The 25th Laurel Memorial Run/Walk kicked off Friday morning in Jamestown. P-J photo by Eric Tichy

Celebrating 25 years, the annual Laurel Memorial Run/Walk kicked off Friday morning at McCrea Point Park in Jamestown.

Wayne and Elaine Hotelling of Silver Creek established the Laurel Memorial Run/Walk in honor of their oldest daughter, Laurel, who had special needs. Though she faced many challenges, Laurel lived a full and productive life thanks to the support she received from her family, her community and The Resource Center.

Friday’s kickoff event at the park included remarks from local elected officials.

“A testimony of what we accomplish in life is longevity and what we can leave behind, and Laurel definitely left behind a legacy for all of us to continue,” said County Executive PJ Wendel. “I just can’t say enough of what The Resource Center does. The Resource Center is just such a beacon for our county and our area.”

Denise Jones, executive director of The Resource Center, said the Laurel Run is “definitely the highlight of our year here.”

Pictured, from left, are Sheriff James Quattrone, Heather Courtney and Austin Mitchell, during the kick-off of the 25th Laurel Memorial Run/Walk. P-J photo by Eric Tichy

She said the events “embodies so much of who we are as an organization, who we support, our board members and those people that really have a heart for the organization. Our people today are in more of a challenge than we’ve been in many, many years.”

Regarding Laurel and her parents, Jones said, “She meant so much to us and touched all of our hearts, but also for creating this event 25 years ago that gives us the opportunity to advocate on behalf of Laurel, her friends, our staff and all the people that we support.”

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist noted that he was just 7 years old when the Laurel Run/Walk first started.

“I am very excited that you all can be here at McCrea Point today to kick this off to continue the work that Laurel’s family has started, that The Resource Center has continued to put forth year after year and really just support the work and the love that Laurel brought to this community so many years ago. This is an honor and testament to what continues to live on here in Jamestown, in Chautauqua County.”

State Assemblyman Andrew Goodell, R-Jamestown, said “Laurel Run means so much to so many people, and what I appreciate is the fact this was kicked off by Laurel’s parents, and 25 years later we’re still doing it, still honoring Laurel. Not only does that keep Laurel in our hearts and minds, but everyone that benefits from The Resource Center is highlighted today.”

Following the remarks, the flag relay began on West Eighth Street in Jamestown with Sheriff James Quattrone, Heather Courtney and Austin Mitchell carrying Laurel Run flags. The relay headed toward Dunkirk.

Friday’s events are a warm-up for the main Laurel Run/Walk activities, which take place Saturday in Silver Creek. Check-in and late registration begin at 7 a.m. in the village square. At 8:30, a 5-kilometer fitness walk and a 1-kilometer fun walk will begin, followed at 9:00 by an 8-kilometer running race.