JASON’S DELI TO RAISE FUNDS FOR AUSTIN HATCHER FOUNDATION

June 14th, 2010

Jasons Deli LogosmallThe Gunbarrel Road location of Jason’s Deli has announced a new promotion to raise funds for the Austin Hatcher Foundation for pediatric cancer.  From June 8, 2010 until July 28, 2010, the restaurant will donate 10 percent of sales on Tuesdays between the hours of 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.  Patrons must mention the Austin Hatcher Foundation when placing their orders for the sales to qualify for the promotion.

“We are excited about the promotion and grateful for the support of Jason’s Deli,” said Amy Jo Osborn, President of the Austin Hatcher Foundation.  “Their continued support of the Foundation and its Hatch’s house of hope cancer care center makes a huge difference in the lives of the cancer patients it serves.”

The Austin Hatcher Foundation for a carefree childhood was formed in 2006
after Amy Jo and Jim Osborn lost their infant son Hatch to a rare form of pediatric cancer.  The foundation’s mission is to support research towards the diagnosis, treatment and development of a cure for pediatric cancer, and to provide support and hope to children and families undergoing treatment, as well as those who have lost children due to cancer.  The foundation has developed a landmark group of programs and services essential to help cancer stricken children and their families function within their community.  All services provided by the Foundation are free of charge, funded solely by the generous donations of its supporters.

Hatch’s house of hope is a unique Austin Hatcher Foundation concept designed to empower children and families affected by pediatric cancer to thrive. The landmark cancer care center equips children and their family members with the educational, emotional and social skills necessary to succeed.  Specifically, these services include Problem Solving Skills Training, neurocognitive testing, educational programming to help effected children overcome their cognitive and learning deficits, emotional counseling for the cancer affected child, their siblings and parents, and marital and financial counseling to ensure a safe environment to maximize the family growth as a whole.  All services at Hatch’s are free to its guests, funded entirely by donations.  Erlanger Medical Mall in Chattanooga, TN, is the site of the first Hatch’s house of hope, which opened September
18, 2009.  This Hatch’s is the model for other Hatch’s in the planning stages nationwide.  For more information, visit www.hatcherfoundation.org or www.hatcherfoundation.org.

Jason’s Deli located at 2115 Gunbarrel Road in Chattnooga, TN is part of the Texas based Jason’s Deli franchise.  The first restaurant opened in 1976 in Beaumont, TX, and the chain now boasts locations across the country.  For more information, visit jasonsdeli.com.

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HATCH’S house of hope::Summer Series

June 14th, 2010

June-summer-seriesJune-description

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Hatch’s Staff Accepted for Membership into International Psycho-Oncology Society and American Psychosocial Oncology Society

May 25th, 2010

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Chattanooga, TN:  The Austin Hatcher Foundation is excited to announce that three members of the staff at Hatch’s house of hope have been accepted into the International Psycho-Oncology Society (IPOS) and the American Psychosocial Oncology Society (APOS).  The staff accepting membership includes Clinic Director Patricia Kassebaum, Chief Psychologist Dr. Erica Skidmore, and Dr. Jim Osborn, Co-Founder of the Austin Hatcher Foundation.

“Admission to these two esteemed societies opens doors to the world of Psycho-Oncology professional community,” said Dr. Jim Osborn.  “We hope to not only benefit from the experience and knowledge of other members of these societies, but also share valuable information that we learn while treating families at Hatch’s.”

The mission of the International Psycho-Oncology Society is “to be the international multi-disciplinary organization dedicated to fostering the science of psychosocial and behavioral oncology and improving the care of cancer patients and their families throughout the world.” The mission of American Psychosocial Oncology Society is “to advance the science and practice of psychosocial care for people with cancer.”

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Dr. Erica Skidmore Appointed as Chief Psychologist at Hatch’s house of hope

May 20th, 2010

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Chattanooga, TN:  The Austin Hatcher Foundation is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Erica Skidmore as Chief Psychologist at the landmark pediatric cancer care center, Hatch’s house of hope.  At Hatch’s, Dr. Skidmore will be providing assessments, counseling and Neuropsychological evaluations that are a significant part of maximizing the social, educational, and emotional function of the child with cancer and their family members.  Dr. Skidmore will be working with a panel of educators, therapists, social workers and pediatricians to develop Individual Intervention Plans (IIP) for each family member to create a unique program to meet that individual’s need.

Relocating to Chattanooga from Virginia Beach, VA, where she was a psychologist at Eden Counseling Center as well as Clinical Director at Liberty Family Services, Dr. Skidmore has extensive experience in working with children.  She also is currently serving as an Adjunct Professor of Psychology at Liberty University.

“We are excited about the addition of Dr. Skidmore to the Hatch’s staff.  Families who receive services from Hatch’s will benefit greatly from her skill and experience,” said Jim Osborn, Co-Founder of the Austin Hatcher Foundation.  “Having a child with cancer is very difficult and strains the fabric of many families. The programs provided through Hatch’s can help alleviate the stress, increase coping skills and keep the family unit working together and insure each family member reaches their life’s potential. Dr. Skidmore is a key element in the programming at Hatch’s”

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Austin Hatcher Foundation Appoints Clinic Director for Hatch’s house of hope

May 12th, 2010

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 11, 2010

Media Contact:  Jenny Stickley jenny@hatcherfoundation.org

Austin Hatcher Foundation Appoints

Clinic Director for Hatch’s house of hope

Chattanooga, TN:  The Austin Hatcher Foundation is excited to announce the appointment of Patricia Kassebaum as Clinic Director of Hatch’s house of hope.  As Director, Trish will focus her time on development of programs and services to benefit each family member of the cancer affected child, as well as overseeing the day to day operations of Hatch’s.

With over 20 years of experience in the medical field, Ms. Kassebaum has formerly served as Residency Coordinator for the UT College of Medicine, Department of Surgery, as well as Quality Assurance Coordinator for the American College of Surgeons’ Advance Trauma Life Support Training.  She also served as Practice Coordinator for Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine in Charlotte, NC,  and coordinated the Neuropedic Clinic while in Charlotte.

“Hatch’s will benefit greatly from the level of medical administrative expertise that Ms. Kassebaum brings to the program,” said Jim Osborn MD MSPH, Co-Founder of the Austin Hatcher Foundation.  “Under her direction, not only will the current programs in place for pediatric cancer families flourish, many more programs will be created.”

The Austin Hatcher Foundation for a carefree childhood was formed in 2006
after Amy Jo and Jim Osborn lost their infant son Hatch to a rare form of pediatric cancer.  The foundation’s mission is to support research towards the diagnosis, treatment and development of a cure for pediatric cancer, and to provide support and hope to children and families undergoing treatment, as well as those who have lost children due to cancer.  The foundation has developed a landmark group of programs and services essential to help cancer stricken children and their families function within their community.  All services provided by the Foundation are free of charge, funded solely by the generous donations of its supporters.

Hatch’s house of hope is a unique Austin Hatcher Foundation concept designed to empower children and families affected by pediatric cancer to thrive. The landmark cancer care center equips children and their family members with the educational, emotional and social skills necessary to succeed.  Specifically, these services include Problem Solving Skills Training, neurocognitive testing, educational programming to help effected children overcome their cognitive and learning deficits, emotional counseling for the cancer affected child, their siblings and parents, and marital and financial counseling to ensure a safe environment to maximize the family growth as a whole.  All services at Hatch’s are free to its guests, funded entirely by donations.  Erlanger Medical Mall in Chattanooga, TN, is the site of the first Hatch’s house of hope, which opened September
18, 2009.  This Hatch’s is the model for other Hatch’s in the planning stages nationwide.  For more information, visit www.hatcherfoundation.org or www.hatcherfoundation.org.

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HURST ANNOUNCES BUILD OF 50 LIMITED PRODUCTION REPLICAS OF ITS 2010 MUSTANG CONVERTIBLE PACE CAR

May 5th, 2010

HURST ANNOUNCES BUILD OF 50 LIMITED PRODUCTION

REPLICAS OF ITS 2010 MUSTANG CONVERTIBLE PACE CAR

Hurst /Austin Hatcher Mustang Makes Debut as Official Pace Car

for Ford Racing Mustang Challenge Series

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Irvine, Calif. (May 5, 2010) – Hurst Performance, a company with a long standing racing history, announced today that it will build 50 limited production replicas of its 550 HP supercharged 2010 Hurst/Austin Hatcher Foundation Mustang Pace Car.

The stunning Hurst/Austin Hatcher Foundation Mustang Pace Car replicas are distinctive, with painted gold racing stripes and gold official “Pace Car” logos on a traditional black paint scheme. The exterior delivers a solid Hurst identity with subtle detailing features including real metal badges and a Hurst AIR-SPEED rear deck spoiler. Other special Hurst details include a Hurst leather interior with contrast top-stitching, embroidered logos, and Hurst-logoed floor mats.

The engine pounds out 550-horsepower, nearly 200-horsepower more than the FR500S race Mustangs and 542 lb.-ft of torque, courtesy of the Ford Racing polished supercharger, Ford Racing FR500S stainless-steel cat-back exhaust and K&N filter. Helping keep all four wheels on the ground is a special race bred suspension by Ford Racing. Going fast does no good if one can’t stop—an upgraded braking system featuring 14″ rotors and 4-piston calipers, also from Ford Racing, helps bring this special car to a standstill.

The cars come equipped with 20″ BFGoodrich g-Force™ T/A®KDW tires for maximum performance and attitude, 20″ HRE/Hurst polished, forged aluminum wheels and a Hurst Competition/Plus shifter with a gold handle, centerpiece of the interior for both manual and automatic cars.

Each limited edition production car comes with a commemorative edition etched metal dash badge, autographed signatures from the Hurst Team in the trunk and a Certificate of Authenticity confirming its collectability and provenance.  Every Hurst buyer is invited to take delivery at the Hurst Performance Center in Irvine, Calif. to meet the Hurst team and tour the facility.

“At Hurst, we try to build vehicles that are fun to collect and even more fun to drive. In this case, we are quite privileged to have the opportunity to build a car that will also embrace our long-standing history in the world of racing,” said Nate Shelton, President and Chairman of Hurst Performance Vehicles.

The original Hurst/Austin Hatcher Foundation Mustang made its debut as the official pace car at the season opening Ford Racing Mustang Challenge race on April 25 at Virginia International Raceway. After its run with the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge, this unique and highly-collectible Pace Car will make special appearances at the Hot Rod Power Tour, at numerous Larry H. Miller dealerships across the country and even at SEMA, before being auctioned for charity in January 2011.

Proceeds of the auction will benefit the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer, to fund the Foundation’s landmark group of educational, emotional and social skills development programs that are essential to helping cancer stricken children and their families succeed within their community.

The Hurst/Austin Hatcher Mustang Pace Car replicas are available immediately for purchase.  Please visit www.hurst-performance.com or call (949) 261-5500 to order your car or make inquiries.

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Hurst Pace Car Breaks Cover at Virginia International Raceway

April 28th, 2010
Hurst Pace Car Breaks Cover at Virginia International Raceway
Contact: Matt Cleary, Sunday Group Management
(317) 908-2975

Additional images posted: http://www.mustangchallenge.com/index.php/media/photoset/72157623821365505/

DANVILLE, Virginia, 27 April – This weekend marked the debut appearance for the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge at Virginia International Raceway, and round three of the 2010 championship didn’t only produce a repeat winner and a shower of champagne spray, as the event also featured the first public appearance for a special new Ford Mustang as the Hurst Pace Car broke cover to pace the race on Sunday.
The event, won by Jason von Kluge, saw the distinctive Hurst machine post for duty as the pace car for the Mustang Challenge. The VIR race weekend kicked off what will be a non-stop season for the collectible convertible, as the Pace Car will make special appearances at the Hot Rod Power Tour, at numerous Larry H. Miller dealerships across the country, and will also be featured at several auto shows including taking part in November’s SEMA show in Las Vegas.
Beyond its core duty of corralling the pony car field during the Mustang Challenge race weekends, the car also  carries a special mission, as it will be auctioned to benefit the Austin Hatcher Foundation, the Official Charity of the Mustang Challenge.  Larry H. Miller Dealership Group partnered with Hurst Performance and donated the vehicle for this project. Other partners of the project include Whelen Engineering, Ford Racing, and BFGoodrich Tires.  Motorsports artist Roger Warrick will create original art for promotional items.

“We were really happy with the reception that this new pace car got from all the drivers and fans at VIR this weekend,” said Jim Osborn MD, Chairman of the Austin Hatcher Foundation. “We are fortunate to have partners like Hurst Performance, the Larry H. Miller Dealership Group, Whelen Engineering, BFGoodrich Tires, Ford Racing and the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge Series to step up and participate like they have to support the Austin Hatcher Foundation. This is certainly one of the fastest fund raisers that I’ve ever driven!”
Like all the Ford Mustangs on track in the Mustang Challenge, the Hurst Ford Racing Mustang Challenge Pace Car boasts BFGoodrich Tires. The Hurst machine has plenty of performance, with a Ford Racing polished supercharger, Ford Racing FR500S stainless-steel cat-back exhaust and K&N filter all contributing to an impressive 550-horsepower and 542 lb.-ft of torque output. Keeping all that power focused in the right direction are the  20” BFGoodrich g-Force™ T/A®KDW tires mounted on 20” Hurst polished, forged aluminum wheels.
The Hurst Pace Car will be back on duty in just over one month when the Mustang Challenge makes a return visit to Lime Rock Park for round four of the 2010 championship season. Special thanks to the staff at VIR for facilitating the early morning shoot!

The Austin Hatcher Foundation for a carefree childhood was formed in 2006 after Amy Jo and Jim Osborn lost their infant son Hatch to a rare form of pediatric cancer. The foundation’s mission is to support research towards the diagnosis, treatment and development of a cure for pediatric cancer, and to provide support and hope to children and families undergoing treatment as well as those who have lost children due to cancer. The foundation has developed a landmark group of programs and services essential to help cancer stricken children and their families function within their community.
About Ford Racing Mustang Challenge: The Ford Racing Mustang Challenge is a professional racing series co-developed by Ford Racing and Miller Motorsports Park. Utilizing the new Ford Mustang FR500S and sanctioned by the Grand-Am Road Racing, Mustang Challenge is a support series to major professional road racing events across North America.  Mustang Challenge is an affordable, challenging platform for racers who want to compete in a V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive car on a level playing field that showcases driver ability in high-profile events. A competitive point structure and generous purses make the Mustang Challenge The Place to Race!
LHM-The Ford Racing Mustang Challenge is an ongoing continuation of the passion, vision, and commitment that Larry H Miller had for Ford and the Ford Mustang. The Ford Racing Mustang Challenge is just one of the countless living legacies of Mr. Miller, and the drivers, team, and fans of the Mustang Challenge are proud to honor his memory and carry on his passion. Thank you, Mr. Miller.

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Rare Michelin Tire, Hand Carved for Austin Hatcher Foundation, and American Le Mans GT1 Series Championship winning Corvette Racing Tire on BBS Wheel will be on Display at Michelin on Main store in Greenville, SC

April 28th, 2010

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Ooltewah, TN

Contact: Jenny Stickley  jenny@hatcherfoundation.org

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April 12, 2010:  The Austin Hatcher Foundation’s one-of-a-kind,
hand-carved Michelin tire, along with the rear wheel from the 2007 American LeMans Series GT1 Championship Corvette, is leaving West Palm Beach where it was on display at the GM booth at Barrett Jackson, and moving to Michelin on Main, the official Michelin store in Greenville, SC.  This piece of motorsports history has been touring the country, including stops at SEMA 2009 in Las Vegas, the National Corvette Museum, and the Hall of Legends at the 58th running of the 12 Hours of Sebring in Sebring, FL.  The display will return to the National Corvette Museum before it is auctioned later in the year to raise monies for children and families affected by pediatric cancer.

During the 2009 American Le Mans Series Petit Le Mans race, drivers from
Corvette Racing’s Championship team, Austin Hatcher Foundation guests, and
celebrities had the rare opportunity to help carve this unique tread onto
the Michelin tire, mounted on a BBS wheel at the American Le Mans
Series/Michelin/Corvette Racing “Tire Groove” Event.  The tread, which
showcases the logos of Michelin, Corvette Racing, the American Le Mans
Series, the Austin Hatcher Foundation and the Foundation’s Hatch’s house of
hope, was designed by the tire designers from the Michelin America Research Center.  It made its transformation over the course of the weekend, with many people getting a chance to carve this piece of history. The Corvette Racing rear wheel was provided by Pratt Miller/Corvette Racing and was on the #4 GT1 Corvette during every one of the eleven races the car won during the 2007 American Le Mans Series.

The championship Corvette Team, which boasts six 24 Hours of Le Mans class wins, as well as eight ALMS GT1 Manufacturers Championships and Team Championships and seven ALMS GT1 Drivers Championships. Participating drivers included Antonio Garcia, Jan Magnussen and Johnny O’Connell from the Compuware Corvette C6.R No. 3 and Olivier Beretta, Marcel Fassler and Oliver Gavin from the Compuware Corvette C6.R No. 4 car.  Also taking the time out to make his mark on the tire was Corvette Racing Program Manager and well known Corvette icon, Doug Fehan.

The Austin Hatcher Foundation for a carefree childhood was formed in 2006
after Amy Jo and Jim Osborn lost their infant son Hatch to a rare form of pediatric cancer.  The foundation’s mission is to support research towards the diagnosis, treatment and development of a cure for pediatric cancer, and to provide support and hope to children and families undergoing treatment, as well as those who have lost children due to cancer.  The foundation has developed a landmark group of programs and services essential to help cancer stricken children and their families function within their community.  All services provided by the Foundation are free of charge, funded solely by the generous donations of its supporters.

Hatch’s house of hope is a unique Austin Hatcher Foundation concept designed to empower children and families affected by pediatric cancer to thrive. The landmark cancer care center equips children and their family members with the educational, emotional and social skills necessary to succeed.  Specifically, these services include Problem Solving Skills Training, neurocognitive testing, educational programming to help effected children overcome their cognitive and learning deficits, emotional counseling for the cancer affected child, their siblings and parents, and marital and financial counseling to ensure a safe environment to maximize the family growth as a whole.  All services at Hatch’s are free to its guests, funded entirely by donations.  Erlanger Medical Mall in Chattanooga,
TN, is the site of the first Hatch’s house of hope, which opened September
18, 2009.  This Hatch’s is the model for other Hatch’s in the planning stages nationwide.  For more information, visit www.hatcherfoundation.org or www.hatcherfoundation.org .

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2010 Hurst Ford Racing Mustang Challenge Pace Car to DEBUT at Virginia international raceway on april 25

April 21st, 2010

Hurst

Highly Collectible Pace Car to Benefit the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer

Irvine, Calif. (April 20, 2010) – Hurst Performance Vehicles, a company responsible for some of the most iconic pace cars in racing history, will once again debut a special-edition Mustang built to serve as the official pace car for the 2010 Ford Racing Mustang Challenge Series.

The 2010 Hurst Mustang pace car will debut during the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge race at Virginia International Raceway on April 25, 2010.

After its run with the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge, this unique and highly-collectible Pace Car will make special appearances at the Hot Rod Power Tour, at numerous Larry H. Miller dealerships across the country and even at SEMA, before being auctioned for charity in January 2011. Proceeds of the auction will benefit the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer, formed to support research towards the diagnosis, treatment and development of a cure for pediatric cancer, and to provide support and hope to children and families undergoing treatment, as well as those who have lost children due to cancer.  Through Hatch’s house of hope, the Austin Hatcher Foundation provides a landmark group of educational, emotional and social skills development programs essential to help cancer stricken children and their families succeed within their community.

Additionally, the 2010 Hurst pace car’s paint scheme and likeness will be used to create promotional items sold by the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge Series at various race events and online, including a run of limited edition replica skins for their Miller Cup Pinewood Car kits.  As one of several ongoing initiatives to support the Austin Hatcher Foundation, Mustang Challenge has integrated a fund-raising Miller Cup Pinewood Derby car race into the season-ending championship banquet at Miller Motorsports Park.

Larry H. Miller Dealership Group has confirmed that it will partner with Hurst Performance to donate the vehicle for this project. Other partners of the project include Whelen Engineering, Ford Racing, BFGoodrich Tires.  Motorsports artist Roger Warrick will create original art for promotional items.

“Hurst has a history of creating unique, high-quality, emotionally-charged muscle cars and the 2010 Hurst Ford Racing Mustang Challenge pace car is no different,” said Nate Shelton, Chairman of Hurst Performance Vehicles. “We are so proud to have yet another opportunity to set the pace for others to follow and give something back to a deserving organization.”

The stunning Hurst Ford Racing Mustang Challenge Pace Car comes equipped with 20” BFGoodrich g-Force™ T/A®KDW tires for maximum performance and attitude, 20” Hurst polished, forged aluminum wheels and a Hurst Competition/Plus shifter with a black T-handle.

The engine pounds out 550-horsepower, or nearly 200-horsepower more than the FR500S race Mustangs, and 542 lb.-ft of torque, courtesy of the Ford Racing polished supercharger, Ford Racing FR500S stainless-steel cat-back exhaust and K&N filter.  With its race bred Ford Racing coil-over suspension, this car is sure to keep people straining just to see it zoom by.  And to stop all this power, the car is equipped with an upgraded braking system featuring 14″ rotors and 4-piston calipers, also from Ford Racing.

“The Austin Hatcher Foundation is proud to be partnering with Hurst Performance, the Larry H. Miller Dealership Group, Whelen Engineering, BFGoodrich Tires, Ford Racing and the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge Series to sponsor the 2010 Hurst Ford Racing Mustang Challenge Pace Car,” said Jim Osborn MD, Chairman of the Austin Hatcher Foundation. “The Foundation’s focus is on empowering families faced with pediatric cancer to thrive, and we hope to bring excitement to these families through Hurst’s history of unique muscle cars.”

Other signature Hurst details include a traditional Hurst black on gold paint scheme, a Hurst leather interior with contrast top-stitching and embroidered logos, Hurst-logoed floor mats and a Hurst AIR-SPEED rear deck spoiler.

2_2010 Mustang Pace Car Rendering

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About Hurst Performance

Founded in 1958, Hurst Performance is one of the most recognized and revered names in the automotive performance arena. The Hurst brand has long been synonymous with speed, performance and quality, with an impressive track-record of pioneering high performance products and vehicles for all forms of motorsports and hot-rodding. Hurst was one of the first specialty companies to partner with the OEMs and bring enthusiasts limited edition performance vehicles like the legendary Hurst/Olds 442. For more information please visit www.hurst-performance.com.

About Ford Racing Mustang Challenge

The Ford Racing Mustang Challenge is a new professional racing series co-developed by Ford Racing and Miller Motorsports Park. Utilizing the new Ford Mustang FR500S and sanctioned by the Grand-Am Road Racing, Mustang Challenge is a support series to major professional road racing events across North America.  Mustang Challenge is an affordable, challenging platform for racers who want to compete in a V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive car on a level playing field that showcases driver ability in high-profile events. A competitive point structure and generous purses make the Mustang Challenge The Place to Race!

About BFGoodrich Tires

Using motorsports as a proving ground for more than 35 years, BFGoodrich® Tires is involved in every type of racing, including oval, sports car, drifting, drag, desert, dirt, rally, and extreme rock crawling.  BFGoodrich Tires combines technological expertise with vast motorsports experience, delivering a high-performance tire for every type of vehicle.  Visit BFGoodrich Tires online at www.BFGoodrichTires.com. In 2009, BFGoodrich Tires developed a gathering place for auto enthusiasts to celebrate the thrill of GO through an online community.  Nation of GO is an online community where people with a passion for driving can celebrate and share what they love to do best at www.NationofGo.com.

About The Larry H. Miller Dealership Group

What Larry H. Miller Founded in May of 1979 with one Toyota dealership has now grown into the nations tenth largest automotive dealership group. Located throughout seven western states from; Oregon, Idaho, Washington, Utah, Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico.  Comprised of 38 locations representing 19 brands, from Toyota to Mercedes-Benz.  Visit The Larry H. Miller group at www.LHM.com or www.drivenbyyou.com

About Whelen Engineering

Whelen Engineering Inc. was founded in 1952 by George W. Whelen III with the development of a rotating aircraft “anti-collision beacon” product that quickly found use with police, fire and public safety departments across the country and around the world.  Whelen is now the world’s largest designer and manufacturer of emergency visual and audible warning products. Whelen is the only United States manufacturer of emergency warning equipment that continues to design and manufacture all of its products entirely in the United States.  Whelen is the entitlement sponsor of three NASCAR grass-roots racing series and is the major corporate sponsor of the Bo-Dyn Bobsled Project, Inc., the designer and supplier of bobsleds to the USA Bobsled Team, including the “Night Train”  four-man bobsled that won the Olympic Gold Medal  at the Vancouver Olympics. Located in Chester, CT, Whelen Engineering is owned by George W. “Sonny” Whelen IV, son of the company’s founder. The company’s website is www.whelen.com.

The Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer was formed in 2006 after Amy Jo and Jim Osborn lost their infant son Hatch to a rare form of pediatric cancer.  The foundation’s mission is to support research towards the diagnosis, treatment and development of a cure for pediatric cancer, and to provide support and hope to children and families undergoing treatment, as well as those who have lost children due to cancer.  The foundation has developed a landmark group of programs and services essential to help cancer stricken children and their families succeed within their community.  All services provided by the Foundation are free of charge, funded solely by the generous donations of its supporters.

Hatch’s house of hope is a unique Austin Hatcher Foundation concept designed to empower children and families affected by pediatric cancer to thrive. The landmark cancer care center equips children and their family members with the educational, emotional and social skills necessary to succeed.  Specifically, these services include Problem Solving Skills Training, neurocognitive testing, educational programming to help effected children overcome their cognitive and learning deficits, emotional counseling for the cancer affected child, their siblings and parents, and marital and financial counseling to ensure a safe environment to maximize the family growth as a whole.  All services at Hatch’s are free to its guests, funded entirely by donations.  Erlanger Medical Mall in Chattanooga, TN, is the site of the first Hatch’s house of hope, which opened September 18, 2009.  This Hatch’s is the model for other Hatch’s in the planning stages nationwide.  For more information, visit www.hatcherfoundation.org or www.hatcherfoundation.org

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The American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón and its teams visit children in support of the Austin Hatcher Foundation

April 12th, 2010

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IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 12, 2010

Allison Barry, American Le Mans Series, Manager, PR/Media Services, (678) 227-9395, abarry@americanlemans.com

MAKING A CHILD SMILE AT LONG BEACH

The American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón and its teams visit children in support of the Austin Hatcher Foundation

The American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón and its teams will be visiting children and families dealing with pediatric cancer in conjunction with its official charity, the Austin Hatcher Foundation, at Miller Children’s Hospital, Long Beach Calif.

Taking this time prior to competing – in Saturday’s Tequila Patrón American Le Mans Series at Long Beach 100 minute street race – to meet with children and their families at a local hospital is a signature event of the Series.

On Wednesday, April 14, between the hours of 2 pm – 4 pm, professional sports car drivers Johnny Mowlem, David Robertson and Andrea Robertson will be spending time with children teaching them how to race the digital circuits featured on Xbox’s Forza Motorsports 3 while also enjoying games presented in Series-made activity books. The goal is to provide children an opportunity to “strap” into their own driver’s seat and lead them by courage to victory.

Additionally, it is an opportunity to share stories of personal and professional triumphs to instill strength and determination in others.

For Johnny Mowlem, he can share his story of becoming the first to race a gas-electric hybrid in Series competition in 2009; he can also mention his latest venture which includes piloting a new LMPC entry with PR1/Mathiasen in 2010.

For Guy Cosmo – his performance in the GTC class in 2009 secured him a season-long position with Extreme Speed Motorsports alongside CEO of Patrón Spirits Ed Brown.

For the Robertsons, they can share how they are one of two husband-and-wife teams in Series history to race together; they can also mention that they are the only team to pilot a female driver for a full 2010 season.

Overall, however, it is an opportunity to make a child smile.

Would you be okay with this slight change: “The Austin Hatcher Foundation is a great charity,” remarked Mowlem. “I have two children of my own and I understand how priceless it can be to help make a child happy.”

Austin Hatcher Foundation and the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón: Since 2006, the Austin Hatcher Foundation has touched the lives of over 750 children and families in 10 cities and seven states around the United States.  Throughout the upcoming season, that tradition continues as the Series actively participates through hospital visits, as well as by raising money and awareness for the Austin Hatcher Foundation through direct donations, Web and trackside merchandise sales, online race memorabilia, auctions, sales of limited- production American Le Mans Series/Austin Hatcher Foundation co-branded gear and through trackside diversionary therapy events centered around selected races. www.hatcherfoundation.org

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“Rookie of the Race” award that will benefit the Austin Hatcher Foundation with a $150 donation

March 31st, 2010

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Speedworks R&D Race report from Homestead-Miami Speedway: Lessons Learned on the High Banks at Homestead…

Chip Scarlett came home in 8th in his first-ever Mustang Challenge race in the season opener at Homestead Miami Speedway. He was awarded the Sunday Group Management “Rookie of the Race” award that will benefit the Austin Hatcher Foundation with a $150 donation in his name. Graciously, Chip matched the donation with a $150 contribution of his own. In Race 2 at Homestead, Chip finished 7th, and was edged out of a second Rookie of the Race honor by Richard Golinello who finished 6th. The weekend garnered Chip 64 championship points.

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Teams and drivers of the American Le Mans Series share the racing experience with children and their families dealing with pediatric cancer in support of the Austin Hatcher Foundation.

March 11th, 2010

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bob Dickinson, American Le Mans Series, Vice President, PR/Media Services, (678) 425-5869, radickinson@americanlemans.com
Allison Barry, American Le Mans Series, Manager, PR/Media Services, (678) 227-9395, abarry@americanlemans.com

Outreach in Orlando

Teams and drivers of the American Le Mans Series share the racing experience with children and their families dealing with pediatric cancer in support of the Austin Hatcher Foundation.

For the fifth consecutive season, the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón will visit local children’s hospitals within its race cities in support of its official charity, the Austin Hatcher Foundation.

Throughout 2010 and in support of its long standing relationship with the Foundation, Series’ teams and drivers will visit – for its second year – the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Orlando, Florida on Saturday, March 13, between 11am-12:30pm prior to competing at the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring presented by Fresh from Florida.
The visit will feature appearances by such drivers as Johnny O’Connell from Corvette Racing who boasts the record for the most career starts in the Series, Patrón Spirits Company CEO and Extreme Speed Motorsports’ Ferrari pilot, Ed Brown, 27-year old JaguarRSR driver and recent 24 Hours of Daytona winner Ryan Dalziel and Cooper Tires Prototype Lites contender and Inspire Motorsports’ driver Gary Gibson.
During the visit, drivers will be handing out gifts such as autographed hero cards, Series-made activity books and bubbles, the universal symbol for the Austin Hatcher Foundation, as well as playing a Forza race car video game with the children dealing with pediatric cancer.
Since 2006, the Austin Hatcher Foundation has touched the lives of over 750 children and families in 10 cities and seven states around the United States.Throughout the upcoming season, that tradition continues as the Series actively participates through hospital visits, as well as by raising money and awareness for the Austin Hatcher Foundation through direct donations, Web and trackside merchandise sales, online race memorabilia, auctions, sales of limited-production American Le Mans Series/Austin Hatcher Foundation co-branded gear and through trackside diversionary therapy events centered around selected races.

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Learning Express Donates Toys to Hatch’s house of hope

March 8th, 2010

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ooltewah, TN

Contact: Jenny Stickley  jenny@hatcherfoundation.org

Learning Express Donates Toys to Hatch’s house of hope

March 8, 2010:  Learning Express Toys has donated $1800.00 worth of toys to the Child Life Center at Hatch’s house of hope.  Learning Express’s North Shore location celebrated its first anniversary last September, and pledged 10% of their earnings during the celebration to The Austin Hatcher Foundation and its Hatch’s house of hope.  The toys Learning Express has delivered, selected by the Hatch’s staff, are the product of that donation.

“We are so grateful for these incredible toys that will not only serve as entertainment for Hatch’s guests, but also function to help our child life experts diagnose cognitive deficits in these children,” said Amy Jo Osborn, President of the Austin Hatcher Foundation.  “The generosity of Mary Beth Conklin and her staff at Learning Express has made a huge impact at Hatch’s.”

“Giving back to the community is central to our business philosophy,” said Mary Beth Conklin, owner, Learning Express Toys.  “Hatch’s House of Hope is an outstanding organization that provides critical support to children facing life-threatening illnesses.  We’re honored to help them further their goal of serving these children and families in need.”

The Austin Hatcher Foundation for a carefree childhood was formed in 2006 after Amy Jo and Jim Osborn lost their infant son Hatch to a rare form of pediatric cancer.  The foundation’s mission is to support research towards the diagnosis, treatment and development of a cure for pediatric cancer, and to provide support and hope to children and families undergoing treatment as well as those who have lost children due to cancer.  The foundation has developed a landmark group of programs and services essential to help cancer stricken children and their families function within their community.  All services provided by the Foundation are free of charge, funded solely by the generous donations of its supporters.

Hatch’s house of hope is a unique concept designed to keep the family unit whole when dealing with pediatric cancer.  Specifically, these services include IIP neurocognitive testing, educational programming to help effected children overcome their cognitive and learning deficits, emotional counseling for the cancer affected child, their siblings and parents, and marital and financial counseling to ensure a safe environment to maximize the family growth as a whole.  All services at Hatch’s are free to its guests, funded entirely by donations.  Erlanger Medical Mall in Chattanooga, TN is the site of the first Hatch’s house of hope, which opened September 18, 2009.  For more information, visit www.hatcherfoundation.org.

Learning Express Toys is the nations largest franchisor of specialty toy stores with over 140 stores nationwide.  The stores stock unique toys that often cannot be found at larger retailers that encourage creativity and learning as well as foster developmental growth.  Chattanooga is home to two locations, both owned by Mary Beth and Cam Conklin.

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Ford Racing Mustang Challenge Launches Sunday Group Management “Rookie of the Race” Award to Benefit Austin Hatcher Foundation

March 8th, 2010



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact: Matt Cleary, Sunday Group Management
media@sundaymanagement.com
317/908-2975 M

Ford Racing Mustang Challenge Launches Sunday Group Management “Rookie of the Race” Award to Benefit Austin Hatcher Foundation

Homestead FL– (5 March  2010) – As if there wasn’t enough for the new drivers in the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge to be racing for already, the newest members of the paddock will have a new honor to chase in 2010. And with the new award directly benefiting a worthy charity, the winners will have two reasons to feel good about it.


Mustang Challenge officials announced on Friday the establishment of the Sunday Group Management “Rookie of the Race” Award. The Award, sponsored by Mustang Challenge media partner Sunday Group Management, will see Sunday Group Management donate $150 to the Austin Hatcher Foundation in the name of the best-finishing rookie driver in each of the 11 rounds of Mustang Challenge competition.

The 2009 season saw the combined efforts of the series, its drivers, BFGoodrich Tires and Hurst Performance raise over $40,000 for the Austin Hatcher Foundation through the year. Drivers participated throughout the season in the Foundation’s diversionary therapy events designed to give families dealing with the effects of pediatric cancer a chance to escape the world of hospitals and doctors and create lasting memories together.  The drivers also visited local children’s hospitals in cities during the race season.

“Our relationship with the Mustang Challenge has been a really gratifying one, and this new rookie award is just another new chapter in this partnership, so we are very pleased,” said Austin Hatcher Foundation co-founder Amy Jo Osborn. “I want to thank the drivers for their efforts, and we are looking forward to another successful year. Best of luck to all the rookies of course!”

Three drivers will be eligible for the award this weekend as Roberto Bengoa, John “Chip” Scarlett, and Richard Golinello vie to be the first winner of the Sunday Group Management Rookie of the Race, and all three will get two chances as the series opens with a double-header.

“We are very proud of our relationship with the Austin Hatcher Foundation, and we’ve been amazed by how our drivers and partners have stepped up to help such an amazing cause,” said  Mustang Challenge Series Director Lynda Randall. “To combine a new rookie award with something so dear to our hearts is really a win-win, and I am excited that Sunday Group Management has signed on to help make this happen.”

The Austin Hatcher Foundation for a carefree childhood was formed in 2006 after Amy Jo and Jim Osborn lost their infant son Hatch to a rare form of pediatric cancer.  The foundation’s mission is to support research towards the diagnosis, treatment and development of a cure for pediatric cancer, and to provide support and hope to children and families undergoing treatment as well as those who have lost children due to cancer.  The foundation has developed a landmark group of programs and services essential to help cancer stricken children and their families function within their community.

Sunday Group Management is based in Indianapolis with clients in GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series, Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge, Star Mazda Championship, and NASCAR Sprint Cup competition as well as the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge.   For additional information: www.sundaymanagement.com, sundaygroupmanagement.blogspot.com, www.facebook.com/sundaygroup, or twitter.com/Sundaygroup


About Ford Racing Mustang Challenge: The Ford Racing Mustang Challenge is a professional racing series co-developed by Ford Racing and Miller Motorsports Park. Utilizing the new Ford Mustang FR500S and sanctioned by the Grand-Am Road Racing, Mustang Challenge is a support series to major professional road racing events across North America.  Mustang Challenge is an affordable, challenging platform for racers who want to compete in a V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive car on a level playing field that showcases driver ability in high-profile events. A competitive point structure and generous purses make the Mustang Challenge The Place to Race!
LHM

The Ford Racing Mustang Challenge is an ongoing continuation of the passion, vision, and commitment that Larry H Miller had for Ford and the Ford Mustang. The Ford Racing Mustang Challenge is just one of the countless living legacies of Mr. Miller, and the drivers, team, and fans of the Mustang Challenge are proud to honor his memory and carry on his passion. Thank you, Mr. Miller.


Attached image–a small token towards a big effort…


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INKHEAD.COM DONATES PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS TO AUSTIN HATCHER FOUNDATION

March 3rd, 2010

IH_LogoFinal_Horiz

INKHEAD.COM DONATES PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS TO AUSTIN HATCHER FOUNDATION

Leading online promotional products distributor Inkhead.com has donated $2500.00 of its customized promotional products to the Austin Hatcher Foundation.  The Foundation plans to use the products not only for marketing, but also as gifts for children participating in the Foundation’s diversionary therapy, taking place at children’s hospitals across the country.

“We are excited for our participating race car drivers to have fun promotional products to pass out to the pediatric cancer patients they see on their hospital visits,” said Amy Jo Osborn, Co-Founder of the Austin Hatcher Foundation.  “We have selected jars of bubbles as our first product.”  The Foundation plans to have participating ALMS drivers pass out Austin Hatcher Foundation logo bubbles at pediatric hospials across the country.

“The promotional products that InkHead.com sells are designed for awareness campaigns.  We are excited that Inkhead.com can help promote the Austin Hatcher Foundation and its mission through our products and happy to be part of such a worthy cause,” said Jason Miller of Inkhead.com.

The Austin Hatcher Foundation for a carefree childhood was formed in 2006 after Amy Jo and Jim Osborn lost their infant son Hatch to a rare form of pediatric cancer.  The foundation’s mission is to support research towards the diagnosis, treatment and development of a cure for pediatric cancer, and to provide support and hope to children and families undergoing treatment as well as those who have lost children due to cancer.  The foundation has developed a landmark group of programs and services essential to help cancer stricken children and their families function within their community.  All services provided by the Foundation are free of charge, funded solely by the generous donations of its supporters.

Hatch’s house of hope is a unique concept designed to keep the family unit whole when dealing with pediatric cancer.  Specifically, these services include IIP neurocognitive testing, educational programming to help effected children overcome their cognitive and learning deficits, emotional counseling for the cancer affected child, their siblings and parents, and marital and financial counseling to ensure a safe environment to maximize the family growth as a whole.  All services at Hatch’s are free to its guests, funded entirely by donations.  Erlanger Medical Mall in Chattanooga, TN is the site of the first Hatch’s house of hope, which opened September 18, 2009.  For more information, visit www.hatcherfoundation.org.

Inkhead.com is the premier online distributor of personalized promotional products.  Started in 2003, Inkhead.com currently has one of the most diverse product selections available online.  The company earned the Promotional Products Industry Association International (PPAI) “Best of the Best” award for 2010.  With over 12,000 custom promotional items available, there is no better way to access the best promotional products.

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