TV And Radio Host Big Tigger and WPGC 95.5 FM to Present One of the Largest HIV/AIDS Testing Initiatives Targeting Washington DC Residents During Big Tigger's 9th Annual Celebrity Classic
The Celebrity Weekend will feature several HIV/AIDS testing opportunities including Big Tigger's HIV Testing Program to be held Friday, June 11th from 1pm - 3pm at the Trinidad Recreation Center

WASHINGTON, DC, April 24, 2010 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Considered the premier HIV/AIDS charity event in Washington DC,
Big Tigger's 9th Annual Celebrity Classic will host a series of HIV/AIDS testing initiatives targeted to area youth and local residents. With the goal to break another testing record, TV host and internationally syndicated radio personality Big Tigger will assemble top celebrities and professional athletes for a weekend designed to heighten awareness of HIV/AIDS and emphasize the importance of testing. Offering free HIV testing throughout the weekend, Big Tigger's 9th Annual Celebrity Classic will be held June 11-13, 2010 in Washington, DC.

According to the District of Columbia HIV/AIDS 2009 Epidemiology Annual Report, there were 3,355 newly reported AIDS diagnoses in the District between 2004 and 2008. Among these cases, African Americans (84.2%) have consistently represented a higher proportion of newly reported AIDS cases than any other racial or ethnic group. Additionally, heterosexual contact continues to be the leading mode of transmission among newly reported AIDS cases (30.6%).*

"We are living in the most powerful nation and, arguably, the most power city in the world, yet we are dying from a highly preventable disease." states long-time activist Big Tigger." I am encouraging all celebrities, local and national politicians and area residents to make it a priority during the weekend to raise awareness of the importance of testing," concluded Big Tigger.

As the flagship event of the Street Corner Foundation, Big Tigger's 9th Annual Celebrity Classic is expected to impact over 50,000 Washington DC residents with goal to increase testing and raise awareness of HIV/AIDS. The WPGC sponsored charity weekend will consist of numerous community events such as a Youth Sports Clinic, HIV Testing Initiatives, Welcome Reception and Silent Auction, Sponsors¡¦ Luncheon, WPGC & Big Tigger Block Party, a host of Red-Carpet Parties and the weekend's highlight - the All-Star Basketball Game.

Big Tigger is highly recognized for this efforts and his ability to raise awareness in the African American community. In 2007 and 2008, the Centers for Disease Control¡¦s (CDC) director, Dr. Julie Gerberding, recognized the TV and radio personality as one of the prominent African American leaders in the fight against HIV/AIDS. He was also awarded the 2006 Visionary of the Year by the National Association of Black State Legislators for his work with HIV/AIDs. Through a series of events throughout the year, the Foundation and Big Tigger continue to encourage participants to "Get Tested and Know Their Status."

* Full Report Available at doh.dc.gov/hahsta

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