These local members of the New York State National Guard have recently been promoted:

– David Taylor, of Schenectady, serving with the 827th Engineer Company is promoted to the rank of Private First Class;

These local New York Army National Guard soldiers have recently re-enlisted:

– Sergeant Christine Ross of Delmar, has re-enlisted to continue service with the 206th Military Police Company;

Recent weeks have been very busy. Summer is a great time for outdoor activities.

These local students have recently earned diplomas:

— Jay Castren of Voorheesville earned an associate of occupational studies degree in Carpentry and Building Trades from the State University of New York College of Technology at Delhi;

These local students have distinguished themselves:

— James Carroll, of Slingerlands, is conducting research in peace and conflict studies at Colgate University in Hamilton, New York this summer;

Visiting students, ages 15 to 18, from around the world including Germany, Spain, Switzerland, and Thailand, are seeking host families in and around Altamont for the upcoming 2014-15 academic school year.  Host families are needed for the fall semester and full school year.

St. Madeleine Sophie School in Guilderland is holding the "Win, Place or Show" golf tournament on Tuesday, Aug. 12 at the Western Turnpike Golf Course.

Mr. and Mrs. James S. Staats of South Bethlehem are proud to announce the marriage of their daughter, Mirinda Lynn Staats, to Thomas Jeffrey Dillberg.

The ceremony was officiated by Rev. Mark Ledbetter on July 12, 2014, at the South Bethlehem United Methodist Church.