By Carol Fisher-Linn
Here’s a chance for folks in the Ellicottville area to carry the Torch for Peace. The world’s largest peace torch relay runners will be arriving here the beginning of August.
Want Peace? Want Harmony? Do you find it hard to remain focused on the Common Good? Reach for a torch! Go ahead! Run with it!
The Sri Chinmoy Oneness Home Peace Run is a global torch relay that offers literally EVERYONE around the entire world a chance to express their longing for peace. Founded in 1987 the Peace Run has visited almost every country on earth – over 160 nations and territories – and touched the lives of millions of people, including people in Ellicottville, NY. The run relay teams are made up from runners from all over the world and from all walks of life, taking time off from their busy lives to join the team for a few days or weeks. Runners were hosted by Annie and Mike Widger in Ellicottville on their last run in 2024.
This year, the run (held every two years) is celebrating America’s 250th Independence anniversary with a massive 5-month, 10,000-mile relay across all 50 states. Don’t miss out on being part of it! Make amazing memories!
The Peace Run is the largest global grassroots torch relay of its kind. Annie and Mike shared the news that the Peace Run will once again cross Ellicottville’s borders at the beginning of August, this year. They will head in from Bradford and layover at Widger’s Camp on Boyce Hill Rd. The runners will spend the night and continue toward Buffalo August 3rd.
The runners would be most appreciative of nonperishable snacks for athletes, portable food/liquid donations, etc., to keep them running. Suggested were bottled water, energy drinks, energy/protein bars, crackers, fresh fruits and veggies, possibly even nice hand towels to keep the perspiration off their brows. Monetary donations would definitely help with gas for the vehicles accompanying the runners.
Donations (use your imaginations – fresh goods can always be used at the potluck, too) can be dropped off at the HoliMont Bike Park and The Inn at Holiday Valley. Thanks to both of them for their generosity.
Anyone can jump into the run at any point. If you want to catch up to them before they come into Ellicottville or when they head to Buffalo and carry the torch for a moment or for an extended time check the map to track them. A map can be found at Follow the Peace Run tracker on the Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run website peacerun.org
The Widgers will be hosting a potluck for the runners and for anyone who wants to join to meet and greet them on Sunday evening, August 2, 7pm at their cabin at Boyce Hill Road. Please feel free to join and Annie suggests bringing a vegetarian/vegan dish to pass (or meat dish if you wish for yourself). If a grill for your food is needed, check with Annie before bringing hot dogs or burgers to ensure one is hot and ready to go. Text Annie on Saturday or early Sunday for directions and to let her know you are coming. 716-378-9419.
Bottom line – if the world chaos has you down and you can’t find a peaceful way to speak your piece, your presence at this run will carry its own message. Join your neighbors and hold hands for peace. It’s a good thing.