Capital District Family Now - January 2022

Inside:

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FamilyNow Capital District

Vol. 3, #1 | JANUARY 2022

generations together

Fitness for all ages New Year, new goals Don’t touch that dial

cdFamilyNow.com January 2022 — cdFamilyNow.com 1

2 Family Now — January 2022

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Editor’s desk

Resolve to make the most of January Whether you head outside or hunker down at home, this month has plenty to offer

O

n the heels of one of the most common family resolutions in the new year – spend more time being active together – comes some of the worst weather the Capital District has to offer.

January – and, to be fair, February and sometimes March – is frequently defined by its bitter cold and gray skies. Add icy driving conditions to the mix, and it can seem almost impossible to get out of the house and make that resolution a reality.

FamilyNow CAPITAL DISTRICT

GENERATIONS TOGETHER

For every age and stage of family life.

January 2022 Features Get moving

14-15

Columnists Parenting with Confidence

4-5

Triple Threat

8-9

Learning Center

11-12

Retiring Retirement

16

Social Security Corner

17

So how do families reap the benefits of healthy activities in these dark days of winter?

What’s new

Well, one way is to embrace the cold and all the opportunities it presents for fun and exercise. After all, you can’t go sledding in August, and a snowboard won’t get you very far when the leaves are green. It also doesn’t hurt to remind yourself that snow and ice can actually be fun – if you add a pair of skates or some skies.

On the Bookshelf

One of the biggest myths about winter recreation is that the costs can be prohibitive. That isn’t necessarily the case. Local nature centers rent snowshoes for a couple of dollars a day, and ice skating and skiing won’t set you back much either if you rent the equipment first to see if it’s your thing.

Resources

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.

Calendar 24-26

Kristen Roberts Editor, Capital District Family Now

6

Kids Fun Page

10

Brain teasers

20

Senior Centers

21-23

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

Rachel Dottino, Frank Gillen

Even though your exercise needs may change with your age, there’s no denying the benefits. Read more on Pages 14-15.

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.

January 2022 — cdFamilyNow.com 3

Parenting with Confidence

New year, new traditions

M kind of party.

ost people look at New Year’s and think it’s a grownup only

Not many stop and see it as an opportunity to reflect on themselves, their family, or even their children. This year is coming to a close, and we have a new year to look forward to, a new beginning. A new year can bring hearts full of hope and excitement about the future.

You see, when we have kids, we can learn so much from them. Children are truly fascinated by the concept of time – it seems like magic to them.

Many of us get excited for the new year, and we envision and plan how we can have a more fulfilled, joyful and abundant

Here are a few ideas to get life. Children also get excited your whole family involved and love the idea of a fresh start. Who doesn’t love a reason together in celebrating the New to celebrate life? Children are so Year. great about truly being present and in the moment.

Gratitude and love On New Year’s Eve, Every family should you can sit around allow themselves and reminisce time to sit down by by having each and have mindfamily member ful moments say what their and conversafavorite memotions with one ries were from another about the year. You can how to make life ask your child what better. I think it’s a they love about their great idea to celebrate lives, their favorite things the new year by connecting to do, and what their favorite with your family about the meaning of life and about what places to go are. has been going great, but also Why not start the New Year how to improve our lives the off by making a new tradition. coming year.

You can grab a jar and label it

Quoida Lauzon

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“memory jar” with the year on it. Everyone can write down a joyful moment from that day, funny moment, or a memory that they want to read and reflect on at the end of the year.

Make sure to write your name and date on the scrap paper before dropping it in the jar.

*$100 ADT Visa Reward Card: Requires 36-month monitoring contract starting at $28.99/mo. (24-month monitoring contract in California, total fees from $695.76), and enrollment in ADT EasyPay. Requires minimum purchase price of $449. One (1) Visa Reward Card valued at $100 is redeemable seven (7) days after system is installed, wherein an email is sent to the customer’s email address associated with their account with a promo code. The customer must validate the promo code on the website provided in the email and a physical card will be sent in the mail. Installation must occur within 60 days of offer expiration date to receive card. Applicable to new and resale sale types only. Card is issued by MetaBank®, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. No cash access or recurring payments. Can be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. Card valid for up to 6 months; unused funds will forfeit after the valid thru date. Card terms and conditions apply.

General: Additional charges may apply in areas that require guard response service for municipal alarm verification. System remains property of ADT. Local permit fees may be required. Prices and offers subject to change and may vary by market. Additional taxes and fees may apply. Satisfactory credit required. A security deposit may be required. Simulated screen images and photos are for illustrative purposes only. ©2021 ADT LLC dba ADT Security Services. All rights reserved. ADT, the ADT logo, 800.ADT.ASAP and the product/service names listed in this document are marks and/or registered marks.

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my daughter to school, we both say words of affirmations out loud and then we listen to a few upbeat songs and dance before drop off. I love this new habit we started. Mindset is everything, and what we tell ourselves matters. Doing this helps set our day off in a positive direction.

n Parenting continued from Page 4 sparkling cider or grape juice and do a cheers. Take a picture together every year before their bedtime.

Model healthy change, be kind to yourself Let’s teach our kids to have big goals but also small goals that are reachable. Model this daily. Show them it’s important to show up and be consistent.

Also remember to model grace and self love for when life’s bumps get in the way for a day or a season. It’s OK to be kind to ourselves and show ourselves compassion. How we respond and bounce back helps shape us.

Create a family vision board together Print and cut out images that fit your family’s goals. Make sure to put some of them in the calendar so you can make

Adding new goals and healthy habits in our days, weeks, and months all adds up to years of our lives.

Have a Healthy and Happy New Year!

Celebrate the new year by connecting with your family by adding new goals and healthy habits to your routine. it happen. If a goal is to spend more quality time together, make time once a week where all electronics are off for the evening. Get take out, play board games, sing karaoke,

dance or do a craft together.

Model self love and confidence Every morning, when I drive

Discover the Night

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.

THE DOANE STUART SCHOOL

with the Albany Pine Bush

Open House

Experience nighttime in the Albany Pine Bush!

Enjoy videos that feature our local wildlife, storytelling, community history and more! Play interactive games, download fun activities and nature craft instructions.

Something for all ages.

You’re invited to visit

AlbanyPineBush.org/discover-the-night anytime on or after February 18, 2022 at 4:30pm.

A free virtual online special event.

January 19, 2022 Program starts at 5PM Early Childhood-Grade 12

through seasonal walks, full moon hikes, wildlife themed and pre-k programs.

Reservations required.

518-456-0655 AlbanyPineBush.org/events

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More for this winter! Discover the Pine Bush

Call to register: 518-465-5222 or at www.doanestuart.org

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January 2022 — cdFamilyNow.com 5 2022 Discover the Night.indd 1

12/14/2021 12:06:27 PM

On the Bookshelf

picture books

Books to take the chill away ‘City Kitties’

‘The Year We Learned to Fly’

By Rizwan Asad;

By Jacqueline Woodson;

Illustrated by Catling

illustrated by Rafael López

When Mitten asks Nessie why she never falls for his tricks, Nessie answers with a tale of experience. Told in gentle rhymes, this is more than a story about knowing the value of experience. It’s about knowing which experiences are truly valuable. Ness House Press

On a dreary, stuck-inside kind of day, a brother and sister let their imaginations lift them up and out of their boredom. Then, on a day full of quarrels, it’s time for a trip outside their minds again, and they are able to leave their anger behind. Nancy Paulsen Books

‘Love You by Heart’

By Peter H Reynolds This is a poetic, universal and joyful celebration of how we feel about the most beloved people in our lives — we love them

BY HEART! Orchard Books

Toddler • Early Childhood • Elementary • Middle School

Apply now for fAll 2022 100 Montessori Place • North Greenbush 518.283.5400 • woodlandhill.org 115977_4

6 Family Now — January 2022

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

Preschool – Grade 12

OPEN HOUSE

Saturday | January 22, 2022 | 1:00 – 3:00 pm

www.albanyacademies.org | 518.429.2348

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January 2022 — cdFamilyNow.com 7

Triple Threat

parenting triplets in the Capital District

Again and again and again

T

Unending cycle of gun violence takes its toll; thoughts and prayers are not enough

his era of gun violence makes me afraid when my kids go off to school. I have watched in horror again and again as children are killing one another.

When I was 10 days postpartum with my second son, I watched in absolute horror as Columbine became the watershed moment in school shootings. I sobbed and cried with an infant on my lap as my 2-year-old son stood next to the rocker. The video that was replayed on a loop then never seemed to end, and each time I felt my fear grow. As time passed and there were more

and more shootings at schools in America, the reaction from the authorities was to offer thoughts and prayers to the victims’ families. The words ring hollow each time.

“Thoughts and prayers” do nothby ing to protect our children.

the playground and line up for fire drills. On Dec. 14, 2012, 20 children ages 6 and 7 (just a tiny bit older than my trio at the time) were shot to death at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Pick-up that afternoon was so emotional. Seeing other parents hold on to their child really showed that we were all affected by this tragedy.

Jennifer Steuer

Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca started school in September of 2012. Pre-kindergarten was great, and they got to meet new people and make friends. Before starting school, they would watch from their window all the kids play on

So many children are being killed in the place that should be safe. No parent should ever feel that when their child gets on the bus or walks out the door in the

morning that they will never come home. I want to believe this violence could never happen in Albany, but the levels and layers of violence in this country are becoming pervasive. Not one day has passed this school year without some sort of violence.

In 2006, there was a shooting in Pennsylvania. The shooting took place in an Amish school where 10 girls, age 6-13, were shot. Five of the girls died. I felt like the world tilted and threw so many of us off balance because this is a place of beauty and peace. The one-room school where the

Continued on Page 9

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n Triple Threat continued from Page 8 shooting happened was torn down and a new one constructed. I always saw the Amish community as protected, but I was wrong.

In 2018 in Parkland, Fla., another student massacre occurred: 17 students died and 17 more were injured at the hands of a student who had been expelled. The posttraumatic stress the surviving students feel must be debilitating. There is no way any of the surviving students will forget the sound, the smell or the way the light was coming through the windows when the shooting started. As each bullet was fired, an indelible memory was formed for each student and the adults.

On Dec. 2, 2021, my kids’ school district decided to have one of the middle schools shift to virtual learning the next day because there was a threat of gun violence. My kids do not go to that school, but my heart hurt when I understood what was happening. My city, my school district could have been put on the map of schools ravaged by gun violence. My children could have had friends

who needed to be buried or been in the hospital recovering.

I would like to believe that all the gun violence will end one day. I would like to believe that our leaders will smarten up and realize that an automatic weapon or semi-automatic weapon is not necessary in a civilized world. Access to weapons is not a necessity. I am forced to have uncomfortable conversations with parents when my kids go to a friend’s home. I ask if there are unlocked guns. I ask if there will be alcohol. My love for Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca has to be more important than offending another parent.

My love for my children will always come first and always be what keeps me putting one foot in front of the other.

I don’t ever want to be the mother who gets the phone call that there has been a shooting at my kids’ school. I know we can see the light. I know we do not want to offer thoughts and prayers to any more families.

No more.

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

School shootings have become increasingly common in a grim testament to this country’s obsessions with guns.

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January 2022 — cdFamilyNow.com 9

n u F s d i K e g a P HEALTHY FOOD WORD FIND

Coloring Fun

10 Family Now — January 2022

Education insight for parents

Learning Center

Set your child up for success Sensible tips for helping children with their homework

P

arents want their children to get good grades in school.

Unfortunately, not every parent knows how best to help children meet academic challenges, including completion of homework assignments.

So, how do parents maximize their child’s chances for success in school? Start by creating a home environment that is conducive to homework and learning Sometimes, parents think helping their child complete their homework, or even doing their child’s homework will

help him achieve better grades in school. Often, it’s just the opposite, creating a situation where the teacher thinks that the child has learned the concepts they will be later tested on in the classroom.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to the teacher to see how best to handle homework that seems beyond your child’s actual ability. Sometimes, teachers will give parents a maximum time to spend on homework.

to know your child’s homework style and develop a personalized plan for school success.

Following are some tips and advice to develop a homework plan for school success.

by

1. Set goals. Help your child set personal and attainable goals for each class and help her identify what will need to be done to reach each goal.

For example, to get an “A” in American History, she will need to turn in all of her homework, participate in class, etc. It is important that your child be central to this process – if they don’t buy in to the goals, they are unlikely

Patrick McNamara

A simple way to help your child with homework is by creating an atmosphere that works with your child to efficiently tackle school tasks. Really get

to put in the effort necessary to achieve them.

2. Know your child. Because each child is unique, with different learning styles and academic needs, it is important to personalize the learning process.

People learn in at least eight different ways, according to the Multiple Intelligences Theory: visually, verbally, physically, mathematically, musically and naturalistically, through group activity or through quiet thinking time. If you help your child work within his personal style, he will work more effectively.

Part of helping your child is discovering what best motivates them to do schoolwork. Do they respond equally to longterm or short-term goals? Some

Continued on Page 12

COME AND SEE US!

Free entry to the museum galleries and exhibitions January 2–31 Visit clarkart.edu for more information

WILLIAMSTOWN, MASSACHUSETTS This program is generously supported by Andreas and Diane Halvorsen 115777_4

January 2022 — cdFamilyNow.com 11

FamilyNow CAPITAL DISTRICT

GENERATIONS TOGETHER

UPCOMING

Monthly Deadlines February Deadline:

JAN

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Get to know your child’s homework style and develop a personalized plan for school success.

March

Deadline:

April

Deadline:

May

Deadline:

JAN

n Learning Center

31

continued from Page 11 students are not motivated by something that might take months to achieve. They need to break their long-term goal into a series of short-term goals.

3. Create a homework zone.

Set up an area in your home for studying, complete with a dictionary, paper and pens.

Make sure the area is free from potential distractions and that study tools are at your child’s fingertips to keep him focused on homework. The kitchen table may not be the best place to work if it means that everyone is in and out of the room during study time. Perhaps sitting in a seat that faces a wall is enough to minimize distractions. Engage with your child to help them understand their own study-time process.

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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 116415_4

12 Family Now — January 2022

4. Develop class files. Develop a color-coded or other file system for each of your child’s classes. Make separate tabs for homework assignments, exams and projects, so your child can refer back to class materials when studying for comprehen-

sive tests.

5. Set weekly milestones.

For big projects or exams, get a large calendar for your child’s homework area and help him set short timelines to ensure projects and studying aren’t left until the night before. Celebrate your child’s success when each milestone is met. Positive reinforcement works – verbal approval is good, but some students need concrete expressions of achievement. Getting extra video time or a cash award for an improved grade or other achievement is not bribery, it is motivation. Adults reward themselves with retail therapy, and employees enjoy bonuses.

It isn’t all that different for children.

By working with your child to develop a personalized plan to efficiently complete homework tasks, you will find higher grades, fewer homework headaches and a more confident child as a result.

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

Family finances

nrolling in a trade school or college is widely considered the next step after a student graduates from high school. College is especially popular, as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 62.7 percent of high school graduates went on to colleges and universities in 2020.

Finding ways to pay for higher education has long been a goal for students and their families, and the high cost is why so many families take proactive steps to set aside funds for college soon after their children are born. No matter the situation, taking the steps to plan and save helps to make schooling more affordable.

529 college savings plan A 529 is a specialized savings

account for college and university costs. Most plans can be opened by a U.S. citizen or resident alien age 18 and older.

The individual opening the account can be a parent, grandparent, cousin, or even a friend.

The student is the beneficiary of the account. Four-year schools, community colleges and vocational/trade schools accept 529 accounts as payment sources.

The only requirement is that the school must participate in the U.S. Department of Education student financial aid programs.

Education savings account An ESA works like a Roth IRA but it is designed specifically for education expenses.

Individuals can invest up to

$2,000 (after tax) per year, per child. The account grows tax-free. The rate of growth varies based on investments in the account. An average return rate of 12 percent on a $36,000 investment ($2,000 per year for 18 years) would grow to around $126,000 by the time the child starts college.

An ESA also can be used to pay for K-12 private school tuition, school supplies, tutoring or textbooks. It also can be transferred to a sibling if the money is not needed for a particular student.

UTMA/UGMA plan This plan is different from ESAs and 529s because it is not specifically designed for college savings. The Uniform Transfer/

Gift to Minors Act is in the child’s name but is controlled by a guardian until the child reaches age 18 or 21. This mutual fund account can be used to save for college with reduced taxes, or funds can be used for other expenses, such as a car or housing.

Advanced placement classes AP classes allow high school students to take college-level courses that can be converted into college credits. Each AP class reduces the need to pay for a class in college. This can add up to some significant savings.

In addition, performing well in AP classes may make students more attractive to colleges and universities, helping students to earn academic scholarships.

Want to “draw“ more business online?

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

cdFamilyNow.com

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SO CAN YOU.

CAPITAL DISTRICT

GENERATIONS TOGETHER

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College savings strategies

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January 2022 — cdFamilyNow.com 13

Your health

Fitness for all ag

Physical activity guidelines for children, adolescents an

W

hile exercising and eating right might seem like a full-time job, the benefits of healthy living are undeniable.

The Department of Health and Human Services notes that physical activity fosters normal growth and development and can help people feel better, function better, sleep better and reduce their risk for a large number of chronic diseases. Reducing risk for chronic disease keeps people out of the doctor’s office, or even the hospital, and it also can help save considerable amounts of money.

In recognition of the role exercise plays in preventive care, the DHHS recommends children, adolescents and adults follow these physical activity guidelines.

Children and adoles cents should do som e muscle-strengthen ing physical activity type of at least three days a week.

Children and adolescents The DHHS recommends that children and adolescents between the ages of six and 17 should get 60 minutes or more of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity every day.

Aerobic: Most of the 60 minutes or more per day should be either moderate- or vigorous intensity aerobic physical activity and should include vigorous-intensity physical activity at least three days a week.

ical a

clude phys

ld in ages shou ll a f o le p o Pe es. care routin

14 Family Now — January 2022

h ntive healt

eir preve ctivity in th

Muscle-strengthening: As part of their 60 minutes or more of daily physical activity, children and adolescents should include muscle-strengthening physical activity at least three days a week. Bone-strengthening: As part of their 60 minutes or more of daily physical activity, children and adolescents should include bone-strengthening physical activity at least three days a week.

Parents can consult with their children’s physicians to determine age-appropriate muscle- and bonestrengthening activities for their youngsters.

Your health

ges

Rest easy Downtime is as vital to an effective exercise regimen as technique

nd adults Adults The DHHS advises adults to make a concerted effort to move more and sit less throughout the day.

Some physical activity is better than none. Adults who sit less and do any amount of moderate-tovigorous physical activity gain some health benefits.

For substantial health benefits, adults should get at least 150 minutes to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity, or 75 minutes to 150 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity each week.

An equivalent combination of moderate- and vigorousintensity aerobic activity can serve as a substitute. Ideally, aerobic activity should be spread throughout the week.

Adults should do muscle-strengthening activities of moderate or greater intensity that involve all major muscle groups two or more days a week, as the DHHS notes these activities provide additional health benefits.

These guidelines also apply to older adults, but older adults also should incorporate balance training into their exercise routines. In addition, the DHHS urges older adults to consult with their physicians about the appropriate level of effort for physical activity relative to their level of fitness.

More information about exercise is available at www. health.gov.

ease.

f chronic dis

o es the risk rcise reduc

Exe

As vital as physical activity is to a healthy lifestyle, there is such a thing as too much exercise. Without ample rest, the body does not have time to recover before the next workout.

Some athletes may have a hard time recognizing when they are pushing themselves too hard, and the line between perseverance and overdoing it can be thin.

It’s vital that athletes learn to recognize these signs that they’re exercising too much: • An inability to perform at your established level.

• Requiring longer periods of rest between workout sessions.

• Feeling tired.

• Feeling depressed.

• Experiencing mood swings or irritability.

• Difficulty sleeping.

• Feeling sore muscles or heavy limbs.

Adults wh o of modera sit less and do any te-to-vigo amount activity ga ro in some h us physical ealth ben efits.

• Suffering overuse injuries.

• Loss of motivation.

• Getting more colds.

• Unintended weight loss.

• Feelings of anxiety.

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should rest completely for between one and two weeks. If any of these issues linger after two weeks, seek the advice of a health care provider who may recommend additional rest or conduct a series of tests to see if there is an underlying issue.

January 2022 — cdFamilyNow.com 15

Retiring Retirement

Chip off the old block Carver inherits father’s empathy, talent and tools

This is the second part of a two-part series.

E

I retired and still continued do consulting for General Electric and some of its upstart companies,” said Foust. “But I needed something to occupy my time.”

When asked how people learn the kind of compassion that motivated his father’s work, he gave this reply.

“I don’t know,” Foust said. “I can only tell you that I learned it from my parents because I saw them in action … taking in a Crafting “comfort birds” Vietnamese family after the war, out of blocks of wood, building churches in developDonald’s “retirement” ing countries, helping restore mission took off by Don Foust’s carved birds are meant to flooded-out houses of faith, where Frank had When it was fit in the palm of one’s hand. using construction and cooking landed.

Donald’s time to skills while living out of a RV retire, he took a “My father for six months after Hurricane page out of his passed in 2021 My father’s intent is that you Andrew, etc.” dad’s book by and I inherited his would hold them in your hand Indeed, Donald is the definireturning to woodtools and his shop,” if you’re suffering or concerned tive chip off the old block. working – just as Donald said. “But I about something. He attached his father Frank had done had no place to put them. the following scripture to them: Robert J. LaCosta’s daily devowhen he had finished his career. So, I purchased a shed and Look at the birds of the air; they tional blog is on his Facebook page moved them. I’ve kept the trado not sow or reap or store away and can also be received in your “During Dad’s last years, dition of making the Comfort in barns, and yet your heavenly email by writing to norepcom@ I sort of apprenticed under Birds with the design and techFather feeds them’ (Matthew gmail.com. him,” Donald said. “At age 60, niques that he came up with.

6:26 NIV).” ven though he’s nearing his 70s, there’s never been a more appropriate use of the phrase “Like father, like son” than as applied to Donald Foust.

Robert LaCosta

E W N Y Y E P A P R A !

H A happy & healthy

2022!

From all of us at FamilyNow CAPITAL DISTRICT

GENERATIONS TOGETHER

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16 Family Now — January 2022

Social Security Corner

An important number elcoming a baby whether you want to apply for a to your family Social Security number for your is an exciting child. If you answer “yes,” you time. Doing will be asked to provide both paperwork, even for something parents’ Social Security numas important as a Social Security bers. Even if you don’t know number for your newborn, is both parents’ Social Security probably one of the last numbers, you can still things you want to apply for a number by do. We’ve made for your child. it easy. If your There are child is born in many reasons a hospital, the why your child most convenient should have a way to apply for Social Security a Social Security number. You need a number is at that hosSocial Security number to pital before you leave. claim your child as a dependent When you give information on your income tax return. You for your child’s birth certificate may also need a number for at the hospital, you’ll be asked your child if you plan to do the

Elizabeth Pivonka

The last thing new parents probably want to think about is the paperwork needed to get their child a Social Security number, but it is important to do so. following for your child: • Open a bank account.

• Buy savings bonds.

• Get medical coverage.

• Apply for government services.

You can find more information by reading Social Security Numbers for Children at www. ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10023.pdf.

Please share this information with people who are having a baby. Applying for a Social Security number at the hospital will save them time and let them focus on their new bundle of joy.

The writer is with the Social Security Administration in Albany.

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W

Applying for your newborn’s Social Security number doesn’t have to be a chore

January 2022 — cdFamilyNow.com 17

Recollections

Surfing the waves

I

Early teens spent tracking down the farthest AM station

n the quiet of night, I remember tethering myself to my Sanyo boombox by my headphones and listening for distant stations broadcasting over AM radio. I was an early teenager, and by definition, possessed a natural proclivity for staying up (and subsequently sleeping in) late while doing whatever an idle mind and readily available resources afforded me. There weren’t too many outlets for that at 2:30 a.m. on some weeknight in the middle of 1987.

That boombox was a constant companion of mine, at least from where it sat in my bedroom. It accompanied me

while I procrastinated from, cago on a road trip, he had to and later labored over, my stud- work the dial. The transmission ies. It provided the soundtrack was faint, but on a clear night, to virtual adventures played he could get it. So with little to out on my Commodore 64 and do, and no interest in going to helped provide backsleep, I grabbed a notepad ground noise while and pencil, and started by I drifted off in my to see how far I writing. And as could go.

I paid particular Most people attention to all of can appreciate the its capabilities, it difference between manifested itself AM and FM radio into a mode of transstations. Local, high portation. quality music is played on My father talked about FM, while talk radio pandering listening to the Yankees on his to broader audiences goes to radio. It wasn’t at all difficult to AM. Something like that. I’m hear a game from the Bronx in fuzzy on the physics behind his bedroom in Brooklyn, but it all, but I found an excellent when the boys went out to Chi- explanation on Quora from a

Michael Hallisey

resource named Ganesh. According to his profile, Ganesh lives in India and studied Electrical Engineering at Naval College of Engineering.

“An FM signal provides high quality, noise-free broadcasts, but requires considerable bandwidth.

In order to accommodate a sufficient number of frequency channels, FM is normally operated at a high carrier frequency e.g. UHF. UHF is inherently a line-of-sight frequency and is not receivable beyond horizon range.

“AM requires much lesser bandwidth and a lot of frequency channels can be accommodated conveniently in the Short Wave and Medium Wave bands. Radio waves in these frequencies can

Continued on Page 19

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.

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18 Family Now — January 2022

often have world-wide ranges by reflecting off the ionosphere.”

What he said.

My ventures involved staying close to the radio, massaging the dial as I carefully scanned over each frequency. Radio static washed over my ears like the constant rush of a thunderous waterfall. The volume was set high so as not to miss a distant voice. I was astonished my parents didn’t come running into my room to protest over the sound they could not hear. This went on for nights, because as I focused in on one broadcast, it could take nearly an hour to hear the station’s call letters. Even then, I’d have to listen more in hopes they’d include its home city.

Some stations were easy.

Broadcasts from New York City were familiar. Anyone speaking French, I assumed was coming out of Quebec. I didn’t understand what they were saying, but it was nonetheless exciting.

To imagine their words were the product of some cosmic game of racquetball playing overhead, and the radio waves became ever more apparent as conversations ebbed and returned above the static.

There were a few times I spent far too long identifying a

Today, the internet provides that mode of transportation for when my mind decides to wander. A friend directed me to Radio Garden, a phone app that allows users to access radio stations from all over the world. With that, I can pass my finger across vast oceans to pinpoint on one of the green dots that each represent a radio tower. I wonder if Senor Surly Sam found happiness in a new career. Perhaps he landed a programming job in Iceland where it’s said to be the happiest place on Earth. There’s 14 stations in Reykjavik, and all I have to do is listen.

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continued from Page 18

faint voice only to find it was a weak channel from downstate or New Jersey. One stubborn radio station refused to share its home city during its obligatory station identification. Not even the commercials gave up the ghost. The station finally shared a phone number, probably for prospective advertisers who also didn’t like sharing their address. Maybe it was a local thing. Anyway, I called it. “Fort Wayne,” is all I got out of an audibly annoyed man before he hung up. Though Chicago’s 712 miles trumped Mr. Malcontent‘s 597 miles for the distance record, I was more proud of finding the Hoosier through hard work.

KeepMovingWithStephanie.com

Happy New Year!

May your days be filled with health and happiness in 2022.

Questions about Health Insurance or MEDICARE Benefits/Process? We are always here to help, offering Free Educational Meetings in person or virtually so that you can truly understand the insurance options available to you.

Candy Marrero Office: 518-326-3939 candy@worksitebenefitsinc.net www.worksitebenefits.biz

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13 State Street Apartments 13 State Street Schenectady, New York 12305

Now leasing 61 units designed for individuals 55 years of age and older.

The writer is managing editor of The Spotlight and editor-atlarge of Family Now.

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Rents will be: 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath $774 - $826 1 Bedroom with Study $801 - $1,018 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath $918 Maximum Annual Income: 1 person = $40,740 - $54,320 2 persons = $46,560 - $62,080 3 persons = $52,380 - $69,840 4 persons = $58,200 - $77,600

New Energy-Star rated appliances, Community 115773_4

n Recollections

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

January 2022 — cdFamilyNow.com 19

Puzzle Answers on Page 26

Clues Across 1. Opposite of west 5. __ Caesar, comedian 8. Helps little firms 11. A way to censor 13. Expresses atomic and molecular weights 14. Chalcedony 15. Type of sword 16. A corporation’s first offer to sell stock to the public 17. Attired 18. A sequence of winding turns 20. Pal 21. Expresses pleasure 22. Amendable 25. Clear 30. A way to cut off 31. Indigenous Thai person

32. Pale brownish yellow color 33. Aquatic plants genus 38. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!

41. Merchants 43. Fix a chair 45. Throws into disorganization 48. Famed German composer 49. Keyboard key 50. Oral polio vaccine developer 55. Partner to pain 56. Where golfers start 57. Jenny __: weight loss program 59. Sailing dinghy 60. Suffix that forms adjectives 61. Speeds at which music is played 62. Body part 63. Fall back 64. Ancient Greek sophist

Clues Down

CRYPTO F UN

1. One point south of due east 2. Wings 3. One point south of southeast 4. The shirts on our backs 5. One who works on the seas 6. Select jury 7. Small intestines parts 8. Plant of the heath family 9. Extrasolar planet 10. Creates more of 12. Before 14. Forms over a cut 19. Runs down 23. Exercise regimen __-bo 24. Unkeyed 25. Principle underlying the universe 26. Corpuscle count (abbr.)

27. Residue 28. Company that rings receipts 29. Rugged mountain range

34. Commercials 35. NY footballer 36. They __ 37. Soviet Socialist Republic 39. Poked holes in the ground 40. Pitchers 41. Your 42. Diana __, singer 44. Important document for inventors 45. Bangladesh capital 46. Fluid that flows in the veins of Greek gods 47. Famed daguerreotype photographer 48. Where military personnel work 51. Play a role 52. La __ Tar Pits, Hollywood 53. Unstressed-stressed 54. Type of palm tree 58. Judo garments

Card & Board Games

WORD SEARCH

Solve the code to discover words related to GAMES & PUZZLES. Each number corresponds to a letter. (Hint: 19 = E)

20 Family Now — January 2022

OPERATION CLUE SCRABBLE

GAME OF LIFE MONOPOLY LOGO CONNECT FOUR OLD MAID TRIVIAL PURSUIT PAY DAY BOGGLE

GUESS WHO POKER JENGA BATTLESHIP

GO FISH BINGO TROUBLE LUDO

UNO SORRY SKIP BO

Senior Centers Colonie Senior Services Center 6 Winners Circle, Albany (518) 459-2857, ext. 327; cbarrett@colonieseniors.org Membership is $20 per year.

Please call for dates and prices.

January events include: Exercise: Seated Tai Chi, Tai Chi for Back Pain, Boot Kickin’ Line Dancing, New Year’s Groove, Tap Dancing, and Yoga for Mobility.

Arts: Ukulele 101, Drumming 101, Impressions in Clay, Open Studio and Open Studio Crafting Travel and Trips: Clark Art Institute, Curtain Call Theater, Honest Weight Food Co-op Food Tasting and Shopping, Music at Noon at Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, Tour of Palace Theater and Lunch

Free Club Events: Bingo, Cribbage, Bridge, Writer’s Workshop, Knitting, Book Club, MahJong

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 Mondays, Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, 10 a.m.: Morning Meditation Meditate and visualize relaxation and happiness for our mind, body, and spirit.

Location: Watervliet Senior Center or via Zoom Mondays, Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, 10:30 a.m.: Creative Writing with Gina Like to write short stories and poetry? Join our local

writer as we have fun putting our thoughts and stories down on paper.

Location: Watervliet Senior Center or via Zoom Monday, January 3, 12:30 p.m.: Travel Log: African Safari From the animals and plants to the people who abide there, join us as we glimpse into a whole other side of our incredible planet.

Location: Watervliet Senior Center or via Zoom Mondays, Jan. 3, 10, 24 and 31, 1 p.m.: Bingo Join us for an hour of fun as we play Bingo, Crazy T, Coverall, Postage Stamp, 4-Corners, and more.

Location: Westview Home Apartments Wednesdays, Jan. 5, 12, 19 and 26, 9:15 a.m.: Chess Club Beginners are welcome to learn the different moves

around the board. Advanced players are welcome to play or teach others the art of chess.

Limited seating. Registration required. Please bring a chess board if you have one.

Location: Westview Home Apartments Wednesdays, Jan. 5, 12, 19 and 26, 1 p.m.: Weekly Chair Exercise Develop healthy routines, improve strength, cardiovascular health, mobility, and balance, all from the comfort and safety of a sturdy chair.

Location: Westview Home Apartments Thursday, Jan. 6, 1 p.m.: New Year’s Celebration Join us for a New Year’s celebration as we welcome 2022 with a party and music.

Location: Westview Home Apartments

Continued on Page 22

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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January 2022 — cdFamilyNow.com 21

Senior Centers Thursdays, Jan. 13 and 27, 2 p.m.: Seated Tai Chi with Cheryl Hurd

to carry home your flowers.

Limited seating, registration required.

Stretch your body through a series of movements designed to improve alignment and release stress. No experience required.

Sponsor: CDPHP.

Location: Westview Home Apartments and Zoom, Sponsor: Albany County Department for Aging

continued from Page 21

The Bells of Watervliet

Fridays, Jan. 7 and 21, 9:30 a.m.: Play Reading Club: “Steel Magnolias”

This month, we are looking into the history of the iconic bells that reside in Watervliet.

Join us as we read through an American classic written

by American writer Robert Harling. It is a comedy-drama about the bond among a group of Southern women in northwest Louisiana. Come as a reader or even an audience member.

Location: Watervliet Senior Center or via Zoom

Location: Watervliet Senior Center or via Zoom

Join us as we learn the basic moves and elements to dance around the floor to beautiful Location: Watervliet Senior music. Masks and gloves will be Center or via Zoom provided.

Home is Where You’ll Find Us Thursdays, Jan. 13 and 20, Location: Watervliet Senior 1 p.m.: Paint and Sip (2 SesCenter sion Series) Tuesday, Jan. 18, 1 p.m.: Limited Seating, registraFloral Design with Michele tion required. Sponsor: Albany

Fridays, Jan. 7, 14, 21 and 28, 1 p.m.: Games and More Every Friday, you can play favorite classics, from Scrabble, Uno, Mexican Train Dominos, to Bridge. Enjoy time with others, and challenge the mind.

Wednesday, Jan. 9, 1 p.m.: Celebrity Bingo with a Mystery Host Join our mystery celebrity host as they pull the numbers for an hour of Bingo fun. Crazy T, Round Robin, Letter X, Kite, and more. 2-3 cards and prizes available.

Home is Where You’ll Find Us Location: Westview Home County Department for Aging.

Apartments Location: Westview Home Thursday, Jan. 9, 12:30 Apartments and Zoom p.m.: LifePath Time Machine:

Location: Senior Centers or Zoom Fridays, Jan. 14 and 28, 1 p.m.: Beginner Foxy Dance Class

Join a floral design class with Michele from Ambiance Florals. Please bring scissors, small hand pruners, and a box

Monday, Jan. 24, 1 p.m.: Book Club: Bring your favorite book to Book Club You choose your book to read this month and report on your selection. You can read a new book or bring one of your favorites — a fun new way to gather a new title to read.

Location: Cohoes Senior Center or via Zoom Tuesday, Jan. 25, 10 a.m.: Card Making with Nicky Create lovely Valentine’s day cards to share with friends and loved ones.

Location: Cohoes Senior Center or via Zoom

Continued on Page 23

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List your local event or meeting in our monthly calendar

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

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

22 Family Now — January 2022

GENERATIONS TOGETHER

AS SEEN ON

TV

®

HELP AT HOME

HELP ON THE GO

For a FREE brochure call:

1-855-519-8729

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Senior Centers

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. Pre-order Gershon’s lunch or bring your own. Coffee service available.

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 Noon: Gershon’s, BYOL and coffee service 1 p.m.: MVP Chair Moves (Jan. 25) Thursdays 10 a.m.: Tai Chi

Mondays at 11 a.m.: CDPHP Zumba Gold, in house and via Zoom (Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24) Wednesdays at 11 a.m.: SilverSneakers Zumba Gold, Zoom only (Jan. 5, 12, 19, 26) Thursdays at 11 a.m.: CDPHP Chair Pilates (Jan. 6,13,20,27) Classes remain available on Zoom with a couple inhouse. You can email Edie for registration, dates and times at ecannizzo@niskayuna.org.

Monthly Activities: Welcome Back and Happy New Year!

Jan. 4: 12:30 p.m. Peppermint Pig Day Jan. 6: 11 a.m. Book Club (“Yellow Wife” by Sadeqa Johnson); January Birthday Celebration

Roy F. Bordeau Owner/Manager Serving Families Since 1975

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

u u

24 Hour Security On CDTA Bus Route

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

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

Equal Housing Opportunity

(518)459-4910

Jan. 18: A Jazzy Day Jan. 20: Bingo

10 a.m.: Cards, Bridge, Bocce

Jan. 27: Arts and Crafts with Edie

Noon: Gershon’s, BYOL and coffee service

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

11 a.m.: CDPHP Chair Pilates, Zoom only (Jan 7, 14, 21, 28)

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

Jan. 13: 12:30 p.m. Tea Day, trivia and treat

Jan. 25: 12:30 p.m. Snickerdoodle Day

Fridays

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

Jan. 11: 11 a.m. St. Peter’s Blood Pressure Clinic

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

1 p.m.: The Eddy Health Alert Chair Yoga, in house and via Zoom (Jan. 6, 13)

Serving the entire Capital District

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Niskayuna Senior Center 2682 Aqueduct Road, Niskayuna (518) 372-4969

Exercise Update:

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continued from Page 22

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

Contact tracing, temperatures, name and phone numbers as well as masks and “social distancing protocols” will be required.

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January 2022 — cdFamilyNow.com 23

Calendar of events

January 3 Monday Nature on the Move Walk This walk is geared towards gentle exercise and the enjoyment of nature and will be accessible for participants at basic fitness levels, 10:30 a.m. The walk will depart from the Camp Saratoga North Trailhead kiosk. Registration is

January

required. Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, 80 Scout Road, Wilton. For more information, call (518) 450-0321 or visit wiltonpreserve.org.

Daybooks: “The Henna Artist”

by Alka Joshi Daybooks discussions are taking place virtually, 1:30 p.m. Registration required. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Submit an event

5 Wednesday Journaling for Adults

• To have your event included in our print edition, email the information, including date, time, place, cost and contact information to robertsk@ spotlightnews.com by the 10th of the preceding month. Events run space permitting, and submission does not guarantee publication.

Winter’s Eve Nature Sketching

Therapy Dogs for Teens

Participants are welcome to bring their own materials, purchase sketchbooks and colored pencils at the start of the program or create their own sketchbooks out of materials provided, 6 p.m. For teens and adults. Program is free, but reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discover Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.

De-stress and pet a therapy dog, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Grades 6-12 only, please. Please sign up for ONE 15-minute appointment. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

6 Thursday Discover the Pine Bush

Explore this globally rare inland pine Whether it’s in a notebook, blog, barrens, 2 p.m. For all ages. Program is free, but or sketchpad, journaling can help reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discover you lead a whole and fulfilling Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more life. Join Janine De Tillio Caminformation, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www. marata for this workshop, albanypinebush.org. in-person at the library or from home on Web Ex, Genealogy Assistance 6:30 p.m. Registration Lisa Dougherty, a skilled genealogical is required. Clifton researcher, will help you with your questions, Park-Halfmoon Public roadblocks and other stumpers, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Library, 475 Moe Road, Registration required. Email Lisa directly for an Clifton Park. For more appointment: lisagene@nycap.rr.com. Clifton information, call (518) Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, 371-8622 or visit www.

Clifton Park.

For more information, call (518) cphlibrary.org.

371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Contactless consultations, installations and delivery available!

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility.

7 Friday An Evening with The Brit Pack The Brit Pack take their audience on a journey through a dynamic blend of British classics, including The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Queen, David Bowie and many more, 8 p.m. Tickets cost $25-$30. The Park Theater, 14 Park St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1150 or visit www.parktheatergf.com.

First Friday Lecture-Stories & Memories of Clifton Park John Scherer, Clifton Park Town Historian, will present excerpts from his new book, “More Bits of Clifton Park History,” 10:30 a.m., in person at the Library, or from home on ZOOM. Registration is required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

*

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24 Family Now — January 2022

*Based on space availability

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GENERATIONS TOGETHER

January

9 Sunday

12 Wednesday

Lark Hall Winter Market

Craft to Go: MLK Day

The market will feature over 20 makers, farmers, and food vendors, as well as live musical performances from various local artists.

Come shop local vendors, sip some brunch beverages from our bar and enjoy the Lark Street Community, 11 a.m.to 4 p.m. Free. Lark Hall, 351 Hudson Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 599-5804 or visit larkhallalbany.com.

Pick up supplies to make a simple craft to honor the legacy of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. For all ages; while supplies last. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

10 Monday Eating Healthy in the New Year Join Clifton Park Hannaford Dietitian Anna Ipsen to learn how to set individualized SMART goals to successfully establish healthy eating patterns, 4 p.m. Register to receive the Zoom invite to attend.

Preschool Nature Hour Learn about common owls found in this area along with details of their preferred habitats, diets and fascinating adaptations, followed by a short nature craft, 10:30 a.m. For children 3-6 with caregivers. Registration is required. Space is limited. Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, 80 Scout Road, Wilton. For more information, call (518) 450-0321 or visit wiltonpreserve.org.

The Clarke Museum Special Exhibition This digital special exhibition talk considers two different approaches to Japanese printmaking in the 20th century, currently on exhibit at the museum, 1 p.m. Patrons can view this program at the library or from home, via Zoom.

Registration is required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park.

For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

13 Thursday National Sticker Day Come into the library for fun activities in celebration of Sticker Day. For teens: Stop by the Teen Place to add stickers to a mosaic art poster.

For kids: Sticker bombing! Add a sticker to our collaborative art project in the Children’s Library.

Calendar of events

No registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park.

For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

14 Friday Annual Dr. King Celebration Weekend

as we walk the trails under the full moon. An unforgettable experience for all ages, 5:30 p.m.

This is a free program guided by an environmental educator. Registration is required. Space is limited. Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, 80 Scout Road, Wilton. For more information, call (518) 450-0321 or visit wiltonpreserve.org.

CSI: Critter Scene Investigation

MLK Saratoga’s 7th Annual Dr. King Celebration Weekend opens on Friday with an evening of performances, followed by workshops, community conversations, creative expressions, and author interviews on Saturday and Sunday.

Saratoga United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Ave., Saratoga Springs. For more information, call (518) 306-1248 or visit www.mlksaratoga.org.

Join us for an indoor introduction followed by an approximately one-mile outdoor trek to look for clues and evidence of what lives in the Pine Bush, 11 a.m. For ages 6 and up. Program is free, but reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discover Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 4560655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

Hands-on with eBooks

17 Monday

Bring your library card and your own device (fully charged!), and we will get you up and running with eBooks from the library, 11 a.m.

No experience needed. Registration is required. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

15 Saturday Moonlight Hike Also Sunday. View nature in a new light

Skype-a-Scientist: Burn, Baby, Burn!

Join us for a Zoom discussion with Ecology Ph.D. candidate Amy Wrobleski, who will talk about humans and wildfire. Join us for a brief presentation and a Q and A session for all ages, 2 p.m. Registration is required. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

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

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Calendar of events

January

18 Tuesday

Pick of the month

Full Moon Hike for Adults Walk approximately one mile over rolling topography stopping intermittently to explore the night sky and to learn what nocturnal animals live in the Pine Bush, 6:30 p.m. Program is free, but reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discover Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany.

For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

27 Thursday Virtual Trivia Night: Movies & Television Join others in a friendly virtual trivia challenge. We’ll be self-scoring on the honor system and competing for bragging rights, 7 p.m.

Registration required. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

19 Wednesday Pine Bush Pups Walk: Nuts for Squirrels Also Thursday. Learn about the squirrels that live in the Pine Bush through a short hike, stories and songs, and a squirrel craft, 10 a.m. For up to age 6 and caregivers. Reserve a spot for everyone in your party regardless of age. Albany Pine Bush Discover Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany.

For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

Dinosaur World Live

Jan.

19

20 Thursday Third Thursday Poetry Night Austin Houston will be the featured poet, with an open mic; sign up between 7 and 7:30 p.m. Cost is $5 suggested donation. Albany Social Justice Center, 33 Central Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 482-0262

Listening Parties: Samuel Barber This American composer achieved lifelong acclaim for his expressive music that mostly avoided modernist trends of the 20th century, 7 p.m. This is a virtual program; registration required. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

21 Friday Passport Series: American Patchwork Quartet Beyond borders, cultures, and colors,

p.m. When registering, please register only the number of children needing a space. Albany Public Library - Bach Branch, 455 New Scotland Ave. For more information, visit www.albanypubliclibrary.org.

Dare to experience danger and delight in this roarsome interactive show for all the family, 6:30 p.m. A special meet and greet after the show offers all our brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend. Tickets cost $26.50 and up. Palace Theatre, 19 Clinton Ave., Albany.

For more information, call (518) 465-3334 or visit www. palacealbany.org.

American Patchwork Quartet compels audiences to reflect on our shared histories and defining differences, 7:30 p.m. Cost is $30. GE Theatre at Proctors, 432 State St., Schenectady. For more information, call (518) 346-6204 or visit www. proctors.org.

22 Saturday Winter Discovery Nature Walk Learn about how the plants and animals living within the surrounding environment have adapted to survive the harsh conditions of winter, 3:30 p.m. Registration is required. Space is limited. Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, 80 Scout Road, Wilton. For more information, call (518) 450-0321 or visit wiltonpreserve.org.

24 Monday MakerSTEM to Go: Constellation Viewer Take home supplies to design and create a Constellation Viewer! Pick up supplies in the Children’s Library, while supplies last.

For grades 2-5. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park.

For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

25 Tuesday Good Night Gorilla Storytime Join Barbara Lukas from WMHT as she reads “Goodnight Gorilla” by Peggy Rathman. The first 30 registrants will get a copy of the book and supplies to do a craft with Barbara, 6:30

29 Saturday Guided Meditation Restore yourself with a guided meditation session led by Melissa Hurt. Meditation reduces stress, calms and focuses the mind, and promotes emotional health, 3 p.m. Teens and adults welcome! Registration required. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar.

For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Celtic Hall Burns Supper A celebration to commemorates the life of Robert Burns and the heritage of Scotland with song, traditional food, drink, music and dance, 6-11 p.m. Cost is $50 per person or $450 for a table of 10. Celtic Hall, 430 New Karner Road, Colonie. For more information, call (518) 2505890 or visit celtichall.org.

30 Sunday Winter Bird Walk Learn about who sticks around through the coldest months of the year and how these birds survive in challenging conditions, 1 p.m. For tweens-adults. Program is free, but reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discover Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

BRAINTEASERS ANSWERS

Empire Plan Enrollees: NO OUT-OF-POCKET 518-435-1250

Ear • GLENMONT COXSACKIE

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Hearing Aids

CRPYTO ANSWERS: A. game B. puzzle C. entertain D. strategy

Albany Guardian Society’s Institute offers over 150 classes a year.

Currently all classes are being held online through Zoom.

Offering FREE Educational Programs on Aging Related Topics F Effectively Using Your iPad – Apple – Beginner F Getting Financially Organized – Planning Today for Tomorrow F A Healthier You – Try the Mediterranean Diet To view the entire 2022 Winter Institute schedule, or to register, go to www.AlbanyGuardianSociety.org or call 518.434.2140.

Albany Guardian Society publishes the Housing Options for Senior Adults in the Capital Region and Transportation Options for Senior Adults in the Capital Region. For a free copy, please email or call us, or check our website out for a digital copy.

Celebrating 170 years, Albany Guardian Society (AGS) is a not-for-profit foundation with a mission to improve the lives of seniors in the Capital Region, their families and their caregivers, through information, education, research, and collaboration.

To learn more about Albany Guardian Society and to sign up to receive emails about our programs and forums call 518.434.2140.

14 Corporate Woods Blvd., Suite 102, Albany, NY

www.AlbanyGuardianSociety.org

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