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Friday February 15, 2013 at 6:05 pm

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November 7, 2008 Jersey Mike: Hoverville.

First annual “Jersey Mike Memorial 5K Rock + Run” slated for April 13.

HARRISBURG, Feb. 13 -- The first annual "Jersey Mike Memorial 5K Rock + Run" will be held at noon on Saturday, April 13 on City Island and Riverfront Park, Harrisburg, Pa.

This 5-kilometer (3.1 mile) race was developed by the K+L Guardian foundation, which was formed to benefit concert promoter "Jersey" Mike Van Jura's children after he died suddenly from a heart attack in 2012 at only age 36.

Runners and walkers - including a 1-Mile Fun Run for kids - can sign up online at www.jerseymikerun.com. Registration will be accepted through April 13. In-person registration also will be available prior to the 12 p.m. start.

The race was designed to promote heart-healthy activities and to provide outlets for adults and children who have lost a parent or loved one manage grief through healthy, positive activities.

“We’re all charged up at an opportunity to honor Mike while calling attention to conditions that contributed to his untimely death,” said Jay Bowser, Director of the K+L Guardian Foundation and one of Mike’s closest friends. “Losing my best friend so young turned me into a hardcore runner, and I’m using my love for the sport to challenge people to improve their lifestyles and use activities like this to cope with grief.”

The Rock + Run will collaborate with local Harrisburg, Pa. businesses, organizations and community members to fund, promote and participate in this healthy event.

“This is an outstanding opportunity to bring attention to Michael’s accomplishments and continue to set positive examples for his two amazing children,” said Billy Van Jura, Mike’s brother. “We’re appreciative of another opportunity to embrace Michael’s friends and the Harrisburg community in a way that encourages people to develop healthy lifestyles.”

The race will be followed by a rock’n roll show featuring live bands at Ceoltas Irish Pub’s second and third floors, The Raftery Room and The Thatch.

For more information, visit www.jerseymikerun.com.

About K+L Guardian Foundation.

The K+L Guardian Foundation was formed after the untimely death of "Jersey" Mike Van Jura to benefit his two children. Jersey Mike was a music promoter, deeply active in his local Harrisburg, Pa. community, who worked tirelessly to promote the arts and community culture. His death was the result of a massive heart attack. He was only 36 years old.

K+L seeks to educate children, their parents and everyone about leading healthier lifestyles to prevent untimely death from heart disease and other controllable conditions. The Foundation sponsors events that promote heart health and provide a way for children who have lost a parent or loved one to manage grief through healthy, positive activities.

The K+L Guardian foundation is a legally-formed Pennsylvania Memorial Fund.

Jersey Mike Memorial 5K Rock + Run Contact: Jason Bowser p: (717) 443-4052 Copyright © 2013, All rights reserved.

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