Wednesday, July 30, 2003

Fayette gymnasts 'flip out' to raise funds for children's hospitals

Local gymnasts are gearing up to host a Mrs. Smith's Flip-a-Thon to raise money for the Children's Miracle Network during the fifth annual National Gymnastics Day this Saturday.

Mrs. Smith's is teaming up with USA Gymnastics and young gymnasts across the nation to celebrate the sport and raise money for local children's hospitals. Participating gymnasts from Gym South are in the process of securing pledges for the number of flips the athletes will perform Mrs. Smith's Flip-a-Thon Saturday at 11 a.m. at Gym South in Fayetteville.

"We're extremely proud to be able to support such a worthwhile cause," said Gene Lewis, director of marketing for Mrs. Smith's."An active lifestyle is important, especially for children.Mrs. Smith's Flip-A-Thon pairs active, vibrant kids with children in need of specialized healthcare.It's a terrific program and we hope one that will help raise awareness of the value of exercise and help generate significant donations for Children's Miracle Network hospitals."

National Gymnastics Day annually attracts participation from more than 1,000 gymnastics clubs nationwide, along with celebrity support and testimonials.In addition to former and current Olympians' involvement, Olympic gold medalist Mary Lou Retton and legendary Olympic coach Bela Karolyi are co-chairs for this year's event.

The public is invited to watch the gymnasts perform their flips during the Mrs. Smith's Flip-a-Thon at Gym South. Visitors to the gym will be served free samples of Mrs. Smith's FlipIt Cake, a new microwaveable, tasty-topped upside-down dessert offered in Chocolate Caramel, Strawberry Delight, and Apple Caramel flavors. The two-serving cake is easy to prepare and is perfect for tweens and their parents to enjoy as they watch gymnasts flip for a cause.

Mrs. Smith's Bakeries, headquartered in Suwanee, markets an extensive line of bakery desserts, cakes, and specialty breads to retail and foodservice customers throughout the United States.Top brands include Mrs. Smith's, Pet-Ritz, European Bakers, Oronoque Orchards, Stilwell, and Pour-A-Quiche. For more information about new FlipIt Cake's or to register to receive a special e-newsletter just for tweens, log onto www.FlipItCake.com.For recipes, or to sign up for Mrs. Smith's e-newsletter loaded with great dessert ideas, visit the company's main Web site at www.mrssmiths.com.

Based in Indianapolis, USA Gymnastics is the national governing body for the sport of gymnastics in the United States. Its mission is to encourage participation and the pursuit of excellence in the sport. For more information about USA Gymnastics and its programs, access USA Gymnastics online at www.usa-gymnastics.org.