Staff Report
Mason County Extra Edition
POINT PLEASANT, W.Va. – Ghosts, goblins and superheroes will be racing through Mothman’s home turf this Halloween, but there’s nothing to fear. It’s all for a good cause at the Monster Dash 5K Smash, benefiting the Mason County Animal Shelter.
The race begins at 9 a.m., this Saturday, Oct. 31, at the animal shelter on Fairground Road, with runners and walkers traveling a course through the nearby McClintic Wildlife Management Area, and the TNT area, before returning to the shelter for the finish. Register for the race at TriStateRacer.com.
Entry fees:
- Ages 14 and under: $20
- Ages 15 and older: $30
Age Groups:
- 14 and under
- 15–25
- 26–40
- 40+
Course information:
Paws & Effect
More than 70 participants have already registered for the Halloween-themed event, which is being organized by Paws & Effect, a local nonprofit with a mission to strengthen the lives of animals and the communities that care for them by organizing impactful fundraising events that support animal shelters and expand access to animal wellness education. These efforts are focused on community partnerships and compassion.
“We want to do this [the 5k race] to help the shelter, bring the community together and educate,” Lauren Billiter, from Paws and Effect, said.
Funding improvements
Proceeds from the Monster Dash will help fund improvements to the animal shelter’s outdoor facilities, particularly its dog play yards.
Shelter Director Denee Sidenstricker said improvements are already underway, including new fencing, gravel and play equipment for the dogs. Funds raised through the race will help continue that work.
“We are upgrading the dog play yard so the money will go towards continued improvements,” Sidenstricker said.
Depending on the amount raised, the shelter hopes to purchase two carports to provide shade and shelter in the outdoor play yards, along with concrete pads and benches. Three outdoor kennels also need renovations.
The event on Saturday will also provide an opportunity for visitors to learn more about the shelter and the animals in its care. Adoptions will be available during the event.
Costumes, coffee and treats
In keeping with the Halloween theme, participants are encouraged to wear appropriate costumes. A costume contest will recognize the best male, female and children’s costumes, with prize baskets featuring gift cards and other goodies.
Billiter and sister Jennifer Caldwell, also of Paws and Effect, along with help from close friends and family, and with monetary support form local sponsors, have helped pull the event together.
Race medals supplied by Siders Jewelers will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers in each age division.
The Calming Goat Cafe will also provide coffee at the finish line.
There are also several other businesses and individuals who have contributed to make the race happen and signs recognizing these sponsors have been printed and can also be found on the Paws and Effect Facebook page.
In addition, custom race t-shirts were designed and printed by the Mason County Career Center Graphic Design students.
Although the event benefits animals, organizers are asking participants and spectators to leave their own pets at home. Shelter dogs will be outside during the event, and organizers want to keep the environment safe and comfortable for them.
As for her message meant to encourage local folks to participate in the race, Billiter said, “I would like the community to participate not just by racing, but to spectate, cheer the racers on, visit the shelter and maybe get inspired to volunteer in some way.”
There’s still time to sign up and help fund improvements to the shelter. Registration closes at 8:45 a.m. on race day.
