Two Statewide Journeys Conclude at Capitol Steps in Albany July 11

NYSARC, Inc., the largest non-profit organization in the United States supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, is conducting the event as part of its 65th Anniversary Celebration.

Advocates for people with disabilities John Robinson and Doug Hamlin, bearing a ceremonial flag, will arrive following an inspiring 12-day, 365-mile bicycle ride via the Erie Canalway Trail called Journey Along the Erie Canal II. Born a congenital amputee without full arms and legs, Robinson rode the entire route using an adaptive bike. Hamlin, disabled as the result of an accident, also rode a specialized, custom bike.

On June 30, AHRC Suffolk (Suffolk County Chapter, NYSARC, Inc.) departed with another ceremonial flag by bicycle from Montauk Point State Park Lighthouse at the tip of Long Island. Dubbed Together to Albany, this trek by bicycle, on foot and by other means involved NYSARC Chapters conducting flag hand-off ceremonies from Long Island and New York City and through the Hudson River Valley.

Both ceremonial flags will arrive at the Capitol steps after a march from Jennings Landing in the Corning Preserve up State Street involving more than 1,200 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families, NYSARC Chapters, and NYSARC leaders. Christian Brothers Academy's Color Guard will greet the marchers once they arrive at East Capitol Park.

Event speakers will include John A. Schuppenhauer, Esq., President, NYSARC, Inc.; Marc N. Brandt, Executive Director, NYSARC, Inc.; Richard Swierat, Executive Director, Arc of Westchester; and John Robinson. Confirmed elected officials also speaking will include Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan, Assemblymember Aileen Gunther, Assemblymember John T. McDonald III, Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara, and Senator Cecilia Tkaczyk.