Thursday April 18, 2024 
Dunham Hollow-West Stephentown Scholarship available to APCSD resident
The scholarship committee announces the availability of the Dunham Hollow-West Stephentown Scholarship.
The scholarship is in memory of Frank Johnson. It is open to anyone (graduating senior, post graduate, or adult wishing retraining) living within the boundaries of the Averill Park School District and has been accepted to a trade or vocational school.
The deadline for submission of an application is May 22nd. Scholarship applications may be obtained by contacting the Averill Park High School guidance department at 518.674-7025 or by emailing jcuilla@nullcfgcr.org.
Town of East Greenbush Seeks Spotlight on Youth Nominations
The Town of East Greenbush Community and Recreation Department is seeking nominations for our Spotlight on Youth Awards for 2019. We are searching for youth ages 11-18 who consistently give back to our community through volunteerism or by continually exhibiting positive character traits such as kindness, citizenship, respect, and responsibility.
If you know of a youth in our community that you would like to nominate, please go to our website eastgreenbush.org for more details and to download a registration form. All nominations must be received no later than May 1st.
Town of North Greenbush looking for Volunteers
The Town of North Greenbush is seeking a Town resident who wishes to volunteer to serve on a committee to make recommendations on a local law governing shared driveways and flag lots. A background in planning, zoning, land use or emergency services is desirable but not required. Please send a statement of interest to Councilwoman Mary Frances Sabo msabo@nullnorthgreenbush.org.
Poestenkill Seniors
Weekly meetings every Tuesday at 1pm at the Sullivan-Jones Post in Poestenkill. All seniors are welcome. Coffee and refreshments are served after the meeting, followed by Bingo and cards. The hall is handicapped accessible with sufficient parking. The Poestenkill Seniors have catered lunches, pizza, clam steams, fish fries and luncheons at various restaurants, informational talks on senior safety and bus trips to casinos, theaters and other points of interest.
Vacancies on the Village of Nassau Zoning Board of Appeals
The Village of Nassau is seeking to fill two (2) vacancies on the Village of Nassau Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). This is a voluntary position; no compensation will be provided. Only Village of Nassau registered voters are eligible to apply. The Zoning Board meets on an as needed basis and typically meets anywhere between 4-6 times per year.
Responsibilities of the ZBA include decisions related to:
1) Applications for special permits
2) Applications for area or use variances
3) Review of appeals from determinations made by the Code Enforcement
Officer
Candidates should be willing to become familiar with and knowledgeable of the following:
* Village of Nassau Codes
* State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA)
* Other applicable Federal, State, and local laws and regulations
(Open Meetings Law)
* Hosting public meetings and be comfortable in public speaking
As required by the New York State Department of State, Zoning Board of Appeals members are required to complete four (4) Professional Development Hours per year in order to continue their appointment on the Board. Cost associated with training is provided for by the Village of Nassau.
Interested candidates please send letter of interest to the Village of Nassau Clerk via email at clerk@nullvillageofnassau.org <mailto:clerk@nullvillageofnassau.org>
Support Future Teachers
Elmer E. Stahlman
Congratulations repeated to the 44 recipients of awards of the Elmer E. Stahlman Scholarship fund. Started in 1996 by the Class of 1955 to honor the first principal of the school district in 1929 to assist graduates of Averill Park High School who pursue education to be teachers.
Recalling as stated by Judy Rowe, former Sand Lake Town Historian, “Elmer E. Stahlman was considered one of the best educators in our area. His caring and encouragement of students to further their education exemplified his dedication.”
She added, “Continuing support depends on you.”
Your support is needed, great or modest, all needed. Thank you for your participation. Donations can be sent to Averill Park High School, 146 Gettle Road, Averill Park, NY 12018. Att: Elmer E. Stahlman Scholarship Fund.
~Nancy W. Davis, Class of 1955, APCSD #1
APHS Class of 1989 30th Year Reunion
Planning is in the works to celebrate our 30th year reunion. August 17th is the tentative date and we are currently looking into possible venues. An email address has been set up for questions, or to contact the planning committee. For classmates who are not on Facebook, please send an email to: aphs1989reunion@nullgmail.com and provide your contact information. For those without access to a computer, you may call or text 518 378-5318. Friends and family of alumni, please spread the word and forward the email address to classmates. We are hoping for a great turnout!
Rensselaer County Recovery Helpline
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
Supporting Local Charities Has Never Been Easier!
The St Jude the Apostle Knights of Columbus have teamed up with 6 Center Redemption Center located at 461 Main Street in Wynantskill to accept qualifying bottle and can donations to support local charities and those in need.
Simply bring your clean, qualifying empties to 6 Center Redemption in Wynantskill and say they are to support the St Jude Knights of Columbus. They’ll do the rest! That’s it!
Thanks for your support.
FREE Prayer Circle….
The Power of Prayer Can Move Mountains, Work Miracles, Achieve Serenity and Give You Strength.
With Fr. Billy Clark/Denise Tally/Patrick Clark, every Fourth Sunday, 1:00 PM.
Prayer is a universal way for you to connect to your soul and communicate with a higher power. Whether you are new to the ways of prayer or perhaps you pray daily / or you might have prayed as a child but may have gradually lost the habit / or maybe you feel your prayers are never answered.
This group is open to all religions & spiritual backgrounds.
Join us as we explore the power of coming together to Pray for help, guidance, health, healing and answers.
We gather to pray for ourselves/our loved ones/the world.
RESERVATIONS NOT REQUIRED!
Information: Denise Tally 518 339-8386.
VENTURE INWARD,
568 Columbia Turnpike #16 VanDenHouten Square (back entrance), East Greenbush, venturein@nullyahoo.com visit: www.VentureInwardCenter. com.
Capital Dist. Chapter of the Embroider’s Guild of America
Do you enjoy needlework? Would you like to stitch with others that have similar interests? Whether you are a beginner or have experience, come join us. The NY Capital District Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America meets in various locations and at various times. The Day Group meets every 3rd Wednesday of the month at Blooming Grove Reformed Church in Defreetsville. Evening meetings are offered in two locations: The Community Room at The Terrace at Beverwyck in Slingerlands from 7p-9p on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month and from 6:30p-9p in the Fellowship Hall of St. George’s Episcopal Church in Clifton Park on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. In addition, there are specialty interest groups that also meet. For more information, check out our website at http://www.nycapega.org or on facebook.com/nydcega. Come Join Us!
Poestenkill Youth Summer Camp
Poestenkill Summer Camp will be held July 8th-August 2nd at Poestenkill Elementary School from 9am-4pm. Each week will be filled with field trips to a variety of locations around the Capital Region including Grafton, Billy Beez, Fun Plex, Liberty Ridge Farm, Valley Cats, Zoom Flume, etc, art projects, STEM challenges, physical activities, water activities and visitors to camp. Swim lessons will be offered at Grafton. Registration information can be found at www.bit.ly/PoestenkillYouth
Contact Town Office at 518-283-5100 with any questions. Submitted by: Tiffany Buker, Camp Director, Town of Poestenkill
Spring forward…and join the Nassau Sunshine Fund
Want to help your Nassau neighbors?
Looking for a way to do something important that requires a minimal time commitment?
Spring forward and join us as a board member of the Nassau Sunshine Fund.
For ten years, we’ve been helping our neighbors during times of financial strain by providing no-interest loans (maximum $500). Because we are a local organization, we only accept loan requests from residents of the town and the villages of Nassau. We’ve been doing it for ten years. Interested? Want more information?
Please, contact us at nassausunshinefund@nullgmail.com.
GET INVOLVED, BE A PART OF IT!!
Beryl Moul Scholarship- Available to apply- Graduating Seniors
The Beryl H. Moul Memorial Grange Scholarship was established in 1958 by West Sand Lake Grange #949 in memory of prominent Grange Member Beryl H. Moul. Applicants must be graduating high school in 2019, Rensselaer County residents (for at least 4 years), be accepted in an accredited 2 or 4-year college program in New York State and pursuing a career in agriculture, home economics, nursing, natural resource management, environmental engineering or pharmacology. The application deadline which includes an official High School transcript is May 1st, 2019. The application and instructions can be found at any Rensselaer County High School Guidance Office or at the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rensselaer County website at www.ccerensselaer.org under 4-H forms tab. For questions, please contact the CCE office of Rensselaer County at 518-272-4210.
EGCSD Announces School Budget Meeting Schedule
All members of the community are invited to learn more about East Greenbush Central School District’s proposed budget for the 2019-20 school year by attending one of the many budget meetings offered this spring.
Superintendent Jeff Simons and Assistant Superintendent for School Business Finance Lawrence Edson Jr. will host 10 budget information sessions as well as a public hearing before the Budget Vote and Board Election on Tuesday, May 21. Please visit www.egcsd.org/budget to view the meeting schedule.
Wynantskill UFSD- Register Kindergartners Now for 2019-20 School Year
Parents of children who will attend kindergarten at Gardner-Dickinson School in the fall are encouraged to register their children now. Your child must be 5 years old by Dec. 1, 2019 to attend kindergarten in September.
To register, parents are asked to call Ms. Fazioli at 518-283-4600 ext. 10, between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Forms and registration information are also available at www.wynantskillufsd.org.
Registering your child for kindergarten now will make sure your child is ready to start the school year by ensuring all the necessary paperwork is on file. It also helps Wynantskill UFSD plan for the upcoming school year by providing school officials a better estimate of how many kindergarteners will attend school.
Sheriff Patrick Russo Announces Membership Drive
The New York State Sheriffs’ Institute will begin its annual Honorary Membership drive in Rensselaer County according to Sheriff Patrick Russo.
The New York State Sheriffs’ Institute was established in 1979. It is a not-for-profit corporation, tax exempt organization, and contributions to the Institute are tax deductible.
While the Sheriff’s Office is a unit of county government, many of the concerns of Sheriffs and other law enforcement agencies are best addressed on a statewide level. The Sheriffs’ Institute provides centralized training programs and services for all Sheriffs’ Offices, where those programs and services would be unavailable or impractical on a single county basis.
The flagship program of the Sheriffs’ Institute is the Sheriffs’ Summer Camp for economically challenged children. The Sheriffs’ Camp, in its 42nd year of operation, is located on Keuka Lake and 840 children from across New York State attend each summer. The Sheriffs’ Institute pays the entire cost of the camp stay and transportation. Most children attending wouldn’t otherwise have an opportunity for vacation travel or a summer camp experience.
“In these difficult economic times we cannot forget our youth who will not have the opportunity for a summer camp experience or a summer vacation,” Sheriff Patrick Russo said. “By becoming an honorary member, you are supporting the Sheriffs’ Summer Camp for economically disadvantaged children.”
In addition, the Sheriffs’ Institute operates a scholarship program that provides one scholarship to each of New York State’s Community College’s Criminal Justice Programs. This program is designed to help attract the best and the brightest to the criminal justice vocation.
For more information about the Sheriffs’ Summer Camp and other Sheriffs’ Institute Programs, visit our website, www.sheriffsinstitute.org or simply google “Sheriffs’ Institute kids” and it will be your first option.
Financial support for many of the Sheriffs’ Institute programs comes from Honorary Membership dues. Any persons interested in supporting the efforts of the New York State Sheriffs’ Institute by becoming an Honorary Member should contact the Sheriff if they do not receive an invitation in the mail or visit our web site at: www.sheriffsinstitute.org to download an application.
Watervliet Senior Center Activities
Monday, April 15- 12:30-Craft Class with Andrea Hughes and Mary Simpson-We will be making a May themed craft!
Wednesday, April 17- 4pm, Monthly Dinner with a special ceremony honoring our volunteers for National Volunteer Month- with entertainer Rob Carson. Dinner is Easter Ham Dinner. Call 518-273-4422 or stop by 1501 Broadway, Watervliet.
Friday, May 3, Bob Beston’s Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser to benefit SSOW- 3:30-7pm, tickets can be purchased in office, take-outs available. Chinese raffle, 50/50. $12. Call 518-273-4422 or stop by 1501 Broadway, Watervliet.
Monday-Tuesday, May 6-7-Defensive Driving 9-12 each day. $20 AARP members, $25 all else. Call 518-273-4422 or stop by 1501 Broadway, Watervliet.
Blooming Grove Rural Cemetery Annual Meeting
The Blooming Grove Rural Cemetery Association will hold their Annual Meeting of Lot Owners and their families on Tuesday, April 29, 2019, at 7 pm at the Blooming Grove Reformed Church, Defreestville, NY.
For more information, please call Ann-Marie Merrifield at 518-286-3304.
~Submitted by Ruth Potter, Secretary
Brunswick Senior Ways Group
Brunswick Senior Ways Group are going to visit the Amish in PA on June 23rd, 24th & 25th, 2019.
$150 deposit is due at registration. Send payment to Diane Hynes, 2017 Piney Point Rd, Troy, 12180. (518) 279-3589. Cost for dbl. pp/ $379. Includes 2 nights hotel, 2 breakfast, 2 dinners, 1 lunch & the show “Jesus”.
Hillside Cemetery Annual Meeting
The annual meeting of the Hillside Cemetery in Poestenkill, New York will be held on April 29, 2019 at 6:30 pm at the Poestenkill Christian Church. All are welcome to attend this meeting.
Town of East Greenbush Hydrant/Water Main Flushing Schedule April 2019
General Water District
MON, APRIL 22 – 3rd Ave Ext. and all streets off it; Deer Run Development, Birchwood Development, Flora Circle, Oriel Lane and August Gate Development.
TUE, APRIL 23 – Route 4 (Troy Rd) and all streets off it; Thompson Hill Rd. Rd., Tech Valley Dr., Paul and Glaz St., Old Red Mill Rd., Red Mill Estates, Upper Area of Hampton Manor / Eastern Ave to Summit Ave Luther Rd., Donna Lynn, Columbia Dr., Old Troy Road ending at Iroquois Pl.
WED, APRIL 24 – All streets on north side of 9/20 between Elliot Rd and Schodack Town Line; Albany Pl., Tamarack Ln., Greenwood Dr., Electric Ave., Horizonview Dr., Includes Huntswood Est.
THURS, APRIL 25 – All streets on south side of 9/20 from Schodack Town Line; Middlesex, Van Buren, Bloomingdale, Hays Rd., Taylor Estates, Kriss Krossing, Short end of Phillips Rd., Gilligan Rd., Ternan Ave. Sherwood Park, Woodland Park, Forest Point
FRI, APRIL 26 – 9/20 and Barber Dr. Celeste Dr. Ridge Rd / Prospect Hghts., Sherwood Ave / Clinton Park Lower Area of Hampton Manor below Summit Ave including Lakeview Ave. to Rensselaer City Line.
Flushing will begin at 8:00 am. During flushing, water pressure will be reduced. Water may become dis-colored due to iron and manganese deposits in the mains. Residents should limit their use of water for cooking and laundering during flushing in their areas.
Thank you for your cooperation.
East Greenbush Water Department
(518) 477-9367
Land Trust Spring Bottle Drive
Return your bottles and cans and help the Schodack Area Land Trust (SALT).
Through an arrangement with Six-Cent Redemption, behind Starbucks in Hannaford Plaza, SALT will receive six cents for every container you donate to the cause. Simply drop off your containers and say, “These are for SALT.” No need to wait or feed cans into a machine.
SALT is a 13-year-old not-for-profit which manages 60 acres of land open to the public for passive recreation. Access to the property is from Thoroughbred Dr. off Palmer Rd. SALT’s biggest expense is insurance.
Scholarships for high school seniors
The Rensselaer Elks Lodge B.P.O.E. 2073 is pleased to announce Applications are now available for the 2019 Jack Stewart/Ann Collins Memorial Scholarships. if you are a senior at Maple Hill, Averill Park, Rensselaer or Columbia High School, please see your guidance counselor for details. Applications are due back to guidance counselors by May 15, 2019. One boy and one girl from each high school will be awarded a scholarship in June.
Applications for Free and Reduced-Price Meals Available
Wynantskill UFSD would like to inform our community that information and applications for the Free and Reduced- Price Lunch Program are available on the district website, www.wynantskillufsd.org, or by calling Food Services Director Lori Audi at 518-283-4600 ext. 22.
The National School Lunch Program is a completely confidential program that has helped ensure children have access to nutritionally balanced, low-cost or free lunches since 1946.
Celebrate National Arbor Day by Planting Trees
Receive 10 Free Shade Trees by Joining the Arbor Day Foundation
National Arbor Day is Friday, April 26, this year, and the Arbor Day Foundation is making it easy for anyone to celebrate the annual tree-planting holiday. Join the Foundation in April and receive 10 free shade trees.
By joining the Foundation in April, new members receive the following trees: red oak, sugar maple, weeping willow, baldcypress, thornless honeylocust, pin oak, river birch, tuliptree, silver maple and red maple.
The free trees are part of the Foundation’s Trees for America campaign.
“These trees provide shade in the summer and vibrant colors throughout the fall,” said Matt Harris, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Through the simple act of planting trees, one person can make a difference in helping to create a healthier and more beautiful planet for all of us to enjoy.”
The trees will be shipped postpaid with enclosed planting instructions at the right time for planting in April or May. The 6- to 12-inch trees are guaranteed to grow or they will be replaced free of charge.
To become a member of the Foundation and receive the free trees, visit arborday.org/april or send a $10 contribution by April 30 to:
Arbor Day Foundation
Ten Free Shade Trees
100 Arbor Avenue
Nebraska City, NE 68410
Town of East Greenbush Spring Clean Up
The Town of East Greenbush will begin Spring Clean Up on Monday, April 15, 2019, and continue for the next 3 Mondays. April 22, 29, and May 6. Due to unforeseen circumstances if leaves are not picked up on Monday, the crews will continue to canvass throughout the week.
Please bundle all brush into 4’ long bundles, and leaves must be in biodegradable bags. Please place all items on edge of the road. Do not place bags of leaves or bundles of brush on pavement, or in front of culverts, or on top of catch basins.
If you miss these dates, you may bring the bags to the Transfer Station with proof of address and they will gladly take them.
Thank you,
Scott Gallerie, Commissioner
Department of Public Works
Poestenkill Spring Clean up
Starting Monday, April 29, 2019, thru Friday, May 3, 2019, we will be collecting paper bag leaves. No plastic bags and brush placed on the edge of the property. If you have any questions, please call Town hall 518 283-5100 Ext. 100, Town clerk 518 283-5119 or Town Garage at 518 283-4144.
Give blood with the Red Cross during National Volunteer Month
(April 3, 2019)– The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood or platelets during National Volunteer Month this April. Eligible donors of all blood types – especially type O – are needed to help ensure blood products are available for patients this spring.
Volunteer donors are the only source of blood products for those in need of transfusions, and the Red Cross salutes the volunteer blood and platelets donors who help fulfill its lifesaving mission. While donors of all blood types are needed, the Red Cross currently has a severe shortage of type O blood donations and urges type O donors to give now.
Make an appointment to help save lives now by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
HBO and Red Cross invite Game of Thrones fans to Bleed #ForTheThrone
To celebrate the final season of Game of Thrones, HBO and the American Red Cross have partnered to encourage fans and donors to show their bravery and valor by bleeding #ForTheThrone.
Those who come to donate by April 30 will be automatically entered for a chance to win a full-size Iron Throne from HBO’s Game of Thrones. Terms and conditions apply and are available at RedCrossBlood.org/HBOGameofThrones.* Additionally, all presenting donors April 11-30, 2019, will receive a commemorative Bleed For The Throne poster, while supplies** last, and automatically be entered in the above-mentioned sweepstakes.
Upcoming blood donation opportunities:
Rensselaer Co.
Averill Park
4/25/2019: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., Averill Park Church of the Covenant, 3055 Route 43
Castleton on Hudson
4/19/2019: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., Castleton Volunteer Ambulance Corporation, 1700 Brookview Road
East Schodack
4/19/2019: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., East Schodack Fire Company, 3071 Route 150
Rensselaer
4/30/2019: 1:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., American Legion Melvin Roads Post, 200 Columbia Turnpike
Troy
4/17/2019: 11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., RPI, 110 8th Street
4/18/2019: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m., Troy Hilton Garden Inn, 235 Hoosick Street
4/22/2019: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m., Troy Masonic Temple, 39 Brunswick Road
4/27/2019: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., Our Lady of Victory Church, 55 North Lake Avenue
4/27/2019: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.,
St Michaels Roman Catholic Church, 175 Williams Road
Wynantskill
4/29/2019: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., American Legion Post 1489, 111 Main Avenue
Please Return Jacket Mistakenly Taken at Gilead Church Dinner
The Community Dinner at Gilead Lutheran church on March 28th was overflowing with wonderful people. I hope everyone enjoyed it! On the “FREE” clothes rack a purple jacket was mistakenly taken for a free jacket. If anyone took it by mistake, please call the church at 518-279-9270 or leave the coat in the box near the double doors.
~Lisa Kreiger, Gilead Lutheran Church
DEC Initiates New Enforcement Action Against Dunn Landfill
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos announced that DEC is initiating new enforcement actions against SA Dunn & Company to immediately address blowing sand from this facility, including possible penalties for any violations found during the agency’s ongoing investigation of facility operations in the city of Rensselaer.
“DEC will not tolerate these latest violations at the Dunn Landfill,” said Commissioner Seggos. “We are committed to upholding our responsibility to ensure landfill operations like Dunn are not negatively impacting surrounding communities and DEC will continue to take rigorous enforcement against this facility or any facility that violates our stringent permit requirements.”
On April 3, DEC immediately responded to reports of blowing dust around the Dunn Landfill to investigate the nature and extent of the dust. DEC will take aggressive actions to hold the facility accountable for these violations and is directing Dunn operators to immediately hydroseed the sand piles at the facility to ensure dust is contained on site.
DEC recently directed the Dunn Landfill to improve operations and reduce odors at the facility. These comprehensive actions included new gas collection and cover system requirements and enhanced odor monitoring to reduce impacts to the community. DEC is deploying four H2S monitors to strategic locations to provide enhanced monitoring of odors at the landfill site.
DEC will continue to monitor landfill operations to ensure the community and the environment are protected.
Take Back the Night 2019
In observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 7-13th, 2019, the East Greenbush/Lower Rensselaer County communities are invited to participate in this year’s Take Back the Night Walk. It will be held Thursday evening, April 11th, 2019, at Onderdonk Park on Hampton Manor Lake beginning at 6:00pm. A brief ceremony will be held led by Martha Lasher-Warner, President of the Family and Friends of Liza Ellen Warner Association. She will introduce our special guests and government officials who will be joining in the walk. All in attendance will be invited to demonstrate their own support by joining in the mile-long walk around the lake. Close to 100 persons participated in the 2018 event.
East Greenbush has a particularly poignant reason for this gathering. Two members of the town who grew up in these neighborhoods – Liza Ellen Warner and Nikki Hart – lost their lives as victims of domestic violence.
Onderdonk Park is located across from Hampton Manor Lake at the corner of Hampton Avenue and Lakeshore Drive, East Greenbush.
All are invited to follow the Family and Friends of Liza on Facebook for event updates and fundraiser activities www.facebook.com/FFLEW. inc
Family History Research Day
The Capital District Genealogical Society Invites you to Family History Research Day, Colonie Town Library, 629 Albany-Shaker Road, Loudonville, Saturday, April 27, 2019. Stop in any time between 10 AM-3 PM.
Volunteer members will be available to help you one on one with your family research at no charge. We bring our computers, our experience, and our memberships in all those genealogy organizations. This is a good time to get started on your family tree or to get help on where to break that “brick wall”. (It will be helpful if you can provide a little of what you know of names, dates, and locations of your relatives.)
Please join us. The meeting is free, fun and open to the public.
Capital District Genealogical Society, P.O. Box 2175, Empire State Plaza Station,
Albany, NY 12220
www.Capitaldistrictgenealogicalsociety.org
Schodack Supervisor’s Report for March ‘19
In a continuing effort to keep residents informed of my activities as well as issues pertaining to the Town, I submit to them this report for March of 2019. As always, further information can be found on the Town’s website or its social media pages by searching for Town of Schodack on Facebook or Twitter.
Over the course of my first 15 months in office, one of the things I’ve made a priority has been to work with our Police Department to ensure that our officers are adequately equipped and trained to meet the daily challenges they face in the course of their work so that our residents get the best service possible. Several months ago, Chief Belardo approached me and the Town Board and offered a proposal to create a separate detective division within the department. We already had a detective, but due to the current structure of the department, that officer remained on a regular patrol, and then would have to come in during a different shift, which would trigger overtime, to complete their detective work. Through working with the Police Union, Chief Belardo, and my fellow Town Board members, an agreement was reached that would see the Detective come out of normal shift selection and patrol to take a dedicated shift during weekdays as to best utilize his time to compete detective duties. This will help reduce the overtime that was being accrued.
Through further work with Chief Belardo, patrol shifts that were generating the most overtime call-outs were identified, and we have hired an additional full-time officer who will allow for more dedicated coverage of those time. In the end, the Town receives a better utilization of funds through an increased effectiveness of our officer’s time while on duty, a more professionalized department, and at very little if any additional cost as the reduction in overtime expenses will help offset the cost of an additional officer. I want to thank my fellow Board members, Chief Belardo, and the Police Union for their work in helping achieve these improvements.
With the return of warmer weather, we will be holding a ribbon-cutting ceremony at our new Town Park playground. Please check the Town’s website and social media pages in the coming weeks for that announcement.
~Supervisor David Harris
Town of Schodack, NY
Poestenkill March Meeting Minutes
Poestenkill Town Board – Meeting Minutes – Thursday, March 21, 2019
Proposed local law #1-2019 is updated from the February meeting with suggestions from the Town Board. The proposed law would enact a sign-posting law for land use applications. The law would enact guidelines providing notice to the general public of all land use applications before the Planning and Zoning Boards and the Town Board. Motion to adopt is made by Councilwoman Butler, seconded by Councilman Wohlleber and passes by a vote of 4-1, with Councilman Van Slyke voting no.
Proposed local law #2-2019 is updated from the February meeting with suggestions from the Town Board. This proposed law would prohibit on-street parking during snow events and would enact a penalty. Motion to adopt is made by Councilman Hass and seconded by Councilwoman Butler and passes by a vote of 3-2, with Councilman Wohlleber and Councilman Van Slyke voting no.
Supervisor Jacangelo announced that the adoption of the State Solar Installation Permit in lieu of Building Permit will be on the agenda for the April Town Board Meeting.
These minutes to be approved at the next town board meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 18th, at 7pm.
For more information, go to www.PoestenkillNY.com
~Submitted by Councilman Eric Wohlleber
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.
We Are Taking Empty Clear Pill Bottles; Must Be See Thru.
From the Nassau Town Clerk’s Office
The Nassau Town Clerk’s Office will be closed Friday, April 26th, and Monday through Wednesday, May 6th through the 8th, due to training.
Please plan your visit around these dates. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Sincerely,
Sandra L. Rings, RMC
Nassau Town Clerk
Annual Pick Up Litter in the Village of Nassau Day
The Village of Nassau is sponsoring its annual pick up litter in the Village of Nassau Day on Saturday, April 27. Teams of volunteers will meet at the Village Hall at 40 Malden St. at 9am. Participants will be assigned a specific area of the Village to pick up. All ages welcome. Dress accordingly and be sure to bring gloves. For more information, email to trusteeforte@nullvillageofnassau.org.
Tracey Rex Reports to the People of Schodack
I believe staying in touch with constituents is an important part of serving in elective office. This monthly report is an example of my commitment to keeping residents informed of the activities of the Schodack Town Board. All town board meetings can be viewed live or at a later date at https://townhallstreams.com/ towns/schodack.
During March, the Town Board appointed Matt Montross to the position of full-time Schodack Police Officer. We also finalized plans to hold the annual Spring Clean-Up Days on May 16, 17 and 18 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. During these days, items that normally have a fee can be brought to the Transfer Station for free or at a reduced charge.
The Town Board adopted a resolution securing the musical acts for the 2019 Music in the Park Concert Series that will be held at Schodack Town Park beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesdays from June 4 through July 2. Residents are encouraged to attend these family-friendly concerts and enjoy free outdoor live musical entertainment as well as our new inclusive playground.
The Rensselaer County Department of Health will hold a Rabies Clinic on May 2 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Schodack Highway Garage (3776 U.S. Route 20). Cats and ferrets are the first hour and dogs are the second hour. Please bring a copy of the last rabies certificate in order to get a 3-year vaccine.
During March, I attended the annual Hoops Against Hunger charity basketball game held at Maple Hill High School where a large crowd turned out to enjoy a friendly game of hoops. All proceeds of the event were donated to The Anchor food pantry.
As one era ends, another one begins. We say thank you to Goold Orchards Farm, a family-owned apple orchard that has been a staple in our community for generations. After 109 years in business, the Goold family is selling the farm to Scott and Todd Seeberger, lifelong residents of Schodack and experienced orchard owners. Thank you, Scott and Todd for investing in our community and carrying on the family farming tradition on this property.
~Tracey Rex, Member of Schodack Town Board
Sand Lake Summer Day Camp!!
The Town of Sand Lake is Happy to Provide a Summer Day Camp program for 5 weeks during the summer. The Summer Camp will be located at the Miller Hill Elementary School from July 8th through August 9th. The Summer Camp is open to children entering 1st grade in the fall through children entering 7th grade. This year’s Summer Camp will provide both regular and extended hours. Families may sign up for the weeks that they choose. Registration is open until June 1st. In order for camp to run and be fiscally responsible, we will need a certain amount of kids to sign up.
- Regular Hours- 9:00 am to 3:00 pm -$120 per week
- Extended Hours-7:30 am to 5:30 pm- $150 per week
(10% discount for more than one child)
Registration forms are available at the Town Clerk’s Office at the Sand Lake Town Hall or on the web site at www.townofsandlake.us. Parents can contact Lindsy Marshall, Youth Program Supervisor with any questions or concerns at lekehn@nullyahoo.com or 518-526-0938.
Village of East Nassau Appointments
At the April 1, 2019 Organizational Meeting recently elected Thomas Kernan and Jeffrey Root were sworn in as Village Trustees each for a 2-year term expiring in 2021. Lydia Davis and Michael Lever continue their terms as Village Trustees through March 2020.
In addition, Mayor Adam Acquario made the following appointments, with village board approval, for one-year terms: Lydia Davis as Deputy Mayor, Paul Bullock as Code Enforcement Officer, Doris McCarthy as Treasurer and Tax Collector, Diane Maguire as Village Clerk, Joseph Catalano, Esq. as Village Attorney, Michael Dorr as Public Works Superintendent, Kevin Warner as Deputy Public Works Superintendent, Thomas Kernan as Village Historian, Mitchell Levinn as Webmaster for the village website, Nancy Clement as Chair of the Senior Advocacy Committee along with Edward Peplowski and Elizabeth Romeling as committee members.
Greta White was re-appointed as chair of the Zoning Board of Appeals and Sharon McArdle was re-appointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a term expiring in 2023. Susan Shapiro was appointed to the Ethics Board for a term expiring in 2023 and John Atchinson was re-appointed to the Ethics Board for a term to expire in 2023.
Village Board meetings are held the second Wednesday of each month starting in May 2019 held at the Hoag’s Corners Ambulance Building on Town Garage Road at 7:00 PM. Your attendance at any of these meetings is most welcomed.
March 2019 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 March:
Grade 6 Warrior Wall Students:
Olivia Durocher, Lauren Laferriere, Tanner Lettko, Nicholas Lubas, Jill McKinney, Kiah Morey, Emma Padalino, Austin Rouleau, Chava Theill, Tucker Whitbeck
Grade 7 Warriors of the Month Students:
Grace Faragon, Joseph Finelli, Ella Fizzuoglio, Eleanor Garrison, Virgil Hayes, Christina Patanian
Grade 8 Warrior Way Students:
Sabrina Arana-Gregory, Matthew DeJulio, Jake Rizzo, Ella Roenfeldt, Lillian Slavin, Tyler Strock
News from Averill Park CSD
New York State Senator Daphne Jordan hosted 60 students from Miller Hill-Sand Lake Elementary. The group discussed how bills become law and were treated to a tour that included the Senate Chamber and the Capitol’s “Million Dollar Staircase.” Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule Senator Jordan!
The Averill Park Central School District was awarded Utica National Insurance Group’s “School Safety Excellence Award” for 2019 at the Titanium with Honors level. This honor showcases the District’s safety efforts in working to keep students, staff and visitors safe.
Congratulations to CTE students Nancy Mainville and Stephanie Mangene, who placed second in this year’s Regional SkillsUSA Competition. Both students qualified to compete in the New York State Championship in April!
As always, for the latest news from the District, please visit our website – averillpark.k12.ny.us. You can also follow AP on Facebook and Twitter.
~Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent
Katz Participates in Hamilton College “Alternative Spring Break”
CLINTON, NY — Hannah Katz, of Averill Park (12018), was one of 36 Hamilton College students who participated in the college’s 26th annual Alternative Spring Break (ASB), from March 17 to 31. Katz, a sophomore majoring in environmental studies, is a graduate of Averill Park High School.
Hamilton’s Alternative Spring Break program is aimed at increasing students’ awareness and concern of social issues while generating a life-long interest in community service. This year, participants traveled to Rockbridge, Va., Goldsboro-Wayne, N.C., and Marion County, S.C., to work on Habitat for Humanity projects, and to Baltimore to work with youth.
Woolley Inducted into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi
BATON ROUGE, LA — Emma Woolley of Cherry Plain, New York, was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society. Woolley was initiated at State University of New York at Potsdam.
Woolley is among approximately 30,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter.
Local students Graduate from SUNY Delhi
DELHI, NY — More than 300 students graduated from SUNY Delhi in December 2018. Degrees were awarded for certificates, associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees.
Local graduates:
Holly Hastings of Eagle Bridge earned a bachelor’s in Business and Technology Management.
Casey Boswell of Cropseyville earned a bachelor’s in Hospitality Management.
Lexi Hoag of Hoosick Falls earned a bachelor’s in Event Management.
Columbia HS Senior Nicole Presti Receives National Honor Society Scholarship
Columbia High School senior Nicole Presti was recently awarded a prestigious National Honor Society Scholarship worth $3,200. She is one of only 600 students from across the United States to receive the scholarship this year.
As a member of Columbia’s chapter of NHS, Ms. Presti was eligible to apply for this scholarship. She has a 91 GPA and is involved in a variety of school and community service activities. She tutors a freshman in Earth Science as part of NHS, she volunteers as a mentor in the NYS Mentoring Program, and she serves as senior class president and president of the school’s Ethnic Coalition.
After graduation, Ms. Presti plans to attend Siena College in the fall where she will major in communications and political science with a certificate in pre-law.
“I was really worried about the finances of college, so this scholarship will really help me to achieve my goals,” said Ms. Presti. “I’m really grateful for it.”
EGCSD Board of Education Adopts Proposed Budget
The East Greenbush Central School District Board of Education adopted the proposed school budget for 2019-20 at its public meeting on April 3 in the Citizen Genet Elementary School auditorium. It will be voted on by district residents on Tuesday, May 21.
The proposed budget totals $95,925,684, an increase of 1.76% from last year.
Visit www.egcsd.org/budget for more information.
Carolyn Corcoran Inducted into National Leadership Honor Society
ELMIRA, NY — Carolyn Corcoran, of Mechanicville, NY, was one of 24 students inducted into the Elmira College Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa, the National Leadership Honor Society. Newly elected officers were also initiated during the ceremony, which concluded with a speech by Director of Career Services Matt Guagliardo.
The Society recognizes achievement in scholarship; athletics; campus or community service, social and religious activities, and campus government; journalism, speech and the mass media; and the creative and performing arts. Emphasis is placed on the development of the whole person, both as a member of the college community and as a contribution to a better society.
Natalie Shudt Named to SUNY Morrisville President’s List
MORRISVILLE, NY — SUNY Morrisville recently announced that Natalie Shudt, of Melrose, NY (12121), was named to the President’s List for the Fall 2018 semester. Natalie is majoring in Dairy Management – BT.
To be named to the President’s List, a student must achieve a perfect 4.0 average for the semester and complete 12 credit hours.
SUNY Morrisville’s curricula are enriched with applied learning and pave the way for opportunity at both the Morrisville and Norwich campuses. An action-oriented, interactive learning lab, the college is a national leader in technology and has been lauded for its exemplary, innovative and effective community service programs.
Attention Poestenkill High School Seniors
The Leo B. Clement/ Poestenkill Library Scholarship of $500 is ready to be claimed by a High School Senior who is a resident of the town of Poestenkill. The student, from a public, private or home school must be planning to attend a two or four-year college after graduation.
A 500-750-word essay based on the applicant’s love of reading is due by May 31, 2019. No specific font or spacing is required. Applicant’s name should not be on the essay page since the judging is done solely on the content of the essay. A cover sheet must be attached which includes: applicant’s name, address, phone #, High School currently attending (or equivalent) and College attending in the Fall.
Essay can be e-mailed to: info@nullpoestenkilllibrary.org, sent by regular mail to PO Box 305, Poestenkill, NY 12140, or hand delivered to the library.
Area Students Named to SUNY Morrisville’s Dean’s List
MORRISVILLE, NY — SUNY Morrisville recently announced the students who were named to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2018 semester. To be named to the Dean’s List, a student must achieve an average of 3.0 to 3.99 for the semester and complete 12 credit hours.
Nicholas DeVito of Averill Park, NY 12018, majoring in Business Administration – BBA
Elyse Scott of Averill Park, NY 12018, majoring in Equine Science – BT
Kellan Skott of Buskirk, NY 12028, majoring in Ag Business Development – BBA
Samantha Farrara of Eagle Bridge, NY 12057, majoring in Business Administration – BBA
Alicia Hartzell of East Nassau, NY 12062, majoring in Animal Science – Equine Science & Management
Tyler Gaines of East Hoosick, NY 12090, majoring in Agricultural Science
Cassie Sherman of Hoosick Falls, NY 12090, majoring in Criminal Justice – BTech
Jared D’Aloia of Mechanicville, NY 12118, majoring in Criminal Justice – BTech
Jeffrey Carrozza of Melrose, NY 12121, majoring in Residential Construction – AOS
Alexander Carlo of Schaghticoke, NY 12154, majoring in Technology Management – BT
SUNY Morrisville’s curricula are enriched with applied learning and pave the way for opportunity at both the Morrisville and Norwich campuses. An action-oriented, interactive learning lab, the college is a national leader in technology and has been lauded for its exemplary, innovative and effective community service programs.