John Purcell
Reporter
518-439-4949
Ext: 429
John Purcell has worked at Spotlight Newspapers for more than two and a half years and covers Albany County suburbs.
Purcell covers the towns of Guilderland and New Scotland, the villages of Altamont and Voorheesville and Albany County news and feature stories. He also covers the school districts of Guilderland and Voorheesville. Previously, he covered Schenectady County for Spotlight Newspapers.
In the New York Press Association's 2011 Better Newspaper Contest he received third place honors in Spot News Coverage for his story on the aftermath of Tropical Storm Irene. Also, in NYPA's 2010 contest he received honorable mention for best news story.
Before joining Spotlight, he interned at The Legislative Gazette covering state government. He graduated from SUNY New Paltz with a B.A. in Journalism. Also, he is a Schenectady County native.
Recent Stories
Smart House breaks ground
Living Resources’ modern Guilderland group home to house six residents
Living Resources, a Capital District nonprofit, held a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, May 1, for its group to be located off Ardsley Road in Guilderland. The building was touted as the state’s first barrier-free “smart house” designed especially for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Remembrance effort still strong
Delmar man continues event commemorating D-Day veterans
As what has been called the Greatest Generation ages, finding World War II veterans is getting harder. Tougher still is locating survivors of a single action, even one as momentous and enormous as D-Day.
Tonko tackles health care changes
Congressman fields questions on Affordable Care Act at V’ville library
Rep. Paul Tonko held a forum Wednesday, March 27, at the Voorheesville Public Library to discuss health insurance changes taking effect later this year as part of the Affordable Care Act.
Lasting legacy
Niskayuna Boy Scout collecting flags at drop boxes for proper disposal
After several years of dedication to Boy Scout Troop 34, Brandon Fine is collecting old, worn American flags for his Eagle Scout project, which was inspired by his late grandfather.
Outside the box
Unique chocolate treats offer break from Valentine’s Day tradition
While chocolate is often seen as a can’t-fail Valentines gift, the traditional heart-shaped box of sweets might strike some as clichéd. But for those looking to stray from convention will be met with a sweet surprise at Capital District candy shops.
Caring for caregivers
Alzheimer’s support groups provide empathy and encouragement
The Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern New York offers support groups at more than 30 locations across 12 counties to help care-giving partners and individuals with early stage Alzheimer’s or others forms of dementia.
Grants aim to keep history afloat
Erie Canalway grants awarded to three area organizations
The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor announced $45,800 in grants awarded to nine organizations throughout the state at Proctors on Friday, Jan. 18. Three Capital District organizations will receive a total of $17,500.
Ocean of opportunity
Union Aquarium founder sells business to longtime employee
After 23 years of running Union Aquarium in Schenectady, owner Paul Sartoris is selling the business to a longtime employee who is stepping forward to keep the shop afloat.
Family ties run deep on these slopes
Maple Ski Ridge to host 50th anniversary celebration
To celebrate Maple Ski Ridge’s 50th anniversary there, will be a weekend of events from Thursday, Jan. 17, to Sunday, Jan. 20. The business has largely tailored itself to suit its customers, serving as a family-friendly destination and welcoming seniors who are still hitting the slopes.
Contract examined after lost revenue
Rotterdam Boys & Girls Club find pool closure ended tie with town
The Rotterdam Boys & Girls Club receives $18,500 annually from the Town of Rotterdam to help cover services provided to the community at a reduced cost, but its contract was limited to pool related services provided to seniors. The group is hoping to broaden its contract to include additional services and restart town payments.