Bethlehem Library Notes for Thursday, March 14, 2019

— Photo by Kristen Roberts

Planning before planting: It’s time to start planning your garden at the Bethlehem Public Library. Patrons may choose up to six packets of organic, open-pollinated seeds from the all-new Seed Library located behind the Information Desk.

The Better Angels Capital Region NYS Alliance will be holding its second information session Friday, March 15, at 2:30 p.m. as part of a series of programs with the library to encourage more people to find new ways to talk to one another and participate together in public life.

On Monday, April 8, at 6 p.m. the bipartisan citizens’ group will hold a skills workshop to give participants a communication toolkit to help them better navigate the polarized political discussions that are all too common today.

The series will continue in May. Visit www.better-angels.org for more information about the Better Angels Alliance.

Learn hands-only CPR

Hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation is a simple skill that can save lives. According to the American Heart Association, more than 20 percent of cardiac arrests occur in public places, and administering hands-only CPR has been shown to greatly improve the chances of survival.

Learn this life-saving skill at the library on Tuesday, March 19, at 7 p.m. A Delmar-Bethlehem EMS representative will demonstrate the hands-only CPR technique followed by some hands-on practice and informal trivia fun with health-related prizes.

Listen up

At this month’s Listening Party, we turn the spotlight on Renee Fleming. Join us Thursday, March 21, at 7 p.m. as we listen to and discuss this esteemed soprano who continues to be widely honored for her work in opera, pop, jazz and Broadway.

Our Listening Parties meet monthly through June to hear selections from classic albums while discussing the life and music of great musicians. Join fellow music lovers and share your personal impressions and memories, rediscover milestones in music history, and talk about the artists that have shaped the musical landscape.

It’s like a book club, but for music — everyone is welcome! Bethlehem librarian Michael Farley will facilitate the discussions.

Board candidate information

Nominating petition forms and informational packets are available at the library for candidates interested in serving on the Bethlehem Public Library Board of Trustees.

There is one seat on the 2019 ballot, currently held by incumbent Joyce Becker, who will not be seeking re-election.

Petitions must contain at least 49 signatures of voters residing in Central School District No. 6 of the towns of Bethlehem and New Scotland. Petitions must be filed with the District Clerk, Bethlehem Central High School, 700 Delaware Ave., Delmar by 5 p.m. on April 22.

The election and budget vote will be held on Tuesday, May 21, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Bethlehem Central High School.