Peconic Landing’s Community Giveback Celebration on September 12 raised $20,350 for the Greenport Fire Department. Funds were contributed by participants of the 15th annual John May Mile and 5K Race, as well as community sponsors and local vendors.
Since inception in 2005, the annual John May Mile and 5K has raised more than $302,000 to support local first responders. According to the Greenport Fire Department, these funds go towards the purchase and maintenance of rescue equipment vital to keeping the volunteers safe during response efforts.
This year, approximately 100 participants showed up to either run the 5K or walk the John May Mile. The event attracted runners and walkers of all ages and abilities, with participants ranging in age from 9 to 100. Trevor Hayes, 15, of East Moriches was the first to complete the 5K race, finishing with a time of 16 minutes, 25.04 seconds. His sister Rose Hayes, 17, was the first female to cross the finish line at 19:57.78.
The annual race and walk are held in recognition of John M. May of Southold for his many contributions made to the Peconic Landing community and beyond. He served as Peconic Landing’s chair of the Board of Trustees for more than a decade, working to help the nonprofit provide a vibrant lifestyle and quality care for all of its members.
Many members of the May family were in attendance at this year’s event, including John’s son, Jack May, who placed second among all participants in the race, just two years after taking home the first-place medal in 2019.
As part of the awards ceremony, Peconic Landing President and CEO Robert J. Syron, alongside Suffolk County Legislator Al Krupski, Southold Town Supervisor Scott Russell, and Greenport Village Mayor George Hubbard Jr., presented the 2021 Older Americans Champion Award to Senator Anthony Palumbo of New York State Senate District 1. The annual award honored Senator Palumbo for his support and assistance in securing over 650 COVID-19 vaccinations for Peconic Landing members and other older adults on the East End in February.
In addition to the race and award presentations, the event also welcomed visitors interested in the several dozen local vendors who were in attendance, with offerings ranging from fresh produce and flowers, to handmade gifts, clothing, jewelry, art, and more. While shopping and sampling bites from local food trucks, guests enjoyed live music by Brian Cummings of Points East and Rick Hall and Glenn Jochum of the Earthtones, all of whom donated their time to the cause.
“All of us at Peconic Landing are incredibly touched by the camaraderie and support from our neighbors on the East End, not only this week but over the past eighteen months,” said Mr. Syron. “To honor John May, support our dedicated volunteer firefighters, recognize Senator Palumbo, and offer an opportunity for small local businesses to shine – we couldn’t have asked for a better day.”
Those wishing to make a donation may visit peconiclanding.org/giveback. All proceeds benefit the Greenport Fire Department.
Staff Writer on Sep 20, 2021