Monday April 29, 2024 
Forest Regeneration with Peter Smallidge
RENSSELAER COUNTY – Part of the Rensselaer Plateau Alliance’s 2020-’21 “Exploring Conservation Issues” lecture series. Peter Smallidge is the Director of Cornell University’s Arnot Teaching and Research Forest. He will talk about the ecology of forest regeneration, identifying concerns and risks such as deer impact, invasive vegetation and unsustainable harvesting. He will describe management options for successful forest regeneration including fencing, brush piles, and slash walls. Please register in advance to receive a link to the Zoom meeting at www.rensselaerplateau.org/lecture-registration. Suggested donation goes directly to support conservation on the Rensselaer Plateau.
Books for Troops Going Out of Business
CAPITAL DISTRICT – Books for Troops has been evicted from its office at 688 New Loudon Rd. Therefore, we are asking that all donations of books and postage not be sent. Further information about the contents of the office, including 40 bookcases of different sizes will be available as our plans are made. To those who have kept Books for Troops alive through your very generous support of books and postage, we are incredibly grateful. However because of the time frame given, Books for Troops regrettably will not be reopening. Ellen Keegan, Director.
CAP COM Thanks Members and Sponsors for Partipation in “Golfing Alone Together” Fundaiser
ALBANY – CAP COM Federal Credit Union and its charitable giving arm, the CAP COM Cares Foundation, have concluded a reimagined fundraiser in lieu of their annual in-person charity golf tournament.
“Golfing Alone Together” sponsors participated in special outings on their own, all while pledging to financially support the cancelled in person tournament, previously scheduled for early June at Saratoga National Golf Club. The campaign raised over $60,000 for the CAP COM Cares Foundation, to support the Foundations year-round giving to more than 100 local organizations.
CAP COM extends an enormous “Thank You” to top sponsors, CUNA Mutual Group, Harland Clarke, Lecce & Arcodia, attorneys at law, and WorldPay.
The Credit Union received additional sponsorship support from Accent Commercial Furniture, BBL, Bond Schoeneck & King, Brown & Brown of New York, Bruno Associates, CDPHP, Commission on Economic Opportunity, Elite Capital Management Group, Fidelity National Title Group, Genworth Mortgage Insurance Corp., HVCC Foundation, Kerr DeVoe, Northeast Health Foundation, Overit Media, PNJ Technology Partners, Trinity Realty Group, Universal Sharing Network, WCGS Architects, Whittaker Appraisal Group, PLLC.
These sponsors and more are recognized on tee-signs outside CAP COM FCU Headquarters (4 Winners Circle, Albany 12205) through October 13, 2020.
“The CAP COM Family of Companies offers their sincere gratitude to the 2020 sponsors, for their commitment to the CAP COM Cares Foundation and the community”, stated Chris McKenna, President and CEO, CAP COM. “Now more than ever, especially during these times of uncertainty and mid-pandemic, we thank all our partners who make it possible for the Foundation to continue to improve the lives of families in the Capital Region.”
“The virtual outing helped make a difference for the lives of many families in the Capital Region”, stated Jeff Koss, Vice President, Sales, CUNA Mutual Group. “The support the CAP COM Cares Foundation provides makes a big difference and it was rewarding to contribute to an event that support programs like Coats for Kids, Backpacks and Thanksgiving ‘Sharing The Harvest’. We’re proud to support CAP COM’s efforts.”
Back to School – Can an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) Help?
ALBANY – Children with disabilities can face more challenges than others, particularly during this year’s return to school. The federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) guarantees all children with disabilities the right to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). It covers children from birth through age 21 or completion of high school.
FAPE requires that the child advance at an appropriate rate considering his or her circumstances. Students may receive special education and related services to ensure FAPE. An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) documents these services, the child’s needs, and the goals for the year.
IDEA provides that the student will be placed in the least restrictive environment. This means that schools cannot remove children with disabilities from regular classroom settings unless education cannot be achieved satisfactorily even with additional services.
To qualify for an IEP, the child must have a disability that falls within one of thirteen categories. The disability must also affect the child’s ability to learn. The thirteen categories are autism; deafness; deaf-blindness; emotional disturbance; hearing impairment; learning disability; intellectual disability; multiple disabilities; orthopedic impairment; other health impairment; speech or language impairment; traumatic brain injury, and visual impairment including blindness.
The Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York’s Children’s Law Project can advise and assist low-income children with disabilities. This assistance is free of charge. You can learn more about the Children’s Law Project by visiting https://www.lasnny.org/clp/. If you have questions about an education matter, please contact LASNNY by calling (833) 628-0087.
News from Averill Park CSD
AVERILL PARK – Averill Park High School senior Brodie Smith recently completed his Eagle Scout project. Brodie cleared our cross-country trail by removing roots and rocks. He placed trail markers, laid down crushed rock and built a sign. Great work Brodie and congratulations on achieving the rank of Eagle Scout!
Two of our student-athletes have verbally committed to playing softball at the collegiate level. McKenzie Swinson committed to UAlbany while Abby Nagel committed to the University at Buffalo. Congratulations McKenzie and Abby!
The Averill Park Central School District recently received an unmodified “clean” audit opinion from the District’s independent audit firm, Marvin and Company, P.C. An unmodified opinion is the highest form of opinion that can be given by a certified public accountant.
Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent
Mission: Meeting the needs of and creating opportunities for every student every day. #AP_EveryStudentEveryDay
Accepting Submissions for the Karner Kids Film Festival
ALBANY – The Albany Pine Bush Preserve is now accepting films made by kids for our Karner Kids Film Festival. “This is a great opportunity for kids and teens to show us their perspective on the Pine Bush through film making,” said Education Program Manager, Sara Poggi-Decker. The Karner Kids Film Festival is open to kids ages 10-17. The films must be original creations of 5 minutes or less and must be about the Albany Pine Bush. Films could feature wildlife, plants, history, personal experience or other Pine Bush-inspired themes.
“It always exciting to see how people express their Pine Bush experiences through art,” continued Poggi-Decker. Films can be submitted online and must be received by 4pm on October 31, 2020. Details and submission guidelines can be found at www.AlbanyPineBush.org/visit-the-discovery-center. In December we will celebrate the film makers with a virtual film festival.
Admission to the Discovery Center is free (there is a fee for some programs). The Center is currently open on limited days and hours. For more information, visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org or call 518-456-0655.
Indoor Castleton-on-Hudson Farmers & Artisans Market
CASTLETON-ON-HUDSON – The Castleton-on-Hudson Farmers & Artisans Market (COHFAM) ended its summer season with big news: The market is moving indoors for the winter – every Friday (except for December 25 and January 1) from 4-7 PM at 52 Hilton on Main (52 South Main Street) in the Village of Castleton-on-Hudson. Due to COVID-19, patrons are required to wear masks, observe social distancing, use hand sanitizer upon entering the building, and provide a phone number. Temperatures will be taken at the door, and only ten people will be allowed in at the same time. Come to COHFAM, the little market with the big heart, let us serve you, and support the local economy!
Annual Fresh Florida Citrus Fundraiser
CAPITAL DISTRICT – The yearly Troy Kiwanis Fresh Florida Fruit sale is on again to raise money for projects that directly assist Troy area youth.
20 lbs for only $25 – Navel Oranges, Ruby Red Grapefruit or a Mixed Case.
Most area groups are charging well over $30/case. Orders must be received by Sunday, November 22nd.Call Dean @ 518-322-0826 Today!!
Will arrive in Troy, by December 12th, in plenty of time for Holiday Gift Giving!! Kiwanis is Serving the Children of the World
Looking for Stories About One Room School Houses
RENSSELAER COUNTY – Looking for people who might have stories to tell about one room school houses in the Town of Sand Lake, Averill Park and West Sand Lake, Sand Lake. Do you have a parent, grandparent, or great grandparents who attended one of the several one room school houses in our town? Email me with any information at JTre115@nullyahoo.com. (Jacqueline Tremont)
Seton Hall University Spring 2020 Dean’s List
SOUTH ORANGE, NJ – Seton Hall University is pleased to announce the following students who qualified for the Spring 2020 Dean’s list and to congratulate them for their outstanding academic achievements. After the close of every semester, undergraduate students completing all courses with a GPA of 3.4, with no grades lower than “C”, qualify for the Dean’s List.
Isabella Maddalone of West Sand Lake (12196)
Rebecca Re of Averill Park (12018)
Kyle Reasor of Averill Park (12018)
Athletic Department Seeking Nominations for the Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2021
AVERILL PARK – The Averill Park Athletic Department, in conjunction with the Averill Park Athletic Booster Club, is pleased to announce that the nominating period for the Averill Park Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2021 is now open. The Hall of Fame recognizes former athletes, coaches, teams, and contributors who have made significant contributions to the Averill Park athletic program through their service, performance, dedication, commitment, and accomplishment.
The Hall of Fame committee is comprised of administrators (past and present), coaches (past and present), and community members. For information regarding the committee, Hall of Fame guidelines, and nomination forms please see the Hall of Fame link on the Averill Park Athletics page at www.averillpark.k12.ny.us.
Any member of the public can nominate an athlete, coach, team (not eligible until 2022), or contributor for induction assuming the criteria as outlined in the guidelines are met. Nomination forms are available by going to the Hall of Fame link on the Averill Park Athletics page at www.averillpark.k12.ny.us or by contacting the Athletic Department at (518) 674-7010.
The nomination period will run through November 15th. The 2021 induction ceremony and dinner will be held on Saturday, April 17th at the Hilton Garden Inn in Troy.
Town of Schodack Fall Clean-Up Days
SCHODACK – Schodack residents please note the Town of Schodack is sponsoring Fall Clean-up Days on October 15th, 16th and 17th at the Transfer Station on Poyneer Rd. During this event many items that normally have a charge are free and others are reduced up to 50%. This is a great time to clean out your garage before winter comes! The following price list is only for the dates noted above:
Refrigerators, Freezers, Air conditioners & Dehumidifier -$8.00
Tires, rimless (maximum size 16”) – $2.00*
*larger and rimmed tires priced by size
TVs, computer monitors (limit 2), Propane Tanks, Furniture (limit 3), Metal goods, Gas grills, Bicycles – FREE
All other prices remain the same
2020 Photography Contest
ALBANY – Albany Diocesan Cemeteries 2020 Photography Contest is now open to the public! With 19 cemeteries located in the Capital District, all feature beautiful nature, statuary, architecture, interesting gravestones, and many have spectacular views.
Digital enhancements of your original image is allowed.
Participants are invited to submit up to TWO (2) original photographs with their registration. No entry fee. Prize money will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners.
Photos must be of a subject located in one of Albany Diocesan Cemeteries 19 cemeteries.
Digital enhancements of your original image is allowed.
Visit https://blog.capitaldistrictcemeteries.org/adc-photography-contest-2020/ or call 518-350-7679 for a list of cemetery locations, contest information, rules & registration form.
Submission deadline for all photographs and registrations is October 15th, 2020.
Good luck shutterbugs!
HVCC Announces LiveStream Lecture Series for Fall 2020
TROY – Hudson Valley Community College presents Voices: A Library Lecture Series each fall and spring semester. This fall, the lectures will be streamed live online due to the current COVID-19 restrictions on public gatherings. All are open free to the public. Each lecture has a unique virtual address (see below).
Mindfulness for The Busy Person: Why Slowing Down is the Fastest Growing Trend
Elections 2020: A Perspective from Albany
Thursday, Oct. 15, 11-11:50 a.m. / https://livestream.com/hvccstreaming/events/9235041
Spectrum News political reporter Susan Arbetter shares her insights on what could happen in the national, state, and local elections, and what those results could mean for New York State.
Tiny Homes… From Pinterest Dreams to Affordable Housing
Tuesday, Oct. 27, 1-1:50 p.m. / https://livestream.com/hvccstreaming/events/9235043
Local businesswoman Brittany McAndrew of Upstate Tiny Homes, a Tiny Home Industry Association board member, will illuminate this new tiny world.
Using Adversity to Fuel Positive Change
Wednesday, Nov. 11, noon-2:50 p.m. / https://livestream.com/hvccstreaming/events/9235044
Bridie Farrell, a three-time American record-holding speed skater, founded NY Loves Kids, a non-profit advocacy organization for child sexual abuse victims. She discusses the alarmingly high rates of child sexual abuse and its effects on our communities, and will suggest ways we can help.
Hunting as a Conservation Tool
Thursday, Nov. 19, 1-1:50 p.m. / https://livestream.com/hvccstreaming/events/9235046
Katrina Talbot, NYS DEC wildlife biologist, discusses her job and public opinions on hunting.
The Capital District Genealogical Society Presents Tracing Ancestors on the Move: Migrations from New England to and through New York
CAPITAL DISTRICT – Saturday, Oct 24, 2020 at 1:00 P.M. via Zoom – Join Kyle Hurst, Senior Genealogist for the Newbury Street Press at American Ancestors, as she explores common westward migration trends from New England into and through New York. Hurst will discuss crucial records, resources and techniques for tracing these elusive ancestors to help you connect the dots in your own family history. This will be a Zoom meeting. There is a 100 person limit. Registration is free and will open to the public approximately Oct 16, 2020. See our website under meetings and events. Please join us! www.capitaldistrictgenealogicalsociety.org
Town of Brunswick Monthly Brush Pick Up Schedule
TOWN OF BRUNSWICK – Pick up schedule: 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.
Bird Seed Sale to benefit Friends of the Dyken Pond Center
Grafton –The Friends of Dyken Pond have been connecting kids to nature for the past thirty years. As more people use the outdoors during COVID-19, it is more important than ever to have programs and places for people to enjoy. You can help the Friends of Dyken Pond by ordering a premium bag of bird seed. This is a one-time sale and bird seed must be pre-ordered by Monday, October 26th. There will be a pick-up day on Saturday, October 31st at the Capital Agway located on NY Route 7 in Brunswick from 9am -12pm or on Monday, November 2nd at the Rensselaer County Government Building from 12pm – 2pm. Everyone picking up their orders at Capital Agway will receive a 10% store discount for all other bird related items purchased that day. We offer black oil sunflower, premium mixed, niger, sunflower hearts and suet cakes. Order information can be viewed and placed from our website at www.dykenpond.org or by contacting the Center at (518) 658-2055.
Call For Entries: Artists for Social Justice at Sand Lake Center for the Arts
SAND LAKE – Sand Lake Center for the Arts is seeking submissions for its January and February 2021 gallery installation. SLCA invites artists of color to submit their works for a two-month long gallery presentation to shine light on social injustices. All visual mediums are welcome. Jpeg and pdf submissions can be sent to brian@nullslca-ctp.org. Please include a short bio and brief description of your work. Submission deadline: November 1st, 2020
Poestenkill Area Food Insecurity
POESTENKILL – Any greater Poestenkill area residents currently experiencing temporary or long term food insecurity can turn to The Bread of Life Food Pantry at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Poestenkill for supplemental food assistance. We provide basic nutritional foods and related items the first and third Thursday of each month from 5:00 to 7:00 PM in a very discreet, nonjudgmental manner. We offer drive-thru service where each guest receives a product list to form your order, we then fill your order and bring the completed order back to your vehicle. Delivery service to Poestenkill Seniors unable to visit our Pantry is also available. Please try us, we are here to help. Our phone number is: 518-283-6045 to leave a message. Thank you.
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