NEWS
For Immediate Release
Contact: Barry Frost, Director of Communications and Public Relations
714.832.7100, Ext. 236

A.C. Green to speak at Salvation Army “Spirit Awards” Dinner

NBA Champion and Community Leader A.C. Green will be the featured guest speaker at The Salvation Army Orange County Advisory Board’s Annual “Spirit Awards” Civic Dinner on Friday, May 19 at 7 p.m. in the East Room of the Richard Nixon Library and Birthplace.

     A.C. Green has shown tremendous commitment to the community. He founded the A.C. Green Youth Foundation whose mission is to help young people build self-esteem, character and to teach moral, ethical and Christian principles to help them make responsible decisions.  During his 16 years as a forward with the Los Angeles Lakers, Green won three NBA Championship rings and appeared in five NBA Finals.

     The four “Spirit Awards” are given to leading citizens or organizations who have contributed in an extraordinary manner of their time, talent and/or financial resources.  The “Others” Award exemplifies service to others benefiting The Salvation Army and/or the community.  The “William Booth” Award, named for the founder of The Salvation Army, is conferred upon an individual in recognition of outstanding community and humanitarian service.  The “Volunteer of the Year” Award is given for exceptional volunteer service to enhance and improve their community.  The “Spirit of the Army” is presented for significant contributions to The Army’s programs and services in Orange County.

     Ed Arnold, Managing Editor and News Anchor of “Real Orange” on KOCE TV will host the evening’s program.    

     Vocalist Jude Gotrich will perform.  She has sung in many international venues, including the Royal Albert Hall and Norwich Cathedral in Rotterdam.  Gotrich has been featured with the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra and the Minnesota Orchestra.  She was a back-up vocalist for Perry Como, Andy Williams and for the PBS children’s program, Sesame Street.  She has several recordings and is currently the Southern Territorial Gospel Arts Director for The Salvation Army in Atlanta, Georgia. 

     Tustin Ranch Church Pioneer School of Music students will also perform piano and string selections under the direction of the school’s Academic Director, pianist David Dunford. 

     Under the banner “Building Better and Stronger,” the dinner’s proceeds will benefit Salvation Army Orange County Youth Programs and Services.

     The Richard Nixon Library and Birthplace is located at 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda.  Reservations must be made by Monday, May 15.  For more information and/or an invitation package, call 714.832.7100.

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