Dexter Runners Plan 'Tornado 5K' in Conjunction with 1-Year Anniversary of Storm

A year after a powerful EF3 tornado wreaked havoc in parts of the Dexter community, residents will stand together in tribute to local nonprofit groups during the first Dexter Tornado Run/Walk.

The event will take place March 15 at Hudson Mills Metropark, and features prize giveaways, music, entertainment, and a 5K run.

"Immediately after the tornado, the community and surrounding communities came together to put the pieces back together," event co-chairman Bob Jazwinski said. "This is one way to give back to those groups who helped out."

The Jazwinski's home in Dexter Township was destroyed during the tornado. In the weeks and months following the storm, Jazwinski said help came pouring in from all over Michigan.

"It was just overwhelming," he said.

Registration for the 5K is currently underway. The cost is $25 through March 1, or $35 after March 1. The fee includes a Dexter Tornado Run T-shirt and a ticket for a drawing to win a free Jazz Running summer camp enrollment ($395 value). Other raffle prizes include Huron-Clinton Metropark passes, Running Fit gift cards, and Women in Motion accessories.

Trophies will be awarded for the top three finishers in various age brackets, including: 10 and under, 11-14, 15–19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80-89, 90 and up. Glow sticks, coffee mugs, or beer glasses will be given to all participants.

Proceeds from the registration fee will go to Faith in Action, Hudson Mills Metropark, and Poured-Out.org or the Dexter Knights of Columbus.

Registration forms are available to download at jazzrunning.com.