Team created to run seaport’s programs

Kenny White, who has been at the helm of the East End Seaport Museum and Marine Foundation for only a few months, was feeling overwhelmed because he’s also climbing the ladder at the Greenport Fire Department, where he is first assistant chief with the chance of becoming chief next year.

The dual responsibilities were too much for one person, Mr. White said, explaining why he had asked the foundation organization to split up the job.

“It’s crazy for one person,” Mr. White said.

At a meeting Monday, four people agreed to form a five-member management team with Mr. White to share the task of running the seaport museum and foundation’s programs. The other four members are Leueen Miller, Richard Gillooly, Ted Webb and Keith McCamy.

“There’s quite a lot of work to running a nonprofit,” Ms. Miller commented.

The upcoming visit of the tall ship Lynx is one challenge ahead. On May 14, thanks to the sponsorship of Sir Roy Morrow and his wife, Nancy, the 1812 ship will arrive in Greenport Harbor. To celebrate, the seaport museum will host a reception at its headquarters Saturday night, May 15, from 5 to 7 p.m. For those who prefer, they can book a sail aboard the Lynx during that time period.

The Morrows’ sponsorship will pay for the first three days of the ship’s visit to the village, Ms. Miller said.

There’s a lot of work involved in coordinating dockside visits and sails aboard the Lynx with Greenport marina manager Jeff Goubeaud, she said.

And after the tall ship’s visit, the management team needs to turn its attention to plans for its summer programs, which have traditionally included educational programs for students as well as exhibits.

Then there’s the main fundraising event — the annual September Maritime Festival — that requires coordination of vendors and performers, so Ms. Miller said she expects the management team to be kept busy in the months ahead.

JULIE LANE