Organizations That Make a Difference – Under a New President, Friends of Rye Town Park Continues its Mission and Envisions Many More

When the Friends of Rye Town Park (FRTP) was being formed back in 1990, David Rasmussen did not hesitate to join the group. Recruited by FRTP founder Chet Williams, his answer was an easy “yes.”

Book Drive: Check Your Shelves
The Children’s Collective, a volunteer group of over 100 women, is sponsoring its 17th annual used children’s book drive. Striving to provide reading material to needy youngsters, toddler to 15 years of age, they ask residents to scan their bookshelves, garages, and attics for age-appropriate children’s books in good condition and bring them to Arcade Booksellers, as well as various local nursery and grade schools.
In the last five years they have collected and distributed over 50,000 books. The recipients are usually in our immediate area and are always very appreciative.
Questions? Contact The Children’s Collective at thecollective@aol.com or 967-2211. Arcade Booksellers, 15 Purchase Street, will be collecting books May 12 -16.

Roadside Cleanup

In recognition of Earth Day, Rye Rotary Club members and their families conducted a cleanup of Playland Access Drive, the club’s “Adopt-a-Road” location, on Saturday, April 19.

A Thankful and Thoughtful Mother's Day

Despite all that mothers do for us, there is only one day officially dedicated to celebrating them. This Mother's Day, do something special.
If you want to thank her for all those years of slaving over a hot stove:

Great Explorations
On Sunday, June 1, children can explore the magical learning laboratory being planned for the future Westchester Children's Museum at “Explore-A-Thon 2008”. Modeled after a traditional walk-a-thon, the event takes “explorers” on a gentle mile-long journey along the Playland Boardwalk, where they will discover interactive “Exploration Stations”.
The event, now in its second year, begins at 9 a.m. and ends at noon. Proceeds will go to the campaign for the first children's museum in Westchester County.
The WCM invites Individuals and community groups to be "Explorer Buddies" and sponsor children from The Port Chester Carver Center, The Westhab Shelter in White Plains, or The Elm Street Community Center in Yonkers, so they can participate in this innovative experience. "Explorer Buddies" are encouraged to raise $200 in pledges. “Explorer Teams” of ten families are encouraged to raise $2,000 in pledges.
Families interested in participating in Explore-A-Thon 2008 can visit www.discoverwcm.org or call 421-5050.

Especially for Pet Owners

In recognition of National Pet Health Month, Rye Harrison Veterinary Hospital will be hosting its second annual Open House, Sunday, May 18, from noon to 4 p.m.
The free event will include a tour of the recently expanded and renovated hospital. Doctors and staff will demonstrate aspects of modern veterinary technology, answer pet health care questions and introduce visitors to some common and exotic pet species.
Refreshments and gifts will be available at the end of each tour.
Rye Harrison Veterinary Hospital is located at 170 North Street. Call 921-2000.

Calling Local Artisans
The Rye Arts Center is looking for local artists to showcase and sell their work during its annual arts festival in September. On September 7, from 3 - 6 p.m., the center will hold its annual event, Festival@51, a free community day that brings visitors from all over the region. Local artisans — painters, sculptors, photographers, basketweavers, glassblowers, and more — are being invited to "sell their wares" at this up-and-coming outdoor arts festival. For a nominal fee, vendors will be given a table to display their work.
Space is limited. Contact Adam at 967-0700, ext. 25, or adam@ryeartscenter.org. Also, don't forget to visit www.ryeartscenter.org for information on classes and events.

Another Good Reason to Start Spring Cleaning
In September the Twig will be holding a giant tag sale, with all proceeds benefiting the EMS of Port Chester/Rye Brook/Rye. The organization is beginning the collection process now in hopes of catching the spring cleaning season.
If you have anything you would like to donate now or in the coming months, e-mail Ashley Craig at ashleycraig@verizon.net.