The Tupper Lake Tinman Triathlon will take place on Saturday, June 24, beginning at 8 a.m. Established in 1983, the race welcomes approximately 700 participants each year. According to Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism’s (ROOST) Tupper Lake Marketing Manager Katie LaLonde, Tinman is one of the summer’s most popular events. "We are thrilled to once again host the Tinman Triathlon in Tupper Lake," she commented. "The event has become a staple in our summer calendar, and we look forward to welcoming participants and spectators from all over the country to our beautiful corner of the Adirondacks." The Tupper Lake Tinman Triathlon, sanctioned by USA Triathlon, is one of the most popular races in northern New York. The event features 5 different races: tinman (1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run); aquabike (1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike); team relay (1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run); Olympic (0.94 mile swim, 24 mile bike, 6.2 mile run); and a sprint (0.6 mile swim, 12.4 mile bike, 3.1 mile run). Check-in for the race begins on Friday the 24th from 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. There is limited check-in available on race day, beginning at 5:30 a.m. “This race continues to draw participants from throughout the Northeast,” said Race Director Wendy Peroza. “It attracts athletes who appreciate a challenging course with a small town feel. “Each year, we welcome participants from within our local area, in addition to those who travel great distances to take part. This year, we have registered participants from Maryland, Georgia, Florida, Canada and even Texas.” Organizers have built a strong following for the Tupper Lake Tinman Triathlon by sharing race information with regional triathlon clubs throughout the Northeast, with returning athletes and through website and social media channels. This has resulted in a network of participants who share their perceptions of the race, the community and the venue with others; this has led to a number of triathletes from unexpected locations who add Tinman to their annual race calendar. Triathlon clubs from Saratoga, Central New York, Rochester, Buffalo, the Capital District and Vermont take part in the Tupper Lake Tinman event. Tinman is sponsored by the Town of Tupper Lake Recreation Department, which also organizes and deploys hundreds volunteers to help manage event logistics. Peroza explained that the event would be virtually impossible without local support. “Tinman is truly a community event,” she said. “Volunteers help to assemble race bags, manage aid stations along the route, help with transitions between the swim, bike and run, assist with athlete check-in, provide race-day direction and information and help to ensure that participants are safe when in the water from their kayak and paddle board vantage points. More volunteers are always welcome.” Restaurants and food trucks are also involved with race preparations. Each participant receives a coupon voucher to be used during Friday night’s “carbo load” meal event. Local restaurants often prepare athlete-focused specials; something that the athletes seem to appreciate. The Town of Tupper Lake also hosts an expo during Friday’s athlete check-in at the Tupper Lake Civic Center, where High Peaks Cyclery will be on-hand to assist with any last minute items that the racers may need. Visit TupperLakeTinman.com or the Tinman’s Facebook page for more information about the race. Contact:Jane Hooper, communications managerRegional Office of Sustainable Tourism518-621-3662 518-578-6328 (cell)jane@roostadk.com

Saranac Lake, in collaboration with local outfitters, the Saranac Lake Chamber of Commerce and the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism, announces the creation of the Saranac Lake Paddling Challenge. The challenge will officially launch on June 1, coinciding with other events that take place during Celebrate Paddling month. The Saranac Lake Paddling Challenge comprises five routes, all located within the Saranac Lake region of the Adirondacks. South Creek to Second Pond (7 miles, one-way) Second Pond to Lake Flower (6 miles, one-way) Saranac River - Pine Street to McCasland Bridge (5 miles, one-way) St. Regis Chain of Lakes (5 miles, one-way) Follensby Clear Pond Loop (4 miles, total) Paddling challenge finishers will earn the Saranac Lake Paddle Challenge patch upon completing the five paddles. Those who finish all five paddles within two consecutive days will earn an Ultra patch. Challenge participants must register with the Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce ahead of tackling the challenge; and then must report their completion to receive their patch. Additional information can be found on the paddle challenge website. Challenge Organizer Liz Murray explained about the development of the paddling challenge. Murray, an avid kayaker with a passion for exploration, was inspired by the Tupper Lake Triad Paddling Challenge and its sense of achievement. Determined to bring a similar experience to Saranac Lake, she contacted a number of local outfitters, representatives from the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism, the Celebrate Paddling Committee, and the Saranac Lake Chamber of Commerce to assist with its creation. Kenzie Marine, ROOST’s Saranac Lake regional manager, echoed the sense of collaboration. “This has been an educational and shared process, one that has underscored our collective commitment to the importance of paddling in the Saranac Lake region,” she said. “We extend our gratitude to the Saranac Lake Village, NYS Department of Conservation (DEC), and all other parties involved in successfully launching the Saranac Lake Paddling Challenge. This offers another unique opportunity for paddling enthusiasts to explore the beauty of Saranac Lake's waters and forge unforgettable memories. We are truly grateful for the commitment to promoting outdoor recreation and fostering a deep appreciation for our natural surroundings.” The Saranac Lake Paddling Challenge aims to celebrate the joy of paddling while educating participants about important preservation, conservation and sustainability efforts within the region’s waterways, including the stunning waters of the Saranac Lake region; paddling challenges support that mandate. According to Sydney Aveson, communications coordinator at the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST), one of the most crucial things people should know before tackling the paddling challenges is the importance of ensuring that their boats are clean and dry between paddles or before moving to a different waterway. “‘Clean. Drain. Dry.’ is a simple three-step process that all boaters can follow to prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species, which can threaten a healthy ecosystem,” she said. “Boaters can do their part by finding a decontamination station to wash their boats before entering another body of water. To find a decontamination station, visit the Paul Smith’s College Adirondack Watershed Institute website. A number of organizations and individuals have contributed to the planning and creation of the Saranac Lake Paddling Challenge including: Jason Smith and Rich Harris of Adirondack Lakes and Trails, the Celebrate Paddling committee, Brian McDonnell from MAC's Canoe Livery, Maeghan Farnham from St. Regis Canoe Outfitters, Chris Morris representing the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, Anne Fleck from Raquette River Outfitters, and Rachel Karp from the Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, along with the NYSDEC, the Village of Saranac Lake and ROOST. The Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism is the destination marketing and management organization for Hamilton and Essex counties, along with the communities of Lake Placid, Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake, all located within the Adirondacks in New York state. Contact:Sydney Aveson, communications coordinatorRegional Office of Sustainable Tourism518.523.2445sydney@roostadk.com

The Schroon Lake Chamber of Commerce, Town of Schroon, Schroon Lake Association, and Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST) have joined forces to create a new event for paddling enthusiasts and nature lovers alike: the Schroon Paddle Challenge. The challenge will officially launch on June 10, with an inaugural paddle along the Schroon River to the beach at Schroon Lake. Beginning at 10 a.m. on June 10, those taking part in the paddle will be able to drop off their boats at the Schroon River launch on Route 74, just off Exit 28 on the Northway, east of Route 9. There is a sign indicating “Town of Schroon Canoe / Kayak Launch,” located on the north side of an unpaved road, not to be confused with the DEC Fishing Access lot. Event participants will transport their cars back to town, where a shuttle bus will be on hand to transport paddlers back to their boats. Participants will paddle along the Schroon River and across a narrow section of Schroon Lake to the town beach - a distance of approximately 6.7 miles; showcasing one leg of the three paddle challenge. Immediately after the event, there will be a reception in the Schroon Boathouse Theater, with a live band, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks. The Schroon Lake Association will also be in attendance with merchandise for sale and membership information. The Schroon Paddle Challenge comprises three paddles within the Schroon Lake Watershed: the Schroon River Paddle, the Schroon River to Schroon Lake Paddle, and the Paradox Lake Paddle. Each paddle is approximately 4.5 miles (one-way), allowing participants to either arrange a shuttle for a one-way trip or paddle back to their starting point. Finishers will earn the Schroon Paddle Challenge patch upon completing the three paddles. Those who are able to complete all three paddles over a single weekend (Friday-Sunday) will earn an “Ultra” patch, signifying their accomplishment. Challenge participants must register to receive their patches. Additional information can be found on the paddle challenge webpage. The Schroon Paddle Challenge aims to celebrate the joy of paddling and introduce more local residents and visitors to the stunning waters within the Schroon Lake Watershed. By creating an involved community working together to preserve the watershed for present and future generations, the partners hope to promote a sustainable approach to enjoying this unique natural resource. According to Sydney Aveson, communications coordinator at the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST), one of the most crucial things people should know before tackling the paddling challenges is the importance of ensuring that their boats are clean and dry between paddles or before moving to a different waterway. “‘Clean. Drain. Dry.’ is a simple three-step process that all boaters can follow to prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species, which can threaten a healthy ecosystem,” she said. Boaters can do their part by finding a decontamination station to wash their boats before entering another body of water. To find a decontamination station, visit the Paul Smith’s College Adirondack Watershed Institute website. Visit the Schroon Lake Chamber of Commerce website or call (518) 532-7675 for more information about the Schroon Paddle Challenge and to register for the inaugural paddle event. The Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism is the destination marketing and management organization for Hamilton and Essex counties, along with the communities of Lake Placid, Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake, all located within the Adirondacks in New York state. Contact:Sydney Aveson, communications coordinatorRegional Office of Sustainable Tourism518.523.2445sydney@roostadk.com

The Adirondack North Country Gender Alliance is hosting a LGBTQI+ Pride event at Riverside Park in Saranac Lake on June 25 from 12 to 4 p.m. The free event welcomes members of the LGBTQI+ community from Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, Tupper Lake and neighboring communities, along with their families, friends, supportive organizations, businesses and other allies. According to Kelly Metzgar, co-founder and executive director of the Adirondack North Country Gender Alliance, the event is set to become bigger and better each year. “At the end of last year’s Pride event I said: ‘See you next year,’ and I truly meant that. We are so pleased with last year’s success,” she said. “The event, the community’s involvement, local business support, the spontaneity of certain aspects of last year’s event - it was wonderful - everyone had so much fun. Our lively, creative community really provides a beautiful backdrop.” According to organizers, a highlight of this year’s Pride event will be a parade, leading attendees through downtown Saranac Lake to Riverside Park. The parade begins at 12 p.m. near the Saranac Lake Post Office, traveling along Broadway and Main Street toward the park. The day will also feature a fashion show, presented by the Saranac Lake Youth Center in collaboration with Main St. Exchange consignment store. Speakers, exhibits, music, vendors and performers will be on-hand throughout the afternoon. The event is also expected to welcome many of the region’s elected officials. “The LGBTQI+ community is incredibly inclusive, I really can't stress that enough,” commented Metzgar. “Sometimes being different helps us make a real difference, because we want everyone in attendance to feel safe and welcome. While we do celebrate the LGBTQI+ community and its allies, even more importantly, we celebrate diversity and that means that we celebrate absolutely everyone.” The event has attracted a number of sponsorships from local businesses and a diverse slate of organizations that provide various resources, information and support for local community members. Event organizers are hoping to add more businesses and sponsors over the next couple weeks. “We have plenty of space for exhibitors remaining; and as I mentioned, we welcome all,” commented Metzger. “Please reach out if your organization is interested in taking part.” The all-volunteer event organizers are encouraging others to become involved, as a great deal of work still needs to be done. Those interested in volunteering should visit the Adirondack North Country Gender Alliance Facebook page for additional information about the Pride event, including sponsorship or volunteer opportunities: facebook.com/adkncga or email at: ancga_prideparade@outlook.com. Adirondack North Country Gender Alliance is also partnering with a number of local businesses to host mixer events leading up to Pride Day. Roamers recently hosted a Pride mixer on May 26; and Belvedere Restaurant is also hosting an upcoming Pride mixer on June 27. Other locations and dates will be announced as dates are finalized. The Adirondack North Country Gender Alliance was established as a not-for-profit corporation in 2016 to provide resources, education, information and organize events on behalf of, and to support, the LGBTQI+ community in Essex, Clinton and Franklin counties. Each year, the organization hosts a number of local events including the Adirondack North Country Pride event in Plattsburgh which takes place in October, during LGBTQI+ history month; and on the Transgender Day of Remembrance in November. ## Jane Hooper, communications managerRegional Office of Sustainable Tourism518-621-3662jane@roostadk.com

Lake Placid is getting ready for its annual 4th of July celebration, complete with a parade along Main Street and the Set the Night to Music fireworks extravaganza. The Lake Placid July 4th organizing committee encourages organizations, civic groups, individuals, businesses and others to participate in this year’s parade, taking place on Tuesday, July 4 at 5 p.m. Those interested in taking part should contact Catherine Ericson at the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST) via email: catherine@roostadk.com for additional information. Parade participants will prepare at 4:45 p.m. on Parkside Drive; parade announcers will recognize individual entries as they pass by Mid’s Park. Another activity taking place on July 4th is the Lake Placid Horse Show, with events beginning at 8:00 a.m. and continuing throughout the day. Visit the Lake Placid Horse Show page for additional information. Topping off the day is Lake Placid's legendary fireworks extravaganza, Set the Night to Music, over the enchanting Mirror Lake. Starting at 9:30 p.m., the skies will illuminate with an awe-inspiring spectacle of colors and patterns, choreographed to a musical soundtrack. Spectators can tune in to the official soundtrack live on 100.7/102.1 - LAKEfm and 105.5/95.3 FM - Adirondack 105 during the fireworks display. Visit: https://www.lakeplacid.com/events/lake-placid-july-4th for further information and updates on the Fourth of July celebration in Lake Placid. The Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism is the destination marketing and management organization for Hamilton and Essex counties, along with the communities of Lake Placid, Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake, all located within the Adirondacks in New York state. Contact:Sydney Aveson, communications coordinatorRegional Office of Sustainable Tourism518-523-2445sydney@roostadk.com