John Scally

E-mail:  trusteescally@altamontvillage.org

My wife Bridget and I moved to the Village, in August 2007 as a newlywed couple. My wife gave me criteria for a house, it had to be less than a forty minute commute into Albany, more than eighteen hundred square feet, the bedrooms couldn’t be too small (typical of older houses), and nothing north of the twin bridges (she is not a fan of heavy traffic). All I wanted was a house built before 1930, preferable a Federal or Victorian.

When we were settling in, it was a fantastic surprise to see how friendly and welcoming are the people of Altamont. Altamont is a great place to live, from its award-winning elementary school, to its social functions such as the Victorian stroll and Strawberry social, and its free library, life doesn’t get any better. And don’t forget the Scottish Games at the fairgrounds.

Our almost 10 years in Altamont have been crazy, but wonderful. Our early years were focused on rehabbing our home. We quickly learned of its historical character – the first Altamont mayor, Hiram Griggs, built the home in 1873. So while we wanted all the modern conveniences, we also strove to keep its historical character and set into place the path to request the home to be placed on the national and state register of historic places. We were pleasantly asked to be part of the Victorian House tour that Altamont Community Tradition (ACT) has yearly in December, it was a fun experience and prompted me to join the organization which benefits Altamont.

The next few years I had returned to complete my education in the laboratory science. I started to take chemistry and biology classes at Hudson Valley Community College, and transferred to Saint Rose. My last year was finished in Rochester School of Medical Technology with a partnership of the University of Rochester. I chose to pursue my career path in the hospital rather than research, and had worked in the Clinical Chemistry and Microbiology at Albany Medical Center.

During both the rehab of our home and my return to school, my wife and I had two beautiful children, Padraig and Ewan. Ewan actually arrived while I was completing my clinical rotation in Rochester. Just as we retained the historical nature of our home, we’ve honored our Irish and Scottish ancestry by giving our sons traditional Irish and Scottish names – and yes, if you hear the pipes playing that is me, and hopefully soon, my sons practicing a tune or two.

I had the opportunity to be asked to join the Planning Board, and during my tenure I learn as much as I can about zoning and planning board functions. As a member of the board I had the chance to hear public comment and make decisions for what is best for thee village. I was asked by members of the community if I had interest in running for Trustee, I talked it over with the family and we all agreed that it would be a great opportunity, and a chance to give back to the Altamont community that has given us so much.

I hope to serve you all well.
John Scally