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Sean’s Run Weekend 2020 Canceled Sean’s Run Weekend 2020 Sponsors Announced Sean’s Run names Sean’s Run Scholarships and Grants Applications Available Waterford teen, others remembered at 'Safety Tree' lighting “The Safety Tree" lighting ceremony Register-Star: Father backs seat belt law to honor son. Firefighters Run for Charity as Recruitment Tool Sean's Run Announces Sean's Run Announces Scholarship Winners Thousands Participate to Honor Teen Sean’s Run Scholarships and Grants Applications Available Sean’s Run Weekend 2018 Sponsors Announced Sean’s Run Safety Tree Observance Scheduled Firefighters Invited to Sean's Run Sean’s Run Weekend 2017 Sponsors Announced Sean's Run Announces Scholarships and Grants Winners Dietz & Watson and Sean’s Run Offering Grants New Presenting Sponsor for Sean’s Run Weekend Voted Best Community Event-Spring 2016 Safety Tree lighting is a stark reminder |
Sean's Run, honoring teen killed in drunk-driving crash, helped thousands over 18 years Originally published by the Poughkeepsie Journal on 1/12/2021 During the past two decades, it has honored the memory of a wonderful young man, effected an important statewide law and provided half a million dollars to fund programs and scholarships that have positively impacted countless young people. Sadly, Sean’s Run — a race that honors a Columbia County track star who died in a drunk driving accident in 2002 — has become another event derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic. It has, in the words of race organizers, “run its course.” Rather than bemoan another bummer of a byproduct of this seemingly never-ending pandemic, today — with the help of our good friends Bob and Lynne Kopac of Poughkeepsie — we celebrate Sean’s Run, and the memory of Sean Patrick French. According to the race’s website, Sean’s Run started as an untimed 5km group run with a whopping 418 runners. That seemingly large number for a nascent event would eventually be dwarfed as the event expanded with each passing year. Sean’s Run grew into a not-for-profit corporation that implemented and funded year-round projects and produced a weekend-long community event comprised of multiple activities,’’ the website said in its announcement of the race’s cessation. “At the 15th annual event, 1,820 runners, walkers, bicyclists and Zumba fans signed up to participate. After 18 years, Sean’s Run Weekend leaves a $500,000 legacy of programs funded, scholarships granted, and a scholarship fund endowed. Thousands of young people across the region have and will continue to benefit from Sean’s Run Weekend.’’ The local Marathon Project participants were among the young adults positively impacted by this awesome race. Bob and Lynne Kopac were a big part of making that connection. Sean’s Run came about because of a tragedy that extinguished a bright, young rising star — on and off the track. Here’s how Bob Kopac describes it, and his long and loving connection to the race, in an email to me last week. “Lynne and I have had the pleasure to know Mark French for many years, not only as a race director but also as our friend. We first met Mark when he was the race director for the Old Chatham 5K. “On Jan. 1, 2002, his 17-year-old son Sean Patrick French — a community volunteer, Chatham High School honor roll student and athlete — died as a passenger in an auto accident. Another passenger was paralyzed. Neither was wearing seat belts. The 17-year-old drunken driver had been arrested for drunken driving 18 days previously. Mark worked tirelessly to get passed Sean's Law, which is now a New York State law. This law requires the immediate suspension of a driver's license upon the arrest of a 16- or 17-year-old on drunken driving charges. “Sean French was a gifted runner. As a freshman, he placed second at the state cross country championship. As a sophomore, he was second in the 1,600-meter event at the state track and field championship in 4:18. To memorialize his son and to raise awareness about the dangers of teenage drunk driving and the need for teenagers to wear seat belts, Mark created the Sean's Run 5K.’’ For many years, Dutchess County students and mentors of the Council on Addiction Prevention & Education/Dutchess County (CAPE/DC) Marathon Project traveled to Columbia County to participate in Sean's Run at Chatham High School. The CAPE/DC Marathon Project was one of several youth organizations who yearly received monetary grants from Sean's Run. “This race was always the first event of the CAPE/DC Marathon Project season, and the students always eagerly looked forward to the race as well as to the Battle of the Belts,’’ Kopac wrote. Before each Sean's Run was the Battle of the Belts, which was an educational competition where teams of four teens competed to see who could buckle up the fastest. The purpose of the contest was to inform youth on the consequences of drunk driving and the importance of wearing seat belts, as a fun way to draw attention to a serious cause. “Over the years, there were many very fast Marathon Project students who earned race medals, as well as first-timers who ran/walked the course and were introduced to the fun of a large, well-organized event,’’ Kopac said. “The entire ‘package and experience’ of Sean's Run with the 5K, Meghan's Mile, and the Battle of the Belts, provided fantastic memories for all of us involved in the Marathon Project. It will be sorely missed.’’ In the website announcement of the race’s conclusion, Mark French said he wanted the memories of this outstanding event to remain intact. “Sean’s Run was a wonderful mass gathering of families, friends, young and old, students, neighbors as well as those who traveled in from afar— all standing shoulder-to-shoulder on the starting line to remember Sean and to raise awareness about the dangers of underage drinking and impaired driving,” he said. Mid-Hudson Road Runners Club member Pete Colaizzo, the track coach at Marist College in Poughkeepsie, writes on running every week in Players. He can be reached at runhed246@hotmail.com. For more club information, go to www.mhrrc.org Sean’s Run Concludes January 2021 – The Board of Directors and the Organizing Committee announce the conclusion of Sean’s Run Weekend and the cessation of all their associated activities as of January 2021. Event chairman Jeff French stated, “Our labor of love has run its course. We will not produce another event. We want Sean’s Run to be remembered as it was prior to the pandemic.” The COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancelation of Sean’s Run Weekend in May 2020 and event organizers anticipate that conditions will not change sufficiently to allow the production of a 20th and final event of the scale and scope they prefer come May 2021. “COVID-19 may have forced our hand to end the event before we wanted to, but we are keeping the memories of an outstanding event intact. Sean’s Run was a wonderful mass gathering of families, friends, young and old, students, neighbors as well as those who traveled in from afar – all standing shoulder-to-shoulder on the starting line to remember Sean and to raise awareness about the dangers of underage drinking and impaired driving,” said Sean’s dad, Mark French, who is a member of the organizing committee. For nearly two decades Sean’s Run was a wonderful mass gathering of families, friends, young and old, students, neighbors as well as those who traveled in from afar – all standing shoulder-to-shoulder to remember Sean and to raise awareness about the dangers of underage drinking and impaired driving. Beginning as an untimed 5K group run with 418 runners, Sean’s Run grew into a not-for-profit corporation that implemented and funded year-round projects and produced a weekend-long community event comprised of multiple activities. At the 15th annual event, 1,820 runners, walkers, bicyclists and Zumba fans signed up to participate. After 18 years, Sean’s Run Weekend leaves a $500,000 legacy of programs funded, scholarships granted, and a scholarship fund endowed. Thousands of young people across the region have and will continue to benefit from Sean’s Run Weekend. Sean’s Run Weekend Grand Finale – May 1 – 2, 2021 May 1, 2020 – in one year, join us at the FINAL finish line. For 20 years our friends, neighbors and families from far and wide have come to Chatham, NY, every spring to run, walk, bike, and more, in an extraordinary community event with a special purpose. Whether under azure blue skies or in pouring rain, we participated to honor the memory of one very special young man. Sean was surely there, too, smiling down upon us, grateful for all of the ways the Sean’s Run Weekend was touching lives of so many, and accomplishing such good. It is with gratitude and joy that we announce the FINAL Sean’s Run Weekend. You don’t want you to miss it. Let’s lace ‘em up one last time! Let’s celebrate our many achievements and all who have made the event possible: the wonderful and gracious volunteers, the generous sponsors, all the runners, walkers, bicyclists, Zumba fans and, of course, our supportive community. We want to thank YOU! Sean's Run Weekend 2020 Canceled March 13, 2020 - It is with a heavy heart that the Board of Directors of the Sean Patrick French Memorial Run announces the cancellation of the 19th Annual Sean’s Run Weekend scheduled for May 2 & 3, 2020 in Chatham. This includes the 5K, Meghan’s Mile, Bike Rides, Zumbathon, Prevention Education Expo, and World Championship Battle of the Belts. On March 12, 2020 New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo ordered a ban on gatherings of 500 or more people across New York State “for the foreseeable future” as public officials try to contain the fast-moving coronavirus outbreak. Based on this directive and what we know (and what we don’t know) about the spread of the virus, the Board of Directors of Sean’s Run Weekend decided out of an abundance of safety for our valued participants and supporters, our wonderful volunteers, the hundreds of children who participate and the many spectators, we will cancel the 19th Annual Sean’s Run Weekend scheduled for May 2 & 3, 2020 in Chatham, NY. The event will not be rescheduled for this year. This is a very difficult and disappointing decision for us because Sean’s Run Weekend is the basis of our fund-raising to support and promote our mission to combat underage drinking, impaired driving and lax use of seatbelts by teenagers. Our heartfelt thanks to our generous sponsors and donors; their generosity has been invested in the grants we awarded to youth groups and schools across the region and as scholarships to deserving students. Since 2002 Sean’s Run Weekend has raised and awarded $260,045 in grants and scholarships. We appreciate everyone who planned to come to the event. A special thank you to those who were already registered, and to those who added donations to their registration fee. And we appreciate everyone who was planning to participate. As a small token of our appreciation to all those who registered, we will hold your shirt for pick up at a date when the virus has been mitigated. Or you can pick it up at next year’s event. Next Year – The Grand FinaleOur 2021 event will be the final Sean’s Run Weekend with a Grand Finale scheduled for May 1 & 2, 2021. We hope you will save the first weekend in May 2021 to join us as we celebrate our accomplishments and impact at the Grand Finale. Sean's Run Announces Grants Winners January 30, 2020 – On average, six teenagers, ages 16–19, die every day from motor vehicle injuries. The Center for Injury Research and Prevention has found that nearly 2/3 of those who perished were not using safety belts. This alarming statistic is the reason organizers of Sean’s Run Weekend raise money they can award as grants to schools and youth groups to implement programs that promote safe driving behaviors and attitudes. In 2020, 12 schools and youth groups selected to receive Sean’s Run Grants to implement programs designed to combat underage drinking, impaired driving and lax use of seatbelts by teenagers. Since 2002, Sean’s Run has awarded $260,045 as scholarships to high school seniors and grants to schools and youth groups. According to the US Center for Disease Control (CDC), car crashes are the leading cause of death for teens. Per mile driven, drivers aged 16 to 19 are four times more likely than older drivers to crash (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). Alcohol consumption greatly increases the likelihood that teens will forego use of seatbelts; nearly three out of every four teenage drivers killed in motor vehicle crashes after drinking and driving were not wearing a seat belt. (CDC) Three foundations, including the Rip Van Winkle Foundation, the Hudson River Bank and Trust Co. Foundation and the Ellsworth Kelly Foundation, have joined the sponsors of Sean’s Run to help underwrite the costs of the grants and to produce Sean’s Run Weekend. Julia Brandi, Executive Vice President of the Foundation, said, “Since learning more about what Sean’s Run is accomplishing in significant student awareness of the dangers of alcohol and drugs, we wanted to help support this positive and meaningful effort.” Other local foundations that support this initiative to award grants to schools and youth groups include the Ellsworth Kelly Foundation, serving as the Major Sponsor of Sean’s Run Weekend, and the Hudson River Bank & Trust Company Foundation, a Gold Medal Sponsor of Sean’s Run Weekend. Schools and youth groups awarded 2020 Sean’s Run grants include:
The 19th Annual Sean’s Run will be held at Chatham High School on Saturday and Sunday, May 2 & 3. Voted for 4 years as “Best Community Event-Spring” in a contest by the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and Columbia-Greene Media, the Weekend includes a 5K, Meghan’s Mile, Bike Rides, a Zumbathon and a run for People with Special Needs. Sean’s Run Weekend also includes a Prevention Educational Expo, a Tribute to Victims and Survivors of drunken driving, and the World Championship Battle of the Belts interscholastic seatbelt buckling contest. Sean’s Run Weekend and the scholarships and grants program were established in response to the tragic death of Sean Patrick French, the 17-year old Chatham High School junior, honor roll student, community volunteer and record-setting athlete who was killed on January 1, 2002, as a passenger in an underage drunk-driving car crash. He was not wearing a seatbelt when he perished. More information is available here on SeansRun.com Sean’s Run Weekend 2020 Sponsors Announced Chatham - January 17, 2020 – The 19th Annual Sean Run Weekend, scheduled for May 2 and 3 in Chatham, is being supported by a line-up of 56 sponsors, including businesses, foundations, and individuals. Most of the sponsors have supported the event each year since it started in 2002 and seven (7) new sponsors have signed on for 2020. With 1,400 participants and hundreds of spectators from across the region anticipated to attend, Sean’s Run Weekend is one of the largest multi-sport events in the Hudson Valley. The number of participants has quadrupled since the event’s beginning in 2002. The sponsorships are used by the Sean’s Run Organizing Committee to underwrite the costs of grants that Sean’s Run presents to schools and youth-serving groups across the region to implement programs that combat underage drinking, impaired driving, and lax use of seatbelts by teenagers. The event’s namesake, Sean Patrick French, was killed as a passenger in an underage drunk driving car crash on January 1, 2002. Another passenger suffered paralyzing injuries; both he and Sean were not using seatbelts at the time of the crash. The event proceeds also support the Sean’s Run scholarship fund. 113 deserving high school seniors from across the region, selected because of their community service, compassion for others, and positive sportsmanship, have benefitted since 2002. In its 19-year history, Sean’s Run has awarded $260,0045 in grants and scholarships. The event’s Organizing Committee, comprised of 40 volunteers working year-round, strives to produce a well-organized and highly-regarded community event as a platform to increase awareness about the problems and solutions of underage drinking, impaired driving, and the lax use of seatbelts by teens. The line-up of sponsors includes the following first-time sponsors: McCormick & Company, the global seasonings and spices retailer, East Chatham Food Company restaurant which brings together locally-sourced food and culinary expertise in East Chatham, Cooper Erving Attorneys at Law with offices in Albany, the Philmont Reformed Church of Philmont, Beach and Bartolo Realtors of Spencertown, Premium Waters, the Minnesota-based supplier of bottled water, and Community Bank with branches in upstate New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont and Massachusetts. Returning sponsors include: The Rip Van Winkle Foundation, MetzWood Insurance, Yankee Trader, and Ellsworth Kelly Foundation as Platinum Level sponsors. First Fuel and Propane is sponsoring Jaime’s Race, an event for people with developmental disabilities. The Kneller Insurance Agency continues as Presenting Sponsor of Sean’s Rides, the 50-, 20-, and 10-mile scenic bicycle rides for participants of all abilities. New Leaf Tree Services is the 50-Mile Ride Named Sponsor, Hudson Design Group, Inc. is the 20-Mile Ride Named Sponsor, and Long Energy is the 10-Mile Ride Named Sponsor. Rensselaer Honda continues as sponsor of the World Championship Battle of the Belts, the interscholastic competition designed to encourage seatbelt use by teenagers. Bank of Greene County will again sponsor the Firefighter 5K Challenge. This is a race-within-a-race comprised of five-person teams of firefighters competing to cross the finish line with the lowest combined time. Northeast Pest Control is providing Gator’s Gifts: special premiums for the first 350 participants at the 5K packet pick up on Saturday. Fuccillo Automotive Group will again sponsor the signature Sean’s Run After-Run Celebration and Festivities with food and music. Twin County Recovery Services, Inc. is hosting the Prevention Education Expo to provide teens and families with information from a variety of organizations encouraging positive choices and healthy alternatives for teens. Dells’ Plumbing, Heating and A/C Service is the Named Sponsor of the Saturday Zumbathon®, a two-hour dance party led by certified Zumba instructors. Gold Medal level sponsors include Columbia Memorial Health, Consolidated Communications, Hover and Mackowski, PLLC, Hudson River Bank & Trust Foundation, Michael C. Howard, Esq., Michael S. Johnston, LLC, Price Chopper Supermarkets/Market 32, Screen Designs, and Trowbridge Farms. Silver Medal level sponsors include Chatham Flowers, Firehouse Productions, Hawthorne Valley Association, Key Bank, Mark and Cathy French, Park Row Gallery, Simons Catering, Sonoco Plastics, Taconic Driving School, Williams Lumber and Home Centers, and Winding Brook Country Club. Bike Rides sponsors include Old Chatham Country Store and Café, Our Daily Bread, Primo Mobile DJs, and Velo Domestique Bicycle Shop. Blue Ribbon level sponsors include Brown’s Emporium, Cantele Tent Rentals, Chatham Printing, County Outhouses, Ed Herrington, Inc., Lee and Eileen French, French Cut Lawn Service, Jim and Elaine Gilmer, Prospera Financial Services, Richmor Aviation, and The Berry Farm. Sean’s Run Names Scholarship Winners January 17, 2020 - The organizers of the 19th Annual Sean’s Run Weekend, scheduled for May 2 and 3 at Chatham High School, have announced the names of the three high school seniors who have been selected to receive scholarships in memory of the event’s namesake, Sean Patrick French. Thanks to the generosity of the sponsors of Sean’s Run Weekend, $260,045 in grants and scholarships has been awarded by Sean’s Run in the past 19 years. 2020 Scholarship Winners
Voted 4 years running as “Best Community Event-Spring,” Sean’s Run Weekend includes a 5K, Meghan’s Mile, Bike Rides, Zumbathon and a run for People with Special Needs. Sean’s Run Weekend also includes a Prevention Educational Expo, a Tribute to Victims and Survivors of Drunk Driving, and the World Championship Battle of the Belts Interscholastic Seatbelt Bucking Contest. Sean’s Run Weekend and the scholarships and grants program were established in response to the tragic death of Sean Patrick French, the 17-year old Chatham High School junior, honor roll student, community volunteer and record-setting athlete who was killed on January 1, 2002, as a passenger in an underage drunk-driving car crash. More information is available here on the website.
Sean’s Run Scholarships and Grants Applications Available Chatham, November 6, 2019 - The Organizing Committee of Sean’s Run Weekend, the annual community event that attracts hundreds of participants, including runners, walkers, bicyclists and Zumba enthusiasts, from across the region to Chatham each spring, has announced plans to award grants and scholarships. Since 2002, the proceeds of the annual Sean’s Run Weekend have supported two areas: 1) scholarships to deserving high school seniors, and 2) grants to schools and youth groups to implement programs designed to combat the problems of underage drinking, impaired driving and lax use of seatbelts by teenagers. Sean’s Run has awarded $244,095 in grants and scholarships since 2002, thanks to the generosity of sponsors, donors and participants. In January 2020, the Sean’s Run committee will award up to $10,000 as grants to schools and youth groups selected through an easy-to-complete grant application process. Last year grants were awarded to the following schools in Columbia County: Taconic Hills High School, Germantown HS, Chatham High School, Chatham Middle School. The following schools from Rensselaer County were awarded grants: Algonquin Middle School, Averill Park High School, Rensselaer Middle School and Rensselaer High School High School. Also, Shenendehoa High School from Saratoga County, Fonda-Fultonville High School from Montgomery County and The Council on Addition & Prevention Education from Dutchess County were awarded grants. Sean’s Run scholarships totaling $4,900 are available to high school seniors in three categories. The Sean Patrick French “Love of Running” Scholarship is open to Columbia County residents who have been on the cross country or track and field teams for their school. Runners from NYSPHAA Section II who have been designated as Sectional Good Sports during the fall cross country season may apply for the Good Sportsmanship Scholarships. Students from Chatham High School may apply for the Community Service scholarships. Since 2002, 107 students from across the region have benefited from Sean’s Run scholarships. Last year scholarships were awarded to Sydney Newton, Chatham HS, Aidan Gillooley, Applications for grants and scholarships are available at SeansRun.com must be submitted before December 1, 2018. The scholarship fund was created by the family of Sean French following his death as a passenger in an underage drunk driving car wreck on January 1, 2002. He was a junior at Chatham High School, an honor roll student and an accomplished runner who set several school records in his abbreviated career. As a freshman he took second place at the State Cross Country Championship, and as sophomore he finished second at the state Track and Field championship in the 1600m, with a time of 4:18. The grants and scholarship funds are administered by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation. The 19th Annual Sean’s Run Weekend is scheduled for May 2 & 3, 2020 at Chatham High School. Enthusiastic Participants and Generous Sponsors despite Non Spring-like weather Chatham, April 29, 2019 - Despite cold and damp conditions, 1,078 people registered for one of the five activities of the weekend. And the generosity of sponsors and other donors, as well as participants who added contributions to their entry fees was not deterred by the lack of spring-like weather. The flagship events on Sunday, the 5K and Meghan’s Mile, had 850 entrants. Ross Wightman, 23, of Chatham, was the first to cross the 5K finish line, his second win at Sean’s Run, in a time of 16:24. Ariana Nillson, 34, of Hudson was the first female at 22:07. The oldest, but far from the last to cross the finish line, was Anny Stockman, 86, of Rensselaer who clocked in at 43:54. Anny is the 85-89 US 5K national record holder (39:41) as well as the US 10K national record holder (1:24:50)! The Mellenville Volunteer Fire Company won the Firefighter 5K Challenge, a race within the 5K. The Honorary Starter of the 5K was Colleen O’Connell. WSean’s Run Weekend was dedicated to the memory of her daughter, Paige Alexis Ahearn, 18, who was killed in 2016 when the car she was driving was hit head-on by a drunk driver. The rollicking World Championship Battle of the Belts was contested prior to the footraces and attracted schools and youth groups from across the region. Teams from Chatham High School and Algonquin Middle School, Averill Park, won the title in their respective divisions. The Prevention Education Expo inside the HS gymnasium attracted the most exhibitors ever with information to help teens and families make healthy lifestyle choices. The Sean’s Run Organizing Committee presented cash grants to 14 schools and youth groups from 5 counties to implement programs designed to combat underage drinking, impaired driving and lax use of seatbelts by teens. Also, three outstanding high school seniors from the region were presented scholarships. On Saturday, 161 bicyclists registered for Sean’s Ride, with the 50-mile ride attracting more than half the entries. After facing cold temps and even some frozen precipitation on the course, they finished to a great spread of refreshments at Chatham HS. The annual Zumbathon saw 41 fitness fans dance nonstop for two hours and Jaime’s Race for People with Special Needs had the most participants ion the history of the event. Before they ran in their short-but-special race, one of the participants performed an awesome rendition of the National Anthem – what spirit and excitement her performance inspired in her fellow competitors and the committee. In 2020, because of a conflict with a school event at Chatham HS, the date is moving to the first weekend in May – May 2 & 3, 2020. Waterford teen, others remembered at 'Safety Tree' lighting This article originally appeared on Hudsonvalley360.com HUDSON, April 4, 2019 — Paige Alexis Ahearn was driving with her boyfriend to Colonie Center on the evening of October 11, 2016, when another vehicle crossed the median on Route 7 and crashed head-on into her car. The Waterford teen was killed in the crash. The other driver, Jessica Bellerose, 43, who was drunk, is in prison after her conviction on a charge of second-degree manslaughter, a class C felony, and second-degree vehicular manslaughter, a class D felony. She was sentenced to 2 1/3 to 7 years in prison. She is eligible for parole next month. Ahearn, a graduate of Waterford-Halfmoon High School, celebrated her 18th birthday a few days before the crash. “The best thing in my life was Paige and now she is gone,” her mother, Colleen O’Connell, said Monday. “Paige was a great kid. I am just beyond heartbroken. Every day is a struggle to get up and carry on. My world pretty much stopped.” Ahearn enjoyed sports, including softball, and was the captain of her high school cheerleading squad, her mother said. She also served on the student council. She loved animals and was beloved by many friends. On Friday, Paige’s mother was a special guest at this year’s Safety Tree Memorial Observation on the grounds of Columbia Memorial Health, 71 Prospect Ave. Each year, the special victims dedication is held to honor those from Columbia and Greene counties who died in drunken or drugged driving accidents. “I wouldn’t wish this pain and the feelings that I have on my worst enemy,” O’Connell said. “She was my pride and joy. It’s something I have to live with for the rest of my life. It could have been prevented.” The memorial observation is held in conjunction with Sean’s Run, an annual event that began in 2002 as a community run/walk to remember Sean Patrick French, of Chatham, a victim of drunken driving accident, and to remind the community about the dangers of underage drinking and impaired driving. The 2019 Sean’s Run is dedicated to Paige Ahearn. The tree, which remains lit year-round, serves as a solemn reminder to the public of the dangers of drunken and drugged driving. The tradition began nine years ago. The red lights on the tree signify the number of alcohol- and drug-related fatalities that occurred in Columbia and Greene counties. When a fatality occurs, a white light is replaced with a red light. Among those present for the tree-lighting ceremony were event organizer and driving instructor Phil Abitabile, Columbia County District Attorney Paul Czajka, Greene County District Attorney Joseph Stanzione, Twin County Recovery Services Executive Director Beth Schuster, Hudson Mayor Rick Rector, First Ward Supervisor Sarah Sterling, Columbia County Sheriff David Bartlett, Hudson Police Chief L. Edward Moore, Sean’s Run organizers Mark, Cathy and Jeff French and Columbia County judges Jonathan Nichols and Richard Koweek. “We’ve seen a decrease in drunken driving arrest, but unfortunately we’ve seen an increase in drugged driving arrests,” said Reggie Crowley, coordinator for Stop-DWI in Columbia County. Crowley said his organization is submitting grant requests to Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s traffic safety board to fund training for officers to recognize drugged drivers out on the roads. This year, seven red lights were lit for the four people killed in 2017 in alcohol-related crashes and two from drug-related accidents in Columbia County and one person in Greene County in an alcohol-related accident. After the 2019 ceremony, the tree carried 48 lights in all — 22 from Columbia and 17 from Greene County and plus the nine for Sean’s Run Special Victims Dedications. In the fall of 2010, “The Safety Tree” billboard, a blue spruce, was donated and planted by Callander’s Nursery of Chatham on the grounds of Columbia Memorial Health. A plaque was designed and installed by Cantele’s Memorial on a rock provided by A. Colarusso & Son Inc. and placed near the tree. David and Carol Gould purchased the lights for the tree. To reach reporter Amanda Purcell, call 518-828-1616 ext. 2500, or send an email to apurcell@thedailymail.net, or tweet to @amandajpurcell. “THE SAFETY TREE” LIGHTING CEREMONY Sean’s Run will kick off its 18th year with its continuing partnership with Taconic Driving School, Remove Intoxicated Drivers—USA, Columbia Memorial Hospital, Columbia County Stop DWI and Twin County Recovery Services. Together these groups sponsor “The Safety Tree” billboard planted on the Columbia Street Emergency Room entrance of Columbia Memorial Hospital. They will host a brief observance on Friday April 5, 2019 at 5 p.m. at the main entrance of the Columbia Memorial Hospital professional building then to the “The Safety Tree”. Lights will be changed on the tree in remembrance of local people killed in drinking and drugged driving crashes. The public is invited to attend. In the Fall of 2010 “The Safety Tree” Billboard, a blue spruce, was donated and planted by Callander’s Nursery of Chatham on CMH grounds. A plaque was designed and installed by Cantele’s Memorial on a rock provided by A. Colarusso and Son and placed near the tree. David and Carol Gould purchased the lights for the tree. “The Safety Tree” Billboard will remain lit every day of the year. The red lights signify the number of alcohol/drug related fatalities that occurred in Columbia and Greene Counties. The sponsors aim is to keep the tree burning white for years to come. When a fatality does occur, one white light will be replaced with a red light. This living, permanent billboard will remind the public that drinking/drugging and driving is still a major menace to life and health and is the terrorist on the road that we need to eradicate. In years to come people can look at the tree and see how safe we were. This year we will be lighting 7 red lights for the 4 persons killed in 2017 in alcohol and 2 from drug related accident in Columbia County and 1 person in Greene County due to alcohol related accidents. Each year Sean’s Run holds a Special Victims Dedication. Special guests of this year’s Safety Tree Memorial Observation will be the family of Paige Alexis Ahearn, to whom the 2019 Sean’s Run is dedicated. Paige was a recent graduate of Waterford-Halfmoon High School. She was driving with her boyfriend to Colonie Center on the evening of October 11, 2016, when another vehicle crossed the median on Route 7 and crashed head on into Paige’s car. The other driver was drunk. Paige had celebrated her 18th birthday a few days before. That would be her final birthday celebration — she died in the crash. Paige enjoyed sports and in high school played softball and was the captain of her cheerleading squad. She also served on the student council. She loved animals and was loved by many friends and is missed dearly by her parents Colleen O’Connell, John Ahearn and Shannon Liporace. After the 2019 ceremony, we will have lit 48 lights, 22 from Columbia and 17 from Greene County and plus the 9 for Sean’s Run Special Victims Dedications. HISTORY OF SEANS RUN AND THE SAFETY TREE In February 2008, to celebrate the 30th anniversary of RID-USA, Doris Aiken, founder and president of RID-US initiated the original “Safety Tree Billboard”. In partnership with Ellis Hospital, a “Safety Tree Billboard” was placed on Ellis Hospital grounds on the corner of Nott Street and Rosa Road in Schenectady. RID began its efforts to deter drunk driving in February 1978 after the deaths of Karen (17) and Timothy (19) Morris of Scotia who were killed by a drunken driver on December 4, 1977. Motivated by their deaths and with the help of many DWI victims’ families, RID changed the laws in 1980 so that drunken drivers could not be treated as subjects of merriment and allowed to plead to bald tires or parking on pavement, but as potential life-threatening risks on the road. Aiken states that due to the law changes and the increased awareness level of effects of alcohol on driving, alcohol related crashes have decreased by 61%. Sean’s Run began in 2002 with 418 participants as a community run/walk to remember Sean Patrick French, a victim of drunk driving, and to remind the community about the dangers of underage drinking and impaired driving. The event is scheduled strategically during Prom Season, the last weekend in April, because this is the time of the year when the greatest number of underage alcohol-involved car crashes occurs. In a recent 12-month period, nearly one third of all car crashes with minor drivers are alcohol involved. In the 18 years since the inaugural Sean’s Run, the event has grown into a full weekend of activities attracting over 1800 entrants over the two days. Sean’s Run Weekend includes the 5K and Meghan’s Mile; a Prevention Education Expo; Tribute to Victims of Drunk Driving; 10, 20 and 50-mile bike rides; a Zumbathon; Super Saturday Run for runners with special needs kids and the World Championship Battle of the Belts. This is an interscholastic seatbelt buckling competition to raise awareness about seatbelt use. About half of all teens killed in car crashes were not using seatbelts. All money raised is used to support the event’s two areas of interest: 1) Grants to schools and youth groups to fund programs that combat underage drinking, impaired driving and lax use of seatbelts by teens, and 2) scholarships to deserving high school seniors. In 2018 the Organizing Committee of Sean’s Run has presented 14 grants and 3 scholarships. Since 2002 the Committee has awarded $232,295 in grants and scholarships. All the sponsors of Columbia County’s “The Safety Tree” Billboard are very proud in their efforts to curb drinking and drugged driving in our area.
Register-Star: This article originally published by Amanda Purcell of Columbia Greene Media CHATHAM — Sean French had a bright future ahead of him. An honor roll student, Sean used his free time to volunteer in the community. But Sean’s family never got a chance to see the man he would become. Sean was killed in an underage drunken driving crash in Chatham on New Year’s Day, 2002. For the past 18 years, Mark French, of Ghent, has been on a mission to raise awareness for seat belt use in honor of his son. Sean, a passenger in the vehicle, was not wearing a seat belt when he was ejected in the crash, his father said. But, at age 17, Sean was not required to wear a seat belt under state law. Another passenger, Ian Moor, 17, was paralyzed in the accident. The driver, also 17, was arrested for drunken driving 18 days before the fatal crash. The tragedy prompted enactment of Sean’s Law, which now requires the immediate suspension of a license upon the arrest of a 16- or 17-year-old on drunken-driving charges. “He was a well-rounded good kid,” French said, referring to Sean. “That’s what shocked me about this whole thing. Even good kids make bad decisions. They need our direction and need our support.” An amendment to the state vehicle and traffic law introduced as part of the governor’s 2020 executive budget proposal calls for rear-seat passengers of all ages to use safety belts. That’s welcome news to the father who has spent the past 18 years making sure other parents do not experience the same tragic loss. “For me, it makes sense,” French said. “When laws like this are passed, the incidents of seat belt use increases.” The mission of the Sean’s Run Weekend has been to promote seat belt use in honor of the late teen centered around a 5k walk/run. For more than a decade, the organizers of Sean’s Run have been using part of the proceeds of the annual event to fund grants at schools and in youth groups that encourage seat belt use in both the front and rear seats. In 2018, Cuomo’s Traffic Safety Committee found 21 percent of highway deaths happen to people not wearing seat belts. Moreover, a lack of seat belt use was found to be a greater factor in vehicle-accident deaths than alcohol or excessive speed. “Regardless if it passes, it confirms what we believe is a very important safety measure,” Mark French said. This year’s Sean’s Run will be held April 27 and April 28. For more information on the event, visit www.seansrun.com. Sean’s Run also hosts the World Championship Battle of the Belts, a team competition for high school and middle school students designed to increase teenage seat belt use by seeing which teams can buckle up the fastest. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or NHTSA, cites that over half of all teens that are killed in car crashes did not buckle up. Nationwide, in 2015, 4.3 percent of 22,441 fatalities — or 966 deaths — involved unrestrained people in the rear seats, according to the NHTSA website. An unbuckled rear-seat passenger is eight times more likely to be injured or killed in a crash than a buckled rear-seat passenger, according to the NHTSA. To reach reporter Amanda Purcell, call 518-828-1616 ext. 2500, or send an email to apurcell@thedailymail.net, or tweet to @amandajpurcell. Sean’s Run Weekend 2019 Sponsors Announced February 11, 2019 — The 18th Annual Sean Run Weekend, scheduled for April 27 and 28 in Chatham, is being supported by a line-up of 60 sponsors, including businesses, foundations, and individuals. With 1,700 participants and hundreds of spectators from across the region anticipated to attend, Sean’s Run Weekend is one of the largest multi-sport events in the Hudson Valley. The number of participants has quadrupled since the event’s beginning in 2002. The sponsorships are used by the Sean’s Run Organizing Committee to help underwrite the costs of grants that Sean’s Run presents to schools and youth serving groups across the region to implement programs that combat underage drinking, impaired driving and lax use of seatbelts by teenagers. The event’s namesake, Sean Patrick French, was killed as a passenger in an underage drunk driving car crash on January 1, 2002. Another passenger suffered paralyzing injuries; both he and Sean we not using seatbelts at the time of the crash. The event proceeds also support the Sean’s Run scholarship fund. More than 125 deserving high school seniors from across the region, selected because of their community service, compassion for others and positive sportsmanship, have benefitted since 2002. In its 18-year history, Sean’s Run has awarded $244,115 in grants and scholarships. The event’s Organizing Committee, comprised of 40 volunteers working year-round, strives to produce a well-organized and highly regarded community event as a platform to increase awareness about the problems and solutions of underage drinking, impaired driving and the lax use of seat belts by teens. The line-up of sponsors includes: Ellsworth Kelly Foundation is a new sponsor of Sean’s Run this year and is the event’s Major Sponsor. MetzWood Insurance, Yankee Trader, and ZF America have signed on as Platinum Level sponsors. Columbia Greene Federal Credit Union is a first-time sponsor, is sponsoring Meghan’s Mile, a youth race for participants aged 12 and under. Coon Self Storage is returning as our 5K sponsor, supporting the Weekend’s flagship activity. First Fuel and Propane is new to the sponsors’ line-up and is sponsoring Jaime’s Race, an event for people with developmental disabilities. The Lofgren Agency continues as Presenting Sponsor of Sean’s Rides, the 50-, 20-, and 10-mile scenic bicycle rides for participants of all abilities. New Leaf Tree Services is the 50-Mile Ride Named Sponsor, Hudson Design Group, Inc. is the 20-Mile Ride Named Sponsor, and Long Energy is the 10-Mile Ride Named Sponsor. Rensselaer Honda continues as sponsor of the World Championship Battle of the Belts, the interscholastic competition designed to encourage seatbelt use by teenagers. Bank of Greene County will again sponsor the Firefighter 5K Challenge. This is a race-within-a-race comprised of five-person teams of firefighters competing to cross the finish line with the lowest combined time. Northeast Pest Control is providing Gator’s Gifts: special premiums for the first 350 participants at the 5K packet pick up on Saturday. Fuccillo Automotive Group will again sponsor the signature Sean’s Run After-Run Celebration and Festivities with food and music. Twin County Recovery Services, Inc. is hosting the Prevention Education Expo to provide teens and families with information from a variety of organizations encouraging positive choices and healthy alternatives for teens. Dells’ Plumbing, Heating and A/C Service is the Named Sponsor of the Saturday Zumbathon®, a two-hour dance party led by certified Zumba instructors. Gold Medal level sponsors include Columbia Memorial Health, Consolidated Communications, Fidelis Care, Flex Rehab Physical Therapy, Hover and Mackowski, PLLC, Hudson River Bank & Trust Foundation, Michael S. Johnston, LLC, Michael C. Howard, Esq., PC, Price Chopper Supermarkets/Market 32, Screen Designs, Taconic Foundation, and Trowbridge Farms. Silver Medal level sponsors include Chatham Flowers, Firehouse Productions, Hawthorne Valley Association, Key Bank, Mark and Cathy French, Park Row Gallery, Simons Catering, Sonoco Plastics, Taconic Driving School, Williams Lumber and Home Centers, and Winding Brook Country Club. Bike Rides sponsors include Elle and Rhys French and Eva French Castillo, Old Chatham Country Store and Café, Our Daily Bread, Primo Mobile DJs, and Velo Domestique Bicycle Shop. Blue Ribbon level sponsors include Bartlett House, Brown’s Emporium, Cantele Tent Rentals, County Outhouses, Dunkin’ Donuts, Ed Herrington, Inc., Lee and Eileen French, French Cut Lawn Service, Jim and Elaine Gilmer, Johnny’s Ideal Printing, Pam and Jeff Lappies, Prospera Financial Services, Rich and Sally Kraham, Richmor Aviation, and The Berry Farm.
Firefighters Run for Charity as Recruitment ToolFirefighters Saving the Date: Sunday, April 28, 2019 February 4, 2019 — “Hey, we are willing to run into a burning building, so a 3-mile jog or walk in bunker pants to recruit new members and support Sean’s Run is really pretty easy – and it’s fun.” That’s how firefighter Jeff Hughes of the Mellenville Volunteer Fire Company summed up his participation in the Firefighter 5K Challenge at Sean’s Run in Chatham, NY last year. Bank of Greene County is sponsor of the “race within a race” on Sunday, April 28th in Chatham, NY. The event attracts firefighters proud to use this unique opportunity on “RecruitNY” weekend to show their dedication to the fire service and talk up the value of volunteering. The Bank has been the sponsorship behind this event for several years as part of their mission to support the volunteer fire service. “Running and walking in the Sean’s Run 5K shows the public we are serious about being prepared to do whatever is needed in an emergency, plus it provides a great chance to talk to people at the event about firefighting,” said Chief Mike Layman, Mellenville Volunteer Fire Company. Firefighters are easy to identify in the huge crowd – they distinguish themselves in a field of over 1,200 other runners and walkers as they traverse the picturesque 3.1 mile course through the streets of historic Chatham village. Some go the extra mile and wear turnout coats and helmets, and some firefighters run while donning air pack and masks. Firefighter Hughes, like many of his brother and sister firefighters, places a high value on physical fitness. When not at the firehouse or responding to calls, Jeff Hughes manages his own gym and fitness center in Chatham. “We have to have at least 5 on the team to score as a team but we usually have 10 or more members who want to be part of the event,” Hughes explained James Brady, past Secretary of the Columbia County Volunteer Firefighters Association plans to again set up a “RecruitNY” exhibit at the event and answer questions of prospective recruits. “The participants at Sean’s Run come from throughout the region, we just hope when they go home they will go to their local firehouse to find out more about volunteer opportunities in their hometown.” To enter the Challenge, fire companies and departments register members as individual participants in the Sean’s Run 5K. On the day of the event, after checking in at the Sean’s Run Packet Pick-up inside the Chatham High School gymnasium, fire companies report to the Firefighter 5K Challenge officials under the Bank of Greene County tent near the starting line to identify the names and bib numbers of their members. Event officials will total the times of the first five firefighters from each company or department to cross the finish line. The team with the lowest combined time for their first five wins the title: Champions of the Bank of Greene County Firefighter 5K Challenge. Bragging rights, plaques and medals are awarded to the fastest fire companies and departments. All Firefighters in the Challenge will receive a Sean’s Run souvenir t-shirt and enjoy all the amenities of Sean’s Run including a great spread of nutritional refreshments at the finish line festivities. To sign up your fire company, go to www.SeansRun.com and for more information call Jeff French 518-672-4757. Money raised is used to fund scholarships and programs in schools that combat the pervasive problems of underage drinking, impaired driving and lax use of seat belts by teenagers. The event was established in response to the tragic death of Sean Patrick French, the son of a volunteer firefighter and the 17-year old Chatham High School junior, honor roll student, community volunteer and record-setting athlete who was killed on January 1, 2002, as a passenger in an underage drunk-driving car crash. He was not wearing a seatbelt when he perished.
Sean's Run Announces Grant Winners Chatham, February 3, 2019 The Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation manages the Sean Patrick French Memorial Run Fund that supports the grants program. Schools and youth groups had until December 1, 2018 to submit grant applications that were reviewed and approved by the Sean’s Run Organizing Committee. Sean’s Run also awarded three scholarships to deserving high school seniors from across the region. Thanks to the generosity of the sponsors of Sean’s Run Weekend, $244,115 in grants and scholarships has been awarded by Sean’s Run in the past 18 years. Sean’s Run Grants Per mile driven, drivers aged 16 to 19 are four times more likely than older drivers to crash (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). Alcohol consumption greatly increases the likelihood that teens will forego use of seatbelts; nearly three out of every four teenage drivers killed in motor vehicle crashes after drinking and driving were not wearing a seat belt. (CDC) Schools and youth groups awarded Sean’s Run grants include: In Columbia County – Chatham High School and Chatham Middle School, Germantown HS, Taconic Hills HS and Taconic Hills MS. In Montgomery County – Fonda-Fultonville HS. Rensselaer County – Algonquin MS, Averill Park HS, Rensselear MS, Rensselear HS. In Saratoga County – Shenendehoa HS. In Dutchess County – the Dutchess County - Council on Addition Prevention and Education MS and HS programs. Voted for the past 4 years as “Best Community Event-Spring” in a contest by the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and Columbia-Greene Media, Sean’s Run Weekend includes a 5K, Meghan’s Mile, Bike Rides, Zumbathon and a run for People with Special Needs. The 18th Annual Sean’s Run will be held at Chatham High School on Saturday and Sunday, April 27 &28. Sean’s Run Weekend also includes a Prevention Educational Expo, a Tribute to Victims and Survivors of drunken driving, and the World Championship Battle of the Belts interscholastic seatbelt bucking contest. Sean’s Run Weekend and the scholarships and grants program were established in response to the tragic death of Sean Patrick French, the 17-year old Chatham High School junior, honor roll student, community volunteer and record-setting athlete who was killed on January 1, 2002, as a passenger in an underage drunk-driving car crash. He was not wearing a seatbelt when he perished. More information is available at this website. Sean's Run Announces Scholarship Winners Chatham, February 3, 2019 Also announced are the 12 schools and youth groups selected to receive Sean’s Run grants to implement programs designed to combat underage drinking, impaired driving and lax use of seatbelts by teenagers. Thanks to the generosity of the sponsors of Sean’s Run Weekend, $244,115 in grants and scholarships has been awarded by Sean’s Run in the past 18 years. The Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation manages the Sean Patrick French Memorial Scholarship Fund. An independent selection committee reviewed the 2019 scholarship applications and has selected three winners, including:
Voted for the past 4 years as “Best Community Event-Spring” in a contest by the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and Columbia-Greene Media, Sean’s Run Weekend includes a 5K, Meghan’s Mile, Bike Rides, Zumbathon and a run for People with Special Needs. The 18th Annual Sean’s Run will be held at Chatham High School on Saturday and Sunday, April 27 and 28. Sean’s Run Weekend also includes a Prevention Educational Expo, a Tribute to Victims and Survivors of Drunk Driving, and the World Championship Battle of the Belts Interscholastic Seatbelt Bucking Contest. Sean’s Run Weekend and the scholarships and grants program were established in response to the tragic death of Sean Patrick French, the 17-year old Chatham High School junior, honor roll student, community volunteer and record-setting athlete who was killed on January 1, 2002, as a passenger in an underage drunk-driving car crash. More information is available on this website. April 30, 2018 - Columbia-Green Media by Daniel Zuckerman Chatham — Despite rain, the last day of the 17th annual Sean’s Run Weekend went on as usual Sunday at Chatham High School. The run helps to raise awareness of wearing seat belts, underage drinking and impaired driving by youth. The event is in honor of the late Sean French, a 17-year-old high school junior and athlete at Chatham High School who was killed in a drunk driving car accident Jan. 1, 2002, according to the Sean’s Run website. French was a passenger in the vehicle. Money raised during the weekend goes toward grants, scholarships and other weekend activities, included a Saturday bicycle ride, “Sean’s Ride,” and a youth run, “Meghan’s Mile,” in honor of the late Meghan Kraham, a friend of Sean French’s who died of cancer in 2007, according to the Sean’s Run website. Added on to this year’s mission includes texting and driving awareness, said Jeff French, Sean’s Run general chairman and Sean French’s uncle. The initiative was embraced by state police, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, Chatham police and Hudson police. Sean French was riding in a vehicle where the seat belts were cut out of it, Jeff French said. “There was more to that incident, it wasn’t just not wearing a seat belt, it was drinking and driving also,” Jeff French said. The Chatham community and Sean French’s family and classmates came together following his death to raise awareness of wearing a seat belt and the run’s committee members have been involved since its inception, Jeff French said. “People come because they know what we stand for and it’s not a race, it’s a run,” he said. “The run brings awareness to what our mission is.” A new element to this year’s run is the Firefighter 5K Challenge, where firefighters run in their bunker pants for prizes, according to Jeff French. This event was initially scheduled for last year, but was cancelled due to inclement weather. “It’s a race within a race,” he said. “Some [fire] companies will run in their full turnout gear and some will just wear their bunker pants — that’s all we ask them to wear, their bunker pants.” Jeff French said he believes his nephew would be proud of his family and all they’ve done to spread awareness. “It seems like a rainbow comes out at the end of the run,” Jeff French said. “Sean’s there looking down on us.” Dan Prosser, of Montrose, Colorado, has attended the run every year except for 2017, he said. Prosser, who used to live in Philmont and Copake, loves being back in the area for the run every year. “I enjoy the people and it’s a lot of fun,” Prosser said. “It’s a good cause, too.” Prosser never knew Sean French, but has gotten to know Jeff French and Sean’s father Mark throughout the years, Prosser said. “They’re [the Frenches] great people, it’s a great event,” Prosser said. “Once they said they had a run, I said ‘I’ve got to do this.’” Rhonda Lipscomb, of Guilderland, is a first-time participant and believes the run is a wonderful event, she said. “My goal is to always start and always finish,” Lipscomb said. “I think it’s important to spread awareness.” Pete Murphy, of Chatham, has known Mark French for four years as they work together for the Red Hook-based organization In Flight Inc. Murphy had a feeling the rain would let up before the 5K run. “My first one would have been last year, but it got rained out,” Murphy said. Marie Hogan, of Chatham, was a classmate and friend of Sean French’s and has participated in almost all of the 17 runs, she said. She also helped out with Saturday’s bicycle ride. “He [Sean French] was just a very funny kid,” Hogan said. Hogan brought her 8-month-old son Johnathan to the race. Johnathan will participate in the race in the future, she said. She appreciates the run’s longevity. “It hasn’t died down at all,” Hogan said. “Seventeen years later, it’s still going strong.” To reach reporter Daniel Zuckerman email dzuckerman@thedailymail.net or follow him on Twitter @DZuckerman_CGM. Thousands Participate to Honor Teen Channel 10 News, April 28, 2018: View Video coverage here Sean’s Run Scholarships and Grants Applications Available October 17, 2018 - The Organizing Committee of Sean’s Run Weekend, the annual community event that attracts hundreds of participants, including runners, walkers, bicyclists and Zumba enthusiasts, from across the region to Chatham on the last weekend of April, has announced their plans to award grants and scholarships. Since 2002, the proceeds of the annual Sean’s Run Weekend have supported two areas of interest: 1) scholarships to deserving high school seniors, and 2) grants to schools and youth groups to implement programs designed to combat the problems of underage drinking, impaired driving and lax use of seatbelts by teenagers. Sean’s Run has awarded $232,295 in grants and scholarships since 2002, thanks to the generosity of sponsors, donors and participants. In January 2019, the Sean’s Run committee will award up to $10,000 as grants to schools and youth groups selected through an easy-to-complete grant application process. Last year grants were awarded to the following schools in Columbia County: Hudson High School, Taconic Hills High School, New Lebanon Central School, Chatham High School, Chatham Middle School. The following schools from Rensselaer County were awarded grants: Algonquin Middle School, Averill Park High School, Lansingburgh High School and Knickerbacker Middle School. Also, Fonda-Fultonville High School from Montgomery County and The Council on Addition & Prevention Education from Dutchess County were awarded grants. Sean’s Run scholarships are available to high school seniors in three categories. The Sean Patrick French “Love of Running” Scholarship is open to Columbia County residents who have been on the cross country or track and field teams for their school. Runners from NYSPHAA Section II who have been designated as Sectional Good Sports during the fall cross country season may apply for the Good Sportsmanship Scholarships. Students from Chatham High School may apply for the Community Service scholarships. Since 2002, 107 students from across the region have benefited from Sean’s Run scholarships. Last year scholarships were awarded to Caleb Doyle, Chatham HS, Connor McCagg, Hudson HS and Olivia Lazarou, Amsterdam HS. Applications for grants and scholarships are available at the event website, www.SeansRun.com. Applications for grants and scholarships must be submitted by December 1, 2018. The scholarship fund was created by the family of Sean French following his death as a passenger in an underage drunk driving car wreck on January 1, 2002. He was a junior at Chatham High School, an honor roll student and an accomplished runner who set several school records in his abbreviated career. As a freshman he took second place at the State Cross Country Championship, and as sophomore he finished second at the state Track and Field championship in the 1600m, with a time of 4:18. The grants and scholarship funds are administered by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation. The 18th Annual Sean’s Run Weekend is scheduled for April 27 and 28, 2019 at Chatham High School.
Sean’s Run Weekend 2018 Sponsors Announced April 2, 2018 – Dietz & Watson, one of the largest preparers of premium deli meats and artisan cheeses offered at the finest supermarkets, including Price Chopper/Market 32, and neighborhood delis throughout the United States, will continue as Presenting Sponsor of Sean’s Run Weekend. The 17th Annual Sean Run Weekend Presented by Dietz and Watson is scheduled for April 28 and 29 in Chatham and is expected to attract over 1,700 participants and hundreds of spectators from across the region. The event’s Organizing Committee, comprised of 40 volunteers, works year-round to produce a well-organized and highly regarded community event to increase awareness about the problems and solutions of underage drinking and impaired driving and the lax use of seat belts by teens. Dietz & Watson is joined by a group of 57 other businesses and individuals that are sponsoring Sean’s Run Weekend, one of the largest multi-sports events in the region, with the number of participants quadrupling since its beginning in 2002. The sponsorships are used by the Sean’s Run Organizing Committee to help underwrite the costs of grants that Sean’s Run presents to schools and youth serving groups across the region to implement programs that combat underage drinking, impaired driving and lax use of seatbelts by teenagers. The event’s namesake, Sean Patrick French, was killed as a passenger in an underage drunk driving car crash on January 1, 2002. Another passenger suffered paralyzing injuries; both he and Sean we not using seatbelts at the time of the crash. The balance of the event’s proceeds supports the Sean’s Run scholarship fund. More than 125 deserving high school seniors from across the region, selected because of their community service, compassion for others and positive sportsmanship, have benefitted since 2002. In its 17-year history, Sean’s Run has awarded $219,640 in grants and scholarships. The line-up of other sponsors includes: Coon Self Storage, the named sponsor of the 5K, which continues as the flagship activity for the weekend. BuildPay, new to the sponsors line-up, is sponsoring Meghan’s Mile, a youth race for 12 and under. The Lofgren Agency continues as presenting sponsor of Sean’s Rides, the 50-, 20-mile and 10-mile scenic bicycle rides for participants of all abilities. Hudson Design Group, Inc, is back as the 50-mile named sponsor, New Leaf Tree Services, Inc. continues as named sponsor of the 20-mile ride and Long Energy is sponsoring the 10-mile ride. Rensselaer Honda continues as sponsor of the World Championship Battle of the Belts, the interscholastic competition designed to encourage increased use of seatbelts by teenagers. Bank of Greene County, will again sponsor the Firefighter 5K Challenge. This is a race-within-a-race comprised of teams of firefighters competing to see which can get five members across the finish line with the lowest combined time. Northeast Pest Control is providing Gator’s Gifts, special premiums for the first 350 participants at the 5K packet pick up on Saturday. Fuccillo Automotive Group will again sponsor the signature Sean’s Run after-run celebration and festivities with food and music. Twin County Recovery Services, Inc. is hosting the Prevention Education Expo to provide teens and families with information from a variety of organizations encouraging positive choices and healthy alternatives for teens. Dells’ Plumbing, Heating and A/C Service is the named sponsor of the Saturday Zumbathon®, a two-hour dance party led by certified Zumba instructors. TrainerFit is the named sponsor for Jaime’s Race for People with Special Needs, an event in memory of special needs participant Jaime Adams and specially planned for all people with developmental disabilities. Gold Medal level sponsors include Columbia Memorial Health, FairPoint Communications, Flex Rehab Physical Therapy, Hover & Mackowski, PLLC, Hudson River Bank & Trust Foundation, MetzWood Insurance, Michael C. Howard, Esq., PC, Price Chopper Supermarkets/Market 32, Screen Designs, Taconic Foundation, Trowbridge Farms and ZF America. Silver Medal level sponsors include Chatham Flowers, Firehouse Productions, Hawthorne Valley Association, Mark & Cathy French, Park Row Gallery, Simons Catering, Sonoco Plastics, Taconic Driving School, Williams Lumber & Home Centers and Winding Brook Country Club. Bike Rides sponsors include Elle and Rhys French, Bill Primomo DDS & Tricia Primomo DDS, Bob Pinkowski & Kim Chrysler, Head Hunter Family Hair Cutters, Old Chatham Country Store & Café, Our Daily Bread, Primo Mobile DJs and Velo Domestique Bicycle Shop. Blue Ribbon level sponsors include Bartlett House, Berkshire Bank, Brown’s Emporium, Camphill Ghent, Cantele Tent Rentals, County Outhouses, Ed Herrington, Inc., Lee and Eileen French, French Cut Lawn Service, Jim & Elaine Gilmer, Johnny’s Ideal Printing, Pam & Jeff Lappies, Prospera Financial Services, and Rich & Sally Kraham Sean’s Run Safety Tree Observance Scheduled Hudson, March 5, 2018 - Every 31 minutes, someone is killed by a drunk driver in the United States – almost 50 per day, according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). Hundreds more suffer physical and emotional injury because of drunk drivers, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. And the anguish caused by this trauma never fully dissipates for the families left behind. Relatives and friends are forced to endure the pain of suddenly loosing of a loved one because of a preventable death. In Columbia and Greene counties, these families and the victims of alcohol and/or drug-involved car crashes are remembered during an annual spring-time observance when the organizers of Sean’s Run, partner with the Taconic Driving School, Remove Intoxicated Drivers (RID—USA), Columbia Memorial Health, Columbia County Stop DWI and Twin County Recovery Services, to host the Safety Tree Lighting Ceremony. This year the observance is scheduled for Friday, April 6th, 5 PM in the lobby of the Medical Office Building at Columbia Memorial Hospital in Hudson, NY. This short-but-moving ceremony concludes outside near the entrance of the Emergency Room, at the Safety Tree Living Billboard, a blue spruce that grows on a hospital lawn. Planted at the hospital on April 1, 2011, the Safety Tree is draped with strings of white lights as a living billboard reminding everyone about the danger of impaired driving. The partner organizations memorialize every individual who has perished in an alcohol or drug-involved car crash in the twin counties by switching a white light bulb to a red bulb during the annual observance. The red bulbs will be permanent reminders of those lost and of the deadly consequences of drunk driving. In 2017, as reported by the NYS Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, alcohol- and drug-involved car crashes accounted for 3 fatalities in Columbia County and 3 fatalities in Greene County. Six white bulbs will be switched to red bulbs during the April 6th ceremony. A seventh white bulb will be switched to remember Christopher Bascom, to whom Sean’s Run Weekend 2018 is dedicated. In 2003, on Veterans’ Day, Christopher was run over by a drunk driver as he was riding his bicycle 1/10th of a mile from his home in East Greenbush, NY. Christopher is remembered for his loyalty, love and devotion to family and friends. At Columbia High School he was an outstanding volleyball player, ran indoor track and was involved in S.A.D.D. He is the son of Amy B. Plantz and Brian Bascom, stepson of Bob Plantz and step brother of Nicole Molinski and Shawn Plantz. The Safety Tree Billboard remains lit every day of the year. The red lights remember each one of the people who died in the two counties because of alcohol/drug related crashes. The sponsors’ hope that the tree serves as a permanent public reminder that drinking/drugging and driving is still a major menace to life and health. Chatham, January 24, 2018 – Sean’s Run Weekend organizers have selected fifteen schools and youth groups from the region to receive Sean’s Run grants to implement programs designed to combat underage drinking, impaired driving and lax use of seatbelts by teenagers. The schools and youth groups have been awarded up to $650 each to implement the Battle of the Belts, a fun and fast moving activity designed by the Sean’s Run Weekend Organizing Committee to increase teens’ use of seatbelts. Funds for the grants were raised at the 2017 Sean’s Run Weekend thanks to the generosity of sponsors and donors. Dietz and Watson is the Presenting Sponsor of Sean’s Run Weekend and is one of the largest preparers of premium deli meats and artisan cheeses offered at the finest supermarkets, including Price Chopper/Market 32, and neighborhood delis throughout the United States. Jeff French, Chairman of Sean’s Run, said “Our sponsors make this grant making program possible. Thanks to their generosity we can offer the funding to encourage schools and youth groups to implement the Battle of the Belts as an innovative activity to reduce the number of teens who fail to use their seatbelts.” Voted as a three-time winner of the ‘Best Community Event-Spring’ award in a contest by the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and the Register Star, Sean’s Run is an annual community event that includes a 5K, Meghan’s Mile, Bike Rides, Zumbathon and a run for Special Needs Kids. The 17th Annual Sean’s Run will be held at Chatham High School on Saturday and Sunday, April 28 and 29. The event’s organizing committee is preparing for 1,400 participants in the 5K and 1 Mile events and 250 in the Bike Motor vehicle crashes according to the Center for Disease Control, are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens. The statistics are alarming. In 2013, six teens, ages 16–19, died every day from motor vehicle injuries. The Center for Injury Research and Prevention has found that nearly 2/3 of those who perish were not using safety belts. Per mile driven, drivers ages 16 to 19 are four times more likely than older drivers to crash (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). Alcohol consumption greatly increases the likelihood that teens will forego use of seatbelts; nearly three out of every four teen drivers killed in motor vehicle crashes after drinking and driving were not wearing a seat belt. (CDC) Those awarded grants include: In Columbia County – Chatham High School and Chatham Middle School, Hudson HS, New Lebanon MS, Taconic Hills HS and Taconic Hills MS. In Montgomery County – Fonda-Fultonville HS. Rensselaer County – Averill Park HS, Algonquin MS, Lansingburgh HS and Knickerbacker MS. In Saratoga County – Shenendehoa HS. In Dutchess County – the Dutchess County Council on Addition Prevention and Education. In Albany County – Revena Coeymans Selkirk HS. Over the past thirteen years, Sean’s Run has awarded 150 grants to schools and youth groups. The 17th Annual Sean’s Run will also include a Prevention Educational Expo, a Tribute to Victims and Survivors of drunken driving, and the World Championship Battle of the Belts interscholastic seatbelt bucking contest. Sean’s Run and the grants program were established in response to the tragic death of Sean Patrick French, the 17-year old Chatham High School junior, honor roll student, community volunteer and record-setting athlete who was killed on January 1, 2002, as a passenger on a drunk-driving car crash. More information is available at the website www.SeansRun.com 2018 Scholarship Winners Christmas came early for three high school seniors from the region that were notified this week they are the winners of a scholarship from Sean’s Run that are presented annually in memory of the event’s namesake, Sean Patrick French. The winners include: The scholarships made possible thanks to generous Sean’s Run participants, sponsors and donors. Section II XC Good Sportsmanship Scholarship 2018 winner: Olivia Lazarou, Amsterdam High School Olivia is known across Section II for her sportsmanship and enthusiastic support and encouragement she offers her competitors. During an invitational cross country meet she saw the runner ahead of her was about to take a wrong turn on the course. Olivia let her know the correct pathway to the finish line. In the end, the runner she helped finished before Olivia. “I did it because I hope someone would do that for me,” Olivia explained. Olivia has competed at the varsity level in Cross Country and Track & Field for 5 years. She has qualified to run at three state championship XC meets finishing 10th in Class B in 2017. Last fall she won the Foothills Council Championship and the Fort Plain Invitational. She holds the school record in the 800, 1000, 1500, 3000 and is a member of 5 record-holding relay teams. She competed with her 4X400 team in the 2017 High School National Championship meet. Love of Running Scholarship 2018 Winner: Connor Michael McCagg, Hudson High School In describing how his experience on the Hudson High School Cross Country team has prepared him for the challenges of college, Connor said “Through my participation in cross country, I have learned to face head-on challenges I may not like and overcome them.” When he first joined the Cross Country team he was not a fan of running. But the sport grew on him and eventually he says he became “the sport’s greatest cheerleader.” He recruited friends and schoolmates to join the team when the roster dropped below the minimum needed for Hudson High School to score in meets. In his application he explained, “Through this experience, I have learned the best way to confront an activity or job you do not like is to face it head-on. Doing so has allowed me to embrace running and the sport of cross country and understand the benefits physically and mentally of pushing yourself and exploring new activities.” Connor is an Eagle Scout. The Sean Patrick French Memorial Scholarship 2018 Winner: Caleb Joseph Doyle Caleb is a community volunteer who has helped youth programs, his church and Sean’s Run while in high school. He is known in his school community as an outstanding athlete and a good sport. He is a National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI) School Leader. In applying for the scholarship he wrote, “ Learning to welcome and value diversity (has) instilled in me compassion and awareness for the struggles of others. Everyone carries an “invisible backpack,” full of challenges we cannot see. I go into school everyday with the anticipation of being an ally to someone in need. Whether it’s listening to a story, sharing my lunch or just smiling at someone who looks down. Striving daily to treat others in a way that makes them feel so good that they want to share that with another person. 2017 Sean’s Run Weekend “2 days, 1,530 registrants, 1 bad storm,” is how one volunteer recapped the 16th Annual Sean’s Run Weekend. Saturday’s 50-, 20 & 10-mile Bike Rides saw excellent weather and wonderful scenery followed by an outstanding spread of refreshments provided by Presenting Sponsor, Dietz & Watson. 212 bicyclists pedaled the new courses and the feedback was positive. The Zumbathon attracted 52 super athletes who danced non-stop for 2 hours – what a work out! Also on Saturday Jaime’s Race for People with Special Needs had 14 entrants. The Zumbathon and Jaime’s Race participants also enjoyed the new Food Court. “Sunday morning’s weather started nicely and the early forecast was favorable,” said Chairman Jeff French. The Prevention Education Expo had exhibits from many organizations promoting safe decisions. Grants were presented to 13 schools and scholarships were presented to 3 seniors. The World Championship Battle of the Belts was contested, and continues to serve as a reminder about staying safe by always buckling up when travelling in a motor vehicle. “The new Food Court was fully stocked with an expansive spread of food for all to enjoy,” stated Jeff French. Sean’s Run 5K is cancelled for the first time in 16 years All attendees stayed safe during the adverse conditions; Chatham High School served as shelter for everyone as the lightning and thunder continued. As the storm diminished, over 1,000 people – many having traveled long distances, who had come to run in the 5K, were offered refreshments from our Food Court. Afterwards, many walked under the finish line and back to their cars...perhaps disappointed, but definitely safe. The Organizing Committee is hopeful that everyone who came out felt the same special spirit of Sean’s Run that we feel year after year. We are undaunted and we will be back in 2018 to produce a wonderful 17th Annual Sean’s Run Weekend. Maybe we will have to run the 5K twice to make up for this year! The Weekend was dedicated to the memory of Deanna Rivers, the 17-year old Shenendehowa High School softball team captain who was killed on December 1, 2012 when a drunk driver crashed into the car in which Deanna was a passenger. Firefighters Invited to Sean’s Run April 30, 2017 - Chatham, NY
Now, Sean’s Run Weekend, voted the past two years as Best Community Event-Spring in Columbia County, is giving special attention to the brave men and women who protect our communities. The Bank of Greene County has signed on as the sponsor of this “foot race within a foot race" because it closely aligns with the Bank’s interest to support firefighters. Now the Firefighter 5K Challenge is a permanent fixture of Sean’s Run Weekend which is staged at Chatham High School in the Village of Chatham. In the Bank of Greene County’s Firefighter 5K Challenge, the members of the fire service distinguish themselves in a field of over 1,400 other runners and walkers by completing the Sean’s Run 5K while wearing bunker pants, fire company t-shirts and running shoes. The firefighters are easily recognizable as they traverse the picturesque 3.1 mile course that traverses the streets of historic Chatham. Some go the extra mile and wear turnout coats and helmets, and one firefighter ran while donning his air pack and mask. Last year the fire companies from East Chatham, Chatham, Mellenville and Philmont entered teams. Led by their Chief Mark Beaumont, who the first firefighter to cross the finish line, Philmont Volunteer Fire Company No.1 won the trial Challenge. When the Chief finished his 5K last year he told an event organizer, “Running and walking in the Sean’s Run 5K shows the public we are serious about being prepared to do whatever is needed in an emergency, plus getting ready has strengthen the bond among our members.” “We run into burning buildings, so a 3.1-mile jog or walk in bunker pants is nothing to a firefighter; we had fun and will be back again next year.” said Lt. Gennea Klima of the Mellenville Fire Company when she finished the 5K in 2016. To enter the Challenge, fire companies and departments register as many members as they want as individual participants in the Sean’s Run 5K. On the day of the event, after checking in at the Sean’s Run Packet Pick-up inside the Chatham High School gymnasium, fire companies report to the Firefighter 5K Challenge officials under the Bank of Greene County tent near the starting line to identify the names and bib numbers of their members. Event officials will total the times of the first five firefighters from each company or department to cross the finish line. The team with the lowest combined time for their first five wins the title: Champions of the Bank of Greene County Firefighter 5K Challenge. Bragging rights, plaques and medals are awarded to the fastest fire companies and departments. All Firefighters in the Challenge will receive a Sean’s Run souvenir t-shirt and enjoy all the amenities of Sean’s Run including a great spread of nutritional refreshments at the finish line festivities. To sign up your fire company, go to www.SeansRun.com and for more information call Jeff French (518) 672-4757. The event was established in response to the tragic death of Sean Patrick French, the son of a volunteer firefighter and the 17-year old Chatham High School junior, honor roll student, community volunteer and record-setting athlete who was killed on January 1, 2002, as a passenger in an underage drunk-driving car crash. He was not wearing a seatbelt when he perished. Sean’s Run Weekend 2017 Sponsors Announced January 10, 2017 – Dietz & Watson, one of the largest preparers of premium deli meats and artisan cheeses offered at the finest supermarkets, including Price Chopper/Market 32, and neighborhood delis throughout the United States, has signed on to be the Presenting Sponsor of Sean’ s Run and all of its associated year-round activities including Sean’s Run Weekend in 2017. The 16th Annual Sean Run Weekend Presented by Dietz and Watson is scheduled for April 29 and 30, 2017 in Chatham. While a new Presenting Sponsor is supporting the event, the mission of Sean’s Run remains unchanged: To produce a well organized and highly regarded community event as a platform to increase awareness about the problems and solutions of underage drinking and impaired driving and the lax use of seat belts by teens. The 16th edition of the annual weekend-long event, April 29 and 30, is expected to attract over 1,800 participants and hundreds of spectators from across the region. Dietz & Watson is joined by a group of 62 other businesses and individuals that are sponsoring Sean’s Run Weekend, one of the largest multi-sports events in the region, with the number of participants quadrupling since its beginning in 2002. The sponsorships are used by the Sean’s Run Organizing Committee to help underwrite the costs of grants that Sean’s Run presents to schools and youth serving groups across the region to implement programs that combat underage drinking, impaired driving and lax use of seatbelts by teenagers. The event’s namesake, Sean Patrick French, was killed as a passenger in an underage drunk driving car crash on January 1, 2002. Another passenger suffered paralyzing injuries; both he and Sean we not using seatbelts at the time of the crash. The balance of the event’s proceeds support the Sean’s Run scholarship fund. More than 100 deserving seniors from across the region, selected because of their community service, compassion for others and positive sportsmanship, have benefitted since 2002. In its 15-year history, Sean’s Run has awarded $208,640 in grants and scholarships. The line-up of other sponsors include Columbia-Greene Media, designated as the 2017 Sean’s Run Weekend Media Sponsor. Coon Self Storage has signed on to be the named sponsor of the 5K, which continues as the flagship activity for the weekend. Sunday also includes Meghan’s Mile youth race. Rensselaer Honda is sponsoring the World Championship Battle of the Belts, the interscholastic competition designed to encourage increased use of seatbelts by teenagers. Bank of Greene County, will sponsor a new event on Sunday, the Firefighter 5K Challenge. This is a race-within-a-race comprised of teams of firefighters competing to see which can get five members across the finish line with the lowest combined time. Northeast Pest Control sponsors Gator’s Gifts, named after their highly trained bedbug-finding beagle, which are special premiums for the first 350 participants at the 5K packet pick up on Saturday. Fuccillo Automotive Group sponsors the signature Sean’s Run after-run celebration and festivities with food and music. Twin County Recovery Services, Inc. is hosting the Prevention Education Expo to provide teens and families with information from a variety of organizations encouraging positive choices and healthy alternatives for teens. Dells’ Plumbing, Heating and A/C Service is the named sponsor of the Saturday Zumbathon®, a two-hour dance party led by certified Zumba instructors. TrainerFit is the named sponsor for Jaime’s Race for People with Special Needs, an event in memory of special needs participant Jaime Adams and specially planned for all people with developmental disabilities. The Lofgren Agency continues as presenting sponsor of Sean’s Rides, the 50-, 20-mile and 10-mile scenic bicycle rides for participants of all abilities. Hudson Design Group, Inc, is back as the 50-mile named sponsor, and New Leaf Tree Services, Inc. continues as named sponsor of the 20-mile ride. Gold Medal level sponsors include Berkshire Bank, Blue Sea Products, LLC, Columbia Memorial Health, FairPoint Communications, Flex Rehab Physical Therapy, Hawthorne Valley Association, Hover & Mackowski, PLLC, Hudson River Bank & Trust Foundation, MetzWood Insurance, Michael C. Howard, Esq., PC, Pier 33 Gourmet, Price Chopper Supermarkets/Market 32, Screen Designs, Taconic Foundation, Trowbridge Farms and ZF America. Silver Medal level sponsors include Chatham Flowers, Firehouse Productions, Mark & Cathy French, Park Row Gallery, Simons Catering, Sonoco Plastics, Taconic Driving School, Valley Energy, Williams Lumber & Home Centers and Winding Brook Country Club. Other Bike Rides sponsors include Bennett Contracting, Bill Primomo DDS & Tricia Primomo DDS, Bob Pinkowski & Kim Chrysler, Head Hunter Family Hair Cutters, JMD Cleaning Services, LLC, Old Chatham Country Store & Café, Our Daily Bread, Primo Mobile DJs and Velo Somestique Bicycle Shop. Blue Ribbon level sponsors include Bartlett House, Brown’s Emporium, Camphill Ghent, Cantele Tent Rentals, County Outhouses, Ed Herrington, Inc., Lee and Eileen French, French Cut Lawn Service, Jim & Elaine Gilmer, Johnny’s Ideal Printing, Long energy, Pam & Jeff Lappies, Prospera Financial Services, Rich & Sally Kraham and The Mac-Haydn Theatre, Inc.
Sean's Run Announces Scholarships and Grants Winners Chatham, January 20, 2016 – The organizers of Sean’s Run Weekend Presented by Dietz and Watson have announced the names of the three high school seniors who have been selected to receive scholarships in memory of Sean Patrick French. Also announced are the 13 schools and youth groups selected to receive Sean’s Run grants to implement programs designed to combat underage drinking, impaired driving and lax use of seatbelts by teenagers. Since 2002, thanks to generous sponsors, donors and participants, the event has awarded $219,640 in scholarships and grants. The Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation manages the Sean Patrick French Memorial Scholarship Fund. An independent selection committee reviewed the 2017 scholarship applications and has selected three winners, including: Love of Running Scholarship - Chloe Chandler, Ichabod Crane High School. Chloe plans to attend the Fashion Institute of Technology. She runs 100M hurdles in Track & Field and she stated in her application that running has prepared her for the challenges ahead in college. "Jumping hurdles taught me so much about myself, and what it feels like to always work towards something greater, always strive to do better. Because of track, I know now that I am capable of more than I think I am, and that success comes to those who put in hard work." Sean Patrick French Memorial Scholarship Winner - Amara Grace Engel, Chatham High School. Amara plans to attend Rochester Institute of Technology/ National Technical Institute for the Deaf. Amara exemplifies all the qualities of an outstanding student and community volunteer. She stated in her application that her hearing loss has taught her “about compassion and to behave with dignity, courage and grace.” Despite a demanding class schedule, she finds time to volunteer for a number of school and community organizations including the Sean’s Run Organizing Committee. Good Sportsmanship Scholarship Winner - Matthew Brown, North Warren High School. Matthew plans to attend a SUNY college. He gives credit to his competitors for pushing him during races. He wrote in his application that his first run with his dad in 4th grade inspired him to become a successful high school cross country runner. “When my team won sectionals, as I crossed the finish line in my final high school race, my mind went back to the moment of my first run with my dad.” The grants to schools are used to fund programs to respond to the alarming statistic that motor vehicle crashes, according to the US Center for Disease Control (CDC), are the leading cause of death for teens. In 2013, six teenagers ages 16–19, died every day from motor vehicle injuries. The Center for Injury Research and Prevention has found that nearly 2/3 of those who perish were not using safety belts. Per mile driven, drivers ages 16 to 19 are four times more likely than older drivers to crash (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). Alcohol consumption greatly increases the likelihood that teens will forego use of seatbelts; nearly three out of every four teenage drivers killed in motor vehicle crashes after drinking and driving were not wearing a seat belt. (CDC) Schools and youth groups awarded Sean’s Run grants include: In Columbia County – Chatham High School and Chatham Middle School, Hudson HS, New Lebanon MS, Taconic Hills HS and Taconic Hills MS. In Montgomery County – Fonda-Fultonville HS. Rensselaer County – Algonquin MS, Averill Park HS and Lansingburgh HS. In Saratoga County – Shenendehoa HS. In Dutchess County – Pine Plains Stissing Mountain High School and the Dutchess County Council on Addition Prevention and Education. Voted in 2016 as “Best Community Event-Spring” in a contest by the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and Columbia-Greene Media, Sean’s Run Weekend includes a 5K, Meghan’s Mile, Bike Rides, Zumbathon and a run for People with Special Needs. The 16th Annual Sean’s Run will be held at Chatham High School on Saturday and Sunday, April 29 and 30. A new feature this year, the Firefighter 5K Challenge, will be a friendly competition among fire departments as part of the 5K. Firefighters will distinguish themselves among the field of over 1,400 runners and walkers by wearing their turnout pants while running. The fire department that has five members to cross the finish line with the lowest combined time will be designated Champion. Sean’s Run Weekend also includes a Prevention Educational Expo, a Tribute to Victims and Survivors of drunken driving, and the World Championship Battle of the Belts interscholastic seatbelt bucking contest. Sean’s Run Weekend and the scholarships and grants program were established in response to the tragic death of Sean Patrick French, the 17-year old Chatham High School junior, honor roll student, community volunteer and record-setting athlete who was killed on January 1, 2002, as a passenger in an underage drunk-driving car crash. He was not wearing a seatbelt when he perished.
Dietz & Watson and Sean’s Run Offering Grants November 1, 2016 – Dietz and Watson and the organizers of Sean’s Run Weekend have announced the availability of cash grants for youth organizations and schools to implement the fun and fast paced Battle of the Belts, a youth activity designed to increase teens’ use of seatbelts. Dietz and Watson is the Presenting Sponsor of the 16th Annual Sean Run Weekend scheduled for April 29 and 30, 2017 in Chatham. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, car crashes are the number one cause of death for teens; nearly 2/3 of those who perish were not using safety belts. Dietz and Watson is one of the largest preparers of premium deli meats and artisan cheeses offered at the finest supermarkets, including Price Chopper/Market 32, and neighborhood delis throughout the United States. Dietz and Watson is the Presenting Sponsor of Sean’ s Run and all of its associated year-round activities including Sean’s Run Weekend in 2017. School groups and youth organizations such as Scouts, 4-H, church groups and sports teams, may apply for up to $650 each to implement a Battle of the Belts seatbelt buckling contest and send teams to participate in the World Championship Battle of the Belts at the 16th Annual Sean’s Run Weekend, April 29 and 30, 2017 at Chatham High School. Instructions for youth groups and schools to submit a one-page application are available at www.SeansRun.com. Applications are due by December 1, 2016. Robert Pulda, Account Manager of Dietz and Watson, in announcing their sponsorship stated, “Dietz and Watson is proud to align itself with Sean’s Run. We believe that this outstanding event is absolutely having a very positive impact and we are quite confident that because of this effort by the entire community, lives are being saved. Dietz and Watson is a good and responsible neighbor and we are proud to be a part of such a community based effort.” Sean’s Run Weekend, voted as Columbia County’s Best Community Event-Spring for the past two years, focuses on the problems of underage drinking, impaired driving and teens’ lax use of seat belts. Last year 1,820 people registered to participate in the event’s many activities. The weekend’s Saturday activities in 2017 will include Jaime’s Race for People with Special Needs, a Zumbathon® and Bike Rides, featuring 10, 20 and 50-mile noncompetitive rides. Sunday’s activities include the 5K and Meghan’s Mile, the World Championship Battle of the Belts, a tribute to victims and survivors of drunk driving and a Prevention Education Expo. $208,640 has been contributed as grants and scholarships by Sean’s Run over the past 15 years thanks to generous sponsors and contributors. Over 125 programs that encourage safe driving have received grants from Sean’s Run and 100 college bound high school seniors have been awarded scholarships since the first event in 2002. The Battle of the Belts seatbelt buckling contest involves teams of four teens who run to a 4-door car and quickly get into their seats. They all buckle up, raise their hands in the air and a Referee shouts "Rotate!" They unbuckle, get out, run clockwise to the next seat, get in, and buckle up again. The team with the fastest time, after the 4th buckle, is declared the winner. There are awards for the fastest teams, for teams with the loudest cheering sections, best t-shirts and best team names. Sean’s Run was founded in 2002 following the tragic death of Sean Patrick French, a 17-year old Chatham High School junior, honor roll student, community volunteer and record-setting athlete who was killed on January 1, 2002, as a passenger on a drunk-driving car crash. This tragedy prompted the enactment of Sean’s Law on January 1, 2003 that requires the suspension of a license upon the first arrest of a 16 or 17 year old on drunken driving charges. New Presenting Sponsor for Sean’s Run Weekend Dietz and Watson’s sponsorship will specifically help underwrite the costs of two Sean’s Run initiatives: 1) providing cash grants to schools and youth groups to implement educational programs that combat underage drinking, impaired driving and lax use of seat belts by teenagers, and 2) awarding cash scholarships to outstanding high school seniors. Since 2002, Sean’s Run has raised and awarded $208,640 and the programs funded by Sean’s Run each year impact over 2,000 students.
Other activities of the Sean’s Run committee include the design and production of the World Championship Battle of the Belts, a fun interscholastic seatbelt bucking contest developed to change students’ behaviors and attitudes about use of seatbelts. The Prevention Education Expo at Sean’s Run Weekend provides young people with information to help them make safe and healthy choices as alternatives to underage drinking. Sean’s Run also co-sponsors the Annual Safety Tree Memorial, to remember victims of alcohol-involved car crashes, Child Restraint Car Seat Safety Checks and a safe driving class. Jeff French, General Chairman of the Sean’s Run Organizing Committee noted, “Having Dietz & Watson, a national company, recognize and support our work is a complement to our efforts and inspires us to grow the scale, scope and impact of the event. Dietz & Watson’s sponsorship will be turned into grants going to schools and youth groups to fund important educational programs that will impact over 2,000 young people in our region.”
Dietz & Watson is a family owned and operated business that is constantly pursuing more healthy recipes to suit a wide range of dietary needs. After four generations of family management, they are still passionate about what they do best—providing fresh and delicious deli products that are both good and good for you. Dietz & Watson uses only the highest quality hand-trimmed, lean beef, ham, turkey and chicken breasts and they never use artificial colors, flavors, fillers, extenders or MSG. In 1996, they started the “Dedicated To Your Healthier Lifestyle®” program—a collection of more than 60 delicious deli meats that exceed USDA, FDA and health organization standards for healthy eating. In 2015 the company was proud to introduce their Originals Line, featuring Organic Deli meats and Franks! Dietz and Watson is headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with facilities
This article was originally posted to the Chatham Courier web site on Wednesday, April 27, 2016 11:44 am | Updated: 12:28 pm, Wed Apr 27, 2016. Running for Sean, Running for Leah CHATHAM — The 15th annual Sean’s Run was a two-fold event. Not only did the weekend have the most registrants yet — 1,820 total — but it drew plenty of support for Chatham graduate and former Division I runner Leah Wightman, who couldn’t make it this year because she is getting ready for a bone marrow transplant. Yet somehow, she came in first in the 5K. Her brother, Ross, a junior at Iona College and also a Division I runner, had registered her name instead of his. So when he crossed the finish line at 16:37, it was her name marked as the winner of this year’s Sean’s Run.
Zach Neven/for Columbia-Greene Media Haley Madsen, who organized a Running for Leah T-shirt fundraiser, was the first woman to cross the finish line at 20:12. It “was a moving conclusion of the weekend … our biggest and best ever,” said Mark French, secretary of the committee and father of Sean Patrick French, the 17-year-old Chatham athlete was killed in a drunk driving accident on Jan. 1, 2002. On Saturday, there were 212 bicyclists, 53 Zumbathoners and five who ran the Super Saturday Run for Special Needs Kids. Sunday’s 5K and Meghan’s Mile had 1,550 registered runners and walkers. (Click on related link for more event winners.) “The event is embraced by the community and thanks to generous sponsors and supporters, we have been able to award over $208,000 in grants to schools to combat underage drinking and impaired driving and to encourage teens to use their seat belts and as scholarships,” French said. Before the run, U.S. Rep. Chris Gibson presented French and his wife, Cathy, with the Congressional Record of the resolution he presented in the U.S. House of Representatives on April 14. The congressman is a member of the Kinderhook Runners Club and has been participating in Sean’s Run for years. He finished with a time of 31:38. This year was dedicated to Christopher Stewart, a 17-year-old football captain from Shendendehowa, who was killed on Dec. 1, 2012, when a drunk driver slammed into his car. His parents, Mike and Regina, were the honorary starters of the 5K, French said. The Sean’s Run Committee was more than willing to include the Be the Match booth, organized by Katherine Behrens and Katie Kraham. The organization’s local representative was Joan Chelsen of Staten Island, Behrens said. “We are pleased that Sean’s Run Weekend was chosen by the friends and family of Leah Wightman to set up a Be the Match booth,” French said. “I believe we received between 68 and 71 fully complete applications,” Behrens said, adding that some are being reviewed to ensure the registrants are medically capable of donating. “Joan and I are both happy with the results, as many people came up to us to let us know that they had already registered online before the weekend,” she said. “What amazed us even more so was how people came down on Sunday just to register after seeing Leah’s story on the local news.” A booth was set up during Sean’s Run Weekend events, where the T-shirts Madsen had made could be picked up. Next to that booth on Sunday was a table where friends and family could leave well wishes on a canvas poster of Wightman, sign her pole vault — which she is retiring — and sign love notes on a “Love Letters” quilt made by Michelle Haner of Chatham. Wedding planner Lisa Light, who helped organize the wedding hope chest for Wightman and her fiancée, Bob Hennessey, was also collecting wedding gifts. Steve pointed out that, thanks to technology, Leah was at Sean’s Run. By the doors of the Chatham High School, a video camera and computer had been set up. A sign taped to the camera read: “Come wave to Leah!” Leading up to Sean’s Run, Wightman and Hennessey had been preparing for their rescheduled wedding, but now she is preparing for a transplant, her father said, adding that the doctors have decided to use a 2-year-old clinical trial and harvest her brother’s bone marrow and then transplant. On Monday, she was readmitted to the Roswell Park Cancer Institute to start chemotherapy and next week radiation. The wedding will be pushed back for now. The T-shirt fundraiser raised over $8,500, but Madsen is still taking orders so the final tally is not in, she reported on the Running for Leah Facebook page. Through the crowdfunding site YouCaring, Behrens has raised (as of Tuesday night) over $19,000, with an initial goal of reaching $20,000, but ultimately $35,000. You can donate at www.youcaring.com/leah-wightman-544747.
This article was originally written and posted to www.registerstar.com: Safety Tree lighting is a stark reminder COLUMBIA COUNTY — If you've wondered whether Columbia Memorial Hospital has continually forgotten to unplug the Christmas Tree on its Columbia Street lawn, at least it's caught your eye. The healthy blue spruce is known as the Safety Tree, and ever since 2010 it's been reminding passersby of the number of alcohol-related fatalities that have disrupted this community in that time. There were few dry eyes in the lobby of Columbia Memorial Hospital Friday afternoon after Michael and Regina Stewart had finished talking about their experience as parents of Christopher Stewart, 17, who was killed Dec. 1, 2012, when the car he was driving was hit by a car whose driver was intoxicated, high on marijuana, speeding, texting and driving the wrong way on the Northway. Among those present for the tree-lighting ceremony were event organizer and driving instructor Phil Abitabile, Columbia County District Attorney Paul Czajka, Greene County District Attorney Joseph Stanzione, Twin County Recovery Services Executive Director Beth Schuster, Hudson Mayor Tiffany Martin Hamilton, Hudson Common Council President Claudia DeStefano and Alderman Rick Rector, D-1st Ward, Columbia County Sheriff David Bartlett, Hudson Police Chief Ed Moore, Sean's Run organizers Mark, Cathy and Jeff French, Columbia County Clerk Holly Tanner, and representatives of U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, Sen. Kathy Marchione and Assemblyman Peter Lopez. Abitabile said the Safety Tree idea had been started by Doris Aiken with a tree at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady. He called it a "living billboard," on which the lights are changed from white to red when someone is killed in a drunk-driving accident. When he and a number of other people brought the idea to Columbia County, Callendar's Nursery donated the tree, and Cantele's Memorials donated the plaque and Colarusso's the rock that sit before the tree. One of the sponsors of the Safety Tree is Sean's Run, which memorializes the death of Sean French in an underage drunk driving accident in 2002. Sean's father Mark French said U.S. Rep. Chris Gibson, R,C,I-19, will present a Congressional resolution honoring Sean's Run and all the Sean's Run committee does to stop drunk driving and lax seat belt use among teens. Czajka said strict sentences deter people, and rehabilitation works well, but educational programs, like this one, have great effectiveness. "This is important for reminding people of what happens when you make a bad choice," said County Clerk Holly Tanner. "I appreciate the symbolism of the red bulb." Columbia County Sheriff David Bartlett said there has been some progress over the past year. He praised Stop DWI Coordinator Reginald Crowley, who "has funneled so much money back to our agencies." And he said a new event this year will the Sean's Run car seat detail. Stanzione said that in Greene County, any defendant charged with an alcohol-related incident will have to go to a victim-impact panel. "What an impact it's had on family and friends, as well as on the victim," he said. They had been doing one panel a year, with an average attendance of 25; last year they had three such panels, and averaged 70 people at each. Now on June 2, there will be a victim impact panel at the high school. "This is very important," he said. "High school students are just learning to drive. They think they're invincible; they need education about the dangers of drinking and driving." "I'm sure many of us in this room have been impacted personally (by drunk driving accidents)," said Hamilton. "The tree outside represents real people, not just statistics. It's a powerful message in the educational campaign. It's had a tremendous impact on all of us." DeStefano said she hoped that with more showcasing of things like this, "we can bring attention to how important this is." Moore said the county in the past has only had one drug recognition officer; now that has been increased to three. Police Commissioner Gary Graziano couldn't be at the ceremony, but sent a note praising the late Officer William Wrigley as "an excellent cop, loved by his community. He was a giant of a guy with a big heart. I think about him often; he was a terrific guy, polite beyond his years, a gentleman to all who met him." Michael Stewart said he and his wife welcome the chance to say anything about their son Christopher. "Whether it's Columbia County or Greene County, there are too many drunk and distracted drivers out there. It's a devastating pain for the families who have to go through it. We're fortunate we have schools and communities wiling to support us. Life can be taken so quickly from us. Christopher wasn't doing anything wrong." Stewart said he had been to a victim impact panel last week in Albany. "People kept coming in — there were an excess of 200 people. It makes you shake your head there are this many bad choices out there," he said. "We'll try to get stricter and tougher penalties." Regina Stewart said she has watched victim impact panels, but is not yet able to participate in them. But she and her husband talk to students, and it's different talking to 8th graders than to seniors, because of the different things they're doing and going through. "We use power points and show pictures of our son," she said. "You can talk about your son for as long as someone's willilng to listen. We got to know Sean (French) by reading the biographies on the Sean's Run site." Now Christopher's biography has been added to that site as well, Stewart said. "On the night of the crash, we had a drug recognition expert on the scene — it made a world of difference for us." "We have a love-hate relationship with things like this," Stewart said. "it's almost like a ball-and-chain is around your ankle — you can't believe this has happened to your life. It's coming with me one way or the other — carry it? drag it? We would never expect in a million years we would be involved in Sean's Run. Everyone knows someone; if you don't you're going to." Following the speeches, the crowd walked out to the tree. Two white bulbs were removed and replaced by red bulbs, for the two Columbia County people killed in drunk-driving accidents in 2014. Every year, the Sean's Run Committee chooses someone to dedicate the event to; this year it is dedicated to Christopher Stewart, and so Michael and Regina Stewart replaced a white bulb with a red bulb in memory of their son. Abitabile said this now makes a total of 18 red lights on the tree, nine each from Columbia and Greene counties, and six for Sean's Run Special Victims dedications. The tree lighting was the kickoff event of the 15th annual Sean's Run Weekend, which takes place April 23 and 24 at Chatham Fairgrounds and Chatham High School. The Safety Tree is sponsored by Taconic Driving School, Remove Intoxicated Drivers-USA, Columbia Memorial Hospital, Columbia County Stop DWI and Twin County Recovery Services. To reach reporter John Mason, call 518-828-1616, ext. 2500, or email jmason@registerstar.com |
Love of Running Scholarship – Olivia Katherine Oligny-Leggett, Ichabod Crane High School. Having applied to Johns Hopkins University, Georgetown University, Villanova University, and Tulane University, Olivia stated in her application that running has prepared her for success in college. As Captain of her team she has learned how to create and maintain a positive mindset “even when times are difficult.” She wrote, “The experience I have gained from being a part of the Track and Cross Country programs at my school are unparalleled by any other activities I participate in. All of the aspects that define my role as a team member, a captain, and a runner have helped me to develop into a strong, independent, and cooperative young person. I know that the beliefs and routines I have acquired over the past few years through running will guide me on my journey through college and the challenges that come with it.” Olivia has been a State Qualifier in the 3000m (11:38) and as a member of her 4X800 team (10:08) and was Captain when her XC team that won the sectionals. 
Good Sportsmanship Scholarship Winner – Andrew Drescher, Duanesburg Jr/Sr High School. Andrew wants to become a math teacher and is considering St. Thomas Aquinas College, St. Lawrence University, University at Buffalo, SUNY Albany, and Rogers Wesleyan. One of the best runners in Section II, having won 9 of 10 XC races last fall, he is always found waiting at the finish line to cheer on his teammates and competitors. “I believe every runner deserves accolades whether they are the first to cross the line or the last,” he stated in his application. “The beauty of cross country is that anyone can participate and be equal with everyone else.” Andrew has played four varsity sports and has been named MVP on both his soccer and XC teams. His senior-year XC season included winning several invitationals, winning his conference championship and he is the 2019 Section II XC champion. He took 6th at the NYS XC championship meet and was named 2019 Good Sportsmanship Awardee by the coaches of Section II. 
Sean Patrick French Memorial Scholarship Winner – Naveah Daigle-Vellon, Chatham Central High School. Naveah plans to begin her college career at Hudson Valley Community College and then go on to become a Special Education teacher. Throughout her high school years, in addition to participating in sports and keeping up with a rigorous academic schedule, she found time to give back to her community through community service. She has volunteered to help the Hudson Lady Hawks AAU 15U basketball team, assisted at the Morris Memorial Community Day, worked on the Community Garden at Crellin Park and is a volunteer referee for the Morris Memorial Youth Basketball program. At the same time, for the past three years she has volunteered at Barnwell Nursing Home leading activities with her grandfather and other residents of the home. She credits her interaction and experiences with a cousin who is on the autism spectrum for her compassion and sensitivity towards others. She stated that her cousin is her inspiration and the reason she wants to be a Special Education Teacher. Naveah, as a member of an AAU Basketball National Championship team, presented her individual winning trophy to a player on the losing team “Because it was a hard and aggressive game and they deserved to walk away with something.” Her outstanding qualities, community service and concern for others make her a role model for her peers. 
Love of Running Scholarship —
Good Sportsmanship Scholarship Winner—
Sean Patrick French Memorial Scholarship Winner —
