OLD BETHPAGE, NY (TIP): Able, the Newspaper For, By and About People with Disabilities, which has been bringing much needed news to people with disabilities since 1991, is celebrating 25 years of publication.

After her introduction to the disability community as a volunteer at the Paralympics, on Long Island in 1984, Able’s publisher, Angela Melledy brought together her newspaper experience and newly found affinity for the community of people with disabilities, to start Able Newspaper.

“It has been a wonderful time for me,” said Melledy.

“I’ve enjoyed great experiences and been involved with so many incredible people including people with disabilities as well as the people who work with them.

Able brings news about legislation, programs, civil rights, transportation, housing, employment and everything of interest to this population. Able includes products, sports news, a calendar of events and even a personals page that boasts at least two marriages and has a print and online presence.

“One year after the signing of the American with Disabilities Act, the Able Newspaper came into existence,” said Victor Calise, Commissioner of the NYC Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities.

“They have helped to reduce marginalization of people with disabilities and to consolidate the disability community for over 25 years. There are still people who don’t understand their obligations so Able is as important as ever. I know Able will continue to play an important role in the lives of people with disabilities for many years to come. Congratulations!”

“I congratulate Able Newspaper on their 25th Anniversary of providing news to our community. Congratulations on your success, and here’s to many more years to come,” said Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano.

“Angela Melledy and Able have chronicled the New York metropolitan area disability community for 25 years,” said James Weisman, president & CEO of United Spinal Association. “Able is a historical treasure. Congratulations Angela and everyone associated with this significant publication that brought people with disabilities together long before the internet and is as vibrant and relevant today as it was at its inception.”

Able covers the New York and New Jersey area with two editions and is based in Old Bethpage, N.Y. It can be read at no cost at www.ablenews.com.

P.O. Box 395, Old Bethpage, NY 11804 – 516 939-2252 -ableangela@aol.com -www.ablenews.com.