Alpine Bear Run pays tribute to memory of teachers

By Laurie Gordon

SPARTA — Carol Wink was a courageous woman who battled a long-fought illness. Though she lost her fight against lymphoma on June 17, 2009.

Wink taught at the Sparta Alpine Elementary School for 18 years and was named Teacher of the Year in 2001. Her memory lives on each October with something called The Bear Run.

Last week, Wink was remembered along with other teachers in the district — Ginny Tino, John Marsico and Michael Legora — who have passed away when Alpine students ran to raise money for the American Cancer Society.

The run was started four years ago by phys ed teacher Cindy Reigstad, of Sparta. The children are given fund raising bags to decorate. They mention any loved ones who have died of, or are battling, cancer. Such words as "For you Nanna," and various pictures, make the bags decorating the hallway compelling.

"Funds raised go to The American Cancer Society," Reigstad said. The children run grouped by grades during the day around the back of the school. The runners are assisted by Kyle Markovich, of Jefferson, who is also a phys ed teacher at the school,

A bear mascot appeared during the race to encourage the kids and represent The Bear Run and The Alpine School Bears. Inside the costume was Officer Sue Parkes of the Sparta Police Department.

Parents, including Tracey Swenson, were on hand to watch and help out. A former Iron Man Triathlon competitor and nationally ranked triathlete, Swenson was delighted to help and watch her first grade twins participate. "It's a neat event for the whole school," she said.

"It's a really great annual tribute to the memory of Mrs. Wink and the other teachers," said school office secretary Denise Glew, "The staff and kids look forward to this every year."