Adirondack Day, an annual event showcasing the region’s economic diversity, took place in Albany on May 6 at the Legislative Office Building. The event, co-sponsored by Senators Neil Breslin and Jose M. Serrano, showcases the breadth of Adirondack-based organizations, businesses, educational institutions, environmental preservation groups, and various industry sectors. The event was organized by the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism and the North Country Chamber of Commerce, along with representatives from a number of industry sectors throughout the Adirondacks including tourism, environmental sustainability, history, education, sports, housing, healthcare, agriculture, hospitality, economic development, and arts. The event showcased a number of Adirondack-themed displays and exhibits, local food and beverages and featured opportunities for attendees to meet and interact with exhibitors. According to Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism Chief Operating Officer Mary Jane Lawrence, Adirondack Day allows Adirondack-based organizations to share information with state officials and others in Albany government, encouraging ongoing understanding and support of the region’s economic impact. “This event is important as it encourages conversation among decision makers in state government, helping to ensure that the Adirondack region remains at the forefront of legislative decisions,” she said. With a nod to the region’s rich hiking legacy and in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Northville-Placid Trail in 2024, along with the development of the Adirondack Rail Trail connecting Lake Placid with Tupper Lake, the theme of this year’s showcase was "Trails Through the Adirondacks." Exhibitors aligned displays and information with this theme, bringing attention to the connection of all industries in the region with its outdoor adventure heritage. State government leaders and elected officials, many representing the Adirondack region, spoke with exhibitors about unique opportunities within the Adirondack region. The information discussed was often underscored by the varied industry sector representatives in attendance, along with the displays and additional information presented. Each industry sector representative emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation to ensure sustainable economic growth while preserving the area’s natural beauty. According to Senator Breslin, the Adirondack region is an area that deserves attention for its environmental importance and economic impact. “Very few people know that New York State’s Adirondack Park is larger than Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, and Glacier National Parks combined. It is a worldwide gem right here in New York that we should all proudly enjoy and protect,” he said. “About fifty percent of the park is privately owned. It is managed in partnership with land owners, state, and local governments. Having twice hosted the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, we have a world-class region for environmental protection, recreation, sporting and investment, right here in our backyard.” According to Assembly Member Billy Jones, who represents the Adirondack region, sharing the Adirondacks with his colleagues in Albany makes him feel incredibly proud. “It was great to have these wonderful Adirondack region organizations, local elected officials and business leaders take part in Adirondack Day to share everything the region has to offer,” he said. “The information, businesses, and activities presented showcase the incredible experience that visitors have when they travel to our beautiful region.” Senator Dan Stec echoed many of his colleagues’ comments. “The Adirondacks are home to unique environmental and economic experiences. Adirondack Day in Albany is a fantastic way to highlight some of the many activities, businesses and organizations that make this region so special,” he said. “It’s an honor to join many stakeholders and lawmakers in celebrating the Adirondacks and I hope it encourages more people to visit and see the treasures our communities have to offer.” Adirondack Day also featured a reception catered by Farmstead Catering, based in Essex, that showcased locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Adirondack region-crafted beverages were also available courtesy of Raquette River Brewing based in Tupper Lake and Lake Placid Pub & Brewery based in Lake Placid. According to Lawrence, the event offered an opportunity for various industry representatives to share their perspectives about what makes the area so unique. “The tourism sector, educational institutions, businesses, environmental preservation groups and attractions within the Adirondacks contribute to the overall allure of the region,” she said. “One of the most important aspects of the event is the way in which it brings various Adirondack businesses and organizations together to illustrate the power of collaboration within our region.”

The 11th Annual Gary LaQuay Fishing Challenge will take place on Saturday, June 15 from 7:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Proceeds from the event will benefit High Peaks Hospice. Tickets for the fishing challenge can be purchased for $30 online at TupperLake.com/events or in-person at Mountain Market and Redemption in Tupper Lake. Registration includes tournament entry along with entry into the various raffles taking place as part of the event. Challenge participants will cast their lines in Tupper Lake, Simon Pond and Raquette Pond, a series of interconnected lakes accessed by the state boat launch on Route 30 in Tupper Lake or at Tupper Lake Municipal Park. Prizes will be awarded for the three largest bass and three largest northern pike, based on weight. Prize money and the tournament donation amount are dependent on total registration fees collected; with roughly 60 percent shared by the top 3 anglers and 40 percent allocated to High Peaks Hospice. The tournament attracts between 100 and 150 participants each year - many from the local area but also from places throughout the Northeast. It has raised approximately $20,000 for High Peaks Hospice since the tournament’s inception. Many local businesses donate merchandise and services that comprise the various raffle prize packages. Event Organizer Cory LaQuay explains that community support is integral to the event’s success. “So many local businesses donate merchandise for the raffle, volunteers manage the weigh-in stations, and others help organize the award ceremony; and they do this rain or shine,” he said. “We expect that the business community, once again, is going to show its collective generosity. It’s very humbling when I think about everyone who helps keep this event going.” Two weigh stations are available: one at the shoreline below the Tupper Lake Sportsmen's Club headquarters on Lake Simond Road and another at the Tupper Lake Municipal Park on Raquette Pond. Participants will not need to leave their boats to complete the weigh-in. A prize ceremony follows the tournament at the Tupper Lake Sportsmen's Club. LaQuay shares memories of his father and explains that he would love the tournament that has been created in his honor. “My dad loved to be on the water, he loved to fish and he loved to compete,” he said. “There was always a wager or two happening within the group of guys he fished with regularly, so he’d just love this event - I suspect he’d probably have a side bet or two going on.” “We are excited about the event,” said LaQuay. “Now we just hope for perfect fishing weather - no rain, a bit cloudy, maybe some sun. I bet it will be great, no matter what.” Contact Cory LaQuay 518-569-3988 for additional information about the event.

Whiteface Uphill Bike Race now includes handcycle division The Whiteface Region of Upstate New York is gearing up to host a number of race events. The Whiteface Mountain Uphill Bike and Foot races, the Wilmington Whiteface Mountain Bike Race, and the Wilmington Whiteface Whiskey Run all take place during the month of June. According to Michelle Preston, director of the Whiteface Visitors Bureau, the events entice participants from throughout the Northeast who love the region’s natural beauty and challenging courses. “This is such an exciting time in Wilmington,” she said. “The races provide an opportunity to showcase the Wilmington community, the area's rugged backcountry terrain, amazing Adirondack scenery, and our growing mountain bike trail network. We are really excited about the addition of a handcycle division to one of the bike races.” The events kick off with the Whiteface Mountain Uphill Bike Race and Uphill Foot Race on Saturday, June 1, at 5:30 p.m. and the Wilmington Whiteface 100K and 50K Mountain Bike Race takes place the very next day. The Wilmington Whiteface Whiskey Run is scheduled to take place on June 15. The Whiteface Mountain Uphill Bike Race and Uphill Foot Race begin in downtown Wilmington and end at the summit of Whiteface Mountain, the fifth-highest peak in the Adirondacks. New for 2024 is the addition of a handcycle division, allowing for athletes of all abilities to take part in this challenging race. The route covers eight miles, with the majority of those miles along the mountain's Veterans’ Memorial Highway, featuring an average eight percent grade from base to summit, an awe-inspiring view along the route and 360-degree views from the top. The bike race begins at the Whiteface Region Visitors Bureau, while the runners begin a short distance away, at the intersection of highways of 86 and 431. Finish lines for both uphill races are in exactly the same place, near the summit. Participants will experience a total elevation gain of 3,500 feet. The uphill bike race is expected to welcome more than 300 riders from areas across the Northeast, along with Southern Ontario and Quebec. Spectators can count on at least a couple of riders who add to the challenge by completing the race on unicycles. Interested bike race participants can learn more by visiting WhitefaceRace.com/bike. The Whiteface Mountain Uphill Foot Race will take place at the same time as the bike race. Race organizers encourage runners to utilize the clothing transportation option - participants are able to place a backpack with warm clothes into the bed of a pickup truck that brings those items to the summit, as temperatures can be 20-30 degrees cooler at the finish line. Those interested in registering or learning more about the uphill foot race are encouraged to visit WhitefaceRace.com/run. Hosted by the Adirondack Sports Council, the Wilmington Whiteface 100K and 50K Mountain Bike Race returns the very next day; Sunday, June 2, at 7:00 a.m. Nicknamed “The Beast of the East,” the course features a mix of rugged backcountry roads, stretches of smooth singletrack, and plenty of climbing, making it a challenge for mountain bike enthusiasts. The race begins in Wilmington, traversing the well-known backcountry route to Elizabethtown, another mountain bike center within the Adirondack region of Upstate New York. Race participants have the opportunity to ride a portion of the route with Coach Patrick Carey, two-time 50k winner and six-time 100k finisher who lives and trains in the region. Participants are invited to take part in the finisher festival, receive a post-race meal and obtain their finisher medal and athlete gift. Aid stations will be located along the course, offering energy hydration, water, fruit, and light snacks. Additional information can be found at WilmingtonMTB.com. The 7th annual Wilmington Whiteface Whiskey Run will return to the region later in the month. This fundraiser, benefitting the Wilmington Historical Society's building fund, features a 5K and 10K race. The event will begin at Preston Field in Wilmington on Saturday, June 15 at 9:15 a.m. and features a post-race celebration and whiskey festival. Whiskey Run participants can take part in the races and enjoy a fun festival that includes whiskey tastings and food, history displays, music, craft vendors, raffles, and entertainment. Those interested in registering for the race or learning more about the festival should visit ADKWhiskeyRun.com. The festival celebrates the area’s storied history with liquor, legal and otherwise. During the War of 1812, Wilmington supplied good rye whiskey to the American troops at the Battle of Plattsburgh as part of their daily ration. During prohibition, Wilmington residents provided temporary haven for bootleggers crossing the U.S. border from Canada. Most recently, Wilmington was home to U.S. Barrel, a whiskey barrel cooperage. The Whiteface Region race events are perfect for those who love outdoor adventures and want to challenge themselves. Registration is currently open for all events. To learn more about each race and to register, visit WhitefaceRegion.com or call the Whiteface Region Visitors Bureau at 518-946-2255.

The Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST) has recently participated in three prominent travel shows to promote visitation, share information about communities throughout the Adirondacks and showcase activities, events and attractions throughout the region. These travel shows welcome thousands of people who are looking for travel inspiration, tips and advice. The team attended travel shows in New York City, Saratoga and Ottawa, all important markets for the Adirondack region. These events are an important part of ROOST’s outreach effort, allowing the organization to share information with travelers, and media outlets within the Adirondack region’s target markets. Each travel show featured a dynamic lineup of destination representatives, panel discussions, exhibitors, and industry experts, providing attendees with invaluable insights and resources to plan their next adventure. Through its participation, ROOST continues to play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable tourism and driving economic growth in the Adirondack region. At the New York Travel and Adventure Show, New York’s largest travel show with more than 30,000 attendees each year, ROOST had a notable presence, representing the Adirondack region amidst hundreds of worldwide destinations and vacation options. This event served as a crucial platform to connect with travel enthusiasts and industry professionals in the New York City area, while spotlighting the rich offerings of the Adirondack region to those in one of its key target markets. ROOST Director of Marketing Michelle Clement, highlighted the importance of such engagements, stating, "Participation in travel shows allows us to directly engage with travelers and industry stakeholders, while showcasing the unique attractions and travel opportunities in the Adirondacks. It’s a chance to connect on a personal level, sharing insights about less-frequently traveled areas, information about outdoor activities across the various regions of the park, and to showcase local culture, history and events. This engagement builds relationships with potential travelers and ignites enthusiasm about all that the region has to offer.” Following the success of the New York Travel and Adventure Show, ROOST continued its outreach efforts by participating in the Adirondack Sports Summer Expo held on March 16-17 at the Saratoga Springs City Center. With more than 200 exhibitors and 8,000 attendees, this event provided ROOST with a valuable platform to connect with adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts in the Capital Region, further promoting the region as a premier destination for outdoor recreation. Expanding its reach beyond state borders, ROOST made its way to the capital of Canada in early April to participate in the Ottawa Travel and Adventure Show at the Shaw Convention Center. This event welcomed hundreds of attendees, offering an excellent opportunity for ROOST to showcase the Adirondack region to a broad audience, attracting long-time Adirondack visitors as well as those who may not have visited the Adirondacks previously. “The Adirondacks are a short drive from Ottawa, making it a convenient getaway,” Clement commented. ROOST Chief Operating Officer Mary Jane Lawrence outlined ROOST's commitment to promoting sustainable tourism. "Our staff provides educational resources to promote responsible tourism, supports and promotes regional events, collaborates with local businesses and actively participates in conservation efforts aimed at preserving the natural beauty of the Adirondack region,” she said. “Marketing efforts at travel shows present a unique opportunity to ensure that visitors are well-informed about these initiatives, encouraging their engagement in responsible and sustainable travel practices. Travel shows are crucial for promoting regional businesses and events. It is also an opportunity to educate and encourage responsible and sustainable travel to ensure the protection of our natural resources.” The Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST) is the destination marketing and management organization for Essex and Hamilton Counties, along with the communities of Lake Placid, Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake, all located within the Adirondacks in New York state.

St. Agnes Catholic Church is organizing an Italian dinner and pizza fundraiser to help fund the construction of Lake Placid’s new food pantry and thrift shop. The event will be hosted by Mr. Mike’s Pizza in Lake Placid on Sunday, May 19 from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m. The event aims to raise both awareness and money for the project. There is a suggested donation of $20 per adult or $12 per child which includes pizza and dessert. The Lake Placid Food Pantry and Thrift Store board has begun to plan for the construction of its new building that will house both services. The current food pantry is located at St. Agnes Catholic Church, while Helping Hands Thrift Store recently closed after more than 32 years. The proposed site of the new building is located behind the Lake Placid High School student parking lot, offering convenient access for community members. The land, currently owned by the Lake Placid Central School District, will be transferred to the Town of North Elba, pending a public vote in June of this year. According to Board Chair Pastor Jim Koienig, the fundraiser is one way for Lake Placid community members to support the building project. “Our board of directors is proud to be part of a community that supports those who have fallen on challenging times,” he said. “We are excited about this project, knowing that it will be of great benefit to our friends and neighbors. I’m encouraging everyone to enjoy some pizza on Sunday and support this cause.” Gluten free and vegan pizza will be available on Sunday; beer and wine will also be available at an additional cost. Meals can be eaten on location or taken “to go”. Donations accepted by cash or check made out to Ecumenical Food Pantry. All proceeds collected on Sunday will go directly toward the building of the new Lake Placid Food Pantry and Thrift Shop. The food pantry and thrift store board of directors comprises community members, faith leaders, government officials, local foundations, and other community organizations.