MAYOR’S MESSAGE
REACH Workcamps
In 1997 Menands Bethany Church was introduced to REACH Workcamps, a weeklong mission trip that serves low-income communities. Joining other youth from around the country, REACH campers repair the homes of people who are unable to do so themselves. The kids do roofing, painting, sheet rocking, etc. for one week, traveling to different locations such as West Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio and are housed at local schools. This year’s trip happened to be during the hottest week of the summer, but the kids gave up a week of their summer vacation to travel to Newfane, NY with 600 other campers. This is a wonderful life experience for the campers. Congratulations to Menands residents Hanna Rainka, McKinley Testo, Ryan & Aiden Nicoll, as well as Bethany Church members Zach Collen, Sydney Lemire, Nadia and Michael & Lea Sposito and their leaders Bob Collen, Michele Grenier, Bethany Oskam, and Jim Lemire for doing such great work.
Congratulations
Congratulations to Dr. Maureen Long, new Superintendent of Menands School. As Dr. Long gets introduced to the Menands community I wish her the best of luck and look forward to working with her for the enrichment of our Village and a safe environment for the kids.
Economic Development
As mentioned in my last message, Paul Reuss and I did return to Albany Truck Sales for a tour of their facility. Thank you to Co-owner Mike Brennan and Service Director Tom Marquit for their hospitality. The upgrades done last year are impressive. We are grateful for their commitment to doing business in Menands and wish them continued success.
In appreciation of all of the businesses in Menands, we have recognized some of the larger employers at the Summer Concerts. Thank you to the Capital District Child Care Coordinating Council, 800 North Pearl, Simmons Machine Tool, Riverview Center, Blasch Precision Ceramics and Vicarious Visions for their commitment to Menands, as well. Also, thank you to Brianna Coughlin and her summer kids for the beautiful signs they created for each of the businesses.
There is some movement in the Village on an economic front with the potential of a few new businesses. I hope to have an update in my next Mayor’s Message. Stay tuned.
Community
What an awesome concert series we have had in the park again this year. The weather has cooperated, the music has been great and those attending have enjoyed a nice night out with friends and neighbors. Additionally the Military Concert featuring the 42nd Infantry Division Band was a wonderful tribute to our military. The audience, including many veterans, was full of patriotic spirit. Thank you to the Menands Farmers Market for offering the use of their facility for this event and a special thank you to the Menands Fire Dept. and Ladies Auxiliary for offering food and beverages at all of the concerts.
Don’t forget the Annual Picnic on Wednesday, August 21st beginning at 5:00 at the Menands Park. There will be live music, food and beverages for purchase and fun activities for the family.
Until next time, Mayor Meg