BY SUSAN MCTIGUE
CORRESPONDENT
The Second Annual Mayor’s 5K Challenge run that began in Closter on Labor Day Weekend and finished in Haworth in October ended with a tree-planting ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 11. Closter Mayor John Glidden and Haworth Mayor John Smart went toe-to-toe with their teammates in this friendly competition that promoted fitness and wellness. Each ran with one borough employee and one resident to strive for the best combined overall times.
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The wager set by each mayor is a tree to be planted in the winning borough by the losing team. Last year Glidden’s team earned that prize and a tree now grows near the main entrance to Memorial Field on Harrington Avenue in Closter. The 2017 challenge was won by Haworth’s team, so a tree was planted by Glidden in the Terrace Street Park near St. Nicholas Avenue.
Smart explained that these trees “represent and celebrate friendship between the towns, along with strength and beauty that grows over time.” Since the ceremony also took place on Veterans Day, he pointed out that the boroughs’ veterans have provided a gift of freedom in these communities where residents can live out their dreams. “I give thanks twice for the tree and for the veterans who made these blessings possible,” said Smart.
He then introduced retired Air Force Capt. John Glidden, acknowledging his military service as well as his role as Closter’s mayor. Before sinking his tree-planting shovel into the ground, Glidden reminded those assembled that the original Armistice Day took place 99 years ago to mark the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918 when World War I officially ended. Despite losing this year’s challenge, Glidden admitted that the run is “lots of fun” and looks forward to next year’s race.
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Dr. Jeff Pavell, chief of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, originated the idea for the challenge. He spoke of the bravery of these public officials who competed and spent months training for the runs. “We celebrate the diversity of so many runners from numerous towns who represent the importance of getting fit and healthy.” At 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 28 in Haworth Borough Hall, Pavell will present checks to several non-profit organizations thanks to the proceeds from the Mayor’s Challenge. The public is invited to attend.
Photos by Murray Bass