The Advertiser 052523

As noted in the old newspaper stories that are being resurrected, the WSL fire department has a grand legacy of historic preservation.

Please continue to honor that legacy by working with the Town of Sand Lake and the Historical Society to find a way to preserve and repurpose the old firehouse rather than simply tearing it down. I know that I and many others are ready to help figure this out.

The West Sand Lake Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 of Rensselaer County N. Y. protects a population of just over 2,000. The pride of this small but high-spirited fire company is its remarkably well preserved collection of the vintage and antique fire

Cocaine and fentanyl are blamed in 5 deaths this weekend

By KENNETH C. CROWE II

TROY — Rensselaer County is rushing toward a new annual record in drug overdose deaths as five fatalities potentially from overdoses of cocaine and fentanyl occurred this past weekend, county and law enforcement officials said Monday.

The county is reporting 41 fatal overdoses during the first five months of 2023 compared to 45 fatal overdoses in 2022 and the record of 58 overdose deaths set in 2021. The county began warning in March that this would be a bad year for overdose deaths.

The county described the weekend’s five fatalities likely caused by overdose as occurring

in the north, central and south sections of the county. The county also reported 12 non-fatal cases since Thursday.

Law enforcement agencies reported one suspected overdose death each in Schaghticoke, Troy and Rensselaer.

Authorities would not specify the location of the two remaining alleged overdose fatalities.

“This is extremely concerning, and residents in Rensselaer County and surrounding areas should be aware there are very dangerous drugs circulating right now,” Public Health Director Mary Fran Wachunas said.

“To have five fatal overdoses and 12 non-fatal overdoses in just over 72 hours in a county the size of Rensselaer County shows there is real reason for caution by residents. We would urge everyone to view this as a serious and life-threatening situation,” Wachunas continued.

While the county still awaiting testing results, Wachunas said, “We have determined these deaths are overdoses based on information and evidence made available. Autopsies are continuing, but the information now present indicates these overdoses are because of a combination of cocaine and fentanyl.”

Rensselaer County’s soaring fatal overdose numbers are not unique.

“Overdose deaths are at a record high nationwide. The ubiquity of fentanyl and its an-

State Senate Republicans seek to block governor’s moves

By JOSHUA SOLOMON

ALBANY — Gov. Kathy Hochul turned to business and labor leaders in New York City on Monday to help prop up her calls for the federal government to expedite work authorization for asylum-seekers.

At a news conference in Brooklyn, the governor sought to reframe the migrant crisis, which has exploded as a politically fraught issue in New York, especially in battleground congressional districts in the Hudson Valley. Instead, Hochul cast the crisis as an opportunity to fill gaps in the state’s workforce, including the agriculture, food-service and hospitality sectors.

“They’re ready to work. They’re willing to work. And they’re not able to work,” Hochul said. “So, we’re spending a lot of money ... but we need this help from Washington.”

The goal, Hochul said, is to swiftly provide asylum-seekers the opportunity to join the labor market. A migrant must be seeking asylum for at least 180 days before they can become eligible to lawfully join the

alogs has much to do with the rise in overdose deaths,” the state Office of Addiction Support and Services said in a previous statement.

The state noted that fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine, has been mixed with cocaine, heroin and other drugs.

“This increases the risk of overdose for people who use any substance, including people using for the first time. Now more than ever, harm reduction is an imperative,” the state agency stated.

The county issued a public health alert due to the recent overdoses. It also issued a notice on how to get assistance.

County residents can call the public health Helpline at 833-467-3123 for help with recovery from drug addiction. The county also provides Narcan, a drug that can be used to reverse an opioid overdose.

workforce under current federal rules.

The stance is mostly shared by the New York Farm Bureau but not state Republicans, who often align with the bureau on policy issues.

Immigration advocates have noted that the delay in work authorization, coupled with an individual’s need for financial resources to live day-to-day, can push them to work in the underground economy, which can lead to workplace abuses or human trafficking.

Hochul was joined by the politically influential Mario Cilento, president of the state AFL-CIO, and Kathryn Wylde, CEO of the Partnership for New York City, which represents the interests of the city’s business community. She was also joined by New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who said that last week the city saw 5,800 migrants arrive there, an increase from prior weeks.

Adams again criticized the media and federal officials in Washington, D.C., which includes President Joe Biden’s administration, for declining to characterize the nation’s immigration surge as a crisis.

Later in the day, Hochul spoke with county executives in a private call. Several upstate communities, including Rensselaer County, have issued states of emergency to

WILL WALDRON / TIMES UNION Rensselaer County Commissioner of Health Mary Fran Wachunas said the number of recent overdoses in the county is “extremely concerning.”

MICHAEL M. SANTIAGO / GETTY IMAGES Asylum-seekers board a bus en route to a shelter at Port Authority Bus Terminal on Thursday in New York City.

Poestenkill Update

from Councilman Wohlleber

The public hearing was held on the proposed Water District #2 which began with a presentation and update from a representative of the Laberge Group. Several residents had questions and made public comment for the consideration of the Town Board. the public hearing remains open and resident comments are welcomed at future meetings.

The Town Board voted 4-1 to authorize a lease agreement to establish a dog shelter at 9002 NY Route 66. Councilman Wohlleber voted no.

The Town Board unanimously passed a resolution requesting the NYS Department of Transportation to establish a lower speed limit on Quail Meadows Road, Fox Hen Drive, Redwing Court, and Lochvue Drive to 30 mph.

The Town Board unanimously passed a resolution to auction off surplus equipment from the Highway Department.

The next Town Board Meeting will be Thursday, June 8 at 7pm.

Submitted by Councilman Eric Wohlleber

Rensselaer County LegislatureMinority Office - May 2023 Monthly Report

Common Sense Gun Reform – The legislature minority once again brought forth a resolution urging both state and federal representatives to adopt various methods of common-sense gun reform, including increased background checks, lengthened waiting periods, and a permanent ban on assault weapons. This resolution was submitted in response to the many mass shootings seen across the United States. As of the end of April 2023, there have been over 160 mass shootings, killing over 11,500 people caused by gun related incidents.

Next Wynantskill Repair Cafe June 24

Have a favorite stuffed toy with a ripped ear? A lamp that looks great but has a broken switch? Or some yarn knotted up from the cat? A new smartphone with some difficult apps? Don’t toss it out or give it up – come out to the Wynantskill Repair Café.

A Repair Cafe is a fun, no-charge community event where people bring their cranky, futzy, wonky, or torn household items to the volunteer repair coaches from our community who are glad to

In 2023 alone there have been 13 K-12 school shootings, the latest being in Tennessee, where once again innocent children were gunned down. However, this resolution once again failed to make it to the floor, with the Republican majority questioning “Common Sense”.

Leading police organizations have increasingly called for action on gun policy and support a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines in order to better protect their communities. They consider themselves outgunned, outmanned and out-staffed.

On June 25, 2022, President Biden signed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act into law, which is a welcome step forward. While this is certainly a long way from the ideal scenario initially proposed by the House of Representatives, seeing the two sides of the aisle working together to pass meaningful legislation is a welcome sight. It is a shame that we have been unable to achieve this sort of bipartisan agreement in Rensselaer County. Passing meaningful gun control legislation is essential for the safety and well-being of our constituents, and it is disappointing that the legislative majority has not joined us in urging the protection of the residents of Rensselaer County, as well as the nation as a whole.

NEXT MEETING – Tuesday, June 13, 2023 in the Rensselaer County Chambers located at 99 Troy Road, East Greenbush.

PUBLIC FORUM – Wednesday, March 8, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.

Residents are welcome to contact our office at 518 270-2890

Rensselaer County Legislature: May Meeting Report

The Rensselaer County Legislature held a memorable meeting on May 9th. The meeting was preceded by a ceremony honoring Arthur William (Bill) Gummer. The hallways leading

try to fix ‘em up. All kinds of household things are brought to a Repair Cafe: bikes, chairs, rockers, toys, small kitchen appliances, lamps, stuffed animals, jackets, skateboards, and similar. We again have sewing, mechanical, and electronic fixers. There’s also a “take apart table” where kids can safely unscrew and pull apart small items with simple tools and adult supervision. Small electronics that are found to be unfixable can be put into a bin for recycling. The motto behind Repair Café is “most items can be fixed…but even if

they don’t, we have a good time trying!”

Got something in mind that needs fixing? Visit the Repair Café Saturday, June 24, 9 a.m. to noon, at First Reformed Church of Wynantskill, 413 Main Avenue (across from the firehouse). Coffee, hot drinks, and goodies, and restrooms available to all guests. Items need to be small enough to hand carry, and not powered by any combustible fuel. Curious about a possible fixable item? Questions are welcome and encouraged at FRCWRepairCafe@gmail. com.

to the legislative chamber were lined with family, friends, and volunteer firefighters from throughout the county. They were there to join the Legislature in honoring Bill’s six decades of service in the volunteer firefighting community.

Bill served and led the Wynantskill Fire Department and was referred to as “a North Greenbush celebrity”, by Chairwoman Kelly Hoffman, who thanked him for his years of service and his participation in the construction of the new Rensselaer County Fire Training Facility.

The Legislature approved the contracts that will begin the process of building the new Cropseyville Highway Maintenance Facility that will improve the working conditions of our highway staff, and the level of service they provide in Eastern Rensselaer County.

The Legislature also approved several pieces of legislation that will continue the Reimagine Rensselaer program to improve and modernize several county buildings. Construction will continue at 1600 Seventh Avenue and the former Life Science Building that will house the probation department. The new County Office Building at 99 Troy Rd in East Greenbush will have a new plaza built in front of the building. This legislation received unanimous support.

The meeting was not without drama. Hours before the meeting, the Minority submitted a politically charged late file resolution that would have violated the NYS Open Meetings Law. The Minority leaders who had issued a press release announcing the legislation, failed to attend the meeting. As such, other Minority members tried to amend the resolution during the Special Rules meeting. The legislation was not filed in a timely manner, nor was it deemed an emergency that required the suspension of NYS guidelines. It was not added to the agenda.

Find us on Facebook at “Rensselaer County Legislators”

Strawberry Festival Update

Greetings from Sand La ke Baptist Church! As promised from the last article, here’s the update: the Annual Strawberry Fest will be held from 1pm to 5pm on June 17th There will be a bake sale, popcorn, items from the grill, lots of strawberries, including shortcakes, and a beautiful quilt will be raffled off. We will have a small petting zoo with baby goats, and a drive thru for those in a bit of a hurry. We are still working on yet more possibilities

to make this year’s event as wonderful as we can, so keep looking for future updates. Anyone in need of volunteer hours for school, scouts or otherwise, please contact us at 518-674-3316. We are also excited to announce a new 6 part Bible Studies program starting June 22 at 6pm to 7pm. We are offering this well known study called, ”A Case for Christ” for everyone interested. All are welcome to attend, as well as visit us on our regular Sunday service at 11am. We look forward to seeing you.

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News From Averill Park CSD

On Tuesday, May 16, residents of the Averill Park Central School District supported a $64.9 million budget for the 2023-24 school year by a vote of 629 (yes) to 271 (no), as well as propositions for bus and equipment purchases, and a Capital Reserve Fund.

The budget of $64,915,480 calls for an increase of 1.63% from the 2022-23 school year and a tax levy increase of 2.99%. The approval of the bus and equipment proposition, by a 602 (yes) to 296 (no) vote, allows the district to purchase three (3) new large school buses, six (6) new small school buses, and two (2) maintenance trucks as part of the district’s long-term bus replacement plan. The district is eligible to receive approximately 73% reimbursement from the state on the purchase of these buses. The approval of a Capital Reserve Fund, by a vote of 624 (yes) to 262 (no), allows the District to save for future needs at no cost to taxpayers. Residents also elected Jessica DiFiore and Michelle Garofolo to the Board of Education.

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 The Anchor Food Pantry

The Anchor Food Pantry would like to advise that if you cannot make it to the Anchor, we have 2 locations at Schodack Town Hall-Town Clerks Office and Castleton Village Hall during business hours for these municipal locations, to drop off food items in the bins provided.

Also you can redeem and donate bottles/cans for credit to our account at 6cent redemption center located on 9J -Rensselaer. Just inform staff to credit the Anchor Food Pantry account. As always we thank the Schodack Community for their past and continued support in our efforts to help those in these uncertain economic times.

WSL Fire Dept Holding Community Workshop for New Station

Using input gathered from previous community workshops, membership

and community surveys, and facilities meetings, the West Sand Lake Fire Department has continued to develop the plan and conceptual design for a new station. To present the most recent conceptual design and cost estimates, the department is holding its next community workshop on Wednesday, June 14 from 7:00pm – 9:00pm in the fire hall.

All are welcome and encouraged to attend to provide feedback, ask questions, and stay informed on the planning process.

Town of Grafton

Office/Department Holiday Closings for Summer of 2023

Memorial Day – All Offices/Departments will be closed Saturday, May 27th – Monday, May 29th

July Fourth – All Offices/Departments closed Tuesday, July 4th

Labor Day – All Offices/Departments will be closed Saturday, September 2nd – Monday, September 4th

“Unlawning”- Talk by Jean Howard at East Nassau

Do you want to reduce the size of your lawn, create islands of pollinator-

friendly native plantings, or convert the entire expanse into a handsome wildflower meadow?

Jean Howard, Cornell Cooperative Extension Master Gardener, will offer tips, guidance, and advice about sustainable gardening practices, step by step lawn conversion, low maintenance native planting, and more.

This powerpoint talk is presented by the Village of East Nassau Climate Smart Committee and will take place Thursday, June 1, at 6 pm, at 19 Town Garage Rd., East Nassau, close to Route 66 and 10 minutes from Nassau and New Lebanon. Refreshments, free LED lightbulbs, raffle. Come join us and learn more about taking your property in an eco- friendly direction!

For more info, contact us at lydia.davis@villageofeastnassau.org

Lebanon

Senior Citizens

If you are 55 or over and live in New Lebanon, you can come on the Lebanon Senior Citizens bus trips. We have 2 trips on the calendar for this year. If you decide to join us on a bus trip you will need to fill out a emergency contact form. We need to fill the buses so come and join the fun.

June: 19-20 Niagara Falls

One night. We will stay at Seneca casino. Price for Niagara Falls is $160 for double occupancy. $35 free slot play. $15 food credit. We will do Maid of the Mist boat ride.

Sept: 21st Silver Birches Resort. $49 fall train ride, entertainment with great lunch. This is in Honesdale PA. This is the same place that we went to for the Christmas Show last year. They also do train rides for the foliage.

Call Mary Defreest if interested 518-733-0009. You have to be a member to enjoy all our other activities. It is only 10.00 a year and you get to do all the luncheons, covered dishes and we are doing road trips where you carpool to them.

Thank you. Ricardo E. “Rik” Cosgrave, Commander, Peter Andrews Castleton Memorial VFW Post 7337, 105 Scott Ave Castleton, NY 12033 Email: vfw12033@ gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/VFWCastletonNY My Cell Phone: 518-6942070.

Summer Community Fair at Rensselaer Library

The Rensselaer Public Library is having a Community Fair on Saturday, June 17 from 11-2 to start their Summer Reading Program, “All Together Now”. Children make a pledge to read 15 minutes a day during the summer to get a free reader’s kit.

Veteran Flags

Castleton Memorial VFW Post 7337

The Castleton Memorial VFW has over 550 Flags to place in seven (7) of our Schodack cemeteries and could use some community help placing them. Please meet at 9:00 AM on Saturday, May 27th in the VFW Post parking lot. I will pass out flags, cemetery assignments, and name lists. Let’s not miss any of our veterans.

The Friends of the Library will serve ice cream sundaes and popcorn, and there will be a balloon twister and face painting. Community members will have tables, a fire truck, car seat installation inspections, music from Rensselaer High, giveaways and fun activities. The Library is at 676 East Street, across from the train station. For more information about summer events, visit www. rensselaerlibrary.org or call 518-462-1193.

Poestenkill Business Association Annual Auction

The Poestenkill Business Association, (PBA), will hold our annual benefit Auction on Saturday June 3, 2023 at the Sullivan-Jones VFW Post on Main St/Route 355 in Poestenkill.

The Auction will START promptly at 10:00 AM, with viewing to begin at 9:00 AM. Assorted items such as loads of Top Soil, Crusher Run, Stone, Landscaping Mulch, Fire Wood and professional services donated by local businesses will be available for bid along with previously owned but sought

after household, yard & miscellaneous items. Each Bidder must obtain a Bid Card in order to be able to participate in the Auction. The Kitchen will be open throughout the Auction to provide mouth watering delights from the grill for your dining pleasure. Freshly cooked Breakfast Sandwiches are available beginning at 8:00 AM. All food will be prepared per individual order. Activities will be available to amuse the Kids.

All net proceeds will enable the PBA to discreetly provide assistance to Poestenkill Residents experiencing emergency situations during the year. So come early, come hungry & bring your entire family for a most enjoyable day at our Auction on

June 3rd. Your interest & participation is deeply appreciated. Thank you!!

Take a Day Trip with the

Sand Lake Seniors

Sand Lake Seniors are taking a trip to Resorts World Catskill Casino on May 31 to see the fabulous Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Trip includes round trip transportation, Oh What a Night Show, $25 slot play bonus and a buffet lunch. Cost is $107/ pp. Bus will leave St. Henry”s parking lot at 7:30am. If interested please email conif1989@gmail.com or call 572-888-2549.

Sand Lake Srs are also going to Lake George on June 27 for a delightful mid day cruise and delicious lunch aboard the Lac du Sacrament with a

JMechanicville 664-5453

Saratoga 584-1320

GlensFalls 743-0804

Spring Special 10’x50’ $1750

narrated tour of our beautiful Lake George. Trip includes bus transportation, buffet lunch and a stop at Martha’s Ice Cream for $97/pp. The bus leaves St. Henry’s parking lot at 8:45am. Please email Pat Lane at conif1989@gmail. com or call 572-888-2549 if interested in either trip!

Donny Elvis at the Rensselaer Senior Center

Join the Rensselaer County Senior Center on June 5th for a Special Dinner with Donny Elvis. Lunch menu consists of sausage,peppers, and onions. Call (518) 463-2166 for reservations. Call early we don’t want to disappoint anyone but seats are limited. We are located on East and Herrick Streets in Rensselaer and are open from 9am to 3pm Monday Thru Friday.

Grafton

Senior Center

Grafton- Everett Wagar Senior Center (518) 2793413

Tuesdays and Thursdays at 12:00 PM- Congregate Meals. Monday, Friday at 10:00-11:00 AMChair Yoga and on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays. Tuesday June 6th- 12:30

Dementia/Alzheimer presentation. Wednesday, June 7th -Legal Aid by appointment only.

Tuesday June 13th at 11:00

AM- Eat Smart Demo & 12:00 Special Music by Bob

Treffiletti

Tuesday June 13thHaircuts. Tuesday June 13th- / Mani/Pedis by appointment. Thursday June 15th - 12:30 “Root” for Dads. root beer float social.

Third Annual Lawn Sale

Nassau Lake Association (NLPIA) is looking for crafters, vendors and garage saler’s for our 3rd annual lawn sale on June 10th coinciding with the Nassau Community Wide Garage sale from 9AM to 3PM. Reserve your spot with a $15 donation towards the new NLPIA clubhouse (please bring your own table). There will be food and beverages available as well as a 50/50 raffle. Plenty of space and parking, located at the ball field, Nassau-Averill Park Road on the East side of Nassau Lake. Please contact Jim Prime (518)776-0041.

WantedOctogenarians

If you graduated from any Troy area High School In 1955, 1956, or 1957, please join us for some fun and great conversation.

When: May 31, 2023

Where : Browns Brewery, River St. Troy , Time 11am to 4 pm. Please call for details. 518-727-4689 or email: studedude12180@yahoo. com John or Marilyn Reichard.

BlessingwayMidwiferyCare Althoughmomsshould be celeb tedev yday,Moth

ByAlyssaSeidman Althoughmomsshouldbecelebratedeveryday,Mother’sDay givesustheopportunitytotreatthewomenwhoraiseduswith extraloveandcare.Italsoprovidesamomenttoconsiderwho helpedourmomsontheirjourneyssotheycouldeventually helpusonours.

AtBlessingwayMidwiferyCare,ownerJenniferFegan-Szalay workswithexpectingmotherstoensuretheirneedsaremet throughoutthecourseoftheirpregnancies.Sheexplainedthat midwivesnotonlyaddressaclient’sphysicalhealth,butalso theirsocial-emotionalhealth.

“Eachwomanhasadi erentpathtomotherhood.Somepeople wantanall-naturalexperience,otherswantmoremedical support,butthatdecisiondependsonwhatthewomanis tellingus,”Fegan-Szalaysaid.“Bothmidwivesanddoulas wanttomakesureourclientshavetheopportunitytomake informedchoicesateverypointintheircare.”

Wh smidwivesarelicensedtoprovideOB/GYNcare to theirclientsduringpregnancy and birth,doulasarespecialized inprovidingphysicalandemotionalsupportduringthe birthingprocess.Bothteachchildbirtheducationandcreate birthplanstohelpwomendecidethebestapproachtotake. “Inothercountriesmidwiferyisthegoldstandardfor pregnancyandmaternitycare,butthat’snotthecaseinthe U.S.,”Fegan-Szalaysaid.“Statisticsshowincountrieswhere midwiferyistheprimaryformofhealthcare,mothersand babieshavemuchbetteroutcomes.”

Fegan-SzalayaddedthatsomewomencometoBlessingway duringtheirsecondpregnanciesiftheir rstbirthing experiencewasunsatisfactory.Shehelpsthesemothersidentify

whataspectsoftheprocessmayhavehadanegativeimpact, andtogethertheylayoutaplantoensurethey’reavoidedatthe timeofthesecondbirth.

Fegan-Szalaysaidapractitioner’spostpartumvisitscanvary basedonwherethechildisborn.

“Ahospitalmidwifetypicallyseesthemothertwicea ertheir childisborn,buthomebirthmidwiveswilldoanywhere fromthreetosixhomevisits,”sheadded.“Weprovidealotof postpartumsupporttomakesurethemothersrecoverwell.” Fegan-Szalaynotedherlactationsupportservice,forexample, whichassistsmotherswhohaveoptedtobreastfeedtheir newbornbabies.Shehashelpedhundredsofwomenbreastfeed overtheyears,providingreassuranceastheylearnhowtoget theirinfantstolatchcomfortablyduringfeedingsandmonitor whethertheirchildisgainingweight.

“Toensurethejourneyissmooth,theyhavetounderstand thesupplyanddemandassociatedwithbreastfeeding,”FeganSzalaysaid.“ eirinstinctswillultimatelyteachthemhowto carefortheirbaby.”

Lookforoozing,missingbark, exposedroots,decayingandcracks.

LEAFWATCH Yellowingofleavesmaysignalexcessmoisture,poor drainage,orotherstressorswhichmayaffecttreestabilityandoverallhealth.

Foralltheexpectingmothersoutthere,Fegan-Szalayhadthis

tosay:“ emostimportantmessageItrytopassonisthat yourfeelingsmatter,andyourneedsmatter.Andeventhough weallwanthappymomsandbabies,wealsowant healthy momsandbabies.It’sokaytoadvocateforyourself,andhave thepeoplearoundyouadvocateforyou,too.” BlessingwayMidwiferyCareislocatedat1676ColumbiaTpke. inCastleton.Formoreinformation,call(518)732-5150orvisit blessingwaymidwife.com. eprecedingcontentisapaidadvertisementforBlessingway MidwiferyCare.

Castleton/Schodack Memorial Day Parade

Attention Veterans

The Castleton/Schodack Memorial Day Parade steps off at 10:00 AM on Monday, May 29th at the corner of Seaman and Boltwood Avenues in Castleton, NY.

The Peter Andrews Castleton Memorial Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 7337 is again inviting all veterans with any kind of connection to Castleton/Schodack to help us honor those that gave their lives for our country, by marching with us. Guests marching with us should dress appropriately for the day (no politics). If you are unable to march, but still want to be in the parade with us, please contact me as soon as possible so I can reserve a seat in a car for you.

Ricardo E. “Rik” Cosgrave, Commander, Peter Andrews Castleton Memorial VFW Post 7337, 105 Scott Ave Castleton, NY 12033 Email: vfw12033@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VFWCastletonNY My Cell Phone: 518-694-2070.

Town of North Greenbush Memorial Day Parade

Our annual Town of North Greenbush Memorial Parade will be held on Monday, May 29th at 1pm. If you or your organization would like to participate, please contact the Town Supervisor’s office at (518) 283-5313 or email at supervisorsoffice@northgreenbush.org.

We are inviting all veterans to march and lead off our parade. If you are a business, school group or team in town, we’d love for you to participate. For organizations, please let us know you would be interested so we can include you in the lineup.

Sand Lake’s Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony Is Getting Organized and Invites You To Join In

Plans for the 2023 Sand Lake Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony are underway. To attract more participation and attendance this year, we encourage all interested civic organizations, businesses, churches, community and youth groups and individuals to participate in this year’s parade.

This year’s Sand Lake Memorial Day Parade will be Monday, May 29, at 10:00 am. The Parade route is from Averill Ave. in Westfall Village to the Sand Lake Veteran’s Memorial Park on NYS Route 43. Ceremonies will begin at about 10:30 in the Veterans Park.

Our honored speaker will be Colonel Lenny Kness, USA, Ret. He hails from Chadwick, Ill.

He has served with the 2nd Infantry Division in Korea

and was deployed in support of Operation Desert Shield, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Sea Signal and three tours in support of Operation Iraq Freedom. He also served as the Chief of Staff - 1st Theater Sustainment Command (Fort Bragg, NC), XO to The Army Inspector General (DC) and Logistics Division Chief - Human Resources Command (Fort Knox, KY) where he retired on March 1st, 2018.

RENSSELAERCOUNTYNEEDSAN ANIMALSHELTER

WearewritingtoonceagainasktheresidentsofRensselaerCountyto considerjoiningusforapublicforumonWednesday,June7that6PMin theCountyBuildinglocatedat99TroyRd.,EastGreenbushandvocalize theneedforaRensselaerCountyAnimalShelter.EffectiveJanuaryof thisyear,RensselaerCountytownsnolongerhavecontractswiththe MohawkHudsonHumaneSociety.

Simplyput,RensselaerCountyneedsitsownanimalshelter.Ascitizensand communityleaders,itisourdutytorespondtotheneedsofthevoiceless andhelpless,andthisincludesanimals.

NewYorkStatelawonlymandatesthatmunicipalitiesprovidehousingfor straydogs.However,mostcountieshavefacilitiesthatprovidehousingfor bothstraydogsandcats,aswellasthosewhoarenolongerwanted. RensselaerCountyisagrowingcommunityandwithpeoplecome companionanimals:namelycatsanddogs.Withoutananimalshelter wewillfaceanincreasedvolumeofstraycatsanddogs,rabies,decreased propertyvalues,carcollisions,threatstowildlife,animalneglectand cruelty.

TherearesheltermodelsforustodrawuponsuchastheSaratogaCounty AnimalShelter.Moreover,RensselaerCountyhasdedicatedcitizenswilling tocontributetheirtimeandenergytowardmakingthisvisionofacounty shelterareality.Fundingcouldbeobtainedfromadoptions,surrenders, donations,grantsandfundraisers.

WhilewetrulyrespectandappreciatetheeffortsTownSupervisorsScott Gallerie(SandLake)andKeithHammond(Poestenkill)haveputinto findingasolution,adogpoundatthewastemanagementrecyclingplant attheintersectionofRoutes66and351(nearAlgonquinMiddleSchool)in Poestenkill,atemporaryfix,willnotaddresstheproblemsofstraycats, dogsorcatswhohavebeenabandonedinhomes,whorequiresurrender,or whonolongerhaveownersduetoadeathorillness. Wemustworktoaddressthisproblemnowasitwillonlygetworse. Thankyou.

SusanMcDonoughandValerieLangWaldin

Did You know?

Home renovations can improve a home in many different ways. Modifications to kitchens and bathrooms have long been popular projects, but are they the most popular renovations?

According to data from Realm, which analyzed the top 10 most popular projects from roughly 2.8 million

listings and permit filings in the United States in 2022, certain projects are more popular than others. Nationally, the most common home renovations include interior painting, exterior painting, finishing a basement, installing or replacing windows, and bathroom remodeling. Houzz polls have unveiled that renovating kitchens

and bathrooms, new windows and porches, balcony and deck projects are among the most popular. According to the Canadian lifestyle resource Icy Canada, which culled various data points and sources, window and door upgrades, kitchen and bath remodels and deck projects are the most popular renovations in Canada.

Veterans of Sand Lake Chicken Barbeque

The Veterans of Sand Lake in Averill Park will be holding our Chicken BBQ on Saturday, June 17th, 2023. Please call the Post at (518) 674-2309 to pre-order chicken halves only (no full dinners) from 8:00am the day of the BBQ. Price of the BBQ is $9.00. Enjoy the most succulent BBQ Chicken you will ever eat. Pick up your order between 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM. The next Chicken BBQ will be held on August 19th, 2023.

Roadside Chicken BBQ at Brunswick Elk’s Lodge

Brunswick Elk’s, Eagle Mills, Rt 2, presents on Memorial Day, 5/29/2023 a roadside BBQ to include 1/2 chicken, baked potato, corn, roll and dessert.

Take out only, from 2-4:00PM, $15.00.

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED, call Theresa @ 518 8981224. Proceeds go to local charities.

resume in September!)

Donations are always welcome and very much appreciated!

Please contact us by calling Ginny at 518-479-0767 and leave a message with your name, number and your request. She will return your call ASAP. (We do not have a person at the Post to return calls.)

Thank you for your support!

Community Dinner

June 4. It’s Pasta night at the Center Brunswick United Methodist Church, 990 Hoosick Road, Troy on June 4. 4-6 pm. Menu includes Mac &Cheese, Tuna Mac, Pasta Salad, Tossed salad, Dessert and beverage. Free Will Offering. The Cares Closer will also be available.

Roadside Chicken BBQ

Brunswick Elk’s Lodge presents a Chicken Roadside BBQ on Monday 5/29/2023, Memorial Day. Pickup only from 2:00-4:00pm $15.00.

stop in and see what we do. This is a very rewarding activity for someone who would like to volunteer to help others in their community as both firematic and non-firematic members. We would love to talk to you more about the opportunity.

Chicken BBQ

A Chicken BBQ will be held on Friday, June 2nd from 4:30 pm to 6 pm (or until sold out) at the First Reformed Church in Wynantskill.

The menu will include 1/2 chicken (featuring Clements’ Old Fashion BBQ Sauce), Baked Potato, Homemade Coleslaw, Roll & Dessert for $15. The church is located at the corner of Church St and Main Ave. (Rt 66) and the BBQ is a Drive Thru Take Out Only dinner.

Castleton Kiwanis Memorial Day

Pancake Breakfast

VFW

Post 7338 Available for All Family Events

VFW Post 7338, East Greenbush, located at 100 Hayes Road, is available now to handle all of your family gatherings/activities, this Spring and Summer season, whether inside or outside!

We can be your 1st choice for Weddings, Showers, Anniversaries, Parties, High School Graduations, Club Meetings, get-togethers for families and friends or a quiet place to have a Celebration of Life of a loved one that passed. We have a seating capacity for 125 people!

We also have an Outdoor Pavilion which can accommodate any size party or gathering, along with a large outside Barbeque Pit! We offer reasonable rates and appreciate your business! As everyone knows we offer a Delicious Pancake Breakfast, usually on the 3rd Sunday of every month! (Please note that Sunday, June 18 will be our last Pancake Breakfast for the summer; we will

Chicken BBQ at Center Brunswick

Fire Company

The Volunteer Fire Company of Center Brunswick, Inc. is hosting a Chicken BBQ on Saturday, June 17, 2023 from 4:00pm–6:00pm. Dinner includes half chicken, macaroni salad, corn on the cob, roll and a drink. Cost is $15.00/dinner.

Curbside pickup only.

For more information or for tickets call Renie at 518-810-2438 or the station at 518-279-3878.

Come in person Monday

Glendora Vegan Club

nights to the firehouse between 7:00-8:00pm or all members have tickets to sell. Tickets also available through our Facebook page. Firehouse is located at 1045 Hoosick Road, Troy, NY 12180.

Hope’s Kitchen Free Community Dinner

Hope’s Kitchen, a joint ministry of Hope Lutheran Church and Cornerstone Community Community Church of Lansingburgh, is serving a free community dinner at Cornerstone Community Church, 570 3rd Avenue, Troy on

Where does food start? In the air we have carbon dioxide and energy from the sun. Water is here, and they get together to make glucose. That is the first food. It isn’t made in the kitchen or in a restaurant. It is made with our rich surroundings that we do not think twice about. Then solar energy has been transformed into chemical energy. Don’t you rejoice at the miracle of our universe? The oxygen comes from the water. The oxygen we breathe in; the carbon dioxide we breathe out. Thus we have photosynthesis.

At 95, Glendora has been asked to give the keynote address at the annual meeting in Brooklyn of the Alliance for Community Media, the national trade association for Public Access TV. It will be hosted by Public Access TV which in Brooklyn is incorporated as Free Speech TV. Please remember that Public Access TV and Free Speech TV are synonymous.

What shall we talk about? Let’s tell them that we have done Public access TV for 53 years, that our show “A Chat With Glendora” is on 72 Public Access TV stations serving over 500 municipalities, such as Boston, Quincy, Springfield, Pittsfield, Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Chicago, Portland OR, San Francisco, San Jose, San Diego, San Antonio, 10 cities in Connecticut and more. Don’t you think we should tell them about veganism? The message of my TV show is, “When all is said and done, the only thing that matters is helping others.” This includes animals.

Jokes

1. A man said his daughter was looking for the perfect guy to marry. Said he, “Stop the search, honey. Your mother found the last one.”

2. Adam said to God, “I need a helper. I can’t do all this alone - roll up the tent every morning, carry it around all day, get the food, set up the tent at night. I need a helper.”

God said, “That will cost you an arm and a leg.”

Adam said, “How about a rib?”

3. She said, “I wouldn’t”t marry you if you were the last man on earth.”

He said, “That’s right, honey. You would get crushed in the rush.”

4. Marilyn babies her car. It won’t go anywhere without a rattle.

5. The couple got married so late in life that Medicare picked up 80% of the honeymoon.

Food Trucks Are Back!!!!!

Our Wednesday Night Food Truck Event is back for a fun filled delicious night!!!!! They will be ready and willing to serve you between the hours of 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. We can’t wait to see you all once again at the North Greenbush Town Hall, 2 Douglas Street, Wynantskill, New York.

There are so many returning vendors and a lot of new ones to enjoy this year. Stop by and try out all the great choices of food that they will be serving all summer long. No need to cook on Wednesday nights for the following 12 weeks, just stop by and pick up dinners to go. You may contact my office @ 518-283-4306 or email me @ townclerk@northgreenbush.org with any question you may have pertaining to the weekly event. Can’t wait to see everyone once again.

1/2 Chicken, baked potato, corn, roll, & dessert. Reservations required, call Theresa at 518 898-1224. Proceeds go to charity.

Averill Park Fire Department Breakfast

Sandwich Fundraiser

Relax and let the fire company prepare made-to-order breakfast sandwiches for you and the family. Please support our Breakfast Sandwich Fundraiser being held Sunday, May 28, 2023 from 8:00 am until 11:30 am at the Averill Park Fire Station located at 35 Eastern Union Turnpike.

Drive up and order your choice of ham, bacon or sausage on this 2-egg delicious sandwich prepared on Bella Napoli hard rolls, served with a hash brown for just $6 each!! In addition, fresh donuts will also be available for your purchase.

We really appreciate your support and invite you to

Thursday, June 1st.

The sit-down dinner, with an option for takeout, will be from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM.

On the menu: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, corn, cole slaw, and assorted cookies. For those eating-in, coffee, tea, iced tea and lemonade will be available.

Reservations are required and must be in by the deadline of Friday, May 26th

Call (518)235-3851 and indicate sit-down or takeout, the time you wish to dine or pick-up and the

number of people in your group. We appreciate any and all free-will donations to help offset the cost of dinners.

First Reformed Church Community Dinners

The First Reformed Church (corner of NYS Route 66 and Church St in Wynantskill) will be providing free pasta dinners once again.

The dinners will be available every Wednesday evening from 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm and will be

SAVE THE DATESt. Jude’s Family Soup, Chowder & Chili Feud!

Our Fall Festival committee is stirring things up this year and is excited to announce our First SOUPer competition will be held Saturday October 14th starting at 11 am!! Cash prizes will be awarded!!

We will also have live entertainment and raffles all day!! Save the date and watch for more details to follow soon!!

Come out and enjoy breakfast before the Village of Castleton’s Memorial Day parade, prepared by the Castleton Kiwanis Club.

Breakfast will be served on Monday, May 29th from 7:00-9:30am at the Castleton Volunteer Ambulance Service, 1700 Brookview Rd. The cost of the all-you-can-eat breakfast is $10/person, however there is no charge for veterans as a way to thank them for their service.

The Return of the Taborton Turkey Dinner

Zion’s United Church of Christ (741 Taborton Road, Sand Lake, NY 12153) will be having their famous turkey dinner on Saturday, June 3rd . Sittings at 4:30 and 5:30 or takeout. $15.00. The menu will include turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, dressing, green beans, corn, rolls a drink and apple pie for dessert.

For reservations call Diane Hoffman at (518) 674-2746 or text (518) 649-5141 or Jane Weber at (518) 258-4307. If you leave a message, you will be called back to confirm reservation.

drive-thru take out only event.

No reservations are needed.

Ham and Strawberry

Shortcake Dinner at Pittstown Methodist Church Hall

Ham and Strawberry

Shortcake Dinner at the Pittstown United Meth-

odist Church Hall located just off NY Route 7 in village of Pittstown, NY on Saturday, June 3 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Eat In or Take Out.

Menu: ham, mashed potatoes, gravy, vegetables, applesauce, rolls, strawberry shortcake. Price: adults - $14, children 5-12 - $6, under 5 free. Reservations suggested. Call Bev at 518-663-5607.

To Love A Child

Launches June

Dollar-For-Dollar Fundraising Campaign

CAPITAL DISTRICT

- To Love A Child, Inc.

announces the launch of its June fundraising campaign – the “June

Dollar-for-Dollar Match”. Each dollar that is donated to To Love A Child, Inc. will be matched by an anonymous donor dollar-for-dollar during the month of June up to a total of $10,000!

Donations during the month of June will help to support our local programs; Thyme to Thrive

educational programs, field trips and school break camps; and our international projects in Zimbabwe – clean water and wells, the building of a medical clinic, education, a piggery, food forests; and Haiti –educational support for teachers’ salaries.

Please visit www. toloveachild.net for more detailed information and to make a secure donation through PayPal or checks may be sent to To Love A Child, Inc., PO Box 165, Clifton Park, NY 12065.

Thank you for your support. Together we will make a difference in the lives of many. Established in April of 2009, To Love a Child, Inc. is a local nonprofit 501 (c) 3 organization.

Strides 4 STRIDE 5k/2k Run, Walk ‘n Roll

Wednesday, June 14, 2023 ~ 5:00 PM. Jennings Landing, Albany, NY.

Athletes from STRIDE Adaptive Sports with physical and developmental disabilities will walk, run, and even roll their way across the finish line in special three-wheeled hand cycles. They will be joined by able-bodied runners from all around the Capital Region, completing the 5K run to advocate for equal opportunity in sports and raise funds for STRIDE Adaptive Sports programs. Chip timing will be provided by ARE Event Productions.

Tickets for the 14th Annual “Strides 4 STRIDE”

event are available for $25 online at www.stride. org/5k. The inclusive, family-oriented event offers casual or competitive options, so there is something for everyone.

All proceeds will go to STRIDE Adaptive Sports to help keep its 18 adaptive sport and recreational programs fully-funded.

STRIDE programs use special adaptive equipment and unique instructional methods to help people with disabilities overcome their physical and mental/emotional limitations so they can play sports and enjoy an active lifestyle.

Memorial Day Mass “Serving God and Country: A Memorial Day Salute to Our Heroes”

As the country celebrates Memorial Day, Our Lady of Angels Cemetery joins thousands of Catholic cemeteries across the United States in a national celebration, “Serving God and Country: A Memorial Day Salute to Our Heroes.”

This national program, developed by the Catholic Cemetery Conference, honors men and women who died while serving in the armed forces, as well

as recognizing both active duty military and veterans.

Please join us for this special Mass celebrated by Reverend John Bradley on Monday, May 29, at 10am at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, 1389 Central Avenue in Colonie. The Memorial Day Mass will take place outside, under a large tent, rain or shine. Veterans are invited each year to serve as lectors and Eucharistic Ministers, and participate in the presentation of gifts. Veterans attending the Mass are offered special lapel pins.

Bustrip to NY Mets Game…Citifiel

CAPITAL DISTRICT

- Family type bustrip is planned to enjoy SF Giants vs NY Mets on Saturday(4pm game) July 1st

It will be deluxe Ac video bus, games an lots of prizes on the bus, snacks with beverages, FIELD level seats, movies and fun filled day with family/ friends. Clifton Park and Latham pick ups. All for $129. Call 518878-0883 before it’s full. Arranged by International Club members.open to all.

TO THE EDITOR

Youth Sports Teach Life Lessons

Spring sports season is in full swing and there is nothing I love more than our local fields filled with players, coaches, and parents enjoying the love of the game. What I love much less is when the joy is interrupted by cursing, yelling, belligerence, and spite. Players yelling racial slurs and cursing at their peers. Coaches screaming at officials, throwing toddler-like tantrums. Parents belittling players on the opposite team. Opposing players booing coaches. And yes, all of this has happened in the last two weeks. Look, sports can bring out our extremes. I have been known to cheer loudly at a beautiful play and grumble when I don’t agree with a call. I am human. However,

I believe that youth sports should mostly be a chance for our best selves to shine through. It is an opportunity for our kids to learn how to be a part of team, celebrate their own and their teammates’ skills and abilities. Have you seen the way a U10 boy’s soccer team jumps all over each other when someone scores a goal??? It’s magic! It’s also a chance for kids to learn how to deal with disappointment, to stick together through the ups and downs. They learn respect for those in charge. Not that they can’t question things (officials are human, they make mistakes. And, let’s face it, some are better than others), but that they do so in a respectful manner. Young players learn to hone their skills on the field, yes, but the greater lessons they learn are what follow them for life. We, adults, parents, coaches, grandparents, model that behavior for our kids.

We set the tone. Is it ok to yell and curse and throw a tantrum when things don’t go our way? Do we berate our kids when they don’t play their best? Do we belittle players on the opposing team when they make a mistake? Do we argue with officials? The lessons our kids learn playing youth sports are life lessons. The skills they learn are life skills. Let’s be careful what we teach them.

Erin Berical, Averill Park

Sand Lake Senior Club

The Sand Lake Seniors have put together a 3 days/2nights trip to Niagara

SLHS Calls on Community to Save the WSL Firehouse

At its meeting May 9th, the Board of Trustees of the Sand Lake Historical Society adopted the following:

“Resolved that the Sand Lake Historical Society formally opposes the planned demolition of the historic West Sand Lake Firehouse and strongly encourages Fire Department membership and leadership, public officials, and community leaders to seek alternative solutions.”

A copy of this resolution has been sent to Fire District leadership and public officials.

As Sand Lake Town Historian Bob Moore stated in the May 11th issue of The Advertiser, the 1873 structure is a significant historic asset in our community and its steeple is a prominent visual feature of the West Sand Lake hamlet. For many years, our Town Planning and Zoning Boards, along with the Town Planning Oversight Committee, and Building Department, as well as the Town Historian, have worked diligently to maintain the historic integrity of Sand Lake and to create a “village” rather than “suburban strip” feel to our hamlet areas. The current firehouse plan does just the opposite.

According to the plan, the current historic firehouse will be replaced with lawn and landscaping. Retaining the building would have no impact on the proposed new firehouse structure nor would its preservation impact public safety. It is both ironic and tragic that only last year the West Sand Like Fire Company celebrated its 150th Anniversary by hanging a large banner from the 1873 firehouse –- that they now want to demolish.

Peter Finn, President, Sand Lake Historic Society

Keeping the Warrior Name

To the Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York State,

My name is Alessia Valente. I go to Algonquin Middle School in the Averill Park School district. I am in 6th

Falls, Canadian side for Oct 16th through the 18th

A valid ENHANCED

Driver’s License or a current PASSPORT is required. We will be staying at the

Holiday Inn Fallsview which is across the street from the Fallsview Casino (Bonus $35/pp).

Two breakfasts and 2 dinners are included one

A er48Years

A er43 Years

of which is at the Skylon Tower. Enjoy the 20 minute Hornblower Cruise of the Falls! There is a guided full day tour of historic Niagara on the Lake where you can

grade, age eleven. I am extremely disappointed and upset with my state’s decision to force my district to remove the name “Warriors” from our schools.

I disagree with this because even if this name can be used as an offensive term for indigenous people, it can only be heard this way if put into a disrespectful situation. However, the way the name Warrior is used in our schools, it has only ever been put into respectful situations.

We students at AMS have always treated the Warrior name with respect, and even have a “Warrior Way,” and a “Warrior Wednesday.” The Warrior Way encourages us to be good friends, students and people by teaching us to follow three basic principles. They are to respect ourselves and others, to try our best, and to make the world a better place. We have always treated these principles with an incredible amount of respect, and do not disrespect these terms.

Actually, the word “Warrior” means someone who is trained to fight. Warriors fits nicely with sports, not indigenous people or cultures. After all, we train hard to fight for a win in all of the games we play. It just fits! Also, it would cost a TREMENDOUS amount of money to remove “Warriors” from all of our schools. The state will not even give us the money to basically demolish everything from our fields to the uniforms and equipment we use. It is incredibly unfair to do this to us, you aren’t even giving us a choice!

Either way, we lose money from OUR learning because of YOUR unfair decisions! And, shouldn’t the town with the name in question be able to have all of their citizens vote and make a choice without being threatened by the state? We are the ones who live here, in this town, not the people working to unfairly remove this name up at the government level. Alessia Valente-An upset Student Alessia Valente, Averill Park

lunch on your own followed by a wine tasting at a local vineyard. A ride on the Skywheel prior to departure for home as well as a Duty Free stop at the border.

All taxes, meal and driver gratuities are included in the price: $509/pp/DBL, $639/ pp/SNG, $499/pp/TPL. Contact Bette Bieg 518-663-8292 for reservations or questions.

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2023 Town of Schodack Day Camp

The Town of Schodack is pleased to announce that the 2023 Summer Day Camp for children will run from July 10, 2023 through August 4, 2023. The program will operate Monday through Friday, grades K-3 from 9:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. and grades 4-8 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30

•Screens

EMPLOYMENT

p.m. Registration is $125.00 per child, with a $325.00 maximum per family, all inclusive. Applications will be available during regular business hours starting May 1st at the Schodack Town Clerk’s Office or online at www. schodack.org (under Youth & Recreation). All health immunization forms are required with camper applications. No application will be accepted without proof of immunization. Bus service information will also be available. See registration applications for age requirements, camp locations and details. Completed applications and registration fees will be due no later than June 1, 2023. For further information please contact the Recreation Director Shelia Golden at youthdirector@ schodack.org.

Town of North Greenbush Summer Camp Employment

The Town of North Greenbush is now accepting ALL employment applications for Summer Staff for the town beach and summer camp. Are you looking for a great job working with our youth in the beautiful surroundings of our town beach and camp, then apply now.

Applications can be found on our website on the YOUTH and RECREATION page at www.townofng.com.

If you have any questions, please contact Tammie at (518) 283-2574, x-15. You can also email tobrien@northgreenbush.org. Positions available include:

Gate Keeper, Concession Stand, Assistant Camp Directors, Assistant Medical Directors, Camp Counselors, Waterfront Staff.

Come join the fun and be part of the Town of North Greenbush summer TEAM!

Town of BrunswickSummer Job Opportunties

We are now accepting application for our summer program. Camp counselors, maintenance workers, gate guards and Lifeguards.

Applicants must be 15 years old by June 26, 2023 to work at the beach. 16 years old to be a camp counselor.

Lifeguards must be certified prior to beach opening.

You can find the application on our website Townofbrunswick.org, under forms and documents. Any question, please call 518-279-3461 X 104.

Love Lutheran Church News

Please join us! Pastor David Dietsche will be leading our worship service on June 4th Worship Service is at 10:00 am, followed by Fellowship at 11:00 am.

LLC is located on Pheasant Lane and Middlesex Rd, East Greenbush, NY. Telephone: 518-477-8685.

Church of the Redeemer

Thank you to all who came to make our plant and craft sale a success.

Sunday, May 28, service will be at 9 am followed by

Rensselaer County 4-H Members Participate in the New York State 4-H Horse Bowl Contest

coffee hour in the Hearth Room. Come to meet and socialize with our members.

On Wednesday, Hot Mess Crafters gets together at 10 am. We are currently learning to make crocheted market bags. Join us to learn to make this useful item.

Bible Study meets on Wednesday at 2.

Thrift Shop is open Thursdays from 3-6 and Saturday, June 3 from 9-2.

The Church of the Redeemer is an Episcopal church located on at the corner of Third and Catherine Streets. There is handicap parking, a ramp in front, and a parking lot in the rear.

Fr. Robert Haskell may be emailed at rhaskell2@ nycap.rr.com

Used Clothing Drive/Sale

The Saratoga United Methodist Church at 175 Fifth Avenue will be having a Used Clothing Sale on Friday, June 2nd from 9am to 3pm and Saturday, June 3rd from 9am to 11 am.

Drop off days for donated clothing, shoes/boots, linens, jewelry and accessories are Tuesday, May 30th through Thursday, June 1st beginning at 9 am each day.

Seeking Crafters, Vendors and Garage Sailers!

Nassau Lake Association (NLPIA) 3rd Annual Lawn Sale 6/10 9am-3pm, the same date as the Nassau Community wide garage sale. Location: the ballfield on Nassau-Schodack Rd., East side of the Lake. To reserve a spot we’re asking for a $15 donation, which will go toward the new clubhouse.

Plenty of room and parking. There will be food and beverages available as well as a 50/50 raffel and gift basket raffels. Contact Jim or Deb Prime on Facebook or by phone Deb Prime 518-466-2631, Jim Prime 518-776-0041 for more info and to sign up. Hope to see you there!

Ethel Simmons Memorial Award

The Grafton Community Library and Grafton Historical Society announce that applications are now being accepted for the Ethel Simmons Memorial Award of $1,000. All high school juniors and seniors who reside in the Town of Grafton are eligible.

Entrants may submit either an essay or a narrated video introducing a visitor to Grafton. Include places of significance to you, and tell why you included them. Entries must be received by 6 pm, June 2, 2023, and must include your name, address, and phone number.

Entries can be submitted to Director@Graftoncommunitylibrary.org or dropped off at the library, or mailed to: Ethel Simmons Memorial Award, PO BOX H, Grafton, NY 12082.

in Kentucky in the fall.

Special thanks to our Coach Rebekah Colarossi of Melrose and Teen Coach Lindsey Oswald of Cherry Plain, who worked hard to get our members ready for the state contest.

Areyoulookingforsummeremployment?

QuestarIIIBOCESannouncesexcitingopportunitiesto workasaTeachingAssistantinour2023SpecialEducation ExtendedSchoolYearSummerSchool.Classesrunfrom July6toAugust16,withafulldayorientationonJuly 5.Theprogramwilloperateunderanormalschoolday schedulewithanapproximate8:00amstartand2:30pm endofday.

Requirements:

Highschooldiplomaorequivalentandadesiretowork withkidsrequired.Preferredcandidateswillhaveteaching AssistantorTeachercertificationandexperienceworking withSpecialEducationstudents.

CurrentOpenings

•RensselaerAcademy(Rensselaer,NY)

•GeorgeWashingtonSchool,(Troy,NY)

•PaulPuccioSchoolatMapleHillMS(Schodack,NY)

•MarilynANoonanSchoolatDurham(Durham,NY)

•SackettEducationCenter(EastGreenbush,NY)

HOWTOAPPLY:Emailresumewith coverletterto employment@questar.org. BesuretoincludeTeachingAssistant–SummerSchoolinthesubjectlineofyouremail.

Congratulations and Thank You to all the members, leaders and volunteers who supported our qualifying New York State 4-H Horse Bowl participants. 4-H members have participated in equine educational workshops to increase their knowledge of horses and the equine industry as well as qualified at our Regional 4-H Horse Bowl Contest to represent our county and region at the statewide contest held at Cornell University. The Junior team, led by Captain Thomas Colarossi of Melrose and members Alice Bourdeau of Averill Park, Emmeline Heer and Bridget Rowland both of Troy placed 2nd. Individually, Thomas placed 2nd, Alice 9th and Emmeline 8th. Kira Colarossi of Melrose was on a mixed Senior Regional team which placed 4th and individually she placed 3rd earning a seat on the New York State 4-H Horse Bowl Team which will compete at the National 4-H Roundup

To learn more about this and other 4-H Youth Development Programs, contact your respective county Cooperative Extension office. Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities.

Sand Lake Town Library Closings and Events

Sand Lake Town Library will be closed Saturday, May 27 thru Monday, May 29 for the Memorial Day weekend, but our digital offerings are always available.

LEGO Tuesdays, 3:30 – 6pm. Drop in, bring a friend, build! We have lots of LEGOs to design with.

Storytime, Wednesday, May 31 at 11am. This will be our last storytime until the end of June.

On display: wonderful

landscape photos of near and far by Ron Greenberg through June 30.

Book Club meets Wednesday, June 7 at 7pm to discuss “The Swimmers,” by Julie Otsuka.

SLTL Book Sale coming Saturday, June 24!

Join the 2023 Upper Hudson Library Expedition and become a #Library36er! Prizes available after visiting 6, 12, and 24 libraries; visit all 36 and get a “gold” library card! Runs through July 31. Info at uhls.org/expedition or at your local library.

Museum passes are available for The Clark, MASS MoCA, Hancock Shaker Village, Norman Rockwell Museum, & the Albany Institute of History and Art.

Check the Community Calendar at sandlaketownlibrary.org for events around town. Submit non-profit community events to info@sandlaketownlibrary.org with the subject “calendar.”

Located at 8428 Miller Hill Road, Averill Park.

Hours: M-TH 11 – 8; F 11 –4; Sat 10 – 2. Call 518-6745050 with questions or to register for programs.

REAL ESTATE / HOUSE OF THE WEEK

11Park Alley North, Saratoga Springs

This Victorian-inspired home in Saratoga Springs was custom-built in 2005.

HOUSE

OF THE WEEK

This week’s House of the Week is a custom-built home that throws out Victorian vibes by blending bits from the era — turrets, dormers, and an ornate foyer — with modern design and a host of highend amenities. Built by Witt Construction in 2005 and located near Skidmore College, this home has been meticulously and professionally updated inside and out. The home sits on less than a quarter-acre of land, but offers more than 3,000 square feet of living space, including four bedrooms and four-and-a-half bathrooms. There are two primary bedrooms — one located on each floor. The second-floor suite is elegant and lofty, with soaring ceilings and built-ins that separate the sleeping area from the massive, spa-like master bathroom.

The gourmet kitchen features granite counters, along with high-end cabinetry, appliances, fixtures and lighting. A curved wall in the adjacent living room leads to two fluted glass doors that open to an airy sunroom that overlooks a bluestone patio and some of the home’s many lovely floral gardens.

List price: $1,999,900. Taxes: $14,864. To learn more, contact Valerie Thompson with Roohan Realty at 518-421-7264 or vhtrealtor@gmail.com.

ban migrants from being relocated to hotels in their respective areas.

County executives were informed that there are 43,700 migrants in New York City, according to a county official on the call. While 71,000 have been processed over the past year, tens of thousands have left the city’s custody.

“Hochul, who wants our help, calls us bigoted,” Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin tweeted Monday afternoon, following the call. McLaughlin described the asylum-seekers as an “illegal alien invasion.”

“She keeps pushing the ‘we need jobs filled’ B.S. while pushing policies that let

people do nothing and get paid.”

Hochul, in Brooklyn, told reporters she is seeking to educate county officials that “any rejection of migrants coming is also hurting their employers and, in rural areas, it’s hurting their farmers.”

“I understand hesitation of the unknown, but these individuals are coming with full financial support backing them so there’s not a burden financially on the local communities,” Hochul said.

The Legislature agreed to Hochul’s budget request for $1 billion to support New York City’s effort to settle migrants who have been arriving in the city on buses and planes. State officials have said the money

is to also cover relocation costs, which the city would shoulder, not the municipality where the person is housed.

The administrations of Adams and Hochul have been coordinating efforts to find the unprecedented amount of lodging needed to house the migrants. But the efforts to move migrants to many upstate counties has been met with fierce opposition, including some local officials going to court trying to block the long-term relocations.

Nick Paro, supervisor of the town of Salina in Onondaga County, issued a statement Monday morning saying his town will fight a pledge by Adams to send migrants there to stay in a hotel. Paro said he supports an executive order issued by Onondaga

County Executive Ryan McMahon barring migrants from being housed there.

“There was no consideration given for our town, or even for the illegal migrants themselves,” Paro said. “New York City is a sanctuary city that cares very little about giving sanctuary, as of late. The town of Salina has made no such promise and should not be held to the standard the New York City mayor refuses to hold himself to. The town ... intends to fight back against this breach of intermunicipal trust to protect our community from becoming New York City’s dumping ground for their illegal migrant problem.” Hochul declared a state of emergency earlier this month to try to speed up

the ability to spend the $1 billion, a process that could include bypassing typical procurement oversight guidelines for the sake of addressing an immediate crisis.

State Senate Republicans on Monday at the Capitol called for a full accounting of the public money being spent on the migrant crisis. They also asserted that localities would end up taking on the burden of some costs if asylum-seekers come to their communities.

State Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt said his conference is against hastening the process to authorize working papers for asylum-seekers.

“We’re trying to expedite something to get us out of a political problem of our own doing,” Ortt said.

Ortt claimed that if work authorization is expedited, it could prevent federal officials from knowing whether the individuals “haven’t raped, they haven’t murdered, they haven’t robbed, they’re not here to blow people up or sell drugs.”

The claim may be in conflict with the process federal officials engage in for work authorization, which is a background check that must come in before authorization can be granted.

“There are some voices on the right that are trying to say this effort here would take away jobs from other people,” Hochul said. “Anybody who feels that way to come to Union Square today, go up to a farm — I’ll drive you there personally if you’re looking for a job because there are so many jobs unfilled right now.

“I want to take that narrative and push it right back at everybody because that is false,” Hochul added.

Senate Republicans also called for bans on the resettlement of migrants on campuses of the State University of New York, schools and prisons. Republican legislation is unlikely to move forward because they are in a superminority in both houses, but the rollout of the platform affords the lawmakers an opportunity to explain their position and point to attempts to resolve the issue from their perspective.

Hochul is holding calls on the migrant crisis with her cabinet at 8 a.m. and in the evening every day, she said. The governor expects to relocate individuals to state-owned facilities, if necessary, as New York City indicates it has hit its capacity in housing those seeking asylum.

SHANNON FROMMA

apparatus which has served the community for well over a century and a half. These pieces include:

An 1842 Button Hand Engine

An 1889 Button Hose Reel

And a 1957 Mack “b” Model Pumper

Each of these three pieces has a well-documented history. Let’s start with the oldest.

“OLD JOE”

On April 25, 1874, the West Sand Lake Volunteer Fire Company No.

1 paid $650 for a hand -operated fire engine which had been used until July 22, 1865 by the Lafayette Engine Co. No. 3 in the Village of Lansingburgh. Originally named the “Old Black Joke”, the hand pumper’s name was changed to “Old Joe” by the fire company’s membership on February 17, 1876.

Designed by John P. Rogers of Albany, N.Y., “Old Joe” was actually built by Lysander Button & Sons of Waterford, N.Y. Rogers designed the engine to simultaneously supply two 2-1 12 inch hose lines. It is believed that two hand engines of this design were constructed, one of them “Old Joe”.

This hand engine – or “enjine” – is classified as a Class II Squirrel-Tail Type Piano Box Style Hand Engine with two nine-inch pistons with seven adjustable strokes. The 1842 Button served West Sand Lake from April 25, 1874 until April 17, 1926, at which time it went into “secondary” service. During its fifty years of active service, the Button hand engine only once refused to pump – on July 1, 1909 – which resulted in a complete overhaul of the pump.

On May 15, 1993 the fire company’s membership gave a public demonstration of the old hand engine for the first time in 20 years. The Button hand pumper was used for the “wetdown” of the fire company’s new apparatus. The Button’s two hand lines provided crossed streams over the gleaming, new pumper.

At Waterford’s 200th Anniversary celebration on September 24, 1994, “Old Joe” set its first pumping record since its restoration. The venerable “olde Masheen” threw a stream of water 127 feet, ten inches.

In October, 1986 the West Sand Lake Fire Company formed a Restoration Committee to restore the hand engine to as close as original as possible. The missing brass wheel hub trim rings were fabricated by comparing old photographs and “rationing” the sizes so a local business could hand craft molds which were sent to a local foundry to be cast in brass. After approximately three years, the businessman, Robert St. Germain of Averill Park, who fabricated the molds for the M. C. Carter & Son Inc. Foundry of Coxsackie, N.Y. owned by Mike and Joan Amatriello, cast the rings in brass for the fire company. Both businesses donated time, material and labor to make the wheel rings, which were accepted by the fire company with deep appreciation.

The only thing missing now is documentation to verify the hand engine’s original serial number and date of manufacture. If anyone has any leads, friends, relatives,

scrapbooks, photos, family albums or any other memorabilia which might provide this missing information, the fire company would be most grateful for the opportunity to photograph or photocopy it.

The committee is also interested in any information pertaining to “Old Joe’s” twin. All the committee knows is that it may have burned up in its storage building somewhere in the Capital district sometime between 1960 and 1970.

PART II IN NEXT WEEK’S PAPER

Nassau Free Library

Storytime: Wednesdays 10:30am Join us for stories, songs, and crafts geared towards our youngest library friends. Infants, toddlers, preschoolers, kindergarteners and 1st graders along with their grownups are welcome.

LEGO Club Tuesday, May 30, 6pm- Children of all ages join together to create and play, using the library’s large collection of LEGOS.

Knitting Night! Tuesday, May 30 6pm- Do you knit? Or maybe you have always wanted to learn? Join us for a fun and casual way to relax. Bring an already-started project or start a new one!

Kitchen Herbs-Myth, Magic, Folklore & Uses Program: Thursday, June 1, 6pm- We’ll also go over how to grow these low-maintenance herbs, how to use them, and simple recipes for your own health and wellness. The speaker will be Janis Fallon, one of Rensselaer County’s Master Gardeners. RSVP

Chair Yoga: Mon. June 5th 2:30pm- Emily Brache will introduce the benefits of chair yoga for health, mind, body, and spirit. Classes will take place in the Nassau Free Library Community room. Registration required.

International Potluck Club: Spain- Tuesday, June 6, 6pm This time we are heading to Spain! Bring a dish to share inspired by Spanish cuisine, and enjoy meeting new and old friends, all the while enjoying music and the sights of Spain. RSVP

Friends Book & Puzzle Sale: Sat. June 10, 9am-3pm (During Village-Wide Yard Sale)

Stop by the library and find puzzles, gently used fiction, nonfiction, paperbacks, children’s books, and DVDs. Book donations for the sale will be collected at the library during business hours beginning Monday, May 22- Saturday, June 3.

Bring Your Own Device Event: Tuesday, June 13, 1-2pm. Do you need help with using your digital device? Drop into the library with your laptop, tablet, or smartphone to get help. Nassau Free Library is located at 18 Church St. Nassau, NY 12123. Please call the library at (518)766-2715 or email director@nassaufreelibrary.org to register for programs.

Events at Castleton Public Library, 5/28-6/3

CPL is located at 85 S. Main St., Castleton, NY. All events are free. Questions? Call 518-732-0879.

Events & Take-Home Kit:

Take & Make Craft Kit: Paper Bag Puppets - Kit available for pick-up any time from 5/30 through 6/23

Teen Time: Bookend Painting - Tue., 5/30, 4:00pmDecorate bookends for your home book library! For teens in 6th-12th grades.

Pajama Storytime - Tue., 5/30, 6:00pm - Feel free to

wear your pajamas or bring a stuffed animal to this evening storytime! For ages birth to 8 years.

Learn & Play Storytime - Thu., 6/1, 10:30am - Children from birth to age 5 are invited to enjoy stories, rhymes, music, and movement while building their early literacy and motor skills!

Bridge Club - Fri., 6/2, 10:30am - Come play bridge with us! Geared towards beginners and players who need a refresher.

Kaleidoscopes - Sat., 6/3, 10:00am-4:00pm - Drop in to make your own homemade kaleidoscope! All ages welcome.