Nearly 400 young people from grade school to high school involved with The Salvation Army Greater New York Division’s Music & Creative Arts programs recently competed in the divisional Star Search music & creative arts talent contest. 

Most people don’t know that The Salvation Army is one of the top providers of free or reduced cost music and creative arts instruction for students of all ages. After months of practice and perseverance, the most talented young artists in NY competed in this signature youth event. 

The Salvation Army Spring Valley/Suffern Corps’ first place wins at Star Search, the organization’s music and creative arts youth talent competition. These students will go on to compete in Hershey, PA on June 8 with other top talent from 12 states and Puerto Rico.

Each year on March 23rd, National Puppy Day celebrates the unconditional love, affection and joy puppies bring to our lives. Their hugs, tugs and wiggles make us smile and without a doubt there is nothing but delight when there are puppies around!

This day also brings awareness to the need for care of and homes for orphaned pups as well as to educate people about the horrors of puppy mills across the country. Puppies are a huge responsibility. Remember to consider everything involved and adopt from a shelter. The puppies there need love and a home just as much as any other and they become loyal pets, too!

According to the ASPCA, approximately 3.3 million dogs enter shelters every year. Some of these dogs come with litters of puppies. If you’re seeking a puppy to start your furry family, check the shelters first. When these abandoned and abused animals find their way to a shelter, each one needs a forever home and their potential is limitless.

Use #NationalPuppyDay and post photos of your puppy on social media.