The Advertiser 021623

In conjunction with New York State’s Free Fishing Weekend, Grafton Lakes State Park and Capital District Sportsman Center will offer an informative session on the outdoor sport of Ice Fishing from 9am-12pm on Sun., Feb 19th. No experience or equipment needed. Fun for the whole family.

On Sunday, February 19 at 9am a group of Ice Fishing Enthusiasts will embark from the beach on Long Pond, at Grafton Lakes State Park. Interested sportspeople are welcome to join us from the start or drop in anytime during the morning. These enthusiasts are ready to share their knowledge on the winter sport. You may even hear about some of the highlights of their fishing experiences.

Have you always wanted to get into the sport of ice fishing, but didn’t know where to start? Stop in or stay the whole morning to learn about Safety (Ice thickness, Ice condition & surface and Tool usage), Rules and Regulations (including licensing info), Access through Ice to water (spud bars & Augers), Styles of Ice Fishing (Tip Ups and jigging poles), Shelters (Shanties, Single & Group Portables),

By KENNETH C. CROWE II

EAST GREENBUSH — Rensselaer County needs an animal shelter, residents told legislators Wednesday night as they lobbied to get a full-service facility to fill a growing demand to care for strays and abandoned pets.

The push for action found a sympathetic audience as Republican and Democratic legislators said the issue has to be studied and a plan developed for dealing with animals in a humane way.

“They’re starting to realize the county needs an animal shelter,” said Valerie Lang Waldin of the New York State Humane Society, who has taught animal law at Hudson Valley Community College.

“We need more lifesaving shelters in the Capital Region and in Rensselaer County in particular. And as citizens and community leaders it is our duty to respond to the needs of the helpless — and animals are the helpless,” she said.

Susan McDonough, also representing the humane society, said state law only requires dogs to be taken in, but if the county doesn’t include cats it will face health issues as the

By KATHLEEN MOORE

ALBANY — Three months after the state Education Department told school districts to drop all mascots, nicknames and imagery related to Indigenous people, just four of 12 local school districts are doing so.

The rest are hoping for a reprieve, thinking they can keep nicknames like Red Raiders or Warriors if they drop the images.

Ward Abbott, president of the Mohonasen school district board of education, has reached out to the Seneca Nation.

animals are abandoned and left to fend for themselves.

In the Capital Region, Saratoga County is the only county that runs an animal shelter. Some small towns have shelters but many communities have relied on the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society in Menands.

But Mohawk Hudson doesn’t have the capacity to deal with the number of animals brought to its kennels. Last year, the society cut ties with 16 municipalities as it confronts a lack of room in its 86 dog kennels and changes in state law.

“We had to make a very difficult decision because we are beyond capacity. The number of animals that have been coming through the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society has increased exponentially,” CEO Ashley Bouck said.

“We are in full support of there being a municipal shelter in Rensselaer County. If you don’t address the cats you are going to have serious public health issues,” Bouck said.

Tammy Cameron, who owns a farm in Berlin in eastern Rensselaer County, said she is concerned that abandoned cats and dogs

will overwhelm her operation as well as other farms. She is worried that if a shelter is not established she will have to worry about protecting her livestock.

Legislature Chairwoman Kelly Hoffman, R-C-North Greenbush, said a special legislative committee will have to be formed to study the animal shelter issue.

Hoffman said the county would have to consider what approach to take and would have to consult with County Executive Steve McLaughlin over fiscal impacts.

Hoffman said the county would count on Bouck and the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society to advise the county as it explores options.

Legislators Ken Zalewski and Nina Nichols, both Troy Democrats, said the county needs an animal shelter.

I BUY HOUSES!! CASH!!

“We are simply looking to establish a dialogue with the Seneca Nation,” he said. “Our board feels strongly that it is important to first listen carefully to all stakeholders: students, families, alumni, faculty, staff, other Mohonasen community members and other applicable groups.”

Mohonasen’s name is a combination of three groups that once lived on the land where the school district is now: the Mohawk, Onondaga and Seneca tribes. The district’s images are of three stereotypical Indigenous people’s heads and an M with an arrow through it. Their current nickname is the Warriors.

Seneca Nation President Rickey Armstrong Sr. said school districts need to consider the long history of war — and war crimes — committed by the United States against Indigenous people.

“The historic decimation of Native people should not be celebrated in any fashion or used as a community rallying cry, especially in the realm of education,” he said.

“While individuals in different communities may not associate their team names with the horrors that Native people have faced throughout history, the fact remains that many team names and images further long-standing anti-Native biases.”

Among them: The images usually show Indigenous people as violent — armed with weapons, called warriors or raiders — without acknowl-

edging they were seen that way because the United States engaged in a series of wars over the land on which the Indigenous people lived.

Also, the images show the way some Indigenous people looked 200 years ago, suggesting they are extinct since there are no modern images.

Mohonasen officials acknowledged their images are probably going to have to be replaced. “It does appear our two logos would be prohibited,” spokeswoman Kelsie Conroy said, but the superintendent has asked the state whether they can keep “Warriors.”

The district is not alone. Many other local schools are hoping to keep their nicknames.

In Averill Park, where the mascot is a warrior and the imagery shows a spear and feather, school officials have taken no action while they await the Board of Regents final vote on the issue, likely in April.

That would leave them with just two months to retire the image and mascot, but they said they think they might be allowed to keep their mascot.

“At this time, the Averill Park Central School District is awaiting further guidance from the state Education Department regarding how certain names, such as Warriors, will be treated under the proposed new regulation,” spokesman Brian Radewitz said. “It is our understanding that the (education) department is convening a committee that will be tasked with reviewing if the name ‘Warriors,’ and other similar names, will be allowed going

LORI VAN BUREN / TIMES UNION ARCHIVE

Officials in Rotterdam’s Mohonasen school district are preparing to retire the use of images of Indigenous people as mascots, but like the leaders at several other Capital Region school districts they hope to keep the team name Warriors as they comply with state rules.

Town of North Greenbush News

Although bad weather has kept many of us inside, there’s much happening inside the walls of town hall. The board recently appointed Patty Rubino as our new Tax Assessor. Patty has been a long-time employee of the town and we congratulate her on her promotion.

We would like to thank Teresa Gross for her years of service to our town. Teresa served the residents in the Comptroller’s office and we will miss her. We would like to welcome Jennifer Browe who was appointed part-time Finance Director. Dylan Casey was appointed as Laborer. Supervisor Bott thanked Comptroller Michael Chaires for his work to upgrade the town’s financial management systems. The board authorized the purchase of two vehicles that will be used by the building department. Supervisor Bott and Deputy Supervisor Hoffman have been working collaboratively on a proposed local law that provides real property tax exemptions for our volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. The intent of the law is to recognize the personal sacrifices and dedication of our volunteers. This will serve as an incentive to attract new volunteers and to retain existing members. Supervisor Bott reports excavation work has started on the new recreation building at Snyders Lake.

He is pleased to report we are embarking on a Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Plan that will include a series of public hearings this Spring to gather community input and thoughts related to town parks and other recreational opportunities. Councilman Gordon indicated the plan will be utilized to apply for grant funding to improve our parks and items detailed in the plan can be realized. Youth and Recreation Committee members

Grafton Senior Center News

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 Monday, Wednesday and Friday is offered at 10:00 (note the change in days). Come check it out. Seniors that attend the Yoga sessions say they feel better and have more energy. There are lots of activi-

Councilwoman Merola and Deputy Supervisor Hoffman welcome input from our community on opportunities to not only expand our recreational activities but to grow them for all living in North Greenbush.

Supervisor Joe Bott, Deputy Supervisor Kelly Hoffman, Council Members Jessica Merola and Jim Gordon.

Councilman Jack Rogers Reports to the Town of North Greenbush

The Town Board approved a resolution directing the Town Comptroller to perform the annual audit and review of the records of the North Greenbush Town Justices for the year of 2022. The Comptroller reported the audit was completed and there were no discrepancies.

The Town Board approved the hiring of Ms. Jennifer Browe appointed to the position of part time finance director. She will be filling a vacancy created by retirement.

A resolution approved Dylan Casey as a full time laborer.

The Board approved the upgrading of the town’s financial management system and support services per the Comptroller’s recommendation.

A resolution approved the purchase of two vehicles for the Building Department. Price not to exceed $130,000.

The Town Board approved the hiring of Patty Rubino as the Town Assessor to fill a vacancy created by retirement. She will complete the term ending October 1, 2025.

A brief discussion was held regarding a volunteer firefighters’ and ambulance workers’ tax credit.

Check out the town website for information, announcements, and town board meeting

ties going on at the center. Stop in for the monthly calendar of activities and a lunch menu. Tuesday, Feb 21st. There will be a Mardi Gras Special Luncheon with music by Gone Gray. Thursday Feb 23rd, come have lunch and join us at the Ice Cream Social as we wish our Director, Cindy Mattison goodbye. Cindy will be retiring the end of the month and will be deeply missed by all. Please call the Center if you are planning to attend Cindy’s farewell.

Feb 28th we will be holding Bingo after lunch.

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.

Town Hall Closes for Presidents’ Day

Debra L. Curtis, Schodack Town Clerk, wishes to remind residents that the Schodack Town Hall Offices will be closed on Monday, February 20, 2023 for the Presidents Day Holiday. The Schodack Town Hall Offices will resume its regular business hours on Tues-

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 2/27/23 at 6:30PM

•Zoning Board 3/8/23 at 6:30PM

•Town Board 3/9/23at 7:00PM

Think Spring!

Councilman Jack Rogers

East Greenbush Town Hall and Highway Garage Closures for Upcoming Holiday

Ellen Pangburn, Town Clerk, and Michelle Eckler, Deputy Clerk, would like to remind Town residents that the East Greenbush Town Hall and Highway Garage will both be closed on Monday, February 20th, 2023 for President’s Day.

PLEASE NOTE: On Mondays the Town of East Greenbush Transfer Station is closed.

On Monday, February 20th the DMV Satellite Office in our Court Room will also be closed.

If you need to reach someone during town closure, please call Dispatch at 518.479.2525. Regular business hours for the Town of East Greenbush Town Hall and Highway Garage will resume on Tuesday, February 21st.

Please reach out to the Town Clerk’s Office if you have any questions at 518.477.7145, between the hours of 8:30 and 4:30. Ellen or Michelle would be happy to help you.

day, February 21, 2023.

The Transfer Station will have standard business hours on Tuesday, February 21, 2023.

If you have any questions, please contact the Office of the Town Clerk at (518) 477-7590, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30am and 4:30pm.

Are You Missing Out on an Opportunity of a Lifetime??

Two Years Ago the Rensselaer County Senior Center received a call from a representative of Columbia High School Job Coaching Program. Who knew it was a call that

would change our lives?

We hosted students once a week for approximately one hour with their Job Coach. These beautiful students came to the center eager to be here and eager to please. Their smiles and attitudes were infectious the work they did was greatly appreciated. One Day was not enough so we hosted another day.

We look forward every Tuesday and Thursday to see our trainees who will be ready for the work field. We must say their job coaches are priceless. Thank you so much for choosing to be with us. You changed our lives.

News From Averill Park CSD

Seven Averill Park High School students in the Class of 2023 have fulfilled their academic requirements in an accelerated manner and have graduated at the mid-year point in January. Congratulations to Emily Bradley, Olivia Dugan, Sean Foster, Chloe Lombardi, Ripley Story, Ashley Svensson and Emily Warner!

Ten Averill Park High School students had artwork selected to be displayed in the Art in 3 Dimensions juried show at Mohanasen High School. Way to go, Majella Briggs (2 pieces), Theresa Crawford, Emma Doyle, Ella Fanning, Kaitlyn Farron, Mikayla Malenfant, Griffin Momrow, and Alfred Fizzuoglio/Julie Hale/ Devin Harrington-Dus (team project)!

The boys and girls bowling teams collected more than 100 pairs of socks, hats, gloves and scarves to donate to the homeless. Great job, everyone!

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

Elmwood Cemetery Association of West Sand Lake Annual Meeting

The Annual Meeting of The Elmwood Cemetery Association of West Sand Lake will be held on Tuesday, March 7, at 7 PM, at Hoffay’s Harvest House, 489 Sheer Road, off of Rte. 150 out of West Sand Lake.

All cemetery lot owners and interested parties are welcome to attend. The meeting includes a brief financial report and election of Trustees as needed. Volunteers are appreciated. Ample lots are still available for purchase.

Bingo at South Schodack Volunteer Fire Co.

The South Schodack Volunteer Fire Co. is having Bingo the first and third Sundays each month through May.

Doors open at noon with card sales starting at 1:00 PM and games start at 2:00 PM. South Schodack Volunteer Fire Co. 1563 Bame Rd., Castleton, N.Y. 12033 (518-732-2082).

Learn CPR/AED

Save a Life! - get certified with American Heart Association CPR/AED course.

Open to youth ages 12-18.

Thursday, Feb 23, 12:30-4:30 @ North Greenbush Town Hall. FREE - Sponsored by Benetech Inc. and Kiwanis of North Greenbush.

Please register @ https://k20729.site.kiwanis.org.

Pet First Aid at Mohawk Hudson Humane Society

Learn what critical first steps to take in the event of a pet emergency. The Mohawk Hudson Humane Society will offer Basic Pet First Aid on Thursday, February 23 from 6:00-7:30 p.m. at the Lisa Mitzen Animal Care Center, located at 3 Oakland Avenue in Menands.

The program will be presented by Dr. Tara Estra, owner and medical director at Canterbury Animal Hospital. Registration is required. Suggested donation is $10, payable at the door. The facility is handicap accessible. Learn more and register at mohawkhumane.org/seminar-series or call 518-4348128, ext. 350.

two popular craft events in Richfield Springs--the 42nd Annual Friendship Craft Festival to be held on Saturday, June 10 in Spring Park and the 3rd Annual Fall Craft Fair scheduled for Saturday, October 7 at the Cullen Pumpkin, 587 Cullen Road. Both events are sponsored by the Church Of Christ Uniting in Richfield Springs.

For information and an application for both events go to www.rschurchofchristuniting.com or call Carla at 315-858-1451.

adult 18+. Children under age 10 may attend, but cannot participate. The SLTL winning team will be eligible to compete against winners from other libraries in the The Great UHLS Spell-Off at the Colonie Town Library on Saturday 4/30 at 2:30pm. More d-e-t-a-i-l-s to come! Email sltlfriends@gmail.com with questions.

Mary Edmonia

Lewis Presentation

Center as we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on Thursday March 16th. Yes that’s right the 16th because March 17th is on Friday and our Special Dinner is Corned Beef And Cabbage and it falls on Friday during Lent.

The

Great UHLS Spell-Off is Coming!

If you love words, the Sand Lake Town Library Friends has a challenge for you! The Great Upper Hudson Library System Spell-Off is happening at the end of April and we’re buzzing with excitement about hosting a preliminary spelling bee here in our community.

The Esquatak Historical Society invites you to a presentation on “Mary Edmonia Lewis, Locally-Born Sculptress.” Join East Greenbush Town Historian Bobby Reno as she tells the almost forgotten tale of Edmonia Lewis....a woman of color, who faced racial and gender discrimination to become a world-famous sculptor, and Ms. Reno’s effort to bring her unique story the attention it deserves.

So we are celebrating it on Thursday so everyone can celebrate a day full of great food, company and music by Bobby T. Bring your best moves for the Irish jig and don’t hold back. We are open Monday Thru Friday 9am to 3pm. Call today for reservations (518) 463-2166. East and Herrick Street Rensselaer. MUST DINE WITH US TO ENJOY THE SHOW.

Tuesday Treks:

Every Tuesday

12:30 - 2:30

Crafters

Wanted in Richfield Springs

CAPITAL DISTRICT

- Applications are currently being accepted for

We’re still working on when and where it’ll happen, but we wanted everyone to start thinking about participating. Two-person teams will compete in both a written and an oral portion of the bee. Spelling words will be selected with adults in mind.

High schoolers may form teams. Children 1013 can be on a team with an

The presentation takes place on Friday, February 17, 7 pm at the Castleton Fire House, Green Avenue. Admission is free and refreshments will be served.

The Luck of The Irish Special Dinner

March 16th

Join The Rensselaer County Rensselaer Senior

Join Len Tremblay on a moderately paced 3 mile hike every Tuesday in February 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 dykenpond@gmail.com or (518) 658-2055. This program is free for adults and older teens.

Heart-Healthy Foods to Add to Your Diet

A healthy diet can help people lower their risk for various conditions, including heart disease. That’s a significant benefit, as the World Health Organization estimates that 32 percent of deaths across the globe can be attributed to cardiovascular disease, which is an umbrella term used to refer to a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels.

Individuals who want to change their diets are urged to speak with their physicians for insight regarding specific changes that can address any preexisting issues they may have. But it never hurts to consider heart-healthy foods, and the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends adding these heart-healthy foods to your shopping list.

Fruits and vegetables

Variety is the spice of life, and the good news is that an assortment of fruits and vegetables promote heart health. That means individuals can eat a heart-healthy diet without eating the same foods every day. The ODPHP notes that fresh, frozen, canned, or dried fruits and vegetables can all promote a healthy heart.

• Fresh vegetables: Tomatoes, cabbage and carrots

• Fresh fruits: Apples, oranges, bananas, pears, and peaches

• Leafy greens: Spinach, Romaine lettuce and kale

• Canned vegetables: Look for low-sodium canned veggies

• Frozen vegetables: Look for products without added butter or sauces

• Canned, frozen or dried fruit: Look for varieties with no added sugars

Dairy

The ODPHP recommends fat-free or low-fat dairy. Such products include:

• Fat-free or low-fat (1 percent) milk

• Fat-free or low-fat plain yogurt

• Fat-free or low-fat cheese or cottage cheese

• Soy milk with added calcium, vitamin A and vitamin D

Whole grains

Various products may be promoted as “whole (Continued)

We Need Your Help!

As many of you already know the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society is no longer allowing any dogs from most municipalities in Rensselaer County, which leaves the municipalities nowhere to safely house stray dogs that are picked up by the Dog Control Officers.

The Town of Sand Lake and Town of Poestenkill have partnered in an initiative to open a new kennel at the corner of Routes 351 and 66. The building needs approximately $10,000 of repair before New York State Department of Ag and Markets will permit the Towns to begin accepting dogs. We are asking for those who have donated to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society in the past to please consider and helping open our own dog shelter in Rensselaer County.

Donation checks should be made payable to: Rensselaer County Municipal Dog Shelter. Checks can be mailed to the Town of Poestenkill, PO Box 210, Poestenkill NY 12140 For more information, please contact Keith Hammond at (518) 283-5100 ext 104 or Scott Gallerie at (518) 674-2026 ext 115.

Church of the Redeemer

On February 19 service will be at 9:00. Coffee hour and socializing follow the service.

Our Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper will be on February 21 at 6 pm at the Schodack Diner. Please call Judy at 518-380-4511 to make a reservation.

Ash Wednesday service, February 22, will be at 9 am followed by Hot Mess Crafters at 10:00. All are invited to stay and see what Hot Mess Crafters is about. Later in the day, at 2:00, there will be Bible Study. We are beginning a new Max Lucado series “How Happiness Happens”.

Thrift Shop is now open on Thursdays from 3-6 and on Saturday February 18 from 9-2. Come to see what we have for Spring.

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

Love Lutheran Church

Please join us! We believe there are no strangers here; only friends we haven’t yet met!! Pastor David Dietsche will be leading our worship service on February 19th and 26th Bible Study: 9:00 am, Worship Service: 10:00 am, followed by Fellowship: 11:00 am. LLC is located on Pheasant Lane and Middlesex Rd., East Greenbush, NY. Telephone: 518-477-8685.

St John’s Episcopal Church, Troy

Mark your calendars for a Shrove Tuesday pancake supper at 5:30 pm on February 21st. This traditional English supper is akin to Mardi Gras, and offers pancakes, sausages, and more. Entertainment features pancake races as well as other family activities. There is no charge, but donations are gladly accepted. Reservations are suggested; please call the office.

Ash Wednesday is on February 22, and services will be at 8 am, followed by hot crossed buns, and 7 pm. During Lent, we will have the Stations of the

Cross at noon on Fridays, led by Deacons Bill and Sandra Tatem. On March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 from 5 to 6 pm we will have our candlelight meditations, where we enjoy the beauty of our candlelit sanctuary in silence, with music playing intermittently.

Sunday in-person worship gathers at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. The 8 a.m. spoken service follows a more ancient Rite in Elizabethan English. The 10 a.m. modern Eucharistic Rite is preceded by hymns on the tower chime and is both live-streamed and in-person. Hymns are accompanied on the pipe organ, and Communion music is often from contemporary repertoire. And the choir has begun to sing again! For more information about our music, contact Tiffany Dzembo, Choir Director, at tdzembo@stjohnstroy.org. Coffee hour follows the 10 a.m. service.

Sunday School has resumed! Children can draw near to God as they reflect on Scripture passages in a hands-on curriculum, Sundays at 10 am. For information about this, our Thursday after-school program, or upcoming family events, contact Gaby Gastelum, Children’s

Christian Education Director, at ggastelum@ stjohnstroy.org.

Our Thrift Store hours for shopping and dropping off are 9 to noon on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Our next food pantry, which includes fresh produce, will be Saturday, March 4th, from 10 until noon. All are welcome.

All activities are at 146 1st Street in Troy (518)2745884. The Rector, the Rev. Judith Malionek, can be reached also at rev.jmalionek@stjohnstroy.

East Greenbush CSD Receives Positive Fiscal Stress Score for 10th Straight Year

For the 10th straight year, the East Greenbush Central School District received a “no designation” fiscal stress score from the New York State Comptroller’s Office, indicating a low level of fiscal stress.

The Fiscal Stress Monitoring System was established by the State Comptroller in 2013 as an early warning of fiscal stress in school districts and local governments. It also provides feedback to local leaders, state officials

and taxpayers about these fiscal stress conditions to help them prioritize the needs of their community and make decisions.

There are two components to the report:

1. Financial indicators – year-end fund balances, cash position, short-term borrowing and patterns of operating deficits/surpluses.

2. Environmental indicators – poverty, class sizes, student to teacher ratio, turnover rates of teachers, changes in property values, budget support and English Language Learners.

Rensselaer High School Craft Fair

The Alumni Association of the Rensselaer City School District and the class of 2024 are sponsoring a craft fair on March 25, 2023, from 9 am-2 pm at Rensselaer High School, 25 Van Rensselaer Drive, Rensselaer, NY 12144. There will be over 30 vendors with a wide assortment of items available, including artwork and sewn items. There is a concession stand with breakfast and lunch items, raffles, and a 50/50. Enjoy the afternoon with us!

Deborah A. Ciprioni, PT/Owner Taylor Lanoue-Angley, DPT, PT Erinn Sanford, MS, PT

(Cont. from Previous Pg.) grain,” but the ODPHP notes that whole wheat or another whole grain should be listed first in the ingredient list. Products that are “100 percent whole grain” also should be chosen over the alternatives.

• Whole-grain bread, bagels, English muffins, and tortillas

• Whole-grain hot or cold breakfast cereals with no added sugar, such as oatmeal or shredded wheat

• Whole grains like brown or wild rice, quinoa, or oats

• Whole-wheat or whole-grain pasta and couscous

Proteins

Heart-healthy proteins can add variety to a diet, which can make it easier to enjoy different flavors and dishes.

• Seafood, such as fish and shellfish

• Poultry: Chicken or turkey breast without skin, or lean ground chicken or turkey (at least 93 percent lean)

• Lean meats: Pork shoulder, beef sirloin or lean ground beef (at least 93 percent lean)

• Beans, peas and lentils: Black beans and chickpeas (garbanzo beans)

• Eggs

• Unsalted nuts, seeds and nut butters, such as almond or peanut butter

• Tofu

Healthy fats and oils

When cooking with fat and oil, cooks are urged to replace saturated fat with healthier unsaturated fats.

• Avoid cooking with butter and instead cook with oil, including canola, corn, olive, peanut, safflower, soybean, or sunflower oils

• Choose oil-based salad dressings, such as balsamic vinaigrette or Italian, instead of creamy dressings like ranch

Tamarac Kindergarten Roundup

Are you the parent of a child who will be eligible to attend kindergarten at Tamarac Elementary School next fall? The Brunswick (Brittonkill) Central School District is currently updating census information for those children residing in the district who will be eligible for Kindergarten for the 2023-2024 school year. Your child must be 5 years of age on or before December 1, 2023, to be enrolled. If you have a child who will be entering Kindergarten at Tamarac Elementary School in September 2023, please go to the District website at www.brunswickcsd. org, click on the “Explore” tab and then click on the “Register New Student” link. Here you will find the link to download all the necessary registration papers. If you have any questions, feel free to call the Registrar’s Office at (518) 279-4600, ext. 2607. Please be aware that even if your child will be attending a private school, you still need to register them with our school district. We are also accepting tuition paying, non-resident applications. If you are interested, please visit our website or call the Registrar’s office.

Wynantskill UFSD Pre-K Lottery Applications Are Now Available for the 2023-24 School Year

The Wynantskill Union Free School District has begun the process of registering students for the 2023-24 Pre-K program. Eligible students must be Wynantskill residents and be 4 years of age by December 1st, 2023. Applications collected will be entered into a random lottery in the event that there are more applicants than spots available.

Lottery applications must be submitted by March 16th, 2023 in order to be eligible for the lottery drawing being held on March 20th, 2023. Parents will be notified of the results and have until April 1st, 2023 to accept their seat and fill out the remaining registration forms. Applications received after March 16th will go on a waitlist should a seat become available.

Please go to our website to find the application at WynantskillUFSD.org

Artwork Needed for Community Wide Art Show

The First United Methodist Church at 1 Gilligan Rd. East Greenbush is looking for artwork of all kinds done by all ages for a Community Wide Art Show. The Art Show will debut on March 25th, 2023. All artworks will be due by March 19th at 2:30 pm.

The theme of the art show is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Art can have one item of the theme or incorporate the full theme. Please email Amber Telford at Youthleaderamber@gmail.com for the Art Work agreement form and any questions. You can also call 518-477-9693 and leave a message for Amber.

Wynantskill UFSD Kindergarten Registration Now Open

The Wynantskill Union Free School District has begun the process of registering new Kindergarten students for the upcoming school year.

Please visit our website at WynantskillUFSD.org or contact Kathy Fazioli in our main office for more information regarding registering for Kindergarten. You may call the main office at (518) 283-4600 or email kfazioli@ wynantskillufsd.org

East Greenbush CSD Kindergarten Registration Information for 2023-24

The East Greenbush Central School District is now enrolling kindergarten students for the 2023-24 school year. To be eligible for kindergarten in September 2023, your child must turn five years old by December 1, 2023.

Kindergarten registration packets will be mailed to all eligible families in the district database during January 2023. If your child is not currently in the district database, please call the school your child will attend to have the registration packet mailed to you. The packet will provide you with a list of all the documents you need to bring as well as all the forms you need to fill out prior to registration.

For more information, visit www.egcsd.org/registration.

Art Call for an Averill Park Exhibition

Stratigraphy: Celebrating Layering in the Arts, is an art exhibition to be mounted at the Arts Letters & Numbers studios, Faith Mills, in Averill Park on May 27.

We are thinking of Amos Eaton - the first stratigrapher in the country, who mapped the route of the Erie Canal and the rock of our watershed - and of all the ways that art can be layered: the paint, the collage, the poetic

images, the musical notes the stitches, the gestures, the impasto ... Deadline for proposals (all media, representational or performative) April 1. Deadline for delivery of material May 24. Sponsored by aGatherin’ with Arts Letters & Numbers. gather@agatherin.com.

Glendora

Vegeterian Club

We have good news from California: the state spent 700 million for lunches that are plant based. They

noted, “Research shows that healthy, plant based, protein rich foods like lentils and beans are 26-34 times less carbon intensive than beef.”

In New York City,

writes American Vegan Magazine, many coffee shops are using oat milk if the customer doesn’t specify otherwise. A Burger King in the UK has gone 100% plant based. Another

Burger King in Austria serves plant based food if the customer specifically asks for it. Also in the UK, researchers have proved that dogs that eat a plant based diet have fewer health problems.

Google Glendora Buell

Kiwanis Pasta

Dinner On Pause -

To Resume

March 11th

The Sand Lake Kiwanis Club wants to inform the community that we will not be holding our monthly pasta dinners during January and February.

The Kiwanis Community Pasta Dinner fundraiser will resume on Saturday, March 11th from 4PM to 7PM at the West Sand Lake Fire Hall on Rt. 43.

Cost: $10 for adults, $5 for Kids (10yrs. & Younger). Meals will consist of pasta, meatballs, salad, bread, beverage & dessert.

We will look forward to once again preparing delicious pasta dinners for you and your family in March. All proceeds will support Kiwanis community projects.

The Our Lady of Victory Columbiettes of Troy Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper

The Our Lady of Victory Columbiettes of Troy will be hosting a Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper on, Tuesday, February 21 2023, from 4:30–6:30,PM. Supper includes, Pancakes, Sausage, Coffee/Tea/Hot Chocolate & Juice. We are located at 55 North Lake Ave., Troy. We are handicap accessible.

Latham-Colonie

Knights of Columbus

Lenten Fish Fryday

The Latham-Colonie Knights of Columbus Lenten Fish Fryday Dinners will begin on Friday, February 24th , 2023 and continue every Friday thru April 7th, (with the exception of Friday March 17th, St. Patrick’s Day).

Serving from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM, Eat-In or TakeOut at 328 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, N.Y.

12110.

Menu; Baked Fish Dinner($15) served with Twice Baked Potato, Veggie, Coleslaw and Dessert. Fish Fry ($15) or Clam Roll Dinners ($12) are served with French Fries or Onion Rings, Coleslaw and Dessert.

*Fish Fry Only $10, Clam Roll Only $8, New England Clam Chowder $5. Children’s Menu available for Eat in Only! (Call for Pricing)

For Reservations, please call 518 892 3750.

Ash Wednesday at Brunswick Church

The season of Lent will begin on Ash Wednesday, February 22 , and the community is invited to participate with us at Brunswick Church. We will provide a simple supper of soup and bread at 6:00 PM, followed by a service of ashes at 7:00 PM.

All are welcome! Lent is a time to prepare our hearts over a 40-day period as we look ahead to the solemn death and the glorious resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ on Good Friday and Easter.

Brunswick Church is located on White Church Road just off Rt. 351. For more information please call the church office at 518-279-3792.

Trinity Lansingburgh

Shrove Tuesday

Pancake Supper

Trinity Episcopal Church Lansingburgh will hold its Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper in the Parish Hall, 585 Fourth Avenue, Troy, from 5 PM until 7 PM on February 21, 2023. This traditional meal features pancakes, sausage, applesauce, syrup and butter.

Tickets are $7.00 for adults, $4.00 for children aged 5 to 12, and free for children under 5. Shrove Tuesday, like Mardi Gras, is a celebration that precedes the Christian Lenten season which begins the following day, Ash Wednesday.

Reservations are required. Call (518) 2791215 to RSVP. For more information, visit www.

trinitychurchlansingburgh.org or visit Trinity Church Lansingburgh’s Facebook page.

Brooks BBQ

Please joins us again for a Brooks Barbecue at Center Brunswick United Methodist Church, 990 Hoosick Road, Troy on Friday, March 3, 2023 from 3-6 pm. This will be a drive through - take out only event.

Full dinner includes ½ chicken, potato, vegetable, roll, dessert and drink for $15.00 , Half chicken only $7.00. For tickets and information call Kathleen (518) 528-6725.

NAMI Capital Region NY Holds Family

To Family Class

NAMI offers the NAMI Family-to-Family Education Program free of charge to participants, beginning March 4th 2023 – April 22nd 2023 2022, 10:00am-12:30pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 420 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208. For more information and how to register, please contact NAMI Capital Region, NY at 518-588-6949 or namicapitalregionny@ gmail.com

NAMI Family-to-Family is a free, 8-session education program for family, friends and significant others of adults with mental health conditions.

NAMI Family-to-Family provides information about anxiety, depressive disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions. Other topics covered include communication, problem solving, treatment and recovery.

The course is designed to increase understanding and advocacy skills while helping participants maintain their own well-being. The program is taught by trained family members who have a loved one with a mental health condition.

NAMI Family-to-Family is an evidence-based program (EB). For information on the research base for the program, visit nami.org/research.

Schodack Valley Fire Co. Pizza and Wings Night

The volunteers at Schodack Valley hope to see you at our fundraiser Saturday, February 18th.Our fire station is located at 1553 Schodack Valley Rd., Castleton. You can enjoy our delicious food from 4 to 7 pm. You can eat in our takeout. Please call 477-4215 to order to go. The pizza of the month is “Chicken Bacon Ranch”. Don’t forget we offer bountiful antipastos,mozzarella sticks and a vast selection of beverages. Hope to see you there.

Averill Park Fire Department

Breakfast Sandwich Fundraiser

Relax and let the fire company prepare made-to-order breakfast sandwiches for you and the family. Please support our Breakfast Sandwich Fundraiser being held Sunday, February 26, 2023 from 8:00 am until 11:30 am at the Averill Park Fire Station located at 35 Eastern Union Turnpike.

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

We really appreciate your support and invite you to 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.

Love Lutheran Spaghetti Dinner

Come and enjoy an authentic Italian Dinner, Saturday, March 25th from 3 to 6pm.

Menu: spaghetti and meatballs, salad, bread, dessert and beverage.

$10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $5 for children under 12.

Nassau-Shatford

Baseball Spaghetti

Dinner

Please join us on Saturday, February 25th for an All You Can Eat Spaghetti Dinner to benefit the youth of Nassau-Shatford Baseball.

Dinner will be served from 4pm-7pm at the Tsatsawassa Firehouse located at 9 Firehouse Lane, East Nassau. Dinner includes, Spaghetti, Meatballs, Salad, Roll and Drink. Adults $10.00 Kids $5.00 Kids under 5 eat free. There will also be a 50/50 and other raffles. Hope to see you there!

Hoags Corners

Ambulance

Pizza Night

Please join us on Friday, February 17th for our monthly Pizza Night. Menu Includes: Cheese Pizza - $10.00, additional toppings $1.00 each (Pepperoni, Sausage, Broccoli, Onions, Mushrooms, Black Olives, Peppers, Extra Cheese). Mozzarella Sticks - 6/$5.00

Call 518-328-8113, starting at 4:30pm until 8:00pm.

Chicken Parmesan Dinner

Saturday, February 25, 2023. 4:30PM - 7PM. West Albany Fire Department, 113 Sand Creek Road, Albany.

Tossed Salad with your choice of Italian Dressing or Ranch. Chicken

Parmesan with Marinara Sauce over Spaghetti Pasta served with Garlic Bread Stick.

Cost $12.00. Take Out Only.

For more information contact Edwin 518-8928095 or Nancy 518-7950644.

Come to St. Henry’s

Knights of Columbus Great Spaghetti Dinner

The Knights of Columbus at St. Henry’s Church on Old Route 66 in Averill Park will be holding a spaghetti dinner on Saturday, February 18th. This will be a Drive- Through- Take -Out Only.

We will be serving spaghetti, meatballs, salad, and bread. The price of the dinner is $10.00 for adults, $5 for children under 12, or $25 per family (2 adults with children).

Pick-up time begins at 4:30 pm through 6:00 pm. We would greatly appreciate early pre-orders be-

Dine in or take out.

Location: Love Lutheran Church, Pheasant Lane & Middlesex Road, East Greenbush. For information call 518-477-8685.

VFW Pancake Breakfast

Help Support your local Veterans! The Public is welcome! VFW Post 7338, East Greenbush, 100 Hayes Road. Sunday, Feb 19, 2023, 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 - $12.00, Children 6 to 12 - $5.00, Children Under 6 – Free.

We will also have a drawing. Donations are always welcome and very much appreciated!

First Reformed Church Community Dinner

The First Reformed Church of Wynantskill will be hosting our very popular free Community Dinners beginning Wednesday, March 1st through Wednesday May 31st from 5:30 - 6:30 pm. The dinner will include pasta with sauce, salad with choice of dressing and homemade dessert.

This will be drive thru- take out only. The church is located on the corner of Church Street and Main Ave. in Wynantskill. If you have any questions, please leave a message along with your name and number at the church at (518)283-4420.

Annual Fish Fry Dinners at South Schodack Volunteer Fire Co

The South Schodack Volunteer Fire Co will again offer Fish Fry dinners on Friday evenings, 5:15 to 7:00 p.m., at 1563 Bame Rd. Castleton, during Lent. Dinners will begin on February 24 and end on Good Friday April 7. Hot dogs, Chicken, and Clam chowder will also be served. Eat

in or Take out. Phone: 732-2082. Please call after 4:00 P.M. for take out.

Poestenkill Fire Co. Roast Beef Dinner

Please join us for a roast beef dinner on Saturday, March 11, 2023, at the Poestenkill Fire House, 187 Main Street in Poestenkill.

Dinner will be served family style and will consist of roast beef, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, coleslaw , and homemade desserts. Serving time will be 5 pm to 6 pm.

Cost of the dinner will be $20 for adults, $10 for children (ages 5 - 12) and children under 5 are free. Reservations are strongly recommended at your earliest convenience as the dinner sells out. Please call Don at 518-423-6263 for reservations.

Emmanuel Reformed Church

Corned

Beef & Cabbage Dinner

Emmanuel Reformed Church in Castleton will be having their Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner, Fund Raiser, on March 11th . There will be 2 sittings, 4:30 pm and 6:00 pm and will be served family style in the Fellowship Hall at Emmanuel Reformed Church, 1150 Maple Hill Rd., Castleton, NY 12033.

The dinner includes: Corned Beef, Potatoes, Carrots, Cabbage, fresh Irish Soda Bread and Homemade Pies for dessert. The price is $13.00, children ages 6-12 is $5.00 and under 6 is free. Please call the Church Office at: 518732-7766 for reservations.

Corned Beef Dinner

The Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church on 175 5th Avenue will be hosting a corned beef dinner on Saturday, March 11th from 4:30 - 6:00pm. Cost: Free will donation. Come Join us!

tween 10:00 am and 3:00 pm the day of the dinner by calling or texting (518) 322-9583. Please leave your name, phone number, the number of dinners you would like, and the time you will be picking them up. Thank you for your support, the proceeds help the Knights of Columbus to provide assistants to many charitable programs. For more information, call (518) 322-9583.

Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner

Hosted by VFW

Auxiliary to Post 7466

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with us! We will be hosting a Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner on March 17th at the Sullivan Jones VFW (Post Hall) at 25 Veterans St., Poestenkill, NY. Dinner will be served at 6:00 or take-outs will be available at 5:00. Tickets are limited so pick yours up today in the Post Canteen! Corned Beef, Cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onions, rye bread, and dessert, Adults $20.00 and Children under 12 $10.00. For questions contact Dennis 518-795-5854.

Brooks’ BBQ Chicken Dinner Fundraiser at APHS

The Unique Opportunities Club at Averill Park

High School is hosting a Chicken Dinner Fundraiser on Wednesday March 15th, 2023 from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Let the famous Brooks’ BBQ take care of dinner that night! Dinners cost is $15 which includes 1/2 a chicken, a baked potato, coleslaw and a dinner roll.

Unique Opportunities is a new club at Averill Park High School with the goal of planning experience based experiences for AP High School students outside of the school day and to fundraise to make these experiences affordable to all students.

Students will expand their horizons, and make connections with their peers. Examples of trips include: professional sporting events, Broadway performances, and hikes in the Adirondacks.

Pre-ordering your dinner is strongly encouraged. You can use the link: https://tinyurl.com/ APHSBrooksBBQ2023 until March 6th, or email Nicole Freeman at freemann@apcsd.org for more information.

Gilead’s Body & Soul Pantry, February 23

The first dinner of the new year is under our belt, and we are now planning dinner number two.

This month we are having baked chicken, rice, and mixed vegetables and dessert.

We appreciate all donations to help offset the cost of the meal. We also ask that you please make a reservation which will help with purchasing the quantities of food. Reservations can be made by calling Lisa at 518-279-3576.

Should you have a question about the dinner being held you can also contact Lisa. Gilead Church is handicapped accessible and is located at the intersection of Routes 7 & 278 in Center Brunswick.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Thank You, Sand Lake Town Board

The Town Board of Sand Lake has renewed my faith in local government.

Many weeks ago, Rifenberg construction submitted a preliminary application to the Town of Sand Lake seeking to change the zoning of 70 acres of land from residential and agricultural to natural resources extraction so that they could expand their mining operations here. Several residents found out about this application and organized to voice their opposition. The group spanned political parties and included democrats, republicans, and independents. They raised concerns about property values and quality of life due to noise, pollution, health risks, risks to local wells, additional traffic, and other impacts. They also performed exhaustive work to study the potential property tax implications, finding that mined lands pay ONE TENTH the property taxes of surrounding residences, PER ACRE. There were signs, letters, public comments at meetings, tours of the land in question, a website (https://sandlakemining,com) and a petition. They tried to make their case to the Planning Board, but were thwarted by some careful legal maneuvering by the Board’s Counsel. The Planning Board returned an essentially neutral recommendation to the Town Board, leaving the decision squarely in their hands.

I was delighted to hear our Town Board vote unanimously to deny this application earlier this week. They followed the law and our zoning code. They read all of the letters, listened to all of the comments, and truly acted in the best interest of ALL of the residents of our town. I am proud to be a resident of the Town of Sand Lake, and am thankful to our Town Board for simply doing the right thing.

Adam Stewart, Averill Park

Capital District

Senior Softball League Looking for Players

Capital District Senior Softball League is recruiting players for their 53+ mens leagues for the spring/summer season. There are 53+ hi-arc, 53+ modified (flat pitch), and 65+ modified divisions. All games are played at Veterans Field in Clifton Park. Visit cdseniorsoftball.

com, or call Richard at 518-350-3711 for more information.

East Greenbush Community Library

Hours: Mon/Fri 10-6p; Tue/Wed/Thu 10-8p; Sat 10-5p; Sun 1-5p. We offer programs for adults, teens & kids. Go to https:// events.eglibrary.org or call 518-477-7476 for a full list of programs. Friends Ongoing Book Sale: See our sale display

North Greenbush Local Law #2 of 2023Bad for Local Residents

During the January 2023 North Greenbush Town Meeting, Councilwoman Hoffman and Merola, Councilman Gordon, and Supervisor Bott all voted for Local Law #2 of 2023. Only Councilman Rogers voted against Local Law #2. This law changed the zoning classification of Tax Map Parcel No. 145.-7-3 from the Neighborhood Business District (BN) zoning classification to the General Business (BG) zoning classification [www.townofng. com]. Although this may seem like an innocuous change, many local residents felt differently and voiced their concerns.

As mentioned by the local residents, this parcel was already zoned for commercial businesses. This change allowed for a future-planned auto repair facility to move to the planning board for review. Many of the adjacent neighbors have wells for their primary water source. The residents were concerned with potential water table contamination and advocated against the law. One resident raised a concern that if his water was contaminated, he would have to have water services installed which currently only exist on the other side of a major commercial road. There were multiple logistical concerns raised with this potential issue.

In my opinion, this law that changed the zoning is bad for these residents. Many residents spoke against this change at the public hearing in November 2022. Multiple residents spoke against this change again in January 2023. The local residents raised valid concerns that were not really addressed by North Greenbush. We need leaders that listen to the concerns of our residents and work for solutions that address the concerns.

Too much focus is applied to Congress, but people’s every day lives are really affected by the laws passed by the State and the Town.

Michael Myer, North Greenbush

in the main library next to the public computers and main entrance. Selections are refreshed often, and available year-round!

3/1, 8,15, 22 & 29, 7-9p: Wednesday Night Book Chat (WNBC). What have you been reading lately?

Join our book chat to share your recent reads and gather recommendations from librarians and other readers. Look for our post on https://www.facebook. com/eglibrary/. No registration is required. Registration is required

for the following:

3/7, 6p: Greenbush Garden Club: Maintaining Your Garden Tools with Master Gardener, Bob Sherwood, from the Rensselaer County CCE. Club meeting at 6 pm, program at 6:30 pm.

3/8, 3p: Tech-Talk Webinar: Reach More Members Using Two Marketing Tools (part 2) –Online Calendar. Having a calendar on your website to show upcoming events (such as a Tech-Talk webinar) will help to commu-

North Greenbush Town Board Should Move Towards Electric Fleet

At its February meeting, the North Greenbush town board approved the purchase of two large vehicles for the building department that will replace vehicles that need extensive repairs or are out of service. Instead of replenishing its fleet with zero or low emission vehicles, the town has chosen vehicles with internal combustion engines.

This choice is harmful both to the environment and the town’s bottom line. A simple google search will reveal various rebate and incentive programs offered for the purchase of all electric or hydrogen fuel cell trucks and cars. These initiatives would have offset a significant portion of the vehicles’ costs. Instead of wasting precious town funds on expensive gasoline for these gas guzzlers, the town could charge them onsite at a charging station.

When I chaired the town board’s Climate Smart committee, my committee and I worked to secure funding for a level 2 charger which ultimately would have paid for itself. Although approved two years ago, that charger still has not been installed in the back parking lot at town hall. Lifetime maintenance and repair costs for these gasoline powered vehicles will place a big dent in the town’s budget-they need tune ups, oil changes, transmission servicing, and replacement of spark plugs and drive belts. Electric vehicles do not need this costly mechanical work. The next time North Greenbush needs a new vehicle, be it for the building department, the police force, or highway garage, they should go electric for the good of town finances and the environment.

Mary Frances Sabo, North Greenbush

nicate with your members and increase attendance for your activities. In this webinar, you’ll review online calendar tools, learn how to get set up, and creative ways to use calendars.

3/10, 1p: The First Ladies as Style Icons. First Ladies have been admired for many reasons. For some, their sense of style defined their image. Learn how some first ladies influenced fashion trends and defined the style of their time.

3/12, 2p: Historical Society: History of the Ilium Club presented by Barbara Urban, historian for the Ilium Club. The talk will include the history of the club and other women’s groups in the country that came into being around the same era - all for the “intellectual betterment of women.”

3/13,10:30a-5p: AARP SMART Driver Course. See the events calendar for registration details.

Primar y responsibilities:

clinics;

• Arranges to transpor t sick or injured students or employees to hospital home doc tor s, and dentist s office in cases of emergenc y ;

• Orders inventories and oversees the storage of first aid and related health supplies and equipment;

• Consults with teachers & other staff members concerning a variety of health fac tors related to non-attendance and communicable disease;

• Prepares records and repor ts as required

Minimum Qualifications:

(A) Graduation from a school of nursing approved by the State Education Depar tment from a course approved by such depar tment as qualifying for Registered Professional Nurse

(B) Eligibility for a license issued by the State of New York to practice as a Registered Professional Nurse

Special Requirement for Acceptance of Applications:

Eligibility for a license issued by the State Education Depar tment from a course approved by such depar tment as qualifying for Registered Professional Nurse Candidates interested in applying must complete an online application at: schenec tady.recruitfront.com/JobOppor tunities

EVERYBODY COUNTS. EVERYBODY LEARNS

For more information on the Schenectady City School District recruitment and hiring plan, please contact the O ffice of Human Resources The Schenectady City School District does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, marital status, veteran status, national origin, race or gender. This policy is in compliance with the Title IX of the Education amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Regulations and Bylaws of the Board of Education of the Schenectady City School District

LEGAL NOTICES

The North Greenbush Democratic Committee is Seeking Candidates

The North Greenbush Democratic Committee is currently accepting resumes from residents interested in running for the following town offices in 2023.

Town Supervisor -Two year term Town Council - Four year term

Tax Receiver - Four year term

Interested candidates are invited to inquire and/or submit a resume and letter of qualifications by February 18th to Joshua Sabo at northgreenbushdemocrats@ gmail.com.

Adult Clothing Swap

Adult Clothing Swap at the Brunswick Community Library, February 20th from 4:00 - 6:00 pm. 4118 State Highway 2, Troy. 518-279-4023.

Town of Sand Lake Updates from Town Clerk, Barbara Hansen

We are now accepting Applications for new Military Banners. The Application is available on the Town’s website: townofsandlake. us or at my office in Town Hall. Cost is same as last year, $225.00 payable to Sand Lake Military Banner. Photos need to be in jpeg. I can help convert your photo to a jpeg on my copier. We plan, with the Highway Department’s help, to have all Banners up by Memorial Day and will be accepting Applications until March 31st. Please call Barbara Hansen, Town Clerk 518674-2026 Ext. 115 with any questions.

2nd Dyke Road: The replacement of the 2nd Dyke

Road culvert has been completed and the road has been reopened to all traffic. The guiderail and permanent paving work will be done as soon as the weather and availability of materials allow in the Spring. These will not require closure of the road again.

The Capital District Genealogical Society of New York Announces Monthly Presentation

CAPITAL DISTRICT - Topic: Researching and Interpreting the People who were Enslaved in New Netherland and Colonial Albany...with a Focus on the Van Rensselaer and Schuyler Families

When: Saturday, February 25, 2023

Time: 1:00 - 2:30 PM

Where: Online via Zoom

Speaker Heidi Hill is the historic site manager of Crailo and Schuyler Mansion State Historic Sites, where she has fostered interpretive growth since 2005.

The Zoom presentation allows a maximum of 100 participants. At this time only members are invited to register. On the 16th we will open registration to all if there are places remaining. See our website under meetings and events. Registration deadline is Thursday, February 23rd, 11:55 PM.

FREE Registration: https://www.capitaldistrictgenealogicalsociety.org/event_registration

REAL ESTATE / HOUSE OF THE WEEK

14 Trinity Lane, Rensselaerville

AThe Federal-style home was once a parsonage for clergy at the adjacent church. historic home privately situated beside a church atop a hill with incredible views of southern Albany County, and an adorable studio out building? Yes, please.

This retreat-like 1830 painted brick Federal-style home was once a parsonage for clergy at the adjacent church, which is still in use today.

The home oozes charm and features four bedrooms, a formal parlor, an assortment of built-ins and a mix of carpet and hardwood flooring.

A whimsical fish motif wallpaper emblematic of Italian artist Piero Fornasetti’s (1913-1988) work in one of the three-and-ahalf bathrooms is particularly eye-catching. French doors in the farmhouse-style

kitchen open to a pond and butterfly garden. On the edge of the property sits a quaint building that would make a great office, studio or cozy place to escape. Listing price: $699,000. Taxes: $10,800. To learn more, contact listing agent James T. Male with HOUSE Hudson Valley Realty at james@ househud-sonvalley.com or 518-697-9390.

Anthony M. Gucciardo

518-331-3785 Call

Clothing and Equipment and Cost to start up (basic and options available after that). Also, area stores and suppliers for equipment & bait can be provided. This program is perfect for an individual or to get the family interested and learn all the basics to get started.

Come hang out with the anglers and discuss the discipline, get hands on with the equipment already set up, or for the adventurous, set the

BECOME A TIMES UNION CARRIER TODAY

★

★

equipment up yourself. Bring a lunch and stay to fish into the afternoon, the group will remain on the ice as long as there is interest. You can discover the enjoyment of a day on the ice and comradery amongst a group with common interest.

North Greenbush Public Library Update

Hail to the Chiefs! The library will be closed on Monday, Feb 20, in celebration of Presidents’ Day. We reopen 10 AM on Tuesday, Feb 21.

Make time for a Thursday Crafternoon on February 16, between 3-5 PM. Don’t forget to bring your pre-schoolers to Tuesday Storytime in the Town Hall Annex, February 21, at 11 AM, followed by Lego Club in the Children’s Room, 5:30-6:30 PM. We supply the LEGO.

Just $4 will get you a North Greenbush Library book tote that you can fill to overflowing with books and DVDs from our sale corner. Purchase a bag at the circulation, then travel the world through your imagination!

Don’t forget to hand in your completed Winter Reading Challenge game boards before February 26 to be entered for a prize. Attend the library’s

Board of Trustees monthly meeting on Thursday, Feb 23 at 7 PM in the meeting room at Eastwyck Village at 1 Eastwyck Circle (off Best Road) and get a peek at what’s in the works.

Hours are Monday-Friday, 10 AM-7 PM, and Saturday, 10 AM-2 PM. Call the library at 518-2830303

Winter Break Activities at the Postenkill Library

Looking for something to do over Winter Break? Come to the library! We will be closed in honor of Presidents’ Day on Monday 2/20, but we have fun activities for the whole family planned for the rest of the week.

Tuesday, 2/21, is Family Game Day! We’ll have card games and board games available for all ages from toddler, to teens, to adults. Drop-in any time between 1:00 and 8:00 PM and stay to play for as long as you’d like.

Wednesday, 2/22, stop by the children’s room between 2:00 and 5:00 PM and use the provided supplies to get crafting! We’ll have an example project and instructions available, but if you’re feeling more creative there will also be a variety of additional supplies available for those who wish to design and

create their own unique craft masterpieces!

Thursday, 2/22, explore Dominoes Chain Reactions between 3:00 and 6:00 PM. Creating dominoes chain reaction is a great way to highlight STEM topics such as force, kinetic and potential energy, and momentum. Successful builders will also need to utilize coordination, patience, and creativity, but the best part of dominoes chain reactions is that they are incredibly FUN! Join us at the library to test your engineering skills. Follow the ideas on our challenge cards or create your own dominoes trail designs.

Friday, 2/23. Join us at 10:15 for stories and a simple craft during Storytime with Miss Erin!

Frear Park Old Timer’s Golf League

The Frear Park Old Timer’s Golf League is now accepting applications for membership. The League plays the back nine every Tuesday, at 0800, starting in late April. A, B and C groups are available. Handicaps will be established or accepted from the 2022 season. Open to all residents of the Capital District who are 65 years young. Call Bob at 518-4245045 or e-mail to 302tomhannock@gmail.com.

PHOTOS BY ANTONY GRAVETT

NAMES

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forward and under what circumstances. Once Averill Park Central School District has more information from the State Education Department, we will proceed accordingly.”

Niskayuna (Silver Warriors), Lake George (Warriors), and South Colonie (Raiders) are all arguing that they previously retired Indigenous-related imagery and should be allowed to keep their nicknames.

“South Colonie has previously phased out any use of Native American imagery and we do not currently have a mascot,” spokeswoman Kara Granato said.

Likewise, Niskayuna said its nickname isn’t related to Indigenous people.

“We are awaiting the state’s guidelines regarding our team name, the Silver Warriors, which is not linked to any depiction of Indigenous people,” Niskayuna spokesman Robert LoBianco said.

Four districts have already started work to retire and replace their mascots.

Glens Falls has begun meetings to develop a new mascot. The current mascot is named the “Indian,” with the imagery of an arrowhead. When the education department said all such mascots must be retired, the Glens Falls schools superintendent immediately announced the district would do so.

Corinth is retiring its tomahawk mascot at the next school board meeting, on Monday. The district sent out a survey to families in January and is compiling a list of potential new mascots, which the students will use to make the final decision, said Superintendent Mark Stratton.

“We value the input from our students, staff, and community and the process has been mainly positive.”

Stillwater, which has a mascot called the “Warrior,” is also working on replacing it and will be done by June 30, Superintendent Patti Morris said.

Hoosic Valley, which has a mascot called the “Indian,” is starting its replacement process by asking students to consider what mascots could embody good character traits.

“An essential part of this process is for our students to take the lead in choosing a new mascot,” Superintendent James Buhrmaster said. “The first meeting with our student advisory group will take place in March, to begin the process of finding a suitable mascot that represents the character traits we look for in our students.”

They, too, plan to complete the process by June 30.

The state education department originally told all districts to drop their Indigenous-related mascots, nicknames and images by then, but an amendment in December stated that they must only commit to removing them by then. They have to finish the job by the end of the 2024-2025 school year.

The Anchor Food Pantry

The Anchor Food Pantry after experiencing a significant increase of over 30% demand from 2021 to calendar year 2022 is seeking support from our Schodack Community for canned goods and toiletries to meet our clientele’s needs at the present time.

Donations can be dropped off at the Anchor Food Pantry Mondays 430-630 pm, Tuesday& Thursday from 9am-130pm ,and the first Saturday of every month from 10am-1230pm. Additionally donations can be dropped off at Village Hall -Castleton or Schodack Town Hall during their regular business hours.

Bottles and Cans can also be dropped off @ 6Cent Redemption Center-9J, Rensselaer,NY; Monday-Saturday.

Sand Lake Pandemic Remembrances

The Sand Lake Historical Society is putting together a book of remembrances by residents and businesses of the Town of Sand Lake so future generations will understand and appreciate all we went through during the Covid-19 pandemic. We’d love to include your story!

Did you:

• Work from home or in an “essential” job?

• Have a relative in a nursing home or sick with Covid?

• Have children learning at home?

• Have to close or make changes to your business?

• Spend more time outdoors or doing home repairs?

• Have some other experience you’d like to share?

Please submit your prose or poetry of 600 words or less describing your pandemic story. All experiences can be shared, whether they made you happy, sad, scared, crazy, brave, thankful, exhausted, etc.

Submit your story or any questions to: SLHSpandemic@gmail.com

Deadline for submissions is February 28, 2023. (SLHS reserves the right to edit stories.)

Find us on the Internet at https://sandlakehistory. org/; “Like” us on Facebook!

Events at Castleton Public Library, 2/19 - 2/25

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

Events & Take-Home Kit:

Take & Make Craft: Hearts and Crafts - Pick up anytime now through Saturday, 3/6 - This month’s kit is all about hearts! Enjoy creating fun heart crafts that also make great decorations!

Cool Science: Invisible Ink - Tues., 2/21, 3:00 - 5:00pm

- Create asecret mesage or drawing using invisible ink and then reveal it! Learn the science behind how the invisible ink and revealing solution work.

Pajama Storytme - Tues., 2/21, 6:00pm - Feel free to wear your pajamas or bring a stuffed animal friend to this evening storytime! For ages birth to 8 years.

CPL Board of Trustees Meeting - Tues., 2/21, 7:00pm - Monthly meeting of the library’s Board of Trustees. Members of the public are welcome.

Kids Cook: Mini Pizzas - Weds., 2/22, 4:00pm - Kids and teens are invited to the library to create custom mini pizzas!

Special Visitor Storytime: All About Turtles - Thurs., 2/23, 10:30am - An environmental educator from Schodack Island State Park will join us for this special storytime all about turtles! Children will get to see and touch real turtle shells, bones, and skulls.

Teen Time: No-Sew T-Shirt Bag - Thurs., 2/23, 4:00pm - Bring an old T-shirt to turn into a cool bag you can use! For teens in 6th-12th grades.

Styrofoam Stamps: Fri, 2/24, 11:00am-2:00pm - Learn the basics of stamp making with a material you can find just about anywhere. All ages welcome.

Rainbow Scratch Art - Sat., 2/25, 10:00am-4:00pmDrop in to make cool rainbow scratch art using special paper!

Events at Troy Public Library, 2/19 – 2/25

Troy Public Library (Main) is located at 100 2nd Street, Troy, NY. The Lansingburgh Branch is located at 27 114th Street, Troy, NY. All events are free and open to the public. Registration may be required and is designat-

ed with an “RR.” Call (518) 274-7071 with any questions or to register.

Adult Color & Unwind Evening – Mon., Feb 20, 6:00 –7:00 p.m. (Main) Come color with us at the main library. All materials (including hot cider and snacks) will be provided. Listen to relaxing music, and enjoy a short-story read aloud by our hosting librarian. RR

Knitting 101 – Tues., Feb 21, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. (Lansingburgh) Join the library for the start of this 4-series basics knitting class. By the end of the series, you’ll have made several warm weather items and be prepared to make more! RR

The Firebird: A Puppet Show - Wed., Feb 22, 2:00 –3:00 p.m. (Main) This 50 minute magical puppet fantasy features beautifully handcrafted marionettes, lavish costumes, and vivid sets.

Crafty Kids Night – Wed., Feb 22, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. (Main) Come create fun crafts based around a unique monthly theme! For ages 4-10.

Adult Contemporary Book Club – Wed., Feb 22, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. (Lansingburgh) Our February read is The Midnight Library by Matt Haig.

Storytime Learn and Play – Thur., Feb 23, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. (Main) & Fri., Feb 24, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. (Lansingburgh) We will share stories, songs, movements and more! For children ages 0-5 with a caregiver. Ellen Sinopoli be leading storytime with movement exercises related to the stories at the Main library this week.

Literary Trivia – Thurs., Feb 23, 5:30 p.m. (Main) Join us for a fun night of trivia at the library! The theme of the night is classic literature! Come in groups, or come ready to make some new friends. Refreshments will be provided. RR

The Three Little Pigs: A Puppet Show – Fri., Feb 24, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. (Lansingburgh) Come join us for a puppet retelling of the classic story. Ages 3-8.

New Moon Make Your Own Sundae Party

Tuesday, March 21th

Join The Rensselaer County Rensselaer Senior Center as we celebrate the Second Day of Spring and Full Moon.

Lunch Consists of Chicken Parmesan w/ Pasta, Vegetable and Special Desert of Stewarts Make Your Own Sundae. Must Dine with us to enjoy special desert and oh by the way there will be no mooning at this full moon party. We are open Monday Thru Friday 9am to 3pm. Call today for reservations (518) 463-2166. East and Herrick Street Rensselaer.

RPA Winter Tracking Workshop with Dan Yacobellis

Winter Tracking Workshop with Dan Yacobellis; Sunday, March 5, 9am - 12pm; Gutierrez Family Forest, 720 Garfield Nassau Road, East Nassau.

Learn to read the tracks and sign of the animal residents of the Rensselaer Plateau. This ancient art/science will give you a fun way to connect with and get to know the local ecology, wherever you may be. From the signs animals leave, we can learn what they like, where their favorite places are, who they avoid or gravitate to and how they interact with all the species of plants, trees mammals and birds around them. Sometimes, we can even figure out what they are thinking or feeling!

Pre-registration is required. Space is limited, so register early. The registration fee for this special event is $40/person. Register at Rensselaerplateau.org/events

EPA signs off on dredge plan

Glenmont residents who oppose wind turbine plant say landfill sites like Beacon Island should be

By LARRY RULISON

BETHLEHEM — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has signed off on plans to dredge the Hudson River off the shores of Beacon Island, where the Port of Albany is building an offshore wind turbine tower manufacturing plant.

The EPA was one of two federal agencies that had expressed concerns with a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dredging permit that is required to build a 500-foot wharf at the water’s edge of the 82-acre Beacon Island site, which is an old landfill.

The EPA had complained to the Army Corps that the dredging plan was too environmentally damaging to the local sturgeon habitat and that the dredging permit should be denied if changes weren’t made.

The Port of Albany has proposed establishing an artificial habitat across the river at Schodack Island State Park to mitigate the potential damage of the dredging to the sturgeon habitat.

The EPA and the Port of Albany have been going back and forth on the issue since June, and completed several rounds of talks and exchanging of information until Dec. 1, when the Port of Albany provided the EPA with its final proposal.

At that point, the EPA said it was satisfied with the new dredging plan, according to a Jan. 25 letter the EPA sent to the Army Corps office in New York City.

“Following review of the applicant’s response, EPA determined the applicant has satisfactorily addressed EPA’s comments,” Richard Balla, supervisor of the EPA’s watershed management branch, wrote in the letter.

The Port of Albany is building the wind turbine tower factory on Beacon Island for a consortium of companies that are building wind farms off the shore of Long Island under a contract with NYSERDA, the state’s renewable energy agency.

The Port of Coeymans is also planning to host a similar manufacturing site that would be operated by General Electric Co. for a new round of offshore wind farms.

The Beacon Island site, located in the town of Bethlehem, would employ hundreds of workers and would be the first such site in the U.S. that makes offshore wind turbine components. The offshore wind farms are critical to eliminate all fossil fuel electric generation in the state as part of New York’s strict climate change law.

The Beacon Island project has been controversial, leading a group of Glenmont residents in Bethlehem to sue the town and the Port of Albany over the approval process. Delays and problems with environmental per-

barred

mits ultimately led to the Port of Albany walking away from a $29 million federal grant for the project arranged by U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer. It is unclear how the Port of Albany intends to replace that money and pay for the initial site preparation contracts.

Aroma Joe’s coffee opening first Capital Region location

By MELISSA MANNO

TROY — Aroma Joe’s, a New England coffee chain, is building its first Capital Region location in the town of Brunswick, the first of 20 more stores the brand plans to open over the next decade. The handcrafted beverage company is slated to open in May at 660 Hoosick Road. The Hurley Group of Guilderland, which operates 12 other Aroma Joe’s locations in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, was awarded the rights for the franchise’s development in the area, Dave Tucci, the company’s chief operational officer, said.

“We firmly believe the most important variable to development is the human component, so with having a

Sand Lake Historical Society 2023 Schedule

March 14th, The Rensselaer Glassworks. Phil Bernnard of the National Bottle Museum will discuss Rensselaer Glassworks, one of Sand Lake’s early industries (and gave us “Glass Lake”). Hear the history of the works, the succession of owners, and the technology of 18th and 19th century glassmaking. Phil is asking attendees to bring any “Glass Lake glass” specimens they have, too.

April 11th, Covid-19 History Project. Committee report and presentations and a sharing of experiences from the SLHS Covid History Project. Let’s make Covid history!

May 9th, Annual Meeting. Elections, annual report to the membership – and more!

development agent team based in the Albany market that has experience with the brand and with the individuals who live in this market, it was a no-brainer,” Tucci said regarding the brand’s push into upstate New York.

The Rensselaer County location will be a drive-thru. It will also offer a walk-up window to serve customers who order through the brand’s mobile app.

Tucci said their drive-thru experience, which has no intercoms and is manned entirely by employees, is what sets Aroma Joe’s apart from its competitors. Other Aroma Joe’s do offer indoor service, however.

“You pull up to order, and you’re engaging with a barista in a really fun and

upbeat and positive manner, and then you drive around to the pickup window and pick up your order from another human being,” Tucci said.

Specializing in handcrafted beverages, Aroma Joe’s menu includes espresso drinks, coffee beverages, and all-day food offerings. One of its flagship products is its proprietary energy drink, AJ’s Rush, which comes in a variety of flavors.

The Maine-based company, founded in 2000, has more than 70 locations across the United States, in its home state as well as New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Florida, according to its website.

June 3rd, (tentative) Annual Gala. Final date and location to be announced. Don’t miss this highlight of our year!

June 13th, The Pretty Fantastic Mr. Fox. Albert Rodmond Fox, industrialist, glassworks owner, State Senator, mover-and-shaker, and the Fox who gave us Fox Mansion. Learn about one of Sand Lake’s early leaders and speculate on why we live in Averill Park and not “Foxboro.”

All SLHS programs (unless otherwise noted) are held at the Sand Lake Town Hall Courtroom, 8428 NY Rte. 66, Averill Park, beginning at 7:00 pm. More information at http://sandlakehistory.org/. Like us on Facebook.

JACKOLYN HAYDON / AROMA JOE’S

A rendering of Aroma Joe’s, slated to open in May in Brunswick. The coffee shop will be a drive-thru and will have a walk-up window.