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Sixers unveil original mosaic for Ronald McDonald House

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Thursday, September 11, 2008 - Philadelphia

The 76ers organization along with sponsor Kia Motors unveiled an original mosaic by local artist Jonathan Mandell at Philadelphia’s Ronald McDonald House on Wednesday, September 10.

The mosiac, enititled “Summer Fun,” was a collaboration of drawings done by children at the Ronald McDonald House and then Mandell, the Philadelphia native and graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s Fine Arts program, then took their interpretations and created the final picture. The mosaic itself was put together using tile, stone, and marble by fans, Sixers players and members of the Philadelphia and South Jersey communities at the 76ers Summer Beach Bash in early August.

The finished mosiac will hang in the Ronald McDonald House to serve as inspiration to those who see and bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

Yesterday’s dedication began with a welcome and introduction before Sixers radio voice Tom McGinnis introduced team President and General Manager Ed Stefanski, who spoke about the purpose of the mosaic as being an inspiring piece of art for the residents staying at the Ronald McDonald House.

“The Ronald McDonald House is terrific and our relationship over the years has just been wonderful,” Stefanski said. “After seeing the finished product, Jonathan did a great job using all of the imaginations of the children. It’s going to be great for the kids and adults to be able see the mural when they come to this house.”

Sixers rookie center Marreese Speights, along with representatives from KIA Motors, was on hand at the dedication.

“I always enjoy giving back to the community and checking in to see how the kids are doing,” Speights said. “It is my goal to be a positive role model for kids as an NBA player and being here today is important to me.”

The Ronald McDonald House has developed a strong relationship with the Sixers community outreach efforts through the “Read for Ronald” program which rewards children for reading. With the start of this NBA season, the program will enter its 15th year in existence.

“The Read For Ronald program has been something that the 76ers have been proud of for many years and to be here with the families and kids throughout the region that have read and helped to contribute money to the house shows the commitment that we’ve had long term,” McGinnis said