ABOUT TOWN: 5K for the Stoughton Schools (And O'Donnell, Floro Running Marathon for a Cause)

THIRD ANNUAL 5K FUNDRAISER FOR THE SCHOOLS: Rosanna Kelleher and Chris Shannon recently got the OK from Selectmen to run their third annual fundraiser for the schools.

The first two, which included a 5K run and a Fun Day, starting at the Old Colony YMCA in Stoughton, raised thousands of dollars for Stoughton's five elementary schools. 

Kelleher told About Town that the goals are being expanded for this year's event, which will be held on April 27, 2013 at the YMCA.

"This year we are excited to be contributing some of our proceeds to funds set up in honor of Dave Wade and Shayla Lutz. We are trying to spearhead this event to include all of Stoughton’s Educational Systems. So, instead of just the elementary schools, we'll be aiding the middle school and high school, as well," she said. 

I will be emceeing the event again this year. We'll have details on how you can participate in this column in the near future.  But, save the date!

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O'DONNELL RUNNING MARATHON FOR CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL: Bobby O'Donnell, the son of Captain Bob O'Donnell of the Stoughton Fire Department, is running the 2013 Boston Marathon on April 15 to benefit Children's Hospital in Boston.

O'Connell, a cross country runner at St. Anselm College in New Hampshire, told About Town he received the running number through John Hancock, which prefers runners to raise $5,000 for their favorite charity. "I chose to run for the hospital because of my experience as an EMT, and I have seen them work miracles for so many families."

Bobby is an EMT for St. Anselm College Emergency Services. This will be his second Marathon. He ran (and finished) the 2011 Philadelphia Marathon. 

To help support Bobby O'Donnell (and Children's Hospital), go to www.crowdrise.com/bobbyodonnell. He really appreciates whatever Stoughton residents can do to help. Incidentally, Bobby is the grandson of the late Dr. Robert G. O'Donnell, for whom our middle school is named! 

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FLORO RUNNING MARATHON FOR LOCAL RESPITE CENTER: Meanwhile another runner with Stoughton ties, Stoughton native Nicole Floro, will be running in the 2013 Boston Marathon as well.

Floro, who played STOYAC Basketball, ran track and played varsity field hockey for Stoughton High, tells About Town, "I became involved with the Michael Lisnow Respite Center through my acceptance on their Marathon Team for the 2013 Boston Marathon.

"I am excited to run on their behalf as it is a remarkable organization that provides support for individuals with disabilities and their families," she continued.

"All monies raised will be used to support the many programs offered by the Respite Center, including adult daycare, after school care, summer camp, and weekend overnights. These programs provide support and social experiences for disabled individuals and simultaneously grant relief and respite for the family members who devote themselves to caring for their loved ones."

Floro ran her first Marathon last March in Washington, D.C. This year, she will be running with her two roommates from Providence College, where she graduated in 2009. 

Check out her fundraising page, http://www.razoo.com/story/Nicole-Floro-Marathoning-For-A-Cause.

Read more by clicking here.

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY: to Stoughton Veteran and unofficial photographer for Snyder's Stoughton and Stoughton Patch, Hank Herbowy.

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