Lions to unleash the fun during annual fun run/walk

(Seguin) -- You’re invited to take a walk or a run on the wild side with a few fellow Lions this weekend.

The Seguin Sunrise Lions Club is inviting all residents to its 4th Annual Springtime Fun Run/Walk along Walnut Springs Trail. The event is scheduled for this Saturday beginning at Walnut Springs Park and traveling to Seguin’s Park West.

Event Chair Marvel Maddox says the event is designed for either the serious runner or those looking for a calming walk through the woods over at Park West.

“You can just take your time. Every year, we usually have one or two families with strollers or you can leisurely walk to Park West and back. It’s not timed but we do give awards for the best 14th finish by any of our sponsors and we have a bunch of really good sponsors and so there are some people who get in front and take off and they are really racing for the best 14th finish. We also have an award for the top finisher overall and then we give an award for most participants. Everyone is welcome,” said Maddox.

Maddox thanks to community supporters, there is no fee to participate. Donations, however, will be accepted should participants wish to give.

“There is no participant fees. We will have a donation jar. Our sponsors have been wonderful and have covered all of our expenses. So, we are good on that end. But anybody that wants to donate (can). All the money, 100 percent will go to either scholarships or local social service agencies that we do sustaining health year after year or the Texas Lions Camp,” said Maddox.

Squirrel, continued.

“ mom or the dad, either one, will be out there and their child will be looking at it and then they’ll take pictures of it with their child standing beside it. One little girl was hugging it,” laughs Prince. “So, she liked it. And, I was like ‘awe, that’s kind of neat.’ When you get a hug, life is good. Other than ice cream, what else can be better?”

As the city looks to grow the number of squirrels around town, Prince encourages other businesses or organizations to also join in on the fun.

“You know, I’m surprised the other banks didn’t jump on it because I think it promotes a positive image for any business not just a bank but any business. And, was Joy. Joy and its colorful floral print can be found outside the Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church at 416 Dolle Ave. The fiberglass squirrel was unveiled to the public in mid-February. Seguin Main Street Officials say two more squirrels are slated for installation very soon. it shows that you like to have a little fun in life too and I thought this was a fun project. That would be what I would say. If you want to have a little fun and you want to promote your image, this is a good thing to do,” said Prince.

Adding to the fun will again be this year’s theme “I Survived the Lions Jungle Fun Run.” Maddox says a top prize will also be awarded to that person for Best Themed Costume.

“We had a lot of cute people come with their face painted with tiger ears or nose or whatever so we had a number of people that came out ready to do the Jungle Fun Run,” said Maddox.

Again, there will be awards for Top Finisher, Best 4 Team Sponsored Finish, Most Sponsored Participants, and Best Themed Costume.

Check-in is at 8 a.m. Saturday followed by the start time at 8:30 a.m. The distance is three miles to Park West and back to Walnut Springs Park in downtown Seguin.

The first commissioned squirrel to make its debut in town

The Seguin Squirrel Trail Program, which so far has 14 sponsored squirrels, is similar to public arts projects and programs visible in other cities. Examples include the horses in Amarillo or closer to home, the Mermaids in San Marcos.

Savor the Squirrel is located outside the front doors of Schertz Bank & Trust located at 203 N. State Hwy. 123.