Friday April 19, 2024 
Parish to host a safety and fall prevention program
Please join our seniors’ January 25th meeting and luncheon for an important discussion about home safety and fall prevention measures. Our guest speaker will be Rik McClave, Stephentown Fire Department Commissioner and Director. Rik’s lengthy time as an EMT has provided him with much experience in assessing and treating a great variety of injuries including fall-related injuries, both minor and major. Rik will focus on preventing falls through active identification and correction of hazards in and around the home, using audio-visual and print materials. Anyone who is interested is welcome to attend.
The program is sponsored by the Seniors’ Ministry of Immaculate Conception/St. Joseph Parish. There is no charge for the program, which will begin at 11:30 am in the parish hall. The hall is located at 732 U.S. Route 20, in New Lebanon. Following the presentation, a light lunch will be offered, also at no charge. For more information, please contact Mary at 518-733-0469.
A Unique Social Outreach Opportunity to Help Children
Fostering Futures NY (FFNY) is a unique social outreach opportunity in the Capital Region. This program provides a way for communities of faith to make a positive impact on the lives of children who are in foster care, many of whom have been traumatized by abuse or neglect. FFNY helps these children by “helping the helpers”– the foster parents who care for them. Our volunteers make a direct impact on the lives of children in our community. The time commitment is minimal, generally 2-4 hours a month, which includes a monthly team meeting. The team serves as an extended family, enriching the opportunities for children and encouraging the caregivers. The foster parents and the team work together to decide what practical and natural help is needed.
If this program sounds interesting to you, please join us at the Averill Park Church of the Covenant United Methodist, 3055 NY Route 43, Averill Park, NY on Tuesday, January 29th, at 7:00pm for an introduction by Debbie Favro (FFNY) and Marcia Andersen (Foster Parent).
5th Grade DARE Graduation
The 5th Grade DARE Graduation at Van Rensselaer Elementary School was held on January 16th. In the photo from left to right are Rensselaer County Sheriff Deputy and DARE Officer Jeff Russo, Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin, Rensselaer County Legislature Chairman Mike Stammel and Rensselaer City School District Superintendent Joe Kardash. Student award recipients are Josh Kretzschmar, Ava Muller, Mia Robles, Ava Atchinson, George Krause, John Albarelli and Angelica Lawrence.
NG Councilwoman Mary Frances Sabo January Report
Happy New Year! The North Greenbush town board held its organizational meeting on January 10. One of my goals has been to make town government more open. To help accomplish this, I proposed that the town contract with a vendor to record town meetings and archive them on its website for residents to view on computers, tablets or phones at their convenience. Many other municipalities are doing this. North Greenbush is now looking into recording meetings. As you may recall, last April I requested an advisory opinion from the town ethics board on whether the building inspector is violating town ethics law by running a business that constructs dwellings in town. Many of you have inquired as to whether the ethics board has released a decision. It is my understanding that the ethics board’s last meeting was December 19 and they have not released a decision yet. I encourage all of you who are interested in the ethics board to check the town website for information about the next meeting or the release of the advisory opinion. The growth in housing in Defreestville may cause Bell Top School to reach capacity for the next academic year. To address these enrollment issues, the East Greenbush Central School district is proposing rezoning changes that will impact many North Greenbush neighborhoods. The school board will vote on these changes after kindergarten registration is complete. I encourage you to read more about the proposed rezones at the School district website and attend the school board meetings for more information.
The Town planning board has been very busy. At the next meeting on February 4 at 6:30, the board will hold public hearings on two car washes proposed for Route 4 in Defreestville- one at the former “Aarons” store and the other at the former Defreestville Fire Department. Finally, I plan to have a follow-up meeting to discuss moving forward with the North Greenbush dog park in early March. Please watch The Advertiser and my facebook page, Councilwoman Mary Frances Sabo, for more information.
Legislature Chairman Stammel explains increase in County tax portion of City of Rensselaer Tax Bills
The 2019 Rensselaer County Budget was adopted unanimously with no increase in the county tax levy, meaning no county tax increase. However, several residents of the City of Rensselaer recently contacted me questioning the increase in the county portion of their 2019 property tax bill. The answer lies in the Equalization Rate. Each city, town, and village in Rensselaer County has an Equalization Rate established by the NYS Department of Tax and Finance with a recommendation from each taxing jurisdiction. This equalization rate refers to the level of assessment and changes each year based on sales and market trends. Since properties in Rensselaer have not been reassessed lately, they are not assessed at full value. Last year, the City saw a sizable decrease in their equalization rate, this caused Rensselaer to owe a larger share of the County levy than the previous year. It is because of that, residents of Rensselaer have to contribute more to fulfill the city’s obligation to the County. Some municipalities in Rensselaer County, like the City of Troy, Towns of Sand Lake, Schodack and Stephentown, whose properties are assessed near or at full value, saw a slight decrease in the county portion of their tax bills. I hope that this helps explain the slight increase in the County portion of your property tax bills. If anyone in Rensselaer County has any questions about their tax bill, please call your city or town assessor.
Michael Stammel
Chairman of the Rensselaer County Legislature
Defreestville Fire Dept. Report
Here are a few updates from the Defreestville Fire Department.
In 2018, we ran 613 total calls including structure fires, car accidents, and all other fire and EMS calls.
To start 2019, we promoted several firefighters to Engineer status: Firefighter/EMT Kylie Cotugno and Firefighter Bryan Jones will engineer our 9-7; Firefighter Jeff Pirro will engineer 9-6; and Firefighter Nick Russo will engineer Rescue 9. Engineers are critical roles ensuring each vehicle remains fully in service or note any maintenance they might need.
Speaking of Rescue 9, recently the DFD sent out the old 9-2 engine for modifications, which returned as the new-to-us Rescue 9. This vehicle will operate as a primary response to all car accidents and other heavy rescue scenarios.
Thank you to the Board of Fire Commissioners, Defreestville Fire Chiefs, and membership for their support of this project. Specifically, we recognize Captain Brandon Galligan and Lieutenant Daniel Sheehan for their time, attention, and efforts on this project, improving the response capabilities of the DFD for North Greenbush residents and surrounding areas.
In fact, R9’s first call was to Bloomingrove Veterinary Hospital for the rescue of a cat stuck in a car’s wheel wells. We safely stabilized the vehicle and removed her. The cat had a few scrapes but otherwise unharmed.
You can read more about and see photos of the incident by visiting www.facebook.com/defreest villefd and scrolling through our posts. Please click “Like” on our page while you’re there to keep up to date with us. Happy New Year!
CASE Expands Fight for Environment
Community Advocates for a Sustainable Environment (CASE), an outgrowth of the Stop NY Fracked Gas Pipeline group, recently voted to enlarge the scope of its fight to include issues beyond the renewable energy field. This was prompted by the increasing threat of environmental issues such as the proposed burning of scrap tires and other substances at a Coeymans, NY Cement Plant, the proposed BioHiTech Solid Waste Facility in Rensselaer and the issues surrounding the problematic construction debris dump sited in Rensselaer.
CASE recognizes other issues such as the coming campaign to ban single use plastic bags and the continuing need to divest from Fossil Fuels in the NYS Retirement Plan.
“With the magnitude of problems facing us at the national and state level, compounded by the number of local threats, we are running out of time to combat climate warming,” according to Becky Meier, CASE co-founder. “This is further exacerbated by the setbacks at the EPA, among other regulatory agencies, during the current federal administration.”
Since 2016, CASE has sponsored three very successful Renewable Energy Fairs as well as public forums on related topics. But with the prediction that the US economy is expected to lose 10% of its value by 2100 to climate change effects (based on federal agency reportage), it is clear that a more concentrated effort is needed. And this 10% doesn’t even take into account any potential tipping points that might occur (eg. an end to the Gulf Stream in the Atlantic Ocean) that would cause unprecedented environmental damage.
For information on how to help, please visit our web site at stopnypipeline.org or call Becky or Bob at 518-781-4686.
written by, Kenneth C. Scallon BA, MS, CASE member
Nassau, NY
Girl Scout Troop 1260 Members Receive Silver Award
Left to right: Isabelle Relyea, Poestenkill Principal John Bishop, Isla Multunas
Isla Multunas and Isabelle Relyea, members of Girl Scout Troop 1260, completed work for their Girl Scout Silver Award. Isla and Isabelle graduated from Poestenkill Elementary School and wanted to give back to their school community. With funding from the Poestenkill Business Association and under the guidance of principal Mr. John Bishop, the girls created activity carts with age-appropriate games to get students active and learning during indoor recess. The Silver Award is the second-highest award in Girl Scouting and requires competing a project of 50+ hours that demonstrates leadership skills and commitment to the community.
More photos of their project can be found on this site:
EG Kiwanis “Eliminate Project Fundraiser”
The East Greenbush Kiwanis Club recently raised $528.15 through their “Eliminate Project Fundraiser” at The Recovery Sports Grill in North Greenbush. Through the Eliminate Project, Kiwanis International and UNICEF have joined forces to eradicate maternal and neonatal tetanus—a deadly disease that kills 34,000 babies and a significant number of women in third-world countries each year.
East Greenbush Kiwanis would like to offer a special thank you to the management and staff of the Recovery Sports Grill, as well as to the members of our community for assisting our club in doing their part to support this fundraiser.
Hannaford Supermarkets to donate $50,000 to Feeding America food bank partners
Scarborough, ME – Hannaford Supermarkets announced a $50,000 donation to its Feeding America food bank partners throughout New England and New York. The donation will be used to meet an increased need in communities due to the impact of the partial federal government shutdown.
Hannaford stores in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts and New York will also feature kiosks where shoppers can make monetary donations to hunger relief agencies in their local community.
Additionally, there will be signage on display in each Hannaford store identifying local community resources, such as food banks and pantries, available to those requiring assistance.
“Hannaford is committed to supporting hunger relief efforts. Following discussions with our Feeding America food bank partners and agencies across the five states we serve, we have become aware of a recent increased need for support,” said Eric Blom, Hannaford spokesman. “We hope this donation will help aid those requiring assistance as a result of the partial federal government shutdown.”
The Feeding America nationwide network of food banks secures and distributes 4.3 billion meals each year through food pantries and meal programs throughout the United States. For more information about Feeding America, visit www.FeedingAmerica.org.
Rensselaer National Guard Soldier Retires from Military Service
Major General Ray Shields, the Adjutant General for the State of New York, announces the recent retirement of members of the New York Army National Guard, marking their end of service to community, state and nation as part of the Army National Guard.
Master Sergeant David Nichols from Rensselaer, N.Y. and assigned to the Joint Forece Headquarters retired from the New York Army National Guard last month after some 42 years of military service.
Nichols first entered the military in June 1976.
“A full military career is a major achievement in the lives of our Citizen Soldiers and their families,” Shields said. “I congratulate our Soldiers, their loved ones and their employers on this milestone of more than 20 years of service. We may recruit individual Soldiers into our Army National Guard, but I know full well that it takes the support of a family to make this a career,” he said.
“On behalf of our force, I extend my best wishes for their success of our retirees as they begin new chapters in their lives.”
For more information about the New York Army National Guard, visit www.dmna.ny.gov or www.1800goguard.com
Legislators thank first responders at Hoosick train derailment
Shortly after 7 pm on January 9th emergency crews were dispatched to a freight train derailment in North Hoosick. Immediately, many of our friends and neighbors stopped what they were doing and answered the emergency call. Our volunteers responded and worked through the night in the cold and the darkness to make sure the scene was secure and to inspect the train cars to be certain that they were not leaking any dangerous propane. For several days, Chief Alan Bornt of the North Hoosick Fire Department worked closely with federal, state, county, and other local officials, and railroad personnel, to make sure that everyone was safe and the train cars were secured and lifted and placed back on the tracks. This well coordinated effort of first responders truly highlighted the capabilities and skills of many agencies, particularly our County agencies. Rensselaer County Bureau of Public Safety’s Jay Wilson, Ray Davis, and Paul Glasser were among the many responders along with the Director of Environmental Health Rich Elder. County Executive Steve McLaughlin and Director of Operations Rich Crist were also onsite several days to make sure everything went smoothly. The Governor’s Office and Federal officials also dispatched the appropriate personnel to respond to the scene. New York State Police, the Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Department and the Hoosick Falls Police Department also responded. While it is part of the job for many of these agencies to show up, we still want to express our thanks to them. However, when our volunteers show up, they do it because they want to. We want to especially thank the members of the North Hoosick Fire Department, the Hoosick Falls Fire Department, the Hoosick Fire Department, Bill Gaillard and members of the Town of Hoosick Rescue Squad and everyone else that showed up, brought coffee or snacks, or offered words of support when our communities came together to respond to an accident that could have had a very different outcome.
~Legislator Bruce Patire ~Legislator Jeff Wysocki
Thrift Shop
The volunteers at the Church of the Redeemer Thrift Shop work hard to provide a clean, well-organized shopping experience. The shop has a very large selection of clothing for all sizes and ages, baby equipment, toys, games, puzzles, jewelry, knick-knacks, household goods, Avon collectibles and prom dresses. There is sure to be something for everyone from the amazing assortment of one-of-a-kind items. Ask to see our handicapped equipment.
The thrift shop has earned an excellent reputation by offering quality merchandise at very low prices. The shop will be open Thursday,
January 24th, from 3 to 6; and Saturday, January 26th, from 9 to 2, weather permitting.
Located at 1249 Third Street, Rensselaer, the building is on CDTA busline #214. Enter through the parking lot on the Catherine Street side and be pleasantly surprised.
New York Farm Bureau Statement on Gov. Cuomo’s 2019 State of The State and Proposed Budget
The following statement can be attributed to NYFB President David Fisher:
“New York Farm Bureau is grateful for the historic commitment Governor Cuomo’s proposed budget is making to agriculture in the state. The expected appropriations for agricultural research, marketing and promotion will be a true investment in the state’s farm families. In addition, there is increased support for the Environmental Protection Fund and programs to address climate resiliency and soil health which are important to the future of New York agriculture.
New York Farm Bureau appreciates Governor Cuomo’s leadership with this budget, and we will work with him and the legislative leaders to secure final passage of the funding. It is imperative in this struggling farm economy that state lawmakers understand the necessity of having strong state support for local food production. Farms are the backbone of the rural economy and play a vital role that benefits all of New York State.”
Benjamin Forte Named to Castleton Univ. President’s List
Benjamin Forte of Rensselaer, NY, was recently named to the Castleton University President’s List for the fall semester of the 2018-19 academic year.
To qualify for this highest academic honor, the student must maintain full-time status and a semester grade point average of 4.0.
What Parents Need to Know About Student Loans
Many parents dream of sending their children off to college – to earn a degree, launch a successful career, and make a healthy, happy life for themselves. For many families, this means taking out loans to cover the cost of tuition and expenses.
“It’s important for parents to understand the ins and outs of student loans,” said Jeremy Wine, student loan supervisor for Take Charge America, a national nonprofit credit counseling and student loan counseling agency. “As long as parents are clear on the terms, they can help their college-bound children begin adulthood on the right foot without risking their own financial well-being.”
Wine shares five things parents need to know about student loans:
- FAFSA: First things first, students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to determine their eligibility for federal loans and grants. Students from low-income families, for example, may qualify for a Federal Pell Grant worth up to $6,095 annually.
- Federal vs. Private: One question students and their parents should consider is whether they should take out federal or private student loans. Compared to private loans, federal loans typically offer lower interest rates along with better repayment options, like income-driven repayment and postponement of payments. Additionally, private lenders usually require a co-signer – typically a parent – meaning parents are on the hook for any late or missed payments. It’s risky business, as any issues with a student’s repayment will damage parents’ credit scores and may prevent them from taking out other loans in the future.
- Parent PLUS Loan: Parents who want to help pay for college but don’t have the money saved can also apply for a Parent PLUS Loan. Among the benefits, this loan offers a fixed interest rate, flexible repayment terms, and a tax deduction on interest up to $2,500. Unlike other federal student loans, the PLUS loan requires a credit check.
- Repayment Calculator: How long will it take to repay a student loan? Too few people consider this question before borrowing money for college. Using a student loan payoff calculatorcan give parents and their children a sense of future monthly payments, and will also encourage students to think carefully about their career path and earning potential.
- College vs. Retirement: Paying a child’s college expense is a very generous – and very pricey – endeavor. It’s important for parents to take a pragmatic approach – helping their children choose an appropriate school at an affordable cost – rather than setting their hearts on a “perfect,” and unjustifiably expensive, college. Moreover, they’re wise to consider their own finances before taking out a loan for their child’s education. This is especially true for people who already have debt or whose retirement accounts are too small. In such cases, parents should put their own financial needs first.
For information about student loans and repayment options, visit Take Charge America at studentloans.takechargeamerica.org or call (877) 784-2008.
Local Students Named to Castleton University’s Fall 2018 Dean’s List
CASTLETON, VT — The following students were named to the Castleton University Dean’s List for the fall semester of the 2018-19 academic year. To qualify for this academic honor, the student must maintain full-time status and a semester grade point average of 3.5.
Austin Crosier of Averill Park (12018)
Brandon Myron of Rensselaer (12144)
Max Tempel of Averill Park (12018)
Brianna Smith graduates from Roger Williams University
BRISTOL, RI — Roger Williams University is proud to announce that Brianna Smith, of Schaghticoke, NY, graduated with a B.S. in Forensic Science in December 2018.
With campuses on the coast of Bristol and in the heart of Providence, R.I., Roger Williams University is a forward-thinking private university committed to strengthening society through engaged teaching and learning.
Dean Biancaniello, Jr. placed on Dean’s List at SUNY Cortland
Dean Biancaniello, Jr. has been placed on the Dean’s List for the Fall 2018 semester at the State University of New York College at Cortland. Parents are Dean and Leighann Biancaniello of Rensselaer, NY.
Dean’s major is Athletic Training and has been accepted to the clinical portion of the athletic training program.
Dean is a 2017 graduate of Rensselaer Jr./Sr. High School.
Columbia H.S. Grad Named to St. John Fisher College Dean’s List with a 4.0 GPA
PITTSFORD, N.Y.— Conner Wright, son of Lisa Wright of North Greenbush and Jim Wright of Watertown, has been named to the Fall 2018 Dean’s List at St. John Fisher College in Rochester, New York. Wright is a junior majoring in Criminal Justice. To be eligible for the Dean’s List at St. John Fisher College, a student must have attained at least a 3.5 grade-point average for the semester. Wright attained a perfect 4.0. For more information about St. John Fisher College, visit www.sjfc.edu.
Students Named to Clarkson University Dean’s List
POTSDAM, NY — The following students have been named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2018 semester at Clarkson University.
Rachel Barnum of Stephentown, N.Y., majoring in global supply chain management
Kathryn Bartosik of Averill Park, N.Y., majoring in chemical engineering
Gabby Broga of Nassau, N.Y., majoring in mechanical engineering
Claire Chaisson of Troy, N.Y., majoring in engineering and management
Dylan Clarkson of Melrose, N.Y., majoring in chemical engineering
Lillian Czajkowski of Mechanicville, N.Y., majoring in chemical engineering
Lauren Firlet of Mechanicville, N.Y., majoring in mechanical engineering
Samantha Gladd of Rensselaer, N.Y., majoring in mechanical engineering
Josh Hipwell of Mechanicville, N.Y., majoring in business studies
Alyssa Jager of Stephentown, N.Y., majoring in business studies
Adam Johnson of Averill Park, N.Y., majoring in civil engineering/environmental engineering
Maureen O’Brien of Poestenkill, N.Y., majoring in mathematics
Jameson Pitcheralle of Mechanicville, N.Y., majoring in aeronautical engineering
Matthew Rose of Schaghticoke, N.Y., majoring in aeronautical engineering
Nikki Schaeffer of Melrose, N.Y., majoring in mechanical engineering
Sabrina Sepowski of Castleton, N.Y., majoring in electrical engineering
Ryan Stewart of Poestenkill, N.Y., majoring in computer science
Laura Wing of Averill Park, N.Y., majoring in civil engineering
Brian Woellmer of Troy, N.Y., majoring in civil engineering
SNHU Announces Fall 2018 President’s List
Manchester, NH
It is with great pleasure that Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) congratulates the following students on being named to the fall 2018 President’s List.
Eligibility for the President’s List requires that a student accumulate an academic grade point average (GPA) of 3.7-4.0 and earn 12 credits for the semester.
Daniel Hopler of Troy (12180)
Ingrid Morton of Troy (12180)
More than 1,500 Students Named to Fall 2018 Dean’s List at Oneonta
ONEONTA, NY — A total of 1,584 SUNY Oneonta students earned Dean’s List honors for the fall 2018 semester. To qualify for the Dean’s List, a student must earn a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher while carrying a course load of 12 hours or more.
Included from the local area are:
Andrew Baker of Wynantskill (12198)
Kathleen Bee of Mechanicville (12118)
Megan Billert of Mechanicville (12118)
Jenna Cebula of Mechanicville (12118)
Noah Chani of Hoosick Falls (12090)
Wyatt Cushman of Petersburg (12138)
Gabrielle Daigneault of Rensselaer (12144)
Mark Dearstyne of Wynantskill (12198)
Robert Deeb of Averill Park (12018)
Mae Endres of Rensselaer (12144)
Nicolas Gabriel of Rensselaer (12144)
Hunter Galvin of Schaghticoke (12154)
Kaylyn Garland of Mechanicville (12118)
Ashley Gaunay of Troy (12180)
Teresa Gonzalez of Stephentown (12168)
Laurel Hay of Castleton (12033)
Emily Hogan of Wynantskill (12198)
Beth Laquidara of Mechanicville (12118)
Mackenzie Lavoy of Troy (12180)
Madison Lavoy of Troy (12180)
Ariel Loucks of Averill Park (12018)
Sarah Meemken of Averill Park (12018)
Meredith Morgan of West Sand Lake (12196)
Rachel Morris of Rensselaer (12144)
Nikita Norman of Eagle Bridge (12057)
Paige Phelan of Mechanicville (12118)
Sara Pipino of Schaghticoke (12154)
Alexander Pomykaj of Castleton On Hudson (12033)
Daniel Savaria of Troy (12182)
Sophie Schwenzfeier of East Greenbush (12061)
Gabrielle Serafin of Schaghticoke (12154)
Amanda Weaver of Troy (12180)
Olivia Weidman of East Greenbush (12061)
Bridget Ryan Named to Fall 2018 Dean’s List at Stonehill Coll.
EASTON, MA — Bridget Ryan, from Schaghticoke and a member of the Class of 2021, has been named to the Fall 2018 Dean’s List at Stonehill College.
To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must have a semester grade point average of 3.50 or better and must have completed successfully all courses for which they were registered.
News from Averill Park CSD
Samuel Hart placed first in the annual Algonquin Middle School Spelling Bee. Samuel was followed by Chava Thiell in second place and Paula De Andes in third. Great job by everyone who participated! Members of the varsity boys’ basketball team were the “Mystery Readers” for Mrs. Pugliese’s First Grade class at Miller Hill-Sand Lake Elementary. This is a prime example of our older students becoming role models for our younger ones. At AMS, author Shelley Pearsall Skyped with students about her book “The Seventh Most Important Thing.” Students read the book as part of their “One School, One Book” initiative. During the Skype call, which was sponsored by the Averill Park Education Foundation, students were able to ask Pearsall questions and learned about her life as an author, the writing process, and how a book is published. Grade 8 students in Mr. Williams’ Earth Science class presented their river system models. Students had one class period to plan and brainstorm, and one to test designs with materials. The winning group included Louie Reale, Jason Strickland, Christian Romer and Harry Bourgault. Great work by everyone involved! As always, for the latest news from the District, please visit our website – averillpark.k12.ny.us. ~Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent
Gabriella Beamish of Melrose Serves in Washington, DC, During Winter Break
WORCESTER, MA)– Some students spend the winter break relaxing and preparing for the spring semester. Others chose to engage in compassionate service, sacrificing their winter break to help those in need in communities across the country and the world. Gabriella Beamish, of Melrose, Class of 2019, spent the break on one of Assumption College’s SEND Service Immersion Trips. Beamish was a member of the group that traveled to Washington, DC, to work with L’ Arche, an inter-denominational Christian community that welcomes people of all backgrounds to share life together. Students worked with individuals who reside in L’ Arche’s four communal homes, as well as the organization’s 16 members who have intellectual disabilities.
As part of the College’s Campus Ministry Office’s SEND Service Immersion Program, established in 1986, the students-accompanied by faculty, staff or alumni-directly impact communities through volunteer work. SEND participants bond with fellow peers, faculty, staff, and alumni while working side-by-side to rebuild neighborhoods, gain new cultural perspective, and engage in prayer activities that reflect on ideals rooted in the Assumptionist tradition. SEND has collaborated with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Romero Center Ministries, Catholic Charities, and Rostro de Cristo Ministry.
During winter break, five groups of students spent time in the communities of Baltimore, MD; Camden, NJ; Tuscaloosa, AL; and Duran, Ecuador.
The SEND Immersion Program instills in each participant a mission to serve, which is at the core of Assumption’s foundations in the Catholic Tradition. Learn more about Assumption’s robust Campus Ministry program by visiting http://www.assumption.edu/campus-life/campus-ministry.
Leshawn Outing-Howard Named to Buffalo State Fall 2018 Dean’s List
Leshawn Outing-Howard of Troy, NY, has been named to the Fall 2018 Dean’s List at Buffalo State College. Outing-Howard is majoring in Psychology.
To qualify, students must earn a GPA of 3.5 or higher and complete a minimum of 12 credit hours.
Buffalo State is a State University of New York (SUNY) college located in Buffalo, New York. The college offers 79 undergraduate majors as well as many minors and certificate programs. Buffalo State also offers more than 60 graduate programs.
Students Named Clarkson University Presidential Scholars
POTSDAM, NY — The following students have been named Presidential Scholars for the fall 2018 semester at Clarkson University.
Jeremy M Ciprioni of Rensselaer, N.Y., a mechanical engineering major
James M. Clark of Averill Park, N.Y., a civil engineering major
Connor Patrick Feathers of Petersburg, N.Y., a mechanical engineering major
Kyle Matthew Locklear of Troy, N.Y., an aeronautical engineering major
Benjamin L. Venditti of Troy, N.Y., an electrical engineering major
Book Nook News
The Book Nook on Hillview Drive in Speigletown is open on Saturday morning, February 2nd, from 9:00 am until noon. Please stop in and see the new donations and check out our February specials! We are always looking for more books, so please continue to drop off your gently-read donations at either entrance of the church during office hours.
Thanks again for your continued support and see you at the Book Nook!
February Events at The Rensselaer Senior Center
February 5th – Join the Rensselaer County Rensselaer Senior Center as we welcome the New Year with a dinner and a show featuring Paul Slusar “Chinese New Year” (Asian Beef). Entertainment by Paul Slusar. Call today for reservations 518-463-2166. Monday Through Friday, 9am-3pm.
February 14th – Special Dinner (Open Faced Turkey Sandwich). Entertainment by Rob Carson. Call today for reservations 518-463-2166. Monday through Friday, 9am-3pm.
February 26th – Join the Rensselaer County Rensselaer Senior Center with a dinner and a show featuring Donny Elvis Singing your favorite Elvis Songs. “King of Hearts” Elvis Day W/Donny Elvis. Dinner (Sausage with Noodles and Gravy). Call today for reservations 518-463-2166. Monday Through Friday, 9am-3pm.
Always looking to receive Donations of good and gently used clothing and shoes for our corner boutique; all proceeds benefit senior programs.
Rensselaer Senior Center Community Service Volunteers Needed. Looking for Dedicated Seniors to Help With our Community Service Program Every Thursday After Lunch. Making Afghans and Lap Robes for People in Nursing Homes, Stuffed Animals for The Pediatric Departments in hospitals, and emergency rooms Heart Pillows for Heart and Lung Surgery patients. This Is a Very Rewarding Program and we are Needing A Few More Angels to keep this program in place, or if you are homebound and willing to crochet or knit from home to help us out, then please call us if interested. We Are Open Monday thru Friday, 9am-3pm.
We are located in Rensselaer on East and Herrick Streets. Call for Further Info., 518-463-2166.
Sand Lake Seniors Club
The regular meeting for Sand Lake Seniors will be on February 14, 2019 at The Church of The Covenant on Route 43 in Averill Park at 12:00.
Thank you to Kiwanis, they will be hosting our lunch on Feb. 14th.
Bette Bieg has been busy putting together trips for us to go on. In September, the 15th – 18th, 4 days 3 nights, a trip to Newport, RI. The package includes: 3 nights deluxe accommodations in Middletown, RI. 3 great breakfast, 2 fantastic luncheons, a sumptuous New England Dinner, tour of the Marble House Mansion, guided tour of Newport, RI, ride the Newport Narragansett Railroad, visit to the famed Rosecliff Mansion, visit to the famed Brick Marketplace, tour of Block Island with cruise, tour of the Breakers Mansion, visit to Bowen’s Wharf and more…You can call Bette Bieg at 518-663-8292 for all the details. There are other trips also planned. Come to our meeting and get all the details.
REMEMBER, IF AVERILL PARK SCHOOLS ARE CLOSED, WE DO NOT HAVE A MEETING.
December 2018 Algonquin Middle School Warriors of the Month
Each month teachers at Algonquin Middle School recognize students who demonstrate outstanding citizenship and work habits. Students are selected for these honors based on the Algonquin “Warrior Way,” a set of three guiding principles that focus on respect for self and others, putting forth personal best effort in all activities and working to make our school and community a better place each day. Congratulations go out to the students listed below for their outstanding contributions to the Algonquin Middle School community during the month of December:
Grade 6 Warrior Wall Students:
Alexis Ames, Marissa Bertos, Madisyn Bulson, Ella Conlee, Alexander Matice, Gavin Mitchell, Skylar Quackenbush, Cole Thompson, Bailey Walsh, Nathan Webster
Grade 7 Warriors of the Month Students:
David Allegretta, Zareena Ansari, Sophia Bendetti, Mary Jane Goff, Emma Hill, Tatiana Tune
Grade 8 Warrior Way Students:
Emma Deo, Julie Hale, Emma Hanlon, Bailee Lange, Kadi Palmer, Riley O’Brien