5th Annual Run for Recovery Takes Place on September 16

ALBANY, NY (09/15/2008)(readMedia)--

**MEDIA ADVISORY**

New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS) Commissioner Karen M. Carpenter-Palumbo today announced that the 5th Annual Run for Recovery will take place on Tuesday, September 16, from 11 to 2 p.m., and will begin on the South Side of the Empire State Plaza by the Main Stage. More than 1,000 attendees are expected at the event, including a record number of 800 runners and walkers.

Governor David A. Paterson proclaimed September as Recovery Month in New York State, calling upon the people of New York to support this year's theme: "NYS Voices of Recovery: Real People, Real Stories."

The Run for Recovery celebrates the hope of recovery from addiction through healthy competition. Persons in recovery often speak of the importance of being supported by a team of people, and a relay race reinforces this concept. As in an individual's recovery, each team's ability to finish the race is dependent upon the labors and support of their teammates. The event is a fun and festive time with live entertainment, health exhibits and food.

The 2-mile relay race will be comprised of OASAS licensed treatment and prevention providers and New York State agencies. Providers have registered multiple teams which include staff and patients. Several State agencies participate each year and send several teams. Teams will be made up of four runners or walkers who each individually complete one lap (1/2 mile) around the reflecting pools of the Empire State Plaza.

The "Commissioner's Cup" will again be awarded to the fastest agency and fastest provider teams. In addition, there will be an award for "best team t-shirt."

Event Itinerary:

  • - 11 a.m. - Teams register
  • - 11:45 a.m. - Introduction of OASAS Talent Pool Candidates
  • - 12:00 p.m. - National Anthem
  • - 12:15 p.m. - Commissioner's welcome/race instructions
  • - 12:30 p.m. - Race begins
  • - 1:30 p.m. - Award Announcements
  • - 1:45 p.m. - Finish Line Party

New York's first-ever historical conference committed solely to recovery ends today, September 15, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Albany and is being co-sponsored by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Stories of Recovery Campaign was launched at the conference on September 14, to raise awareness and understanding by highlighting the stories of 10 New Yorkers who are living in recovery. A commemorative badge of honor was presented to these individuals. OASAS also launched an on-line submission service for anyone in recovery who wishes to share their story on the agency Web site: www.oasas.state.ny.us

5th Annual Recovery Fine Arts Festival is on display at the Empire State Plaza Concourse in Albany for the month of September. The festival showcases the achievement of artistic expression by persons in recovery and celebrates the benefits of recovery for individuals, families and communities. The Awards Dinner, displaying the winning art pieces, took place on September 14, at the conference.

Note to Editors and Producers: For TV media planning to do live remotes from the Plaza, please contact the OGS Public Affairs Office at: (518) 474-5987. Information regarding identification of the driver and vehicle will need to be provided.

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