Institutes and Workshops for Writers

The New York State Writers Institute announces its Spring 2015 Community Writing Workshops. Two workshops will be offered, one in fiction and one in poetry.

Fiction Writing Workshop Offered by Writers Institute Fellow James Lasdun

New York State Writers Institute Fellow James Lasdun will conduct a writing workshop in spring 2015 for writers interested in all aspects of fiction. The focus will be on detailed discussion of students’ work but there will also be readings from published novels, novellas, and short stories. These will range from the classic to the contemporary, and will be selected with a view to broadening the discussion of topics such as character, plot, style, and form, as they arise. Participants will be expected to be strongly self-motivated and to submit two works of up to twenty pages each over the course of the semester. These may be short stories or excerpts from longer works. The workshop is scheduled for eight Tuesday nights (February 24, March 3, 10, 24, 31, April 7, 14, 21) from 6 to 9 p.m.

Poetry Writing Workshop Offered by Writer-in-Residence James Lasdun

New York State Writers Institute Writer-in-Residence James Lasdun will conduct a poetry writing workshop during the spring 2015 semester. This workshop is for self-motivated students who already have some writing experience, and is intended to give participants an opportunity to develop and revise poems within a context of constructive peer-group criticism. Course work will concentrate on students’ writing, but will also include close reading of selected texts with a view to discussing specific aspects of the art of poetry, such as voice, metaphor, and the relation of style to subject. Participants will be expected to submit up to ten pages of poetry every second week. The workshop is scheduled for eight Wednesday nights (February 25, March 4, 11, 25, April 1, 8, 15, 22) from 6 to 9 p.m.

For more information, application guidelines, deadlines, and a bio of James Lasdun, visit the SUNY/New York State Writers Institute website.

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The Arts Center of the Capital Region announces The Creative Process – In Conversation

What is creativity? How is it nurtured and why is it important? How does it find expression in everything from the arts to business?

Join Chris Marblo, President of The Arts Center of the Capital Region, and a panel of regional creators for a conversation about the creative process. We will allow plenty of time for audience Q+A. Refreshments provided by Honest Weight Food Co-Op.

Wednesday, January 14th from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Free and open to the public. Panel moderator: Chris Marblo-President, The Arts Center of the Capital Region

Panel Guests:

John Tobin: Vice President of Operations, EYP Architecture and Engineering
Jeff Stone: Senior Vice President, Kinderhook Bank
Coleen Paratore: Writer/Teacher
Steve Lobel: Vice President, Anchor Agency/Arts Patron
Alana Sparrow: Founding Principal, The Foundry

Job Postings for the Week of January 12, 2015

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City of Albany – Engineer, Department of Water & Water Supply

The City of Albany has posted the following position for hire: Engineer, Department of Water & Water Supply. The application deadline is January 21, 2015. For questions, please contact the City of Albany Department of Human Resources 518-434-5284.

Fulton-Montogomery Community College – Health Studies/Anatomy and Physiology Instructor

Fulton-Montgomery Community College is a part of the State University of New York system and is located on 195 acres in a historic center of New York State, approximately 40 miles west of the state capital, Albany. FM is a comprehensive, two-year college with an increasing enrollment of approximately 2,800 full- and part-time students, including approximately 100 international students from 25 countries and the New York City Metro Area. FM offers over 40 Degree and Certificate Programs.

FM is seeking candidates for a full-time, tenure-track Health Studies/Biology position to teach Health Studies and Anatomy and Physiology courses beginning September 1, 2015. Candidates must be committed to the mission of community colleges and teaching students who have a wide range of academic abilities. Duties also include, but are not limited to, assessment, program planning, and implementation and evaluation of curriculum.

Qualifications: A Master’s degree in Biology or related Health or Allied Health field is required. Coursework in cellular and molecular biology and physiology is preferred. Teaching experience is preferred, preferably at the two-year college level, as is experience with assessment of student learning.

Salary/Benefits: The successful candidate will receive an excellent benefits package and an expected rank/annual salary of Instructor/$52,139.

Application procedures: Submit a letter of application, outlining interests and qualifications that are relevant to the position, a resume, copies of undergraduate and graduate transcripts, and the names, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses of five professional references by E-mail with the position title in the email subject line. The anticipated start date is September 1, 2015. The position will remain open until a successful candidate has been identified. However, for full consideration, applications should be received by January 30, 2015.

Fulton-Montogomery Community College – Mathematics Instructor

Fulton-Montgomery Community College is a part of the State University of New York system and is located on 195 acres in a historic center of New York State, approximately 40 miles west of the state capital, Albany. FM is a comprehensive, two-year college with an increasing enrollment of approximately 2,800 full- and part-time students, including approximately 100 international students from 25 countries and the New York City Metro Area. FM offers over 40 Degree and Certificate Programs.

FM is seeking candidates for a full-time, tenure-track position in the Mathematics Division beginning September 1, 2015. Candidates should be prepared to teach a range of courses from remedial to advanced mathematics and statistics. Candidates must be committed to the mission of community colleges and teaching students who have a wide range of academic abilities. Duties also include, but are not limited to, assessment, planning, and implementation and evaluation of curriculum.

Qualifications: A Master’s degree in Mathematics or Mathematics Education combined with a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics are required. Teaching experience is preferred, preferably at the two-year college level, as is experience with assessment of student learning.

Salary/Benefits: The successful candidate will receive an excellent benefits package and an expected rank/annual salary of Instructor/$52,139.

Application procedures: Submit a letter of application, outlining interests and qualifications that are relevant to the position, a resume, copies of undergraduate and graduate transcripts, and the names, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses of five professional references by E-mail with the position title in the email subject line. The anticipated start date is September 1, 2015. The position will remain open until a successful candidate has been identified. However, for full consideration, applications should be received by January 30, 2015.

The New York State Department of Civil Service Examinations

The New York State Department of Civil Service has posted the following examination announcements.

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

Open-Competitive Examination Announcements:

Open-Competitive Continuous Recruitment Examination Announcements:

Troy Family YMCA Branch – Property Director

The Troy Family YMCA Branch of the Capital District YMCA is looking to fill the position of Property Director. Under the general direction of the Executive Director, the Property Director manages the physical facilities of the branch which includes maintenance, cleaning and supervision of staff. The property director is also responsible for the administration of the dept. (budgeting, etc.).

Job Requirements: High School degree/GED is required. 3-5 years’ experience in cleaning and building trades. Prior supervisory experience. Excellent human relation skills, good organizational and communication skills. 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 develop annual operating plan for the Maintenance Department. Monitor the achievement of these objectives, taking appropriate action to ensure they are met. Develop, monitor and administer annual budget (income and expense) for the Department. Ensure that the department maintains a positive fiscal position. Is liaison with outside contractors and vendors. Manage the staff and volunteers – recruit, hire, train, develop, supervise and evaluate. This includes following all policies, procedures and timeframes of the association. Assure the facility is cleaned on a daily basis to the standards and guidelines of the CDYMCA. Create and implement a preventative maintenance for appropriate building equipment and facilities. Oversee and perform, as necessary, all maintenance and repair activities. Oversee and coordinate snow removal and lawn grooming. Monitor and maintain aquatic facilities in accordance with applicable standards and regulations. Participate and support all CDY special events and fund raising activities, including Reach out for Youth, annual membership campaign, branch fundraisers and open houses. Serve as staff representative to the branch Program Committee, CDYMCA P-Group and other committees, as requested. Maintain cleanliness of facility as a member of Clean Team. Other duties, as directed.

Salary: – Low 40s
Deadline: 1/23/2015

Please send all resumes and applications to: Thomas Anadio, Executive Director, Capital District YMCA-Troy Family Branch, 2500 21st Street, Troy, NY 12180 or by E-mail.

Troy Family YMCA Branch – Member Service Representative

The Troy Family Branch of the Capital District YMCA is looking to fill the part time position of a Member Service Representative. Under the direction of the Member Service Manager, the Member Services Representative provides excellent customer service to members, through selling memberships, answering questions.

Job Requirements: Prior work experience (1-3 years) in a customer oriented environment. Current CPR, First Aid and AED certifications. Positive outlook and the ability to multi task in a high pace environment. Excellent human relation skills, good organizational and communication skills.

Principal Responsibilities: Responsible for providing daily services to all members, prospective members and program participants. This includes greeting members by name, scanning membership cards, registering members for programs, membership sales, and tours. Answer phones promptly, within 3 rings, in a courteous and friendly manner. Answer member questions and issues in a positive manner, meeting their needs whenever possible. Ensure each person using the facility is a member or program participant; scan cards of each member. Ensure neatness of the lobby area and entire facility. Assist with lobby exhibits and/or bulletin boards. Promote and sell goods for resale. Accurately input new membership sales, renewals and programs into the computer. Report any errors in writing by the end of shift. Accurately cash out at the end of the day. May assist in training new staff. Other duties, as assigned.

Scheduled Shifts: Part Time; Weekends (approx. 10-15 hours biweekly) Pay Range: $8.75
Deadline: 2/2/2015

Please send all applications and resumes to: Tiffany Hults, Membership Service Manager, Capital District YMCA – Troy Family YMCA, 2500 21st Street, Troy, NY 12180 or by E-mail.

Guilderland Branch of the Capital District YMCA – Activities Assistant

The Guilderland Branch of the Capital District YMCA is looking to fill the part time position of Activities Assistant. Under the direction of the Site Supervisor, the Activities Assistant is responsible for assisting with the implementation of all school age child care activities at the Berne Knox Westerlo Elementary School.

Job Requirements: Must be 16 years of age. Prior experience working with children preferred. Submission of NYS Medical Statement of Childcare Staff Form documenting physician clearance to work in a childcare setting. TB Test which meets Health and Social Service requirement. Clearance from Criminal Background check. Maintain 15 hours of childcare related training annually. Excellent human relation skills, good organizational and communication skills.

Principal Responsibilities: Assist in preparation and implementation of all activities for the site. Assist the site staff with distribution and cleanup of daily snack. Work with the children in small groups with age appropriate activities such as crafts, games, clubs and science. Maintain clean, neat and organized environment at the site. Maintain a safe and secure environment for all program participants. Appropriately communicate with parents. Maintain all applicable state regulations re: school age child care programs. Maintain cleanliness of facility as a member of Clean Team. All other duties, as requested.

Scheduled Shift: Part time; 1st, and 2nd shifts, evenings, 2:00pm – 6:00pm, Approx. 20. Per week Pay Range: $ 9.00
Deadline: Open

Please forward resumes or applications to: Jenna Graber, Child Care Director, Guilderland YMCA, 250 Winding Brook Dr., Guilderland NY, 12084 or by E-mail.

Guilderland Branch of the Capital District YMCA – Group Exercise Instructor

The Guilderland Branch of the Capital District YMCA is looking to fill the part time position of Group Exercise Instructor. Under the general direction of the Wellness Director, the Group Exercise Instructor develops, coordinates and teaches group exercise classes.

Job Requirements: Previous experience (minimum two years) teaching group exercise classes. Current Wellness certification: Group Exercise Instructor certification. Current CPR and AED certification. Excellent human relation skills, strong relationship building skills and communication skills.

Principal Responsibilities: Plan and lead specialty group exercise classes ensuring that participants are performing safe exercises. Modifies exercise class in accordance with participants, weather, etc. Maintains cleanliness of facility as a member of Clean Team. All other duties, as assigned.

Scheduled Shift: Part time; approx. 2-3 hours per week, 6pm-8pm Pay Range: $13.00 – $15.00
Deadline: Open

Please forward all resumes and applications to: Andrew Scott, Assistant Wellness Director, Capital District YMCA-Guilderland Branch, 250 Winding Brook Drive, Guilderland, NY 12084 or by E-mail.

YOUTH POWER! – Hudson River Regional Youth Partner

The Regional Youth Partners are peer leaders that connect local youth groups, coordinate regional youth advocacy efforts and provide technical assistance on youth engagement and peer support.

LOCATION: Albany, New York

STATUS: Full-time salary employee – Annual salary low 30s plus benefits package

QUALIFICATIONS: Must have personal life experience accessing children’s mental health services and be willing to share this information publically. Additional experience with Disability, Foster Care, Addiction, or Juvenile Justice is beneficial. Bachelor’s or Associates Degree preferred but not required. Must have valid driver’s license, good driving record, and reliable transportation. Must be able to travel. Must pass a background check

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/EXPERIENCE: Independently motivated. Excellent coordination and organization skills. Experience with youth leadership and advocacy. Experience with peer support preferred. Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills. Demonstrated ability to engage with diverse groups. Demonstrated ability to speak with small and large groups of people. Experience with various software packages: Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint, Go-To, Google applications.

APPLICATIONS PROCESS: Applicants must send a resume with a formal cover letter in order to be considered. The letter should indicate the title of the position that the applicant is seeking. Mail to: YOUTH POWER!, Attn: Carrie Holmes, Management Office, 737 Madison Avenue, Albany NY 12208 or by E-mail using the subject “Hudson RYP.”

YOUTH POWER! – Network Assistant

As part of a grant provided by the Office of Mental Health, the YP! Network Assistant will develop outreach, hope and empowerment materials. They will assist YOUTH POWER! leaders in successfully completing projects, holding events, and keeping information organized.

Status: Part-time/Hourly, 20hrs per week
Pay Rate: $8.75-$12 per hour commensurate on experience
Supervisor: Assistant Director
Location: Albany, New York

Qualifications/Requirements: First-hand experience having received mental health services as a youth. Excellent writing and computer skills. Experience with designing flyers, newsletters and other print materials. Demonstrated knowledge of social media outlets and their functions. Strong organizational skills. Strong communication skills. Demonstrated ability to take detailed notes of meetings. Strong team leadership and collaboration abilities.

Applications Process: Applicants must send a resume with a formal cover letter in order to be considered. The letter should indicate the title of the position that the applicant is seeking. Mail to: YOUTH POWER!, Attn: Carrie Holmes, Management Office, 737 Madison Avenue, Albany NY 12208 or by E-mail using the subject “Network Assistant.”

Albany Police Department – Crossing Guards

The Albany Police Department is currently seeking qualified candidates interested in becoming a School Crossing Officer.

School Crossing Officers work for short periods in the morning, noon, and afternoon when children are traveling to and from school. School Crossing Officers play a major role in safeguarding the passage of school children across heavily traveled streets.

Typical Work Activities: Walks with children across heavily traveled streets or stops traffic to allow the passage of children to and from school. Uses authorized signals to regulate vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Notes violations and reports them to the police department. Keeps such records and makes necessary reports. Performs related work as required.

Full Performance Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Personal Characteristics: Working knowledge of traffic laws and regulations. Ability to exercise judgment and be alert to detect possible danger to children. Ability to work in the open under varying climate conditions. Ability to deal successfully with children, police officers, and the general public and exercise mature judgment. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions. Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

Anyone interested should contact Sergeant James Mahoney at 518-462-8783. Additional details are available on-line.

Reflection for the Solemnity of the Baptism of the Lord

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But when is the
first Sunday?

I, the LORD, have called you for the victory of justice, I have grasped you by the hand; I formed you, and set you as a covenant of the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes of the blind, to bring out prisoners from confinement, and from the dungeon, those who live in darkness.

The Church’s calendar is a rather complicated endeavor. You have to be really good at math to properly assemble it, and understand various historical nuances.

In our parish, the calendar may seem a little odd. We continue to honor the Christmas season right through February 2nd, the Solemnity of the Presentation. Our Christmas decorations remain, yet the vestments we use will change to green next week. It will be the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time.

Wait, ummmm, what happened to the First Sunday in Ordinary Time?

Technically, Ordinary Time is observed in two periods: The first period beginning on the day after the Solemnity of the Baptism of the Lord (which we celebrate today) and ending on the day before Ash Wednesday; and The second period beginning on the Monday after Pentecost (the conclusion of the Easter Season) and continuing until the Saturday before the First Sunday of Advent.

That may be the right answer, but it really does not answer our question: When/where is the First Sunday in Ordinary Time?

We could see today’s Solemnity of the Baptism of the Lord as replacing or offsetting the First Sunday in Ordinary Time or we could look at it another way. The Baptism of the Lord is a start, a beginning, a first thing we must live every day.

On this day God reveals that Jesus is indeed His Son, the Messiah. The identity of God is made know: On coming up out of the water he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon him. And a voice came from the heavens, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”

Our lives are filled with ordinariness. But, it all depends on how we interpret our ordinary experiences. If we simply ignore our ordinary every day experiences or see them has having no importance, we are missing something very important. Our ordinariness is not meaningless. Every moment, our every beginning, is to be seen and experienced in Jesus.

Jesus came to show us that what is ordinary – what is us – is so very important to Him. He shows us that our ordinariness is graced and we can accomplish all through and in Him. He has taken us by the hand. Every Sunday and every ordinary moment is of first importance lived in Him.

Mini Job Fair

Tuesday, January 13th from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Capital District Educational Opportunity Center, College & Career Services Center (2nd floor), 431 River Street, Troy, NY.

Aerotek will be at the EOC and providing on-the-spot interviews & information for jobs in the following categories: Administrative Assistants, Customer Service Reps, Warehouse Workers, and General Laborers.

Sponsored by Employment Services. Call 518-273-1900 x 2270 for more information.

Mini Job Fair Flyer Jan 13 2015 Areotek

Job postings for the week of January 5, 2015

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Also, check out daily job postings in the sidebar to the right —->

Transition Coach – Project Growth

Mission Accomplished is a newly established and developing nonprofit organization focused on developing aspiring young professional leaders. Mission Accomplished is a 501(c) 3 tax-exempt organization.

Project Growth is a program designed by the Albany County Department of Law to empower youth by providing a manageable and structured way to repay their debt to crime victims and teach participants transferrable employability skills for their future.

Our Transition Coaches understand the mission and vision of the organization and Project Growth. They are individuals who have an extraordinary commitment to making a difference in the health, fulfillment, and satisfaction of our teens and the communities we serve.

Transition Coaches are inspired individuals who are willing to work alongside volunteers, staff, stakeholders and the Board of Directors to assist with promoting our programs and services.

Interpersonal skills are essential to effectively engage with our young customers. Project Growth Transition Coaches commit to assisting customers with: 1) fostering positive social skills, 2) understanding the harm caused by the crime (s) committed, 3) repairing the harm by paying court ordered restitution fees, 4) learning the skills to become young professional leaders, and 5) engaging in career opportunities.

As a Transition Coach we expect you to coach customers to develop and achieve their goals, define who they are, self-actualize, increase their self-awareness, recognize they are assets to society, and develop the transferrable skills necessary to transition into adulthood and the global economy.

Transition Coaches are inspired to increase his/her personal productivity, expanding integrity, and developing as a more powerful, able, compassionate, and contributing professional.

Transition Coaches are not Clinicians who offer therapeutic counseling sessions. As a Coach you will refer customers to other community agencies for counseling needs.

Responsibilities: Assist with placing youth at internship sites to earn wages to pay restitution fees to crime victims. Work in collaboration with the Albany County Department of Probation, Law Family Court and the Center for Human Services Research to assist customers with successfully completing the program. Maintain the confidentiality of the crime victims and offenders (our customers). Become thoroughly knowledgeable about available resources to assist customers with developing meaningful transition plans. Develop relationships and partnerships with local educational institutions, OCFS Department of Juvenile Justice and Opportunities Youth (DJJOY) and other public and private organizations to support customers with acquiring resources and developing a positive network of support. Supervise and observe customers at internship sites to assist with career skill development. Communicate with internship site supervisors to evaluate the customers work abilities. Complete weekly case notes. Assist customers with understanding the harm caused by the crime(s) committed. Assist customers with seeking out enrichment programs and other resources to support their life
transitions. Assist with assuring court ordered restitution fees are paid in full. Assure youth participate in the Before and After Pictures Program (B&APP). Communicate with representatives from the identified resources to gather information and support customers with developing a network of support. Develop a supportive relationship with customers. Coach customers through the process of developing, defining and accomplishing goals. Coach customers to develop problem-solving skills when presented with obstacles. Coach customers to develop goal setting, time management, and effective communication skills. Coach customers to develop the abilities to be solution-focused and task-oriented. Develop an understanding of positive youth development (PYD). Develop an understanding of the Restorative Justice Model. Develop and understanding of the life skill areas within the Casey Life Skills Assessment. Educate customers about global personal and professional development opportunities. Complete evaluation tools to assess your customer’s progress. Participate in committees within grassroots and established public and private agencies that align with the mission of Mission Accomplished. Engage in appropriate trainings – webinars, conferences, workshops, etc. A vehicle is required. Travel 50% of your scheduled time, including transporting youth.

Qualifications: Valid NYS driver’s license if operating a vehicle. Bachelor’s in Social Welfare, Psychology or Criminal Justice and at least 2 years experience working with teens ages 13-16 who are involved in the juvenile or criminal justice system; or 6 years experience working with teens 13-16 who are involved in the juvenile or criminal justice system. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to develop collaborate with other organizations. Willingness to become familiar with the communities/neighborhoods of customers. Ability work in a changing environment.

Time Commitment and Compensation: Time: 15-20 hours per week Compensation: $14 per hour.

If you are interested in this position send your resume and cover letter to Carmen Duncan by E-mail or mail to 706 Madison Ave. Albany, NY 12208.

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Albany County – Nutritionists/Community Nutrition Educators-26516

Job Description: CCE of Albany County is seeking qualified and experienced Nutritionists/Community Nutrition Educators to provide input into the planning for, and conducting the implementation of, public education to improve healthy food and lifestyle choices among SNAP-Ed (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education) eligible families and individuals encompassing all age groups throughout the Greater Capital Region. As part of the Capital Region SNAP-Ed Program, Nutritionists assist in program development, assessment, evaluation, management and marketing as well as collaborate with the SNAP-Ed staff conducting social marketing and environmental activities.

The Greater Capital SNAP Ed Region includes Albany, Columbia, Greene, Fulton, Montgomery, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Warren and Washington Counties.

Program Planning – 15%. Utilize existing program materials and educational framework to plan the recruitment, teaching and graduating of the targeted number of adult and youth participants in the Nutrition Program. Plan the delivery of established short- and long-range educational programs within the Nutrition education subject area and based upon the association plan-of-work. Plan the extension of subject matter resources to the staff, program participants and other groups, as they are identified. Plan the implementation of programs that address audience needs and that consider the diversity of the community. Coordinate with the SNAP-Ed Project Manager and team to address clientele needs and to select program materials. Under guidance of the supervisor, adapt curriculum and materials as needed to meet established program objectives. Consult with association staff, Cornell faculty and other agency partners and collaborators in planning for program implementation and material selection. Collaborate with other organizations that serve target audiences in order to effectively plan and implement programs for impact. Contribute actively to the total CCE program effort through joint planning and implementation of multi-disciplinary programs and association activities. Assist in the development of marketing materials for educational events and assist in mass media (social and print) efforts related to program. Assist Supervisor with public awareness in the form of impact statements, articles for progress/ annual reports, or news releases. Carry out assignments and other duties as assigned by supervisor necessary for successful implementation of the program.

Program Delivery – 70%. Conduct creative educational programs, based on existing materials, to impact audiences through a variety of delivery methods. Deliver program/lessons to individual/family homes and/or groups at various locations, requiring the transportation of program materials and oneself to the locations. Utilize existing program materials and educational framework to implement the recruitment and teaching of the targeted number of adult and youth participants in the Nutrition Program. FFY Target is 40 nutrition activities per month. Integral member to assist the team with reaching 500 participants per month. Extend subject matter resources to the staff, program participants and other groups, as they are identified. Implement programs that address audience needs and that consider the diversity of the community. Serve as subject-matter resource to the staff and clientele and other groups, as they are identified. Inform participants of other Extension programs, community agencies, and services. Represent CCE to the public, community leaders, government officials and Cornell University in a professional manner.

Program Management – 5%. Maintain confidentiality of information regarding all program participants. Maintain record of class participants, complete reports, and accurately collect and prepare paperwork as required for the program evaluation process. Complete necessary written documentation as required by programs and funders. Perform routine data collection utilized by the program. Aware of, and adheres to, established Cornell Cooperative Extension policies and procedures. Assist support staff and program colleagues by using CCE office procedures/policies for communication, documentation, work requests, and schedule availability. Assist the SNAP-Ed Project Manager in the identification and preparation of proposals to secure additional program funding. Assist the SNAP-Ed Project Manager in administrative and program management activities, as assigned.

Program Assessment and Evaluation – 5%. Interact with program participants, advisory committees, Cornell program specialists and faculty, and county and community leaders to obtain evaluation data for programs. Provide program evaluation data to the SNAP-Ed Project Manager, assist in data analysis and make recommendations to supervisors for strengthening and improving programs. Help identify program needs with supervisors, advisory committee and program participants.

Professional Improvement and other duties as assigned – 5%. In cooperation with the supervisor, develop a professional development plan as a means to increase competencies relative to position accountabilities and to address changes in programming and association priorities. Pursue professional growth through expanding personal knowledge of the total organization and through updating techniques and technical skills relating to the position. May be required to attend professional development opportunities. Participate in required orientation programs and attend in-services as necessary to stay current and involved in relation to facility responsibilities. Contribute to the overall success of the organization by performing all assigned duties in a professional, timely, and accurate manner. Demonstrate behavior consistent with Cornell Cooperative Extension Staff Skills for Success. Collaborate in activities that are in general support of Cornell Cooperative Extension including but not limited to attendance at team and staff meetings, timely reporting of expenses, working with other staff and volunteers, general marketing of CCE, and other duties as assigned. EEO/EPO – Apply to all Responsibilities & Essential Functions. Appreciate and embrace diversity in all interactions with clientele, staff, volunteers, and the public. Ensures EPO and participant mapping data is collected and reported accurately.

Salary at the rate of $40,500 annually. Excellent benefits.

When uploading files to your application, please make sure you flag all attachments that you want included in your application as a current resume (even if it is actually a cover letter). The system will only allow the recruiter to pass on flagged documents.

Questions regarding this position can be directed to Jim McNaughton, Human Resources Lead by E-mail or telephone at 518-765-3503. Applications must be submitted electronically to be considered. You will receive an e-mail confirmation when your application is submitted. Please look for this to ensure you have been successful in applying. All applications must be received on-line by January 9, 2015.

Please apply for this position here.

State University of New York (SUNY) – Data Manager and Help Desk Analyst Positions

SUNY System Administration, located in Albany, NY seeks a Data Manager. Reporting directly to the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Services, the Data Manager is responsible for effectively and efficiently supporting the data and reporting needs of the Office of Enrollment Services. The Data Manager supports the operational procedures of the office by administering the Enrollment Constituent Relationship Management (CRM) System. The Data Manger also works closely with Enrollment Services staff to create custom reports and provide ad-hoc data as requested.

SUNY System Administration, located in Albany, NY seeks applications for a Help Desk Analyst with Open SUNY to provide technical and customer service support to SUNY staff, faculty, and students participating in online and blended leaning courses at many SUNY colleges. The Help Desk office operates seven days a week including holidays.

Interested candidates should apply online. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Fabulous Valentine’s Raffle — Support our Youth

Make February 2015 – the month of love – a month to win in more ways than one!

The Outrageous Valentine’s Raffle

This summer we will once again be sending our young people to the annual KURS summer encampment and we are saving for CONVO 2015 in the eastern Diocese.

We need your support to give our young people a great beginning in 2015. To start them off right we are holding a month long Outrageous Valentine’s Raffle this coming February to support our youth. Each raffle ticket gives the purchaser a chance to win up to $1,180. The Outrageous Valentine’s Raffle will include drawings for $40 daily prizes and a $100 daily prize on Valentine’s Day. The raffle is drawn each day of the month, giving the ticket holder 28 chances to win! Winners are returned to the raffle bucket, making them eligible to win again and again. Your support will help cover our young people’s summer expenses with the ultimate goal of paying their way completely.

Tickets cost only $10 each. Feel free to contact Fr. Jim at 518-372-1992, Stephanie Dominy at 518-369-1346, or any parish member to purchase a ticket.

We thank you for your support of Youth Ministry and the School of Christian Living at Holy Name of Jesus parish in Schenectady and wish you good luck!

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Reflection for the Feast of the Holy Family 2015

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Bless and protect
our family.

Brothers and sisters: Put on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if one has a grievance against another; as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do. And over all these put on love, that is, the bond of perfection. And let the peace of Christ control your hearts, the peace into which you were also called in one body.

How very important is St. Paul’s discourse with the people of Colossae in Asia Minor. The primary subject of the section of his letter we read today is how to live the ideal Christian life.

As Jesus had told us: [we] are not of the world, even as [He is] not of the world. But we must live here; we must work to transform the world, conforming it to Jesus’ way of life so that His kingdom may be made real among us. That is the job we accept in our baptism. As such we must strive to be living examples. We must work toward the perfection of life Jesus modeled for His disciples – that’s us.

The Church at Colossae was not without troubles. Paul had spent two years planting and building the Church in Asia Minor. Starting in Ephesus he branched out and as Acts tells us: “all the residents of Asia, both Jews and Greeks, heard the word of the Lord.” Of course, Paul wasn’t solely responsible, for the initial hearers of the word became proclaimers of the Word.

From prison, Paul had heard that the Colossians, who had at one time been strong in their faith, were now vulnerable to deception about the faith. He wrote to refute each of the errors the Colossians were tempted to embrace and which were dividing them. The letter, however, takes readers far beyond theology. Paul cared deeply that all of his readers (including us) understand the context of their lives within God’s Story, and what that looks like in their relationships. We can imagine the disputes that were taking place, the confusion, and people stepping forward as ‘thought leaders.’ Others saying, ‘Forget it, I’m quitting.’ Paul was calling them back to right faith and right action – that they be one body, one family. They were not to quit, even if offended, but to forgive, to become better, and to be living examples of life in the family of Christ.

He puts a fine point on this by saying: And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

Whatever we do when we enter the doors of the Church, and when we leave is to be done in the name of Jesus. Very appropriate to us, the family of Christ blessed and protected at Holy Name of Jesus!

Reflection for the Solemnity of the Holy Name of Jesus 2015

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First reading: Exodus 3:13-15
Psalm: Ps. 113:1-6
Epistle: Philippians 2:5-11
Gospel: Matthew 1:18-25

Blessed be the name of the LORD
from this time forth and for evermore!
From the rising of the sun to its setting
the name of the LORD is to be praised!

Today’s Solemnity holds special significance for our Parish, for it was established under the patronage of Jesus’ Most Holy Name. It is our patronal feast day.

All Churches are dedicated to the worship of God, of course, and when Christians first became able to build churches they built them on holy sites associated with events in scripture, the life of Jesus, or over the tombs of the martyrs. If the site where the parish church was being built had no particular significance the parish church would be dedicated in the name of God, the Trinity, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, the Blessed Virgin, a saint, or an event from the history of salvation.

The naming of parish churches keeps the history of salvation before our eyes and in our thoughts in a particular way. As such, the celebration of a parish feast ought to be something special, full of prayer and fellowship. It is a celebration, a kind of birthday party. It is something that every parishioner should participate in, giving thanks to God for our place of worship, for God’s mercies to us, for the intercession and protection of our patron in our walk through life. For our parish family and our fellowship it is Jesus’ Holy Name.

We can see that our parish family truly recognizes the import and power of Jesus’ Holy Name. We notice that when Jesus’ name is spoken in the liturgy – and hopefully also in our personal lives – we bow our heads. Jesus’ Holy Name is recognized when we say ‘Praise be the Name of our Lord, Jesus Christ’ and we reply ‘now and forevermore.’

This Solemnity is interesting. In our Holy Polish National Catholic Church it has been consistently celebrated. Not so in other places. This Solemnity has been celebrated on any number of days or not at all. In some Churches it has been celebrated variously on January 1st, in some places as only an optional celebration on January 3rd, 8th, 14th, 15th, or 31st. In some places on August 7th. On February 14th, 1969 the Roman Church removed the feast and only later restored it in 2002.

As a Church and a parish we have consistently recognized the power and beauty of Jesus’ Holy Name. It is in His Name that we are saved. It is in His Name that we are blessed and reconciled. It is in His Name that we are made the children of God and co-heirs to the promises of heaven.

St. Bernard, writing on the Holy Name of Jesus, tells us that reciting Jesus’ Holy Name produces holy thoughts, fills the soul with noble sentiments, strengthens virtue, begets good works, and nourishes pure affections.

We are all in great need. There is a cure for our needs. In the faith-filled invocation of Jesus’ Holy Name we are sustained, cured, led away from ills like anger, pride and inappropriate passions. In Jesus’ Name we are given the powerful grace needed to conquer, and assurance of His life giving compassion. The Name of Jesus is the purest, and holiest, the noblest and most generous of names. If we allow the Name of Jesus to reach the depths of our heart, we will be changed and filed with heavenly virtue.

St. Bernard tells us that when we take up our pen, write the Name Jesus: if we write books, let the Name of Jesus be contained in them, If we are ill, call on Jesus’ Name. It we are troubled, call on His Name. If we are in danger, spiritually or bodily, call on His Name. No temptation, no weakness, no coldness of heart can resist His Holy Name.

Yet today, blasphemies against Jesus’ Holy Name are rampant. We, as the special beneficiaries of the graces we receive in Jesus’ Holy Name, must never take it in vain or use it as a weapon against anything or anyone. It should be seen solely as our defense against evil. If we hear it being misused, say a prayer for that person, that they might come to realize the beauty and power of what they so recklessly step on. Not that they be punished, but that they be saved.

We, as a parish and a Church have been greatly blessed in honoring Jesus’ Holy Name. May His Holy Name ever remain before our eyes, hearts, and minds. Let us hold it in highest honor and love it. In doing so we are and will continue to be blessed. Amen.