Sponsorships Build for First Annual Fanwood 5K

The Fanwood Recreation Commission announced that it had gathered $5,200 from sponsors for the first annual Fanwood 5K and Family Fun Run, which will take place Oct. 24. Commission member Joe Valente, who made the announcement at the commission's meeting Tuesday night, said that he expects to receive more sponsorship money for the event.

Seven days after the Fun Run, Fanwood's Halloween celebrations will be held on a weekend rather than a weekday, for an additional cost of $606.48. The celebrations will be held Oct. 31, which falls on a Sunday this year. Members of the commission's Halloween Planning Committee pointed-out, however, that the extra cost could be slightly reduced if commission members pick-up the celebrations' donuts and cider themselves, rather than having the food delivered.

Commission chairperson Bruce Zakarin also announced that the commission will not hold a flea market at the Fanwood train station this year. The flea market would not generate enough revenue to justify the cost, Zakarin said.

The commission, however, did break even with its summer camp this year. Commission director Bob Budiansky said that summer camp registrations had brought in about $26,515, most of which went toward camp costs, including counselors' salaries and sports equipment. The Party in the Park movie series also nearly broke even, Budiansky said.

Usage of the building at LaGrande Park has also helped supplement the commission's budget. Two Zumba fitness instructors and a kickboxing instructor hold classes there, Budiansky said, and a yoga instructor has expressed interest in renting the space.

Overall, the commission has spent 59 percent of its budget, he said, with about $5,172 left in its balance. 

Those interested in renting Fanwood's park buildings, registering for one of the fitness classes or volunteering with the Fanwood Recreation Commission should call the commission at 908-370-7092, or visit its website at www.fanwoodrecreation.org/contact.