Wednesday April 24, 2024 
Averill Park Youth Soccer League 2021 Fall Rec Registration
AVERILL PARK – Now through July 30th. This is an all-play non-competitive league that focuses on learning the skills and fundamentals of soccer with an emphasis on fun! Practices start: Week of August 30th. Games start: Week of September 6 th
Teams: • Pre K/Kindergarten (Pre-K must be 4 years old before August 15, 2021). • Grades 1/2 • Grades 3/4 • Grades 5/6 • Grades 7/8.
***We are unable to honor requests for team placement or siblings practicing on the same night (i.e., coach, carpooling or teammate requests).***
Register online: www.averillparkyouthsoccer.com
(Scholarships are available to those qualifying for the school lunch program.)
A Note Of Gratitude
SAND LAKE – The family of Barbara Biittig would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the Town of Sand Lake for hosting such a special tribute in her memory.
The beautiful vocals of Dee Erickson performing Barbara’s favorite songs, along with Whiskey Highway’s awesome show at the first Summer Concert series, was the perfect way to celebrate Barbara’s life and her dedicated commitment to our town.
We thank all those who joined us in commemorating her at this special event.
We are so grateful for the kindness and support displayed from our community during this most difficult time.
With thankful hearts,
The Campano, Robinson & Biittig Families
Students to Attend Clarkson University in Fall 2021
POTSDAM, NY – Read about some of the new students who will attend Clarkson University as members of the Class of 2025.
Michael Agro of Wynantskill, NY will attend Clarkson University in Potsdam, N.Y., as a member of the Class of 2025. Agro, who will be majoring in Mechanical Engineering, will begin studying at Clarkson in the fall.
Kasey Billert of Petersburg, NY will attend Clarkson University in Potsdam, N.Y., as a member of the Class of 2025. Billert, who will be majoring in Mechanical Engineering, will begin studying at Clarkson in the fall.
Ethan Brock of Nassau, NY will attend Clarkson University in Potsdam, N.Y., as a member of the Class of 2025. Brock, who will be majoring in Mathematics, will begin studying at Clarkson in the fall.
Sophie Culver of E Greenbush, NY will attend Clarkson University in Potsdam, N.Y., as a member of the Class of 2025. Culver, who will be majoring in Computer Science, will begin studying at Clarkson in the fall.
Colin Hansen of Wynantskill, NY will attend Clarkson University in Potsdam, N.Y., as a member of the Class of 2025. Hansen, who will be majoring in Engineering & Management, will begin studying at Clarkson in the fall.
Joseph Lapell of East Nassau, NY will attend Clarkson University in Potsdam, N.Y., as a member of the Class of 2025. Lapell, who will be majoring in Computer Science, will begin studying at Clarkson in the fall.
Phil Ryan of Cropseyville, NY will attend Clarkson University in Potsdam, N.Y., as a member of the Class of 2025. Ryan, who will be majoring in Mechanical Engineering, will begin studying at Clarkson in the fall.
Emma Strang of Troy, NY will attend Clarkson University in Potsdam, N.Y., as a member of the Class of 2025. Strang, who will be majoring in Computer Science, will begin studying at Clarkson in the fall.
High school students can schedule a personalized visit to Clarkson, which includes things like a campus tour tailored to their interests and a visit with an admissions counselor. Students can always check out Clarkson’s virtual viewbook & interactive campus map. Just contact the Admissions Office at admission@nullclarkson.edu.
RIT Students Named to Dean’s List for Spring Semester
ROCHESTER, NY – Rochester Institute of Technology announces its spring 2021 Dean’s List! Undergraduate students are eligible for Dean’s List if their GPA is greater than or equal to 3.40 for nine credit hours of traditionally graded coursework; they do not have any grades of “Incomplete,” NE, D, or F; and they have registered for, and completed, at least 12 credit hours.
Matt Harris of Troy, who is in the computing and information technologies program.
Nicolas Stagnitta of East Greenbush, who is in the business administration-management program.
Evan Kortz of East Greenbush, who is in the film and animation program.
Briana Mackey of Hoosick Falls, who is in the graphic design program.
Ryan Allen of Castleton, who is in the microelectronic engineering program.
Mark Ryan of Troy, who is in the management information systems program.
Nicholas Morris of Nassau, who is in the civil engineering technology program.
Andy Malak of Troy, who is in the mechanical engineering program.
Alaina Gosh of East Greenbush, who is in the engineering exploration program.
Bryan Serian of Wynantskill, who is in the electrical engineering program.
Trevor Hrubecky of Averill Park, who is in the industrial engineering program.
Josh Casavant of Rensselaer, who is in the mechanical engineering program.
Katarina Lichak of Nassau, who is in the biomedical engineering program.
Zoe Willson of Troy, who is in the packaging science program.
Sabrina Wolfe of Troy, who is in the biomedical sciences program.
Matt Sciubba of Troy, who is in the software engineering program.
Brayden Renslow of Castleton on Hudson, who is in the motion picture science program.
Triston Lincoln of Averill Park, who is in the computer engineering program.
Liam Hardaker of Nassau, who is in the chemical engineering program.
Katie O’Neill-Knasick of Averill Park, who is in the biochemistry program.
Austin Tu of Wynantskill, who is in the robotics and manufacturing engineering technology program.
Justine Fournier of Troy, who is in the physician assistant program.
Jordan Palmer of East Greenbush, who is in the chemical engineering program.
Rochester Institute of Technology is home to leading creators, entrepreneurs, innovators and researchers. Founded in 1829, RIT enrolls about 18,600 students in more than 200 career-oriented and professional programs, making it among the largest private universities in the U.S.
Poestenkill Area Food Insecurity
POESTENKILL – Any greater Poestenkill area residents currently experiencing temporary or long term food insecurity can turn to The Bread of Life Food Pantry at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Poestenkill for supplemental food assistance. We provide basic nutritional foods and related items the first and third Thursday of each month from 4:30 to 6:30 PM in a very discreet, nonjudgmental manner. We offer drive-thru service where each guest receives a product list to form your order, we then fill your order and bring the completed order back to your vehicle. Delivery service to Poestenkill Seniors unable to visit our Pantry is also available. Please try us, we are here to help. Our phone number is: 518-283-6045 to leave a message. Thank you.
Hope 7 Food Pantry
TROY – The Hope 7 Food Pantry located at 520 Pawling Avenue, Troy NY serves the East Side of Troy, Wynantskill and Northgreenbush.
Pantry Hours: Mon-Fri – 9:30am-11:45am; Thursday – 5pm-7pm. Last Saturday of each month 9:30am-11:45am
What to bring: Proof of residence (Troy’s East Side, North Greenbush, or Wynantskill) – (utility bill to your address in your name). ID’s for each person residing in household.
Johnsonville Methodist Church Thrift Shop
JOHNSONVILLE -The Johnsonville Methodist Church Thrift Shop, located at 22 Bridge Street, Johnsonville, NY 12094 is open from 9-12 every Wednesday and the first Saturday of each month. Look for our sign at the corner of Route 67 and Route 111. We have a great selection of children’s and adult clothing, including special occasion and career clothes, shoes, purses, jewelry, toys and household items. More than 1000 books for sale. Masks and social distancing are required.
The Anchor Food Pantry
SCHODACK – The Anchor Food Pantry in an attempt to keep the residents of the Town of Schodack informed during these pandemic times has an update for our hours of operation and business procedures. The anchor is open the following days for servicing clientele. Monday evenings 5pm-7pm, Tuesday and Thursday 9am-2pm , and the first Saturday of each month from 10am-1pm. New clients are asked to furnish proof of residncy on their initial visit. Also if possible call ahead at 518-732-4120 and staff will accommodate and have food call ready which until further notice will be delivered to your vehicle. We have good news on donation front -we will be accepting clothing and houseware donations effective immediately during regular business hours . Clothing request is for summer and fall apparel at this time. As always we thank the citizens of Schodack for their continued generosity in our mission to aid those in need during these seemingly never ending pandemic circumstances.
SHARE Center in West Sand Lake offers Inclusive Boutique-style Fitness classes
STRIDE multi-purpose program space, and fitness gym open for business post pandemic
WEST SAND LAKE – STRIDE opened its doors to the newly renovated SHARE Center in late 2019 just before Covid pandemic came into our world and shut all gyms and fitness centers down. The STRIDE Health and Recreation Education (SHARE) Center in West Sand Lake is now building its schedule of activities allowing STRIDE to expand current programs, as well as work with like-minded organizations to offer additional programs. Whether a child with cerebral palsy is stretching in yoga class or a veteran in a wheelchair is receiving anti-gravity treadmill training therapy, the SHARE Center will develop programs more inclusive for Rensselaer County community.
Classes are open to all, inclusive of those with or without disabilities. Currently offered summer classes include Zumba, Circuit weight-training classes, fitness for teens’ yoga, individual fitness training sessions; and AlterG Treadmill training for mobility impaired to enhance their physical therapy goals. Suggested donation for each 60 minute class is $15 on the honor system, and a donation box is at the front door as you arrive. Visit www.stride.org for calendar.
STRIDE youth sport programs are currently held at 26 different partnering locations in the northeast, and though the organization is grateful to return to regular programming after Covid, they are excited to expand and permanently invest in this long dreamed-of fitness center. The SHARE Center will offer an extension of current program abilities in its two-story building with a wheelchair accessible elevator. The multi-program space and adaptive fitness gym will provide more desirable time slots in a more ideal space for athletes to exercise. With the additional space that the SHARE Center provides, STRIDE can begin implementing new educational programs such as a wounded warrior support for PTSD, tumbling for tots with special needs, and wellness programs.
Along with all the unique programs that STRIDE has to offer, they envision hosting other organizations with different services and expertise. The wounded warrior family lounge has the ability to host organizations to provide services like career services training, chemical and addiction dependency counseling, and fitness and nutrition educators. As a statement on the community’s behalf, the SHARE Center will emphasize how welcomed and cherished people with disabilities are in the Capital Region. “After years of research and dedication to perfecting this project, it’s finally coming to fruition” said Mary Ellen Whitney, the founder and CEO of STRIDE. “Its exponential growth for inclusive sports and equality brings us to the next level of being able to serve our constituents with life changing experiences.”
STRIDE is seeking volunteer fitness trainers to invest in our community. Grant funding may include stipends for trainers in the future. Trainers can select time slots that meet their schedules. Contact mwhitney@nullstride.org to inquire.
Changes to Child Tax Credit Payments
CAPITAL DISTRICT – Many taxpayers with children claim the Child Tax Credit (CTC) on their tax returns and often receive a large refund check. For 2021, the maximum CTC has increased to $3,600 for each qualifying child under the age of 6 and $3,000 for each qualifying child ages 6 through 17. People with children may be eligible for the Credit even if they do not have any income this year. Your actual credit depends on your eligibility.
Due to the pandemic, the IRS will now send half of the 2021 CTC as six monthly payments to taxpayers who appear to qualify. These advance payments start on July 15, 2021. If you do not opt out, they will continue each month until December 15, 2021. Those who receive the monthly advance payments may expect their refund from the IRS to be lower next year since it will not include the money already paid in 2021
Taxpayers who claimed the CTC on their 2019 or 2020 tax return and appear to qualify for the Credit in 2021 are automatically enrolled in the new advance payment system.
If you do not qualify for the CTC in 2021, even though you did in past years, you would have to pay the advances back next year unless you opt out of the monthly payments. People who want the full refund next year and divorced parents who alternate years of claiming the Credit may also want to opt out.
The IRS has a new portal you can use to opt out of the monthly payments: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-update-portal. You can also use the portal to update your payment information. In addition, the portal has a tool that eligible low-income families who do not normally file a tax return can use to register for the advance payments.
If you have questions about income tax issues, the Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York’s Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) may be able to help. The Clinic’s services are free of charge. We can be reached at (833) 628-0087. The Clinic does not generally provide tax preparation services.
Christmas in July Sale at The Corner Shoppe
N. TROY – The Corner Shoppe located at Cornerstone Community Church, 570 3rd Ave., N Troy is having a Christmas in July Sale – through July 29th. Hours are 9 am – noon, every Thursday & Saturday. Clothes for the entire family are on sale.. Check out other departments: housewares, linens, home decor, toys, books, arts & crafts and jewelry. For more info: 518-235-3851.
CHS Annual 70’s Alumni Party
CAPITAL DISTRICT – Graduates and attendees of Columbia High School 1970-1979 – as well as teachers and staff: mark your calendar to attend the annual Alumni Party/Summer Get-Together on Saturday, August 21, 2021, beginning at noon. ALL alumni welcome! Schodack Island State Park, 1 Schodack Island Way (off Route 9J), Schodack Landing. Camping available; reserve now, sites are going fast! Join our Facebook group “Columbia High School 70’s Reunion” for full party details or contact Caroline Lynch Zeyak at 518-928-3223 or elvis628@nullfairpoint.net to obtain an informational flyer and registration form.
3rd Annual Averill Park Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony & Dinner
AVERILL PARK – Saturday, Sept. 11th, 2021. Reception, Cash Bar & Raffles 5:00. Welcome & Buffet Dinner 6:00. Induction Ceremony 7:00. Troy Hilton Garden Inn. Registration Deadline is Aug. 26th.
Event Sponsor – $2,000 (includes 8 tickets, a full page ad in program, a reserved table and recognition in program)
Platinum Donor – $1,000 (includes 6 tickets, a ½ page ad in program and recognition in program)
Warrior Donor – $500 (includes 4 tickets and recognition in program)
Gold Donor – $300 (includes 2 tickets and recognition in program)
Blue Donor – $150 (includes 1 ticket and recognition in program)
Class of 2020 Athlete – Doug Childrose ‘83, Kevin L. Nichols ‘81, Rebecca Ortolano Clark ‘00, Deb Prendergast-Sanderson ‘81, Deborah Springer ‘91, Morgan Wheeler ‘09
Athlete/Coach – Mike Malenfant ‘86
Class of 2021, Athlete – Jenna Brooks ‘06, Michael Collopy ‘04, Katie Duma ‘10, Thomas Mangan ‘89, Susan Spierre Clark ‘01
For additional information please contact the Averill Park Athletic Department at (518) 674-7010 or bubniakm@nullapcsd.org . All inquiries – https://averillpark.k12.ny.us/athletichalloffame.
St. Jude Flea Market / Vendor Fair Vendors Needed
ALBANY – Vendors Needed. Flea Market/Vendor Fair To Benefit ST.JUDE. August 28th,2021 from 10-4. $15.00 Uncovered Space / $30.00 covered space with table. Uncovered Vendors who need a table can rent one for $5.00 per table. Easy up Tents will be permitted on uncovered spaces only. There will also be an uncovered garage sale area for anyone who wants to participate but is not a regular vendor. Contact Information – Polish American Citizens Club, 110 Commerce Ave, Albany NY 12206. E-mail: bobdomalewicz@nullgmail.com for signup information. Phone: 518-227-7142.
Columbia High School Class of 1986 35-Year Reunion
CAPITAL DISTRICT – Columbia High School’s Class of 1986 is celebrating it’s 35-year reunion on Saturday, September 18th at Birch Hill from 6-11pm. There will be a full BBQ, unlimited beer/wine option, bonfire and live music! Visit: www.chs1986.com for registration details and a list of who’s attending.
Newly Diagnosed with Parkinson’s? Consider Attending PD SELF – Parkinson’s Self-Efficacy Learning Forum
CAPITAL DISTRICT – A national program being offered in Albany. The program provides people newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s with an in-depth understanding of the disease and the tools to manage it with confidence. There is no cost to attend. Registration is required. Space is limited. Care partners are encouraged to attend.
This year the program, starting in September, has been adapted to be fully online. Find out more at www.cdparkinsons.org/pd-self
Poestenkill “Bread of Life” Food Pantry
POESTENKILL – NEW HOURS – Since September 2015, the Poestenkill “Bread of Life” food pantry has been offering staple food items to individuals and families in Poestenkill and surrounding communities who need food for themselves and their families. Beginning on May 1st, 2021 our NEW HOURS will BEGIN at 4:30 pm END AT 6:30pm on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays of every month.
We thank our friends, community and many organizations who continue to support this effort through their most generous donations of time, resources and staple foods. Our new volunteers are the best, most kind, compassionate individuals. We are so grateful they have joined our pantry.
We are located at the Evangelical Lutheran Church, 772 Route 351, Poestenkill, NY 12140. If you have an urgent need for food, please call us at (518) 283-6045 and leave a message.
This year, we have begun a new program with the pantry by offering baby food, diapers and wipes for the youngest in the Poestenkill community. The pantry does not currently stock baby supplies, but can provide select items upon request. If you are experiencing difficulty affording these items for your baby, please reach out to us. Please send a private Facebook message, email breadoflifepoestenkill@nullgmail.com or leave a message at (518) 428-0124.
St. Jude the Apostle Knights of Columbus Bottle & Can Donations
WYNANTSKILL – Help Support Local Charities – St. Jude the Apostle Knights of Columbus has teamed up with 6 Center Redemption located at 461 Main Avenue in Wynantskill to accept bottle and can donations that have a NYS deposit.
This is to support local charities and those in need.
• Bring your clean, NYS deposit empties to 6 Center Redemption in Wynantskill.
• Say they are to support the St. Jude the Apostle Knights of Columbus.
• They do the rest, that’s it!
• Thank you for your support!
Team “Knocking Out Alzheimer’s” Bottle Drive, The Fundraising Continues …
WYNANTSKILL/RENSSELAER – Team “Knocking out Alzheimer’s” is partnering with the Alzheimer’s Association. 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.
No need to count the cans or bottles, no waiting or standing in lines to feed your cans or bottles into a machine.
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.”
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! Check us out on face book – Knocking out Alzheimer’s
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 Massachusetts. 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