Patterson thanks regional leaders for support of Brooksie Way

Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson thanked the regional leaders for their support of The Brooksie Way Half Marathon & 5k Race. Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel, Washtenaw Board of Commissioners Chairperson Conan Smith, Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano, and Detroit Mayor Dave Bing announced Tuesday that they put together a 10-member team for the 5k race and made financial contributions to The Brooksie Way Minigrants. This year's race will be held on Sunday, Sept. 30, beginning at 8 a.m. "I want to give a heartfelt 'thank you' to Bob, Dave, Mark, and Conan for their support of an event that is so important to me and to the quality of life in Oakland County," Patterson said. "We may not always agree on politics, but their support of The Brooksie Way shows just what good friends we are." The Brooksie Way Half Marathon is one of Oakland County's premier quality of life events. Patterson began The Brooksie Way to promote Oakland County and encourage people to become more physically active. Race proceeds, which are distributed through Brooksie Way Minigrants, support programs that encourage healthy and active lifestyles. Each year, race weekend kicks off with The Brooksie Way Fitness Expo held on the campus of Oakland University. The expo takes a holistic approach to reflect the vast array of vendors from different areas of health, fitness and wellness. The first race was held in October 2008 and was named in honor of the late Brooks Stuart Patterson, Patterson's son. For additional information, go to TheBrooksieWay.com. Published: Thu, Sep 27, 2012