October 25, 2001

New York State Recognizes the Chris Thater Memorial as the 2001 L. Richard Novelli Award Winner

Lake Placid, NY - The Chris Thater Memorial, promoted by the Broome County STOP-DWI Program to raise awareness about drunk driving, is the 2001 recipient of L. Richard Novelli Memorial Award. The award, presented annually by the New York State Association of Traffic Safety Boards and the New York State Association of STOP-DWI Coordinators recognizes outstanding traffic safety education and prevention programs in New York State.

James F. May, Broome County STOP-DWI Coordinator and promoter of the Chris Thater Memorial accepted the award on behalf of Carl and Lucy Thater. May founded the race in honor of their son Chris, a cycling enthusiast, who was killed by a drunk driver. The Chris Thater Memorial, which marked its 18th year in 2001, has become one of the premier cycling events in the United States and part of the Pro Cycling Tour. The event also features a world class 5K Run, In-line Skating, a large expo and a youth sports festival that includes a basketball tourney, volleyball competition, bicycle clinics and a swimming meet.

In presenting the award at New York State's Traffic Safety Conference Bill Burkhard, STOP-DWI Association spokesperson said "The Chris Thater Memorial is just another example of the excellent tradition of programming that Jim May and his staff have developed. Broome County is the absolute best at using sports and other non-alcohol related activities to get the message out about alternatives to drunk driving. We are pleased to present this award in Chris Thater's name and to honor his memory and his family."

James F. May, Broome County STOP-DWI Coordinator, said "It is a honor to accept this award on behalf of Chris' parents. As a friend of Chris' I tried to take this terrible tragedy and turn it into something positive for his family, friends and the community. Broome County STOP-DWI is very proud to promote this event, but the growth and success of the Chris Thater Memorial is due largely to the tremendous support it receives from our community and the event's sponsors. The Chris Thater Memorial has become a real asset in Broome County's effort to combat drunk driving."

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