Your Community 09.03.20

Books for Troops Looking for a New Director

CAPITAL DISTRICT – Books for Troops, a not-for profit, all volunteer organization since 2010 is looking for a new director. Ellen Keegan, its present director, has decided to leave her position due to poor health. Ellen founded Books for Troops in April 2010 to send books and other reading material to the troops as a temporary form of escape.   Books for Troops now sends an average of 60 boxes per month to individual soldiers or whole units who in turn share them with others These books are sent to all deployed troops within the states and around the world. Books are also sent to many VA hospitals or veterans rehab centers within the states and in Landstuhl, Germany. Books for Troops is based in Latham NY and is supported by donations across the nation from individuals, organizations and companies. It now has a volunteer base of 10 people. 

Books for Troops is now looking for a person who strongly believes in books as a means of escape for the troops. As director, this person must have good people skills and be a hands on person, working side by side with its volunteers and the public. He/she must also have good computer and organizational skills, as well as a familiarity with Facebook.  The hours and days of operation will be decided by both the director and the volunteers. Both the present volunteers and Ellen will be available to train the interested person with the operation of the entire program. Even after the director is chosen, Ellen will be available as a consultant.

Anyone interested in becoming the Books for Troops’ director, may send their name to Ellen Keegan at: ekeegan3@nullnycap.rr.com. Please place the word Director in the subject area. Please include some background information as to why you feel you would be a good director. Ellen will contact you by e-mail. 

Books for Troops will continue as usual during this pursuit of the director and the transition. Until then, Ellen will continue as director until a new one is ready to take over her duties.

News from Averill Park CSD

AVERILL PARK – We are one week away from the start of the 2020-2021 school year. While there are many uncertainties surrounding the upcoming year, we are excited to welcome students back into our buildings, both literally and virtually.

Recently, the Governor stated that certain athletic teams can begin practicing on September 21 and low-risk sports can play games at that point, as well. With that news, we are excited to announce that Averill Park CSD has merged with Troy City Schools for a girls’ swim team this year. Good luck to all who will begin their journey in the water!

Be sure to check out our social media platforms and the reopening page on our district website. Over the past few weeks, we have released videos with information about how school will look in the coming year, how transportation will look, and what parents and students can do to prepare.

Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent

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

Elmwood Cemetery News 

WEST SAND LAKE – We will have our Annual Meeting on Monday, September 14, at 5PM, near the shed on the cemetery grounds located at the corner of Rte. 150 and Shaver Road, in West Sand Lake. ALL cemetery lot owners and anyone interested in Elmwood Cemetery are encouraged to attend. We need to get new members to take over the duties in running the cemetery, as its future is at stake. As this will be an outside meeting you are asked to bring your own chair. Please be prepared with a facial mask and practice social distancing while attending the meeting.

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

Rensselaer County Legislature Turns the Towns Teal in Observance of Ovarian Cancer

RENSSELAER COUNTY – Ovarian Cancer is known as the silent disease, so the earlier the diagnosis, the better the prognosis. The Rensselaer County Legislature adopted a resolution in observance of September as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Chairman Mike Stammel, Vice-Chair Kelly Hoffman, Majority Leader Ken Herrington, and Legislator Tom Grant joined in Turning the Towns Teal to raise awareness of Ovarian Cancer. To learn more about Ovarian Cancer and its symptoms visit www.TurnTheTownsTeal.org.

Katelyn Ooms Graduates from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania

BLOOMSBURG, PA –  Katelyn Ooms from Rensselaer, NY, graduated Cum Laude with a degree in Speech Path & Audiology BS from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania on Aug. 8, 2020. Ooms was one of nearly 1,100 students who received their academic degrees. The overall grade point average necessary for honors distinction is: cum laude (with distinction) 3.5 – 3.74 overall average; magna cum laude (with great distinction) 3.75 – 3.94 overall average and summa cum laude (with highest distinction) 3.95 – 4.0 overall average.

Roger Williams University Announces Spring 2020 Graduates

BRISTOL, RI – The following local residents were among the students who received their degrees in May as part of the Class of 2020:

Benjamin Crawley, of Poestenkill, NY, graduated with a B.A. in Political Science in May as part of the Class of 2020.

Brian Giddings, of West Sand Lake, NY, graduated with a B.S. in Architecture in May as part of the Class of 2020.

Nicholas Valenti, of Averill Park, NY, graduated Cum Laude with a Master of Architecture in May as part of the Class of 2020.

St. Lawrence University Students Named to Dean’s List

CANTON, NY – The following students have been selected for inclusion on the Dean’s List for academic achievement during the Spring 2020 semester at St. Lawrence University. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, a student must have completed at least four courses and have an academic average of 3.6 based on a 4.0 scale for the semester.

Robert Cleghorn III of Rensselaer.

Shannon Doin of Troy.

Jacob Snyder of Sand Lake.

Reminder to Dog Owners in the Town of Schodack

SCHODACK – Debra L. Curtis, the Schodack Town Clerk, wishes to remind residents that under NYS Agriculture and Markets Law Article VII, §109, all dogs are required to be licensed by four months of age and under Town Law §109-5, all dogs, when not confined to the property of their owner, must be under control and on a leash not in excess of 12 feet in length. Leash length is reduced to 6 feet when walking within the Town Park.

To obtain a dog license, a copy of the current Rabies Certificate, which must be valid for more than 30 days prior to licensing and must be signed by a licensed veterinarian, and proof that the animal has been altered, must be provided. The cost for a spayed/neutered dog is $7.00 and an unspayed/unneutered dog is $15.00. One tag is issued for the lifetime of the license; however, in the event of loss, it can be replaced at a cost of $3.00. A renewal letter will be sent on an annual basis, based upon the anniversary of the license.

If you have any questions please visit the Schodack Town Clerk’s office, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Schodack Town Hall, 265 Schuurman Road, Castleton, NY 12033 or please call 518-477-7590.

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 21st-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.

Newly Diagnosed with Parkinson’s? Consider Attending PD SELF – Parkinson’s Self-Efficacy Learning Forum

CAPITAL DISTRICT – A national program being offered in Albany, that 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 October, has been adapted  to be fully online. Find out more at www.cdparkinsons.org/pd-self

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