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The Enterprise — Michael Koff
Five local charities received checks totaling $13,000 on Wednesday morning during a check-presentation event at Phillips Hardware on the outskirts of Altamont. The funds were raised jointly by the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce, Phillips Hardware, the Community Lights program, and contributing residents and businesses, along with assistance from The Altamont Enterprise. At left is Patrick Lurenz, from Toys for Tots, which received $2,000 and is the largest program in the country, serving 4,000 kids. Continuing from left, each receiving $2,752, are: Judy Seery with the Altamont Food Pantry, Mac McDonnell with the Guilderland Food Pantry, Christine Rufa with the Hilltowns Food Pantry, and Amanda Beedle with the Caring Closet. Also on hand, continuing from left, are Marcello Iaia, co-publisher of The Altamont Enterprise; Mark Grimm, Guilderland county legislator; Jon Phillips, owner of Phillips Hardware; Lucas Rogers, representing the Albany County Executive; Sandra Dollard, chamber director; Nancy Cobb and Laurie Beckmann, chamber board members.