Your Community 05.28.20

Books for Troops is Collecting Books Again

CAPITAL DISTRICT – Books for Troops is now taking books once again, but only in the Latham office at 688 Old Loudon Rd., Latham. The other sites will remain closed. To maintain social distancing. the books are to be left in the 3 collection bins OUTSIDE the building, The books MUST  be in very good to excellent condition to protect the troops. NO HARD COVERS! Please place the books in plastic bags and not singly or in boxes.  As always thank you for your supporting  our “new normal.” Ellen Keegan, Director.

Nassau Sunshine Fund Emergency Loan Program Needs Your Help

NASSAU – The Nassau Sunshine Fund is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit charitable corporation that makes small, no-interest loans to residents of the Town and Villages of Nassau. Since this not-for-profit charitable organization began in 2009, it has made 54 loans amounting to over $21,000. The Nassau Sunshine Fund was formed to revive a neighbor-helping-neighbor organization that first came into existence more than 100 years ago in our town. Learn more about this history at www.nassausunshinefund.org. Due to the economic downturn caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, even more people are struggling to make ends meet. The Nassau Sunshine Fund continues to offer no-interest loans that allow neighbors in emergency situations to get through the tough times. The Nassau Sunshine Fund Board feels it is important for our community as a whole to support all of its residents and we hope you agree.

We are asking for your support of our efforts with a donation. Anyone making a donation can be featured in a “made possible with the support of” acknowledgement on our website (www.nassausunshinefund.org), in our literature and at any of our fundraising events. You may send a check to “Nassau Sunshine Fund”, PO Box 10, Nassau, NY 12123 or make an online donation on our website. All contributions are fully tax deductible.

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. 

Barnes Road Area Neighborhood Association Planning Board Meeting

SAND LAKE – The Town of Sand Lake website indicates that the Planning Board will meet Wednesday June 3rd. The public will be excluded. If the Bailey application is on the Agenda, the Barnes Road Area Neighborhood Association will gather at the Town Hall parking lot before the meeting to express our views. Keep an eye on the Town website!

We spoke at the hearing on the Bailey application. Having heard his plans, we are more opposed than ever. It will have a direct negative impact on our AG (horse) business. We just invested in an upgrade to our horse ring and the traffic and noise will be a direct threat. A commercial party barn is obviously incompatible with the neighborhood.

We ask the members of the Planning Board to deny the special use permit and allow us to preserve Barnes Rd and our AG district. We will continue to support the Barnes Road Neighborhood Association’s efforts to stop this.

Respectfully submitted, Jack and Laura Schreiner

Castleton-on-Hudson Farmers & Artisans Market 2020

CASTLETON-ON-HUDSON – The Castleton-on-Hudson Farmers & Artisans Market (COHFAM) will return to its summer home at the corner of Scott Avenue (150) and Main Street (9J) in the Village and begin its fifth season on Friday, June 5, 2020 from 4:30-7:30 PM. COHFAM will be held every Friday until September 25. During Phase 1 of New York Forward, the market will feature fresh vegetables, soap, masks, maple products and other packaged food items, but no crafts or entertainment. Patrons will be required to wear masks and observe social distancing. Hand sanitizer will be available. New vendors welcome; visit COHFAM on Facebook to get an application or email gina.giuliano@<span class=”oe_displaynone”>null</span>gmail.com for more information. Come to COHFAM, the little market with the big heart, enjoy the river view and support the local economy!

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. 

The New Norm Shirt Sales Benefiting The Unity House of Troy, NY

TROY – Buy a shirt today starting at $15 for yourself or as a gift. 100% proceeds will go directly to the Unity House of Troy, NY. Goal is to sell 150 shirts. Available in different colors, sizes, and styles. Ship to an address or free pickup

 in Troy in June. The Unity House of Troy, NY is a Rensselaer County based human service agency that provides a wide range of services to meet the otherwise unmet needs of people in our community who are hurting and struggling. Their greatest need now is food for their pantry and they are seeking donations of art supplies/kits for children. Designed by Ruotolo Design Shack of Troy, NY. Buy now at www.customink.com/fundraising/the-new-norm (Sale ends June 1, 2020.) Spread the word, not the virus. Thank you for your support.

Town of Sand Lake Summer Camp

SAND LAKE – The Town of Sand Lake will not hold a Summer Camp in 2020. This is a difficult decision, but necessary given ongoing concerns with Coronavirus.

There is still a lot we do not know regarding children and the effects of COVID-19. Even if things “open up” in our State/County/Community, we cannot guarantee the health and safety of our children and staff if we proceeded. There is no way to practice safe social distancing with a group of energetic kids. There is no way to safely conduct field trips and group activities. In addition, the Averill Park School District cannot assure us that the West Sand Lake Elementary School would be available as a camp headquarters.

Given the health concerns and logistical issues, there is no practical way forward. Other towns are facing the same problems with summer camps. We regret this decision but hope that camp will return next summer.

News from Averill Park CSD

AVERILL PARK – Absentee ballots for the 2020-2021 School Budget Vote and Board of Education Election have been mailed to eligible residents in the District. If you have not received a ballot by May 28, please contact Yvonne Phillips at phillipsy@nullapcsd.org. Ballots must be received by the District by 5:00 p.m. on June 9.

APCSD is proud to announce the Top 10 students in the Class of 2020! In order from 1 to 10 those students are Lydia Ware, Triston Lincoln, Adam Limoges, Andrew Gorman, Alexander Michaels, Eric Shuman, Lauren Harland, Lillian Kronau, Hayden Chenette and Carley Salerno. Great job everyone!

Averill Park High School and Algonquin Middle School earned No Place for Hate status by the Anti-Defamation League. This program aims to stop bias, bullying and the escalation of hate.

The longtime tradition of Senior Blocks is still happening this year! Each year seniors purchase blocks and a group of students paints them on the hallways, helping outgoing students leave a mark on the school for one more year.

Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent

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

Team “Knocking Out Alzheimer’s” Bottle Drive

WYNANTSKILL/RENSSELAER – Six Center Redemption is partnering with the team Knocking out Alzheimer’s and the Alzheimer’s Association.

NOT SURE WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR CANS BOTTLES LET US HELP…..

Return your bottles and cans and help he Northeastern New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Through an arrangement with:

Six-Center Redemption Two Locations- 461 Main Ave Wynantskill (Corner of Sharpe and Main Ave) & 550 South Street Rensselaer.

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

“These are for the Alzheimer’s Association.”

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

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

Stephentown Food Pantry Corona Virus Update

STEPHENTOWN – The Stephentown Food Pantry continues to serve the community with food assistance during this time when corona virus is a concern.  Extra health precautions have been put in place so you can be served as safely as possible.  You are served from your car so safe social distancing can be maintained.  Drive up and park your car. We’ll come over with an order form where you can see what’s available. Let us know what you need and your preferences. (We’ll be wearing masks and gloves and sanitizing pens and clipboards after each client.)  We will assemble your order and bring it to your car. 

We have been able to maintain our usual variety of food, toiletries and pet food through the Regional Food Bank of Northeast New York.

Pantry hours continue to be Saturdays from 9 to 11 at the Stephentown Federated Church, 1513 Garfield Road (County Route 26).  The Pantry serves residents of Stephentown, New York, and Hancock, Massachusetts.  For information, call (518) 487-8606 or check out the photos and information on the Stephentown Food Pantry Facebook page. 

Problem Gambling – Northeast Resource Center Here To Help

CAPITAL DISTRICT – Isolation due to the COVID-19 can be especially difficult for those struggling with gambling problems. Extra time, stress and anxiety, access to gambling on the internet, and an increase in online gambling options are a recipe for trouble. People struggling with gambling problems, or in recovery from problem gambling, may find this isolation to be especially difficult. If you have noticed extra stress, anxiety, anger, uncontrollable urges to gamble or an increase in gambling activities there are options for help. If your loved one is struggling to control their gambling, help is available for you too.

The Northeast Problem Gambling Resource Center (NE PGRC) is a program of the New York Council on Problem Gambling and has been working to increase the awareness of problem gambling and connect those adversely affected by problem gambling to the care they need. The NE PGRC provides referral and treatment options, including connections to the recovery community, to individuals and families in need. We also provide education and training to groups and organizations who want to learn more about this disorder. The NE PGRC works with a network of qualified clinicians trained in problem gambling to provide barrier-free treatment to anyone seeking assistance.

Contact the Northeast Problem Gambling Resource Center

Call: 518-801-1491

Email: NortheastPGRC@nullNYProblemGambling.org

Website: www.NYProblemGamblingHELP.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/NortheastPGRC 

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.

Vaping – Public Service Announcement

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

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

Fentanyl – Public Service Announcement

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

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

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

Rensselaer County Recovery Helpline

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

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

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

Search and Rescue Volunteers Needed

CAPITAL DISTRICT – the Tri-State Emergency Team is recruiting volunteers to provide wildland and underwater searches within a 100 mile radius of Waterrford, NY.  This includes all aspects of field and underwater search.  The Tri-State Emergency Team responds when requested by NYS Forest Rangers and other police agencies throughout New York State, Western Vermont and 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