Sun shines on Spring Spree

Under perfect skies, the fourth annual Spring Spree brought out friends, neighbors and supporters on Saturday, May 17, at both ends of our neighborhood's business districts along New Scotland Avenue.

We thank our elected officials who came and supported our event — Mayor Jerry Jennings, Assemblyman Jack McEneny, Councilman Jim Sano, Councilwoman Cathy Fahey and library board trustee Dennis Gaffney.

Helderberg Neighborhood Association chairwoman Jennifer Viggiani kicked off Spring Spree at the corner of New Scotland and Grove avenues, between Anthology Florist and Grove Laundry, by introducing the event's speakers. Local author Chris Ringwald and his son read aloud a proclamation from Mayor Jennings in celebration of the neighborhood, its businesses and Spring Spree. Dennis Gaffney joined musicians Geo Doody and Nick Bisanz in singing "It's a Beautiful Day in the New Scotland Avenue Neighborhood."

Woodlawn-New Scotland Neighborhood Association chairwoman Julie Elson and Paige and Brad Allen promoted the tables in front of Isn't It Sweet and across the street from St. Peter's Hospital and helped sign up more than 70 participants in the event's business scavenger hunt

Sweet Treats on the corner of Maple Avenue and Quail Street provided the cake celebrating the neighborhood's 100th birthday. Starbucks and Dunkin' Donuts, from opposite ends of New Scotland Avenue, came together and provided free coffee, while Pasquale's on New Scotland and Grove donated free pizza and stromboli.

Doody and Bisanz entertained the crowd after the speakers at the beginning of the event and a group of musicians from Grove Avenue delighted the crowd as the follow-up act.

Albany Fire Station No. 11 showcased their truck in front of their firehouse, and the Department of General Services closed off a portion of Grove Avenue for the event.

A new part of Spring Spree was also held: a freelance and home-business meet-and-greet under the red tent.

Businesses along the corridor showcased artwork by local children in their storefronts, another new feature this year. Children colored the sidewalks with chalk as part of a contest.

Prizes purchased from local businesses by the neighborhood associations were awarded at the end of the event to scavenger hunt winners.

Special thanks to Kim Alvarez for her work as the Spring Spring 2008 event chair.