Boy Scout's Cruiser Walk raises money for food bank

Staff report

NEW MIDDLETOWN

A local Boy Scout’s love of running helped him develop a project to attain the highest advancement rank.

Eric Grantonic, 15, of New Middletown decided to revamp the area’s “CROP Walk,” as part of a required project to attain his Eagle Scout award. He said only 15 people, including himself, participated in last year’s walk, which was in its eighth year.

The sophomore at Springfield High School has 70 participants signed up for Saturday’s Cruiser Classic 5K Run/Walk, featuring custom cars at every turn of the route. The event is officially timed and mapped by Boardman Second Sole.

Grantonic joined Boy Scout Troop 49 four years ago when he was 11.

“It’s an opportunity to break out of your shell and take on projects such as this,” Grantonic said.

He said his interest in running track and cross country in high school gave him the idea for the project. He hopes the run will continue on each year for everyone to enjoy.

Proceeds will go to the local food bank of Springfield Township Council of Community Churches. So far, he has raised roughly more than $1,000 from the event.

The race starts at Free Methodist Church, 9900 Youngstown-Pittsburgh Road, at 9 a.m. There will be food, drinks and custom cars at the church. Pre-registration is $15 and $20 for the day of the race.

Medals will be awarded to the top three men and women in each age groups: 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59 and 60 and older.

For information, send an email to cruiserclassic5k@gmail.com.