Smokies unveil 2012 All-Star logos

KODAK, Tenn. - The Tennessee Smokies released the logos for the 2012 Southern League All-Star Game on Thursday. The Midsummer Classic will feature some of the most talented prospects in minor league baseball and be held at Smokies Park on Tuesday, June 19, 2012.

"We are really excited with the opportunity to bring back the Southern League All-Star Game and celebration to East Tennessee in 2012," said Smokies President Doug Kirchhofer. "The Southern League's signature event will be a highlight of the Smokies' 2012 schedule".

The All-Star logos were designed by Barry Armstrong of the Armstrong Co., a local design firm that specializes in brand development. The Knoxville-based firm has teamed up with many local businesses, including Scripps Networks and the University of Tennessee Athletic Department.

"Barry did a great job on these logos," said Smokies Assistant General Manager Jeff Shoaf. "The main logo incorporates the mountain peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, with the rugged feel of the great outdoors."

2012 will mark the third time that Smokies Park has hosted the Southern League All-Star Game, first since 2002. In 2001, Smokies Park hosted its first All-Star game, which saw the West Division defeat the East Division 4-3. In 2002, the Smokies again hosted the Southern League All-Star Game and once again the West defeated the East, 4-1.

"As the Smokies make a push towards the 2011 Southern League Championship, we have started planning many great events for the 2012 Southern League All-Star Game," added Shoaf. "The logo unveiling is the first of many signs that this great game is taking place at Smokies Park for the first time in 10 years. We are looking forward to hosting this exciting event right here in East Tennessee next season."