Off the court, on an annual basis the Orlando Magic gives more than $2 million to the local community by way of sponsorships of events, donated tickets, autographed merchandise, scholarships and grants. Orlando Magic community relations programs impact an estimated 75,000 kids each year, while a Magic staff-wide initiative provides more than 4,000 volunteer hours annually. Ticket highlights for 2008-09 include: 7,569 seats priced $25 or under per game; a $27 lower bowl ticket; and tickets priced at $10 per game. For ticket information log on to orlandomagic.com or call 407-89-MAGIC.

Through the National Basketball Association’s NBA CARES program, the league, players and teams will raise and contribute $100 million for charity, donate more than 1 million hours of hands-on volunteer service to communities worldwide, and build more than 100 places where kids can learn and play over the next five years.

The Orlando Magic is also the developer of the new downtown Events Center which will compete to host major national events, concerts and family shows. Opening in October 2010, the facility will be operated by the City of Orlando and owned by the Central Florida Community.