By Natalie MAIER

Glendale NewPress and Glendale Adventist Medical Center have partnered to bring the sixth annual Downtown Dash to Brand Boulevard on March 10. Starting in front of the Alex Theatre, the 5K run/walk and will race through the Americana and then back up Brand.

All proceeds from the dash will go toward GAMC Stroke Services, which gives lectures and provides education and information to the community regarding strokes.

According to the GAMC, four years ago the center was named the first certified advanced primary stroke center in the San Fernando Valley. The center is one of 20 certified advanced primary stroke centers in Los Angeles County and the only one covering the Glendale area.

Strokes are the third leading cause of death in the Los Angeles County, and the fourth leading cause of death in the United States, according to the County of Los Angeles Dept. of Health Services Public Health and the National Stroke Assn. Approximately 133,000 people die every year from a stroke. On average, that’s about one death every four minutes.

“The Dash is an event that is meant to create awareness of stroke symptoms and how to prevent them,” said Media Consultant Alicia Gonzalez. “It’s a fun atmosphere where families get together and they bring their children. It’s a fun way to bring attention to a very serious disease.”

The money that was raised from last year’s dash helped to purchase a stroke education mobile unit that will be in operation within the next few months. It will circulate throughout the community to educate residents about the signs and symptoms of a stroke.

GAMC hopes to raise $50,000 from the Downtown Dash this year, $30,000 from sponsorships and $20,000 from registration.

A medal will be presented to everyone who crosses the finish line, as well as awards presented to the first three finishers in each age category.

The Glendale NewsPress, Massage Envy, Genentech, Virgil’s Hardware, Home & Garden Center, Glendale Management Association, CV Weekly and Los Angeles Federal Credit Union are just of a few of this year’s sponsors.

Registration is $30 until March 1, and then the price will increase to $40. Registration begins at 7 a.m. with opening ceremonies at 8:20 a.m.

The Alex Theatre is located at 216 N. Brand Blvd. in Glendale.

For more information and to register for the Downtown Dash, visit www.glendaleadventist.com/dash or call (818) 409-8100.

  Natalie MAIER