Wednesday April 24, 2024 
Snyder’s Lake Aquatic Survey, Aug. 12
The public is invited to join the Friday Field Group in exploring aquatic plants and animals in Snyder’s Lake in North Greenbush Fri., Aug. 12, starting at 5:30 PM and ending at dusk. The Friday Field Group is a mix of amateur and professional naturalists devoted to the natural history and identification of plants and other interesting groups of organisms.
They have been doing field trips throughout Rensselaer County for over 20 years. They use Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide and other keys to identify plants at various sites around the Capital District. Each summer they survey a lake or pond area in Rensselaer County. This is their first time exploring Snyder’s Lake. They plan to develop an initial list of aquatic plants and animals observed from kayaking and/or snorkeling. David Hunt, a professional botanist, plans to develop a list of species to add to his database for Rensselaer County.
This survey is an informal gathering, not related to any specific planning or regulatory activity. The public is invited to kayak or snorkel with the Friday Field Group. Meet at the far end of the North Greenbush Town Park parking lot near the boat launch off Geiser Road. They will launch their boats from there.
The survey does not have an official leader or sign-up but if you have questions, call Friday Field Group member Tom Phillips at 518-956-2767 or email at mossvet@nullnycap.rr.com. If severe weather is threatening, use your judgment or call Tom. All trips are at your own risk.
Submitted by Sheree Cammer, Wynantskill, volunteer for Friday Field Group
Rensselaer Land Trust to Host the Great Hudson River Estuary Fish Count
Environmental Educator, Fran Martino, a partner with Rensselaer Land Trust will host the 11th Annual Great Hudson River Estuary Fish Count at Papscanee Island Nature Preserve on Saturday, August 6, 2022 from 9 to 11 am.
The public is invited to help explore the amazing variety of slippery, wriggly, and fascinating creatures usually hidden below the river’s surface. We’ll be using a seine net to capture, identify, count and release fish species found splashing in the net that morning. Seining involves pulling a 30-foot net through the water and studying the river life caught in its mesh. Participants may watch from shore or jump into available waterproof waders to help pull in the net. The fish are released after attendees view them up close.
Data will be shared with NYS Department of Environmental Conservation to help understand the variability in the numbers and distribution of fish within their environment. This program is free and open to the public. DIRECTIONS: We will meet at the SOUTH ENTRANCE to Papscanee Island located off Route 9J in Castleton-on-Hudson.
For more information visit Rensselaer Land Trust’s website at www.renstrust.org.
Golf tournament to benefit Joseph’s House and Roarke center
14th Annual OLV K of C golf tournament will be held at Windy Hills golf course on August 19, 2022 to benefit Joseph’s House and Roarke center.
To be sponsor or get golf application or more information see Facebook @Council14164 or @14164.Golf.Tournament or email kofc14164@nullgmail.com asking for application or more information.
Can You Help a Neighbor in Your Community?
Our volunteers provide older neighbors with friendly calls, visits, transportation to medical appointments, and grocery shopping. With just a little extra help from our volunteers, clients remain independent and in their own homes. We provide our services at no cost in Albany and Rensselaer Counties.
Here are some ways in which a volunteer can help:
Transportation: Rides to essential medical appointments and grocery stores..
Shopping: Accompanying a neighbor to the store or doing the shopping from a client’s list for groceries, prescriptions and personal items.
Friendly Phone Calls: Reassurance phone calls to provide an opportunity for conversation and socialization. Like a “friendly visit” but over the phone.
Friendly Home Visits: Weekly or biweekly visits to homebound people to provide social contact, as well as emotional and psychological support. Visits may include trips out into the community for activities (walks, local events, etc.)
Occasional Chores: Lawnmowing, assistance with household organization.
INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE? GIVE US A CALL OR SEND US A NOTE!
Phone 518-456-2898
Email: meredith@nullcommunitycaregivers.org
Poestenkill Business Association Annual Auction
The Poestenkill Business Association, (PBA), will hold our annual benefit Auction on Saturday, August 6, 2022 at the Sullivan-Jones VFW Post on Main St/Route 355 in Poestenkill.
The Auction has a New START TIME of 10:00 AM, with viewing to begin at 9:00 AM. Assorted items such as loads of Top Soil, Crusher Run, Stone and Fire Wood donated by local businesses will be available for bid as in previous years along with previously owned but highly sought after household treasures. Each Bidder must obtain a Bid Card in order to be able to participate in the Auction.
The Kitchen will be open throughout the Auction to provide liquid refreshments and fine cuisine from the grill for your dining pleasure. Activities will be available to amuse the Kids. All net proceeds will enable the PBA to discreetly provide assistance to Poestenkill Residents who experience emergency situations during the year. Please note our new start time of 10:00 AM.
So come early and stay for the entire Auction, your interest & participation are deeply appreciated. Thank you and see you on Saturday August 6th.
Rensselaer County Board of Elections Seeking Poll Inspectors
The Rensselaer County Board of Elections is seeking registered voters to serve as poll inspectors for the upcoming August 23rd and November 8th, 2022 Elections.
Poll workers are responsible for assisting voter sign in and documenting information on appropriate forms.
Poll inspectors can earn $200 for working 5:30 am to 9:30pm on Election Day, and $25 for mandatory training.
New York State election law allows 17-year-old Seniors in High School to work as poll inspectors for those interested.
For more information call 518-270-2991 or email ggaluski@nullrensco.com
Sand Lake Ambulance Seeks Daytime Drivers
The Sand Lake Ambulance (SLA), staffed by both paid staff and volunteer staff, is in urgent need of additional volunteer daytime drivers. Volunteer daytime drivers work hand in hand with the paid daytime medics and EMTs to insure the availability of timely Advanced Life Support emergency medical care and transport between the hours of 6:00am to 6:00pm daily.
Most of our daytime volunteer drivers are “young at heart” retirees who want to continue to be engaged in a productive, worthwhile activity. Plus, they enjoy the camaraderie and sense of belonging that comes with being a member of a volunteer organization and the personal fulfillment derived from helping their friends and neighbors in their time of need.
If you are an individual (retired or not) who has a desire to serve your community and are interested in receiving more information on becoming a volunteer daytime driver, please call us at (518) 674-2221 and leave a message. Someone will get back to you in a short time with information how you can help meet this urgent need.
Refugee Welcome Center Seeking Playgroup Volunteers
The Refugee Welcome Center in Albany is looking for playgroup volunteers. We have a playgroup for preschoolers while their moms are in English class. You just need to like little kids, no education required. Our program starts back up in September. You can volunteer 1 or more days a week.
It’s only for a couple of hours. If you would like to find out more about this opportunity, please call Kasey at (518) 795-5678.
Latham-Colonie Columbiettes Book Sale
The Latham-Colonie Columbiettes are hosting a Book Sale on Saturday, August 13th, 2022 at Latham-Colonie Knights of Columbus Council, 328 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, N.Y. 12110.
9 am to 3 pm Rain or Shine!
Book Donations will be accepted beginning July 30th at the Latham-Colonie Knights of Columbus Council at 328 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, N.Y. 12110 (Back of building) **Please No Textbooks, Magazines or Encyclopedias.
Information www.lathamcoloniekofc.com/dinners-events
Columbia High School Annual 70’s Reunion
Mark your calendar for Saturday, August 13, 2022 for the annual CHS 70’s Reunion party, noon to dusk, at Schodack Island State Park, Route 9J, Schodack Landing, NY. 1970-1979 graduates/attendees/teachers – but all CHS alumni are welcome! Join our Facebook group – Columbia High School 70’s Reunion – for additional information and updates or message Caroline Lynch Zeyak on FB or at elvis628@nullfairpoint.net. Spread the word!
APHS Class of ‘72 Reunión
The Averill Park Class of ‘72 is planning its 50th class reunion to be held on September 24th. If you are a class member and have not submitted your contact information please send details to kakingsbury54@nullyahoo.com to receive event information.
The Anchor Food Pantry
In an effort to keep the citizens of the Town of Schodack informed for ways to aid the Anchor Food Pantry in their mission to help others we mention the following to pitch in.
Food donations of canned goods and tolletries can be dropped off at both Castleton Vilage Hall (lobby area) and Town of Schodack Town Hall at the Town Clerk’s offices drop box during regular business hours. Also 6 cent Redemption Center -9J- 550 South St-Rensselaer NY is accepting bottle/can returns for the Anchor. Just let clerk on duty to credit the Anchor account. As always we thank all for their continued support of the food pantry.
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.
St. Jude the Apostle Knights of Columbus Bottle & Can Donations
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!
8 Tips for an Informed Conversation about Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse, also called Domestic Violence (DV), can be in one or more of these forms – emotional, verbal, financial, sexual and technology-based.
1. NEVER BLAME THE VICTIM: We tend to blame the victim by asking, “What did she/he do, to be treated that way?” We don’t ask this question to other victims. Instead, we need to ask: “why does he/she choose to abuse?”. Let the victim know that the abuse is not their fault and they deserve safety and respect.
2. TRUST THE VICTIM’S PERSPECTIVE: Often, abusers deny their partners, the right to make their own choices. Taking a victim-centered approach by prioritizing their needs and wants, empowers them. Ask the victims what they need to feel safe and offer the desired support.
3. LET YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS KNOW THAT DV IS NOT A “PRIVATE FAMILY MATTER.” DV is a crime under the Violence Against Women Act of 1994/96 which affords equal protection to women and men. One in three women and one in four men will be a victim of severe physical violence in their lifetime. Victims of DV are in every age, economic status, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion and education. They are the family members, neighbors, coworkers or friends of some of us.
4. CHALLENGE THE WIDELY-HELD MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT DV: “why doesn’t the victim just leave?”, “only physical violence is DV” and “it’s a private, family matter”. We need to be aware of multiple hurdles to leaving, for example – the safety of children & pets, financial security, and reaction from the family and community.
5. HOLD THE OFFENDERS ACCOUNTABLE: If it is safe to do so, impose social consequences on the abusers, like telling them they’re not welcome for the family dinner or to hang out, until their abusive behavior stops. Stop condoning their abusive behavior by saying “boys will be boys” or “that person would never abuse.” Family, friends and community members telling the offenders that their behavior is abusive, is a powerful deterrent against DV.
6. COUNTER THE STEREOTYPES: We need to counter inequalities and rigid gender roles like sexism and racism and educate the youth to reject these ‘-isms’.
7. BE AWARE THAT ABUSE IS ROOTED IN POWER AND CONTROL: Strategically isolating the victims from family and friends is a common tactic of the abuser, to gain power and control. Abusers may trap their partners by withholding, lying about or hiding financial assets which are forms of financial abuse.
8. WE CAN PREVENT DOMESTIC ABUSE WITH EDUCATION AND ACTION. These are some of the ways: start an informed conversation about DV with your loved ones, support the local DV agencies by donating your time and money and giving wide publicity to the 24/7 DV Hotlines, to make them as well-known as ‘911’. These agencies provide confidential and comprehensive services to the victims: empathy, guidance, counseling, legal and safe shelter support for the entire family.
Equinox 518.432.7865
Unity House 518. 272.2370
YWCA of NENY 518.374.3386
Wellspring 518.584.8188
National Hotline (800) 799-7233
St. Peter’s Crime Victim Services 518-271-3257
How to Prevent ‘Domestic Abuse’
Domestic abuse is also called Domestic violence (DV). It is a crime under the Violence Against the Women Act of 1994/96 which affords equal protection to women and men. DV can be emotional, financial, verbal, psychological, physical, sexual, and technology-facilitated abuse. It is affecting millions of individuals across the United States regardless of age, gender, economic status, religion and education. We can prevent DV by spreading awareness, challenging the myths and confronting the abusers.
INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILY LEVEL
NEVER BLAME THE VICTIM: We tend to ask “What did the victim do to deserve the abuse?”. Instead, we need to ask: “why does the abuser choose to abuse?”.
TRUST THE VICTIM’S PERSPECTIVE: Listen to and believe the victim to empower them to make their own decisions. Tell the victim that the abuse is not their fault and they deserve safety and respect. Ask them what they need to be safe.
TAKE A CLEAR STAND THAT DOMESTIC ABUSE IS NOT A “PRIVATE FAMILY MATTER.”: One in three women and one in four men will be a victim of severe physical violence at some point in their lifetime. Each day, an average of three women die at the hands of someone who claims or claimed to love them. Every abused person is someone’s sibling, parent, friend or co-worker.
TELL THE VICTIMS about the DV Hotlines: Equinox 518.432.7865; Unity House 518. 272.2370; YWCA NENY 518.374.3386; Wellspring 518.584.8188 and the U.S. National Domestic Violence Hotline 800.799.7233. If the victim is in immediate danger, call 911. Support your community by volunteering or donating to the DV agencies.
CONFRONT THE OFFENDERS: If it is safe, tell them that their abusive behavior is unacceptable. Impose social consequences like not welcoming for family dinner or to hang out, until they stop their abusive behavior. Study ‘bystander intervention training’ on YouTube and put it into practice.
EDUCATE THE CHILDREN AND YOUTH about healthy, unhealthy and abusive relationships. It is some of today’s children who will become tomorrow’s abusers and victims. Discuss DV at the family table and encourage everyone to respectfully speak up without fear when something doesn’t feel right. Set a healthy example by not using coercive measures to control your children’s’ behavior under any circumstance. Be respectful to everyone, irrespective of their age and sex. Losing your ‘cool ‘, is a big “No,’. If parents have difficulty managing their emotions, they need to seek help.
COMMUNITY LEVEL
CHALLENGE THE WIDELY-HELD MYTHS ABOUT DV AT EVERY OPPORTUNITY: That ‘DV’ means only physical violence’, it’s a “private family matter’, ‘the victim is weak’ and the victims can “just leave”. In reality, the woman is at the greatest risk of being hurt or even killed when trying to leave or after leaving. She has to carefully plan her escape, to protect herself, her children and pets and ensure financial security.
CHALLENGE THE MYTH THAT THE ABUSERS “LOSE CONTROL”: Not true. They don’t “lose control” at work, with friends and other family members! Abuse is a conscious choice rooted in power and control over the partner. Challenge the inequalities and ‘isms’ like sexism, racism, classism and patriarchy on which DV thrives.
GIVE SUSTAINED PUBLICITY TO THE DV HOTLINE NUMBERS through all the media until they are as well-known as ‘911’. Make sure DV brochures are always visible at public places like libraries, town halls, workplaces, doctor’s offices, religious places and community centers.
ORGANIZE DV AWARENESS CAMPAIGN EVERY OCTOBER. DV agencies can provide the publicity posters, brochures and speakers.
Hotlines of Domestic Violence Agencies: Equinox 518-432-7865; Unity House 518-272-2370; YWCA NENY 518-374-3386; Wellspring 518-584-8188; National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233; St. Peter’s Crime Victim Services 518-271-3257
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
Knocking out Alzheimer’s
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.
If you can’t drop off, contact us we will even pick up!
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
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