Monday April 29, 2024 
Siena College Names Local Students to the President’s List for the Spring 2020
LOUDONVILLE, – Siena College names students to the President’s List for the Spring 2020 semester. The President’s List requires a 3.9 grade point average or higher.
Andrew Brunner – Castleton
Haillie Luft – Castleton
Christopher Adams– East Greenbush
Matthew Beditz– East Greenbush
Mark Bodner– East Greenbush
Joseph Gabriel– East Greenbush
Marissa Hochberg – East Greenbush
Sudarat Hormhuan – Rensselaer
Connor Krenzer – Rensselaer
Matthew Powers – Schodack Landing
William Bornt – West Sand Lake
Students Named to Spring 2020 Dean’s List at The College of Saint Rose
ALBANY – Congratulations to the following local students who have been named to the Dean’s List for Spring 2020 at The College of Saint Rose:
Dalton Burrello of Mechanicville
Katelyn Cooper of Troy
Hannah Liscomb of Nassau
Brian Masella of Troy (New York)
Gregory Allard of Averill Park
Alexander Decker of Castleton
Avery Pascucci of Wynantskill
Samuel Provencher of Troy
Colleen Quaglia of East Greenbush
Naliyah Breslin of Troy
Crystal Rafferty of Rensselaer
Lillie Brenchley of Troy
Emily Franks of Castleton
Frank Houser of Nassau
Noah Masse of Nassau
Jenna Muckle of Cropseyville
Sean Nicks of Mechanicville
Mckenna Ryan of Troy
Caroline White of Castleton
Springfield College Recognizes 2020 Graduates
SPRINGFIELD, MA – Springfield College Recognizes 2020 Graduates.
Jenna Safford of Wynantskill, NY, has earned a Bachelor of Science degree in General Studies from Springfield College for studies completed in 2020.
Kaitlyn Nadareski of Wynantskill, NY, has earned a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in Physical Therapy from Springfield College for studies completed in 2020.
Springfield College saluted the Class of 2020 with an official Class of 2020 web page that included a special message from Springfield College President Mary-Beth Cooper. On the Class of 2020 page, individuals can submit a message to the Class of 2020, Class of 2020 members can submit a short video highlighting their experiences at the college, viewers can take a look back at some events that welcomed the Class of 2020 to the campus, individuals can view recaps of the virtual senior week events, and viewers can find all the names of the Class of 2020 graduates.
More than 700 Students Named to the Spring Semester 2020 President’s List at Western New England University
SPRINGFIELD, MA – Western New England University congratulates more than 700 students named to the Spring Semester 2020 President’s List.
The following students are named to the President’s List for achieving a semester grade point average of 3.80 or higher.
Madison Jakielaszek of East Greenbush, NY, is pursuing a BSE in Biomedical Engineering.
Victoria Fisher of Poestenkill, NY, is graduating with a BS in Forensic Biology.
Shannen Barrett of Rensselaer, NY, is graduating with a BS in Criminal Justice/Criminal Investigation Concentration.
James Jerian of Troy, NY, is graduating with a BSE in Biomedical Engineering.
Emerson College Announces 2019-2020 Graduates
BOSTON, MA – On Sunday, May 10, Emerson College awarded 959 undergraduate degrees for the Class of 2020. The College is committed to holding a graduation ceremony for the Class of 2020 in person when it is safe to do so, at a to be determined date.
Morgan Wright of West Sand Lake, NY graduated in December 2019 and received a BFA degree in Media Arts Production.
The College launched an Emerson 2020 Celebration website to honor graduates’ achievements with more
Books for Troops is Collecting Books
CAPITAL DISTRICT – Books for Troops is now taking books once again, but only in the Latham office at 688 New Loudon Rd., Latham. The other sites will remain closed. To maintain social distancing. the books are to be left in the 3 collection bins OUTSIDE the building, The books MUST be in very good to excellent condition to protect the troops. NO HARD COVERS! Also we do not accept romances. Please place the books in plastic bags and not singly or in boxes. As always thank you for your supporting our “new normal.” Ellen Keegan, Director.
News from Averill Park CSD
AVERILL PARK – The Averill Park Central School District and the Averill Park Education Foundation came together to provide matching funds to support Education Enrichment Grants for the 2020-2021 school year. Congratulations to the following faculty and staff members for receiving awards: Terry O’Dell, Liz Haworth, Lizette Hicks, Kerry Lajeunesse, Kristin Card, Jon Zehnder, James Cole, Melissa Weatherwax.
More than 35 Algonquin Middle School staff participated in the New York State Middle School Response to Intervention Demonstration Project Annual Summer Institute. The initiative is a joint-sponsored program offered by The New York State Department of Education and Buffalo State College, focusing on building social-emotional-behavioral supports for students in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Great job everyone!
The District is partnering with the Rensselaer County Department for Youth to offer a summer food service program, running from July 1 to August 28. Meals will be available for pick-up at the high school on Mondays and Wednesdays from 8-10 a.m. Thank you to everyone who has worked hard to make our food service program a success since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic!
Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent
Mission: Meeting the needs of and creating opportunities for every student every day. #AP_EveryStudentEveryDay
Rensselaer County 4-H Centennial Celebration
RENSSELAER COUNTY – Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rensselaer County is excited to announce the 100th birthday of 4-H. On June 7th a curbside celebration which included distribution of shirts, mementos, car selfie station and Chicken BBQ was well attended. Thank you to the volunteers and the Schaghticoke Fair for providing the venue for our drive-through event, the Farmer’s Feed Bunk for providing the delicious food and everyone that stopped by to support 4-H.
In 1920, three years after the start of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rensselaer County, a youth development program was initiated; to teach young people research based agricultural and best home making practices. Over the past 100 years Rensselaer County 4-H has provided youth experiences in ever growing and changing project areas such as food systems, environmental, agricultural and textile sciences, leadership development and much more. Our mission of Cornell Cooperative Extension 4-H Youth Development is to unleash the power of youth and adults through diverse opportunities that meet community needs. For more information on getting involved in the largest youth development organization in the world call your respective Cooperative Extension Office, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rensselaer County- 518-272-4210.
Local Student Selected to Represent East Greenbush at American Legion Auxiliary Girls State,
EAST GREENBUSH – Local Student Selected to Represent East Greenbush at American Legion Auxiliary Girls State, a Premier Patriotism and Government Leadership Conference. Ava Johnson, East Greenbush is one of 400 young women selected to attend the 79th American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Girls State session which was held virtually for the first time ever. As part of the annual program, outstanding students are chosen from their local high schools to spend a week learning about the inner workings of state, local and county government. This premier leadership conference is designed to provide practical insight into the workings of the government, promote youth civic engagement, instill a sense of pride in America, and empower the next generation of women leaders, providing them with a network that lasts a lifetime. Ms. Johnson, a rising senior at Columbia High School is active in many ways in her school and community, including Future Business Leader of America, Amnesty International and Girl Scouts, Troop 1474. The program included workshops lead by a political instructor, presentations on women in leadership,as well as information on the American Legion Auxiliary. “The ALA Girls State experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for young women across our state and while we couldn’t hold the program in person, our team worked hard to ensure that this cohort of High School Juniors get to learn some of the important principles of democracy and about the American Legion Auxiliary ”said Jennifer Farley,American Legion Auxiliary Girls State chairman. “Our hope is that after attending the virtual ALA Girls State, the girls will be inspired to participate in the democratic process, volunteer in their communities and be filled with patriotism and pride.” For more information on our programs www.ALAforVeterans.org and www.Empiregirlsstate.org
There’s Help if You Can’t Afford to Pay Income Tax Debt
CAPITAL DISTRICT – Federal and New York State (NYS) 2019 income tax payments are due July 15, 2020. For those who owe tax, there is a penalty for failing to timely file if that deadline is missed. There is a separate penalty for failing to timely pay, as well as interest. Taxpayers who are unable to timely pay their income tax debts have several options. (Some are only available for federal tax debts).
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, both the IRS and NYS extended their deadlines to timely file and pay 2019 income taxes. If timely payment would lead to an undue hardship such as a substantial financial loss, you can ask the IRS for an extension of time to pay. (If you need more time to file, you can ask both the IRS and NYS for a filing extension, but you still must estimate and pay your taxes by July 15). The IRS and NYS will generally not grant filing extensions for more than six months beyond the original due date.
Another option is to ask the IRS to find the amount due is “currently not collectible” (CNC). The IRS should stop all collection activity for a period of time if it finds you would be unable to meet your basic living expenses if you paid the tax due. NYS law does not provide for a CNC status.
If you can pay over time, you could ask the IRS or NYS to agree to a payment plan or installment agreement.
If you use one of these options, there will be a penalty for failing to timely pay tax and interest will continue to accumulate.
Finally, an offer in compromise (OIC) is available when there is doubt that the amount due can ultimately be collected. You can offer to pay an affordable amount as a settlement to eliminate the outstanding tax debt. Your finances are considered when deciding if an offer can be accepted.
If you have questions about these options or other income tax issues, the Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York’s Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) may be able to help. The Clinic’s services are free of charge and available in 16 counties of Northeastern New York. You can call our LASNNY Legal Line at (833) 628-0087 and ask for our LITC. The Clinic does not generally provide tax preparation services.
Town of Brunswick Monthly Brush Pick Up Schedule
TOWN OF BRUNSWICK – Pick up schedule: July 20th –July 24th; August 17th-August 21st; September 21th-September 25th; October 19th-October 23rd (last pick-up for season).
Limbs must be piled neatly, 8’ long-no larger than 6” diameter.
Branches must be free of roots and dirt. Avoid piling brush near utility poles and under trees, wires, or out in the street.
We will also pick up other yard waste, such as grass clippings, provided biodegradable paper bags are used
We do not go on private property. Clean wood only. Please no clear cutting of lots
No sticks, dirt or rocks or any material other than leaves and grass should be placed in bags.
We do not pick up rocks, stumps, rubbish, etc. Please do not put these items out with your branches.
Residents are also encouraged to dispose of leaves and grass at our Recycling Center, it is located across from the Town garage.
If you have any questions, please call 279-3461, Ext 100. Thank you
Literacy Volunteers Needs Tutors
RENSSELAER COUNTY – Do you have two hours a week to share with someone who needs help with reading, writing, speaking or understanding English? You can make a difference in your community by becoming a tutor with Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County. A free one-hour information session will be held on Zoom on Tuesday, July 21 at 4:30 p.m. Find out about tutoring and all the other ways volunteers can help to build a more literate community. Call (518) 244-4650 to reserve a place.
Castleton-on-Hudson Farmers & Artisans Market
CASTLETON-ON-HUDSON – The Castleton-on-Hudson Farmers & Artisans Market (COHFAM) has returned to its summer home at the corner of Scott Avenue (150) and Main Street (9J) in the Village. COHFAM will be held every Friday from 4:30-7:30 pm until September 25. The current New York Forward Phase we are in at the time of writing permits the market to feature fresh vegetables, take-away food items, arts, crafts and massage. Repair Café is on hold, whether at COHFAM or the Village Hall (or globally). Patrons are required to wear masks and observe social distancing. Hand sanitizer is available. New vendors welcome; visit COHFAM on Facebook to get an application or email gina.giuliano@nullgmail.com for more information. Come to COHFAM, the little market with the big heart, enjoy the river view and support the local economy!
Problem Gambling – Northeast Resource Center Here To Help
CAPITAL DISTRICT – Isolation due to the COVID-19 can be especially difficult for those struggling with gambling problems. Extra time, stress and anxiety, access to gambling on the internet, and an increase in online gambling options are a recipe for trouble. People struggling with gambling problems, or in recovery from problem gambling, may find this isolation to be especially difficult. If you have noticed extra stress, anxiety, anger, uncontrollable urges to gamble or an increase in gambling activities there are options for help. If your loved one is struggling to control their gambling, help is available for you too.
The Northeast Problem Gambling Resource Center (NE PGRC) is a program of the New York Council on Problem Gambling and has been working to increase the awareness of problem gambling and connect those adversely affected by problem gambling to the care they need. The NE PGRC provides referral and treatment options, including connections to the recovery community, to individuals and families in need. We also provide education and training to groups and organizations who want to learn more about this disorder. The NE PGRC works with a network of qualified clinicians trained in problem gambling to provide barrier-free treatment to anyone seeking assistance.
Contact the Northeast Problem Gambling Resource Center
Call: 518-801-1491
Email: NortheastPGRC@nullNYProblemGambling.org
Website: www.NYProblemGamblingHELP.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/NortheastPGRC
Team “Knocking Out Alzheimer’s” Bottle Drive
WYNANTSKILL/RENSSELAER – Six Center Redemption is partnering with the team Knocking out Alzheimer’s and the Alzheimer’s Association.
NOT SURE WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR CANS BOTTLES LET US HELP…..
Return your bottles and cans and help he Northeastern New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Through an arrangement with:
Six-Center Redemption Two Locations- 461 Main Ave Wynantskill (Corner of Sharpe and Main Ave) & 550 South Street Rensselaer.
The Alzheimer’s Association will receive six cents for every container you donate to the cause. Simply drop off your containers and say
“These are for the Alzheimer’s Association.”
No need to count the cans or bottles, no waiting or standing in lines to feed your cans or bottles into a machine. The mission of the Alzheimer’s Association is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.
The first survivor of Alzheimer’s is out there, but we won’t get there without you. Join the fight with your bottles & cans!
Vaping – Public Service Announcement
CAPITAL DISTRICT – Vaping has become almost more common today then cigarettes. Originally marketed as being more safe than other tobacco products recent events have made it clear that this is not the full story. One study found that those who vape the equivalent to a pack of cigarettes a day had a 70% higher risk of stroke. This is only one of the health risks that can arise from vaping. For more information visit: https://www.narcononnewliferetreat.org/blog/vaping-linked-to-serious-health-problems.html
Addiction Screenings – Narconon can help you take steps to overcome addiction in your family. Call today for free screenings or referrals. 1- 800-431-1754.
Fentanyl – Public Service Announcement
CAPITAL DISTRICT – Fentanyl has been making headlines recently, this is because the incredibly potent chemical has been contributing to the increase in overdose deaths across America. Most people however do not know much about the chemical. For instance many don’t know that one of the things that makes fentanyl so dangerous is the fact that it can be absorbed into the system through skin contact. Meaning getting it on your skin could cause a potentially fatal overdose.
To learn more about Fentanyl visit: https://www.narcononnewliferetreat.org/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-fentanyl.html
Addiction Screenings – Narconon can help you take steps to overcome addiction in your family. Call today for free screenings or referrals. 1- 800-431-1754.
Rensselaer County Recovery Helpline
RENSSELAER COUNTY – 1-833-467-3123 – Do you need help with substance use issues? Are you interested in volunteering for the helpline? The Rensselaer County Recovery Helpline offers information, local resources, and referrals for individuals and their families regarding substance use issues. The toll-free line is available 7 days a week from 9am-9pm. Each volunteer chooses shifts of 4 hours at a time to be on-call. When someone calls the number, a volunteer answers on their own smartphone, and can enter information to a database on their own computer, allowing for easy and quick access to resources. The information is sent to one of the 9 leaders, who will then assist the caller. If you or someone you know needs information, resources, or a referral for a substance use problem, call 1-833-467-3123. For more information, or if you are interested in volunteering, contact Renscohelpline@nullgmail.com
Hudson-Mohawk Search & Rescue is Looking for Volunteers to Join our Team
CAPITAL DISTRICT – If you enjoy being outdoors in the wilderness, working with others to help people, follow directions well and have a willingness to learn, then our SAR team might be for you! Prior knowledge is helpful, but definitely not required as we provide the training. Check out our website at: www.humsar.org for more information.
Search and Rescue Volunteers Needed
CAPITAL DISTRICT – the Tri-State Emergency Team is recruiting volunteers to provide wildland and underwater searches within a 100 mile radius of Waterrford, NY. This includes all aspects of field and underwater search. The Tri-State Emergency Team responds when requested by NYS Forest Rangers and other police agencies throughout New York State, Western Vermont and Massachusetts. We are looking for certified scuba divers, experienced boat handlers, and people who enjoy hiking and the outdoors in general who wish to help people in need. The team will provide training and complete support as needed. Our headquarters is located in Waterford. Applicants need not live in Waterford to volunteer. If interested, please call 518-237-6744 or visit our website at www.tri-stateemergencyteam.org
New York State Commission for the Blind
CAPITAL DISTRICT – The New York State Commission for the Blind (NYSCB) provides free vocational rehabilitation and other services to legally blind New York State residents, including children, adults, and older adults. NYSCB assists participants in achieving economic self-sufficiency and full integration into society. Call toll-free (866) 871-3000 or visit our website: visionloss.ny.gov