Saturday April 27, 2024 
Stride Adaptive Sports Unveils “Return To Play” Initiative for Kids with Disabilities and Veterans for Re-Opening
West Sand Lake – When Phase Four of NYS re-opening begins, Capital Region kids and veterans with disabilities will get a much-needed chance to safely play sports, exercise, and have fun again. It’s all part of the “Return to Play” initiative from STRIDE Adaptive Sports, a nonprofit organization in West Sand Lake that empowers people with special needs to participate in sports and recreation.
According to STRIDE’s Founder and CEO Mary Ellen Whitney, new program guidelines will afford carefully-planned opportunities for people with disabilities to enjoy small-group social activities, exercise and recreation. “STRIDE serves a medically-vulnerable population of over 2,000 individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities, so safety is number one on our list of importance” explains Whitney. “We have had to temporarily shut down in-person programming. During this time, we stayed connected as a family online, by providing our athletes with fitness videos, games, family activities, virtual events, movie parties, guitar lessons, video dance parties and concerts. But when it comes down to it, our athletes need socialization and to be active, and our mission is to promote inclusion of these underserved community members” said Whitney.
Return to Play is STRIDE’s initiative to make this possible again while maintaining safety and continuing to help flatten the curve. As part of the Phase 2 NYS guide, we will offer a small golf, and tennis program with strict regulations for how to play safely. Additionally we have phased our tent-camping program to match the re-opening guides and currently offer family camping on our private grounds with plans to gradually offer more inclusive offerings.
As NYS Phase Four begins, STRIDE will start re-opening its programs one-by-one. A Return to Play committee made of STRIDE personnel, athletes, parents, educators and medical professionals will determine new guidelines for every sport. STRIDE programs will follow CDC recommendations for protective gear, social distancing, small groups, disinfection according to CDC cleaning guidelines, digital access points for all paperwork, and following all county or state restrictions.
Program Director Megan Evans says these new protective measures will be costly and resource intensive, but the athletes are enjoying the full support of the community. “STRIDE has the good fortune of several local businesses sponsoring us through these changes, including AllSquare Wealth Management, Regeneron, American National Insurance, NPA Financial, Hannaford. Because of their generous support, STRIDE will soon be opening our summer golf, tennis, and camping programs. This is just the start – there is much work to be done!”
Participants with disabilities who are interested in STRIDE and its Return to Play Program can visit https://www.stride.org for more information, or call STRIDE’s office at 518-598-1279 for scheduling details. There is also an immediate and ongoing need for new funds to help fuel the transformation of STRIDE’s other 15 adaptive programs. Businesses or individuals looking to contribute can donate online or contact Development Director Patrick Hayslett for sponsorship opportunities.
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.
Maria Sabo Makes Dean’s List at Highpoint University
NORTH GREENBUSH – North Greenbush resident Maria Sabo, a junior who is majoring in psychology and minoring in French at Highpoint University in Highpoint North Carolina has qualified for the Dean’s list for the 2020 spring semester by maintaining a 3.5 G.P.A. or higher. Highpoint University, located in the Piedmont Triad region of North Carolina, is a liberal arts institution with 5,400 undergraduates and graduate students. – Submitted by Mary Frances Sabo (mother).
County Legislators Support Rensselaer County Food Drive
RENSSELAER COUNTY – Legislators Tom Grant, Leon Fiacco, and Robert Loveridge were joined by Assemblyman Jake Ashby at the Rensselaer County Food Drive held at Hudson Valley Community College. The food drive collected food and personal hygiene supplies for all of the food pantries in Rensselaer County.
News from Averill Park CSD
AVERILL PARK – The Averill Park CSD Athletic Department was honored with an Award of Excellence for exemplary display of sportsmanship, ethics and integrity by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association. Congratulations to our student-athletes and coaches for a job well done!
Averill Park High School was recognized by the United States Department of the Interior for its participation in the 2019 America Celebrates ornaments display in Washington, D.C. during the holiday season. Students painted ornaments, which were included on the National Christmas Tree display.
Congratulations to Hannah Ryan and Carley Salerno for being selected as student speakers at this year’s graduation, which will be held at the Jericho Drive-in due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Averill Park science teacher Mr. Reddy has been selected to deliver the official commencement address to the Class of 2020. We are all looking forward to the special event.
Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent
Mission: Meeting the needs of and creating opportunities for every student every day. #AP_EveryStudentEveryDay
Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County Volunteer Opportunities Information Session
RENSSELAER COUNTY – In-person meetings are still suspended, but Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County is open — remotely! New volunteers can join at this time by calling (518) 244-4650 or sending an email to LitVolDirector@nullaol.com. Find out about tutoring, special events, and all of the other ways that you can help to make a difference in your community, An information session for new volunteers is scheduled for June 23 at 5:00 p.m. via Zoom. Contact mhellerlvorc@nullaol.com to register.
The Rensselaer City Water Department Hydrant Flushing
RENSSELAER – The Rensselaer City Water Department will flush hydrants throughout the City beginning June 15, 2020 and ending June 19, 2020.
Users may experience low water pressure and temporary discoloration caused by the stirring up of sediment in the system. This is not harmful. It is recommended that the washing of clothes be avoided when flushing is taking place in your local area. To remedy discoloration, run cold water in all your faucets for five minutes or until clear.
Periodic flushing of the water distribution system is necessary to remove sediment and as a means of locating non-working hydrants and valves.
The flushing schedule – 8 A.M. to 3 P.M. Daily;
Monday, June 15: All hydrants South of Partition St.
Tuesday, June 16: All hydrants North of Partition St. to Fowler Ave
Wednesday, June 17: All hydrants North of Fowler Ave to I-90
Thursday & Friday, June 18-19: All hydrants North of I-90 to the end of City Line
Town Of East Greenbush Hydrant/Water Main Flushing Schedule June 2020
EAST GREENBUSH – General Water District
Mon, June 15 – 3rd Ave Ext. and all streets off it; Deer Run Development, Birchwood Development, Flora Circle & Oriel Lane.
Tue, June 16 – 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, August Gate Development, Upper Area of Hampton Manor / Eastern Ave to Summit Ave Luther Rd., Donna Lynn, Columbia Dr., Old Troy Road ending at Iroquois Pl.
Wed, June 17 – 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, June 18 – 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, June 19 – 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.
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.
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
Castleton-on-Hudson Farmers & Artisans Market
CASTLETON-ON-HUDSON – The Castleton-on-Hudson Farmers & Artisans Market (COHFAM) has returned to its summer home at the corner of Scott Avenue (150) and Main Street (9J) in the Village. COHFAM will be held every Friday from 4:30-7:30 pm until September 25. During Phase 2 of New York Forward, the market will feature fresh vegetables, take-away food items and crafts, but no 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@nullgmail.com for more information. Come to COHFAM, the little market with the big heart, enjoy the river view and support the local economy!
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
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!
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