Hance Elementary School Hosts Jump Rope for Heart Event 

The American Heart Association says cardiovascular disease ranks as the number three cause of death for children under age 15.

That’s why organizers were anxious to get more people involved in this year’s “Jump Rope for Heart” event at Hance Elementary School on Feb. 23, 2007. 

This year, Dr. Richard Pysch, Hance principal, challenged the staff members and teachers to jump as well this year. 

This year's jump rope stations included: a relay station, two educational stations, an individual jumping station and the long rope station.

The competition benefits the American Heart Association.

This year, students and staff collected nearly $6,600. That's more than the $4,400 collected last year. 

The American Heart Association says “Jump Rope For Heart” promotes the value of physical activity to elementary school children while showing them they can contribute

to their community's welfare.  

Students collected donations and were entered in a raffle drawing. Raffle prizes include such items as: gift cards, Pirates tickets, bicycle helmets, and Steelers items. 

The American Heart Association also awards prizes at different donation levels, and these prizes were on display in the lobby at Hance Elementary School. 

All Occasion Limousine in Mars donated a limousine ride for the top two fundraisers. The top students include Megan Lieberman, first grader, who raised $575 and Abbey Bissell, fourth grade, who raised $405.

Those students will get a chance to ride in style and enjoy lunch with their teachers and Dr. Pysch on Friday, March 9, 2007.

Last year's winners were Abbey Bissell and Bailey McCue.  DJ Greg Boff provided musical entertainment to inspire the jumpers.  

PTO Parents Katie Kukieza and Florence Oakes are co-chaired the event.