In July 2009, 19 year old Matt Scarpati was cycling on the Wantagh State Bike Path. Matt was struck and killed by a drunk driver, who left the Wantagh State Parkway at speeds estimated to be between 85-100 mph. In the aftermath of this tragedy, the Scarpati family, friends, complete strangers and government officials were able to secure the installation of 4.5 miles of guard rails south of Merrick Road to the parking lot entrance near the Nikon Theater. These guard rails now protect the public, who are out for recreation from the motorists on the Wantagh State Parkway and vice versa. In November 2013 the ghost bike presented by Matt's friends, translated into a bonze sculpture of a cyclist with his bike was installed and unvelied in Cedar Creek Park in a private/public partnership.
Tomorrow is not promised. Please join us for a 5K run/walk through Cedar Creek Park to Celebrate Life. Proceeds will benefit the Miles for Matt Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) organization. Timing and results will be probided by www.justfinish.net. You may obtain a pdf application to register fr the run/walk from www.glirc.org. For more details please contact Lynn Scarpati at 631-662-5415.
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