Air Force Airman 1st Class Gary M. Dennis Jr. graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Dennis is the son of Alice Dennis of Oxford Drive, and grandson of Marion Hazard of Lake Avenue, both of Saratoga Springs.

He is a 2005 graduate of Saratoga Springs High School. He earned a bachelor's degree in 2009 from the State University of Albany.

CLIFTON PARK –  A new policy has been set by the Clifton Park Town Board concerning volunteers called to active duty.

Under this new policy, residents serving on volunteer agencies, boards, committees and commissions who are called up to active duty military service are guaranteed to have their positions when they return.

The policy was formalized this week by the Town Board. 

BALLSTON SPA - At 75, when most people are enjoying their retirement, Jim Bowen still goes to work every day.

But the Saratoga County Sheriff says the time has come to step aside and leave the department where he first started as a deputy in 1965.

Bowen told NewsChannel 13 Wednesday that the decision to retire was a difficult one that he'd contemplated with his wife for several months. "Yes, it is. You have good feelings and you have bad. It's sad, but at the same token, I've had a good ride," said Bowen.

Bowen says he's in perfect health and still loves the work, but it's time to leave the job that he's held since 1972, when he was first appointed.

"I'm looking forward to relaxing. [But the job is] 24-hours, seven days a week and I enjoy it. I've had a good time."