POWERGRAMS

5 Magic City Classic this year is Oct. 27 The Magic City Classic has grown into one of the most aended Football Championship Subdivision games of the season. The annual matchup between Alabama A&M University and Alabama State University draws more than 60,000 people to historic Legion Field Stadium in Birmingham. But the Classic is more than just a football game. It's become the largest Historically Black College and University event in the country, aracting nearly 200,000 fans to Birmingham for a week of tailgating, food, music and fun. "It's a time when everyone is coming into town and a perfect opportunity to elevate the brand of Birmingham," said Corporate Affairs Manager Joy Craddock, who helps organize support of the Classic. "This is the time to showcase Birmingham – what we are and what we can be." There will be a special focus on economic and community development around this year's Classic. Studies show the events have a $20 million to $25 million economic impact on Birmingham. In addition to the game and tailgating, past Classics have included a parade, pep rally, concerts, alumni reunions, block parties, scholarship programs and the popular "Bale of the Bands." This year marks the 82nd game between the two schools that first played in 1924. The Classic has been an uninterrupted annual tradition since 1945 and has been played at the "Old Gray Lady" since 1946. Alabama A&M leads MAGIC CLASSIC RIDE Annual week of special events boosts city, ASU, A&M Photos by Nik Layman

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