Commemorating the 4th Annual Riggie Run, Walk & Riggiefest, to be held on October 11, 2026

Assembly Resolution No. 1540

BY: M. of A. Buttenschon

        COMMEMORATING  the  4th  Annual Riggie Run, Walk &
        Riggiefest, to be held on October 11, 2026

  WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize  and
commend  those  events  which  strengthen  communities,  celebrate local
traditions, and advance worthy charitable causes; and

  WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and  in  full  accord  with  its
long-standing  traditions,  this  Legislative  Body  is  justly proud to
commemorate the 4th Annual Riggie Run, Walk & Riggiefest, to be held  on
Sunday,  October  11, 2026, at the campus of SUNY Polytechnic Institute;
and

  WHEREAS, Hosted by Sitrin Health Care Center,  the  Riggie  Run  has
quickly   become  one  of  the  Mohawk  Valley's  most  distinctive  and
anticipated  community  events,  bringing  together  runners,   walkers,
families,  veterans,  local  businesses,  and residents in support of an
important mission; and

  WHEREAS, The  event  serves  as  a  major  fundraiser  for  Sitrin's
Military Program, which provides comprehensive and complimentary care to
post-9/11  veterans  and  service  members  facing  challenges  such  as
post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain  injuries,  depression,  suicidal
ideations, and other combat-related conditions; and

  WHEREAS,  Through  innovative treatment programs and community-based
initiatives,  Sitrin's  Military  Program  helps  veterans  and  service
members  heal,  reconnect,  and successfully transition to civilian life
while fostering camaraderie and support among those who have served  our
Nation; and

  WHEREAS, The 4th Annual Riggie Run, Walk & Riggiefest will feature a
5K  Run,  5K  Riggie Challenge, 5K Wheelchair Race, 5K Wheelchair Riggie
Challenge, 2-Mile Walk, and a 1-Mile Kids Run,  providing  opportunities
for  participants  of  all  ages  and  abilities  to  take  part in this
meaningful event; and

  WHEREAS, A hallmark of the event is the  beloved  Riggie  Challenge,
which   celebrates   the  Mohawk  Valley's  rich  culinary  heritage  by
challenging participants to enjoy  a  serving  of  the  region's  famous
chicken riggies during the race; and

  WHEREAS,   Following   the  race,  local  restaurants  and  culinary
establishments will gather for the annual Riggiefest,  showcasing  their
own  interpretations  of  the iconic Utica dish and further highlighting
the area's vibrant culture, creativity, and sense of community; and

  WHEREAS, The Riggie Run, Walk & Riggiefest not only promotes health,
fitness, and fellowship, but also serves as a powerful reminder  of  the
community's  commitment  to  honoring  and  supporting the brave men and
women who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States; and

  WHEREAS, The continued success and growth of this event reflects the
generosity  of  sponsors,  volunteers,  organizers,  participants,   and
community  members  whose dedication has helped establish the Riggie Run
as a signature Mohawk Valley tradition; now, therefore, be it

  RESOLVED,  That  this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 4th Annual Riggie Run, Walk & Riggiefest, applauding its
celebration of  local  heritage,  promotion  of  community  spirit,  and
steadfast support for veterans and service members; and be it further

  RESOLVED,  That  copies  of  this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the organizers of the  4th  Annual  Riggie  Run,  Walk  &
Riggiefest.