Local First Twin Bridges Edition 042723

Behind the wheel and high on drugs

Cannabis influence factors into growing number of fatal crashes

By BRENDAN J. LYONS

—

ALBANY

The number of motorists charged with driving under the influence of narcotics, including marijuana, has risen steadily over the past five years in New York.

In 2021, the year the state legalized marijuana, more than 10 percent of the impaired-driving tickets that were issued involved drug use, records show.

It’s unclear whether marijuana legalization is having a direct impact on the increase in drug-impaired driving, especially as the nation is experiencing a fentanyl epidemic and the overall use of opioids and other narcotics has soared.

NF Northeast

Presents:

drivers impaired by drugs while driving remains a concern.

“Drug-impaired driving causes thousands of injuries and deaths each year,” acting State Police Superintendent Steven A. Nigrelli said in a statement last week, when the state announced a stepped-up initiative to crack down on impaired drivers.

“Unfortunately, few people recognize the dangers of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs.”

A driver under the influence of marijuana can have difficulty staying in their lane, an altered perception of time and distance, slow reaction time and impaired cognitive function, according to highway safety agencies.

Nigrelli conceded the point.

Steps2Cure

NF Capital District

SCHENECTADY

- Neurofibromatosis

(NF) Northeast presents

Steps2Cure NF Capital District, taking place at Schenectady Central Park on Sunday, May 7, 2023 and featuring Operation Safe Child administered by the Albany Sheriff’s Department, music by DJ Debonair, face painting by Miss Stacey, refreshments, raffles, and more!

NF Northeast is proud to bring Steps2Cure Capital District to Schenectady for the first year, after operating out of Albany, NY for nearly a decade!

Steps2Cure NF Capital District will help to raise much needed funds and awareness for Neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes tumors to form on the nerves anywhere in or on the body at any time. NF affects 3 times as many people as cystic fibrosis, Huntington’s disease, Tay-Sachs, and muscular dystrophy combined yet is not commonly known. To register, please visit nfnortheast.org and navigate to the Steps2Cure NF Capital District event page. There you will find the registration link. The registration fee is $25 for adults, $15 for children ages 6 -17, and free for children ages 5 and under. All registered participants will receive a Steps2Cure NF bandana, fundraising tips, and support.

But the number of drivers impaired by marijuana and involved in fatal crashes has been surging for years. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said that between 2009 and 2018, the presence of cannabis had nearly doubled in drivers who were killed in crashes and subsequently tested for drugs. In 2018, nearly half of the drivers killed and later screened for drugs had tested positive for cannabis.

Data from the Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research, a nonprofit based in Colonie that was established by New York in 1978 to help government mitigate and solve traffic safety problems, also shows that over the past three years, the percentage of drug impairment has surpassed alcohol impairment in fatal crashes.

State Police officials, who have been steadily increasing the number of New York troopers who are being trained as “drug recognition experts,” said that in 2020 those troopers had “rendered opinions of cannabis (as) a contributing factor of impairment in 1,230 cases statewide. In 2021, this number increased to 1,321, a 7.4 percent increase.”

The data for last year, which is preliminary, showed those drug recognition experts had detected marijuana impairment in about 1,001 cases involving drivers, which marked a slight decline. Still, law enforcement officials said

But confirming if someone is impaired by drugs while driving, especially marijuana, has been made more difficult for police because there is no widely accepted device to test if someone is under the influence of cannabis — like the devices used to measure a person’s blood-alcohol content. To assist law enforcement, lawmakers made it a violation of motor vehicle law for someone to burn marijuana in a vehicle — similar to the open-container prohibition for alcohol.

At a legislative budget hearing on public safety earlier this year , Assemblyman Michael Tannousis of Staten Island reminded Nigrelli that two years ago, when marijuana legalization was approved, former State Police Superintendent Kevin Bruen had assured lawmakers there would be an accredited device available to test drivers for marijuana use.

“Your predecessor sat in the chair and basically assured us that ... there was going to be some kind of mechanism similar to a portable breath (alcohol) test that state troopers and State Police and local police ... were going to be able to (use to) test people on the roadside to determine their level of intoxication in regards to marijuana,” Tannousis said. “It’s been two years since this law has passed, as people continue to drive on our streets under the influence of marijuana.”

Animal shelter still in crisis

Spike in strays, low adoption rates contributing to problem

By MELISSA MANNO

MENANDS

— Scarlett,

a 3-year-old mixed breed stray found in Troy, has grown up in a kennel at the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society.

The shelter is the only home she has ever known. As the organization grapples with historically low adoption rates and a growing animal welfare crisis, it’s possible she’ll never escape the noisy kennel

I BUY HOUSES!! CASH!!

Any Price, Area or Condition FAST, FAIR OFFERS R&D REHAB

P.O. Box 1831, Albany NY 12201 518-441-6376 • rdrehabllc@aol.com

room. Not alive, anyway.

In November, the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society announced that it was ending its stray-dog sheltering agreements with 16 municipalities to provide relief for its overcapacity kennel. But five months after cutting back the partnerships, the society continues to face a staggering spike in stray and animal cruelty cases despite only taking in canines from Albany, Troy, Watervliet, Schenectady and Colonie. The organization reported on Tuesday that it has experienced a 38 percent increase in stray and seized dogs so far this year.

There are currently 126 dogs in the humane society’s care, split between 85 dog kennels and 19 foster homes, CEO Ashley Jeffrey Bouck said. At the same time, adoptions are down by 25 percent.

“This is not even our busiest time of year,” Bouck said in a statement. “We expect to see spikes in

strays during the summer months, but there has been no decrease in stray and seized dogs since reducing our contracts.”

The grim situation at Mohawk Hudson underscores a larger crisis burdening shelters nationwide. The organization attributes the increase in numbers to a combination of factors, including the state of the economy, increased evictions, lack of pet-friendly housing, abandonment, cruelty cases and other arrests which leave animals with no one to care for them and the worsening veterinary shortage.

Partnerships with entities that provide temporary care or transfers out to other shelters have been valuable but the organization says more help is needed to adequately care for the region’s stray and homeless dog population.

The Schenectady Police Department, for example, has donated its own shelter space to support the

“As (with) any emergent technology, it takes some time for scientific peer review and validation,” the superintendent said. “That device, that test, is still being worked on. It is not ready to be put into the field. ... So, to answer your question, it has not progressed to that level at this time.”

Blood tests are also not a bullet-proof way to measure levels of cannabis in someone. The drug dissipates quickly in the blood after use even as impairment can continue for hours.

In the interim, New York is training more police officers to be able to recognize if someone is impaired by drugs. Last year, the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee conducted six sessions and certified nearly 100 more drug recognition experts. More than 430 officers have received that training, including 134 state troopers. The goal, the governor’s office said, is to have 550 by the end of this year.

Every trooper also is required to attend a course that, while not as extensive as DRE training, teaches them how “to observe, identify and articulate the signs of impairment related to drugs and alcohol.”

For a motorist, a drug evaluation normally takes about an hour and is done after they have already been arrested and taken to a police station. The evaluation includes measuring Please see CANNABIS 8

organization, according to the department’s Facebook post that highlighted five of the dogs under their care.

For those interested in adopting or fostering a dog, the humane society says the time is now. Otherwise, if the situation doesn’t change soon, the organization might have to turn to a much grimmer way of clearing out kennel space.

“We’ve been in a very

fortunate position to be able to avoid euthanasia for space for so long, thanks to a supportive community, but we are running out of options fast. Realistically, at this point, every option is on the table... even ones we never ever wanted to think about again. We’re doing everything we can to avoid it, but we have to admit it is within the realm of possibility,” said Bouck.

Please see CRISIS 8

PHOTOS BY JIM FRANCO / TIMES UNION Scarlett inside her kennel at the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society on Friday in Menands. The mixed breed has been at the shelter for three years, longer than any other dog.

Captain CHS Presents - Here

Come the Boomers: A Community Forum on the Future of Aging in Southern Saratoga County

CLIFTON PARK - CAPTAIN Community Human Services, through its Senior Services programs, presents Here Come the Boomers: A Community Forum on the Future of Aging in Southern Saratoga County on Thursday, May 18th, beginning at 8:15am at St. Edward’s Church (569 Clifton Park Center Road, Clifton Park, NY 12065).

“We’re honored to host

Keynote Speaker Greg Olsen, Director of the New York State Office for the Aging as we gather to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing our community as our senior population grows,” said

THE CENTER at Colonie Senior Service Centers

Announces May

Classes and Events

COLONIE - THE CEN-

TER at Colonie Senior Service Centers announces May 2023 classes and events. THE CENTER is a place for individuals 55 years of age or older to learn, grow, exercise and be creative. Best of all, it’s a place to have fun! We are so excited about these offerings, and look forward to sharing them with you. Please note, there is a $20 membership fee. Classes here are listed as member and not-yet-member prices. These classes start in May, or can be joined in May. Please call for dates, times and to register. Call 518-459-2857 x 327

Andy Gilpin, CAPTAIN CHS Executive Director. “This event aims to bring together community, faith, and business leaders and other stakeholders in a collaborative effort to ensure our seniors have the services and supports that they need to continue thriving here in Southern Saratoga County.”

The event will also feature Luncheon Speaker Blair Horner, Executive Director of the New York Public Interest Group (NYPIRG), and many other local community, business, and government leaders as well as experts in the field of aging.

“As the last of the Baby Boomers enter their senior years, we’re facing many challenges ahead, including transportation and at-home service offerings,” noted Francine Rodger, Chair of CAPTAIN CHS’s Senior Services Committee. “If you think the impacts are limited to the

or cbarrett@coloniesenior.org.

Wellness and Exercise

Guided Meditation 101, $30/$40

Tap Dancing: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, $60/$70

Intro to Ballet, $60/$70

How to Shoot Pool, $45/$55

Intro to Nia, $30/$40

Strength, Core and Cardio, $65/$75

Yoga for Joy, $60/$70

Get Strong with Pilates, $55/$65

Creative Events

Log Cabin Knit Blanket, $49/$59

Spring Gardens Watercolor, $45/$55

Mosaic Tile, $34/$44

Hands-On Mural Workshop, $29/$39

All-Natural Bug Repellant, $29/$39

Group Ukulele, $5/$55

Sun Printing, $10/$20

Scratchboard Drawing,

senior population, think again. We have many adults who are active caregivers for their aging parents too who will need our support.”

Throughout the day, participants will hear from the issue experts and leadership and have the opportunity to engage in geographic and issue-specific breakout sessions.

MVP Health Care has generously offered the Key Sponsorship for this event.

The forum carries a $10 fee to cover the cost of lunch. Scholarships are available to those unable to pay. Register early as attendance is limited.

For more information or to register, visit www. captaincares.org/agingforum.

“Food Glorious Food”

LATHAM - Join Colonie Senior Service Center’s staff, visiting chef, foodies,

$10/$20

Soul Collage Workshop, $24/$34

Drawing from Nature, $29/$39 Rubber Stamping Art, $10/$20 plus $15 materials fee

Meditation and intention boxes, $25/$35

Trips and Travel

Troy Music Hall, May 9, $10/$20

Dietary Supplements –Fallon Pharmacy, May 16, $10/$20

Tour of Radix Center, May 18, $20/$30

NY Folklore Gallery, May 19, $15/$25

Albany Center Gallery, 5/23, $15/$25

ADK Kelly Center, 5/24, $15/$25

Troy Hidden Garden Tour, 5/25, $30/$40

Landis Arboretum, 5/26, $39/$49 Art Walk and Talk, 5/30, $10/$20

and local food producers for a monthly book club and practicum all about food entitled “Food Glorious Food.” We will explore the serious side of food, how it’s produced, the economics and politics behind it, and the responsibility we have as consumers. This reading and discussion program will also entail some hands-on opportunities. Registration is FREE but will be limited. The group will meet the last Thursday of the month at 11 am in the community room at King Thiel Senior Community, 17 Elks Lane in Latham. We ask that participants plan on attending all scheduled sessions; May 25 and June 29.

Books Chosen for this Program are as follows:

-The Third Plate: Field Notes on the Future of Food by Dan Barber -Diet Cults: The Surprising Fallacy at the Core of Nutrition Fads and a

Club Events Free and open to members only.

Mondays at 1:00 p.m., Mahjong

3rd Mondays at 1:00, Book Club

Mondays at 2:00 p.m. (select dates), Movies

1st & 3rd Mondays at 1:00 p.m., Writer’s Group

Tuesdays at 12:30 p.m., Bridge

Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m., Bingo

Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m., Cribbage

Thursdays at 10:00 a.m., Cornhole

Thursdays at 1:00 p.m., RummiKub

2nd Fridays, at 10:00 a.m., Widow’s Meetup

Vocal Scholarship

Competition

CAPITAL DISTRICT

- Saratoga Voices will hold its 26th annual vocal

Guide to Healthy Eating for the Rest of Us by Matt Fitzgerald

-In Defense of Food:

An Eater’s Manifesto by Michael Pollan

-Diet for a Small Planet by Frances

Moore Lappe

-How the Food Industry Influences Nutrition and Health by Marion Nestle

This program is made possible with funding from Humanities New York. To register, please call Diane 518-459-2857 ext 305.

Writer’s Workshop at THE CENTER

COLONIE - Come

practice the art of writing in a friendly and supportive environment. In the Library at The Beltrone Living Center. First and Third Tuesday of each month, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Please call Caroline Barrett at 518-459-2857 x 327, cbarrett@colonieseniors.org

scholarship competition for high school seniors. Two scholarships will be awarded to the top two competitors along with an opportunity to sing in a Saratoga Voices concert. Applicants need not plan a career in music, but the scholarships are intended to facilitate the continued study of singing in college. This year’s audition will be held on Friday, June 2 at St. Clement’s Church in Saratoga Springs. Details and applications can be found at https://saratogavoices.org/vocal-scholarship/

Rummi Cube at THE CENTER

COLONIE - Come play this quick, fun game. Easy to learn! Thursdays, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., starts January 12. Please call Caroline Barrett at 518-459-2857 x 327, cbarrett@colonieseniors.org

Schenectady Rotary Announces $1000 Scholarship

SCHENECTADY - High School Seniors who live or attend school in the City of Schenectady may apply for the Schenectady Rotary Club’s annual $1000 scholarship. Applicants must reside in or attend High School in the city of Schenectady, be officially accepted into an accredited degree program at a community college or university that will result in an Associates, Bachelor’s degree or an accredited certificate program at a trade school or training facility, must demonstrate clear career plans and a scheduled time frame to achieve their educational goals, and must have a minimum GPA of 3.0. The scholarship will be awarded based on merit. Financial needs will be taken into consideration when all other factors are equal among applicants. An application form may be found on www.schenectadyrotary.org. The deadline to submit applications is April 28, 2023. Further information is available from Dr. Elena Alvarez, 518 377 3632.

Marchers Wanted!

Colonie Memorial Day Parade and Celebration, Thurs. May 25th

COLONIE - The Town of Colonie will be holding the annual Memorial Day Parade on Thursday May 25th at the Colonie Mohawk River Park. The Parade Planning committee is looking for additional marching groups to participate in the parade, including local businesses, youth organizations, fire departments, church groups, etc.

If interested in participating, please contact planning committee chairman Fox Rifenberg-Stempel, at frifenbergstempel@ outlook.com

Clifton Park Community Chorus

Welcomes

New Members

CLIFTON PARK - The Clifton Park Community Chorus (sponsored by the Town of Clifton Park)is rehearsing for its Spring 2023 Concert. All voice ranges are invited (Sections are Soprano,Alto,Tenor and Bass). Rehearsals are at the Clifton Park Senior Center every Sunday evening from 7pm-9pm. New members are welcome at any time. Music selections for the Spring include popular, folk and classical choral four part harmony. There will be at least four concerts yearly with possible special events added. No auditions or memorization is required…and it’s a FUN group…everyone is welcomed!

For further information contact David Rossi, Director at drossi20@aol. com or 518-779-5061

5K Run and

Weekend

2

Mile Walk Planned for Memorial Day

DELMAR – RUNfor-

VETS.com on May 28-- a chance to give to those who have given so much.

The Sons of the American Legion Blanchard-Currey Post 1040 and the Bethlehem Memorial VFW Auxiliary Post 3185 host their first 5K race followed by a 2-mile walk. The Run starts at 9 am and the 2mile walk at 10:30 am with the start and finish lines at the American Legion, 16 W Poplar Dr, Delmar.

“All proceeds of this event will support veteran groups in the area,” said Sons of American Legion Commander Joe Benoit. “This is the first year of the event, which we will become an annual tradition in conjunction with the Bethlehem Memorial Day Parade, which is sponsored by the Legion and the VFW. Help us remember those who have passed and support our current veterans.”

There’s a $40 registration fee for runners and walkers, with all proceeds supporting veteran activities in the area. Donation and sponsorship information can also be found online at RUNforVETS. com. The site also includes a map of the race.

Runners/walkers who register by May 13 are assured a custom sized commemorative T-Shirt (a camo pattered shirt with saluting soldier silhouette and cut out of runner).

Those who need to register manually, can do so in person on Friday and Saturday at the Bethlehem Memorial VFW Post, 404 Delaware Ave, Delmar

between Noon and 6 pm. Questions can also be directed to Keving McCaffrey at 518-475-7895 or Joe Benoit at 518-339-0854.

The Bethlehem Memorial Parade is a fun and important community event jointly sponsored by the American Legion and VFW and will be held at 11 am, Monday, May 29, the day after the run.

Waterford Knights of Columbus

Host Breakfast

Buffet and Omelet Station

WATERFORD - Buffet featuring our famous Omelet Station, Eggs cooked to order, Pancakes (Plain or Blueberry), French toast, Sausage, Bacon, Seasoned Home Fries, Toast, coffee, tea, orange, and apple juices. Take a chance to win the 50/50 drawing.

Each paid breakfast enters you to win a free breakfast!

Irish Coffee and Mimosa’s now available!!

WHEN: Sunday, May 7th , 2023, 8:00am –11:00am

Every 1st Sunday of the Month

WHERE: K of C Hall, 76 Grace Street, Waterford waterfordkofc.org or call 518-237-9330 $12.00 adult - $6.00

children (Children under 4 free)

Veteran Walkathon

COLONIE - On Saturday, April 29th, at Cook Park in the Village of Colonie, the 17th annual Veteran walkathon will be held with registration starting at 11:00am and Walk starting at noon from the Sharon Drive Pavilion. All donations

will go to the homeless veteran programs at the NYS VA Medical Centers and to non-profit Honor Flight Hub Network of NY, providing trips to veterans to the memorials built in their honor in Washington, DC at no cost to them.

You can call Judy Benner at 518-869-8668 or Dave Bishop at 518-590-6483 with any questions. This Walk is sponsored by the Albany County Sons of the American Legion and the Albany County Auxiliary.

Q.U.I.L.T. ShowPresents:

An Exposition

VOORHEESVILLE -

We will have spectacular quilts, vendors, a gift gallery, and much more!

St. Matthew’s Church, 25 Mountainview Street, Voorheesville

Saturday, April 29 from 9 am to 4 pm

Sunday, April 30 from 11 am to 4 pm

Admission - $7

Southern Saratoga Art Society

SARATOGA COUNTY

- The Clifton Park Senior Community Center Gallery, 6 Clifton Commons Ct., Tel. #: 518-383-1343 and SSAS will be hosting an exhibit in the Gallery during the months of April and May featuring seven photographers and members of SSAS. Artists include Cheryl Jenks, Rebecca Jenkins, Denise Kornak, Meda Rigatti, Brian Skanes, Anup Sood and Bill Staudinger. The Mechanicville Library, 190 N. Main Street, Tel.#: 518-664-4646 and SSAS will host a Student Art Show featuring students from Mechanicville High School. A reception will be held for students,

families and friends on Wednesday, April 19th at 6:30 p.m. Please visit these venues and support the arts in Southern Saratoga county. For further information about SSAS visit our website: southernsaratogaartist.com or check us out on facebook.

5K Run/Walk to Promote Literacy in Albany County and Rensselaer County

ALBANY - The Literacy

5K Run/Walk will be held on Sunday, May 7 at the Corning Preserve in Albany. Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate. Registration and packet pick-up opens at 8:30 a.m., the Youth Mile begins at 9:30 a.m., and the 5K Run/ Walk starts at 10:00 a.m. Awards will be given to the fastest runners. For full details and to register, visit Zippyreg.com. Proceeds will make it possible for Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County to offer literacy programs and services at no cost to adults in Albany County and Rensselaer County.

Nancy Benz, Executive Director of Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County, says “We’re excited to continue this family-friendly event, which LVORC has offered every year since 2002. This is our first time at the Corning Preserve, and we hope to see a good turnout from our supporters in Albany, as well as our longtime participants from all over Rensselaer County.” This year’s event sponsors include Cohoes Savings Foundation, Stewart’s Shops, Blasch Precision Ceramics, HMS Agency, Inc., Aflac, BBL Compa-

nies, Hannaford and The Record/The Saratogian.

Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County trains volunteers to help learners improve their ability to read, write, speak and understand English; empowers learners to be advocates for themselves; and educates the community about literacy issues. LVORC also offers math, computer, and financial literacy; English Literacy Civics and citizenship prep; and Everybody WINS! Power Lunch reading and mentoring for children. New volunteers are always welcome. For more information, visit www.lvorc.org or call 518 244-4650.

Mother Teresa’s Thrift ShopMechanicvilleCome Celebrate!

MECHANICVILLEWe have been here for 10 years and couldn’t have done it without you our patrons. To THANK YOU we will be serving refreshments, give away door prizes and daily sales.

Mother Teresa’s Thrift Shop 52 William St, Mechanicville. Celebration days will be May 2,3 and 4 Hope to see you there.

Melrose Town-Wide Yard Sale

MELROSE - The Melrose United Methodist Church (located at 20 Church Street, Melrose, NY 12121) will participate in the annual Melrose town-wide yard sale on Saturday, May 6, 2023 beginning at 9:00am. A variety of food options will also be available for sale at the church that day. All are welcome to attend this town-wide event.

Diocesan

Charismatic Prayer Monthly Meeting

LOUDONVILLE - 4th

Saturday of each month

Christ Our Light RC Church, Parish Hall

1 Maria Drive, LoudonvilleTime: 11:00am SHARP!

Until: 12:30pm

May 27, June 24, July 22, Aug. 26, 2023

Check us out on:

www.AlbanyCCR.org

Latham-Colonie

Columbiettes

Spring Flea Market

LATHAM - Latham Colonie Columbiettes, 328 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, N.Y. 12110, are hosting their Spring Flea Market on Sat., May 20th, 2023 from 9 am to 3:30 pm! Rain or Shine!

Vendor Space available both Indoor and Outdoor, Undercover and Outdoor Areas for your own popup displays

For pricing information klmajer@outlook.com or www.lathamcoloniekofc. com/dinners&events.

Jonesville UMC

Food Pantry

CLIFTON PARK

The Jonesville United Methodist Church Food Pantry is open each Friday from 9am-12 noon and serves residents of Burnt Hills/ Ballston Lake and Shenendehowa school districts.We are located at 963 Main Street, Jonesville,518-877-7380.

Boght Ladies

Auxiliary Annual Garage Sale

COHOES - IndoorsRain or Shine • 8 Preston Drive, Cohoes, NY 12047 • May 13, 2023 8am to 2pm Rent a table for $25 - Contact Kristi at 518-608-5154

Senior May Dining Events at

Colonie

Senior Service Centers

COLONIE - Join us for a hot meal at The Beltrone Living Center Monday-Friday at Noon. This program is funded in part by the Albany County Dept. for Aging, NYS Office for the Aging, Administration for Community Living, Town of Colonie and participant contributions. Suggested participant contribution is $3.00 Registration and Reservations are Required for this program. Call Liz at 518-459-2857 Ext. 303 for Reservations by the business day before.

Friday, May 5th at Noon Special

Lunch: Come listen to a local favorite, the Colonie Village Singers and enjoy lunch with the community! Lunch served will be a Vegetarian Antipasto Salad with Italian Wedding Soup, Fruit Juice, and Carrot Cake. Monday, May 8th at Noon Lunch & Learn: Come to enjoy lunch and hear Barbara Kipniss, Diabetes Prevention Program Coordinator and Lifestyle Coach from St. Peter’s Health Partners discuss diabetes prevention. Lunch served will be Chicken Parmesan with Ziti, Green Beans, Fruit Salad and a Brownie. Monday, May 15th at 5:00PM Special Dinner: Come enjoy dinner and the sounds of “Red King Duo” (Bob Redmond and David King) with the community! Dinner will be Meatloaf, Mashed Potatoes, Sauteed Carrots & Spinach and Carrot Cake. Reservations due Friday, May 12th by 12pm.

How to Prepare for an Extended Power Outage

Planning ahead can help make adverse situations more manageable. Such is the case when storms strike and the power goes out. Extended power outages may not be pleasant, but some proactive planning can make it easier to withstand blackouts.

• Establish a local support network. Support can be just as valuable as supplies when confronting power outages. The American Red Cross urges individuals to identify people who can help them during an extended

power outage. Such individuals may help 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 refrig-

erators 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.

Exterior Renovations - The Best ROI

Remodeling with a return on investment in mind can be a smart strategy for homeowners, whether one is thinking about moving in the next few months or further down the road. Though this approach is an inexact science, in many instances, it’s savvy for homeowners to consider what buyers may want when planning home improvements.

Homeowners may be surprised to learn which renovations garner the best ROI at resale. The home loan and refinancing company RenoFi indicates that overall home improvement projects provide a 70 percent ROI on average. Many high-ROI projects add functional space and improvement. The following are some exterior renovations that help homeowners recoup the most money at resale, according to Remodeling magazine’s “2022 Cost vs. Value Report.”

1. Garage Door Replacement: 93.3 percent recouped of $4,041 cost

2. Manufactured Stone Veneer: 91.4 percent recouped of $11,066 cost

3. Siding replacement (Fiber Cement): 68.3 percent recouped of $22,093 cost

4. Window replacement (Vinyl): 67.5 percent recouped of $20,482 cost

5. Siding replacement (Vinyl): 67.2 percent recouped of $18,662 cost

6. Window replacement (Wood): 66.3 percent recouped of $24,388 cost

7. Deck addition (Wood): 64.8 percent recouped of $19,248 cost

8. Entry Door Replacement (Steel): 63.8 percent recouped of $2,206 cost

The majority of renovations on Remodeling magazine’s list of the best investments are exterior renovations, making this area of a home a particular point of interest for homeowners. The only interior project that cracked the Top 10 ROI for projects was a minor midrange kitchen remodel.

Exterior renovations perhaps add the most bang for your buck because they’re not only functional, but also because they add immediate curb appeal. Much in the way it has been said people eat with their eyes first — which is why chefs spend so much time on elaborate plating — buyers will judge a property by how it looks when they arrive, even before they’ve stepped inside a home. In essence, home buyers often judge a book by its cover. A worn exterior may indicate to potential buyers that the home was not maintained, however false that assumption may be.

It’s important for homeowners to consider all factors before beginning a renovation. Certain projects offer a stronger return on investment than others, and that’s a significant consideration for homeowners thinking of selling their homes.

The Role of Nature in Home Design in the Years Ahead

Outdoor living spaces were prioritized during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when public gatherings were greatly limited and individuals were urged to stay home as much as possible. Such demands have had a ripple effect on various industries, including home design. According to a survey conducted by the New Home Trends Institute in collaboration with Pro Builder, 58 percent of the more than 300 residential architects, designers and design-minded builders who participated said connection to the outdoors/nature will be an important influence on their design choices in the years to come. In addition, 45 percent of respondents indicated increased attention will be afforded to outdoor entertaining spaces.

So what might the outdoor spaces of homes built in the not-so-distant future look like? Respondents to the survey anticipated a growing demand for various built-in outdoor features, including:

• Outdoor kitchens

• Firepits or fireplaces

• Gazebos or pergolas

• Spas or hot tubs

• Pools

Though trends and consumer demands are ever-shifting, architects and designers are anticipating that future homeowners will want more developed outdoor living spaces and greater access to nature, which is something current homeowners can keep in mind when renovating their properties.

REAL ESTATE / HOUSE OF THE WEEK

875-877 Route 443, Schoharie

KThe main home on the Kings Creek Farm property was built in 1869. ings Creek Farm features a gorgeously updated farmhouse, guest home, gardens and barns all bundled on a bucolic 20-acre piece of property bound by Kings Creek in the town of Wright.

SHANNON FROMMA

HOUSE OF THE WEEK

Built in 1869, the parcel’s main home offers four bedrooms and two-anda-half bathrooms. The Colonial’s spacious modern kitchen showcases soapstone countertops, radiant-heated tile floors, walk-in pantry, woodstove and lofty ceilings with exposed wood beams. The adjacent 2,700 square foot barn/four-car garage is sliced into several rooms and serves as an extension of the main home with a fitness space, sauna and artist’s studio. The Honey House – the property’s second house

currently rented to long term tenants – was built in 1920 and offers roughly 1,000 square feet of secluded space, including two bedrooms, one bathroom and an updated kitchen. Solar panels (owned, not leased) cover nearly all of the main house’s electricity usage. A livestock pasture, Christmas tree farm and wide open meadow are just a few more of this property’s many features.

List price: $989,000. Taxes: $11,126 (combined for two parcels). Contact Brian Brosen, licensed associate broker with The Capital Team at eXp Realty, at 518-669-2633 or brian@thecapitalteam.com.

Anthony M. Gucciardo

Anthony M. Gucciardo

Capital Region Speech Contest Winners

Advance to Division Competition

CAPITAL DISTRICT - Toastmasters International is pleased to announce Linda Salzer of Cambridge and member of Clifton-Park Halfmoon Toastmasters Club; James Brooks of Ballston Spa and member of the KAPL Toastmasters Club; David Kolman of Niskayuna and member of GE Schenectady Speakers Club; Lele Luan of Clifton Park and member of Clifton-Park Halfmoon Toastmasters Club as the Capital Region’s finalists for Toastmaster International’s Area speech contests.

Salzar stepped out of her comfort zone at the Area 53 International Speech Contest delivering her speech “The Perfect Weekend Ribbon” describing how, as she trained her dog for competition, she learned lessons for her own life. Brooks wowed the assembled crowd at the Area 54 Tall Tales Speech Contest with a story of how replacing an appliance was less convenient than expected, and surprisingly painful. Brooks’ speech “Clean Your Room!” served as an amusing warning about replacing an oven

and lessons we can draw to our daily lives. Kolman’s Area 54’s International speech “Don’t Let the World Pass You By” described how a favorite music album can be a dear friend during carefree and careworn days, and everything in between. Luan’s Area 53’s Tall Tales Speech “Lost on Journey” recanted his experience of airline travel with strange layovers and help from an unexpected source.

All Area contestants will be advancing to the Division E Contest with sights on competing at the Toastmasters International District 53 Conference to be held in Springfield, MA on May 6, 2023.

The Toastmasters International Speech contest began over 85 years ago and is the world’s largest speech contest, involving over 30,000 participants from over 140 countries. Advancing from club to area, then division and district, it culminates in the World Championship of Public Speaking held annually at the Toastmasters International Convention. This year’s International Convention will be held in Nassau, Bahamas August 1619 in a hybrid format.

HOROSCOPE

Week Of April 30, 2023

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, even though you have been making great progress, you have some more work ahead of you this week. Overcome any distractions that get in your way.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, you may want to avoid crowds this week. Use this opportunity to enjoy some quiet, alone time to recharge. There will be time for socialization in the weeks ahead.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

You may be called in as a mediator this week, Gemini. It may be challenging to remain impartial, as you are friendly with both people involved. Tread carefully.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, there are a few decisions that you will need to make in the days to come and they are not to be taken lightly. Give each ample time and consider all angles.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

An opportunity all but falls into your lap, Leo. Make sure you jump on this because opportunity may not knock again. The benefits are too big to pass up.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

There is not much more help you can lend to a situation, Virgo. This week you may have to accept that you have simply done all that you could do. Move on and focus on the future.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Expect some strange things to happen to you this week, Libra. The unexpected could be the breath of fresh air you need, especially if your schedule has been stagnant.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, assist a loved one as

LAWN CARE-RYAN MASON

LICENSED ELECTRICIAN Everything from new service to switch or receptacle repair. All types of lighting instld. No job too big or small 518-782-1473

MACK’S POWER WASHING Insured and free estimates. House cleaning and trucking. RESTORE - REFRESH - RENEW (518) 888-6990

MASONRY & LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION HIGGINS BUILDERS - New installations & old restorations. Call John (518) 269-6804

MASONRY SERVICES Foundation repairs. Concrete work/repairs. Porch & step refurbishing. (518) 892-1476

PAINTING SOLUTIONS LLC All phases interior painting inc: cabinet painting, wallpaper removal, wall repairs, taping. Res idential/Commercial. Free est’s, fully ins. 518-986-1154

PAINT/PRESSURE WASHING Decks, house painting/alum siding, concrete. We clean & paint anything Town/Country. JJ 518-618-8051

PJ’S CONSTRUCTION Windows doors, remodeling, roof repair, small jobs. Quality work for quality price. Ins. (518) 527-3067

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER Interior/ exterior. 25 years experience. Insured, references. Free Estimates. (518) 373-7982

septics, grading, digging, lawns, pool fill-ins, site prep. Part of the proceeds go to the veterans. (518) 339-8710 SPRING CLEANUP Low cost. High quality. Raking, mowing, trimming. Call Jesse (518) 506-5479 or jessesample08@yahoo.com

Toastmasters International (TI) is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs and grooms club members into qualified speech contestants. Headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, the organization’s membership is approximately 280,000 in more than 14,700 clubs in 144 countries. Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped people from diverse backgrounds become more confident speakers, communicators, and leaders.

Several Clubs across the Capital Region meet in person, online, or in a hybrid fashion. Guests are always welcome to experience a meeting and see what Toastmasters is about. Visit Toastmasters.org and select “Find a Club” to find a Club that best suits your needs.

much as you can this week. You may need to be a devoted caregiver or a listening ear. Whatever the case, handle it with undivided attention.

SAGITTARIUS –Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, a deep focus on health may compel you to get around to making some changes you’ve been planning. Embrace this newfound resolve.

CAPRICORN –Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, allow others to take the lead when a project ends up coming across your desk. You could learn something from the expertise of others if you emulate their actions.

AQUARIUS –Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, you have left no stone unturned in a situation that involves relocation. Now it is just a matter of wait and see. Give it a few weeks, then move on.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, others have very positive things to say about you, especially during the course of the next few days. Relish in their attention.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

APRIL 30

Dianna Agron, Actress (37)

MAY 1

Jamie Dornan, Actor (41)

MAY 2

Dwayne Johnson, Actor (51)

MAY 3

Cheryl Burke, Dancer (39)

MAY 4

Lance Bass, Singer (44)

MAY 5

Adele, Singer (35)

MAY 6 George Clooney, Actor (62)

Legal Assistants

Legal Assistants/ Paralegals

Voted a Top Workplace for 2021, O'Connor, O'Connor, Bresee & First, PC is looking for support staff to join our growing firm. We're looking for a Legal Assistant with 3+ years of experience in the field of premises liability for a self-insured company

Voted a Top Wor kplace for 2021, O’Connor, O’Connor, Bresee & First, PC is looking for suppor t staff to join our growing fir m. We re looking for Legal Assistants/Paralegals with 2+ years of exper ience in the fields of personal injur y defense medical malpractice defense and civil litigation.

Duties include processing mail; transcription; preparing pleadings/discovery responses; preparing expert review packages; preparing reports to clients; telephone contact with clients; scheduling and keeping track of important deadlines; processing medical authorizations and tracking medical records

Duties include processing mail; prepar ing pleadings/ discover y responses; prepar ing exper t review packages; prepar ing repor ts to clients; telephone contact with clients; scheduling and keeping track of impor tant deadlines The successful candidate must have excellent communication, t yping and proofreading skills and be able to wor k independently but also wor k as par t of a team.

Must have some litigation exper ience, including NYSECF filing Salar y commensurate with exper ience

The successful candidate must have excellent communication, typing and proofreading skills and be able to work independently but also work as part of a team. Salary commensurate with experience.

We offer an excellent benefit package including fully paid health insurance.

Send resume to colello@oobf.com or fax to 518-465-0015

CANNABIS

CONTINUED FROM 1

a person’s vital signs and making “precise observations of the person’s automatic responses and reactions.”

“The DRE also administers carefully designed psychophysical tests to evaluate the person’s judgment, information processing ability, coordination and various other characteristics,” according to the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. “The DRE will systematically consider everything about the person that could indicate the influence of drugs.”

CRISIS

CONTINUED FROM 1

To encourage adoption, MHHS is offering reduced fees through the end of April, with all dogs one year and older costing $50 including the cost of spay or neuter surgery, vaccinations, microchipping, de-worming and flea treatment. Interested adoptees work with adoption counselors to help ensure the match is a good fit for both the family and the pet. Some dogs are also eligible for a three-week foster-toadopt program.

For those not yet ready for the long-term commitment, the humane society is also looking for volunteers to bolster its foster program to help clear up space in the kennels. “Our foster program provides training, supplies and the support of our knowledgeable and caring staff — everything it takes to make it a successful partnership,” Bouck added.

Those interested in adopting, fostering or donating to MHHS can visit the organization’s website.

CURE

CONTINUED FROM 1

Steps2Cure NF Capital District (formally Albany) has been operating with the help of dedicated local volunteers, who started the event over 10 years ago. Last year, Steps2Cure Albany brought together over 100 members of the greater Albany, NY community and raised over $12,000. This year, we have set a goal of $14,000!

NF Northeast is a register 501(C)(3) organization headquartered in Burlington, MA. NF Northeast is proud to support a ninestate region that includes MA, NY, PA, NJ, CT, VT, NH, ME, and RI. At NF Northeast we seek to bring hope to those affected by neurofibromatosis and allied disorders.

Red Flags of Abusive Behavior in a Male or Female Partner

CAPITAL DISTRICT

- A potential abuser may seem like a dream partner at the beginning of the relationship. Red flags like the following may show up later: commitment - living together - marriage - pregnancy - child birth or after many years. Many abusers

occasionally shower love and affection to mask their abuse and keep the victim captive. The abuser may progress from verbal, emotional and controlling to physical abuse. The earlier the victim disengages from the abuser the lesser will be the damage to self and children’s mental and physical health.

Common Red Flags

Embarrassing you or putting you down.

Controlling who you see, where you go or do.

Discouraging you from being in contact with your friends or family.

Preventing you from working or attending school.

Taking your money or valuables and refusing to give you money.

Saying you are a bad parent, threatening to harm you or take away your children.

Pressuring you to use drugs or alcohol.

Creating fear in you by looking at you or acting in scary ways.

Damaging your property, threatening to hurt or kill your pets.

Intimidating you with guns, knives or in any other way.

Blocking your way, shoving, slapping, choking or hitting you.

Threatening to hurt or

kill you.

Threatening to commit suicide for not honoring partner’s wishes or orders.

Pressuring you to have sex when you don’t want.

Male partner preventing a female partner from using birth control or pressuring to become pregnant when she isn’t ready.

Denying abuse or blaming you for it.

FREE 24/7 help is available from the following agencies. Their trained advocates will patiently listen to you without judgment, explore your options and help you develop a safety plan to exit the relationship. They offer legal support and counseling and if needed, a safe shelter for you, your children and maybe pets also.

You, your friend or family member can anonymously call the following numbers, any number of times. You deserve respect. You can change your life. It’s never too late to seek help.

Unity House 518-272-2370

Equinox 518-432-7865

Wellspring 518-584-8188

YWCA 518-374-3386

NYS OPDV 800-942-6906

Scan the QR code to read

‘Domestic Abuse 101’

Sew-cials -

Learn to Sew at the Electric City Barn

SCHENECTADY - So, you just got a new sewing machine or have one setting in a corner and are not sure what to do with it, but you want to learn to sew.

Come join us!

The Albany NY Chapter of the American Sewing Guild is partnering with the Electric City Barn, Schenectady NY to offer

a monthly sewing project for interested individuals. Both adults and children are welcome to come. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The program will occur on the 1st Wednesday of each month till October from 3:00 to 5:00 pm at the Electric City Barn and will cover general sewing instructions and a simple project to complete. Volunteers from the Albany NY Chapter of the ASG as well as some ECB staff will be on hand to assist. Machines and fabric are available at the ECB so just bring yourself.

To Register or request instruction in a specific topic please go to the following link: https://ecb.albanybarn. org/events