Sponsors, Runners Needed for McVey 5K

George H. McVey Elementary School is seeking sponsors and runners for its first annual “McVey 5K” and 1-mile Fun Run, to be held Oct. 27.

The "Run Against Drugs 5k Run and 1 Mile Fun Run" will benefit the Long Island Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependence and will culminate McVey’s annual Red Ribbon/Wellness Week.

McVey physical education teacher Michael Simone and social worker Theresa Arnone are organizing the inaugural race.

"I personally wanted to organize this great event because of my passion for the East Meadow community," Simone stated in a letter to local merchants. "I envision this run event to be a great way to bring the community together to encourage and promote a healthy lifestyle while raising money for a great cause."

The 3.1 mile race will start on school grounds on Devon Street, loop around the building on residential streets, head south on Prospect Avenue towards East Meadow Avenue, before turning south towards the finish line on Franklin Avenue.

The 1-Mile Fun Run begins on Franklin Avenue and loops around to end on the school’s playing fields. An inflatable bounce house will be provided for the kids thanks to Party Pieces Inc.

Professional timing to be done by Island Timing on a certified course.

5K Race fees are $25 the night before and day of race or $22 postmarked before Oct. 25 and $15 for East Meadow school district students ($20 day of the race).

One-mile Fun Run fees are: $10 before Oct. 13 or $15 after Oct. 13.

East Meadow's Bagelicious will provide post-race bagels for all participants; free child I.D. cards will also be available via the Nassau County Kids Pix Program.

Sponsorships are available: $150 (Bronze sponsor); $300 (Silver sponsor); $500 (Gold sponsor); and $1,000 (Platinum sponsor). Contact Simone at msimone@eastmeadow.k12.ny.us.

"This is a time for everyone to come out and support the children of the community," said Dolores Rome, president of the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce.