Your Community 09.08.22

TLC Daycare in Brunswick

TLC Christian Daycare is a community ministry of Brunswick Church, providing loving care to children 8 weeks to 5 years old. The daycare, which has been in operation for 31 years, is located in the church building on White Church Lane (just off Route 351). 

If you would like to know more about the program, or if you would like to inquire about the employment opportunities, please email tlcboard@nullbrunswickchurch.org. We would love to have the opportunity to talk with you!

Rensselaer High School Student Serves as Walk Ambassador for 

Annual Walk to END EPILEPSY® 

ALBANY: The support the Epilepsy Foundation of Northeastern New York provides through their 22-county service area is critical for their consumers, which includes Rensselaer high school student, Kayla Beaudoin.

Kayla’s mother, Jerilee, is board president of EFNENY and says, “My daughter, Kayla, had over 40 seizures before the age of one. This included many trips to the ER, stays in the PICU, 5-day EEGs and a trip to Boston Children’s hospital. We felt alone and very afraid.” Finally, in 2008, Jerilee found the support they needed with the Epilepsy Foundation of Northeastern New York (EFNENY).

Executive Director of the Organization, Jeannine Garab, said, “Our Walk to END EPILEPSY® supports the 45,000 people living with epilepsy throughout northeastern New York. We are excited to have the support of the many teams walking in their own communities throughout our 22 counties. Wherever you are, together, we are all walking to END EPILEPSY.”

The Epilepsy Foundation of Northeastern New York is excited to offer a fun way to get some fresh air AND help a good cause with their Walk to END EPILEPSY® on Sunday, September 11, 2022. The Organization chose to make this a hybrid event, so walkers can join at Saratoga Spa State Park, Arrowhead Park in Inlet, NY or wherever they choose to walk!! There’s no fee to register, and you can find the registration page as well as more information on our website www.efneny.org. 

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder defined as having two or more recurring seizures; it can happen to anyone, at any age, at any time. One in 26 people will be diagnosed with epilepsy in their lifetime. Epilepsy is more common than Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease combined. For more information, call the Epilepsy Foundation at 518-456-7501 or visit our website at www.efneny.org 

Rensselaer High School Student Serves as Walk Ambassador for Annual Walk to END EPILEPSY® 

CAPITAL DISTRICT –  The support the Epilepsy Foundation of Northeastern New York provides through their 22-county service area is critical for their consumers, which includes Rensselaer high school student, Kayla Beaudoin.

Kayla’s mother, Jerilee, is board president of EFNENY and says, “My daughter, Kayla, had over 40 seizures before the age of one. This included many trips to the ER, stays in the PICU, 5-day EEGs and a trip to Boston Children’s hospital. We felt alone and very afraid.” Finally, in 2008, Jerilee found the support they needed with the Epilepsy Foundation of Northeastern New York (EFNENY).

The Epilepsy Foundation of Northeastern New York is excited to offer a fun way to get some fresh air AND help a good cause with their Walk to END EPILEPSY® on Sunday, September 11, 2022. The Organization chose to make this a hybrid event, so walkers can join at Saratoga Spa State Park, Arrowhead Park in Inlet, NY or wherever they choose to walk!! There’s no fee to register, and you can find the registration page as well as more information on our website www.efneny.org. 

For more information, call the Epilepsy Foundation at 518-456-7501 or visit our website at www.efneny.org 

The Sand Lake Kiwanis Club Thanks Our Summerfest 2022 Community Sponsors 

Kiwanis sincerely thanks the many community businesses and organizations that helped us present Summerfest 2022. Their sponsorships contributed greatly to the success of this multi-event, four day party for our surrounding communities. Year after year, these sponsors support Sand Lake Kiwanis Club’s efforts to bring quality services to our community. We encourage residents of Sand Lake and our surrounding communities to show their appreciation by patronizing these local stores and businesses. 

The Major Sponsors

Troy Sand and Gravel, Stewart Ice Cream Shops, N&L Auto Body, The Lakeview Restaurant, Dr. Geoffrey Gamache, Patanian Homes/Westfall Village.

Additional Valued Sponsors

Bradway & Bros Enterprises,  Kay’s Burden Lake Restaurant, Leckonby’s Autoworks, Creek Bottom Contracting, Lane Refractories Corp., Country Auto Repair, Inc., Bubie’s Garage, DEA Computing , The Tennis Coach, AB Daley Insurance, Poestenkill Auto Supply, Inc ., Quinn Motor Car, Worthington Flowers, Legenbauer Gas & Oil, Botsy’s Barber Shop, Hart’s Fuel Service, Kevin J. McGrath, L.S.,  Reiniger’s Home Improvements, William E. Bradway, Ryan Smithson, Gipfel Coffee Company, DB Paving, Heller’s Wine & Liquor, Doby’s Submarine Shop, Sand Lake Center for the Arts,  Custom Cutters,  Miller’s Auto Service, Bradley Park, Sand Lake Septic, Bob’s Rental Center,  Averill Park Septic, Sand Lake Clipper, JIFF-E Mart , Burden Lake Enterprises,  Art Herman & Son Builders.

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.

Joe Stevens, Jr #33 Memorial Award

I’d like to take this opportunity to announce that Ryan Heffner is the 2022 recipient of the Joe Stevens Jr. #33 Memorial Award. This award is given to a senior who played football for APHS and demonstrated leadership, dedication, loyalty and honesty on and off the field. Given in Memory of Joe who wore #33 and was a 2001 graduate of APHS. Ryan was voted unanimously by the members of the football team, stating he exemplified the most qualities like Joe did. Ryan’s name has been added to the Memorial Scholarship plaque and will be displayed outside the high school gym. I’d like to thank everyone who has contributed, and made this award possible to present for the 20th year. Thank you again. From the family of Joe Stevens, Jr.

Puzzle Lovers Alert!

The Friends of the North Greenbush Public Library are having a puzzle sale on Saturday,September 24 from 9 AM –
3 PM in the Annex Bldg. of the Town Hall.

The Annex is located at the end of the Town Hall by the playground. It is handicapped accessible. We have vintage,1,000 piece, children’s, opened and unopened puzzles for sale – all at reasonable prices. Hope to see you there!

Columbia High School 1972 – 50th Reunion

Columbia High School, class of 1972, is holding their 50th Reunion on Saturday, October 1, 2022 at the Rensselaer Elks Lodge, Columbia Tpke., East Greenbush.

If you are a class member and have not been contacted please send information to chseg72@nullgmail.com.

News from Averill Park CSD

Welcome back! We are very excited about the 2022-2023 school year. In this space we will be sharing student and staff achievements, upcoming events and other important information.

Please note that during the pandemic, the USDA ensured that all schools were able to offer free meals to all students. However, this universal reimbursement expired on June 30, 2022. Averill Park CSD will return to charging for meals in 2022-23 and will offer an opportunity for families to apply for free or reduced meals. All meals purchased at school will require payment unless a family is approved for free or reduced meals. An application is available on our Food Services page and all families are encouraged to fill it out.

Additionally, during the pandemic the District opened up its campus to provide the community with outdoor spaces to use for physical activity. In an effort to make our campuses as safe as possible, the District has reverted back to being a closed campus during the school day.

As always, for the latest news from the District, please visit our website – averillpark.k12.ny.us. You can also follow AP on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent

Bike with East Greenbush Police

On Sunday, Sept. 11th, from 11 – 2, the East Greenbush Police Dept. is teaming up with local organizations for a bicycle ride along the Albany Hudson Electric Trail. The police will talk about helmet and trail safety and lead a bike ride. Upon return, they will be serving hot dogs and chips. Also involved, the East Greenbush Y will be passing out water and granola bars; the East Greenbush library will be offering a craft and signing up anyone who doesn’t currently have a library card. Staples is giving out certificates of participation. The East Greenbush Kiwanis is passing out safety whistles, offering information on ticks and having a raffle. It’s a free, healthy, family fun event!!! Rain date is Sunday, Sept. 25th. For information, call Lynne (518) 479-3959.

You Can Make A Difference @ STRIDE Adaptive Sports

Giving a few hours of your time would make a world of difference to regional youth with special needs, by volunteering with STRIDE Adaptive Sports. STRIDE offers life changing sport and recreation opportunities for People with disabilities of all kinds. Our programs are entirely dependent on volunteers. Our headquarters and adaptive community center is located in West Sand Lake. 

Since 1985, STRIDE has worked tirelessly to build a community with equal opportunity and access for sport and recreational activities. No one should be left behind because of a disability! STRIDE’s focus is youth programming in individual lifetime sports, and a belief that it is possible to remove boundaries, fulfill dreams, enhance self-esteem, and empower youth with disabilities through participation in sport and recreational activities.

STRIDE is experiencing post COVID volunteer shortages and has had to turn away children from programs due to lack of volunteers. Volunteering with STRIDE is extremely rewarding. Working with individuals who have special needs and seeing them accomplish what was thought to be impossible gives joy to all those involved.

For more information on STRIDE and how you can be involved please visit www.stride.org or email Carly at cronan@nullstride.org

East Side Neighborhood Tag Sale @ Hope 7 Community Center

Hope 7 Community Center will be participating in the East Side Neighborhood Tag Sale on Saturday, September 10th from 9am-3pm.

Great selections, great prices and a percentage of any food purchased (dine in or take out) from Carol’s place will be donated to Hope 7.

Hope 7 is located at 596 Pawling Ave.

The Capital District Humanist Society Presents: Everyone Belongs Outside:
A Prescription For Nature Across the Lifespan

CAPITAL DISTRICT – We all feel it – at a beach, in a field, on a mountain top.  Dr. Sonya Jakubec will share lessons from collaborative, community-engaged research and programming the importance of parks and nature for people experiencing cancer, disability, dementia, palliative care, and grief.  She highlights the evidence promoting parks and parks prescribing as an intervention within the “Healthy Parks-Healthy People” and “Social Prescribing” movements.  Collaboration across health and parks sectors points to practical applications, ideas for implementing parks and nature connections, and recommendations for health and nature innovations. Through rich research discoveries, practical examples, images and stories, Sonya shines the light on ways to fill your own prescription for parks and nature across the lifespan.

This program will take place online, via Zoom, on Sunday, September 11th, 2022 at 1 PM EDT.   Current paid CDHS members will automatically receive an invite to the meeting via e mail.  

ANY ONE WHO IS NOT A CURRENT PAID MEMBER of CDHS CAN ATTEND.  Send an e mail request to:  CDHS.Albany@nullgmail.com several days prior, or  Log onto our Meetup page:  https://www.meetup.com/Capital-District-Humanist-Society/.  Click on Join, then on Attend, and use the RSVP function and the link will be available to you.

Time to Register for the Sand Lake Garage Sale

 SAVE THE DATE! Save your stuff. Sell your stuff. Register now for The annual Sand Lake Town-wide Garage Sale Sat. & Sun., Sept. 17 & 18 sponsored by the Sand Lake Business Association. 

You can participate three ways. List your home garage sale and it will be publicized for free in all our social media and on our event map. Join our Vendor Corral open both Sat. & Sun. and rent a booth (two sizes) conveniently located on NY43 (corner of NY 43 & Averill Ave across from Eastview Dr). 

Or travel among the home sales and the Vendor Corral to find treasures of all kinds!  This is a wonderful opportunity to sell your crafts, antiques, collectibles, and items of all kinds. Great for sport teams, the Scouts, and social organizations too.  To register your garage sale or reserve a vendor booth go to www.sandlakebusiness.com. Don’t miss our 2022 event!! 

Village Wide Garage Sale

Please come and check out the East Schodack Village wide garage sale on September 10,2022, from 9-3.

This will be on Route 150, Country Route 7, and side roads like East Hill road and more. Check for signs. 

Always have some great bargains!

St. Stephen’s E. Schodack Tag Sale

St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, 751 County Route 7 (directly off Route 150), East Schodack, NY will host its Annual September Tag Sale on Saturday, September 10th, at 9 am, rain or shine, in conjunction with the East Schodack Village Wide Sale.

Grab some Treasures! We have kitchen and household items, vintage china, linens, decor, holiday items, books, kids toys, a little of everything! Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 10, so you don’t miss the Village Wide sale!

THS Class of 1971 to hold Reunion September 17

Troy High School’s Class of 1971 will hold its (COVID-delayed) 50th Reunion Weekend September 16-18, 2022 in Troy. Classmates interested in attending may contact Mike Whalen at mwhalen3@<span class=”oe_displaynone”>null</span>nycap.rr.com.

Friday Night September 16 an informal welcome gathering will be held at Ryan’s Wake, 403 River Street beginning at 5 pm. Cash bar.

Saturday morning classmates will gather at Troy’s Waterfront Market. In the afternoon a special Gilded Age tour will be offered by Kathy Sheehan of the Hart Cluett Museum. Cost is $20 pp.

Saturday evening the main Reunion Event will be held on the Rooftop of Franklin Plaza from 6:30-10 pm. Cost is $85 pp. Sunday at 10 am a Farewell Brunch is being organized.

Reservations in advance may be made by contacting (518) 274-5423 or mwhalen3@<span class=”oe_displaynone”>null</span>nycap.rr.com

Old Chatham Cemetery annual meeting

The annual meeting of the Old Chatham Union Cemetery Corporation will be held on Saturday, September 17th, at 2pm in the Vedder Hall of the Malden Bridge Community Center located at 1087 Albany Turnpike, Malden Bridge NY 12115.

All lot owners or their designated representative of the Cemetery located on Shaker Museum Road, Old Chatham, are encouraged to attend. Agenda for the meeting will include a financial report by the Treasurer, including a report on a recent letter sent to lot owners requesting help in supporting the upkeep of the cemetery. Other business will include a discussion on general maintenance, election of officers and directors as well as any other business that may come before the Corporation.

The input of all lot owners is most welcome and necessary in the decision making process to make this truly your community cemetery. If you have any questions, feel free to contact President Elizabeth M. Hurley at 518-766-3815.

The Averill Park Community Orchestra is Looking for Musicians!

If you play a musical instrument, the Averill Park Community Orchestra is excited to be starting rehearsals again soon and we are looking for new members! If you or someone you know plays an orchestral instrument (strings, woodwinds, brass, or percussion) and may be interested in joining, please call or text Christina Desmond at 518-948-0565. We are especially in need of string players (violin, viola, cello, string bass) and are planning a special event for strings in early 2023.

APCO rehearses at Algonquin Middle School in Averill Park on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 – 8:30, and we anticipate performing three concerts this year, one in December and two in the spring. Rehearsals begin September 14th, and we will accept new members through early October in preparation for our performance on December 17th (snow date December 18th). You can also find us on Facebook or check out our website at apcorchestra.org. We look forward to hearing from you!

Doors of Hope Food Pantry and Thrift Store

All of us at the Doors of Hope Food Pantry and Thrift Store would like to thank the wonderful generosity of our communities who continue to amaze us with their generosity. Your donations amaze us both in variety and amounts! Your encouraging words and appreciation of our efforts make us feel that you are all a part of our team. Together, our Food Pantry is thriving and able to meet the needs of all those who request our assistance. We have also been able to send ten children to summer camp this year. 

Doors of Hope assists in times of emergencies such as home fires. We help support the Sky High Community Center. When we have an overflow, we donate clothing and other items to local organizations such as Unity House and Grass Roots, as well as other community groups. We organize our yearly adopt-a-family for Christmas and coat collection. The Doors of Hope is open Monday through Friday, 9am to 4pm, and Saturday from 9am to Noon. Doors of Hope is open late until 7pm on Thursday. Be sure to drop by to say “Hi” and browse through our treasures! You never know what you might find and best of all, you’re helping your community at the same time. 

Please remember, donations need to be clean and in good condition. Please call (518) 674-4048 before donating furniture to be sure we have space for it. Household goods, toys, holiday items and collectibles are always welcome, but once again, keep in mind that all things must be clean and in good condition. Also, please drop off your donations when the store is open until 3pm, Monday through Friday (until 7pm Thursday), and 11am Saturday. Please do not leave donations outside our door when we are closed. This can at times be overwhelming to deal with at the beginning of our day! With all the community support, and with all the volunteers of Doors of Hope, we are an incredible team, and great things can be accomplished! **Exciting News! We will be expanding soon!

Cub Scout Pack 2528

Registration is now open for Cub Scouts Pack 2528! Our group covers all youth in Grades K-5 in the Averill Park School District!

Parent meeting will be Sunday September 11 at 4PM at the VFW 25 Veterans St. Poestenkill, NY 12140. All ideas are encouraged! Bring a friend who may also be interested in learning more about the Pack! #adventureon Contact Troop2528@nullgmail.com for any questions

The Nassau Sunshine Fund Wants You!!

Do you have time to give back to your community? Do you want to help your neighbors in need? The Nassau Sunshine Fund is looking for interested people to join our Board of Directors.

We are a charitable organization that has been making no interest emergency loans since 2009 to people who live within the Town of Nassau as determined by the tax map. All of the funds to make these loans come from loan repayments and donations. All loan application and repayment information is kept strictly confidential. The Board of Directors meets every other month and decides how loans are processed, how funds are raised, how the community is informed of this program and how our organization collaborates with other local charitable groups. During the pandemic we had been meeting using Zoom; we have recently returned to the Nassau Free Library for meetings on the first Thursday evening, every other month. We have a website where you may read more information about how we started and what we have done since the beginning. 

Please learn about our organization at www.nassausunshinefund.org and consider joining our Board of Directors. Potential Board members are welcome to attend a meeting beforehand. You may use the Contact tab at our website to send a message; you may also send a request for information to Nassau Sunshine Fund, PO Box #10, Nassau, NY 12123. 

We look forward to including you in our “Neighbor Helping Neighbor” efforts.

Woodlawn Cemetery Annual Meeting

The Woodlawn Cemetery Association, Inc. 111 Burden Lake Road, East Schodack will hold their Annual Meeting on Tuesday evening September 13, 2022 at 6:30pm at the East Schodack Fire House, 3071 NY Route 150 in East Schodack. 

On the agenda will be the report of the Treasurer, discussion of general upkeep of the cemetery, including costs, election of Officers and Trustees as well as any other business that comes before the Association.

Donations for mowing, and upkeep of the fountain, are greatly appreciated and can be sent to Woodlawn Cemetery Assoc. Inc P.O. Box 14, East Schodack, NY 12063

All lot owners or their designated representatives are encouraged to attend, and your participation is most welcome. This is your opportunity to be part of the decision making concerning your cemetery. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact President Frank Curtis at 518-766-3318, or mail your comments or questions to Woodlawn Cemetery Association.

Brunswick Historical Society- Annual Bake/Tag Sale

Brunswick Historical Society is looking for vendors for our Annual Tag sale on September 10, 2022. Rain or shine. 

We are located at 605 Brunswick Rd in Eagle Mills. We will be offering a limited number of spaces (1)- 8×10 for free. Don’t miss out. Sign up now. 

Contact Tracy for more information at 518-279-3020 or email at president@nullbhs-ny.org.

Power Lunch Needs Reading Mentors 

 Do you enjoy reading to children? Do you have an hour a week to spare? Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County needs volunteer  reading mentors for the Everybody WINS! Power Lunch program at 

Van Rensselaer Elementary in Rensselaer as well as School 2 and School 14 in Troy.

Everybody Wins! is an innovative reading and mentoring program that increases children’s prospects for success in school and in life. Power Lunch pairs elementary school children one-to-one with volunteers from nearby businesses, colleges and the community. Once a week, reading partners enjoy conversation together at the school, and the adult reads a book aloud to the child while he/she eats lunch.

 Readers will be required to attend a training session. The first one will be held on Tuesday, September 20, 1:00p.m – 2:30 p.m. in Troy (location TBD). Other training dates will be announced. To register or for more information, contact (518) 244-4650 or litvoldirector@nullaol.com

Sand Lake Historical Society Fall 2022 Program

The Sand Lake Historical Society has announced its program schedule for Fall 2022. Except as noted, all public programs are held at the Sand Lake Town Hall Courtroom, 8428 NY 66, Averill Park, and begin at 7pm. A $5 donation is suggested for non-members. 

On September 13, 2022, Sand Lake Historian Bob Moore will provide his annual update. This will be followed, on October 11th, with a program by Troy City Historian Kathy Sheehan on Gilded Age Troy (and the filming of the HBO series), to be held at the Sand Lake Center for the Arts (2880 NY 43, Averill Park). November 15th will feature Heather Bruegl, Indigenous consultant, historian, and Oneida/Stockbridge-Munsee Mohican Nation member who will speak about Sand Lake’s earliest inhabitants. Our members-only Holiday Gathering returns to the Knowlson House on December 13th and January 10th will be another installment of “Show and Tell” where the community is asked to share “what’s in their attic”, as any recent findings of historical research. 

Additional information and archived video of past programs are posted to the SLHS website – https://sandlakehistory.org/ and on our Facebook page.

Columbia High School Class of 1972 – 50th Reunion

EAST GREENBUSH – Columbia High School, class of 1972, is holding their 50th Reunion on Saturday, October 1, 2022 at the Rensselaer Elks Lodge, Columbia Tpke., East Greenbush, NY. 

If you are a class member and have not been contacted please send information to chseg72@nullgmail.com.

Art Call for an Averill Park Exhibition

aGatherin’ is sponsoring a third Art Exhibition with Arts Letters & Numbers: “Erie, Eerie, Aerie, Wired, Weird & Wild – Art at the Border of Strange” to open October 26 for 3 days. 

Inspired by the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal – that audacious slice through New York State – we choose the season of All Hallows Eve, to host art works in all media, representational or performative. The exhibition will be mounted at the Faith Mills Studios in Averill Park. 

Deadline for proposals is October 1; deadline for delivery of material October 22. Contact Diane DeBlois, agatherin@nullyahoo.com.

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 “Bread of Life” Food Pantry

When struggling to purchase enough food to last the month, consider coming to the “Bread of Life” food pantry in Poestenkill.

If you are low income, we are here to help. We are located in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Poestenkill, 772 Route 351, Poestenkill, NY 12140.

Open on the first and third Thursdays of every month from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm both days. Please bring proof of your address in the form of a utility bill or other official documents.

Along with food products, we are offering baby diapers, wipes and food items for infants and toddlers to those who are low income.

We wish to help those in need in and around Poestenkill. You may leave a message at (518) 283-6045. Thank you to all who have donated. If you wish to donate, make checks payable to ELCP and note in the memo “Food Pantry” and mail to ELCP, P.O. Box 167, Poestenkill, NY 12140. We put every dollar to good use.

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