GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - Come May, rain or shine, the 501(c)3 non-profit organization, Parent Association Working for Students (PAWS), holds their annual “Run Around the Rice” 5K, 10K, and Kids Dash fundraiser event in Richvale, CA. In 2019, a strong storm had runners enjoying the course around a number of rice fields in pouring rain that seemed to make the event more fun and challenging. Last year, it was canceled, but this past Sunday, May 23, 2021, the weather was beautiful and the rice was just starting to show green poking out of the water for runners from all over the North State as they came to support the organization and get some exercise. 

This year’s event had over 300 people registered in support of Biggs Elementary School. Many supporters of all ages showed up to run or walk one of the events and learn a little bit about the rice industry along the way. 

Each event has a winner, and this year’s winners are: Charlie Shoemaker and Elizabeth Steward (10K event), and David Bumpus and Becky Llamas (5K event). It is unknown who won the Kids Dash event. 

PAWS was able to raise over $35,000 in sponsorships and registration fees. The proceeds that PAWS raises helps in a continued effort with providing chromebook computers for every student K-8th grades, helps provide funding for school wide incentive programs such as “Perfect Attendance”, “School Spirit Store” for “Students of the Month” and good citizenship. The proceeds also help to fund enrichment opportunities and activities like the Missoula Children’s theatre, Royal King Music and Dance Program, BES Chess Club, ASB activities, and STEAM night. 

A special thank you from PAWS to all the sponsors who have donated year in and out. And a special thank you to SunWest Milling who has been a sponsor every year and Shifflet Bros. Enterprises for the past four years.