Vote Valdosta TitleTown, USA

VALDOSTA - The nation watched Wednesday, July 16, as ESPN's "SportsCenter" showcased the spirit displayed by thousands of Valdosta sports fans during the broadcast that featured the Azalea City as one of 20 finalists in the race for TitleTown USA. The broadcast featured local legends like Randall Godfrey making the case and providing proof that Winnersville not only deserves to stand proudly as finalists beside major cities like Chicago, Detroit and San Francisco, but also that the southern powerhouse deserves the honor of TitleTown USA.

As Mayor John Fretti addressed ESPN and a crowd of more than 7,000, he said what so many fans believe: TitleTown USA is not one school or professional athletic team; it is a city where local sports at every level come together to create success and a legacy of winning. It is Winnersville, USA.

Officials have made it clear that the State of Georgia is standing behind metro Valdosta in the race for TitleTown USA. Governor Sonny Perdue issued a proclamation on Wednesday, July 16, congratulating Valdosta and encouraging Georgia citizens to vote in support of it. The proclamation can be viewed at www.valdostacity.com . State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) is also applauding the City of Valdosta for being named one of the 20 finalists for ESPN's TitleTown USA honor.

"I am extremely proud that my hometown of Valdosta is being recognized by one of the largest TV networks for its achievements in sports," said Sen. Golden. "I encourage everyone to go online and vote to make Valdosta TitleTown USA."

The nation has now witnessed Valdosta's attributes and spirit, along with features on the other 19 finalists, and the time has come to vote Valdosta as TitleTown USA. All Winnersville supporters may vote until noon on Sunday, July 27, at the ESPN TitleTown USA Sportscenter page http://www.valdosta.edu/news/redirect/titletown.voting/ . Fans can also view the TitleTown USA coverage by clicking on Valdosta, Ga. on the same page.

The winner will be announced during the SportCenter broadcast beginning at 6 p.m., Monday, July 28, so voting will only be open a few days. Vote as soon as possible to make Valdosta, Ga. ESPN's TitleTown USA.