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There is still time to sign up for the Dec. 5 afternoon “Run 4 the Future-5K Walk/Run,” a family-fun event unique in its timing and the program it benefits, State Attorney Phil Archer said today. Archer is serving as the Race Marshall.

The run starts at 4 p.m. at Wickham Park’s Main Pavilion on the Eastern Florida State College, Melbourne Campus. The $25 early registration fee earns runners and walkers a T-shirt, BBQ dinner, and medals for placing in specific divisions.

The charity run/walk benefits the Take Stock in Children Program, a drop-out prevention, mentoring and scholarship program for deserving students in Brevard Public Schools. State Attorney Archer serves on the board for the program and said that all the proceeds from the race go towards the scholarships.

“Students selected for this program sign contracts requiring good grades, good behavior, community service, and mentoring throughout their school time. Help with the cost of college and positive role modeling means an important return for our community—model citizens,” Archer said.

While medals and bragging rights come with the most fleet-footed participants, entire families are encouraged to participate, Archer said, adding that last year they even had baby strollers in the race.

Early Registration ends Dec.4. You may register on-line at www.tsicrun4thefuture.com or by mailing a completed registration form to the program’s foundation office (the address is on the registration form). On Dec 4, you may register from 10 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. at Running Zone, 3696 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne. Running Zone is managing the race. Or, you may pay $30 per entry the day of the race at 4 p.m. at the park.

Cash prizes are also being awarded to the Brevard public school with the most participants in the race.

“But best of all, guess who is going to start the race? Santa Claus!! Here is your opportunity to prove in person that you have been good all year. See you there!” Archer said.

Other perks include:

• Over 100 awards given to the top three finishers in over 16 categories
• Schools will also have their own student participation challenge.
• Evening Race
• Awesome Barbecue after race
• Awesome Race Packets

Santa congratulates a father-daughter team crossing the finish line!