Your Community 08.20.20

Clinton Heights Area 19th Annual Reunion – CANCELED

EAST GREENBUSH – Under the current Covid-19 restrictions on gatherings that are in place, we are unable to hold the Clinton Heights Annual Reunion this year.   Please mark your calendar for next year’s reunion to be held Friday, September 10th at Melvin Roads American Legion in East Greenbush.

Books for Troops Continues to Help the Troops Cope with the Pandemic

CAPITAL DISTRICT – Books for Troops would like to thank all those who have donated thousands of books in the past few weeks. We appreciate that most of the books are in very good condition and do not include hard covers and romances. We now have a great inventory to fill our boxes. We send 80-100 boxes per month to the troops to help fill their many empty hours caused by the pandemic. The cost of postage to send this number of books is about $1000/month. While many people have donated generously for the postage, the money goes very quickly. We want to remind the people who donate books that their books stay in our Latham office unless we have the money to send them. Each box of about 40 books costs an average of $15.00 to mail. To send a donation for one or more boxes, please make a check out to: Books for Troops and mail to: Books for Troops, 152 Oak Brook Commons, Clifton Park, NY 12065. A tax receipt will be sent. Your donation will be a wonderful way to thank more of our “essential workers”, the troops and to remind them that we remember them with pride, gratitude and concern. 

If any companies, organizations, etc. would like to make a donation or do a fundraiser, it will be greatly appreciated. To do so, contact: ekeegan3@nullnycap.rr.com. Thanks as always for your support. Ellen Keegan, director, Books for Troops

Kyle Hurysz of Castleton on Hudson earns Dean’s List honors at Edinboro University

EDINBORO, PA – Kyle A Hurysz of Castleton on Hudson, NY, was named to the Dean’s List at Edinboro University for the spring 2020 semester. In order to attain this highly regarded academic honor, students must maintain a quality point average of 3.4 or higher, complete a minimum of 12 semester hours of credit and receive no grade lower than a C in any course. Hurysz was among nearly 1,200 students named to the spring 2020 Dean’s List.

Sand Lake Historical Society Barn Quilt Squares

SAND LAKE – A display of barn quilt squares created and donated by 13 local artists can be seen on Saturdays and Sundays, 12:00 noon – 3:00 p.m., through the month of August at the Sand Lake Center for the Arts on Rt 43 in Sand Lake. These unique, 2’ by 2’ squares were originally chosen as the featured artwork project relative to our “’Down on the Farm’ at June Farms” fundraiser (now tentatively rescheduled to May 21, 2021). It is also a silent auction fundraiser, and bid sheets will be available through Sunday, August 30.

The Barn Quilt Squares display will be held in the stage area. Following Statewide COVID-19 guidelines: Only 15 people will be allowed in the building at a time; Anyone entering the building must wear a mask and maintain social distancing; They will exit out the back after viewing the display.

Be sure to check out the Summer Juried Art Show “The Power and the Glory” in the lobby!

HVCC’s Virtual Student Exhibits Close Monday, Aug. 31

TROY – Hudson Valley Community College’s Fine Arts, Theatre Arts and Digital Media Department moved its annual end-of-year student exhibits to virtual galleries after the COVID-19 pandemic kept students out of on-campus classrooms and studios for much of the spring 2020 semester. Three exhibits that normally draw patrons and proud parents to the college’s Teaching Gallery can be viewed at www.hvcc.edu/teachinggallery through Aug. 31, 2020.

“Pulse 5” features class work in drawing, 2-D design, photography, graphic design, video, digital imaging, animation, and web-based and interactive media completed during the summer 2019, fall 2019 and spring 2020 semesters. The college’s Digital Media program offers either an Associate of Science degree or certificate, preparing students for further study or immediate employment in digital media fields.

The Fine Arts End-of-Year Student Exhibit includes drawing, 2-D design, painting and photography, also completed in the current and past two semesters by students pursuing an Associate in Science degree in Fine Arts.

Advanced Study in Drawing and Painting is two semesters of guided study for students who have completed foundation art courses and wish to pursue their own body of work.

Graduates in both the Fine Arts and Digital Media programs may choose to continue their education or enter the workforce. In 2020, the college expects 11 students to graduate from the Fine Arts program and 29 to graduate from the Digital Media program.

The virtual exhibitions were developed by the participating artists with Digital Media and Fine Arts faculty members, and assistance from the Information Technology Services and Graphics departments. The Teaching Gallery is supported by the Fine Arts, Theatre Arts and Digital Media Department, Cultural Affairs Program, and the college’s Foundation.

East Schodack Town Wide Garage Sale

EAST SCHODACK – Save the date. Save your stuff. For the town of East Schodack garage sale . It will be on Saturday September 5, 2020 starting at 9am till 3pm. Come take a ride and find the best deals in the town. Social distancing and masks are asked to be used.

Sand Lake Historical Society Annual Member Meeting

SAND LAKE – The SLHS will hold its annual member meeting on Sept 8th at Butler Park at 5:30. Arlington House will provide sandwiches, salad and sides in a box. Tickets will be $20. We will provide tables and tents and please bring chairs if you have them. Masks and social distancing will be required. Any questions or concerns or suggestions please email Jackie Tremont at Jtre115@nullyahoo.com or text or call 5185279926. PLEASE know if you are uncomfortable we do not expect you to attend and completely understand.

Nassau Family Fest 

NASSAU – The Town of Nassau Youth Committee is excited to announce that Nassau Family Fest will be held on September 12th, 2020 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Pavilion, Lyons Lake, 307 Lyons Lake Road.  Win games and turn in tickets for prizes; lawn games and competitions; Easter Egg Hunt.  Hamburgers and hot dogs.  This event is free to the public.  This will be a Covid safe event – masks and social distancing will be required when appropriate.  Follow us on Facebook at Town of Nassau Youth.

Town of Brunswick Monthly Brush Pick Up Schedule

TOWN OF BRUNSWICK – Pick up schedule: 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

News from Averill Park CSD

AVERILL PARK – During the week of August 10-14, Averill Park Central School District held five community forums on the reopening of school. There were two District-wide forums for parents and community members. There were also forums for the Elementary Schools, the Middle School and the High School. Parents were able to ask questions and receive information to better help them decide their child’s mode of learning for the upcoming school year.

To find the latest information on the reopening of our school buildings in the fall, visit our website frequently and check in with our social media platforms for updates.

Senior Brodie Smith recently completed his Eagle Scout project, which was comprised of making improvements to the Cross-Country course. Brodie put down crusher run, removed roots and rocks, and added a sign along with trail markers. Great job Brodie!

Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent

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

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 5:00 to 7:00 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.

Castleton-on-Hudson Farmers & Artisans Market

CASTLETON-ON-HUDSON – The Castleton-on-Hudson Farmers & Artisans Market (COHFAM) 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. New York Forward permits the market to feature fresh vegetables, take-away food items, crafts and massage, but Repair Café is on hold, whether at COHFAM or the Village Hall (or globally). Market patrons are required to wear masks and observe social distancing. Hand sanitizer is 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!

East Greenbush Farmer’s Market

EAST GREENBUSH – The East Greenbush Farmer’s Market is held every Wednesday 4pm -7pm in between the Greenbush YMCA and the East Greenbush Library at 20 Community Way, East Greenbush. The market runs through September 30th (September hours are 4pm-6:00pm). Visit cdymca.org/farmers-market/ to see our list of vendors. We ask market visitors to please wear your mask and bring your reusable shopping bags.

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 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