Your Community 11.19.20

Historical Calendars Available

NORTH GREENBUSH – The 2021 North Greenbush Historical Calendar is now available for purchase. It contains old time pictures including Tess Alber’s Restaurant, Jordan’s Ice Cream Dairy in Defreestville, Snyder’s Lake photos and many others. The calendars are still only  $10 and are available at the Town Clerk’s office in Wynantskill (283-4306)  for pick up or mailed from the Town Clerk’s office for $12.00. Checks should be made out to the Town of North Greenbush.  Town Historian Jim Greenfield in Defreestville (265-4254).

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)

New York Army National Guard Promotions

LATHAM –  Major General Ray Shields, the Adjutant General for the State of New York, announces the promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.

Brandan Laymon from Troy, N.Y. (12180), and assigned to the Company C, 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry received a promotion to the rank of sergeant on September 30, 2020.

Victoria Russell from Troy, N.Y. (12180), and assigned to the Intelligence & Sustainment Company, 42nd Infantry Division Headquarters received a promotion to the rank of sergeant on September 29, 2020.

Steven Alecksynas from Poestenkill, N.Y. (12140), and assigned to the 1427th Transportation Company received a promotion to the rank of specialist on October 6, 2020.

Army National Guard promotions are based on overall performance, attitude, leadership ability, and development potential.

These promotions additionally recognize the best qualified Soldiers and attract and retain the highest caliber Citizen Soldiers for a career in the New York Army National Guard.

For more information about the New York Army National Guard, visit www.dmna.ny.gov or www.1800goguard.com

Former North Greenbush Official Authors Book 

RENSSELAER COUNTY – People looking for an enjoyable read while isolating or a unique holiday gift might consider “Up From Second Street…and Other Memoirs” by Jim Flanigan.

Flanigan, a former North Greenbush Councilman and Town Supervisor, uses humor and a vivid recall of details to take his readers on a journey from his early years, through high school, college and a career working with people with disabilities, with side trips to Italy and managing girls softball.  He than provides insight into the world of  government and politics based on his years as an elected official, including the development of the Rensselaer Technology Park, opposition to a proposed casino and the murder trial of a fellow Town Board member.

Rex Smith, longtime Editor of the Albany Times Union, called “Up From Second Street…and Other Memoirs “ a Book “for anyone who values the application of civic virtues and the pleasure of reading well-told tales.”

The book is illustrated by Flanigan’s three grandsons, Aidan Brock, Jack and James Hallahan.

“Up From Second Street…and Other Memoirs” is available at Market Block Books in Troy, The Book House at Stuyvesant Plaza in Albany or online at www.shoptbmbooks.com

Congressman Paul D. Tonko Visits Algonquin Middle School

AVERILL PARK – Congressman Paul D. Tonko came to Algonquin Middle School for a socially distanced outdoor visit. The AMS Library applied for and received books as part of a special program.  Books were dropped off as a donation through the U.S. Library of Congress Surplus Books Program. Grade 8 Social Studies students in Mrs. Fitch and Mrs. Perrotta’s period A classes were able to meet with the congressman and ask questions about his position and the inner workings of Congress.

Students presented the Congressman with a We Are Warriors t-shirt and named him an honorary Averill Park Warrior.

Thank you Congressman Tonko!  #AP_EveryStudentEveryDay

Abigail Zalucky Recognized for Gold Level Leadership at SUNY Oneonta

ONEONTA, NY  – Abigail Zalucky of Wynantskill, NY was recently recognized with a gold level leadership milestone through SUNY Oneonta’s LEAD (Leadership Education and Development) program.

Zalucky is studying Biology at SUNY Oneonta.

Zalucky earned this distinction by a commitment to improving oneself and enhancing knowledge by exploring leadership opportunities, participating in campus organizations, and service to the campus community by taking on recognized leadership roles. Completion of this level requires attending nineteen events designated with a learning outcome (three must be diversity events), actively participating in four recognized organizations, completing three online courses (Foundations of Leadership, Personal Development, Organizational Development), and serving as an officer in a club or organization for at least two semesters (average of 219 hours to complete).

Samuel Gardner Awarded Degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic

DAVENPORT, IA –  Samuel Gardner of Rensselaer, NY graduated with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic’s Main campus in Davenport, Iowa on October 23, 2020.

Palmer College of Chiropractic, the first and largest college in the chiropractic profession, has campuses in Davenport, Iowa; San Jose, Calif.; and Port Orange, Fla.

West Sand Lake Student Named to New York Tech Dean’s List

OLD WESTBURY, NY  – Jadyn Lee of West Sand Lake (12196) was named to the Spring 2020 Dean’s List at New York Institute of Technology. Lee was one of more than 600 students named to the list. To qualify for this academic honor, a student must earn a GPA of at least 3.5 and complete 12 or more credit hours without any incomplete grades.

Local Students Named to New York Tech Presidential Honor List

OLD WESTBURY, NY –  Local college students were among the more than 1,500 New York Institute of Technology students named to the university’s Spring 2020 Presidential Honor List. To qualify for the Presidential Honor List, a student must achieve a minimum semester GPA of 3.7 and complete at least 12 credit hours without any incomplete grades. Here are the local New York Tech students who made the list:

Emmalee Morgan of Poestenkill (12140)

Jesal Patel of East Greenbush (12061)

News from Averill Park CSD

AVERILL PARK – On December 8, members of the Averill Park CSD community will vote on a Capital Project. By now, everyone residing in the District should have received a Capital Project newsletter in the mail which has information detailing many areas of this referendum. The newsletter also includes estimated tax impacts as well as QR codes, which can be scanned using the camera on your smart phone. If you did not receive a newsletter and would like one mailed to you, please contact us at 518-674-7066. You can also view the newsletter on our District website by clicking on the link at the top of the homepage in the alert bar.

This week, we would like to tell you about enhancements that will be made to Miller Hill-Sand Lake Elementary School.

At Miller Hill-Sand Lake, the cafeteria will be expanded to accommodate more students at each lunch period and bring in natural light. Since the Sand Lake Elementary School building closed and students merged into the Miller Hill Elementary School building, the cafeteria has been overcrowded and noisy, which is not an ideal environment for students. The expansion will add approximately 50 seats.

Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent

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

With Thanksgiving to BSA Troop 528

We are giving thanks for the support and generosity of the Boy Scouts of Troop 528. Their efforts to coordinate a drive-up food drive for the “Bread of Life” food pantry in Poestenkill was most appreciated.

The troop families and their leaders are raising young leaders who are learning that helping and serving others is rewarding in so many ways, to those giving and those receiving.

Thank you to all involved in this effort, not only the event but all those who donated food items. This will help keep our shelves filled. We could not do this without all of you. You’re the best!

The “Bread of Life” Volunteers

To Love A Child Announces Annual Angel Match $10,000 Challenge

CAPITAL DISTRICT – To Love A Child, Inc., a local 501(c)3 nonprofit organization announces its Annual Angel Match $10,000 Challenge. An anonymous “angel” has pledged to match every donation during the month of December up to a $10,000 total. Donations assist people suffering from abject poverty—those deprived of basic human needs; including food, safe drinking water, sanitation facilities, health care, shelter, and education. Donations will be used to support local families and our programs in Haiti and Zimbabwe.

To Love A Child invites you to make a difference in a child’s life. Your help and generosity are greatly needed this year to support our vision and mission in helping impoverished children. Over the past 10 years we continue to change lives through our journeys.

Donations can be made on PayPal by visiting the website www.toloveachild.net or by mailing a check to: To Love A Child Inc, PO Box 165, Clifton Park, NY 12065.

VFW Auxiliary to Sullivan Jones Post 7466 “Annual Thanksgiving Pies Fundraiser”

POESTENKILL – Our Auxiliary is collecting pie orders for their “Annual Thanksgiving Pies Fundraiser”. The proceeds support the VA Hospital’s Food Pantry! Pies are $14.00 = 9-inch, apple, cherry, pumpkin, and blueberry. Orders can be placed at the Post Canteen, or call Nancy 518-283-6197/Teri 518-227-4815. Please submit orders by November 20th, pies will be available for pick up on November 25th from 12:00 to 6:00 at the Post Canteen (25 Veterans St. Poestenkill. Thank you for supporting our Veterans and their families!

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.

Holiday Wreath Making at Sand Lake Center for the Arts

SAND LAKE – Join us to make your own personalized wreath for the holidays! November 22 from 12 to 4pm. Only $25. Reserve your space now at slca-ctp.org

Town of Brunwick Leaf Schedule

BRUNSWICK – Leaf pick up has started and will run through Wednesday, November 25th unless there’s a significant snowfall. There is not a set schedule for pick up. The Highway Dept. will be out on a weekly basis.

This will be a leaf pickup only. No brush, tires or metal will be picked up. Leaves must be raked to the edge of the road (not in the road because it is a vehicle/traffic law violation) with no sticks, weeds or other debris in the piles. If sticks are found, the piles can’t be picked up. Sticks will damage the machine.

• It’s important to avoid piling leaves in ditches. The vacuum machines cannot access leaves placed in ditches.

• If you are planning to use bags, they must be biodegradable paper bags only. No sticks, dirt or other debris should be placed in the bags.

• This is a labor-intensive job in a short season so it is important that we expedite this program as fast as possible.

• After the regular pickup schedule has been completed, or in the event of an early snowstorm prior to completion of the regular pickup, you must place the remainder of your leaves in biodegradable paper bags.

Please note – the leaf pickup was designed for residents who live in areas that do not have a place to dispose of their leaves. Due to the short season for leaf pickup, we encourage residents that are able to dispose of their own leaves to please do so at our recycling facility. This helps us to complete the town-wide program before inclement weather occurs.

Recycling Department hours are Monday-Friday 7am-3pm, Saturday 7am-2pm. Anyone who wishes to drop off their leaves may do so during open hours. No rocks or sticks in bags please.

Highway Department telephone 279–3461 ext. 100

November Mindful Nature Walk

RENSSELAER COUNTY – November Mindful Nature Walk. Saturday, November 28, 2020 at 10 AM – 12:30 PM “Forest Bathing” is a Japanese wellness practice that welcomes us to take in the forest atmosphere with all of our senses. Kripalu-Certified Mindful Outdoor Guides Molly Freiberg and Sandy Wilson will guide our group to engage with nature in the present moment, as we experience it through all of our senses, to appreciate the complex wonders we often don’t notice when we are rushed or distracted. During this walk, we will be sauntering slowly on gently rolling forested trails. No experience is necessary — beginners are welcome! Bring water and a snack. Masks are required when we first meet up and when we gather, but may be removed while we are walking in the forest with at least 10’ between participants. Bundle up in warm layers to keep yourself warm, as we will be walking slowly, and sometimes sitting. Please wear wool or synthetics and extra socks. A warm beverage is also recommended. Participants will be pre-paid and pre-registered, so no contact with money or sign-in sheets is necessary. Learn more & Register here: https://www.rensselaerplateau.org/mindful-walk. Questions? email molly@nullrensselaerplateau.org. Questions or thoughts? Contact molly@nullrensselaerplateau.org.

Sweet Flora Marketplace, a Showcase for Local Artists

WEST SAND LAKE – Sweet Flora Marketplace, located in the 43 Mall, offers local artists & craftspeople a place to showcase their products. Nicole Wagner, the owner, was looking for a place to sell her handmade goat milk soaps and skincare products outside of the farmer’s market and craft fair season. She also saw a need for others like her in the community, for a space to offer their locally made items.

Opening in September of 2019, the community responded by flooding the store with happy shoppers. With over 60 different vendors, offering products such as goat milk soap & lotions, pottery, woven items, jams & jellies, home decor, furniture, apparel, jewelry, candles, gifts for your furry family members, cards, gift bags, and so very much more.

Like so many small businesses, COVID-19 delt the Marketplace a blow in March, as the store closed for six months. This unique store has reopened and is working hard to recover from the pandemic closure. Named in honor of Nicole’s mother Flora, the store is full of local charm and talent. It’s a great place to shop and visit. Look for the goat logo on the sign, representing the wonderful goat milk soaps that started it all. Now open Thursday & Friday 10-6, Saturday & Sunday 11-4. More hours will be added after Thanksgiving.

Stop into Sweet Flora Marketplace, and as Nicole says, you will find “Products you’ll love, by people you know.”

Doors Of Hope Annual Adopt-A-Family Project

WEST SAND LAKE – Looking for a heart-warming Christmas project for your church, your organization or yourself? Each year Doors of Hope, our local food pantry, coordinates a project that provides Christmas gifts to needy families. Between now and December 1 you may drop in at our store (our new location in 43 Mall) and sign up to provide Christmas gifts for a family in need. D.O.H. compiles a list of family members, their ages, their wishes, and sizes. Families come in all sizes; you may choose the one that best fits you or your organization. The cut-off date to sign up is Dec.1. If you would like more information you may call our volunteer coordinator, Nancy Rockwell at 518-674-4048. We truly appreciate the ongoing generous support of our community.

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!

Keyes Scholarsship for Tamarac High School Seniors

TROY – The Finance Committee of the Center Brunswick United Methodist Church has announced that it will award $500 to a student to be selected from the Tamarac High School Class of 2021. The money may be used for any type of expenses related to further education. Student does not have to belong to this Church, or any other church or religion to be eligible for this award.

Interested student must apply for this award no later than March 1, 2021. The application can be obtained from the school’s guidance department of from our website at www.CenterBrunswickUMC.company

This award is given in memory of Harold and Mabel Keyes through a trust funded by their last will and testament. Mabel taught in the Brunswick schools and continued teaching Sunday School at CBUMC for many years after she retired. Through this award, her love of helping young people learn and grow will continue to reach the youth of our community.

The Center Brunswick United Methodist Church is located at the intersection of Route 7 and 142 in Troy. NY.

Thrift Shop

JOHNSONVILLE – Johnsonville Methodist Church, 22 Bridge St., Johnsonville 12094. Route 40 to Route 67 East. Look for our sign at the corner of Route 111 & Route 67. Open 9-12 on Wednesdays and the first Saturday of each month. Closed on November 25. Newly arrived clothing and household goods every week, career clothing, special occasion dresses and gowns, jewelry, purses, shoes, toys and over 1000 books. Masks and social distancing are required.

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

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.

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