Emergency Assistance Fund granted $1,000 at Stewart’s Shop ribbon-cutting

Junior News Editor

Stewart’s donated $1,000 to Hudson Valley’s Student Emergency Assistance Fund at the grand opening of its newest shop on Friday.

The afternoon began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that was attended by government officials and Stewart’s executives. After a “ribbon” of Stewart’s coupons was cut, Hudson Valley President Drew Matonak accepted the $1,000 check to the college alongside Mark Mitchell, treasurer of the Foundation’s Board of Directors, and Josiah Dillon, Student Senate treasurer.

“Many of our students find that they have obstacles – financial obstacles, or other things that occur during their time at Hudson Valley that impact their ability to complete their degree. This contribution is going to help us help those students overcome those obstacles so they can meet their educational needs,” said Matonak.

The newest addition to Stewart’s 331 stores is located on 50 North Greenbush road and is within walking distance of Hudson Valley. It boasts made-to-order sub sandwiches, whole pizzas and pizza by-the-slice, and a walk-in cooler called a beer cave in addition to its traditional ice creams, drinks, and snacks.

“I drive home that way, and I can see myself stopping there every once in awhile,” said William Polverelli, liberal arts student.

There is still construction to be done on the new building, but the shop was open for business Wednesday, Nov. 18 before its official opening on Friday. By the end of 2015, Stewart’s will have opened two brand new stores, including the one by Hudson Valley. It will also have completed the rebuilding of six other shops in addition to performing dozens of remodels and additions throughout their chain.

“We’re really excited about the partnership [with Stewart’s], we’re really excited about them joining our community here and we wish them a success,” Matonak said.