Pirates to Partner with American Heart Association in 2006 Southern Maine Heart Walk

Published on February 9, 2006 under American Hockey League (AHL)
Portland Pirates News Release


PORTLAND, ME- The Portland Pirates announced today that their ownership group, employees, coaches and players will pledge their support to fight heart disease and stroke - the #1 and #3 killers in Maine - by partnering with the American Heart Association in the 2006 Southern Maine Heart Walk on May 21st.

"My wife, Sara, and I are very excited to kick off our efforts to help raise funds and awareness for this great cause. With the support of our team and strong fan base, we have set an aggressive fundraising goal and are hoping to create the largest Walk Team ever. Much like our team on the ice, we hope to exceed expectations and experience a success that will benefit the heart health of our entire community," said Pirates Managing Owner/CEO Brian Petrovek.

Petrovek and his wife Sara are serving as this year's Heart Walk Chairs. To help reach the overall goal of $275,000, the Portland Pirates have set a walk team goal of $25,000 to fund the American Heart Association's (AHA) lifesaving research and education. The Pirates have also set a goal to enlist 185 walkers - the largest walk team ever in southern Maine. The money raised will be used for research, education and advocacy work to help prevent cardiovascular disease and stroke. The AHA has announced that this year Hannaford is the event's Presenting Sponsor. Maine Medical Center will be the Red Cap sponsor, and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and UnumProvident are Bronze Sponsors.

Registration begins at 8:30 AM at the University of Southern Maine's Sullivan Gym, followed by a walk around Back Cove beginning at 9:30 AM. Subway will be providing a heart healthy lunch immediately after the walk.

Since 2000, the Southern Maine Heart Walk has raised over $647,000. Last year, 800 walkers helped raise over $216,000. Through educational efforts, the AHA is working to educate our youth on healthy eating habits and exercise, educate the public on the signs and symptoms of heart disease and stroke and increase the number of people receiving early treatment for these diseases.

Starting today, fans can join the Pirates in the fight against heart disease and stroke by joining the official Portland Pirates team, the "Pirates Plank Walkers". Fans can sign up to walk or donate to the cause by visiting the Portland Pirates home page (www.portlandpirates.com) and clicking on the Pirates Plank Walkers button. Fans can make donations online or download a pledge form. All members of the Pirates Plank Walkers team will receive a Pirates Plank Walkers T-shirt on the day of the walk.

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