Capital District Family Now - August 2021

Inside:

You too can TikTok

FamilyNow CAPITAL DISTRICT

Vol. 2, #8| AUGUST 2021 |FREE

GENERATIONS TOGETHER

Taking music to new heights Finding work/life harmony Five ways to fight fraud

cdFamilyNow.com August 2021 — cdFamilyNow.com 1

2 Family Now — August 2021

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Editor’s desk

L

Long overdue family time

ast month I spent a week at a house on a small lake in the Adirondacks with my extended family – grandparents, cousins, and brothers- and sisters-inlaw under one roof. This kind of intergenerational vacationing isn’t all that unusual – many families get together for holidays and summer trips, and a good portion of Capital District families live this way year-round.

The benefits of spending time together, with older and younger generations creating shared memories, are vast, but the planning can be daunting. I started looking for a lake house in February, and it was no easy search to come up with a place that would fit all of us comfortably, affordably and accessibly and still provide enough individual spaces for downtime. And then the meal planning … the dietary preferences in my family vary widely, but we all found a way to make it work. And believe me, none of us starved (partly thanks to Coffee Fever and those awesome cinnamon rolls).

In the end, it was a delightful week with some epic Bingo and game nights, arts and crafts, swimming, kayaking, hiking and sightseeing. The house lacked WiFi and had spotty cell service, and yet none of us found room to be bored. And all those individual spaces I tried to make sure we had were great, but I found most of us ended up drifting to the big front porch to socialize and relax throughout the day.

It has been a long and challenging year with a pandemic that forced us apart from our loved ones, so to be able to come together once again is a privilege I will never take for granted. As summer comes to a close and a post-pandemic world gradually starts to pick up speed, I am grateful to have spent that week at the lake making up for lost time.

Check out our articles and more at www.cdfamilynow.com and mail your story ideas and pictures to Capital District Family Now, P.O. Box 100, Delmar, NY 12054, or e-mail me at robertsk@spotlightnews.com.

Kristen Roberts Editor, Capital District Family Now

FamilyNow CAPITAL DISTRICT

GENERATIONS TOGETHER

For every age and stage of family life.

August 2021 Features It’s TikTok time

14-15

Yoga in the park

18

Columnists Triple Threat

6-7

Parenting with Confidence

11

Learning center

13

Retiring Retirement

19

Social Security Corner

22

What’s new Kids fun page

8

Brainteasers

16

Resources Senior Centers

20-21

publisher - John McIntyre editor - Kristen Roberts editor-at-large - Michael Hallisey advertising sales - Denice Mau art director - David Abbott graphic design - Martha Eriksen Engagement Coordinator - Rachel Dottino

Looking for something to do with your extended family? Check out Dinosaurs in Motion, an exhibit that will appeal to all ages. Details on Page 12.

Capital District Family Now is a unit of Community Media Group LLC. Published monthly. Deadline for advertising and calendar events is the 5th of the month preceding publication. Display advertising rates are available on request. Capital District Family Now reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason. We do not guarantee any of the information, services or products published in this or any issue.

The opinions expressed by the contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this paper. © Copyright Capital District Family Now. No portion of Capital District Family Now may be reproduced without written permission from Community Media Group LLC.

August 2021 — cdFamilyNow.com 3

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Health benefit plans are issued or administered by MVP Health Plan, Inc.; MVP Health Insurance Company; MVP Select Care, Inc.; and MVP Health Services Corp., operating subsidiaries of MVP Health Care, Inc. Not all plans available in all states and counties.

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This information is available in other formats for members with special needs or who speak a language other than English. Please call us at 1-800-852-7826 (TTY/TTD: 1-800-662-1220).

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4 Family Now — August 2021

picture books

On the Bookshelf

Colorful pages to ponder ‘Love You, Little Lady’

‘A Friend Like You’

By Brett Young;

By Frank Murphy and Charnaie Gordon; illustrated by Kayla Harren

illustrated by Airin O’Callaghan Award-winning singer-songwriter Brett Young writes a love letter to his daughter as he shares what it’s like to hear her heartbeat, hold her for the very first time, and watch her take her first steps. Thomas Nelson Books

There’s nothing in the world like a wonderful friend. Friends are there to laugh with you and ready with a hug when you need one. In this book, celebrate ALL the marvelous ways to be a friend! Sleeping Bear Press

‘The Wordy Book’

By Julie Paschkis This book is a collection of paintings made up of words upon words, all moving, interacting, and creating a visually stunning and wordy universe. Each page contains a question to be answered with the words that lie within. This book invites readers to participate in a vibrant celebration of language itself. Enchanted Lion Books

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Triple Threat

parenting triplets in the Capital District

Celebrating a milestone A B’nai Mitzvah for the triplets caps a year of challenges

O

ne of the most magical days of my life was when I found out I was pregnant with Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca. It was like a cross between prayer, science and magic had decided I was worthy of these tiny beings. There have been many other days since that have been magical, and they have always revolved around my kids. I became the kind of mom I never thought I could be.

adeline

next to other kids and quickly became friends. After they sat down, Harlan and I walked away, and they never looked back at us. I wasn’t sure if this should make me sad or not. Part of me was so proud! I watched their smiles over backpacks that were big compared to the little hands clutching them in excitement.

middle-schoolers felt weird in the beginning, but by March, I had figured out the best balance of time and energy. Then … COVID happened and all reasonable expectations went out the window.

At the end of sixth by grade, there were plenty of questions and very few answers. The start of seventh grade could only be defined as anti-climactic. The only thing that changed between In the past 13 years, Olivia, After graduating from sixth and seventh grade were Benjamin and Rebecca have fifth grade, my babies were off Cantarella Culpo, Director the teachers. The classes were learned to walk, talk, read and to middle school. Benjamin, Cantarella Culpo, Director completely virtual for half of have started school. On theMadeline Rebecca and Olivia soared sixth grade and all of seventh. first day of pre-K, the three of like falcons and found their So much screen time! them sat down on the cold tiles footing. Being the mom of

Jennifer Steuer

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There have been so many moments that did shine brightly through the blue light of the computer screens this year. One that will forever shine brighter than the sun for me is the moment my amazing, smart, funny and courageous children became adults in the eyes of the Jewish faith. On June 16, Benjamin became a Bar Mitzvah, Olivia became a Bat Mitzvah and Rebecca became a Bat Mitzvah! The original date was set long before COVID happened, and we held our breath hoping that the world would re-open so we could celebrate with friends and family. We were also hoping that everyone

Continued on Page 7

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and saw the passions that will fuel each of them. Rebecca, Olivia and Benjamin see the world in their own special ways. Seeing them, hearing them and listening to them created a memory that I will never forget.

n Triple Threat continued from Page 6 would live through COVID. Rebecca, Benjamin and Olivia were originally scheduled to celebrate the B’nai Mitzvah (the plural of Bar or Bat Mitzvah) in early March of this year, approximately one year after the world shut down. As a family and with the help of our rabbi and cantor, we decided to postpone until June so that maybe vaccines would have time to work and we could have the service in our synagogue. The number of people who could be with us in person was very limited, but we also had the ability to livestream the service so family and friends from far away could celebrate with us.

There is so much work that kids do to become a Bar or Bat Mitzvah. Sometimes the tears and frustration lead to long talks or deep breathing. The challenges were not just learning to read Hebrew and under-

Benjamin, Olivia and Rebecca have spent the past 13 years learning and growing and preparing to soar. standing what the part of the Torah they each were reading, but as I listened to them practice over and over, I watched their confidence rise. I felt the texture of the wool on their prayer shawls (Tallis). I saw them grow up. I encouraged them.

On the weekend of Pride

Shabbat, my trio of teenagers stepped up to the lectern and showed Harlan and me that they knew their stuff. Proud of our kids doesn’t begin to describe how we felt that afternoon.

Verklempt – Yiddish word for being overwhelmed beyond words – is more like it. I looked at them, really looked at them,

My brother couldn’t be with us, but my sister and my mom were in the synagogue for the celebration. I was told by the kids it wasn’t my celebration, and the party wasn’t for Harlan and me. I get that, but my kids are everything to me. I will celebrate each and every accomplishment, and eventually they will understand that my voice will always be the loudest and yell the longest when the timing is right. Watch out world because these kids are going to create A LOT of noise!

Jennifer Steuer is an Albany mom whose busy household includes her husband, Harlan, and 13-year-old triplets Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca. Follow her on Instagram: jennifersteuer.

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I think it’s just vapor. It won’t hurt my kid like cigarettes, right?

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The vapor that’s inhaled from e-cigarettes contains harmful chemicals that can cause irreversible lung damage.

And e-cigarettes have nicotine, a toxin that’s addictive and can change your kid’s brain.

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Send calendar submissions by the 5th of the previous month to:

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Capital District Family Now, Attn: Calendar, P.O. Box 100, Delmar, N.Y. 12054 or Email: robertsk@spotlightnews.com

FamilyNow

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CAPITAL DISTRICT

GENERATIONS TOGETHER

August 2021 — cdFamilyNow.com 7

MAZE CRAZE

Can you find your way through to the other side of the maze?

START

n u F s d i K ge Pa

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Coloring Fun

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8 Family Now — August 2021

The best preparation for a top-tier college is a top-tier middle school.

Preschool – Grade 12

www.albanyacadmies.org 518.429.2348

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August 2021 — cdFamilyNow.com 9

FamilyNow CAPITAL DISTRICT

GENERATIONS TOGETHER

UPCOMING

Monthly Deadlines September Deadline:

October Deadline:

November Deadline:

December Deadline:

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To advertise in one or more of these issues please call: Denice Mau at 518-439-4940 or email: maud@spotlightnews.com 113091_4

10 Family Now — August 2021

any taxpayers CTC in 2021, even though you with children did in past years, you would claim the Child have to pay the advances back Tax Credit next year unless you opt out (CTC) on their tax returns of the monthly payments. and often receive a People who want the large refund check. full refund next year by For 2021, the and divorced parmaximum CTC ents who alternate has increased to years of claiming $3,600 for each the credit may qualifying child also want to opt under the age of 6 out. and $3,000 for each The IRS has a new qualifying child ages portal you can use to opt 6 through 17. People with out of the monthly payments: children may be eligible for www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/ the credit even if they do not have any income this year. Your child-tax-credit-update-portal. You can also use the portal actual credit depends on your to update your payment inforeligibility. mation. In addition, the portal Due to the pandemic, the has a tool that eligible lowIRS is now sending half of income families who do not the 2021 CTC as six monthly normally file a tax return can payments to taxpayers who use to register for the advance appear to qualify. These advance payments. payments started on July 15. If If you have questions about you do not opt out, they will income tax issues, the Legal Aid continue each month until Society of Northeastern New Dec. 15. Those who receive York’s Low Income Taxpayer the monthly advance payments Clinic (LITC) may be able to may expect their refund from help. The clinic’s services are the IRS to be lower next year free of charge, and they can be since it will not include the reached at (833) 628-0087. The money already paid in 2021. clinic does not generally provide Taxpayers who claimed the tax preparation services.

CTC on their 2019 or 2020 tax The writer is managing return and appear to qualify for attorney with the Legal Aid the credit in 2021 are autoSociety of Northeastern New York matically enrolled in the new in Albany.

To learn more about advance payment system. the organization, visit www.

If you do not qualify for the lasnny.org.

Anne Malak

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Understanding your Child Tax Credit payment While the monthly windfall might seem like found money, you should be aware of how it might impact your next tax return

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Family Money

Parenting with Confidence

Find a work/life dream team

You see, when it comes to work, you can seek harmony by asking your employers what the policies are for working from home a few days a week. Discuss policies on taking time off to care for sick children or if a snow day should occur. Ask if they offer childcare compensation – some places do! Be sure to ask about maternity and paternity leave and what their policies are about returning to work.

When it comes to family life, you can plan out some things by talking with family members, friends and child care services, having designated schedules for car pools, and also having back-up help in case both parents can’t take much time off. Building your dream team, as I like to call it, is what is going to be a game changer for your journey as a parent. When you have a good support system in your corner, you and your kids are

This summer is a good one to go all out with your kids and family.

Live life to the fullest – don’t just exist. going to thrive more than ever.

So even when things feel like a lot at times, just remember to plan what you can and know that whatever comes your way, you have a dream team to call on to help you figure it out.

Quoida Lauzon

This pandemic took a toll on all of us in different ways. I recommend you go all out this summer with your kids and family.

Live life to the fullest – don’t just exist. After 2020, we all need to laugh more, play more and enjoy our children more

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without being so stressed out.

Our kids deserve to see us be more than just OK and to feel that even after a storm, there are rainbows to dance under. Do something for yourself – go out, start a new by hobby, go join a new outside hobby, and start doing things that really bring you joy.

So again, is there such thing as balance?

To me, there won’t ever be, but when I think of doing my best, I like to break things down and priori-

tize them. I think that perhaps there is no real work life balance that can be achieved, but maybe the goal is more for harmony, much like the keys on a piano working together to build beautiful music.

Quoida Lauzon is a Capital District mom and a Registered Nurse who specializes in maternal and infant health, breastfeeding and childbirth education. She teaches classes and coaches new mothers in their pregnancy and “fourth trimester” journey and believes women should thrive, not just survive, motherhood. Connect with her on social media @ nurse.q.lauzon or visit nurseq. com.

Want to “draw“ more business online?

To advertise on our website, call Denice Mau at 518-439-4949 Visit us at:

cdFamilyNow.com

FamilyNow CAPITAL DISTRICT

GENERATIONS TOGETHER

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I

s there really even such a thing as work/life balance? I, personally, don’t think there is, especially for moms. A better word would be “harmony.” Learn to harmonize it all by breaking things down into categories and prioritizing.

August 2021 — cdFamilyNow.com 11

Dinosaurs in Saratoga?

Interactive sculptures bring STEAM concepts to life

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs is currently hosting Dinosaurs in Motion, a new, interactive, engaging STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics) exhibition this summer and early fall.

The exhibit engages and educates visitors of all ages by using 14 fully interactive, recycled lifesize metal dinosaur sculptures inspired by actual fossils.

The life-sized metal sculptures captivate visitors while their exposed mechanics illustrate science and technology principles in a fun and engaging way. The exhibition weaves the science, art and innovation themes throughout and touches on each of these educational topics at each sculpture. The art portions highlight sketch-

The Dinosaurs in Motion exhibit at Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs weaves the science, art and innovation themes throughout and touches on each of these educational topics at each sculpture. ing, drawing, and sculpting; the science segments explore kinetics, biomechanics, and robotics; and the innovation areas encourage observing and experimenting.

“If Capital Region parents, grandparents, educators and scout leaders are looking for a way to keep youth engaged and

their minds active this summer, there isn’t a better place to inspire them with hands-on education and entertainment,” said Teddy Foster, UPH director.

“And the adults will get just as much out of it as the kids.”

The visitor is taken on a highly interactive apprentice’s path that follows the story of the

master artist, John Payne. The exhibition’s narrative is reinforced with experiential learning, as every dinosaur is available for visitors to touch and move.

Visitors will have the ability to manipulate dinosaurs via lever and pulley systems, as well as with remote controls, offering large-scale dinosaur interaction unprecedented in a museum setting. Additionally, visitors will be able to test out their own artistic creativity and newfound technological inspiration with hands-on activities at the Innovation Stations, where they can create a variety of art and science projects of their own.

It is on exhibit through Oct. 15 at UPH. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 youth, and are on sale at universalpreservationhall.org. The event is presented

by Adirondack Trust Company.

FamilyNow CAPITAL DISTRICT

GENERATIONS TOGETHER

Capital District FAMILY NOW,

a monthly publication with timely features for every age and stage of family life.

With Capital District FAMILY NOW, you will find great columns and features to enjoy every month, plus so much more.

Pick up your copy today!

To advertise, please call Denice Mau at 518-439-4940 or email maud@spotlightnews.com.

12 Family Now — August 2021

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Education insight for parents

Write down summer memories

e are in the heart of summer! Children are enjoying the warm weather, fun activities with friends and vacation time. But summer can also be an enjoyable learning experience.

The summer break provides many memorable moments, and writing about them is a good way to record those memories and practice writing skills at the same time.

Parents tend to focus on their children’s reading and math skills, overlooking that writing is an education fundamental. It’s fast becoming the forgotten ‘R.’ This is unfortunate, as writing is an important part of every facet of

education, not just in English class. Writing proficiency can have a major impact on other subject areas too.

Summer vacation provides an excellent opportunity for children to explore their creative writing skills.

Following are some tips to help parents encourage their children to write over the summer:

child know why you picked your summer vacation spot – or why you decided to do a staycation? Do they have expectations for what they will be doing during their vacation?

by

Ask them if they know why you made your choice, what they like about the choice, what they don’t like about the choice. Ask them what they are most looking forward to during this summer.

Patrick McNamara

Pick an engaging topic Persuading your child to write over the summer break may be easier if you help them identify fun and engaging topics. Suggest timely subjects.

For example, does your

If you are traveling to a new destination, encourage your children by helping them with some research about the destination, its history, people and places.

Give story starters Sometimes the most difficult part of writing can be getting started. Help your children write their essays by giving them topic ideas, such as: I am looking forward to going to the ocean because….

On the first day at the lake, my family and I usually…

As with most things, the only way to improve writing is to write. As students develop the ability to fill up a blank piece of paper, the less intimidating that blank page will become!

Patrick McNamara is the owner and executive director at Sylvan Learning of Albany and Clifton Park. For more information, visit SylvanLearning.com.

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Learning Center

August 2021 — cdFamilyNow.com 13

Time

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Favorite lockdown pasti

ikTok emerged as an overwhelming favorite guilty-pleasure for people during lockdown in 2020. It was arguably the most popular social media app your friends seldom admitted to viewing.

@setupspawn — Matty McTech is a computer enthusiast who hooks his followers up with websites that vary from the entertaining to the practical. Through him, you can find ways to play GoldenEye on your PC or discover secrets to help with your research paper, and so much more. I’ve saved a handful of his videos for future reference.

According to Wallaroomedia.com, the video-heavy TikTok has doubled in popularity, from an estimated 680 million monthly users in November 2018 to 1.1 billion customer base forecasted in February. As the pandemic raged, the app was downloaded 2 billion times across the globe. Social distancing, quarantine and mass unemployment fueled a very human need to connect.

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Mich Hall

Despite early concerns over privacy, people gravitated to TikTok. Facebook’s hesitant step to control false political narratives was one of the many factors that led people to escape. The new platform has served as a means to provide consumers with resources.

@mackenziebarmen — Mackenzie Barmen racked up 2.3 million followers by enlightening her audience on the dubious origins of childhood songs. Her insight follows the global awareness of crucial race theory, and her contribution only adds to that conversation. A deep dive into her catalogue of videos will leave you a different person.

14 Family Now — August 2021

@kendonfahr — Kendon F ics, oftentimes taking the least context for better understandin Tory,” his political views lie mo he explains himself, and ackno freshing, mature way of comm

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ime has some bright spots for all ages

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The TikTok explosion catapulted people into stardom, such is the case with Canadian TikTok star Kris Collins. The talented comedian known as @kallmekris is a one-person show capturing the family dynamics between siblings and their mother in hilarious conflicts. Her material sounds sophomoric by description. The same material would be lost in the sea of 37 million channels on YouTube. Facebook would be far less kind. Mark Zuckerberg’s empire tinkers its algorithms to favor paid advertisements, stifling organic exposure and growth. Yet, through TikTok’s burgeoning audience and open landscape, the 24-year-old Collins has garnered more than 31 million followers.

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@itsqcp — Gianluca Conte is the creator of “The Angry New Jersey Cooking Show.”This 21-year-old knows how to cook, but he’s got a mouth on him. Earlier videos of him cracking jokes while using racial stereotypes did not sit well, which led to an apology. Today, he’s still showing 7.7 million people how to prepare an impressive meal.

The most successful of personalities create content using just their smartphones. That leaves end users with the sense of a genuine connection. A sincere message coming across the line at 2 a.m. often leads to a coveted follow. Here are a few more personalities who are well deserving of being hyped up.

Fahr debates heated social topt popular viewpoint to provide ng. A self-proclaimed “Tepid oderate-conservative. How owledges the other side, is a remunicating. Boy, we need that.

@shoelover99 — Matty @setupspawn OpheliaMcTech Nicholsis isa computer the adopted enthusiast mother who of 3.4hooks millionhisfollowers. followersShe’s up with the websites video version that vary of Dear fromAbby, the entertainingtotoquestions responding the practical. fromThrough strangershim, going youthrough can findtough ways to playShe times.

GoldenEye answersonback yourtoPCheror“Tater discover Tots”secrets with atosweet help with your research Alabama accent paper, thatand assures so much her audience more. I’vethat saved theya are handful not of his videos for future reference. alone.

August 2021 — cdFamilyNow.com 15

Puzzle Answers on Page 20

Clues Down

Clues Across

CRYPTO F UN

1. Popular musical awards show 5. Speech in one’s honor 11. A state of poor nutrition 14. Not ingested 15. More lacking in taste 18. “Popeye” cartoonist 19. Helps to reduce speed 21. January 1 greeting (abbr.)

23. Georgian currency 24. Proverb expressing a truth 28. Jewish calendar month 29. Volume measurement 30. Fair-skinned 32. Patti Hearst’s captors 33. Have already done 35. Touch lightly 36. Autonomic nervous system 39. Plant part 41. College degree 42. Military alliance 44. Tokyo’s former name 46. Carpenter’s tool 47. Before 49. Consent to receive 52. Passages 56. The Duke of Edinburgh 58. Utter repeatedly 60. Linked together in a chain 62. Quality that evokes pity 63. Maintained possession of

1. U.S. military school 2. Controls 3. Away from wind 4. Grab quickly 5. Being everlasting 6. Vase 7. Atomic #3 8. Type of medication 9. Encircle with a belt 10. Belonging to you 12. American state 13. City in Zambia 16. Good Gosh!

17. Of the country 20. Helsinki district 22. 36 inches 25. Reporters’ group 26. The voice of Olaf 27. Explains in detail 29. Tooth caregiver 31. One point south of due east 34. Scottish river 36. Elsa’s sister 37. Civil Rights group 38. Line of poetry 40. Doctor 43. Fatty acid 45. Avatar (abbr.)

48. Awe-inspiring garden 50. Fall down 51. Rock icon Turner 53. Asian country (alt. sp.)

54. UK museum network 55. Stairs have at least one 57. Part of (abbr.)

58. Simpson trial judge 59. Sun up in New York 61. Exclamation of surprise

Today’s Catch

WORD SEARCH

Solve the code to discover words related to SEAFOOD Each number corresponds to a letter. (Hint: 8 = s)

16 Family Now — August 2021

ANCHOVIES CARP CATFISH CRAB

HADDOCK HALIBUT HERRING LOBSTER

MACKERAL SARDINES MUSSELS SCALLOPS PRAWNS SHRIMP SALMON SNAPPER

SOLE SQIUD TROUT TUNA

Friday, October 15, 2021 Friday, 15,PM 2021 8:30October AM - 1:30 8:30 AM - 1:30 PMlevel) Crossgates Mall (lower Crossgates Mall (lower level) www.lifepathny.org www.lifepathny.org 518-465-3322 518-465-3322

F R E E TO T H E P U B LIC

FREE TO THE PUBLIC

VENDORS - WORKSHOPS - FLU SHOTS - ENTERTAINMENT

VENDORS - WORKSHOPS - FLU SHOTS - ENTERTAINMENT 114824_4

August 2021 — cdFamilyNow.com 17

Your Health

Free yoga in the park ALBANY – This August and September, the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) and the State University of New York are hosting NamaState Street Yoga, a free outdoor fitness series on the lawn at the H. Carl McCall State University of New York Administration Building, the iconic former D&H Railroad Headquarters, at 353 Broadway in downtown Albany. Free, 60-minute all-levels yoga classes led by certified instructors will be held every Saturday in August at 10 a.m. and every Wednesday in September at noon.

All events are weather-dependent. Attendees are encouraged to register for a class to receive updates via email at albanybid.eventbrite.com, or check downtownalbany.org/yoga for the latest information. Participants will need to supply their own yoga mat and water.

“Whether you’re looking for a mindful way to start your weekend before enjoying some Downtown shopping and dining, or a chance to stretch out on a mid-week lunch break, NamaState Street Yoga is here for you,”

said Georgette Steffens, Executive Director of the Downtown Albany BID. “We are excited to continue our collaboration with SUNY to offer a slate of fun and healthful events to help welcome workers and visitors back to Downtown.”

State University of New York Chancellor Jim Malatras said, “Together, we will help bring activity to beautiful downtown Albany. We have spent too much time apart, so with [this series] we are a part of a collaborative effort to help our neighbors reconnect with one another, exercise and feel restored, appreciate great food and art, and support downtown businesses that were hit hard by the pandemic.”

Free weekend parking is available at ParkAlbany garages and on the street; meters or garage fees will in effect for Wednesday events.

For full Downtown parking information, visit downtownalbany.org/parking.

For more details on upcoming Downtown events, visit downtownalbany.org/events.

NamaState Street Yoga classes will run on Saturdays in August and Wednesdays in September outside the H. Carl McCall State University of New York Administration Building at 353 Broadway in downtown Albany.

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f you would like to showcase special events in our monthly publication, Please send them to us by the 5th of the month preceding publication.* MO

NT

H

5

FamilyNow CAPITAL DISTRICT

Email to: Kristen Roberts at robertsk@spotlightnews.com

18 Family Now — August 2021

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*Based on space availability

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GENERATIONS TOGETHER

Retiring Retirement

The guitarist on the roof “My songs are easily sung by young people,” he said, “and it’s amazing to see what they oofing Contraccan learn and do. We carefully tor Jim Staats has worked through the pandemic, mastered the delicate and when we had enough matebalance between rial, we went into the studio tradition and cutting edge that and recorded an EP album. My would make the Fiddler on the songs present situations, stoRoof a bit envious, even ries, metaphors and hit if it’s a guitar in his on contemporary hand instead of a by issues.” violin.

The title track, Unlike Fidfor example, was dler’s Tevye, the penned to give 77-year-old isn’t hope in the midst resisting change – of the recent social he’s creating it. When upheaval. The Chorus he’s not installing metal of “Good News Train” roofs, Staats is recruiting young puts it this way: musicians to explore the heights of singing and performing his “Now everywhere you look, original country and gospel there is violence and crime. Can music. you hear someone crying out in

Jim Staats cradles his classic Martin guitar while perched upon another classic – a flat-locked, soldered seam Terne roof he’s working on.

This article is the first part of a series.

R

Robert LaCosta

pain? Do you think that there’s nothing much you can do? Well get ready for ‘The Good News Train.’ You can sing Hallelujah, you can praise the Lord above, you can shine the light from Jesus in a world that needs His love.”

“Good News Train” is available through the website at bridgestreetrevival.com where

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NEXT: Where Good News Train is taking its young musicians and how you can get on board to see or support them.

13 State Street Apartments

In Home Personal Training

Stephanie Hutchins

you can also go to book them for an engagement.

room, Fitness room, Library/computer room For more information please call 518-952-6314 or stop by the Rental office for an application

August 2021 — cdFamilyNow.com 19

Senior Centers Colonie Senior Services Center 6 Winners Circle, Albany (518) 459-2857; cbarrett@colonieseniors.org The Center is open. Membership is $20 per year.

Wine Tasting: Diane will lead us to Meadowdale Winery in Altamont, makers of organic, award-winning wines made from apples, grapes and even raisins. Tour, wine tasting and snacks included.

Friday, Aug. 20, bus leaves The Beltrone at 1:30 p.m. and returns at approximately 5 p.m. $10 for members, $15 for notyet-members.

Curtain Call Theater: We’ll see “An Act of God,” a hilarious comedy and Broadway hit about “a gut-busting-funny riff on the never-ending folly of mankind’s attempts to fathom God’s wishes through the words of the Bible and use them to their own ends.”

and talk about all things mead.

Wednesday, Aug. 11, bus leaves the Beltrone at 2:30 p.m., and returns at approximately 6 p.m. $20 for members, $25 for notyet-members.

Grafton Lakes Day at The Beach: Spend the day at the water’s edge of Grafton Lake.

Bring your lawn chairs (or we can provide one.) Snack bar and restrooms available at the lake. Weather permitting.

Monday, Aug. 23, bus leaves the Beltrone at 10 a.m. and returns at approximately 4 p.m. $10 for members only.

Albany Mural Tour: Did you know that Albany is the home to a great many inspiring murals? Step on one of our buses to take a tour of these wonders.

Thursday, Aug. 26, bus leaves the Beltrone at 1 p.m. and returns at approximately 3 p.m.

paint kit to follow numbered directions, slowly working to make a vibrant, floral painting. This event is made possible the generous donation of a community member.

Thursdays, Aug. 12, 19 and 26, 10-11:30 a.m., at The Beltrone Living Center. Free for all.

Rubber Stamping Art: Use Ann Burn’s Stampin’ Up paper craft techniques to make a set of beautiful cards to give, for “just because” occasions.

Thursday, Aug. 12, 3-4 p.m., $10 for members, and $4 materials fee. *Zoom Events are free for members. Registration is not required for Zoom events. In-person events are held during lunch at The Beltrone Living Center. Call for reservations, (518) 459-2857, ext. 303.

Organize Your Vital Records (Zoom or in-person): An interactive program that discusses $5 for members for members various ways to identify and only. quickly access your vital written Thursday, Aug. 5, bus leaves Rivers Casino: Spend the and electronic information and The Beltrone at 6:45 p.m. and day pulling slots, playing cards records. Presented by Jim Rulireturns at approximately 9:15 and eating great food, at the son, who spent p.m.

Home iscasino.

Where You’ll Find Us over 30 years in Schenectady-located human resources at New York $28 for members, $35 for notState Parks.

Monday, Aug. 16, Bus leaves yet-members.

The Beltrone at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 11 at noon. returns at approximately 3:30 Heldeberg Mead Tasting: Legal Planning for AlSample and learn about mead – p.m.

Home is Where You’ll Find Us zheimer’s Disease (Zoom or the alcoholic drink made from $20 for members and not-yet- in-person): In this important honey. Heldeberg Meadworks members. seminar, you’ll learn about will offer up four different important legal and financial Paint By Numbers: Use a samples, show us their meadery

issues to consider, how to put plans in place, and how to access legal and financial resources near you. Information for families and individuals dealing with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia will also be covered.

Friday, Aug. 13 at noon.

Shakespeare in the Garden (via Zoom): In his plays and poetry, Shakespeare was a master at the use of symbolism through his choice of plants and flowers. Come hear about this writer’s genius, including “And there’s Pansies, that’s for thoughts” (Hamlet).

Tuesday, Aug. 17 at 12:30 p.m.

Controlling Cholesterol (via Zoom): This seminar provides information on heart disease and stroke and the impact of high cholesterol.

Learn about medical terms, the importance of proper diet, smart exercise and medications that can help.

Friday, Aug. 20 at 12:30 p.m.

Broadway Shows On the Screen in the Lakeview Dining Room, $1 per show, free popcorn.

Monday, Aug. 9 at 3 p.m., “Billy Elliot” Elton John and Lee Hall’s Billy Elliot the Musical tells the story of a little boy in a small

Continued on Page 21

BRAINTEASERS ANSWERS u Our aides and companions u Our aides and will keep you safe at home

u Skilled nursing

(518) 694-9907 vnhc.com u Skilled nursing and rehab

(518) 489-2681 vnaalbany.org

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companions will (518) 694-9907 • vnhc.com keep you safe at home

and rehab therapy in the comfort of home

u Skilled nursing therapy in the comfort of home and rehab therapy companions will (518) 489-2681 • vnaalbany.org The Perfect Balance of Healing & Home in the comfort of keep you safe home & Home atPerfect home Balance of Healing The u Our aides and

(518) 694-9907

(518) 489-2681

20 Family Now — August 2021 vnaalbany.org vnhc.com

The Perfect Balance of Healing & Home

CRPYTO ANSWERS: A. shrimp B. clams C. lobster D. squid

Senior Centers 10 a.m.: Tai Chi 10 a.m.-2 p.m.: Open for indoor/outdoor socialization/ coffee service*

Monday, Aug. 23 at 3 p.m., “Jersey Boys”

10 a.m.: Cards, Bridge, Bocce

The story of four young men from the wrong side of the tracks in New Jersey who came together to form the iconic 1960s rock group The Four Seasons.

Noon: Gershon’s, BYOL and coffee service

Monday, Aug. 30 at 3 p.m., “Mamma Mia!”

11 a.m. Mondays: Zoom Zumba and In House (Aug. 2, 9 and 16)*

The story of a bride-to-be trying to find her real father told using hit songs by the popular 1970s group ABBA.

LifePath www.lifepathny.org; (518) 465-3322 Supportive services for older adults.

Niskayuna Senior Center 2682 Aqueduct Road, Niskayuna (518) 372-4969 Additional information along with the calendar will be posted on the Niskayuna Town website at www.niskayuna.org/seniorcenter. *Denotes registration or possible additional fee. Please note that all details are subject to change. Call with any questions or concerns.

Tuesdays 9 a.m.-noon: Tom’s Computer Class (first and third Tuesday of the month) 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 11 a.m.: Aqua aerobics – Town Pool ($5 per class, Aug. 17, 24 and 31) 1 p.m.: Exercise class with Nicola (Aug. 24 and 31)

1 p.m.: Chair Yoga, in house and Zoom (Aug. 2, 9 and 16)* Exercise Update:

11 a.m. Wednesdays: SilverSneakers Zoom Zumba (Aug. 4, 11 and 18)* Zoom chair Pilates suspended for August.

Classes such as chair Pilates, chair yoga and others remain available on Zoom. For registration, dates and times e-mail ecannizo@niskayuna.org Pilates, yoga, walks and art are available on You Tube at “Niskayuna Seniors.”

Serving the entire Capital District

The Capital District’s leading provider for Direct Cremation, Urns and Memorial Services with over 40 years experience to bring it all together.

218 2nd Avenue, Troy, NY • 518-435-8030 www.SimpleChoicesCremation.com

Roy F. Bordeau Owner/Manager Serving Families Since 1975

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Thursdays

British town who prefers ballet to boxing, much to the dismay of his conservative workingclass community.

St. Sophia & Holy Wisdom Apartments 426 & 428 Whitehall Road, Albany, NY

One Bedroom Apartments

All the convenience of city life with a peaceful tranquility of a lovely suburban setting u u

Weekly Buses to Markets & Malls Computers On Site

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If qualified, pay 30% of your gross annual income which cannot exceed:

$33,500 for 1 person – $38,250 for 2 persons

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continued from Page 20

No Gimmicks, No Hidden Fees, Just the Lowest Price for Cremation with Professional & Dignified Service.

Monthly Activities: Aug. 3 at noon: Watermelon Day; 12:30 p.m. Medicare Education Aug. 5 at 11a.m.: Book Club; 12:30 p.m. Birthday celebration (cupcakes) Aug. 10 at 11 a.m.: Eddy Senior Care PACE - Blood Pressure Aug. 17 at noon: Cupcake Day Trivia/Treat; 7 p.m. Art with Edie - Felting T Aug. 19 at 12:15 p.m.: Alzheimer’s Association - 10 Warning Signs; 1 p.m. Bingo Aug. 24 at noon: Potato Chip Day Trivia/Treat Aug. 26 at noon: Sponge Cake Day Trivia/Treat; 1 p.m.

Crafting with Edie Aug 20, 21 and 22 at The Art Out: See Edie Cannizzo for details Aug. 31 at noon: Princess Diana Trivia

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August 2021 — cdFamilyNow.com 21

Social Security Corner

K

Tools to fight fraud

nowledge is power, and having the right tools to fight fraud can make a huge difference. Knowledge can also help those you love and want to protect. I’ve put together a list of the five most important resources about Social Security scams you should know about:

page at oig.ssa.gov/scam for information on phone scams — and how to report them.

Read the blog post at blog. ssa.gov/protecting-your-socialsecurity-number-from-identity-theft to learn how to protect your Social by Security number from identity theft.

Elizabeth Pivonka

Read and share the fact sheet Beware of Social Security Phone Scams to learn how to spot fake calls and emails at www.ssa.gov/fraud/assets/materials/EN-05-10535.pdf.

Create your own personal my Social Security account at www. ssa.gov/myaccount to help you keep track of your records and identify any suspicious activity.

Visit the Office of the Inspector General’s Scam Awareness

Visit our Fraud Prevention and Reporting page at www.ssa.

There are a number of resources available to help you fight and report Social Security fraud. gov/fraud to understand how we combat fraud.

spread the word on social media.

Please share these resources about scams with your friends and family — and help us

The author is with the Social Security Administration in Albany.

We Help You Help.

When you help care for a loved one, you take care of everything. But are you taking care of yourself?

AARP can help with information and useful tips on how you can maintain a healthy life balance, care for your own physical and mental well-being, and manage the challenges of caring for a loved one. Because the better care you take of yourself, the better care you can provide for your loved one.

You’re there for them.

We’re here for you.

Find free Care Guides to support you and your loved one at AARP.org/caregiving

22 Family Now — August 2021

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Belmont Management Co., Inc. was formed in 1975 and in 1980, we began to offer our management services to other property owners. Since that time the company has grown to 76 apartment communities across New York State.

Because we own and manage, we understand both ends of property management and treat every property individually with the attention that only an owner would provide.

Ballston Pines 518-884-9401 - located in Ballston Spa Brandle Woods 518-861-8809 - located in Altamont Cambridge Square 518-677-2920 - located in Cambridge Schuylerville Manor - 518-695-4865 - located in Schuylerville Eligibility: age 62 & over or disabled any age - Income Eligible

Cambridge Woods 518-677-5584 - located in Cambridge Milton Village 518-884-9767 • Trieble Village 518-885-6997 - located in Ballston Spa Glenville Terrace 518-399-2696 and Highland Square 518-399-6481 - located in Glenville Kirby Village 518-583-4608 and Saratoga West 518-581-9738 - located in Saratoga Springs Malta Meadows 518-899-1552 - located in Ballston Lake Marina Woods 518-348-0213 - located in Halfmoon Wheelchair Eligibility: age 62 & over - Income Eligible Accessible 1 bedroom apartments include: Carpeting, Appliances, Heat, Hot water, Coin Operated Laundry, Trash Pick up, Off Street Parking, Community Room, Pet Friendly. Inquire with specific properties for Section 8 acceptance.

Visit our website at www.BelmontMgmt.com for details on each property.

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August 2021 — cdFamilyNow.com 23

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24 Family Now — August 2021