On Sunday, Oct. 31, a very special event will be taking place on Long Island in the Massapequa Preserve. The Carman Foundation will be hosting its Fifth Annual Sleepy Hollow 5K Charity Run/Walk through the beautiful nature preserve.

The event will begin at 9:30 a.m. with a fun run for kids around Brady Park in Massapequa Park located off Lake Shore Drive. The main race/walk will begin at 10 a.m. The scenic race will begin in the preserve just north of Brady Park and wind through wooded areas of Massapequa and North Massapequa, passing by beautiful lakes, streams and tree-lined pathways. The event will conclude at Brady Park with an awards ceremony and refreshments.

"While the run is fast becoming a hallmark event on the calendars of hundreds of runners and walkers throughout the metropolitan area, the main focus centers upon raising funds for various charitable and philanthropic endeavors," said Race Director Gregory Carman. "This year's benefactor, as in previous years, is a most worthwhile organization known as the Little Village School."

According to Carman, this unique and tuition-free school, founded in 1969, has helped thousands of children with special needs increase their independence and self -esteem by providing them with the finest individual attention from a highly-trained faculty and support staff. The school, located at the site of the former Massapequa General Hospital, serves infants and young children with a wide range of developmental disabilities, including autism, neurological impairments, speech impairments and emotional and learning disorders.

Carman said the event being held on Halloween will provide some extra atmosphere. "Sleepy Hollow and Halloween go perfectly together," Carman said. "The hay bales, scarecrows, pumpkins and scarecrows throughout the course will only enhance the mood."

Most important, however, participants will know they have supported a vital organization. "It would be difficult to find a more worthwhile cause," concluded Carman.

Applications can be picked up at the Runner's Edge on Main Street in Farmingdale, online at www.GLIRC.org or www.Carmanfoundation.com or by calling 370-5512.