New state regulations were announced last week by the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species and help to preserve New York’s ecosystems.

The American Red Cross has launched a first-of-its kind Blood Donor App that, it says, “puts the power to save lives in the palm of your hand.”

Users can schedule blood donations, track their total donations, earn rewards, and invite friends to join them. The new app is free and available for download in app stores.

RICHMONDVILLE — Grace Stott could be outgoing and enjoyed a good laugh, but she was mostly a gentle conversationalist who was focused on her two sons.

Ms. Stott died on Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2014, at Evergreen Commons nursing home in East Greenbush, following several years with Alzheimer’s disease. She was 95.

By the mid-19^th Century, the famous Indian Ladder Region of the Helderberg had become a vacation-seeker’s paradise. Escaping the summer heat of the city for the elevated cool mountain breezes and fresh air of forest and field became a habit for many travelers in search of rest and recreation.

SCHENECTADY — A socially active man who loved to travel, Lawrence “Larry” Leonard Pisarski, Sr., was a storyteller.

Mr. Pisarski died on Sunday, Aug. 31, 2014 at the Stratton Veterans Hospital in Albany, with his family by his side following a battle with kidney cancer. He was 78.

To the Editor:

The highlight of this year’s Discover the Hilltowns: Farms and Artisans Tour on Sept. 13 and 14 will be a tour within a tour within a tour.