September 24, 2009

Charlotte, NC -- Aviation Director T.J. "Jerry" Orr has been named recipient of the 2009 March of Dimes "Celebrating Contributions to Charlotte" award, which recognizes a member of the business community who has demonstrated a long history of service and has contributed greatly to the City of Charlotte. Recipients are chosen for their outstanding leadership and vision to the community. Previous honorees include Robert Bertges of Wachovia, Fred Klein of Childress Klein Properties and Jim Palermo of Bank of America.

The award will be presented to Orr by the Greater Piedmont Division of the March of Dimes on September 29, 2009 during a breakfast at the Charlotte Marriott City Center. A tribute video will be shown featuring current and former community leaders. Orr is scheduled to be "roasted" by Mayor Pat McCrory, CRVA President Tim Newman, Charlotte Chamber of Commerce President Bob Morgan, Church Allen with US Airways, Michael Gallis with Michael Gallis and Associates and Johnny Harris of Lincoln Harris.

This year's event is the fourth annual Celebrating Contributions to Charlotte Business Roast, which raises money and awareness for the lifesaving mission of March of Dimes - to give all babies a healthy start in life.