Norrie Point is located right on the Hudson River, and the Department of Environmental Conservation hosts two free fishing clinics taking place there this spring: Saturday, April 27 and Saturday, May 11, both from 1 to 4 p.m. Not only are the clinics free, but also no fishing license is required to participate.
Norrie Point is located at 256 Norrie Point Way in Staatsburg. For more information, call (845) 256-2204 or (845) 889-4745, or visit www.dec.ny.gov.
National Park Week
I think that April 20 through 28 is called National Park Week because it’s shorter than “You Know, I’ve Really Been Meaning to Get over There, and Now I Will because It’s Free This Monday through Friday” Week! Over the years, our family has toured and strolled the grounds of places such as the elegant Vanderbilt Mansion and Eleanor Roosevelt’s bucolic Val-Kill retreat. But as the kids have gotten older, they seem not to remember some of these earlier visits, so we’re definitely due for a refresher; or they’re fascinated by a certain aspect of history and appreciate the experience on a deeper level than before.
During National Park Week, national park entrance fees are waived from Monday, April 22 through Friday, April 26. To learn more about National Park Week – including National Junior Ranger Day on April 20, when kids can earn an official badge or patch and a certificate – visit www.nps.gov or www.nationalparks.org.
Autism Walk and Expo
Awareness about autism seems to be progressing, from seeing the familiar puzzle-piece logo on car magnets to autism references to the character on the Glee television show with Asperger’s; but a great deal of work remains to be done about supporting each other in community. On Sunday, April 28, the 12th anniversary Autism Walk and Expo accomplish both: raising awareness and providing support to families affected by autism.
I love famed autism advocate Temple Grandin’s take on the spectrum: “What would happen if the autism gene was eliminated from the gene pool? You would have a bunch of people standing around in a cave, chatting and socializing and not getting anything done.”
This event is so uplifting and informative. Join in on the walk as a family, volunteer or sponsor some walkers and help make a difference. The Walk takes place at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. The Dutchess County Fairgrounds are located at 6550 Spring Brook Avenue in Rhinebeck. For more information or to make a donation, call (845) 331-2626 or visit www.autismwalkhv.org.
