High Notes: Marathon dancers, heat aid, party for vets

In South Glens Falls, more than 800 students participated in the 41st annual South High Marathon Dance, raising $831,191.15 for 42 charities and individuals in need. Participants, about 80 percent of the student population, raise money throughout the year for the chance to dance, sing and have fun for 28 straight hours in the high school gym. To participate, each student has to raise at least $150. Businesses and other individuals also contribute money, time and prizes. This year’s event began Friday evening and concluded Saturday night, going on despite Friday’s snowstorm. In its 40-year history, the dance marathon has collected more than $7 million for nearly 500 individuals and groups from in and around the South Glens Falls community. If you’ve never witnessed the event, you’ve missed out on an inspirational effort not only by students, but by administrators, teachers and dozens of volunteers from throughout the community. For more information on the South High Marathon Dance and how to donate or volunteer, visit http://shmd.org.

In Albany, the National Grid Foundation donated $120,000 to Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany to help more than 1,400 needy residents with emergency heating or energy assistance in 14 area counties.The National Grid Foundation is a non-profit charitable organization dedicated to “enhancing the quality of life, economic strength and environmental stewardship” in the power company’s service territory, according to its website. The foundation awards grants to non-profit organizations like Catholic Charities to improve the lives of underserved residents. Since it was founded in 1998, the foundation has provided more than $23 million in grants to hundreds of organizations. For information on the foundation, visit http://www.nationalgridfoundation.com. For information on Catholic Charities and to apply for heating assistance, visit www.ccrcda.org.

In Albany, the Melvin Roads Ladies Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion hosted their annual Cabin Fever Party to raise money for veterans services. The theme of this year’s event was Mardi Gras. Participants, who were invited to dress in their favorite Mardi Gras attire, paid $20 for an evening that featured food, dancing, entertainment, an auction, raffles and games of chance. Proceeds go toward the American Legion’s Walk-a-thon, which benefits 13 Veterans Administrative medical centers, five state veterans homes and the Fisher House in Albany.

High Notes is a feature of The Gazette Opinion section that appears Mondays to spotlight the good being done in our communities by individuals, organizations and businesses. Reader submissions to High Notes are welcome. Send suggestions to Editorial Page Editor Mark Mahoney at [email protected].