Seattle readies for
32nd Gay World Series

SEATTLE, WA - During the week of Aug. 23-30, more than 4,000 athletes, fans and volunteers from all across the United States and Canada will come to Seattle for Series 2008 “Northwest Quest” and the 32nd annual Gay Softball World Series, hosted for the second time by the Emerald City Softball Association. This tournament will crown the champions in the four divisions of softball competition of the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance (NAGAAA) - Open Division.

The Marriott Seattle Airport is the main host hotel for Series 2008. Additionally, there are five other host consort hotels. Complete hotel information can be found at www.series2008.org.

Opening Ceremonies are scheduled for Monday, Aug. 25 and will kick off underneath the Space Needle. Tournament competition in the Open Division kicks off Tuesday, Aug. 26 and continues throughout the week at three softball complexes.

The Emerald City Softball Association’s Host Committee has put together a complete social calendar to showcase Seattle and the surrounding area as part of Series 2008. One of the main highlights is the annual Open Division Talent Show and Celebrity Item Auction, which is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 27 at the Hilton Seattle Airport and Conference Center. Jim “Bubba D. Licious” Marks will host the show, along with cohost Selma Sue. Softball players will display their “off-the-field” talents while autographed celebrity items are auctioned off between the acts. This annual event benefits local HIV/AIDS grassroots organizations. For 2008, proceeds will benefit Lifelong AIDS Alliance and the Lambert House.

The tournament bracket competition wraps up on Friday, Aug. 29. Championship Games in all Open Division play (A, B, C and D) will take place at the Russell Road Park complex on Saturday, Aug. 30. The Closing Ceremonies and Hall of Fame Program will start immediately following the championship games at Russell Road Park. For 2008, the Open Division will induct nine members into its Hall of Fame.

For more information, visit www.Series 2008.org or www.nagaaasoftball.org.