100 Black Men Of Orlando
Gives Away 100 Tickets

     ORLANDO - It’s the hottest ticket in town…No, not to President-elect Barack Obama’s inauguration.  But to the battle on the gridiron, the one between Florida A&M University and Bethune-Cookman University on Nov. 22nd. It’s known as the Florida Classic.  “A ticket to the Florida Classic is a coveted ticket.” Says Ronald O. Rogers President of 100 Black Men of Orlando, Inc. “This is the largest African American sporting event in the United States. We are proud that our community is able to host this event."            
     Rogers says just like the long-standing tradition between the Rattlers and Wildcats, it’s been a five year tradition for 100 Black Men of Orlando to give away 100 tickets to Orlando students. “We want to expose African American students to college life. We hope by giving away tickets to this event, it will inspire them to become college students.”
     Dante Bruno is a junior at Jones High School and one of the 100 to get a “Golden” ticket. “I’m really excited that I got a ticket and I’m going to the game. A $25 ticket can be expensive for a high school student.”  Sophomore Antanika Bonner is looking forward to a different kind of battle. “I like seeing the bands. Watching them get the crowds moving is what I like.” Both students plan on attending FAMU after graduation. There’s no need to guess which team they’re rooting for.
     The annual grudge match is more like a love fest according Rogers, “We look forward to seeing family, friends and former classmates.” Rogers, a FAMU Alumnus says his allegiance is not only to A&M, but also to B-CU. “We work hard to support Historically Black Colleges and Universities.” And when asked, who will win the game?  “I hope we all win at the gate!”