— Photo by Joan Heffler
By the book: Guilderland Chamber of Commerce Treasurer Cory Tyksinski, left, and chamber president Cherie Lasher flank Tim Wiles, director of the Guilderland Public Library, as Wiles accepts the chamber’s “Best Place to Work” award for the library.
The Schenectady Theater for Children presents “The Bremen Town Musicians,” a show children of all ages are sure to enjoy at the Guilderland Public Library on Friday, June 24, at 7 p.m.
Based on the German folktale by the Brothers Grimm, this show is packed with action, music, and talking animals. It is the story of four animal friends that set out on a journey together and end up forming a band.
In their search for fame and fortune, they learn about consequences as they outwit a band of thieves and kidnappers. Every action has a consequence and it's always a good idea to think before you act.
No registration required. Just come on in and enjoy.
On your mark, get set — read!
Mark your calendars to attend GPL’s Super Summer Reading Olympics reading club kick-off on Thursday, June 30, at 6 p.m., in the library’s Normanskill Room. Children, tweens, and teens can sign-up to be a summer reader, collect program information, and ask our staff any questions they might have.
While you’re here, enter a drawing for a chance to win your own summer reading club T-shirt. And at 7 p.m., be sure to grab a free ice-cream sundae.
Get details on all the fun events coming up in the Super Summer Reading Olympics, please visit www.guilpl.org/src.
GPL voted Best Place to Work
At the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner and awards ceremony, held on Thursday, June 9, the Guilderland Public Library was honored as the Best Place to Work in Guilderland.
In commenting upon the award, Library Director Tim Wiles noted, “It’s the staff, working towards the single goal of helping the public that makes the library a great place to work. We all have different roles, and a wide variety of skills, but we pull together. Plus, I believe the staff feels more empowered — you can see that in the innovative programming we offer — and that certainly is a part of this success.”
Cindy Wadach, who is serving as a volunteer coordinating the activities of other volunteers at the library, nominated the library.
Books and brews
“Books & Brews,” GPL’s off-site book discussion group, will meet on June 27, at 7:30 p.m., at Druthers Brewery and Restaurant in Albany. The book under discussion — between sips of beer, that is — is “Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore,” by Robin Sloan.
The premise of Books & Brews is simple: Drink beer and talk about a great book. The group meets the fourth Monday of every month, in an Albany-area establishment. To join the group, just call 456-2400, ext. 2, or go online to www.guilpl.org.
— Photo by Ron Ginsburg
Altamont’s first-time author Everett “Ev” Rau will speak at the Guilderland Public Library on Saturday, June 18.
Everett Rau, whose family still lives and farms on the land where he was born in 1919, will talk about his just-published book, “Stand Tall: Against the Odds,” at the Guilderland Public Library on Saturday, June 18, at 2 p.m. This is another in the library’s “Read Local” series.
“Stand Tall” is Ev’s personal American saga of farming — and living — in the 20th Century. It’s also proof that it’s never too late to become a first-time author.
In his memoir, he reminisces about his life in Altamont, along with stories of farming, working for General Electric during World War II, rising and failing in his own business, and finding his passion for the preservation of Dutch barns.
He learned how to farm "in the good old way" from his Civil War veteran grandfather and has spent many years sharing his knowledge with local historical societies. Ev was nearly 90 when he designed and supervised the construction of a German threshing barn that was built by neighbors and volunteers with old tools and techniques on his Altamont farm.
Come to this event, and hear the story of nearly a century of progress, from the man who’s living it.
Ev’s co-author, Laura Shore, who has won many awards in her communications and marketing career, will also speak about the book. In 2012, she founded Farm Share Studio to promote local food, local farms, and agricultural land conservation.
For nearly two years, she worked with Ev to record his stories and bring forth detailed descriptions of life and farming. She donates 10 percent of her proceeds to the American Farmland Trust No Farms No Food campaign.
Copies of “Stand Tall” will be available for sale at Ev’s talk.
Children’s program
The Schenectady Theater for Children presents “The Bremen Town Musicians,” a show which children of all ages are sure to enjoy at GPL on Friday, June 24, at 7 p.m.
Based on the German folktale by the Brothers Grimm, this show is packed with action, music, and talking animals. It is the story of four animal friends that set out on a journey together and end up forming a band. In their search for fame and fortune, they learn about consequences as they outwit a band of thieves and kidnappers. Every action has a consequence and it's always a good idea to think before you act.
No registration required. Just come on in and enjoy.
Summer reading program
Mark your calendars to attend GPL’s “Super Summer Reading Olympics” reading-club kick-off on Thursday, June 30, at 6 p.m., in the library’s Normanskill Room. Children, tweens, and teens can sign-up to be a summer reader, collect program information, and ask our staff any questions you might have.
While you’re here, enter a drawing for a chance to win your own summer reading club t-shirt. And at 7 p.m., be sure to grab an ice cream sundae.
To get details on all the fun events coming up in the Super Summer Reading Olympics, please visit www.guilpl.org/src.
Library tour
Perhaps you wouldn’t think that you could borrow a GoPro from GPL, or take out tables, or find fishing rods, but you can. These are just some of the novel aspects of your library, and there’s no better way to learn about everything that’s available to you than taking a tour of GPL.
So take a tour. The next is scheduled for Monday, June 20, at 11 a.m. Tour-guide Kelly will show you about, and answer your every question. Please register for the tour by calling 456-2400, ext. 2, or online at bit.ly/June20Tour.
Guilderland is a diverse community, including a significant Muslim population. At a time when Islamophobia is on the rise, it is good to dispel stereotypes about the Muslims who may be living next door to you.
Join us, on Monday, June 13, at 5:30 p.m., to meet, mingle with, and ask questions of three local Muslim women with varied backgrounds.
Panelists will give a brief introduction to Islam and address the distinction between cultural and religious beliefs, and discuss common misconceptions about Islam.
Travel for genealogy
Learn about Polish and Lithuanian genealogy at GPL on Thursday, June 9, at 7 p.m., by following in the footsteps of Phyllis Zych Budka. Phyllis, a second-generation Polish-American, has a passion for finding her roots; she’s made numerous trips to Poland and Lithuania for her research. She'll share her experiences and provide information on the best resources for you to use to conduct your own research.
Discuss baseball
Love baseball? So do we, which is why we are thrilled that Erik Sherman, author of “The Kings of Queens: Life Beyond Baseball With the '86 Mets,” will speak at GPL on Saturday, June 11, at 2 p.m.
Mr. Sherman has also written biographies of Mookie Wilson, Glenn Burke, and Steve Blass. Sherman will speak on the World Series Champion 1986 Mets, and sign copies of his books.
Some 23 million Americans are living in long-term drug and alcohol addiction recovery, a startling reality that is the subject of the acclaimed documentary, “The Anonymous People,” being shown at Guilderland Public Library on Tuesday, June 7, at 6 p.m.
This compelling story is told through the faces and voices of citizens, leaders, volunteers, corporate executives, public figures, and celebrities who are laying it all on the line to save the lives of others just like them. This passionate new public recovery movement aims to transform public opinion, engage communities, and elected officials, and finally shift policies toward lasting solutions.
A question and answer session moderated by Friends of Recovery-NY CEO, Robert Lindsey, will follow the screening. Please register for this event by calling 456-2400, ext. 2.
Ready, Set, Rhyme!
Knowing simple nursery rhymes as a preschooler is one of the biggest predictors of future reading success. Can your preschooler learn four nursery rhymes in June? Absolutely! Sign up at the children’s desk, and pick up a packet of fun activities to help your preschooler meet the goal. For children ages 3 through 5. For more information, call 456-2400, ext. 4.
Travel for genealogy
Learn about Polish and Lithuanian genealogy at the library on Thursday, June 9, at 7 p.m., by following in the footsteps of Phyllis Zych Budka. She is a second-generation Polish-American, and has a passion for finding her roots; she’s made numerous trips to Poland and Lithuania for her research. She'll share her experiences and provide information on the best resources for you to use to conduct your own research.
Author speaks
Love baseball? So do we, which is why we are thrilled that Erik Sherman, author of “The Kings of Queens: Life Beyond Baseball With the '86 Mets,” will speak at GPL on Saturday, June 11, at 2 pm.
Sherman has also written biographies of Mookie Wilson, Glenn Burke, and Steve Blass. He will speak on the World Series Champion 1986 Mets, and sign copies of his books.
Drop-in genealogy
Get help in learning more about your family history from professional genealogist Lisa Dougherty on Wednesday, June 8, at 6 p.m. Ms. Dougherty is available for free family history consultations and advice on a drop-in basis from 6 to 8 p.m., the second Wednesday of each month.
Take a tour
You know that GPL lets you borrow GoPro video cameras, metal detectors, fishing rods, bakeware, tables, and all sorts of other cool stuff, as well as books, DVDs, CDs, but there is just so much more. To help you learn about our every product and service, guides Kelly or Cindy will take you on a guided tour of your library. Meet in the lobby any Monday in June, at 11 a.m., and enjoy.
Bestselling novelist, poet, and essayist Elizabeth Rosner will be at the Guilderland Public Library on Thursday, June 2, at 7 p.m., to speak about her third novel, “Electric City,” named among the best books of the year by NPR.
“Electric City” is a vital, epic novel of America, of its great scientific ingenuity and its emotional ambition. It frames the birth and evolution of its towns against the struggles of its indigenous tribes, the immigrant experience, a country divided, and the technological advancements that ushered in the modern world.
This author event part of the Library Foundation’s Carol J. Hamblin Notable Authors Speakers Series that has hosted Joyce Carol Oates, Jeff Shaara, Joseph E. Persico, Paul Grondahl, Gregory Maguire, Tim Green, Ela Stein Weissberger, Will Moses, New Yorker magazine Cartoon Editor Bob Mankoff, Lincoln historian and author Harold Holzer, and novelist Alafair Burke.
A reception for Ms. Rosner follows at 8 p.m. There is no charge for either event. Please register by calling 456-2400, ext. 2, or going online to bit.ly/ElizabethRosner.
Principles of holistic philosophy and practice
Learn the reasons behind the rising tide of chronic illness in America, and how the trend can be reversed through homeopathic medicine, when you join Dr. Larry Malerba at GPL on Thursday, May 26, at 7 p.m., as he explains this rapidly growing but poorly understood healing practice.
During “Principles of Holistic Philosophy & Practice,” Dr. Malerba provides practical first-aid tips that you can use at home to help cure common ailments. Homeopathic medicine is a 200 year-old holistic healing art and science, the principles of which have a great deal to teach us regarding the nature of health and illness, the importance of the mind-body connection, and the self-healing capacity of the human organism. Register by calling 456-2400, ext. 2.
Weigh 2 Be
If you’re looking for an effective program that provides the support and resources you need to lose weight safely and effectively, come to the library for the continuing program, Weigh 2 Be, on Wednesday, June 1, at 6 p.m.
This weight-management program offered by CDPHP health promotion specialists gives you information on healthy eating, staying active, and improving your health, as well as access to an online and mobile tool that allows you to track your workouts and food choices. Give it a shot. What have you got to lose? Call 456-2400, ext. 2 to register.
Book discussion
Union College anthropologist George Gmelch will discuss his new book “Playing with Tigers the Detroit Tigers” on Tuesday, May 31, at 7 p.m.
Gmelch relates fascinating and entertaining stories about his time as a slugging minor league first baseman in the Detroit Tigers organization in the late 1960s. A rarity among young players, he was as interested in history, culture and civil rights as he was in the game. No registration is required.
Memorial Day weekend
GPL is closed Saturday May 28, Sunday May 29, and Monday May 30 for the Memorial Day Weekend. Our online library at www.guilpl.org is always open.
— Photo courtesy of Ashley Hentrich
Mayan children learn from local students who spent their February vacation in Cruz Blanca, Guatemala. The students will talk about their trip at the Guilderland Public Library on Friday, May 20, at 7 p.m.
Guilderland Public Library’s “Read Local” series of author talks and book signings features the pseudonymous author, Jacopo della Quercia (actually local author Giacomo Calabria), on Saturday, May 21, at 2 p.m.
Author della Quercia has penned two wonderful, alt-history titles: “License to Quill”, a spy thriller starring William Shakespeare; and “The Great Abraham Lincoln Pocket Watch Conspiracy”), in which President Taft and Robert Todd Lincoln race to solve a mystery stretching back to the Civil War.
School break in Guatemala
A dozen local students spent their February vacation on a mission trip to aid impoverished Mayan children at a learning center in Cruz Blanca, Guatemala, and many of these local students will be at GPL on Friday, May 20, at 7 p.m., to share that experience with you in words and pictures.
These young explorers will offer their observations of Guatemala, the learning center, and of visiting some of the Mayan children's homes. They will relate how they had to move out of their comfort zones during the trip, and how getting to meet the sponsored child was a moving experience for all involved.
If you enjoy hearing about different areas of our world and seeing young people exhibit leadership in action, then you should attend this event, which is open to the public.
CPR with Western Turnpike Rescue Squad
Members of the Western Turnpike Rescue Squad will teach the family and friends CPR course at GPL on Tuesday, May 24, at 6:30 p.m., and you’re encouraged to attend and learn this lifesaving skill.
This course is ideal for students, new parents, grandparents, babysitters, and others interested in learning how to save a life. Space is limited to 20 people. Please register by calling 456-2400, ext. 2.
Coloring for adults
Why should kids have all the coloring fun? Come to Sunday Crafternoons on May 22, at 2 p.m., and color — inside the lines or out. It’s a great activity for stress relief, and you don’t even need to worry about bringing your crayons. We supply the coloring sheets and the colored pencils and markers. Please register by calling 456-2400, ext. 2.
Weigh 2 Be
If you’re looking for an effective program that provides the support and resources you need to lose weight safely and effectively, come to GPL for Weigh 2 Be, on Wednesday, May 2, at 6 p.m.
This weight-management program offered by CDPHP health promotion specialists gives you information on healthy eating, staying active, and improving your health, as well as access to an online and mobile tool that allows you to track your workouts and food choices. Give it a shot. What have you got to lose? Call 456-2400, ext. 2 to register.
Holiday schedule
GPL is closed Saturday, May 28; Sunday, May 29; and Monday, May 30 for the Memorial Day Weekend. Our online library at www.guilpl.org is always open.
Voting on the Guilderland Public Library’s proposed 2016-17 budget, and election of library trustees, will be held on Tuesday, May 17, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., at your local Guilderland elementary school.
The library’s board of trustees has approved a 2016-17 operating budget of $3,666,832, an increase of just $39,631 over the 2015-16 budget. This is based upon a tax-levy of $3,598,332, an increase of 1.78 percent, well under the mandated tax cap over last year’s levy. Details of the budget are available in the “News From the Guilderland Public Library” newsletter you received in the mail, and at www.guilpl.org.
A declared candidate, incumbent Bryan Best, is running for one of the two open five-year terms as trustee. The other open seat will be filled by write-in votes.
The trustees are holding a public budget hearing on Thursday evening, May 12, at 6:30 p.m. The board welcomes your questions, and will explain how the proposed budget was developed.
GPL delays opening for safety
To ensure the safety of patrons and staff while the hazardous phases of replacing the library's aging roof is being done on Wednesday, May 11, and Thursday, May 12. The library is delaying opening on those days until 5 p.m. Once open on those days, the library will remain open until its normal closing time of 9 p.m.
We regret the inconvenience this presents, but given the risks of the roof-removal work being done on those two days, we prefer to err on the side of caution.
By Friday morning, May 13, the hazardous work will be done. Thereafter, it's a matter of the new roof being installed; that work should be completed by Friday, May 27. In the meantime, you will see workers on the library roof; their general work hours are 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Get a taste of Albany’s “spirited” history
If you’re fond of the rich tradition of spirits that can be found only in Albany think, “Ironweed Whiskey,” then register right now to attend “Albany Distilling: A Spirited History” (with tasting!) at the library on Saturday, May 14, at 2 p.m.
In this talk, the Albany Distilling Company, Albany's first distillery since prohibition, explores the rich tradition of spirits in the Capital Region. Participants over 21 years of age will also be able to sample the Quackenbush Still House Rum, an homage to Albany's original rum, as well as the Ironweed Whiskey, which pays tribute to the William Kennedy’s novel of the same name.
You must be 21 years or older to sample the spirits. Your identification will be checked at the door. Participants under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult to attend. To register, call 456-2400, ext. 2, or go online to www.guilpl.org.
Talking to teens about drug abuse
Representatives from the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, and Project Safe Point, will present “Talking to Teens/Young Adults about Drug Abuse: Prescriptions, Heroin & Alcohol” at the library on Thursday, May 19, at 6 p.m.
Addiction can happen to anyone, any family, at any time. Join us to learn the facts about this growing epidemic. You will learn how to talk to young people about drug and alcohol use, how to recognize the warning signs of addiction, and how to prevent an overdose.
Everyone who completes the training will know how to respond to an opioid overdose, and receive a Naloxone kit provided by Project Safe Point. This is a CDPHP program. Please register online at www.guilpl.org, or call 456-2400, ext. 2.
Library pops up at …
The great thing about the Pop-Up Library is that it comes to you so that you can get a library card, borrow books, and DVDs, download the latest eBooks, and register for the library’s exciting programs. And there are two Pop-Ups happening soon.
The first, on Friday, May 13, starting at 5 p.m., is at the Guilderland Little League’s opening ceremony at Keenholts Park in Guilderland Center. The second Library Pop Up is at the Albany Pine Bush’s Lupine Fest on Saturday, May 14, from 1 to 4 p.m.. Enjoy!
The ever-popular Sonny & Perley Trio will perform a tribute to Frank Sinatra, in celebration of Ol' Blue Eyes' 100th birthday, at the Guilderland Public Library on Sunday, May 8, at 2 p.m.
Think of your favorite Sinatra song, and you’ll probably hear it. Not only will Sonny & Perley perform Sinatra’s timeless standards, they will also dig deeper into Frank’s catalog to render some lesser-known but beloved ballads.
We suggest you arrive early as this will be a very popular concert.
Talking to teens about drug abuse
Representatives from the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, and Project Safe Point, will present a two-part series — Talking to Teens/Young Adults about Drug Abuse: Prescriptions, Heroin & Alcohol — at the library in mid-May.
Part 1 is on Thursday, May 12, at 6 p.m., and addresses the reality of addiction: it can happen to anyone, any family, at any time. Join us to learn the facts about this growing epidemic. You will learn how to talk to young people about drug and alcohol use, how to recognize the warning signs of addiction, and how to prevent an overdose.
Part 2 is on Thursday, May 19, at 6 p.m., and concludes the presentation and features the Albany County Sheriff’s Mobile Education Center. This “anti-drug bus” is staffed by a member of the sheriff’s office who talks about the progression of drug use, the legal implications of drug use, and the devastating health effects of drugs, particularly heroin and prescription opiate addiction.
Each trainee who completes the training will learn how to respond to an opioid overdose, as well as receive a Naloxone kit provided by Project Safe Point. This is a CDPHP program.
You are encouraged to sign up for both events. Please register online at www.guilpl.org, or call 456-2400, ext. 2.
Planning for children with special needs
Carol Van Valkenburgh, a registered representative with Foresters Financial, will speak at GPL on Thursday, May 5, at 6:30 p.m., and present a program on planning for the future and creating an effective plan for an individual with special needs. Discussion will include medical, legal, financial, and educational considerations. Please register for this class online or by calling 456-2400, ext. 2.
Mighty Superhero drawing workshop
Do you enjoy drawing? Do you love superheroes? Then come to GPL on Saturday, May 7, at 1 p.m., for the Mighty Superhero Drawing Workshop, which is part of Free Comic Book Day. Come learn to draw amazing superheroes and villains! No previous drawing skills are required – all you need is a No. 2 pencil. Grades six to 12; please register for this class online or by calling 456-2400, ext. 4.
GPL blood drive helps meet urgent need
The library will host a Red Cross blood drive on Tuesday, May 10, from 1 to 6 p.m. Walk-ins are always welcome, or you can make a donation appointment by calling the Red Cross at 1-800 RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Got drugs? Get rid of them!
On Saturday, April 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., you can get rid of all your unused or expired medications at a National Drug Take-Back Day drop-off point in the Guilderland Library’s parking lot, no questions asked.
The Library and the Guilderland Police Department have teamed up for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration's nationwide Drug Take-Back Day, a one-day collaborative effort between the DEA and state and local law enforcement agencies that focuses on removing potentially dangerous controlled substances from your home.
All surrendered expired, unwanted, or unused pharmaceuticals/controlled substances and other medications are destroyed by law enforcement officers. Not only does this program provide an opportunity for community agencies to collaborate and establish a safe collection site, it also brings national attention to the issue of pharmaceuticals and controlled substance abuse.
What can be disposed:
— Controlled, non-controlled, and over-the-counter substances; and
— Medication in its original container or removed from its container can be disposed of directly into the disposal boxes. (If an original container is submitted, be sure to remove any identifying information from the prescription label.)
What cannot be disposed:
— No sharps and syringes.
Drug Take-Back Day officials will not ask questions of nor request identification from anyone. It’s your best opportunity to rid yourself of hazardous medications that can bring harm to you and others in your household.
Sonny & Perley Trio: Tribute to Frank Sinatra
The ever-popular Sonny & Perley Trio will perform a tribute to Frank Sinatra, in celebration of Ol' Blue Eyes' 100th Birthday, at GPL on Sunday, May 8, at 2 p.m.
Think of your favorite Sinatra song, and you’ll probably hear it. Not only will Sonny & Perley perform Sinatra’s timeless standards, they will also dig deeper into Frank’s catalog to render some lesser-known but beloved ballads.
Alzheimer's Workshop: Dementia Conversations
Community Caregivers is holding a very important Alzheimer’s workshop at GPL on Wednesday, May 4, at 6 p.m. This session will give you very helpful tips to assist you with difficult conversations related to dementia, including doctor visits, decisions about driving, and making legal and financial plans. Please register for this class online or by calling 456-2400 ext. 2.
Planning for children with special needs
Carol Van Valkenburgh, Registered Representative with Foresters Financial, will speak at GPL on Thursday, May 5, at 6:30 p.m., and present a program on planning for the future and creating an effective plan for an individual with special needs. Discussion will include medical, legal, financial, and educational considerations. Please register for this class online or by calling 456-2400 ext. 2.
Mighty Superhero Drawing Workshop
Do you enjoy drawing? Do you love superheroes? Then come to GPL on Saturday, May 7, at 1 p.m., for the “Mighty Superhero Drawing Workshop,” which is part of Free Comic Book Day. Come learn to draw amazing superheroes and villains! No previous drawing skills are required – all you need is a No. 2 pencil. Grades 6-12; please register for this class online or by calling 456-2400 x 4.
You’re a teen with boatloads of musical talent. And you want to share this talent with friends, family, and community at the Guilderland Public Library’s “Coffeehouse Open Mic Night for Teens!” on Tuesday, April 26, at 6:30 p.m. And we want you to do it!
But, before you can share it, you have to let us know your name, and what kinds of set-up and sound needs you have. And you need to do it by Tuesday, April 19. So e-mail with the particulars, but do it soon. There is limited space, and the last time we did this, we had quite a turnout.
No registration is required to attend this event. Coffee and refreshments will be provided by our local Starbucks.
Fabric self-portrait
Come to the library on Friday, April 22, at 3:30 p.m., and celebrate Earth Day with us.
Learn about textile art as we use bits of fabric, yarn, and glittery sequins to create portraits of ourselves. Please call 456-2400, ext. 4 to let us know you’re coming; we’ll have your favorite fabrics waiting for you.
Coloring for adults
A coloring session great for stress relief, isn't just for kids anymore; it’s become quite the thing for adults, too. So come to the library for Coloring for Adults on Sunday, April 24, at 2 p.m.
We all need a creative outlet; and why should kids have all the fun? In these craft programs for adults we will explore different ways to express ourselves through the arts. We supply the coloring sheets, the colored pencils and markers, and a relaxing environment to get in touch with your Inner Crayola; you supply your own coloring inspiration. Please register by calling 456-2400, ext. 2.