Upcoming and ongoing events calendar

Area codes are 518 unless noted. See more calendar listings at www.troyrecord.com/community. Submit items two weeks in advance to calendar@ troyrecord.com.

Upcoming

BEEF QUALITY ASSURANCE TRAINING: Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) is a national program that provides training to beef cattle producers in food safety, proper cattle handling techniques, handling of animal health products, injection sites, and record keeping. Cornell Cooperative Extension and The New York Beef Producers Association will be holding a BQA training on October 17from 5p.m. – 8p.m. at CN Tommell Cattle Co, 142Rock Road, Berne, beginning with a light dinner and registration. $15per person or $25 per farm. To register, please send a check payable to CCE Albany County and mail to CCE Albany County, Attn: Tom Gallagher, 24Martin Road, Voorheesville, NY 12186. For questions, please call Tom Gallagher at 518577-0958or email tjg3@ cornell.edu. Registration is due by October 15. CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S CONNECTION: The New York Capital District Christian Women’s Connection is sponsoring a “Give Yourself the Royal Treatment” luncheon on Wednesday, October 10at the Guilderland Elks Lodge, 3867Rte. 146(Carman Road) in Schenectady, from 11:25a.m. to approximately 1:30p.m. At this month’s luncheon a representative from Victoria Adarno Spa will share some ways to pamper yourself this Fall, Peter Hilman will provide special music and special speaker Dee Billing will inspire you with her story. Reservations are necessary no later than October 5, and cancellations a must. Please call Nancy at 518869-0642to reserve. The cost is $16inclusive (cash only please).

FALL PREVENTION PROGRAM: On Sunday, October 14, at noon, Choice Physical Therapy of Troy will present a free fall prevention seminar at West Central Rensselaer County Lutheran Parish, 470Winter Street Extension, North Greenbush. The program is free and open to the public. Refreshments will follow. Please RSVP by Wednesday, October 10by calling 518-283-1372, or text 518-505-6966.

HYDE HALL GHOST TOURS: On a one hour Candlelight Ghost Tour you will visit many of the places in Hyde Hall where ghostly manifestations have been reported over 150years, including those identified by Ghosthunters in their Halloween 2013Special. Tours will be held every Friday and Saturday in October and on Sunday October, 28, at 6 p.m., 6:30p.m., 7p.m. and 7:30p.m. $20per person_ Reservations are required and tickets may be purchased online. at HydeHall. org. For further information call 607-547-5098Ext 6or info@hydehall.org, Hyde Hall is not handicap accessible or appropriate for those who have difficulty walking. 267 Glimmerglass State Park Road, Cooperstown. POTTERY WORKSHOP: Local potter Bianca Dupuis will conduct a two-part Hand-Building Pottery Workshop on Wednesday, October 17, and Wednesday, October 24, from 5:30p.m. – 7:15p.m. at the Troy Public Library’s Lansingburgh Branch, 27114th Street. The first session will consist of hand-building clay objects for decorative use (vase, plates, etc.). In the second session you’ll finish your surface by decorating with colorful under-glazes. You must attend both classes to complete the project. This program is free and open to the public. Please make reservations by calling the library at 518-235-5310 or online at www.thetroylibrary.org.

DOODLES & WATERCOLORS: On Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. from October 9-20, artist Joy Ting will lead a Doodles and Watercolor Workshop at the Troy Public Library’s Main branch at 100 Second Street. In this fourpart workshop, participants will learn doodle and basic watercolor techniques. We will be creating colorful and expressive backgrounds using watercolor washes. Students will layer different types of doodles/drawings on the colorful pieces. No experience is necessary. This program is free and open to the public. For more information and to register call the library at 235-5310 or online at www.thetroylibrary.org.

SPEIGLE ELDERS TRIP: The Speigle Elders are sponsoring a bus trip to Gavin’s in E. Durham on Wednesday, October 3, to celebrate Oktoberfest/Fall Foliage Day. The agenda includes a guided scenic fall foliage tour from 10a.m. - noon, including a five-state viewing locale. Following the tour, a three-course luncheon will be served at Gavins, featuring your choice of Wiener Schnitzel, Chicken or Baked Salmon, accompanied by salad, sauerkraut, red cabbage, German potato salad. coffee, tea and apple pie ala mode for dessert. Live German music will provide entertainment before optional shopping from 2:30p.m. - 3:30p.m. at local venues prior to departure for home. Contact Bert Lattimore for reservations/payments/additional information regarding this event.

CIRCLE THEATRE PLAYERS: Circle Theatre Players starts their 2018-19new Season with “A Murder is Announced,” written by Agatha Christie, with special permission with Samuel French, Inc and directed by Paul Trela. Performance dates are October 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, at 8p.m. and October 7and 14at 2:30p.m. at Sand Lake Center for the Arts, 2880NY 43, Averill Park. Adults $18, under 18 $10. Season passes are also available for purchase. For reservations or information go to www.slca-ctp.org or call 518-674-2007. SLCA is fully handicapped accessible, with free parking. AUTUMN AFFAIR: On November 4, the Friends of the Cohoes Public Library will be hosting the 29th Annual Autumn Affair at the Ukrainian-American Club at 1Pulaski Street, Cohoes. This year’s guest speaker is Eleanor Kuhns, author of the Will Rees series that takes place in the late 1700’s in New England. The Autumn Affair is one of two major fund raisers for the Friends and all proceeds benefit the library. Reservations are open and available at the Library. The event begins at noon with a social hour. Reservations are $28. The event is open to all. GHOSTS OF ALBANY: Ghosts of Albany has returned for its sixth season of haunting in downtown Albany from September 14 to November 3. 90-minute walking tours in downtown Albany recount historicallybased folklore of ghost and supernatural stories of the many spirits still haunting the Capital District. Each tour starts in front of the Hilton Albany, 40 Lodge Street, and makes a gentle walk of less than a mile around the New York State Capitol Building. For further information, visit www.ghostsofalbany.com, telephone 718- 591-4741or email drphil@nycwalks.com. MAC ‘N’ CHEESE COOKOFF: Get ready for one of the cheesiest events in Southern Washington County. The First Annual Mac ‘n’ Cheese Cook-off is set to take place from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 13at the Cambridge United Methodist Church, 41E. Main Street, Cambridge. The event, sponsored by Connect, hopes to draw chefs from near and far to participate in the cook-off. Entrance fee is $5; participation is free. If you’d like to enter for a chance to win a prize, please send an email to connectgamenights@ gmail.com or message Connect’s Facebook page by October 6.

CALL FOR ARTISTS: The Valley Falls United Methodist Church is seeking artists to exhibit their work in the 3rd Annual Fine Art Show on Saturday, November 10. Visit www.valleyfallsunitedmethodist.comor email the show committee at vfumfinearts@gmail.com, or contact Jocelyn Cole at 518-753-2035, for an application form, show rules and information. The application deadline is October 20. SENIOR CENTER FALL GALA: Rensselaer County’s Troy Area Senior Center, 19Third Street, holds its annual Fall Gala at the Franklin Terrace Ballroom, 126Campbell Avenue, on Thursday, October 18, from 4p.m. – 6p.m. This evening includes your choice of Boneless Chicken Breast with Stuffing, Salmon or Pork Loin. There will be hors d’oeuvres prior to dinner and entertainment by the Ron Cremisio and Friends Band. Sign up early; to make reservations, or for more information, contact the senior center at 518-270-5348. This event is sponsored by MVP Health Care, CDPHP and Bob DeMeo’s Discount Wine & Liquor. STRENGTHENING FAMILIES: Cornell Cooperative Extension Albany County offers a five-week Strengthening Families Program for youth in grades 4– 6and their parents/caregivers. The series runs on Wednesdays from September 26 through October 24from 5:30p.m. – 7:30p.m. at Thomas O’Brien Academy of Science and Technology (TOAST), 94Delaware Avenue, Albany. During each session, parents/caregivers and their youth will learn ways to build on existing strengths, improve communication skills, and have fun together as a family. Dinner is provided each week and childcare is available for younger siblings. Bus passes are also available for transportation assistance. Advanced Registration is required by contacting Maria at 518-765-3559or mkd59@cornell.edu.

HYDE HALL GHOST TOURS: Hyde Hall Candlelight Ghost Tours feature many of the places in the mansion where ghostly manifestations have been reported over 150years, including those identified by Ghosthunters in their Halloween 2013Special. Tours will be held every Friday and Saturday in October and also on October 28at 6 p.m., 6:30p.m., 7p.m. and 7:30p.m. $20per person. Reservations are required and tickets may be purchased online. at HydeHall. org. For further information call 607-547-5098Ext 6or info@hydehall.org, Extended periods of walking and climbing stairs is required on this tour. It is not handicap accessible or appropriate for those who have difficulty walking. Hyde Hall is located at 267Glimmerglass State Park Road, Cooperstown. GUIDED MEDITATION CLASSES: The Troy Public Library will offer Guided Meditation Classes led by Michael Fuselli on Tuesdays, September 25– November 27from 5p.m. – 6p.m. Learn a surprisingly simple yet powerful practice that can help your reduce stress, get recharged, experience overall improved physical health and possibly get you “blissed-out” all while sitting comfortably in a chair. Beginners always welcome. Registration is encouraged, but not necessary. his program is free and open to the public. To register call 518274-7071or online at www. thetroylibrary.org The Troy Public Library is located at 100Second Street, Troy. LANDSCAPES FOR LANDSAKES: The Agricultural Stewardship Association (ASA) works to protect the farms, rich soils and agricultural landscape in Washington and Rensselaer counties. A significant source of funding for ASA’s mission comes from the annual Landscapes for Landsake Art Sale and Exhibition, a celebration of the land by local artists. This year’s sale takes place in the historic barn at Maple Ridge, 172 State Route 372in the hamlet of Coila, just west of the Village of Cambridge. The show opens with a wine and cheese reception on Saturday, October 6, from noon to 5p.m. Admission is $10per person. The gallery is also open from noon to 4p.m. on October 7-8free of charge. The exhibition features the work of 60artists (including 14first-time participants), several of whom will be on hand to discuss their work throughout the weekend. For a preview of the works for sale, visit ASA on Facebook, Instagram or at www. agstewardship.org. AVERILL PARK CLASS OF 1988: The Averill Park High School Class of ‘88Reunion takes place on October 6 from 6p.m. - 11p.m. at the Hilton Garden, Hoosick Street, Troy. Visit the Class Facebook page for details: ‘APHS Class of 88Events.’ For more information, email aphs88reunion@live.com. LITERACY VOLUNTEERS 50TH ANNIVERSARY: Celebrate 50years of building a literate community with Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County on Friday, October 5, from 6p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, 235Hoosick Street, Troy. Journalist and writer John Gray will join LVORC’s Board of Directors, students, volunteers and staff for an evening of memories and stories. Enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres, drinks and a silent auction. Cocktail attire is appreciated. For tickets, visit www.lvorc.org or call 518-244-4650.

FOR FREEDOMS: Utilizing the green space located between the historic Nott Memorial and Schaffer Library, the Mandeville Gallery presents “For Freedoms: 50 State Initiative,” an event where participants are encouraged to produce and publicly display their own definition of freedoms by completing signs that say “Freedom Of —,” “Freedom From —,” “Freedom For —” or “Freedom To —.” All materials will be provided. A selection of signs will be exhibited in the Learning Commons of Schaffer Library from September 18 to March 21, 2019. For more information about For Freedoms please visit https:// www.forfreedoms.org/. STEPHEN LANG: The New York State Archives Partnership Trust will award Stephen Lang, an awardwinning stage and film actor and history enthusiast, the 2018Empire State Archives and History Award on Thursday, October 25at 7p.m. at Chancellors Hall in the State Education Building, 89Washington Avenue, Albany. Tickets are $25($15 for veterans and students) and can be purchased by phone at 518-486-9349 or online at www.nysarchivestrust.org.

BIRD SEED FUNDRAISER: The Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society will be accepting bird seed pre-orders over the next two months to raise funds required to support programming throughout the region in 2018-19. Orders are placed by mail-in form or by online purchase at http://doas. us/2018-bird-seed-sale/ now through October 27and then picked up by customers on Saturday, November 3at VP Supply Corp, 41 Country Club Road, Oneonta. For more information, contact Susan O’Handley, DOAS Co-President at 607643-5680or by email at sjohandley@gmail.com. WOMEN’S HOCKEY: Frozen Assets, a women’s ice hockey team based in Troy, is looking for new players and a goalie. The team has players that are novice hockey players (some skating experience is required) and others who played competitive hockey. The team practices Sunday evenings and competes regularly with other local teams at the Recreational and D-Levels. If you are looking to play a fun sport and meet some great people, contact CathleenBU@gmail.com. Practices begin September 30at Hudson Valley Community College ice arena. BURGOYNE’S BRIDGE 5K FUN RUN: Runners, walkers, and joggers are invited to participate in the Burgoyne’s Bridge 5K Fun Run on Sunday, October 7. at 10a.m. at Hudson Crossing Park, located just north of Schuylerville. Registrants will be randomly assigned to the “British Red Coats” or

the “Blue American Forces” in recognition of the area’s historical importance in the Revolutionary War. Local products will be offered as prizes for unique award categories. Young and old are encouraged to participate together. The cost is $20per person through September 19($25after September 19) or $60for families registering three or more participants. There is no day-of registration. For more information, visit www.hudsoncrossingpark. org, call 518-350-PARK (7275), or email kmorse@ hudsoncrossingpark.org. CRAFTERS/ VENDORS

WANTED: Outdoor crafters and vendors wanted for “The Area’s Best Craft Show” to be held on Saturday, October 20, from 9 a.m. to 3p.m. at St. Luke’s on the Hill, 40McBride Road, off Pruyn Hill Road, Halfmoon. The craft fair usually brings in about 300 visitors. There are already at least 20indoor crafters, but the show is expanding to outdoor crafters, as well. Please contact Shannon at highestnbest@gmail.com or 518-664-9426for more information. UNDERSTANDING SHAKESPEARE: Join the Troy Public Library Main branch at 100Second Street on Thursdays from September 13– October 11at 6:30p.m. for the next Understanding Shakespeare workshop. This will be a five-session program on how to understand Shakespeare’s “The Merchant of Venice.” Tom Bulger, Shakespeare Scholar and retired professor from Siena College will lead this workshop. Copies of “The Merchant of Venice” will be available at the circulation desk. Please have Act One read for the September 13 discussion. This program is free and open to the public. Registration is necessary. For more information and to register, call the library at 518-274-7071or online at www.thetroylibrary.org. LORD’S ACRE AUCTION DONATIONS: North Chatham United Methodist Church will hold their 70th annual “Lord’s Acre Auction and Sale” on Saturday, October 13. Donations are being accepted on Wednesday evenings from 6:30p.m. - 8 p.m. and Saturday mornings from 9:30a.m. - noon. If you can’t drop off donations at those times, please call the church to make other arrangements. Please do not drop off items when no one is around. The deadline for donations is September 29. The church is located at 4274Route 203in the hamlet of North Chatham. For more information, please call 766-3535or visit northchathammethodistchurch.org.. WATERFORD HISTORICAL MUSEUM: The Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center presents “Water & War: Waterford’s Routes And Canals Through Conflict” through October 28. This exhibit explores the military history of the area, with a special focus on marking the centennial of the end of World War I and the centennial of the opening of the Barge Canal. The museum is located at 2Museum Lane, Waterford. Visit www.waterfordmuseum. com for more information. AVERILL PARK COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA: If you play a musical instrument, the Averill Park Community Orchestra is looking for new members. The orchestra is especially in need of string players (violin, viola, cello, string bass). APCO rehearses at Algonquin Middle School in Averill Park on Wednesday evenings from 7p.m. - 8:30p.m., and performs two concerts a year, one in December and one in June. Rehearsals start September 12, New members will be accepted through early October in preparation for a December 16performance.If you or someone you know plays an orchestral instrument (strings, woodwinds, brass, or percussion) and may be interested in joining, please contact Christina Desmond at 518-948-0565.

YADDO GHOST TOURS: Share in the spiritual intrigue from Native Americans, Edgar Allen Poe, the Trask family and other contemporary visitors to the Yaddo Gardens in Saratoga Springs. Docent lead ghosts tours will be held on Friday and Sunday evenings from September 21- October 28 at 5p.m., starting at the

Yaddo Gardens parking lot. These tours of the Yaddo Gardens do not include the Yaddo Mansion. Admission $10per person. Private docent led ghost tours may be arranged at a date and time convenient to a group. For more info, contact Yaddo at 518-584-0746or www. yaddo.org.

IRISH LANGUAGE CLASSES: Irish language classes meet every Thursday starting September 6at Celtic Hall, 430New Karner Road, Colonie. Beginner class 5:30 p.m. - 6:30p.m. Advanced Beginners 5:30- 6:45p.m., Intermediate 6:45p.m. - 8 p.m. Ten sessions for $50. Club Leabhar book club meets 5:30p.m. - 6:45p.m. Presented by Two Rivers Gaelic League. For more information email tworiversgaelicleague@gmail.com or visit facebook.com/CumaranDaUisce.

UPPER HUDSON LIBRARY EXPEDITION: Did you know that your Upper Hudson Library card lets you borrow virtually anything from any library in Albany and Rensselaer counties? Become a “36-er” by going on the Upper Hudson Library Expedition, which opens the doors of every UHLS public library and gives you the chance to win prizes by visiting as many Upper Hudson libraries as possible. Open to explorers of all ages, this self-paced journey takes place from September 1 through November 30, with a “soft launch” from August 27-31. With each visit to a different library, you get a stamp on your map. Prizes are earned for visiting 5, 15, 25, or all 36public libraries and branches in the two counties. Anyone interested in joining the Expedition can start their journey at Cheney Library in Hoosick Falls, or any public library in Albany or Rensselaer County. For more details visit www.uhls. org/expedition.

SCI FI-FANTASY BOOK CLUB: The Troy Public Library will run a three-month series starting showcasing several much loved books from the genres of science fiction and fantasy, starting on September 25 with Pierce Brown’s “Red Rising.” Book club meetings will be held at the Main branch, 100Second Street, on the fourth Tuesday in each month at convenient day and evening times, once from 11:30a.m. - 12:30p.m. and again at 6p.m. - 7p.m. Readers needn’t commit to a particular time slot, or to reading all three books, but are encouraged to attend meetings that suit their interests and their schedule. Copies of each book will be available for interested participants at the checkout desk four weeks prior to each scheduled meeting. This program is free and open to the public. Advanced registration is recommended. For more information or to register, call the library at 518-274-7071 or visit www.thetroylibrary. org.

INTRODUCTION TO QIGONG: QiGong is an ancient Chinese art that empowers you to help yourself by activating your inner resources for self-healing and reducing stress through breathing techniques, postures and mindful focus. The Troy Public Library will present Diana Wells, certified QiGong teacher, in a series of four introductory classes to be held Saturday mornings from September 15, through October 6at 10:30 a.m. at the Main library, 100 Second Street. Classes are free but space is limited so registration is required. For more information and to register, call the library at 518-274-7071or online at www.thetroylibrary.org. BACKPACKS WANTED: Catholic Charities Tri-County Services runs five school supply programs throughout our communities and needs *new* backpacks for elementary and middle school aged children. Donations can be dropped off at the office at 50Herrick Street in Rensselaer, or call Justine Carroll at 518-512-3577 x115to arrange a pickup of larger quantity donations. You, your business, church or group can arrange a collection of new backpacks or donate funds for Catholic Charities to purchase them. If you prefer to make a monetary donation you can donate online at https:// rcda.thankyou4caring. org/ccrcda/cc-tri-countyservices. SELF-MASTERY CLASS: Through an active exploration of the creative nature of thoughts and feelings, beliefs and emotions, students have an opportunity to gain mastery in the art of living as conscious, intentional beings in this practical spirituality class. Ten Tuesdays, beginning September 11, at Albany-Saratoga Spiritual Adventures, Woodlawn Commons, 156Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs. Suggested donation: $20 per class. For more information, visit www. newthoughtnewyork.org or call 518-366-9918.. THEATER VOICES: Theater Voices has announced its program for 2018-19, the 31st anniversary season of free professional staged readings. First up is “Marjorie Prime “by Jordan Harrison, directed by Krysta Dennis, on October 12-14. Directed by Jacqueline Donnaruma, the second play is “Circle Mirror Transformation” by Annie Baker on February 15-17, 2019. “The Subject Was Roses” by Frank D. Gilroy, directed by Brian Sheldon, runs from April 12-14. The season will close out with “Chapatti” by Christian O’Reilly, directed by Patricia Bunce, on May 17-19. All shows will be presented at Steamer No. 10Theater, 500Western Avenue, Albany, with performance times of Fridays at 8p.m.; Saturdays at 3p.m. and 8p.m.; and Sundays at 3p.m. For more information, visit www.theatervoices.org or look up Theater Voices on Facebook.

AVERILL PARK CLASS OF ‘88: The Averill Park High School Class of 1988 reunion will take place on October 6from 6p.m. - 11 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn on Hoosick Street in Troy. For more information, visit the Class Facebook page for details: ‘APHS Class of 88Events’ or email aphs88reunion@live.com. VENDORS WANTED: St. Thomas the Apostle School of Delmar’s annual Shop ‘Til You Drop Craft Fair will be held on Saturday, October 20, from 10a.m. - 4p.m. There will be a large variety of craft vendors, a bucket auction, face painting, a Scholastic Book Fair, bake sale, and breakfast and lunch served in the cafeteria. For information regarding becoming a vendor, call Laura Giarrusso at 518-429-0289or email at lauraljg06@aol.com. BURNT HILLS ORATORIO SOCIETY: All singers are welcome to join the Burnt Hills Oratorio Society in rehearsal for its October 28concert commemorating the 100th anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I. The “Concert for Peace” features Haydn’s “Mass in Time of War” and other patriotic selections. BHOS is a community chorus that produces highly artistic and diverse choral performances. Pop into a Tuesday rehearsal to experience the thrill of singing under the direction of William Jon Gray, a nationallyrecognized choral director and Assistant Director Derek Stannard. The first rehearsal is August 28at 7p.m. at Jonesville United Methodist Church, 963Main St, Clifton Park. The next is September 4at 7p.m. at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, 400Saratoga Rd, Scotia. Starting September 11, rehearsals take place at 7 p.m. in the choral room at BH-BL High School. To learn more, visit www.BHOS.us, call 518-416-4060or find BHOS on Facebook. VENDORS WANTED: All Saints on the Hudson, 52 William St, Mechanicville, will hold their annual Craft Fair in the parish hall from 9a.m. - 3p.m. on Saturday November 17, Vendor applications are available. For information or a vendor application contact Carmella Hein at chein@nycap.r.com or 518-664-5950. SENIOR FARMERS MARKET COUPONS: Farmers Market Coupons are available and will be distributed at the Everett Wagar Senior Center, 2Roxborough Road in Grafton. Coupons will be available until the supply is depleted. To be eligible you must show proof of residency of Rensselaer County, be 60years of age or older and meet income guidelines. Seniors receiving coupons must sign for themselves, and have not received coupons from another location. Only one coupon book per household, no waiting lists or advance sign up. Coupon books will be distributed on a “first come first serve basis.” For times when coupons will be available please call the Everett Wagar Senior Center at 518- 279-3413. SPEIGLE ELDERS UPCOMING EVENTS: The Speigle Elders are planning the following events for the remainder of the year. October events include an October 3Germanfest bus trip to Gavin’s, and an in-house Italian luncheon; a presentation on “Russell Sage - The Man” in the fall: and the annual Christmas/ Birthday party in December. Members are invited to chair any of these events as well as suggesting additional trips, in-house or outside events to round out this year’s social calendar. HISTORIC STEPHENTOWN PHOTOS: Photographs of Stephentown from 1907and 1908are now on display at the Stephentown Post Office. These scenes have been printed from glass plate negatives that were donated to the Stephentown Historical Society by the Lebanon Valley Historical Society. The views include the Kinderhook Creek and Atwater Village section of Garfield. These historic images will also be part of a Spring 2019exhibit of local photography at the Stephentown Heritage Center. Photographers should plan to take their own interesting views and visions of Stephentown throughout the coming year with this exhibit in mind. NORTH GREENBUSH PUBLIC LIBRARY: The North Greenbush Public Library has a wide range of new DVDs for the whole family, including the family favorite “Wrinkle in Time,” and the blockbuster “Black Panther.” Did you miss an episode of your favorite TV series? The library now has “Outlander” Season 3, “Call the Midwife” Season 7 and many more titles. Visit northgreenbushlibrary.org/ newdvds for the full list. The lazy days of summer would not be complete without beach reading, and the North Greenbush Public Library has the books you want to read from favorite authors like Barbara Delinsky, Stephen King, James Patterson, Nora Roberts, Stuart Woods and more. A complete list of new books is available at northgreenbushlibrary.org/ newbooks. The library is located at 141 Main Avenue, Wynantskill. WILD TAILS OF ALBANY: Wild Tails of Albany Animals is a first of its kind guided walking tour that leads your family on a safari through downtown Albany. You will uncover many creatures in the form of carvings and statues hidden in plain sight as your guide regales you with historic tails of Albany’s furry and feathered friends, big and small, including Owney the Railway Mail Dog and our beloved Nipper. Tours take place on the second Saturday of the month from May through October, starting at 11a.m. at the Albany Visitors Center, 25Quackenbush Square. Adults $3, children free. SBA DISASTER RELIEF: New York businesses and residents affected by the multi-alarm fire in the city of Cohoes on Nov. 302017, can apply for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration. The SBA disaster declaration covers Albany County and the adjacent counties of Columbia, Greene, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady and Schoharie. The deadline to return economic injury applications is October 4. Businesses and individuals may obtain information and loan applications by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (1-800-877-8339for the deaf and hard-of-hearing), or by emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Loan applications can also be downloaded at www.sba. gov/disaster.

FREE ENGLISH CLASSES: Do you want to improve your English? Are you new to the United States? Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County has free English Literacy Civics classes where you can improve your English language skills while learning about life in the United States. Each class meets two times per week. Classes for beginning learners meet in Albany. Classes for intermediate learners meet in Troy. For more information, contact Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County at 518-244-4650or visit www.lvorc.org.

ERIE CANAL EXHIBIT: “Enterprising Waters: New York’s Erie Canal” will be on display through October 20, 2019. The exhibition honors the bicentennial anniversary of the Erie Canal’s construction and features artifacts, images, posters, and documents from the collections of the State Museum, State Archives, State Library, and cultural institutions from across the state. The first phase of the exhibition explores the circumstances leading up to building the canal, the construction, and the famous “wedding of the waters” that marked the opening of the completed canal in 1825. Located at 222Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30a.m. to 5p.m. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Admission is free. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling 518474-5877or visiting the Museum website at www. nysm.nysed.gov.

Ongoing

WATERVLIET SENIOR CENTER GROUP LUNCHES: Enjoy a nutritious, social, and fun lunch with the Watervliet Senior Center Monday through Friday at noon. The $3suggested donation is anonymous and everyone is welcome. Call for the daily menu and sign up by 2p.m. for the following day. The Senior Center is located at 1501Broadway, Watervliet. Call 518-2734422for more information. CHENEY LIBRARY: The Cheney Library in Hoosick Falls has new Monday and Thursday hours starting September 10. The library will be open Mondays 10a.m. - 5p.m. “All Day Thursday” hours will be 10 a.m. - 8p.m. The library is located at 73Classic Street in Hoosick Falls.

ICC BINGO: The Italian Community Center Charitable Foundation hosts Bingo night on Tuesdays. Doors open at 5p.m. at 1450Fifth Avenue, Troy. Food and beverages will be sold. CHENEY LIBRARY MEMOIR GROUP: What’s your story? Cheney Library in Hoosick Falls invites you to join its Memoir Group, which meets the second Thursday of each month from 3p.m. - 4p.m.

SECOND CHANCE THRIFT SHOP: Come visit the American Italian Heritage Association’s thrift shop offering clothing and accessories for men, women, and children, household items, books, toys, linens, small appliances, and jewelry, all at reasonable process. The Second Chance Thrift Shop features a boutique room for upscale and designer clothing for women. The Shop is located at 1229Central Avenue, Albany, parking off of Frederick Avenue. Hours are: Saturday 10a.m. - 1p.m. and Tuesday, 10a.m. - 3p.m. All proceeds benefit the American Italian Heritage Association and Museum, a non-profit organization. GRAFTON MERRYMAKERS: The Grafton Merrymakers meet on the second Wednesday of each month from March through November at the Everett Wagar Senior Center, 2Roxborough Road in Grafton. If you are interested joining the Merrymakers please come to a meeting, or call the senior center Monday - Friday from 9a.m. - 3p.m. at 518-2793413.

TROY CENTER: Everyone is welcome to sing along with entertainer Bob Marcello as he performs the greatest songs of the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s at Troy Center. All families and friends are welcome to this free monthly engagement. Bob will perform the first Thursday of every month from 2:30p.m. to 3:30p.m. The Troy Center is located at 49Marvin Avenue in Troy. Please contact Billejo Sass at 518-2736646or by email at bsass@ troycenter.net for more information.

MINDFUL PRACTICES GROUP: Includes walking meditation and sitting meditation in the tradition of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. All are welcome; meditation instruction available. Wednesdays 6:30p.m. to 7:30p.m., RPI’s Newman Center Hospitality House—4 Sherry Road, Troy, about 30yards south of the RPI Chapel Center (near the intersection of Burdett and Peoples Avenues). Call 518271-6949or 518-273-1851 for more information. MEN’S CANCER SUPPORT GROUP: NY Capital Region Men to Men Cancer Support Group meets the third Wednesday of every month (except August) from 6p.m. to 8p.m. at the American Cancer Society Hope Club, 1Penny Lane, Latham. Come-share experiences and receive understanding and encouragement from men and their loved ones in dealing with cancer. For more information, please contact the ACS Hope Club at 518-220-6960.

FREE SPIRIT FELLOWSHIP: Free Spirit Fellowship of Watervliet is now holding services Thursday evenings at 7p.m. in the United Methodist Church. The church is located at 14011st Avenue. For further info, please call 961-3464.

FREE HOME BIBLE STUDY: A great way to study through the Bible at your convenience. Exciting and informative study that could change your life. Compliments of Free Spirit Fellowship. For more information call 885-3149. HOME DELIVERED MEALS: Are you a Rensselaer County homebound senior over 60and unable to shop and cook for yourself? Rensselaer County Department of the Aging may be able to help you with a nutritious hot meal delivered to your home Monday through Friday. For more information call 270-2730or your local Senior Center. BRUNSWICK ELKS BINGO: Brunswick Elks Lodge has Bingo every Wednesday. Doors and Kitchen open at 6p.m., and games start at 7 pm. $1,000in prizes. Early bird 50⁄50 game and half time 50⁄50 game. Proceeds benefit local charity programs. 665Brunswick Road, Troy, on Rt. 2in Eagle Mills. TRANSPORTATION TO SENIOR CENTER: Rensselaer County’s Everett Wagar Senior Center, 2 Roxborough Road, Grafton, offers transportation to the center every other Monday, and every Wednesday and Friday for a suggested donation of $1. We will pick

up in Cropseyville, Grafton, Petersburg, Berlin and Stephentown. Come join the fun and a nutritious lunch, (suggested donation of $3) Monday thru Friday 9a.m. – 3p.m. Programs offered at the center include but are not limited to; Wii games, cards, dominoes, informational presentations, crafts, scrapbooking classes, yoga and many special events. All programs are free and include materials, bring a friend or come make new ones we look forward to seeing you. For more information or to reserve a van ride, call Penny at 2793413.

TROY SENIOR CENTER BOWLING LEAGUE: The Troy Senior Center has a bowling league that meets every Monday at 12:30p.m. at the Uncle Sam Lanes, 600Fulton Street in Troy. Bowling is an enjoyable and affordable exercise. All beginners are welcome. Call the Center at 518-2705348for more information. TROY SENIOR CENTER SWIM PROGRAM: The Troy Senior Center has a swimming program that meets every Wednesday beginning at 9a.m. Swim- ming is a great exercise with many health benefits and it’s so much fun! Join us at the Lansingburgh Boys & Girls Club; it’s a great time to socialize, swim and enjoy the heated pool. Call the Center at 518-270-5348for more information.

THRIFT SHOP: The Thrift Shop of Christ United Methodist Church, just off Rte. 67in Johnsonville, is open each Wednesday from 9a.m. to noon and the first Saturday of each month from 9a.m. to noon. STUDENT-RUN THRIFT STORE: Berkshire Union Free school district launches Academy Clothing, a student-run thrift shop this month in Hudson, in partnership with the districts of Cairo-Durham, Taconic Hills, New Lebanon, and Rensselaer. Berkshire’s team of Work-Based Learning staff came up with the idea to open a thrift shop at 203Warren St. in Hudson, near Berkshire’s sister school, Warren St. Academy. To donate items to the store or inquire about store hours, please contact Maria DeNovio at mdenovio@berkshirefarm.org or Jaclynn Wild at jwild@ berkshireufsd.org. COHOES PUBLIC LIBRARY: The Cohoes Public Library, in conjunction with the Cohoes Senior Center, invites seniors to take the van to the library on the first and third Wednesday of the month. They can peruse the books, use the computer, participate in the knitting/crocheting group, join a special book club (the 3rd Wednesday of the month) and participate in other specially designed programs. There will be help in signing up for library cards and in use of the computers. Additional info on the website and Facebook.

THRIFT SHOP: The Basement on First Street, a thrift shop located at St. John’s Episcopal Church on First Street in Troy is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9till noon, with plenty of warm clothing and lots of other interesting items. The church also offers free bread and coffee to all who come in on Saturdays. Come in from the cold, have a cup of coffee and bagel and then come into the thrift shop for some great deals. TRANSPORTATION TO SENIOR CENTER: Rensselaer County’s Everett Wagar Senior Center, 2Roxborough Road in Grafton, offers transportation to the center every other Monday, and every Wednesday and Friday for a suggested donation of $1. They will pick up in Cropseyville, Grafton, Petersburg, Berlin and Stephentown. Come join the fun and a nutritious lunch Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 3p.m. Programs offered at the center include but not limited to; Wii games, cards, dominoes, informational presentations, crafts, scrapbooking classes, yoga and many special events. All programs are free and include materials; bring a friend or come make new ones. For more information or to reserve a van ride call Penny at 2793413.

CHAIR YOGA: Yoga is a stress reliever. It improves balance, flexibility and strength. When combined with light weights, where appropriate, it can be even more beneficial. It’s free, it’s fun and there is no obligation. Wear loose clothing and let’s stretch and relax. Classes are on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 10a.m. at the Everett Wagar Senior Center, 2Roxborough Road in Grafton. You may join at any time. It’s a mind and body rejuvenation, yoga is something people of all ages and abilities can come together and do. If you have any questions, or would like to join us for lunch after exercise, please contact the center at 279-3413.

THE BOOK SELLER: The Book Seller, sponsored by the Friends of the Troy Public Library, is located at the Lansingburgh Branch at 114th Street and 4th Avenue. Hours are Wednesdays from 2to 6p.m. and Saturdays, 10a.m. to 2p.m. It offers several thousand gently used books at bargain prices. Most of the hard cover books are fifty cents. Soft cover books are twenty five cents. The Book Seller also has a collection of videos, audio cassettes, and records, as well as a selection of Friends’ signature products including tee-shirts, tote bags, mugs, and note cards. PITTSTOWN SENIORS: The town of Pittstown Seniors hold their monthly meetings on the first Wednesday of the month starting with a covered dish luncheon at noon. T.O.P.S meetings are held at the Raymertown Fire House on Mason Lane. All seniors 55 or over are invited to attend. WATERVLIET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: The church operates the Fabulous Finds Thrift Store, which is open every Thursday from 10a.m. to 2p.m. Fabulous Finds accepts clean, unsoiled clothing. The church is located at 1401First Avenue, Watervliet. For more information, please call 273-0191, Ext. 4.

CAPITAL VIEW TOASTMASTERS CLUB: It is more than just public speaking, Learn a variety of communication and leadership skills. Capital View Toastmasters Club meets the first and third Wednesday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the East Greenbush Library. Contact capitalview.toastmastersclubs.org.

BINGO: Bingo is back at Manchester Eagles, Route 11⁄30, Manchester Center, Vt., second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. Doors open at 5:45p.m. and Early Bird starts 6:45p.m. Any questions call 802375-2801or 802-3622025.

ORAL HISTORY PROJECT: The International Center of the Capital Region is initiating the Capital Region Immigration Oral History Project, which will collect and preserve the first-hand interviews of Capital Region immigrants. If you would like to share your immigrant experience, contact the International Center at 708-7608or info@iccralbany.org.