Topic: News

VILLAGE LIGHTS ILLUMINATES THE SPIRIT OF GIVING WITH ANNUAL FUNDRAISER FOR SCOTIA RELIEF

As the holiday season approaches, the Village of Scotia is poised to shine brighter than ever with the annual Village Lights event and fundraiser for Scotia Relief. This heartwarming event, initiated in 2022, draws inspiration from the holiday tradition found in many village neighborhoods of lighting the way for Santa by placing a single white luminary on the front lawn on Christmas Eve. The funds raised for Scotia Relief provide assistance to neighbors in need of daily living supplies, including vouchers for food, clothing, heating fuel, and school supplies.

The essence of the holidays is encapsulated in the warmth of light, happiness, and joy. However, for some, this time of year may be marked by struggle and darkness. Recognizing the power of community, Village Lights is a beacon of hope for those facing unexpected challenges this holiday season. The collective glow symbolizes the unity of the community and serves as a reminder that, even in difficult times, the village stands strong together.

What sets Village Lights apart is its dual purpose — not only does it brighten the neighborhood, but it also serves as a fundraiser for Scotia Relief. This charitable organization has been making a significant impact since its inception during the Great Depression, providing relief to those in need and embodying the true spirit of neighbors helping neighbors.

“We believe that together, as a village, we can dispel darkness by shining our own light of kindness into the streets. The holidays are a time for generosity and compassion, and Village Lights allows us to extend a helping hand to those who may be facing challenges during this season,” said Trustee Justin Cook, who started Village Lights in 2022 with Maria Schmitz, the Village Clerk-Treasurer. Schmitz also serves on the board of Scotia Relief.

Neighbors in Scotia-Glenville and surrounding communities are encouraged to contribute a donation of at least $5 to Scotia Relief. In return for your donation, you will receive a Village Lights Luminary Kit, comprising a white paper bag and a battery-powered LED tea light to be display on your lawn on Christmas Eve. Contributions can be made in person at the Village Clerk’s Office at Village Hall, Monday to Friday from 8 am to 4 pm, starting Monday, December 4, 2023. Neighbors can also make their donation and pick up their Village Lights Luminary kit at the Village Holiday Tree Lighting at Holiday on the Ave, this Sunday, December 3, 2023, at 4:45 pm near First National Bank of Scotia.

You now have the ability to view your bill, pay your bill and monitor your usage on line through our secure website. Payments can be made by credit card for a fee of 2.55%.

Go to our Water/Sewer Bill Portal to set up your personal account.

If you have more than one water account you can link multiple accounts to your personal page. Water and Sewer bills go out twice a year (February and October) but we read the meters  every 40 days. This means that you can monitor your water usage in something closer to real time. If you have a water leak you can catch it before it runs up a large bill.

On December 3, 2023 the following road closure will be in effect from 12:15pm to 5:15pm to accommodate the Annual “Holiday on the Ave”

• Mohawk Avenue from North Ballston (Rt. 50) to Sacandaga Rd
• North Ten Broeck from John to Mohawk Avenue
• South Ten Broeck from Glen to Mohawk

Annual Curbside Loose Leaf Pick Up:

The Village of Scotia Department of Public Works will begin their annual loose leaf pick-up program on or about Monday, October 30, 2023.  Pick up will continue weather permitting, until Friday, December 8, 2023.  Residents are asked to rake their leaves to the curb for vacuum pick up.  Please do not mix brush, dirt or other yard debris in with your loose leaves.  Piles of mixed debris will not be picked up.

Yard Waste Collection (separate from loose leaf pick up):

Regular yard waste collection will continue, weather permitting, until Thursday, December 7, 2023.  Yard waste will be picked up on your regular trash collection day.  Normal rules and regulations still apply.

For more information call the Department of Public Works at (518) 393-2159.

As the Police Chiefs of Glenville and Scotia, we are asking for your assistance in making this Halloween, a
“SAFE TUESDAY HALLOWEEN”.

Every year throughout the Town and Village, many of our children enjoy the tradition of trick-or-treating on Halloween evening. Unfortunately, each year there are incidents that mar the evening for some children and residents. While these incidents are caused proportionately by only a small number of older youths, the impact of the vandalism, litter and disruptive behavior adversely affects the quality of life in the whole neighborhood.

Keeping this in mind, we are asking that all residents celebrate Halloween between the hours of 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Tuesday, October 31, 2023. We would ask that children complete their “Trick or Treating” and that residents turn off their front porch lights at 8 p.m.

We would appreciate it if each parent would spend a few minutes with their child(ren) and impress upon them that Halloween is not an excuse to become involved in criminal activity. One night of so-called “fun” can quickly get out of hand and result in personal injury or an arrest.

Only with your cooperation and support of “SAFE TUESDAY HALLOWEEN” will all of our children and residents be able to enjoy this evening. If you witness groups congregating in the Town of Glenville or the Village of Scotia, please call (518) 630-0911 (non-emergency number). In any EMERGENCY, dial 9-1-1.

Tips for a “SAFE TUESDAY HALLOWEEN”

• Try to have your children Trick-or-Treat when it is still light outside.
• If your child will be out during dusk or after dark, have them carry a flashlight and use reflective tape on their costumes so they can see and be seen.
• Plan your child’s route with them ahead of time. Pick streets that have sufficient lighting.
• Accompany your child or have an older sibling or other adult be with them.
• Stay within the neighborhood and only visit homes where you know the residents.
• Costumes should be worn so that it is easy for the child to walk in.
• A facemask will keep your child from seeing well. Consider the use of makeup instead. If your child must wear a mask, instruct them to remove it before crossing the street.
• Have your child cross at corners and not in the middle of the street between parked cars.
• If there is no sidewalk, have your child walk facing oncoming traffic.
• Instruct your children not to eat any of the candy they collect until they arrive home so you can check it with them.
• Keep costumed children away from pets. The pet may not recognize the child and become frightened.
• Avoid hard plastic or wood props such as daggers or swords. Substitute with foam rubber, which is soft and flexible.

Distributed by the Scotia and Glenville Police Departments

In an EMERGENCY dial 9-1-1

For non-emergency complaints call: (518) 630-0911

ATTENTION:
VILLAGE OF SCOTIA RESIDENTS
ANNUAL FLUSHING OF FIRE HYDRANTS

The Village of Scotia will be flushing and flow testing fire hydrants Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. starting on Monday, October 16, 2023. The hydrant flushing and flow testing process should take two weeks with a tentative completion date of Friday, October 27, 2023.

Discolored water may occur during this period, so laundering should be avoided during the flushing hours.

Ryan Kedzior
Superintendent of Public Works
Village of Scotia, NY

Office: 518-393-2159

The Scotia-Glenville Fresh Table is returning to the Scotia Branch of Frist National Bank of Scotia Parking Lot, Wednesday September 20^th from 5:30PM to 7:30PM.

The Scotia-Glenville Fresh Table is an all-volunteer group of neighbors eager to help you. Together, we create a warm and welcoming experience that looks and feels like a farmers’ market. The fresh produce, meats, and dairy at the Fresh Table help supplement what you can get at our neighborhood food pantry.

Neighbors You’re Welcome at the Fresh Table

Fresh Table Pop-Up Community Pantry

Free Fresh Produce, Meat, & Dairy

A Fresh Table is a place where neighbors come and get free, fresh, and healthy food.  The Fresh Table is a new and modern way for neighbors to help neighbors while supplementing existing food support, and mitigating the barriers and stigma associated with traditional food pantries. Tables are welcoming spaces where people gather and share food. If you are running low on healthy food and need extra help until payday, you can get fresh, wholesome food for free at the Scotia-Glenville Fresh Table.

The Scotia-Glenville Fresh Table is an all-volunteer group of neighbors eager to help you. Together, we create a warm and welcoming experience that looks and feels like a farmers’ market. The fresh produce, meats, and dairy at the Fresh Table help supplement what you can get at our neighborhood food pantry.

We welcome our neighbors to Fresh Table the 3rd Wednesday of Each Month
5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at the First National Bank of Scotia Parking Lot

Schedule:

May 17, 2023       Main Branch, 201 Mohawk Ave., Scotia

June 21, 2023      Glenville Branch, 240 Saratoga Rd., Glenville

July 19, 2023       Main Branch, 201 Mohawk Ave., Scotia

August 16, 2023    Glenville Branch, 240 Saratoga Rd., Glenville

September 20, 2023       Main Branch, 201 Mohawk Ave., Scotia

October 18, 2023       Glenville Branch, 240 Saratoga Rd., Glenville

Getting Fresh Produce, Meats, and Dairy is Easy!

Walk Ups Welcome

Complete the confidential annual sign-up on your first visit each year. The information gathered is secure and does not determine eligibility. Fresh Table volunteers and leaders cannot access the information you provide.

No ID Required

Food is available while supplies last.

Become a Volunteer!

At the Fresh Table, we are redefining what it means to be a food pantry. We can’t do it alone. We need dedicated volunteers like you to make the Fresh Table work. Whether you can spare a few hours or a full evening, you will meet new people and make a positive impact in the life of your neighbor.

Fresh Table Volunteer Opportunities

Sign Up to Volunteer Now 

[link to  https://bit.ly/FreshTableVolunteer]

For more information about the Scotia-Glenville Fresh Table, contact Justin and Kim at SGFreshTable@gmail.com.

Please help continue how much our community cares by volunteering.

Thank you,

Mayor David

The following modifications to the Western Gateway Bridge closures will be followed:

For West Bound traffic (traffic from Schenectady Side to Scotia) the Western Gateway Bridge will be now be closed at 6 PM rather than the originally schedule 4 PM

For East bound traffic the bridge closure will remain at 4 PM

Thank you

Dear Residents and Visitors

Scotia Fireworks Update and Information

The fireworks will commence approximately at 9:15PM on June 30th. Prior to the fireworks the US Water Ski Show will start at 7:00PM followed by the Freedom Park concert series featuring Joe Adee & The Lug Nuts starting at 8:00PM.

This is a family friendly event and we hope that those visiting our Parks and fireworks site will be respectful of all those attending.  Our parks are no alcohol, no smoking parks.  We ask that you respect these rules when visiting.  We also ask that because of the large crowds anticipated that you practice a carry in/carry out policy and take any garbage and recyclables with you when you leave.

Remember we are all here to celebrate Independence Day and to pay homage to the greatness of our Country.  We encourage you to enjoy the celebrations and to do so safely and respectfully.  We want you to enjoy our Parks on this day and throughout the year, we take great pride in our parks and hope you do as well.

I would also ask that you understand that you are attending a major event in a village that will triple in size on this day and that precautions have been taken for everyone’s safety and enjoyment.  Safety personnel will be stationed throughout the event site and are there to help.

Because of the large number of people visiting our great village there will be delays in both arriving and exiting.  Expect and plan for delays, there is no way to escape the fact we will have delays.  We have developed a plan to help the arrival process and most importantly the exit process.  There will be officers at every major intersection to help move traffic along as fast as possible.  Remember that there is only so much we can do to move cars through our streets safely and we are doing all that can be done.  We ask for your patience in arriving and especially as you depart for home.

For the safety of the those visiting for the fireworks we will be closing the Western Gateway Bridge (Rt. 5) in both directions* beginning at 4:00 PM.

*UPDATE 6/29/23:
The following modifications to the Western Gateway Bridge closures will be followed:
For West Bound traffic (traffic from Schenectady Side to Scotia) the Western Gateway Bridge will be now be closed at 6 PM rather than the originally schedule 4 PM
For East bound traffic the bridge closure will remain at 4 PM

If you are coming from the East and need to go West or North we recommend you use either Freemans Bridge or Rt. 890 West to exit 1A, this will allow you to avoid the bridge closure and related delays.  (See Map) If you are coming to the Fireworks from the East, we recommend you park at Schenectady Community Parking Lot and walk across the bridge to the Scotia side or enjoy the fireworks from the parking lot. (The bridge will be closed for motorized traffic but open for pedestrians to cross into the village).  If you are arriving to the Village for the fireworks there is limited $10 parking inside Collins Park.  There is also parking on many of the Village streets that are not marked with no parking signs.  The streets where you will more likely find parking are those West of Ballston Ave. (Rt. 50).  Below is a list of the streets that have no parking or one side of street restriction.  I highly encourage you to NOT park in these areas.  You will be ticketed if you do.

Enjoy the Fireworks brought to you by The Village of Scotia and our Premiere Supporter Jumpin’ Jacks.  We wish to thank all of the surrounded municipalities for their incredible help, to Freedom Park Foundation and the US Water Ski Show Team for our entertainment and a special thank you to the Schenectady County Legislature who without their assistance we could not have this wonderful evening of celebration.  A final heartfelt Thank You to the Lansing family for their years of sponsorship and to all the Village Employees who have worked above and beyond to bring to you the 2023 Scotia Fireworks show.

Thank you and please make note of the map and information below to help you navigate to the event.

Event Road Closures

Local traffic only:

Portions of:

• Collins St
• James St
• Church St
• Catherine St
• 1st St
• Sunnyside Rd
• Washington Rd
• Irving Rd
• 5th St
• Washington Ave

Full Closures (closure time pending)

• Schonowee
• Little Mohawk

Scotia Fireworks Village Parking Restrictions

Temporary “No Parking” signs are posted on the following streets and restrictions will be in effect from 5–11 p.m.  Cars parked in these restricted parking areas after 5 will be subject fines.

• Bevis St. (both sides)
• Bruce St. (odd side)
• Catherine St. (odd side – entire length)
• Church St. (both sides)
• Collins St. (both sides – Mohawk Ave. to John St. and odd side – John St. to Church St.)
• First St. (odd side – No. Ballston Ave. to Huston St.)
• Glen Ave. (No Parking Mohawk Ave to So. Ballston and odd side – So. Ten Broeck St. to Pleasantview Ave.)
• Iroquois St. (both sides – entire length)
• Irving Rd. (even side)
• James St. (odd side – Collins St. to Center St.)
• John St. (both sides)
• Knickerbocker Rd. (odd side)
• Lee Ave. (both sides)
• Lincoln St. (odd side)
• Livingston Ave. (both sides)
• Ten Broeck St. (both sides – Mohawk Ave. to John St. and odd side – John St. to Vley Rd.)
• Riverside Ave. (odd side – Sanders Ave. to So. Ten Broeck St.)
• Sanders Ave. (odd side – So. Ballston Ave. to So. Ten Broeck St.)
• Schonowee Ave. (house side – Kiwanis Way to Washington Ave. and river side – from Washington Ave. west to permanent signs)
• Short Mohawk Ave. (both sides)
• Ten Broeck St. (east side – Glen Ave. to Riverside Ave.)
• Sunnyside Rd. (even side – No. Ballston to Washington and both sides – Washington to Village line)
• Van Winkle Ave. (odd side)
• Vley Rd. (odd side – No. Ballston Ave. to Fifth St.)
• Wallace St. (odd side)
• Washington Ave. (both sides – Schonowee to Sunnyside and north side – Sunnyside to Washington Rd.)
• Washington Rd. (even side)