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Bulletin BoardAMAZING AMARYLLIS

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rensselaer County will offer the class “Amazing Amaryllis” on Thursday, January 30, at 7:00 PM at the Extension offi ce in Troy. Linda Ford, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rensselaer County Master Gardener, will illustrate the beauty of these exquisite fl owers with her photographs, share interesting historical background, and provide you with details on care and cultivation so that you will enjoy your amaryllis bulbs for many years to come. Program fee is $6.00 per person. For registration information, please call Marcie at (518) 272-4210 or email mmp74@cornell.edu.

SLCA - CIRCLE THEATRE PLAYERS PRESENTS “ALMOST, MAINE”

Join us at the Sand Lake Center for the Arts as Circle Theatre Players presents the funny, feel good production “Almost, Maine”. Written by John Cariani, directed by Cheryl Charbonneau, it begins on a cold, clear moonless night in the middle of winter. All is not quite what it seems in the remote, mythical town of Almost, Maine. As the Northern Lights hover in the star-fi lled sky above, Almost’s residents fi nd themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and often hilarious ways. Knees are bruised. Hearts are broken. But the bruises heals, and the hearts mend-almost-in this delightful midwinter night’s dream. Opening on Jan. 24 with additionalperformances on Jan. 25, 30, 31, Feb. 1 at 8 pm and Sunday, Jan. 26 and Feb. 2 at 2:30 pm. Tickets are $16 adults, $10 students under 18. Reservations can be made at 518-674-2007 or www.slca-ctp.org. SLCA is located at 2880 NY 43, Averill Park, NY, is fully handicapped accessible, and has plenty of free parking.

ENJOY THE “BLUES” on a “RED HEART” NIGHT with “HOLLY AND EVAN” at SLCA

Sand Lake Center for the Arts presents the Annual February Benefi t Concert on Friday, February 14, at 8pm. This special Valentine’s Day Concert will feature the ever- popular and talented duo “Holly and Evan” in a return engagement concert. Both Holly and Evan hail from long, rich musical backgrounds, and have updated the tradition of the Barrelhouse with their unique style. Together, they showcase a wide range of original and cover material in the styles of Blues, Jazz and Soul. The originals are catchy, with a lot of personality, and special appeal to audiences everywhere! So, come on out and join us for a great time on this fun-fi lled night with good music, dancing, special eats and treats, along with a cash wine and beer bar. The concert, along with eats and treats is $20 pp and reservations can be made at 518-674-2007 or www.slca-ctp.org. The SLCA is located at 2880 NY 43, Averill Park, NY. There is plenty of free parking.

SISTER ACT AT PROCTOR’SThe Parish of St. John the Evangelist & St. Joseph, 50 Herrick Street in Rensselaer is sponsoring a bus trip to Sister Act at Proctor’s on February 20th, 8:00PM performance. The cost is $75.00 which includes bus transportation and dinner before. Dinner begins at 5:30PM. The bus will leave at 6:30PM. For additional information, and to reserve your ticket, please call Linda at 465-0932.

JIM SNACK IS BACK AT SLCACome one, come all to a magical show, featuring our favorite magician - Jim Snack! On Saturday, February 22, at 1pm, one performance only will be held. A workshop with a magical goodie bag immediately follows the show. Tickets are $6. prepaid (go to the website for more details) or $8 at the door. The workshop is an additional $6.The Sand Lake Center for the Arts is handicap accessible, and features expanded parking. Ticket purchases and reservations can be made at www.slca-ctp.org or call 518-674-2007 for more information. The SLCA is located at 2880 NY 43, Averill Park, NY.

WILDLIFE TRACKING SERIES at DYKEN POND CENTER

A Wildlife Tracking series continues at the Dyken Pond Environmental Education Center during February. Dan Yacobellis, local naturalist and tracker will be leading these events: Sunday, February 2, Family Friendly Tracking from 9:30- 12:30pm or 1pm – 3:30pm. $15. Sunday, February 9, Tracking with a focus on fi shers. 9:30 – 3:30. $20. Both programs offer a $5 discount for members, students and seniors. Winter is more enjoyable when you can discover movements of the animals around you. Common tracks found include red and grey fox, fi sher, otter, porcupine and weasels.Pre-registration is required and space is limited. Please register by contacting Lisa at dykenpond@fairpoint.net or (518) 658-2055.The Dyken Pond Center is a Rensselaer County Park open daily during daylight hours for hiking, fi shing. cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Call 658-2055 or visit the website www.dykenpond.org for more information, directions and a complete schedule of our winter events-

NATURE WRITING WORKSHOPS at DYKEN POND CENTER

Paying Attention Among the Trees: A Winter Walk and Nature Writing Experience will be held on Sunday, February 16 and March 16 from 1pm – 3pm. Diane Kavanaugh-Black will lead participants on a meditative woodland walk, followed by writing with intention in a cozy, wood-stove-heated cabin. This workshop will inspire the creative process, whether you are a novice or already working on your own writing project. Sign-up for one or both sessions. $15. $12 for members. Pre-registration is required for both workshops and space is limited, so register early. Please contact the Center for more information at 658-2055 or dykenpond@fairpoint.net or visit our website at www.dykenpond.org. The Dyken Pond Center is a Rensselaer County Park open daily during daylight hours for fi shing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCHHope United Methodist Church has worship each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. along with Sunday School for children in pre-school through grade 5. Hope ALIVE! is at 5:30 p.m. and celebrates the Good News through Praise Music & Worship. For information about Hope UMC, contact Pastor Dave Martin at 518-279-1403 or hopeumctroy@juno.com. The worship center is located at the corner of Route 2 and Garfi eld Road in Eagle Mills (Town of Brunswick).

ST. STEPHEN’S TO HOLD ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING

St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, 751 County Route 7, directly off of Route 150 in East Schodack, will hold its Annual Congregational Meeting on Sunday, January 26, at 12 noon - immediately following our 11 am Worship Service.We require a quorum to vote on the 2014 budget, an important property issue and to elect new church council members. If you were a contributing and communing member of record over 2013, we hope you will join us. Congregation members are encouraged to attend and bring a covered dish to share for lunch.

EMMANUEL REFORMED CHURCH WELCOMES PASTOR DIRK GIESER

It is with great excitement and anticipation that the congregation of the Emmanuel Reformed Church will be led in worship for the fi rst time by our new pastor, Dirk Gieser. Recognizing the importance of this moment in the life of the church and the entire community, the congregation would like to extend an invitation to the public to join us for this special

and joyous event on Sunday, January 26th, at the Emmanuel Reformed Church, 1150 Maple Hill Road, Castleton, NY at 9:30 a.m. We also invite the public to join us after the service for coffee and snacks where there will be an opportunity to meet Pastor Dirk and his family and welcome them to our community. We hope to see you there!

CHURCH OF THE COVENANT WELCOMES THE COMMUNITY TO WORSHIP!

• Sunday, Jan. 26th - 8:30 am Communion and Worship; 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages. 10:30 am Worship with choir and organ. Professional child care provided.Pastor Merry is on spiritual leave for Jan. and Feb.; Rev. Bob Long will be leading worship in her place.Church Offi ce hours are 8:30 am - 1:30 pm, Monday through Friday. The Church of the Covenant, United Methodist, is the round church near the blinker in Averill Park. Phone 674-3664, E-mail: coc3in1@nycap.rr.com

AN ASSURANCE FOR ALL SEASONSOn Sunday, January 26, 2014, the Nassau and Stuyvesant Reformed Churches will examine the intent of the writer of Psalm 27 assuring us of the Lord’s protection as we come to fear our enemies. Enemies here represents emotions, trials, temptations, sorrow and trouble- anything that brings us fear. God “will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble; he will conceal me under the cover of his tent, he will set me high upon a rock,” says the psalmist. In the sermon titled, “An Assurance for All Seasons,” the Reverend Edward L. Van Kampen will speak to the many situations about us that cause us to fear- economic setback or loss, the future and what change holds for us, losing loved ones, and being separated from friends; and he’ll talk about how assurance of God’s love and care can be a stronghold for living, even in the midst of trouble. The Nassau Reformed Church begins worship at 11 am. in its chapel at 43 Church Street (route 20), one half mile east of the only traffi c light in the village. The Stuyvesant Reformed Church begins worship at 9 a.m. in its sanctuary, just south of the only caution light in the hamlet of Stuyvesant.

WORSHIP HOURS at ST. PAUL’S UMCSunday Hours at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 1583 Carney Road, Castleton: 9:30 - Sunday Morning Service; 10:30 - Coffee Hour; 5:45 - Informal Dinner - optional healthy covered dish; 6:30 - Casual Evening Worship Service.

WORSHIP AT GILEAD LUTHERANGilead Lutheran invites you to join us in worshiping Christ each Sunday at 11AM. We are located on Brick Church Rd, (Rte 278) and Hoosick Rd (Rte 7) in Center Brunswick. Sunday School is conducted the 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month. Our building is Handicapped Accessible by elevator. For information, call the church at 279-9270.

NEW COMMUNITY CHURCH AT SNYDER’S LAKE

You’re invited! Come and worship at the new Snyder’s Lake Community Church. Now meeting in the old chapel at Camp Scully, located at 24 Camp Scully Way in Wynantskill. Our non-denominational Christian service is held Sunday mornings at 10AM. For more info, please contact snyderslakechurch@gmail.com. All are welcome, come grow with us!

CAFE THEOCafe Theo is an informal gathering of people from all walks of life who seek an understanding about the big questions in life. We engage in conversation on moral, philosophical, and spiritual topics. Some recent topics discussed include revenge/mercy, nature of the soul, and

symbolism. We welcome all points of view and religious perspective, and our common ground honors freedom of conscience in respectful conversation. We invite you to join us for an evening of engaging discussion, music, and a period of refl ection. Refreshments are provided. We meet every 1st and 3rd Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Methodist Church, 1583 Carney Road, Castleton.

LOVE LUTHERAN CHURCHAlthough we have only Hollywood movies as a source, it is not unlikely that when the kings and queens of old entered their throne room, trumpeters heralded their arrival. A richly attired court offi cial would pound the fl oor with a long ceremonial pole announcing that their majesty’s had arrived. Although he did not use a trumpet, nor a staff, Jesus proclaimed that the Kingdom of God had arrived. Where?Join us at Love Lutheran Church this Sunday as we rediscover the location of God’s Kingdom through a sermon entitled, “The Kingdom is here” based on Mark 1: 14-15. Love Lutheran Church is located at Middlesex Road and Pheasant Lane in East Greenbush. Worship begins at 10 AM. Please go to our new website http://www.lovelutheran.net/ – for more information and directions, or call 477-8685.

ONE NIGHT WITH YOU ALL ELVIS/ALL NIGHT

On Saturday, January 25th, The Sons of The American Legion will be hosting Johnny Rabb and The Jailhouse Rockers with special guests, performing all your Elvis favorites. This is our largest fundraising event of the year, and as part of The Legion Family, our main goal is to raise funds aimed at improving the quality of life for our nation’s children. Advance tickets are available at The American Legion, 111 Main Ave., Wynantskill for $10.00 each prior to 1/11, after 1/11 $12.00. Also, limited seating is available with a reserved table of eight. Doors open at 6:30PM with music 7:30 - 11:30PM. Supporters can enjoy drink specials and are welcome to bring their own food/snacks. This event has sold out the past three years so reserve early. Please join us for a Rockin’ good time for a Rockin’ good cause. For more info, call Bill at 441-0013.

CASTLETON - SCHODACK KIWANIS CLUB CHICKEN BARBECUE DINNERS

The Castleton - Schodack Kiwanis Club will be selling Chicken Barbecue Dinners on Sunday, January 26, to raise monies for its community service programs. The cost of the dinners is $9.00, and the dinners may be picked up from 12:00 noon to 5:00 P.M. at the Castleton Volunteer Fire Company in Castleton. For more information, or to order the dinners, call 732-2225. Walk-ins are welcomed.

ENJOY A SHORT STACK FOR A TALL CAUSE

You’re invited to an Applebee’s Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast to Support SPRING YOUTH BASEBALL on Saturday, January 25th, from 8AM to 10AM. Tickets are $6 per person and proceeds will be donated to Spring Youth Baseball. The fundraiser is being held at the Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, 594 No. Greenbush Rd., Rensselaer, NY 12144. More info, contact nyjudy@aol.com.

“KING OF HEARTS” LUNCHEONFor those of you who were/are fans of Elvis Presley, come to the Rensselaer County, Rensselaer Senior Center for our concert “King of Hearts” featuring Donny “Elvis” Romines on Tuesday, February 25th. This concert will follow our noon lunch (sign up required, suggested contribution of $2.75). You must have lunch with us to enjoy this show. Sign up in the offi ce, early, as this show is sure to fi ll up fast. Call the center at 463-2166 for more information. The Center is located in the McManus Center, (Old St. John’s school building) at the corner of East and Herrick Streets, in

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the city of Rensselaer.

PASTA STATION DINNER at SALEM UMCThe combined Youth Unit of the Salem United Methodist Church and Church of the Covenant are holding a public Pasta Station Dinner!!Three types of pasta will be available, with three sauces to choose from (marinara, Alfredo, and meat sauce) as well as additional toppings (sausage, meatballs, broccoli, spinach, peppers and onions). Also being served are Caesar Salad, Garlic Bread and rolls, and dessert. The cost is $10 per person with a reduced rate for children under 12. In addition to the dinner, there will be a silent auction! Come prepared to bid on some great items!! The proceeds for the dinner will be used to support a trip to a mission in Kentucky for the youth. Date: January 25th. Time: 4:30 - 6:00 Place: Salem United Methodist Church, 349 Shaver Road, West Sand Lake, NY.For reservations (not required) or more information, please call the church offi ce at 674-3106.

VFW POST 1938 DINNERSCome join us at the VFW Post 1938 in Valley Falls on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday for our Special Pizza, Wings, and Clam night from 4PM to 8PM. Also join us for our Friday Night Prime Rib Dinner. Call 753-7707 for further information.

VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION LUNCHEONThe Rensselaer Senior Center (located at the corner of East and Herrick Streets, in the city of Rensselaer) will be hosting a Volunteer Recognition Luncheon and Dessert Extravaganza for Seniors 60 years and older on January 28. Lunch will be served at 12:00 noon, followed by the Dessert Extravaganza.We look forward to honoring our Seniors who continue to serve their community by volunteering their services. There is plenty of free parking near the Center. If you would like to attend, please call the center at 463-2166 to make your reservation.

CHICKEN AND BISCUIT DINNERThe Pawling Avenue United Methodist Church invites you to a Chicken and Biscuit Dinner on Saturday, January 25, 2014. Dinner will be served from 4:30 to 6:00 PM. The menu will be chicken and biscuits, mashed potatoes, gravy, vegetable, dessert and beverage. The cost is $10 for adult meals, $5 for meals for children 5 – 12 years old and there is no charge for meals for children under 5 years old. Take outs are available.For information and to make reservations, please call the church offi ce at (518)273-6859. The Pawling Avenue United Methodist Church is located at 520 Pawling Avenue, Troy. Plan now to attend on January 25th for good food and fellowship.

FREE FOURTH SUNDAY COMM. DINNERSBlessed New Year! Blooming Grove Reformed Church on Route 4 in Defreesville, will be resuming their Free Fourth Sunday Community Dinners beginning on Sunday, January 26th, from 1 to 3 p.m. Dinner includes pasta with a choice of plain or meat sauce, a fresh tossed salad, bread and dessert. All are welcome.

LUNCHEON & GET-TOGETHER at ST. JOSEPH’S

The Seniors’ Ministry of Immaculate Conception/St. Joseph Parish in New Lebanon will host a luncheon and get-together on Friday, January 24, at 11:30 am in the parish hall. The church and hall are located at 732 U.S. Route 20 in New Lebanon. All seniors who are interested are invited to join us for lunch; there is no charge for the lunch or for Bingo afterward. For more information, please contact Mary at 518-733-0469.

GOOD FOOD IDEASRensselaer County’s Cooperative Extension will be on hand at the Rensselaer County’s Everett Wagar Senior Center, 2 Roxborough Road, Grafton on Wednesday, February 5th, at 11AM, for our monthly Good Food Ideas cooking demonstration. This month’s topic will be “Warm Your Heart & Health”. There will be free recipes and samples for everyone who attends. Please join us for lunch at noon, Goulash, Broccoli, Italian Bread and Strawberry Pineapple Cup for dessert. Our nutritious meals are available Monday through Friday to all Rensselaer County seniors 60 years and older for a suggested donation of $2.75. Reservations for lunch required, please call 279-3485.

VALENTINE’S DAYSPECIAL DINNER

On Friday, February 14th, the Nutrition Department will hold its monthly special dinner at noon at the Rensselaer County’s Everett Wagar Senior Center, 2 Roxborough Road, Grafton. This month’s theme will be “Valentine’s Day”. Menu will be: Roast Beef w/Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Dinner Roll, Fruited Strawberry Gelatin w/Topping for dessert. Entertainment will be provided at 11AM with The Bob Treffi letti Project. At 12:30, the staff and seniors will be celebrating our February birthday’s when special recognition will be giving to Helen Ellett, who will be 100 on February 16. Our wonderful complete lunch is available to all Rensselaer County Seniors age 60 and older Monday thru Friday at noon for a suggested contribution of $2.75. Stop in anytime Mon. – Fri., 9AM – 3PM, for a complete monthly menu and activities calendar. Please call

279-3485 to make your reservations for lunch.

CHICKEN PARMESAN DINNERThe Emmanuel Reformed Church in Castleton is once again having its Chicken Parmesan Dinner on February 8th at 5:30 p.m. The menu will include Chicken Parmesan, pasta, tossed salad, bread, make-your-own sundaes and coffee or tea all for only $10 per adult; $5 children 6-12 and free for children under 6. The proceeds from this dinner go to the youth summer camp scholarships. Please call 732-7766 for reservations and takeout. We are located at 1150 Maple Hill Rd. adjacent to the High School, have plenty of parking and are handicapped accessible. See you February 8th!

OSTEO AEROBICS BENEFITS EVERYONE!This weight bearing exercise will develop muscle around your joints. Exercise is crucial to quality of life and development of the muscles surrounding the joints is most important. Join Grace Bringing-Good on Thursdays at 10:30 am in the Rose Room of the Rensselaer County Troy Senior Center, 19 Third Street in Troy. You will love the special attention Grace gives to her students, but more importantly you are going to feel so much better. Classes meet weekly. Call 270-5348 for more information.

BRUNSWICK SOCCER CLUB 32nd SPRING HOUSE SEASON EARLY BIRD SPECIAL

Brunswick Soccer Club is pleased to announce for its 32nd Spring House season an early bird special thru the end of January. For all those registering for Spring House in January, the House registration fee will be $75 per child ($15 off the regular price). This is a limited time offer and ends 1/31/2014, no exceptions. Brunswick Soccer Club House league serves levels U6-U16 and the season begins third week in April. Please visit www.brunswicksoccer.org to register. Save the date, 3V3Live is returning to Brunswick Soccer fi elds June 7 2014, this is the area’s premier 3V3 tournament.

GRAFTON LAKES STATE PARK TO HOLD

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29th ANNUAL WINTER FESTIVALGrafton Lakes State Park will host the 29th Annual Winter Festival and Ice Fishing Contest on Saturday, January 25, 2014. The Winter Fest will feature winter exhibits, vendors, family-friendly and recreational activities. The event is free of charge and main events run from 10-4. Take a guided snowshoe hike, learn primitive fi re making, or warm up with interactive exhibits inside. New outdoor events this year include a dog walk for furry friends as well as an introduction to animal tracking. A snowshoe obstacle course and snow bowling will entertain children as well. The 7th Annual Polar Plunge benefi tting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation jumps into Long Pond at 1pm. To pre-register, please call Margaret Philips for more information at 479-3739. The annual ice fi shing contest will run from 5:30am-3pm on all the ponds in the park. Participants can register starting at 5:30am until 11am at the park’s pole barn, accessible via the Winter Entrance. A $10 entry fee for adults 16 and older is required to participate in the fi shing tournament. Kids are free. Top fi sh entries will receive generous cash prizes.For more information about the Winter Festival, please call the park at 518-279-1155 or check on Facebook for details as the event approaches.

EMPIRE STATE PLAZA ICE RINK OPEN FOR 2013-14 WINTER SEASON

The Empire State Plaza will welcome back one of the Capital Region’s most beloved winter traditions with the formal opening of the ice rink.The rink will be open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, and skating is always free. Lockers and skate rental are now located on the Plaza level adjacent to the rink. Friday evenings will also feature family-friendly entertainment, including live music. Also, BlueShield of Northeastern New York will once again sponsor a series of Learn-to-Skate clinics throughout the season.Winter at the Plaza sponsors include I Love NY, Hannaford Supermarkets, BlueShield of Northeastern New York, SEFCU, MetLife, New York’s 529 College Savings Program, CDPHP, Garelick Farms, Dunkin’ Donuts, Times Union, Albany.com, Metroland, 99.5 The River, PYX 106, 810 & 103-1 News Radio WGY, KISS 102-3, Oldies 98-3, and Fox Sports 980.Rink Events:• Hannaford Supermarkets Free Skate Rental Fridays – No charge for skates from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., every Friday.• Saturday, January 25, 9 – 11a.m. — Learn-to-Skate Clinic presented by BlueShield of Northeastern New York. Visit ogs.ny.gov to register.• Friday, February 14, 6 – 8 p.m. — Valentine’s Day Rock and Skate.• Saturday, February 22, 9 – 11a.m. — Learn-to-Skate Clinic presented by BlueShield of Northeastern New York. Visit ogs.ny.gov to register.• Saturday, March 8 – 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Hannaford Kidz Expo, on the concourse.General Rink InformationHours: Every day from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., weather dependent. Closed Christmas Day.Cost to Skate: FreeSkate Rental: $3 for children under 12 and $4 for adults. Skate rentals will be available whenever the rink is open. Free skate rentals on Fridays courtesy of Hannaford Supermarkets.Amenities: Full-service snack bar open Friday nights, weekends, and school holidays; skate lounge with lockers for personal items now located at the Plaza level; and music.

BAILEY MT. FISH & GAME CLUB 30th ANNUAL ICE FISHING CONTEST

The Bailey Mountain Fish and Game Club, 30th Annual Ice Fishing Contest and Rensselaer County Conservation Alliance Fish Survey will be held at Glass, Snyder’s and Reichard’s Lakes, on February 1st, 2014 from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be limited parking at Glass Lake. No fi sh will be weighed in after 3 p.m. at the game club grounds. The cost is

$10. per person entry free. Cash prizes will be awarded in all categories: Walleye, Trout- Glass Lake only; Crappie, Northern Pike, Pickerel and Perch. Registration at lakes begins at 5:30 a.m. at the Glass Lake Access, Sand Lake Town Beach, and North Greenbush Town Beach. All New York State Fishing Rules apply. Join us after the weigh-ins for door prizes at the club. If bad ice, the event will be held on February 8th. Call 283-2056 or 283-7309 for more details.

WINTER WOW!POLAR PLUNGERS TAKE TO GLSP

Applications are now being accepted for participants in the 7th Annual Polar Plunge in Long Pond, Grafton Lakes State Park as part of the park’s Winter Fest. The Winter Fest is in its 29th year with outdoor and indoor events occurring all day, January 25, 2014. The plunge happens promptly at 1:00 with check-in beginning at noon at the beach.The purpose of the Plunge is to raise funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Participants take turns charging into the frigid water while the New York State Police Ice Dive team and Grafton Town Ambulance provide safety. Spectators are welcomed and provide a nice wind block for the event. This event is open to the fi rst 50 people who pre-register. The fee is $20 and includes a t-shirt and hot drink. Heated changing areas are available nearby, but bring warm clothes for before and immediately after.For more information and an application for the plunge, contact: Margaret Phillips 518-479-3739 eve, 518-577-5434 days.For more information on the Winter Fest, visit: www.nysparks.com/parks and look up Grafton Lakes State ParkFor more information about Cystic Fibrosis and the Foundation, please visit: http://www.cff.org/

SCHODACK ISLAND STATE PARK ICE SKATING RINK OPEN

The ice skating rink is open free to the public to use and will continue through the winter months as weather conditions allow. The rink will be open daily from 10 am – 4 pm. Friday night skating is back until 8pm, and ice skate rentals are available on this night only, along with food and hot beverages. There are over 6 miles of groomed trails that are open for cross country skiing and snowshoeing. There is no entry fee to the park during the winter months. Please bring your own skates. Patrons use the ice rink at their own risk. Children under 16 must be supervised by a guardian. We do have snow shoe rentals. Look for us on face book under “Schodack Island.” For more information, please contact the park offi ce at 732-0187.

EMPIRE STATE BLAZERSAAU BASKETBALL TRYOUTS

• February 1st, 2014 at Troy Boys & Girls Club, 1700 7th Ave, Troy (across from DMV).• Boys 5th - 7th Grades 9:30a.m.-11:00a.m.• Girls 5th & 6th Grades 11:15a.m.-12:30p.m.• Girls 7th, 8th & 9th Grades 12:45p.m.-2:15p.m.• Girls 10th, 11th & 12th Grades 2:30p.m.-4:00 p.m.$25.00 Tryout Fee Due upon Tryout(Please arrive 30 minutes early)For Alternate Tryout Date, Contact: Truman Frierson 268-9823ballinblazers@yahoo.com, esblazers@yahoo.com.

TWIN TOWN LITTLE LEAGUE – SPRING BASEBALL 2014

Registration is now open for the 2014 Spring Baseball season. This year Twin Town Little League will be offering programs for the following levels: T-Ball (4-5 yrs old), Rookie (6 yrs old), Farm (7-8 yrs old), Minors (9-10

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yrs old), Majors (11-12 yrs old) and Intermediate (12-13 yrs old). The Intermediate level will feature a pitching distance of 50 feet and base paths of 70 feet.Practices begin in late March and games run through mid-June. Games will be played at the Poestenkill and Williams Road Complexes.Registration fees are $85 for T-Ball and Rookie, and $125 for Farm, Minors, Majors and Intermediate levels. There is a discount for families with more than one player and for Majors players that also participate in the Intermediate level. New this year, students who attend the following schools can play for Twin Town regardless of their home address: LaSalle Institute, Woodland Hill Montessori, Robert Parker, Sacred Heart, St. Jude the Apostle, Vanderheyden Hall, Susan Odell Taylor, and Questar III (George Washington). Families can register on-line by visiting our website www.ttll.com. If you have any questions, please email twintownlittleleague@gmail.com or contact John DonVito at 518-339-0572.

GREENBUSH SOCCER SPRING REC REGISTRATION

Preschool $75 (sneakers only) - Kindergarten-Middle School $100 (cleats allowed); All levels require shinguardsAll registration online: greenbushsoccer.org ~ Registration Opens: February 2nd, Closes: March 10th ~ First Game: April 6th (10 scheduled games) ~ Spring Festival: May 31stIf you are interested in coaching, email: ashley216palmer@gmail.com for information. We are looking forward to another great season!

CLASSIE LASSIES GIRLS SOFTBALLOnline registration for Classie Lassies is now open! Classie Lassies will be celebrating its 40th Anniversary this season! All girls between the age of 5 -16 are welcome to play, (must be 5 by 8/31/14). You may register online by visiting our website at www.classielassies.net and following the registration link. There will be one night of in person registration held on Monday, February 10th, from 6-8pm at the North Greenbush Town Offi ces (Annex). All new registrants must provide a copy of a birth certifi cate. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Spencer Agan at classielassie13@gmail.com or 466-3887.

2014 SPRING YOUTH BASEBALL REGISTRATION• Saturday, January 25th, 9AM - 12Nooon; and Sunday, January 26th, from 9AM - 12Noon.Registration is held at the Spring Youth Baseball Complex, 99 Spring Ave in Troy. Registration is $100.00 per child, $50.00 for second child, $25.00 for each additional child. If you turn age 4 before April 1st, or age 13 after April 30th, you are eligible to play. Spring offers Five divisions in our house league. T-Ball 4-6 ~ Pony age 6 ~ Farm age 7-8 ~ Minor ages 9-10 ~ Majors ages 11-12*Now you can Register On Line Using Pay-Pal*Please visit our web site at www.springyouthbaseball.org to register for the 2014 season and upcoming events and fundraisers.

NASSAU BASEBALL ASSOCIATIONREGISTRATION FOR 2014

NBA registration is open to all children ages 4-12 from any township. Registration forms can be found on our websiteNassaubaseballassociation.com. Paperwork can be mailed to NBA, PO Box 293, Nassau, NY 12123, OR walk-in registration located anytime at Hometown USA Stores, 3565 US RT 20 during store hours (766-0116).Divisions include Tball $40, Minor/Major $60 prior to 3/1/14. After 3/1/14, Tball $60, Minor/Major $80. ($20 for additional child).

2014 SORENSCO BABE RUTH BASEBALL

REGISTRATIONSorensco’s 2014 baseball registration is now open! Sorensco will be commemorating 60 years of Babe Ruth Baseball this year and we are looking forward to another great season. Sorensco is a community-based baseball league for players 13-18 years of age that offers an exceptional and very affordable baseball experience for players and their families. Levels of play/seasons include Recreational, Travel and All-Stars. As we have done in the past, we will again be implementing the ability for players deemed suffi ciently skilled to “play up” with a higher age group if they qualify. This will allow players to be placed at their skill level instead of their age only and will apply to each of our three seasons across all age groups. Additionally, those players age 15 and under who try out and make our Connie Mack (18u) or Mickey Mantle (16u) teams will not be required to be placed on a Recreational team roster. We anticipate that these rule changes will provide tremendous fl exibility for players who qualify. The 2014 Registration Form can be found on our website at: sorensco.baberuthonline.com. Please email any questions to: Sorensco@gmail.com.

VALENTINE’S DAY FULL MOON TREK at DYKEN POND CENTER

Enjoy Valentine’s Day at a free guided cross-country ski and snowshoe trek at the Dyken Pond Environmental Education Center on Friday, February 14, from 7 pm – 9pm. The trek will cover two miles and is designed for the intermediate skier or snowshoer. No beginners, please. Snowshoe rentals are available for $5. Hot cocoa and chocolates will be shared around a campfi re following the trek. Please contact the Center for updated snow conditions at 658-2055 or dykenpond@fairpoint.net.Dyken Pond Center is a Rensselaer County Park open daily during daylight hours for back-country snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and ice-fi shing. Visit www.dykenpond.org for directions and a complete schedule of our winter events.

SNOWSHOE TREK at DYKEN POND CENTEREnjoy the winter by trekking through the forest on a pair of snowshoes at the Dyken Pond Environmental Education Center on Saturday, February 1 from 1pm – 3pm. This is a free program. Snowshoes may be rented from the Center for $5. Bring any snack or water you may need along the way. Call ahead for snow conditions.Snowshoes may be rented any day with advanced registration for a fee of $10 per day; $5 for half day and there are special group rates. For more information, please contact the Center at 658-2055 or dykenpond@fairpoint.net.Dyken Pond Center is a Rensselaer County Park open daily during daylight hours for back-country snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and ice-fi shing. Visit www.dykenpond.org for directions and a complete schedule of our winter events.

UPSTATE REBELS BASEBALL TRY-OUTS

The Upstate Rebels 12U travel baseball team is looking for a few players for the 2014 Spring season. If you are looking for a travel team that will NOT interfere with your son’s Little League season or break the bank, look no further! For more information, please call Kevin Billetts at (518) 858-4695 or email mbilletts@nycap.rr.com

CHAIR YOGAYoga is a stress reliever. It improves balance, fl exibility and strength. When combined with light weights, where appropriate, it can be even more benefi cial. It’s free, it’s fun and there is no obligation. Wear loose clothing and let’s stretch and relax! Classes are on Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:00 am at the Rensselaer County’s Everett Wagar Senior Center, 2 Roxborough Road, Grafton, you may join at any time.

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It’s a mind and body rejuvenation. Yoga is something people of all ages and abilities can come together and do. If you have any questions, or would like to join us for lunch after exercise, please contact the center at 279-3413.

2014 E.G. GIRLS SOFTBALL LEAGUE OPEN

2014 East Greenbush Girls Softball League registration is now open. Go to egsoftball.org for more info.

BRUNS. COMMUNITY LIBRARY EVENING BOOK GROUP

The Brunswick Community Library Evening Book Group announces the book schedule for winter/spring. • Feb. 11, “A Land Beyond the River” by Jack Casey; • March 11, “The Appointment” by Herta Muller; • April 8, “Dear Life” by Alice Munro.The group meets from 7-8 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at the library, 4118 Brunswick Road, and all are welcome.

A FIRE TRUCK ZOOMS BY, BLARING ITS SIRENS, AND FLASHING ITS LIGHTS

Is your adrenalin pumping? Are you a little excited? The West Sand Lake Fire Department welcomes people like you.If you are 16 years or older and live within four miles of the West Sand Lake Fire Department, we are looking for your assistance.We need volunteers to drive our trucks, and respond to calls when our town needs us. You can be a hero, you can be the difference. Not only will joining our department be a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it will teach confi dence, responsibility, and good ethics. If you would like to join, or have any questions, please contact: Celine Castro at (518) 892-9114.

TVHS OPERATING BOARD MEETING DATES ANNOUNCED

The Tech Valley High School® Operating Board has announced its meeting schedule for the remainder of the 2013-14 school year.Below is a list of dates and locates for the meetings. All meetings begin at 6:15 p.m. and are open to the public.• January 30, 2014 at Capital Region BOCES; • March 27, 2014 at Questar III; • May 29, 2014 at Capital Region BOCES; • July 24, 2014 at Questar III.

GRAFTON COMMUNITY COOPACCEPTING NEW MEMBERS

Are you interested in purchasing a wide variety of Gluten and dairy-free products, grains, coffee, tea, bulk organic nuts, baking supplies or spices? If so, you may enjoy becoming a member of our community buying club. By doing so, you support your local community, get to know your neighbors, and get great access to natural and organic products without driving all the way to Albany to shop.Our group orders on a monthly basis from United Natural Foods and Frontier National Products companies. Currently, 10 families participate and we are looking for a few more members to join our group. The monthly job is simple: roll out of bed early every 4th Saturday to meet the delivery truck at the Grafton Community Library on Rt. 2 in Grafton, help unload and divide the members products and gather up your order that you placed on-line 1 week prior. It usually takes less than an hour.Our coop also has access to personal care items, cleaning products and pet supplies. Also, we can introduce you to the local farm community. If you have family, buying in bulk is a great way to get your products economically. Members can share products that are available only in bulk through our order splitting process.

If you are interested in fi nding out more, please contact Maureen Gallagher, Coordinator Grafton Community Coop at 518-279-1498.

MOMS SHARE WITH MOMS AT BRUNSWICK CHURCH

Brunswick Church is now offering moms with small children a group that can offer support and a safe place to share the joys and challenges of motherhood. The group, known as MOPS, is one of 3,900 around the U.S. and in 35 countries across the globe. The Brunswick Church group meets Wednesday nights from 6:15pm - 7:45pm at the Brunswick Church campus at 42 White Church Lane (off of Rt. 351). Childcare is available. For more information, contact Erin Hvizdak at 279-3792, ext. 18 or email erin@brunswickchurch.org.

ELKS NATIONAL AND STATE SCHOLARSHIPSApplications are now available for the Elks National Foundation and the New York State Elks Association scholarships.There are two types of Elks scholarships. The national scholarship is open to all New York State high school seniors. These seniors need not be the child of a member of the Elks. The state scholarships are for high school seniors whose parent is a member in good standing in the Order of Elks.Forms for these scholarships may be obtained online at the Elks website (www.Elks.org/enf/scholars). The same application is used for both national and state scholarships, but the state must be submitted with an additional cover page which is available at nys.elks.org or at the student’s school guidance offi ce.The chairman of the scholarship committee of the Rensselaer Lodge of Elks No. 2073 is Errol Fitzgerald (477-5427).

BIG BROTHERS, BIG SISTERS LOOKING FOR MENTORS

Big Brothers Big Sisters is looking for mentors in Albany, Schenectady, Saratoga, and Rensselaer Counties. We are the oldest and largest provider of one-to-one youth mentoring services in the United States. In the Capital Region, we have been matching caring adults with local children for 50 years. Our mentoring relationships are proven to be a positive infl uence on the life of a child. Currently, we serve over 500 children, but there are over 100 more waiting for mentors. If you want to learn more about volunteering, contact Brigette Callahan at 862-1250 x15, or by email at Brigette@bbbscr.org.

TOWN OF SAND LAKE TO CONDUCT A COMMUNITY BUSINESS SURVEY

The Town of Sand Lake’s Economic Development Committee is partnering with the business community to improve the business climate and enhance the hamlet centers of the Town. Sand Lake Supervisor Flora Fasoldt observed, “The hamlets of Sand Lake serve as the economic, cultural and civic hubs of our community and we recognize the importance of the businesses in the hamlets to the vitality of our town. We want to encourage sustainable growth for the long term by listening to the voices of small businesses.” With the help of volunteers who serve on the Town’s Economic Development Committee, Sand Lake is conducting a survey of the local businesses to gather input on programs and infrastructure improvements that would make Sand Lake more business friendly. Businesses that operate in Town have an opportunity to take part by providing input and a vision for the hamlet centers. A short survey regarding future opportunities for business improvement and expansion programs is available on the Town’s website at www.townofsandlake.us. Business owners can also pick up a copy of the survey at the Town Clerk’s Offi ce and Town Library. Fred Erickson, Chairman of the Town’s Planning Oversight Committee stated, “We encourage every business owner in our Town to participate and help us maximize the business potential and climate of our community.” If business owners have any questions or

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concerns, they can contact the Chairman Fred Erickson at 674-5143 or call Supervisor Fasoldt’s Offi ce at 674-2026 ext. 12. It is expected that the information gathered from local business stakeholders will provide necessary tools for a business friendly environment and entrepreneurial spirit in Sand Lake.

EBOOKS FOR KIDS FROM YOUR LIBRARY ANYTIME, ANYWHERE

Parents know that reading to their children every day is important. In a busy schedule, windows of time may open unexpectedly when there are no books in sight. For parents who have their tablet or device always on them, there’s an easy solution. Troy Public Library now offers TumbleBooks, digital animated, talking picture books that help parents and kids share the joy or reading together in a format kids will love.Comprised of over 300 fi ction and nonfi ction E-books, the TumbleBooks collection is based on print titles but these books for beginning readers have added animation, sounds, music, and narration. Some stories also include games and activites.TumbleBooks are accessible through the library’s website at www.thetroylibrary.org, wherever there is an internet connection.

GRAFTON LIBRARY LAUNCHES ANNUAL APPEAL

The Grafton Community Library’s annual appeal is underway, with letters recently sent to Grafton property owners asking for their support of this local gem. Use of the library has been growing steadily, with a three percent increase in library visits in 2012, totaling 7,488. As an association library, Grafton relies on essential community support to fund the operating expenses of electricity, heating oil, telephone, DSL, public access computers, and library materials. Donations will have an immediate impact right here in our local area. With support from the community, the library can continue providing quality programs and improvements in library services that benefi t residents of all ages. There are several ways to donate. Stop by the library at 2455 NY Route 2 with your donation, or mail it to Grafton Community Library, PO Box H, Grafton, NY 12082. The Grafton Community Library is also a participating agency in the State Employees Federated Appeal (SEFA), Capital Region Combined Federal Campaign (CFC), and the United Way. The Grafton Community Library is a 501c3 non-profi t organization, and donations are tax deductible as allowed by law. Contributions of any amount will be gratefully accepted. Visit www.graftoncommunitylibrary.org, like us on Facebook, or call 279-0580 for more news and information about the activities at the library.

RENSSELAER COUNTY OFFERS PET VACCINATION CLINICS

Rensselaer County Executive Kathleen M. Jimino has announced the 2014 schedule of the County’s Rabies Vaccination Clinics. The clinics aim to prevent human exposure to the potentially deadly disease by immunizing domestic animals and pets that could potentially carry the disease. “These vaccination clinics for your pets are an excellent step in protecting your family from exposure to this deadly disease. I encourage all pet owners to take advantage of these rabies clinics and the educational information available from our County Health Department on rabies, as well as a host of other health related issues,” said County Executive Jimino. During the upcoming clinics, Rensselaer County Department of Health staff will provide the appropriate rabies vaccination and booster shots as mandated by the New York State Department of Health to cats, ferrets and dogs. Owners are asked to present their pets’ most recent immunization certifi cate, and all pets must be secured either in a carrier or on a leash. The fi rst hour of each clinic is dedicated to cats and ferrets with the second hour dedicated to dogs.

The dates, locations, times, and contact numbers are as follows: 2014 RENSSELAER COUNTY RABIES CLINICS

DATE, LOCATION, TIME• 2/08/14 - Saturday - Mink’s Firehouse - 10am-Noon - 959 Broadway - Rensselaer; • 4/03/14 - Thursday - Sand Lake Public Works - 5-7 pm - (Town Garage) 25 Springer Road - West Sand Lake; • 4/08/14 - Tuesday - Pittstown Town Hall - 5-7 pm - 123 Tomhannock Road, Valley Falls; • 5/01/14 - Thursday - Schodack Highway Garage - 5-7 pm - 3776 US Rte. 20, Nassau; • 5/06/14 - Tuesday - Brunswick Community Center - 5-7 pm - 18 Keyes Lane - Troy; • 6/05/14 - Thursday - Poestenkill VFW - 5-7 pm - 25 Veterans St.- Poestenkill; • 6/07/14 - Saturday - Knickerbocker Ice Rink - 10 am - Noon - 191 103rd St and 8th Ave. - Troy; • 6/26/14 - Thursday - Grafton Firehouse - 5-7 pm - 2385 Route 2 - Grafton; • 7/10/14 - Thursday - 115th Street Firehouse - 5-7 pm - 115th St. and 5th Ave - Troy; • 9/4/14 - Thursday - Brunswick Community Center - 5-7 pm - 18 Keyes Lane - Troy; • 10/04/14 - Saturday - Knickerbocker Ice Rink - 10 am - Noon - 191 103rd St and 8th Ave. - Troy. Residents with questions regarding the rabies prevention program or other programs and services offered by the Rensselaer County Department of Health should call (518) 270-2655 or visit www.rensco.com and navigate to the Department of Public Health page.

AVERILL PARK ANNOUNCES KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION 2014-15

The Averill Park School District has begun the process of registering boys and girls for the 2014-2015 Kindergarten Classes. If you, or someone you know, has a child who will be fi ve years of age on or before December 1, 2009 please contact the district registrar at 674-7050 extension 2819 to make sure that the child is listed on our school census. This will guarantee that you will receive all upcoming kindergarten information by mail. Registration paperwork should be hand delivered by the parent or guardian to the district registrar at the district offi ce in Averill Park High School during the month of February. Registration hours are Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 3:30 PM with extended evening hours on February 7th & 25th until 7 PM. Registration forms are accepted on a walk-in basis only. No appointment is required. All paperwork must be completed by 2-28-2014.New York State Public Health Law, Section 2164, requires that all pupils must be immunized as follows for your child to attend school:3 doses of diphtheria (usually as DTP, DT or Td)3 doses of oral polio vaccine1 dose of mumps vaccine after 12 months of age1 dose of rubella vaccine administered after 12 months of age2 doses of measles vaccine, the fi rst after 12 months of age and the second after 15 months of age.3 doses of Hepatitis B Vaccine given in a 6 month period of time.1 dose of varicella vaccine (chicken pox)

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