The Helderview Garden Club will hold its monthly meeting on Thursday, Nov. 2, at 6:45 p.m. at the Albany County Cooperative Extension offices on Martin Rd Voorheesville, NY.  Dave Jennings will present a talk on hostas. The public is welcome to attend.

Renewable Energy and Sustainability Fair at The Doane Stuart School, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., to present workshops and exhibits on climate action, recycling, and sustainable lifestyles. The Fair’s keynote speaker will be Judith Enck, former EPA Regional Administrator in the Obama administration. Admission and parking are free.

Pine Bush Invasives Early Detection and Training. 1 to 2:30 p.m. By knowing how to identify these species, you can protect your own property and public lands through early detection and response. This program will begin indoors with a short presentation, followed by a hike of approximately one mile. Ages 8+. Free. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. Free! Registration required. Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org/events.

Retirement and investment planning: A free seminar on savings, budgeting, and investing. Thompsons Lake Reformed Church in East Berne. 7 p.m.

Native Plant Sale at Thacher Park Overlook. Saturday and Sunday. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Create a Living Landscape with native plants.  Native plants can solve your biggest gardening challenges. Over 40 hard to find species of perennials, shrubs and small trees for all soil and moisture types will be available. Call 872-0800 for more information.

It's almost time to start your garden seedlings indoors! Learn when to start different kinds of vegetable seeds indoors and about indoor lighting and heating equipment that you can use to start your garden. Explore seeds from the library's seed collection. Discussion led by local gardener Sharon Miller.

6:30 p.m.Karen Chenel will provide you with a sensory experience, and an understanding of what an essential oil is and how it can improve your lifestyle.  Enjoy the aromas of various oils, apply them topically, and taste the oils if you would like.  Empower yourself and discover the benefits of essential oils.  Please register.