ART EXHIBITION: From June 16 – July 14, 2023, Albany Center Gallery (ACG) presents “Organic Impressions,” featuring the work of three regional artists: Jessica Fallis, Iain Machell, and Leslie Yolen. “Organic Impressions” is free and open to the public; Tuesday – Saturday, Noon – 5 p.m.
SCULPTURE SHOW: 26th Annual North Bennington Outdoor Sculpture Show, June 17 – November 12, at Bennington Museum – 75 Main Street, Bennington, VT. In addition to sculptures by over 40 artists scattered throughout the village of North Bennington, an additional 20+ artists will display their work on Bennington Museum’s beautiful 10-acre property in Old Bennington for the fourth consecutive year. The exhibition is free to the public and will be on view throughout the summer and fall.
SUMMER CAMP: The World Awareness Children’s Museum (WACM) will be hosting two summer camps this year, starting with their Amazing Race Camp, running July 24-28, 9am-5pm daily. During this program, children will travel with their team to different places in downtown Glens Falls (all within walking distance of the museum) while learning about the world and participating in team challenges. This camp session is appropriate for children entering 3rd grade through 6th grade. The museum’s second program, Pirate Adventure Camp, will run August 14-18, 9am-5pm daily. During this program, children will follow a treasure map and learn about different countries with the museum’s art, exhibits, and wherever ‘x’ marks the spot! This camp session is appropriate for children going into Pre-K through 2nd grade. Both programs are $225 per child per week for museum members and $250 per child per week for not-yet-members. Children must bring their own snacks, lunch, and beverages to camp each day. Parents interested in signing their child(ren) up can call the museum at 518-793-2773, email [email protected] or visit wacm.ticketleap.com to register today!
ART SHOW CALL FOR ENTRIES: Albany Center Gallery (ACG) is requesting entries for the 45th Annual Photography Regional Show. The exhibition will begin as salon-style, which will include all submissions and will hang from Sept. 19 through Oct. 7. The submitted work will then be juried, and ACG will re-install the Photography Regional Select Show, which will be on display from Oct. 17 through Nov. 4. All submissions must be registered with ACG by midnight on Sept. 1. For full submission guidelines and further information, go to
VAN GOGH IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE: At 125 Washington Ave, Schenectady. The popular exhibit has been extended through the end of July, with reduced ticket prices. Guests are encouraged to reserve their tickets to Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience today. Standard admission starts as low as $30 for adults and $15 for children. Discounted tickets are also available for seniors, students, military veterans, families, and larger groups (over nine people). To purchase tickets visit
ART CONTEST: The New York State Brewers Association (NYSBA) is hosting an artwork contest for the design of the 4th Annual New York State Pint Days Glass. Entries will be accepted until June 18th before being narrowed down by NYSBA to the top 2-3 designs. At that point, a public vote will take place to determine the winning design. The winner will receive $500 and recognition as the 2023 Pint Days Artist. If applicable, the affiliated brewery of the artist will receive recognition and 72 complimentary Pint Days glasses. Contest details, artwork specs, and submission form can be found at: Additional information about Pint Days is at:
ART EXHIBIT: Hudson Hall at the historic Hudson Opera House, 327 Warren Street, Hudson. A new exhibition by Hudson Valley-based furniture maker and designer Peter Superti and painter and printmaker David Konigsberg showcases furniture and paintings largely created within the past year and is on view until July 23. hudsonhall.org or (518) 822-1438 for more information.
CREATE YOUTH ART EXPOSITION: CREATE Council on the Arts is thrilled to announce the 40th year of its annual youth exhibition “Outside The Lines,” featuring artwork by pre-K through Grade 12 students invited from Greene, Columbia and Schoharie County public and homeschools. “Outside the Lines” 2023 will be on view June 2nd to July 2nd. This collection is the culmination of a year of study in which area youth learn and develop life skills such as concentration, problem solving, understanding and working with materials, translating ideas into art, and aesthetic appreciation. CREATE’s extraordinary annual exhibit is made possible by the participation of numerous teachers, administrators, students and their families. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, June 3rd from 2-4pm. Gallery@CREATE is located at 398 Main Street in Catskill and is open Fridays, 4pm-7pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays, 11am-6pm. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For more information, visit: www.CREATEcouncil.org.
BLACK FILM FESTIVAL: The Palace Theatre in Albany announces its first annual Renaissance Black Film Festival, June 22–25 at the historic Palace Theatre and the opulent Renaissance Hotel, both within walking distance from one another. RBFF will show films from a plethora of Black filmmakers across the country, with awards and cash prizes going to Best Narrative Feature, Best Documentary Feature, Best Narrative Short, Best Documentary Short, and Best First Project. The festival’s curators are accepting submissions up until June 7. For more on the Renaissance Black Film Festival, including show and event schedules, volunteer opportunities, and, most importantly, how filmmakers can submit their work for viewing, please visit palacealbany.org and filmfreeway.com/blackfilmfestny.
DANCE LESSONS: Capital Region Social Happenings & Singles Outreach Services Events. 435 New Karner Road (Hanover Square Building) at “Hill” door entrance. Wednesdays, 7 pm. $10 for all. Public welcome. Call 518-452-6883 for information.
PHOTO EXHIBIT: Amateur Photographers are invited to take some photos and submit them to the Photography Exhibit at the Schuylerville Garden Club’s Annual Standard Flower Show. The show entitled “Road Trip, New York” will be held on July 22 and July 23 at the Town Hall in Schuylerville, NY. The photography section is entitled “Oh, What a View”. The classes are as follows: Class 1 “Make Memories” –My favorite place to visit in NYS; Class 2 “Discovering Nature” – Showing a natural wonder in NYS; Class 3 “Inside Looking Out” – Seen through the window in NYS. All photos should be the work of the exhibitor and be scenes of New York State in keeping with the flower show theme. Photos should be 8 x 10 inches with a white 11×14 inch mat. Photos must be pre-registered. For details and an entry form, visit www.schuylervillegardenclub.org or call Nancy Derway, Photography Consultant at 518-796-4797 [email protected].
ART SHOW: D’Arcy Simpson Art Works, 409 Warren Street, Hudson. “Megacosm” by Joseph Stabilito on display June 3-July 19. Museum hours: noon to 5 pm every Thursday- Monday.
USS SLATER: USS SLATER, the last Destroyer Escort afloat in America, is open to the public for her 26th season in Albany! No reservations are required, and guided tours start every 30 minutes. Admission is charged. Adults: $10, Seniors & Veterans: $9, Children under 18: $8.00, and children under 5 years old are admitted for free. We are currently booking Group Tours, for 10 or more people, for Spring and Summer, call the Ship’s Store to schedule your visit! USS SLATER is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., through 26 November 2023. The ship is located in Downtown Albany on the Hudson River at the intersection of Broadway and Quay Street. USS SLATER is owned, maintained, and operated by the Destroyer Escort Historical Museum, a private, non-profit, charitable organization that receives no regular government support.
KNIT & CROCHET GROUP: Join the Troy Public Library for a bi-weekly stitching group from 10 to 11 a.m. every first and third Friday of the month. Whether you have experience knitting or crocheting or you want to start learning a new skill, this group is for you! Participants will work together to stitch blankets and other needed items to donate to local homeless shelters and outreach groups. Participants are also welcome to work on their own personal projects. Bring your own knitting needles and crochet hooks or use what we have available. This in-person event is free and open to the public. No registration required. The Troy Public Library is located at 100 Second Street, Troy.
TUTORS NEEDED: Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County helps more than 160 adults each year to gain the skills they need to be employed, participate in community life, and become U.S. citizens. LVORC needs volunteer tutors to do this work, and you can help! As a tutor you can develop new skills, make friends, and see how your efforts make a difference in your community. Would you like to help someone to read and write, or to speak English as a new language? We can train you. Contact [email protected] to register. Visit the website for more information: www.lvorc.org.
READING MENTORS NEEDED: Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County needs volunteer reading mentors for the Everybody WINS! Power Lunch program at School 14 in Troy. Power Lunch increases children’s chances for success in school and in life through positive reading experiences with caring adults. Elementary school children are paired one-to-one with volunteer mentors from local businesses, colleges and the community. Volunteers read aloud to their reading partner once a week during lunchtime. Everybody WINS! mentors meet with students at School 14 and School 2 in Troy, and at Van Rensselaer Elementary in Rensselaer. For more information about EW Power Lunch! and LVORC’s other programs and services, visit www.lvorc.org or call (518) 244-4650.
THE CIRCLE OF MOTHERS: Do you have a teen who is struggling? Come find peace and support with other mothers. What is said in the circle stays in the circle. Email us for details: [email protected].
STORYTIME LEARN & PLAY: Thursdays at 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. at the Troy Public Library, located at 100 Second St., Troy. We will share stories, songs, movements and more! Masks are optional but are not required. For children ages 0-5 with a caregiver. Registration is not necessary.
STORYTIME LEARN & PLAY: Fridays at 9 a.m. at the Lansingburgh Branch of the Troy Public Library, located at 27 114th St., Troy. We will share stories, songs, movements and more! Masks are optional but are not required. For children ages 0-5 with a caregiver. Registration is not necessary. Please note: this program occurs before the library opens for the day. Please enter through the side door on 4th Avenue.
COMMUNITY MEAL: YWCA of the Greater Capital Region, Inc., located at 21 First St. in Troy, serves a weekly community meal from 5 to 6 p.m. each Tuesday. It is a free-of-charge, to-go dinner provided for YWCA residents as well as anyone in the community. All are welcome to join us each week for a free, nutritious cooked meal. Meals are prepared by a variety of volunteers including but not limited to YWCA-GCR staff, residents, community members and students. Residents are encouraged to participate in preparation of the meals and will be assisted by staff in menu planning, shopping and time management. We serve an average of 75 people per week. The YWCA-GCR also partners with community organizations to set up booths at weekly Community Meal to advertise, promote and engage guests in services. Residents and community members can call the YWCA-GCR at (518) 274-7100 to find out Tuesday’s menu. More information about this program is available online at www.ywca-gcr.org.
ITALIAN COOKING SCHOOL: Travel with the Academy for Lifelong Learning (ALL) to an Italian Cooking School Have you dreamed of living in a 17th century palazzo nestled on a hilltop village in the romantic Italian countryside? ALL is sponsoring a gourmet retreat and cooking school November 11-18, 2023. We will tour a historic or culinary attraction each day and begin cooking late afternoons under the guidance of a professional chef before enjoying a four-course dinner with local wines each evening. This small group experience includes all meals and six nights in a beautifully restored historic palazzo. For more details contact [email protected].
SYCAWAY SENIORS: Need a diversion in your life? Food, fun and friends await you. Bring a friend or neighbor to the Sycaway Seniors group. Members live all over Rensselaer County not just Sycaway. We meet the first and third Mondays each month at 18 Keyes Lane, at the Brunswick Community Center from noon to 3 p.m. Bring your own lunch. We supply dessert and drinks. Nancy McCloskey of Brunswick is our President. She can be reached at 518 279-0847. Dues are $10 yearly. Stop in for a visit, all are welcome. Bingo and 50/50 are held at each meeting. Cards are only three for $2. Hope to see you there.
OUTDOOR FARMERS MARKET: The Troy Waterfront Farmers Market heads outdoors to the streets of downtown Troy. The summer market is held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and features over 100 vendors. Free parking is available in the City’s 5th Street Parking Garage, Riverfront Park, the Green Island Bridge lots and on city streets. For updates follow the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market on social media or visit www.troymarket.org.
SARATOGA NIGHT MARKET: The Saratoga Night Market is opening to the public this spring with a focus on female-developed products and businesses. Shoppers can visit the market on scheduled Friday and Saturday nights at the Palette Saratoga co-working space in the lower level of The Collamer Building, at 480 Broadway in downtown Saratoga Springs.Each market will vary, with rotating vendors. The Saratoga Night Market will be open on April 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29; May 5, 6, 19, 20 and 27; June 2, 3, 9, 10, 23 and 24; as well as July 7, 8, 21, 22, 28 and 29. Hours are 5 to 8 p.m. on Fridays and 4 to 8 p.m. on Saturdays. Vendor spots are sold out for April, with limited spaces available for May, June and beyond. Ares creators, makers or entrepreneurs that would like to grow their local audience, network with other makers, and sell directly to the community, can register as a vendor online at
ADULT BIBLE STUDY: The Boys and Girls Club of Albany is hosting an Adult Bible Study each Thursday at 6:00 P.M. The address is 21 Delaware Avenue. For further info please call 518-885-3149.
CORNER SHOPPE: The Corner Shoppe at Cornerstone Community Church, located at 570 Third Ave. in Troy has a large selection of warm winter coats and apparel for the entire family. Other items include jewelry, books, DVDs, housewares and furniture all at affordable prices. Open Thursdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon. Annual Holiday items available.
GRETA THE READING DOG: Practice your reading skills on Greta, our special story-loving dog! Every Saturday at 11:00 am at Troy Public Library’s main branch, located at 100 Second St. in Troy. Free and all ages. More information is available online at www.thetroylibrary.org or by calling 518-274-7071.
STUDENT DISCOUNT PROGRAM: The Downtown Troy Business Improvement District and members of our business community have joined together to offer discounts to students when they visit Downtown Troy! Simply show your valid college / school ID anywhere you see the Student Incentive Program decal and receive a discount on your purchases. It’s as easy as that. More information is available online at www.downtowntroy.org/for-students.
RAISE PLANT GROW: Each year the Downtown Troy Business Improvement District plants approximately 10 trees in downtown Troy. With the assistance of Constable Tree Service, the organization removes old tree stumps, prep the ground for planting, plant, water and maintain these trees. Did you know that each new tree costs about $500? That’s where you come in! As we grow our urban tree canopy, you can help us plant even more! For more information, or to make a donation to the Raise Plant Grow initiative, visit www.downtowntroy.org/trees.
APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITY: The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) for Boilermakers Northeast, Local Union #5, Zone #197, will conduct a recruitment from August 2, 2022 through July 6, 2023 for five Boilermaker (Construction) apprentices. Applications can be obtained from Boilermakers Northeast JATC, Local Union #5, Zone #197, 75 South Dove Street, Albany, NY, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month, excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. Detailed information is available on the Boilermakers Northeast JATC website at www.neaac.net. For further information, applicants should contact Boilermakers Northeast JATC, Local Union #5, Zone #197 at (518) 438-0718. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: dol.ny.gov/career-centers).
THERAPY DOGS READY FOR DUTY: Alliance of Therapy Dogs teams are ready for duty in the Capital Region. The certified therapy dogs are available to serve at schools, colleges, libraries, nursing homes, hospitals, airports and special events. The ATD teams can also help first responders, police officers, military personnel and veterans deal with trauma. All ATD canines meet health and vaccination standards. For information on making arrangements for visit, contact Chris Bourgeois of Ballston Lake, at (518) 331-5781 or [email protected]. Bourgeois also is a coordinator for the Red Cross’ Paws for a Cause, which specializes in providing therapy dogs for military deployments and redeployments, therapy for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder combat veterans, military family support groups, military events and disasters.
SIDEWALK WARRIORS: Each Thursday evening at 35 State St. in Troy, dozens of volunteers set up a large number of tables for Sidewalk Warriors’ weekly distribution. At these tables, visitors can find hot foods, sandwiches, produce, pantry items and essentials. The group often provides special distributions such as towels, linens, pillows, winter boots, underwear, socks or laundry detergent. The folks who attend the distribution may be experiencing homelessness or food insecurity, or they may simply be running short on resources at the end of the month. Set up for the weekly Sidewalk Warriors distribution events begins at 5 p.m. each Thursday, and volunteers begin serving at 6 p.m., no matter what the weather. More information about Sidewalk Warriors Troy is available online at www.sidewalkwarriorstroy.com and www.facebook.com/sidewalkwarriorstroy.
APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITY: The Roofers JAC of the Capital District, Local Union #241, will conduct a recruitment from Jan. 3, 2023 through Dec. 26, 2023 for 10 Roofer apprentices. Applications can be obtained and submitted at Local Union #241, 890 Third Street, Albany, NY, every Tuesday, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. For further information, applicants should contact Roofers JAC of the Capital District, Local Union #241 at (518) 489-3919. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center at dol.ny.gov/career-centers.
BINGO: Rensselaer Elks Lodge #2073, located at 683 Columbia Turnpike, hosts Bingo every Thursday evening and the general public is welcome to attend. Doors open at 5 PM for players age 18+. Play starts at 7 PM. $1,300 in prizes. Food and refreshments sold.
SQUASH HUNGER: Capital Roots’ Squash Hunger program is a food donation initiative that collects and distributes more than 40 tons of fresh produce to our region’s food pantries and shelters each year. Since 2004 Capital Roots has involved thousands of community members in our effort to increase the presence of fresh food on communal tables. We rely on generous gardeners, farmers and grocery shoppers to donate fresh produce to our collection bins and on volunteers to deliver it to food pantries and shelters, some of which feed more than 100 people three meals a day, every day. Our Squash Hunger donation bins are located at markets and grocery stores throughout the region, so it’s convenient for you to make a food donation while you shop. We rely on a broad network of volunteers to collect and deliver donations to pantries and shelters in their communities. If you are a volunteer, shelter, pantry or store manager who would like to participate, please contact us at 518-274-8685 or [email protected]. More information about the Squash Hunger program, including a full list of donation locations, is available online at
URBAN GREENING: Urban greening refers to public landscaping and urban forestry projects that create mutually beneficial relationships between city dwellers and their environments. Since the creation of its Urban Greening program in 1989, Capital Roots has planted thousands of trees and implemented many public landscaping projects throughout New York’s Capital Region. Every spring and fall we involve dozens of volunteers, many of whom are high school students, in city-wide tree planting projects. Committed community members take pride in caring for the trees as they continue to grow in our region’s neighborhoods. Vibrant green spaces improve aesthetic appeal,increase property value and decrease energy consumption. Our Urban Greening projects are grant funded. This makes it possible for Capital Roots to provide property owners with trees at no cost. If you are a property owner interested in having a tree planted on your land contact 518-274-8685 or Tara at [email protected].
COMMUNITY GARDENS: Community Gardens by local nonprofit Capital Roots offer plots around the Capital Region to anyone interested in growing their own produce. Gardeners receive nutritional, recreational, social and physical benefits from tending plots. Get the space, sunshine, and support you need to grow your own food. More information about how to sign up for a community garden plot is available online at or by calling 518-274-8685.
SINGLES OUTREACH SERVICES: Bringing people together to enjoy a common experience of performances and more in the Capital Region of New York, Capital Region Social Happenings is a registered name of Singles Outreach Services, Inc. and is a New York state non-profit organization. More information about the group and its upcoming events is available online at www.facebook.com/CapitalRegionSocial/.
ROCHMON RECORD CLUB: Join us at an upcoming Rochmon event for an evening of music and community. Each show our host Rochmon Chuck Vosganian takes the room on a high fidelity journey through classic albums spanning many genres and decades. More information about this series, including a schedule of upcoming events, is available online at www.rochmon.com.
REALITY CHECK: Reality Check is a youth-led movement in New York State that empowers youth to become leaders in their communities in exposing what they see as the manipulative and deceptive marketing tactics of the tobacco industry. The organization’s members produce change in their communities through grassroots mobilization and education. More information about Reality check and how to join the movement can be found online at www.realitycheckofny.com or www.facebook.com/realitycheckofny.
DROP IN TECH HELP: One-on-one assistance with technology is available through the Troy Public Library’s “Drop-In Tech Help” program. An ongoing program, TPL librarians will be on-hand to help with laptops, smartphones, tablets, and other common devices brought in by patrons. Librarians will also explain and help navigate common apps, such as Gmail and Instagram, and library resources like OverDrive/Libby and Hoopla. Assistance will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis. This program is provided weekly on Thursdays from 10AM to 11AM, in the first-floor Troy Room of the Main Library. This program is free and open to the public. No registration is necessary. For more information, call the library at 274-7071. The Troy Public Library is located at 100 Second Street, Troy.
SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE SUPPORT GROUP: The “Further Along Survivors of Suicide” Monthly Support Group meets the second Tuesday of each month. The group is structured to meet the needs of people who have lost a loved one to suicide and who are approximately 18-24 months past the date of their loss. It is not designed for someone who is recently bereaved. Facilitators are peers who have attended AFSP’s (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – AFSP.org) “Facilitating a Suicide Bereavement Support Group” training. There is no charge, but we encourage people to bring a treat to share or a book that would help someone else on their healing journey that we can include in our lending library. For more information, please email David Grapka at [email protected]. For more information on AFSP, please visit AFSP.org or contact Sandra Goldmeer Sandra Goldmeer, Area Director, Capital Region New York at [email protected] or 518.791.1544.
POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP: Albany Med’s Division of General Pediatrics will host a weekly Postpartum Depression Support Group for mothers and fathers struggling emotionally following the birth of a child. The group is open to mothers who have given birth within the past year and fathers with a child less than one year old who have no additional support. A virtual session via Zoom will be held Mondays from noon to 12:45 p.m. In-person sessions will be held each Tuesday from 4:15 to 5 p.m. at 391 Myrtle Ave., third floor, Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics conference room, Albany. Babies are welcome. No pre-registration is required. For more information or to receive information about a Zoom invite, please contact Selina Grant at (518) 262-6221 or [email protected].
BLOOD DRIVES: Your blood donation is essential to maintaining our community’s health. For a full list of upcoming American Red Cross Blood Drives in the area visit www.redcrossblood.org, where participants can register online.
BREAKFAST BUFFET: Breakfast Buffet and Omelet Station, 8:00am – 11:00am Every 1 st Sunday of the Month at the Waterford Knights of Columbus, 76 Grace Street, Waterford. Buffet featuring our famous Omelet Station, Eggs cooked to order, Pancakes, French toast, sausage, Bacon, home fries, Toast, coffee, tea, orange and apple juices. Take a chance to win the 50/50 drawing. $10 adult – $5 children (Children under 4 free). Each paid breakfast enters you to win a free breakfast. For more information visit waterfordkofc.org or call 518-237-9330.
SEEKING DONATIONS FOR TROOPS: Capital Region NY 2 Blue Star Mothers of America regularly sends Freedom Boxes to our deployed troops. The group is always seeking donations, which can be dropped off at the Halfmoon Town Hall, located at 2 Halfmoon Town Plaza in Halfmoon. Items needed include snacks, coffee, toiletries and more. For additional information please visit www.capitalregion2bsm.org.
CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS: Regular Troy City Council meetings are held on the first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 433 River Street. Committee meetings are scheduled on a regular basis. Agendas and minutes for meetings are posted online. All meetings are open to the public. Committee meetings begins with a public forum where residents of Troy can comment on any item on the agenda. At monthly Regular meetings, Troy residents can discuss any issue related to the City of Troy. More information is available online at www.troyny.gov.
TROY NIGHT OUT: Last Friday of every month – 5 to 9 p.m. – downtown Troy. Troy Night Out is an extended evening highlighting shops, restaurants, arts and culture that takes place on the last Friday of every month in downtown Troy. Attendees are able to support virtually or stroll throughout the streets and businesses, enjoying art openings, music performances, fine restaurants as well as unique boutiques of all varieties. Call in for to-go orders or shop items for curbside pick-up, watch live performances through Facebook, gather friends and family virtually the Last Friday of each month to connect, support and relax! Business Listings are updated monthly online at downtowntroy.org.
LITTLE FREE LIBRARY: There’s a new Little Free Library at the corner of Van Schaick Avenue and Delaware Avenue in Cohoes. This library was designed to be a replica of the Van Schaick Mansion. It contains children’s books, interesting novels, and all types of reading material that will be of interest to any and all age groups.
CLOTHING SHED: The Clothing Shed located at the Latham-Colonie Knights of Columbus, 328 Troy-Schenectady Road has reopened! The Covid-19 Pandemic has hit the Knights of Columbus and the Columbiettes very hard. We’ve had very few opportunities this past year to raise funds for the Community Groups we support! We accept clothing, shoes, belts, purses, blankets, sheets, towels, comforters, curtains, pillowcases and stuffed animals. Please bag all items. We do not accept: furniture, electronics , books, household items, toys, garbage, pillows, rags, fabric scraps, etc.
LVORC ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS: Since 1968, Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County has helped adults to improve their ability to read, write, speak and understand English.New learners can join Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County by calling (518) 244-4650 or sending an email to [email protected]. Call (518) 244-4650 to register. Visit www.lvorc.org for more information.
WATERVLIET HEROES BANNER PROGRAM: The Watervliet Heroes Banner Program is a tribute to those who are serving or have served in a branch of the United States Armed Forces and who were born, lived or currently reside in the City of Watervliet. Families will purchase their own banner for $175. The banner will feature the serviceman’s/ woman’s picture along with his/her name and branch of service. It is recommended the person be in uniform and there are no additional people in the photograph. Sample banners are available to view at City Hall. Banners shall be displayed every year for as long as the integrity of the banner lasts (lifespan is approximately three to four years). It will then be the sponsor’s responsibility to replace the banner. Replacement banners cost $135. (this is the price as long as the hardware is functional). Call Chris at 270-3815 for more information or visit
NORTH CHATHAM UNITED METHODIST CHURCH WORSHIP SERVICES: The North Chatham United Methodist Church is worshiping in our sanctuary on the first and third Sundays of the month, with masks and social distancing required. Worshipers should enter through the back door of the church. On all other Sundays, worship is virtual. All worship services are at 11:00 AM and all are available on ZOOM. The ZOOM login information is on our website (northchathammethodistchurch.org). For more information on North Chatham United Methodist Church, please call 518-766-3535 or visit our website. Thanks and we hope to see you soon, in person or on ZOOM!
FREE ONLINE TUTORING: Flexible Online Tutoring! Online Tutoring is now available in 30 minute sessions through the Troy Public Library. Children in grades K-12 can get free virtual homework help from high school volunteers. Just fill out the request form and someone will contact you to set up an appointment. More information is available online at thetroylibrary.org.
VIRTUAL ART SHOW: In times of turmoil, art offers a chance for peace. Join Choose Cohoes for Art (CCfA) in their first virtual CAS (Cohoes Artist Showcase). Over 16 artists from Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Schenectady Counties share their art in this special show. You can view a sampling of their work, learn about the artists in their own words and reach out to them with comments and encouragement. One of the best things about it is you can check it out on your own schedule. Check out CCfA’s website www.ChooseCohoesForArt.org to learn more about this organization and select the link on the left of the page to go to the virtual show.
SPAC LEARNING LIBRARY: Saratoga Performing Arts Center announced that it has unveiled its new Learning Library, created to bring free original arts educational content to students, families and educators at a time when previously scheduled in-school presentations and classes are not feasible due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the Center’s mission to provide meaningful educational programming to the community while also supporting local artists, the videos and exercises feature more than 25 professional musicians and dancers who have been affected by the pandemic such as Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company, professional stepping company Soul Steps and Caroga Arts Collective, as well as former Broadway performers, composers and local storytellers. The SPAC Learning Library can be accessed at spaclearninglibrary.org and is part of the Center’s new “Creative Connection” online campaign. SPAC believes in the transformative power of art and beauty to restore and enrich the human spirit. Creative Connection and the Learning Library were launched as part of SPAC’s expanded mission to provide online resources, community groups, and educational content to inspire and create a sense of community and hope.
HOME BIBLE STUDY: Free Spirit Fellowship of Ballston Spa is now offering Exploring God’s Word Home Bible Study via Youtube. Taught by Pastor LaFave, these twelve lessons take you through an interesting study of the Old and New Testaments. For further info or questions please contact 518-885-3149.
ONLINE MUSEUM PROGRAMMING: The World Awareness Children’s Museum is excited to announce their new Online Programming for families to enjoy from the safety of their own homes! There is their weekly “Living Room Explorers” series, which talks about a different country each week while also playing games, looking at art, and giving instructions on a fun craft for families to do at home! There is also downloadable content like crossword puzzles to enjoy, and instructional yoga classes for the whole family to participate in. Parents can visit www.worldchildrensmuseum.org/online-programming to view their entire library of content. And the Museum is also proud to announce the launch of their new “Arts & Artifacts” page on their website, which highlights selections from a different country each month from their International Youth Art Exchange collection, as well as their 8,000+ strong artifact collection. Visitors can visit their website at www.worldchildrensmuseum.org/arts-artifacts to browse the month’s selections!
YOUTH PEN PAL PROGRAM: Letter writing helps kids learn communication and social skills and may even help them develop their penmanship. Each child who signs up to be a penpal will receive a kit with paper, stamped envelopes, pencils and more. Contact the Stillwater Public Library by phone, email or through the website to sign up. 518.664.6255,[email protected], Stillwater.sals.edu.
VIRTUAL HOMEWORK HELP: Monday-Thursday 3pm – 5 pm on Discord for grades 6-12. Contact Discord username Michete#6346 for an invite to the server. This program is presented by the Stillwater Public Library.
EAST SIDE SENIORS: Bocce Ball playing has been canceled until further notice. Also, regular Tuesday meetings are canceled until further notice.
GRAFTON MERRYMAKERS: Grafton Merrymakers will keep you updated when our next meeting will take place. If you have any questions please call Betty Jean at 518-272-8624. The Grafton Merrymakers typically meet on the second Wednesday of each month from March through November at the Everett Wagar Senior Center, 2 Roxborough Road in Grafton. If you are interested in joining the Merrymakers please come to a meeting, or call the senior center Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at 518-279-3413.
STEPHENTOWN HERITAGE CENTER: The Stephentown Historical Society would like to remind you that the Heritage Center is now welcoming visitors on the first Saturday of each month from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Saturday hours are in addition to the regular weekly Friday hours of 1 to 4 p.m. These Saturday open hours will offer more Stephentown residents and visitors the opportunity to explore what the Society offers in genealogy research and local history. The Heritage Center is the former Stephentown Methodist Church at 4 Staples Road at the corner of Garfield Road. It is free and handicapped accessible. Hope to see you soon!
STEPHENTOWN FOOD PANTRY: The Stephentown Food Pantry continues to serve the community with food assistance during this time. Extra health precautions and accommodations have been put in place so clients can be served as safely as possible. If someone needing food is sick and/or wishes to avoid contact with others, they should phone the Food Pantry at (518) 487-8606 and leave a message with their phone number. Arrangements can be made for them to pick up a prepacked food bundle. Or they can designate a friend to collect their food for them. The Stephentown Food Pantry offers assistance to residents of Stephentown, New York, and Hancock, Massachusetts. The pantry is open every Saturday morning, weather permitting, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the Stephentown Federated Church, 1513 Garfield Road (County Route 26). Appointments are not needed. As always, requests for help are confidential. The pantry is an equal opportunity provider. For information, call 518-487-8606. Donations Welcome! Even before the current health crisis Stephentown Food Pantry use was increasing. The pantry relies entirely on community donations of money and food items to keep operating. If you would like to help out, please send your check made out to the Stephentown Food Pantry to the Stephentown Food Pantry treasurer at P. O. Box 387, Stephentown, NY 12168. Donations can also be made to the Regional Food Bank of Northeast New York, 965 Albany Shaker Road, Latham, NY 12110. Mark it for use by Stephentown Food Pantry and your contribution will be available for us to purchase low cost food from the Food Bank.
COHOES DOWNTOWN MARKETPLACE: Vintage items, collectibles, crafts, furniture and more. 103 Remsen St., Cohoes. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every other Saturday and Sunday. Check the Cohoes Downtown Marketplace Facebook page for current information.
LOCAL MAGICIANS MEETING: The local group of The Society of American Magicians, Assembly #24, meets regularly at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month at the S. W. Pitts Hose Co. of Latham, 226 Old Loudon Road, Latham. We welcome all persons, age 16 and older, with any interest in the art of magic whether it be: performance, history, collecting or purely entertainment to join us for a fun evening. For more information about our organization, or for a link to a local magician, visit www.sam24.synthasite.com.
YOUTH ROBOTICS CLUB: Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rensselaer County 4-H is starting a 4-H Robotics Club with 4-H Volunteer and Arduino Robotics guru Ray Martin. The Robotics Club will meet generally the third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at the Cornell Cooperative Extension Building, 61 State Street, Troy. 2nd Floor. Youth ages 12 and older with a strong interest in coding are encouraged to sign up! The club will be primarily working with Arduino boards, but also using 4-H Adafruit products connecting plant and soil sciences with technology. Space is limited. To register a youth, or for more information, please contact Kandis Freer at 518-272-4210 ext. 106. No one shall be denied the opportunity to participate or receive information based on their abilities. If you need any accommodations please let us know at the time of registration.
THRIFT SHOP: The Johnsonville Methodist Church Thrift Shop, located 22 Bridge St., Johnsonville, NY 12094 is open from 9-12 every Wednesday and the first Saturday of each month. Closed on major holidays. Look for our sign at the corner of Rte. 111 and Rte. 67. We have a great selection of adult and children’s seasonal clothing, vintage, special occasion and career clothes, jewelry, shoes, purses, toys, linens, puzzles and games, household and decorative items. We have more than 1,000 books in our well-organized book room.
POESTENKILL SENIORS: The Poestenkill Seniors typically hold weekly meetings every Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the Sullivan Jones VFW Post in Poestenkill. All seniors are welcome. Coffee and refreshments are served after the meeting, followed by bingo and cards. The hall is handicap accessible, with sufficient parking. The Poestenkill Seniors hold catered luncheons, clamsteams and fish fries at the hall and also at various restaurants. Best of all they go on bus trips to casinos and other points of interest.
YARN DONATIONS NEEDED: Rensselaer County’s Everett Wagar Senior Center, 2 Roxborough Rd, Grafton, is happy to accept any donation of yarn. Many of our center members enjoy knitting and crocheting. They make afghans and lap covers for other seniors, as well as some home bound senior residents and to use as raffle items to help support the activities of the center. We also have members that make hats and mittens to be given at the schools when a child is in need. If you would like to make a donation of yarn, please drop it off at the senior center M-F from 9:00 to 3:00, or call to make arrangements for pickup. Any donation, large or small is appreciated.
MINDFULNESS PRACTICE GROUP: Meeting Format: Includes walking meditation and sitting meditation in the tradition of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh; all are welcome –meditation instruction available. Schedule: Wednesday evenings — 6:30 to 7:30 pm. Location: RPI’s Newman Center Hospitality House–4 Sherry Rd. in Troy– a white 2-story residential building about 30 yards south of the RPI Chapel Center (near the intersection of Burdett and Peoples Avenues). Cost: Free. Contact: (518) 271-6949 or (518) 273-1851 for more information.
MAKERS MARKET: A celebration of crafters, makers, artists & taste makers from around the Capital Region The Troy Makers Market is held in conjunction with the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market, which takes place Saturdays from 9:00am – 2:00pm (Monument Square May-October and Uncle Sam Atrium November-April).
ANCESTRY.COM TUTORIALS: North Greenbush Community Library Trustee and Town Historian Jim Greenfield offers free personal tutorials on the use of ancestry.com. Ancestry Library Edition, available at the library, provides access to 7,000 databases, delivering an extraordinary online collection of genealogy information. To set up your individual session, please call the library at 518-283-0303 and leave your information. Jim will call you back to schedule an appointment. The library is located at 141 Main Avenue, Wynantskill.
FREE YOGA: Join for gentle and relaxing yoga every Friday at the Presbyterian United Church of Schaghticoke from 7 pm until 8 pm. The Church is located at 16 Main Street in Schaghticoke. For more information email [email protected].
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 518-244-4650 or visit www.lvorc.org.
WATERVLIET SENIOR CENTER GROUP LUNCHES: Enjoy a nutritious, social, and fun lunch with the Watervliet Senior Center Monday through Friday at noon. The $3 suggested donation is anonymous and everyone is welcome. Call for the daily menu and sign up by 2 p.m. for the following day. The Senior Center is located at 1501 Broadway, Watervliet. Call 518-273-4422 for more information.
ICC BINGO: The Italian Community Center Charitable Foundation hosts Bingo night on Tuesdays. Doors open at 5 p.m. at 1450 Fifth Avenue, Troy. Food and beverages will be sold.
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 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Troy Center is located at 49 Marvin Avenue in Troy. Please contact Billejo Sass at 518-273-6646 or by email at [email protected] for more information.
MEN’S CANCER SUPPORT GROUP: NY Capital Region Men to Men Cancer Support Group meets the third Wednesday of every month from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the American Cancer Society Hope Club, 1 Penny 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 7 p.m. in the United Methodist Church. The church is located at 1401 1st Avenue. For further info, please call 518-961-3464.
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 518-885-3149.
HOME DELIVERED MEALS: Are you a Rensselaer County homebound senior over 60 and 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 270-2730 or your local Senior Center.
TROY SENIOR CENTER BOWLING LEAGUE: The Troy Senior Center has a bowling league that meets every Monday at 12:30 p.m. at the Uncle Sam Lanes, 600 Fulton Street in Troy. Bowling is an enjoyable and affordable exercise. All beginners are welcome. Call the Center at 518-270-5348 for more information.
TROY SENIOR CENTER SWIM PROGRAM: The Troy Senior Center has a swimming program that meets every Wednesday beginning at 9 a.m. Swimming 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 518-270-5348 for more information.
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 9 till 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.
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 2 to 5 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 1 pm. The store offers a wide variety of gently used books at bargain prices. Hard cover and trade books are one dollar and children’s books are twenty five cents. The Book Seller also has a collection of CDs. Proceeds from the store help support programs, services and improvements to both library buildings. For more information about activities of the Friends, to join, or volunteer at the Book Seller, stop by the store or go to our new website www.friendsofthetroylibrary.org.
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 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fabulous Finds accepts clean, unsoiled clothing. The church is located at 1401 First 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.
YEAR-ROUND RECYCLING: Zion’s United Church of Christ of Taborton receives the following items for recycling in the Blue Box next to the front door of the Church Hall: clothing, belts, blankets, drapery, hats, hand bags, paired shoes, sheets, sneakers, towels and stuffed animals. In the Greenfiber green recycling container, in the church parking lot, the church receives newspapers, phone books, office paper, cardboard, cereal boxes, magazines, brown paper bags and construction paper. Donate all used items to Doors of Hope in West Sand Lake. Donate used furniture to the furniture program of Troy Area United Ministries. Call TAUM at 274-5920, ext. 204, Tiara Burnett, to arrange for a pick up.
FOOD PANTRY: Faith’s Pantry at Grace Church, 34 Third St. is open by appointment. The emergency food pantry is open from 10 a.m. to noon each Friday. The pantry is also open 7 to 8 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month and from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month. To make an appointment, call 518-237-7370.
FREE COMMUNITY DINNERS: The second Thursday of every month a free community dinner is served in the city of Rensselaer from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. In an ecumenical partnership, Hope Lutheran Church of North Greenbush, and Rensselaer Presbyterian Church, 34 Broadway have combined and created Hopes Kitchen.
AMERICAN ITALIAN MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER: The American Italian Museum and Cultural Center is located at 1227 Central Avenue in Albany. Since 1979 the museum has fulfilled its mission – to record and preserve Italian heritage for present and future generations – with the help of its dedicated, all volunteer staff. Ours is the largest American Italian museum in the eastern U.S. maintaining 10 exhibit rooms, a Hall of History and a library including research materials. Our gift shop offers many one-of-a-kind and “Made in Italy” items. There is a small admission fee. Please call ahead to confirm we are open. (518) 435-1979.