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| By Lori O'Brien Correspondent HOLYOKE-The Jones Ferry River Access Center was bustling with activity on the morning of July 8 as Stephanie Moore and Bill Stevens were busy lining the dock with kayaks and canoes. Moore, executive director of Holyoke Rows, a nonprofit community organization based at the center, was hosting an open house along with Stevens to introduce area residents to the programs available for all ages. Open houses are also planned July 22 and 29 from 9 to 11 a.m. Holyoke Rows offers youth and adult learn-to-row programs as well as adaptive rowing programs for people with disabilities. Currently, Moore and Stevens are working with area agencies including the Holyoke Boys and Girls Club to introduce area boys and girls to kayaking. Moore stressed during an interview with Reminder Publications that water sports such as rowing helps young people maintain interest in school and keeps them connected to their community. "Our programs can be empowering for kids," said Moore, adding that exposing young people to the Connecticut River at an early age can give them an added appreciation for their surroundings. Moore said that part of the program is to instill not only an appreciation for the majesty of the Connecticut River, but to also stress the seriousness of being on the water. "Rowing is a sport that fosters leadership skills within each individual as well as a sense of community as rowers are forced to work together and to rely upon each other in order to have a successful rowing experience," she added. Moore explained that the mission of Holyoke Rows is to reach beyond the traditional rowing population and bring rowing into the lives of youth and adults who would benefit most from the opportunities that rowing offers. For 2007, Moore hopes to continue identifying area agencies and individuals who are interested in taking leadership and mentor roles which will allow her to expand the programs offered for young people. Individuals with boat skills as well as carpenters and those familiar with fiberglass repair are always welcome to serve as volunteers to the organization. Summer programs being offered by Holyoke Rows includes "Introduction to Recreational and Sea Kayaks," "Beginner Rowing," "Beginner Sculling," and "Intermediate/Advanced and Competitive Rowing." In addition, custom kayak and canoe trips can be arranged as a private clinic or trip for oneself or a group. A guided kayak river trip along the Connecticut River is also being planned for Aug. 13 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., based on the weather and group reservations. Holyoke Rows offers several membership options for individuals and families, ranging from $50 to $200 depending on the boat used which is included in the fee. Membership includes unlimited use of any club boats (sculls, kayaks or canoes) when the boats are not in use by other club members or another club program, according to Moore. "Members must be certified to take out equipment," she stressed. For more information, contact Moore at (413) 586-8612 or via e-mail at holyokerows@hotmail.com. Visit www.holyokerows.org for additional program details and registration information. Individuals interested in making a tax-deductible donation to Holyoke Rows may contact Moore for more information. |