National-Salute_Logo-COLORThe week of February 14th each year is your opportunity to say thank you to a special group of men and women, more than 98,000 Veterans of the U.S. armed services who are cared for every day in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers, outpatient clinics, domiciliaries, and nursing homes. The 2015 National Salute program is scheduled for the week of February 8th – 14th.

During the National Salute, the VA invites individuals, Veterans groups, military personnel, civic organizations, businesses, schools, local media, celebrities, and sports stars to participate in a variety of activities at the VA medical centers. The activities and events include special ward visits and valentine distributions; photo opportunities; school essay contests; special recreation activities and Veteran recognition programs. Plan a visit with local Veterans at the Stratton VA Medical Center, 113 Holland Avenue (135), Albany, NY 12208-3410 from February 8th thru the 14th.

The purpose of the National Salute to Veteran Patients Program is to:

  • Pay tribute and express appreciation to Veterans.
  • Increase community awareness of the role of the VA Medical Center.
  • Encourage citizens to visit hospitalized Veterans and to become involved as volunteers.

Last year the Stratton VA Medical Center hospital was filled the entire week with military personnel visiting in their uniforms and members of the public. Nothing lifts the spirits of our Veterans more than having members of the Armed Forces and others visit and spend time with them.

For more information please contact James J. Keller Jr., Voluntary Services Officer, Stratton VA Medical Center at 518-626-5506 or by E-mail.

employment-header

Employment Opportunities at State University of New York (SUNY) System Administration

SUNY System Administration has the following positions available:

  • Administrative Staff Assistant
  • Admissions Recruitment Advisor
  • Part-time Event Coordinator
  • Director of Human Resources

Other positions are also available. View other SUNY employment opportunities and apply here.

City Of Schenectady Seasonal Employment Opportunities

Six (6) openings for seasonal Golf Cashier positions in the Park’s Department. The hourly rate is $9 to $11 depending on experience.

Five (5) openings for seasonal Golf Ranger positions in the Park’s Department. The hourly rate is $9.

Five (5) openings for seasonal Golf Starter positions in the Park’s Department. The hourly rate is $9.

One (1) opening for a seasonal Assistant Golf Professional in the Park’s Department. The hourly rate is $12.50. Applicants also must be registered in the PGA apprentice program.

Applicants must be residents of the City of Schenectady and remain residents throughout employment. All interested parties should submit completed City of Schenectady Applications or resumes to: Tiffany White, Jr. Personnel & Benefits Administrator, City Hall, Room 105, Schenectady NY 12305. Resumes can also be E-mailed.

Completed applications/resumes need to be received in the Personnel & Benefits Administrator’s Office (City Hall, Room 105) by 5:00 PM on February 11, 2015. Applications not received in the proper office by the specified time limit will not be considered.

Educational Opportunity Center – Mini Job Fair

The Capital District Educational Opportunity Center, College & Career Services Center (2nd floor), 431 River Street, Troy, NY will hold a Mini Job Fair on Tuesday, February 10th from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.. The event is open to all students and the general public.

Representatives from Snelling and Home Helpers will be at the EOC providing on-the-spot interviews and information for jobs in the following categories:

Snelling Jobs: Administrative, Trades (Electrical and Mechanical), Manufacturing, Assembly, and Fabrication, Warehouse and Logistics, Shipping and Receiving, Light Industrial, Quality Control, Printing, and IT Help Desk.

Home Helpers Jobs: Home Health Aides for: Senior Care, Recuperative Care, Continuing Care, New Moms.

The Southern Saratoga (KidzLodge) – Custodian

Under the direction of the Property Director, the custodian is responsible for cleaning the facility according to the standards of the CDYMCA.

Job Requirements: HS diploma/GED required. One year prior experience in custodial work preferred. Experience Preferred with janitorial equipment. Must have reliable transportation. Excellent human relation skills, good organizational and communication skills.

Principal Responsibilities: Follow and complete daily housekeeping work schedule in all assigned areas. Clean and sanitize assigned areas, according to established procedures and standards. Assist with building repairs as requested.
Assist in snow removal or lawn grooming when necessary. Assist in set up and cleanup of rooms for special events. Maintain cleanliness of facility as a member of Clean Team. Other duties, as directed.

Scheduled Shift: Part time, 6:30 pm-12 am, Mon, Tues, Thurs- Sat (Approx. 25 hours weekly)
Hourly Rate: $8.75 – 9.25 per hour
Deadline: 2/13/2015

Please forward resumes or applications to: Guy Beattie, Property Director, Southern Saratoga YMCA, 1 Wall Street, Clifton Park, NY 12065 or by E-mail.

The Southern Saratoga YMCA – Aquatics Coordinator

Under the general direction of the Aquatics Director, the Aquatics Coordinator is responsible for planning, implementing, supervising and evaluating programs and staff within the Aquatics Department. The Aquatics Coordinator acts as department head in the absence of the Director.

Job Requirements: HS/GED with some college preferred. Experience preferred, will be working with swimmers, various ages and abilities. Minimum of two years’ experience as a swim instructor and lifeguard. Minimum one year in a supervisory role. Current certifications in CPR. AED, First Aid and Lifeguarding required. Excellent human relation skills, good organizational and communication skills.

Principal Responsibilities: Maintain reliable and organized records for daily pool usage, daily chemical reading logs and ensures meeting of all other DOH requirements. Supervision and scheduling of assigned staff. Provide orientation and training to newly hired staff. Provide program assistance to all members, and staff, including assistance with staff trainings. Assist the Aquatics Director with planning, development, implementation and assessment of any and all aquatics programs. Maintain cleanliness of facility as a member of Clean Team. All other duties, as directed.

Salary Range: $12.00 – $12.50
Work Schedule: Full time, Tuesday-Saturday 40hrs/wk., 10am-6pm
Deadline: 2/13/2015

Please send all applications and resumes to: Molly Moran, Aquatics Director, Capital District YMCA, Southern Saratoga YMCA, 1 Wall Street, Clifton Park, NY 12065 or by E-mail.

The East Greenbush Branch of the Capital District YMCA – Swim Instructor

Under the direction of the Aquatics Director, the swim instructor leads classes at the YMCA in accordance with the policies and guidelines of the association. Instructors ensure safety at all costs and maintain an effective, quality program.

Job Requirements: Minimum of 16 years of age. Current CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications (YMCA or Red Cross). Be able to pass the CDYMCA swim test, as administered by the Aquatic Director.

Principal Responsibilities: Ensure pool area and plans are ready prior to the start time of the class. Greet all class participants and/or family members in a courteous and friendly manner. Follow all YMCA instruction standards. Maintain accurate attendance records for each class. Maintain accurate class skills performance records in the appropriate areas. Complete class certificates at the end of each session and distribute with program evaluations. At all times, maintain physical presence with class. At all times, remain aware of pool surroundings and people in it. Put equipment away at the completion of each class. Maintain cleanliness of facility as a member of Clean Team. All other duties, as assigned.

Available Shifts: Part Time; approx. 15-20 hrs. Per week (day, evening and weekend hrs.)
Deadline: 3/15/2015
Pay Range: $8.75

Please send all applications and resumes to: Jennifer Kendrick, Regional Aquatics Director, Capital District YMCA – East Greenbush Branch, 20 Community Way, East Greenbush, NY 12061 or by E-mail.

The Schenectady YMCA’s Thelma P. Lally Center – Assistant Teacher

Under the general direction of the Daycare Director, the teacher assistant is responsible for assisting with the planning and implementation of a developmentally appropriate childcare program.

Job Requirements: AAS in Child Development, Elementary Ed, Physical Ed, Recreation or related field OR HS Degree/GED and two years direct experience with children under age 13, OR Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential. Knowledge of and commitment to the mission of the YMCA and its capacity to build strong kids, families and communities. The ability to articulate and model YMCA’s four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibilities are essential.

Principal Responsibilities: To assist with planning, implementing and supervising a developmentally and academically appropriate curriculum for the assigned program. Maintain daily schedules of activities, etc. Maintain an organized, clean and safe learning and recreational environment for all program areas. Develop and consistently maintain appropriate and professional communication with parents. Train children and parents on emergency procedures in compliance with OCFS regulations. Maintain inventory of equipment and supplies. Ensure all applicable OCFS regulations are followed, including but not limited to ratios, child abuse reporting and emergency procedures. Maintain all required records and logs. Maintain cleanliness of facility as a member of Clean Team. All other duties, as requested.

Scheduled Shifts: Full Time
Pay Range: $9.00-10.00
Deadline: 2/13/2015

Please send all applications and resumes to: Beth Doris, Daycare Director, Capital District YMCA – Thelma P. Lally Early Learning Center, 204 So. Ten Broeck Street, Scotia, NY. 12302 or by E-mail.

The Guilderland YMCA – Wellness Coach and Personal Trainer

Under the general direction of the Wellness Director, the Wellness Coach/Personal Trainer provides excellent customer service through guiding, supporting and motivating new and current members through the Health and Wellness programs of the CDYMCA, as well as maintaining a positive and clean environment.

Job Requirements: BA/BS in Physical Ed, Recreation, and Sports Mgt, Health Ed or a related field or equivalent experience preferred. Previous experience (minimum one year) in the health and wellness field. Current Personal Trainer certification. Current CPR, First Aid and AED certifications. Excellent human relation skills and communication skills.

Principal Responsibilities: Conduct fitness orientations, personal training, fitness evaluations, and personal fitness program appointments in accordance with CDYMCA guidelines and standards with individual members. Assist members through conducting health questionnaire screening. Assist members in the fitness center with proper equipment usage and exercise technique. Customize fitness regimens for the specific member based on an analysis of their specific needs and health and body requirements. Clean and maintain fitness center equipment on a regular basis. All other duties, as assigned.

Scheduled Shifts: Part Time; M-4pm-10pm, Thursday 5am-10am, and Sat/Sun 1-7pm
Pay Range: $9.00 (Wellness Coach) $13.00 – $16.00 (Personal Trainer)
Deadline: 3/1/2015

Please send all resumes and applications to: Casey Garvey, Wellness Director, Capital District YMCA – Guilderland YMCA, 250 Winding Brook Drive, Guilderland, NY 12084 or by E-mail.

The Greenbush YMCA – Wellness Coach and Personal Trainer

Under the general direction of the Wellness Director, the Wellness Coach/Personal Trainer provides excellent customer service through guiding, supporting and motivating new and current members through the Health and Wellness programs of the CDYMCA, as well as maintaining a positive and clean environment.

Job Requirements: BA/BS in Physical Ed, Recreation, and Sports Mgt, Health Ed or a related field or equivalent experience preferred. Previous experience (minimum one year) in the health and wellness field. Current Personal Trainer certification. Current CPR, First Aid and AED certifications. Excellent human relation skills and communication skills.

Principal Responsibilities: Conduct fitness orientations, personal training, fitness evaluations, and personal fitness program appointments in accordance with CDYMCA guidelines and standards with individual members. Assist members through conducting health questionnaire screening. Assist members in the fitness center with proper equipment usage and exercise technique. Customize fitness regimens for the specific member based on an analysis of their specific needs and health and body requirements. Clean and maintain fitness center equipment on a regular basis. All other duties, as assigned.

Scheduled Shifts: Part Time, 1st and 2nd shifts, approx. up to 20 hrs. weekly
Deadline: Open

Please send all applications and resumes to: Allison Reinhardt, Wellness Director, Capital District YMCA – Greenbush Area YMCA, 20 Community Way, East Greenbush, NY 12061 or by E-mail.

20986_Bible_Story_Illustrations

Thankfully, God is
forgetful.

“Yet you did not call upon me, O Jacob; but you have been weary of me, O Israel! But you have burdened me with your sins, you have wearied me with your iniquities. I, I am He who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins.”

In today’s reading from Isaiah we hear God complaining a bit. After all of the history between Him and His people, they still forgot to call upon Him in their need. In fact they had forgotten all He had done. In forgetting, they turned away from Him and decided to rely on themselves. They basically said – I can figure it out for myself, I can save myself. Every time God blessed them with good things, they returned evil things:

God gave them the Temple – they gave Him idol worship. God gave them truth – they lived and proclaimed a lie. God gave them His commands – they lived like they were suggestions. God gave them wealth – they used it to abuse the poor. God gave them Himself – they gave Him nothing except rejection.

We can see ourselves doing similar things can’t we? We sometimes forget all the good God has done for us.
Like the children of Israel we might hear God complaining a bit about us. At the same time we may be filled with regret for having hurt Him, thinking that we really do not deserve to receive anything from God. Not true!

As God still loved Israel, God still loves us. As God desired to help Israel, He earnestly wants to help us change. Listen to God’s words: “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”

God desires to do amazing and wonderful things for us. Things we ourselves could never imagine doing. Our God is not a god of condemnation; He is the God of salvation.

God continues to hold out the hand of hope – even today. If we have forgotten Him, we can come back. If we have fallen into bad habits, addiction, anger, any failing whatsoever, we can come back.

The greatest hope of all is that once we come back God has pledged to forget it all. God will not look back. I am He who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins.

To blot out means that our past wrongs have been wiped out, destroyed, and are forgotten. God will not meet us with a book filled with our sins, because there is no such book. By His power and abundant mercy He gives us new life, rebirth, and a clean slate. Let us approach the coming season of repentance knowing that in our return to Him we are made new once again.

employment-header

City of Schenectady – 4 Seasonal Labor Positions

There are four (4) openings for seasonal Labor Loader’s in the Waste Department. The hourly rate is $10. See attached for job description and minimum qualifications. Applicants must be residents of the City of Schenectady and remain residents throughout employment.

All interested parties should submit a completed City of Schenectady Applications or resumes to: Tiffany White, Jr. Personnel & Benefits Administrator, City Hall, Room 105, Schenectady NY 12305 or by E-mail.

Completed applications/resumes need to be received in the Personnel & Benefits Administrator’s Office (City Hall, Room 105) by 5:00 PM on February 6, 2015. Applications not received in the proper office by the specified time limit will not be considered.

Job openings at the College of Saint Rose

Descriptions for these jobs are found at the St. Rose employment website.

Administrative & Staff

  • Assistant Registrar
  • Registrar
  • Dean of the Lally School of Education
  • Dean of the Huether School of Business

Faculty

  • Assistant Professor of English
  • Assistant/Associate Prof-Communication Sciences & Disorders
  • Assistant Professor of Business (Management)
  • Assistant/Associate Professor of Business (Entrepreneurship)
  • Assistant Professor of Communications (Production)
  • Assistant Professor of Accounting

New York State Department of Civil Service Exam Announcements

When filing your online application, be aware there is no technical assistance on weekends, or after 5 PM on weekdays.

25-872, Assistant Building Electrical Engineer

25-868, Assistant Heating and Ventilating Engineer

25-954, Assistant Land Surveyor 2

25-955, Assistant Land Surveyor 3

25-870, Assistant Mechanical Construction Engineer

25-965, Engineering Personnel Examiner 1

25-958, Highway Safety Program Representative

25-956, Land Surveyor and 25-957, Senior Land Surveyor

25-877, Medicaid Eligibility Examiner 1 and 25-878, Medicaid Eligibility Examiner 1 (Spanish Language)

80-194, Medicaid Eligibility Examiner 2

80-195, Medicaid Eligibility Examiner 3

80-196, Medicaid Eligibility Examiner 4

25-833, School Food Programs Specialist 1

25-873, Senior Building Electrical Engineer

25-869, Senior Heating and Ventilating Engineer

25-871, Senior Mechanical Construction Engineer

25-962, Treatment Team Leader (Rehabilitation)

25-866, Veterans Education Program Representative 2

25-867, Veterans Education Program Representative 3

The Southern Saratoga (KidzLodge) of the Capital District YMCA – Custodian

Under the direction of the Property Director, the custodian is responsible for cleaning the facility according to the standards of the CDYMCA.

Job Requirements: HS diploma/GED required. One year prior experience in custodial work preferred. Experience Preferred with janitorial equipment. Must have reliable transportation. Excellent human relation skills, good organizational and communication skills.

Principal Responsibilities: Follow and complete daily housekeeping work schedule in all assigned areas. Clean and sanitize assigned areas, according to established procedures and standards. Assist with building repairs as requested. Assist in snow removal or lawn grooming when necessary. Assist in set up and cleanup of rooms for special events. Maintain cleanliness of facility as a member of Clean Team. Other duties, as directed.

Scheduled Shift: Part time, 6:30 pm-12 am, Mon, Tues, Thurs- Sat (Approx. 25 hours weekly)
Hourly Rate: $8.75 – 9.25 per hour
Deadline: 2/13/2015

Please forward resumes or applications to: Guy Beattie, Property Director, Southern Saratoga YMCA, 1 Wall Street, Clifton Park, NY 12065 or by E-mail.

The Southern Saratoga YMCA – Aquatics Coordinator

Under the general direction of the Aquatics Director, the Aquatics Coordinator is responsible for planning, implementing, supervising and evaluating programs and staff within the Aquatics Department. The Aquatics Coordinator acts as department head in the absence of the Director.

Job Requirements: HS/GED with some college preferred. Experience preferred, will be working with swimmers, various ages and abilities. Minimum of two years’ experience as a swim instructor and lifeguard. Minimum one year in a supervisory role. Current certifications in CPR. AED, First Aid and Lifeguarding required. Excellent human relation skills, good organizational and communication skills.

Principal Responsibilities: Maintain reliable and organized records for daily pool usage, daily chemical reading logs and ensures meeting of all other DOH requirements. Supervision and scheduling of assigned staff. Provide orientation and training to newly hired staff. Provide program assistance to all members, and staff, including assistance with staff trainings. Assist the Aquatics Director with planning, development, implementation and assessment of any and all aquatics programs. Maintain cleanliness of facility as a member of Clean Team. All other duties, as directed.

Salary Range: $12.00 – $12.50
Work Schedule: Full time, Tuesday-Saturday 40hrs/wk., 10am-6pm
Deadline: 2/13/2015

Please send all applications and resumes to: Molly Moran, Aquatics Director, Capital District YMCA, Southern Saratoga YMCA, 1 Wall Street, Clifton Park, NY 12065 or by E-mail.

The East Greenbush Branch of the Capital District YMCA – Swim Instructor

Under the direction of the Aquatics Director, the swim instructor leads classes at the YMCA in accordance with the policies and guidelines of the association. Instructors ensure safety at all costs and maintain an effective, quality program.

Job Requirements: Minimum of 16 years of age. Current CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications (YMCA or Red Cross). Be able to pass the CDYMCA swim test, as administered by the Aquatic Director.

Principal Responsibilities: Ensure pool area and plans are ready prior to the start time of the class. Greet all class participants and/or family members in a courteous and friendly manner. Follow all YMCA instruction standards. Maintain accurate attendance records for each class. Maintain accurate class skills performance records in the appropriate areas. Complete class certificates at the end of each session and distribute with program evaluations. At all times, maintain physical presence with class. At all times, remain aware of pool surroundings and people in it. Put equipment away at the completion of each class. Maintain cleanliness of facility as a member of Clean Team. All other duties, as assigned.

Available Shifts: Part Time; approx. 15-20 hrs. Per week (day, evening and weekend hrs.)
Deadline: 3/15/2015
Pay Range: $8.75

Please send all applications and resumes to: Jennifer Kendrick, Regional Aquatics Director, Capital District YMCA – East Greenbush Branch, 20 Community Way, East Greenbush, NY 12061 or by E-mail.

The Schenectady YMCA’s Thelma P. Lally Center – Assistant Teacher

Under the general direction of the Daycare Director, the teacher assistant is responsible for assisting with the planning and implementation of a developmentally appropriate childcare program.

Job Requirements: AAS in Child Development, Elementary Ed, Physical Ed, Recreation or related field OR HS Degree/GED and two years direct experience with children under age 13, OR Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential. Knowledge of and commitment to the mission of the YMCA and its capacity to build strong kids, families and communities. The ability to articulate and model YMCA’s four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibilities are essential.

Principal Responsibilities: To assist with planning, implementing and supervising a developmentally and academically appropriate curriculum for the assigned program. Maintain daily schedules of activities, etc. Maintain an organized, clean and safe learning and recreational environment for all program areas. Develop and consistently maintain appropriate and professional communication with parents. Train children and parents on emergency procedures in compliance with OCFS regulations. Maintain inventory of equipment and supplies. Ensure all applicable OCFS regulations are followed, including but not limited to ratios, child abuse reporting and emergency procedures. Maintain all required records and logs. Maintain cleanliness of facility as a member of Clean Team. All other duties, as requested.

Scheduled Shifts: Full Time
Pay Range: $9.00-10.00
Deadline: 2/13/2015

Please send all applications and resumes to: Beth Doris Daycare Director, Capital District YMCA – Thelma P. Lally Early Learning Center, 204 So. Ten Broeck Street, Scotia, NY. 12302 or by E-mail.

The Guilderland YMCA – Wellness Coach and Personal Trainer

Under the general direction of the Wellness Director, the Wellness Coach/Personal Trainer provides excellent customer service through guiding, supporting and motivating new and current members through the Health and Wellness programs of the CDYMCA, as well as maintaining a positive and clean environment.

Job Requirements: BA/BS in Physical Ed, Recreation, and Sports Mgt, Health Ed or a related field or equivalent experience preferred. Previous experience (minimum one year) in the health and wellness field. Current Personal Trainer certification. Current CPR, First Aid and AED certifications. Excellent human relation skills and communication skills.

Principal Responsibilities: Conduct fitness orientations, personal training, fitness evaluations, and personal fitness program appointments in accordance with CDYMCA guidelines and standards with individual members. Assist members through conducting health questionnaire screening. Assist members in the fitness center with proper equipment usage and exercise technique. Customize fitness regimens for the specific member based on an analysis of their specific needs and health and body requirements. Clean and maintain fitness center equipment on a regular basis. All other duties, as assigned.

Scheduled Shifts: Part Time; M-4pm-10pm, Thursday 5am-10am, and Sat/Sun 1-7pm
Pay Range: $9.00 (Wellness Coach) $13.00 – $16.00 (Personal Trainer)
Deadline: 3/1/2015

Please send all resumes and applications to: Casey Garvey, Wellness Director, Capital District YMCA – Guilderland YMCA, 250 Winding Brook Drive, Guilderland, NY 12084 or by E-mail.

The Greenbush YMCA – Wellness Coach and Personal Trainer

Under the general direction of the Wellness Director, the Wellness Coach/Personal Trainer provides excellent customer service through guiding, supporting and motivating new and current members through the Health and Wellness programs of the CDYMCA, as well as maintaining a positive and clean environment.

Job Requirements: BA/BS in Physical Ed, Recreation, and Sports Mgt, Health Ed or a related field or equivalent experience preferred. Previous experience (minimum one year) in the health and wellness field. Current Personal Trainer certification preferred. Current CPR, First Aid and AED certifications. Excellent human relation skills and communication skills.

Principal Responsibilities: Conduct fitness orientations, personal training, fitness evaluations, and personal fitness program appointments in accordance with CDYMCA guidelines and standards with individual members. Assist members through conducting health questionnaire screening. Assist members in the fitness center with proper equipment usage and exercise technique. Customize fitness regimens for the specific member based on an analysis of their specific needs and health
and body requirements. Clean and maintain fitness center equipment on a regular basis. All other duties, as assigned.

Scheduled Shifts: Part Time, 1st and 2nd shifts, approx. up to 20 hrs. weekly
Deadline: Open

Please send all applications and resumes to: Allison Reinhardt, Wellness Director, Capital District YMCA – Greenbush Area YMCA, 20 Community Way, East Greenbush, NY 12061 or by E-mail.

Schenectady High School invites you to a free showing of Freedom Summer a two hour American Experience documentary fresh from the Sundance Film Festival World Premiere in 2014 – produced by Mont Pleasant High School Graduate Cyndee Readdean.
In the hot and deadly summer of 1964, the nation could not turn away from Mississippi. Over 10 memorable weeks known as the Freedom Summer, more than 700 student volunteers joined with organizers and local African Americans in a historic effort to shatter the foundations of white supremacy in one of the nations most segregated states- even in the face of intimidation, physical violence and death.

There will be a full screening of the film with a post discussion with producer Cyndee Readdean on February 13th at 5:30pm in the SHS Auditorium, 1445 The Plaza, Schenectady, NY 12308. Cyndee is the daughter of Shirley Readdean a former member of the Schenectady County Human Rights Commission.

Transportation will be available – call 518-370-8167 for reservations.

Schenectady High School - Freedom Summer

The Knight Foundation provided the CUNY Graduate School of Journalism with a generous three-year grant to run a summer diversity program — and they are actively recruiting for the Class of Summer 2015.

They are looking to bring 20 aspiring journalists to New York City. They will pick up transportation costs and put up the students in on-campus housing for the two months that the program is in session in June and July. These students will receive training from the CUNY J-School faculty and participate in paid media internships that the J-School will help them secure.

To be eligible to apply, candidates must have attended historically black colleges, Hispanic-serving institutions or be members of any journalist of color organization.

There is a competitive twist to the program in that the top five performers will be offered free tuition to study for their master’s at the J-School. The application deadline is February 16.

Knight.CUNYJ-Internship

quarantine

Picking at
scabs.

The Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “If someone has on his skin a scab or pustule or blotch which appears to be the sore of leprosy, he shall be brought to Aaron, the priest, or to one of the priests among his descendants. If the man is leprous and unclean, the priest shall declare him unclean by reason of the sore on his head. The one who bears the sore of leprosy shall keep his garments rent and his head bare, and shall muffle his beard; he shall cry out, ‘Unclean, unclean!’ As long as the sore is on him he shall declare himself unclean, since he is in fact unclean. He shall dwell apart, making his abode outside the camp.”

We don’t often hear of quarantines anymore. Quarantines are used to separate and restrict the movement of people; it is enforced isolation. Quarantines were used quite a bit in the past in connection to disease and illness, especially communicable disease. Quarantines were used during the plague, to prevent the spread of leprosy, yellow fever, cholera, diphtheria, infectious tuberculosis, and smallpox. More recently for Ebola and influenza.

The text we read from Leviticus serves two purposes.

The Law was meant to protect the people of Israel against the disease of leprosy at its most practical level. People who were sick had specific rules to follow so others wouldn’t get sick.

The text symbolically points out that the things that are unclean and sinful, including sinful people, should be kept apart from God’s people. God’s people were set apart as pure and holy and as such needed to avoid the infection of sin.

This symbolic meaning is quite depressing, not because its fun to hang out with those who would lead us down the wrong road, but because they were left alone. They could sit there and pick at their scabs-sins, sin again, contemplate their sin, but never get clean. They would dwell apart forever – apart from the community, apart from God. Their fate was painful and hopeless. With that sort of hopelessness there was not reason to repent, to turn away from sin, and no possibility of being welcomed back.

This is our hope, the abundance that we have been given. A leper came to Jesus and kneeling down begged him and said, “If you wish, you can make me clean.” Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand, touched him, and said to him, “I do will it. Be made clean.”

Jesus came to call us to repentance. He tells us to stop picking at our scabs in isolation, quarantined away, and reaches out to heal us. He makes us clean and new. As we enter the season of Pre-Lent we are given the opportunity to reflect on the scabs we have been picking, and to begin the walk back to Jesus who will heal and free us.