Friday April 19, 2024 
SUNY Oswego Awards Scholarships to Local Students
Megan R. Bloom of Troy, who is majoring in (undeclared at this time), was awarded a Deans’ Scholarship from SUNY Oswego. The award recognizes past academic achievement and potential for success.
Joshua J. Helenek of Troy, a public justice major, was awarded a Transfer Achievement Scholarship as a new transfer student at SUNY Oswego.
SUNY Oswego’s merit awards recognize students’ past academic achievements and potential for success. A select group among the more than 700 transfer students received the awards.
SUNY Oswego has awarded Presidential Scholarships following group of area students who started at the college in fall 2018.
Charlotte Gates of Roosevelt Avenue in Troy, a marketing major, was awarded a Presidential Scholarship.
Emily O’Brien of Matthew Drive in Schaghticoke, a creative writing major, was awarded a Presidential Scholarship.
Emily Olds of Miller Road in Castleton, a zoology major, was awarded a Presidential Scholarship.
Brendan Russo of Empire Circle in Rensselaer, a computer science major, was awarded a Presidential Scholarship.
Kevin Farrell of Cavalry Course in Mechanicville, a biochemistry major, was awarded a Presidential Scholarship.
Casey Bariteau of Michael Road in East Greenbush, a childhood education major, was awarded a Presidential Scholarship.
SUNY Oswego has awarded Merit Scholarships to the following area students who started at the college in fall 2018.
Shanleigh R. Kutzer of South Waldron Lane in Wynantskill, biology major, was awarded a Merit Scholarship.
Timothy J. Hayes of Misty Meadow Way in Mechanicville, physics major, was awarded a Merit Scholarship.
Pierce M. Hurd of Craver Road in West Sand Lake, computer science major, was awarded a Merit Scholarship.
Drew P. Murphy of Battery Boulevard in Mechanicville, business administration major, was awarded a Merit Scholarship.
Give thanks for good health by giving blood or platelets
The American Red Cross urges people to share their good health this holiday season by donating blood or platelets for patients in need.
A decline in donations occurs from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day when donors are busy with holiday activities and travel. However, medical treatments and emergencies that require blood don’t stop for the holidays. The Red Cross is thanking those who carve out time to give Nov. 21-24 with a long-sleeved T-shirt, while supplies last.
By giving blood or platelets, donors may give patients more time – and more holidays – with loved ones. Make an appointment to donate blood or platelets by downloading the free American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Another way to help keep the blood supply strong this winter is to host a Red Cross blood drive in December, January or February. To learn more about hosting a blood drive and to sign up, visit RedCrossBlood.org/HostA Drive.
Upcoming blood donation opportunities Nov. 16-30
Rensselaer
Castleton on Hudson
11/23/2018: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., Castleton Volunteer Ambulance Corporation, 1700 Brookview Road
Hoosick Falls
11/28/2018: 8 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Hoosick Falls High School, 21187 NY Route 22
Poestenkill
11/23/2018: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., Poestenkill Fire Department, Route 355
Troy
11/21/2018: 7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Samaritan Hospital, 2215 Burdett Avenue
11/23/2018: 1 p.m.- 6 p.m., Defreestville Fire Dept., 350 North Greenbush Road
11/26/2018: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m., Troy Masonic Temple, 39 Brunswick Road
11/27/2018: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Capital District Educational Opportunity Center, 431 River Street
11/27/2018: 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Hudson Valley CMNTY College Siek Campus Center, 80 Vandenburgh Avenue
CCE Rensselaer County 4-H State Fair Selections
Several Cornell Cooperative Extension Rensselaer County 4-H members had their outstanding projects that were entered at the 2018 Schaghticoke Fair selected for evaluation at the New York State Fair. The 4-H members whose projects were selected were: Jessica Haynes, Lucy Haynes, Amanda Thrasher, Emilee Roadcap, Ayden Massey, Brice Retell, Riley Retell, Jessie-Mae Casey, Nessa Corcoran, Amelia Pello, Aaron Cipperly, Allison Michel, and Kaelyn Eagan. The projects selected will be on display at both the 2019 New York State Fair and again at the Schaghticoke Fair.
For more information about the Rensselaer County 4-H program, please contact Cornell Cooperative Extension Rensselaer County 4–H at 518-272-4210.
Calling All Crafters & Vendors
Operation Santa Claus is looking for you for the 22nd Annual Holiday Vendor Event in Cambridge at Cambridge Central School, Saturday, Dec. 8th. Contact Dawn Case by emailing: avondawncase@ gmail.com for more specific information & application, or call 518-669-2052, and leave a message.
Rensselaer County Needs YOU!
The Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) for Rensselaer County is seeking new volunteers, both with and without any medical experience, to supplement the county’s health department staff in times of crisis. The MRC was instituted by the federal government’s Department of Health and Human Services following the attacks on 9/11. It is a national, county-based program for deploying volunteers to everything from weather-related catastrophes to disease outbreaks and other public health emergencies.
When a public health situation calls for the over 158,000 residents of Rensselaer County to be vaccinated against disease or other threats within 48 hours, the county conducts POD operations (Points of Dispensing) at several strategic locations throughout the county, administering state-provided antidotes. We still need people with backgrounds as doctors, nurses, surgeons, pharmacists, EMTs and paramedics, but we also need dentists, social workers, veterinarians, clergy, funeral home directors, law enforcement and people like YOU, who can work a laptop, phone bank, do greeting, parking and traffic control, be a runner and many other jobs. Free training in many important areas and lifesaving skills is provided.
For more information, or to register, contact MRC Coordinator, Sal Scecchitano at 518 270-2633, or email sscecchitano@nullrensco.com.
Looking for Some Weekend Warriors
The Sand Lake Ambulance has existed as a volunteer ambulance for nearly 60 years. We are looking for people who want to help out but may not have all the time in the world. You may be able to help out by giving us part of your weekend. We normally run 12 hour shifts on the weekends, but if we could get a couple of people who wanted to ride only a morning or an afternoon, we could pair them up to cover a shift. We would recommend for us and for the volunteer that you try to do a couple of times a month. You only need to be able to drive a box truck, lift 50+ pounds, be willing to learn the radios, lights, and protocols, and follow through on the commitment. We’ll train you. Call us at 518 674-2221.
Vendors Wanted
The PTA at Walter B Howard Elementary school is looking for vendors for our annual craft fair being held on Saturday, December 1st, from 9am to 3pm, at the New Lebanon high school. This is a highly attended craft fair and all money raised goes directly back to the students. For more information, please contact Valerie Ozga at Vwozga260@nullfairpoint.net.
The Beginning of Hampton Manor: From the Past to the Present
Due to the large turnout for the first presentation, where many people regrettably were turned away due to fire code capacity, a second program will be offered.
“The Beginning of Hampton Manor: From the Past to the Present” with additional program on the execution of Pvt. Samuel Helms at the Greenbush Cantonment, War 0f 1812”
Date and place: November 19th at 7:00pm in the Elks Lodge #2073, 683 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush.
East Greenbush Town Historian Bobbie Reno will present a PowerPoint program on the history of Hampton Manor with an additional PowerPoint program on the execution of Pvt. Samuel Helms at Greenbush Cantonment, War of 1812.
For information, please contact: Bobbie Reno, East Greenbush Town Historian at 518-477-4869.
Poestenkill Heritage Center Welcomes You
Situated on the outskirts of the Village of Poestenkill next to the Lutheran Church is a quaint home which we have transformed into a historical museum. During the three years we have been there, we have rotated various exhibits which we feel would be of interest to you. During the Month of November, we are featuring an exhibit displaying various items from the Civil War, World War II and the Korean War. We have many items of interest, including a greatcoat from the Civil War, a Marine, WAC, Army and Navy uniforms, donated from various people in the community. We hope you will visit our museum. We are open on Saturdays from 1– 3. A volunteer will be there to greet you and share some of the stories surrounding our artifacts. Our Town Historian is also there on Mondays from 11–3.
~Poestenkill Historical Society Board of Directors
Tracy 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 on my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TRexFor Schodack.
During October, the Town Board held a series of budget meetings to review and discuss the 2019 Tentative Budget for the Town of Schodack. Department heads did a great job of outlining and itemizing their recommended expenditures and appropriations for the upcoming year. The Town Board also adopted the Town of Schodack Personnel Policy and Procedure Manual that will take effect on January 1, 2019.
Great news — the new playground will be installed at the Schodack Town Park in November. The inclusive playground will provide children and families with a safe and enjoyable place to play for years to come.
I believe the work of a Town Board member goes beyond attending meetings and casting votes on resolutions. To me, it is also important to be actively engaged in our community, attending events, and supporting local organizations and good causes.
Despite inclement weather, it was nice to see so many people in attendance at the 30th Annual Goold Orchard Annual Apple Festival and Craft Show.
There was a great turnout at the 3rd Annual Renewable Energy and Sustainable Living Fair held at the Doane Stuart School in Rensselaer during October. There were more than 50 exhibitors and 23 workshop presenters on hand to provide information on topics such as solar energy and composting. Thank you to SNYFGP for organizing this important community event.
I was honored to speak to the 4th grade students at Castleton Elementary School about women in politics and the voting process. This bright and engaging group of students asked terrific questions, such a credit to our dedicated teachers working at CES.
Volunteer Museum Teachers Needed
Do you enjoy working with children? Do you love learning new things? Do you have a few hours at least once or twice a month to give? Then join a team of volunteer museum teachers and guide children as they journey through the Hudson River Trading Game! Based on the life of Hudson River sloop owner Philip Van Rensselaer of Cherry Hill, the interactive school program immerses 4th and 5th grade students in 18th century trade and travel on a 34-foot game board. Teaching experience is not necessary, but teamwork and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment is a must. Training is provided. The program is 3 hours long, offered mornings November through June, at the Albany Visitors Center at Quackenbush Square in downtown Albany. Interested? Contact Shawna Reilly: shawna@nullhistoriccherryhill.org, 518-434-4791.
AARP Tax Aide Program in Need of Volunteers
The Tax Aide Program is a free tax preparation service for all members of our community. There are many opportunities
that are available for our volunteers. Tax Preparers work directly with the taxpayer to
complete their tax return. Client Facilitators welcome taxpayers and help organize their paperwork. Technology Coordinators manage computer equipment. Local Coordinators who manage the site, volunteers and schedules Communications Coordinators who help recruit new volunteers. We have sites in Columbia and Rensselaer Counties. Volunteers will receive training. To become a volunteer, you will need to register for the Tax Aide Program. You can register at NYTaxAide.org. In the upper right of the window click on Volunteer with AARP Tax-Aide link and follow the instructions. If you have any questions, please contact Jerry Seeley at jseeley1018@nullgmail.com.
Residential Household Waste and Recycling
Town of Poestenkill residents may drop off residential household garbage and recyclables to the Waste Management Transfer Station at the corner of NY 66 and NY 351 from 7AM to 10AM every Monday and Friday.
Only Poestenkill Town residents are currently eligible for this service and may bring their household garbage and recyclables to the facility in any 30-gallon plastic bag. The fee is $3 per bag for garbage and recyclables. No cash is accepted at the facility therefore payment must be by check or credit card.
Recyclables include glass, paper, cardboard, plastic bottles and cans and metal cans. No waste oil, electronics or liquids are accepted. Do not put the plastic bag in with the recyclables.
For addition information, contact Michelle Asquith at 518-283-5100, ext. 100 or Town Clerk Sue Horton at ext. 103 or call the facility scale house at 518-674-3643.
Watch www.poestenkillny.com for information on an electronics recycling day.
Nassau Memorabilia Sought
Nassau Village Historian and chair of the Bicentennial Committee Kurt Vincent will be creating two display cases for the Village Hall featuring memorabilia and artifacts from Nassau’s 200 years of history. Community members and friends are asked to consider sharing possible display items to be used for the anniversary year. Photos and documents will be scanned, returning originals to the owners and physical objects will be judged on a case-by-case basis. Irreplaceable or items with considerable value will not be displayed.
To facilitate the selection, four dates have been set to review items, all taking place at the Nassau Free Library, Church Street. They are Tuesday, November 27th, 5-8pm, and Saturdays, November 17th and December 8th, 10am-12:30pm. For information, or to arrange a more convenient date and time, please call Mr. Vincent at (518) 766-2291.
Ten HVCC Student Body Members Elected
Ten members of the Hudson Valley Community College student body were elected to Student Senate for the current academic year.
Members of the senate work with administration and faculty guidance to promote and coordinate student affairs. As the student body’s elected officials, they authorize the establishment of new clubs and activities, promote student welfare and assist with an $800,000 annual budget that supports the extracurricular program of all student activities, clubs and organizations.
New members include:
Jamison Jarosz of Schaghticoke, was elected to serve as President. Jarosz is studying Engineering Science
John Verdon of Rensselaer was elected to serve as Senior Senator. Verdon is studying Individual Studies
JaQuan Pass of Troy was elected to serve as Senior Senator. Pass is studying Liberal Arts and Sciences: Humanities and Social Science.
Deputy Sheriffs Sworn In
L-R: Undersheriff Edward Bly, Captain Derek Pyle, Deputy Sheriff Derrick Gardner, Deputy Sheriff Matthew Garhartt, Deputy Sheriff Kyle Loeper, Sheriff Pat Russo. Three newly appointed deputy sheriffs were sworn in on Monday, November 5, 2018. Appointed were Derrick Gardner of Averill Park, Matthew Garhartt of Schaghticoke and Kyle Loeper of Rensselaer. All will conduct field training and attend the Zone 5 Police Academy in January.
Renss. County Everett Wager Senior Center Calendar
- Mon., Nov. 19th- 10am Chair Yoga; 1pm Dominoes-Cards-Games.
- Tues., Nov. 20th- Reiki by appt.; 9:30 Aerobic Swimming; 1pm Dominos-Cards-Games.
- Wed., Nov. 21st- Hair Cuts by appt.; 11am East Smart Nutrition Program; 1pm Dominoes-Cards-Games; 5pm Berlin Club Meeting.
- Thurs., Nov. 22nd– Center Closed- Happy Thanksgiving!
- Fri., Nov. 23rd- Center Closed.
The Everett Wager Senior Center is located at 2 Roxborough Rd., Grafton. Transportation is available Mon., Wed. & Fri. to the Center from Grafton, Berlin, Petersburg and Stephentown. Please call the day before, before 10am to reserve. Transportation and appointments can be made by calling 518 279-3413. Lunch is available each day at 12pm.
Northend Neighborhood Meeting
The Northend Neighborhood will be having a meeting on Thursday, November 29th, starting at 6:30pm in the community room of the Northend fire house, which is located at 2 St Francis Lane, Rensselaer. Any questions contact Margaret Van Dyke at 518-283-8449, Eric Endres at 518-265-5711, Richard Mooney at 518-522-7632.
New York Army National Guard Promotions
Major General Ray Shields, the Adjutant General for the State of New York, announces the promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.
Brandon Albright from Rensselaer, and assigned to the A Troop, 2-101 Cavalry (Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Target Acquisition) received a promotion to the rank of Private.
Nathaniel Fisher from Buskirk, N.Y. and assigned to the 1427th Transportation Company received a promotion to the rank of Private.
Victoria Harrington from Averill Park, and assigned to the Company G (Forward Support Company Infantry), 427th Brigade Support Battalion received a promotion to the rank of Private First Class.
Carlos Nazario from Troy, and assigned to the Operations Company, 42nd Infantry Division received a promotion to the rank of Major.
Joshua Stickle from Rensselaer, and assigned to the Intelligence and Sustainment Company, 42nd Infantry received a promotion to the rank of Warrant Officer.
Sharyiah Williams from Rensselaer, and assigned to the Headquarters and Support Company, 42nd Infantry Division received a promotion to the rank of Private.
4-H General Interest Banquet Recognition
At the Rensselaer County 4-H General Interest Banquet, 4-H volunteers and members were recognized for their leadership, dedication and outstanding achievements. Amanda Thrasher received a county medal for the dog program. Shane Thrasher received a county medal for the community service projects that he has completed. 4-H members recognized for their participation at the Schaghticoke Fair were: Luke Giglio, Shepherdship award for sheep, Adam Film, Goat Herdsmanship award, and Rebecca Bruso, Swine Herdsmanship award.
Honor Club awards were presented to: Green Earthlings, Rensselaer County Trailblazers, Stablemates, Jogging Juniors, Fashionistas, Clover Kids & Critters, Thrills & Skills. Additionally, the following clubs were recognized for National 4–H Week displays: Green Earthlings, Jogging Juniors, Stablemates, Rensselaer County Trailblazers, Fashionistas, and Clover Kids & Critters.
The evening concluded with the installation of new club officers and a celebration of the year. For more information about the Rensselaer County 4-H program, please contact Cornell Cooperative Extension Rensselaer County 4–H at 518-272-4210.
Giving Thanks to Our Fresh Air Families
This November, we thank families in the Albany Area for opening their hearts and home to Fresh Air children. Each summer, thousands of children from New York City’s low-income communities visit suburban, rural and small-town communities along the East Coast and Southern Canada through The Fresh Air Fund’s Friendly Towns Program. By volunteering as a host family for summer 2019, the spirit of Thanksgiving can continue in your home throughout the year.
Fresh Air children are boys and girls who live in New York City. Children who are re-invited by host families may continue with The Fresh Air Fund through age 18 and can enjoy extended trips. Volunteer host families frequently share how they rediscover the beauty of their own communities through the eyes of Fresh Air children.
For more information about hosting a Fresh Air child next summer, please contact Tenniel Hansen at 518-441-4407 or visit www.freshair.org.
Historical Calendars Available
Looking for a Christmas gift? The 2019 North Greenbush Historical Calendar is now available for purchase. It contains old time pictures including Windy’s Village Inn in Wynantskill, the Defreest Hotel, the St. Jude’s 1956-57 Kindergarten, views of Snyders Lake, and other areas throughout the town. The calendars are still only $10 and are available at the Town Clerk’s office in Wynantskill (283-4306) or from Town Historian Jim Greenfield in Defreestville (518 283-6384).
~ Submitted by Jim Greenfield, North Greenbush Town Historian
Search and Rescue Volunteers Needed
The Tri-State Emergency Team is recruiting volunteers to provide wild land and underwater searches within a 100-mile radius of Waterford, 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 and 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-state emergencyteam.org.
Town Hall Closes for Thanksgiving Holiday
Debra L. Curtis, Schodack Town Clerk, wishes to remind residents of Schodack that the Town Hall Offices, Highway Department and the Schodack Transfer Station will be closed on Thursday, November 22, 2018 and Friday, November 23, 2018 for the Thanksgiving Holiday. Town Hall Offices and the Highway Department will resume standard business hours on Monday, November 26, 2018.
However, the Schodack Transfer Station and Town Clerk’s office will resume standard business hours on Saturday, November 24, 2018.
If you have any questions, please contact the Office of the Town Clerk at 518-477-7590, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30am to 4:30pm; and Saturday, between 9:00am and 12:00pm.
~Lois M. Ciccolella, Deputy Town Clerk, Town of Schodack
Village of Nassau General Election
The General Election of the Village of Nassau, County of Rensselaer, will be held at the Village Municipal Building, 40 Malden Street, in said Village on the 19th day of March 2019, and the polls will be open at 12:00 noon, and close at 9:00 p.m.
The Village Clerk designates the following offices as vacant at the end of the current official year, to be filled for the following term:
Mayor for the term of Robert W. Valenty for the term of four years.
Trustee for the term of David Scaccia for the term of four years.
Trustee for the term of Randy Howarth for the term of four years.
Justice for the term of Michael Conway for the term of four years.
Election is open to voters registered with Rensselaer County Board of Elections. The last day to register with the County Board of Elections is Friday, March 8, 2019.
~Melissa Turner-Bulan
Village Clerk
October 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 October:
Grade 6 Warrior Wall Students: Lindsay Argo, Mason Barber, Teddy Dangler, Tayeshawn Frost, Angelina Hayes, Malahkai Hoffman, Carly Hunter, Elijah Kreisher, Sydney Meeks and Jeremy Wing.
Grade 7 Warriors of the Month Students: Zachary Bumpus, Jack Culliton, Taytum Dudley, Violet DuPuis, Mya Jeske, and Anthony Jubrey.
Grade 8 Warrior Way Students: Elizabeth Aiossa, Logan Barsalow, Greg Effman, Tyler Michaels, Ava Mieczkowski and Nathan Stay.
Renss. County Everett Wager Senior Center Calendar
- Mon., Nov. 26th-10am Chair Yoga; 12:30 Free Scrapbook Class (all supplies included); 1pm Cards-Games.
- Tues., Nov. 27th- Reiki by appt.; 9:30 Aerobic Swimming; 9:30 SHARE Meeting; 1pm Dominoes-Cards-Games.
- Wed., Nov. 28th- Mani/Pedi’s by appt.; 10am Chair Yoga.
- Thurs., Nov. 29th- 9:30 Aerobic Swimming; 12:30 Stitching Chicks Knit & Crochet; 1pm Dominoes-Cards-Games.
- Fri., Nov. 30th- 10am Chair Yoga; 1pm Dominoes-Cards-Games.
The Everett Wager Senior Center is located at 2 Roxborough Rd., Grafton. Transportation is available Mon., Wed. & Fri. to the Center from Grafton, Berlin, Petersburg and Stephentown. Please call the day before, before 10am to reserve. Transportation and appointments can be made by calling 518 279-3413. Lunch is available each day at 12pm.