DEADLINE THURSDAY 12-31-2009

All WSI Instructors must renew their registration by December 31, 2009 if they wish to be instructors for the 2010 HFY Summer Swim Program. Please be sure to renew your membership. For additional information, please contact Julia.

WEEKLY PROGRAMS

There will be no Tutoring, Homework Club, or Youth Board Meetings this week.

DONATING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Hearts for Youth is continually seeking funding and volunteers for the multitude of programs that it provides to the area youth. If you are looking for a great way to acknowledge this season of giving, you could give back to this great organization. For information on donating to Hearts for Youth, please contact the HFY office at (315) 482-9971 x2130. Hearts for Youth would be happy to hear from you.

ATTENTION WSI INSTRUCTORS

As the year is rapidly coming to a close, HFY wants to remind all WSI swim instructors to please renew your certification. Renewals must be completed by the end of the year if you are wishing to be an instructor for the 2010 Hearts for Youth Swim Program. For information on the renewal process, please contact Julia at the HFY Office, (315) 482-9971 x2130.

TREE AT KRIS KRINGLE MART TOMORROW!!

Hearts for Youth wants to remind all to attend the Kris Kringle Mart on December 5th. HFY will be raffling off a tree that was decorated by HFY. The proceeds from the raffle will go to benefit the MacSherry Library.

REMINDER TO RENEW CERTIFICATION

All current WSI swim instructors please remember that the deadline to keep your certification is the end of the year. Contact Julia for information on keeping your certification current for this coming summer’s swimming program.

PROGRAMS THIS WEEK

The Hearts for Youth Homework Club is Tuesday from 3:00-3:30PM for students in Grades 3-6. The Hearts for Youth Tutoring Program is Wednesday from 3:00-3:30PM for students Grades 1-6. The Hearts for Youth, Youth Board will be meeting Thursday from 3:00 – 3:30PM.

SEASON OF GIVING

With the holiday season here, Hearts for Youth asks that the community acknowledge the spirit of giving and a great way to do this is through volunteering your time and resources to Hearts for Youth. Hearts for Youth is continually looking for volunteers and funding to keep our programs up and running. For more information on ways to support Hearts for Youth and its programs, please contact the HFY office at (315) 482-9971 x2130

A CHANGE IN TRADITION

The Hearts for Youth Executive Board and the Alexandria Bay Chamber of Commerce have partnered for the past decade on a Christmas Dinner for their members and the community. A silent auction provided a fundraising event that was split between both organizations. It has been decided to change this venue due to the increasing number of holiday commitments and community events. Though the partnership will continue in other areas, the two organizations are now planning separate dinner events. Hearts for Youth will be planning one or two Spring community events. Details will be coming out in early 2010.

WSI INSTRUCTORS - DO NOT FORGET DEADLINE!

All current WSI swim instructors please remember that the deadline to keep your certification is the end of the year. Contact Julia for information on keeping your certification current for this coming summer’s swimming program.

TREE RAFFLE

Hearts for Youth wants to ask all community members to attend the Kris Kringle Mart this Holiday season. HFY will be decorating a tree to be raffled of at the Kris Kringle Mart. The proceeds from the raffle will go to benefit the MacSherry Library.

SHOV NEXT WEEK

With there only being half days for school on Monday, November 23 and Tuesday, November 24, Hearts for Youth will be holding SHOV at the Reformed Church in Alexandria Bay. We hope to see you there!!

HFY SUMMER CO-ED SOCCER

Front Row Left to Right: Adam Hoover, Cameron Morgan, Amanda Lingenfelter, Molly Russell, Hannah Lynch, Dean Swanson, Christopher Strough. Second Row: Tristan Thomson, Caitlyn Burrows, Cassidy Daily, Jarah Papin, Mikaela Benny,Oakley Cullen, Nick Shangraw Third Row: Coaches Terry Lowe and Debbie Hoover

Pictured above are participants in the Hearts for Youth's Co-Ed Summer Soccer team. The Co-Ed Summer Soccer program provides youth with 10 hours of instruction prior to the start of the season. The program allows children to play all positions, giving them the opportunity to expand their knowledge of the game, while having fun!

SPIRIT OF GIVING

With the start of the holiday season here, Hearts for Youth asks that the community remember the spirit of giving. A great way to honor that is through volunteering your time and resources to Hearts for Youth. Hearts for Youth is continually looking for volunteers and funding to keep our programs up and running. For more information on ways to support Hearts for Youth and its programs, please contact the HFY office at (315) 482-9971 x2130.

REMINDER TO WSI INSTRUCTORS

Hearts for Youth wants to remind all current WSI swim instructors that the deadline to keep your certification is the end of the year. Contact Julia for information to keep your certification current for next year's swimming program.

TREE DECORATING

Hearts for Youth is busy celebrating the spirit of the holidays by decorating a tree to be raffled at the Kris Kringle Mart on December 5^th. The proceeds from the raffle will go to benefit the MacSherry Library.

DON'T FORGET ABOUT OUR WEEKLY PROGRAMS!!

The Hearts for Youth Homework Club runs on Tuesdays from from 3:00-3:30PM for any students in Grades 3-6 who are interested in a quiet place to work on individual or group homework after school.

The Hearts for Youth Tutoring Program takes place on Wednesdays from 3:00-3:30PM for students Grades 1-6 looking to receive academic assistance.

The Hearts for Youth, Youth Board meets on Thursdays from 3:00-3:30PM for high school students interested in planning youth events in the school and the community.

ALEX BAY'S 2009 T-BALL TEAM

Pictured above are the members of the 2009 Alex Bay Summer T-Ball Program from Left to right: McKenna Ingalls, Cristofer Tidd, Michael Castle, Sophia Terrell, Ryan Greenlee, Nolan Irvine, Jacob Johnston, Dominic Tidd, Owen Ingalls, Bradlee Klock, Liam Side, Lance Escudero, Cody Escudero, Lizzy Lingenfelter

ATTENTION WSI SWIM INSTRUCTORS....

Hearts for Youth wishes to remind any current WSI Swim Instructors that the deadline to keep certification is at the end of the year. Anyone interested in keeping their certification and participating in next summer’s swimming program, please contact Julia at the HFY office at (315) 482-9971 x2130.

INFORMATION PACKETS!!

Information Packets are available to anyone interested in volunteering opportunities with Hearts for Youth. To request a packet, please contact HFY through their e-mail address, HFY@alexandriacentral.org, and leave your name and address. You may also call 482-9971 x2130 and leave a message. A packet will be mailed to you.

BASKETBALL SEASON IS HERE!!

The Hearts for Youth Basketball program is underway. The program open to youth in Grades 4^th-6^th works to teach participants the fundamental of Basketball while having lots of fun.

TRIP TO VELOCITY

Hearts for Youth took a busload of 30 youth to Velocity Laser Tag in Watertown, on Halloween Night for an evening full of laughs, lasers, and tag. A great time was had by all.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Hearts for Youth will be attending a Bayside concert at Jefferson Community College on November 20^th. For more information, contact Hearts for Youth at (315) 482-9971 x2130

INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING?

Hearts for Youth is always looking for additions to its volunteer bank. Information Packets are available for anyone wanting to learn more about Hearts for Youth.

To request a packet, please contact HFY through their e-mail address, HFY@alexandriacentral.org, and leave your name and address. You may also call 482-9971 x2130 and leave a message. A packet will be mailed to you.

HOMEWORK CLUB & TUTORING

Hearts for Youth Homework Club will take place this Tuesday from 3:00-3:30PM for students in Grades 3-6 and its Tutoring Program will take place on Wednesday from 3:00-3:30PM for students in Grades 1-6.

LOOKING FOR COMMUNITY MEMBERS WITH A "HEART FOR YOUTH"

Are you a community member with a “Heart for Youth?” If so, volunteering for Hearts for Youth is a great way to aid your community and area youth. At present Hearts for Youth is looking for volunteers as well as community members interested in serving on the HFY Executive Board. There are limitless ways in which you can volunteer time to Hearts for Youth. You may help out with a specific program, specific sport, or even just during a specific time of the day or year.

If you are interested in learning more, please request and Orientation Packet from Hearts for Youth. This packet will provide you with a great overview of Hearts for Youth and its various programs.

To request a packet, please contact HFY through their e-mail address, HFY@alexandriacentral.org, and leave your name and address. You may also call 482-9971 x2130 and leave a message. A packet will be mailed to you.

YOUTH BOARD MEETING TOMORROW 10.29.09

The Hearts for Youth, Youth Board will be meeting this Thursday from 3:00 – 3:30PM.

HOMEWORK CLUB & TUTORING CLUB THIS WEEK!

Hearts for Youth will be hosting its Homework Club Tuesday from 3:00-3:30PM for students in Grades 3-6 and its Tutoring Program on Wednesday from 3:00-3:30PM for students in Grades 1-6.

JUNIOR MOVIE NIGHT TOMORROW NIGHT!!

On October 21, 2009 Hearts for Youth will be showing Monsters vs. Aliens in the Village Community Room located at the Alexandria Bay Fire Hall. The movie is open for students in Grades 3-6. Snacks and juice will be served. Hearts for Youth looks forward to seeing you there!

VOLUNTEER INFO PACKET AVAILABLE

Hearts for Youth is always welcoming new volunteers. If you are interested in learning more, there is an HFY orientation packet available at the HFY office. This packet provides an overview of the different roles that are played by community members and paid staff to keep the Hearts for Youth programs running and moving forward.

If you would like to review a packet, please contact HFY through their e-mail address, HFY@alexandriacentral.org, and leave your name and address. You may also call 482-9971 x2130 and leave a message. A packet will be mailed to you.

YOUTH BOARD MEETING THURSDAY 10.22.09

The Hearts for Youth, Youth Board will be meeting this Thursday from 3:00 – 3:30PM.

HOMEWORK CLUB & TUTORING CLUB THIS WEEK!

The Hearts for Youth Homework Club is open this Tuesday from from 3:00-3:30PM for any students in Grades 3-6 who are interested in a quiet place to work on individual or group homework after school. The Hearts for Youth Tutoring Program will take place Wednesday from 3:00-3:30PM for students Grades 1-6 to receive academic assistance.

SUMMER TENNIS PROGRAM

Pictured above from Left to Right: Coach Terry Satterly and Degan Jeffers

Pictured above is Coach Terry Satterly and Degan Jeffers after the Tennis Program's Summer Shoot Out. Degan was the winner of the shoot out and is pictured with the Tennis Racquet he won. The Hearts for Youth Summer Tennis Program takes place every Tuesday and Thursday during the month of July. The Program works to teach the younger participants the proper techniques for Forehand and Backhand strokes, as well as, the Serve, the Overhead, and the Volley. Older participants learn about pace, spins, and the placement of their strokes.

SUMMER KAYAKING

Pictured Front Row Left to Right, Alexandria Hansson, Hannah Side, Griffin Ferency, Jesse Hudon and Taylor Hudon. Back Row Left to Right Susie Erck, Kaih Hudon, Rebecca Dupee, Sierra Maring, Instructor Julia Erck, then Jarah Papin

Above are participants in the Hearts for Youth Summer Kayaking Program. The Program takes place each Thursday during the summer and is open to local youth and their families. The Program introduces participants to the sport of kayaking as well as the to the beautiful St. Lawrence River and surrounding lakes. The Hearts for Youth Kayaking program helps to create family fun as well as a love for our local community and the sport of kayaking.

JUNIOR MOVIE NIGHT 10.21.09

There will be a Junior Movie Night on October 21, 2009 for students in Grades 3-6. Hearts for Youth will be showing Monsters vs. Aliens. Stop in and enjoy the movie!

HOMEWORK CLUB & TUTORING CLUB ARE BACK!!

The Hearts for Youth Homework Club has started again. The program is available for students Grades 3-6. The Club provides Students with a chaperoned setting to work on individual home work and group projects. The program runs every Tuesday from 3:00 – 3:30PM. The Hearts for Youth Tutoring Program is available for students Grades 1-6 to receive help in academic areas in which the student is struggling. The program runs every Wednesday from 3:00-3:30PM.

HFY YOUTH BOARD MEETING 10.15.09

The Hearts for Youth, Youth Board will be meeting again this Thursday from 3:00 – 3:30PM.

VOLUNTEERS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME

Hearts for Youth is looking to expand its volunteer base and Executive Board leadership. Leadership roles are available for long-term or short-term commitments. Perhaps there is a particular season you are available to volunteer. Perhaps there is a particular sport or activity that you would like to assist with. Perhaps you would simply like to sponsor a child in an activity. All are great ways to support area youth and Hearts for Youth.

For further information, there is an HFY orientation packet available at the HFY office at Alexandria Central School. This packet will give you an overview of the different roles that are played by community members and paid staff to keep the Hearts for Youth programs running and moving forward.

If you want a packet, please contact HFY through their e-mail address, HFY@alexandriacentral.org, and leave your name and address. You may also call 482-9971 x2130 and leave a message. A packet will be mailed to you.

JR. CO-ED SOCCER

Pictured from Left to Right Connor Anderson, Phoeniox Belcher, Gage Goerger, Tristen Whittenmyer, Ian Miller, Coach Billy Little,Chawn Lynch, Zach Patterson, Tyler Slate, and Daegan Jeffers

Pictured above are participants in this year’s Hearts for Youth Junior Co-Ed Soccer Program. The program open to students 8 years old and above allows youth the opportunity to learn more about the sport of soccer. The program consists of a soccer clinic which provides children with 10 hours of instruction prior to the start of the season followed by a regular season where participants play in all positions gaining a thorough knowledge of the game.

YOUTH BOARD MEETING TOMORROW 10.8.09

The HFY Youth board is meeting Thursday from 3:00-3:30PM in the Alexandria Central High School Cafeteria. The HFY Youth Board is responsible for planning and executing various community and school related events. If you are in Grades 7-12 and interested in participating, please drop into the meeting, learn more about the Youth Board, and share your great idea!

VOLUNTEERS PLEASE!!

Orientation Packets are still available for anyone interested in volunteering or becoming an Executive Board Member for HFY. There are plenty of ways in which you can volunteer. If interested please contact the HFY office at (315) 482-9971 x2130 or at HFY@alexandriacentral.org.

HFY SUMMER SWIM PROGRAM!

In the back standing from Left to Right, Emily Davis and Mya Weaver. Sitting/Kneeling outside the pool are from Left to Right, Lacy Thompson, Kelsey Cullen, and Taylor Calhoun. On the ladder from Left to Right, Jordan Felicia and Samuel Felicia. In the water from Back to Front, Blake Hunter, Instructor Christen Cranker, Gabrielle Connor, Kayley Knight and Griffin Ferency.

The children pictured above are participants of this summer's Hearts for Youth Swim Program. Over 200 youth take advantage of the Hearts for Youth’s Summer Swim Program each summer. The program works to teach local youth both how to swim and how to be safe when in or around the water. Lessons are held for two weeks from 9:00AM to 11:00AM Monday- Friday at the Keewaydin State Park Pool.

CROP WALK THIS WEEKEND!!

Hearts for Youth will be participating in the CROP Walk to stop world Hunger this Sunday at 2PM. HFY members will help to set up (and take down) the route signs for the walk and will be leading the participating walkers. Please show your support by joining the walk or making a donation to a great cause!

CALLING ALL INTERESTED VOLUNTEERS!!!

Hearts for Youth is continually seeking volunteers. If you are interested in becoming a Hearts for Youth volunteer or even an Executive Board Member, please contact the HFY office at (315) 482-9971 x2130 or at HFY@alexandriacentral.org. HFY will promptly send you out an Orientation Packet to give you an overview of the different roles that are played by community members and paid staff to keep the Hearts for Youth program running and moving forward.

YOUTH BOARD MEETING THIS THURSDAY 10.1.09

The HFY Youth board is meeting Thursday from 3:00-3:30PM in the Alexandria Central High School Cafeteria. It is not too late to join the Youth Board if you are interested. The Board consists of students in grades 7-12 and allows students to become actively involved in the planning of community and school events. Stop in for the meeting and share your ideas!

ORIENTATION PACKETS STILL AVAILABLE!!!

There are countless volunteer opportunities available and three Executive Board positions open within the organization. If you are interested, please request an Orientation Packet by contacting the HFY office at (315) 482-9971 x2130 or at HFY@alexandriacentral.org. This packet will give you an overview of the different roles that are played by community members and paid staff to keep the Hearts for Youth program running and moving forward.

YOUTH BOARD MEETING - THIS THURSDAY 9.24.09

The HFY Youth board is meeting again this Thursday from 3:00-3:30PM in the Alexandria Central High School Cafeteria. Students 7-12 are encouraged to attend the meeting. Participating in Youth Board allows students to make a difference in the Alexandria Central
Community. Members work throughout the school year planning various events including, dances, movie nights, and day trips.

Co-Ed SOCCER

Front row, Left to Right: Trenton Service, Zach Imdad, Dean Swanson
Second Row, Left to Right: Sydney Lalonde, Emily Cullen,, Emma Kearns, Jarah Papin, Caitlyn Burrows, Emily Thomas.

Third Row, Left to Right: Ian Kearns(helped coach) Lauren and Cierra Vancour(helped coach) Cameron Morgan, Adam Hoover, Oakley Cullen, Makaela Benny, Morgan Weaver, Cassidy Daily.

Missing from the picture are Tristan Thomson, Christopher Strough, Hannah Lynch and Joe Meza and Nick Shangraw.

The above picture was taken this summer during the Hearts for Youth Co-Ed Summer Soccer Clinic. The clinic provides participating players with 10 hours of instruction prior to the start of the Co-Ed Soccer Season. The Co-Ed team, coached by Debbie Hoover and Teri Lowe gives players the ability to have fun, play multiple positions, and develop a greater knowledge of the game.

THANK YOU COACHES!!!!!!!

School is officially back in session and the Hearts for Youth Summer Programs have officially culminated. With that said, Hearts for Youth would like to thank the following people for their help in coaching this summer:

Tracy Duclon and Shannon Ingels, T-ball Coaches.
Dave Hollis, Basketball Coach
Terry Satterley, Tennis Coach along with his assistants Bob O'Connor and Shawn Martin
Debbie Hoover, Teri Lowe, and Billy Little, Co-Ed Soccer Coaches
Laura Swanson, Laura Brown, Shannon Ingels, Kerry Burrows, and Louann Genier, Kiddie Soccer Coaches
Dean Erck, Julia Erck, Erica Sanford, Lucy Grausgruber, Christen Cranker, and Brittany Smith, Soccer Coaches, along with their young helpers Julia Henry and Savannah Erck.
Roger Jobson, Eric Matice, Todd Gorman, Matt Beard, Rhody Spooner, Rebecca McDermott, Chris Hyde, Jason Lynch, Cathy Megan and Heather Perry, Baseball/Softball Coaches
Julia Erck, Art and Crafts Instructor

Also, Hearts for Youth would like to give a big thank you to coaches, parents and community members who volunteered their time and energy in umpiring and referring.
It is with that help of these dedicated volunteers that Hearts for Youth is able to provide over 25 different programs for our local youth to participate in. If you are interested in assisting as a Hearts for Youth volunteer or as an Executive Board member, then please request an Orientation Packet by contacting the HFY office at (315) 482-9971 x2130 or at HFY@alexandriacentral.org.

YOUTH BOARD MEETING THIS THURSDAY 9.17.09

Now that the school year has started, the Hearts for Youth, Youth Board will be meeting again. There will be a meeting this Thursday, September 17th at 3:00PM at Alexandria Central. The HFY Youth Board helps to mentor youth to become leaders, be respectful, and learn how to work together to accomplish a goal. Youth members are responsible for he planning of various community and youth oriented events throughout the calendar year. If you are interested in becoming a member of the Youth Board, please stop into the meeting. Welcome Packets will be available.

PAINTING REDWOOD PLAYGROUND

The above pictures show Hearts for Youth (HFY) members painting the playset at the Redwood Playground. One of the numerous projects that Hearts for Youth (HFY) has worked on is the building of the Redwood and Plessis Playgounds. Through these projects, HFY has worked to created a place for community members to relax and play.

ORIENTATION PACKETS AVAILABLE

Orientation Packets are currently available for anyone in the community who is interested in volunteering or in joining the Hearts for Youth Executive Board and has a “HEART” for youth. There are countless volunteer opportunities available and three Executive Board positions open within the organization. If you are interested, please request an Orientation Packet by contacting the HFY office at (315) 482-9971 x2130 or at HFY@alexandriacentral.org. This packet will give you an overview of the different roles that are played by community members and paid staff to keep the Hearts for Youth program running and moving forward.

THANK YOU

Hearts for Youth would like to thank everyone who was in attendance at our Community Picnic held at The Scenic View Park Pavilion on August 28, 2009. A great time and great fun was had by all in attendance.

VOLUNTEERS & EXECUTIVE BOARD POSITIONS OPEN

Hearts for Youth is looking to expand its volunteer base and Executive Board leadership. If you have a “HEART” for youth and youth programming and are willing to give of your time and talent.

Leadership roles are available for long-term or short-term commitments. They may be for a season or particular sport or activity. Sponsoring a child in an activity would also be a way to help HFY and youth participation.

There is an orientation packet available at the HFY office at Alexandria Central School. This packet will give you an overview of the different roles that are played by community members and paid staff to keep the Hearts for Youth program running and moving forward.

SEEKING NEW BOARD MEMBERS

Hearts for Youth is currently seeking 3 individuals to join their Executive Board. The Hearts for Youth Executive Board along with its volunteers make of the “Heart” of the organization. Their selfless donation of time and energy has helped Heart for Youth growth into an organization that offers over 25 different recreational and academic programs to our area youth.

The Hearts for Youth Board meets on the third Monday of each month at 6:00PM at Richard Chapeney’s office.

If you are interested in becoming a Board Member, information packets are available. To request a packet or for any additional information, please contact the office at (315) 482-9971 x2130 or at HFY@alexandriacentral.org.

NO ARTS & CRAFTS THIS WEEK

Please remember that there will be no Arts & Crafts this week due to Pirate’s Days activities. Arts and Crafts will resume again next week. See you, then!

PADDLES FOR BETTERMENT

“The Foundation for Community Betterment is a national organization that is devoted to community enhancement.” The Alexandria Bay chapter hosted its 9th Annual Paddles for Betterment event on July 24th – 25th. The event raised money to support local individuals and organizations. This year Hearts for Youth was a recipient of funds raised during the event. Funds raised will help in assisting with fees associated with the Hearts for Youth Swim Program.

Above the paddlers are Dean Erck, Julia Erck, Bryn Erck, Susie "River" Erck, Todd Hunter, Brendon Hunter, Chris Strough, along with supporters Gail Hunneyman, and Penny Heath. Susie was the youngest solo paddler. What a beautiful and fun day!

ANOTHER GREAT SWIM SEASON

Another great Hearts for Youth Swim Season came to an end on Friday, July 24th. The season culminated with an end of season swim party. Swimmers spent the day testing out of their swim levels and then celebrating their hard work with free swim and a picnic.

Pictured above are Julia Erck’s Level One Swimmers enjoying the swim party. Pictured from Left to Right. Front Row, Ella Pyne, Brock Hunter, Kendall Croll, Gracie Richardson, Eric Croll, Emily Sutton, Nolan Irvine. Back Row, Julia Erck, Sampie Sutton.

Above, Level Two Swim Instructor, Dean Erck watches Ashelee Ferency (back floating), while Maria Miller watches from afar.

This amazing cake was made by Ms. Karen Side and was enjoyed by plenty of hungry swimmers. Thanks Karen for the delicious and beautiful cake!!

SPECIAL THANKS

Hearts for Youth would like to offer a special thanks to Coach Matt Beard and Assistant Coach Rhody Spooner. Both Mr. Beard and Mr. Spooner will be retiring from coaching this year after donating countless hours to the Hearts for Youth Sports Teams and our area youth! Coach Beard has worked with both the Hearts for Youth Basketball and Softball teams. He has also been a big help off the field, keeping up the maintenance of our equipment shed and in building the softball fields. Coach Spooner has been with Hearts for Youth for two years and will be greatly missed, as well. Oh course, we can’t forget that their Pee Wee Girls team won both the Clayton Tournament and the League this year!

Additional thanks to all of our current returning coaches. Roger Jobson has been coaching baseball for three years and took our Pee Wee team to the Willie Putnam tourney for the first time in years. Coach Jobson had great help with Assistant Coaches Jim Swanson and Mr. Nyp to help. Amy Garlock has been a great help with our basketball teams. Our Soccer Programs would not be the same with out the help of Debbie Hoover, Billy Little and Teri Lowe. Special thanks to Debbie Hoover for helping with all of the soccer programs. Our softball and soccer programs have benefited from the help of volunteer Cindi Meegan as well as her Assistant Coaches, Heather Perry and Kim Bradley. The years of support offered by these volunteers makes Hearts for Youth the organization that it is and we welcome our new volunteers Jason Lynch and Chris Hyde. We look forward to working with you for years to come.

As you can see, there are plenty of ways that one can help Hearts for Youth and its programs. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the Hearts for Youth Office at (315) 482-9971 x2130.

SWIM PARTY THIS WEEK!

The end of the season Swim Party will be this Friday, July 24th. Please remember that all swimmers will be picked up on the 9:00AM bus run! Swimmers should bring a bag lunch. Hearts for Youth will be providing watermelon and cake. After all swimming evaluations are completed, there will be free swim. Parents are more then welcome to attend and enjoy the fun and free swim.

LEAGUE CHAMPIONS!!

2009 Alexandria Pee Wee Girls

Front Row : Shannon Taylor, Emma Kearns, Samantha GriswoldBack row: Jennie Spooner, Erin Tully, Molly Aznoe, Lorraine Beard, Amanda Lingenfelter, Mikuela Benny, Molly Russell, Morgan Weaver,Missing from the photo Cassidy Daily, Hanna Heisler, Coach Matt Beard, Coach Rhoddy Spoonerishes

If you think you have seen the above picture before, it’s because you have! Hearts for Youth would like to congratulate its Pee Wee Girls Softball team on an excellent season. The Girls won the Thousand Islands Powder Puff Tournament earlier this summer and this past week they competed in the League Championship. The girls beat Lafargeville for the league championship in an extended game of 9 innings. Congratulations on a job well done, girls!

GOOD LUCK GIRLS

Tomorrow the Pee Wee Girl's Softball team will compete in the League Championship -
Good Luck Girls!!

SUMMER BASKETBALL TO START

The Hearts for Youth Summer Basketball will run every Tuesday and Thursday from 1:00 – 2:30PM starting July 7th through July 31st. The program will take place at the ACS gym and interested participants can go to the practice this week to sign up. For additional information, contact Hearts for Youth at (315) 482-9971 x2130

KEEPING TRACK OF SUMMER FUN....

Sunday marked the start of Summer and that means that Hearts for Youth has plenty of fun planned for the season. If you have signed-up to participate in any of HFY’s summer programs, please visit the HFY website’s Calendar of Events (http://www.heartsforyouth.org/) regularly for the event schedule, Hearts for Youth is looking forward to another exciting summer and can’t wait to share the fun with you!

ATTN: BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PLAYERS & PARENTS

PICTURES WANTED!!
It has been a great softball and baseball season and Hearts For Youth (HFY) would love to share all of the fun and smiles had with the community. Thus, we are asking that any student or parent with pictures from the season, please submit them to Hearts For Youth. It would be truly appreciated. Ideally, HFY would like to have a photograph (or more) from each team. Please note that pictures may be used on the HFY website and for future publications. Pictures can be emailed to hfy@alexandriacentral.org or mailed to the office at PO Box 414, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607.

BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PANTS!
Any player still in possession of gray baseball/softball pants, please return them to Hearts for Youth.

DATE CHANGE

Due to the closing of school last week, the deadline for Summer Program Permission Slips has been moved back. Please return permission slips AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

TOURNAMENT WINNERS

Congratulations are in order for the Hearts for Youth Pee Wee Softball Team. The girls won the Thousand Islands Powder Puff Tournament this weekend. Great job Coach Beard, Coach Spooner and players!


2009 Alexandria Pee Wee Girls
Front Row : Shannon Taylor, Emma Kearns, Samantha Griswold
Back row: Jennie Spooner, Erin Tully, Molly Aznoe, Lorraine Beard, Amanda Lingenfelter, Mikuela Benny, Molly Russell, Morgan Weaver,
Missing from the photo Cassidy Daily, Hanna Heisler, Coach Matt Beard, Coach Rhoddy Spooner

PERMISSION SLIPS

Just a reminder to all interested in the Hearts for Youth Summer Activities and Programs, PERMISSION SLIPS ARE DUE JUNE 12th.

THE SUMMER FORECAST CALLS FOR LOTS OF HFY FUN!!

Hearts for Youth has a bunch of fun planned for area youth this summer. There will be day trips planned for students in Grades 7 and up. Trips are planned for the IMAX Theatre in Syracuse, Enchanted Forest/Water Safari, and the New York State Fair. Students Grade 6 and below are welcome to attend with a chaperone. For specifics on each day trip and/or permission slips, please visit http://www.heartsforyouth.org/.

Kiddie Soccer is available for youth ages 5-7. Kiddie Soccer will be held every Monday and Wednesday beginning August 3rd – August 26th from 6:30-7:30PM at the ACS fields. Co-Ed Soccer will also be available for ages 8-13 and will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Tennis instruction will be available for youth ages 8-18, every Tuesday and Thursday beginning June 30th – July 16th. Instruction will be held from 8:00-9:00AM for ages 13-18 and 9:00 – 10:00AM for ages 8-12. All instruction will take place at the Alexandria Bay Village Tennis Courts.

Kayaking will be available for youth ages 8-18 and their family. Kayaking trips will take place Thursdays from 3:00-5:00PM starting July 2nd-August 27th. Kayakers must meet at the boat ramps located at the end of Crossman Street, near the Otter Creek Inn.

T-Ball is available for youth ages 4-7 and will be held every Saturday from 9:00-10:00AM beginning July 11th – August 22nd at the Thompson Park in Alexandria Bay.

Arts and Crafts will be available for all ages every Wednesday from 1:00-2:00PM starting July 1st – August 26th. There will not be Arts & Crafts during Pirates Week.

ALL permissions slips are due by June 12th and can be found at http://www.heartsforyourth.org/ or you may call the office at (315) 482-9971 x2130 to request one. HFY hopes to see you this summer!

SPECIAL THANKS!!!

Hearts for Youth would like to send out a special thank you to Dean Erck, Gayle Hunneyman, and Laura Swanson for their years of commitment to the Hearts for Youth Executive Board. It was with regret that the Executive Board accepted the resignations of Dean and Laura. However, they are both remaining on as volunteer Program Coordinators; Dean for baseball and swimming and Laura for soccer. Gayle left the Executive Board to accept a paid position from Hearts for Youth, and she will still volunteers in some of the programs. It is individuals like Dean, Gayle and Laura that are the “Heart” of our organization. Their selfless donation of time and energy has helped Heart for Youth's growth into an organization that offers over 25 different recreational and academic programs to our area youth.

Hearts for Youth needs more individuals like Dean, Gayle, and Laura to help our organization sustain and grow. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or Board member, information packets are available at the Hearts for Youth office. To request a packet, please contact the office at (315) 482-9971 x2130 or at HFY@alexandriacentral.org.

HFY TEAMS TO MARCH IN MEMORIAL DAY PARADE

HFY's Baseball and Softball teams will be marching in the Alexandria Bay Memorial Day Parade this Monday, May 25th at 11:00AM.

Heart for Youth is hoping to see everyone out, lining the village streets in honor of all of our country's heroes.

HEARTS FOR YOUTH ALSO WISHES EVERYONE A SAFE AND ENJOYABLE HOLIDAY WEEKEND!


ATTENTION PLAYERS - Please remember to meet at Alexandria Central to line up, NO LATER than 10:45AM.

RETURN OF OLD EQUIPMENT/UNIFORMS

There were several pairs of Baseball/Softball Uniform pants that were not returned from last season. These pants are quite expensive and Hearts for Youth is asking that anyone who has any pants left over from last year to please return them as soon as possible.

JOIN HFY FOR SOME SUMMER FUN

As the school year is winding down, Hearts for Youth is preparing for its summer activities.

HFY has Summer Day Trips planned for the IMAX Theatre, Water Safari, and The New York State Fair. Along with the trips planned outside of the Thousand Islands, there is still plenty of fun to be had at home. HFY has several weekly activities planned in the area, including Arts & Crafts, T-Ball, Kiddie Soccer, Co-Ed Soccer, Tennis, Kayaking, and Swimming. For a schedule of the summer activities, please check out the HFY Calendar of Events at www.heartsforyouth.org.


Permission slips for summer activities are being sent home with students grades K-6, this week.

Students grades 7-12 who are interested in our summer programs can find the announcements posted in the high school.

All permission slips need to be returned by June 12th. If you did not receive a permission slip, you can find some of them posted on www.heartsforyouth.org or you may call the Hearts for Youth office at (315) 482-9971 x2130 to request one.

FUN AT THE CARNIVAL

As mentioned previously, the Community Carnival this past weekend was a HUGE success. View the pictures below and see all the fun that was had and the smiles shared!!

Above, Alyssa Honeywell is handing out prizes to two participants in the "Bean Bag Toss". Prizes!?!?! Who wouldn't love a day filled with prizes?!?!

Above, Youth Board Members, from L-R, Coreen Murray, Aaron Rolfe, Tyler Constance, and Jake Denner are having fun, playing with balloons and helping make the day a success!

Above, local youth are participating in the "Cake Walk"..... Round and round, they go, where they stop, know one knows!



Above, Chrissy and Ryan Umstead are watching as Susie Erck, Kristen Streeter and Rochelle Johnson participate in the "Pick-A-Pop" Game. A special thanks to Dean and Julia Erck for making the game :)

CARNIVAL A SUCCESS

Hearts for Youth would like to thank everyone for making our carnival a success this weekend. As always a great time was had by all. A special thanks goes out to all you braved sitting in the dunking booth!

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Hearts for Youth would like to thank everyone for sponsoring Petrie Fields as part of the Frosted Flakes Plant-A-Seed Program. The fields did not make the list of 100 finalists, but everyone’s support is still greatly appreciated and has not gone unnoticed.

CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS

Hearts for Youth is looking to expand its volunteer base and Executive Board leadership. If you have a “HEART” for youth and youth programming and are willing to give of your time and talent, please consider attending an orientation meeting on Monday, May 18th at 6:00 PM.
Leadership roles are available for long-term or short-term commitments. They may be for a season or particular sport or activity. Sponsoring a child in an activity would also be a way to help HFY and youth participation.
There is an orientation packet available at the HFY office at Alexandria Central School. This packet will give you an overview of the different roles that are played by community members and paid staff to keep the Hearts for Youth program running and moving forward.
If you want a packet, please contact HFY through their e-mail address, HFY@alexandriacentral.org, and leave your name and address. You may also call 482-9971 x2130 and leave a message. A packet will be mailed to you.

CONFUSION OVER PLANT-A-SEED PROGRAM

It seems like there was a bit of confusion regarding last week’s post asking people to vote for the Petrie Fields as part of Frosted Flakes’ Plant-A-Seed Program. As mentioned previously, recipients of this award are determined largely by the number of supporters a field has. During the month of April, fields are being reviewed and judges are determining who the 100 semi-finalists will be. In determining who the 100 semi-finalists will be, judges base 10% of a field’s score on “demand for the field.” Thus, it is still important that the community shows their support for the field. To do so, please visit http://www.frostedflakes.com/, search for nominated fields in Redwood, NY 13679, select Petrie Fields, and then click on the SUPPORT THIS FIELD icon.
On May 1st, the 100 Semi-Finalists for the program will be announced. If at this time, Petrie Fields is a Semi-Finalist, then we will be asking the community to officially vote for the field. At that time, “the voting public will be allowed one vote for their favorite finalist nomination per day, per person/email address during the voting period.”
For further details on the official rules, please visit http://www.frostedflakes.com/OfficialRules.aspx.

HELP FIX PETRIE FIELDS!!

Now that Spring is in the air, the Baseball/Softball season has become a very large topic of attention for Hearts for Youth and the local community. The HFY Baseball/Softball program serves over 200 area youth each summer. Yet, the Baseball/Softball fields in the Alexandria Bay Community are in despair. With that said, HFY is asking that you visit www.frostedflakes.com and vote to have the Petrie Fields repaired. The Petrie Fields have been nominated for the Frosted Flakes Plant-A-Seed program. Through this program, select communities are awarded funding to repair their fields, giving area youth the a place to grow and play. Recipients of this award are determined partly on the number of supporters the field has. Thus, in order for the Petrie Fields to win, it is imperative that everyone go to the Frosted Flakes website and vote on the fields. To do so, simply visit www.frostedflakes.com, search for nominated fields in Redwood, NY 13679, select Petrie Fields, and then click on the SUPPORT THIS FIELD icon.

FAMILY FUN DAY

The following are some pictures from the HFY Family Fun Day. The event took place at the Redwood Fire Hall on Saturday March 7, 2009. As always a good time was had by all in attendance.

Above, Ryan Thomas is teaching some local citizens how to play the Nintendo "Wii" game.

Above, Connor Cummings is being a real "funny bunny" as he has a bunny painted on to his face. As promised, Penny has used this picture to Blackmail you Connor. =)

Above, Mike Ward and Gayle Hunneyman are speaking with one of the vendors at the event and learning of ideas to incorporate into the HFY Youth Board.

SWIM INSTRUCTORS NEEDED

The Summer Swim season is rapidly approaching and Hearts for Youth is still seeking Instructors. For anyone who wishes to train as an instructor, HFY will cover the cost of training for individuals willing to work for 2 seasons. The training is a 40 hour long program provided by the American Red Cross. Individuals must be 16 years of age to be eligible for the Red Cross Training. Once trained, instructors will be paid $300 and are expected to instruct two one-hour long classes daily for three weeks. If you are a former instructor, HFY is also looking for instructors who would be willing to fill in as a substitute. If you are interested in being a full time or substitute instructor or a volunteer please contact the HFY office at (315) 482-9971 x2130.