RELEASE
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Presents Expanded 2015 Season of “Ernie” to Traverse City and Lansing Areas
Meghan O'Brien
| 2 min read
“Ernie,” a two-man play by Mitch Albom honoring the late Hall of Fame Detroit Tigers broadcaster Ernie Harwell, will return for a fifth season to the City Theatre in Detroit this summer and, for the first time ever, is expanding to Traverse City and East Lansing. The 2015 season is once again presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network. “Ernie” invites fans to celebrate and remember “The Voice of Summer” with performances in Detroit (July 9-August 2), at City Opera House in Traverse City (August 12-15) and at the Wharton Center in East Lansing (August 19-August 22). The play chronicles Harwell’s life and features footage from historic baseball moments throughout his 60-plus-year broadcasting career. Tickets are available now through the theater box offices. A portion of all proceeds will benefit charities Harwell championed. "Ernie Harwell is an icon and continues to be an inspiration to so many people," said Jeffrey L. Connolly, senior vice president, Large Group Business and president of West Michigan for Blue Cross. "Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are proud to continue serving as the presenting sponsor of 'Ernie' and to honor our friend who helped encourage healthy lifestyles for the people of Michigan." Starting in 2003, Ernie Harwell served as a health and fitness advocate for Blue Cross until he was diagnosed with cancer in 2009. Throughout his tenure, Harwell led employee walking events and fitness events throughout communities across Michigan. In 2011, Blue Cross dedicated its rooftop walking track at its downtown Detroit headquarters to Harwell, honoring his life and commitment to a healthy lifestyle. For more information on “Ernie,” please visit ernietheplay.com. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, a nonprofit mutual insurance company, is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. For more company information, visit bcbsm.com and MiBluesPerspectives.com. Photo Credit: Joel Dinda
