A new chapter is being written in the story of South Dade — one defined by ambition, collaboration, and the power of bold ideas. With the recent green light from the City of Homestead to move forward with the Sports Performance Hub (SPH), their community is on the verge of something extraordinary.

The Sports Performance Hub of Miami-Dade in Homestead is a transformative initiative that reflects what’s possible when civic leadership and private vision align for the greater good. At the center of this milestone are Mayor Steve Losner and the Homestead City Council, whose forward-thinking support is bringing this visionary project to life — shepherded by Miami-Dade County-District 9 Commissioner Kionne L. McGhee, whose initial support and vision made way for the SPH team to position the project opportunity in Homestead.

The SPH is a multi-faceted destination that will redefine how we think about sports, community, and opportunity. This isn’t a stadium, it’s a full-fledged ecosystem that will house a state-of-the-art youth sports academy, professional soccer teams, a sports-themed hotel, top-tier recreational facilities, restaurants, and a 10,000-seat multi-purpose stadium. Once complete, the SPH will be home to events like the Homestead Championship Rodeo — and it comes at no cost to Homestead.

At its core, this project is about creating access — for kids dreaming of athletic futures, for families looking to connect, for seniors embracing wellness, and for visitors discovering the best of what Homestead has to offer. SPH is committed to accessibility, inclusion, and community use, creating a true hub of activity that works for everyone.

What makes this even more remarkable is that the plans for SPH are currently entirely privately funded. As SPH Chairman Juan Sebastián Verón put it, this is a “self-sustaining and profitable venture” that brings economic development. It’s a promise of jobs, opportunity, and pride — rooted in a community that will benefit greatly from the new development and its success.

The leadership of Mayor Losner and the Homestead City Council has been key. Their willingness to embrace innovation, negotiate in good faith, and champion a bold vision for South Dade reflects the kind of leadership we need more of — grounded in the needs of today, with an eye toward tomorrow.

And the visionaries behind the SPH — international sports icons like Verón, Dario Sala, Manu Ginobili, and Juan Mónaco — bring unmatched expertise and passion. Together with Homestead’s local leaders, they are creating something that will not only benefit the South Dade region but put Homestead on the global sports map.

The Sports Performance Hub is a generational project — one that embodies excellence, equity, and the entrepreneurial spirit of South Dade. Thanks to the leaders of Homestead, and of course, County Commissioner Kionne L. McGhee, it’s no longer just a vision. It’s happening. And I can’t wait to see the future it brings.

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English soccer legend David Bechkam and entrepreneur Shaun Neff have debuted a new lineup of fruit snacks sweetened by honey, the new company announced Monday.

BEEUP officials said that the product stemmed from Beckham’s beekeeping hobby; he partnered with Neff — who has previously launched the Sun Bum, BÉIS and Moon Oral Care brands — to establish the business.

Longtime consumer goods executive Mike Keown, who most recently led sports nutrition product company Honey Stinger, is the new company’s CEO, and its products debuted exclusively at Target stores.

The fruit snacks, available in packs of 10, come in “Very Berry,” “Tropical Mix” and “Sour Watermelon” varieties.

“We saw a unique opportunity to disrupt the kids’ snack space with a brand powered by real honey, made for active kids and with a strong connection to youth sports,” Neff said in a statement. “It’s been an incredible journey working with David and bringing this brand to life.”

Thomas David Dudei passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, June 12, 2025 at the age of 77 at his home in Plover.

Born September 19, 1947, to Hilmer (Bud) & June (Bender) Dudei in Berlin, WI. The family moved to Plainfield when Bud & June purchased a parcel of land and constructed Bud’s Drive In, which later they sold and became Ron’s Drive In.

Tom grew up in Plainfield and graduated from Tri County Area Schools in 1965. After high school, he attended Mid State Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids where he earned his building degree that started his lifelong career. Tom grew up playing basketball, baseball, track and football. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. Designing, building, and remodeling were Tom’s passion. His father brought him into the business when he was young with Hilmer Dudei & Son to later include his younger brother Doug and form Hilmer Dudei & Sons. Dudei Construction LLC would be their final chapter, building hundreds of homes, cabins, and commercial buildings in the central Wisconsin area. The Plainfield Library, Village of Plainfield office & dental office as well as the Hancock Library were just a few of their projects. Tom gave back to his community as a youth sport coach and scout leader. Always wanting to stay busy, Tom often helped family and friends on the weekends with home improvement projects and cleanups. The family cabin in Hatfield, the Hemp’s cabin and Buck Hill land in Sherwood, WI where his favorites. He loved his ‘72 Chevy truck and Corvettes were always his passion, and he owned many during his lifetime. If you looked in his truck or garage, you would see he loved to tinker. Tom had more tools, guns, knives, and equipment than anyone person should own. A gifted talker and storyteller, he would enjoy engaging just about anyone in conversation about any topic. Friends and family could always count on him to help with any project. An offering of cookies or sweets was always welcomed when he stopped at the house to chat, which he did often. Always young at heart, Tom continued to work part time to stay active and fit until his death. There will be a painful void in our hearts and lives.

Tom is survived by his children, Trent (Jill) Dudei of Mosinee, Troy (Stephanie) Dudei of Holmen, Tyler (Val) Dudei of Plainfield, Haley (Jordyn) Dudei of St. Petersburg, FL, his grandchildren Matthew, Brett, Alex, Athena, Will, Helena, his sisters Julie (Rick) Beggs of Bancroft, Cindy (Chuck) Johnson of Hancock, brother Doug (Lorrie) Dudei of Plainfield, ex-wife Wendy (Mark) Stevens of Wautoma and many cousins, nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Preceding him in death were his parents, his sister and brother-in-law Shirlee (Hank) Baillod.

The family would like to thank the Plover Police department and EMT staff for their fast response, help, and care during this difficult time. Stahl funeral home and Eric Hughes are assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorial Services will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in the Stahl Funeral Home, Plainfield. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until the time of services. Please visit, www.stahlfuneralhome.com to share your online condolences for Tom’s family.

June 16, 2025

Contact:
Nathan Aamodt
Sanford Health Media Relations
(701) 200-6080/nathan.aamodt@sanfordhealth.org

FARGO, N.D. – The fifth annual Roger Maris All-Star Week kicks off today through June 20 at various locations throughout Fargo-Moorhead.

Funds raised during Roger Maris All-Star Week will support Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center’s continued investment and expansion as a national destination for cancer research, treatment, education and training. In October 2021, Sanford Fargo launched the region’s first and only Bone Marrow Transplant Program.

The list of events during Roger Maris All-Star Week includes:
• Free youth sports clinics June 16-20
• RedHawks game – June 17
• Roger Maris Gala – June 18
• Edith 9-Hole Golf Scramble – June 19
• Roger Maris Celebrity Golf Tournament – June 19
• Roger Maris All-Star Week Drive – June 19
• Roger Maris Academy – June 20

Celebrity athletes will once again make an appearance at numerous events throughout the week. This year’s lists of headlining athletes includes:
• Kevin O’Connell, Minnesota Vikings head coach and 2024 NFL Coach of the Year
• Chad Greenway, former Minnesota Vikings linebacker and two-time National Football League Pro Bowl selection
• Marney Gellner, Fan Duel Sports Network host and play-by-play announcer and KFAN radio personality
• Phil Hansen, former Buffalo Bills defensive end

The youth sports clinics take place June 16-20 and are free for children ages 6 to 13 and will be conducted by local, high school and collegiate coaches. Youth clinics are available for football, baseball, softball, basketball, golf, pickleball, volleyball and hockey.

The Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks will play host to the Sioux City Explorers on Tuesday, June 17. Sanford Health is a proud sponsor of “Cancer Awareness Night”.

The Roger Maris Gala takes place on Wednesday, June 18, from 6-10 p.m. at The Pines – White, 4487 165th Ave. SE., Davenport, N.D. The Gala is a night to celebrate the tradition of philanthropy at Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center. Event goers will hear local stories of hope and healing, as well as hear an update on exclusive plans for the next era of cancer care for patients in the Upper Midwest and their families who need care close to home. Tickets and tables are available to be purchased at rogermarisgala.com. 100% of funds raised during the Roger Maris Gala will support the Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center’s vision to become a national destination for cancer research, treatment, education and training.

The Roger Maris Celebrity Golf Tournament presented by Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops returns for a 41st season. The tournament began as a way to raise money for local charities. Now four decades later, the tournament has now transformed into a weeklong event supporting the needs of the community.

New to Roger Maris All-Star Week this year is the Edith Sanford 9-Hole Golf Scramble presented by Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops. This tournament takes place at 8 a.m. at Rose Creek Golf Course. This pink-themed event will help support innovative breast cancer research and patient care. The Edith Sanford Golf Scramble will feature specialty coffee, a photo station, contests, swag bags and appearances by celebrities. Both men and women are encouraged to wear pink.

The Sanford Health Foundation is teaming up with The Mighty 790 KFGO to host the inaugural Roger Maris All-Star Week Drive. The Roger Maris All-Star Week Drive is an event to raise awareness and monetary donations to support special services, patient amenities, funding for direct patient assistance and research at the Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center. KFGO will be broadcasting live from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, June 19, at Rose Creek Golf Course during the Roger Maris Celebrity Golf Tournament.

The Roger Maris Academy is back for a fourth season. The Roger Maris Academy is designed to be a year-long program to help youth in our community explore various pathways to a great career. Thirty local middle school students will participate in combined educational and mentorship opportunities designed to help them discover their future careers. The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Red River Valley, in partnership with Sanford Health and the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber, has developed an exciting curriculum for the program. The Maris Academy meets Friday, June 20, at Kingpinz.

Roger Maris All-Star Week was created to support the work happening at the cancer center, honor loved ones, friends and neighbors affected by cancer, promote Roger’s passion for fitness and youth sports and celebrate the enduring legacy of hometown hero, Roger Maris.

For more information, visit RogerMarisWeek.com.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

The partnership the city of Burbank has created with Angel City Sports, an organization that has played a key role in the growth of adaptive sports, is growing into bigger events.

Sunday at McCambridge Park, it was Mexico Pro Soccer Club de Futbol Monterrey that partnered with Angel City Sports and brought out its staff, including former player Jesus Zavala, to put on an Adaptive Sports Festival.

“Thank you to the city of Burbank for welcoming us warmly and to Angel City for the incredible leadership in making this day a reality. Thank you for every athlete, family member and volunteer who showed up today. Your presence is what makes this festival truly special,” Monterey President Pedro Esquivel said.  “Today is much more than a celebration of soccer. It is a celebration of the possibility of what happens when we remove barriers and open up the field to everyone. As Rayados, we are committed to being a club with purpose and heart.”

Monterrey is in the Los Angeles area for the next week as it is a participant in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. The Rayados will open play Tuesday evening at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena against Italian club Internazionale of Milan. The match begins at 6 p.m.

Angel City Sports board member Joe Giuntu thanked the many local dignitaries, including Mayor Nikki Perez, who came to celebrate the event.”

“We very much appreciate our local community leaders coming out and supporting inclusion, equality, and love. I very much appreciate you bringing that to the Burbank community today,” Giuntu said.

McCambridge Park had stations set up throughout the park to give participants an opportunity to participate in events such as Amputee Soccer, Able-Bodied Soccer, Powerchair Soccer, Wheelchair Football, Wheelchair Rugby and Parafencing.

Perez thanked Monterrey, which reached out to Angel City Sports in seeking to sponsor such an event.

“Burbank has worked hard to build a reputation for inclusive programming, and thanks to the dedication of our Parks and Recreation Department and incredible partners like Angel City Sports, we continue to grow our reach,” she said. “And to Club de Futbol Monterey – thank you for choosing Burbank and for using your platform to create a lasting, meaningful impact.”

The USA Clay Target League is a non-profit organization and America’s largest youth clay target shooting sport program. The NRA Foundation provides grant support for the league’s state and national tournaments and funds many local teams as well.

The clay target shooting option is very popular with students. More than 1,800 high school, college and homeschool teams were involved in the USA Clay Target League in 2024. And, of the more than 53,000 participating student athletes last year, more than 9,000 were first-time clay-target participants.

“The benefits to the students often go unrecognized,” John Nelson, President of the USA Clay Target Shooting League, said. “There are plenty of other programs, but 40% of our student athletes don’t participate in anything else; they aren’t part of the band or football team, etc. Tens of thousands of kids each year have an opportunity they wouldn’t have had otherwise, to be part of their school community, which leads to such positive outcomes in life. They’re more likely to achieve better grades, more likely to graduate, to go to college—we see students with such great stories of overcoming their challenges.”

One NRA Foundation grant recipient was Lake Land College in Mattoon, Ill. “It’s really up to how much the student wants to invest,” said Joshua Fulk, the head instructor of the Lake Land program and founder of the associated St. Elmo Brownstown High School Clay Target Team. “If they really are determined, they practice, go to shooting clinics, learn how to fix something they may be doing wrong. Keeping focus on school, making sure they’re getting their work done and making good grades because opportunities are also possible because of those good grades.”

Beyond the incredible importance of finding their place in a team, students also learn safety and marksmanship. More of these students will also develop an interest in the outdoors, participating in their incredible heritage of freedom and outdoors recreation in public lands, which is likely to influence them toward preserving both.

“The NRA Foundation is proud to support USA Clay Target League and their many youth programs held around the country,” Ruthann Sprague, assistant director of NRA Foundation Grant Outreach and Strategy, said. “Each year three-quarters of state fund grants support youth shooting sports programs. In 2024, over $7.5 million was awarded to youth programs for more than 2,060 grants. The NRA Foundation is invested in the next generation of America’s leaders.”