Peter Henner's column about contrasts — East versus West, young versus old — was named a winner by the Chess Journalists of America.

To the Editor:

What I have to say will embarrass the person I’m writing about, but it needs to be said, so, I’ll blurt it out.

Eric Monk from Schenectady, serving with the New York Army National Guard Headquarters and Support Company, 42nd Infantry Division is promoted to the rank of specialist.

Army National Guard promotions are based on overall performance, attitude, leadership ability, and development potential.

These local students have recently distinguished themselves:

EAST GREENBUSH— Ronald Gene Czajkowski a religious and creative family man, died on Friday, Sept. 13, 2013, from injuries sustained from a fall at Thacher Park. He was 44.

The soil, groundwater, and sediment at the site are contaminated with mercury. An unnamed tributary, which runs parallel to the site, merges with the Patroon Creek, and empties into the Hudson River, has also been contaminated.

The worth of an education cannot be measured in test scores; rather, its value becomes apparent as life unfolds. Schools must be careful not to cut or curb what most ignites students' passions.

Check out some scores from the past week.

Athletes may have their high school sports season ruined by serious injury, but they can learn life lessons in the process.