Program for young runners

Newton — The Fall 2009 Bears’ Youth Running Program will begin practice on Wednesday, Sept. 2 at 5 p.m. at Swartswood State Park. Entering its 14th year, The Bears program is open to children in fourth- through eighth-grades. Practices are held Mondays and Wednesdays from 5 to 6 p.m. at Swartswood Park through Thanksgiving. The program’s volunteer coaches work with children of all abilities. Through the sponsorship of the law office of Jeffrey S. Katz, the cost of the program is $25 per child for the entire season and includes a uniform, theme races and other special events. To register, call coach Laurie Gordon at 973-271-6624 or arrive at the first practice 15 minutes early to sign up your child.