Tuesday April 16, 2024 
Columbia High School Announces Class of 2020 Valedictorian and Salutatorian
EAST GREENBUSH – Columbia High School seniors Owen Ball and Nina Tedeschi were selected as the Class of 2020 valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively. Both students have accomplished high school careers, including weighted GPAs over 100.
Mr. Ball is a member of the Science Olympiad team, attending three straight National Championships. He also participates in Math League, Masterminds, German Club and was inducted into the National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society and German Honor Society. Mr. Ball will study Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University in the fall.
Ms. Tedeschi is also a member of the Science Olympiad team, winning gold, silver and bronze medals at the 2019 National Championships. She also participates in Math League and she was inducted into the National Honor Society and Science National Honor Society. Ms. Tedeschi will study Biomedical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering at Johns Hopkins University in the fall.
Congratulations!
East Greenbush CSD Board of Education Adopts Proposed Budget for 2020-21
EAST GREENBUSH – The East Greenbush Central School District Board of Education adopted a $99,778,012 proposed school budget for 2020-21 at its May 20 meeting that was live streamed to the public. There will be no in-person voting due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Voting will be conducted by mail and all qualified voters will be sent an absentee ballot with return postage paid. Absentee ballots must be received at the district office by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9.
The proposed tax levy increase is 1.5%, which is below the New York State tax cap of 1.62% that applies to East Greenbush, requiring a simple majority to pass the budget. It is the lowest tax levy increase in the past five years.
“There is a great deal of uncertainty regarding whether the state will reduce aid to our schools in the coming months and how this reduction may affect our programs. Thus, at this point the district is taking a cautious approach to its budget next year,” said Superintendent Jeff Simons. “The proposed budget includes resources needed to meet the academic and social emotional needs of our students.”
The proposed budget includes the transfer of $900,000 from reserves to fill a budget gap due to flat state aid.
“We are striving to preserve quality programs for our students through strategic use of reserves – making use of monies previously approved by taxpayers and saved by the district,” said Mr. Simons.
In addition to the school budget, voters will decide on the purchase of eight new school buses out of the Bus Purchase Reserve Fund with no impact to taxpayers and elect three Board of Education members to three-year terms. Michael Buono, Kathleen Curtin and Mark Mann are all running for re-election unopposed.
More information about the proposed school budget can be found at www.egcsd.org/budget.
News from Averill Park CSD
AVERILL PARK – As a reminder, budget newsletters and absentee ballots for the 2020-2021 School Budget Vote and Board of Education Election have been mailed to eligible residents in the District. Ballots must be received by the District by 5:00 p.m. on June 9. For more information on the budget vote, visit the Budget Corner located on the District website.
Rensselaer County’s School Music Association held a virtual scholarship festival recently. Three Averill Park CSD students took home awards, including Haley Surprenant (1st place), David Morelli (1st place) and Anthony Pastizzo (2nd place). Great job everyone!
Five students participated in the 2020 RPI EcoEd program, which focuses on climate and environmental issues, and solutions for them. Kevin Cooper, Sam Hart, Theo Hart, Isla Multunas and Isabelle Relyea conducted research and put together radio pieces which will be broadcast on WOOC 105.3. Way to go!
Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent
Mission: Meeting the needs of and creating opportunities for every student every day. #AP_EveryStudentEveryDay
North Greenbush Councilman Jack Rogers Attends Wreath Laying Ceremony on Memorial Day
NORTH GREENBUSH – North Greenbush Councilman, Jack Rogers, lays a wreath at the Donald “Bucky” Egan Monument at the entrance of the Twin Town Little League on Memorial Day!
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.
Glendora Vegetarian Club
We know a person who is an assiduous vegan. This vegan will not touch a calorie of animal product as far as her eating is concerned. But this person will pay for the slaughter of other animals to feed her cats and dogs. Glendora loves these animals that are abused as much as she loves pet cats and dogs. All of the Love Animal Associations have an overflowing fullness of vegan recipes for pets. The internet bulges with same. Some cat and dog lovers cook for their animals or refer to Vegan Essentials online. As you well know, Dotcom Cat was a perfect vegan and lived for 15 years.
The American Vegan Society is celebrating its 60th birthday. Their birthday present to you is a generous discount on vegan books. Go to americanvegan.org for more information.
Jokes
1. A policeman stopped a motorist for not having a tail light. The motorist looked behind him and began to shiver and shake. The policeman said,”It’s not that bad. You just don’t have a tail light.”
Said the motorist, “But where’s my wife, and camper?!”
2. A citizen was arrested for not paying his bill at a donut shop. What was the charge?
He was charged with impersonating a policeman.
AP Woman joins National Guard
AVERILL PARK – Second Lieutenant Caroline Slyer of Averill Park was commissioned into the 182d Medical Company of the Massachusetts National Guard on May 18 at her home. She is a recent ROTC graduate of Boston University with a Bachelors in Behavior and Health. Her parents John and Kathy and sisters Julia and Ruby pinned her rank after she recited her oath. The ceremony was witnessed by Major USMC (Ret) Mustang Marine George Slyer, LTC (Ret) Army Reserves Paul Kolakowski and Col (Ret) Army Thom Besch, as well as her grandparents John and Pat Mulligan. Slyer will be continuing her Masters Degree at BU in Public Health. We wish her the best and thank her for her service.
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!
Virtual Lecture with Wagner Farms
RENSSELAER – Thursday, June 11, 7 pm. Join the Rensselaer Plateau Alliance’s “Plateau People at Work” Virtual Lecture with Wagner Farms. Wagner Farms is a 400-cow, family-owned dairy farm in Poestenkill. In 2010 the farm decided to invest in renewable energy, and is now the smallest dairy in New York to own and operate a digester, which transforms farm waste into clean bedding for cows and supplies electricity. Anything that is not used for bedding or energy is used as a natural fertilizer. Presented by Pete Wagner, co-owner. Wagner farm’s story began in 1952 when Robert and Louise Wagner moved to Poestenkill with the dream of raising dairy cows and living off the land. Their passion and hard work paid off and transformed the farm into what it is today. Pre-register here to receive a zoom link: www.rensselaerplateau.org/lecture-registration. Proceeds from donations support conservation on the Rensselaer Plateau.
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.
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.
Barnes Road Area Neighborhood Association Planning Board Meeting
SAND LAKE – The Barnes Road Area Neighborhood Association has submitted its post hearing memorandum to the Sand Lake Planning Board. The Memo of Law was submitted on behalf of 43 separate sponsors. The filing included copies of 24 letters written by concerned citizens in opposition to a proposed special use permit to establish a commercial party hall in a agricultural zone. Copies of the filing are available in the mailbox next to the Barnes Road Bunny (you cant miss it).
The Bailey application was not on the Planning Board’s June 3 meeting Agenda. The next meeting is scheduled for June 17. Keep an eye on the Town’s web site for meeting schedules and agendas.
Town of Brunswick Monthly Brush Pick Up Schedule
TOWN OF BRUNSWICK – Pick up schedule: June 22nd -June 26th; July 20th –July 24th; August 17th-August 21st; September 21th-September 25th; October 19th-October 23rd (last pick-up for season).
Limbs must be piled neatly, 8’ long-no larger than 6” diameter.
Branches must be free of roots and dirt. Avoid piling brush near utility poles and under trees, wires, or out in the street.
We will also pick up other yard waste, such as grass clippings, provided biodegradable paper bags are used
We do not go on private property. Clean wood only. Please no clear cutting of lots
No sticks, dirt or rocks or any material other than leaves and grass should be placed in bags.
We do not pick up rocks, stumps, rubbish, etc. Please do not put these items out with your branches.
Residents are also encouraged to dispose of leaves and grass at our Recycling Center, it is located across from the Town garage.
If you have any questions, please call 279-3461, Ext 100. Thank you
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