Thursday May 2, 2024 
Recovery Month – Let’s Celebrate and Recognize those in Recovery!
CAPITAL DISTRICT – September is a month to celebrate and recognize those in recovery! We often associate Recovery Month with those who are in recovery from a substance use disorder. Because problem gambling is often a “hidden addiction,” we want to take the opportunity to make it a priority to talk about, make efforts to prevent, educate and screen for problem gambling.
The risk for problem gambling among individuals who are in recovery from substance use disorder is real. Let’s take a look at the facts:
• Nearly 668,000 adults in NYS are struggling with a gambling problem. (2006 OASAS Adult Problem Gambling Household Survey)
• Almost 75% of people diagnosed with a gambling disorder also had an alcohol use disorder. (Petry NM, Comorbidity of the DSM-IV pathological gambling and other psychiatric disorders)
• Close to 40% of people diagnosed with a gambling disorder also had a drug use disorder. (Petry NM, Comorbidity of the DSM-IV pathological gambling and other psychiatric disorders)
September is also National Suicide Prevention Month. Did you know that problem gambling has the highest rate of suicide among all other addictions? Here’s the facts:
• About 50 percent of those struggling with a gambling problem have either thought about or attempted suicide.
• 1in 5 has problem gamblers have attempted and/or died by suicide.
Because so many individuals are impacted by one person’s gambling problem, a person’s mental and physical health could also be impacted. A study found that nine out of 10 people affected by someone else’s gambling problems felt emotional distress. It’s important to recognize the warning signs. How can we tell if someone is struggling with a gambling addiction? There are several warning signs to look out for including:
• being absent from friend/family events because of gambling;
• feeling stressed or anxious when not gambling;
• low work performance due to absence or preoccupation with betting; and
• lying to family and friends about how much money and time is spent on gambling.
There is hope! Recovery from problem gambling is possible! Local, barrier free help is available through the Northeast Problem Gambling Resource Center. For more information, please call 518-801-1491 or email us at NortheastPGRC@nullNYProblemGambling.org. You can also visit our website at www.NYProblemGamblingHELP.org.
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. Its donated office is in Latham, NY. It now has a very loyal all=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 be willing to be a hands on person, working side by side with its volunteers. He/she must have good people skills working with its volunteers and the public. Training will be hands on. Computer skills would be helpful, as well as familiarity with Facebook.
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 that would be pertinent. Ellen will contact you by e-mail or by phone.
Books for Troops will continue as usual during this pursuit of the director and the transition. Donations of books and postage will continue to be needed.
Local Girl Scouts Volunteer with Street Soldiers to Help Homeless
Girls from Service Unit 136 Troop 1474 volunteered with Street Soldiers, a network of local volunteers who are making the streets easier to live on, for the homeless and those in need; offering toiletries, clothing, a hot meal, or bottled water and a smile. The girls gathered over 150 items for donation and spend the evening disbursing items. Fighting food insecurity is a passion for these girls and they were happy for the opportunity to contribute with Street Soldiers. Whether they are protecting our environment, lobbying the city council, or speaking up for the vulnerable, Girl Scouts always have remarkable, motivating stories to share about how they make a difference in their community. (Meghan Sambrook, Annie Patwell, Ava Johnson and Bailey Tator in photo)
Student Named to Dean’s List at Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
ALBANY, N.Y. – Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is pleased to announce that Leah Debboli from Troy earned a place on the school’s Dean’s List for the Spring 2020 semester. Dean’s List status is awarded to students who have successfully completed their course work with a semester grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 or higher out of a possible 4.0 score.
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
Student Named to Dean’s List at Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
ALBANY, N.Y. – Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is pleased to announce that Leah Debboli from Troy earned a place on the school’s Dean’s List for the Spring 2020 semester. Dean’s List status is awarded to students who have successfully completed their course work with a semester grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 or higher out of a possible 4.0 score.
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
HVCC Announces LiveStream Lecture Series for Fall 2020
TROY – Hudson Valley Community College presents Voices: A Library Lecture Series each fall and spring semester. This fall, the lectures will be streamed live online due to the current COVID-19 restrictions on public gatherings. All are open free to the public. Each lecture has a unique virtual address (see below).
Mindfulness for The Busy Person: Why Slowing Down is the Fastest Growing Trend
Wednesday, Sept. 20, 11-11:50 a.m. / https://livestream.com/hvccstreaming/events/9235034
Kim Perone, M.A., C.L.C., a success coach and mindfulness trainer at the Center for Clarity, Compassion & Contentment (CENTER4C) in Burnt Hills, introduces mindfulness in the year that a pandemic has thrown the world into a completely different way of being.
Elections 2020: A Perspective from Albany
Thursday, Oct. 15, 11-11:50 a.m. / https://livestream.com/hvccstreaming/events/9235041
Spectrum News political reporter Susan Arbetter shares her insights on what could happen in the national, state, and local elections, and what those results could mean for New York State.
Tiny Homes… From Pinterest Dreams to Affordable Housing
Tuesday, Oct. 27, 1-1:50 p.m. / https://livestream.com/hvccstreaming/events/9235043
Local businesswoman Brittany McAndrew of Upstate Tiny Homes, a Tiny Home Industry Association board member, will illuminate this new tiny world.
Using Adversity to Fuel Positive Change
Wednesday, Nov. 11, noon-2:50 p.m. / https://livestream.com/hvccstreaming/events/9235044
Bridie Farrell, a three-time American record-holding speed skater, founded NY Loves Kids, a non-profit advocacy organization for child sexual abuse victims. She discusses the alarmingly high rates of child sexual abuse and its effects on our communities, and will suggest ways we can help.
Hunting as a Conservation Tool
Thursday, Nov. 19, 1-1:50 p.m. / https://livestream.com/hvccstreaming/events/9235046
Katrina Talbot, NYS DEC wildlife biologist, discusses her job and public opinions on hunting.
News from Averill Park CSD
AVERILL PARK – We would like to thank all of our teachers, staff, parents and students for a helping us successfully launch the 2020-2021 school year. This school year will be unlike any other before it and we thank you all for your patience and understanding over these first few weeks.
As a reminder, the USDA has extended funding to allow APCSD to serve meals to all students free of charge until December 31, or until available funds run out.
Please note that our football, volleyball and football cheerleading seasons that would normally begin in the fall have been postponed until March 1 per NYSPHSAA. We cannot wait to see our student-athletes back on the field and are thankful that they will get the opportunity to play the sports that they have a passion for. All other low-risk fall sports will begin practicing on September 21.
Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent
Mission: Meeting the needs of and creating opportunities for every student every day. #AP_EveryStudentEveryDay
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.
National Voter Registration Day in Rensselaer County
RENSSELAER COUNTY – September 22, 2020 is National Voter Registration Day and once again the League of Women Voters of Rensselaer County is partnering with the local Rensselaer County libraries to offer voter registration assistance. On the one hand citizens may download both voter registration forms and absentee ballot applications in either English or Spanish on their own computer. Find guidance and forms at www.elections.ny.gov. But for those who do not have online access or a printer, the libraries are a valuable resource. While the Covid virus has placed limits on libraries just like everyone else, they are all offering at least curbside service. Call ahead to your local library to ask for details. In some cases people may use the library computers and printers, in others the forms will be delivered at curbside by library staff. Getting registered to vote and then voting has never been more important.
Troy Area AIDS Walk Goes Vitual
TROY – Take Steps to Support the Troy Damien Center 2020 AIDS Walk! This year the Troy Area United Ministries (TAUM) is sponosorsing the 5th 5K Virtual Walk as a fund-raising event for the Damien Center. We welcome indivuals and groups to walk/run/cycle/paddle anywhere they choose to raise funds in support of the Damien Center during the week of September 27-October 3. Forms to enroll teams or friends in the event are available at taum.org. Individual donations are also accepted through the website taum.org. The Damien Center, located in the TAUM building in South Troy, is a hospitality and information center for persons infected with or affected by HIV/AIDS. The Damien Center has continued to provide meals (to go) and food pantry services (to go) throughout the covid-19 pandemic. All proceeds to directly to Damien Center programs. For more information contact Katy Culhane: kculhane@nulltaum.org (518-274-5920 x201) or Sharon Bonk: scbonk@nullgmail.com (518-674-0042). Thank you!
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
2020 Photography Contest
ALBANY – Albany Diocesan Cemeteries 2020 Photography Contest is now open to the public! With 19 cemeteries located in the Capital District, all feature beautiful nature, statuary, architecture, interesting gravestones, and many have spectacular views.
Digital enhancements of your original image is allowed.
Participants are invited to submit up to TWO (2) original photographs with their registration. No entry fee. Prize money will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners.
Photos must be of a subject located in one of Albany Diocesan Cemeteries 19 cemeteries.
Digital enhancements of your original image is allowed.
Visit https://blog.capitaldistrictcemeteries.org/adc-photography-contest-2020/ or call 518-350-7679 for a list of cemetery locations, contest information, rules & registration form.
Submission deadline for all photographs and registrations is October 15th, 2020.
Good luck shutterbugs!
Call For Entries: Artists for Social Justice at Sand Lake Center for the Arts
SAND LAKE – Sand Lake Center for the Arts is seeking submissions for its January and February 2021 gallery installation. SLCA invites artists of color to submit their works for a two-month long gallery presentation to shine light on social injustices. All visual mediums are welcome. Jpeg and pdf submissions can be sent to brian@nullslca-ctp.org. Please include a short bio and brief description of your work. Submission deadline: November 1st, 2020
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