Capital District FAMILY NOW - December 2022 Parents Children & Senior Citizens

Holidays

ABOVE: In Forest Music area at the Wild Center in Tupper Lake, more than 130 trees are wrapped in colorful lights that illuminate the forest and will transport you to a winter wonderland.

Lighted displays in the region and beyond spread holiday cheer

othing seems to quite embody the holidays like the twinkling of lights against the night sky, and this year, despite the hiatus of Albany Lights in the Park, there are plenty of places to get your glow on. So bundle up and fill that thermos with some hot cocoa to catch these displays in our own backyard or just a short road trip away.

Troy

This year, the Troy Glow festival will present six site-specific outdoor installations of light-based art created by regional artists. In addition, eight partner

RIGHT: Holiday Lights in the Park is a free, drivethrough event at Elm Avenue Park in Bethlehem. The event takes place Saturday, Dec. 10, from 6-9 p.m.

LEFT: Adam Tinkle will project colorful video animations onto the upper floors of the Arts Center to create a large digital clock face for the Troy Glow Festival.

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continued from Page 1 organizations will be participating in various capacities, for a total of 14 Troy Glow sites in a walkable route through historic downtown Troy. To see every installation, the entire Troy Glow walk will take approximately 25 minutes. Running concurrently with the festival, there will be a Troy Glow exhibition of light art in the Arts Center’s Main Gal lery featuring work from the ten artist finalists who were selected through the regional public call for art that started the festival’s curatorial process this spring.

Troy Glow projects and exhibition will be on view for five weeks: from Sunday, Dec. 4, the night of Troy’s 40th Annual Victorian Stroll, through Sunday, Jan. 9. Each art installation will be lit and on view every night upon sundown at 4:30 p.m. through 10 p.m.

Troy Glow was created by partners at the Arts Center of the Capital Re gion, Troy Cultural Alliance, and the Rensselaer County Chamber of Com merce to bring visitors, shoppers, and diners back to downtown Troy after two years of pandemic precautions, when many people moved to online commerce, frequent take out, and virtual events.

“Like all small cities, Troy really took a hit,” said Arts Center CEO Elizabeth Reiss. “We wanted to invite people, through art, to return to Troy and support the restaurants, busi nesses, and arts intuitions that make it such a rich cultural hub in the Capital Region. And bonus, we can do that by paying artists to make beautiful things.”

Troy Glow was curated by Judie Gilmore, the Director of Special Proj ects & Partnerships at the Arts Center.

“I can think of no better way to brighten Troy’s streets during the dark est time of year than through beautiful, thoughtful public art created by some of our region’s most talented artists,” said Gilmore. “Each of the artists selected wanted their artwork to help heal the emotional trauma we have all suffered over the past several years. Ul timately this festival has become about the importance of collective gathering, supporting local businesses and com munities, and beautifying the places we live and love.”

Residents and visitors to the Berkshires will once again be able to bask in the illuminated wonder of the public gardens and estate at Naumkeag, where meticulously designed displays light up the amazing 48-acre grounds.

Artists participating in the project include Adam Frelin, whose “Empty Signs” display will adorn Donna’s Italian Restaurant and consist of a cluster of glowing, whimsical signs in various shapes and colors whose lights will dance in a choreographed sequence. Artist and designer Natan Diacon-Furtado’s “Our Patterns, Our Architectures” will feature projected images on the back of the Key Bank building of diverse patterns made from shapes and gestures gathered from his research into Troy’s diverse history and architecture. At St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, artist Lydia Kern will create a monumental, kaleidoscopic sculpture that uses the language of stained glass to illuminate natural materials she’s collected in the Capitol Region. Her installation, “Efflorescence,” will be in conversation with the historic Tiffany windows of St. Paul’s church. “Reflect ing on Troy” by light artist and archi tect Yael Erel and lighting designer Avner Ben-Natan will be located at the back of the Troy Savings Bank and will project a moving lightscape in the back alley of one of Troy’s most famous historic buildings. On the River Street Stairwell, Troy residents Julian Gold man and Avi Nagel will install “The Wind Wheels Project” to test a series of kinetic lanterns that make visible the hidden power of the environment while

connecting the city’s prosperous past to an optimistic future. The upper win dows of the Arts Center of the Capital Region will be illuminated by “Troy Farillon” by artist Adam Tinkle, whose digital projection draws on the tradition of large clocks in city centers that for centuries have helped residents keep track of, and share, time and space.

Other organizations participating in Troy Glow include Vicina – Modern Urban Flats, Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, TAP, Tech Valley Center of Grav ity, Hart Cluett Museum, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, lightexture and RPI.

More information can be found at TroyGlow.com/news.

Bethlehem

The Bethlehem Police Depart ment will once again be hosting its annual Holiday Lights in the Park drive-through event at Elm Avenue Park. The event takes place Saturday, Dec. 10, from 6-9 p.m. This is a free event, but tickets (one per vehicle) will be required. They will also be accepting donations of non-perishable food items, unwrapped toys, and pet care items that will be dispersed throughout the com munity this December.

Bring your family and friends to see the sights and sounds of the holiday seasons with displays from local police,

fire and EMS departments, local busi nesses and organizations. There will be a limited number of cupcake kits from The Perfect Blend Bakery and goodie bags handed out to vehicles with chil dren in them.

Participants are asked to sign up for a time slot so police can prevent traffic issues from occurring. Visit bit. ly/3VbQPwK to sign up for your ticket.

Massachusetts

Winterlights – the award-winning, immersive holiday light display, returns for its fifth year and will take place at three properties – the Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate in Canton, Naumkeag in Stockbridge, and the Stevens-Coolidge House and Gardens in North Andover.

All three garden properties will spar kle with hundreds of thousands of lights along with food, refreshments, and more to make for a magical experience for all. The displays will run Wednes days through Sundays through and Jan. 7, from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Those wishing to attend must purchase online tickets in advance at thetrustees.org/winterlights/.

“Watching our beautiful public gardens transform into a winter won derland where special memories with family and friends are made has become an annual tradition of wonder and delight,” said Trustees Interim President & CEO Nicie Panetta.

At the 90-acre Bradley Estate, people can enjoy an illuminated wood land trail as well as light displays and illuminations throughout the elegant, lattice-walled gardens. The layout at Bradley is being reimagined this year, but the beloved Candy Cane Lane leading up to the historic home will remain.

Residents and visitors to the Berk shires will once again be able to bask in the illuminated wonder of the public gardens and estate at Naumkeag, where meticulously designed displays light up the amazing 48-acre grounds. Favorite installations like Rainbow Road, The Laser Light Forest, and Blue Steps will return alongside new elements that will surprise new visitors, as well as those who have made this a family tradition. The site will also debut a new path through the orchard, as part of a garden restoration project, that is designed to

NowFamily

GENERATIONS TOGETHER

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Learning Center

Get excited about STEM

by Vanessa Banks

Everyday opportunities can illustrate science concepts in a fun way

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. STEM has become a focus the last few years and for good reason. It provides a skill set that enhances the way children think about the world around them and how they can interact with different environ ments. Young minds are sponges and can take in and retain information at very a fast rate, making early childhood the ideal time for them to learn new concepts. Children who are exposed to STEM at an early age are shown to excel academically and have a greater interest in careers in STEM fields.

To most of us, STEM can be overwhelming. How can we expose our children to STEM at home in these younger years?

Keep it simple.

Help your child see science, tech nology, engineering and math are every where around them and they interact with it every day.

Here are a few simple ideas where intentional discussion of some STEM terms and concepts in regular activities and interactions can go a long way in helping children realize how approach able STEM subjects can be.

1. Show children how practical STEM is in everyday life.

When doing work around the house or in the yard, point out simple machines. Show your child how a rake works as a lever to move the leaves. Point out the wheel and axle on a bike.

Challenge your child to find two more examples of each around the house!

Cook with your child. Incorporate math by letting him or her measure the ingredients and figure out how much to put in when you double the recipe. Then, point out the chemistry of what happens when you combine the ingredi ents or the difference between solids and liquids.

2. Get outside.

STEM isn’t just screens and ma chines, math problems and code. It’s about understanding how the world works. Ask your child – before they ask you – why is the sky blue? Have them look at the structure of plants and leaves. Talk about the weather. How does it feel before the rain? Why is it usually darker when it rains? Don’t be afraid to look up the answers to these questions if you don’t know them. Learn together.

Work together to build a garden. Talk about the plants – what they are, why they grow. Watch them grow –make a point of observing them each week. Ask children to predict how big the plant will be next week, or when the flowers will bloom, or when the toma toes will ripen.

3. Encourage tinkering.

Build it up – tons of great toys like LEGO and K’NEX lead children to build amazing structures and objects. When your child builds that

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When doing work around the house or in the yard, point out simple machines like the wheel and axle on a bike.

parenting triplets in the Capital District

Triple Threat

A look back on a tough year

believe how lucky I am that I get to spend birthdays with my children. The number of birthdays I have with Benja min, Rebecca and Olivia is limited and a gift for me.

This year was difficult. This year pushed me. Now that 2022 is almost over, I can see what I have learned and how being able to adapt to what happens in life is the key to survival. There are many survival manuals that get down to eating bugs and starting fires with sticks. That is not the kind of survival skills I have learned this year, but my skills are just as valid for me. Life is all about dealing with the curveball, but what if we all learned to have the curve ball be part of life?

Winter is part of living in upstate New York. The blech of dirty snow, cold weather and the darkness that can feel so oppressive feels the worst to me in February because I am done with it all. In January Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca turned 14. Harlan and I loved that the kids were home (due to online learning) on their birthday. I cannot

Spring days seem to start with promise of warmer weather and longer days. The bliss of not wearing a heavy jacket and slogging through snow is enough to make the most hardened New Yorker skip around. My birthday is in May, and I got to spend the day with my mom. This is the last birthday I was able to spend with her. There were many things that the spring brought to me: Rebecca was in a musical, my mom and I planned the vegetable garden, and Olivia sang her heart out in her final middle school concert.

by Jennifer Steuer

freshman in high school! Time has just flown by, and this summer seemed to be precariously balanced waiting for Labor Day to tip it and end the sum mer. We were able to go on a few road trips. We played the license plate game and searched for letters of the alphabet. Our discussions with the kids seemed to take on a level of maturity that was unexpected when we discussed the war in Ukraine, relationships and the future.

October was a challenge. Over the three-day weekend, we went away. My mom was home alone when she be came sick. She managed to call an ambulance and get to the hospital. My phone rang on Saturday night, and I learned my mom was in multi-system organ failure and heading into surgery. She never regained consciousness.

I love summer if it isn’t too hot or humid. The end of the school year was met with giddiness and nerves since high school was right around the corner. My “babies” were going to be

I was my mom’s health care proxy. This job was so hard. I wanted to scream in the hallways of the ICU for someone, anyone to come fix her! I

knew what her wishes were after hav ing many conversations over the years. With my brother and sister’s blessings, I honored her wishes. On Oct. 11 my brother, sister and I were at my mom’s bedside when she was removed from life support and died.

Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca learned how to honor a loved one. The Mourner’s Kaddish was recited for her at her service. This is not the first funeral Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca have been to, but it was the first time each of them gave a eulogy. To me, they were perfect. The feelings that kept spilling out made me smile because I know they loved her. I was the last per son to eulogize my mom. I ended with the punchline to an inside joke that she loved so much “He says he thinks he knows you!” If you know the joke then you knew Susan Stewart Kloss. May her memory be for a blessing.

Jennifer Steuer is an Albany mom whose busy household includes her hus band, Harlan, and 14-year-old triplets Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca. Follow her on Instagram: jennifersteuer.

2022 brought both growth and loss for the Steuer family

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amazing roller coaster, ask them to explain how the pieces work. Have your child show you they did. Ask your child to construct a building with five or seven random items. When they are done, have your child explain not only what they did, but why it worked.

Tear it apart – Have an old comput er, or even an old toaster? How about an old cell phone that’s not worth a cent to trade in? Unplug it, give it to your child and encourage them to explore it. Let your child figure out how to get it apart (maybe a little supervision for safety) and explore the pieces that are inside. For older children, let them research online and see if they can identify some of the pieces and explain to you what they do.

4. Problem solve in everyday situations.

A key component to STEM educa tion is understanding how to solve a problem. Use everyday opportunities to challenge your child to think through

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continued from Page 3 improve the terrain, although it is not recommended for those with mobility issues. There will be no on-site parking at Winterlights this year, as guests will park in designated parking spaces on both sides of Town Hall at 50 Main St. and take a short shuttle ride to the property.

Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens is back for 2022 and fresh off interior and exterior renovations. In addition to the stunning outdoor light displays spread out across 91 acres, visitors will also be able to experience the newly renovated home on the property that belonged to Helen Stevens Coolidge and her husband, John Gardner Coolidge – a diplomat descended from Thomas Jefferson and a nephew to Isa bella Stewart Gardner.

Sweet and savory holiday-themed delights such as hot cocoa, hot cider, cookies, and cider doughnuts will be offered at all three locations.

Tickets go quickly, so visitors are encouraged to secure passes by visit ing thetrustees.org/winterlights.

On Wednesdays and Thursdays, adults pay $22 and children ages 3-13 pay $10. Fridays, Saturdays and Sun days, cost $27 and $10 for children 3-13. Children 2 and under are free.

Tupper Lake

Wander into an enchanting, illumi nated, winter wonderland to explore the sights and sounds of Wild Lights at the Wild Center in Tupper Lake. Thousands of lights will transform the campus into

how to solve a problem. Challenge them come up with a resolution to the problem.

Engage them with hypotheticals. When you’re at the playground with your child – and they are having a great time on the slide – point out how it’s made. Ask what could make it even better. Ask how they would build it to make it better. When you get home –have your child draw it out on a piece of paper. Encourage imagination!

Engaging with your child and get ting them to notice the world around them – how things were built, how they work and why they work, and even encouraging them to think about how to change it or make it better, is what STEM is all about! Simply point ing out some of those things we all take for granted can spark that awareness and peak a STEM interest in our chil dren.

Vanessa Banks is Co-Founder of Kernel Creative Media and the marketing strategist for Sylvan Learning of Clifton Park and Albany. For more information, visit SylvanLearning.com.

a twinkling, family-friendly experience that is sure to become a holiday tradi tion for many families.

Wild Lights will be open from 5-8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Feb. 25, and open every day during Winter Week (Dec. 16-23) and Holiday Week (Dec. 26-31).

Enjoy the Forest Music area, where over 130 trees are wrapped in colorful lights that illuminate the forest and will transport you to a winter wonderland.  A new musical composition from Whatever Penny creates a magical threedimension dreamy winter soundscape

The Wild Walk will be strung with tens of thousands of lights so you can experience the outdoors like never before.  New winter installations provide Instagram-worthy photos and opportunities to create lifelong winter memories.

Also enjoy Patrick Dougherty’s “Hopscotch,” which glows and provides an opportunity for your imagination to run wild.

Warm up inside the center with hot drinks, food, and an opportunity to check out the Living River Trail (otters included!).  Interactive light up pieces like an oversized Lite Brite provides fun for kids and a chance for old school nostalgia for adults.

The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for youth. Children 4 and under are free

Just a reminder, The Wild Center does minimal grooming of trails so ap propriate footwear during the wintery months is recommended.

Compiled by Kristen Roberts, editor of Capital District Family Now

Calendar of events December December

4 Sunday

Lost Radio Rounders: Songs of Our Empire State

Renowned local musicians Tom Lindsay, Michael Eck, and Paul Joss man, collectively known as the Lost Radio Rounders, will explore the fas cinating and diverse history of New York State through historic songs, 2 p.m. The program is free and open to the public. New Scotland Historical Association, 7 Old New Salem Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.newscotlandhistoricalas sociation.org.

6 Tuesday

‘Hairspray’ at Proctors

Through Sunday. A musical comedy phenomenon helmed by original director Jack O’Brien and original choreographer Jerry Mitch ell. Tickets are available through the Box Office at Proctors, in person or via phone at (518) 346-6204 Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. or online at proctors.org. Groups of 10 or more can get their tickets by call ing 518-382-3884, ext. 139. Ticket prices start at $25.50. Learn more about the new touring production at www.hairspraytour.com.

Zoom PJ Story Time

Get comfy in your favorite PJs, grab a blanket, and tune in for a special story time with Miss Ariana, 7 p.m. We’ll read “Snowmen at Night” by Caralyn Buehner. If your child has this book, we encourage you to have it handy to read along. Or stop by the Library and check out a copy. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Hybrid: Downsizing and Organizing to Simplify Your Life

This session will cover the stress-free way of downsizing or preparing to move, in addition to expert organizing tips, 1 p.m. Pre sented by Michelle Kavanaugh of Organize Senior Moves. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Author talk with Geraldine Brooks

The author of “A Horse” will speak virtually through a partner ship with the Library Speakers Consortium, 7 p.m. Visit libraryc. org/bethlehempubliclibrary for more information or to register for one or more upcoming talks. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

7 Wednesday

WebEx Hybrid: Journaling for Adults

Whether it’s in a notebook, blog, or sketchpad, journaling can help you lead a whole and fulfilling life, as well as be a way to keep track of goals, your life activities, and dreams, 6:30 p.m. Attend in person at the Library or from home. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Full Moon Hike

Enjoy the Pine Bush at night under a full moon, 6 p.m. We will meet at the Discovery Center and then hike 0.9 miles at Karner Barrens trailhead. For ages 6 and up. Free, but registration required.

Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road. For more information call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

8 Thursday

Pinecone Bird Feeder

Drop in and make a pinecone bird feeder to take home and hang in your backyard, 4 p.m. One per child, while supplies last. For ages 5 and up, with an adult. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Foreign Film: ‘Woman at War’

Halla is a 50-year-old crusading environmental activist in Iceland whose life changes in the blink of an eye when she is granted permission to adopt a girl from the Ukraine, 6:30 p.m. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or

For more information, call (518) 810-6031.

14 Wednesday

Pick of the month Dec. 30

Author talk with Fredrik Backman

A Short History of Hollywood: ‘State and Main’

Jam with the Junkman

All children and parents are invited to grab a provided reused material and some sticks and jam-out with The Junkman, world renown percussionist Donald Knaack. The Junkman will offer two interactive workshops in which music and music-making simultaneously integrate with messages about environmental stewardship and the Pine Bush Preserve, at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Suitable for all ages. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Dis covery Center, 195 New Karner Road. For more information call (518) 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.

visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Smartphone Basics

This workshop for beginners will cover the basic functions of an Android smartphone, such as calling, texting, taking photos, sound and display settings, and more, 2 p.m. Registration required. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

9 Friday

Take and Make: 3D Hot Cocoa

It’s officially cocoa season! Celebrate with this 3D hot cocoa craft. *Please register each child individually by noon December 7.

For grades K-5. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518439-9314 or visit bethlehempubli clibrary.org.

Q.U.I.L.T., Inc. Guild Meeting

A not-for-profit guild of quilters interested in learning about the art of making quilts. Members live in the Capital Region and surrounding

communities, 9:45 a.m. All levels of quilters are welcome. Meetings are held at the Delmar Reformed Church the second Friday of each month or on Zoom (September through June). Delmar Reformed Church, 386 Delaware Ave. Delmar. For more information, visit www. quiltinc.org.

10 Saturday

Loudonville Church Cookie Walk

Annual Cookie Walk from 9 a.m. until we are sold out of cookies.  You will have your choice of many homemade cookies.  The price for a medium box of cookies will be $10 and $20 for a large box.  The proceeds of the sale will go to sup port the many ministries of Good Shepherd. For more information please call the church office at (518) 458-1562. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 510 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville.

Craft Fair and Girl Scout Bake Sale

Lots of different crafts to check out and finish your holiday shopping, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Bethlehem Grange 137, 24 Bridge St., Selkirk.

Bestselling author Fredrik Backman, whose new novel, “The Winners,” is the third installment of the Beartown series. Backman is also the author of the celebrated novel “A Man Called Ove,” will speak virtually through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium, 2 p.m. Visit libraryc.org/bethlehemp ubliclibrary for more information or to register for one or more upcoming talks. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

11 Sunday

A Little Sunday Music: Elizabeth Huntley

The series concludes with harpist Elizabeth Huntley, who will present a winter-themed classical concert in our Community Room, 2 p.m. Ms. Huntley is principal harpist with the Glens Falls Symphony, and has accompanied a wide range of musicians. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518439-9314 or visit bethlehempubli clibrary.org.

13 Tuesday

Famous Bears in Literature Book Club

Join our new book club for grades 2-5. We are celebrat ing famous bears in children’s literature. We promise a good story, lots of laughs, and a craft, 4 p.m. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Using an Android Phone or Tablet

Learn how to connect with people, surf the web, check email, play games, watch movies, and take photos. Intended for participants that are new to or are considering purchasing an Android device (Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, etc.), 10:30 a.m. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

The film stars William H. Macy, Sarah Jessica Parker and Alec Baldwin and is directed by David Mamet. Film expert, Lenny Zapala, will provide an introduction to and comments after the film, 6 p.m. Free, but registration is required: libr.info/HistoryOfHol lywood. William K. Sanford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville. For more information, call (518) 458-9274 or visit www. colonielibrary.org.

Connecting Threads Quilt Group

Informal gathering of those interested in quilting. Share projects and get inspired by other quilters, 1 p.m. All levels of quilters are welcome. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

‘Tis the Season Craft: Beeswax Celebration Candle

All ages are invited to create a special craft as a gift or to perk up your own holiday season, 6:30 p.m. For adults, teens and families. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Author talk with Nicole Eustace

The author of “Murder and Indigenous Justice in Early America” will speak virtually through a part nership with the Library Speakers Consortium, noon. Visit libraryc.org/ bethlehempubliclibrary for more information or to register for one or more upcoming talks. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehemp ubliclibrary.org.

15 Thursday

‘Eating Our Way to Extinction’

Narrated by Kate Winslet, this 2021 documentary featuring shocking undercover footage and poignant first-hand accounts from

indigenous people, this documen tary will permanently change your perception of food and its connec tion to the future of our planet, 1 p.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Bilingual Family Story Time

Join Senora Gloria, and learn some Spanish while nurturing your child’s love of reading with stories and songs, 10 a.m. Stay for a fun vocabulary lesson. For all ages with an adult. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Scrabble and Chess

Come out for an evening of word-building fun playing Scrabble with friends and neighbors, 6:30 p.m. If Scrabble isn’t your thing, we’ll have a chess board available too.

Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

16 Friday

Intro to Streaming Video

Did you know you can watch feature films, indie movies, TV shows and award-winning docu mentaries from home with your library card? Join us for an overview of the streaming video options that the library provides, 10 a.m. This program will be presented virtually. Registration required. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehemp ubliclibrary.org.

17 Saturday

Intro to 3D Printing

Ready to learn more about 3D printing at the library? Get a hands-on introduction to the MakerBot Method at one of four 30-minute sessions. We’ll show you how to select, size and send your projects to the printer, as well as change the printing filament for a different look. Visit bethlehem. librarycalendar.com to sign up for one of the following times: 1 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2 p.m. or 2:30 p.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Cunning Coyote

Did you ever hear a coyote howl? Come find answers to these questions and more at the Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 11 a.m. We will start inside with a short talk about the history and biology of the eastern coyote then continue outside for a walk in the Preserve as we look for signs of one of the smartest, most elusive animals in the Pine Bush. For ages 6 and up. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road. For more information call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

19 Monday Teen Poetry Club

Between The Lines will get together to enjoy poetry. We will explore this literary art form through art, games, and writing activities. There will also be time to write and share poetry with likeminded people, 6 p.m. If you have any poems that you’d like to share, feel free to bring them along. Free, but registration required: libr.info/ PoetryClub. William K. Sanford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville. For more infor mation, call (518) 458-9274 or visit www.colonielibrary.org.

20 Tuesday

Teen Book Club

Come hang out, discuss our monthly book selection or any book you want to, 7:30 p.m. Have a snack, make a craft, and just be you. Registration required. For grades 9-12. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

21 Wednesday

Winter Solstice Walk

Join us for a 0.9 mile night hike and welcome the winter season as we observe the solstice, 6 p.m.  We will explore how nocturnal animals utilize the nighttime for survival. For tweens and up. Free, but regis tration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road. For more information call (518) 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.

Winter Solstice Meditation

Let go of the darkness of the

Calendar of events December

of your own design, 6 p.m. All LEGOs will be provided, please keep yours at home. For children of all ages, with an adult. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

New Year’s Pop-Up Card

Ring in the New Year by creating a pop-up card complete with buildings and fireworks, 1 p.m. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Middle School Book Club

First Night Bethlehem

Welcome the new year at an all-outdoor event at Delmar’s Four Corners from 6-7:30 p.m. Enjoy roving entertainment by Luke McNamee and our annual The Ice Man Custom Ice Sculpture, this year in front of Delmar Mar ketplace. Arrive early for the prefireworks fun. Free and open to all ages. Four Corners, Bethlehem.

Pick of the month Dec. 31

last year and invite the light of new hope and possibility in the next year, 4 p.m. Presented by Susan Meyer. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

23 Friday

Holiday Scavenger Hunt

Pick up a scavenger hunt sheet at the Children’s Desk, then search for holiday symbols in the Children’s Library. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

27 Tuesday

The Puppet People: ‘The Firebird’

Family puppet show featuring the incredible talent of puppet masters, Michele and Mark

Carrigan, of the Puppet People, 6 p.m.  This show will prove to delight audiences of all ages. Free, but registration required: libr.info/ Firebird. William K. Sanford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville. For more information, call (518) 458-9274 or visit www. colonielibrary.org.

Cookie Burner Stroll

Our cookie burner stroll is a fun way to get outside for some fresh air and exercise, 11 a.m. We will hike 2.6 miles over rolling terrain through the Karner Barrens East region of the Albany Pine Bush, taking breaks along the way. For ages 6 and up. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road. For more information call (518) 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.

Family LEGO Build

LEGO builders are challenged to work as a family to build a project

Join us for our monthly informal hang-out and book discussion, 6:30 p.m. A craft activity and light refreshments will be served. For grades 6-8. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Take Flight with Paper Airplanes

We’ll have lots of colorful paper and fun designs to try out. See how far your plane can fly in our big Community Room, 2 p.m. For ages 8-13. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-4399314 or visit bethlehempublicli brary.org.

28 Wednesday

Vacation Cinema: ‘Encanto’

Join us for a screening of the Disney hit (PG, 99 min.) about an extraordinary family who live in the mountains of Colombia, 10 a.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehemp ubliclibrary.org.

Program Your Own Game with Code Ninjas

Learn about loops, classes, movement, and depth in a coding terminal, 10:30 a.m. for grades K-2; noon for grades 3-5. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road,

Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

29 Thursday Owl Investigation

Curious about owls? Join us to learn about the owls that live in the Pine Bush Preserve and the signs they leave behind, 1 p.m. We will start with a short presentation and then dissect owl pellets, a sign that owls are active in the area. For ages 8 and up. Free, but registra tion required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road. For more information call (518) 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.

Baby Sock Snowmen

Join Mrs. Q for a fun crafter noon, 2 p.m. We will be making a snowman scene perfect for the winter season. For grades 6-12. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Snowflake Suncatchers

Create a pretty snowflake suncatcher to make you smile throughout the winter, 11 a.m. For pre-K-grade 5. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518439-9314 or visit bethlehempubli clibrary.org.

Friday 30

MarioKart 8

Join us for a special holiday session of MarioKart 8, 3:45 p.m. For grades 6 and up. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehemp ubliclibrary.org.

31 Saturday Happy Noon Year!

Celebrate the New Year – all of the fun with none of the yawning, 11:30 a.m. Countdown begins at 11:59:30 a.m. For children ages 5 and up with adults. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org

Senior centers

Clifton Park Senior Community Center

6 Clifton Common Court, Clifton Park (518) 383-1343

For information about current services and programs, please visit cliftonpark.org/ index.php/services/senior-services/seniorcenter.

Membership is available for $20.

Mondays: Game room activities, tap dance, jazz dance, chair yoga, begin ner clogging, intermediate clogging, discussion group, Rummikub, quilting group, soul line dancing

Tuesdays: Exercise to tape, game room activities, yoga, dice games, dupli cate bridge group, qi-gong and tai chi, scrabble, hand and foot cards, square and round dancing, tai chi for seniors

Wednesdays: Exercise to tape, game room activities, investment group, ukulele group, dice games, social bridge, bowling, poker, euchre, beginner tai chi for seniors, knitting and crocheting

Thursdays: Exercise to tape, game room activities, chorus, Rummikub, yoga, watercolors, modern dance, pi nochle, mahjong

Fridays: Tap dance, ballet, orches tra, woodcarving, game room activities, dominoes, jewelry making class, Bingo, Latin line dancing

LifePath

28 Colvin Ave., Suite 2, Albany www.lifepathny.org; (518) 465-3322

Supportive services for older adults. To register: www.lifepathny.org/activities; (518) 465-3322

Monday, Dec. 19, at 7 p.m.: COLONIE

TOWN BAND HOLIDAY CONCERT

Enjoy Holiday favorites and tradi tional songs played by a 65-piece band. This is a sure way to get into the holiday spirit. No registration is required; please join us for this free concert and show the Colonie Town Band your apprecia tion by attending. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza, Cohoes

Tuesday, Dec.

6: BUS TRIP TO THE ALBANY INSTITUTE OF HISTORY AND ART

Join us for a self-guided tour of some exciting historical exhibits and experience the museum’s Festival of Trees. Cost is $10 per person – includes admission, lunch and transportation.

To reserve a seat call 518-482-2120 or email westview@lifepathny.org.

Wednesday, Dec. 7,

at noon: BOB RIZZO TRIO MUSICAL ENTER TAINMENT

The Bob Rizzo Trio will provide lovely jazz music standards during and after lunch. This is a free music program funded through a generous grant pro vided by the Albany Musicians’ Associa tion. Registration is required; call Beth at 518-235-2420 or email at cohoes@ lifpathny.org. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza, Cohoes

Thursday, Dec. 8, from 4:30-6:30 p.m.: HAM DINNER FUNDRAISER

Drive-through or dine-in at the Co hoes or Watervliet Senior Centers and enjoy a delicious ham dinner with all the fixings! $15 per person. To reserve a meal call 518-465-3322 or visit www. lifepathy.org.

***

Monday-Friday at 9 a.m.: POOL CREW

Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway, Watervliet

Mondays at 9:30-10:30 a.m.: MORNING EXPRESS

Enjoy a hot cup of coffee or tea while socializing. Westview Homes, 680 Central Ave., Albany

Mondays at 10 a.m.: LINE DANCING

Line dancing is proven to create and maintain neural pathways that help our brains stay young. You will find the added benefit of better balance while learning the gentle steps and routines to favorite oldies. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza

Mondays at 12:30 p.m.: SNACK AND PAINT

Bring your snacks to nibble on while you get your paint on and get your creative juices flowing. Westview Homes, 680 Central Ave., Albany

Mondays at 1 p.m.: MAH-JONG

Join this wonderful, social group as they play through the timeless game Mahjong, a tile-based game that was developed in the 19th century in China. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza

Mondays at 1 p.m.: BOOK CLUB

Zoom and Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza

Tuesdays at 9 a.m.: BASIC SPAN ISH CLASS

Come and learn Basic Spanish. Participants in this free 6-week series class will learn how to write and speak Basic Spanish; textbooks are included. Watervliet Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza, Cohoes

Tuesdays and Fridays at 9 a.m.: POOL CREW

Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza, Cohoes

Continued from Page 10

Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m.: EARLY MORNING PUZZLES

Puzzles are a great way to preserve and strengthen mental health in seniors. Enjoy a hot cup of coffee or hot tea while engaging with other seniors and working on crossword and word search puzzles. Westview Homes, 680 Central Ave., Albany

Tuesdays at 10 a.m.: KNIT WITS

Come join this lovely group of people who enjoy knitting and crocheting.  All experience levels are welcome.  Come for lunch and stay for the creating!  Please call 518-273-4422 for more information.  Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway, Watervliet Tuesdays from 12:45-1:45 p.m.: CANNONAIRES SENIOR CHOIR PRACTICE

Join The Cannonaires, a wonderful group of folks that love to share music every week. Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway, Watervliet Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m.: MAHJONG

Join this wonderful, social group as they play through the timeless game Mahjong, a tile-based game that was developed in the 19th century in

China. Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway, Watervliet Wednesdays at 10 a.m.: UFOS –UNFINISHED

OBJECTS

Do you have Unfinished Objects (UFOS) sitting by your chair that you would love to complete but want the company to do so? This is a group that enjoys working on lap crafts while conversing and enjoying the company of others. Knitting, crocheting, embroidery, needlepoint and so many more have been completed. This is an in-person activity and all are welcome. Come for the crafting and stay for lunch, call Beth at 518-235-2420 for more information. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza

Wednesdays at noon: THE BEAUKNITTERS

The Beau-Knitters are a lively group of people who enjoy knitting and crocheting.  All experience levels are welcome.  Come for lunch and stay for the creating!  Call Beth at 518-235-2420 for more information. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza

Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m.: GETCHA CRAFT ON

Create fun art projects. If you have an idea and would like to share, this is the place to show us it. Westview Homes, 680 Central Ave., Albany

Wednesdays at 1 p.m.: BINGO

Join us as we pull the numbers for an hour of Bingo fun every Wednesday. Crazy T, Round Robin, Letter X, Kite and more; 2-3 cards and prizes available. Zoom and Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway

Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.: MEN’S GROUP

Are you an older man looking for a place to be yourself and meet with other men in a respectful space?  A men’s group is a healing and enriching place to share your experiences and listen as others share theirs. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza

Thursdays at 12:30 p.m.: AFTER LUNCH MATINEE

Come for lunch and stay for a movie. Bring your own snacks and drinks and enjoy a movie after lunch. Westview Homes, 680 Central Ave., Albany

Thursdays at 1 p.m.: BINGO

Join us as we pull the numbers for an hour of fun, 2-3 cards and prizes available. Westview Homes, 680 Central Ave., Albany

Fridays at 10 a.m.: BRIDGE CLUB

Bridge, is a trick-taking card game using a standard 52-card deck. In its basic format, it is played by four players in two competing partnerships, with partners sitting opposite each other around a table. Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway, Watervliet

Fridays at 10 a.m.: GAMES AND MORE

Come enjoy playing Mexican train, Uno, Dominoes and more before lunch. No experience needed. Westview Homes Community Room, 680 Central Ave., Albany

Fridays at 1 p.m.: FRIENDLY FILM

FRIDAYS WITH THE COHOES PUBLIC LIBRARY

Come for lunch and stay for a movie! Gather ‘round to join in with friends and film buffs alike for a few hours of fun and laughs. Future films will be announced at each screening. Call the Cohoes Public Library or Beth at the Cohoes Senior Center at 518-235-2420 for more information. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza, Cohoes

Niskayuna

Senior Center

Andrew Burger, Artistic Director Trevor Kahlbaugh, Accompanist

Senior centers

Tuesdays

9 a.m.-noon: Tom’s Computer Class (Dec. 19), Unite US program sign-up with Dottie (Dec. 5, 19)

10 a.m.: Tai Chi

10 a.m.-2 p.m.: Open for indoor/ outdoor socialization/coffee service

10 a.m.: Cards, Mahjong and Bridge

11 a.m.: CDPHP Zumba Gold available in House and Zoom (Dec. 6, 13)

Noon: Gershon’s, BYOL and cof fee service

Thursdays

10 a.m.: Tai Chi

10 a.m.-2 p.m.: Open for indoor/ outdoor socialization/coffee service

10 a.m.: Cards, Mahjong, Bridge, Bocce and Pickleball

Noon: Gershon’s, BYOL and cof fee service

1 p.m.: Trinity Health Alert chair yoga, in-house (Dec. 1, 15)

Exercise Update

Mondays at 10 a.m.: Qigong, in house (temporarily postponed)

Mondays at 12:30 p.m.: CDPHP Chair Pilates, in house and via Zoom (Dec. 5, 12)

Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.: CD PHP Gentle Yoga (Dec. 7,14)

Some classes remain available on Zoom with a couple in-house. You can email Edie for registration, dates and times at ecannizzo@niskayuna. org. Pilates, yoga, walks and art are available on YouTube at “Niskayuna Seniors.” Dates for Exercise Classes scheduled inside are only tentative, and subject to change.

Monthly Activities

Dec. 1: Book Group at 11 a.m. – “The Lies I Tell” by Julie Clark; December Birthday Celebration

Dec. 2: Alzheimer’s Association

Caregiver Support Group at 11 a.m. Dec. 8: Niskayuna High School

Choir performance at 12:45 p.m.

2682 Aqueduct Road, Niskayuna (518) 372-4969

Additional information along with the calendar will be posted on the Niska yuna Town website at www.niskayuna. org/senior-center. Call with any questions.

Dec. 13: Blood Pressure Clinic by St. Peter’s Health Partners at 11 a.m. Dec. 20: Coffee with a Cop Dec. 23-Jan. 1: Senior center closed

Stop by and socialize. Bring friends, activities, interests or just pop over for coffee and conversation. We’ll provide the space and hospitality.

by Elizabeth Pivonka

Cost-of-living adjustments will help ease the cost of inflation

Approximately 70 million Americans will see an 8.7% increase in their Social Secu rity benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments in 2023. On average, Social Security benefits will increase by more than $140 per month starting in January.

Federal benefit rates increase when the cost-of-living rises, as measured by the Department of Labor’s Consumer Price Index (CPI-W). The CPI-W rises when inflation increases, leading to a higher cost-of-living. This change means prices for goods and services, on average, are higher. The cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) helps to offset these costs.

We will mail COLA notices throughout the month of December to retirement, survivors, and disability ben eficiaries, SSI recipients, and representa tive payees. But if you want to know your new benefit amount sooner, you can securely obtain your Social Security COLA notice online using the Message Center in your personal my Social Secu rity online account. You can access this information in early December, prior to receiving the mailed notice. Benefit amounts will not be available before December. Since you will receive the COLA notice online or in the mail, you don’t need to contact us to get your new benefit amount.

If you prefer to access your COLA notice online and not receive the mailed notice, you can log in to your per sonal my Social Security account to opt out by changing your Preferences in the Message Center. You can update your preferences to opt out of the mailed COLA notice, and any other notices that are available online. Did you know you can receive a text or email alert when there is a new message waiting for you? That way, you always know when we have something important for you –like your COLA notice.

“Medicare premiums are going down and Social Security benefits are going up in 2023, which will give seniors more peace of mind and breath ing room. This year’s substantial Social

On average, Social Security benefits will increase by more than $140 per month starting in January.

Security cost-of-living adjustment is the first time in over a decade that Medicare premiums are not rising and shows that we can provide more support to older Americans who count on the benefits they have earned,” Acting Commis sioner Kilolo Kijakazi said.

January 2023 marks when other changes will happen based on the increase in the national average wage index. For example, the maximum amount of earnings subject to Social Security payroll tax in 2023 will be higher. The retirement earnings test ex empt amount will also change in 2023.

Be among the first to know! Sign up for or log in to your person al my Social Security account today. Choose email or text under “Message Center Preferences” to receive courtesy notifications.

You can find more information about the 2023 COLA at www.ssa.gov/ cola.

The writer is with the Social Security Administration in Albany.

Roy

One for the history books

Beloved teacher made her mark with energy and enthusiasm

Gloria M. Kanter taught every day with an infectious passion.

She was one of those rare teachers you’d find only in a John Hughes’ 80s rom-com. The type who held a reputation unique enough to be shared down from class to class with admiration. Such a story came to frui tion one day as she greeted us all to her social studies class wearing a suit and top hat, emphatically reciting the Get tysburg Address over a period piece of music blasting from her record player.

It was 1863 for the next 44 min utes.

As a social studies teacher at Bethlehem Central Middle School, she shared facts from centuries ago with such excitement, you swore they hap pened yesterday. That’s because she had a way of making the past relevant to our lives today.

To impress upon young minds that there was connective tissue between

the past and present, she often started class discussions with current events. Identifying political platforms of today’s Democrats and Republicans versus their ideals from centuries ago was something we debated leading into Election Day. Talk of big corporate layoffs from General Electric or Coleco transitioned into lessons about the Sherman Act of 1890 or the Pull man Strike of 1894.

Mrs. Kanter was a small thing. This bit of information is based on a memory created by a young teenager who was several inches from fully reaching his 6-foot frame. Nonetheless, she walked with an abundance of charisma while making her way through the classroom. It was often to hear stu dents struggle with her questions. You could hear the strain in her voice as she encouraged the class to try harder; as if she was the anchor on one side of

a tug of war. And maybe it was just a reflection from the overhead lighting bouncing off her glasses, but I swear she had a glint in her eye whenever a student answered one correctly. A smile certainly crossed her face once she made that connection.

by Michael Hallisey

I was an uninspired student. I prided myself — perhaps too gener ously — on having an exceptional memory. That what I learned in the classroom was suf ficient enough to avoid homework. I was just as happy to pull Bs, and was equally accepting of the eventual Cs and Ds that followed, so long as I made the grade to move on. Mrs. Kanter, however, was not.

One morning, she handed back one of my exams with an 84. I was pleased with the grade, but perplexed by the accompanying note, “See Me.” I had my fair share of poor grades to

understand the note, but not with a B. I stood at her desk with an in credulous look on my face. Perhaps it was a mistake, or maybe the Abraham Lincoln act was truly a sign that she had lost her sanity. In a hushed tone, she looked at me and said, “You’re bet ter than this.” She proceeded to share how she observed me in class, that she thought I was a bright student, and that I didn’t nearly apply myself as much as I should. It was the right mes sage to send, at the right time. I scored an A on the next exam, with another note that simply stated, “Yes!”

Mrs. Kanter, formerly of Slinger lands, NY, died peacefully on Thurs day, Nov. 10, 2022 after a long illness. A native of Brooklyn, she came to Albany in 1956 as a bride. She resided in the Capital District region, primar ily in Delmar, until 2019 when she moved to Ohio to live near her oldest daughter.

694-9907 • vnhc.com

(518) 489-2681 • vnaalbany.org

n Recollections

continued from Page 14

Mrs. Kanter received her B.A. in history, graduating magna cum laude from Brooklyn College where she was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. She received her Master’s Degree from the same institution where she was licensed to teach social studies at both the senior high school and junior high school levels.

Mrs. Kanter taught social stud ies for 30 years, 26 of them at the Bethlehem Central Middle School. A dedicated teacher, she loved history and sharing this passion with her students. In a letter she cherished, the Superintendent of Schools praised

Gloria for “helping to shape the lives of hundreds of students through your high standards, skillful instruction, and gentle nurturing.”

In 1991, Mrs. Kanter retired to care for her ailing mother and aunt, and then for her beloved husband Jerry. Early in her retirement, she was one of several founding members of the Humanities Institute for Life Long Learning, under the leadership of Helen and Fred Adler. In later years, Gloria volunteered at the JCC where she was one of several rotating modera tors in the “Eye of the World” sessions. As a self-described news junkie, she thoroughly enjoyed the sessions with these well-informed articulate senior citizens.

Mrs. Kanter was the widow of Dr. Gerald S. Kanter who retired in 1991 as Professor Emeritus of Physiology and Associate Dean Emeritus of Alba ny Medical College. She leaves behind two daughters; E. Leslie K. Polott of Hudson, Ohio, and Joyce K. (Howard) Greene of Westport, CT. Also surviv ing are four cherished granddaughters: Dr. Elizabeth Polott, Gabrielle Polott, Alexandra Greene and Stephanie Greene, as well as several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother; Howard Katcher of New City, NY, a biology teacher and department chairman.

Those wishing to remember Mrs. Kanter in a special way can make memorial contributions in her name to

To impress upon young minds that there was connective tissue between the past and present, she often started class discussions with current events. Identifying political platforms of today’s Democrats and Republicans versus their ideals from centuries ago was something we debated leading into Election Day.

FREEDOM. TO BE YOU.

Recollections

The Parkinson’s Foundation at www. parkinson.org or Planned Parenthood at www.plannedparenthood.org.

Mrs. Kanter retired along with my graduating class a few years later. I was happy to see her on stage with the rest of the day’s honorees. She was one of my favorite teachers, an inspiration for everyday life, and I have thought of her often since. But, as life goes, that’s the last I saw of her. When her obituary crossed my desk, I paused to reflect upon these memories. At dinner, I shared them with my family. My con dolences to her family. Thank you for sharing her with us. She was historic.

The writer is editor-at-large of Capi tal District Family Now.

Gloria S. Kanter, formerly of Slingerlands, died peacefully in November. She taught social studies for 30 years, 26 of them at the Bethlehem Central Middle School.

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