Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Pelham Civic Association.

By Joe Nunziata

(June 10, 2021 –  PELHAM, NY) The “Celebrate Pelham” shirts were once again proudly worn by almost 300 Pelham students – Grades K through 5 – on Saturday on June 8^th at Glover Field, during one of Pelham’s most popular traditional events – the Pelham Civics Summer Olympics!

Carl Pannuti, Pelham Civic Chairman of the Summer Olympics, began preparing for this massive event as far back as January. He compiled a hard-working Committee of Pelham Civics volunteers who planned and executed an extraordinary event for the kids and families of Pelham. More than 30 Pelham Civic members volunteered, with as many non-Civic members helping out.

The incredible spirit of these kids was a sight to behold as they ran, jumped, slid, laughed and competed in fun, Olympic type events and fun rides. The children were guided by our volunteer “shepherds” from game to game, event to event, from the running races, football toss, long jump, tug-of-war, sack race, and even Beat the Oldie Goalie. And as has been the 37-year Pelham Civic tradition, the participants enjoyed medals, trophies, t-shirts, and refreshments, (hot dogs, soda & water.) The “Bouncey Castle” was donated by Anna & Jack’s Tree House – Rob Rubicco, owner.

As an added feature, Project Community, one of the Civics’ co-charitable organizations in Town, set up a table and provided everyone with free lemonade.  Other acknowledgements go to John Condon, Director of Pelham Schools Facilities, and also to the Pelham Recreation Department.

Dr. Tony Galiani, long-time Pelham Civic officer  and member, added, “Carl did an outstanding job in organizing this labor-intensive event. His attention to detail and hard-working efforts resulted in a tremendous success. Our tradition continues!” Dr. Galiani sat on Carl ‘s Committee which also included Pelham VP and Chair of Membership John Boyce (who spearheaded all of the Infield events, while Carl ran all of the races.) Other Committee members included Jim Arden, Scott Brown, Todd Cross,  Terry Mullan, Dr. Stan Trocchia, and Brad Pursel.

For those new to Town, the Pelham Civic Association is one of Westchester County’s most active charitable, volunteer organizations, dedicated to assisting the youth, the elderly, the financially needy and the mentally and physically challenged. For the complete gallery of photos, visit www.pelhamcivics.org