Rescue Mission’s gentle giant
Kevin Anderson, 60, was not going to let the label ‘career criminal’ define him
It’s not as important to ask 60-yearold Kevin Anderson how he ended up as the evening supervisor manager at the Capital City Rescue Mission in Albany as it is to inquire what happened to his heart every step of the way.
Robert LaCosta
But in order to grasp how he walked into the role as “The Watchman” of the mission, it’s important to know how his background prepared him for the crises that he handles on a daily basis – and how he might see himself in each one of them. Continued on Page 3
‘Evergreen’
By Matthew Cordel
Evergreen the squirrel is afraid of many things: thunder, hawks, and the dark paths of Buckthorn Forest. But when her mother tasks Evergreen with delivering soup to her sick Granny Oak, the little squirrel must face her fears and make the journey. Along the way, Evergreen is met by other forest dwellers – some want to help her, but some want her mother’s delicious soup. It’s up to Evergreen to stay the course, and those who help her will surprise and delight young readers. Feiwel & Friends
‘Very Good Hats’
By Emma Straub; illustrated by Blanca Gomez
Some people think hats are fancy things you can buy at a dressy store, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. In this book, acorns and raspberries are snug hats for your fingers, and an empty pudding cup is a good hat for a stuffed bear. Pajama pants make dangly hats, books can be dramatic hats, and bubbles make very fine hats as well (if temporary). Readers will be delighted to discover that anything can be a hat if you believe it is. Penguin/Rocky Pond
‘The Very Best Hug’
By Smriti Prasadam-Halls; illustrated by Alison BrownFrom bear hugs to koala cuddles, hippo huddles to walrus wiggles, penguin pecks to porcupine prickles, there are a LOT of hugs to choose from. But the perfect hug may not be far – in fact, it might be right where you are! Who gives the best hugs? It’s the ones at home, who love you the best. Full of silly and snuggly animal cuddles, this irresistible story is perfect for sharing and reading aloud. Bloomsbury
From the cover
Editor’s note:
n Gentle giant
continued from Page 1
“An awakening came to me in court one day when they called me a ‘career criminal,’” he said. “It seemed like it was the truth because every time I turned around I was in jail. I was out there hustling and trying to get money the wrong way. I didn’t do well in school because the streets and the money took me, and so I got educated in prison. It’s sad that I did better in prison than I did out here – as far as behavior and learning trades.”
But the “career criminal” label wouldn’t end up defining his identity.
“When I got out,” he said, “I got a job as a messenger. My boss noticed I had a pocket Bible and that I was showing up on time. Another position opened up and it was more money. I was only on the job one month, and yet he chose me. God was teaching me and promoting me. You know how you do a bid in jail. I started doing a bid on the streets. One year went by, then two, then three, then four. The one shocker was that I was called for jury duty. I became a real productive person in society. Then I learned how to pay taxes – things I didn’t know about because I had come from a real dark world.”
For 10 years, Kevin stayed out of prison. Overconfidence landed him back in jail. However, when he came out, a counselor recommended the Albany Mission. In that program, he met a man with whom he had done a sentence with in Brooklyn. That same person helped pull Kevin in because the battle within was still fierce.
At 50 years of age, Kevin had a fresh start. He got involved with church, went through the mission’s discipleship class, 12-step studies and concluded that he had to take his future by the horns.
“You can’t get away from God when he calls you,” he continued. “When he does, you’re going to come.”
From there, it was just a matter of time.
“I got plugged into the classes and my life changed when I realized, ‘I’m not a victim,’” he said. “I’m just one who has to make changes within myself. As time went on, I really locked into things the guys were teaching in the program. I started volunteering as a resident assistant because I always had a desire to help people. I’ll never forget, that for the first time, it felt so good because I was thinking about helping people instead of myself. I served on the cafeteria line because that’s part of the requirement of the program. I served someone breakfast and it felt so good. I fell in love with serving people, so I made up my mind to go above and beyond to help people. I had done a lot of negative things. So now what I do is a lot of positive stuff. Not religious stuff, but things God likes. And he used me to save lives. I just saved a guy’s life in the bathroom. I can’t begin to count the number of lives we saved; heroin,
overdose, knock heads, and everything else. We train for CPR. We do more than people know. When you’re outside looking into the mission, you have no idea.”
What most people don’t know is the degree of the intensity of The Capital City Rescue Mission. There is a constant state of crisis that can only be met with the dedication and compassion of workers like Kevin who are determined to help people who “have lost their way.”
In Part II of this story, we will explore the heart of a changed man.
Robert J. LaCosta is the host of “The Age Sage,” a podcast about seniors doing great things and offering up their wisdom. He is also the writer behind “Portals to Heaven,” a daily online devotional and the author of a devotional book of the same name available on Amazon. Write him at norepcom@gmail.com.
A new year and new plans
It feels good to plan again. I know plenty of people who love to “fly by the seat of their pants” when it comes to life, but I’m not one of them.
And yet, living under a pandemic cloud for two years forced me to be a little more flexible when it came to what I wanted to do and what I could do. It was a tough lesson, but I am always one to force myself to see the silver lining, and this is it: When I wasn’t planning my next adventure or experience, I was able to focus more on the here and now. Oh, and I saved a lot of money.
But oh, joy, I really do love to plan! Travel, meals, outings, you name it. And that’s why I’m so eager to welcome 2023 as the Year of Making Plans again.
I hope 2023 brings you and your family wonderful adventures, opportunities and things to look forward to that may have been on hold over the past couple of years.
As always, thanks for reading! 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.
NowFamily
‘My life changed when I realized I’m not a victim. I’m just one who has to make changes within myself.’
Remembering MLK Jr.’s works
Examining the legacy of Civil Rights icon
Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the most influential Americans of the 20th century. A scholar and minister who played a leading role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s, King was tragically assassinated on April 4, 1968, less than three months after he turned 39.
Though King’s life was far too short, he left behind a host of notable works. These works can provide significant insight into who he was and the legacy he left behind.‘Stride Toward Freedom: The Montgomery Story’
Published in 1958, this is King’s account of the Montgomery bus boycott that began in 1955 and ended in 1956. The book includes information about the planning of the boycott as well as King’s thoughts about it after it ended.
‘The Measure of a Man’
A short book, “The Measure of a Man” is actually two sermons King delivered in August 1958. The sermons are titled “What is Man?” and “The Dimensions of a Complete Life.” The Cornell University Library credits “The Measure of a Man” for offering insight
into the theological roots of King’s philosophy of nonviolence.
‘Strength to Love’
A more extensive version of King’s sermons, “Strength to Love” focuses largely on racial segregation in the United States written during the struggle for Civil Rights, even composing some of them while in jail.
‘Why We Can’t Wait’
Published in 1964, “Why We Can’t Wait” focuses on the nonviolent fight against racial segregation in 1963 in Birmingham. The book includes King’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” which remains one of his most famous writings.
‘Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community?’
This was King’s last book before he was assassinated. King wrote the book from a rented house in Jamaica in 1967 after isolating himself from the Civil Rights Movement. In the book, King contemplates where things stand for the Civil Rights Movement and what must be done to ensure equality for all Americans in the future.
parenting triplets in the Capital District
Triple Threat
Honest talk and good choices
Keep communication open to tackle tough conversations
Start a diet! Exercise more! Drink less alcohol! The beginning of every New Year starts with the same set of resolutions. I stopped making resolutions quite a few years ago when I decided to treat each day as a new beginning. Why wait until a ball drops on an arbitrary night to start making better decisions?
My feelings about exercise, eating healthy and being a teetotaler are not any different on Jan. 1 than they are on Dec. 31. The choices I make for my family and myself are not dictated by arbitrary dates.
ago. I had a sip at my wedding. I will have a sip during Passover. I’m sure that every single person has a line that they will not cross and the reason is their own. My hard no, the first of my lines that I can’t cross is drinking alcohol. If you can believe it, I get asked if I am in recovery. I get asked if I have DUIs. I get asked if I just don’t know how to handle my liquor. My one answer is this: I don’t have time for rehab. (Do you hear Amy Winehouse in your head right now?)
by Jennifer SteuerOne choice that makes some people very curious and feel that asking questions is their right: I do not drink alcohol other than for religious observation. I made this choice for myself years
Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca have heard my spiel over and over. The reality is my fear of addiction. I am afraid because so many family members have some form of addiction. I watched people claw themselves away from the disease of addiction. There are so many substances that can pull kids in, and I am afraid.
My choice does not have to be the same as my kids as they get older. We talk about my choices and how I came
to make them. I went to a college that is notorious for parties and alcohol. I did not drink. I made poor choices when I walked home alone in the middle of the night in the bitter cold after two fraternity parties. Seeing how people in my dorm drank, vomited and just looked like miserable so many mornings sealed my choice.
We talk a lot as a family. This is the most important weapon in my arsenal:
talking. I am a great believer in having continual conversations. We have the sex talk with additional information as Benjamin, Rebecca and Olivia have matured. The sex talk isn’t the only one kids need. We have talked about guns, drugs, vaccinations and lots of politics. When the kids are “trapped” in the car with me, I will try to start a conversation
Grocery store brings fresh food to South End
At the end of December, the South End Grocery Coalition led by BlueLight Development Group and The African American Cultural Center of the Capital Region held a ribbon cutting for South End Grocery at 106 South Pearl Street.
The ribbon cutting took place one year after successfully purchasing the former McDonald’s property for the project, which will be a full-service operation offering fresh produce, deli and fish products, dry and nonperishablecgoods, beverages, frozen goods and merchandise from local farmers and restaurants.
“The South End food desert is over,” said Travon T. Jackson, president of BlueLight Development Group and executive director of The African American Cultural Center of the Capital Region. “With the fortitude of our partners, BlueLight has successfully set forth the first charitable partnership of its type in Albany – a Black-owned, farmto-store affordable grocery subsidized by syndicated philanthropy.”
Natasha Pernicka, executive director of the Food Pantries for the Capital District praised the operation.
“[The South End Grocery] is the solution to food deserts,” she said. “This model works!”
Transitions opens Albany campus
Transitions recently announced the opening of its new campus located in
Albany, which will allow the organization to provide more high school-aged and young adults with autism and learning differences the necessary tools and support to live happy, productive lives. Through these services, students, parents, and caregivers can feel assured that a fruitful adulthood is within reach.
Prospective and current students can anticipate receiving the same services at the new campus that are offered at other campuses, including Mayfield and Cobleskill. These services include but are not limited to two- and four-year college and career support programs, weekend experiences, independent living, and much more.
Transitions is a program of the Arc Lexington that prepares teens and young adults with autism and learning differences for college, careers, and life. The Transitions curriculum and learning environments are specially tailored to give all students equal opportunities to learn and thrive. To learn more, visit or call (518) 775-5384, www.transitionsusa.org or email admissions@transitionsusa.org.
Transitions staff and students celebrated the opening of a new Albany campus in late December.
n Triple Threat
continued from Page 5
or let them choose the music.
Having random talks about whatever is making Rebecca, Olivia or Benjamin happy or concerned helps me stay in touch. They make decisions without my input, and I want them to have all the information and support possible. Because we have phones that co-mingle our contacts, I have put in so many numbers for all types of help. My goal is to have these numbers available for them or their friends. If they ever need any of these hotlines, I pray they will use them. I have listed some of them at the end of this article.
This month Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca are celebrating their birthdays! They always ask about the day they were born around their birthdays. Harlan and I tell them about the day from each per-
spective. Each child has their own story. Each child has their own birth-minute. Each child has their own NICU story. Benjamin, Rebecca and Olivia have so many stories that belong to just them individually. I love my children so very much and they each hold a piece of my heart that belongs to only them.
Helpful resources
• Brain Injury Associates of America: (800) 444-6443
• Mobile Crisis: (518) 292-5499
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233
• National Eating Disorders Association: (800) 931-2237
• National Sexual Assault Hotline: (800) 656-4673
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-8255
• Poison Control: (800) 222-1222
Jennifer Steuer is an Albany mom whose busy household includes her husband, Harlan, and 15-year-old triplets Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca. Follow her on Instagram: jennifersteuer.
Calendar of events January January
5 Thursday
Teen Video Games Night
Relax, hangout, and play Switch and PlayStation games with your friends. Gaming equipment will be provided, 5:30-6:30 p.m. for grades 6-8; 7-8 p.m. for grades 9-12. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-3718622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.
6 Friday Mindfulness Meditation
This six-week Zoom series on Fridays at noon (January 6-February 10) will provide practical support for developing a daily meditation practice that’s appropriate for you. Mindfulness meditation promotes well-being from the inside-out. Each class will include instruction, a guided practice exercise, and Q&A. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.
Dungeons and Dragons
Use your imagination and problem-solving skills while socializing with others who enjoy role-playing games, 3:45 p.m. Playing materials provided. For grades 6 and up. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
7 Saturday Free Pancake Breakfast with the Wise Men
Enjoy a pancake breakfast for children and their families with pancakes, sausage, fruit, juice, milk and coffee, 9 a.m. Gluten free pancakes will also be available. Free. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 510 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville. For more information and to RSVP by Jan. 3, call Danny Patrick at (518) 477-5355.
Author Talk with Namina Forna
The author of “The Gilded Ones” series will take part in a virtual discussion through a partnership
with the Library Speakers Consortium, 2 p.m. Visit libraryc.org/ bethlehempubliclibrary for more information or to register for one or more upcoming talks. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
8 Sunday Hot Swing and Cool Jazz
The Teresa Broadwell Quartet performs energetic small-combo jazz. Teresa’s jazz fiddle style is influenced by Stuff Smith and her singing style is drawn from a wide range of vocal jazz artists. The group features Capital region jazz veterans Mike Novakowski on guitar, Pete Toigo on bass and Cliff Brucker on drums providing a powerful and compelling rhythm section that keeps the music moving forward, 2-3 p.m. Colonie Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville. To register, visit libr.info/HotSwing. For more information, call (518) 4589274 or visit www.colonielibrary. org.
9 Monday
Teen Community Service
Students in grades 6-12 are invited to an evening of community service to create flower arrangements for Adult Homes in our community, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Colonie Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville. To register, visit libr.info/TeenServiceJan. For more information, call (518) 458-9274 or visit www.colonielibrary.org.
Day Books
Discuss “Still Life” by Sarah Winman, 1:30 p.m. New members welcome. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
10 Tuesday
PJ Story Time over Zoom
Get comfy in your favorite PJs, grab a blanket, and tune in for a special story time with Miss Ariana, 7 p.m. We’ll read “Bear Snores On” by Karma Wilson. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.
Pick of the month
VPN. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.
12 Thursday
Foreign Film: ‘The Weasel’s Tale’
grades 6 and up. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-4399314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary. org.
14 Saturday
Teen Book Club
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Glow Party
The popular family entertainment tour brings audiences the only opportunity to watch their favorite Hot Wheels Monster Trucks light up the floor in outrageous monster trucks competitions and battles. Event performances will also feature a dazzling dance party, spectacular laser light shows and Hot Wheels toy giveaways, 2:30 p.m.; doors open at 1:30 p.m. Tickets start at $29 for adults and $19 for kids (2-12). MVP Arena, 51 S. Pearl St., Albany. For more information, call (518) 487-2000 or visit www.mvparena.com.
Reading Therapy Dogs
Improve reading skills or help your child gain confidence in reading with a therapy dog, 4 p.m. Please sign up for a 15-minute appointment. For grades 1-4. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.
11 Wednesday
Teen Craft: Bead Bonanza
Come create a variety of items with our huge assortment of colorful beads, 6:30 p.m. For grades 6-12. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.
Navigating the Library’s Website
Attend this class to learn how to access features on the library’s Website more effectively, 11 a.m. Sign up at bethlehem.librarycalendar.
Jan. 14
A film director, a film writer, an actress and her husband share a country house, but their coexistence is menaced by a young couple who resourcefully and deceitfully seek to get them to sell the house, 6:30 p.m. In Spanish/English subtitles. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.
Listening Parties: Kate Bush
Listen to and discuss the song “Running Up That Hill,” as well as “The Hounds of Love,” the album it is featured on, 7 p.m. Sign up at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
13 Friday
com. Teens and adults welcome. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
Early Learners
This three-week program uses interactive, hands-on activities, games, and songs to introduce young learners to key concepts and basic sequence skills that prepare them to learn coding with ScratchJr, 4:30 p.m. For grade 1. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.
Keep Yourself Safe on the Internet
Learn how to keep yourself safe when shopping, surfing and working on the internet from the experts at Tech-Talk, 3 p.m. In this free webinar, you’ll learn the latest in keeping your passwords safe, practicing safe online shopping, avoiding email scams, using multifactor authentication, keeping your computer “clean” with updated software and antivirus programs, and using secure Wi-Fi and a
Q.U.I.L.T., Inc. Meeting
Q.U.I.L.T., Inc. is a not-for-profit guild of quilters interested in learning about the art of making quilts. Members live in the Capital Region and surrounding communities, 9:45 a.m. All levels of quilters are welcome. Delmar Reformed Church, 386 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, email Ellen at quiltinc.comm@gmail.com.
Get to Know Libby
If you are struggling with the transition from Overdrive to Libby, or just want to learn a little more about how Libby works, stop by this in-person session with your questions and concerns, and learn about how to navigate the Libby app, 10 a.m. Sign up at bethlehem. librarycalendar.com. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Afternoon
Join your friends to play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate on the Nintendo Switch, 3:45 p.m. For
Come hang out, discuss our monthly book selection or any book you want to, 7:30 p.m. Have a snack, make a craft, and just be you. Registration required. For grades 9-12. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.
15 Sunday Martin Luther King Jr. Hike
Join the Friends of the Pine Bush Community for an afternoon hike in the preserve, 1 p.m. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road. For more information call (518) 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.
16 Monday Winter’s Day Nature Journaling
During this program we will spend time appreciating living and once-living objects and photographs of the Pine Bush Preserve while we exercise our creativity through nature journaling, 1 p.m. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road. For more information call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.
Paws to Read
Learning to read, especially out loud, can be scary. Come to the library and practice reading skills with a gentle, furry friend, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. A registered therapy dog will listen calmly and quietly, creating a safe space for children to practice reading skills without fear or judgment. For grades K-5. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
Vacation
Cinema: ‘Selma, Lord, Selma’
Join us for a family friendly screening of 1999 film based
on true events from the Civil Rights Movement in 1965, 2 p.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
17 Tuesday
Funding Options for Long Term Care
What are the options for long term care? What do they cost and what are some of the funding options available to help pay for care? What is does Assisted Living or Nursing Home Care offer and what is the criteria to become eligible?
Presented by Choice Connections NY, a free Senior Housing Advisory Service in our community, 1 p.m. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.
Parent/Child Social Media Test Drive
Learn about the ups and downs of social media, how to use social media in a positive way and how to develop healthy social media habits, 6:30 p.m. For children in grades 4-8 with an adult. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.
Beginner Python Programming
This four-session class will include an introduction to variables, loops, if/else statements, and more, 4:30 p.m. A final project will be completed. For grade 5. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.
Author Talk with Dana K. White
You’re invited to start your new year calm and collected by learning to become better organized and clutter-free with the author who will take part in a virtual discussion through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium, 2 p.m. Visit libraryc.org/bethlehempubliclibrary for more information or to register for one or more upcoming talks. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
18 Wednesday
Pine Bush Pups:
Neat Feet
Who passed this way? Help us look for signs of animals that live in the Pine Bush, 10 a.m. Suitable for ages under 6 with caregivers. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road. For more information call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.
Community Yoga
Enjoy a class designed for yoga practitioners of any skill level. Dan May shares Jai Yoga School’s Bhakti yoga practice, which includes song, cultural information and stories, 6 p.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
Reading Therapy Dogs
Improve reading skills or help your child gain confidence in reading with a therapy dog, 4:30 p.m. Please sign up for a 15-minute appointment. For grades 1-4. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.
19 Thursday
Teen Game Time
Drop in to play board games and card games with other teens, 6:30 p.m. For middle school and high school students. Check our website for times. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.
After School Art
Stop by to create and decorate your own cardboard dinosaur buddy, 3:45-4:45 p.m. School-age children of all ages and ability levels are welcome. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
20 Friday
Get to Know Libby
If you are struggling with the transition from Overdrive to Libby, or just want to learn a little more about how Libby works, bring your questions and concerns to this virtual session, and learn about
Calendar of events January
24 Tuesday
Family LEGO Build
LEGO builders are challenged to work as a family to build a project of your own design, 6 p.m. All LEGOs will be provided, please keep yours at home. For children of all ages, with an adult. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.
Dungeons and Dragons
Lunchtime Docs: ‘Dark Money’
Join us for an afternoon screening of Kimberly Reed’s documentary (not rated, 97 min.), which examines the influence of untraceable corporate money on our elections, 1 p.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
28 Saturday
CSI: Critter Scene Investigation
Pine Bush Pups: Nuts for Squirrels
Also Wednesday. Did you know that January has a National Squirrel Appreciation Day? Come join us to learn about the squirrels that live in the Pine Bush, 10 a.m. Suitable for ages under 6 with caregivers. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road. For more information call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.
Pick of the month Jan. 24
how to navigate the Libby app, 10 a.m. Sign up at bethlehem. librarycalendar.com. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
Music & Motion
Enjoy a variety of music, dancing, and other interactive movement activities to share with your child, 10 a.m. Ages 2-6, with an adult. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.
Dungeons and Dragons
Use your imagination and problem-solving skills while socializing with others who enjoy role-playing games, 3:45 p.m. Playing materials provided. For grades 6 and up. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
21 Saturday
Family Bingo Night
Have a fun night playing Bingo
and enjoy the excitement of a live competition, with plenty of prizes for participants, 6-7:30 p.m. Colonie Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville. To register, visit libr.info/FamilyBingoJan. For more information, call (518) 458-9274 or visit www.colonielibrary.org.
23 Monday
Craft & Color for Adults
Choose between coloring or doing an open-ended craft activity, 11 a.m. This program is specifically designed for adults of all abilities. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
Bilingual Family Story Time
Join Xuehan Liu for stories and songs, and learn a little Chinese while nurturing your child’s love of reading, 10 a.m. Stay for a fun vocabulary lesson. For all ages with an adult. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.
All playing materials will be provided, but feel free to bring your own dice or D&D 5th Edition Character Sheet, 6 p.m. Beginners welcome. For adults. Sign up at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary. org.
25 Wednesday Own Voices Book Group
Discuss “Behold the Dreamers” by Imbolo Mbue, 7 p.m. New members welcome. Sign up at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
Increase your Excel/G-Suite Skills
Join the experts at Tech-Talk to learn advanced Excel/G-suite skills, such as helpful ways to add info to spreadsheets and analysis techniques with formulas, lookups and pivot tables, 3 p.m. Free webinar. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.
27 Friday
Used book sale
Also Saturday and Sunday. Get some new-to-you books at this sale held by the Friends of the Library, 1-5 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday; and noon-3 p.m. Sunday. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.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. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road. For more information call (518) 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.
30 Monday
Monday Matinee: ‘Double Indemnity’
This classic film (1944, not rated, 108 min.) will be shown with subtitles, 2 p.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
Make Your Own Snow Globes
Create your own winter snow globe, 4 p.m. For grades 3-5. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.
31 Tuesday
Pine Bush Pups: Sleeping, Sleeping All Winter Long
Also Wednesday. Explore hibernation through story, song and play and learn what hibernation means and which animals of the Pine Bush hibernate, 10 a.m. Suitable for ages under 6 with caregivers. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road. For more information call (518) 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.
Spotlight on cannabis
Marijuana used to treat some illnesses
ttitudes regarding the use of cannabis have shifted significantly over the last decade.
By the end of 2022, 19 states, including New York, had enacted measures to regulate the non-medicinal use of cannabis by adults.
This has prompted many people to wonder what, if any, medicinal benefits marijuana can provide. The National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that very question has been the subject of research and debate for decades. That debate is unlikely to end anytime soon, though the NIDA indicates that suggestions about the potential medicinal properties of cannabis are not unfounded.
NIDA notes that marijuana and its components have been found to have numerous medicinal properties. For example, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved certain medications that contain tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, which is a compound found in the resin secreted by the marijuana plant. These drugs are used to treat the nausea that can develop in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy and are also prescribed as appetite stimulants.
Though it has yet to be approved
in the United States, the mouth spray Sativex is prescribed to multiple sclerosis patients to treat the spasticity and neuropathic pain associated with MS.CBD oil is one cannabis-related product to garner significant attention in recent years. CBD refers to cannabidiol, a chemical found in marijuana. According to the NIDA, a CBD-based liquid medication approved by the FDA is used to treat two rare forms of severe childhood epilepsy.
Consumers undoubtedly recognize just how widely CBD oil is marketed, and the Mayo Clinic notes CBD-infused foods, drinks and beauty products are available online. However, research as to the benefits of CBD is ongoing and limited. That does not necessarily mean claims about the benefits of CBD are false, but it also does not mean they’re true or backed by legitimate, recognized medical research.
As attitudes about cannabis change, research could change perceptions about the plant that has its fair share of supporters and detractors. Individuals considering cannabis for its potential medicinal properties are urged to speak with their physicians before purchasing any products.
As attitudes about cannabis change, research could change perceptions about the plant that has its fair share of supporters and detractors.
Senior centers
Clifton Park Senior Community Center
6 Clifton Common Court, Clifton Park
(518) 383-1343
For information about current services and programs, please visit cliftonpark.org/ index.php/services/senior-services/seniorcenter.
Membership is available for $20.
Mondays: Game room activities, tap dance, jazz dance, chair yoga, beginner clogging, intermediate clogging, discussion group, Rummikub, quilting group, soul line dancing
Tuesdays: Exercise to tape, game room activities, yoga, dice games, duplicate bridge group, qi-gong and tai chi, scrabble, hand and foot cards, square and round dancing, tai chi for seniors
Wednesdays: Exercise to tape, game room activities, investment group, ukulele group, dice games, social bridge, bowling, poker, euchre, beginner tai chi for seniors, knitting and crocheting
Thursdays: Exercise to tape, game room activities, chorus, Rummikub, yoga, watercolors, modern dance, pinochle, mahjong
Fridays: Tap dance, ballet, orchestra,
woodcarving, game room activities, dominoes, jewelry making class, Bingo, Latin line dancing LifePath
28 Colvin Ave., Suite 2, Albany www.lifepathny.org; (518) 465-3322
Supportive services for older adults. To register: www.lifepathny.org/activities; (518) 465-3322
Monday-Friday at 9 a.m.: POOL CREW
Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway, Watervliet
Mondays at 9:30-10:30 a.m.: MORNING EXPRESS
Enjoy a hot cup of coffee or tea while socializing. Westview Homes, 680 Central Ave., Albany Mondays at 10 a.m.: LINE DANCING
Line dancing is proven to create and maintain neural pathways that help our brains stay young. You will find the added benefit of better balance while learning the gentle steps and routines to favorite oldies. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza Mondays at 12:30 p.m.: SNACK
Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility.
AND PAINT
Bring your snacks to nibble on while you get your paint on and get your creative juices flowing. Westview Homes, 680 Central Ave., Albany Mondays at 1 p.m.: MAH-JONGG
Join this wonderful, social group as they play through the timeless game Mahjong, a tile-based game that was developed in the 19th century in China. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza Tuesdays at 9 a.m.: BASIC
SPANISH CLASS
Come and learn Basic Spanish. Participants in this free 6-week series class will learn how to write and speak Basic Spanish; textbooks are included. Watervliet Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza, Cohoes Tuesdays and Fridays at 9 a.m.: POOL CREW
Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza, Cohoes
Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m.: EARLY MORNING
PUZZLES
Puzzles are a great way to preserve and strengthen mental health in seniors. Enjoy a hot cup of coffee or hot tea while engaging with other seniors and working on crossword and word search puzzles. Puzzles will be provided for free or you can bring your own. Westview Homes, 680 Central Ave., Albany
Tuesdays at 12:45 p.m.: BINGO
Come for lunch and stay for the fun. This is a friendly, free game, and you might go home with a prize. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza, Cohoes Tuesdays at 10 a.m.: KNIT WITS
Come join this lovely group of people who enjoy knitting and crocheting. All experience levels are welcome. Come for lunch and stay for the creating! Please call 518-273-4422 for more information. Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway, Watervliet
Tuesdays from 12:45-1:45 p.m.: CANNONAIRES SENIOR CHOIR
PRACTICE
Join The Cannonaires, a wonderful group of folks that love to share music every week. Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway, Watervliet Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m.: MAHJONG
Join this wonderful, social group as they play through the timeless game Mahjong, a tile-based game that was developed in the 19th century in China. Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway, Watervliet
Wednesdays at 10 a.m.: UFOS – UNFINISHED OBJECTS
Do you have Unfinished Objects
The Rave 2 stair lift is the ideal solution for anyone:
Who struggles using the stairs
That is worried about risking a fall on the stairs
Who wants to access all of their home
Continued from Page 12
(UFOS) sitting by your chair that you would love to complete but want the company to do so? This is a group that enjoys working on lap crafts while conversing and enjoying the company of others. Knitting, crocheting, embroidery, needlepoint and so many more have been completed. Call Beth at 518-2352420 for more information. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza Wednesdays at noon: THE BEAUKNITTERS
The Beau-Knitters are a lively group of people who enjoy knitting and crocheting. All experience levels are welcome. Call Beth at 518-235-2420 for more information. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m.: GETCHA CRAFT ON
Create fun art projects. If you have an idea and would like to share, this is the place to show us it. Westview Homes, 680 Central Ave., Albany Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.: MEN’S GROUP
Are you an older man looking for a place to be yourself and meet with other men in a respectful space? A men’s group is a healing and enriching place to share your experiences and listen as others share theirs. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza
Thursdays at 12:30 p.m.: AFTER LUNCH MATINEE
Come for lunch and stay for a movie. Bring your own snacks and drinks and enjoy a movie after lunch. Westview Homes, 680 Central Ave., Albany Fridays at 10 a.m.: BRIDGE CLUB Bridge, is a trick-taking card game using a standard 52-card deck. In its basic format, it is played by four players in two competing partnerships, with partners sitting opposite each other around a table. Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway, Watervliet
Fridays at 10 a.m.: GAMES AND MORE
Come enjoy playing Mexican train, Uno, Dominoes and more before lunch. No experience needed. Westview Homes Community Room, 680 Central Ave., Albany
Fridays at 1 p.m.: FRIENDLY FILM FRIDAYS WITH THE COHOES PUBLIC LIBRARY
Come for lunch and stay for a movie! Gather ‘round to join in with friends and film buffs alike for a few hours of fun and laughs. Future films will be announced at each screening. Call the Cohoes Public Library or Beth at the Cohoes Senior Center at 518-235-2420 for more information. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza, Cohoes
Senior centers
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/ senior-center. Call with any questions.
Tuesdays
9 a.m.-noon: Tom’s Computer Class (Jan. 3, 17), Unite US program signup with Dottie (Jan. 3, 17)
10 a.m.: Tai Chi
10 a.m.-2 p.m.: Open for indoor/outdoor socialization/coffee service
10 a.m.: Cards, Mahjong and Bridge
11 a.m.: CDPHP Zumba Gold available in-house and Zoom
1 p.m.: MVP Chair Moves available in-house and Zoom (Jan. 10-31)
Noon: Gershon’s, BYOL and coffee service
Thursdays
10 a.m.: Tai Chi
10 a.m.-2 p.m.: Open for indoor/outdoor socialization/coffee service
10 a.m.: Cards, Mahjong, Bridge, 11 a.m.: Bocce and Pickleball
Noon: Gershon’s, BYOL and coffee service
1 p.m.: Trinity Health Alert chair yoga, in-house and Zoom (Jan. 9-30)
Exercise Update
Mondays at 10 a.m.: Qigong, in house (returns in February)
Mondays at 12:30 p.m.: CDPHP Chair Pilates, in-house and Zoom (Jan. 9-30)
Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.: CDPHP Gentle Yoga (Jan. 4-25)
Some classes remain available on Zoom with a couple in-house. You can email Edie for registration, dates and times at ecannizzo@niskayuna.org. Pilates, yoga, walks and art are available on YouTube at “Niskayuna Seniors.” Dates for Exercise Classes scheduled inside are only tentative, and subject to change.
Monthly Activities
Jan. 3: Cheers, reminiscing and the Peppermint Pig tradition at 10:30 a.m.
Jan. 5: Book Group at 11 a.m. –“Tomorrow, Tomorrow, Tomorrow” by Gabrielle Zevin; January Birthday Celebration
Jan. 6: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group at 11 a.m.
Jan. 10: Blood Pressure Clinic by St. Peter’s Health Partners at 11 a.m.
Jan. 17: Coffee with a Cop Jan. 19: Art with SAS at 12:30 p.m.
St. Sophia & Holy Wisdom Senior Apartments
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Bake a cheesy quiche for the win
Cheese is a comfort food that boasts a sizable fan base. There are all sorts of appealing cheeses to cater to any craving, ranging from soft varieties like ricotta or brie to hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or gorgonzola.
Cheese features prominently in many dishes, including quiche. Quiche is a rich, cheese custard tart that originated in France. While there are many varieties of quiche, Quiche Lorraine is perhaps the best-known. Individuals who want to try their hand at crafting this beloved dish can utilize this recipe for Quiche Lorraine from “French Classics Made Easy” (Workman Publishing) by Richard Grausman.
Tart pastry
Quiche Lorraine
Serves 6 to 8
1-1/3 cups all-purpose flour 8 tablespoons cold, unsalted butter, cut into eight pieces 1 egg
1/8 teaspoon salt
1-1/2 tablespoons cold water
Filling
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 2 eggs plus 1 egg yolk
1-1/2 cups milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
1/4 pound ham (boiled, baked or smoked), diced or 8 strips of cooked bacon, crumbled
1/4pound Swiss-style cheese, such as Gruyere or Emmentaler, diced, sliced, or grated (about 1-1/3 cups)
Preheat the oven to 475 degrees with the rack set in the
middle position.
Place all of the tart pastry ingredients into the bowl of a food processor fitted with a metal blade and process until the mixture blends together to form a mass, about 20 seconds. If it doesn’t form a mass after 25 seconds, add another teaspoon of water.
Turn the pastry out onto a lightly floured work surface, dust the pastry lightly with flour. With the heel of your hand, push the pastry down and away from you a little at a time
and repeat this process three or four times or until the pastry is smooth and does not stick to the work surface.
Lightly dust the pastry with flour and shape into a flat round, much like a thick hamburger. The pastry can be used immediately, unless it is too warm and soft. In which case, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 10 to 20 minutes.
Line a 9-1/2- or 10-inch tart pan with removable bottom with the pastry.
Prick the pastry, line it with aluminum foil, and weight it with 1 pound of dried rice or aluminum pie weights. Bake until the edges of the pastry begin to color, about 20 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven and remove the foil and beans from the pan. Spread the mustard over the bottom of the pastry. Lower the oven temperature to 425 degrees.
In a bowl, beat the eggs and yolk lightly. Blend in the milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Spread the ham and cheese evenly over the bottom of the tart shell. Pour the custard into the tart shell to within 1/8-inch of the top of the crust. Holding the tart pan by the outer rim (so as not to dislodge the bottom), place the pan in the oven.
Bake until the custard puffs, 25 to 30 minutes.
Unmold as soon as possible. Allow to cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting into wedges and serving. The quiche is delicious served at any temperature.
Social Security Corner
Keep your card at home
Protect yourself from scams by keeping your number out of others’ hands
Scams to steal your personal information are at an all-time high. The need to safeguard important personal documents such as your Social Security card continues to be very important.
A Social Security card is not an identification document. In many situations, you only need to know your Social Security number (SSN). Your physical card is not necessary for most business needs.
Do you need evidence for work? There are several documents you can use instead of your card. Other acceptable evidence includes the following:
• Birth Certificate
• Permanent Resident Card or Alien Registration Receipt
• Employment Authorization Document.
• Form I-94 or Form I-94A.
You do not need to show your phys-
ical card to apply for certain benefits. You can simply provide your number for benefits like:
• Housing
• Health insurance
• Food assistance
You should also know your physical card is not required as evidence for the Department of Motor Vehicles or Driver License (REAL ID). The only state that requires a physical card is Pennsylvania. For all other states, other acceptable evidence includes:
• W-2 forms
• Form SSA-1099
• Non-SSA-1099 forms
• Pay stubs
Keeping your card at home reduces the risk of loss or theft – and helps you keep your information safe.
The writer is with the Social Security Administration in Albany.
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* Out-of-network/non-contracted providers are under no obligation to treat CDPHP Medicare Advantage members, except in emergency situations. Please call our customer service number or see your Evidence of Coverage for more information, including the cost-sharing that applies to out-of-network services.
† Our hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. seven days a week from October 1 - March 31. From April 1 - September 30, Monday – Friday, our hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. A voice messaging service is used weekends, after-hours, and federal holidays. Calls will be returned within one business day.
CDPHP® refers to Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan, Inc. and CDPHP Universal Benefits,® Inc. CDPHP is an HMO, PPO, and HMO SNP plan that contracts with the federal government. Enrollment in CDPHP Medicare plans depends on contract renewal.
Based on a Model of Care review, Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan, Inc. has been approved by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) to operate a Chronic or Disabling Condition Special Needs Plan (C-SNP) through 12/31/2023. Y0019_23_23213 _M 22-23213 | 0123