At the First Annual Celebrate Community 5K Run in Alexandria, Herndon attorney Doug Landau managed to stay at the front, finish in the top 10 men, and take home the “Over 50” prize in under 21 minutes. While the event took place at the United States Patent & Trademark Office (“PTO”) off Telegraph Road and Eisenhower, the volunteers were from Congregation Agudas Achim. Despite frigid temperatures, runners were able to warm up INSIDE the spacious PTO. For a first time race, it was extremely well coordinated, with a bag drop, DJ, food, a fast out-and-back USAT&F certified course and computer chip timing. Potomac River Running supplied the awards, with results posted online.

Agudas Achim began its 100th birthday celebration with this special event to support service organizations and “to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s memory and his legacy as we come together each year to serve our neighbors and our communities.” Rabbi Jack Moline served as both starter and Master of Ceremonies, and his shtick could work just as well in the Catskills. The Celebrate Community 5K & 1K Fun Run/Walk brought together congregants, neighbors, friends, family, and the community at large. A portion of the proceeds from the run went to ALIVE! (ALexandrians InVolved Ecumenically!), a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization.