The Race for the ROC sure was muddy, but it was for a great cause.

Pecchia Comm was pleased to sponsor several important local events this fall, including these:

• Race for the ROC in August. The strenuous and muddy obstacle course event in Salem (see photo) drew 270 participants and raised more than $10,000. The Christian-based ROC of Salem Youth Center hosts programs and events for teen-agers year-round. Eric Hamilton of Pecchia Communications is its part-time director.

• HandsOn Volunteer Network Golf Outing, also in August. The event at Squaw Creek was the top 2013 fund-raiser for the Youngstown-based network, which connects volunteers and non-profit organizations throughout the Mahoning Valley. Pecchia Comm’s Jim Houck serves on the network’s board (he also took first place in the event’s putting contest and donated the winnings back to the network).

• Masquerade at the Mill at the Mill Creek MetroParks’ Lanterman’s Mill in Youngstown in October. The event raised funds for the volunteer network and the restoration of the old mill.

• Youngstown-Warren Regional Chamber’s Oil & Gas Conference in September. For the second year, we were a refreshment stand sponsor. The event drew more than 1,000 people to the Covelli Centre. Pecchia Comm is involved in oil & gas development through our work with BP America; the oil & gas law group of Harrington, Hoppe & Mitchell; Aim NationaLease; NECA/IBEW Electricians and other clients.