Editors’ Choice
Step Up for Colleen
Andover
This annual 5K walk/run takes place every spring to honor Colleen Ritzer, the Danvers High School teacher who was murdered in 2013. The organizers aim to create the kind of community and goodwill Ritzer cultivated in her life. Proceeds from the event benefit a scholarship fund that gives money to students from Andover and Danvers who intend to pursue degrees in education.
Andover, 978-376-2493, stepupforcolleen.com
Readers’ Choice
Jamaco River Run
Merrimac
The event starts with a 1K kids’ fun run, which is followed by a 5K walk/run, all to raise money for local youth sports. But what distinguishes the Jamaco River Run is the party: three hours of food, beer, and live music after the race. Oh, and the name? “Jamaco” was the name Merrimac went by back in the 1600s.
Merrimac, jamacoriverrun.com