This past Saturday I got the chance to see my first “color run,” and I wasn’t disappointed.

As someone who likes to participate in the occasional cross-country race or 5-K, I had heard about color runs before. I knew they added a new dimension to the humdrum road race, by forcing the runners to get covered in colored powder or dye while they were running, but I had never gotten the chance to see one in person until Saturday.

It was quite a fun experience, even if I was kept busy wiping the camera lens off from the blasts of colored powder that filled the air in Poarch. I’m not sure who enjoyed the run more — those who were participating, or those who were throwing the powder in the competitors’ faces.

Plus, as I’m sure you’re aware, this event was even more impressive because of the good cause behind it. All of proceeds from the run will benefit the family of Denver Shuttlesworth, a 15-year-old who is a neuroblastoma cancer patient. Shuttlesworth even was able to participate in the run, with the help of a wheelchair and some volunteers who were there to push.

I’m not sure how much money was made to help Shuttlesworth’s family, but organizers told me that there were 293 runners Saturday. Each participant paid a registration fee of at least $20. You can do the math, and see that it was a wonderful event that helped a family and brought smiles to exercise fans of all ages.

Several people with the Boys & Girls Club told me that they hope the event will become an annual occasion, and I certainly hope so. It’s a unique experience for runners and spectators alike, and if the first one was able to draw 300 runners there’s no telling how much it might grow in the future.

I’ll just be sure to bring a handkerchief if I come to take photos at the next one.

• Speaking of meaningful events, I hope that everyone comes out and supports our veterans at the Memorial Day ceremony Monday morning.

Yes, Memorial Day is a holiday and we all enjoy the time off from school and work, but it will be special if we can spend one hour of that time thanking those who fought for our freedoms.

The ceremony starts at 9 a.m. in front of Atmore City Hall, and everyone is invited. Let’s show up and give these veterans the respect they deserve.

• Congratulations to the Class of 2014, who will be enjoying their graduation celebrations in the coming days. You have worked very hard to get to this point in your lives, and deserve all of the accolades.

However, remember that commencement is a beginning and not an end. Your life is beginning anew and you have the opportunity to make a positive impact on your community as an adult now. Make the most of that chance!