Emcee rev. stanish stanley with seminary participants

The sparkling, sunny day on the beautiful campus of Concordia Seminary was perfect for the third annual 5K RUN/FUN WALK! With a 5K Run as an added feature, the event was enhanced by a lot more smiling faces. With over 140 registered, there were 120 event participants with 78 entered for the Run.

The numerous New Americans who joined in the event included several recently arrived Syrian refugees. From birth nations such as Ethiopia, Eritrea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Syria and Congo, these welcome participants made up nearly a third of the total. Though fewer in number, they proved to be strong competitors with 1st place going to Adi Seleman (age 16, Ethiopia). Seminary student Brian Muldowny came in second.

Third place finisher Kintale running in his socks

Kontale Tuka (Ethiopia, age 12) had trouble with his shoes coming untied, so he took them off and ran in his socks. He came in third. When asked if he planned to run again next year he said, “Yes, and for sure I’ll win.” Again, he is just 12 years old!

Many thanks are in order, including expressions of gratitude to:

Concordia Seminary, and especially the kind words of welcome offered by Provost, Dr. Jeff Kloha.
The New American Folk Dancers, under the direction of Diana Wolf, who provided some very well received song and dance entertainment.
The Walk/Run Committee including Chair, Harold Melser, as well as Rev. Stanish Stanley who also served as the event Emcee.
Jake Mohnke for his event experience, and the guidance he provided.

The third annual 5K Run/Fun Walk—a great event that provided both fun and fellowship in a Christ-centered setting.

By Diana Wolf with Rev. Al Buckman

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