Friday March 24, 2023 
Tiger at Halloween
Sumitted by Diane DiGiorgio, Castleton
North Greenbush Democratic Committee Meets
NORTH GREENBUSH – As many of you know, the North Greenbush Democratic Committee has many new members who are committed to electing Democrats! The committee held its organizational meeting. The committee was joined by several elected and party officials.
Pictured here are Mike Moneschalci, Chair of the Rensselaer County Democratic Party, North Greenbush Councilpersons Jack Rogers and Mary Frances Sabo, County Legislator Carole Weaver, Candidate for North Greenbush Town Board Mike Helinski, Town Highway Superintendent Mark Premo and Assembyman John McDonald
Team “Knocking Out Alzheimer’s” Bottle Drive, The Fundraising Continues …
WYNANTSKILL/RENSSELAER – 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.
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
Books for Troops Going Out of Business
CAPITAL DISTRICT – Books for Troops has been evicted from its office at 688 New Loudon Rd. Therefore, we are asking that all donations of books and postage not be sent. Further information about the contents of the office, including 40 bookcases of different sizes will be available as our plans are made. To those who have kept Books for Troops alive through your very generous support of books and postage, we are incredibly grateful. However because of the time frame given, Books for Troops regrettably will not be reopening. Ellen Keegan, Director.
Students Graduate from St. Lawrence University
CANTON, NY – A total of 465 bachelor degrees were conferred by St. Lawrence University in May 2020. An in-person Class of 2020 commencement ceremony is planned for August 2021.
Shannon Doin of Troy (12180)
Sean Harrington of Troy (12180)
Amber Jones of Poestenkill (12140)
News from Averill Park CSD
AVERILL PARK – During an October 5 Board of Education meeting, members voted unanimously to put forth a Capital Project referendum to the community. A special vote on two propositions will be held on December 8, 2020. The Capital Project referendum was originally scheduled to be held in May, but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The referendum will have two separate propositions. The first is focused on safety and critical needs listed in the building condition survey. The second includes enhancements to the physical education facilities at the high school and Algonquin Middle School’s Practical and Fine Arts (PFA) wing. The first proposition must pass in order for the second proposition to be considered. More information will follow I the coming weeks via the District’s social media platforms, the District website and The Advertiser.
Congratulations to teaching assistant Marisa Clow for being granted tenure during a Board of Education Meeting on October 5!
Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent
Mission: Meeting the needs of and creating opportunities for every student every day. #AP_EveryStudentEveryDay
Looking for Stories About One Room School Houses
RENSSELAER COUNTY – Looking for people who might have stories to tell about one room school houses in the Town of Sand Lake, Averill Park and West Sand Lake, Sand Lake. Do you have a parent, grandparent, or great grandparents who attended one of the several one room school houses in our town? Email me with any information at JTre115@nullyahoo.com. (Jacqueline Tremont)
Town of Schodack Fall Clean-Up Days
SCHODACK – Schodack residents please note the Town of Schodack is sponsoring Fall Clean-up Days on October 15th, 16th and 17th at the Transfer Station on Poyneer Rd. During this event many items that normally have a charge are free and others are reduced up to 50%. This is a great time to clean out your garage before winter comes! The following price list is only for the dates noted above:
Refrigerators, Freezers, Air conditioners & Dehumidifier -$8.00
Tires, rimless (maximum size 16”) – $2.00*
*larger and rimmed tires priced by size
TVs, computer monitors (limit 2), Propane Tanks, Furniture (limit 3), Metal goods, Gas grills, Bicycles – FREE
All other prices remain the same
The Capital District Genealogical Society Presents Tracing Ancestors on the Move: Migrations from New England to and through New York
CAPITAL DISTRICT – Saturday, Oct 24, 2020 at 1:00 P.M. via Zoom – Join Kyle Hurst, Senior Genealogist for the Newbury Street Press at American Ancestors, as she explores common westward migration trends from New England into and through New York. Hurst will discuss crucial records, resources and techniques for tracing these elusive ancestors to help you connect the dots in your own family history. This will be a Zoom meeting. There is a 100 person limit. Registration is free and will open to the public approximately Oct 16, 2020. See our website under meetings and events. Please join us! www.capitaldistrictgenealogicalsociety.org
Town of Brunswick Monthly Brush Pick Up Schedule
TOWN OF BRUNSWICK – Pick up schedule: 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.
Bird Seed Sale to benefit Friends of the Dyken Pond Center
Grafton –The Friends of Dyken Pond have been connecting kids to nature for the past thirty years. As more people use the outdoors during COVID-19, it is more important than ever to have programs and places for people to enjoy. You can help the Friends of Dyken Pond by ordering a premium bag of bird seed. This is a one-time sale and bird seed must be pre-ordered by Monday, October 26th. There will be a pick-up day on Saturday, October 31st at the Capital Agway located on NY Route 7 in Brunswick from 9am -12pm or on Monday, November 2nd at the Rensselaer County Government Building from 12pm – 2pm. Everyone picking up their orders at Capital Agway will receive a 10% store discount for all other bird related items purchased that day. We offer black oil sunflower, premium mixed, niger, sunflower hearts and suet cakes. Order information can be viewed and placed from our website at www.dykenpond.org or by contacting the Center at (518) 658-2055.
Accepting Submissions for the Karner Kids Film Festival
ALBANY – The Albany Pine Bush Preserve is now accepting films made by kids for our Karner Kids Film Festival. “This is a great opportunity for kids and teens to show us their perspective on the Pine Bush through film making,” said Education Program Manager, Sara Poggi-Decker. The Karner Kids Film Festival is open to kids ages 10-17. The films must be original creations of 5 minutes or less and must be about the Albany Pine Bush. Films could feature wildlife, plants, history, personal experience or other Pine Bush-inspired themes.
“It always exciting to see how people express their Pine Bush experiences through art,” continued Poggi-Decker. Films can be submitted online and must be received by 4pm on October 31, 2020. Details and submission guidelines can be found at www.AlbanyPineBush.org/visit-the-discovery-center. In December we will celebrate the film makers with a virtual film festival.
Admission to the Discovery Center is free (there is a fee for some programs). The Center is currently open on limited days and hours. For more information, visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org or call 518-456-0655.
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
Athletic Department Seeking Nominations for the Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2021
AVERILL PARK – The Averill Park Athletic Department, in conjunction with the Averill Park Athletic Booster Club, is pleased to announce that the nominating period for the Averill Park Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2021 is now open. The Hall of Fame recognizes former athletes, coaches, teams, and contributors who have made significant contributions to the Averill Park athletic program through their service, performance, dedication, commitment, and accomplishment.
The Hall of Fame committee is comprised of administrators (past and present), coaches (past and present), and community members. For information regarding the committee, Hall of Fame guidelines, and nomination forms please see the Hall of Fame link on the Averill Park Athletics page at www.averillpark.k12.ny.us.
Any member of the public can nominate an athlete, coach, team (not eligible until 2022), or contributor for induction assuming the criteria as outlined in the guidelines are met. Nomination forms are available by going to the Hall of Fame link on the Averill Park Athletics page at www.averillpark.k12.ny.us or by contacting the Athletic Department at (518) 674-7010.
The nomination period will run through November 15th. The 2021 induction ceremony and dinner will be held on Saturday, April 17th at the Hilton Garden Inn in Troy.
Annual Fresh Florida Citrus Fundraiser
CAPITAL DISTRICT – The yearly Troy Kiwanis Fresh Florida Fruit sale is on again to raise money for projects that directly assist Troy area youth.
20 lbs for only $25 – Navel Oranges, Ruby Red Grapefruit or a Mixed Case.
Most area groups are charging well over $30/case. Orders must be received by Sunday, November 22nd.Call Dean @ 518-322-0826 Today!!
Will arrive in Troy, by December 12th, in plenty of time for Holiday Gift Giving!! Kiwanis is Serving the Children of the World
Indoor Castleton-on-Hudson Farmers & Artisans Market
CASTLETON-ON-HUDSON – The Castleton-on-Hudson Farmers & Artisans Market (COHFAM) ended its summer season with big news: The market is moving indoors for the winter – every Friday (except for December 25 and January 1) from 4-7 PM at 52 Hilton on Main (52 South Main Street) in the Village of Castleton-on-Hudson. Due to COVID-19, patrons are required to wear masks, observe social distancing, use hand sanitizer upon entering the building, and provide a phone number. Temperatures will be taken at the door, and only ten people will be allowed in at the same time. Come to COHFAM, the little market with the big heart, let us serve you, and support the local economy!
50+ Singles Group
CAPITAL DISTRICT – We are all experiencing tough times but we must take care of each other, especially older folks. I decided to open a free contact path for those in communities that have no one to turn to. If you are very active and love to walk or challenge outside events, we can do that, or for people who just need someone to talk to, share recipes etc., we can do that. I am looking for your great ideas since this is a new group. Let’s be part of life, we can do that safely by following the medical protocol. Let’s try it! Contact: cbmarcusrobbie@nullaol.com
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.
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
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