Guilderland, NY - Alumni of the Guilderland High School Track & Field and Cross Country teams are hosting a reunion on Saturday, September 8 at the Western Turnpike Golf Course from 5 to 8 PM.  All past team members, coaches, parents, and friends are welcome. Register for the reunion by Saturday, September 1 at www.runreg.com/guilderland.

Dudley Observatory Program & Star Party:  Ron Barnell (AAAA) - “Globular Clusters, Great Balls of Fire” - 7:00 PM rain or shine in the Octagon Barn; outdoor observing to follow, weather permitting. 588 Middle Road in Knox (Delanson 12053 for GPS). All are welcome. Telescopes provided, or bring your own. Free refreshments. (518) 618-5376.

Nature Journaling at 1:00 pm. Suitable for teens and adults. We will combine drawing, scientific observation, poetry and more as we each record a visit to the Pine Bush in our own creative way. This program will include a short hike of no more than one-half mile. 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY Fee: Free! Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Wildlife Presentation at Thacher Nature Center. 10 a.m. Meet some wild neighbors up close and personal and learn about where and how they live. Wildlife rehabilitator Kelly Martin will introduce some of the birds of prey and other animals in her care. Learn what to do if you find an abandoned or injured animal and how to help prevent wildlife emergencies. Please bring a donation to support Kelly’s work. Call 872-0800 for more information.

Thomas Cole and his time spent at Featherstonhaugh Park painting scenes of Duanesburg and Esperance. The program is free and will be on September 1, at 1:00 PM at the Esperance Old Stone Presbyterian Church on Church Street just off US 20. Following the program, guests are invited to have refreshments at the Esperance Historical Museum next door.

The Karner Kids Film Festival will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 29, at 6:30 pm at the Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center. “Join us to see some amazingly creative Pine Bush films made by young people,” said Education Program Manager, Sara Poggi-Decker. The Karner Kids Film Festival features Pine Bush-themed films made by kids ages 10-17. The films are original creations of 5 minutes or less and all feature the Pine Bush. Make reservations by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org/events.

Exploring Geology at the Huyck Preserve. 10 a.m. The rocks of Rensselaerville record local history from long before dinosaurs. Explore the local geology and deep-time history on a walk along the falls with Dr. Charles Ver Straeten of the New York State Museum. Semi-rugged walk; sturdy footwear required. Cost of event: Huyck Preserve members, free. Non-members, $5. Registration required:

The Duanesburg Historical Society extends an invitation to attend the Open House and Dedication of their Research and Archive Center, 450 Quaker Lane, Hamlet of Quaker Street, on Monday, August 20, from 4 - 8 pm. Dedication and Ribbon Cutting at 6 pm. Refreshments will be served and all are welcome.

A GOOD AND NOBLE THING - THE PIONEERING LIFE AND SERVICE OF ANNA WARD PERKINS, M.D. at 4990 Delaware Turnpike (Rt. 85); Rensselaerville, NY 12147.  Annual meeting of the Rensselaerville Historical Society at 5 p.m., potluck dinner (bring a dish to share) at 6 p.m., and the program at 7 p.m.

Dudley Observatory Program & Star Party:  Jenn Carter (U Albany) - “Exoplanets: Worlds Beyond Our Solar System ” - 8 PM rain or shine in the Octagon Barn; outdoor observing to follow, weather permitting. 588 Middle Road in Knox (Delanson 12053 for GPS). All are welcome.  Telescopes provided, or bring your own. Free refreshments. (518) 618-5376.