Ellsworth Community College and North Central Missouri College won't just battle on the basketball court on Monday, Feb. 1. The Panthers and Pirates will battle heart disease and stroke together by turning the stands into a blaze of red with a RED OUT during the game.

Teams, students and community members are encouraged to participate by wearing a red American Heart Association t-shirt, which are available for a $10 donation to the American Heart Association. Every $50 saves one life. Shirts will be available at both schools throughout the week leading up to the game and at the game.

The RED OUT is a great way to celebrate the life of family and friends we have lost to this devastating disease while making a difference by helping to save others.

If you cannot attend the game but would like to show your support, you can send your tax-deductable donation payable to the AHA to our local AHA representative, Amy Knoll of Roland (515-450-4892 or amy.knoll@heart.org), and she will get you a shirt. You may also contact ECC Head Coach Ed Geitz (641-648-8689 or edward.geitz@iavalley.edu). 

The American Heart Association provides community education programs and funds heart research, including more than $9.4 million at universities in Iowa over the past five years.