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STAP's annual cycling fundraiser rebrands as the "Finger Lakes Ride for Life" (formerly AIDS Ride for Life), marking its 28th year on September 19th. Registration opens April 1st and is free for all riders this year, with fundraising minimums of $200 (ages 22+), $100 (21 and under), and none for volunteers, due by September 18th. The issue explains the name change reflects an expanded mission beyond HIV/AIDS while keeping the same core commitment to STAP's harm reduction, housing, and health programs. It also previews free yard signs (available in May), training tips, and thanks the 2025 top donors, teams, and sponsors like CSP Management and Molina Healthcare.
A cheerful spring update, noting about $7,000 raised so far toward the September 19th Ride for Life. Major news: Cass Park's pavilion/bathroom renovations won't finish until October, after the event, so the Ride Committee is developing contingency plans. Free yard signs are available for pickup at the Ithaca office starting June 16th, and the issue reflects on what makes the Ride special — community and connection over miles. It closes with thanks to 2026 sponsors (led by presenting sponsor CSP Management) and a link to STAP's 2025 Annual Report.
Executive Director John Barry reflects personally on the moral and religious influences that shape his leadership and STAP's mission. The issue recaps a rainy but spirited 2025 AIDS Ride for Life, which drew 150+cyclists and raised significant funds. Other highlights include a new Elmira testing initiative funded by a Women and Girls Grant, expanded Ryan White program collaboration addressing rising HIV cases in Broome County, a STAP appearance at Senator Lea Webb's community health event, a client success story from the syringe exchange program, and a spotlight on a Ryan White specialist running a food-assistance program.
John Barry shares a reflective, personal essay about his 18 years of participation in the Ride for Life and his anticipation for warmer riding season. Program updates include new "Party Safe Packs" (drug-checking and safety supplies) launched through the Syringe Exchange Program, open to the whole community, not just clients. Staff have completed training to become health insurance navigators and 1115-program screeners, expanding STAP's ability to connect clients to food, housing, and other services. The issue also covers a Human Trafficking awareness event STAP attended and a moving client recovery story culminating in a drug court graduation.
This issue honors development director Mary Kaminsky's 20 years of leadership ahead of her retirement, praised by Executive Director John Barry for her fundraising impact and community relationship-building. It
highlights the renovated Identity Youth Center in Binghamton (serving LGBTQ+ youth ages 13–24) and features an explainer on harm reduction versus "enabling." Ride Coordinator Kayla Thomas formally introduces the28th annual event's new name, the Finger Lakes Ride for Life (September 19th), and the newsletter includes an employee spotlight, PRIDE month event listings, and a call to vote for STAP in a local"Finger Lakes Favorites" contest.