Thursday, January 31
[UPDATED] Martin leaves Rotterdam Town Board for county seat
Former Councilwoman Nicola DiLeva returns to board, Godlewski questions process
Matthew Martin has left the Rotterdam Town Board to fill a vacancy in the Schenectady County Legislature and former councilwoman Nicola DiLeva was appointed to fill his seat.
SCCC completes Center City expansion
College leases extra 11,000 square feet, adds courses
Shortly after Schenectady County Community College announced its plans to open a satellite campus in Albany, students were welcomed into an expanded Center City location in downtown Schenectady.
Driveway issue costs Rotterdam $85k
Ghents Road litigation nearing closure, survey results debated
The Rotterdam Town Board approved up to $70,000 to be paid to attorneys representing the town and up to $15,000 for work done by Blackstone Land Surveyors relating to a disputed boundary line.
Students pore over lunch drink options
Bottled water pitched to supplement milk, juice in lunch line
Fifth-grade Eagle Elementary students Ava Navarro and Cece Amory presented to the Board of Education their thoughts on why bottled water should be sold in their school.
Bethlehem Central school board approves bond
Facilities and athletics vote will go to the public as separate propositions
Bethlehem Central school board members unanimously voted on Wednesday, Jan. 23, to allow two propositions to go before the public in March on bonding for facilities upgrades and a new turf athletic field.
Baseball: Fish earns pre-season honors
Bethlehem Central High School graduate Mike Fish has been named to the Preseason All-Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference baseball team.
Bethlehem to bond for sewer upgrades
State grant to pay $3M, town to chip in $2.6M
The Bethlehem Town Board has approved a plan to bond $2.6 million for sewer improvements in North Bethlehem.
Hockey: Saratoga rips Shen in showdown
Big second period helps Blue Streaks pull away
Saratoga Springs scored four times in the second period on its way to a 7-0 victory over Shenendehowa in Wednesday's Capital District High School Hockey League game at Weibel Avenue Rink.
Police looking for Best Western armed robbery suspects
The Colonie Police Department is investigating an armed robbery at a Best Western Hotel on Thursday, Jan. 31.
Restaurant Depot opens for business
New warehouse caters only to eateries and similar businesses
Restaurant Depot, at 22 Warehouse Row in Colonie, is a 68,000-square-foot facility that sells fresh meat, poultry, seafood, produce, dairy, beverages and supplies to restaurant owners. With 100 locations nationwide, this is the only Restaurant Depot in Upstate New York, the next closest being in Hartford, Conn.
Malta dog park proposed
The Town of Malta is going to the dogs.
Editorial: Lunch line limbo
This editorial appeared in the Jan. 31, 2013, editions of The Spotlight
Wednesday, January 30
Sports poll: What is the best non-Class AA boys basketball team in Section II?
This week, we bring it back to the basketball court as we ask you to pick the best non Class AA boys team (Class A and lower) in Section II.
Tuesday round-up: Colonie gets past Mohonasen
Samuels records a double-double for Garnet Raiders
The Colonie boys basketball team rallied from an early deficit to defeat Mohonasen 51-43 in Tuesday's Suburban Council South Division game.
Police trying to locate 76-year-old missing woman UPDATE: Missing woman found.
The Colonie Police Department is currently trying to locate a 76-year-old female who was reported missing this afternoon.
Boys basketball: Holmes comes through for Bison
Guard scores 14 of his 16 points in second half to lead Shaker's comeback
Andrew Holmes isn’t the tallest player in Shaker’s lineup, but he was the biggest player on the court.
A dedicated cast
Middle schoolers to perform ‘Annie Jr.’ four times
America’s favorite redheaded orphan is coming to Bethlehem, and audiences have rarely seen such dedication from a cast.
Morning traffic takes its toll
Spike in parent drop offs spur safety concerns at North Colonie school
An unexpected wave of morning traffic at a local elementary school led educators to plead with parents to keep safety in mind and send their children to school on the bus if at all possible.
Letter: Walks with Royal meant more
This letter appeared in the Jan. 30, 2013, edition of The Spotlight.
Letter: Jordan will be remembered as community leader, friend
This letter appeared in the Jan. 30, 2013, edition of The Spotlight.
Tuesday, January 29
Sidewalks, comp plan targets for Bethlehem in 2013
Clarkson lays out vision in State of the Town
Bethlehem Supervisor John Clarkson hopes to focus the second year of his term on sustainable development, civic improvements and economic expansion.
Saratoga bank robber still at large
Police say Trustco on Congress Street robbed
Saratoga Springs police say a man who robbed the Trustco Bank branch on Congress Street Monday evening is still at large and could be armed.
Vet supporters spend a cold night raising awareness
Frigid call for help brings donations of winter clothing rolling in
The first-ever “Freeze Out” took place on Saturday, Jan. 26, into the following morning. More than 20 people slept outside on the lawn of the VFW Post at 525 Delaware Ave. to experience the grueling Capital District temperatures the way homeless veterans do.
Monday, January 28
Police: Four emaciated dogs found in truck
An Albany man was arrested for allegedly torturing and injuring four dogs, Colonie Police said.
Chambers strike a common chord
A chamber of commerce offering up a January outlook on the coming year is nothing new, but getting four for the price of one is.
Sunday, January 27
Photo Gallery: Guilderland vs Burnt Hills Boys Basketball
Guilderland traveled to Burnt Hills to take on Burnt Hills on Jan 25. See all the photos.
Saturday, January 26
Caring for caregivers
Alzheimer’s support groups provide empathy and encouragement
The Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern New York offers support groups at more than 30 locations across 12 counties to help care-giving partners and individuals with early stage Alzheimer’s or others forms of dementia.
Mayor to state: put casino here
Saratoga Springs Mayor Scott Johnson thinks uncertainty at the state level presents the biggest challenge to the Spa City for the coming year, but also feels 2012 was a success.
Friday, January 25
Bethlehem Justice Mark Jordan dies after aneurysm
Judge served two years on Town Board before being elected to office
Bethlehem Town Justice Mark Jordan died today at Albany Medical Center after suffering a brain aneurysm several days earlier. He was 50.
A picture of health
Glenmont woman takes new approach with dieting app
Keeping up with a diet can be tough, but Christy Venter of Glenmont has created what she believes to be a new approach to eating healthy.
EMS merger is final
Delmar-Bethlehem ambulance service expected to save money
As of the beginning of the year, Bethlehem’s two volunteer ambulance agencies have become one
Kid composer hits a high note
Roessleville student’s work recognized at a young age
Come April, Shashaank Narayanan will take his one of his compositions, “Mystery Cave,” to the Young Composer Concert in Hartford, Conn., where his piece will be performed as the winning entry in the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) Eastern Division Young Composers Contest. Narayanan’s piece was one of 14 winning compositions selected among entries from elementary through graduate school-aged applicants.
Thursday round-up: Loudonville Christian pulls away for key league win
Brown and Yamin lead Eagles past Germantown
The Loudonville Christian School boys basketball team solidified its hold on first place in the Central Hudson Valley League with Thursday's 61-41 home victory against second-place Germantown.
Police: Child left in freezing car for eight hours
The Colonie Police Department has started an investigation after a man allegedly left his one-year-old child in a freezing car for eight hours, police said.
Panel talks gun safety
About 200 people braved a cold, bitter night on Thursday, Jan. 24, to converge upon Ballston Spa High School with one question in mind: How do we keep our kids safe in school?
Feeding the northeast
Huge food donation results from record holiday giving
Part of what was labeled an historic food donation rumbled into the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York Tuesday, Jan. 15, ensuring thousands of people will have food on the table this winter.
Spa City looks for Complete Streets money
Saratoga Springs has taken another step forward in its plans for “Complete Streets” by applying for a grant that would fund a study to determine the most effective and safe routes for bicycles, pedestrians and mass transit.
Thursday, January 24
Grants aim to keep history afloat
Erie Canalway grants awarded to three area organizations
The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor announced $45,800 in grants awarded to nine organizations throughout the state at Proctors on Friday, Jan. 18. Three Capital District organizations will receive a total of $17,500.
Traffic stop leads to foot chase through woods
Two Schenectady men facing DWI and resisting arrest charges
State Police stopped a speeding vehicle in the Town of Clifton Park, but soon found themselves in a foot pursuit through the woods to arrest the fleeing driver.
Saratoga to target vacants
What do Detroit and Saratoga Springs have in common? Answer: both are searching for a way to eliminate vacant properties.
No plans to slow down in Glenville
Supervisor delivers State of the Town and outlines initiatives for 2013
Koetzle delivered his State of the Town address at a Town Board meeting Wednesday, Jan. 16, and simultaneously detailed his 2013 Strategic Plan, which focuses on streamlining town operations, continuing economic development, improving town infrastructure and budgeting effectively.
Bully-proof armor
Program takes alternative approach to stop bullying
Finding exactly how to stop bullying has always been a question asked in schools. Today, the age-old problem is only getting more attention.
Wednesday, January 23
Niskayuna schools drop federal lunch regulations
District: Students balk at meals; participation down as food waste up
The Niskayuna Board of Education unanimously approved terminating the district’s participation in the National School Lunch Program effective April 1. The district’s lunch program is at a net operating loss of almost $70,500 from the start of this school year through December.
SCCC expands reach into Albany
Satellite campus touted as boon for education and downtown businesses
Three years after discussions began, SCCC announced Friday, Jan. 18, its footprint is expanding into the county’s building at 112 State Street in Albany. The college is renovating nearly 10,000 square feet of former Albany County offices on the second floor for classrooms and will lease the space from the county.
Blue line to blue line
When they talk about their adventures hiking in the Adirondacks, the eyes of Ryan Wichens, 18, and Gabe Messercola, 17, light right up. One can almost smell the crackling campfire, see the thousands of stars strewn across the night sky and hear the call of the loons. “It is a beauty beyond description,” said Messercola. “It becomes a part of you.”
Sports poll: What is the toughest high school gym to play in?
Thanks to your votes last week, the Saratoga-Shenendehowa hockey series was named the best Section II rivalry. Now, on to this week's sports poll question: what is the toughest high school gym to play basketball in?
Justin Finkle gets a second chance to pursue his dream
Delmar native is one of 33 finalists for a sponsored ride in racing series
Justin Finkle has a second chance to fulfill his race car driver dreams.
Wrestling: Shenendehowa wins its own tournament
Five Plainsmen claim individual titles
The Shenendehowa wrestling team had another strong invitational performance.
More upgrades at Rotterdam industrial park
The Schenectady Metroplex Development Authority on Wednesday, Jan. 16, announced Galesi Group had committed $2 million to upgrade the 260,000-square-foot facility known as Building 14
Students respond with acts of kindness
Colonie Central club asks peers for 26 kind acts in wake of Newtown
Colonie Central High School’s iCARE program, which launched last year, aims to promote anti-bullying but also inspire good character. After the Newtown, Conn., shooting, the group came up with a campaign for the school’s nearly 2,000 students to commit 26 acts of kindness over 26 days in honor of each of the victims. I
Dispatchers, town ink contract
Consolidation with county services still on the table
The Town of Bethlehem and its telecommunicators union have come to a three-year contract agreement after going a full year without a contract in place.
Editorial: An inaliendable right?
This editorial appeared in the Jan. 24, 2013, editions of The Spotlight.
Tuesday, January 22
Town gets grant for sidewalks
DOT program meant to provide safe routes to walk to school
The Town of Bethlehem has received a federal grant to fund the installation of sidewalks throughout portions of the town where students lack a safe place to walk to and from school.
Bethlehem supervisor dubs 2012 a success
Town budget, politics play central roles in Clarkson’s brief political life
As he prepares to deliver his second State of the Town address, Bethlehem Supervisor John Clarkson feels he has managed to accomplish the goals he laid out after taking office one year ago, despite a difficult budget season.
Police: Volunteer firefighter steals and sells department equipment
A volunteer firefighter was arrested Monday for allegedly stealing and selling Shaker Road-Loudonville Fire Department equipment.
Safer strolling planned for Route 9
State project will see sidewalks from Fiddlers Lane to Newtown Plaza
Come next year, the Town of Colonie will hopefully have something it’s been lacking: sidewalks.
Indoor track: Colonie boys win Dartmouth Relay title
The Colonie boys indoor track and field team took first place for the second year in a row at the Dartmouth Relays Jan. 11 and 12 in New Hampshire.
Monday, January 21
Trustco Bank – a trusted mortgage source
Financial institution offers a variety of mortgage products to customers
Trustco Bank has been one of the top residential mortgage lenders in its markets for decades, including leading all mortgage lenders in origination volume in both 2010 and 2011 in the Capital Region of New York State.
Time for a financial checkup!
For most people, checkups are a regular part of life. Dental visits, auto maintenance appointments and even glances in the bathroom mirror all help people monitor performance, catch potential problems and assure that all is – or will be – well.
Make estate planning a priority
The Law Office of Judith H. Singer helps families begin the conversation
Conversing with loved ones about senior living and end-of-life care at times can be uncomfortable, but is encouraged for those with aging parents. Often, involving an attorney in the discussion helps soften the topic for those involved.
Junk King piles up progress
Debris removal business picking up for entrepreneur
In October 2011, Todd Porter opened his junk removal business, Junk King, in Ravena. In the time since then, Junk King has more than doubled in size and developed immensely as a business.
Exciting times at Mater Christi School
From embracing the Diocesan Covenant to Educate (www.higherpoweredlearning.org), to adapting to the Common Core standards as our children are prepared for the global economy (www.corestandards.org), to launching innovative new initiatives – Mater Christi School is an exciting place to learn.
Holy Names nurtures body, mind and spirit
Same-sex education lets young women reach great academic heights
As the only all-girls Catholic school in the Capital District, Academy of the Holy Names provides a unique learning environment to the region.
Make time for a Musical FunFest at The Music Studio
Event showcases programs while giving kids an exciting outlet over winter break
You want your kids to do something enriching over the February break; they want to do something fun. The Music Studio has the perfect compromise: A Musical FunFest.
North Colonie braces for tough times
Meeting’s audience supports exceeding tax cap to meet fiscal challenges
Nearly 100 North Colonie residents, students, parents and teachers filled the Shaker High School Media Center on Monday, Jan. 14, to hear the problems that lay before the district in the coming years.
Milton updates Geyser Road plans
Milton Supervisor Dan Lewza has big plans to attract businesses to the town, increase the tax base and enhance the quality of life for residents.
Sunday, January 20
Photo Gallery: Guilderland clips Saratoga in high school girls basketball
Guilderland traveled to Saratoga to take on the Blue Streaks on Jan 18. The Dutch pulled of the close win 41-39. See all the photos.
A life well lived
Mary Egan lived a life of excitement and adventure, and that was before she started working as a librarian in the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake School District, where she said her true adventures began. “It was always about the kids, inspiring the kids to learn to read. I loved them all,” she said.
Saturday, January 19
Saturday round-up: Jets come back to tie Brothers
Closs' late goal sends game into overtime
Shaker/Colonie rallied from a 2-0 deficit to tie Christian Brothers Academy 2-2 in Saturday's Capital District High School Hockey league game at the Albany County Hockey Facility.
Girls basketball: Balanced attack helps Shaker pull away
Four Bison reach double figures in victory over crosstown rivals
The Shaker girls basketball team earned another quality Suburban Council victory -- this time, at the expense of its crosstown rival from Colonie.
Friday round-up: Colonie stuns Shaker
Big third quarter helps Garnet Raiders earn victory
The Colonie boys basketball team posted its biggest win of the season by knocking off Suburban Council North Division leader Shaker 58-49 in Friday's cross-divisional game.
Ocean of opportunity
Union Aquarium founder sells business to longtime employee
After 23 years of running Union Aquarium in Schenectady, owner Paul Sartoris is selling the business to a longtime employee who is stepping forward to keep the shop afloat.
Angry citizens once again protest privatizing Maplewood
Angry citizens crowded into the Saratoga County Supervisors chamber on Wednesday, Jan. 9, to voice their objections once again over the supervisors’ plan to form an LDC to privatize the Maplewood Manor nursing home.
Friday, January 18
Niskayuna schools start tackling $6M budget gap
Superintendent outlines mandates at budget forum, public requests numbers
The district is projecting a $6 million budget gap in the 2013-14 school year, which would require an 11.8 percent tax levy increase to close. But the district must contend with an estimated state tax cap of 3.4 percent, which would still require around $4.3 million to be cut.
Tkaczyk captures 46th Senate District
Lengthy legal battle ends with Democrat newcomer trumping Amedore
Tkaczyk will represent the newly drawn 46th Senate District after her campaign’s appeal to count additional ballots led her to beat Republican George Amedore by 19 votes as of the afternoon of Friday, Jan. 18.
Project sheds new light on tech class
South Colonie students build, sell sheds as spring project
As part of their yearly tradition, students in the Colonie Central High School construction classes are building garden sheds available for purchase by the public. The sheds are sized 8 feet by 10 feet, and according to technology teacher John Gehres, they are better than anything you can get at the big box stores.
County ditches timecards
Saratoga County employees are poised to enter the electronic age with the installation of a new paperless timecard system that’s expected to save the county more than $500,000 per year.
Thursday, January 17
Educators skeptical about Cuomo’s reforms
Area school administrators grade governor’s education proposals
Gov. Cuomo linked education to the economic recovery of the state and laid out several proposals to enhance the quality of the state’s public schools. Area school administrators say district funds are tapped and are wondering how initiative will be funded.
Group to make strides for Sandy Hook
Niskayuna run to benefit local and Newtown remembrance efforts
The Niskayuna Strides for Sandy Hook 5K will step off at Niskayuna Town Hall at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 19, with a 1-mile walk starting at 9:45 a.m. The race will coincide with the one taking place in Newtown, but it will also hold a more local meaning, too.
Life in hard places
Film on work of Tom Little needs backing for Afghanistan trips
A film will look at the life of Delmar optometrist Tom Little, who was killed in a Taliban ambush in Afghanistan during one of his philanthropic missions to the war-ravaged country.
Lia Honda to expand parking lot
Plans redrawn after neighbors bring forward concerns
After hearing complaints from those living on neighboring streets, Lia Honda on Central Avenue has changed its plans for a parking lot expansion and received a new concept acceptance from the Colonie Planning Board.
CDTA restores evening stops
Residents’ concerns prompt schedule change
After a group of Bethlehem commuters aired their concerns last month about changes to a bus route, officials from the Capital District Transportation Authority have opted to increase bus frequency during evening hours.
It’s official: Maplewood Manor LDC formed
Despite last minute pleas from opponents, the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors voted on Tuesday, Jan. 15, to form a local development corporation to handle the sale or privatization of Maplewood Manor, the county-owned nursing home. Five of the board’s 23 members voted against the measure.
Wednesday, January 16
The show goes on
Well before the 9 a.m. starting time of the controversial Saratoga Arms Fair at the Saratoga Springs City Center, long lines stretched down the block. Many of those eager to see the latest guns offered for sale said they showed up just because of the publicity surrounding the show.
Water main ruptures in Niskayuna
Town officials still uncertain of cause after repairing pipe
The Schenectady County Department of Environmental Health issued the boil water advisory the morning of Friday, Jan. 11, as a precautionary measure after a 20-inch water main broke on Mohawk Road. The boil order was lifted Sunday morning after water tests came back clean, but town officials are still uncertain of the cause.
Sports poll: What is the best rivalry in Section II hockey?
This week, we want to know what is the best high school hockey rivalry in our area.
Tuesday round-up: Dumoulin leads Guilderland past Colonie
Five three-pointers help Dutchmen win Suburban South battle
The Guilderland boys basketball team used a 26-point second quarter to help it defeat Colonie 65-55 in Tuesday's Suburban Council South Division game.
Hockey: Eagles earn their skates
Big third period lifts Bethlehem past Guilderland/Mohonasen
After two dream periods against Bethlehem, reality hit the Guilderland/Mohonasen hockey team in the third period.
Hockey: Tipped goal lifts CBA past LaSalle
Swanteck strikes late in third period of CDHSHL battle
A tipped puck tipped the scales in Saturday’s Capital District High School Hockey League game between Christian Brothers Academy and LaSalle.
Basketball: Shaker sweeps special doubleheader
Blue Bison edge Shen in Suburban Council North Division showdowns
Zach Yakel made the two biggest plays in last Thursday’s Suburban Council basketball doubleheader at Siena College.
Police: Serial rapist sentenced to 20 years in State Prison
A 19-year-old man was sentenced to 20 years in State Prison after pleading guilty to four counts of rape, District Attorney David Soares announced on Tuesday, Jan. 15.
2012 called a ‘banner year’ for Colonie
Supervisor says coming year will see more growth and progress
In her sixth State of the Town speech, Supervisor Paula Mahan described Colonie as a town that has returned to fiscal stability and is on the brink of embracing a slew of changes in 2013.
Smaller legislature pitched
County executive wants term limits on his office
As 2013 begins to take shape, Albany County Executive Dan McCoy is urging changes in the legislature. Specifically, its size.
Monday, January 14
Family ties run deep on these slopes
Maple Ski Ridge to host 50th anniversary celebration
To celebrate Maple Ski Ridge’s 50th anniversary there, will be a weekend of events from Thursday, Jan. 17, to Sunday, Jan. 20. The business has largely tailored itself to suit its customers, serving as a family-friendly destination and welcoming seniors who are still hitting the slopes.
Chow down for a good cause
The Villa offers Sunday brunch buffet as fundraising tool for groups
The Villa Tuscan Grille, an Italian restaurant in Rotterdam, started serving Sunday brunch buffets from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Jan. 13 as an inventive way to help local groups and charities.
Estate planning fundamentals: Preserving wealth not just for the rich
Spotlight on Finance
Think you’re not wealthy enough for an estate? Think again. Even a child with a savings account has an estate. Think you’re estate isn’t big enough to warrant an estate plan? Consider this: where do you want your possessions to go when you pass away? Do you want to provide for your family after your death? Leave a philanthropic legacy? Reduce taxes? Ease the transition of your business?
Here’s looking at you, town
Chamber honors the most beautiful businesses in Colonie
A new Colonie Chamber of Commerce award is recognizing not the shrewdest entrepreneur or the most community-minded mogul, but three businesses that enhance the beauty of the town.
Saturday, January 12
Club seeks to heal through music
High schoolers collect iPods to donate to Alzheimer’s patients
In a time when technology makes the generation gap seem larger than ever, a group of high school students are working to leverage modern gadgets to bridge that divide.
Voorheesville looks outside box, onto stage
School district renting out theater as alternative revenue source
Municipalities take heed. Your tax problems may be solved thanks to the groovy tunes of The Beatles.
Friday, January 11
Sax and stripes forever
Rotterdam native has ‘dream job’ with Army Field Band, performs at All-American Bowl
Brian Sacawa, a 35-year-old Rotterdam native, started playing the saxophone in fourth grade and hasn’t really stopped the music since. Today, he’s a member of the U.S. Army Band and tours the country and world.
New York State Police investigating apparent suicide on Shenendahowa campus
NYS Police reported on Friday, Jan. 11 they were investigating an apparent suicide that occurred in the early morning hours on the Shenendahowa Central School main campus in Clifton Park.
Board splits bond vote
BC Facilities, athletic turf to be separate referendums, public hearing Jan. 16
The Bethlehem Central School District Board of Education has elected to split the proposal for facilities upgrades and a new athletic turf into two bond resolutions to go before the public
Coming up with coats no small task
Selkirk woman gets a hand from county, businesses, in helping homeless
Katie Drobne from Selkirk is working to collect coats and winter gear for the county's homeless and needy.
Driver in Voorheesville triple fatality sentenced
DA calls on medical professionals to be responsible when prescribing drugs
The driver in last year’s car crash outside a Voorheesville church that killed three people was sentenced in Albany County Court today.
Police find 1.5 pounds of cocaine in woman's car
A 31-year-old Albany woman was arrested Wednesday after police said they found 1.5 pounds of cocaine and a small amount of marijuana in her car following a traffic stop.
Red, two sugars
Dunkin’ Donuts, Red Cross team up on coffee-for-blood drive
For the past six years, Dunkin’ Donuts has teamed up with the American Red Cross for the “Give a Pint, Get a Pound” campaign, in which blood donors can give a pint of blood and receive a free pound of coffee in return.
Boil water advisory issued for Niskayuna
Entire town ordered to take precautions after water main break
The entire Town of Niskayuna is under a boil water order following a 20-inch water main break resulting in a loss of water pressure throughout portions of the system.
New county supervisors chairman sworn in
Grattidge says ‘efficiency’ is the watchword for 2013
Charlton Supervisor Alan Grattidge was unanimously approved by his colleagues as the new chairman of the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors at a Wednesday, Jan. 2, meeting.
Thursday, January 10
Ousted city official lands in Glenville
Town moves tax collection back in-house after receiver reorganization
The Glenville Town Board on Wednesday, Jan. 3, appointed Jason Cuthbert to town comptroller for a one-year term, replacing George Phillips. The board offered little explanation for the switch.
Schenectady County capital projects proceed
Legislature approves bonding $2.8M for infrastructure updates
Schenectady County legislators approved on Tuesday, Jan. 8, bonding for various capital projects totaling almost $4.2 million, with the state funding approximately $1.4 million of the work.
Angry citizens once again protest privatizing Maplewood
Huge losses makes sale of nursing home likely
Angry citizens crowded into the Saratoga County Supervisors chamber on Wednesday, Jan. 9, to voice their objections once again over the supervisors’ plan to form an LDC to privatize the Maplewood Manor nursing home.
Vets want to remember the fallen
Project to hang memorial flags seeks community support
Since World War II, more than 560 Capital District residents have lost their lives while serving the country and Regan, a Vietnam veteran, knows these fallen soldiers need to be remembered.
Editorial: License record drives home need for reform
This editorial appeared in the Jan. 10, as well as the Jan. 16, editions of The Spotlight.
Wednesday, January 9
Sports poll: Who is the best boys basketball player in the Suburban Council?
Colonie's Sydnie Rosales was the top vote-getter in last week's Spotlight Sports Poll question. This week, we're looking for who you think is the best boys basketball player in the Suburban Council.
Football: Four Shaker players earn all-state honors
Shen, Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake also well represented on list
Four members of the Shaker football team were named Class AA all-state players by the New York State Sportswriters Association Wednesday.
Official invite
Ballston Spa man wins tickets to Obama inauguration
Ballston Spa resident James Belanger was the lucky winner of tickets to the upcoming presidential inauguration.
Fight like a girl
Albany County offering free self-defense course to women
New county Rape Agression Defense Team will offer courses for free using asset seizure money collected from criminals.
Police: Verizon employee accesses customer's data without permission
A Verizon employee was arrested for accessing a customer’s phone data without authorization, Colonie police said.
School’s Out move met with concerns
BC building sale sees some opposition at community meeting
The sale of Bethlehem Central’s former administration building to School’s Out, Inc. was met by opposition from some neighbors of the building at a recent meeting to discuss the deal with the community.
Colonie Town Board heads into 2013
Housekeeping measures, appointments, taken care of in organizational meeting
The Colonie Town Board made a number of appointments and reappointments to town posts at its annual reorganization meeting on Thursday, Jan. 3.
Editorial: Vote against field has big cost, little gain
This editorial appeared in the Jan. 9, 2013, edition of The Spotlight.
POV: Beating the homesick blues
This point of view column appeared in the Jan. 9 and 10, 2013, editions of The Spotlight.
Tuesday round-up: Shen keeps pace with Shaker
Boland leads Lady Plainsmen past Mohonasen
The Shenendehowa girls basketball team remained within striking distance of first-place Shaker in the Suburban Council North Division by beating Mohonasen 39-27 in Tuesday's game in Clifton Park.
Tuesday, January 8
Fire claims 14-year-old Niskayuna girl
Police, firefighters continue investigation into cause of home blaze
Grace Kline, a seventh-grader at Van Antwerp Middle School, passed away on Friday, Jan. 4, shortly after being removed by first responders from a blaze at her 2241 Niskayuna Drive home.
Arrest made in fatal Northway crash
Dennis Drue arraigned on 59 counts, including DWI and DWAI
Dennis Drue, the Siena College student police say rear-ended an SUV on the Northway on Dec. 1, killing two Shenendehowa High School students and injuring two other students, is facing a litany of charges over the incident.
Monday, January 7
Police: Loudonville man almost hits officer with pick-up truck
Albany police arrested a 33-year-old Loudonville man Sunday night after almost hitting an officer with his pick-up truck on Clinton Avenue in Albany, police said.
Let history take its course
Course will examine the archaeological record of biblical times
On Monday, Jan. 7, Steven Stark-Riemer will begin teaching “Archaeology and History of Ancient Israel.” The eight-session course will dive into the development of biblical archaeology by looking at several time periods and how events later affected the lives of the people who now live in the Middle East.
Friday, January 4
Bassist lays down a top score
Colonie’s Tristen Jarvis follows a passion for music
Tristen Jarvis has a 97 GPA, but more important to him, he plays the double bass in the Empire State Youth Orchestra; his school’s Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra and Jazz Band; the Empire State Youth Jazz Ensemble; three side band projects; and he sings in Chamber Singers, to name just a few musical projects.
The Spotlight's 2012 Year in Review, Part 2
Take a look back at the stories that made up the second half of 2012 for wherever you live in the Capital District with our annual Year in Review.
Farmers breathe small sigh of relief
Compromise extends Farm Bill, milk price controls
The last-minute Washington, D.C. deal to veer away from the so-called “fiscal cliff” is being met with a sigh of relief not just from stock brokers and taxpayers, but from farmers
Thursday round-up: Mineau's OT goal lifts Jets to victory
Mike Mineau's goal 1:27 into overtime helped Shaker/Colonie edge Glens Falls 2-1 in Thursday's Capital District High School Hockey League game in Glens Falls.
Thursday, January 3
Letter: The time for action is now
This letter appeared in the Jan. 2, 2013, edition of The Spotlight.
Editorial: Stay safe this winter
This editorial appeared in the Jan. 3, 2013, editions of The Spotlight.
Rotterdam supervisor sets year’s priorities
Town focuses on new police and justice building, code enforcement and economic development
The Rotterdam Town Board on Tuesday, Jan. 1, held its organizational meeting preparing the town for the year, including appointments and reappointments to various positions. Before speedily adopting resolutions, Buffardi reflected on the administration’s accomplishments and goals for the coming year.
POV: Four strategies for caregivers
This Point of View article appeared in the Jan. 2 and 3, 2013, editions of The Spotlight.
The new Democrats
New Bethlehem leaders work to bring party under one tent after tumultuous election season
After experiencing a shakeup in 2012, many members of Bethlehem’s Democratic Committee say they are looking to a future that is more inclusive and community minded.
Overtime taps town savings
Glenville draws from fund reserves to cover police OT
Controlling overtime costs is a constant battle for many municipalities, one that can lead to the drawing down of savings. The Glenville Town Board met this scenario at its last meeting in December, when it reached into reserves mostly to cover four budget lines from 2012.
The old man and the book
Colonie man’s poems and vignettes a slice of life at 84
Gordon Jevons’ preparation for his checkup is just one of the everyday events he explores in his first book of poetry and vignettes, “Grandpa Gordon’s Book of Light Hearted Poetry and Anecdotes,” published by The Troy Book Makers last month.
Police: Level 3 sex offender arrested for sexual abuse
A registered sex offender was arrested after allegedly inappropriately touching a 91-year-old female resident at the Loudonville Home for Adults, Colonie police said.
City urges gun sellers to lay down arms
Council passes stronger resolution after barrage of protest
An upcoming gun show at the Saratoga Springs City Center has drawn a volley of protest from residents who were “shocked and dismayed” that the city would allow such an event in wake of the school shooting in Newtown, Conn, and led the City Council to adopt a resolution urging organizers of the show not to display or sell semi-automatic firearms.
Colonie congratulates young athletes
2012 a banner year for cheerleading and football programs
At this year’s final Colonie Town Board meeting on Thursday, Dec. 20, Town Supervisor Paula Mahan took a short break from the agenda to honor three Colonie youth sports teams and their recent achievements.
Empty shelves filled
Colonie librarians pitch in to help library whose collection took a hit in Sandy
In the days and weeks following Superstorm Sandy’s impacts Downstate, residents of the Capital District have organized shipments of food, clothes, blankets and other essentials. But a group of South Colonie librarians recently helped by offering an overlooked item: books.
Wednesday, January 2
Westerlo man faces sex misconduct charges
Following a November arrest, State Police in Princetown have filed additional charges against a Westerlo man for allegedly sexually engaging a minor.
Glenville rolls out new eats
Neon Sushi leasing former Friendly’s property on Route 50
Instead of scoops of ice cream, diners at the former Friendly’s building in Glenville will soon be able to dine on sushi rolls and Japanese fare.
Sports poll: Who is the best girls basketball player in the Suburban Council?
Out with the old, and in with the new. Here is your first sports poll question for 2013.
A look back at the 2012 sports season (Part 2)
Continuing our look back at the 2012 sports year
Ballston to pay more for fire help
Complicated negotiations lead to compromise
It’s going to cost more in the Town of Ballston to have fires put out by the Round Lake Fire District if the Town Board approves the 7 cent raise per $1,000 assessed house value that the fire department has requested.
Boys basketball: Mohon can't hold on to lead against Lansingburgh
Knights rally from seven-point deficit to beat Mighty Warriors in Kirvin Cup finals
The Mohonasen boys basketball team has developed a bad habit of blowing fourth quarter leads.
Police arrest two for taking TV from Walmart
Rotterdam police said two women, one of whom was allegedly armed, entered Walmart and stole a 46-inch television before fleeing the scene in their car.