Joe Manfreda Dream Dash to run on Roseville streets May 11

ROSEVILLE — Runners, walkers, dogs, and everyone in between will be hitting the streets of Roseville May 11 as the city remembers one of its own in the ninth annual Roseville Community Schools Scholarship Foundation Joe Manfreda Dream Dash.

First taking place in 2014, the event was renamed after Roseville High School student Joe Manfreda, who passed away in January of 2015. Manfreda took part in the first-ever dream dash event in 2014.

A three-sport athlete in wrestling, cross country, and track and field for the Panthers, Manfreda was active throughout high school as an athlete and as an honor student.

“Students just said he was that kind of friend, that it just felt good to be around him,” Teresa Tomala, the Roseville Community Schools special education director and president of the scholarship foundation, said. “It was definitely tragic when it had happened. I think it’s cool we’re able to remember him in that way. Hopefully he’s looking down and happy that he’s still a part of the community.”

Family members, friends and former classmates will be a few of the 200 runners on average who compete in the annual event designed to raise scholarship money for Roseville High School students looking to further their education.

Last year, the scholarship foundation raised $4,300 and was able to provide four scholarships to students.

The event, which has the option for attendees to walk/run in the 5K or the 1-mile, will begin at Roseville High School, weave through the adjacent neighborhoods, complete two laps around Eastland Middle School, and finally finish back at the high school.

Runners of all ages make their way out in support, including World War II veteran Don Clark, who personally knew Manfreda and is a regular in the event each year.

“It’s just amazing at 97 years old and (he’s) still coming out to support us,” Tomala said.

The event organizers have been grateful for its sponsorship support from local businesses such as Jazzercise in Fraser; Freers, Freers, and Freers Law Firm in Fraser, Highway Auto Parts in Roseville, Serra Buick GMC in Rochester Hills, Concetti Interior Design Strategy Studio in Detroit, Ray Electric in Sterling Heights, and the Eastpointe-Roseville Chamber of Commerce.

Participants will receive an event T-shirt, official timing and can enter to win in a prize raffle. Registration will begin at 9 a.m. with the race set to start at 10 a.m.

For more information on pricing and registration, visit eastsideracingcompany.com or contact Roseville Community Schools at (586) 445-5505.

Pricing is $30 for adults and $20 for ages 18 and under, but prices increase by $5 if paid on race day. Register by April 26th to receive an event T-shirt. Donations are also welcomed.