On December 26th, the New York Knicks awarded their December Sweetwater Clifton "City Spirit" Award to the United States Armed Forces. Specialist Ben Spies of Massapequa, NY, was chosen to accept the award on behalf of all servicemen. Winners of the award receive a $2,000 donation in their name to a charity of their choice. We want to thank Specialist Ben Spies, and all those he represents, for choosing IAVA.

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KNICKS TO HONOR U.S. ARMED FORCES

"City Spirit" Award Recognizes Troops for their Services

NEW YORK, December 26, 2006 - The New York Knickerbockers have announced the United States Armed Forces as the winners of the Sweetwater Clifton "City Spirit" Award for the month of December.

The award, named in honor of the Knicks' first African-American player, Nat "Sweetwater" Clifton, recognizes those that have made a significant difference in the lives of others. Each month, a winner is chosen by members of the Knicks front office staff and honored at Madison Square Garden's center court prior to a home game. Each winner receives a $2,000 donation, in their name, to a charity of their choice.

Specialist Ben Spies of Massapequa, NY has been chosen to accept the award on behalf of all servicemen during tomorrow night's New York Knicks-Detroit Pistons game at Madison Square Garden. Spies will donate the award money to the NYPD American Legion Post and the Iraq & Afghanistan Veterans of America.

Spies, a six-year veteran who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, was chosen over 200 possible recipients by his Lieutenant Colonel and Sergeant Major for his outstanding contributions as a soldier. Specialist Spies exemplifies the seven core Army values; loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage. He has been commended for going the extra mile in supporting and assisting the 42nd Infantry Division of the New York Army National Guard, veteran organizations and unit Family Readiness Program.

"It is a privilege to serve my Country and I am humbled to receive this honor," Spies said.

To nominate your hero, or to read more about Ben Spies and other past winners, please visit http://www.nyknicks.com/.

The NBA's New York Knickerbockers basketball team, in its 61st year of operation, is part of Madison Square Garden, L.P. Cablevision Systems Corporation owns Madison Square Garden, L.P., which includes the New York Rangers (NHL); the New York Liberty (WNBA); the Hartford Wolf Pack (American Hockey League); MSG Entertainment, which includes concerts and events at Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, The Theater at Madison Square Garden, and the Beacon Theatre; MSG Media, which is comprised of MSG and FSN New York; and the Madison Square Garden arena complex, located in the heart of the New York metropolitan area.

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