Schenectady welcomes students on Saturday

It's being billed as the biggest block party the city has ever had, and it's all for students at Union and Schenectady County Community College.

On Saturday, from noon to 4 p.m. on the Jay Street pedestrian mall, dozens of businesses and non-profits are hosting a block party with free food, music and deep discounts for students.

"For many students, this will be their first time to visit downtown Schenectady," said Gretchel Tyson, the College's community outreach coordinator. "We want them to get a great first impression of their home for the next four years, and we want them to become familiar with the many resources that are available here in Schenectady. This city has everything from restaurants and rock climbing to churches and volunteer organizations. And we want our students to know it."

"Welcome Students Day" is sponsored by the colleges, Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corp., Schenectady 2000, GE Power Systems, GE Elfun Society, WRGB TV and United Way.