On a very warm and humid Saturday (July 26th) morning, young runners and families came out in full swing for the 2nd Annual Mini-Marathon in Lincoln Park’s Friendly Town. Danville’s Mayor Rickey Williams, Jr said it was yet another example of what everyone involved in Police Chief Christopher Yates’ revitalization of Friendly Town was able to accomplish.
AUDIO: Chief Yates has led a banner effort, and our community has once again stepped up and made something wonderful. Thanks to the late Scott Bennett, Senator Bennett, and the wonderful gift he got for us from and state, and then hundreds of volunteers, this is a premier place for Danville, and especially for our children.
(1st Picture) Police Chief Christopher Yates gives final instructions to junior high marathon runners. (2nd Picture) State Rep Brandun Schweizer assists runners at starting line. (3rd Picture) Seventh grader Roman Schweizer heads for the finish.
Among the junior high mini-marathon runners, Roman Schweizer was the winner. We caught up to him trying to catch his breath afterwards.
AUDIO: It’s pretty hot out there. The course was pretty tough. (At what point did you think, “hey, I don’t know if I can make it.” But you kept on going; you finished first. What did you do?) Just kept on pushing, didn’t give up.
While Athletic Education is running their soccer clinic, Danville Alderman Barry Johnson helps with a bicycle.
Police Chief Yates said his team of special event and year ’round volunteers make days like this possible.
AUDIO: There’s a lot of volunteers behind the scenes. They come out here every week doing work. You can see how beautiful it is out here. People doing edging; you know, they’re not employed with the city, they’re not employed to any social service or public assistance groups. They’re just members of our community; they come out here and do work.
Chief Yates says future special events at friendly town will be the AMBUCS event in August, another BOO BASH this fall, a possible Christmas event; and then the planned grand opening for the new classroom building next spring.
