By Rikki Cason<br><a href="mailto:rikki.cason@journal-register.com">E-mail Rikki</a>
The Oak Orchard Neighborhood Association is looking for participants to run or waddle for a good cause.
The first Running of the Birds will be held March 20, in Point Breeze. The 5k run and waddle will begin at 11 a.m., with registration at 10 a.m. at Black North Inn, Ontario Street.
Organizer Lynne Menz said that the walk/run is OONA’s kick-off event and will launch many summer activities that are planned, including the sale of a lottery calendar.
Menz and OONA Vice President Bill Karcher said that the group originally wanted to hold a polar bear swim, like the annual Olcott event. Because of construction on the Oak Orchard Lighthouse, they had to change to a 5k run.
Organizers are also encouraging participants to dress the part. By wearing beaks, wings, feathers or other bird attire, Menz said that they want to welcome the snow birds back and celebrate the first day of spring.
“We hope this is an annual event,” Menz said.
Early Bird registration is $10 and must be received by Saturday. After that, the cost is $15; runners may register the day of the race. Those participating will receive a T-shirt and gift bag. All proceeds of the event will go to PAWS, 3371 Gaines Basin Road, Albion.
Prizes will be given for the male and female who come in first, second and third, and to the best bird costume.
After the run, participants and non-participants are welcome to a party at the Black North Inn. Music will be performed by The Blind Leading the Blind.
Displays will also be set up by many local groups. PAWS Shelter Coordinator Yvonne Waterhouse said that she will have photos of animals that are up for adoption, along with information and adoption applications. Gary Kent said that the Orleans County Bluebird Society will have bird boxes and speak about birds native to Orleans County.
The event will take place rain or shine. Contact Menz at lynne@oakorchard.org or Nola Goodrich-Kresse at ngoodrich@orleansny.com for more information or to register.
The Running of the Birds is presented by the OONA and the Healthy Communities Capacity Building Project of Orleans County.
Contact reporter Rikki Cason at 798-1400, ext. 8227.
