The Advertiser 121522

STEPHENTOWN FEDERATOR CHURCH, 1513 Garfield Road, Stephentown, NY 12168. Handicapped accessible. Pastor Chris Garrison.

Christmas Eve, December 24, at 7:30 p.m.

Come and join us this year for a service of Lessons and Carols...a Christmas Eve service of special music with our choir and soloists as well as carol singing of familiar seasonal hymns for all.

All visiting family members and community members are welcome to come and share this Yearly celebration of the birth of our Christ.

Christmas Day Service, December 25, at 9:30 a.m.

Wow! How lucky are we to have our reason for the season (Christmas) to actually fall on Sunday this year.

It is very difficult to jus-

By MELISSA MANNO

SCHAGHTICOKE — In the rural outskirts of Rensselaer County, an enormous Eastern cottonwood rests in a flood plain, outstretching its branches toward the Hudson River and blending into the surrounding canopy of trees.

Those who drive past might not notice it, but for arborist Fred Breglia, the town’s primeval tree is a dream come true. The forester said it is the biggest documented tree in the state

of New York and has the potential to be crowned the largest of its species in the world.

“I would call it a relic,” he said while measuring its circumference — roughly 34 feet wide.

Breglia, executive director of the Landis Arboretum, has devoted most of his life to cataloging majestic trees for the statewide register. While other trees might stand taller or spread their branches farther, Breglia said this tree is the state champion due to the record-breaking point total it received from measuring guidelines delineated by American Forests, a nonprofit conversation organization, that considers circumference, height and size of “crown” or leafy cover overhead.

As he and his wife determined with a laser tree measurement tool, the tree stands roughly 108 feet tall, extending its branches of winter buds into the sky. He estimates it to be between 200 to 300 years old, but closer to the latter — a testament to its strength as it’s a fast-growing but short-lived species that typically only survives 70 to 100 years on average.

“It’s not just the biggest cottonwood in New York, it’s actually just the biggest tree, regardless of species, in the state because if you compare it with any other trunk and any other species there’s nothing coming up with this point total,” Breglia said, clarifying that all the measurements would need to be verified before it

officially secures the sought-after title.

Some larger limbs in its over 100-foot-wide canopy spread have been lost to time and worn by weather, but despite its old age, the tree is still alive and surprisingly healthy, the forester said.

Breglia plans on confirming the age of the rarity by drilling into it and pulling out a plug of its interior to count its rings. But since there isn’t a drill big enough to pierce through the entirety of the trunk, he will have to get permission from landowners to climb it and drill into one of its original branches.

In performing these botanical escapades, Breglia reminisces about his early childhood in Richmondville where he was told stories of a nearby oak tree large enough for his entire family to wrap their arms around without touching each other. At the age of 5, when his mother finally brought him to the site of the tale, the old tree left a profound impression on him and set him forth on a lifetime of forestry studies.

He commenced on his mission to identify the state’s biggest tree in 1999 and, along the way, has emerged an unsung leader of a group of enthusiasts around the world looking to con-

By KENNETH C. CROWE II

VALLEY FALLS — For the village’s 510 residents, plans to transform the abandoned Thompson Mill site into a public park on the Hoosic River received a push forward when the Village Board hired a consulting firm to work on the project.

“Cleaning up the burned-out mill and turning it into a riverside park for our residents to enjoy is a long-standing priority for the village. Becoming a designated Brownfield Opportunity Area will open up more pathways to getting that done,” Mayor Jay Over-rocker said in a statement.

The Thompson Mill was a thriving company when it opened in 1860. Moving into the final decades of the 20th century, that changed.

The Thompson Mill closed in 1992 and fell into disrepair. It was condemned in 2009 after a fire that ravaged the building. Rensselaer County foreclosed on the property in 2018 for unpaid property taxes. The village acquired the property from the county to move ahead with its park project.

Its 23.43-acre site with the three-story

13,000-square foot brick mill building is located along the river near the Route 67 bridge.

The Village Board awarded a contract in November to the planning firm Bergmann Associates for $125,000 to prepare a Brownfield Opportunity Area nomination to file with the state Department of State, according to a statement on the project. The village received a $125,000 grant from the Department of State for this work and will match it.

“This contract award is the result of a competitive solicitation process that generated a lot of interest,” Kristina Younger, the village’s project manager, said in a statement.

The nomination study will build on the previous Environmental Protection Agency-funded assessment of the old Thompson Mill site, and the village’s 2018 District designation on the National Historic Register, Younger noted. The project also includes opportunities for public participation and strategies for seeking more money for cleanup and construction of the park.

Two phases of environmental assessment have been conducted at the property. Additional environmental assessment work has to be done and may require building demolition.

Bergmann Associates of Albany has done similar planning work of former mill sites in small villages. The planning work is expected to take 18 months.

Arborist says an Eastern cottonwood in Schaghticoke may be named largest tree in state and largest of species in U.S.

PHOTO BY JIM FRANCO / TIMES UNION

Fred Breglia believes this Eastern cottonwood, located along the Hudson River in Schaghticoke, is the largest tree in New York as de ned by measuring guidelines delineated by conservation organization American Forests. It has a circumference of about 34 feet.

Condemned after a fire in 2009, new life is in store for Valley Falls plot along Hoosic River

Supervisor Bott would like to wish everyone a happy December as we enter this wonderful holiday season. Congratulations to our police department on the reaccreditation from the New York State Law Enforcement Accreditation Program.

This could not have happened without the work by our department and we are proud to announce Lt. Gregory Croll, our accreditation manager, received the John Kimball O’Neil Certificate of Achievement for his work to receive this important accreditation. Lt. Croll had recently announced his retirement after receiving the reaccreditation and the board wishes him well and thanks him for his dedication to our town. We are happy to announce the promotion of North Greenbush Police Officer Matthew Peasley to Sergeant.

With the recent announcement of Mike Miner’s upcoming retirement, the board is happy to announce the appointment of Eric Cioffi as the new Building Inspector as of January 16, 2023. The board approved an attorney retainer agreement for labor attorney services for a new two year period. The board will hold its organizational meeting on Thursday, January 12, 2023 at 6:15 pm, followed by a public hearing to consider the proposed amendment to the Quackenderry Commons PDD at 6:45

pm, followed by the regular meeting at 7:00 pm.

The old recreation building at the town beach is down and work is underway for a new building that will serve as a great addition to our summer camp program. Finally, thank you to all who participated in the annual Christmas Parade organized by the Town Youth Committee chaired by Councilwoman Merola.

Supervisor Bott thanked Deputy Town Supervisor Kelly Hoffman for her work on the Starry Night Memorial Christmas Tree event. These were wonderful town traditions and we thank all who came to celebrate.

As the year comes to an end, we wish you the very happiest of holidays and good health in 2023.

Seasons greetings from Supervisor Bott, Deputy Supervisor Hoffman, Councilwoman Merola and Councilman Gordon.

Councilman Jack Rogers Reports to the Town of North Greenbush

The Town Board appointed a new Police Sergeant. Congratulations on your promotion. The North Greenbush Police Chief updated the board about the department being reaccredited for the next five years.

The Town Board also approved a new building inspector who will start in January.

Welcome to North Greenbush.

A resolution approved the retainer for legal firm of Roemer, Wallens, Gold and Mineaux. This is in regards to labor matters.

A public hearing will be held on January 12th at 6:45 to consider a proposed amendment to the Quackenderry Common PPD local law for the Bloomingrove Properties Associates, LLC Application.

The Town Organizational meeting will be held on January 12, 2023 at 6:15pm.

I provided a brief update on the Open Space Committee and the Natural Resource Inventory.

Check out the town website for information, announcements, and town board meeting minutes at townofng.com or contact me at jrogers@northgreenbush.org. I also post information on my Facebook page Councilman Jack Rogers. You can attend meetings in person or live stream at https://townhallstreams.com/ towns/northgreenbush. Get involved and informed about what is happening in the Town of North Greenbush.

Next Town Meetings are scheduled for:

•Planning Board 12/19/22 at 6:30PM

•Zoning Board 1/11/23 at 6:30PM

•Town Board 1/12/23 at 7:00PM

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Councilman Jack Rogers

Old Daley buys former New World Bistro building

By STEVE BARNES

ALBANY — Troy-based Old Daley Custom Catering is making its first move into fine dining in Albany County.

On Wednesday, the 47-year-old company finalized the purchase of 300 Delaware Ave., a former plumbing supply store near the Spectrum 8 Theatres that in 2009 became the acclaimed New World Bistro Bar.

The celebrated young chef Elliott Vogel — hired by Old Daley almost a year before its Schenectady restaurant, Daley’s on Yates, opened in 2018 to develop the menus before going on to run the kitchen for more than a year — returned to the company in September.

His initially announced task was to upgrade the menus at Daley’s on Yates, which Times Union critic Susie Davidson Powell says in her latest review that he’s succeeded in doing, but Daley’s management also said Vogel would take on a then-unspecified

larger role with the company. That role is at the Delaware Avenue restaurant.

“We never lost touch with Elliott; we never gave up on bringing him back,” said Old Daley co-owner Jim Pettit. When Pettit learned 300 Delaware Ave. was for sale, and knowing the building was a proven location for attracting adventurous diners, he floated the idea to Vogel of creating a new restaurant there and offered the chef culinary control as well a small ownership stake and profit-based incentives. Vogel will hold the title of executive chef for the new restaurant and retain it for Daley’s on Yates, though his prime focus will be on the Albany restaurant for much of its first year, Pettit said.

“I loved the idea,” said Vogel, referring to New World Bistro’s founding chef, Ric Orlando, when he added, “Ric had a great following there. It’s a great opportunity to try to bring that demographic back and even expand on it.”

The restaurant’s name has not

been finalized, said Stephanie Pettit, who is Old Daley’s director of marketing, catering and human resources and is married to Jim Pettit. While the Pettits described the building and its equipment as being in impressive condition — “We could open tomorrow if we really wanted to,” Stephanie Pettit said — they plan to make cosmetic improvements and minor renovations, with an eye toward opening around April 1. The restaurant likely will serve dinner Wednesday to Saturday and Sunday brunch, Vogel said.

Vogel said he expects the Albany restaurant will feature the sort of progressive, international, ingredient-driven cuisine he has been honing since he used it to transform the food at Jack’s Oyster House in Albany during his tenure there, from fall 2020 to this past January, and that has been well received on the new-this-fall menu at Daley’s on Yates. Known for their artful presentations and eclectic flavor combinations, Vogel’s dishes range from chicken

Parm and pot roast to Chilean sea bass with scallion risotto, Inca seed and miso-lime demi, and Moroccan-spiced Vermont-raised elk with radish salad.

Noting that the more adventurous dishes have been embraced in Schenectady, Vogel said he was excited to bring such cuisine to a new restaurant in Albany, where the culinary scene is more diverse and the Delaware Avenue restaurant won’t be the most expensive spot in the city, as Daley’s on Yates has become for Schenectady.

“I think there’s no limit to what people will try if it’s good, fresh food,” said Vogel. Jim Pettit said the new restaurant also will offer a selection of vegetarian fare, which had a strong following at New World Bistro.

“I’m thrilled to be passing the torch to restaurant partners who I feel will carry on the legacy and same vibe of (New World Bistro),” said Annette Nanes. She and her husband, Scott Meyer, in 1983 co-founded what is now called the

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Town of North Greenbush News

in Renss. County

Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County needs volunteer tutors in Rensselaer County and Albany County, and you can help! As a tutor you can develop new skills, make friends, and see how your efforts make a difference in your community. Would you like to help someone to read and write, or to speak English as a new language? We can train you. A tutor training workshop starts on January 21 at the Albany Public Library. To find out more, join us for a Volunteer Opportunities Information Session via Zoom at 12:00 noon on January 10. Contact mhellerlvorc@aol.com to register. Visit the website for more information: www.lvorc.org

News From Averill Park CSD

For the first time in a long time, Averill Park High School students will be performing in a Spring Musical from February 10-12. After careful deliberation, “Little Shop of Horrors” was selected, and students have completed auditions for roles within the horror comedy rock musical. We can’t wait to see the show!

All nine fall athlet-

ic teams were named NYSPHSAA Scholar-Athlete Teams. In order to qualify for the distinction, a team’s grade point average (GPA) for 75% of the roster must be greater than or equal to 90.00. Great job, everyone!

Algonquin Middle School and Averill Park High School held their Winter Concerts recently. Bravo to all who participated in these tremendous performances!

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

Blue Christmas Service

Please put on your calendar our Blue Christmas Service, Sunday, December 18th 4pm.

Stephentown Federated Church 1513 Garfield Road, Stephentown, NY 12168- Honoring life and loss in the holidays.

The Christmas season is a time of nostalgia.

Memories come flooding in--those of love and loss, gratitude and grief. Blue Christmas honors the fact that many of us feel a sense of loss during this season—

loss of relationship, loss of trust, loss of job, loss of health, loss of faith, the loss of joy.

Authentic spirituality does not hide this truth, but instead allows us the space for honesty, reflection, and community. No matter your circumstance, this is an open service of candlelight, songs, prayers, and hope. The community is welcome. Handicapped accessible.

Mindful Nature Walk: Saturday, December 17: 10am-12pm

Join Sandy Wilson from Spirit of Dragonflies, LLC to celebrate the wonders of the outdoors at the Dyken Pond EEC! Called Shinrin-Yoku where it originated in Japan, it is the wellness practice of being in the present moment and opening up our senses. This type of slow walking ‘sauntering’, deep breathing, present-centered awareness, and observation in nature is shown to reduce stress, boost our moods, and strengthen our immune systems. Donations accepted if you are able. Suggested donation: $10, but truly any amount is welcome. Preregistration required at (518) 658-2055 or dykenpond@ gmail.com.

Lights in Sand Lake 2022 Christmas Eve Luminaire Display

Light Up Christmas Eve with The Sand Lake Historic District.

The neighbors on Routes 66 & 43 and Shumann Rd. will have our annual luminary display on Christmas Eve - Saturday, December 24th

Lighting of the luminary candles begins around 7:00pm and will continue as long as weather permits or until the candles burn out.

If you live in the area and want to participate, place luminaries along the road on your own property. For more information please contract Dawn or Bruce at 518.674.5210 or by email at knivad@yahoo. com.

Lights in Our Park

Schodack Island State Park will be having a “Lights in our park” event on December 21st 4-6:30 pm . We are looking for individuals or groups or businesses can request a campsite to decorate and show off to people who drive through the campground the night of the event.

We will be giving out brochures of who decorated which site so people can have their work recog-

nized. This event is free! Decorating the sites will begin December 11th and go up until the event start.

The sites are electric, you would just need to provide your own lights, inflatables, yard ornaments, decorated vehicles, campers, etc. to decorate a site with.

If interested please call: 518-732-0187.

Toys for Tots

TIS THE SEASON! Coldwell Banker Prime Properties is a Toys for Tots drop-off location. Please drop off NEW toys in the original store wrapping at our Rensselaer County offices located in North Greenbush and West Sand Lake. No stuffed animals please. We’ll be collecting toys until mid-December. We thank you so kindly in advance for your generosity!

North Greenbush Office address: 569 N. Greenbush Rd.

West Sand Lake Office address: 4350 NY 150 (Corner of Rts. 43 & 150).

Holiday Happenings at Center Brunswick UMC

Please join us at 990 Hoosick Road, Troy to celebrate the Christmas Season.

Bell Choir will play Dec.

18 at 9:00 am and Dec. 24 at 8:00 pm. Blue Christmas Service will be December 21 at 7:00 for those who are finding difficulty celebrating the season. This service is for those who feel a sense of loss or grief. A service of song, prayer and hope. All are welcome. Christmas Eve service with choir and bells December 24 at 8:00 pm No church service on Christmas Day.

Our mission projects for the season include 30 gifts for 2 families and a Mitten Tree that will send mittens, hats and scarfs to Brittonkill Schools for those in need.

The Sunday School will sponsor Brooks BBQ on January 7 watch for further details.

How Animals Prepare for Winter: Saturday, December 17: 1pm-2:30pm

Take a short hike at Dyken Pond EEC exploring the forest for signs of animals preparing for winter. Learn what animals call our forest their home and how they prepare to survive the colder months.

Preregistration required at dykenpond@ gmail.com or (518) 6582055. All ages. $3 per person.

Did You Know?

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that rates of anxiety and depression rose dramatically after the onset of COVID-19. According to the CDC, the range of average monthly percentages of adults in the United States reporting symptoms of anxiety between January and December of 2019 was 7.4 percent to 8.6 percent. Between April 2020, or rough-

ly three weeks after the World Health Organization declared a global COVID-19 pandemic, and August 2021, the average submonthly percentages of U.S. residents reporting symptoms of anxiety was between 28.2 percent and 37.2 percent.

That means the rate of anxiety rose by about four times between April 2020 and August 2021. A similar spike was prevalent among U.S. adults reporting symptoms of depression during that same period. Though

percentages were between 5.9 and 7.5 percent between January and December 2019, they rose to between 20.2 and 31.1 percent between April 2020 and August 2021. These figures areimportant to keep in mind as the world tries to move on from the pandemic.

Despite individuals’ best efforts, rates of anxiety and depression could remain significantly higher than they were in 2019, underscoring the need for accessible education about each disorder.

Love Lutheran Church Christmas

Jesus is the light of our Christmas, the Joy of our Hearts, the Hope of our World!! Please join us as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior.

Christmas Eve Service - Saturday, December 24th, at 7:00 pm.

Christmas Day ServiceSunday, December 25th, at 10:00 am.

Love Lutheran Church address: Pheasant Lane & Middlesex Road, East Greenbush, NY. Phone: 518-477-8685.

Church of the Redeemer

Thank you to those who decorated the church for the Christmas season. Join us at 9:00, December 18, for Sunday service and see the wonderful job they did. Following the service, we will have coffee hour and socializing.

The Church community is again collecting nonperishable food items for the food pantry.

Christmas service will be at 2:00 on Christmas Eve.

Hot Mess Crafters meets Wednesday December 21 at 10:00. Later in the day, at 2:00, there will be Bible Study where we are studying how the Holy Spirit guides and helps us.

Thrift Shop will be open Thursday, December 15 from 3-6 and again on Saturday, December 17 from 9-2. Come in to shop for winter coats, gift items, gift wrap, toys, and more including men’s’ and women’s’ party attire for celebrating. Remember that Thrift Shop will be closed the month of January.

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

Christmas Eve Worship at the North Chatham United Methodist Church

The North Chatham United Methodist Church will hold its Christmas Eve Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols at 5:00 PM on Saturday, December 24th

This is a beautiful service with traditional Christmas carols and Bible readings about the Nativity story. All are welcome!

The church is located at 4274 Route 203 in the hamlet of North Chatham.

If you can’t make it in person the service will be available on Zoom, through the same link that we use for Sunday worship services – please see our website (northchathammethodistchurch.org) for details.

For more information on North Chatham United Methodist Church, please call 518-766-3535 or visit our website. Thanks and we hope to see you soon, in person or on Zoom!

Christmas and New Years at Gilead Lutheran Church

This year we will again have our bonfire and Carols in our parking lot at 5:30. Our inside service will begin at 7:00 PM.

It will be a Candlelight Service with communion. There will be no Christmas Day Service.

New Year’s Day Service will be our regular 10:30 AM service. It will be a service of Lessons and

Carols. We will also have communion as we do every Sunday.

We are located at the intersection of Routes 7 & 278 in Center Brunswick. Everyone is welcome and we love meeting new people.

Blue Christmas Prayer Service at Our Lady of Victory Church

Sunday, December 18th @ 3:00 pm. Our Lady Of Victory Church, 55 North Lake Avenue Troy.

Join us and bring a friend. This candlelight service of hope and comfort, acknowledges the difficulties many of us face… a loss or hardship such as death, an illness, a financial concern, loss of a job, an addiction, depression…or other reasons that makes celebrating Christmas a struggle.

In the midst of our pain and sadness, there is the promise and comfort of the Lord.

Candlelight Services at Brunswick Church

A warm invitation is extended to the community for the Christmas Candlelight Services being held at Brunswick Church.

There will be two services on Saturday, December 24th, at 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Each

will be a meaningful time of fellowship and scripture readings, as well as both traditional and contemporary music.

All ages are welcome, and childcare will be available. We will also have a casual service of celebration on Sunday, December 25th, at 9:30 AM.

Please join us! Brunswick Church is located on White Church Road just off Rt. 351. For more information please call the church office at 518-2793792.

Christmas and Narnia

Rediscover the childlike wonder and delight of this holy season and prepare for the coming of “God with us” in Jesus in a whimsical and playful way this Christmas.

Travel with other seekers of joy and wonder, revisiting passages from C.S. Lewis’ beloved classic, The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe.

Our Advent Worship series weaves the stories of Narnia and the Story of God together, exploring the powerful themes of light and darkness, temptation and sin, forgiveness and hope, through the lens of Lewis’ rich tale.

Join us as we bring illustrations from another world in order be reminded of God’s kingdom vision “on earth as it is in heaven.”

Join us at the First Reformed Church, corner of Main Avenue and Church Street in Wynantskill, on any or all of the following dates.

· December 18—Advent 4: A Child Shall Lead—Our youth will deliver the message of Christmas through our Narnian Christmas pageant.

· December 21—Blue

Christmas/Longest Night at 7 PM; Always Winter, Never Christmas

· December 24—Candlelight Christmas Eve service at 7 PM; Aslan on the Move

· December 25—Christmas Day service at 10 AM; The King Arrives Among Us

Christmas - the joy, the celebration and the miraculous, humble birth of the Christ child - fill your heart and lift your spirit, preparing you for a beautiful holiday.

The live nativity will take place at 2:30 and 3:30 pm.

Book Nook at Transfiguration Parish is Open

The Book Nook at Transfiguration Parish on Hillview Drive in Speigletown is open on Saturday, December 17 from 9:00 am until noon.

The December Buy one/Get one Free specials are on David Baldacci and Debbie Macomber. Please stop and check out all of the new donations that have been received. Books make great Christmas gifts and we have a great selection. Children’s books are 6/$1 and most paperbacks are $1. Hardcovers start at $2.

If you haven’t been to the Book Nook, stop and check out the best kept secret in Rensselaer County! Thanks for your continued support and see you at the Book Nook!

Johnny Rabbs Big Band

On Saturday Feb. 4th 2023 The Sons of The American Legion will be hosting Johnny Rabbs Big Band with special guests, The Tichy Boys and Blue Hand Luke, performing all your rockin’ favorites.

This is our largest fundraising event of the year and as part of the Legion Family our main goal is to raise funds aimed at improving the quality of life for our nations children and veterans.

Advance tickets are available at The Legion, 111 Main Ave. Wynantskill for $15.00 ea. Reserved seating is available with a 4 ticket minimum purchase.

Doors open at 6:00 PM,Band starts at 7:00.Supporters can enjoy food (Giuliano’s Catering) and drink specials,(outside food and drink is prohibited).

This event has sold out quickly the past 9 yrs.so reserve early, tickets are limited. Please join us for a Rockin’ good time for a Rockin’ good cause. For more info call Bill 518-441-0013.

Christmas Wonderland at CoNSERNS-U

The Christmas Store at CoNSERNS-U in Rensselaer (Herrick Street) is back up in full swing, and it looks beautiful!

A team of volunteers has once again done a marvelous job in setting up the store to help economically disadvantaged families, under the auspices of Catholic Charities.

Parents can pick out gifts for their kids, at no cost. The

venue has the feeling of a small-town Toys”R”Us, and is a holiday appendage to the very busy food bank, also run by CoNSERNS-U. (By the way, I saw another growing toy store the other day at the Roarke Center in downtown Troy, also a part of Catholic Charities).

One nice thing about these operations is the opportunity for school kids to volunteer their time. Some of the students at Green Meadow Elementary School helped set up the Christmas store in Rensselaer; and hats off and thanks to them.

A lot of regular volunteers take advantage of free time after retirement to help out with these projects. That’s terrific, but it usually means the majority are senior citizens. I’m younger than a number of other volunteers, and I’m not that young anymore.

The opportunity to attract youth to the habit of volunteering can hopefully fill the ranks for the future.

Frank Coppa, East Greenbush

Nassau Community Connections to Host Securing Your Financial Future Educational

Event

On January 12th at 7:00 p.m ., Nassau Community Connections is proudly hosting its first Educational Event of 2023, Securing Your Financial Future. The event will take place at the Nassau Community Connections Center at 40 Church Street, Nassau, NY 12123.

Barry Rings, Jr, CFP, Financial Advisor with Allen Financial Consultants Inc. and Hal Allen, Founder and President will engage the group on the topic of Securing Your Financial Future. This educational event is designed to help the group understand how to adequately prepare for retirement while avoiding common pitfalls and risks. With 50 years of combined experience in the financial profession, Barry & Hal bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in helping folks achieve and maintain financial independence.

Notepads and pens will be provided for note taking. No RSVP is required for the event. Be sure to attend to learn more about securing your finances for now and for the future!

A Northern Lights Noel

Capital Community Voices will present “A Northern Lights Noel,” a program of classical carols and popular holiday songs on Sunday, December 18th at 3:00 pm at Genet Elementary School, Route 4, East Greenbush, NY.

The program will feature carols from places from which the aurora borealis can be experienced including Norway, Sweden, and Russia and the state of Alaska.

Popular holiday selections will include the Polar Express medley, Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town, and White Christmas. The audience will have an opportunity to sing along with traditional carols.

The chorus is directed by Julie Panke and will be accompanied by Malcolm Kogut, piano, Randy Jennings, bass, and James Iacketta, percussion.

Ticket prices for the concert are $15 for general admission and $12 for seniors and students.

Rensselaer County’s Everett Wagar Senior Center, 2 Roxborough Rd, Cropseyville, will be open with limited hours. The center is now open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 to 3:00 with congregate lunch and activities. Monday, Wednesday and Fridays the center will be open 9:00 to 12:00. Chair Yoga continues on Monday and Fridays at 10:00. Tuesdays offer Senior Yoga Plus class at 10:00.

Dec 22nd following lunch we will have a Christmas Carol sing-along with some games and activities. Come dressed in your favorite Christmas outfit or ugly sweater. We will also have a cookie contest, so bake up a batch of your favorite Christmas cookie to share with others. Prizes will be awarded. Dec 29th we will have a New Year Celebration with an Ice Cream Sundae Social. The senior center is closed Dec 26th and Jan 2nd.

Congregate lunch is served at the senior center Tuesdays and Thursdays at noon for a suggested donation of $3 for seniors. Grab-n-Go meals (take

out) are also available on those days. Please call early to be added to the lunch list at (518) 279-3413 so we can be sure to have enough food pre-pared.

Special Dinner December 15th at the Rensselaer County Senior Center

Join us as we Rock around the Christmas tree. On this special day we will enjoy our Christmas Turkey Dinner with all the fixins.

After lunch rock to the music of Paul Slusar “The One Man Band”. We dont like to see empty spots on our dance floor so bring your dancing shoes.

After an afternoon of fun and dancing, home to a soft couch, comfy shoes and two Aleeve. Can’t wait to party with you. Call to make your reservation 518-463-2166 We are open 9am to 3pm Monday through Friday. We are located on East and Herrick Streets across from the Amtrak train station.

Defreestville FD December Update

Merry Christmas! The Defreestville Fire Department hopes you and your

family have a safe and happy holiday season during this busy time of year.

November certainly kept us busy with four structure fires and one vehicle fire among the 45 total calls for service. The DFD thanks all the members for responding to these and every call.

Regarding our members, we congratulate outgoing Chief William Burkhart for his outstanding service to the residents of North Greenbush and members of the Defreestville Fire Department. Chief Burkhart ably guided our department, including through a pandemic that formally commenced two months after his tenure began. Chief Burkhart is an outstanding example of dedication to the fire service and we thank him for his leadership.

At our December meeting, the membership voted in our next Chief, Shane Clute. Incoming Chief Clute has been a long time member of the DFD, including tenures as Assistant Chief, and will continue the tradition of excellent fire service leadership. We extend our highest congratulations to incoming Chief Clute!

With the advent of Advent, many people will be out getting Christmas trees. According to various reports even though 75% of Americans now have an artificial tree, approximately 30 million natural trees are still sold every year! As with any plant, natural Christmas trees can pose a serious fire hazard if not properly cared for.

In fact, the NFPA states one-third of home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems. They’ve issued several recommendations for preventing a fire including: placing the tree at least

three feet away from any heat source (like fireplaces and lamps) and watering it daily; using lights listed by a qualified testing laboratory (like UL); and always turning off lights before leaving the house or going to bed.

As always, if volunteering is something you’ve considered, please message us through our Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/defreestvillefd Happy December!

and spur more investment in Rensselaer County”, Vice Chair Bob LoveridgeEast Schodack

“I was thrilled to support the continued investments in improving our roads and purchasing new vehicles and equipment for our hard working highway department, all while continuing to lower taxes”, Majority Leader Ken Herrington- Brunswick

so we can plan our menu accordingly. Call 518-4632166 Monday thru Friday 9am to 3pm. We are located on East and Herrick Streets across from the Amtrak train station.

Attention Dog Owners in the Town of Schodack

Rensselaer

County Legislature

Adopts 2023 Budget with Fifth Tax Consecutive Cut

The Rensselaer County Legislature recently adopted the 2023 County Budget by a vote of 16-2 l. The budget cuts county property taxes by 1%. The Legislature held public hearings and several reviews of the $379.6M spending plan before the final vote.

“The budget continues the progress of the Reimagine Rensselaer initiative that includes the new fire training center in North Greenbush, the new senior center in Troy, and the move to the new offices in East Greenbush. A fifth consecutive property tax cut is also welcoming news for all of us, especially as the cost of living continues to rise”, Chairwoman Kelly Hoffman- North Greenbush

“This budget looks towards the future of our county and addresses the challenging financial issues that local governments will continue to face. We are prepared to boldly move this county forward and address challenges while continuing to protect taxpayers and residents. Smart spending and wise investments will keep us on solid ground

“As residents pay more for fuel, heating oil, and groceries, it is refreshing that our County taxpayers will not have to pay more in property taxes. This solid budget will maintain and improve services, and is great news for county residents”, Chair of Finance Rob Bayly- Poestenkill.

“I am pleased to support this budget that cuts taxes.

It is gratifying to know that the growth in East Greenbush is critical to the success of the County’s finances. New development projects in East Greenbush and North Greenbush and throughout the county all impact the fiscal strength of our County, and that is good news for everyone”, Legislator Tom GrantEast Greenbush

Christmas Eve Open House at the Rensselaer County Senior Center

Saturday, December 24th From 4 to 8pm.

We are trying something new. We realized many of you hosted Christmas Eve parties and are no longer up to it. Don’t sit home join us as we celebrate with Good Food, Drink and Companionship. This was made possible through the County Executive’s Office and we thank him for always thinking of our seniors. Merry Christmas to all.

Call today and let us know if you can join us

Debra L. Curtis, the Schodack Town Clerk, wishes to remind residents that under New York State law, all dogs are required to be licensed by four months of age.

To obtain a new license, a copy of the current Rabies Certificate (must be valid for more than 60 days prior to licensing) and proof that the animal has been altered must be provided. The cost for a spayed/neutered dog is $7.00 and an unspayed/ unneutered dog is $15.00. One tag is issued for the lifetime of the license; however, in the event of loss, can be replaced at a cost of $3.00.

A renewal letter will be sent, on a yearly basis, based upon the anniversary of the license. If you have any questions please contact the Schodack Town Clerk’s office at (518) 477-7590, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Tuesday Treks: Every Tuesday 12:30 - 2:30

Join Len Tremblay on a moderately paced 3 mile hike every Tuesday in December to explore the wilds of Dyken Pond Center. Learn the trail system one at a time with a knowledgeable guide. Each week we’ll discover new ground and nature. Hikes will be cancelled in bad weather. Preregistration required at (518) 658-2055 or dykenpond@gmail.com. This program is free for adults and older teens.

East Greenbush Community Library

Library Hours: Mon/Fri 10-6p; Tue/Wed/Thu 10-8p; Sat 10-5p; Sun 1-5p. Library is closed 12/24, 12/25 & 1/1; closing at 5pm on 12/31. Location: 10 Community Way, E. Greenbush NY 12061. We offer programs for adults, teens & kids. For a full listing of programs and to register, visit us at https://events.eglibrary.org or call 518-477-7476.

The Winter Reading Challenge starts January 9th for all ages! Stay tuned to our website for participation details.

The Friends mini book sale is on year-round! See the sale display in the main library next to the public computers. Selections are refreshed often. Check out the themed collection at the main entrance, the selection changes monthly.

12/21 & 12/28, 7-9p: What have you been reading lately? Join our Wednesday Night Book Chat (WNBC) to share your recent reads and gather recommendations from librarians and other readers. Look for our WNBC Facebook post at https://www.facebook.com/eglibrary

1/3, 6p meeting / 6:30p program: Join the Greenbush Garden Club to watch A Garden for All Seasons, Butchart Garden in Victoria, British Columbia. Register.

1/9, 1-6p: Red Cross Blood Drive. Appointments are recommended; walk-ins are welcome. See the library events calendar for requirements. To make an appointment, call 1-800-733-2767, go to www.redcrossblood.org or use the Free Blood Donor app.

1/11, 3p: Tech-Talk Webinar: How to Keep Yourself Safe When Shopping, Surfing, and Working on the Internet. Register.

1/22, 2p: Historical Society: Town Historian, Bobbie Reno presents The History Of Hampton Manor – Past & Present. Register.

1/23, 10:30a-5p: AARP SMART Driver Course. Register.

North Greenbush Public Library Update

Put away those boots and mittens, Storytime has moved inside for the winter! Join us every Tuesday morning at 11 AM in the Annex in the North Greenbush Town Hall for stories, songs, games, and a craft, all around a weekly theme.

During this time of peace-on-earth, and goodwill towards men, our virtual book club invites you to join them in discussing Joan Goodall’s book, The Book of Hope: a Survival Guide for Trying Times”, via Zoom on Tuesday, December 20 at 6:30 PM. Books are available at the library. Call the library for the meeting link.

“Crafternoon for Kids” on Thursday, December 22 will be tea light snowman ornaments. Stop by the children’s room between 3 and 5 PM.

Tweens can pick up the book “The Thing About Jellyfish” by Ali Benjamin for the next meeting of the Tween Book Club slated for Thursday, December 29 at 5 PM. You can fortify yourself with snacks while creating a fun jellyfish craft.

The library will close for Christmas on Saturday, December 24 through Monday, December 26. We will reopen on Tuesday, December 27 at 10 AM. New Year’s closing will be from Saturday, December 31 through Monday, January 2, 2023. We reopen Tuesday, January 3 at 10 AM.

Library hours are Monday-Friday, 10 AM-7 PM; Saturday, 10 AM-2 PM. Questions? Call the library at 518-2830303.

Upcoming at Poestenkill Library

Children can drop-in any time between 4:00 and 6:00 on Tuesday, 12/20 for holiday crafting. There will be an assortment of holiday ornaments and craft projects for all to enjoy. No registration required.

Join Ms. Phil for a Winter Solstice Celebration on the longest night of the year, 12/20. The celebration will include a camp fire, stories, and s’mores. This program is open to all ages, however registration is required. We have 2 sessions available. 5:00 - 6:00 or 6:30 - 7:30, to safely accommodate more attendees. Please call the library at 518-283-3721 to register, or add your name to the sign-up sheet the next time you’re in the library. We encourage participants to bring their own camp chair and a thermos filled with a warm drink.

The library hosts Storytime with Ms. Erin every Friday at 10:15. All are welcome for stories and simple crafts, no registration required. We are also looking forward to a very special Snow Plow Storytime! On Firday, 12/30 we’ll be reading snow plow stories and, thanks to our friends at the Town of Poestenkill Highway Department, the kids will get an up-close look at a real snow plow!

No registration required for this touch-a-truck style storytime, but please make sure to wear (or bring) your coat, hat, and gloves so you won’t get chilly while visiting with the snow plow. Please note: If it is a snowy morning and the plows are needed on the road, we will hold a traditional storytime and a snow date for the Snow Plow Storytime will be announced.

Sand Lake Town Library Board Meeting and Events

SLTL Board Meeting Thursday, December 15, 6:45pm. We will be wrapping up year-end business and selecting officers for 2023.

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

Holiday Movie Night Wednesday, December 21, 6:30pm. Watch a kid’s holiday favorite while making a

craft and enjoying snacks.

Art Exhibit –Only a couple weeks left to see photographer Justin Morin’s work on display through the end of December. Great photos of wildlife & local spots.

Did you know the library has wi-fi hotspots to loan for up to 14 days plus 3-day loans of museum passes to The Clark, MASS MoCA, Hancock Shaker Village, or Norman Rockwell Museum? Need boxes or packing materials for holiday wrapping/shipping? We’ve set some aside for reuse.

Located at 8428 Miller Hill Road, Averill Park. Hours: M-TH 11 – 8; F 11 – 4; Sat 10 – 2. Call 518-674-5050 with questions.

How to Prepare for an Extended Power Outage

you stay at home or evacuate if the power will be out for a lengthy period of time. Support networks can include relatives who live in nearby towns, but also neighbors. A single street can be served by different substations and main power lines, so friends or neighbor across the street may keep their power when your house does not, or vice versa. When the power goes out, support networks can pool their resources in various ways, including sharing refrigerators or allowing neighbors without power to access the internet. Such support makes it easier for everyone to get through the outage with as little interruption to their lives as possible.

• Print a list of important contacts. If the power is out, it’s only a matter of time before smartphones lose their battery power. Phones can always be plugged into vehicles to get a quick power boost, but that’s not the most practical way to keep phones charged, especially if local roads are closed. A printed list of important contacts, including nearby relatives like seniors who may be incapacitated, doctors and school officials, ensures people whose phone batteries have died can still contact their loved ones and other important individuals so long as they can use a neighbor’s or a loved one’s phone.

• Learn to use your generator. Consumer Reports notes that improper operation of a generator can quickly prove deadly. If carbon monoxide concentrations are too high, individuals can lose their lives in as little as five minutes. And this is no insignificant threat, as the Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that 95 people died from generator-associated carbon monoxide poisoning in 2017. CR recommends operating generators at least 20 feet away from the house. Individuals should familiarize themselves with their generators upon purchasing them so they aren’t forced to endure a trial by fire when the power goes out.

• Stock up on essentials. The Red Cross recommends keeping a two-week supply of nonperishable food and water in the house, making sure to date each container of water and replace it every six months. Keep some extra coolers in the house so food can be stored on ice before it spoils in the refrigerator or freezer. In addition, make sure there’s enough blankets in the house to keep everyone warm overnight, as it’s not safe to use outdoor heaters indoors. Stock up on battery-powered lights and candles to light the house at night, but make sure all candles are extinguished before going to bed.

Extended power outages can be a nuisance. Planning for such outages in advance can make blackouts more manageable.

Veterans Breakfast at Averill Park High School: “Operation Vetty-Breaky”

Our Military History students at Averill Park High school welcome our local Veterans to enjoy a hot breakfast on Tuesday, 20 December from 0745 to 0900.

The breakfast is hosted by Mr. Kaedy’s first block military history class and the mantra is, “you served us, so let us serve you.” Veterans, please stop by and enjoy Dan’s famous egg sandwiches, Julia’s wonderful waffles, or just have a coffee and a chat with a student. There is no cost for this event and we look forward to having you as our guest.

If you have any questions please to not hesitate to reach out to Gordon Kaedy at Kaedyg@apcsd.org

Gilead’s Body and Soul

Pantry hours remain the same 3:00-6:00 PM on the last Thursday, December 29.

Our dinner this month is a soup and sandwich night. The soups are Manhattan Clam Chowder and Vegetable Beef. Sandwiches are Chicken Salad and Grilled Cheese. If there is a question of being open due to inclement weather please call either 518-279-3576 or 518-279-9270.

Body and Soul is still located in the Fellowship Hall of Gilead Lutheran Church which can be found at the intersection of Routes 7 & 278 in Center Brunswick.

VFW Pancake Breakfast

Help Support your local Veterans! The Public is welcome! VFW Post 7338, East Greenbush, 100 Hayes Road. Sunday Dec 18, 2022 , 9 am to 11 am. Eat in or takeout. Breakfast includes Buttermilk Pancakes, French Toast, Scrambled Eggs, Bacon, Sausages, Home Fries, Corned Beef Hash, Toast, Coffee, Tea, Water and Assorted Juices.

Adults - $10.00, Children 6 to 12 - $5.00, Children Under 6 – Free. We will also have a drawing. Donations are always welcome and very much appreciated!

Please order in advance before Sunday’s Breakfast for take-out by emailing us at VFWpost7338@gmail.com or calling 518-477-7770 and leave a message with your name, number and the desired pickup time. There is no one at the Post to return your call. Your message is forwarded to another number

Glendora Vegeterian Club

Thank you for the opportunity to help the animals for Glendora vegetarian club December 15th.

Glendora, do you have a regimen of saintly eating yes, what is it?

Well, for breakfast, start with a nut fruit shake: grind up 1/2 of cashews; add 1 cup of old-fashioned quaker oats raw; add 1 banana and 1/2 can large pineapple juice, blend 2 minutes.

Next, eat a peanut butter sandwich on rye bread, drink 1 glass of orange juice.

Eat a fresh fruit, such as an apple or grapes. What do you eat for lunch? I’ll tell you next week.

Jokes

The devil challenged Saint Peter to a baseball game, Saint Peter said, “I don’t see how you can win; all the good players are up here.” The devil said, “All the umpires are down here.”

The teacher was trying to explain the duties of the Vice President of the United States, “Why, children, If the President were to die this very minute, who would get the job?” The little girl said,” A Democrat undertaker.”

A bird, a dog, and a cat all died on the same day. God asked the bird “Where do you want to sit?” The bird said, “ At your left hand.” God asked the dog, “Where do you want to sit?” The dog said, “At your right hand.” God asked the cat, “ Where do you want to sit?” The cat said, “ You are sitting in my chair.”

(518) 931-0266. achatwithglendora@gmail. com

which is checked the day before the breakfast.

Thank you for your support!

Averill Park Fire Department Breakfast Sandwich Fundraiser

Get ready for that last week of holiday shopping and preparations, and let the fire company prepare made-toorder breakfast sandwiches for you and the family.

Please support our Breakfast Sandwich Fundraiser being held Sunday, December 18,, 2022 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 Bella Napoli donuts will also be available for you to purchase.

We really appreciate your support and invite you to 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.

Brooks Bar-B-Q

What’s better in the middle of Winter than Chicken BBQ?

The Sunday School of Center Brunswick United Methodist Church, 990 Hoosick Road, Troy is having a Brooks Bar-B-Q, Saturday, January 7, 2023, 2-6 pm. This will be a pick up only event.

Menu includes: Chicken, Baked potato, vegetable, rolls, drink and dessert. Chicken dinner $15.00, Half a chicken only $7.00. Call Jill at (518) 258-2164 to reserve your meal.

Pizza with Santa at Schodack Valley Fire Company

Come enjoy delicious pizza ,wings and other family favorites with Santa on Saturday, December 17th from 4 to 7 pm.

You can take out or eat in.. For to go orders please call 477-4215. The special pie of the month is Shrimp and Garlic.

This family favorite event is held at our fire station at 1553 Schodack Valley Rd. Castleton NY.

The past few months have been difficult for our members and community, especially during such an important time of year.

You can take comfort in knowing that CDPHP® has arrived at a contract agreement with St. Peter’s Health Partners. As a local, non-profit health plan founded by doctors, we care deeply for you and worked tirelessly to ensure there was no disruption in care.

Choosing the right health plan is one of the most important decisions you must make. Our team is standing by to help answer any questions you may have and help you enroll in the best plan at the best price.

Award winning coverage. Generous extras. Deep roots in our community.

Shop for plans now at plans.cdphp.com or call 1-888-248-6522. There is still time.

by Tyler Michaels

Hayden participates in both indoor and outdoor track, where his favorite events include triple jump, long jump, and high jump. Hayden is also a captain on the Varsity soccer team, where he plays as a midfielder and winger.

Hayden began playing soccer when he was four years old, and started his track career when he joined the modified team in seventh grade after seeing his sister participate in Varsity track. To prepare for his soccer season, Hayden works hard during track to keep in shape. Hayden also plays on a travel soccer team outside of his school season to maintain his skills. Hayden’s favorite part about soccer is having fun as a team. Hayden also noted that during the track season he enjoys the rush he gets from his jumping events. For Hayden, the most difficult part about track is the anticipation before a race begins. Lining up during a meet can be nerve wracking, but it is important for Hayden to keep a steady mental state before his events and keep calm. During the fall of Hayden’s junior year, the soccer team faced a challenge as their coach changed in the middle of the season. However, Hayden helped his team overcome this difficulty and led them to a sectional championships victory. “We just stuck with each other and our coach reminded us that it’s not the coaches that make the team, it’s the players.” This year Hayden scored the final penalty kick needed to secure a win against Queensbury in the sectional quarter finals, bringing his team to second place in the championships. Hayden now hopes to reach 40’ in triple jump, 20’ in long jump, and 6’ in the high jump.

In addition to his athletic success, Hayden excels academically. Hayden has a 4.0 GPA while taking a difficult course load, including Advanced Placement Statistics, AP Physics, and AP Government and Politics. Hayden is also a member of the National Honor Society. In his free time, Hayden enjoys playing piano, drawing, and playing games with his friends. To balance school and sports, Hayden tries to get his schoolwork done before practice every day. Hayden also keeps on top of his work by completing it the day it is assigned, ensuring he does not fall behind in his academics.

Hayden’s parents serve as his role models by helping keep him on track with all of his schoolwork. Hayden’s teammates help push him throughout his sports, and help Hayden have fun with his athletic career. Hayden would advise a younger athlete to keep in mind that, “Practice really does help a lot, so even if you are stuck on something keep trying.” Next year, Hayden plans to study science in college. Hayden also hopes to continue playing soccer at the collegiate level. We wish Hayden the best as he finishes his senior year and prepares for college.

Historical Calendars

The 2023 North Greenbush Historical Calendars are now available for purchase. They contain old time pictures including Frank Houser’s Store and Gas Station, the old Defreestville Hotel, the St.Jude’s Horse Show and much more.

Calendars are for sale at the Town Clerk’s Office in the Town Hall on Main Avenue Wynantskill (518) 283-4306. The cost is $12.00 (exact change or check made out to the Town of North Greenbush.) If you want it mailed the cost is $15.

Advent & Christmas at Hope United Methodist Church

Hope United Methodist Church, 566 Brunswick Road, Troy, NY 12180.

Christmas Potluck & Carol Sing, Friday, December 16th at 6:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary:Enjoy a delicious meal and stay for Christmas carols, special music, and a surprise from our kids!

Live Nativity, Sunday, December 18 at 5:00 p.m. on the front lawn: Come see, hear, and sing the story of how God sent His Son to save us. Warm up with hot chocolate and Christmas cookies afterwards in the Sanctuary.

Kid’s Christmas Eve Service, Saturday, December 24 at 4:00 p.m.. Kids help set up the nativity scene in the Sanctuary. Scripture, song, prayer, candle light, and birthday cake for Jesus.

Candlelight Communion Service, Saturday, December 24 at 11:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary: Traditional Christmas Eve candlelight service with homily and Holy Communion.

Lessons and Carols, Sunday, December 25 at 10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary: The story of God’s redemption told in scripture and songs of the season.

For information contact the church at: 518-2791403

First United Methodist Church of E. Greenbush December Services

A Special Church Service: ‘Longest Night” Wednesday, December 21, 7:00 pm livestreamed on the church’s Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/FUMCEG/

The Christmas season is one of excitement and joy, but for some people this time of year also comes with loneliness, grief, sorrow, personal pain, anxiety, or other struggles. With a bit of special music the FUMC will be hosting a “Longest Night” service on Wednesday, December 21 – the longest night of the year – as an opportunity to acknowledge our sadness in the midst of a season of hope, to remind us that we are not alone, and to reassure us that the light grows every day forward from here.

If you or someone you know is experiencing loss, grief, or worry – unrest of any kind – during this holiday season, please join us for a quiet service of prayer and meditation. Prayer and meditation for hope, inner peace, and a growing light in our lives. Share in our meditative worship of

remembering, reflection, and encouragement. All are welcome, December 24, 2022,

Christmas Eve Services

5:00 PM Family Worship Service

7:00 PM Worship Service

9:00 PM Worship Service

Green Island Rod & Gun Club Indoor 3D

& Vegas Shoots

The indoor 3D shoot will begin on Friday, Jan.6th. Fast line will start@ 6:00pm, Reg. 7:00pm.

Saturday 8:00am- 12:00 noon. The fee will be $5.00.

The kitchen will be open for food & beverages ! The shoot will run for 10 weeks!

Indoor Vegas Shoot will begin on Tuesday, Jan.10th.@ 6:30 pm! The fee will be $5.00 (The kitchen will not be open ). The shoot will run for 10 weeks !

Any questions please contact Shawn bushey (802) 338-0507. Frank Soucy (518) 268-3368. Be safe have fun !

Happy

BRADLEY

Happy Holidays to our Friends, Both Old & New, from all of us at Bradley Park. Authorized

Hayden Kiehl

nect

about the world’s most majestic of trees. His Facebook group, Big Tree Seekers, has garnered more than 192,000 members nationwide.

It’s a community full of passionate hobbyists, professional arborists and, most of all, competitive spirit — with many keeping careful watch as current champion trees grow older and bigger and face a growing risk of falling. When a crown holder does topple over, the door opens for new trees (and tree seekers) to get their moment in the spotlight.

But for Breglia, the main motivation is to raise awareness of the ecological importance of protecting old-

growth forests, which make up less than 1 percent of the world’s forests and less than 3 percent of forests in the U.S.

In 2007, Breglia helped to pass the Bruce Kershner Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Act — named after the late author and environmentalist from western New York — which puts old-growth forests in the state Nature and Historical Preserve category, protecting them from being harvested as timber.

But because this contending tree, as well as many other state champions, is located on private property, it’s not protected under the law. Breglia said he hopes to work on amending the bill to extend to trees like the Schaghticoke Eastern cottonwood, but until then, he hopes its grandeur and antiquity is enough to keep landowners from demolishing it.

After finding the state’s second-largest tree in Coeymans (also a cottonwood) just months ago, Breglia said the discovery heralds to others that there might just be another out there that’s larger, sitting tall and wide and waiting to be discovered by a curious big tree seeker. To encourage the quest for bigger and better, the Landis Arboretum will host a Big Tree Hunt this spring, which will award a cash bounty to the individual who locates the biggest tree in New York.

The Rensselaer County tree, sitting humbly in its flood plain on the border of four separate private properties, is the one to beat. And in the upcoming months, if it is crowned the largest Eastern cottonwood in the country, Breglia said it will likely win largest of its kind in the world since the species known scientifically as Populus deltoides grows best in northeastern North America.

For the passionate arborist, it would be a victory emblematic of a lifetime spent off the beaten path, seeking out vestiges of the past among the towering treescapes.

“I think it’s really important to document these old trees because people just have no clue,” Breglia said. “It’s about preserving the past for the future.”

Landmark’s Spectrum 8 Theatres with another couple, running the business until selling to the Landmark chain in 2015. Nanes and Meyer bought and dramatically overhauled the former plumbing-supply store down the block from the movie theater, scoring a coup before the 2009 opening when they hired Orlando, an acclaimed regional chef for decades, to come back to Albany. Orlando made his name in the late 1980s and early 1990s at the former Justin’s restaurant on Lark Street in Albany before decamping to parts south to open New World Home Cooking in Saugerties in 1993. Orlando licensed the New World name and his recipes to New World Bistro Bar, and it was a instant hit, staying busy for a decade.

After Nanes and Meyer parted ways with Orlando early in the pandemic in 2020, New World Bistro Bar foundered, tried different head chefs and rebranded as The Kitchen Table in late 2021. The identity lasted only until July of this year, when Nanes and Meyer decided to close the business and retire, marking the end of one of the most popular and acclaimed Capital Region restaurants to open in the past 20 years and a training ground for younger chefs who went on to lead kitchens themselves.

The Old Daley company began life in 1975 as the Old Daley Inn Restaurant in Lansingburgh. Old Daley Inn lasted until 2003, a few years after Jim Pettit, who had started with the company as a dishwasher as a teenager, co-founded its catering wing in 1999. While Old Daley ran sandwich shops in Albany over the years, it had not previously ventured into table-service dining in the county. Jim Pettit said that what Old Daley has learned at Daley’s on Yates and with the seasonal a-la-carte dining series at its Old Daley on Crooked Lake facility in Averill Park have positioned it well to open a restaurant showcasing a hot chef in the capital city.

Jim Pettit jokingly describing how he followed Vogel’s career in the three years after the chef left Daley’s on Yates, saying, “There was a reason I kept stalking him. I was waiting for the right opportunity. This was it.”

DUMPSTERS

FIREWOOD - FREE DELIVERY 1yr, 2yr or semi seasoned. Camp & boiler wood also. (518) 810-4273

FIREWOOD MEASURED 1/2 CORD $137. (518) 301-0942

FIREWOOD/SEASONED

FRIDHOLM

HANDYMAN

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

Troy, NY 12180. General Purpose

NAME: White Lotus Floral Design LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 3/16/22. Office location: Rensselaer County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, 473 Dunham Hollow Rd, Averill Park, NY 12018. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

NAME: SUBMAKER1981 LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on October 17, 2022. Office location: Rensselaer County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to THE LLC 73 Elm St., Troy, NY 12180. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic Event Answers Income Tax Questions

NOTICE OF FORMATION

OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

NAME: Kinstin’s Boutique LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on October 25, 2022. Office location: Rensselaer County.

SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to 995 Stony Point Rd, Castleton, NY 12033. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

NAME: Grunt Works Design & Development LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on November 18,2023. Office location: Rensselaer County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to 938 Broadway, Rensselaer, NY 12144. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Please join the Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York’s Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) for a virtual Town Hall on income tax issues. This event is on December 15, 2022, from noon to 1pm. Participants can join via the LASNNY Facebook page, Zoom or by phone. The program is free and pre-registration is not required.

Clinic attorneys will explain the Earned Income Tax Credit, who can claim children on a tax return, and health insurance deductions for self-employed people. Other topics include how to pursue missing refunds and options to consider if you have a tax debt you cannot afford. Speakers will share free tax preparation resources and e-filing services available in the community. Staff will also discuss the Clinic’s services. The public is invited to submit their income tax questions. To attend by Zoom, go to www.bit.ly/LASNNYtax-dec2022. To attend by Facebook Live, go to www. facebook.com/LASNNY. You can also call (646) 876-9923 and use Webinar ID: 826 1456 2634 to join by phone. If you have questions about attending, please call 518-462-6765 ext. 416.

If you have questions about this or other income tax issues, LITC may be able to help. The Clinic’s services are free of charge. You can call the LASNNY Legal Line at (833) 628-0087 and ask for our LITC. The Clinic does not generally provide tax preparation services.

Castleton Boat Club December 2022

Lecture

Marine Vessel Surveying. Friday, December 16, 2022, 6 PM 92 South Main Street,

NOTICE OF FORMATION

OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

NAME: Pawling Place Management, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 9/18/22. Office location: Rensselaer County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a copy of process to Fowler, Doyle, Spiess & Florsch, 317 Brick Church Road, Troy, NY 12180. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of Sound Therapy Shop LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 9/26/2022.

Registered Agent location: Albany. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 34 Wildwood Drive, Pearl River, NY 10965. Purpose: any lawful activity

NOTICE OF FORMATION

OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

NAME: Gampy’s Beverage Service, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/26/2022. Office location: Rensselaer County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to 29 Elmwood Court Wynantskill, NY 12198. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of the above Limited Liability Company (“LLC”). Articles of Organization (DOM LLC) filed with the Secretary of State of New York (“SSNY”) on November 15, 2022. Office location, County of Albany. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any such process served to: WGB HOLDINGS, LLC, 27 Mount Riga Avenue, Latham NY 12110. Purpose: Any lawful act.

Castleton NY 12033 To reserve seating, please RSVPcall or text Laura at (838) 219-0998.

RAY’S AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE CENTER, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 10/19/22. Office: Rensselaer County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 25 North Street, Troy, NY 12180. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Restored Hearts LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/07/2022. Office: Rensselaer County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC 4 West Road, Stephentown, NY 12168. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Willa’s World LLC Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 11/14/2022. Cty: Rensselaer. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 2107 Bridle Path, Austin, TX 78703. General Purpose

Guy Falkenheimer is a licensed USCG Captain, member of the American Boat & Yacht Council and recreational/commercial boat surveyor. Join us at the Castleton Boat Club as he discusses the art and practice of professional marine surveying. Guy has been inspecting pleasure and commercial craft for over 20 years.

If you own a boat, may be buying or selling, or are interested in becoming a marine surveyor, this is the perfect opportunity to learn about how it’s done!

Admission $10 per person. Dinner included – Catering by The Hill Restaurant in Castleton.

6-7 PM Dinner and Cocktails. 7 PM Lecture in the Pavilion. Cash Bar. Visit our Facebook page for information on the entire 2023 series!

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF SAND LAKE PLANNING BOARD Notice is hereby given that the Sand Lake Planning Board will hold the following Public Hearing at the Sand Lake Town Hall, located at 8428 Miller Hill Road, Sand Lake, NY 12153 on December 21, 2022 at 7:30 PM. A public hearing will be held regarding a Scenic Preservation Application for Marisa Milanese, 758 Taborton Road, Sand Lake, NY 12153 Map #149.-2-20 to construct two sheds within 100’ of Little Bowman Pond pursuant to Chapter 250, Article VII Scenic

Burden Lake Ski Club

Join us on Sunday afternoons (7 WEEKS) starting in January 2023 from 2:00-6:30 PM for $278 for a lift ticket or $373 for a lift ticket with a one hour lesson. $40 lift ticket!! of $53 with a one hour lesson!

If you purchased online, a four-hour lift ticket is $104! Our club is now signed up to purchase passes on the Jiminy Peak website, please contact Kathy Andrews at 518-488-8939 or email MAndrews13@nycap.rr.com for the link information.

living room, in the gas fireplace surrounded by stone, making up much of the wall. Two-car garage, Mohonasen schools.

Purple Heart Highway” Unveiled

RENSSELAER, NY – Signage designating “Rensselaer County Purple Heart Highway” was officially unveiled during a special ceremony held in Rensselaer County. The signage was established via bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Daphne Jordan (R,C,I-Halfmoon) and Senator-Elect Jake Ashby (R,C,I-Castleton) to honor the courage of Rensselaer County Purple Heart heroes.

The sign was unveiled at the American Legion Melvin Roads Post 1231, located at 200 Columbia Turnpike, Rensselaer, New York.

The bipartisan legislation, Senate Bill S.6562/Assembly Bill A.7923A (sponsored by Senator Jordan and Senator-Elect Ashby, respectively) renames State Route 43, beginning at the border of Massachusetts just east of Stephentown and ends at the intersection with 1-90 in North Greenbush, as the “Rensselaer County Purple Heart Highway” identified via the newly installed signage.

The measure passed both houses of the State Legislature during the 2022 session with strong, bipartisan support and was signed into State law by Governor Kathy Hochul on August 12, 2022.

Each of the four towns along Route 43 passed resolutions becoming Purple Heart Towns and the new State law will enhance the honor and respect that Rensselaer County and New York State show to Purple Heart Veterans, as well as those killed in action.

The Purple Heart is the oldest, and among the most venerated, military decorations awarded in the name of the President to those wounded or killed while serving with the U.S. Military. The Purple Heart decoration was established in 1932 for members of America’s armed forces that made the ultimate sacrifice in serving our nation.

A recent estimate indicated that there are almost 3,000 living Purple Heart recipients in New York State. Since the Purple Heart’s establishment in 1932, numerous towns and localities have designated themselves as Purple Heart locations, signifying that their community honors and understands the sacrifices that these courageous heroes made on behalf of our country.

“Our Purple Heart heroes are the embodiment of courage, selfless service, patriotism, and sacrifice. My bipartisan legislation recognizes their valor by designating State Route 43 starting at the border of Massachusetts east of Stephentown, ending at the intersection with 1-90 in North Greenbush, as the ‘Rensselaer County Purple Heart Highway.’ I’m pleased that this measure establishing a ‘Highway of Heroes’ was signed into State law. God bless our Purple Heart heroes and all who wear America’s uniform, defend the nation, and protect our freedoms,” Senator Jordan said.

“Rensselaer County has vowed to never forget the service and sacrifice of our veterans and their families, and county residents have answered the call to service since the founding of our great nation.

Those who have earned the Purple Heart have been wounded or injured during that service, and the Purple Heart Highway will recognize that service and commitment to protecting our freedom and security,” said County Executive Steve McLaughlin.

“It is imperative that our country never forget the steadfast service and sacrifice Purple Heart recipients and their families made on our behalf and this important legislation will ensure we keep these heroes’ memories alive,” said Senator-Elect Jake Ashby (R, C - Castleton). “I would like to thank Senator Jordan for spearheading this important legislation, and likewise thank my colleagues in the State Senate and Assembly who offered their unanimous support for this legislation.”

Within Senator Jordan’s 43rd District, all 60 towns, villages, and cities are now Purple Heart Communities, and all four counties – Saratoga, Rensselaer, Washington, and Columbia – passed local resolutions to become Purple Heart Counties. Furthermore, out of the 62 counties in New York State, more than 40 are now Purple Heart Communities and several more have the designation pending. Other areas throughout the state, including universities, buildings, trails, and highways, have been renamed with the Purple Heart designation.

The Anchor Food Pantry

The Anchor Food Pantry is gearing up for the upcoming holidays and ask for community generosity at this time of year.

We ask for holiday items of canned goods, and toiletries that can be dropped off at The Anchor during business hours of Monday 430pm-630pm and Tuesday and Thursday 9am-130pm. Remember also that drop off is available at the Town Clerk Ofc @ Schodack Town Hall, and Castleton Library @ Village Hall-Village of Castleton -on Hudson NY during the library business hours Monday-Saturday.

Also this reminder that bottles and cans can be credited to the Anchor account at the 6 cent Redemption Center located on 9J -550 South St-Rensselaer Monday-Saturday during their business hours. Just inform the clerk to credit the Anchor Food Pantry account.

As always we thank the Schodack community for its continued support in aiding our mission to assist those in need during these uncertain economic times.

Latham Colonie Columbiettes Breakfast

The Latham-Colonie Columbiettes are hosting a Breakfast Buffet on Sunday, January 8th, 2023, from 8:30 am to 11:30 am at the Latham-Colonie Knights of Columbus Council, 328 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, N.Y. 12110.

Menu includes; Scrambled Eggs, an Omelet Station, Home Fries, Corned Beef Hash, Bacon and Sausage, Pancakes and French Toast served w/Warm syrup, A Variety of Cereals and Juices, Bananas and Hot Tea, Coffee or Hot Chocolate.

*$12 Adults, $6 Children (5-10) and under 5 Free!