BERNE — The Berne Republican Committee is hosting a Music in the Park event on Wednesday, Aug. 23, from 5 to 9 p.m. as a benefit for the party.

The event, at the Berne town park, is billed as “Two Great Bands — One Great Evening: Friends, Neighbors and Fun.” The two bands are The Henchmen and Thick As thieves.

Town Supervisor Peter Barber will be challenged this fall by Republican Brian Forte, whom he beat narrowly in 2015.

Both Republicans and Democrats nominated a full slate of candidates, including for town supervisor, highway superintendent, and two seats on the town board.

Enrolled Democrats outnumber enrolled Republicans in the Hilltowns by a lot.

_{Anita Marrone, Westerlo}

Republican Lee Carman's predecessor in the Albany County Legislature, Christine Benedict, stepped down after nine years in the position, she said, to focus on the issues facing her district in Colonie.

The Republican committee doesn't have any candidates for town board so far, but will support Democrat Keith Wright for highway superintendent.

NEW SCOTLAND — Citing recent leadership changes, past defections, and a need to solidify the party’s message, the New Scotland Republican Committee has declined to endorse any candidates in this year’s municipal elections so it can regroup, said Albany County Republican Commissioner Rachel L. Bledi.