Marathon Neighbors Show Spirit of Support and Dedication
From long-time service to generous donations and grassroots fundraising, Marathon residents are making a difference for their community and schools.
The Editors · 2026-05-17
Marathon residents continue to demonstrate a strong spirit of dedication and community support, with individuals and groups stepping forward to contribute to the village's well-being and the success of its schools.
Recently, the community rallied around Marathon Central School District, particularly as the district navigates financial challenges. A group of committed community members successfully raised funds to ensure the Cross-Country Team can continue this fall. This grassroots effort ensures students have the opportunity to participate in this valued program, providing the district with valuable time to stabilize its finances.
Further exemplifying local philanthropy, Carl T. Hayden, a 1959 alumnus of Marathon Central School, and his wife Cindy of Elmira, have committed substantial financial support to Marathon non-profits over the next four years. Their initial contributions included significant gifts to the Marathon Food Pantry and the Marathon Lions, organizations vital to the community's support network. Tom Gallagher, president of the Cortland Community Foundation, noted the personal significance behind the Hayden family's donation, while Mary Bliss expressed gratitude on behalf of the Marathon Food Pantry for this generous support.
Individual dedication to public service was also recognized this spring with the retirement of Mike Root, Superintendent of the Village's Water and Waste Water Department. Mr. Root concluded 35 years of devoted service on May 1, 2026. A proud graduate of Marathon Central School's Class of 1986 and a former member of the U.S. Marine Corps, Mr. Root's long career represents a lifetime of commitment to the infrastructure that serves every Marathon resident.
Excellence in education and character continues to be celebrated within the Marathon Central School District. Science teacher Courtney Farkas was honored with the Teacher of the Year award from the Rotary Club of Cortland, New York. Additionally, fourteen Marathon CSD students were inducted into the MA-CE-HI chapter of the National Honor Society on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, for their scholarship, leadership, character, and service. This year, Mr. Albert Stevens was also honored as an honorary member, continuing a Marathon tradition that began in 1994. These recognitions underscore the dedication to learning and community involvement that thrives in our local schools.
These collective and individual efforts highlight the enduring commitment of Marathon's people to their neighbors and institutions, ensuring the village remains a vibrant place for all.
Sources:
- 607newsnow.com