Chopper Named The Mascot

The Gwinnett Braves today announced the team's mascot name- Chopper! Jim Bennett of Lilburn was the first to submit the winning name and Chopper was the overwhelming choice from the 5,109 fans that cast their vote during the team's "Name the Mascot" contest. Chopper was officially welcomed to Gwinnett earlier today at Lawrenceville Elementary School in an event modeled after the recent Democratic and Republican National Conventions.Tony Schiavone, the voice of the Gwinnett Braves,Gwinnett Braves General Manager Bruce Baldwin, Atlanta Braves outfielder Josh Anderson and fifth grade students and teachers from Lawrenceville Elementary School were on hand to greet and cheer on the portly cartoon groundhog. The mascot is inspired by General Beauregard Lee, Ph.D., star of the Yellow River Game Ranch in Lilburn. "Beau" is Georgia's Official Weather Prognosticator and internationally recognized furry forecaster that like the Braves mascot, will signal the dawn of spring. General Lee was not able to attend the event, but sent his best wishes to Chopper in an official proclamation that was read aloud by Schiavone. The toothy whistlepig (or woodchuck, formally known as Marmota monax, proud member of the rodent family) was created by New York branding group SME