Capital District FAMILY NOW - June 2023 Parents Children & Senior Citizens

Hit the road

Summer is the unofficial season of vacations, especially for families, but with travel costs escalating, that dream of a far-flung exotic getaway may have to be put on the back burner for a bit.

Much has been made of inflation over the last year-plus, as the cost of seemingly everything has

risen considerably since early 2022. And the cost of travel has increased by an even greater percentage than the cost of groceries. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index indicates the cost of airfare increased by more than 25 percent between January 2022 to January 2023.

Continued on Page 3

continued from Page 1

However, consumers who want to travel but don’t want to break the bank can try various strategies to save some money and get out and about this summer.

With airfare costs skyrocketing, now might not be the most budgetfriendly time to travel overseas. Thankfully, would-be vacationers can still get away. Average gas prices in early spring 2023 hovered around $3.43 per gallon, which is nearly $1 less per gallon than the year prior. By driving to their destinations, vacationers can save substantial sums of money and also maintain greater control of their trips, something that isn’t always so easy in an era marked by routine flight delays and cancellations.

Another way to ensure summer travel doesn’t put a big dent in your savings is to utilize cash back rewards linked to your credit card account. If you have a lot of cash and/or miles saved up, the coming summer of expensive travel could be the ideal time to use them.

Consider camping or using a homestay over a hotel. Homestays, which include bookings through sites such as AirBnB and VRBO, are typically much less expensive to book than hotel rooms for larger families. Homestays also save travelers money on food, as many listings feature fully operational kitchens that can help travelers avoid dining out three times per day over the duration of their trips.

Where will you go?

So you’ve decided to hit the road this summer. The next step is planning where you want to go.

Ballpark tour: For families that love baseball, a summer ballpark tour can be a truly unique experience. Whether families prefer Major League Baseball and its large ballparks or the more intimate settings at minor league stadiums, there’s no shortage of options on a ballpark tour. Both MLB and minor league stadiums tend to be located in large or mid-size cities, which means there’s plenty to do in between games as well.

Camper/RV trip: A family vacation in a camper or RV is a cozy way

From the cover

Road trip tips

For parents, one component of road trips to count on like clockwork is the moment when kids ask, “Are we there yet?” Bored children calling out from the backseat can try any parent’s patience, but here are some strategies to keep kids occupied for the long haul.

1.Modern moms and dads have a reliable ally in the fight against backseat boredom. Tablets can be loaded with all sorts of entertainment, from e-books to movies to interactive activities to school lessons. Rules governing device usage may be a part of life at home, but parents can relax those rules on the road to ensure kids stay occupied until the family arrives at its destination.

2.Encourage kids to scrapbook the trip. If a road trip involves visiting multiple destinations, parents can encourage kids to spend some time scrapbooking their experiences in the backseat. Kids can write about the previous day’s activities and paste ticket stubs and other mementos from the trip into their book.

for families to bond as they vacation at their own pace. National parks across the United States and Canada make for ideal places to visit when touring each country in a camper or RV, but smaller state parks can sometimes be just as interesting. There’s really no limit to the experiences families can enjoy on self-driving trips when their beds are on board for the ride.

History road trip: Historical landmarks dot the North American landscape, making a history road trip a fun way to hit the road and learn a little something along the way. American history buffs have no shortage of historic sites to see regardless of which region of the country they plan to visit or which period of history most intrigues them, from the Revolution-

ary War to the California Gold Rush to the American Civil War and more.

Urban tours: One of the joys of visiting Europe is the chance to travel from city to city without spending too much time in the car or on the train between stops. Though North America might be more spread out, families can still tour various urban locales in a single vacation.

Parents can pick a region of the country (such as the northeastern United States) and then plan road trips that enable them to visit different cities in that area over the course of a week to two weeks. Make an effort to try the foods each city is known for and visit a local landmark, making sure to leave time to walk around so everyone can get a feel for what a day in each city is like.

3.Transforming the backseat into a play area can ensure kids have plenty of things to do and less time to dwell on how long it’s taking to get from point A to point B. Avoid packing anything that can be turned into a projectile, especially for children who aren’t yet school-aged. But be sure to include some books, puzzles, dolls/ action figures, and handheld games.

4.Time the trip well. Of course, kids don’t necessarily need to be actively engaged in an activity in order to be occupied during a road trip. If possible, depart in the wee small hours of the morning, which can pay a host of dividends. Leaving before sunrise reduces the chances of being stuck in traffic, thus cutting back on the amount of time the family spends in the car. Leaving early also increases the chances that kids will spend a good portion of the trip sleeping in the backseat.

graphic design | Martha Eriksen Engagement Coordinators | Rachel Dottino, Frank Gillen

publisher | John McIntyre

Driving to a vacation destination rather than flying can save travelers money on costly airfare.

editor | Kristen Roberts advertising sales | Denice Mau art director | David Abbott

Moments of pride

Words. They are simple things. Some words make us smile and get all giddy inside. Some words make us cry. Words are small, but very powerful. There are words that bounce around in my mind, and I have all these feelings at once. I can see this happening to Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca. There is one word to describe how I feel about my children: Proud. Most parents are proud of their kids for one reason or another, and rightly so. Listening to their views on the world’s issues is eye opening. Watching the nightly news can get loud, but debate is good. Listening is good.

was that the kids had to call home and let someone know their location. We mattered. Our friends mattered. Hopefully, there was a butterfly effect set in motion with each kindness.

by Jennifer Steuer

All my life I can remember there being random kids at breakfast or dinner sometimes. A friend of my brother’s or sister’s. A kid from school might spend a couple of nights. There was an open-door policy at my house. The rule

A catastrophic ripple is set in motion when teens are pushed out of their families, creating homelessness and potential sex trafficking. My heart hurts for these kids. I do not understand how this happens. Children are not garbage. Teens are not disposable. One in five Gen Z-ers identifies as not heterosexual, according to Newportacademy.com in October of 2022. The pandemic exacerbated family trouble for most of the families. According to The Trevor Project in 2022, 25% of LGBTQ+ persons under the age of 25 considered death by suicide. Half of transgendered persons will consider death by suicide. Denying my children is not an option.

There are stores that we support and some that we shop at because we need to. The house exploded in a cacophony during the news recently when it was announced that Target would be pulling items from its Pride Collection, effective immediately. The kids and I were at Target last week checking out that collection. We wanted to buy every-

thing! There were innovative ideas that may change the world for people. Now there is so much disappointment and disbelief. The pushback over clothes and what they mean to a marginalized community is a ripple turning into a tidal wave on its way to a tsunami.

DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF, JUST NAIL THE BIG STUFF.

DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF, JUST NAIL THE BIG STUFF.

DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF, JUST NAIL THE BIG STUFF.

Hey, it’s just hair. Besides, you have more important things to think about—like making sure your kids are buckled correctly in the right seat for their age and size.

Hey, it’s just hair. Besides, you have more important things to think about—like making sure your kids are buckled correctly in the right seat for their age and size.

Hey, it’s just hair. Besides, you have more important things to think about—like making sure your kids are buckled correctly in the right seat for their age and size.

Check at NHTSA.gov/TheRightSeat

Check at NHTSA.gov/TheRightSeat

Check at NHTSA.gov/TheRightSeat

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate the lives and voices of LGBTQ+ people all over the world.

by Vanessa Banks

Learning Center Head off learning loss

Keep new concepts fresh by engaging your child all summer long

Children can begin to forget information within 48 hours of learning new concepts if they’re not reinforced or applied immediately. This is why many children forget the lessons they learned during the school year as soon as summer break begins. Some studies have shown students can lose up to 2-1/2 months of learning over the summer.

Don’t worry, there is a way to keep this from happening. Keep your child engaged this summer. It doesn’t take a lot of time, just a few hours a week, and make it fun.

Check in with your child’s teacher

If there is something crucial your child should work on this summer focus on that first. Your child’s teacher may also have some fun ways to keep that schoolwork going over the summer.

Set a routine

Establishing a routine can help your child stay on track and minimize the risk of summer learning loss. Try to keep each day consistent with mealtimes, activity time and bedtime. Ask your child when they would like to practice educational activities. Maybe it’s 15-30 minutes each morning, or a big block of time one day each week. The key is consistency.

Writing

To help writing skills, encourage your child to start a diary or write letters to a grandparent or friend.  If you are taking a vacation, or even a staycation, ask your child to keep a journal recording what you did.  They could create their own book, or comic book. There are also some books you can buy with sections your child can fill in to create their own story. The only way to improve writing skills is to write. If they write consistently, your child will be less likely to be intimidated by a blank piece of paper in the fall.

Mathematics

Get your child involved with grocery shopping. It’s an opportunity

For older kids, reading together can be fun and interesting. Children also learn by example. If parents are setting time aside to read, it reinforces the fun and enjoyment of reading.

to use math skills, such as calculating best prices, making change, weighing fruits and vegetables, etc.  Helping with cooking can also familiarize children with weights and measures, organization, planning and following a recipe. Use the time at home to keep any eye on the clock. Make one from paper or cardboard if you don’t have an analog clock in your house. Play some fun addition and subtraction games. Have children sort, count, add and subtract objects like blocks or toy cars. Play board games that involve dice and counting.

Reading

You can’t start too early or read too much.  Let’s say that second part again. YOU CAN’T READ TOO MUCH.  Reading to young children nurtures an interest in language, words and communication. For older kids, reading together can be fun and interesting.  Children also learn by example. If parents are setting time aside to read, it reinforces the fun and enjoyment of reading.  Visit the library. Librarians love to help families find books that are appropriate for your child’s reading level and interests, and many libraries offer free children’s programs and clubs.

Continued on Page 9

On the Bookshelf picture books

Splash into a summer of reading

‘Anchored’

By Debra Tidball; Illustrated by Arielle Li

Despite being oceans apart, Tug and Ship are connected by strong bonds in this tale of love and connection. “Anchored” honors the intrinsic value and worth of a child and the sustaining power of love. It’s an empowering story that will give children a sense of pride and strength to get through the “missing you” days. EK Books

‘Our Pool’

By Lucy Ruth Cummins

Today is a pool day in the city! The sun is shining, so what are you waiting for? Friends and family. Kids and grandparents. Big bodies and small bodies. Everybody is welcome at the pool. Get ready for swimming and splashing, zigzagging and dunking, and racing and laughing. Atheneum Books

‘My Dad Is a Tree’

By Jon Agee

It’s easy to be a tree. Just pretend your arms are branches, your body is a trunk, and your legs are roots. Don’t move, even if a bird makes a nest on your head, a squirrel hides an acorn in your pocket, and a spider builds a web under your arm. It’s OK: Trees don’t mind those things. Or so says the little girl who persuades her father to be a tree all day long, no matter what, even in the rain. Rocky Pond Books

‘The Invitation’

By Stacey May Fowles; illustrated by Marie Lafrance Fern opens her mailbox and finds an envelope. Inside, she finds an invitation to a super-special surprise at the museum, but Fern doesn’t like surprises. What if she and her friend Fawn can’t make it in time? What if they don’t know anyone there? Fawn playfully follows his friend’s way of thinking, while gently suggesting twists to her story and a fun new cast of characters until at last they arrive, and Fern is able to enjoy the wonderful surprise. Groundwood Books

locations. We are doing this by including it within our Spotlight News & Spot 518 products. This increase in circulation means even more eyes on our publication for both our advertisers and our readers.

We will continue to showcase family activities and monthly calendar events as we always have, along with our great columns and features.

Kids Fun Page

ACROSS

1. Colored arches 2. Cats and dogs have them

5. Individual unit 6. Hot fluid in the Earth

7. Those who ride the waves

DOWN

1. Dangerous, dragging motion of the ocean

3. Warm season 4. Cover most of the Earth

3. Summer 4. Oceans

1. Riptide

7. Surfers DOWN

2. Paws 5. Item 6. Magma

Answers: ACROSS 1. Rainbows

Science in South Bethlehem Park

n Triple Threat

continued from Page 4

Products being pulled off shelves because there is a big push by a variety of citizens is no micro-aggression. Customers threatening Target staff is unacceptable. Pressure from far right political groups on retailers has created a problem for the retailer and disappointment in the customers. Hiding or removing Pride products should not be an option. Just walking by a Pride display can feel supportive. Pretending people don’t exist is not OK. I don’t understand the logic of it all. I can’t imagine pretending my children don’t exist because of biology.

June is Pride month, but I am

n Learning Center

continued from Page 5

Allow some electronics

Yes, you can encourage some television and app time this summer, especially if it’s a learning show or app. There are so many out there for every age and skill level. Look with your child and see what interests them. Then designate those shows or apps as special electronics time. You don’t have to offer this option every day, but if your child looks forward to it, then it’s a great supplement to everything else. It can also be a little break from their video games and some free time for you.

Find new ideas

You don’t need to come up with a list of activities on your own. There

always proud. There are parades, rainbows and lots of glitter. Glitter gets into everything and everywhere. Glitter will show up when you least expect it and bring a smile when you remember what you were doing. Maybe someone will remember that they were at a Pride event and happy. Flags will fly and there will be all kinds of people wrapping themselves in what represents them and makes them proud. I am filled with joy when I see the happiness and love my children are free to express. I can’t imagine a life where I shun my children.

Jennifer Steuer is an Albany mom with 15-year-old triplets Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca, and their 50-pound lap dog, Barnes. Follow her on Instagram: jennifersteuer.

are an abundance of sites that provide summer resources for families, such as SylvanNation.com, which offers free educational resources, helpful tips and strategies on summer learning.

Summer enrichment programs

There are many enrichment activities available for children when school is out-of-session. These can help bridge academic skill gaps for kids who are behind, maintain academic skills so kids avoid summer learning loss or preview next year’s skills for families who want their children to start school in the fall with confidence.

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

Pieter B. Coeymans Elementary fifth-graders were in South Bethlehem Park a few weeks ago releasing pinky-length trout that they had raised through the winter in their classrooms. They also studied aquatic insects in the creek, which is one of the best trout fisheries in the region.

Calendar of events June

June 9 Friday

BioBlitz: Moth Night

Did you know there are 439 types of moths found in New York State, yet only 64 butterflies? Come meet some of our beautiful and mysterious moth neighbors up close, 8 p.m. We will use sheets and flashlights to attract moths and identify them with the help of an entomologist. Meet at the Visitor Center. Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. For more information, call 518-475-0291 or visit www.dec.ny.gov/education/1835. html.

Friendship Singers of Delmar concert

The Friendship Singers of Delmar, a local women’s chorus, are performing a free public concert of show tunes, novelty songs, and old favorites, 7:30 p.m. Donations can be made and will be provided to Family Promise of the Capital Region, an organization which supports the homeless and those on the verge of becoming homeless. Delmar Reformed Church, 386 Delaware Ave., Delmar.

Bethlehem Grange Garage Sale

Also Saturday. Find a treasure that is new to you, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Handicap accessible ramps on site. Bethlehem Grange 137, 24 Bridge St., Selkirk.

Wonderful Walkers

Experience upbeat, one-on-one time with your new walker. Share independent movement activities, interactive rhymes, songs, and stories, 9:30 a.m. Optional playtime follows. For walking toddlers under 24 months, 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.

Book-to-Movie:

‘A Man Called Otto’

“A Man Called Otto” tells the story of Otto Anderson, a grumpy widower whose only joy comes from criticizing and judging his exasperated neighbors. When a lively young family moves in next door, he meets his match in quick-witted and very pregnant Marisol, leading to an unexpected friendship that

will turn his world upside down, 10 a.m. Based on the bestselling novel “A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Backman. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

10 Saturday Cars and Crypts

Join us for our second annual Classic Car show and Crypt tour, 1-5 p.m. It is free to walk around and cast your vote for your favorite vehicle. There will be music, food vendors, merchandise, raffles and 50/50. Guided tours will be offered every half hour starting at 1:30 p.m. and the last leaving at 3:30 p.m. A few of the family vaults will be open for you to see the beauty that hides inside these structures. Tours will begin by the registration table and cost $10 per person. Albany Rural Cemetery, 3 Cemetery Ave., Albany. For more information, visit www.albanyruralcemetery.org.

Repair Cafe

Repair Cafes are free meeting places where you’ll find expert volunteers with repair skills in all kinds of fields who will help repair your items and teach you how to, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Visitors bring their broken items from home. If you have nothing to repair, you can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, or lend a hand with someone else’s repair job. Albany Public Library, 161 Washington Ave. For more information, call 518-427-4300 or visit www.albanypubliclibrary.org.

Walking Tour: The Not So Underground Railroad

Troy and Rensselaer County was a hotbed of abolitionist activity in the 19th century. This walking tour will highlight sights associated with the growing African American community in the first half of the 19th century, 10 a.m. Cost is $20 per person. Hart Cluett Museum, 57 Second St., Troy. For more information, call 518-272-7232 or visit www.hartcluett.org.

Author Event: JR Szpila

YA Fantasy author JR Szpila will join us for a book reading of “The Sparrows Who Dream,” followed by Q&A’s and a book signing, 11 a.m. Light refreshments will be served. Copies of the book will be available for purchase at the event. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475

Pick of the month

Game Night: Lasers & Feelings

Come to the library to play a fun role playing game, 6 p.m. You are the crew of the interstellar scout ship. Explore the uncharted regions of space, while defending the consortium worlds against galactic dangers. For adults and teens 14 and older. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

What’s Bugging Your Trees?

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

Smartphone Photography

Interested in learning more about your Android or iPhone camera? Explore some features like recording video, adding filters to pictures, using your camera’s timer and more, 10:30 a.m. Presented in partnership with Senior Planet. Registration required. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Capital PRIDE Parade and Festival

Take part in the largest pride celebration in the northeast outside of NYC and Boston, noon-5 p.m. Parade kicks off at 11:45. Enjoy hundreds of vendors, a Family Carnival Zone and great entertainment. Located in Albany’s historic Washington Park. For more information, visit 518capitalpride. com or capitalpridecenter.org.

June 11

Capital PRIDE and the Capital Pride Parade and Festival benefit the programs and services of the Pride Center of the Capital Region.

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

Morning Bird Walk

Join us for an early morning walk to see and hear what birds we have at Five Rivers, with the help of expert birders. Meet outside the Visitor Center at 8 a.m. Bring binoculars if you have them. We will also have binoculars available to borrow. The walk will last roughly two hours, but feel free to turn back at any time. Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. For more information, call 518-475-0291 or visit www.dec.ny.gov/education/1835.html.

Get Outdoors and Get Together Day

The outdoors is for everyone. Join us as we highlight ways to explore and enjoy the outdoors. Take a hike, try out bird watching, and more, 10 a.m. We’ll have a special focus on making the outdoors accessible to all, whether with adaptive equipment or specialized facilities and programs. Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. For more information, call 518-475-0291

or visit www.dec.ny.gov/education/1835.html.

11 Sunday

Improv Duo Judi and Steve

Making up stuff on the spot with audience suggestions: That’s what improv is all about, 2 p.m. From character types and other suggestions, your group will determine just how this show plays out. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

12 Monday

Bilingual Family Story Time: Korean

Join Sonya Kim for stories and songs, and learn a little Korean while nurturing your child’s love of reading, 10 a.m. Stories will be read in both English and Korean. 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.

Addison Kubik, Education and Outreach Coordinator for the Capital Region PRISM, will talk about how you can help to protect your trees and our community forest, 7 p.m. Presented by the Clifton Park Tree Committee. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

13 Tuesday

What is Your Digital Footprint?

Learn what your digital footprint is, why it matters, and how to manage it in this hands-on workshop, 6 p.m. Bring your laptop, phone, or tablet to this workshop or use the library’s computers. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Teen Writing Workshop

This workshop, led by Janine De Tillio Cammarata, will focus on developing and creating settings for fiction stories, 6:30 p.m. There will be time to write and an option to share for feedback. 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.

14 Wednesday

Therapy Dogs for Adults

Drop by the Second Floor Reading Area to hang out with our furry friend, Lila, 10 a.m. Come alone or with a friend. For adults only. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475

Connecting Threads Quilt Group

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

15 Thursday Concert: Diva and the Dirty Boys

Return to the Sizzle and Swoon of the ’60s great rock and pop songs, 7-8 p.m. Bring a picnic and lawn chair to enjoy these free hour-long concerts with your neighbors and friends. Town of Niskayuna-Gazebo, One Niskayuna Circle. For more information, visit www.niskayuna.org/communityprograms.

Outdoors After School

Join us after school to get some fresh air, stretch your legs, and have fun outdoors, 4:30 p.m. We’ll meet in front of the visitor center to head out on an adventure. For children in grades K–5 and their caregivers. Space is limited. Call by the Monday prior to register. Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. For more information, call 518-475-0291 or visit www.dec.ny.gov/education/1835.html.

Author Talk with Jamie Beck

The award-winning photographer will take part in a virtual discussion through a partnership with the Library Speakers Con-

sortium, 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.

Listening Parties: Be the DJ

This is your chance to choose what to listen to tonight. Send an email to michael@bethpl.org with up to four selections in any genre, 7 p.m. This is a hybrid presentation. You may attend in person or register to take part over Zoom. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Thursdays in the Park: Circus on a String

The Robert Rogers Puppet Company will showcase incredible feats by acrobats, clowns and animals, 6 p.m. Show will take place at Elm Avenue Park in Bethlehem. Visit bethlehem.librarycalendar.com for details about the performers. This series is co-sponsored by Friends of Bethlehem Public Library, Friends of Bethlehem Parks and Recreation Department.

Create Your Own Fairy House

Create your own fairy house to take home, 4 p.m. For grades K-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.

Therapy Dogs for Teens

Drop by the Teen Place to hang out with our furry friend, Bode, 4:30 p.m. Come alone or with a friend. For grades 6-12 only. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

16 Friday Bethlehem Grange Garage Sale

Also Saturday. Find a treasure that is new to you, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Handicap accessible ramps on site. Bethlehem Grange 137, 24 Bridge St., Selkirk.

Google Photos

This hands-on workshop explores some of the basic features of the Google Photos app and will walk you through the steps of backing up your photos on your smartphone or mobile device to Google Photos, 10:30 a.m. To participate in this workshop, you must bring your own smartphone, along with your Apple ID and password (for iPhones) or Gmail address and password (for Android phones). Presented in partnership with Senior Planet. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

17 Saturday All Together Now Community Fair

The library is having kicking off Summer Reading Program with a community fair, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The Friends of the Library will serve ice cream sundaes and popcorn, and there will be a balloon twister and face painting. Community members will have tables, a fire truck, car seat installation inspections, music from Rensselaer High, giveaways and fun activities. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., across from the train station. For more information, visit www.rensselaerlibrary.org or call 518-462-1193.

Albany All Star Roller Derby

The Albany Brawlstars take on the Hudson Horrors, 7-11 p.m. Tickets cost $15. Washington Avenue Armory, 195 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, visit albanyallstars.com.

Paper Bookshelf

In this workshop, you will create an artistic bookshelf collage you can use to track your reading, or just fill with your favorite titles, 2:30 p.m. For all ages. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Saturday Scrabble Meetup

Come out for an afternoon of word-building fun and play Scrabble with friends and neighbors, 1-3 p.m. All skill levels and ages 11 and up are welcome. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more

Pick of the month

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

D&D Adventure Club

Join us for an afternoon of adventuring at the Library. We will be playing 5E Dungeons & Dragons, 4 p.m. All playing materials will be provided. For adults and teens 14 and up. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-3718622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Journaling for Adults

American Revolution and give a brief narrative of the history of this war, 7 p.m. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Make the World More Sustainable

Thursdays in the Park: Jester Jim

This is not your ordinary juggling show! With a trunk full of props and a looping machine, you will be glued to every sight and sound, 6 p.m. Elm Avenue Park in Bethlehem. Visit bethlehem. librarycalendar.com for details. This series is co-sponsored by Friends of Bethlehem Public Library, Friends of Bethlehem Parks and Recreation Department. All ages welcome.

information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

20 Tuesday Bethlehem Senior Vocal Ensemble

Enjoy a musical morning on the Green with this off-shoot of the Bethlehem Senior Chorus performing best-loved songs from decades past, 11 a.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Inclusible Adult Games

We’re teaming up with Inclusible to offer game playing events for adults of all ages and abilities, 10 a.m. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Family Lego Build

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

June 22

of your own design, 6:30 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.

21 Wednesday Solstice Festival

Also Thursday. To celebrate the longest night of the year, we have a special two-day music festival. Come to both nights or just one, but celebrate the Midsummer Solstice with some of Ireland’s finest musicians, 7-9 p.m. Tickets start at $20. Irish American Heritage Museum, 21 Quackenbush Square, Albany. For more information, call 518-427-1916 or visit irish-us.org.

Summer Solstice Meditation

Join us in the Reading Garden, weather permitting, for a celebration of the summer solstice with a mindfulness meditation practice in nature, 10 a.m. Registration

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

22 Thursday Concert: Loose Change

An acoustic/rock band performing a wide range of musical styles from the ’60s through today, 7-8 p.m. Bring a picnic and lawn chair to enjoy these free hour-long concerts with your neighbors and friends. Town of Niskayuna-Gazebo, One Niskayuna Circle. For more information, visit www.niskayuna. org/community-programs.

Songwriting Workshop

Even if you’ve never written a song but are curious about the process, join us for an engaging discussion, 3:30 p.m. Feel free to bring an instrument or a demo; the library will not provide instruments. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Concert on the Lawn: Cosby Gibson and Tom Staudle

Bring a lawn chair or blanket and join us on the Back Lawn for an evening of music, welcoming back Cosby Gibson and Tom Staudle, who will share the music of the

Join Brendan Woodruff, DEC’s Director of Sustainability, for a presentation on what you, yes you, can do to make the world more sustainable, 7 p.m. The presentation will outline some of our most pressing environmental issues, such as climate change and waste generation, while going through ways that you can make positive environmental change in your community. Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. For more information, call 518-475-0291 or visit www.dec.ny.gov/education/1835. html.

23 Friday Summer Reading Kickoff

Join us on the Green for crafts, snacks and music, and sign up the whole family for Summer Reading 2023 while you’re here. Musical entertainment from 2-3pm with local rock band GB-Five. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Bethlehem Grange Garage Sale

Also Saturday. Find a treasure that is new to you, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Handicap accessible ramps on site. Bethlehem Grange 137, 24 Bridge St., Selkirk.

24 Saturday

Beginner’s Fishing Class

Celebrate New York State’s annual free fishing weekend by joining us for an adult and child catch-and-release fishing clinic, 10 a.m. or 2 p.m. Bring gear if you have it, but Five Rivers also has a limited number of rods and reels available for loan. Adults and children must accompany each other. Call by June 21 to register. Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. For more information, call 518-475-0291 or visit www.dec. ny.gov/education/1835.html.

Continued on Page 13

ROLLER COASTER WORD SEARCH

Brain Teasers answers are on page 16.

Solve the code to discover words related to AMUSEMENT PARKS. Each number corresponds to a letter. (Hint: 8 = s) 24. Traveled rapidly

CLUES ACROSS

1. Slovenian mountain

5. Growl

9. Where things stand

11. Made a sharp sound

13. Female spirit in Irish folklore

15. Deteriorate with age 16. A way to save for retirement

Big

54. Most supernatural

illegally

while asleep

CLUES DOWN

1. Looks at for a long time

2. Solution for diseases

3. Belonging to a thing

4. Former Packers fullback

5. Contemptible person

6. One billionth of a second (abbr.)

7. Helps

8. Final section of the large intestine

9. Invests in little enterprises

10. Look for

11. Unbeliefs

12. Susan and Tom are two

14. Female sheep

15. A poet writes it

18. Affirmatives

20. “Full House” actress Barber

Long upholstered seat

Set wages

Sides of a jacket

More beautiful

Actress Kate

Furniture with open shelves

26 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.

27 Tuesday Pride Picnic for Teens

Celebrate Pride Month with a picnic. Bring your own lunch (we’ll provide dessert!) and work on a fun craft, 1 p.m. For teens entering grades 6-12. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Submit an event

• 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.

Mini Lego Robots

Design and build mini Lego robots, and then create a story about them before you take them home, 3 p.m. They are not mechanical or remote controlled. For grades 3-5. Registration required. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

All Kinds of Families Story Time

Join us for this special story time where we will celebrate all different kinds of families with stories, songs, and an art activity you can create together with your family, 10 a.m. Registration is required. For up to age 5 with caregiver. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

28 Wednesday

Rockin’ on the River

Featuring Kristin Montgomery and the Winterkill Band and Neon Ave. Series of concerts starts at the end of June and runs into August consisting of four concerts every other Wednesday. With new bands and performances taking the stage each time to support great local talent, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Riverfront Park, 255 Front St. Troy. For more information, visit www.downtowntroy.org.

Magic Rocks Illusionist

See Illusionist Leon Etienne work his magic, 6 p.m. Seen on “America’s Got Talent,”“Jimmy Fallon,”

Calendar of events June

and “Penn & Teller: Fool Us,” he is now here to kick-off our Summer Reading program. This familyfriendly show features spectacular illusions, awardwinning sleight of hand, and some hilarious comedy. Shows at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Afternoon Art: Buddy the Dino

Create and decorate your own cardboard dinosaur buddy, 2 p.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Author Talk with Tananarive Due

The Tales of Wakanda contributing author will take part in a virtual discussion through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium, 8 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.

29 Thursday

Residential Pollinators

An educator from the Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center will teach us about the wide variety of pollinators that are essential to the health of our New

York ecosystems, 2 p.m. We will use bug nets to get an up-close view of some of our native pollinators, and learn how to support them in our own backyards. This program will be fun for all ages. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Shadow Art for Teens

Create beautiful art using shadows, 3 p.m. For teens entering grades 6 to 12. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-3718622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Thursdays in the Park: GB-Five

Enjoy home-grown rock ’n’ roll with local musicians, 6 p.m. Show will take place at South Bethlehem Park. Visit bethlehem.librarycalendar. com for details about the performers. This series is co-sponsored by Friends of Bethlehem Public Library, Friends of Bethlehem Parks and Recreation Department.

30 Friday Summer Sing-Along

Come in to cool off and sing-along with a popular Disney movie every Friday morning, all summer long, 10 a.m. All ages welcome. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehem publiclibrary.org.

Senior centers

Clifton Park Senior Community Center

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

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

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/all-events; (518) 465-3322

Cohoes Senior Center • (518) 2352420 • cohoes@lifepathny.org

Watervliet Senior Center • (518) 2734422 • watervliet@lifepathny.org

Westview Homes Apartments • (518) 482-2120 • westview@lifepathny.org

Tuesday, June 13 at 10 a.m.: SENIOR LEGAL AID

An attorney from the Legal Aid Society of Northeastern NY will offer free legal advice to people over 60 who reside in Albany County. No fee to participate, registration required. Cohoes Senior Center or Westview Homes Apartments

Wednesday, June 14 at 5 p.m.: STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE DINNER FUNDRAISER

Enjoy dinner with live entertainment on in honor of National Strawberry Shortcake Day. Tickets will be $25 per

person and are available at lifepathny. org or by calling 518-273-4433.

Thursday, June 15, from 9 a.m.3:30 p.m.: AARP SMART DRIVER COURSE

AARP Smart Driver Course taught by Regional Coordinator Warren Lavery in a one-day 6.5-hour session.  Course fees are $25 for an AARP member and $30 for non-members. Registration Required. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza, Cohoes

Wednesday, June 21, at 12:45 p.m.: M.O.M. – MEMORIES OF MOM

Memories of Mom is a dynamic group of musicians playing and singing folk and American music from the last century.  Singing along is encouraged.  This is a free event, and please call Beth at 518-235-2420 or email cohoes@ lifepathny.org to make a reservation for lunch or for more information.

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

Sticks and chalk are available to use. No fee to play. Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway, Watervliet

Mondays at 10 a.m.: LINE DANCING WITH LU

Line dancing is proven to create and maintain neural pathways that help our brains stay young. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza

Mondays at 1 p.m.: MAH-JONGG

Join this wonderful, social group as they play through the timeless game Mahjong. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza

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

Sticks and chalk are available to use. No fee to play. 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.  Please call 518-273-4422 for more information.  Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway, Watervliet

Tuesdays at 10 a.m.: WII BOWLING

Come and join others in person for a video game of Wii Bowling. Minimum physical requirement needed. 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. Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway, Watervliet

Wednesdays at 10 a.m.: UFOS – UNFINISHED OBJECTS

Do you have Unfinished Objects

(UFOS) sitting by your chair that you would love to complete but want the company to do so? Come for the crafting and stay for lunch, call Beth at 518235-2420 for more information. Cohoes

Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza

Wednesdays at noon: THE BEAUKNITTERS

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

Wednesdays at 1 p.m.: BINGO

Join us as we pull the numbers for an hour of Bingo fun every Wednesday.

Crazy T, Round Robin, Letter X, Kite and more; 2-3 cards and prizes available. Zoom and Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway

Wednesdays at 1 p.m.: FRIENDLY FILM FRIDAYS

Gather ‘round to join friends and film buffs for a few hours of fun and laughs. Future films will be announced at each screening. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza

Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.: MEN’S GROUP

A men’s group is a healing and enrich-

ing place to share your experiences and listen as others share theirs. Cohoes

Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza

Thursdays at 1p.m.: GENTLE CHAIR YOGA

Gentle yoga movements from a seated position. Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway

Fridays at 10 a.m.: GET THE LEAD OUT! SPREAD POSITIVE ENERGY

This group of positive people comes together weekly to color and make bookmarks to spread joy and beauty in our community. Supplies are included. Cohoes Senior Center

Fridays at 10:15 a.m.: TEA TIME WOMEN’S GROUP

Come and join other women for a cup of tea and conversation. Bring your own mug, liquid refreshment provided. No fee, registration not required. Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway

Fridays at 12:45 p.m.: GAME OF CHOICE

Come in and join for some lively competition. Game of choice is picked by the majority. Watervliet Senior Center

Fridays from 1-2 p.m.: DARTS

Come in and join in a game of darts. Board and darts provided. Watervliet Senior Center

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.

Mondays

10 a.m.: Qigong (June 5, 12, 29, 26)

11 a.m.: Pickleball (June 5, 12, 29, 26)

12:30 p.m.: CDPHP Chair Pilates, inhouse and Zoom (June 5, 12, 29, 26)

5:30 p.m.: American Mohjongg (June 5, 12, 19,26)

4:30-6 p.m.: Open Art – Bring projects, finish old ones or start new ones. Quiet, creative time and space is here. (June 5, 12, 19,26)

Tuesdays

9 a.m.-noon: Tom’s Computer Class (June 20), Unite US program, signup with Dottie (June 6, 20)

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 Total Body Combo (June 6, 20, 27)

Noon: Gershon’s, BYOL and coffee service

1 p.m.: Chair Moves (June 6)

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 (June 8, 22, 29)

Monthly Activities

June 1: Book Group at 11 a.m. –“Magic Hour” by Kristin Hannah; June Birthday Celebration

June 2: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group at 11 a.m.

June 13: Blood Pressure Clinic by St. Peter’s Health Partners at 11 a.m.; Intro to Mahjong at 1 p.m.

June 15: Father’s Day Treat at 11 a.m.; Art with SAS - Acrylic Painting at 12:30 p.m.

June 20: Coffee with a Cop at 10:30 a.m.; Intro to Mahjong at 1 p.m.; English Country Dance Class at 1 p.m.

June 22: Entertainment at noon, Tony Schettino

June 27: English Country Dance Class at 1 p.m.

The Age Sage From there to here

Man’s journey from widowhood to priesthood bolstered by faith

This is the second in a two-part series. In Part 1, we learned that Father Mike Melanson was married for 50 years when widowhood took him in a radical direction that led to being ordained within a few years of his wife’s passing.

What was it like on the altar performing his first mass?

“I was so scared and nervous,” Father Mike said.

“The one thing I did not want to do was to mess up because you have to read the black while the red is the instructions. I didn’t want to get it reversed and all of this was going on in my head. My knees were shaking. And then I had to preach. It was nerve wracking.”

nation. Beyond that, it was at his home parish before a large crowd where he knew almost everybody there.

“People were coming up and calling me ‘Father Mike’ instead of ‘Mike,’” he recalls. “A close friend who was a deacon now came up to me and I was blessing him instead of the other way around. It was all so humbling. It was not an authoritarian situation. It was more of an unworthiness type of thing. I thought, ‘How did this happen to me?’”

by Robert LaCosta

This was a baptism-by-fire as it was within twenty-four hours of his ordi-

Transitioning from one side of the altar as a parishioner and deacon to becoming the one who is lifting the Eucharist was not exactly an overnight experience in the sense that Father Mike had been working his way through seminary training for the better part of a year and a half.

However, actually being that priest that carries the weight of delivering the homily was quite a shift.

“This is the prayer that has never failed me,” he said. “I pray it the night before and right before I preach: ‘Lord send me the words you want your

Father Mike Melanson was married for 50 years to his wife, Peggy. After her death, he made the decision to join the priesthood.

people to hear. Lord, use me.’ It’s an incredible feeling.”

Father Mike prepares a written sermon and yet often goes off-script.

“I put the pressure on The Holy

Continued on Page 17

n The Age Sage

continued from Page 16

Spirit and He always comes through,” he states.

While the honor of wearing the collar is elating, the other side of the privilege of priesthood is the sacrifice of celibacy. Father Mike is a peopleperson who loves to share his experiences. And yet, the rectory can be dead-quiet at night.

“It is a sacrifice I give up to my Lord and Savior,” he said. “I look at the cross and see what he did for me and I say this is insignificant. But it’s nonetheless hard. It’s been five years since Peggy passed and it’s easier to be alone, but it is not easy. You have to develop the idea, ‘God is my partner.’ I can come to him to cry, holler and scream. My prayer is conversational and we talk back and forth. But it’s different. I left home when I was young and I never lived alone. I was with my parents until I got married. I was with my wife until she passed away.”

Change can be radical and yet it knocks at the door of every human. Perhaps this makes Father Mike ponder the well-known scripture, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if any one hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. (Revelation 3:20 RSVCE)

In this case, it’s possible this scripture echoes in his mind when he’s

Get screened for fall risk

Albany Medical Center’s Outpatient Physical Therapy office will hold free balance and falls screenings for the public on June 3, 10 and 17 at their location at 99 Delaware Ave. in Delmar.

Screenings will include a brief questionnaire, a falls risk assessment, and a short series of balance tests for participants. A physical therapist will then discuss the results and provide recommendations based on a participant’s risk of falling.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that each year, more than one-quarter of adults 65 or older experience a fall, and three million people in that age range are treated in emergency departments each year for fall-related injuries.

opening the church door on Sunday mornings to greet the faithful or when he enters that quiet rectory in the evening to sup with his “Partner.”

Robert J. LaCosta hosts “The Age Sage” free podcast where the full audio interview of this article may be heard on Apple and Android smart phones and computers. Contact him at norepcom@ gmail.com

To schedule an appointment for a free, private screening with a physical therapist, call 518-262-9700.

Garden tour marks 25 years

On Wednesday, June 14, the Bethlehem Garden Club will hold its 25th anniversary Garden Tour from 4-8 p.m.

The event, which will be held rain or shine will tour five gardens in the Bethlehem area. Tickets cost $15 per person and are available in advance at Wildbird Junction in Delmar. Day of tickets will cost $20 and can be purchase in the Delmar Presbyterian Church parking lot.

Proceeds from the event support educational programs, local environmental and educational grants, the beautification and maintenance of the club’s town gardens, and more.

Father Mike said he was scared and nervous before performing his first mass but found strength in his faith.

“It’s been five years since Peggy passed and it’s easier to be alone, but it is not easy. You have to develop the idea, ‘God is my partner.’ I can come to him to cry, holler and scream.”

Film festival spotlights Black talent

Event aims to highlight Capital District as a budding filmmaking epicenter

The inaugural Renaissance Black Film Festival (RBFF) is coming to New York’s Capital District, running June 22-25 at downtown Albany’s historic Palace Theatre and the opulent Renaissance Hotel, both within walking distance from one another.

The festival is helmed by Palace Theatre’s Executive Director Kevin Johnson, filmmaker Micah Khan, and premier creative agency Collectiveffort, and supported by NAACP Image Award recipient Morris Chestnut as the festival’s ambassador. Panelists and honorary board members Gail Bean of FX’s “Snowfall” and Starz’s “P-Valley” and acclaimed screenwriter and director Jamal Hill, are among the supporters. RBFF was developed with two goals in mind: to spotlight Black artists and creatives within the film industry, and to recognize New York’s Capital District as a budding filmmaking epicenter.

“Over the last decade, we’ve seen about 20 productions come to the area,

each growing larger and larger. The secret of the flexibility, affordability and overall beauty of our area has gotten out and folks that are here should be ready to join the industry as it lays roots,” says Collectiveffort Co-founder Patrick Harris.

RBFF will show films from a number of Black filmmakers across the country, with awards and cash prizes go-

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY! from the staff at:

ing to Best Narrative Feature, Best Documentary Feature, Best Narrative Short, Best Documentary Short, and Best First Project. The festival’s curators are accepting submissions up until June 7.

Complementing the continuous showing of films over the weekend will be a series of panel discussions, private networking mixers, public after parties,

an award ceremony, and a few special surprise screenings from some of Hollywood’s biggest names.

Actress and honorary board member Gail Bean said it’s important for her to attend regional festivals so that she can interact with other filmmakers, artists and our supporters.

“Regional festivals provide a space for people in this industry to really develop community and support,” she said. “We network organically while being inspired by our peers. Regional festivals pour into the artist, which in turn is great for the industry.”

For more on the Renaissance Black Film Festival, including show and event schedules, volunteer opportunities, and how filmmakers can submit their work for viewing, visit palacealbany.org and filmfreeway.com/blackfilmfestny.

Tickets are also available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com and at the Palace Theatre Box Office (located at 19 Clinton Ave).

The inaugural Renaissance Black Film Festival will take place June 22-25 at downtown Albany’s historic Palace Theatre. It will show films from a number of Black filmmakers across the country.

Social Security works to prevent misleading advertising and imposter communications

Social Security works with the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) to protect you from scams that use Social Security as bait. Section 1140 of the Social Security Act allows OIG to impose severe penalties against anyone who engages in misleading Social Security-related advertising or imposter communications.  You can review Section 1140 at www.ssa. gov/OP_Home/ssact/ title11/1140.htm.

signed to look like it belongs to or is authorized by Social Security.

• Sends emails or text messages or makes telephone calls claiming to be from Social Security.

by Elizabeth Pivonka

For example, the OIG may impose a penalty against anyone who:

• Mails misleading solicitations that appear to be from or authorized by Social Security.

• Operates an imposter internet website or social media account de-

• Sells Social Security’s free forms, applications, and publications without our written approval.

• Charges a fee for a service that Social Security provides free of charge without providing a clearly visible notice that Social Security provides the service for free.

If you receive a misleading or suspicious Social Security-related advertisement or imposter communication, please let us know immediately.  Try to capture as much information about the communication as you can.

Here’s what you can do:

• For suspicious websites or social media accounts, please take a screenshot of the page. Please note the website address or social media link – and how you came across it.

• For emails and text messages,

please capture the entire message and any message links.

• For U.S. mail solicitations, please retain the complete communication, including the outside envelope and all inserts.

• For telephone solicitations, please note the caller identification phone number and any company name or call back number that the caller or recorded message provides.

You can help us stop misleading advertising and communications.  We encourage you to report potential scams to the OIG at oig.ssa.gov.  You can also call our fraud hotline at 1-800-2690271 or send an email to OIG.1140@ ssa.gov.

This information will help OIG locate the source of the suspicious solicitation or communication.  You can also check out our publication, What You Need to Know About Misleading Advertising, at www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN05-10005.pdf.

The writer is with the Social Security Administration in Albany.

f

f

f

f

f Vision and dental benefits with all plans offering enhanced dental coverage