To the editor:

With the 2012 holiday season upon us, we at Go Run! want to inform the community that we will not be hosting the 1-mile/5K family friendly Solstice Run this year.

We very much appreciate the runners, volunteers and sponsors who have consistently participated and supported the event over the years. Last December marked the 10th annual event (started by Island Fitness in its infancy), and the fourth year with Go Run! at the helm.

The decision not to continue what has become an annual tradition for many was not made lightly.

Go Run! is a small, island-based nonprofit organization working to enhance the lives of girls physically, emotionally and socially. We engage fifth- and sixth-grade girls in running-related activities as a means of promoting positive self-esteem, friendship and a healthy lifestyle through goal-setting, adult mentoring and leadership opportunities.

Historically, the Solstice Run has served the dual purpose of being a culminating event for our fall program as well as a major annual fundraiser.

We have found, however, that organizing a successful running event in the heart of Winslow during the holiday season has required significant time, energy and resources at a time of year when all are in limited supply.

For the time being, if you wish to donate to our organization, we encourage you to take part in One Call for All’s red envelope campaign.

We look forward to continued community involvement in the years ahead. And, for those in search of an alternate running outlet, there are still plenty of local seasonal races out there!

LISA TIMMINS

On behalf of the board of Go Run!

Bainbridge Island