I used to have a list of Post Offices that were open late so I could get that required postmark by midnight 4-15! I wish I were kidding.

But now that I claim Buddy as a dependent, I get a refund! (Buddy is our dog and I am just kidding)

So here's to all the tax preparers out there who are working virtually around-the-clock to get everyone's returns done on time! 

I'm way ahead of the deadline this year and I'm awaiting my refund checks from Washington & Albany any day now.

My guy is Peter of Arlington...who handles over 700 filers each year! And he's still smiling! Comments: email Mike@whud.com

 Photo by Mike Bennett

But for all the training and expertise needed to be an engineer for multiple radio stations...one of their best "tools" is a simple spray bottle.

We never have a "static electricity" problem...like "pops" when we touch the on-air switches or mics...because we spray the stuff (pictured below) around all the studios religiously to prevent the build up of static. You know that pesky phenomenon that makes your hair stand on end. Now that I sorta understand LOL

Speaking of Phenomenon.....worth re-watching this 1996 movie starring today's birthday boy, John Travolta and the late, great Robert Duvall.

I've had this on my desk since the movie came out...coolest promotional item I've ever seen! The magnet holds the pen in mid air and the pen still writes after 30 years of hanging around! 

Hudson Valley Gives was created by the Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan (CFOS) to provide nonprofit organizations in Orange, Sullivan, Ulster, Putnam, Dutchess, Rockland, and Westchester Counties with a platform to reach online donors and raise valuable awareness for their crucial missions, programs, and services. Last year's initiative raised over $795,000.00 for area nonprofits, bringing our total raised since inception to over $4.5 million! We look forward to our best year yet in 2025 as we celebrate our 10th anniversary!

Please save the date and let's support the local non-profits throughout the Hudson Valley.

Nearly 40 people across 18 states, including New York, have been infected, according to CDC.gov, and one person has died after ingesting the contaminated carrots.

The carrots (that have now been recalled and pulled off store shelves were reportedly manufactured by California's Grimmway Farms and sold under the names 365, Bunny Luv, Cal-Organic, Nature’s Promise, Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, and O Organics between August 2024 and November 2024.

Not only are shoppers being advised to check the fridge for these contaminated carrots, but to thoroughly disinfect any areas the carrots may have come into contact with.

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms of E. coli poisoning can include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (including bloody stool), and nausea within 36 to 72 hours after being exposed to the bacteria.

For more information regarding the baby carrots recall in New York, visit cdc.gov.

SEPTEMBER 21, 2024 | 12:00pm

Army returns to Michie Stadium to host the Rice Owls for an AAC matchup.

• Fans are encouraged to arrive early, ALL fans 17 and older must present a valid ID to enter West Point.

• As a reminder, mobile ticketing has been implemented for all Army West Point ticketed events. Click here to learn more with Mobile Ticketing 101.

• Fans attending the game WITHOUT* an advance parking pass, must enter through Thayer Gate (674 Thayer Road, West Point, NY).

*ADA and wheelchair accessible parking and bus transportation is ONLY available by entering Stony Lonesome Gate and parking in H Lot. Fans requiring this assistance DO NOT need an advance parking pass for parking in H Lot. H Lot is available for transportation to the parade ground and to Gate 1 and Gate 5 of Michie Stadium (1 Stony Lonesome Road, West Point, NY).

🚗: There will be NO parking on grass fields for Saturday's game vs. Rice. This will include grass parking availability on Buffalo Soldier Field (BSF), North Athletic Field, and H Lot (grass) parking.   

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

• WEATHER FORECAST: Partly Cloudy, High of 74

• PROMOTIONAL EVENTS:
  Scout Day, Salute to Heroes

• DIVISION INSIGNIA: 2nd Infantry Division

• PARKING LOTS: Open at 6:00am - Currently in need of parking on Saturday? Please access West Point through Thayer Gate (Green Parking Route) where you will be guided into general parking for this weekend's game at no additional cost.

• TICKET WINDOWS OPEN: Day of game and the pre-paid ticket will call windows open at 9:30am. The pre-paid ticket window is located at the ticket office at the Holleder Center Ticket Office, directly across from Michie Stadium.
  Player Guest Tickets - Opens at 10:00am (Holleder Center Ticket Office)
  Visiting Team & Recruits Ticket Window - Opens at 10:00am (Holleder Center Ticket Office)

• STADIUM GATES: Open at 10:00am.

• 2024 MEDIA GUIDE: CLICK HERE

• TV: CBS Sports Network

• LISTEN: Varsity Network App.

CARRY-IN/BAG POLICY

In order to increase safety and security measures, a bag policy for Michie Stadium is in effect, mirroring policies enacted by the NFL and many other collegiate venues. 

PARKING & SHUTTLES

Please enter the gate shown on your parking pass. Fans attending the game WITHOUT an advance parking pass, must enter through Thayer (674 Thayer Road, West Point, NY). **ADA and wheelchair accessible parking and bus transportation IS ONLY AVAILABLE through Stony Lonesome Gate. (Parking available in H Lot)

• 6:00am - PARKING LOTS OPEN

• 7:30am - SHUTTLE BUSES START

• 10:00am - STADIUM GATES OPEN

NOTE: Shuttle bus transportation ends 90 minutes following the completion of the game.

Parking Pass Gates to Enter:

• Green Passes: Enter Thayer Gate (674 Thayer Road, West Point, NY)

• Red Passes: Enter Stony Lonesome Gate (1 Stony Lonesome Road, West Point, NY)

• Blue Passes: Enter Washington Gate (917 Washington Road, West Point, NY)

• Gold Passes: Enter Washington Gate (917 Washington Road, West Point, NY)

• General Public (Day of Game Parking) should enter through Thayer Gate.
  Click Here For Additional Information on Parking and Shuttles Or Scroll Down For Maps

SCOUT DAY ACTIVITIES LOCATION (DAILY FIELD)

GAMEDAY EVENTS TIMELINE

• 9:00am - BLACK KNIGHTS ALLEY OPENS: Black Knights Alley is the Fan Fest that runs on Howze Field, between the Foley Center and Michie Stadium. Black Knights Alley features live music, inflatable's for kids, face painting, tailgate show, as well as other vendors. Black Knights Alley is open until kickoff.

• 9:00am - CADET REVIEW: One of the time honored traditions of a West Point gameday, a full-dress cadet parade takes place on “The Plain” prior to kickoff (weather permitting) for every home game.

• 9:55am - BLACK KNIGHTS WALK: At approximately 9:55am, the football players, Rabble Rousers, band and coaches will walk by Gate 7 of Michie Stadium (next to Black Knights Alley) down to the locker room. Line up along Black Knights Alley to cheer on the Black Knights as they enter the stadium for gameday.

• 11:35am - NATIONAL ANTHEM: The USMA Band performs the National Anthem.

• 11:45am - PARACHUTE DEMONSTRATION: A fan favorite, look skyward as West Point Cadets jump from a helicopter and land minutes later on the field as they parachute in the official game ball approximately 15 minutes before kickoff (weather permitting).

• 12:00pm - KICKOFF: At 12:00pm, the Black Knights take on the Owls of Rice University!

• HALFTIME: Stick around as we honor the newest inductees of the Army Sports Hall of Fame and a performance by the West Point Band !

MOBILE TICKETS - ADD TO YOUR MOBILE WALLET

In advance of the game, please ensure that you add your mobile tickets to your mobile wallet ahead of your visit to West Point. If you do not download and save your mobile tickets to your mobile wallet prior to the event, you will need to use cellular data or Wi-Fi to access your tickets and may have trouble connecting on gameday. Do not print out your digital ticket as printed digital tickets will not be accepted at the gate.

For complete instructions, including step-by-step guides and FAQ's, please click here to view the ArmyGameday.com Mobile Ticketing 101 Guide!

Have additional questions? Contact the ticket office at 1-877-TIX-ARMY.

GAMEDAY SHUTTLE MAP

Gameday Parking Map

Preview Center Near Black Knights Alley:

Learn more

The annual 'Harvest Moon' will appear in the sky this week - with a special twist. The first full moon of September will peak on Tuesday and last three days. This year's harvest moon will also include a partial lunar eclipse on Tuesday night, beginning at 8:41pm ET through 12:47am Wednesday morning.

Friday, September 13

 - Carnival, Live Music, Food Trucks, Beer Garden 5:00 pm-11:00 pm 

Saturday, September 14 

-Street Fair 10 am to 6 pm,

-Carnival, Live Music, Food Trucks, Beer Garden 12 pm to 11 pm 

Sunday, September 15

 - Carnival, Live Music, Food Trucks, Beer Garden 12 pm to 8 pm. 

What's Happing Friday Night...

We are kicking SeptemberFest Weekend off at 5:00pm with plenty of fun for all ages!

Bring the whole family for great eats all weekend at SeptemberFest! Food Trucks cooking at the ‘Fest this year are:

Mobile Pie, Tipsy Taco, Sweets & Treats, Exit 4 Food Hall, Leonard Park Wines & Spirits, 

Wrapper’s Delight, Bazodee and Crafty Cue BBQ 

5pm-11pm: Enjoy a cold beer from Exit 4 or a glass of wine from Leonard Park Wines & Spirits and listen to great music in comfort. We have plenty of seating available for our dining patrons at the Food Court Hospitality Tent courtesy of top sponsor Mount Kisco Dental Group.  

Enjoy thrilling Carnival Rides & Amusements from 5pm- 11pm

Friday Night featured Free Entertainment on the Mount Kisco Chevrolet Stage

5:30pm - 6:30pm Performances by Green Room Music – Mount Kisco’s newest community music connection

Kicking off Mount Kisco’s Biggest Block Party is D’Errico Jewelry! 

Get your dancing feet ready for super funk fun with LIVE BAND “the WhatUp funkband” starting at 7:30pm

What's On the Schedule for Saturday...

Let the sun shine on SeptemberFest Street Fair Day! (10am-6pm). This anticipated event by the Mount Kisco Chamber of Commerce tradition is now in its 53 year! 

Over 70 Vendors and Community organizations will be buzzing along South Moger Avenue and the Promenade area in Mount Kisco’s Downtown offering unique products and services. Hunt for great  merchandise at the Street Fair and in the nearby shops. Enjoy the fun giveaways and demonstrations and take a moment to learn about important organizations that support the community.  

2024 Highlights include:

• Mount Kisco Volunteer Fire Department and Volunteer Ambulance Corp will be on stand-by all day with impressive equipment and information on emergency services
• The Mount Kisco Arts Council (MKAC) is hosting an Art Show (12pm-6pm) featuring local artists with works for purchase. Exhibitors include: Katonah Art Center, Mt. Kisco Historical Society, Rich Alexander, Karla Booth, Elizabeth Mills, Harold Buchholz, John Rice, Works by Andre Ferrara and more.
• Westchester Family Church Puppet Show- stop by their booth near the Food Court for schedule.
• Northern Westchester Hospital Center Immunization and Info Booth (next to the Art Show)
• DARCARS Automotive luxury autos (Food Court Area)
• Fencing Demonstration (2pm) by Thrust Fencing Academy (Food Court Area)
• Youth Dance Performance (3:30pm) by Miss Alessia Dance Artistry (Food Court Area)

Saturday is packed fun-filled day with Carnival Rides and Amusements (Noon-11pm) and the SeptemberFest Food Court & Beer Garden (Noon-11pm).

The Mount Kisco Chevrolet Stage is overflowing with free entertainment into Saturday evening.

4:00pm - Live Band “10- 88” sponsored by Musically Yours

5:00pm – “James LIVE”

6:00pm - 7:00pm – Live Band “en-TRANCE” new to the SeptemberFest roster with rhythmic rock roots sponsored by Northern Westchester Auto Body

8:00pm - SeptemberFest’s Saturday Night High Energy Party with Modern Pop Rock Band “Here 24” sponsored by ShopRite Mount Kisco who will be rocking at their new flagship store location coming this Fall.

MEET UP WITH FRIENDS, BRING THE FAMILY BUT MAKE SURE YOU COME FOR SOME SUNDAY FUN!!

Sunday, September 15  

Carnival 12pm-8pm

Food and Beer Garden 12pm - 6pm

Hometown Talent Showcase 1pm-5pm

After the Mount Kisco Fire Department 5K Race crosses the finish line, SeptemberFest’s

Sunday Fun Day takes off at Noon going all in with Carnival Rides and Amusements 12pm-8pm

Check out the nearby Farmer’s Market from 11am-3pm.

12:30pm - Work up an appetite for your food truck favorite by starting your day off at an open-air exercise class 

hosted by Pure Barre. This FREE class will take place on the lawn at Fountain Park in front of the Mt. Kisco 

Library.  

1pm-5pm - Always a ‘Fest favorite, don’t miss SeptemberFest’s Hometown Talent Showcase

featuring performances by local musical groups, music students from the Risko School of Music as well as

seasoned performers. Grateful Dead Tribute Band, “Do Dah Man”, will close out this delightful afternoon of 

entertainment sponsored by On the Mend Medical Supplies & Equipment.  

Sunday’s Entertainment Schedule                                                                     

12:30pm – Hidden Treasures, the Community Living Center CLC Performers

1:00pm-2:00pm - Risko School of Music Top Cut Performances                    

2:15pm - Bedford Community Church Choir                                                                                         

2:45pm - PIE EATING CONTEST

3:30pm - 5:00pm - Live Band “Do Dah Man” Grateful Dead Tribute Band

The food court closes at 6pm on Sunday and the Carnival Rides close at 8pm.

Video of the Year

Ariana Grande — we can’t be friends (wait for your love)
Billie Eilish — Lunch
Doja Cat — Paint The Town Red
Eminem — Houdini
SZA — Snooze
Taylor Swift feat. Post Malone — Fortnight

Best New Artist

Benson Boone
Chappell Roan
Gracie Abrams
Shaboozey
Teddy Swims
Tyla

Song of Summer

Ariana Grande — we can’t be friends (wait for your love)
Benson Boone — Beautiful Things
Billie Eilish — BIRDS OF A FEATHER
Chappell Roan — Good Luck, Babe!
Charli XCX & Billie Eilish — Guess featuring Billie Eilish
Eminem — Houdini
Future, Metro Boomin & Kendrick Lamar — Like That
GloRilla, Megan Thee Stallion — Wanna Be
Hozier — Too Sweet
Kendrick Lamar — Not Like Us
Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen — I Had Some Help
Sabrina Carpenter — Please Please Please
Shaboozey — A Bar Song (Tipsy)
SZA — Saturn
Taylor Swift feat. Post Malone — Fortnight
Tommy Richman — MILLION DOLLAR BABY

VMAs Most Iconic Performance

Beyonce — Love On Top
Eminem — The Real Slim Shady / The Way I Am
Katy Perry — Roar
Lady Gaga — Paparazzi
Madonna — Like A Virgin
Madonna, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Missy Elliott — Like A Virgin / Hollywood
Taylor Swift — You Belong With Me

Artist of the Year

Ariana Grande
Bad Bunny
Eminem
Sabrina Carpenter
SZA
Taylor Swift

Song of the Year

Beyonce — TEXAS HOLD ‘EM
Jack Harlow — Lovin On Me
Kendrick Lamar — Not Like Us
Sabrina Carpenter — Espresso
Taylor Swift feat. Post Malone — Fortnight
Teddy Swims — Lose Control

Performance of the Year

Kaliii — Area Codes
GloRilla — Lick or Sum
Benson Boone — In The Stars
Coco Jones — ICU
Victoria Monet — On My Mama
Jessie Murph — Wild Ones
Teddy Swims — Lose Control
Chappell Roan — Red Wine Supernova
Flyana Boss — yeaaa
Laufey — Goddess
LE SSERAFIM — Easy
The Warning — Automatic Sun

Best Group

*NSYNC
Coldplay
Imagine Dragons
NCT DREAM
NewJeans
SEVENTEEN
TOMORROW X TOGETHER
Twenty One Pilots

Best Collaboration

Drake feat. Sexxy Red & SZA — Rich Baby Daddy
GloRilla, Megan Thee Stallion — Wanna Be
Jessie Murph feat. Jelly Roll — Wild Ones
Jung Kook feat. Latto — Seven
Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen — I Had Some Help
Taylor Swift feat. Post Malone — Fortnight

Best Pop

Camila Cabello
Dua Lipa
Olivia Rodrigo
Sabrina Carpenter
Tate McRae
Taylor Swift

Best Hip-Hop

Drake feat. Sexxy Red & SZA — Rich Baby Daddy
Eminem — Houdini
GloRilla — Yeah Glo!
Gunner — fukumean
Megan Thee Stallion — BOA
Travis Scott feat. Playboi Carti — FE!N

Best R&B

Alicia Keys — Lifeline
Muni Long — Made For Me
SZA — Snooze
Tyla — Water
USHER, Summer Walker, 21 Savage — Good Good
Victoria Monet — On My Mama

Best Alternative

Benson Boone — Beautiful Things
Bleachers — Tiny Moves
Hozier — Too Sweet
Imagine Dragons — Eyes Closed
Linkin Park — Friendly Fire
Teddy Swims — Lose Control (Live)

Best Rock

Bon Jovi — Legendary
Coldplay — feelslikeimfallinginlove
Green Day — Dilemma
Kings of Leon — Mustang
Lenny Kravitz — Human
U2 — Atomic City

Best Latin

Anitta — Mil Veces
Bad Bunny — MONACO
Karol G — MI EX TENIA RAZON
Myke Towers — LALA
Peso Pluma & Anitta — BELLAKEO
Rauw Alejandro — Touching The Sky
Shakira & Cardi B — Punteria

Best K-Pop

Jung Kook feat. Latto — Seven
Lisa — Rockstar
NCT DREAM — Smoothie
NewJeans — Super Shy
Stray Kids — LALALALA
TOMORROW X TOGETHER — Deja Vu

Best Afrobeats

Ayra Starr feat. Giveon — Last Heartbreak Song
Burna Boy — City Boys
Chris Brown feat. Davido & Lojay — Sensational
Tems — Love Me JeJe
Tyla — Water
USHER, Pheelz — Ruin

Video for Good

Alexander Stewart — if you only knew
Billie Eilish — What Was I Made For?
Coldplay — feelslikeimfallinginlove
Joyner Lucas & Jelly Roll — Best For Me
RAYE — Genesis.
Tyler Childers — In Your Love

Best Trending Video

Beyonce — TEXAS HOLD ‘EM
Camila Cabello feat. Playboi Carti — I LUV IT
Chappell Roan — Hot To Go!
Charli XCX — Apple
Megan Thee Stallion feat. Yuki Chiba — Mamushi
Tinashe — Nasty

Best Direction

we can’t be friends (wait for your love) — Ariana Grande
Tiny Moves — Bleachers
Houdini — Eminem
BOA — Megan Thee Stallion
Please Please Please — Sabrina Carpenter
Fortnight — Taylor Swift feat. Post Malone

Best Cinematography

we can’t be friends (wait for your love) — Ariana Grande
Von dutch — Charli XCX
Illusion — Dua Lipa
Obsessed — Olivia Rodrigo
Touching The Sky — Rauw Alejandro
Fortnight — Taylor Swift feat. Post Malone

Best Visual Effects

the boy is mine — Ariana Grande
Houdini — Eminem
Selfish — Justin Timberlake
BOA — Megan Thee Stallion
get him back! — Olivia Rodrigo
Fortnight — Taylor Swift feat. Post Malone

Best Choreography

Tiny Moves — Bleachers
Houdini — Dua Lipa
Rockstar — LISA
Touching The Sky — Rauw Alejandro
greedy — Tate McRae
Rush — Troye Sivan

Best Art Direction

360 — Charli XCX
Rockstar — LISA
BOA — Megan Thee Stallion
bad idea right? — Olivia Rodrigo
Please Please Please — Sabrina Carpenter
Fortnight — Taylor Swift feat. Post Malone

Best Editing

Mil Veces — Anitta
we can’t be friends (wait for your love) — Ariana Grande
Houdini — Eminem
Rockstar — LISA
Espresso — Sabrina Carpenter
Fortnight — Taylor Swift feat. Post Malone

Winner list via VARIETY

Legendary Actor and Dutchess County Resident James Earl Jones passed away today at his home at age 93. 

Jones is an EGOT Winner (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar & Tony) and has nearly 200 screen credits, making him one of the best known people in the business. Over his career, he received three Tony Awards, two Emmy Awards, and a Grammy Award. While Jones has not won a competitive Oscar, he was presented with the Honorary Academy Award in 2011 by Sir Ben Kingsley.

During his brilliant 60-year career, he began in the early-’60s with TV guest roles and Stanley Kubrick’s 1964 classic Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964). He best known for his voice role as Darth Vader in the Star Wars trilogy: Star Wars (1977) The Empire Strikes Back, 1980) and Return of the Jedi (1983). He also reprised the villainous role in Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005), Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016), Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker (2019) and TV’s Obi-Wan Kenobi and Star Wars: Rebels.

Who doesn't know his immortal Vader quotes: “When I left you, I was but the learner — now I am the master,” “I find your lack of faith disturbing” and, of course, “No, I am your father.”

One of Jones’ best-loved roles is Terence Mann, the reclusive 1960s author who reluctantly teams with Kevin Costner’s Ray Kinsella to unlock the latter’s visions of baseball lore in Field of Dreams (1989). Based on the 1982 novel Shoeless Joe Jackson, the film from writer-director Phil Alden Robinson tugged — no, yanked — at heartstrings with its sweet nostalgia, high-concept plot, father-son dynamics and general excellence.

It earned three Oscar nominations including Best Picture; it lost to Driving Miss Daisy — a film whose Broadway adaptation starred Jones as Hoke Colburn, the character played by Morgan Freeman on the big screen.

Jones also voiced Mufasa in The Lion King in both the 1994 animated film and the 2019 hybrid remake and lent his voice to the famous “This is CNN” promo campaign for the cable news network.

Born on January 17, 1931, in Arkabutla, MS, Jones was a full-time resident in Pawling, NY (Dutchess County) and will be GREATLY missed!

If you're looking to attend a regular season game:

Friday, September 6th: First Pitch at 7:05pm at Heritage Financial Park

Saturday, September 7th: First Pitch at 5:05pm at Heritage Financial Park

Sunday, September 8th: First Pitch at 2:05pm at Heritage Financial Park

If you're looking to attend the Division Series:

Tuesday, September 10th: First Pitch at 6:35pm at Heritage Financial Park

The win improved the Renegades record at Heritage Financial Park to 45-18 (.714) on the season, the best home record in Minor League Baseball… The victory was also the team’s 71st of the season, tying the 2021 and 2022 teams for most wins in a single season in Renegades history.

JACKSON CASTILLO WALKS IT OFF AGAIN! 💥 THAT'S THE SECOND WALK-OFF THIS WEEK!

THE COMEBACK KINGS STRIKE AGAIN! 👑🔥 pic.twitter.com/hRJriUoGyI

— Hudson Valley Renegades (@HVRenegades) September 6, 2024

August 30, 2024 | 6:00pm

Army returns to Michie Stadium to open the 2024 season against the Lehigh Mountain Hawks.

• Fans are encouraged to arrive early, ALL fans 17 and older must present a valid ID to enter West Point.

• As a reminder, mobile ticketing has been implemented for all Army West Point ticketed events. Click here to learn more with Mobile Ticketing 101.

• Fans attending the game WITHOUT* an advance parking pass, must enter through Washington Gate (917 Washington Road, West Point, NY).

*ADA and wheelchair accessible parking and bus transportation is ONLY available by entering Stony Lonesome Gate and parking in H Lot. Fans requiring this assistance DO NOT need an advance parking pass for parking in H Lot. H Lot is available for transportation to the parade ground and to Gate 1 and Gate 5 of Michie Stadium (1 Stony Lonesome Road, West Point, NY).

🚗: There will be NO parking on grass fields for Friday's game vs. Lehigh. This will include grass parking availability on Buffalo Soldier Field (BSF), North Athletic Field, and H Lot (grass) parking.   

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

• WEATHER FORECAST: High of 84 - Sunny ☀️ (Updated 8/27)

• PROMOTIONAL EVENTS:
  Military Appreciation Day, Black Knight Buddies Game

• DIVISION INSIGNIA: 101st Airborne Division

• PARKING LOTS: Open at 12:00pm - Currently in need of parking on Friday? Please access West Point through Washington Gate (Blue Parking Route) where you will be guided into general parking for this weekend's game at no additional cost.

• TICKET WINDOWS OPEN: Day of game and the pre-paid ticket will call windows open at 3:30pm. The pre-paid ticket window is located at the ticket office at the Holleder Center Ticket Office, directly across from Michie Stadium.
  Army Player Guest Tickets - Opens at 3:30pm (Holleder Center Ticket Office)
  Visiting Team & Recruits Ticket Window - Opens at 4:00pm (Holleder Center Ticket Office)

• STADIUM GATES: Open at 4:00pm.

• 2024 MEDIA GUIDE: CLICK HERE

• TV: CBS Sports Network

• LISTEN: Varsity Network App.

CARRY-IN/BAG POLICY

In order to increase safety and security measures, a bag policy for Michie Stadium is in effect, mirroring policies enacted by the NFL and many other collegiate venues. 

PARKING & SHUTTLES

Please enter the gate shown on your parking pass. Fans attending the game WITHOUT an advance parking pass, must enter through Washington Gate (917 Washington Road, West Point, NY). **ADA and wheelchair accessible parking and bus transportation IS ONLY AVAILABLE through Stony Lonesome Gate. (Parking available in H Lot)

• 12:00pm - PARKING LOTS OPEN

• 1:30pm - SHUTTLE BUSES START

• 4:00pm - STADIUM GATES OPEN

NOTE: Shuttle bus transportation ends 90 minutes following the completion of the game.

Parking Pass Gates to Enter:

• Green Passes: Enter Thayer Gate (674 Thayer Road, West Point, NY)

• Red Passes: Enter Stony Lonesome Gate (1 Stony Lonesome Road, West Point, NY)

• Blue Passes: Enter Washington Gate (917 Washington Road, West Point, NY)

• Gold Passes: Enter Washington Gate (917 Washington Road, West Point, NY)

• General Public (Day of Game Parking) should enter through Washington Gate.
  Click Here For Additional Information on Parking and Shuttles Or Scroll Down For Maps

GAMEDAY EVENTS TIMELINE

• 3:00pm - BLACK KNIGHTS ALLEY OPENS: Black Knights Alley is the Fan Fest that runs on Howze Field, between the Foley Center and Michie Stadium. Black Knights Alley features live music, inflatable's for kids, face painting, tailgate show, as well as other vendors. Black Knights Alley is open until kickoff.

• 4:00pm - CADET REVIEW: One of the time honored traditions of a West Point gameday, a full-dress cadet parade takes place on “The Plain” prior to kickoff (weather permitting) for every home game. Please note that Friday’s game has the parade two hours prior to kickoff, rather than the three hours typically seen on a Saturday game.

• 4:00pm - BLACK KNIGHTS WALK: The football players, Rabble Rousers, band and coaches will walk by Gate 7 of Michie Stadium (next to Black Knights Alley) down to the locker room. Line up along Black Knights Alley to cheer on the Black Knights as they enter the stadium for gameday.

• 5:48pm - NATIONAL ANTHEM: The USMA Band performs the National Anthem.

• 5:50pm - PARACHUTE DEMONSTRATION: A fan favorite, look skyward as West Point Cadets jump from a helicopter and land minutes later on the field as they parachute in the official game ball approximately 15 minutes before kickoff (weather permitting).

• 6:00pm - KICKOFF: At 6:00pm, the Black Knights take on the Mountain Hawks of Lehigh University!

• HALFTIME: Stick around for a performance by the West Point Band!

MOBILE TICKETS - ADD TO YOUR MOBILE WALLET

In advance of the game, please ensure that you add your mobile tickets to your mobile wallet ahead of your visit to West Point. If you do not download and save your mobile tickets to your mobile wallet prior to the event, you will need to use cellular data or Wi-Fi to access your tickets and may have trouble connecting on gameday. Do not print out your digital ticket as printed digital tickets will not be accepted at the gate.

For complete instructions, including step-by-step guides and FAQ's, please click here to view the ArmyGameday.com Mobile Ticketing 101 Guide!

Have additional questions? Contact the ticket office at 1-877-TIX-ARMY.

GAMEDAY SHUTTLE MAP

Gameday Parking Map

Preview Center Near Black Knights Alley:

Application Closes September 30!

Time is running out for Dutchess and Ulster County homeowners to apply for life-changing home repairs and accessibility modifications through Rebuilding Together Hudson Valley’s (RTHV) Rebuilding Day program. Applications close on September 30, 2024, so eligible residents are encouraged to act quickly to apply for these no-cost services.

RTHV’s Rebuilding Day program has transformed the lives of countless homeowners by ensuring their homes are safe, warm, dry, and healthy. “Our program is more than just a repair service—it’s a lifeline,” says Darcy McCourt, Executive Director of RTHV. “From roof replacements, accessible bathrooms and ramps, to critical plumbing and electrical work, our goal is to enhance the safety and accessibility of homes for those who need it most, all at no cost to the homeowner.”

These essential repairs not only improve the safety of the home but also offer homeowners peace of mind and a renewed sense of security. Just ask Helen, an 88-year-old widow and mother to a disabled adult son, who has lived in her home for over 30 years. Thanks to RTHV, Helen’s home was equipped with a 30-foot handrail, reinforced stairs, a walk-in shower, grab bars, basement repairs, and more. “Knowing that Mom can move around safely and get in and out of the bathroom without fear—it’s made all the difference for our family,” Helen’s daughter shared.

The impact of RTHV’s work is evident in the stories of those who have been helped. Neighbors, friends, and family members across Dutchess and Ulster Counties are urging others to take advantage of this opportunity before it’s too late. The application process is simple, but the benefits are life-changing.
 

How to Apply:
To request an application or learn more about the program, call the RTHV office at 845-454-7310 or visit their website at: https://www.rebuildingtogetherhudsonvalley.org/  

Army enters 2024 with a lot of excitement surrounding the program as the Black Knights will play in the American Athletic Conference, its first conference affiliation since 2004. The Black Knights will also play with a new backdrop at Michie Stadium as the East Stands have been completely demolished and the ground has been broken on the Michie Stadium Preservation Project, a $177-million venture that will modernize amenities including premium seating and improved concessions.

On the field, Army carries the momentum of ending last season on a four-game winning streak in which they were able to capture the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy over Service Academy rivals.

Jeff Monken, in his 11th season leading the Black Knights, returns his starting QB Bryson Daily, and emerging RB Kanye Udoh and returns four players on the offensive line that have started 12 or more games.

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Here is everything you need to know:

Q: What is the address for the Dutchess County Fair?

A: For GPS purposes please use: 6636 Spring Brook Avenue, Rhinebeck, NY 12572

Q: How much does parking Cost?

A: Free! There is NO Cost to you for parking on the grounds. Trolleys are available in the parking lots for guest transportation at no charge.

Q: Can I buy tickets at the gate?

A: Yes, however presale prices are only offered until the day before the start of the fair. *Please be sure to download or print your ticket PRIOR to arriving to the fairgrounds. *

Q: Is there a senior discount available?

A: Yes, Wednesday is our senior discount day. Senior discounted tickets can be purchased at the Walk-up windows only.

Q. Can I leave and return to the fairgrounds on the same day?

A. Yes, Please be sure to have your hand stamped to be able to return to the fairgrounds should you need to leave.

Q: Are pets allowed on the grounds?

A: NO. Please DO NOT bring your pets and DO NOT leave them in your vehicle. Service animals can accompany their owner with proper documentation.

Q: Is the venue handicap and wheelchair accessible?

A: Yes. Each entrance is easily accessible with paved walkways. Accommodations have been made on the grounds, in buildings, the grandstand, and in restrooms to accommodate individuals with disabilities.

Q:Can I rent a wheelchair or scooter?

A: Yes, Please reserve your needs in advance. Visit: ScootAround.com

Q: How can I get ADA seating?

A: ADA seating is listed online when purchasing tickets for your favorite show.

Q: Is there a lost and found?

A: Yes, anything lost on the grounds should be turned into the Command post for handling.

Q: Is there an ATM at the fairgrounds?

A: Yes, there are multiple ATMs located throughout the fairgrounds.

Q: Are there restrooms on the grounds?

A: Yes – Follow the yellow lines on the ground for a direct route to the nearest restroom. You can also check the map for restroom locations.

Go to any Powers Great American Ticket Booth For Ride all Day wristband redemption.

For more information regarding rides and games please contact Powers Great American Midways, Email: contact@powersmidways.com.

PEARL RIVER, NY, August 7, 2024, 2:00 p.m. – Orange & Rockland Utilities (O&R) is making final preparations to ramp up a company-wide, emergency response mobilization to make repairs and restore electric service as needed when the last of Tropical Storm Debby, packing strong wind gusts and heavy downpours, races through the region Friday through Saturday.

O&R has secured 150 additional mutual aid workers to supplement its storm response. They will join O&R’s full complement of company and contractor overhead line crews and tree removal experts who will be activated for storm duty Friday afternoon. O&R damage assessment, site safety, customer service operations and the wide array of O&R teams that support those functions also will be ready to respond.

Weather Forecast

Tropical Storm Debby is currently located 65 miles southeast of Charleston, South Carolina. The system will make its way northwest and is expected to impact O&R’s service territory beginning Friday afternoon. The storm, coupled with saturated soil from thunderstorms and rain showers throughout the week, could pose significant overhead line impacts.

O&R Could See:

• Winds sustained up to 20 mph, gusting up to 40 mph.
• Rainfall 2-6 inches.

For the latest information about power outages, please view the Outage Map. For a brief video that provides a step-by-step guide to the Outage Map’s basic operation:

• In English
• In Spanish

O&R Warns

For safety’s sake, O&R warns the public not to touch or approach any downed wire. Assume the wire is energized and dangerous. Call O&R immediately toll-free 1-877-434-4100. Depending on the situation, you may also consider calling your local police to divert traffic from the downed wire’s location until an O&R crew arrives.

How to Report an Outage

If you experience a power outage, don’t assume that O&R automatically knows about it. You can report it and check to see when your lights will be back on through:

• Report an Electric Service Problem | Orange & Rockland (oru.com) from any computer or web-based mobile device.        
• O&R mobile app from your iPhone, iPad or Android device --- download via Apple Store or Google Play.
• Text messaging by texting “OUT” to 69678 (myORU) or
• Call 1-877-434-4100.

Restoring Service

Once the weather clears enough to safely assess damage and begin electric service restoration, O&R crews will give priority to clearing downed wires blocking roads and making repairs to critical and emergency facilities (police and fire stations, and hospitals, for example) and to those locations where the repair will provide power to the largest number of customers as quickly as possible. Then, crews will restore smaller outages and individual customers’ outages.

Important Safety Tips

• For safety’s sake, don’t touch or approach any downed wire. Assume it is energized and dangerous. Call O&R immediately toll-free 1-877-434-4100. Depending on the situation, you may also want to call your local police to divert traffic until an O&R crew arrives.

• Maintain a distance of at least 50 feet from downed wires and anything they are in contact with including puddles of water and fences. Supervise your children so that they are not in the vicinity and keep pets on a leash or otherwise secure.

• If a fallen wire is draped over a car, do not approach the car to make rescue attempts. Remain a safe distance away and try to keep the occupant of the vehicle calm. If possible, emergency personnel should handle the situation.

• Pole-top transformers --- those small, grey-colored metal drums attached to the wires at the tops of most utility poles --- also should be avoided when they have been knocked to the ground.

• Portable generators pose a serious hazard if used improperly. They should be used and installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A wrong connection could feed electricity back through the lines and endanger our repair crews. Never plug a generator into a wall unit, use it indoors or set it up outdoors near open home windows or air-handling vents.

• Have emergency equipment within reach --- portable radio, flashlights, spare batteries, first aid kit, cell phone and important medications. Keep O&R’s toll-free number 1-877-434-4100 near the phone to report power outages.

• Remember: if the base station of your cordless phone plugs into the wall, your phone will be unusable during a power outage.

How To Prepare Your EV for A Power Outage

Just as is the case with traditional gasoline vehicles, you need to ensure your electric car is fueled up in the event there is a power outage that lasts longer than expected.

Guidance is to always keep your EV charged between 75-90% in case of an emergency.

While EVs don’t need a gas station, they do need to be charged up, which is easily done at home.

All EVs come with a plug and adapter that are compatible with the outlets in your garage or outside your house. Furthermore, there are Level 2 chargers available for your home. These charge your vehicle at a higher rate than a regular outlet because they use 220 volts, just like what a clothes dryer uses.

Can’t charge at home? Take your vehicle to a publicly accessible Level 2 or DCFC Fast Charger.

About O&R

Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc. (O&R) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc., one of the nation’s largest investor-owned energy companies. O&R is a regulated utility that provides electric service to approximately 300,000 customers in southeastern New York State (where its franchise name is Orange and Rockland Utilities) and northern New Jersey (where it’s Rockland Electric Company), and natural gas service to approximately 140,000 customers in New York. 

O&R’s Customers

O&R serves the following communities in New York: Airmont, Bloomingburg, Blooming Grove, Chester Town, Chester Village, Chestnut Ridge, Clarkstown, Crawford, Deerpark, Florida, Forestburgh, Goshen Town, Goshen Village, Grand View, Greenwood Lake, Greenville, Harriman, Haverstraw Town, Haverstraw Village, Highland Falls, Highlands, Hillburn, Kaser, Kiryas Joel, Lumberland, Mamakating, Middletown, Minisink, Monroe Town, Monroe Village, Montebello, Mount Hope, New Hempstead, New Square, Nyack, Orangetown, Otisville, Palm Tree, Piermont, Pomona, Port Jervis, Ramapo, Sloatsburg, South Blooming Grove, South Nyack, Spring Valley, Stony Point, Suffern, Tuxedo Town, Tuxedo Park, Unionville, Upper Nyack, Wesley Hills, Wallkill, Warwick Town, Warwick Village, Washingtonville, Wawayanda, West Haverstraw, Woodbury, Woodbury Village, Wurtsboro. 

O&R, as Rockland Electric Company, serves the following communities in New Jersey:

Allendale, Alpine, Closter, Cresskill, Demarest, Franklin Lakes, Harrington Park, Mahwah, Haworth (part), Montague, Montvale, Northvale, Norwood, Oakland, Old Tappan (part), Ramsey, Ringwood (part), Rivervale (part), Rockleigh, Saddle River (part), Upper Saddle River, Wantage (part), Vernon (part), West Milford (part), Wyckoff (part).

But I think one of my favorite parts of the games this year is rapper turned reporter, Snoop Dogg! From dinner & horseback riding with Martha Stewart to swimming with Olympic great, Michael Phelps-- Snoop is living our dreams in Paris this year!

Snoop Dogg seems to be having the time of his life at the Summer Olympics, and it's easy to forget that he's actually WORKING. We know that because he's getting PAID. Big time.

Sources say that Snoop is making $500,000 A DAY as an NBC correspondent.

If you include bonuses, he'll pocket $15 million for his time in Paris.

As for his role at the games, Snoop recently said, quote, "I'm doing the things that I do to politically stay correct and just being Snoop Dogg.  That's what I know how to do the best."

According to meteorologist Tom Wasula of the National Weather Service Albany Office, and lead meteorologist John Cristantello of the National Weather Service New York Office, there may be some spots of relief from the showers Wednesday, but most of this week will include cloudy skies.

Hurricane Debby, a tropical storm hitting the southern states, may affect the weather forecast for this week. To stay up to date on the weather for this week, see the National Weather Service's website at weather.gov.

CELL PHONE SERVICE ISSUE - We are aware of sporadic cell service issues involving Verizon Wireless and are actively monitoring the 

situation.  Please be aware that calling 9-1-1 may be challenging in the affected areas.

Keep listening to for details!

The Peekamoose Blue Hole is located in Sundown Wild Forest, set within the secluded wilderness of the Catskill Forest Preserve. The Blue Hole is a depression in the streambed rock of the Rondout Creek, a unique natural feature formed by sand and swirling gravel in an ancient whirlpool. The creek is part of the New York City drinking water watershed. Over the last few years, the wilderness experience has been affected by the presence of large crowds on summer weekends.

Please keep in mind that parking is extremely limited and parking along the roadway is prohibited. Any vehicle parked along the roadway will be ticketed or towed.

This is a carry in/carry out facility - users are required to take out any trash that they bring in. Two portable toilets and a dumpster are provided during the summer months between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Special Regulations

DEC has issued special regulations for the Blue Hole and Peekamoose Valley because of the huge increase in visitors. The purpose of these regulations is to increase public safety and reduce impacts to the environmental resources.

• Require visitors to obtain a permit for a $10 fee through Reserve America, consistent with fees for other recreation-oriented Day Use areas in the Forest Preserve;
• Each permit will be linked to a vehicle, and the permit must be displayed on/in the vehicle;
• Limit parking to designated parking areas only. Parking along the shoulder of the road is prohibited by the Town and is a Tow Away Zone;
• Users are required to use portable restroom facilities for human waste disposal and the dumspter for all other waste;
• The following are prohibited at the Blue Hole (limited use will be allowed at the nearby designated camping area only):
  • Except for the nearby designated camping area, the Blue Hole is only open to the public from one half hour before sunrise to one half hour after sunset.
  • Camping
  • All fires (including charcoal fires, wood fires, gas grills, propane stoves or other portable stoves)
  • Use of portable generators
  • Alcohol
  • Glass containers
  • Coolers larger than 12" in any dimension
  • Radios and other audio devices
• Parking is limited to designated parking areas only. Parking along the shoulder of the road is prohibited by the Town and is a Tow Away Zone.

To find out more:  https://dec.ny.gov/places/peekamoose-blue-hole

Stewart’s has expanded its footprint by opening a brand new Crystal Run shop in the Town of Wallkill. This $3 million plus investment expands our presence in Orange County to 12 locations.

Conveniently located at the intersection of Interstate 84 and State Route 17, near several medical and office buildings and large shopping centers such as the Galleria at Crystal Run, our new shop is your one stop shop for lunch, groceries, drinks and dessert!

Inside our new shop you’ll find a large open food case, beer cave, coffee stations and much more.  This shop offers sandwiches, pizza, snacks and a variety of food to go. With the double turbo oven, hot and delicious pizza will be ready in minutes. Choose from breakfast pizza to pepperoni or cheesy garlic. Enjoy our coffee stations where you can make your coffee, just the way you like it.

Outside the shop, enjoy your lunch or snack at one of three picnic tables on our outdoor patio. This shop even has a bike rack if you’re close enough to bike to the shop. With several new gas pumps, this shop makes the perfect stop to fuel up for any adventure.

This shop offers seasonal items such as worms for fishing fans, firewood for campers, flowers and sunscreen for warm summer days.

The Crystal Run shop is part of Stewart’s $50 million capital investment plan for 2024, which includes shop construction, renovations, and the expansion of our plant’s commercial kitchen located in Saratoga County.

Town officials noticed the increasing demand for outdoor pickleball courts, and put the recreation and highway departments to work.

The Fishkill Parks and Recreation and Highway Departments just finished work on a six-court outdoor pickleball paradise at Doug Phillips Park.

The town has been trying to keep up with the demand for pickleball courts as the sport's popularity skyrockets. Town officials are also being mindful of some neighbors who were initially concerned about the high-pitched noise every time someone hits a ball.

Local pickleballer Tina Shebetone helped Fishkill catch the pickleball bug when she started an indoor pickleball league at the town recreation center.

The town is also planning two more pickleball courts at another nearby park to keep up with the demand, and are relying on current in-house employees to build them instead of contractors to keep construction costs lower.

The advisory was issued Friday after a break at the Crotonville Pump Station in Ossining accidentally released an estimated 1 million gallons of partially treated sewage into the Croton River, which flows into the Hudson.

The advisory was lifted after tides diluted the sewage that had been released, officials said.

YES is the exclusive regional media home of the New York Yankees. First pitch in the Memorial Day game at Heritage Financial Park is scheduled for 1:35 p.m.

“We are thrilled for the opportunity to showcase Renegades baseball on the YES Network,” said Joe Vasile, Director of PR & Broadcasting for the Renegades. “This is a great chance for Yankees fans to be introduced to the team’s top prospects and future stars of the game and get to see them play.”

The broadcast will feature the Renegades broadcast team of Vasile and Jordy Fee-Platt.

Monday’s Renegades game will be available on the YES Network and on the YES App throughout YES’ regional coverage territory (New York State, Connecticut, northeastern Pennsylvania and north and central New Jersey) via video providers, as well as direct subscription at www.watchyesnetwork.com.

Hudson Gives helps solve critical needs in our community. We greatly appreciate your help. This giving day provides nonprofit organizations with unrestricted giving and access to new donors. It provides new and returning donors the opportunity to support important charities across a range of topics. It offers corporate and individual sponsors to participate strategically in our great County.

Everyone plays a vital role in improving our community’s quality of life. It is never too late to give! If you missed the date, please feel free to reach out to any of our nonprofit members directly to share your support.

As always, please reach out to foundation@hudsonchamber.org or call 201-386-0699 if you have any questions or want to participate in Hudson Gives 2025.

“SPCA Westchester and shelters nationwide find ourselves in crisis post pandemic with adoption rates steadily decreasing,” says Shannon Laukhuf, SPCA Westchester’s CEO. Evolving the adoption process in a more efficient and accessible way is the crucial next step in our mission to help more animals in need.” The unit features 20 spacious cages and is equipped with roll up viewing windows and a booth for matchmaking discussions between staff and potential adopters making offsite adoptions a convenient one-stop shop! 
While SPCA Westchester has been established in the community since 1883 as the first brick and mortar animal shelter in the region, the reality is that the implementation of mobile adoptions creates opportunities for more homeless dogs and cats to find their forever families. 
The Chappaqua Farmer’s Market, located at the train station, has generously allocated space for the SPCA’s mobile unit on their opening day of May 11 for a ceremonial ribbon cutting and adoption event. “We hope supporters from Chappaqua and throughout the county will join us starting at 9am as we celebrate this new and exciting era for SPCA Westchester and come to meet the many adorable dogs and puppies who will be available for adoption that day,” says Shannon Laukhuf. 

The SPCA encourages local businesses and corporations to reach out to schedule an adoption day or to discuss other potential collaborations with their new mobile unit. Email Kara@spcawestchester.org to learn more. 

*SPCA Westchester is a No-Kill Animal Rescue Center located in Briarcliff Manor and is not affiliated with any national animal welfare organizations. Learn more at spcawestchester.org.
 

To learn more about I Love My Park Day, and to view a map of scheduled events, visit:. https://www.ptnyfriends.org/i-love-my-park-day

Here's a message from my friend LISA at The SPCA! 

The SPCA encourages you to pre-register & create an individual and/or team page to raise funds for your walk to support the SPCA animals. It is not required but greatly appreciated! Please see below for further details/instructions on creating your fundraising page. 

 Join The SPCA Westchester for the BIGGEST and BEST Dog Event of the year! This fun-filled family event has something for everyone. You’ll enjoy a trail walk with your four-legged best friend, shopping in our Wooftown Vendor Village, music with Kacey and 100.7 WHUD, yummy food trucks, a new Kids Zone, demos, dog contests and our many furry adoptables!

Walk-ins are welcome on-site the day of the event, but we encourage you to pre-register if possible. Fees to attend: $20 per individual; $35 for a family; FREE if you raise $100+ off/online; and kids 12 and under are free.

• BECOME a SPONSOR-reach more than 100,000 animal lovers through various SPCA Sponsor promotions and take part the day of the event.
• BECOME a VENDOR-sell your products and/or promote your services to our huge animal loving community who attends every year.
•  
• WALKERS-once you registered online you can share your fundraising page to collect donations by clicking here & scrolling down to find your name under the Walkers tab. Just click your name to open your page. Please note, you must first be registered as a walker to create a team page. To collect donations to support your Dog Walk offline, click here. Top 3 Walkers/Teams will win a prize to be announced the day of the event!

Questions? Email Lisa@spcawestchester.org or call (914) 941-2896 ext. 154 for further details!

Celebrate spring, when the 100 cherry trees along the Riverfront Walkway start to bloom at Peekskill Rotary's 7th Annual Cherry Blossom Festival and Plant Sale. It's Saturday, May 4th from 10 AM - 5 PM at Peekskill Riverfront Green. 

Admission and parking are free and there's easy access from the Peekskill train station.

Highlights include the plant sale, live music and food trucks!

All proceeds raised by the Rotary Club of Peekskill go back to our local community and International projects sponsored by Rotary International.

Children's Activities

• Flower Pot Painting
• Arts & Crafts
• Kids' Games
• Inflatable Slides

Food Trucks Attending

• Wanna Empanada
• Knot of This World Pretzels
• Mr. Softee
• Brothers Fish and Chips

www.peekskillrotary.com 

HARRISON, NY — Westchester County Airport will launch a new kind of air travel experience in a few weeks, but if you are reading this, then you aren't their target demographic.

BARK Air promises to deliver a "white paw experience" for dogs only. The startup carrier said it built its flight experience with dogs in mind. Upon booking, humans will be contacted by a BARK Air concierge to collect information about the dog traveling and the human's travel plans with a happy reunion in mind.

According to BARK Air, the experience is much like traveling private, but with special attention for the four-legged travelers. Dogs and their people arrive at the airport 45 minutes to an hour before the flight for a simple, efficient check-in process — no crates and no stressful TSA checkpoints. The BARK Air concierge takes it from there, welcoming the flying pups and helping them settle in to the cabin.

"When we started BARK in 2011, we were on a mission to disrupt the dog space and create products designed for dogs and their humans," BARK founder Matt Meeker explains. "We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over the years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies."

The cabin of the aircraft will be prepped with calming aids, including pheromones, music, warm lavender-scented refreshment towels, and other dog-specific comforts. The concierges even have a 'just in case' bag filled with calming treats, leashes, and poop bags.

Once on board, dogs will be served their beverage of choice during ascent and descent, to ensure they do not experience any ear discomfort commonly caused by the change in cabin pressure. Service from Westchester County Airport begins in May, with flights to Los Angeles and London, England.

The crew is also getting a new co-captain, Finger Lakes region native Liam Henrie.

He first stepped onboard the Clearwater in the summer of 2015 as a weekly volunteer. Since then, he has logged some five years in various positions both sailing and performing maintenance.

“We look forward to inspiring thousands of kids and adults through our onboard programs and community events,” said Clearwater Executive Director David Toman.

Clearwater will sail the Hudson River from Albany to New York City from now through October.

Mid Hudson News