What a difference a day makes!  Crofton Middle School's first Trek4Tech earned thousands for some greatly needed new technology.

The event included a 5K run and 1 mile fun walk for the community that took place on both the school's grounds and next door's Crofton Park on Saturday, June 5th.

Hundreds of participants and dozens of sponsors helped raise several thousands of dollars for the cause.

"We raised enough to double the amount of SmartBoards at the school," said hard working teacher and staff Technology coordinator Ty Bosnjak. "We have more students but don't have enough of the technology to meet all of their needs. Teachers even had to give up their own computers to accoommodate the needs. This is going to help tremendously."

Kudos were handed to parent coordinator Tracy Menendez who volunteered to head this new fundraising activity.

"If we could get this much support for our school, there was no way we could lose," she said. "I am so glad that everyone came out and had a good time."

Event sponsors included Scott Financial Services, Allison's Restaurant, Athletic Republic, Crofton Go-Kart Raceway, Dr. Antonio Barbaro, Crofton Orthodontics and Dentistry, KAM Aquatics Inc., Road ID, and the following families:  Owens, Menendez, Boston, Eliot, Kraus, Reed, Wallace, Gardner, Lynch, Bartlett, Bonnett, Philips, Malone, Monig, Perlata, Trumbule, Alpert, McDaniel, Van Mol, Galasso, Froelicher, and State Senator Ed Reilly.

Crofton Middle School PTSO President Roxanne McClanahan was appreciative of the turnout, with 30% of CMS staff coming on a Saturday and parents, students, and businesses donating time and energy. "What a great event that shows how the Crofton community can come together in a positive and enriching way for a great cause."

To view a photo, click on the thumbnail. Photos by Laura Tayman and Roxanne McClanahan.

 Captions - Left to Right

1) The Acey family was one of many who participated together.

2) Arundel High School athletic gear was on sale for future students.

3) Babysitting services were donated by students for families of runners.

4) Many cheered on those headed to the finish line.

5) Several supporters of the Crofton Regional Community Center briefed participants on their efforts.

6) Becky Gilbert of Crofton's Community United Methodist Church provded information on their youth group activities.

7) A Dash competition was held for those not worn out by the run.

8) CMS PTO Vice President Erika Cornett, left, and President Roxanne McClanahan, right, visit with Popham State Farm rep Meghan Patrick. The agency is sponsoring the school's upcoming DOGS program.

9) Students also donated facepainting services for little ones.

10) Whether walking or running, everyone enjoyed the exercise.

11) Greeters were on hand to congratulate runners at the finish line.

12) Ms. Greco and Ms. Tipper had their families out to support the cause.

13) Hairpainting was a big hit for participants.

14) Principal Sharon Hansen poses with Trek coordinator Tracy Menendez.

15) The Lanes prepare to finish their run together.

16) The Rainbow Runners pause for a pose after their run.

17) And they're off! The race begins.

18) Staff members Ty Bosnjak and MegCheetham work to get the final stats completed.

19) The Taylor family enjoyed the day together.

20) Winner Jim Brackett shows off his trophy.