Nominations open for Mayor's Cup Spirit of Ianelli Award

The Sunrise Rotary Mayor's Cup Regatta & Festival Committee has extended the nomination deadline for the 2026 Spirit of Ianelli Award to June 16, inviting community members in Plattsburgh to recognize individuals who embody John Ianelli's belief that 'community does matter.' Established in 2010 to honor Ianelli, the former mayor and co-founder of the Mayor's Cup Regatta, the award honors one or more people who uplift the North Country every day, not just on race day. The 2025 honoree was the North Country Honor Flight, a volunteer-led group providing veterans with free trips to Washington, D.C.

Nominees must include the nominator's name and phone number, plus the nominee's name, address, and contact details, with concrete examples of community service. The North Country Honor Flight, launched in 2013, has completed 69 flights and transported over 1,000 veterans, offering reflection and camaraderie. Nominations should be sent to joannedahlen@gmail.com by June 16, and the 2026 honoree will be announced July 11 at the Sunrise Rotary Mayor's Cup Regatta & Festival, a community event that blends on-water competition with local celebration.