Johnson, WBTW win bobblehead battle

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. - The people have spoken, and the results are in. In a race that was neck and neck the entire way, it was a shame that one man had to suffer defeat, but in the end, it was WBTW's Frank Johnson besting WMBF's Rob Hatchell in the Myrtle Beach Pelicans' Meteorologist Bobblehead Showdown. Johnson's victory earns him the honor of seeing his likeness made into a bobblehead to be handed out to the first 1,500 fans through the gates of BB&T Coastal Field for the Friday, August 20th contest against the Kinston Indians.

Both meteorologists and their respective stations agreed to the contest to benefit two fantastic charities: the Red Cross for Johnson and WBTW and the United Way for Hatchell and WMBF. Both stations took it upon themselves to come out to the ballpark to promote their charities, with each station sponsoring a night at the ballpark to get the word out about in-park voting in addition to the month-long vote that took place on www.myrtlebeachpelicans.com.

"It was fun to hear from so many friends and viewers who said they had voted," said Johnson, WBTW News 13 Chief Meteorologist. "I'm happy that we helped raise $1,000 for the local Red Cross."

Each station also created television commercials, both in-house and at the ballpark, with hopes of garnering even more votes for their station's weatherman, and to create awareness for their worthy causes.

The Myrtle Beach Pelicans would like to extend their deepest gratitude to WMBF and WBTW for taking part in this contest, and we appreciate all the support from all the loyal fans who took part in the vote, both online and at the ballpark.

The Pelicans conclude a four-game series with the Kinston Indians Thursday, May 13 at BB&T Coastal Field. It's Thirsty Thursday at the ballpark again, and from 6 to 8 PM, fans can enjoy one dollar Bud, Bud Light and Michelob Ultra drafts. Myrtle Beach opens the back end of its seven-game homestand Friday night with the first of three against the Salem Red Sox. The first 1,000 fans through the gates on Free Stuff Friday will receive a Pelicans seat cushion.

For more information on tickets, daily promotions, and all things Pelicans, log onto www.myrtlebeachpelicans.com or call 1-877-918-TIXX or 843-918-6000.