Your Community 05.14.20

Books for Troops 

CAPITAL DISTRICT – The Troops Request More Books to Help the Cope with the Pandemic

Although Books for Troops is officially closed, we are unexpectedly receiving numerous e-mails directly from the troops requesting more books to help them cope with the pandemic. Some of the requests are very specific. While we have many of those books in our inventory, there are still many that we seldom have donated. These we are able to order from a very inexpensive book site (Thriftbooks.com) which does not charge for shipping. When the books arrive, I can safely box and send them from my home. However, the purchase of these books and their postage will badly deplete our already very low funds, since due to the pandemic and our closing, we are rightfully receiving very few donations. We are asking those who can, to make a donation to help fill these requests and those we anticipate in the future as the pandemic continues. To do so, make out a check to Books for Troops and mail it to: Books for Troops, 152 Oak Brook Commons, Clifton Park, NY 12065. All donations are tax deductible. 

We will continue with our policy of not accepting books to protect our volunteers. As always, thank you for your support of our troops, especially during this difficult time.  Stay safe. Ellen Keegan, Director

Rensselaer County Establishes COVID-19 Test Site at HVCC

RENSSELAER COUNTY – Legislator Robert Loveridge speaks with Chairman of the Legislature Michael Stammel and County Executive Steve McLaughlin at the County’s newest COVID-19 testing site at Hudson Valley Community College. The site is operated by the IMA Group and LabCorp in partnership with Rensselaer County.

 

Thank You

SCHODACK – The Anchor Food Pantry would like to extend sincere thanks and appreciation to the following for the recenetly successful food drive held on Saturday May 2, 2020 in the Schodack area. The Town of Schodack and town officials of Supervisor Harris, and board members James Bult, Mike Kenney, Scott Swartz, and Tracey Rex for coordinating the food drop off at Town Hall. Also we express gratitude to the Schodack Central School District and Superintendent Jason Chevier, Administrative Staff, teachers, assistants, bus drivers, and custodial staff for their efforts at the 2 drop offs points at CES and Maple Hill High School.

Also we thank the coordination efforts of District 4 County Legislator Chuck Peter to initiate this project in these difficult times  to a successful operation.

Thru the combined efforts of town government and the school district 4 school buses  were filled with food items that will aid in feeding the hungry in addition to monetary and gift card donations that will be used at local grocery operations. We thank the tremendous Schodack Community and its citizens in helping us fulfill our mission in exceeding all expectations  and assisting the individuals or families that have experienced recent hardship in this uncertain period.

Remote Learning – The Taylor Way

TROY – Learning remotely during the health crisis proves to be an eye-opener for this local school

A new paradigm in learning is emerging as the global pandemic forces schools and families to rethink education. Despite the uncertainty of these changes and the added complexity of new models, the Susan Odell Taylor School in Troy, NY has discovered there may be an unforeseen silver lining.

“We’ve received an array of positive feedback from parents, teachers and students alike,” explained Kelly Magoolaghan, Head of School, “to the extent that we’re actually considering making remote schooling a bigger part of our future. Without question, beginning our planning more than a month before we made the jump into home learning played a big part in our early success. However, there’s no doubt that our educational philosophy also contributed to the seamless transition. Taylor School fosters project-based learning rooted in problem-solving and academic risk-taking. At its core, this process encourages students to be actively involved in their learning every day.

The Ah-Ha Moment!

While there was always some worry about the unknowns of remote schooling, Taylor School administration and faculty have discovered that it has gone superbly well — so much so that they are taking a harder look at the possibility of making it a core offering of their institution. Head of School Kelley Magoolaghan said, “The success of remote schooling has triggered contemplation and discussion among Taylor’s leadership about how the school may grow this newfound expertise by making it a part of our future business model. We’ve talked about perhaps making it more available to existing Taylor School students, using it for our summer programs, creating additional remote curriculum for third parties such as homeschoolers or students who can’t participate in-class for health reasons. Our favorable results with remote schooling, has really opened our eyes!”

https://taylorschool.org/remote-schooling

Poestenkill Fire Co 100th Anniversary Vendor/Craft Fair CANCELLED

POESTENKILL – Unfortunately due to COVID 19 we need to cancel our 100th year Anniversary event that was scheduled for June 6, 2020, which includes the vendor/craft fair. We are hoping to reschedule this event in the fall if possible. Nancy Rogers will be contacting all vendors that have committed to this event with their refund.

CCE of Rensselaer County – Harvest Connection

RENSSELAER COUNTY – If people did not realize it before, they definitely are now- that no farms, equals no food. With most farmers markets and even some farms closed due to COVID-19, consumers are struggling to find local, fresh, products. The news has mentioned the need for vegetables, dairy, and eggs. However, it has recently brought up that we need to think about our meat supply. All of those products are available and that is the goal of Harvest Connection; to connect consumers with those products.  Harvest Connection is a farm to table initiative that connects consumers with farm fresh products. Consumers are able to use our website and app, search a specific product, and Harvest Connection presents a list of farms and farmers markets closest to them. We advise that all consumers call the location first to confirm what is available and any special measures they are taking to connect with consumers while following public health recommendations for distancing. Check out all of the current farms and farmers markets apart of Harvest Connection: https://www.harvestconnection-ny.com/

If anyone has any questions about Harvest Connection or if there are any producers in the Capital District who would like to join, reach out to Kayela at kls342@nullcornell.edu.

Keeping Our Community Safe – Another Step to Take

You know the drill; wear a mask in public, wash your hands, and stay home unless necessary.  Another step we need to take to keep our community safe is to properly dispose of unused medications found in our homes.  For too many young people, substance abuse and addiction begins by using prescription drugs found in home medicine cabinets.  Unused medications need to be promptly and properly disposed of. The coronavirus pandemic, however, has caused Drug Take Back events to be postponed and has limited physical access to many safe drug disposal locations.  Flushing medications down the drain is environmentally unsafe, and mixing the drugs with nonpalatable ingredients does not deactivate the drugs.  

We can help.  Nopiates Committee has partnered with NYS OASAS to provide the community with a new and easy drug deactivation system you can use at home.  The Deterra pouch allows you to safely and permanently deactivate prescription medications, including opioids, at home. We have a limited number of Deterra pouches that we can provide to you at no cost.  For more information visit  https://deterrasystem.com/deterra-system-video/#group and to request a Deterra pouch, please email nopiateslaw@nullgmail.com. Together, we can keep our community safe!  Visit and like our Facebook Page, https://www.facebook.com/nopiatescommittee/

Cornell Cooperative Extension Outreach Initiative

RENSSELAER COUNTY – As educators we are doing our best to keep the community informed about updates and opportunities regarding everything going on with COVID-19.

Please see some of the most recent ones below:

Miss local Farmers Markets? They may be closed, but you can still buy from and support local producers! Check out this link that the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market released with vendors who are offering delivery services by going to their Facebook page. Looking for other locations, not listed? Check out the Harvest Connection website, Harvest Connection Facebook page, or a specific farm’s website. Don’t forget to contact them to make sure they are open and that their hours of operation are correct!

Looking for Educational Opportunities? 4-H, farms, and other businesses/organizations are offering virtual tours and activities to keep youth engaged during this time.

Looking for Information about COVID-19? Due to the large amount of speculation regarding COVID-19, this is a reminder to rely on OFFICIAL sources for accurate information. Help control the spread of rumors by checking out FEMA and Federal Agencies website as well as sign up for the latest updates from your local & state officials.

We are trying our best to stay up-to-date. Check out our website or follow CCE Rensselaer County on Facebook for information about these various opportunities as well as other updates regarding COVID-19. Questions? Send Kayela an email at kls342@nullcornell.edu.

Glendora Vegetarian Club 

The Glendora Vegetarian Club was right about several practices. One concerns wearing gloves. Thirty years ago Glendora started wearing gloves. They did make her feel safer when she considered so many hands touch the same articles. (And she likes gloves for their colors.) The Glendora Vegetarian Club was also right about not using toilet paper. One can just wash with a washcloth. A third practice concerns drinking at least 5 glasses of water a day to flush toxins from the body. Finally, the group believes it’s important to maintain a sense of humor. Local immunologist Dr. Jocelyn Celestin tells us, “Keep telling jokes; it’s good for the immune system.” Further, he recommends that we strengthen health and immunity with a plant based diet. In New York state-run hospitals, plant based options are the law.

You can still view vegan commercials that help the animals Monday through Friday on Channel 6 CBS during the 6:30 p.m. news program. The Glendora Vegetarian Club, which sponsors these commercials, is beginning its 8th year and has held 96 meetings.

Jokes:

1. The man in the haberdashery shop asked the owner, “May I try on that navy blue suit in the window?” The owner said, “No, you will have to use the dressing room.”

2. The ship was undergoing a rocky ride, and passengers were getting nervous. The steward went to the mic and said, “No need to worry, folks. We are only 2 miles from land…straight down.”

3. “Did your dad die a natural death?”

     “No, he had a doctor.”

News from Averill Park CSD

AVERILL PARK – Students in the high school Youth and Government Club participated in an online state conference, where they presented bills within committees that were sent to the Assembly to be reviewed. Great job by students Emma Hanlon, Isla Multunas, Tyler Michaels, Owen Perala, Jason Strickland, Isabella LaFreniere, Kate Happy, Lilly Kronau, Carley Salerno and Xander Michaels!

The Averill Park Athletic Department, in conjunction with its 20 varsity head coaches and 24 athletic programs, purchased 48 gift cards from eight local restaurants to be distributed to Backpack Program and Food Pantry Program families. This was a great gesture by our school community!

The Rensselaer County Student Assistance Program, NOpiates and our School Resource Officer Deputy Nikles presented a virtual parent workshop on teens and substance abuse. This was a great way for parents to learn more about the most widely used substances that are affecting communities around the country.

As always, for the latest news from the District, please visit our website – averillpark.k12.ny.us. You can also follow AP on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent

Mission: Meeting the needs of and creating opportunities for every student every day. #AP_EveryStudentEveryDay

Barnes Road Area Neighborhood Association Update

SAND LAKE – Many people have stopped by to ask about the “Save Barnes Road” yard signs sprouting up in the southwest part of the Town of Sand Lake. The neighborhood is opposing an application for a commercial party hall in the front pasture at 204 Barnes Road. The applicant is seeking a special use permit to throw catered parties for 200 people each Saturday and Sunday from May to October. Such a business has no business locating here in an Agricultural/Residential Zone under the Town Zoning ordinance, and an Agricultural District under State Law. Anyone interested is invited to take an information packet from the marked mailbox by the hay bale Easter bunny on Barnes Road-you cant miss it!

We have been advised that the Planning Board has no meetings scheduled in May. Please keep an eye on the Town of Sand Lake Planning Board website for information on meetings and agendas. In addition to all your letters, it is important to be at the next meeting to let the Planning Board know how you feel.

AP Fire Texas Hold’em Cancelled

AVERILL PARK – In compliance with the Governor’s “NY Pause” Executive Order, and continuing recommendations to limit gatherings of people and maintain social distancing while we are all still at risk from the Covid-19 virus, the Averill Park Fire Department is canceling the May 16th “ “Big Money” Poker Tournament. We have seen the importance of maintaining social distancing in protecting each other, and support this policy to protect the health and safety of our players and volunteer fire company members. We are hoping that we will be able to resume our tournaments in September, and that you will join us when we do. Please be safe, follow recommendations, and we hope all stay healthy.

A Call to Artists for a Summer Juried Art Show “The Power and the Glory”

RENSSELAER COUNTY – Artists of all media are invited to submit up to two works for a juried art show titled The Power and the Glory! at Sand Lake Center for the Arts. The exhibition opens on July 1, 2020 and ends August 31, 2020. Twenty pieces will be selected with first, second, third, and people’s choice cash awards ($300., $200., $100., and $100.,) will be given. The juror for this show is Matt Crane.He is a Capital Region Artist and Adjunct Lecturer of Art, University at Albany.

Submissions should be sent to slcagallery@nullgmail.com in jpeg format by May 29, 2020. Selections will be announced by June 6, 2020 and selected works must be delivered to Sand Lake Center for the Arts – (2880 NY 43, Sand Lake), NY 12018, from June 8 to June 19, 2020 between the hours of 11 am and 3 pm, or by appointment (call 518-674-2007). For more information go to www.slca-ctp.corg.

All artwork chosen will be on display from July 1 to August 31, 2020. There is no submission fee.

There will be an artist reception on July 8 from 5-7pm that is free and open to the public.

Awards will be announced and given out at the reception.

Juried Art Show Specifications:

-No more than two submissions per artist

-Two dimensional pieces should be framed or otherwise ready to hang

-Submissions should reflect the concept of or be inspired by lyrics from the song “The Power and the Glory” written by Phil Ochs. See lyrics below.

-Two-dimensional work should not exceed 3ft x 4ft.

-Three-dimensional work should not exceed 14 inches H x 15 inches W.

*All work must be labeled with the following:

Last name, First name, Title: Medium, Size-(HxW)-Year

Questions or more information please contact Brian Sheldon at 518-674-2007, brian@nullslca-ctp.org.

Chorus: Here is a land full of power and glory

Beauty that words cannot recall

Oh her power shall rest on the strength of her freedom

Her glory shall rest on us all (on us all)

Attention Poestenkill High School Seniors

POESTENKILL – 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, 2020. 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. 

Dunham Hollow West Stephentown Scholarship

AVERILL PARK – 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 June 1. Scholarship applications may be obtained by contacting the Averill Park High School guidance department at 518-674-7025 or by emailing jcuilla@nullcfgcr.org. 

Salute to all Poestenkill Graduates

POESTENKILL – The Poestenkill Fire Co. would like to salute all school graduates for the year 2020. If you know anyone that lives in the Town of Poestenkill and is graduating this year from elementary school, middle school, high school, or college, please email Brian at pfccar1@nulloutlook.com with the students name, physical address, and what school they are graduating from. On June 20th the Fire Company will be doing a drive-by for each graduate to honor them for a job well done. 

Ilium Literary Club Meeting

TROY – The Ilium Literary Club of Troy, NY will be celebrating its 100th anniversary in Oct 2020. We are looking for members & former members to help us plan this celebration. If you have memorabilia, stories of different events and/or history of the Club, we would love to hear from you. Please contact Barbara at mburban@nullprodigy.net or call 518-274-2949.

Vaping – Public Service Announcement

CAPITAL DISTRICT – Vaping has become almost more common today then cigarettes. Originally marketed as being more safe than other tobacco products recent events have made it clear that this is not the full story. One study found that those who vape the equivalent to a pack of cigarettes a day had a 70% higher risk of stroke. This is only one of the health risks that can arise from vaping. For more information visit: https://www.narcononnewliferetreat.org/blog/vaping-linked-to-serious-health-problems.html

Addiction Screenings – Narconon can help you take steps to overcome addiction in your family. Call today for free screenings or referrals. 1- 800-431-1754.

Fentanyl – Public Service Announcement

CAPITAL DISTRICT – Fentanyl has been making headlines recently, this is because the incredibly potent chemical has been contributing to the increase in overdose deaths across America. Most people however do not know much about the chemical. For instance many don’t know that one of the things that makes fentanyl so dangerous is the fact that it can be absorbed into the system through skin contact. Meaning getting it on your skin could cause a potentially fatal overdose.

To learn more about Fentanyl visit: https://www.narcononnewliferetreat.org/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-fentanyl.html

Addiction Screenings – Narconon can help you take steps to overcome addiction in your family. Call today for free screenings or referrals. 1- 800-431-1754.

Rensselaer County Recovery Helpline

RENSSELAER COUNTY  – 1-833-467-3123 – Do you need help with substance use issues? Are you interested in volunteering for the helpline? The Rensselaer County Recovery Helpline offers information, local resources, and referrals for individuals and their families regarding substance use issues. The toll-free line is available 7 days a week from 9am-9pm. Each volunteer chooses shifts of 4 hours at a time to be on-call. When someone calls the number, a volunteer answers on their own smartphone, and can enter information to a database on their own computer, allowing for easy and quick access to resources. The information is sent to one of the 9 leaders, who will then assist the caller. If you or someone you know needs information, resources, or a referral for a substance use problem, call 1-833-467-3123. For more information, or if you are interested in volunteering, contact Renscohelpline@nullgmail.com

Six Center Redemption is partnering with Alzheimer’s Association

WYNANTSKILL/RENSSELAER – Return your bottles and cans and help The Northeastern New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Through an arrangement with: Six-Center Redemption.

Two Locations – 461 Main Ave Wynantskill (Corner of Sharpe and Main Ave) & 550 South Street Rensselaer.

The Alzheimer’s Association will receive six cents for every container you donate to the cause. Simply drop off your containers and say “These are for the Alzheimer’s Association.”

No need to count the cans or bottles, no waiting or standing in lines to feed your cans or bottles in to a machine. The mission of the Alzheimer’s Association is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

The first survivor of Alzheimer’s is out there, but we won’t get there without you. Join the fight with your bottles & cans!

Hudson-Mohawk Search & Rescue is Looking for Volunteers to Join our Team

CAPITAL DISTRICT – If you enjoy being outdoors in the wilderness, working with others to help people, follow directions well and have a willingness to learn, then our SAR team might be for you! Prior knowledge is helpful, but definitely not required as we provide the training. Check out our website at: www.humsar.org for more information.

Search and Rescue Volunteers Needed

CAPITAL DISTRICT – the Tri-State Emergency Team is recruiting volunteers to provide wildland and underwater searches within a 100 mile radius of Waterrford, NY.  This includes all aspects of field and underwater search.  The Tri-State Emergency Team responds when requested by NYS Forest Rangers and other police agencies throughout New York State, Western Vermont and Massachesettes.   We are looking for certified scuba divers, experienced boat handlers, and people who enjoy hiking and the outdoors in general who wish to help people in need.   The team will provide training and complete support as needed.  Our headquarters is located in Waterford.  Applicants need not live in Waterford to volunteer. If interested, please call 518-237-6744 or visit our website at www.tri-stateemergencyteam.org

New York State Commission for the Blind 

CAPITAL DISTRICT – The New York State Commission for the Blind (NYSCB) provides free vocational rehabilitation and other services to legally blind New York State residents, including children, adults, and older adults.  NYSCB assists participants in   achieving economic self-sufficiency and full integration into society.  Call toll-free (866) 871-3000 or visit our website:  visionloss.ny.gov