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Kinder Chocolate® Teams Up with NBA All-Star Paul George to Bring Families Together for a Summer of Play and Basketball with its ‘Pass The Fun’ Campaign

The chocolate brand introduces limited-edition basketball themed packaging while inspiring families and kids to celebrate their love of the game with a chance to win exciting prizes PARSIPPANY, N.J., May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — This summer while school’s out, Kinder Chocolate®, a brand that celebrates simply wonderful moments for kids and families,  is reimagining the […]

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The chocolate brand introduces limited-edition basketball themed packaging while inspiring families and kids to celebrate their love of the game with a chance to win exciting prizes

PARSIPPANY, N.J., May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — This summer while school’s out, Kinder Chocolate®, a brand that celebrates simply wonderful moments for kids and families,  is reimagining the game of basketball with its new campaign Pass The Fun, featuring nine-time NBA All-Star and parent, Paul George. The campaign aims to bring families together to experience basketball the way it was meant to be played – full of fun and excitement.

As the most popular team sport in the U.S., basketball is played by more than 28 million children ages 6 and up. The Pass The Fun campaign seeks to inspire love for the game, noting that a majority of kids drop out of youth sports because of pressure and burnout. To bring the campaign to life, Kinder Chocolate is partnering with NBA All-Star Paul George, naming him the Commissioner of Fun. Together, Kinder Chocolate and George asked parents and kids to dream up ways to reimagine the sport by creating a one-of-a-kind basketball game filled with fun-first rules – designed by kids, for kids — to inspire families to get out and Pass The Fun.

“At Kinder Chocolate, we believe in the beauty of simple, wonderful moments—whether it’s playing a game with loved ones or enjoying our milk chocolate bar with a creamy milky filling,” said Catherine Bertrac, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Ferrero Mainstream Chocolate. “With Pass The Fun launching just as school lets out for summer, we hope to inspire kids and families to embrace basketball in its most fun form.”

To bring these rules to life, Kinder Chocolate hosted a special basketball game at the West Side YMCA in New York City, where George acted as referee using the imaginative, fun-focused rules created by kids featuring children from the YMCA’s youth basketball program. The game rewarded players with Kinder Chocolate for every three-point shot made, had inflatable seats instead of traditional benches, and featured a pop-up defender as an obstacle on the court. Putting a twist on traditional rules of the game, fouled players were able to choose between a free throw or a layup, and George even tapped his biggest fan, his daughter Olivia, to contribute her own rule: every player must touch the ball before taking a shot, promoting teamwork on the court.

“Basketball has given me so much, but at its core, it’s always been about having fun,” said Paul George. “As a dad, I see firsthand how important it is for kids to have the freedom to play, explore, and fall in love with the game in their own way – just like I did playing as a kid with friends and family. That’s why I’m excited to partner with Kinder Chocolate to inspire families to create simply wonderful moments of enjoyment and connection through basketball.”

Starting May 5, Kinder Chocolate is releasing limited-edition Pass The Fun single and share size packs at grocery and convenience stores nationwide. Each special pack will include a Pass The Fun basketball trivia card, with eight different options to discover. The packaging celebrates simply wonderful moments of play, reinforcing Kinder Chocolate’s commitment to bringing families together through basketball.

Fans can also enter the Pass The Fun Sweepstakes for a chance to win a virtual meet-and-greet with Paul George or instantly win prizes, including signed jerseys, custom basketballs, water bottles, mini hoops, drawstring bags, and custom headbands. To enter, visit https://KinderPassTheFun.com.

Kinder Chocolate is available in single and share packs, and minis, which can be found at retail, drug, convenience, and grocery stores nationwide.

About Kinder Chocolate
Michele Ferrero developed Kinder Chocolate, which has become a top-selling KINDER™ product. At the heart of Kinder Chocolate is the commitment to sparking, sharing and celebrating simply wonderful moments of togetherness between parents and kids. It is a delicious, sharable treat that proves less truly is more – with just a perfect milk chocolate coating and a creamy milky filling. It comes in small, individually wrapped bars, making it kid-friendly and perfect for families. Every bite is crafted to spark wonder and be Simply Wonderful, helping parents create quality moments of enjoyment and connection with their children.

About Ferrero 
Ferrero began its journey in the small town of Alba in Piedmont, Italy, in 1946. Today, it is one of the world’s largest sweet-packaged food companies, with over 35 iconic brands sold in more than 170 countries. The Ferrero Group brings joy to people around the world with much-loved treats and snacks including Nutella®, Kinder®, Tic Tac®, and Ferrero Rocher®. More than 38,000 employees are passionate about helping people celebrate life’s special moments. The Ferrero Group’s family culture, now in its third generation, is based on dedication to quality and excellence, heritage and a commitment to the planet and communities in which we operate. 

Ferrero entered the North American market in 1969 and has grown to more than 5,400 employees in 15 plants and warehouses, and eight offices in North America across the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. It has expanded its presence and portfolio with the addition of iconic brands such as Butterfinger®, CRUNCH®, Keebler®, Famous Amos®, Mother’s Cookies®, and other distinctive cookie and chocolate brands. Follow @FerreroNACorp on Twitter and Instagram. www.ferreronorthamerica.com.

Media Contact:
Keely Bennett Morgan
[email protected]

SOURCE Ferrero North America



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‘Mass panic’ at Run 4 Roses was caused by falling ceiling tile hitting metal chair, LMPD says | Local News

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — It’s clear that a youth basketball tournament at the Kentucky Exposition Center erupted in fear and confusion on Sunday. But statements from officials don’t settle on one specific cause.  Louisville police said they believe the chaos at the state fairgrounds — initially thought to be an “active aggressor” — was the result […]

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LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — It’s clear that a youth basketball tournament at the Kentucky Exposition Center erupted in fear and confusion on Sunday. But statements from officials don’t settle on one specific cause. 

Louisville police said they believe the chaos at the state fairgrounds — initially thought to be an “active aggressor” — was the result of a ceiling tile falling on a metal chair at the same time a woman began suffering a medical emergency.

Louisville Metro Police Department spokesperson Matt Sanders said the two things appear coincidental and to be the cause of the “mass panic.” The tile hitting the chair made a “loud noise,” he said.

But Kentucky Venues, which operates the Expo Center, said in a statement Monday that the fire alarm system made “audible alerts” inside that were set off by a duct smoke sensor — but didn’t reference the possible causes mentioned by LMPD.

“Our system review is ongoing, but we wanted to confirm that the fire system is not utilized for alert purposes beyond smoke detection,” the statement said. The fire system is routinely inspected and complies with the State Fire Marshall’s Office & NFPA life safety standards. We’re grateful to our law enforcement partners from around the state who responded quickly to this situation. At this time, only minor injuries were reported, which occurred when patrons exited the property.”

Kentucky Venues hasn’t replied to a request for clarification on the differing statements.

The incident occurred around 3:15 p.m. Sunday. LMPD posted on social media just after 3:30 p.m. that there was a report of an “active aggressor” at Kentucky Kingdom and the fairgrounds.

Dozens of officers responded to the area, and the police helicopter began circling the area overheard. The nearby Kentucky Kingdom amusement park also was evacuated.

The crowds inside the Expo Center were there for the Run 4 Roses basketball tournaments, a series of national girls’ events billed as the largest gathering of its kind in the world. Police, who estimated 40,000 people were on the fairgrounds between the two venues, reported no violence at either site after their investigation.

Police later said its preliminary investigation found no credible threat to the building. Officers confirmed there was no shooting, though half a dozen people were injured while rushing to exit the facility. At about 6 p.m., organizers confirmed the incident was a false alarm and allowed guests to return and collect belongings. Games, however, were not resumed Sunday.

“We are deeply thankful that initial reports indicate no one was harmed. The facility remains closed at this time,” David Beck, president and CEO of Kentucky Venues, said in a statement Sunday. “We are grateful for the swift and coordinated response from the Louisville Metro Police Department, our on-site security personnel, and public safety officials across the city. Their immediate action to search and secure the building ensured the safety of everyone on our campus.”

After the panic Sunday, at least a handful of teams, including Nike-sponsored Missouri Phenom and programs from the Wisconsin Truth, announced they are withdrawing from the event. Several college coaches also said they will not return, citing emotional trauma and safety concerns after reported loud noises and a triggered alarm sent thousands of spectators and athletes fleeing the building in panic.

“Our staff will not be attending the remainder of the Run 4 Roses Championship,” Max Ethridge, associate head coach and recruiting coordinator for Maryville University in St. Louis, posted on X. “What happened today was not normal, and should not be normalized. A very sad day for our basketball family.”

Justin Weiland, head coach at Central College in Pella, Iowa, expressed similar concerns.

“I will not partake in making this feel ‘acceptable,'” he wrote. “No one, especially our youth, should have to experience that and ‘just be OK’ and play. Not after seeing tears and terror on so many faces.”

Run 4 Roses officials posted on social media at 4:40 p.m. Sunday that all games were halted for the day.

“Out of an abundance of caution, all athletes and spectators have been cleared from the venue,” the statement read. “We will be resuming Run 4 Roses Championship tomorrow, Monday, July 14.”

Top Stories:

Run 4 Roses to resume Monday with tighter security — some teams, coaches withdraw after scare

Run 4 Roses won’t resume Sunday after false active aggressor report at Kentucky Expo Center

Louisville police say no victims found after report of active aggressor at Kentucky Expo Center

Copyright 2025 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved.



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Jeremy McNichols Hosts Free Football Camp at Lakewood – The562.org

Standing at midfield at Lakewood High School it was easy for Jeremy McNichols to talk about what it meant for him to provide a football camp for youth athletes. McNichols offered his second camp in the area this time at Lakewood where he spent his first high school years before transferring to Santa Margarita. “It’s […]

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Standing at midfield at Lakewood High School it was easy for Jeremy McNichols to talk about what it meant for him to provide a football camp for youth athletes.

McNichols offered his second camp in the area this time at Lakewood where he spent his first high school years before transferring to Santa Margarita.

“It’s about giving back,” McNichols said. “It was always a dream of mine to give back to a place that I love. This is where I grew up, it’s that time for me. Just being able to show up for the youth and show them that anything is possible and just being a leader here.”

When he looked back on his time as a youth athlete, he fondly remembered how much it meant to him to attend a youth camp hosted by Antonio Pierce at Dominguez and interact with someone who made it to where he wanted to go. 

“He signed my shirt, and I still have it to this day,” McNichols said. “I was able to see him while I was in the league and tell him that and then I just seen his face light up. So, that gave me the fire to be able to do that for a kid.”

The camp was offered to kids from the age of 7-12 and included drills with coaches and even provided food and free haircuts for those that signed up. 

“You really don’t know the impact you really have on somebody until they come back and tell you,” McNichols said. “It’s years later where it clicks. So, when that does happen, I think it’s going to be super special. I think those moments are going to be special. That’s what I do it for. When I see somebody in the grocery store and they’re like ‘I went to your camp three years ago. It was the coolest thing ever.’ Giving the kids a good experience.”

McNichols plans to continue offering camps for youth athletes for as long as he’s able to.

“I plan on doing these year-round,” McNichols said. “During my career, after my career, you know hopefully it last longer than that. I want the kids to be able to come out here and just have fun and be free and love this game that I love. Maybe I inspire them to go a different, better route for themselves.”

McNichols was a Doak Walker Award semifinalist at Boise State, rushing for more than 3,200 yards and scoring 55 total touchdowns for the Broncos before being drafted in the fifth round by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2017

Since being drafted McNichols has been a journeyman in the NFL with offseason or practice squad stints with the San Francisco 49ers, Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos, Tennessee Titans, Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, Atlanta Falcons, Pittsburgh Steelers and Washington Commanders.

McNichols carved a spot on the depth chart with the Commanders in 2024 where he found time as a third down back and special teams contributor. He is currently with the Commanders after re-signing this offseason. 



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Orcutt 14U squad wins final tuneup before regional | Youth Sports

The Orcutt 14U Babe Ruth All Stars made short work Saturday of their final pre-regional tune-up. Orcutt defeated the Thousand Oaks Knights 10-0 in a Gold Bracket game in a travel ball tournament that Orcutt hosted at Morrison Park, Orcutt Babe Ruth’s home site. The game on Morrison Field was called after the bottom of […]

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The Orcutt 14U Babe Ruth All Stars made short work Saturday of their final pre-regional tune-up.

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Marquette man to be honored as UP Veteran of the Year | News, Sports, Jobs

Raymond Carlson, of American Legion Post 44 in Marquette, will be recognized as the Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year at the U.P. State Fair in August. (Courtesy photo) MARQUETTE — A Marquette man has been named the 2025 Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year and will be honored with a ceremony at the U.P. […]

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Raymond Carlson, of American Legion Post 44 in Marquette, will be recognized as the Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year at the U.P. State Fair in August. (Courtesy photo)

MARQUETTE — A Marquette man has been named the 2025 Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year and will be honored with a ceremony at the U.P. State Fair in August.

The Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year Committee announced Raymond E. Carlson’s award Thursday, recognizing his contributions to the veteran community and his unwavering commitment to service.

Carlson’s leadership in Michigan’s American Legion over the past two decades serves as a focal point for his accomplishments. He’s had positions that included post commander, district commander, zone commander and served on the State Department Finance Committee, with extensive experience and dedication to his work securing his influence within the American Legion across Michigan.

During his time as commander of the Richard M. Jopling American Legion Post 44 in Marquette, Carlson was in charge of a $240,000 renovation project to enhance and revitalize the post. He also commits himself to post-sponsored social events for community veterans, such as bingo at the Marquette County Fair, bingo at the Jacobetti Veterans Home in Marquette and Boys State initiatives that promote youth development and civic engagement.

Carlson’s youth engagement extends to the hours he coaches and raises funds for youth sports. He served as coach of the Marquette Legion Blues baseball team for six years, leading the team to multiple district championships and the Fifth Zone championship in 1986 to earn their place in the state tournament. Twelve years of service as chair of the District Baseball Committee included Carlson organizing and overseeing numerous tournaments, adding to his long list of services to the youth of the area.

Carlson has also successfully bid on and coordinated American Legion conventions for 14 years, leading to the success of the event in the U.P. during his time as president of the U.P. Convention Corporation. He’s also secured future convention dates in Sault Ste. Marie.

“Carlson’s unwavering commitment to supporting veteran activities and youth initiatives has made a lasting impact on the community. His dedication and service are truly commendable,” said the UPVYC in a news release.

The Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year ceremony will be at 10:30 a.m. Aug. 14 at the Upper Peninsula State Fair, 2401 N. 12th Ave. in Escanaba. More information about the fair and the venue for the ceremony can be found online on the Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year’s Facebook page.

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Abby LaForest can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 548, or alaforest@miningjournal.net.



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Lapwai Days 2025 draws crowds with youth basketball and volleyball tournaments

LAPWAI, ID – This past Saturday and Sunday, July 12th and 13Th, were the 2025 Lapwai Days, and people showed out to make the event a success To start the morning off on Saturday at 9 am, there was a three-on-three basketball tournament. A lot of the youth showed up and put on an impressive […]

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LAPWAI, ID – This past Saturday and Sunday, July 12th and 13Th, were the 2025 Lapwai Days, and people showed out to make the event a success

To start the morning off on Saturday at 9 am, there was a three-on-three basketball tournament.

A lot of the youth showed up and put on an impressive performance with some standout plays. A notable difference in this basketball tournament was the absence of three-pointers.

On court one, it was third and fourth grade co-ed; on court two, it was 5th and 6th grade co-ed; then on court three were the older kids with seventh and eighth grade co-ed.

As the games went on for the basketball tournament, other events started taking place as well.

With volleyball tournament starts at 9 am.

This tournament was hosted by the Lapwai Wildcats volleyball team, so all the proceeds from that tournament went back to support the Wildcats volleyball team.

Then at people were also getting some practice before they got started with the corn hole tournament, which started at 10 am.

Yesterday, on Sunday, they closed out the 2025 Lapwai Days with a 5k community walk and the mush ball tournament championship.



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2025 Juniata County Youth Fair schedule | News, Sports, Jobs

“Stars, Stripes and Fair Nights” is the theme for the 2025 Juniata County Youth Fair at the Juniata County fairgrounds in Port Royal. Schedule of Juniata County 4-H and FFA exhibits: Monday, July 21 9 a.m — Rabbit Show 1 p.m — Dairy Market Feeder Show 5 p.m — Opening Ceremony (Livestock barn) 7 p.m […]

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“Stars, Stripes and Fair Nights” is the theme for the 2025 Juniata County Youth Fair at the Juniata County fairgrounds in Port Royal. Schedule of Juniata County 4-H and FFA exhibits:

Monday, July 21

9 a.m — Rabbit Show

1 p.m — Dairy Market Feeder Show

5 p.m — Opening Ceremony (Livestock barn)

7 p.m — Dairy Show (Ice Cream Social to Follow)

Tuesday, July 22

9 a.m — Goat Show

1 p.m — Sheep Show

Wednesday, July 23

9 am — Poultry Show

Noon — Beef Show

4 to 7 p.m — Silent Auction: Baking Contest, Decorated Cakes, Butter, and Club Baskets (Commercial Building)

5 p.m — Swine Show

Following Swine Show — Ag Olympics (Sponsored by Juniata FFA)

Thursday, July 24

10 a.m — Supreme Showmanship Contest

Following Supreme Showman — Animal Costume Contest

4:30 p.m — Buyer Registration Begins

6 p.m — Livestock Sale

Food trucks will be on site.

For more information, contact Juniata County Penn State Extension 4-H Educator, Emily Shoop, at (717) 436-7744.



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