March 6, 2021

Renewable Energy and Sustainable Living Fair

Announcement: Fifth Annual Renewable Energy and Sustainable Living Fair (virtual)

The fifth annual Renewable Energy and Sustainable Living Fair will be held Saturday, March 6 from 10-4 pm. One can participate in: workshops, networking, an exhibition hall and in affinity groups which will provide an opportunity to "mingle" and "meet" new people. The Fair is sponsored by the non-profit Community Advocates for a Sustainable Environment (CASE) organization.

This is a FREE public event, but one must register on line for tickets at: www.caseonline.org .


CASE members are happy to continue to offer people in the Greater Capital District area a one-stop shopping/information space for renewable energy and sustainable living products, services and ideas.

There will be no social distancing, no face masks, no crowd noise, no exhibitor siting issues, no weather or parking concerns, just an enjoyable, relaxing, healthy atmosphere!

The exhibitors fee for a “booth” is $200 and the not-for-profit organizations fee is $35. They can register and pay at: www.caseonline.org .

This fee includes exhibit space at the Fair, listing on the CASE website indefinitely and a list of visitors to the Fair who have agreed to share their contact information.

Questions and concerns should be directed to Becky Meier at 518-781-4686, or email at: beckyjmeier@gmail.com

Submitted by,
Robert Connors
Community Advocates for a Sustainable Environment co-founder

1409 County Rte 5
Canaan, NY 12029
518-781-4686

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March 1, 2021

Dr. Suess, not exactly banned

One of the most affluent school districts in Virginia is dissociating itself from Dr. Seuss, claiming the children's books contain "racial undertones" that are unsuitable for teaching children in a "culturally responsive" way.




February 27, 2021

COVID-19 Testing for Student Athletes

First Two Weeks of COVID-19 Testing for Student Athletes Yields Zero Positive Cases
Feb 26, 2021 | Athletics, Columbia, District

The East Greenbush Central School District began COVID-19 surveillance testing for student athletes on February 17 and has found zero positive cases out of more than 100 tests. The new testing program is not required for high school sports, but the district is taking a proactive approach to reduce the risk of any potential community spread.

On first day of lifted eviction stay, Albany schedules over 200 hearings Photo of Amanda Fries Amanda Fries Feb. 26, 2021

On first day of lifted eviction stay, Albany schedules over 200 hearings
Amanda Fries Feb. 26, 2021

ALBANY — Over 200 eviction proceedings were scheduled Friday in City Court, marking the end of the 60-day stay on all evictions in New York.

By far, the capital city had the most hearings scheduled for the day, according to court records, with none scheduled in the nearby cities of Troy and Saratoga Springs; Schenectady had six eviction hearings scheduled.

February 20, 2021

Albany County confirms 73 new positive COVID-19 cases overnight

WNYT Staff
Created: February 20, 2021 11:24 AM

Albany County Executive Dan McCoy announced Saturday an increase of 73 new positive coronavirus cases overnight. The total of cases now 19,935.

Among the new cases, 19 had close contact with positive cases, 47 did not have clear sources of infection at this time, and seven are healthcare workers or residents of congregate settings. There are now 592 active cases in the county, up from 584 yesterday.

There were no new COVID-related deaths to report. The county’s death toll stands at 345 since the outbreak began.

“While our numbers have been stable and there are fewer people in the ICU’s, there is some disturbing news



February 17, 2021

East Greenbush Police: Man posing as National Grid worker

East Greenbush Police: Man posing as National Grid worker
by: Chelsea SiegalPosted: Feb 17, 2021



EAST GREENBUSH, N.Y. (NEWS10) – East Greenbush Police said on Facebook that on Tuesday morning, a resident on Park Drive reported a Black male wearing a yellow fluorescent colored jacket tried to enter her home. She says that the man was posing as a National Grid employee.

Read more...


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Rensselaer Co. prepared to be state mass vaccination site, county executive says

Rensselaer Co. prepared to be state mass vaccination site, county executive says
by: Courtney Ward Posted: Feb 16, 2021

TROY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — The Rensselaer County executive announced Tuesday that they are prepared to expand into a state mass coronavirus vaccination site once the state receives more doses of the vaccine.

The announcement came after Gov. Andrew Cuomo asked for counties to partner with the state to provide vaccines on a larger scale. Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin said he has already renewed his request for more vaccines after the county delivered their full allotment of vaccine at a recent clinic.

“We need more vaccines for our residents, and are ready to partner with the state if it helps secure more vaccines for our county and our region,” McLaughlin said in a statement. “It is encouraging to hear that the state expects an increase in vaccines. Rensselaer County has an outstanding record of delivering vaccines and we are ready to do even more to get our residents vaccinated.”

Those who are eligible to receive the vaccine can make an appointment at a state-run site on the Am I Eligible website or by calling the hotline at 1-833-NYS-4-VAX (1-833-697-4829). The vaccine is also available at hospitals, select pharmacies and sites set up by county health departments.

January 31, 2021

Schodack police make multiple arrests

Schodack police make multiple arrests stemming from domestic incident
By Record staff newsroom@troyrecord.com

SCHODACK, N.Y. — On Friday, Jan. 29, at approximately 12:24 a.m. Schodack Police responded to an address on Brookview Station Road for a reported domestic disturbance.

Upon arrival patrols noted they discovered forced entry into the residence, an assault victim and information that a toddler in the residence had been taken from the scene by her father.

Shortly thereafter a radio broadcast was initiated for the surrounding jurisdictions to be on the lookout for the suspect’s vehicle which was occupied by three suspects and the child.


All defendants are set to appear in Schodack Town Court in early February. 

January 27, 2021

Albany area gas prices rise again

Albany area gas prices rise again
Staff report newsroom@troyrecord.com newsroom@saratogian.com

ALBANY, N.Y. — Albany gas prices have risen 1.2 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.45 per gallon, according to a GasBuddy's daily survey of 546 stations this week. Gas prices in Albany are 14.5 cents per gallon higher than a month ago and stand 19.3 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.

According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Albany is priced at $2.25 per gallon while the most expensive is $2.57 per gallon, a difference of 32.0 cents per gallon. The lowest price in the state is $2.06 per gallon while the highest is $3.29 per gallon, a difference of $1.23 per gallon.

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About 200 animals removed from North Greenbush farm

About 200 animals removed from North Greenbush farm
by WRGB Staff

Police in North Greenbush are rescuing animals that they say were potentially facing neglect and abuse.

Police say they worked with the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society to seize 200 animals from a farm on Hidley Road, following up on a complaint that had been filed.

Albany County closing in on 300 deaths due to COVID

Albany County closing in on 300 deaths due to COVID since the pandemic began
by WRGB STAFFTuesday, January 26th 2021
ALBANY, NY (WRGB) Albany County Executive Dan McCoy with the latest numbers says that the daily average of positive COVID cases in the county has decreased.
The five-day average for new daily positives has decreased to 199.6 from 225.4, according to officials. Read more...
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January 18, 2021

Cuomo staying home

Amid heightened security concerns, Cuomo opts to skip Biden inauguration,
remain in Albany
  •  
  •  
  • New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo Albany.Flickr / Gov. Andrew Cuomo
    (The Center Square) – Citing reports of possible demonstrations in Albany, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said on Monday he would forego a trip to Washington for President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration Wednesday.
    Cuomo told reporters he initially planned on going. However, in wake of the riot that took place at the U.S. Capitol nearly two weeks ago, federal officials have warned of potential protests at state capitals. he said, with police officers on standby.

     New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo Albany.Flickr / Gov. Andrew Cuomo

    State Troopers were present in large numbers

    Albany protest a non-event (video)
    ALBANY – Portable fence barricades with “no trespassing” signs on them surrounded the State Capitol building in Albany over the weekend in anticipation of large protests. They were expected at state capitals around the country.

    In Albany, state troopers were present in large numbers, but on Sunday, there were only a handful of people who showed up.

    Christina Janowitz of Albany was one of a handful anti-Trumpers there.

    “I heard there was going to be an armed protest mostly run by the Proud Boys and since I live in the area, I came out,” she said.

    James of Albany came out but took no sides on the issue.

    “I am not here for any certain party. I am here for the people of the United States of America. We need to come together; we need to help each other,” he said. “We need to come out peacefully and respect each other’s wishes. I don’t care who you vote for, what your religion is, what your race is; we need to respect all of that.”

    James said people have to get back “to square one. Our parents and our grandparents wouldn’t appreciate what is going on today,” he said.

    Only seven protestors showed up at the capitol building in Albany.

    Gwen Wright

    Schodack woman seeks Democratic support to run for Rensselaer County executive

    TROY – Republican Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin opened his 2021 re-election effort with a financial shock and awe of $238,000 in campaign funds as county Democrats ponder endorsing  Gwen Wright as their candidate.



    Lana Ortiz Photography/Courtesy of Gwen Wright




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    January 16, 2021

    State Police confirm ID’s in Schodack double murder suicide
    14 January 2021
     
    NEW YORK STATE POLICE 
     Major R. Christopher West
     Troop G Commander






    PRESS RELEASE

    State Police confirm the identities of the deceased in the January 13th double murder suicide that occurred in the town of Schodack.

    Preliminary investigation has determined that 14-year-old Jasleen Kaur and 55-year-old Manjeet Kaur, both of Castleton on the Hudson, died as a result of gunshot wounds sustained during a domestic incident that occurred at their residence at approximately 9:30 p.m. last evening. The shooter, who is identified as 57-year-old Bhupinder Singh, also a resident of the home, was located deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. All three of the deceased were located inside the home.

    A fourth resident, 40-year-old Rashpal Kaur, sustained a gunshot wound to the arm, but was able to flee the residence. She is being treated at Albany Medical Center, her wounds are non-life-threatening.

    This investigation has been carried out in conjunction with Schodack Police Department and the Rensselaer County District Attorney’s Office. State police would also like to thank Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office, Village of Nassau Police Department, Nassau Ambulance, Castleton Volunteer Ambulance, Mohawk Ambulance, and W.F. Bruen Rescue Squad for their assistance.

    The investigation continues, updates will be posted to the newsroom.

    Winds of Change

    Wind power bringing hundreds of jobs to Port of Albany
    Jerry Gretzinger & WNYT Staff Created: January 14, 2021 07:51 PM


    New details are being released about the wind power plant coming to the Port of Albany.

    It's a plan NewsChannel 13 told you was in the works more than a year ago.

    Gov. Cuomo made the big announcement Wednesday.

    Some of the people who helped to make this a reality met at the port Thursday to share their thoughts.

    It's a project they've been working on for three years, and it's going to the first plant of its kind in the United States.

    Learn about the hundreds of jobs this is expected to create by watching the video of Jerry Gretzinger's story.

    January 9, 2021

    Good Bye Alex

    Alex Trebek's final "Jeopardy!" episode ends with sentimental tribute
    JANUARY 8, 2021 / 11:39 PM / AP
     More than two months after Alex Trebek's death, fans of "Jeopardy!" finally got the chance to say goodbye. A video tribute to the host closed Friday's episode of the quiz show, the final one that Trebek taped before pancreatic cancer claimed his life on November 8.


    The 90-second montage, set to Hugh Jackman singing the Peter Allen song "Once Before I Go," is a lighthearted and laughter-filled remembrance showing Trebek's changing look through his 36 years as host, with moustache and without, with black hair and with grey, with suits from several decades. 


    January 8, 2021

    Five New COVID Cases Reported to East Greenbush CSD


    Five New COVID Cases Reported to East Greenbush CSD
    https://egcsd.org/2021/01/15/four-new-covid-cases-january-15/

    Jan 7, 2021 | Columbia, District, Goff, Green Meadow

    The East Greenbush Central School District was notified today that four students and one employee have tested positive for COVID-19.

    Those with questions are advised to call the county health department directly at 518-270-2655 or contact the district’s COVID-19 Coordinator at Columbia High School at 518-207-2180.

    Read more...


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    January 3, 2021

    Girl Scout Gold Award Project

     Girl Scout Gold Award Project by Madison Slovak

    Woodlawn Cemetery

    Route 203, Valatie NY

    GPS Coordinates = Latitude 42.4239, Longitude = 73.66801




    My Project was the restoration of three Headstones in Woodlawn Cemetery for the safety, beautification and sustainability of the cemetery for generations to come.

    My project will allow the caretakers to properly maintain and take care of the headstones for the safety of family and loved ones.

    January 2, 2021

    CPL's Board of Trustees is currently seeking trustees

    CPL's Board of Trustees is currently seeking trustees to fill two vacancies on the Board. The Board is responsible for guiding funds, policies, and strategic planning for the library. The Board meets monthly; the total time commitment for Trustees is approximately two to three hours per month.
    To learn more about what it means to serve on our Board of Trustees, please attend the next Board meeting (via Zoom) on Tuesday, January 19 at 7:00 p.m.
    (email director@castletonpubliclibrary.org for meeting connection information) or send an email to director@castletonpubliclibrary.org to let us know you're interested.

    Mistaken Treatment

    West Virginia health officials mistakenly gave 42 people Regeneron IV Covid treatment instead of vaccine shot
    Will Feuer@WILLFOIA


    Brendan Smialowski | AFP | Getty Images
    Dozens of people in West Virginia were mistakenly given Regeneron’s Covid-19 antibody treatment instead of the Moderna vaccine, the West Virginia National Guard announced Thursday.

    The state’s National Guard said 42 people received the treatment, which is given intravenously, at a vaccination clinic staffed by the Boone County Health Department. The National Guard said it learned of the error on Wednesday.

    Everyone who received the antibody treatment instead of the vaccine, which is given via a shot in the arm, have been contacted, Julie Miller, an administrator for the Boone County Health Department, told CNBC by email. She added that “we do not believe there is any risk of harm.”
    Read more...

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    December 11, 2020

    The Schodack SCENE: Holiday Celebrations and Small Gatherings

    The Schodack SCENE: Holiday Celebrations and Small Gatherings: Winter Holidays Enjoy the holidays and take steps to protect yourself from getting or spreading COVID-19.  Learn more Winter Holidays Coping...

    Holiday Celebrations and Small Gatherings

    snowy tree branch

    Winter Holidays

    Enjoy the holidays and take steps to protect yourself from getting or spreading COVID-19. Learn more

    As cases, hospitalizations, and deaths continue to increase across the United States, the safest way to celebrate the winter holidays is to celebrate at home with the people you live with.

    Gatherings with family and friends who do not live with you can increase the chances of getting or spreading COVID-19 or the flu.

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    December 10, 2020

    How this Troy retailer refocused her strategy for the pandemic winter

    T&J Handcrafted Soap in downtown Troy
    By   – Reporter, Albany Business Review

    As a small business owner with lots to do every day, Theresa Van Duyne didn't spend a lot of time trying to sell her products online before the Covid-19 pandemic.

    "It sort of got put on the back burner because I was so busy making things and helping customers," Van Duyne said during a phone interview at T&J Handcrafted Soap in downtown Troy.

    "Covid definitely made us refocus on our website," Van Duyne said as she made balsam-scented candles for the Christmas holiday season.




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    November 28, 2020

    Small Business Saturday!

    Small Business Saturday!!!
    Support small local (or online) businesses today! We would love to see you and help pick out some wonderful gifts or treat yourself! Open 9:30am-9pm in the Schodack Plaza!
    Image may contain: tree and outdoor

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    Crack down on impaired and reckless driving


    The New York State Police will participate in a special traffic enforcement initiative to crack down on unsafe driving behaviors during the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. The special traffic enforcement period runs from Wednesday, November 25, 2020, through Sunday, November 29, 2020.

    November 23, 2020

    Thruway does away with people and cash

    Thruway does away with people and cash

    Pictured are Christa MacDonald and Richard Lindmark, the last toll collectors to work at Exit B-2 East Chatham where the Taconic State Parkway ends and meets the Thruway. Photo contributed
    EAST CHATHAM—Gone are the days of scrambling for loose change between the car seats and the nanosecond of human contact while handing it over at a Thruway toll booth.

    After 66 years, the Thruway has gone cashless. Read more...

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    November 20, 2020

    The Santa Claus Club has a message for village residents

    Valatie Christmas tradition halted due to COVID
    By Bill Williams Columbia-Greene Media
    VALATIE — For the first time in 75 years, Santa Claus will not be making an early stop at children’s homes in Valatie, according to a statement from the Valatie Santa Claus Club. Read more...

            
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    November 19, 2020

    As Covid cases rise, ICC juggles schedules

    As Covid cases rise, ICC juggles schedules
    November 14, 2020 by EMILIA TEASDALE

    KINDERHOOK—The Ichabod Crane Board of Education held an in-person and online meeting November 3. Board members, school staff and members of the public met in the primary school cafeteria while the district also offered the public the option to use Zoom to join the meeting online. One board member, Susan Ramos, attended the meeting through Zoom.

    ‘I am asking for your help in keeping everyone in our community as safe as possible.’
    Supt. Suzanne Guntlow, ICC School District
    This was the first board meeting since the district confirmed several positive Covid-19 cases among students in all three school buildings. On Sunday, October 25 the district emailed and called parents to announce the decision to close the primary school and move to online learning for middle and high school students on Monday, October 26 due to a primary school student testing positive for Covid-19. The district assisted the county Department of Health (DOH) with contact tracing, and more testing led to more positive cases. On October 29 the school emailed parents again saying, “We have confirmed there was one positive student in the middle school and two positive students in the high school.”

    November 17, 2020

    Contact of Student in Attendance at Social Gathering on Halloween Tests Positive for COVID-19

    Contact of Student in Attendance at Social Gathering on Halloween Tests Positive for COVID-19

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    November 16, 2020

    U.S. COVID-19 cases cross 11 million as pandemic intensifies

    U.S. COVID-19 cases cross 11 million as pandemic intensifies
    By Roshan AbrahamSeerat Gupta
    (Reuters) - The number of coronavirus cases in the United States crossed the 11-million mark on Sunday reaching yet another grim milestone, according to a Reuters tally, as the third wave of COVID-19 infections surged across the country.

            As COVID-19 related hospitalizations continue to rise, crossing 69,000 on         Saturday, U.S. President-elect Joe Biden’s top advisers have stressed the            need to control the pandemic, warning that local healthcare systems are at         a tipping point.

    Several states this week [reimpose] restrictions to curb the spread of the virus across the nation. North Dakota became the latest state to require that face coverings be worn in public, as it joins 39 other states this month in reporting record daily jumps in new cases.

    'We blew it'