Friday April 19, 2024 
Around Troy
11/14/2019 – 11/28/2019
Thanksgiving Pop-Up Tours at Oakwood National Historic Landmark – Saturday Nov. 30
Do you have out of town guests coming for Thanksgiving? Are you wondering how you’ll entertain them after you’ve done all the turkey dinner and Black Friday stuff? Here’s your chance to impress them with something completely different!
The Friends of Oakwood Cemetery will offer guided tours of the Gardner Earl Memorial Chapel & Crematorium at 1pm and 2pm on Saturday November 30th for just $10. per person. Children under 12 are Free. Registration is not required but is preferred. Please call 518-328-0090 with desired tour time, name, phone, email and number of people. Each tour will be limited to 40 people.
The castle-like Earl Chapel is a National Historic Landmark, boasting an interior of Victorian splendor including spectacular stained-glass windows, oak carvings and marble mosaics. You’ll hear the brief story of the young man who inspired this gorgeous building and you’ll see why it is a popular venue for intimate weddings as well as social events, memorials and funerals. You’ll even have the option to take a peek into one of the old cremation retorts! For Google map directions use 186 Oakwood Avenue, Troy. The Oakwood Avenue (Route 40) entrance is a short drive from Route 7East (Hoosick Street) in Troy. The Friends of Oakwood is a non-profit volunteer group working to support the preservation and maintenance of the non-sectarian chapel and grounds of this still-active historic 19th C. cemetery. The chapel is handicapped-accessible.
11/14/2019 – 11/28/2019
Calligraphy Class With Sarah Gabler (Repeat Class)
In the workshop we are going to be taking a quote from a book, or a poem and using creative and expressive lettering to make the words come alive with watercolor and colored pens. This class is free and all materials will be provided, but registration is required. It will take place at the Troy Public Library on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 5:30 – 7:30 pm.
This project is made possible with funds from the Decentralization Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature and administered by The Arts Center of the Capital Region.
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CCE Rensselaer County 4-H Holiday Mitten Tree
The weather is getting colder, so stay warm by visiting the Holiday Mitten Tree, sponsored by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rensselaer County. Stop by the Cornell Cooperative Extension office between 8:00am and 4:00pm, Monday through Friday to grab a warm hat, gloves or scarf. All items are free of charge, so take what you and your family need. Donations of winter clothing items will also be gladly accepted. The Cornell Cooperative Extension office is located on the second floor at 61 State St., Troy.
For more information about this and other programs offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rensselaer County, please call 518-272-4210.
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The 63rd Annual Holiday Greens Show – ‘Holidays Around the World’
The Van Rensselaer Garden Club & the Hart Cluett Museum present: The 63rd Holiday Greens Show – Holidays Around the World! in the Hart-Cluett House. Enter at 57 Second St., Troy, NY
The Greens Show – A holiday tradition showcasing 12 rooms of the elegant 1827 Hart-Cluett House with holiday displays utilizing fresh greens, flowers and more.
Self-guided Tours Daily, Thursday, December 5th thru Sunday, December 8th. Noon to 5 pm
Free Community Night Thursday 5 to 8pm (Sponsored by Duncan & Cahill and Stewarts)
Crafts, Storytime & Santa! 5 – 7:30pm
Lantern Tours Friday 5:30 – 7pm by reservation only
Holiday Gift Shop | Decorated fresh wreaths & Creative Expression arrangements for sale
Tickets & Info: tinyurl.com/2019HolidayGreensShow.Historic Rensselaer County
At Your Library
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East Greenbush Community Library 11/21-30
*Events with an asterisk require Registration.
11/28: Library will be closed for holiday
11/29: Leftover Crafts for Kids!, 9am-6pm; Adult Open Recreation Space, 9:30am-2:30pm; Gift Wrapping, 12-4pm; Harp Music in the main library, 1:15-3:30pm
11/30: Saturday Storytime, 11am; Gift Wrapping, 1-4pm
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Events at Castleton Public Library, 11/24-12/7
Events at Castleton Public Library, 11/24-12/7 – Located at 85 S. Main St., Castleton, NY 12033 – All events are free. Questions? Call 518-732-0879.
Computer Basics – Learn the basics of using a computer or other device in a one-on-one session. Appointment required; call 518-732-0879.
Holidays on the Hudson – Sunday, 12/1, 3:30-4:30pm – Join us to celebrate the holidays with a special visit from Santa and light refreshments! Presented in cooperation with the Village of Castleton-on-Hudson.
After Dinner Book Club – The Locals by Jonathan Dee – Monday, 12/2, 7:00pm – Join us the first Monday of each month for a book discussion! Books available at front desk.
Pajama Storytime – Tuesday, 12/3, 6:00pm – Feel free to wear pajamas or bring a stuffed animal to this evening storytime! Ages birth-8.
Learn & Play Storytime – Thursday, 12/5, 10:30am – Children from birth-age 5 are invited to enjoy stories, rhymes, music, and movement while building their early literacy and motor skills!
Early Literacy Playtime – Friday, 12/6, 10:00-11:00am – Playing is learning! With a variety of age-appropriate toys and blocks provided, this playtime is designed for children ages birth to 5 to strengthen their early literacy skills while playing with caregivers & friends.
Bridge Club – Friday, 12/6, 10:30am – Come play bridge with us! Geared toward beginners and players who need a refresher.
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Nassau Free Library Upcoming Programs
Storytime: Every Wednesday 10:30am
Library Writing Center- Tuesdays 2-5pm Call the library to reserve a one half-hour time slot.
Library Computer Skills Lab- Thursdays 2-5pm Call the library to reserve a one half-hour session to learn basic computer skills for success.
Beginner’s Yoga- Sat. 11/30 10:30am
Minecraft & LEGO Club Combo- Wed. 12/4 6pm
Kids Holiday Shop- Sat. 12/7 10 am- 1pm- Kids can shop for lost cost gifts for family and friends for the holidays.
Cookbook Potluck- 12/9 6:30pm
Teen Movie Night- Star Wars- Wed. 12/11 6-8pm
Open Mic Night- 12/13 6-8pm
Book Group- 12/17 7pm
Gingerbread House Making- 12/18 6pm
The Nassau Free Library is located on 18 Church St. in Nassau. Please register for programs. (518)766-2715. Visit us on Facebook & the web at www.nassaufreelibrary.org
10/31/2019 – 11/28/2019
Brunswick Library Events
Brunswick Community Library. 4118 State Highway 2 | Troy, NY 12180. 518-279-4023 | brunswicklibrary.org
Book Clubs:
“Arthur and George” – Wednesday, Oct. 13 at 10:30 am
“Witness for the Prosecution” – Friday, Nov. 22 at Noon
“An American Marriage” – Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 6:00 pm
“Bitcoin Billionaires” – Friday, Nov. 22 @ 6:00 pm
Weekly Kids Events:
Tots Time – Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:30 am
STEAM Class – Thursdays at 4:00 pm
Weekly Adult Events:
Bridge Club – Mondays and Wednesdays at 1:00 pm
Free Yoga – Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:00 pm
Knitting Circle – Thursdays at 1:00 pm
10/31/2019 – 11/28/2019
London & UK Highlights Tour to Benefit Sand Lake Town Library
Are you a Downton Abbey or Beatles fan? Curious about Stonehenge? Then check out our next fundraising trip: London & UK Highlights Tour! Coordinated by Celtic Tours, this nine-day trip starts with a flight from JFK to Heathrow on Monday, April 13, includes RT airfare, 7 nights accommodations, tours of London, Lincoln Cathedral, York, Harwood House & Liverpool, 6 days of breakfasts, welcome and farewell dinners. All for only $2599 (per person sharing; 20 person min). Optional side tours are available to Downton Abbey (Highclere Castle), Stonehenge, and a Beatles Sites tour including the external views of childhood homes, entry to Strawberry Fields – The Beatles Story, and more. Call Sand Lake Town Library at 518-674-5050 for a flyer with complete details. A portion of the cost will go to benefit the Sand Lake Town Library. Don’t miss out!
11/14/2019 – 11/28/2019
Calligraphy Class With Sarah Gabler (Repeat Class)
In the workshop we are going to be taking a quote from a book, or a poem and using creative and expressive lettering to make the words come alive with watercolor and colored pens. This class is free and all materials will be provided, but registration is required. It will take place at the Troy Public Library on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 5:30 – 7:30 pm.
This project is made possible with funds from the Decentralization Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature and administered by The Arts Center of the Capital Region.
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East Greenbush Community Library 11/28-12/5
Library will be closing at 5pm on 11/27 and closed all day on 11/28 for the Thanksgiving holiday.
*Events with an asterisk require registration.
It’s Black Friday at the library! Shop our Home for the Holidays book sale to find that perfect gift. Holiday themed items will be available while supplies last. Missed the special sale? Don’t forget about our ongoing book sale! See display across from circulation. Go to eglibrary.org to subscribe to emails about upcoming special collection sales, programming and special events. Select both the Email Newsletters & Friends of the Library lists.
11/28: Library will be closed for holiday
11/29: Leftover Crafts for Kids!, 9am-6pm; Adult Open Recreation Space, 9:30am-2:30pm; Gift Wrapping, 12-4pm; Harp Music in the main library, 1:15-3:30pm
11/30: Saturday Storytime, 11am; Gift Wrapping, 1-4pm
12/2: English as a New Language*, 9:30am-12:30pm; Safe Space for Writing with Sisters in Crime*, 1pm; Monday Evening Book Discussion, 7pm
12/3: Fantastic 4’s & 5’s, 10am; Baby Meet Up, 11am; Drop-In Tuesday Tech Time, 4-6pm; Craftapolooza! Felt Ornaments*, 6:30pm
12/4: English as a New Language*, 9:30am-12:30pm; Adult Open Recreation Space, 9:30am-2:30pm; Movers & Shakers (ages 1-3), 10am; Wonderful Wednesdays (ages 3-5), 11am; Teen Anime Club, 3pm; 30-Minute Genealogy Appointments*, 5-7:30pm; Craftapolooza! Scrabble Tile Pendants*, 6:30pm
12/5: Movers & Shakers (ages 1-3), 10am; Craftapolooza! Scandinavian Wreaths*, 6:30pm
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Holiday Open House and Vendor Market at the Stephentown Memorial Library
December 7, 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Start your holiday shopping out at the SML Vendor Market and Open House. We will have many vendors with lots of great products including pottery, baskets, knitted items, artwork, fragrances, jewelry, and more.
Santa will be joining us at 3:00 to meet with all of the kids (and kids at heart) of Stephentown.
The students of the Berlin Middle/High School will perform for everyone at 3:30. We will have children’s activities, hot chocolate, coffee, and other treats for sale.
Bring items to add to our Mitten Tree! We collect new and gently used hats, gloves, mittens, and scarves and give it to those in need.
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Friends of Rensselaer Library was a success
The Friends would like to thank everyone who donated bake goods and all those folks who bought goodies from our Election Day Bake Sale. We had 2 locations, one at City Hall and the other at the Rensselaer Senior Center. Both locations saw an increase in participation and profits this year and we look forward to next years Election Day Bake Sale. Our sincere thanks to all the workers, bakers and people who bought baked goods.
Church/Spiritual
11/14/2019 – 11/21/2019
Thanksgiving Dinner at Pawling Avenue United Methodist Church
The Pawling Avenue United Methodist Church will host a family style sit down dinner on Thanksgiving Day, November 28th. Dinner will be served at 2 PM in the Fellowship Hall of the church.
If you do not want to cook, have no one to cook for, or if you just want some company and homemade pie, please come to the Pawling Avenue Methodist Church for dinner. All the favorites will be served – turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, squash, homemade pies and more.
Make your reservations now for this free dinner by calling 518-273-6859. Pawling Avenue Church is located at 520 Pawling Avenue in Troy.
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Heavenly Coffee Served Every Sunday Morning…
Looking for some common “grounds”? Come worship at the Church by the Lake. Snyder’s Lake Community Church offers free coffee AND a non-denominational, Christian service rooted in the Gospel and family values. Join us every Sunday at our 10am worship service located at 24 Camp Scully Way, Wynantskill. It’s the best part of waking up on Sunday mornings!
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Free Thanksgiving Day Dinner at First Bible Baptist Church of West Sand Lake
We would like to invite the community to join us on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2019, for a Free Turkey Dinner with all the traditional fixings at First Bible Baptist Church of West Sand Lake, in Adrian Hall, from 12:00pm-2:00pm. Everyone is invited to come! We are located at 4331 Route 150. RSVP (518) 712-5278.
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Gilead Lutheran Church Welcomes You.
Gilead Lutheran Church is a welcome, faith-filled home for you. Located at 308 Brick Church Rd (Rte. 278) in Center Brunswick we carry on the tradition of serving the community that started in 1742. Each Sunday God’s message is celebrated at our 10:30 am, traditional-styled worship service. Sunday School meets on the 2nd Sunday of the month at 9:30 am. Gilead Lutheran provides a free community dinner and food pantry the 3rd Thursday of the month. The next dinner is on November 21st, 3 to 6 pm. Our “Journey Together” covered dish and program will take a break and will dine out on December 20th at the Crossroads in West Sand Lake. We are fully handicap accessible and gladly welcome all for all of our services, meals and programs. For more information call 518-279-9270 or visit us at www.gileadlutheran.org .
11/14/2019 – 11/28/2019
Vendor Fair at Cornerstone Community Church in Lansingburgh
Saturday, November 30 there will be a Vendor Fair at Cornerstone Community Church, 570 Third Avenue (corner of 115th St) in Lansingburgh.
There will be local businesses including craft items, bakery items, Pampered Chef and Rada. There is also a large selection of Department 56
collectibles on hand. Hours of sale are from 10AM to 1PM. Tables are still available. To reserve yours contact Jill at 518-330-8288. Lunch will be available from 11:30 to 1PM and the church’s thrift shop will also be open from 9AM to 1PM.
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Make a Wreath in Castleton/Schodack on Dec. 1st
It’s the wreath-making time of year! We are making wreaths on December 1st, at St. Paul’s, 1583 Carney Road, Castleton, NY., practically next door to MHHS (http://stpaulcastleton.org). Registration encouraged but not required by texting 518-423-5578 or emailing wendyyorkbriggs@nullgmail.com. Wreaths make great gifts. Make a wreath for yourself and one to gift away. Greens, hoops, wire, hot chocolate, and hot cider provided by the Grace of God. Join us for worship at 9:30am, coffee hour at 10:45am, or wreath-making at 11:30am. All ages welcome. Bring a friend!
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Free Training and a Great Commission… Sound interesting?
Inquire within at the Church by the Lake! Snyder’s Lake Community Church offers a non-denominational Christian service rooted in the Gospel and family values. Join us every Sunday morning at our 10am worship service located at 24 Camp Scully Way in Wynantskill. It’s one opportunity worth pursuing!
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All you can eat breakfast
The monthly all you can eat breakfast at the Poestenkill Christian Church, 721 Snyder’s Corners Road, Poestenkill, NY will be held on December 7 from 8 to 11 AM Cost is $8 for adults and $3.50 for children under 10. Menu includes eggs, French toast, pancakes, home fries, sausage, bacon, coffee, tea, and juice.
Community
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Poestenkill Residents
The Poestenkill Bread of Life Food Pantry expresses our sincere appreciation to all those Town Residents who graciously donated to our Pantry on Election Day at the Fire House. Your donations enable us to provide complete Thanksgiving & Christmas Holiday Meal Baskets to Poestenkill families experiencing economic difficulties. Your generosity also allows the Bread of Life Pantry to function as a viable local provider of basic nutritional food supplies & related items throughout the year to Town Residents in need.
Happy Thanksgiving to all and thanks again!
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Wynantskill Fire Department Dedicates New Utility 42
On Tuesday, October 29th, 2019, the Wynantskill Fire Department dedicated their newest piece of apparatus, Utility 42, to deceased member Tom Goyer. Tom lived his entire life in Wynantskill – spending 45 of those years volunteering with the Wynantskill Fire Department. Tom was the driving force behind the purchase of the first district-owned fire police vehicle, and original Utility 42, a 1997 Dodge van. The new Utility 42 is a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado.
In addition to serving our town through the fire department, Tom married his wife, Judy, in 1965 and raised a family. He also served in the United States Navy, and was a long time usher at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Troy, NY. A heartfelt thank you to all the members of the Goyer family, members of the American Legion Post 1489, members of the North Greenbush Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners, and Deacon Paul Carney of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Troy,NY, for joining us on this special occasion.
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Castleton-Schodack Kiwanis along with Castleton Road Racing Commission Support the Anchor
Sara Westcott, Race Director of the Ken Morgan Memorial Clove Run, proudly presented a check in the amount of $4,450 to Paula Sancomb, manager of The Anchor, Northeast Regional Food Pantry on November 11th, 2019. The Castleton-Schodack Kiwanis, in collaboration with the Castleton Road Racing Commission, was proud to sponsor / host the annual Clove Run. The 2019 event, held in August, was well-attended and supported by many local businesses. That support results in the ability to provide much-needed financial aid to The Anchor, Castleton’s food pantry.
Save the date:
Sunday December 8, 2019 the Castleton Kiwanis will be selling Bells of Life as a Fundraiser for Albany Medical Center Pediatric ER. We will be at Crossgates Mall from 10:00am to 6pm. Please come out, say hello, and purchase a Bell! Can’t get out? Some area local businesses will be selling the Bells as well. For more information visit www.castletonkiwanis.com.
The Castleton-Schodack Kiwanis Club wishes you all a Happy Thanksgiving!
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East Greenbush Honor A Veteran Ceremony for James J. Connell, Jr.
On Tuesday, December 3rd, the Town of East Greenbush is honored to say thank you to James J. Connell, Jr. (USMC) (deceased) for his service to our country and community. Jim was an active Civil War Historian and Re-enactor and wrote a book taking place during the Civil War, “A Lonely Battle Stance.” These are just a few of the many ways Jim served his country and community. The East Greenbush Honor A Veteran Ceremony will take place at 10:00am in the East Greenbush Town Hall. The public is encouraged to attend. Light refreshments will be served. If you have any questions, please contact Bobbie Reno, Town Historian at 518-477-4869
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Fort Crailo DAR Chapter Good Citizen Awards
November 9, 2019, The Fort Crailo Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution had their Good Citizen Essay Award ceremony at the Rensselaer Public Library. Chairmen Doris Roberts presented the award to Andrew Kretzschmar a senior from Rensselaer High. Congratulations to our other winners Taylor Demers a senior from Columbia High School, Makaila Maier a senior from Maple Hill High School and Andrew Gorman a senior from Averill Park High School. Taylor Demers will be moving on to the district level competition.
The DAR Good Citizens Award and Scholarship Contest, created in 1934, is intended to encourage and reward the qualities of good citizenship.
This award recognizes and rewards individuals who possess the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their homes, schools, and communities. These students are selected by their teachers and peers because they demonstrate these qualities to an outstanding degree.
Do you have a patriot in your family tree? Are you actively looking to help out veterans and your community through volunteer work? The Fort Crailo Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution are looking for you! Please visit : https://fortcrailochapterdar.weebly.com
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Friends of Rensselaer Library was a success
The Friends would like to thank everyone who donated bake goods and all those folks who bought goodies from our Election Day Bake Sale. We had 2 locations, one at City Hall and the other at the Rensselaer Senior Center. Both locations saw an increase in participation and profits this year and we look forward to next years Election Day Bake Sale. Our sincere thanks to all the workers, bakers and people who bought baked goods.
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Thank You
I am sincerely honored and humbled for the confidence the voters of Poestenkill have given me. I want to thank Dave Haas and Steve Keller for running a clean campaign that they can be proud of and I look forward to working with both of these gentlemen. To my family and friends,Thank you for all your hard work. I promise to do the best I can. Please join us for my swearing in ceremony on Sunday December 29, 2019 at 1:00 at the V.F.W. post in Poestenkill. Food and drinks will be provided following.
Sincerely,
Keith Hammond
Feel Good
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Thinking Of Thanksgivings Past
There were times when both
The mashed potatoes and gravy
Were lumpy.
The carving of the turkey
Was often less than artful…
Raggedy, actually.
Sometimes, the pie crusts
Were a little overdone and too browned
Even after Grandma trimmed them.
Sometimes, the men….
After a morning of deer hunting
Were tired and sleepy.
The youngsters most always
Complained about being seated
At the “kid’s table”
Nevertheless, this annual family gathering
Always turned out well;
It was a special gathering, to be sure.
Nothing can compare with a Thanksgiving dinner
With family…immediate and extended
Joined together to give Thanks!
Grandma & Grandpa,
Aunts, uncles and cousins
All together for this special occasion…
As always, at this time of year
I close my eyes and enjoy once again
An old time family Thanksgiving dinner !!
– Lloyd Barnhart
West Sand Lake 12196
Letters to the Editor
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What Use Answering Machines
While technology advances, often times the uses to which it is put result in perversion of the original intent — communication.
Telephone answering machines were once thought to be a convenience to take brief messages. Useful employment of an answering machine looses its effectiveness when the recipient is inundated with a bewildering array of multiple options, sub-options, selections and qualifications. Who can possible recall the correct response out of eight or ten choices? When a “phone tree” of more than four options is presented, I hang up and drop the concern a note telling them I can’t remember all the choice and ask them to call if they want to communicate with me.
Businesses which shunt the caller to wait-on-hold times of as much as thirty minutes either don’t have sufficient personnel to field incoming calls or operate on the assumption that perhaps the caller will go away if sufficiently stonewalled. Some companies don’t care enough to want to communicate with callers.
If a professional office or business fails to comprehend the convenience of caller, it’s about time they consider the downside of excessive and interminable menus selections given the caller.
-Steve Sevits
East Greenbush
Cuisine
11/14/2019 – 11/21/2019
Thanksgiving Dinner at Pawling Avenue United Methodist Church
The Pawling Avenue United Methodist Church will host a family style sit down dinner on Thanksgiving Day, November 28th. Dinner will be served at 2 PM in the Fellowship Hall of the church.
If you do not want to cook, have no one to cook for, or if you just want some company and homemade pie, please come to the Pawling Avenue Methodist Church for dinner. All the favorites will be served – turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, squash, homemade pies and more.
Make your reservations now for this free dinner by calling 518-273-6859. Pawling Avenue Church is located at 520 Pawling Avenue in Troy.
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Glendora Vegetarian Club
When all is said and done, the only thing that really matters is how you treat others. Animals are also “others.” Treat them as you would like to be treated. – What are your blessings? Are your blessings not the universe and the fact that you were born alive and healthy? Guard these precious blessings carefully. Go vegan!
A reminder from “Vegetarian Starter Guide”: “The animals we eat are individuals capable of experiencing pleasure, fear and pain. Think about dogs or cats you’ve come to know. They can feel sorrow, joy, terror and other emotions. So can animals we don’t know so we’ll, like chickens, cows or pigs. All of these animals, whether chicken or cat, pig or puppy, experience a wide range of emotions and value their lives.”
Red Robin Song, a bed and breakfast establishment and animal sanctuary, is having a vegan potluck on Thanksgiving Day. Those who attend will not be terrorizing and murdering innocent turkeys.
Glendora will be offering her own Thanksgiving dinner on November 27th at 6 p.m. at 45A Elm St. in the Village of Nassau. The menu will feature breaded “chik” patties, dressing, squash, turnips, peas, mashed potatoes, whole cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie.
Jokes:
Do you know anybody written up in “Who’s Who in America?”
No, do you know anybody written up in “Who’s Through in America?”
2. It’s fortuitous to be an American. The last 4 letters are “I can.”
3. Dancing is the art of getting your feet out of the way before your partner steps on them.
4. A celebrity is somebody who works all his life to be famous, then wears dark glasses so nobody will recognize him.
5. The doctor told Ed to give up golf. Ed said, “Because of my health?”
“No,” said the doc. “Because I saw your scorecard.”
Glendora, 518-610-5810
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Free Thanksgiving Day Dinner at First Bible Baptist Church of West Sand Lake
We would like to invite the community to join us on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2019, for a Free Turkey Dinner with all the traditional fixings at First Bible Baptist Church of West Sand Lake, in Adrian Hall, from 12:00pm-2:00pm. Everyone is invited to come! We are located at 4331 Route 150. RSVP (518) 712-5278.
10/31/2019 – 11/28/2019
Troy Elks November Dinners
We need your support as customers at our November fund raisers so we can continue to best/serve our community. November 5th, Election Day Roast Turkey Dinner with all the trimmings, $11.00 from 4-6:30 PM. Wednesday November 13th, Roast Beef with all the trimmings $11.00 from 4-6:30 PM. All dinners include coffee/tea/dessert. Take outs available. Friday Night Dinners $12.00 Serving 5-7:30 PM. All dinners includes soup, coffee/tea & dessert. November 1st BR/FR Haddock & Roast Turkey, November 8th BR/FR Haddock & Beef Stew , November 15th BR/FR Haddock & Chicken Parm, November 22nd BR/FR Haddock & Goulash & November 29th Closed for Holiday.
10/31/2019 – 11/28/2019
Christmas Brunch
Enjoy delicious food, lively music, and holiday camaraderie at the annual Christmas Brunch presented by La Fédération Franco-Américaine du NY, Sunday, December 8, 2019, 11am to 2pm, at The Venue (former St. Joseph’s Church), 65 Congress Street, Cohoes. Buffet by Joe Forget. Buffet includes Seafood Quiche, Quiche Lorraine, Scrambled eggs, Bacon, Sausage, Roasted Herb Potatoes, Chicken Pot Pie with Puff Pastry, Carved Ham, warm Croissants with butter, Orange Juice and Apple Juice, a Coffee and Tea station, and desserts. French-Canadian music by John Guay, hammered dulcimer; Vonnie Estes, keyboard; Nancy Bakemeier, fiddle; and Maurice Mercier, accordion, pieds, spoons, and guitar. 50/50 raffle at the door. $29 for adults, $14 for children 6-12. Reservations required by December 1, and payment must be received by December 4. Make checks payable to FeFany and send to FeFany, PO Box 354, Cohoes, NY 12047. Contact Yvette at 518-272-5061, or whyvette48@nullyahoo.com. Follow us at albanyareafrenchclub.com and Facebook.
10/24/2019 – 11/28/2019
Register Now for 72nd Troy Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Morning
Registration is open for the 72nd edition of the Troy Turkey Trot, the nation’s 12th and world’s 64th oldest road race, on Thanksgiving morning at TroyTurkeyTrot.com.
Troy’s signature Thanksgiving holiday event, presented by Pioneer Bank, begins at 8 a.m. with the Capital Region’s only Thanksgiving Day 10K. The 10K course will close at 9:30 a.m. to facilitate the start of the Grade School Mile and Turkey Walk at 9:30 a.m. The shorter 5K distance kicks off at 10 a.m. Both the 10K and 5K feature “out and back” course configurations which start at 4th and Fulton Streets and finish at River Street’s Monument Square.
Registration is $35 (5K and 10K) and $15 (Grade School Mile and Turkey Walk). In-person registration along with bib and t-shirt pickup will be held at the Troy Atrium (4 Third Street) Sunday, Nov. 24 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Weds., Nov. 27 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Day-of-event registration for all events will be held from 6:30 a.m. to 15 minutes prior to the start of each event on the second floor of the Troy Atrium. Race day entry fees are $45 (5K and 10K) and $15 (Grade School Mile and Turkey Walk). Participants for all events will receive a 72nd edition blended dry-fit t-shirt, finisher’s medal, personalized finisher’s certificate and post-event refreshments.
While registering online, all participants are encouraged to donate to the event’s two main charities, the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York and Joseph’s House & Shelter, a Troy-based not-for-profit whose mission is to prevent and alleviate homelessness in the Capital Region.
All participants are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to donate to local food pantries and the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York. These items can be dropped off at the Troy Atrium (second floor) on Sunday, Nov. 24 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and race morning (first floor) starting at 6:30 a.m.
For more information or to register, visit TroyTurkeyTrot.com.
11/14/2019 – 11/28/2019
Stephentown Historical Society Holiday Carry-In Dinner
The Stephentown Historical Society will hold its holiday carry-in dinner on Sunday, December 1, at 1:00 p.m. at the Stephentown Heritage Center, 4 Staples Road (off Garfield Road), Stephentown, New York. The choir of the Stephentown Federated Church will sing some seasonal songs and lead a sing-along. Officers and board members will be elected at the brief business meeting. Future historical society gatherings will be held at 2:00 p.m. on the first Sunday afternoon of each month.
For the dinner, bring a dish large enough to share: main course, side dish or dessert. Beverages and table service are provided. Instead of a gift exchange, a monetary collection will be taken to support the Stephentown Food Pantry. All meetings are free and open to the public. The building is handicapped accessible. For information, phone (518) 733-0010.
The Heritage Center will be closed on Fridays and in December.
Giving Back
11/14/2019 – 11/21/2019
NYS Federation of Home Bureau celebrates 100 yrs.
The Federation was born on May 29, 1919. It parted from Cornell University and was incorporated in 1956. Various programs were formed to assist women to obtain a higher standard of living in the home and community. The Bureau is proud of the 108 scholarships in various colleges throughout NYS. They continue to help those in need; making items for community service, personal use or gifts; plus learning about health, safety, consumer and legislation info. To learn more visit website: www.nysfederationofhomebureaus.com
11/14/2019 – 11/21/2019
Thanksgiving Dinner at Pawling Avenue United Methodist Church
The Pawling Avenue United Methodist Church will host a family style sit down dinner on Thanksgiving Day, November 28th. Dinner will be served at 2 PM in the Fellowship Hall of the church.
If you do not want to cook, have no one to cook for, or if you just want some company and homemade pie, please come to the Pawling Avenue Methodist Church for dinner. All the favorites will be served – turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, squash, homemade pies and more.
Make your reservations now for this free dinner by calling 518-273-6859. Pawling Avenue Church is located at 520 Pawling Avenue in Troy.
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Castleton-Schodack Kiwanis along with Castleton Road Racing Commission Support the Anchor
Sara Westcott, Race Director of the Ken Morgan Memorial Clove Run, proudly presented a check in the amount of $4,450 to Paula Sancomb, manager of The Anchor, Northeast Regional Food Pantry on November 11th, 2019. The Castleton-Schodack Kiwanis, in collaboration with the Castleton Road Racing Commission, was proud to sponsor / host the annual Clove Run. The 2019 event, held in August, was well-attended and supported by many local businesses. That support results in the ability to provide much-needed financial aid to The Anchor, Castleton’s food pantry.
Save the date:
Sunday December 8, 2019 the Castleton Kiwanis will be selling Bells of Life as a Fundraiser for Albany Medical Center Pediatric ER. We will be at Crossgates Mall from 10:00am to 6pm. Please come out, say hello, and purchase a Bell! Can’t get out? Some area local businesses will be selling the Bells as well. For more information visit www.castletonkiwanis.com.
The Castleton-Schodack Kiwanis Club wishes you all a Happy Thanksgiving!
10/24/2019 – 11/28/2019
Register Now for 72nd Troy Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Morning
Registration is open for the 72nd edition of the Troy Turkey Trot, the nation’s 12th and world’s 64th oldest road race, on Thanksgiving morning at TroyTurkeyTrot.com.
Troy’s signature Thanksgiving holiday event, presented by Pioneer Bank, begins at 8 a.m. with the Capital Region’s only Thanksgiving Day 10K. The 10K course will close at 9:30 a.m. to facilitate the start of the Grade School Mile and Turkey Walk at 9:30 a.m. The shorter 5K distance kicks off at 10 a.m. Both the 10K and 5K feature “out and back” course configurations which start at 4th and Fulton Streets and finish at River Street’s Monument Square.
Registration is $35 (5K and 10K) and $15 (Grade School Mile and Turkey Walk). In-person registration along with bib and t-shirt pickup will be held at the Troy Atrium (4 Third Street) Sunday, Nov. 24 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Weds., Nov. 27 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Day-of-event registration for all events will be held from 6:30 a.m. to 15 minutes prior to the start of each event on the second floor of the Troy Atrium. Race day entry fees are $45 (5K and 10K) and $15 (Grade School Mile and Turkey Walk). Participants for all events will receive a 72nd edition blended dry-fit t-shirt, finisher’s medal, personalized finisher’s certificate and post-event refreshments.
While registering online, all participants are encouraged to donate to the event’s two main charities, the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York and Joseph’s House & Shelter, a Troy-based not-for-profit whose mission is to prevent and alleviate homelessness in the Capital Region.
All participants are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to donate to local food pantries and the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York. These items can be dropped off at the Troy Atrium (second floor) on Sunday, Nov. 24 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and race morning (first floor) starting at 6:30 a.m.
For more information or to register, visit TroyTurkeyTrot.com.
11/14/2019 – 11/28/2019
Rensselaer County Veterans Toy Drive
American Legion Post #1489 at 111 Main Avenue in Wynantskill is hosting a fundraiser for the Rensselaer County Veterans Toy Drive on Saturday, December 1, 2019 starting at 1PM. The public is welcome to come join us for a day of fun, food, music and raffles. Admission is a new unwrapped toy for a girl or boy, or a $7 donation at the door.
We would appreciate anything you could do to help us raise money and toys for needy families in the Capital District. Any gift certificates or donations you could make would be greatly appreciated. Checks should be made payable to American Legion Post #1489, please indicate in the memo line your check is for the toy drive. Your donation is tax deductible.
Thank you for your support!
Commander Joe Renehan
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Ringing Salvation Army Bells in Memory of Chris Bascom
Salvation Army bells will be rung at the East Greenbush Walmart on Saturday, November 30, 10 – 8 pm, to commemorate the birthday of Christopher Bascom. On Saturday, Dec. 7, 9-3 pm, students from Columbia High School will likewise man the red kettles in his memory at the same location.
Christopher was 16 and a junior at CHS when he was killed by a hit and run, drunk driver in 2003. Christopher was a giving and caring person and always endeavored to make people happy; thus, it is appropriate that he be honored in a manner which helps others.
The Salvation Army assists the needy throughout the year but at Christmas time their red kettles help redirect focus on those less fortunate. Donations may also be sent directly to the Salvation Army Headquarters, Troy Corps, 410 River Street, Troy, NY 12180. If you want your contribution to remain local and/or made in Chris’ name, please write his name on the memo line.
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CCE Rensselaer County 4-H Holiday Mitten Tree
The weather is getting colder, so stay warm by visiting the Holiday Mitten Tree, sponsored by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rensselaer County. Stop by the Cornell Cooperative Extension office between 8:00am and 4:00pm, Monday through Friday to grab a warm hat, gloves or scarf. All items are free of charge, so take what you and your family need. Donations of winter clothing items will also be gladly accepted. The Cornell Cooperative Extension office is located on the second floor at 61 State St., Troy.
For more information about this and other programs offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rensselaer County, please call 518-272-4210.
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Cub Scout Pack 2257 of East Greenbush Food Drive
Cub Scout Pack 2257 of East Greenbush collected food for the Regional Food Bank in Albany. Scouts collected 971 lbs. of food, more than doubling last year collection of 450 lbs. of food. Cub Scouts is for girls and boys in Kindergarten through 5th grade. Scouts would like to thank all that donated food which already has been distributed to local food pantries. The food drive was made possible with support from Price Chopper / Market 32 who donated drop off bags and “Thank You” reusable bags for those that donated at least three food items.
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Fort Crailo DAR Chapter Good Citizen Awards
November 9, 2019, The Fort Crailo Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution had their Good Citizen Essay Award ceremony at the Rensselaer Public Library. Chairmen Doris Roberts presented the award to Andrew Kretzschmar a senior from Rensselaer High. Congratulations to our other winners Taylor Demers a senior from Columbia High School, Makaila Maier a senior from Maple Hill High School and Andrew Gorman a senior from Averill Park High School. Taylor Demers will be moving on to the district level competition.
The DAR Good Citizens Award and Scholarship Contest, created in 1934, is intended to encourage and reward the qualities of good citizenship.
This award recognizes and rewards individuals who possess the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their homes, schools, and communities. These students are selected by their teachers and peers because they demonstrate these qualities to an outstanding degree.
Do you have a patriot in your family tree? Are you actively looking to help out veterans and your community through volunteer work? The Fort Crailo Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution are looking for you! Please visit : https://fortcrailochapterdar.weebly.com
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Church of the Redeemer Thrift Shop
The Church of the Redeemer Thrift Shop has earned an excellent reputation by offering quality merchandise at bargain prices. We offer clothing, jewelry, household goods, games, toys, puzzles, CD’s, Records, DVD’s, one-of-a-kind items, gift baskets and Christmas decorations.
The shop will be open on Thursday December 5 from 3 to 6PM and on Saturday December 7 from 9 to 2, weather permitting. Located at 1249 Third Street in Rensselaer and on CDTA bus route #214, the shop can be entered through the parking lot on the Catherine Street side. Visit us and be amazed!
Hobbies
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Events at Castleton Public Library, 11/24-12/7
Events at Castleton Public Library, 11/24-12/7 – Located at 85 S. Main St., Castleton, NY 12033 – All events are free. Questions? Call 518-732-0879.
Computer Basics – Learn the basics of using a computer or other device in a one-on-one session. Appointment required; call 518-732-0879.
Holidays on the Hudson – Sunday, 12/1, 3:30-4:30pm – Join us to celebrate the holidays with a special visit from Santa and light refreshments! Presented in cooperation with the Village of Castleton-on-Hudson.
After Dinner Book Club – The Locals by Jonathan Dee – Monday, 12/2, 7:00pm – Join us the first Monday of each month for a book discussion! Books available at front desk.
Pajama Storytime – Tuesday, 12/3, 6:00pm – Feel free to wear pajamas or bring a stuffed animal to this evening storytime! Ages birth-8.
Learn & Play Storytime – Thursday, 12/5, 10:30am – Children from birth-age 5 are invited to enjoy stories, rhymes, music, and movement while building their early literacy and motor skills!
Early Literacy Playtime – Friday, 12/6, 10:00-11:00am – Playing is learning! With a variety of age-appropriate toys and blocks provided, this playtime is designed for children ages birth to 5 to strengthen their early literacy skills while playing with caregivers & friends.
Bridge Club – Friday, 12/6, 10:30am – Come play bridge with us! Geared toward beginners and players who need a refresher.
11/14/2019 – 11/28/2019
Stephentown Historical Society Holiday Carry-In Dinner
The Stephentown Historical Society will hold its holiday carry-in dinner on Sunday, December 1, at 1:00 p.m. at the Stephentown Heritage Center, 4 Staples Road (off Garfield Road), Stephentown, New York. The choir of the Stephentown Federated Church will sing some seasonal songs and lead a sing-along. Officers and board members will be elected at the brief business meeting. Future historical society gatherings will be held at 2:00 p.m. on the first Sunday afternoon of each month.
For the dinner, bring a dish large enough to share: main course, side dish or dessert. Beverages and table service are provided. Instead of a gift exchange, a monetary collection will be taken to support the Stephentown Food Pantry. All meetings are free and open to the public. The building is handicapped accessible. For information, phone (518) 733-0010.
The Heritage Center will be closed on Fridays and in December.
11/21/2019 – 11/28/2019
Omaha High Poker game
The West Sand Lake FD will hold a Deep Stack Omaha High Poker Tournament on Sat. November 30, 2019 at 1 pm
Doors open at 12 noon. All Walk-ins Welcome!
Free Refreshments and Lunch will be served. Please tell and bring your friends and relatives. We hope to see you at the final winners table!!! For more information: WSL Fire Hall, 674-3677 day of event (after 10 a.m.) or Dennis, 283-2252. The Fire Hall is located at 3695 NY Route 43 near the intersection of NY Route 150. We have plenty of parking lot space with the addition of our 2nd “event lot” on Fire House Lane. Please use our “Event” entrance located at the rear of the Hall.
Local Fairs
11/14/2019 – 11/21/2019
4-H Winter Fair
4-H Invites all youth ages 5-19: Sunday, December 8th – 1:00pm-3:00pm – Poestenkill Evangelical Church – Hosted by the Green Earthlings 4-H Club
They will have a community service project and a project that can be made and judged on location by entering in the Winter Fair.
Tamarac location: Cupcake Decorating, Create a Holiday Picture Frame, Writing Letters for Luke to Make a Wish, option to adopt a family through Things of My Very Own.
Poestenkill location: several Natural and Recycled Projects, Writing Letters for Luke- Make a Wish, Writing Letters for a Veteran at the Albany VA Hospital. Please bring a canned good for the food pantry.
To register for event or for more information, please call 518-272-4210.
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North Greenbush Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Celebration
On Saturday December 7, 2019 the Town of North Greenbush will host its 5th Annual Christmas parade and tree lighting ceremony. Please bring your holiday cheer and help us celebrate. The parade will kick off from the front parking lot of St. Jude the Apostle School promptly at 6:00 pm. The parade will continue directly to Town Hall for a tree lighting celebration complete with refreshments and surprises for the children from Santa himself.
Your participation is welcomed – so bring on your floats, decorated classic cars, and costumed pets and join the parade! If you are interested in participating in the parade, contact the Supervisor’s office at 518-283-5313 ext 10 or email at supervisorsoffice@nullnorthgreenbush.org
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to All!
Sincerely, Lou Desso, North Greenbush Town Supervisor
10/24/2019 – 11/28/2019
Cambridge, NY Operation Santa Clause Vendor Fair
Calling all Vendors: Operation Santa Clause is looking for you. Sat Dec. 7th 10 am till 4pm. Is our 23rd Annual Christmas in Cambridge Craft Fair hosted by Cambridge Central Schools “Operation Santa Clause” For more information or to receive an application please email Dawn Case avondawncase@nullgmail.com or leave a message if you don’t have email at 518-669-2052.
11/14/2019 – 11/28/2019
Holiday Happenings in Nassau
Visit from Santa! Holiday ornaments! Tree lighting ceremony! Sunday, December 1st the Village of Nassau will be transformed into a Holiday Wonderland for children and adults.
Santa will be visiting the Nassau Fire Department located on Chatham St. (Rt. 203). Arriving at 3:30pm, he’s inviting children to visit and spend time chatting with him. Santa will be staying until 5pm. Children can also visit the Village Youth Committee who will be making holiday ornaments at the Fire House from 3:30-4:30pm.
When the sun goes down at 5pm, the Village Commons on John St. will be the site of the annual Tree Lighting ceremony.To get everyone into the Holiday Spirit, there will be musical entertainment from members of the Nassau Community Band, a roaring bonfire and a visit from Santa. We will also be collecting new, unwrapped toys for the Nassau Resource Center.
All events are offered free of charge and refreshments will be served. For more information call 518-522-2916.
11/14/2019 – 11/28/2019
Holidays on the Hudson
The Village of Castleton-on-Hudson will kick off the Holiday season on December 1st from 3:30 to 4:30 PM at the Village Hall, 85 South Main Street. This annual event is sponsored by the Village Board, Castleton Public Library, and Castleton Fire Department. Santa will be arriving on a fire truck. There will be story time, a craft, the lighting of the outdoor tree, and the serving of light refreshments. Please join us for this Annual Holiday Tradition.
11/14/2019 – 11/28/2019
Vendor Fair at Cornerstone Community Church in Lansingburgh
Saturday, November 30 there will be a Vendor Fair at Cornerstone Community Church, 570 Third Avenue (corner of 115th St) in Lansingburgh.
There will be local businesses including craft items, bakery items, Pampered Chef and Rada. There is also a large selection of Department 56
collectibles on hand. Hours of sale are from 10AM to 1PM. Tables are still available. To reserve yours contact Jill at 518-330-8288. Lunch will be available from 11:30 to 1PM and the church’s thrift shop will also be open from 9AM to 1PM.
11/21/2019 – 11/28/2019
Omaha High Poker game
The West Sand Lake FD will hold a Deep Stack Omaha High Poker Tournament on Sat. November 30, 2019 at 1 pm
Doors open at 12 noon. All Walk-ins Welcome!
Free Refreshments and Lunch will be served. Please tell and bring your friends and relatives. We hope to see you at the final winners table!!! For more information: WSL Fire Hall, 674-3677 day of event (after 10 a.m.) or Dennis, 283-2252. The Fire Hall is located at 3695 NY Route 43 near the intersection of NY Route 150. We have plenty of parking lot space with the addition of our 2nd “event lot” on Fire House Lane. Please use our “Event” entrance located at the rear of the Hall.
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Church of the Redeemer Thrift Shop
The Church of the Redeemer Thrift Shop has earned an excellent reputation by offering quality merchandise at bargain prices. We offer clothing, jewelry, household goods, games, toys, puzzles, CD’s, Records, DVD’s, one-of-a-kind items, gift baskets and Christmas decorations.
The shop will be open on Thursday December 5 from 3 to 6PM and on Saturday December 7 from 9 to 2, weather permitting. Located at 1249 Third Street in Rensselaer and on CDTA bus route #214, the shop can be entered through the parking lot on the Catherine Street side. Visit us and be amazed!
Local Government
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Shop Small! Shop Local!
As we kick-off the holiday season, most of us will be doing more retail shopping than usual. Holiday gifts and big items, such as appliances and home furnishings are traditional purchases at this time of year. This annual spending, translates into a notable amount of tax revenue for communities.
We would like to encourage all residents of Rensselaer County to buy at local Rensselaer County businesses. One of the most important sources of revenue for Rensselaer County is its sales tax. In purchasing items in the county, we are contributing to the county’s main source of revenue and in turn will aid in keeping taxes down. By shopping in Rensselaer County, residents are essentially paying themselves and contributing to building the economic structure and supporting job growth.
Saturday, November 30 is Small Business Saturday in downtown Troy. There is so much to explore, so come celebrate the holidays among friendly faces and check out the over 60 unique boutiques, and enjoy a full day at Troy’s cafes, bars and restaurants.
Wishing you the best of the Season,
Peter Grimm, Cynthia Doran, Mark Fleming, Bobby Burns, Erin Sullivan-Teta and Carole Weaver
Rensselaer County Legislature, District 1. City of Troy
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November Report from the Rensselaer County Legislature Majority
The Rensselaer County Legislature’s November meeting saw the Legislators adopting two resolutions unanimously expressing concerns for the Criminal Justice Reforms that were adopted by New York State. The reforms will drastically effect how criminal cases are handled and processed by the Office of the District Attorney. Many people charged with crimes like burglary, drug sales, and weapons offenses may be set free, without bail, shortly after their arrest. The reforms will also burden Rensselaer County Department of Probation and the Office of the Public Defender. The Legislators joined in unanimously asking the State to provide funding to cover the additional costs of implementing these reforms, which are estimated to exceed $500,000 per year.The Legislature also accepted over $200k in grant funding that will be used to improve and support the County emergency services such as the Emergency Operations Center, the Mobile Communications Center, and the Bureau of Public Safety Answering Point.
The Legislature accepted over $72,000 for a program to provide veterans with a holistic engagement program and other wellness programming. By assisting veterans in Rensselaer County and by providing peer–to-peer advocacy and supportive services for veterans, our Rensselaer County Veterans Department can help improve the quality of life of our veterans
The Legislature approved the commissioning of a feasibility study to consider the creation of an adult day care facility. The Van Rensselaer Manor is the County nursing home and maintains a high occupancy rate which at times can limit availability for residents in need of skilled or long term care. It has been determined that there is a need for additional adult day care facility to manage the needs of residents requiring medical care and supervision, while allowing them to remain in their own homes longer. We look forward to the recommendations in this study as many families struggle with caring for elderly family members.
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North Greenbush Report from Councilwoman Mary Frances Sabo
At the beginning of the month, a “walking out” ceremony was held for North Greenbush Police Sergeant Kate Kuhn. I thank Sergeant Kuhn for her years of dedicated service to North Greenbush and wish her well in her retirement. The North Greenbush town board unanimously passed the 2020 budget at its November meeting. The budget contained a 3% tax decrease and preserves all town programs and services. The town board also discussed an opportunity presented by a company known as First Light to have fiber optic internet and phone service installed for the Police Department, Town Hall and the Town Highway garage. The company has agreed to waive all installation costs to the town and has provided a 35% discount for a 5 year contract . The town should save money and also benefit from improved phone service and faster internet connections. At the November board meeting, I introduced for the third time a resolution to make North Greenbush a “Climate Smart Community or “CSC”. This is a a state program that helps local governments take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adopt to a changing climate. The first step in the process of becoming a climate smart community is adopting a resolution which costs nothing and does not commit the town to further steps. As promised, the other board members studied the program and the resolution to become a Climate Smart Community was passed unanimously. I will take the necessary steps to register the state as a Climate Smart Community. Finally, the town’s annual holiday parade and party sponsored by the YOUth Makes a Difference Committee will take place the evening of December 7. This promises to be a fun and festive evening and will include a visit from Santa. As the date approaches, I will post more information on my Councilwoman Mary Frances Sabo facebook page.
Please accept my wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving!
Councilwoman Mary Frances Sabo
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Rensselaer County Legislature Office of the Minority
November 2019 Meeting Highlights:
Criminal Justice Reform: The legislature unanimously approved two resolutions submitted by the democratic and republican caucuses, urging Governor Cuomo and the NYS legislature to review and reconsider the 2020 criminal justice reform and appropriate the necessary funding for the additional costs the county will incur by complying with the newly mandated legislation.
Van Rensselaer Manor: The legislature renewed several annual contracts for the manor, such as podiatry services and laboratory services; as well as the authorization to purchase a new lawn mower and mulch kit to replace an old one in order to maintain the 20 acres of property.
Additionally, as baby boomers are retiring and in need of senior care, the legislature approved a feasibility study to evaluate the need for an adult day care center at the manor.
Employment & Training – An agreement to provide employment and training services to eligible, low income youth, through the ARC of Rensselaer County and the Commission on Economic Opportunity (CEO) was approved by the Legislature. This 100% federally funded program offers academic and occupational skill training, leadership development and community service learning, as well as summer employment for disadvantaged, disconnected youth and those with intellectual disabilities.
Next Meeting – Tuesday, December 10, 2019 in the Rensselaer County Chambers located on the 3rd floor of the Ned Pattison Government Center, 1600 7th Avenue, Troy.
Residents are welcome to contact our office at 270-2890.. www.rensselaercounty.org & follow us on Facebook: “Rensselaer County Legislature – Democratic Team”
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North Greenbush Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Celebration
On Saturday December 7, 2019 the Town of North Greenbush will host its 5th Annual Christmas parade and tree lighting ceremony. Please bring your holiday cheer and help us celebrate. The parade will kick off from the front parking lot of St. Jude the Apostle School promptly at 6:00 pm. The parade will continue directly to Town Hall for a tree lighting celebration complete with refreshments and surprises for the children from Santa himself.
Your participation is welcomed – so bring on your floats, decorated classic cars, and costumed pets and join the parade! If you are interested in participating in the parade, contact the Supervisor’s office at 518-283-5313 ext 10 or email at supervisorsoffice@nullnorthgreenbush.org
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to All!
Sincerely, Lou Desso, North Greenbush Town Supervisor
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Schodack Supervisor’s report for October 2019
In a continuing effort to keep residents informed of my activities as well as issues pertaining to the Town, I submit to them this report for October of 2019. As always, further information can be found on the Town’s website or it’s social media pages.
I want to start by extending my appreciation to the people of Schodack for placing their confidence in me to continue to serve you all as Supervisor for a 2nd term. It has been an honor to represent you and our Town these previous two years and I thank you for placing your trust in me for another term. I also want to congratulate Shawn Masters, Mike Kenney, Tracey Rex, Paul Peter, and Deb Curtis on their victories as well and I look forward to working with each of you to help advance Schodack.
Over the month of October, I have worked extensively with my fellow Board members as well as our department heads to put together and fine tune the 2020 budget for our Town. We will adopt the budget at our November Board meeting. I’m proud that it continues the long-standing tradition so many have worked towards over the years of expanding services to our residents while avoiding burdensome tax increases. The Town Board’s long-term foresight and dedication coupled with the recent record growth and investment in Town have placed us on some the strongest fiscal footing of any Town in Rensselaer County.
And finally, a big thank you and congratulations to the Seeberger family for all the hard work they did in hosting their first Apple Festival on October 5th-6th since opening Windy Hill Orchard. A great event filled with some wonderful fun for the entire family. Was also great seeing the Schodack Valley Fire Company serving up delicious food throughout the weekend. The Apple Festival has always been such an important tradition here in Town and it’s exciting to see the continued level of enthusiasm from so many local families who attended this year. I believe it when they say they’re just getting started!
Supervisor David Harris
Pets & Conservation
11/14/2019 – 11/28/2019
Dec Reminds New York State Hunters: Be Safe During Hunting Seasons
With several hunting seasons underway, and the start of the Southern Zone big game season just weeks away, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today reminded hunters to put safety at the forefront this fall when going afield.
“Hunting in New York State is safer than ever,” Commissioner Seggos said. “However, hunting-related accidents and falls from tree stands still occur. Our investigations show that every hunting-related accident is preventable. DEC urges New York’s 500,000 hunters to use common sense, follow the tenets taught in DEC’s Hunter Education Course, and put safety first in every hunting trip this season.”
The four rules of firearm safety:
· Treat every firearm as if it is loaded;
· Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction;
· Hunters should keep their fingers off the trigger and outside the trigger guard until ready to shoot; and
· Always be sure of the target and what is beyond.
Be Safe, Be Seen: Hunter Orange Saves Lives
DEC encourages all hunters to wear blaze orange or pink. Wearing orange or pink makes hunters highly visible in the field and prevents other hunters from mistaking a person for an animal or shooting in their direction. Hunters who wear hunter orange are seven times less likely to be shot. New York State law requires hunters age 14 and 15 and their mentors who are hunting deer or bear with a gun to wear fluorescent hunter orange or pink that is visible from all directions—a shirt, jacket, or vest with at least 250 square inches of solid or patterned fluorescent orange or pink (the pattern must be at least 50 percent orange or pink) OR a hat with at least 50 percent fluorescent orange or pink.
During the past 10 years, no hunter wearing hunter orange was mistaken for game and killed in New York. Most big game hunters involved in firearm-related incidents were not wearing hunter orange.
Tree Stand Safety Tips
Every year, hunters are seriously injured, paralyzed, or killed by falling out of tree stands. Falls from tree stands have become a major cause of hunting-related injuries and fatalities in New York. In 2017, DEC Commissioner Seggos requested the agency’s Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs) to track and investigate tree stand injuries. DEC investigated five tree stand accidents in 2018. All five accidents involved a hunter who was not wearing a harness or were using a harness that was not attached to the stand or tree at the time of their fall. The proper use of tree stands and full-body harnesses helps to prevent these injuries and fatalities.
Hunters are encouraged to use a full-body safety harness and a climbing belt and stay connected from the time they leave the ground to the time they get back down. Most tree stand accidents occur when hunters are climbing in and out of the stand. In addition, follow these safety tips:
· Never climb in or out of a tree stand with a loaded firearm;
· Read the manufacturer’s instructions and warnings before using the tree stand and check stands (including straps and chains) every season. Replace any worn or missing parts; and
· Hunters should tell friends and relatives where they will be hunting and when they will return. A map showing the tree stand location makes it easier for others to find a hunter if they do not return on time.
Legal Hunting Hours
DEC reminds hunters that legal hours for big game hunting across the state are from official sunrise to sunset. It is the hunter’s responsibility to know when these times are in his or her location. Consult the DEC hunting guide, use the DEC HuntFishNY app, or search weather data on the internet to find the official sunrise and sunset times for the hunter’s area. It is illegal to hunt deer and bear before sunrise or after sunset (link leaves DEC’s website).
Fitness for Hunters
Hunting is an exciting sport, but it can also be physically demanding. Every year, some hunters suffer heart attacks and strokes. Walking in heavy clothing, carrying gear, and dragging a deer through the woods can require vigorous exertion and may be more stress than the heart can handle. It is a good idea to exercise and build up endurance before hunting season. In addition, hunters should be prepared for winter conditions when venturing in the woods, inform a friend or relative of their whereabouts, and pack emergency supplies like flashlights, water and high energy foods.
Hunter Education Program
DEC requires every hunter to take a Hunter Education Course free of charge before they can receive a license to hunt. Since New York’s Hunter Education Program was first introduced in 1949, the number of hunting-related accidents have declined by 80 percent. Thanks to the efforts of 2,600 DEC staff and volunteer hunter education program instructors that teach nearly 50,000 students each year, New York’s hunting safety statistics continue to improve.
Trained volunteer instructors certified by DEC teach safe, responsible, and ethical hunting and trapping practices and the important role of hunters and trappers in wildlife conservation.
In 2018, 13 hunting-related shooting incidents (HRSI) were reported in New York. In 1966, there were 166 incidents, 13 of which were fatal.
For more information on these and other important hunting safety tips, please visit DEC’s website and watch a video about hunter safety and tree stand safety (links leave DEC’s website) for more tips on how to prevent accidents.
School Bulletins
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Columbia Viola Player Performing with ESYO’s Symphony Orchestra
Congratulations to Allison Headley, a junior who plays in the Columbia High School Chamber Orchestra, for earning a spot in the viola section of the Empire State Youth Orchestra’s flagship Symphony Orchestra, its most advanced ensemble that is reserved for players whose technical skills and musicality are at the highest level.
The orchestra receives regular professional coaching and performs in the finest concert venues, including the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall and Carnegie Hall.
As part of ESYO’s Symphony Orchestra, Ms. Headley will perform in the Melodies of Christmas, a popular holiday program televised on CBS6 that has raised more than $8 million for the pediatric oncology program at Albany Medical Center. She will also play at a fall rehearsal weekend retreat in the Catskills at Frost Valley YMCA, an annual young people’s concert, a free concert for senior citizens, and in other concerts.
Next summer, she will join the Symphony on a tour to Argentina and Uruguay.
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Dante Boyd Helping RPI Soccer to Record-Setting Season and NCAA Sweet 16
Troy, NY– The Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) men’s soccer team has set numerous program records, including wins in a season, on its way to advancing to the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 for the first time in school history, thanks to contributions from Dante Boyd of Troy 12180 and Troy High School.
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Rensselaer High School Alumni need help stuffing envelopes
The Rensselaer High School Alumni will meet on Tuesday December 3rd at 2:40pm in the LGI room to fold and stuff envelopes for our annual drive. All members and any seniors who would like to help with this project are welcome and even if you can only volunteer for 30 minutes it would be appreciated.
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News from Averill Park CSD
Students at Algonquin Middle School developed business plans and pitched their ideas to judges in a Shark Tank simulation based on the popular television show. Those who participated showed great ingenuity as groups used a 3-D printer, created their own websites and developed prototypes. Well done everyone!
Thank you to Rensselaer County, B. Lodge & Co. and the Rensselaer County Youth Department for raising money and donating winter coats to students in need at Poestenkill Elementary! Students will be much warmer during the cold months ahead because of your hard work.
Congratulations to Jess Haskin, Syd Haskin and Kelsey Wood for signing their National Letters of Intent to compete in collegiate athletics. Jess and Syd will be competing on the soccer pitch for Merrimack College, and Kelsey is heading to Sacred Heart University to play basketball. All three colleges are Division I institutions. Good luck ladies!
As always, for the latest news from the District, please visit our website – averillpark.k12.ny.us. You can also follow AP on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent
Mission: Meeting the needs of and creating opportunities for every student every day. #AP_EveryStudentEveryDay
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Fort Crailo DAR Chapter Good Citizen Awards
November 9, 2019, The Fort Crailo Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution had their Good Citizen Essay Award ceremony at the Rensselaer Public Library. Chairmen Doris Roberts presented the award to Andrew Kretzschmar a senior from Rensselaer High. Congratulations to our other winners Taylor Demers a senior from Columbia High School, Makaila Maier a senior from Maple Hill High School and Andrew Gorman a senior from Averill Park High School. Taylor Demers will be moving on to the district level competition.
The DAR Good Citizens Award and Scholarship Contest, created in 1934, is intended to encourage and reward the qualities of good citizenship.
This award recognizes and rewards individuals who possess the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their homes, schools, and communities. These students are selected by their teachers and peers because they demonstrate these qualities to an outstanding degree.
Do you have a patriot in your family tree? Are you actively looking to help out veterans and your community through volunteer work? The Fort Crailo Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution are looking for you! Please visit : https://fortcrailochapterdar.weebly.com
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New York Army National Guard Promotions
Latham, NY – Major General Ray Shields, the Adjutant General for the State of New York, announces the promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.
John Crosby Leclaire from Mechanicville, N.Y. and assigned to the 1427th Transportation Company received a promotion to the rank of Private First Class.
Andrew Botts from Troy, N.Y. and assigned to the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team received a promotion to the rank of Captain.
Michael Weber from Eagle Bridge, N.Y. and assigned to the 466th Medical Company Area Support received a promotion to the rank of Sergeant.
John Scott from Rensselaer, N.Y. and assigned to the Joint Force Headquarters received a promotion to the rank of Major.
Victoria Harrington from Averill Park, N.Y. and assigned to the Company G (Forward Support Company Infantry), 427th Brigade Support Battalion received a promotion to the rank of Specialist.
Joseph Riviello from Wynantskill, N.Y. and assigned to the Division Signal Company, 42nd Infantry Division received a promotion to the rank of Captain.
Tyler Vorpahl from Troy, N.Y. and assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarter Company, 3-142nd Aviation received a promotion to the rank of Captain.
Kaitlin Backes from Buskirk, N.Y. and assigned to the Headquarters and Support Company, 42nd Infantry Division received a promotion to the rank of Private First Class.
Army National Guard promotions are based on overall performance, attitude, leadership ability, and development potential.
Seniors
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Sand Lake Seniors Club
The Sand Lake Seniors Club will be holding their annual Christmas Party on December 7, 2019 at the Poestenkill Firehouse from 12:00 to 4:00. We will be having a Grab Bag ($5.), Door Prizes, 50/50, Ugly Sweater Contest and lots of music by Brian Zapel. For tickets and reservations you can call Clara Peters at 518-326-1422. We will be taking reservations up to November 28. At our December 12th regular meeting we will be entertained by The Embellishment” Bell Ringers from The East Greenbush Methodist Church. We will be having a “Pot Luck” luncheon following the entertainment. Come join us as we celebrate the Holidays. We meet at The Church of The Covenant Methodist Church on Rt. 43 in Averill Park at 12:00 the second Thursday of every month. Remember if the Averill Park Schools are closed we do not have a meeting.
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December Membership Meeting and Basket Raffle
Rensselaer County’s Everett Wagar Senior Center, 2 Roxborough Rd, Grafton, will hold the monthly Eastern Senior Membership meeting at 11:00 am on Friday, December 6th. All residents 60 and older are encouraged to attend. Upcoming activities, events and fundraisers will be discussed at this meeting. Please join us at noon for a nutritious meal followed by drawings of the Senior Basket Raffles. Following the 70 basket drawings, there will be several door prize drawings. If you have not purchased your tickets yet, please stop in the senior center before the start of the drawing. Call 518-279-3413 to be added to the lunch list.
Sports & Recreation
10/24/2019 – 11/28/2019
Register Now for 72nd Troy Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Morning
Registration is open for the 72nd edition of the Troy Turkey Trot, the nation’s 12th and world’s 64th oldest road race, on Thanksgiving morning at TroyTurkeyTrot.com.
Troy’s signature Thanksgiving holiday event, presented by Pioneer Bank, begins at 8 a.m. with the Capital Region’s only Thanksgiving Day 10K. The 10K course will close at 9:30 a.m. to facilitate the start of the Grade School Mile and Turkey Walk at 9:30 a.m. The shorter 5K distance kicks off at 10 a.m. Both the 10K and 5K feature “out and back” course configurations which start at 4th and Fulton Streets and finish at River Street’s Monument Square.
Registration is $35 (5K and 10K) and $15 (Grade School Mile and Turkey Walk). In-person registration along with bib and t-shirt pickup will be held at the Troy Atrium (4 Third Street) Sunday, Nov. 24 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Weds., Nov. 27 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Day-of-event registration for all events will be held from 6:30 a.m. to 15 minutes prior to the start of each event on the second floor of the Troy Atrium. Race day entry fees are $45 (5K and 10K) and $15 (Grade School Mile and Turkey Walk). Participants for all events will receive a 72nd edition blended dry-fit t-shirt, finisher’s medal, personalized finisher’s certificate and post-event refreshments.
While registering online, all participants are encouraged to donate to the event’s two main charities, the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York and Joseph’s House & Shelter, a Troy-based not-for-profit whose mission is to prevent and alleviate homelessness in the Capital Region.
All participants are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to donate to local food pantries and the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York. These items can be dropped off at the Troy Atrium (second floor) on Sunday, Nov. 24 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and race morning (first floor) starting at 6:30 a.m.
For more information or to register, visit TroyTurkeyTrot.com.
11/14/2019 – 11/28/2019
Troy Turkey Trot Participants Invited to Enter Event’s 5K Costume Contest
Organizers of the 72nd Troy Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning invite entries into the event’s popular 5K costume contest.
Participants are invited to enter one of two categories: Best Thanksgiving Day Costume and the Most Unique Costume. Entry forms can be submitted at bib/chip/t-shirt pick-up held at the Troy Atrium on Sunday, Nov. 24 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Wednesday, Nov. 27, from 11a.m to 6 p.m. Contestants can also complete a costume contest entry form Thanksgiving morning on the first floor of the Troy Atrium.
“The costume contest remains a highlight of the 5K and our entries are always so creative,” said Event Director George Regan. “Last year folks dressed up in everything from pilgrims and yams to Mr. T and Santa in the Chimney. I can’t wait to see what we get this year!”
On race day a photograph of each contest entry in both categories will be uploaded to the Troy Turkey Trot’s Facebook page. Voting will start at 1 p.m. and continue through Sunday, Dec. 1 at noon. The contestant(s) receiving the most “likes” (votes) will win. First place will receive a $100 Hannaford gift card. Second place will receive a $50 Hannaford gift card, and third place will receive a $25 Hannaford gift card. Winners will be announced on Monday, Dec. 2.
“The only costumes not permitted are those that cover the face, as well as bulky costumes that may interfere with others at the start or out on the course,” Regan added.
For more information and to download a costume contest entry form, please visit TroyTurkeyTrot.com/annual-costume-contest/
Sponsors of the 72nd Troy Turkey Trot include: Pioneer Bank; Wm. J. Fagan & Sons, Capital Region Honda Dealers, Fidelis Care, Choice Physical Therapy, CHA, Courtyard by Marriott, River Street Market by First Columbia, DeCrescente Distributing Company, OrthoNY, iCRYO, Hannaford Supermarkets, Garelick Farms, and, Bryce Real Estate.
10/25/2019 – 12/05/2019
Youth Snowmobile Safety Course
On Saturday, December 7, 2019 the Grafton Trail Blazers Snowmobile Club and Grafton Lakes State Park will host a snowmobile safety course for young people ages 10 to 18. Students must be at least 10 years old on the day of the course to attend. Parents are encouraged to stay and participate. The course will be held at the Grafton VFW/Fire Hall at 581 South Road from 8:15am to approximately 4:30pm. The course will be taught by NYS certified volunteer instructor Jim Blessing. Topics covered include NYS laws and regulations, riding skills, trail emergencies, protecting the environment, maintenance and repair, and trailering. To register, call the Grafton Lakes State Park Welcome Center at 518-279-1155, ext. 2 or e-mail mary.downey@nullparks.ny.gov with the parent’s name, student’s name and age, and your phone number. Adults are encouraged to attend as well so please let us know if a parent will be accompanying the child. Space is limited, so no walk-ins please. The course is free of charge and lunch will be provided.
The Arts
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Columbia Viola Player Performing with ESYO’s Symphony Orchestra
Congratulations to Allison Headley, a junior who plays in the Columbia High School Chamber Orchestra, for earning a spot in the viola section of the Empire State Youth Orchestra’s flagship Symphony Orchestra, its most advanced ensemble that is reserved for players whose technical skills and musicality are at the highest level.
The orchestra receives regular professional coaching and performs in the finest concert venues, including the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall and Carnegie Hall.
As part of ESYO’s Symphony Orchestra, Ms. Headley will perform in the Melodies of Christmas, a popular holiday program televised on CBS6 that has raised more than $8 million for the pediatric oncology program at Albany Medical Center. She will also play at a fall rehearsal weekend retreat in the Catskills at Frost Valley YMCA, an annual young people’s concert, a free concert for senior citizens, and in other concerts.
Next summer, she will join the Symphony on a tour to Argentina and Uruguay.
11/14/2019 – 11/28/2019
Calligraphy Class With Sarah Gabler (Repeat Class)
In the workshop we are going to be taking a quote from a book, or a poem and using creative and expressive lettering to make the words come alive with watercolor and colored pens. This class is free and all materials will be provided, but registration is required. It will take place at the Troy Public Library on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 5:30 – 7:30 pm.
This project is made possible with funds from the Decentralization Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature and administered by The Arts Center of the Capital Region.
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Make a Wreath in Castleton/Schodack on Dec. 1st
It’s the wreath-making time of year! We are making wreaths on December 1st, at St. Paul’s, 1583 Carney Road, Castleton, NY., practically next door to MHHS (http://stpaulcastleton.org). Registration encouraged but not required by texting 518-423-5578 or emailing wendyyorkbriggs@nullgmail.com. Wreaths make great gifts. Make a wreath for yourself and one to gift away. Greens, hoops, wire, hot chocolate, and hot cider provided by the Grace of God. Join us for worship at 9:30am, coffee hour at 10:45am, or wreath-making at 11:30am. All ages welcome. Bring a friend!
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Sand Lake Center for the Arts presents for your Holiday Treat Laughter on the 23rd Floor.
Caption: The Circle Theatre Players cast of Laughter on the 23rd Floor, from left to right: Anthony Halloway, Bill Douglas, Grace Burkart, Fred Sirois, Brian Sheldon, Dennis Skiba, Erica Pandolfo, Jerred Hickey, and Henry DiMaria.
Sand Lake Center for the Arts presents Laughter on the 23rd Floor, written by Neil Simon and directed by Melanie Douglas. The play is based on Neil Simon’s experiences as a junior writer of a TV Comedy-Variety show called “Your Show of Shows,” and is set in 1953. The play follows the host, Max Prince, along with his staff of writers in scenes behind the scenes, to bring you a highly entertaining play! The play opens Friday, Dec. 6th and continues on the 7th, 12th, 13thand 14th at 8pm, and on Dec. 8th and 15th at 2:30pm. Prepaid reservations can be made at www.slca-ctp.org or by calling the office at 518-674-2007. The center offers free parking and is Handicapped accessible.