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

talk

New books to be thankful for

‘A Bear, a Bee, and a Honey Tree’

By Daniel Bernstrom; illustrated by Brandon James Scott

‘How to Send a Hug’

By Hayley Rocco; illustrated by John Rocco

Artie loves giving hugs. But she can’t give a hug to her Grandma who lives so far away. Instead, she shows us how to send hugs using the magic of hand written letters in this timeless story about connecting to loved ones when you can’t always do so in person. This is a story about reaching out across the miles when you can’t do so yourself in person and turning words into love. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

When a hungry, fuzzy brown bear and a hive of angry bees come face to face, everybody’s abuzz! This rowdy, rhythmic read-aloud is perfect for beginning readers. Enjoy alliterative wordplay and verbal piz zazz, along with expressive characters that jump off the pages. This story has a high-energy, uninhibited playfulness that makes kids want to run, chase, find out something about bear and bee behavior — and learn to read!  Hippo Park

‘Butterfly Child’

By Marc Majewski

A young child loves the spots and patterns found on butterflies, and fashions bold orange wings to become a butterfly child. But when other kids shun the child for the clothes they don’t understand, it takes a father’s encouragement for the kid to stay true to what they love and find joy in the butterfly wings once more. Katherine Tegen Books

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.

What’s another teeny, tiny stain? You’ve got more important things to think about—like making sure your kids are buckled correctly in the right seat for their age and size.

What’s another teeny, tiny stain? You’ve got more important things to think about—like making sure your kids are buckled correctly in the right seat for their age and size.

What’s another teeny, tiny stain? You’ve got 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

Editor’s note:From the cover

n Turkey

continued from Page 1

2. The National Turkey Federation says around 45 million turkeys will be eaten on Thanksgiving, which equates to about 720 million pounds of turkey be ing consumed (with the average turkey size being 16 pounds).

3. The Butterball hotline answers roughly 100,000 calls every year on its turkey question hotline.

4. In 1953, the Swanson company overestimated the number of frozen tur keys it would sell for the holiday season by 26 tons. Rather than waste the meat, Swanson sliced it up, repackaged it and created the first frozen TV dinners.

5. Thanksgiving in America may be older than many recognize. While Thanksgiving is largely tied to the 17th century settlers, the National Parks Service says in 1565 Spanish settlers in St. Augustine (now Florida) celebrated by having a meal to which they invited the native Seloy tribe. The Spanish served pork stew, sea biscuits, red wine and garbanzo beans. Some say the Seloy contributed turkey, venison and maize.

6. Thanksgiving didn’t become a civic holiday until Abraham Lincoln made it one after the Civil War. Thanks giving was declared a national holiday on October 20, 1864.

7. The Pilgrims did not refer to themselves as “pilgrims.” They used the word “separatists” as they were separat ing themselves from a larger belief system.

8. In addition to Canada and the United States, Grenada, Liberia, the Philippines, Saint Lucia, and the Neth erlands celebrate their own versions of Thanksgiving.

9. Each year, the American president “pardons” a turkey from slaughter on Thanksgiving. This tradition dates back to when Abraham Lincoln’s son was upset that his family’s turkey that was going to be killed for Thanksgiving din ner.

10. According to the U.S. Calorie Control Council (CCC), an average American may consume 4,500 calories and 229 grams of fat on Thanksgiving Day.

Each year, the American president “pardons” a turkey from slaughter on Thanksgiving. This tradition dates back to when Abraham Lincoln’s son was upset that his family’s turkey was going to be killed for Thanksgiving dinner.

11. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual tradition. People line the parade route in New York City or tune in to watch the parade on television. It originated in 1924 and the

famed balloons were added in 1927.

12. Apple pie is the pie of choice for Thanksgiving, even though pumpkin pie is prevalent this time of year.

Grateful for our readers

We at Capital District Family Now are thankful for so many things, but we would be remiss if we didn’t count you, our read ers, among them. Thank you for reading! We appreciate your calls and e-mails telling us what you like and don’t like about our coverage of issues facing Capital District families. We try to keep you in mind with every change or tweak we make to our publication, and we hope that shows.

We are es pecially grate ful for your contributions to these pages, in the way of reader submissions and calendar ideas. And speaking of our calendar, it has long been the go-to resource for folks looking for activities to take part in as a family. We regularly feature events at area museums, libraries, performing venues and nature centers, and most of them can either be enjoyed for free or just a few dollars.

The deadline for event submissions is the 10th of the previous month. Send them to robertsk@spotlightnews.com. Everything runs space permit ting, but if you take the time to send something in, we will try our hardest to make sure it sees print.

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

Kristen Roberts

Editor, Capital District Family Now

John McIntyre editor

Kristen Roberts editor-at-large

sales

Michael Hallisey

Denice Mau

art director | David Abbott graphic design | Martha Eriksen Engagement Coordinators | Rachel Dottino, Frank Gillen

Capital DistriCt

by Quoida Lauzon

Parenting with Confidence Battle stress with self-care

Take steps to avoid burnout

As a nurse and working parent myself, I understand that it can be hard to find the “bal ance” in home life and work life.

I try to encourage all parents to be mindful of their health to prevent stress and burnout. Although being a par ent is a wonderful experience for many, it can leave some, especially ones with newborns and young children, feeling vulnerable, exhausted and often over whelmed. However, finding time to take care of you is crucial to preventing parental burnout, employee burn out, and help maintain inner emotional balance.

If you don’t take care of yourself, then it will be hard to take care of your loved ones. You have to fill your own cup so you’re not running on empty.

The following are some warning signs of parental burnout:

• Sleeping too much or too little

• Being frustrated

• Ongoing irritability

• Withdrawal or emotional detach ment from your partner or children

• Ongoing fatigue

• Not enjoying things that usually bring you fulfillment

• A negative mindset on life, work, family, not feeling like yourself

Stress can lead to anxiety and anxiety can lead to depression. There is such a thing as good stress, known as eustress, which is a stress that leads to a positive response, such as preparing for a big goal or event in your life.

Continued

n Self-care

Here

1. Communication

No one can read your mind, and while you could do it all your self, you shouldn’t have to. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Reach out to family and friends for support. Talk with your employer about benefits that can support you as a parent. Com municating your feelings is never a weakness. It shows great strength, and in return you get the support and connection that is crucial to aiding in preventing burnout and increase your overall health.

2. Self-care = self-love

You know yourself best. You know what truly fills you up, from the daily little things to big planned trips with family or friends. Taking little steps every day to fill yourself up isn’t self ish. Do something that brings you joy and will help you feel fulfilled. If you know you are happiest when sit ting quietly with a coffee in hand and some reading or music before work, then try to make that a priority. Perhaps it’s going for a walk, doing yoga, meeting with friends a time or two a month for dinner, or taking a bath at the end of the night. Write a list of things you love and enjoy and then add it to your calendar so it actu

ally happens. Ensure you protect this time and make it a priority – you will thank yourself.  At the end of the day you will see the impact it has on your mental health and see the positive impact it has on your family and work.

3. Regular exercise

Research shows exercise and move ment improves mental health by reduc ing anxiety, depression and negative moods, it also helps improve self-esteem and cognitive function. Being active can also help you get better sleep.

4. Avoid comparing yourself to other parents

You are more than enough as a par ent. Everyone is doing her/his best and you have to remember to not compare yourself to others. You can certainly add things you see other parents doing that benefit your family, however, never compare someone else’s life and journey to yours. It is easy to fall into the trap of comparison but all that accomplishes is adding pressure, stress, feelings of inad equacy, steals away joy, and most im portantly takes away the great work and joy that you do as a parent.

5. Do what works for you

Be authentically and unapologeti cally you. No one is a perfect parent and there is no manual to this thing called “parenting.” If you notice you are putting added pressure on yourself to be ‘’the perfect parent’’ remind yourself that there is no such thing. Do

what works for and your family and be confident in those choices.  Most im portant, surround yourself with likeminded parent friends.

6. Don’t forget to breathe

Connect with your breath ing by placing one of your hands on your chest.  This is a way to regu late emotions and connect to the pres ent moment. Doing this helps you feel calm and centers you.  It also helps you focus and think more clear ly, which in turn helps us to respond effectively to stress as opposed to react ing to stressful situations.

7. Meal planning

Food is nourishment and health. I always recommend to parents to try to meal prep and even freeze meals ahead of time if they can. If you can meal prep the week’s worth of meals on a Sunday, it makes the rest of the week run more smoothly. Meal plan ning can save time, money, and ensure your family is eating a well-balanced healthy meal.

8. What you think

Using words of affirmations can help your mindset. What you think and say to yourself can have a direct impact on your life and those around you. Telling yourself positive thoughts can positively impact your life; it can give you feelings of joy, peace, wellbeing, and confidence.  Establishing a daily habit to tell yourself intentional

positive words is key to self-care. A great example is instead of dreading getting up in the morning, be positive and say out loud, “I am grateful for a new day of life,” and then get up and have a great day.

9. Making the time for important relationships

As humans we thrive on connec tions and other people. Parenting can make you feel isolated.  You should make time to see your family and friends. It is also important to look after your relationship with your partner and have “date nights.” Sched ule time in the evening after your children are asleep or go out on a lunch date during the work week to stop and connect and communicate about the day. Making time to nourish your relationships will help increase communication, teamwork and keep you feeling more fulfilled.  Arrange a babysitter and stay present when you are away from your children and con necting with your partner or friends. This will contribute towards healthy relationships as well as reducing stress and burnout.

10. Remember to be kind to yourself!

Quoida Lauzon is a Capital District mom and a Registered Nurse who special izes in maternal and infant health, breast feeding and childbirth education. Connect with her on social media @nurse.q.lauzon or visit nurseq.com.

Center

Education insight for parents

Make a six-month study plan

Don’t cram; prepare for the SAT or ACT by thinking ahead

It’s November, well into the semes ter for high schoolers. SATs and ACTs are a topic of importance and although the spring and sum mer test dates seem far away, they’re actually right around the corner. If your child is contemplating taking the SAT or ACT (or both), it’s wise to have a plan.

A six-month game plan will be useful and build confidence for those kids who have kept up their studies, maintained a relatively decent GPA, and have taken school mostly seriously.

However, for those kids who’ve slacked off and think they can undo freshman/sophomore/junior year slacking, this six-month study plan can help, but it will be time to really buckle down.

For the next six months, make sure your teen:

• Takes the PSAT or PreACT. The Pre-ACT is for sophomores

and PSAT is usually for juniors. Although sometimes the PSAT is also given in sophomore year and then in junior year for PSAT/NMSQT, which means scholarships! These “prelimi nary” tests help test-takers to become familiar with the exams without a lot of pressure, as the scores aren’t official.

If your child is a senior and hasn’t taken the PSAT or Pre-ACT, you can find samples online or ask your guid ance counselor for help.

• Is enrolled in the right class es. Courses that stretch abilities, boost vocabulary, demand lots of writing, and push computing and analytical skills are all good choices.

• Has plenty of support. That means from you, from teachers and counselors, from friends (They’re tak ing the SAT and/or ACT, also, right?), and from study buddies with whom your child prepares for important assignments, projects, and classroom

Continued on Page 7

If your child is a senior and hasn’t taken the PSAT or Pre-ACT, you can find samples online or ask your guidance counselor for help.

T hanksgivingW ishes from the staff at

Family

n Learning Center

continued from Page 6 tests. As the saying goes, it takes a vil lage.

• Maintains good study hab its. Many kids know what good study habits are, they just need us adults to make sure they’re practicing them. But, many teens need to be taught good habits. Remind your son or daughter that good study habits include avoid ing distractions, managing time, being organized, keeping to deadlines, paying attention in class, and getting help when they need it.

• Takes an SAT or ACT prep course if necessary. There are lots to choose from, ranging from private tutoring to small group instruction, to large group lectures. If your child decides to do this, allow for at least eight weeks before test time. Above all, remember many test-prep classes are not about learning the content of subjects that kids have been studying for years. Rather, they’re about learning strategies for test-taking, like know ing how to eliminate distracters in multiple-choice questions, how to read directions strategically and how to pace throughout the sections.

Test-prep classes are the equivalent of athletes’ practices and performers’

rehearsals.

• Doesn’t put off preparing until the final minute. Kids are good at this. That’s why they need parents and teachers to keep them on track. Cram ming is never a good idea for learning. You and your child can sit down together to map out a study schedule. Assign one or two areas to focus on each session and spend the most time on the subjects that he or she feels the most uncertain of. As you get closer to the exam, your child will be grateful for this extra time and can beat anxiety on the big day.

• Puts it all in perspective. Yes, the SAT and ACT are important, but they’re not the only determinant in college/university acceptance. Overall, if your teen can say, “I did my best,” then the whole family should be happy. Remember, colleges/universities are looking at overall GPA, extracur ricular activities, teacher/coach/clergy recommendations and well-written, thoughtful essays. If you and your teen have some colleges/universities in mind, take some time to review what each school looks for in admitting their students.

This article is provided by Syl van Learning of Clifton Park and Albany. For more information, visit SylvanLearning.com.

A six-month game plan will be useful and build confidence for those kids who have kept up their studies , maintained a relatively decent GPA, and have taken school mostly seriously.

However, for those kids who’ve slacked off and think they can undo freshman/ sophomore/junior year slacking, this six-month study plan can help, but it will be time to really buckle down.

Never too young to volunteer

Finding the right fit can inspire a lifetime of giving back

Aristotleonce said the essence of life is “to serve others and do good.”

It’s well documented that volunteerism offers many benefits to those who are recipients of the charitable work as well as the volun teers. According to The Corporation for National & Community Service, one in four Americans volunteers. Volunteers come from all walks of life and various age groups. Nearly one-quarter of all volunteers are people under the age of 24.

Parents and guardians who want to introduce their children to volunteerism may not know when is the right age to do so. Many experts agree that there isn’t a definitive age for children to get involved in volunteering. In fact, no child is too young to volunteer. Joseph F. Hagan Jr., M.D., a clinical profes sor of pediatrics at Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, says helping out during the toddler and preschool years helps shape a child’s

sense of morality.

Rather than wondering if a child is too young to volunteer, adults should focus on finding the right activity to match the child’s age. For example, a 3- or 4-year-old child can fill bags or boxes with donated food or help gather blankets and towels to donate to an animal rescue. However, a toddler or preschooler may not have the stamina to complete a 5K walk.

Volunteerism doesn’t even have to be in the traditional sense of working with an established charity. A youngster can pick flowers from a field and deliver them to an elderly neighbor. Or a pre schooler can invite a child playing alone to come play together. A toddler who loves sorting items can help sort recy cling items at home and watch a parent deliver them to the recycling center.

Another way to engage kids in vol unteer work is to match their interests with the tasks. Many kids can’t get enough of animals, so they may want to help out an animal organization or be

Many experts agree that there isn’t a definitive age for children to get involved in volunteering. In fact, no child is too young to volunteer.

involved with a conservation group. A child can collect change to “adopt” an endangered species.

Kids also can visit a children’s

hospital and deliver gifts to youngsters battling illnesses. In such situations, kids may be more engaged if they can help kids their own ages.

your spot for entertainment

Friday

The Albany Auto Show

Also Saturday and Sunday. New car show featuring more than 25 automotive brands and models from all, showcas ing the latest safety features, options and styling along with exhibitor booths featuring auto-related products and services, 3-7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday; and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $10; free for children under 12. MVP Arena, 51 South Pearl St., Albany. For more information, visit albanyautoshows.com.

6 Sunday

Altamont Craft and Vendor Fair

Support the Altamont Elementary PTA and shop from more than 70 vendors of crafts and other retail vendors, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free admission. Altamont Elementary School, 117 Grand St., Altamont. For more information, call (518) 861-8528.

Festivals of Nations

Enjoy the arts and crafts from different parts of the world; taste delicious ethnic foods; and bepart of the audi ence indulging in the music with rhythm and dances rep resenting various cultures and traditions of the world, 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost is $5 for adults; $2 for kids ages 3-12. Empire State Plaza Convention Center Convention and Cultural Events Office, Empire State Plaza Concourse, Room 120, Albany. For more information, visit www.festivalofnations.ne t.

Music Company Orchestra

Join us for a musical afternoon with this 60-piece volunteer community orches tra. Conducted by Dr. Gerald Lanoue, the orchestra plays a wide range of classical and pops music, 2 p.m. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-

371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

7 Monday Percussion Ensembles at Brown School

ESYO’s Percussion En sembles come together for an exciting evening of folk songs, masterpieces, and contempo rary percussion music, 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $28. Brown School, 150 Corlaer Ave., Sche nectady. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit esyo.org.

Day Books

Discuss “The Feather Thief: Beauty, Obsession, and the Natural History Heist of the Century” by Kirk Wallace John son, 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.

Barns of the Hudson Valley

Ted Hilscher will talk about identifying the barns and associated outbuildings of the Hudson Valley, 7 p.m. Registration is not required, but is advised due to limited seating. This series of historical talks is presented through a partnership with the Town of Bethlehem Historical Associa tion. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518439-9314 or visit bethlehemp ubliclibrary.org.

8 Tuesday

Shaker Heritage Holiday Market

Through Sunday. Traditional Holiday Fair promotes the holi day spirit with regional artisans featuring handmade pottery, jewelry, fiber, artisan foods and much more, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Shaker Heritage Society, 25 Meeting House Road, Al bany. For more information, call (518) 456-7890, ext. 4 or visit home.shakerheritage.org.

Dungeons and Dragons

Join us for a night of laughs,

Pick of the month

mental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. For more information call (518) 475-0291 or visit www.dec. ny.gov/education/1835.html.

Lunchtime Documentaries: ‘Summer of Soul’

Take and Make: Thanksgiving Beaded Turkey

Pumpkin Décor

Join us in creating beautiful artistic colorized paper 3D pumpkins, 1:30 p.m. The tech niques can be used to create a different size. For ages 18 and up; registration required. Arbor Hill/West Hill library branch, 148 Henry Johnson Blvd, Albany. For more information, call (518) 427-4300 ext. 2 or e-mail arborhillhelp@albany publiclibrary.org.

critical thinking, improvisation and role playing. All playing materials will be provided, but feel free to bring your own dice or D&D 5th Edition Character Sheet, 6:30 p.m. For adults; be ginners welcome. Registration is required. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

ZOOM: PJ Story Time

We’ll read “Harry the Dirty Dog” by Gene Zion, 7 p.m. If your child has this book, we encourage you to have it handy to read along. Or stop by the Library and check out a copy. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

9 Wednesday

Connecting Threads Quilt Group

Informal gathering of those interested in quilting. Share projects and get inspired by

Nov. 10

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 518371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Journaling for Adults

Whether it’s in a notebook, blog, or sketchpad, journaling can help you lead a whole and fulfilling life, as well as be a way to keep track of goals, your life activities, and dreams, 6:30 p.m. Attend in person at the library or from home. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

10 Thursday

Five Rivers: Early Morning Bird Walk

Join us as we monitor the birds at Five Rivers, 8 a.m. Meet outside the visitor center. After a brief introduction, we’ll head out on the trails. Beginners are welcome. Five Rivers Environ

Join us for an afternoon screening of 2021’s “Summer of Soul” directed by Ahmir Questlove Thompson. This music documentary explores and reclaims the legacy of the six-week 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, 1 p.m. Bethlehem Pub lic Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Foreign Film: ‘Honeyland’ (2019)

The last female bee-hunter in Europe must save the bees and return the natural balance in Honeyland, when a family of nomadic beekeepers invade her land and threaten her livelihood, 6:30 p.m. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

11 Friday

Tiny House Craft

Craft a little house for play or display in this drop-off pro gram for grade schooler ages 5 and up, 11 a.m. The Wonder Room, 896 Saratoga Road, Ballston Lake. Registration is required; cost is $10.70. For more information, visit www. thewonderroomschool.com or call (518) 602-0237.

Fall Nature Walks at Rowland Hollow Creek Preserve

Also Saturday. Walks have been developed and will be led by Environmental Education and Conservation interns, 10:30 a.m. Registration is required. Rowland Hollow Creek Preserve, 703-829 Grand Ave., Saratoga Springs. For more information or to register, visit the Wilton Preserve & Park’s website at www. wiltonpreserve.org or call (518) 450-0321.

Start the preparations for Thanksgiving early with this fun beaded turkey craft. *Please register each child individually by noon Nov. 9. For grades 1-5. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org

Art for All: Drop-In Art Making

Also Saturday. Enjoy your visit to the museum and create an art activity inspired by the exhibitions and collections, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Free with museum admission. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit www.albany institute.org

12 Saturday

Albany Symphony: Ravishing Rachmaninoff

Featuring the Albany Sym phony Orchestra, conducted by David Alan Miller, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $20. Palace Per forming Arts Center, 19 Clinton Ave., Albany. For more informa tion, call (518) 465-3335 or visit www.palacealbany.org.

Family Fun: Fall Treasure Hunt

What’s more fun than searching for hidden treasures outdoors? Let’s think like squirrels as we hide and seek for things in nature’s nooks and crannies. We will also bring out our inner pirates as we practice using a simple map on the trails to see if “X” really does mark the spot, 10 a.m. For children ages 5-8, with an adult. Space is limited; reserva tions required. Five Rivers En vironmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. For more information call (518) 475-0291 or visit www.dec. ny.gov/education/1835.html.

Calendar

Family Fun: Geocaching Adventure

Join us for a fun geocache treasure hunt on the trails. No experience required, but please bring a smart phone with the official geocaching app already downloaded (www.geocach ing.com/play.), 2 p.m. For children ages 9 and up, with an adult. Space is limited; reserva tions required. Five Rivers En vironmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. For more information call (518) 475-0291 or visit www.dec. ny.gov/education/1835.html.

Road to Reading Story Time

We will provide tips, read ing strategies, and activities to support your child on their reading journey, 2 p.m. A story time followed by age-appropri ate activities designed to sup port early literacy. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more informa tion, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

DIY Sugar Scrubs for Teens

Make a sugar scrub at the Library. Save it for yourself or give as a holiday gift, 2 p.m. For grades 6-12. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more informa tion, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Native Plant Seed Swap Social

The seed swap is free op tion and there will be a bake sale featuring baked goods with native ingredients, as well as arts and crafts using some of our favorite native plants so bring the entire family, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Helderberg Room at the John Boyd Thacher State Park Visitor Center, 830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit capi talregionny.wildones.org/ seed-swap.

13 Sunday Musicians of Ma’alwyck Presents

Gainsborough’s Secret Passion

Presenting music of Abel, Kammel, Fischer, and others in Thomas Gainsborough’s circle of musicians and friends, with a curated presentation of Gainsborough’s paintings of musicians and performers, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets are $40 general admission/$10 for students. Schuyler Mansion New York State Historic Site, 32 Catherine St., Albany. For more information visit musiciansof maalwyck.org/home.

La Serpiente

A performance by an inde pendent contemporary dance company based out of Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico that is a convergence of movement and the aesthetic vision of the group’s members, 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $10-$20. UAlbany Performing Arts Center, 1400 Washington Ave, Albany. For more information, call (518) 442-3995 or visit www.albany. edu/pac.

14 Monday Mad Science Machines

Using pulleys and levers, your young engineer will design, problem-solve, and have a whole lot of fun building their own cool Mad Science machine, 4:15 p.m. For grades K-2. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more informa tion, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Brixology Machines

Learn how gears, levers, and pulleys are useful tools for mechanical engineers. Combine them with art and design to create a motorized drawing machine, 5:30 p.m. For grades 3-5. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more informa tion, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Craft & Color for Adults

Choose between coloring or doing an open-ended craft ac tivity, 11 a.m. This program is

Pick of the month Nov. 26

movies, and take photos, 9 a.m. This program is intended for participants that are new to, or considering purchasing, an Android device (Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, etc.).

Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Famous Bears in Literature Book Club

3 and up and one adult. The Wonder Room, 896 Saratoga Road, Ballston Lake. For more information, visit www. thewonderroomschool.com or call (518) 602-0237.

Own Voices Book Group

Albany Wine Festival

Sample wines and spirits from near and far. Food will be available to purchase and eat on site as well as to sample. Whether you’re join ing the free paint and sip attraction or playing other games, you’ll find fun, unique things to do, 1-9 p.m. Tickets start at $28. Albany Capital Center, 55 Eagle St., Albany. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit albanywinefest.net.

specifically designed for adults of all abilities. Bethlehem Pub lic Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

An Afternoon at the Lloyd

Learn about the Lloyd Library’s history and collections from its beginnings in the 1870s to the present, 2:30 p.m.

The Lloyd Library and Museum, located in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a world-renowned independent research library and exhibit space devoted to bringing sci ence, art, and history to life. It advocates for education in plant-based science, medicine, conservation, art, and history. Attend in person at the library or from home. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more informa tion, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

15 Tuesday

Culture Series: St. Frances X Cabrini

Mother Cabrini, Patron of Immigrants, was born in Italy, became an American citizen, and was the first citizen of the United States to be canonized a Saint. This presentation reviews her lifetime dedication to help ing the poor – especially newly arriving Italian immigrants, 1 p.m. Event is free with $5 museum admission. American Italian Heritage Association and Museum, 1227 Central Ave., Albany. For more information visit americanitalianmuseum. org or call (518) 435-1979.

Using an Android Phone or Tablet

Learn how to connect with people, surf the web, check email, play games, watch

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

Shaker Heritage Holiday Market

Through Sunday. Traditional Holiday Fair promotes the holi day spirit with regional artisans featuring handmade pottery, jewelry, fiber, artisan foods and much more, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Shaker Heritage Society, 25 Meeting House Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-7890, ext. 4 or visit home.shakerheritage.org.

American Red Cross Blood Drive

Call 1-800-RED-CROSS or go to www.redcrossblood. org for more information and to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins welcome, 1-6 p.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518439-9314 or visit bethlehemp ubliclibrary.org.

16 Wednesday

Mixing It Up with Ms. Chris

Using themed and seasonal items we will create our very own sensory kits.  At the end of this class you will have recipes, doughs and props that will keep those little minds and fingers busy for hours, 2 p.m. Registration is required; cost is $21.40 and is for one child age

Discuss “The Undocumented Americans” by Karla Cornejo Villavicencio, 7 p.m. New members welcome. Registra tion required. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Access Consumer Reports Online

Learn more about using this free resource to research consumer reviews and product ratings, 1 p.m. All you need is your library card. Registration required. Attend in person at the library or from home. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

17 Thursday

Nutcracker! Magic of Christmas Ballet

Gather friends and family to re-live your fondest child hood dreams, overflowing with larger-than-life puppets, breath-taking acrobatics and dazzling costumes. Experience the exquisite artistry of the international cast, featur ing stars of Ukraine ballet, performing at the highest level of classical technique, 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. Tickets cost $30 and up. Palace Performing Arts Center, 19 Clinton Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 465-3335 or visit www. palacealbany.org.

Urban Permaculture

Explore ecologically beneficial practices that we can bring to our landscapes, yards, gardens or apartments, 4:30 p.m. Albany Public Library, Howe Branch, 105 Schuyler St., Albany. For more information, call (518) 427-4300.

Culture Series: Tribes Hill Heritage Center

Marjorie Ann Dancing Wind Handcock, founder and chairwoman of the Tribes Hill

Center, will talk about Native American culture and history in the Mohawk Valley, 7 p.m. Event is free with $5 museum admission. Ameri can Italian Heritage Association and Museum, 1227 Central Ave., Albany. For more information visit americanitalianmuseum.org or call (518) 435-1979.

Scrabble and Chess Night

out for an evening of word-building

playing Scrabble with friends and neighbors,

6:30 p.m. If Scrabble isn’t your thing, we’ll have a chess board available too. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-3718622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Bilingual Family Story Time

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

Therapy Dogs for Teens

Come alone or with a friend, 5:30 p.m. For teens in grades 6-12 only.  Registra tion required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

18 Friday 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.

Fall Nature Walks at Rowland Hollow Creek Preserve

Walks have been developed and will be led by Environmental Education and Conservation interns, 10:30 a.m. Registration is required. Rowland Hollow Creek Preserve, 703-829 Grand Ave., Saratoga Springs. For more information or to register, visit the Wilton Preserve & Park’s website at www.wiltonpreserve.org or call (518) 450-0321.

Take and Make: Leaf Suncatchers

A fun fall activity for our littlest friends, these leaf-shaped suncatchers are a craft classic. *Please register each child individually by noon Nov. 16. For ages 0-6 with caregiver. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-4399314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

19 Saturday Jigsaw Puzzle Swap

Looking for a new challenge? Bring gently used, 500+ piece complete jigsaw puzzles to swap with the library’s collection. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-3718622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Capital of New York State Black Expo Day

CNYS Black Expo will provide a forum to build relationships and exchange information, encouraging collaboration and new business prospects across New York State, as well as inspire cultural and local pride via exhibits, workshops, presentations and performances by youth, change makers and positive figures from the Capital District and beyond, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets are $10 and up. MVP Arena, 51 South Pearl St., Albany. For more information, visit www.cnysblackexpo.com.

Community Yoga

Enjoy a gentle and grounding communitylevel yoga class designed for yoga practitioners of any skill level, 2:30 p.m. Dan May brings Jai Yoga School’s Bhakti yoga practice which includes song, cultural information and stories. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-4399314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Volunteer Fair

This informational fair will pair local nonprofit agencies and organizations with teens who would like to volunteer their time, 1-3 p.m. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

518-439-9314

bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Monday

UAlbany Jazz Band

Pray, this student and community ensemble presents concerts featur ing classic and contemporary jazz, 8 p.m. Tickets cost $3-$10. UAlbany Performing Arts Center, 1400 Washington Ave, Albany. For more information, call (518) 442-3995 or visit www. albany.edu/pac.

Demystifying Shakespeare: Henry IV, Part 2

Tom Bulger, Shakespeare Scholar and retired professor from Sienna College, will lead a lively discussion of one of Shakespeare’s most beloved plays, 6 p.m. This five-session program will run from November 21 to December 19, with a different act discussed each week. Attend in person or online. Registration required. Clifton

Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

22 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 ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-3718622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Teen Book Club

Come hang out, discuss our monthly book selection or any book you want to, 7:30 p.m. Have a snack, make a craft, and just be you. Registration required. For grades 9-12. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Shaker Heritage Holiday Market

Through Sunday. Traditional Holiday Fair promotes the holiday spirit with regional artisans featuring handmade pottery, jewelry, fiber, artisan foods and much more, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Shaker Heritage Society, 25 Meeting House Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-7890, ext. 4

or visit home.shakerheritage.org.

23 Wednesday

Last Waltz on Lark Street

Join us for an all-star cast of area musicians paying tribute to the music of The Band, 8 p.m. Tickets are $18.67. Lark Hall, 351 Hudson Ave., Albany. Visit larkhallalbany.com or call (518) 599-5804 for more information.

24 Thursday

Our Towne Bethlehem Turkey Trot

Proceeds from the 5K race go to the Beth lehem Community Fund, a not-for-profit that provides assistance for medical care, food and shelter in addition to sponsoring the BCSD Back Pack Program, 9 a.m. Cost is $34. American Legion, 16 West Poplar Drive Delmar. Register online at www.ourtownebethlehem.com.

28 Monday

Monday Matinee: ‘Sunset Boulevard’

This classic film (1950, not rated, 110 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.

29 Tuesday

Cross-stitched Tree Ornament

Join us as we begin the holiday season by mak ing a cross-stitched Christmas tree hoop ornament, 2-3 p.m. For ages 18 and up; must have cross-stitch experience. Registration required. Schenectady County Public Library, 99 Clinton St #2, Sche nectady. For more information, visit scpl.org or call (518) 386-2247.

Shaker Heritage Holiday Market

Through Sunday. Traditional Holiday Fair promotes the holiday spirit with regional artisans featuring handmade pottery, jewelry, fiber, artisan foods and much more, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Shaker Heritage Society, 25 Meeting House Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-7890, ext. 4 or visit home.shakerheritage.org.

30 Wednesday The Many Faces of American Folk Art

Explore Folk Art objects created by crafts men-turned-artists, 7 p.m. This series of histori cal talks is presented through a partnership with the Town of Bethlehem Historical Association. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-4399314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

robertsk@spotlightnews.com

Charity Navigator has curated a list of highly rated organizations that provide a variety of services to military members and their families.

Give smart

Website highlights charities that support veterans, active military and their families

• Operation Second Chance (opera tionsecondchance.org)

• Wounded Warrior Project (wound edwarriorproject.org)

• Yellow Ribbon Fund (yellowrib bonfund.org)

Military Social Services

who want to donate

a charitable organization with a military-related mission may not know where to start, and that can be daunt ing given the number of organizations that fit that criteria. Charity Navigator indicates there are more than 40,000 American charities with militaryrelated missions, which underscores how difficult it can be to find one to support. Thankfully, Charity Naviga tor, which has provided donors with free access to data, tools and resources to guide their philanthropic decisionmaking since 2001, has curated a list of highly rated organizations that provide a variety of services to military mem bers and their families.

The following is a brief rundown of that list that can serve as a solid founda tion for prospective donors. The full list can be found at charitynavigator.org.

Wounded Troops

• Air Warrior Courage Foundation (airwarriorcourage.org)

• DAV (Disabled American Veterans)

• Charitable Service Trust (cst.dav.org)

• Fisher House Foundation (fisher house.org)

• Higher Ground (highergroundusa. org)

• Homes for Our Troops (hfotusa.org)

• K9s for Warriors (k9sforwarriors.org)

• AMVETS National Service Foun dation (amvetsnsf.org)

• Hire Heroes USA (hireheroesusa. org)

• Honor Flight Network (honor flight.org)

• Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (iava.org)

• Operation Gratitude (operation gratitude.com)

• Operation Healing Forces (opera tionhealingforces.org)

• Soldiers’ Angels (soldiersangels.org)

• The Mission Continues (mission continues.org)

Military Family Support

• Army Emergency Relief (armyemer gencyrelief.org)

• Blue Star Families (bluestarfam.org)

• Children of Fallen Patriots Founda tion (fallenpatriots.org)

• Folds of Honor (foldsofhonor.org)

• Operation Homefront (operation homefront.org)

• Our Military Kinds (ourmili tarykids.org)

• Travis Manion Foundation (travis manion.org)

• VFW National Home for Children (vfwnationalhome.org

6 Clifton Common Court, Clifton Park

383-1343

For information about cur rent services and programs, please visit cliftonpark.org/index.php/ser vices/senior-services/senior-center.

Membership is available for $20.

Mondays: Game room activities, tap dance, jazz dance, chair yoga, beginner clogging, intermediate clogging, discus sion group, Rummikub, quilt ing 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, in vestment group, ukulele group, dice games, social bridge, bowl ing, 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, jew elry 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 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 old ies. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza

Mondays at 1 p.m.: PAINT AND SIP

It’s time to laugh a lot, paint a bit and say hello to good times. Create colorful memo ries while socializing and hav ing fun with friends. Westview Homes Community Room, 680 Central Ave., Albany Mondays at 1 p.m.: MAHJONGG

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

Mondays at 1 p.m.: BOOK CLUB

Zoom and Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza

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

Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza, Cohoes Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m.: HOLIDAY CRAFT CLASS 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

Watervliet Senior Center, 1501 Broadway, Watervliet Tuesdays at 1 p.m.: ARTS & CRAFTS

Have a project that you are working on? Need a little help or advice? Come join other to work on your project, we can share ideas, make memories and just have fun. Westview Homes Community Room, 680 Central Ave., Albany 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 de veloped in the 19th century in China. Watervliet Senior Center,

1501 Broadway, Watervliet

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

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

Wednesdays at noon: THE BEAU-KNITTERS

The Beau-Knitters are a live ly group of people who enjoy knitting and crocheting.  All experience levels are welcome.  Come for lunch and stay for the creating!  Call Beth at 518235-2420 for more informa tion. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza

on Page 17

In an effort to adapt to significant changes in printing and distribution costs Capital District

is now printed in a slightly larger tabloid format, (returning to its original size when we started publishing news about the family 25 years ago). This newer size brings more opportunities to add content and grow.

Even better, Family Now is automatically mailed to 14,000 homes in the Capital District on the first

CAPITAL

Wednesday of every month in addition to 12,000 at pick up 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.

Clifton Park Senior Community Center

at 1 p.m.:

cards and

Senior Center,

Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.:

older man looking for a place to be yourself and meet with other

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

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 CO HOES PUBLIC LIBRARY

Come for lunch and stay for a mov ie! 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

***

Tuesday, Nov. 8, at 10 a.m.: SENIOR LEGAL AID SOCIETY

Get one on one legal advice. Cohoes Senior Center, 10 Cayuga Plaza

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 (Nov. 1 and 15)

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 (Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29)

Noon: Gershon’s, BYOL and coffee service

1 p.m.: MVP Chair Moves (Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29)

1 p.m.: Chair Aerobics (Nov. 22 and 29)

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  (Nov. 3, 10 and 17)

Exercise Update

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

Mondays at 12:30 p.m.: CDPHP Chair Pilates, in house and via Zoom (Nov. 7, 14, 21and 28)

Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.: CDPHP Gentle Yoga (Nov. 2, 9, 16 and 30)

Some classes remain available on Zoom with a couple in-house. You can email Edie for registration, dates and times at ecannizzo@niskayuna.org. Pi lates, 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

Nov. 1: Fall Fest Meal (pre-order) at noon and entertainment at 12:30 p.m.

Nov. 3: Book Group at 11 a.m. discussing “Lost Roses” by Martha Hall Kelly; November Birthday Celebration

Nov. 4: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group at 11 a.m.

Nov. 8: Blood Pressure Clinic by St Peter’s Health Partners at 11 a.m.

Nov. 10: Invitation to chat about Medicare Open Enrollment at 11 a.m.

Nov. 12: Collage Workshop in Matisse style from10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., $30

Nov. 15: Coffee with a Cop at 10:30 a.m.

Nov 19: AAA Defensive Driving Class from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Call (518) 761-6058 to register.

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

Social Security Corner

Medicare Part B changes coming

month after you sign up if you sign up during the last three months of your IEP.

Before this change, if you signed up during the last three months of your IEP, your Medicare Part B coverage started two to three months after you enrolled.

are eligible at

months before your

includes the month of your 65th birthday, and ends three months after your 65th birthday.

you are automati

if you sign up during the first three months of your IEP, your

your

by Elizabeth Pivonka

will start the month you’re first eligible. If you sign up the month you turn 65, your coverage will start the first day of the following month. This won’t change with the new rule.

What is changing:

Starting Jan. 1, 2023, your Medicare Part B coverage starts the first day of the

If you don’t sign up for Medicare Part B during your IEP, you have another chance each year dur ing the General Enrollment Period (GEP). The GEP lasts from Jan. 1 through March 31. Starting Jan. 1, 2023, your coverage starts the first day of the month after you sign up.

You can learn more about these updates on our Medicare webpage at www.ssa.gov/ medicare and our Medicare publication at www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10043.pdf.

Please pass this information along to someone who may need it.

The writer is with the Social Security Administration in Albany.

let the stairs

Starting Jan. 1, 2023, your Medicare Part B coverage starts the first day of the month after you sign up if you sign up during the last three months of your IEP.

what you can expect

Retiring Retirement

He’s just getting started

Author says the most productive time in life is from 60-80

You would think that a 93-year-old man who has sold 27 million books would be a man of many words.

Actually, Jack Countryman is a master of brevity.

His best-selling daily devotionals are sometimes but a half-page long and that’s within the parameters of a petite night-table book. Most devotional books are divided into 365 readings and are usually accompanied by scrip ture.

Besides having published over 80 books and written 35 himself, he’s had the privilege of having his own imprint division.

But more than anything else, the outstanding aspect of Countryman’s writing career is that it didn’t start until he was 55.

“When you’re young, you’re so full of yourself,” he said. “In order for me to be productive, I have to have my re lationship with The Lord in order,” said

Countryman. “God really gives me all of the inspirations that I get and all the topics that I write on and without him I’m lost.”

Countryman’s grand entrance onto the stage of publishing happened when he organized specific subjects and put them into a handy, short book so that it would be easy to identify what The Bible has to say about that particular topic.

“It’s a ‘What-ToDo-When’ book,” he said. “It topically meets the needs of people. For example, it’s what The Bible has to say about sadness, fear, mental anguish, grief, doubt, peace, patience, joy and all the things we are seeking and wondering about in life. It’s really a phenomenon. Through this project, I discovered that people really do want to know what God has promised them.”

readers 10-100 years of age, he has a knack for encouraging pre-retirees and seniors. Countryman draws from his own life and hands off wisdom and confidence to those who entering the “What-To-Do-In-My-Senior-Years” phase.

by Robert LaCosta

“If you’re 55 or 60,” he said, “you are being prepared for the greatest event of your life because from 60-80 you’ll accomplish more than you did in the first 60 years of your life if you give yourself the opportunity. And why? Because you’ve learned and you’ve prepared and have the answers now. You’ll be able to do now what you weren’t able to do before.

life all came after 60.”

Countryman’s writing and confi dence comes from within.

“Life is full of experiences,” he said. “Those experiences are training you to solve life’s problems. I don’t have much worry now. I’ve discovered most of the answers. I have a certain peace that passes all understanding be cause my experiences in life have given me the knowledge to understand what my relationship is to myself, my fellow man and my relationship to God.

While his devotionals are good for

“That may go against the grain, but you’ve made all the mistakes. You know you’ve got the answers to life and I say, ‘Put it to use.’ I’ve found the most creative things I’ve developed in

“Life is a zinger. Life is challeng ing. Life is thrilling if you just want to hang on to it. You have so many things in front of you to explore and to think about that you just don’t want to go to pasture and hang it all up to sit on the couch and watch TV all day. What? I say, ‘No way!’”

Robert J. LaCosta’s daily devotional and new podcast called “The Age Sage” are free and available by writing norep com@gmail.com.

FREEDOM. TO BE YOU.

If you think oxygen therapy means slowing down, it’s time for a welcome breath of fresh air.

Introducing the Inogen One family of portable oxygen systems. With no need for bulky tanks, each concentrator is designed to keep you active via Inogen’s Intelligent Delivery Technology.® Hours of quiet and consistent oxygen flow on a long-lasting battery charge enabling freedom of movement, whether at home or on the road. Every Inogen One meets FAA requirements for travel ensuring the freedom to be you.

5 Stars Makes Choosing the Right Medicare Plan Easy