Runner Dedicates Race to Raising Funds for Pfeiffer's Daughter

An Edison resident has dedicated his participation in a Labor Day 5k race to the memory of firefighter Jim Pfeiffer.

Hal Smolanoff, a friend of firefighters union president Mike Sawicki, is looking to raise funds for a scholarship fund for Pfeiffer's one-year-old daughter, Carly. He has created a website through an online donation service for people to donate for the race.

Smolanoff will be running the Jimmy D Memorial 5K in New Brunswick on Sunday Sept. 5. With the run dedicated to the memory of a firefighter, he said it seemed appropriate to dedicate his participation to Pfeiffer's memory.

"I just wanted to help," Smolanoff said in an email interview. "I coincidentally was running a memorial race for a fireman, and thought it was appropriate. I have three kids myself, and couldn't imagine what his family is going through. My heart went out to them."

Pfeiffer, a third generation Westfield firefighter who was recognized nationally for his heroics, died Sunday following a freak accident at his Mountainside home. The FMBA has created a scholarship fund to benefit Pfeiffer's daughter.

Donations to the Carly Pfeiffer Fund can be sent c/o the Firemen's Mutual Benevolent Association at 405 North Avenue West, Westfield, NJ 07090. Donation as part of Smolanoff's race can be made online at this website.