PARSIPPANY — The Lake Hiawatha School PTA organized their first 3K Rainbow Run on Friday, September 25 at Veteran’s Memorial Park on Route 46, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of 350 including students, family and friends, along with teachers and administrators.
Lake Hiawatha School PTA’s elected President, Paola Rodriguez, was one of the principal organizers. She said, “We are thrilled with the turnout. It was such a fun event! I really think this exemplifies the role of the PTA—building community connections and promoting wholesome, family friendly activities.” She went on to note her appreciation for the parent volunteers who assisted in planning and executing the event, extending special thanks to the event organizers, Bernadette Kopec and Tara Voto.
The event began with a ribbon-cutting performed by Mayor James Barberio. Volunteers staffed stations along the perimeter of the paved path, liberally dousing runners and walkers with colors that showed vividly against the white t-shirts provided to participants. Each walker also received a string bag that included coupons and a bottle of water.
The event was not timed, but winners emerged in the form of kids’ smiling faces and their multicolored hair and clothes, which they showed off like trophies. Refreshments were available onsite and the Kona Ice Truck was very popular among the students. A DJ was on hand, who helped pump up the crowd with upbeat music throughout the evening.
Funds raised go directly to support student programs. The Lake Hiawatha PTA finances all of the school’s assembly programs and the K-5 field trips. Beyond individual donations, the following local companies supported the school: Applebee’s, Bow Tie Cinemas, Caggiano Orthodontics, Cifaldi Construction, Councilman Michael dePierro, D&B Chinese Restaurant, DDV Mechanical, Houlihan’s, IHOP, Jeremiah’s, John Christian Entertainment, Lavorgna Electric, Rauchberg Dental, Sushi Kuu Restaurant, Stop & Shop, Towne Tavern and Valentino’s Pizza.
