📆 BETHELEHEM AREA EVENTS

🌡️BETHELEHEM AREA WEATHER

🛑💰 ALBANY COMMUTER TAX STOPPED! MAYOR VETOES PROPOSAL TO TAX WORKERS LIVING OUTSIDE THE CITY! 🚗🏛️

🏫♿🏗️ BIG CHANGES COMING TO SLINGERLANDS! FORMER SHOPRITE TO BECOME A SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES! 🎓❤️

Introducing the Bethlehem Area Live Community Calendar

October 31st Saturday

More Events at: https://BethlehemAreaLive.com

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🛑💰 ALBANY COMMUTER TAX STOPPED! MAYOR VETOES PROPOSAL TO TAX WORKERS LIVING OUTSIDE THE CITY! 🚗🏛️

📍 GOOD NEWS FOR BETHLEHEM, RCS, VOORHEESVILLE & CAPITAL REGION COMMUTERS!

Albany Mayor Dr. Dorcey Applyrs announced Friday that she has vetoed a controversial commuter tax resolution that could have affected thousands of people who work in Albany but live outside city limits.

The proposal had sparked significant opposition from suburban residents and elected officials across the Capital Region.

💵 WHAT WAS THE PROPOSED TAX?

On October 19, the Albany Common Council approved a resolution seeking state authorization for a 0.3% payroll tax on nonresidents working in Albany.

Supporters estimated the tax would cost affected workers approximately $3–$5 per paycheck.

The proposal was intended to help address Albany's approximately $35 million budget deficit and the costs of municipal services used by commuters.

🚫 WHY DID THE MAYOR VETO IT?

Mayor Applyrs acknowledged that commuters contribute to Albany's economy and that the city must remain welcoming to workers and visitors.

She also emphasized that Albany faces serious financial challenges, including the costs of maintaining roads, public safety, and other services in a city with substantial tax-exempt property.

The mayor indicated that addressing the budget shortfall will require a combination of spending reductions and sustainable revenue sources rather than relying on a single tax.

🏛️ THE PROPOSAL ALSO FACED STATE OPPOSITION

State Senator Pat Fahy publicly opposed the commuter tax, while Governor Kathy Hochul previously indicated she would not support the proposal.

The resolution would have required state legislative approval before any commuter tax could become law.

📊 WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Albany still faces significant budget challenges.

The mayor's proposed $257.5 million 2027 budget includes:

🔹 $9.1 million in proposed personnel and operating reductions.

🔹 A potential 0.5% city-only sales tax.

🔹 A proposed 15% increase in the property tax levy.

For now, the commuter tax resolution has been vetoed, and no new commuter payroll tax has taken effect.

💬 BETHLEHEM LOCAL NEWS WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU!

🚗 Do you live in Bethlehem, RCS, Voorheesville, or another surrounding community and commute to Albany for work?

🤔 Was vetoing the commuter tax the right decision, or should Albany explore other ways for commuters to contribute toward city services?

👇 SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS IN THE COMMENTS!

📰 Source: NEWS10 ABC

#BethlehemLocalNews #AlbanyNY #CommuterTax #BethlehemNY #DelmarNY #GlenmontNY #SlingerlandsNY #RCS #Voorheesville #CapitalRegion #LocalGovernment #AlbanyCounty #CommunityNews

🏫♿🏗️ BIG CHANGES COMING TO SLINGERLANDS! FORMER SHOPRITE TO BECOME A SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES! 🎓❤️

📍 SLINGERLANDS, NY — A VACANT GROCERY STORE IS GETTING A NEW PURPOSE!

After sitting empty since 2023, the former ShopRite supermarket at 41 Vista Boulevard in Slingerlands is slated for a major transformation — becoming a new educational facility serving children with disabilities throughout the Capital Region.

💰 $6.5 MILLION IN STATE FUNDING SECURED!

Governor Kathy Hochul's administration announced $6.5 million in state funding to support the acquisition and renovation of the former supermarket.

The building will become the new, larger home of the Langan School, operated by the nonprofit Center for Disability Services.

🏫 WHAT'S PLANNED FOR THE PROPERTY?

✅ Location: 41 Vista Boulevard, Slingerlands, Town of Bethlehem

✅ State Investment: $6.5 million for acquisition and renovations

✅ Student Capacity: Educational space designed to serve 50 children with disabilities

✅ Operator: Center for Disability Services

✅ Expected Opening: Approximately two years away

✅ Current Status: Former ShopRite location, vacant since 2023

❤️ EXPANDING SPECIAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

The Langan School currently operates on South Manning Boulevard in Albany, providing specialized educational services to students from 58 school districts throughout the Capital Region.

The Center for Disability Services reports significant demand for its programs, including an extensive waiting list.

The proposed Slingerlands facility would provide additional space designed around the educational and accessibility needs of students.

⚠️ BUT CHALLENGES REMAIN

While the expansion represents a significant investment, the Langan School has faced ongoing difficulties recruiting and retaining certified special education teachers.

The staffing concerns have previously resulted in complaints from parents and findings by the New York State Education Department regarding required instruction for students with disabilities.

Center leadership says recruiting qualified special education teachers remains a priority as planning moves forward.

🏘️ WHAT ABOUT THE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM TAX ROLLS?

One important local consideration is the property's future tax status.

Because the Center for Disability Services is a nonprofit organization, the former commercial property could become eligible for a property tax exemption, potentially reducing property tax revenue for the Town of Bethlehem and other taxing jurisdictions.

However, the property's actual tax treatment and financial impact will depend on its ownership, qualifying use, and applicable exemption determinations.

🏗️ WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

According to the reported transaction arrangements, Price Chopper, which holds a lease on the former ShopRite property through 2032, is expected to negotiate a lease buyout, allowing the property owner to sell the building to the Center for Disability Services.

The purchase price and buyout amount have not been publicly disclosed.

The project will then require renovations to convert the former supermarket into a specialized educational facility.

💬 BETHLEHEM — WHAT DO YOU THINK?

The former ShopRite has been vacant for three years, and this proposal could bring a new purpose to the property while expanding educational opportunities for children with disabilities.

👇 WE'D LOVE TO HEAR YOUR THOUGHTS!

🏫 Are you pleased to see the vacant building being repurposed?

❤️ Do you think this is a good location for a specialized school?

🏘️ How important is the potential property tax impact to you?

LET'S KEEP THE CONVERSATION RESPECTFUL AND COMMUNITY-FOCUSED!

📰 Sources: Times Union | Governor's Office announcement and the Capital District Business Review

#BethlehemLocalNews #SlingerlandsNY #BethlehemNY #DelmarNY #ShopRite #LanganSchool #CenterForDisabilityServices #SpecialEducation #CommunityDevelopment #CapitalRegionNY #LocalNews #EducationMatters

🎃 BEFORE YOU HEAD TO BED TONIGHT — DON'T FORGET TO TURN BACK YOUR CLOCKS!

That's right, Bethlehem, RCS, Voorheesville, and our neighboring communities — it's time to FALL BACK! 🍁

⏰ Daylight Saving Time officially ends Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 2:00 AM, when clocks turn BACK one hour to 1:00 AM.

😴 THE GOOD NEWS? WE GET AN EXTRA HOUR OF SLEEP! 🎉

🚒 BUT HERE'S AN IMPORTANT REMINDER FROM OUR FIREFIGHTERS!

When you change your clocks, take a few minutes to check your home's smoke and carbon monoxide detectors!

✅ Test your smoke alarms to make sure they're working.

🔋 Replace batteries when needed. If your alarm uses replaceable batteries, check them now!

🏠 Check the age of your smoke detectors. Smoke alarms should generally be replaced every 10 years.

🚨 Make sure your family has working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms where needed.

❤️ A FEW MINUTES OF PREVENTION COULD SAVE A LIFE!

📱 Most smartphones change automatically, but don't forget those clocks on your stove, microwave, and in your car!

👇 NOW FOR THE FUN QUESTION! 😂

⏰ WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITH YOUR EXTRA HOUR TONIGHT?

😴 A. SLEEPING IN!

☕ B. ENJOYING AN EXTRA CUP OF COFFEE!

📺 C. STAYING UP LATER!

😂 D. WHAT EXTRA HOUR? THE KIDS AND PETS DON'T CHANGE THEIR CLOCKS!

DROP YOUR ANSWER IN THE COMMENTS! 👇

🍁 HAPPY FALL BACK, EVERYONE! STAY SAFE, STAY COZY & ENJOY THAT EXTRA HOUR! ❤️

#BethlehemLocalNews #FallBack #DaylightSavingTime #TimeChange #ExtraHourOfSleep #FireSafety #SmokeDetectorSafety #BethlehemNY #DelmarNY #GlenmontNY #SlingerlandsNY #RCS #VoorheesvilleNY #CommunitySafety

📍 BETHLEHEM • RCS • VOORHEESVILLE & SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES

🎃 HALLOWEEN WEEKEND IS HERE, AND OUR COMMUNITIES ARE READY FOR SOME FUN!

From trick-or-treating and pet costume parades to farmers markets, patio parties, and Sunday afternoon bingo, there's plenty happening close to home!

We've rounded up 6 COMMUNITY EVENTS from the BethlehemAreaLive.com Community Events Calendar to help you plan your Halloween weekend!

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🎃🍂 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31 — HALLOWEEN FUN ALL DAY!

🥕🍎 1️⃣ SATURDAY DELMAR FARMERS MARKET!

🕘 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

📍 Bethlehem Middle School, Kenwood Avenue, Delmar

Start your Halloween morning by shopping local!

Browse fresh produce, seasonal favorites, baked goods, and offerings from local farmers and vendors.

🛍️ A wonderful way to support local businesses while enjoying a fall morning in Bethlehem!

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🎃🍬 2️⃣ TRAILS & TREATS AT THE BETHLEHEM YMCA!

🕚 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

📍 Bethlehem YMCA, Delaware Avenue, Delmar

👻 Bring the kids in their Halloween costumes for an afternoon of family-friendly fun!

Enjoy:

🍬 Trick-or-treating along the trails

🔥 A cozy bonfire

🎃 Fall festivities

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Activities for the whole family!

🎟️ FREE FOR ALL!

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👻🍻 3️⃣ HALLOWEEN ON HALLWOOD AT TAP20!

🕛 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM

📍 Tap20, Hallwood Road, Delmar

Halloween fun is coming to one of Delmar's newest community gathering spots!

🎃 Stop by Tap20 for an afternoon of Halloween festivities, family fun, and neighborhood spirit!

A great opportunity to check out this new local establishment while celebrating the holiday!

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🐶🎃 4️⃣ HOWL-O-WEEN SPOOKTACULAR AT INDIAN LADDER FARMS!

🕛 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

📍 Indian Ladder Farms, Altamont Road, Altamont

🐾 CALLING ALL DOG LOVERS!

Indian Ladder Farms is teaming up with Petey's Legacy and other animal rescue organizations for a Halloween celebration featuring pets, costumes, live entertainment, and local vendors!

🐕 Spooky Pet Parade & Costume Contest

🕛 Registration begins at noon

🕒 Pet Parade starts at 3:00 PM

🏆 Prizes for the spookiest, funniest, cutest, best group, best handmade costume, and Best in Show!

🎶 Live music by Our Other Brother at noon and 2 PM!

🍕 Specialty dog-bone-shaped wood-fired pizza from DeFazio's!

🐶 Scooby Snack dog cocktails!

❤️ Meet local animal rescue organizations and support their lifesaving work!

🎟️ FREE ADMISSION!

🐾 Suggested $5 donation to a participating rescue organization to enter the pet costume contest.

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🍕🎶 5️⃣ PATIO PARTY AT ANTHONY'S BY ROMO'S PIZZA!

🕕 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

📍 Anthony's by Romo's Pizza, Maple Avenue, Voorheesville

Looking for a fun way to spend Halloween evening?

🍕 Head to Voorheesville for a Patio Party at Anthony's by Romo's Pizza!

Get together with friends, enjoy the evening, and support a great local business!

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🍁🍻 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1 — THE FUN CONTINUES!

🎱🍺 6️⃣ SUNDAY AFTERNOON BINGO AT RAIL TO RIVER BREWING!

🕑 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

📍 Rail To River Brewing, Main Street, Ravena

Looking for a little Sunday afternoon entertainment?

🎉 Head to Rail To River Brewing for BINGO!

Bring your friends, enjoy the welcoming atmosphere, and have some fun before another busy week begins!

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📅 YOUR COMMUNITY. YOUR WEEKEND. YOUR PLAYBOOK!

Whether you're spending Halloween with the kids, dressing up your four-legged friends, shopping local, or enjoying an afternoon out, there's something happening throughout Bethlehem, RCS, Voorheesville, and our neighboring communities!

🔎 LOOKING FOR MORE LOCAL EVENTS?

Visit the BethlehemAreaLive.com Community Events Calendar for more things to do around town!

🌐 www.BethlehemAreaLive.com

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💬🎃 NOW IT'S YOUR TURN!

❤️ WHAT DO YOU LIKE?
Which of these six events sounds like the most fun?

📅 WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS?
Are you taking the kids trick-or-treating, dressing up your dog, heading out with friends, or enjoying a quiet fall weekend?

🔎 WHAT ARE WE MISSING?
Know about another local Halloween celebration, community fundraiser, concert, or family activity happening this weekend?

👇 TELL US IN THE COMMENTS!

📲 SHARE THE WEEKEND PLAYBOOK with your family, friends, and neighbors! Let's help everyone discover the great things happening right here in our communities!

🎃🍁🐾 HAPPY HALLOWEEN WEEKEND FROM BETHLEHEM LOCAL NEWS! 👻🧡

#BethlehemLocalNews #TheWeekendPlaybook #BethlehemAreaLive #HalloweenWeekend #Halloween2026 #WeekendFun #BethlehemNY #DelmarNY #GlenmontNY #VoorheesvilleNY #RavenaNY #RCS #NewScotlandNY #DelmarFarmersMarket #BethlehemYMCA #Tap20 #IndianLadderFarms #HowlOWeen #AnthonysByRomos #RailToRiverBrewing #ShopLocal #SupportLocal #CommunityEvents #ThingsToDo

Today's Puzzle:

2 + 5 × 8 ÷ 4 = ?

✅ STEP 1: Remember PEMDAS!

Multiplication and division come before addition.

When multiplication and division appear together, work from left to right.

STEP 2: Multiply first. ✖️

5 × 8 = 40

Now our problem becomes:

2 + 40 ÷ 4

STEP 3: Divide. ➗

40 ÷ 4 = 10

Now we have:

2 + 10

STEP 4: Add! ➕

2 + 10 = 12

🎯🏆 THE CORRECT ANSWER IS 12!

💡 REMEMBER: Multiplication and division have equal priority, so always solve them from left to right!

👏 DID YOU GET 12?

👇 Let us know in the comments!

📬 Enjoy our daily Morning Math Puzzlers and more in the FREE Bethlehem Local News Insider newsletter!

#SaturdayMorningMathPuzzler #BethlehemLocalNews #MathChallenge #BrainTeaser #PEMDAS #KeepLearning

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