'Gary's Mile' commemorates UD Public Safety employee

A number of University employees and friends participated in Gary's Mile.

Law enforcement officials clad in white T-shirts and yellow ribbons flooded downtown Newark June 8, doing their part to honor a beloved friend and co-worker.

The run, known as "Gary's Mile," commemorates the late Gary Summerville, former associate director of public safety, who was killed in April 1999, when a vehicle struck his motorcycle at a Newark intersection. Since the tragedy, fellow University and city officials have gathered each year to remember Mr. Summerville and support a worthy cause.

"Gary's Mile" is the last mile of the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, which kicked off in Rehoboth and ended with a final sprint from the Newark Shopping Center on Main Street to the city of Newark Municipal Building on Elkton Road.

Yvonne Simpson, public safety, said it is an important way to keep Summerville's memory alive in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Unlike other portions of the run, Simpson said, the part designated as "Gary's Mile" is open to all members of the University and Newark community.

"The torch symbolizes a flame of hope that Gary will be remembered for years to come, and everyone gets to participate," Simpson said. "They can run however long they feel comfortable running, and we appreciate everyone's contribution to making today a success."

Kate Pohlig, athletics and recreation, said she participated in Gary's Mile to show her support for the Delaware Special Olympics and to express her gratitude for what she says Mr. Summerville gave to the University.

"Gary worked a lot with athletics, and developed a close friendship with each and every one of us," Pohlig said. "We are all happy to help out."

According to James Grimes, Public Safety, approximately 30 runners, representing the University community and law enforcement agencies, participated in Gary's Mile. "Most of the runners had worked with or known Gary and were eager to participate to honor his name."

–Jaime Bender

Photo by KATHY FLICKINGER