SEATTLE (Oct. 3, 2001) - The Seattle Sonics & Storm today announced a series of activities to recognize and assist in disaster relief following the Sept. 11 tragedy in New York, Washington D.C. and Pennsylvania. The efforts include a fan donation-matching program, a commemorative billboard at the training facility and a special patch to be worn on Sonics uniforms this season.

"The hardship caused by the attack on our country continues for many Americans," said Sonics & Storm President and CEO Wally Walker. "With the help of our support, we hope that in some small way we are able to ease their burden."

The Sonics & Storm will accept fan monetary donations at three Sonics community practices and two preseason games at KeyArena during October. The Basketball Club of Seattle LLC, the Seattle Sonics & Storm front office and the players from both teams will each match the fan contributions that are then given directly to the American Red Cross. The funds raised will assist in the disaster relief efforts in New York, Washington D.C. and Pennsylvania.

"Many of the Storm players live in areas directly affected by the tragedy," said Storm Vice President of Operations Karen Bryant. "Joining the Sonics players in contributing to this program is a way for the Storm to directly help those affected."

The Sonics players financial contributions to the matching program are in addition to what they are currently donating through the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA).

The Seattle Sonics & Storm will begin accepting monetary donations this Sunday, Oct. 7, when the Sonics open their practice to the community at Skyline High School in Sammamish. Donations will also be accepted at the remaining two community practices on Oct. 19 at Franklin High School and on Oct. 28 at the Sports Radio KJR AM Sports Fantasy Weekend at the Stadium Exhibition Center.

Fans can also contribute at KeyArena when the Sonics play their preseason games on Oct. 10 and Oct. 18. Every fan that makes a contribution at a community practice or preseason game will receive one of several Sonics new logo items, including hats, T-shirts, rally cards and stickers.

"The Sonics players are always looking for ways to be involved in the community," said Sonics General Manager Rick Sund. "The opportunity to contribute financially and to show their support on game uniforms is a small way of being involved on a larger, national scale. It's an opportunity they all naturally support."

Additionally, a billboard to recognize the nation's solidarity following the tragedy is currently being displayed at The Furtado Center - the Sonics & Storm training facility. The background of the billboard is an American flag, accompanied by the words "All Together."