Hoosick Falls

Submitted by Dianne Hosterman
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program’s (SNAP) emergency allotments (EAs), which are temporary benefit increases that Congress enacted to address rising food insecurity, and provide economic stimulus during the COVID-19 pandemic, have ended. This will result in a benefit cut for every SNAP household in the jurisdictions that still are paying EAs. Every household will receive at least $87 a month less. Some households, who under regular SNAP rules receive low benefits because they have somewhat higher, but still modest incomes, will see reductions of $248 a month or more. 

The temporary benefits pushed back against hunger and hardship during the pandemic. A study estimated that EAs kept 4.2 million people above the poverty line in the last quarter of 2021, reducing poverty by 10 percent, and child poverty by 14 percent, in states with EAs. The end of the temporary EAs will be a significant change that will increase food hardship for many individuals and families, given the modest amount of basic SNAP benefits and high recent inflation in food prices. Without the EAs, SNAP benefits will average only about $6.10 per person per day in 2023.

Submitted by Kevin O’Malley
The Hoosick Falls St. Patrick's Parade and Irish Fest will celebrate its 32nd anniversary on Saturday, March 11th. Over 30 years ago, local Irishmen Mike Conway and TJ Carmody wanted to find a way to keep their culture and history alive in the Hoosick area, and decided a parade was the ticket.

The 2023 Grand Marshal, Arthur M. Hyde Jr., is of Irish descent beginning in Waterford, Ireland when his ancestors came to America settling in Bennington, Vermont. Art was born in Bennington, VT in 1937, moving to Hoosick Falls at the age of two and has called this home ever since.

Submitted by Kevin O’Malley
The Hoosick Falls Saint Patrick’s Day Parade honors its deep-rooted Irish heritage while creating a genuine community connection between young and old, past and present, through a day-long celebration made possible by those who love this town. This year’s Grand Marshal selection is Arthur M. Hyde Jr., also known as Art.  

Art was born in Bennington, VT in 1937, moving to Hoosick Falls at the age of two and graduating from the Walter A. Wood High School in 1955, where he met and married the love of his life Johanna (Maleady). It was right here in Hoosick Falls where he and Johanna raised their large and beloved family of 7 children.

On Tuesday, January 25, Cheney Library honored Ms. Deborah Tudor for her 12 years of service on the Cheney Library Board of Trustees. During her tenure as a trustee, Ms. Tudor made immense contributions to physical improvements of the library’s property. Some of these projects include the installation of a propane fireplace, creation of the downstairs Children’s Room, and the renovation of the downstairs Multipurpose Room. As President, Ms. Tudor also oversaw the installation of the library’s main parking lot, van-accessible parking area, wheelchair access ramp, air conditioning systems, and flagpole. These improvements have made a significantly positive impact on library services. Under Ms. Tudor’s leadership, the library drastically increased its accessibility, sustainability, and number of technological resources.

By Doug La Rocque

Niel Stowell has served the Village for 35 years, the last 23 as Superintendent of the Department of Public Works (DPW). Thursday, January 26 was Niel’s last day on the job as he heads into retirement. A special luncheon was held that afternoon with family, friends, and area dignitaries to celebrate Niel’s long career in the Village.

At a special meeting of the Village Board on Tuesday, January 24, the Trustees approved a resolution honoring Niel for his service and presented him with a proclamation from the Village and the New York State Conference of Mayors. Mayor Rob Allen spoke briefly about all the sacrifices Niel has made, be it with water main or sewer breaks, floods, and snowstorms, the countless nights, weekends, and holidays spent on the job and away from his family, all without complaint. Niel’s DPW crews were also responsible for the annual outstanding Christmas decorations erected each year throughout the Village.

Road Remains Closed for Repairs

Courtesy of Rensselaer County
A section of State Route 7 in Hoosick Falls between State Route 22 and County Route 95 remains closed after the collapse of a culvert on Friday, January 13. Department of Transportation (DOT) and contractor forces are currently working around the clock to replace the culvert, which carries overflow water from the Hoosic River, with pre-cast concrete sections. Currently there is no timetable for completion. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the collapse has yet to be determined. Residents and motorists are asked to be patient during the closure. For updates, please visit dot.ny.gov.