Welcome Nutzy's Nutty Buddy Thursday

The Flying Squirrels will announce the winners of the "Nutzy is My Superhero Because" Art Contest as well as introduce the new Acorn Mascot during a press event on Thursday, February 24th, at 2:00 PM at Theatre IV at the Empire Theater. The event is free and open to the public.

"We have taken great pride in turning our unveilings into spectacles," said Flying Squirrels Vice President and COO Todd "Parney" Parnell. "With a setting like the Empire Theater and all of the talented folks at Theatre IV helping us out, this event will be just as memorable for those in attendance as Nutzy's introduction to Richmond."

The Flying Squirrels wide array of ballpark characters will be on hand to welcome the new Acorn Mascot including Nutzy, the Vendortainers, the Molly Maids Dancing Drag Queens, and the Berks Wacky Hot Dog Vendor with Flingo the Flamingo. Fans in attendance should expect flying t-shirts, Crackerjacks, peanuts, and hot dogs.

In addition to the unveiling of the new mascot, the Flying Squirrels will announce the 15 winners of the "Nutzy is My Superhero Because" Art Contest. Students in the Richmond Metro Area were asked to draw their responses on vertical 8 ½ x 11 inch paper. The 15 winning designs will be blown up to 3 ½ x 8 ½ foot panels and displayed prominently on the sides of the suites at The Diamond. The contest was presented by Allstate Insurance - Stephanie Hudnell.

"We were very impressed with the submissions we received in our 'Nutzy is My Superhero Because' Art Contest," said Flying Squirrels Director of Community Relations and Promotions Christina Shisler. "It was very difficult to narrow it down to just 15 winners, and we want to thank all of the schools and students who participated. We are really excited to show off the talents of our 15 winners. Their responses were very creative and thoughtful."

The winning students as well as Allstate Insurance agent Stephanie Hudnell will be in attendance at Thursday's event.

Season-ticket packages, including mini-plan options, are currently available for the 2011 season of Flying Squirrels baseball. 2011 Individual Game tickets will go on sale on Saturday, March 5th. For more information or to purchase ticket packages, contact the Flying Squirrels by phone at (804) 359-FUNN (3866).

Flying Squirrels merchandise is available both at The Diamond and on-line. The Squirrels Nest Team Store is open Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Flying Squirrels' on-line pro shop is available at www.SquirrelsBaseball.com.