Walk n’ Roll-a-Thon Runs Smoothly

Manhattan, IL: Runners came out on Sunday, April 29th to support the Les Turner/ALS  Foundation and the Field of Dreams, a multipurpose sports field designed for individuals with disabilities at the Baker-Koren Round Barn Farm in Manhattan. Hosted by Homestar Bank & Financial Services, the Manhattan Park District, and Lincolnway Special Recreation Association the event saw over 95 people pledge support and came out to jog, walk, run, and roll.

The event took place on a wheelchair friendly 5k track that started and ended at Homestar Bank at 25640 South Gougar Road in Manhattan. The Manhattan Police cordoned off the roads as participants made their way down Gougar and into adjoining neighborhoods. Runners were treated to a light breakfast before the run and after opportunities like raffles, chicken scratch bingo, and games. The Manhattan Fire Department and the Manhattan Police Department also played the LWSRA’s Flyers in a wheelchair softball game to show their support of the event.

“I was really happy with the great turnout. It is always amazing to see people in the community come out to support such an important and meaningful cause.” stated Rachel YellowEyes,   Special Events Coordinator, Manhattan Park District. “We want to thank all sponsors and participants that made this possible and we cannot wait to begin construction on the Field of Dreams.”

The 4th Annual Walk n’ Roll-a-Thon profited over $4,000 this year. Special thank you to our sponsors; Double D. Construction, Absolute Vision Care, M. Gingerich, Gereaux & Associates, Manhattan Dental Care, Patricia Lucas of LPL Financial, HomeStar Bank & Financial Services, Larry Walsh Will County Executive, Superior Tire & Auto, T.J. Lambrecht Construction, Inc., New Lenox Village Printery, Kids Country Child Care, Feil Water, and Wallace Entertainment.

The Manhattan Park District’s next event will be held on June 23-24 from 10:00 am- 4:00 pm at the Baker-Koren Round Barn Farm.  Come experience a piece of American History at our Days of Old, “Battle of Shiloh!” The event features 150 infantry, cavalry, and artillery re-enactors, as well as musicians, live horses, sutlers, medical personnel and civilians.  Visit with President and Mary Todd Lincoln.  View booming cannons and ongoing drills.  There will be many kids’ activities as well as Civil War era shopping such as handmade soaps, period clothing and toys.  Manhattan Days of Old will prove to be a nostalgic portrayal of the atmosphere of days gone by.  It’s a weekend you won’t want to miss! For more information visit www.manhattanparkdistrict.com. 

LWSRA provides social and recreational opportunities for individuals with special needs through the park districts of Mokena, Frankfort, New Lenox, Peotone, and Manhattan. They are currently planning free community events called Park Parties on Monday’s in May. More information can be found by calling (815) 464 - 2811 or by going online at www.lwsra.org.