Annual Grin Iron Classic just around the corner

As part of the Sertoma All-Star Weekend, the 14th Annual Grin Iron Classic is slated to take place June 5-6 at JFK Stadium in Springfield. Also featured during the all-star weekend festivities is the Fourth Annual Grin Action Classic.

According to a press release distributed by Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks, Inc., "Nearly 130 local high school athletes from Southwest Missouri will be featured in the two all-star events at Parkview High School.

"The Sertoma All-Star Weekend is presented by Delta Dental of Missouri and the Heart of the Ozarks Sertoma Club. Football all-stars will compete for the 14th year in the Sertoma Grin Iron Classic, an East vs. West competition at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, June 5 at JFK Stadium.

"On Saturday, June 6, the girls' all-star volleyball tournament ---- the Sertoma Grin Action Classic begins at 9:30 a.m. in the Parkview gymnasium, with a 2:30 p.m. (time approximate) championship game.

"Athletes competing in the Sertoma All-Star Weekend events are all graduated high school seniors ---- the best of the best. The events are hosted by the All-Star Smiles Sertoma Club and Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks.

The Sertoma All-Star Weekend benefits the 'Tooth Truck' (Springfield's Ronald McDonald Care Mobile®), a mobile dental clinic for at risk children who qualify for free and reduced school lunches.

"That's why our events use the word 'Grin' in their names, with a focus on helping children who have no access to dental care. Since its inception in 2002, the Tooth Truck has helped more than 18,000 children via 43,000 dental appointments.

"This dental treatment is valued at more than $10.3 million. Every dollar contributed to the Tooth Truck provides $3 in dental treatment for children in need. Last year's Sertoma All-Star Weekend contributed nearly $60,000, which was instrumental in the Tooth Truck's 2014 achievements of helping over 1,800 children with more than $1 million in dental treatment.

"Tickets to both events are available at Springfield's two Ronald McDonald Houses (949 E. Primrose St. and Mercy Children's Hospital 6th Floor). Tickets are also available at the events."

Nevada participants

Nevada seniors Taylor Manes and Caleb Smith will take part in the Grin Iron Classic. Manes plays fullback and linebacker, while Smith is an offensive lineman.

Both Manes and Smith signed national letters-of-intent to continue their football careers with Truman State University.