Letter to Editor:

On Sunday, Sept. 11, the Massena Fire Fighters hosted it’s first 9/11 Run to Remember 5k run.

The purpose for our run is to remember victims, honor the heroes of 9/11 and help support a wonderful local cause.

All race proceeds will benefit the Massena Permanent Firefighter’s “S.A.F.E. Home” Program and Fire Prevention Program.

The Massena community really stepped up for this event.

We had 156 registered participants and raise just over $4,000.

Our runners ranged from 10 to 79 years old, and as far away as Texas and Canada.

This shows us the spirit of Massena is still alive.

This event wouldn’t be able to happen without the hard work and support from Village of Massena Mayor, James Hidy, Village of Massena Police Department, New York State Police, Massena Emergency Volunteer Unit, Massena Volunteer Fire Department, Village of Massena D.P.W., New York State D.O.T., Mix 96.1’s Breakfast Brew, Massena Chamber of Commerce and the Massena Courier - Observer.

A special thanks has to go to Josie Hardy from Peak Sport Solutions. Without her, our run would still be in the thinking stages. For a first time event, she helped us surpass our wildest dreams.

I would also like to thank the Tarbell Management Group, Massena Elks Lodge, Massena Savings And Loan, Curran Renewable Energy, North County Savings Bank, Pepsi Of Ogdensburg, Dr. Carl Scruggs, DDS, Massena Amvets Post # 4, Mystic Rays Tanning Salon, State Farm - Tom Post & Pat Cromie Agency, A&J Embroidery, Massena Auto Mart, VFW Post # 1143, Dying Kings Riding Club, Boutot Auto Sales, Pinto, Mucenski, Hooper, VanHouse, & Co., Certified Public Accountants, Walgreens, Tony’s Canvas And Leather, Donaldson Funeral Home, Subway, Fidelis Care New York, Open Net Lounge, Hannaford, SeaComm Federal Credit Union, New Testament Church, Massena Rotary Club and Edge Of Town Auto for their donations to make this event happen.

Thanks again to everyone, and I hope to see you again next year.

Ken McGowan

President, Massena Permanent Fire Fighters