The Gabe Fleming Memorial Hockey Scholarship Fund has introduced a new academic scholarship program aimed at empowering area youths in their pursuit of higher learning and career opportunities. The not-for-profit group, which organizes events and raises money to provide deserving kids with the financial help they need to play hockey in Greater Des Moines, awarded 15 player-assistance scholarships totaling $9,215 for the 2015-16 season.  With the launch of GFMHSF’s new Academic Scholarship Program, the organization is expanding its charitable contributions to award up to two $2,000 academic scholarships to hockey-playing seniors this year. For more information and an application, visit the fund’s website or email board member Carolann Jensen at carolann@gabeflemingmhsf.org.