| On behalf of the Ecker family, we wish to thank all those who participated on May 20 during the Run For Pride benefit for Sgt. Mark Ecker. Thanks to those who came from communities throughout western Massachusetts and Connecticut and a special thanks to the sponsors and donors of gifts for the post-race raffle. Merchants and business owners across East Longmeadow and elsewhere were gracious in their support. Special thanks to Patricia Pryor of The Patricia Pryor Insurance Agency for her tireless efforts in gaining support from local businesses. Over 125 runners participated in the event. The sun finally found a way to show and all enjoyed a great afternoon for a great cause. We would also like to thank Hasbro, Inc., for hosting this event and their generous sponsorship, and the Springfield Harriers Club for providing the electronic timing for the race. Additionally, this event would not have come together without the leadership and guidance of Chief Doug Mellis and Sgt. Rick Bates of the East Longmeadow Police Department, as well as the support of the Town Board of Selectmen. Thank you to Reminder Publications for helping the Run For Pride efforts gain visibility and posting our event forms and information on www.thereminder.com website, and to Nancy Paris for her web talents. The communities and businesses served by The Reminder were those most influential to our success. If you could not join us and wish to purchase a Run For Pride shirt, kindly send $8 or any amount you are comfortable with to Run For Pride, P.O. Box 651, East Longmeadow, MA 01028. As always, all proceeds go directly to the Sgt. Mark Ecker II Benefit Fund at Berkshire Bank. Our thoughts and prayers continue for Mark Ecker and his family, as well as all those who have served our country in Iraq and Afghanistan. We owe each of them a debt of gratitude and thanks. Thank you for helping us give that special "thank you" to Mark Ecker during the Run For Pride. Kevin Brenker East Longmeadow |
