Honoring James Farrior of the James Farrior Foundation

Who:       Mayor Dwight C. Jones
               James Farrior, Founder of the James Farrior Foundation
               Matt Farrior, Executive Director of the James Farrior Foundation                  

What:      "Key to the City" Presentation (private event)

When:     4:30 p.m. on Friday, June 12, 2009

Where:    Arthur Ashe Center
                2907 North Boulevard
                Richmond, VA 23230

Background:

Mayor Dwight C. Jones will present James Farrior of the James Farrior Foundation the "Key to the City," an award reserved for esteemed visitors, residents, or others the City wishes to honor.  Recipients typically have achieved a high national and/or international profile and are honored for work related to a commitment to human rights and uplifting communities.

NFL linebacker James Farrior was a star football player at Matoaca High School and the University of Virginia.  He has been a significant player for the Pittsburgh Steelers and a major contributor in their two Super Bowl victories within the past four years.  The James Farrior Foundation, based in Ettrick, Virginia, raises thousands of dollars to help underprivileged young people in the Richmond area.  Farrior is also active in the national bone marrow registry.

As many as 30 NFL players are expected to attend the private event along with Pittsburgh Steelers head coach, Mike Tomlin.  Youth from the City of Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities will be the audience for the event.

Media are encouraged to attend.

Contact: Tammy Hawley, (804) 646-3110