Newsworthy: Half Marathon Highlights Hometown Pride

If you attended the Southwest Half Marathon last Sunday you were likely to hear the voice of Palos Heights Ald. Jeff Prestinario through the loud speaker. Prestinario, along with owner Mel Diab, has organized the event since its inception five years ago. 

Prestinatio, chair of the Parks and Recreation Committee, also plays a key role in working with volunteers on the Classic Car Event, Fourth of July Parade, Adopt-A-Pot and the Farmers Market.

This year's half marathon drew almost 2,000 runners and thousands of supporters to Palos Heights and Palos Park. This year's race raised about $25,000 for charities including the Southwest Special Recreation Association, the American Cancer Society for Prostate Cancer and Lake Katherine Nature Center.

Prestinario and Diab joined forces six years ago to bring a high caliber racing event to the city. This year almost 300 volunteers worked together to welcome runners from all over the Chicago area.  

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