Rec Sports
Hard work pays off for Fire and Ice youth cheer teams at Allstar World Championships – Butler Eagle
Fire and Ice Mars’ Inf3rno competitve cheer team celebrates their national championship win at last month’s Allstar World Championship in Orlando, Fla. Submitted Photo To outsiders, it’s wildly impressive. To those who frequent Fire and Ice Mars cheer and tumbling gym and the competitions its competitive cheer teams attend, it’s just, well, routine. All six […]

Fire and Ice Mars’ Inf3rno competitve cheer team celebrates their national championship win at last month’s Allstar World Championship in Orlando, Fla. Submitted Photo
To outsiders, it’s wildly impressive. To those who frequent Fire and Ice Mars cheer and tumbling gym and the competitions its competitive cheer teams attend, it’s just, well, routine.
All six of Fire and Ice’s full-year cheer teams received bids to compete at the Allstar World Championship last month in Orlando, Fla. The event, program head coach Kayla Dempsey said, featured over 1,600 teams. Four of her squads reached finals at that event, with Lady F1ames finishing in the top-10 and Inf3rno winning the competition.
Thomas Evanuik, 13, was among those who competed with the latter. His mother, Kayty Snee, cheered on sidelines in middle school, so when her son decided to try competitive cheer, she was surprised to see the difference in intensity.
“To see these kids be able to pull off the routines that they were able to pull off … it was something that there’s not a whole lot of words because I feel like, for competitive cheerleading, you have to see it to really understand it,” said Snee, of Gibsonia. “But, I was shocked and kind of blown away and just in awe.
“The things that 8- and 9-year-olds can do, it’s crazy, for sure.”
Lindsay Allanson, of Adams Township, remembers being nervous when her daughters, Luciana, 11, and Mila, 9, and their teams would tweak their routines right before competitions.
“As the years and the seasons have gone on, that’s just common practice now, where I now don’t even think twice about it, just because it’s so instilled in what they do on a week-to-week basis,” Allanson said.
Dempsey, a Portersville Christian graduate and former Fire and Ice cheerleader, began cheering at 6 years old and coaching at 15. The feats have long since become commonplace for her.
“It’s really cool when outside people get to come in and see, like, ‘Wow, these little kids are doing these really hard stunts, and they’re learning these two-and-a-half-minute routines and they’re working as a group to be able to do all of this,’” Dempsey said. “But, for anybody who’s in the community, it’s just normal. … Learning routine is just another day, and coming to practice is just another day.”
That’s not to say it’s easy.
“It takes a lot of effort to do,” said Thomas, 13, who cheers for both Inf3no and Fire FOURce. “It takes a lot of strength to do the stunts and to tumble. It takes a lot of mental (power) to go out on that stage and compete in front of hundreds of people.
“When we’re learning the routine and stuff and it’s the beginning of the year, it’s pretty hard to remember and do it. But once it gets to competition season … it’s muscle memory.”
Along with the six full-year teams, which attended eight local or travel competitions, the gym features a pair of half-year prep teams. Those serve as a beginner’s introduction to the sport. There are approximately 120 total cheer athletes in the gym, ranging from ages 5-18. The gym, located in Callery, has athletes mostly from Cranberry Township, Mars and Evans City.
The older athletes in the program enjoy mentoring the younger ones. Seeing the older children inspires younger ones to begin their journey with the gym.
“I started cheer because I watched all the older girls do all the tumbling, and I wanted to do it so bad,” said M1ss Magma cheerleader Emma Delaney, 9, of Evans City.
The athletes progress through tumbling, starting with basics such as cartwheeling and forward rolls, continuing on to stunting.
“When they come in on prep, they’re really learning the foundations of cheerleading, so they’re learning, ‘How do we stunt? How do we hold someone’s foot? And how do we lift them in the air? And how do we do jumps? And how do we tumble on the right counts with each other?’”
The travel program demands a high level of commitment — two practices a a week, plus additional classes. Thomas is a competitive gymnast who spends anywhere from 18-24 hours a week in a gym, his mother said.
“Most people, if you’re letting your kid do elite cheerleading, it’s because your kid loves what they’re doing and because you know it’s gonna help them grow into a better person,” Dempsey said. “And maybe they want to do college cheer, and it’ll help them grow for that. Or maybe they just want to have this team sport aspect.”
And the thrill that comes with hitting a difficult routine on a bright stage, such as the one in Orlando.
“It was really exciting, and my team was literally crying to death,” said Mila, who also cheered for national champion Inf3rno.
“It hits the parents just as much,” Snee said. “I remember looking around and seeing the tears. I mean, the parents were in tears just as much as the athletes were. Because what it comes down to is we work really hard to make the season work, as well, with all of the driving and the planning and the paying.”
Rec Sports
52nd Annual Crown City Classic 4th of July Run Supports Patriotism and Youth Athletics
May 27, 2025 Participate in the 12K, 5K, and Kids Half Mile alongside the Beautiful Coronado Bay! Written by Katie McKechnie May 27, 2025 (CORONADO, Calif.) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – Runners of all ages and abilities are invited to kick off their Fourth of July weekend festivities at the Crown City Classic, San Diego’s most patriotic […]

May 27, 2025

Participate in the 12K, 5K, and Kids Half Mile alongside the Beautiful Coronado Bay!
Written by Katie McKechnie
May 27, 2025 (CORONADO, Calif.) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – Runners of all ages and abilities are invited to kick off their Fourth of July weekend festivities at the Crown City Classic, San Diego’s most patriotic race! This historic event returns to Coronado Bay on July 4, 2025, for its 52nd year of celebrating patriotism, fitness and family fun across multiple events, including a 12K (7.4 miles), 5K (3.1 miles), and the Crown City Kids Half Mile, which is open to runners 12 and under.
The day will begin at 7 a.m., with the 12K and 5K races starting under the largest American flag on the West Coast—a staple of the Crown City Classic. Runners will take off along Glorietta Boulevard, soaking up the stunning views of downtown San Diego and the Coronado Bay Bridge before crossing the finish line back at Tidelands Park. The Kids Half Mile will start at 8:30 a.m., with young athletes completing their course within Tidelands Park.
Competitors from all 50 states and various countries will vie for overall and age-group medals, with the top three male and female finishers in each age group being honored. Winners in the 5K and 12K races will be celebrated during the awards ceremony in Tidelands Park. All participants will receive exciting perks, including an exclusive 2025 event tee, a commemorative finisher medal, and the option for a special edition race tank. They will also receive official chip-timed results and have access to the Crown City Classic Expo.
This year, the race will support its official charity, the Island Sports Foundation, which helps ensure that no Coronado student is denied the chance to participate in sports due to financial barriers. Each year, the Crown City Classic raises over $20,000 to support this mission, directly benefiting youth sports programs and helping cover expenses such as uniforms, referees, coaches and tournament fees.
“The race is a symbol of patriotism for runners, a chance for all to come together and celebrate America while also supporting the Coronado community,” said Jamie Monroe, the Crown City Classic race director. “It’s a great day that combines athleticism and patriotism into an opportunity to do good.”
The day’s celebrations will continue after the races. Participants can enjoy the Coronado Fourth of July Parade at 10 a.m. and end the magical day with an evening fireworks show over Glorietta and San Diego Bays. The Crown City Classic is more than a race, it’s a celebration of patriotism and community. Runners can proudly join together in support of young athletes and local school sports programs.
Join the festivities of San Diego’s most patriotic race on July 4 in Tidelands Park. Sign up or volunteer today at crowncityrun.com.
Media Credit: RWB Multimedia
About Easy Day Sports
The Crown City Classic is managed and produced by Easy Day Sports, a premier events production company based locally in Coronado, California. The company prides itself on exposing the spirit of sport within people through professionally managed endurance sports events. With a commitment to excellence, Easy Day Sports strives to create memorable experiences for participants of all ages and skill levels.
Media Contact
GRACE HICKS
Marketing Manager
EASY DAY SPORTS
e: grace@easydaysports.com
Rec Sports
WATERLOO INVESTMENT HOLDINGS LIMITED COMMUNITY KIND SUPPORTSTHE TCI SPORTS COMMISSION
Waterloo Investment Holdings Ltd. (WIHL), through its dedicated social impact initiative Community Kind, proudly announces its latest partnership with the Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission. As part of this collaboration, WIHL has contributed $20,000 in support of structured youth athletics and athlete development programmes across the islands. The donation affirms WIHL’s continued commitment as […]

The donation affirms WIHL’s continued commitment as a Gold Sponsor of the Commission and reinforces the company’s broader mission to uplift communities through meaningful, long-term investments in education, sports, and youth advancement.
The $20,000 contribution has been allocated across two of the Commission’s most impactful programs.
• $10,000 has been directed to Inter School Sports competition, the flagship student competition program.
• $10,000 has been committed to strengthening the Athlete Development Fund, a key platform for nurturing emerging athletic talent.
These initiatives lie at the core of the Commission’s mission to create structured, value-driven opportunities for young athletes to thrive—both on and off the field.
“It is an honour to partner with the Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission in support of such impactful programs,” said Stewart Howard, Chief Executive Officer at WIHL. “Our commitment to community investment and youth empowerment is deeply rooted in the values we uphold across our organization. Through Community Kind, we are proud to help create opportunities that nurture discipline, resilience, and excellence—qualities that reflect not only the spirit of sport but the future of our islands. I am very proud of all the hard work that Jarrett and Joddy have put into this programme thus far.We look forward to continuing this meaningful collaboration and witnessing the incredible growth of our young athletes.”
Inter School Sports remains the foundation of youth athletics in Turks and Caicos, bringing together students from across the islands in friendly, structured competition. The programme cultivates essential life skills such as discipline, confidence, and leadership, while fostering unity and school spirit.
Alongside this, the Athlete Development Fund provides targeted support to promising student athletes, ensuring they have access to advanced training, coaching, travel for regional and international competitions, and educational tools. The initiative has already opened doors for young Turks and Caicos athletes to earn scholarships and participate in elite sporting networks around the world.
Jarrett Forbes, Chief Executive Officer of the TCI Sports Commission, added:
“We are deeply grateful to Waterloo Investment Holdings Ltd. for this generous contribution and their continued belief in the power of sport to transform lives. Their support directly strengthens our mission to provide young athletes with structured, meaningful opportunities to grow; on the field and in life. Partnerships like this are essential to building a sustainable, high-performing sports system in the Turks and Caicos Islands. We look forward to expanding this collaboration as we develop the next generation of leaders through sport.”
Together, these efforts create meaningful opportunities for young athletes across the islands, empowering them to grow, compete, and succeed regardless of background.
This latest contribution builds on WIHL’s longstanding tradition of community engagement and social responsibility. Through Community Kind, the organisation actively supports a range of initiatives designed to uplift and empower individuals and families throughout Turks and Caicos.
About Community Kind
WIHL Community Kind is the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program of Waterloo Investment Holdings Ltd. (WIHL), established to invest in the wellbeing and development of communities across the Turks and Caicos Islands. With a focus on uplifting communities, the initiative invests in youth sports, education, wellness, and cultural enrichment, empowering individuals and creating lasting pathways to opportunity. Community Kind stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to making a difference beyond its hospitality footprint.
For more information about WIHL Community Kind, please contact via email at community@wihl.com.
Rec Sports
Carl T. Carpenter Obituary – Ithaca Journal
Carl T. Carpenter, 90, of Ithaca, New York, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025, in Ithaca, New York, the city where he was born and spent his life building a legacy of dedication to family, business, and community. Born on January 27, 1935, in Ithaca, Carl remained deeply rooted in the community throughout his […]
Carl T. Carpenter, 90, of Ithaca, New York, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025, in Ithaca, New York, the city where he was born and spent his life building a legacy of dedication to family, business, and community.
Born on January 27, 1935, in Ithaca, Carl remained deeply rooted in the community throughout his life. A veteran of the United States Army, he carried the values of service and dedication into every aspect of his life.
In 1983, Carl made a lasting mark on the local business landscape by reopening Cayuga Lumber after it had been closed by its previous owner. His leadership and vision revitalized the company and contributed to the economic vitality of the area. In addition to his work with Cayuga Lumber, Carl was involved with Fingerlakes Electric and owned several local real estate rentals. His entrepreneurial spirit was matched by a natural ability to connect with others—many friendships blossomed into successful business ventures over the years.
Carl’s generosity toward family and friends was well known. He was a steadfast supporter of local youth sports and could often be found cheering from the stands at Ithaca Youth Hockey games or rooting for Cornell hockey. He also followed Lansing baseball and football with enthusiasm, always eager to support his grandsons in their athletic pursuits. Carl spent much of his later years observing the beauty of wildlife in their natural environment.
Carl is survived by his devoted wife, Elizabeth Carpenter; his son Earl Carpenter and daughter-in-law Kathleen Carpenter; grandsons Christopher Carpenter (Brittany McNamara) and Matthew Carpenter (Fernanda Da Silva); and great-grandchildren Ashton Carpenter and Sloane Carpenter.
He was predeceased by his mother Dorothy D. Carpenter, father Stuart V. Carpenter, son Stuart M. Carpenter; his brother Earl Carpenter (Catherine); sisters Leona Knapp, Velma Kissock (William), Jean Edsall (Millard “Jake”), Helen Wendland (Robert), and Mary Ellen Bond (Miles). He is also remembered fondly by numerous nieces and nephews whose lives he touched over the years.
Carl will be remembered for his enduring commitment to family, community involvement through business leadership, and unwavering support for those around him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.
Heartfelt thanks to the staff at Bridges Cornell Heights in Ithaca.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospicare of Ithaca or the Tompkins County SPCA in Carl’s memory.
A private burial will be held at the family’s convenience. Perkins Funeral Home is managing the arrangements.
Online condolences at www.perkinsfh.com
Posted online on May 27, 2025
Published in The Ithaca Journal
Rec Sports
Point Place Ravens free sports league supports youth in Toledo
Scott Parker launched the Point Place Ravens, offering free youth sports to help Toledo kids get active and trouble. TOLEDO, Ohio — A grandfather in Point Place is making youth football and cheerleading accessible to kids who might otherwise be excluded, launching a free sports league to create opportunities, structure, and community in Toledo’s underserved […]

Scott Parker launched the Point Place Ravens, offering free youth sports to help Toledo kids get active and trouble.
TOLEDO, Ohio — A grandfather in Point Place is making youth football and cheerleading accessible to kids who might otherwise be excluded, launching a free sports league to create opportunities, structure, and community in Toledo’s underserved neighborhoods.
Scott Parker, a Point Place resident and legal guardian of three grandchildren, saw a need in his community for affordable youth sports and decided to meet it himself. Despite living on disability and being visually impaired, Parker founded the Point Place Sports League in 2024, now known as the Point Place Ravens.
“It’s better to have them out involved in stuff than sitting in the house on a video game or out getting into trouble,” Parker said.
Like many families in Lucas County, Parker, who is legally blind, struggled to find low-cost athletic programs. “Me and my wife, we live on disability,” he said. “So I don’t have the income to put my kids in sports.”
Parker’s answer was bold and simple: make it free. The Point Place Ravens program offers football and cheerleading at no cost to families, marking a significant shift from standard team fees.
“Most teams will charge you anywhere from $150 to $250 just for your kid to sign up and play,” Parker explained.
The vision is gaining traction and support. Woodward head coach Brandon McNeil is bringing his staff to support the new league through clinics and guidance.
“Myself and our coaching staff, we’re going to go out there to the Point Place Ravens, speak to their coaches and do a clinic as well,” McNeil said.
He emphasized that the effort is about more than football.
“There are plenty of opportunities here in Toledo,” McNeil said. “I’d love for the kids in the North End to stay and play for Woodward, but it’s about giving these students the best experience possible. That’s our shared goal with Scott.”
With community support growing, Parker’s league is opening doors for children across Toledo’s North End and beyond, giving them a safe place to learn, grow and thrive.
Rec Sports
Everett Rowing Association’s Youth Qualify for Nationals in Florida
EVERETT, MAY 27: The Everett Rowing Association (ERA) announced its Youth Boys Team has secured two spots in the upcoming National Championship Regatta in Florida. They are the only team in the Pacific Northwest to have entered the Championship. With nearly 200 teams and over 700 entries expected, ERA will compete against the top youth […]

EVERETT, MAY 27: The Everett Rowing Association (ERA) announced its Youth Boys Team has secured two spots in the upcoming National Championship Regatta in Florida. They are the only team in the Pacific Northwest to have entered the Championship.
With nearly 200 teams and over 700 entries expected, ERA will compete against the top youth rowing programs in the country, ERA said in a press release.
The U.S. Rowing Youth National Championship Regatta will be held in Sarasota, Florida from Thursday, June 12 to Sunday, June 15. The event will gather hundreds of the nation’s best young athletes for a weekend of high-level racing, showcasing the strength, precision, and sportsmanship that rowing demands.
“The qualification of these two crews to the National Championships represents a milestone for our entire program. Their results at Regionals mean they will be racing in the two most competitive categories in the country,” Executive Director of ERA Jon Campaña said. “This is the most athletes we’ve sent to Nationals since 2017, and we’re proud to be the only team from the Pacific Northwest entered in these events. We are honored to represent our team, our community, and our region at this prestigious event.”
The Regional Championships drew 30 teams from across the Pacific Northwest. Eleven boys’ and girls’ crews placed in the top five in their respective events, with five crews earning podium finishes.
“The road to this moment has been paved with early mornings on the Snohomish River and months of focused, team-driven effort. ERA’s national-bound athletes exemplify the dedication, skill, and resilience that define the program and have helped cement its standing as one of the Pacific Northwest’s leading youth rowing organizations,” ERA said.
For more information about ERA and its youth programs, visit www.everettrowing.com.
About Everett Rowing Association: Founded in 1984, Everett Rowing Association’s mission is to provide premier instruction to youth and adults in the sport of rowing. With a focus on promoting the sport of rowing at all levels, ERA offers programs for all youth, adults, and competitive rowers in Snohomish County. Committed to excellence, teamwork, and community, ERA provides opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities to experience the joy of rowing.
Based on a press release from the Everett Rowing Association.
Rec Sports
Mullins & Harrold are Paw Paw top grads
Myley Mullins was named Valedictorian of the Paw Paw High School Class of 2025. Andrew Harrold was chosen as the Salutatorian of the graduating class. Commencement ceremonies were held on Friday, May 23 at Paw Paw High School. Myley Mullins Myley Mullins Myley Mullins is the vice president of the senior class. Daughter of Tommy […]

Myley Mullins was named Valedictorian of the Paw Paw High School Class of 2025. Andrew Harrold was chosen as the Salutatorian of the graduating class.
Commencement ceremonies were held on Friday, May 23 at Paw Paw High School.
Myley Mullins

Myley Mullins is the vice president of the senior class. Daughter of Tommy and Heather Mullins of Paw Paw, she is the youngest in her senior class. Mullins is not only a proud member of the National Society of High School Scholars and vice president of her senior class, she also was a volunteer for Empower U as well as other local organizations and youth sports.
Mullins was on the volleyball team for four years, cheer for three years, track and field for four years and played basketball for one year. Mullins will be attending West Virginia University in the fall to major in Criminology and Minor in Psychology and Forensic Science, then further her education in law school.
Andrew Harrold

Andrew Harrold is the son of Robert and Dawn Harrold and the youngest of six siblings. During his 13 years at Paw Paw Schools, he has been involved in numerous activities including Cross Country, baseball, track, Student Council, Youth Leadership Academy, and National Honor Society. He held leadership positions such as class Treasurer, baseball captain, and co-president of Paw Paw Chapter of NHS. He has been an active volunteer with the local American Red Cross blood drives, including donating blood himself since the age of 16. Harrold is currently enrolled in the Phlebotomy Technician program at Blue Ridge Community and Technical College and plans to further his education in the Practical Nursing Program at Mineral County Technical Center.
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