September Is National Senior Center Month!

Celebrate with free classes throughout September! Your $15 monthly activity fee is being generously covered by Home of the Good Shepherd.

September Fun at the Center

Songs of the Cinema: Melodies of the Movies

Lecture with Ken Blatt
Thursday, September 24 | 1:30 PM | $5

Ken Blatt, PhD/MFA in Theater, traces the history of movie music beginning with the 1927 release of The Jazz Singer. Explore how Hollywood musicals evolved to feature iconic songs, symphonic scores and extravagant dance routines that rivaled Broadway.

Saratoga Arts made this program possible through the Community Arts Regrant Program, funded by the New York State Council on the Arts with support from the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

Ice Cream Social with Centers Health Care

Tuesday, September 22 | 12:00–2:00 PM

Celebrate National Ice Cream Cone Day! Grab a treat from the ice cream truck, courtesy of Centers Health Care, and spend time with friends at the Center. Pack a lunch or purchase something to eat from 9 Miles East Café.

Supported by Centers Health Care.

Fall Picnic

Tuesday, September 29 | 1:30 PM | $12

Celebrate the beginning of fall with music by Bill Gervasio and lunch from Home of the Good Shepherd at the YMCA Pavilion.

Lunch includes herb-roasted chicken, baked macaroni and cheese, garlic green beans, a dinner roll and pumpkin mousse. Visit the resource tables and connect with representatives from Nascentia Health, CDPHP, Home of the Good Shepherd, Trinity Health Alert, Marquis Certified Home Care and Scott Varley.

Supported by Home of the Good Shepherd.

Trivia Night

Monday, September 28 | 5:30 PM | $8

Join us for an evening of fun, friendly competition, prizes and pizza bites!

Scott Varley Seminar and Wine Tasting

Tuesday, September 29 | 3:00 PM

Join the Scott Varley team for a wine-tasting seminar and learn about the preparation involved in selling your home.

New Investment Club

A new Investment Club is coming to the Center! Additional details will be available soon.

Dine-In Dinners

Dine-In Dinner: Diamond Club Restaurant

Tuesday, September 15 | 5:30 PM | $13

Dinner includes roasted lemon, herb and garlic chicken, potato gratin and roasted asparagus.

Dine-In Dinner: Olde Bryan Inn

Tuesday, September 22 | 5:30 PM | $13

Dinner includes roasted pork with apple chutney, mashed potatoes and a vegetable. This meal is gluten-free.

Evening and Weekend Openings in September

Made possible by The Saratoga Foundation.

Make the most of your membership with more opportunities to enjoy the Center! Our expanded evening and weekend hours continue throughout September, giving you more time to connect, try something new and take part in the programs you love.

Open Mondays

4:00–7:00 PM

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  Drop-in poker and billiards

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  Legal Monday: September 14, 3:00–6:00 PM

Tuesday Nights

4:00–6:30 PM

Our Tuesday evening hours are reserved for participants attending Evening Clay Arts. Please see the Arts section of the newsletter or contact the Center for registration information.

Open Sunday: NFL Kickoff and Grandparents Day

Sunday, September 13 | 1:00–4:00 PM

Sunday Funday

1:00 PM | $5 | RSVP Required

Cheer on your favorite team at the Center! We’ll be showing the 1:00 PM football games, including the Buffalo Bills, New York Jets and other teams. Hang out, enjoy wings, snacks and drinks, and watch the games with friends.

Kitchen Science with The Children’s Museum

1:30–2:30 PM | RSVP Required

Celebrate Grandparents Day at the Center with a hands-on Kitchen Science adventure for you and your grandchild! Best suited for children in kindergarten through second grade.

Together, you’ll explore the states of matter through exciting chemistry experiments, a fun movement activity and the opportunity to make your own slime to take home. Join us for a memorable afternoon of bonding, learning and fun!

Spanish “Fun Festival”

3:00–4:00 PM

Drop by to explore and test-drive online resources, listen to Spanish music, and play Spanish Scrabble and Bingo. Meet our students and teacher and browse available books, links and handouts.

Drop-In Games

Drop in throughout the afternoon for poker, billiards and board games.

Long-Term Care Planning Expo

Monday, September 14 | 1:30–4:30 PM | Open to the Public

Learn how to confidently plan for long-term care for yourself or a loved one. Hear from local experts during a moderated panel discussion covering care options, housing, legal planning, in-home support and other important considerations.

Bring your questions, then connect one-on-one with participating organizations during the resource fair.

Expert panel featuring:

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  Centers Health Care

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  Choice Connections

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  Nascentia Health

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  Avila Retirement Community

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  Herzog Law Firm

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  Drabek Homes

Supported by Centers Health Care.

9/11 25th Anniversary Events

Remembering 9/11: 25th Anniversary

Presented by Barbara Floryshak
Tuesday, September 8 | 1:30 PM | Registration Required

The year 2026 marks the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. Center member Barbara Floryshak will share her experience working as a first responder in New York City during 9/11. Questions are welcome.

Discover Live: Ground Zero Memorial and Museum Tour

Tuesday, September 8 | 2:30 PM | Registration Required

Take a live, virtually guided tour through Lower Manhattan in recognition of the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. Experience places of quiet courage and renewal, from St. Paul’s Chapel and the 9/11 Memorial Reflecting Pools to One World Trade Center.

This tour explores memory, heroism and the quiet courage it takes to rebuild.

9/11 Commemoration and Remembrance Ceremony

Friday, September 11 | 8:15 AM | High Rock Park

Join the community for a commemoration and remembrance ceremony at High Rock Park. Please call the Center at 518-584-1621 if you need transportation.

September Educational Presentations

The following educational presentations are free and open to the public. Registration is required unless otherwise noted.

Handicapping Session

Presented by Barry Loffredo and Bill Robeson
Wednesday, September 2 | 9:45 AM | Registration Required

Fellow track enthusiasts and Center members Bill Robeson and Barry Loffredo will break down their personal handicapping processes for the afternoon’s races. This interactive session will help you understand the odds, evaluate contenders and make smarter wagers.

Join us before the Center’s Senior Day at the Track to refine your strategy, ask questions and make your picks with confidence!

Longevity Habits in Five Minutes or Less

Presented by Emily Horstman, Registered Dietitian
Monday, September 14 | 9:30 AM | Registration Required

Join Emily Horstman for an interactive and delicious session—with snacks included—exploring simple, quick and often free habits that support long-term health, especially those that may not already be on your radar.

Snacking Healthy with Cornell Cooperative Extension

Presented by Brenna Kavakos, M.S., Community Nutrition Resource Educator
Tuesday, September 15 | 10:00 AM | Registration Required

Join Brenna for a lesson on healthy snacking and incorporating more fiber into your diet.

The Shady Side of Saratoga Fiction Book Talk

Presented by Rick Cobello
Thursday, September 17 | 1:30 PM | Registration Required

After decades in technology and cybersecurity, Richard Cobello turned his investigative instincts and understanding of human behavior toward writing. His debut suspense novel, The Shady Side of Saratoga, marks the next chapter in a career spent questioning the world around him.

Join us for an engaging author talk and Q&A to learn more about the story.

What’s Next? Turning Hard Conversations into Helpful Ones

Presented by Home Instead
Friday, September 18 | 10:00 AM | Registration Required

Growing older brings changes—some expected and some not. One thing remains the same: the desire to stay in control of your life and your choices.

This presentation focuses on the importance of discussing care preferences, support needs, when to seek help and future planning before a crisis occurs. Through open and respectful conversations, families can better understand one another’s wishes and explore solutions that help preserve independence, dignity and quality of life.

Senior Scams and Fraud Presentation

Presented by Bret Dewhurst, Community Programs Coordinator, Better Business Bureau
Monday, September 21 | 1:30 PM | Registration Required

Protect yourself and your loved ones from today’s most common fraud schemes during an interactive workshop presented by the Better Business Bureau of Upstate New York.

Discover critical red flags, practice recognizing hidden tactics such as phishing and identity theft, and learn practical steps to freeze your credit and report suspicious activity using BBB’s Scam Tracker. Join us to build your confidence, ask questions and keep your personal information secure.

Lunch will be provided to everyone who registers in advance.

This program is funded in part by the New York State Office for the Aging, the U.S. Administration on Aging, Lifespan of Greater Rochester and participant contributions.

September Happenings

New Salsa and Bachata Dance Class

Facilitated by Owin Pisacane
Tuesdays | 10:00–11:00 AM | RSVP Required
No class September 1

Learn the basic steps of salsa and bachata dancing. Traditionally social partner dances popular throughout Latin America, these styles are perfect for beginners. No previous experience or partner is required.

New Investment Club

Facilitated by Christopher Van Buren, CFP, CPWA, LWM Advisors
Second Wednesday of Every Month | September 9 | 10:30–11:30 AM | RSVP Required

Curious about investing or wondering what today’s market headlines really mean? Join us for a relaxed, interactive discussion covering the topics that matter most—from current market trends and retirement-income strategies to investment management and personal finance.

No experience is necessary. Just bring your curiosity and questions.

Poetry and Storytelling Open Mic

Friday, September 11 | 1:00 PM | Open to the Public
Registration Requested | $5 Suggested Donation

Write a poem about where you were on September 11, 2001. Participants are invited to share a poem, story or personal reflection.

Each open-mic participant will have up to five minutes to read, narrate or perform one longer poem or two shorter pieces. Come to share or simply listen and enjoy.

Legal Monday: Herzog in the House

Monday, September 14 | 3:00–6:00 PM | Free | Registration Required

Herzog Law Firm will be onsite at the Center on the second Monday of each month. Register for a complimentary 30-minute consultation and bring your legal questions and concerns, from designating a power of attorney or healthcare proxy to more detailed long-term planning.

Shifa Pharmacy Flu Shot Clinic

Monday, September 14 | 10:00 AM–4:00 PM | Registration Required

Get your flu shot at the Center! Register for a 15-minute appointment.

Discover Live Virtual Tours

Travel the world through live, virtually guided tours at the Center. Escape to new and exciting destinations while learning about different cultures, foods and traditions.

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  New York City 9/11 Tour: Tuesday, September 8 at 2:30 PM

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  Heidelberg, Germany: Wednesday, September 16 at 11:00 AM

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  Vâlcea County, Romania: Monday, September 21 at 10:00 AM

These programs were made possible by the New York State Office for the Aging.

Tarot Card Reading

Facilitated by Mary Shimp
Tuesday, September 15 | 10:00 AM–2:00 PM | RSVP Required
$5 Suggested Donation

Curious about what the future may hold? Receive a personalized 15-minute reading and gain insight into life’s questions in a thoughtful, one-on-one setting.

One-on-One Technology Assistance

Appointments Available Monday–Friday

Call the front desk at 518-584-1621 to schedule a private technology-assistance appointment.

Dog Therapy in Action

Presented by the Helayne and Grace Dog Therapy Team
Tuesday, September 22 | 12:30–1:30 PM | Drop-In

Discover what it takes to bring comfort and joy through therapy-dog work. This class covers essential visiting skills, dog temperament, navigating diverse environments and key human interactions.

The program includes real-world examples, a Q&A and a special visit with Grace!

Legal Tuesday: Herzog in the House

Tuesday, September 22 | 9:00 AM–12:00 PM | Free | Registration Required

Herzog Law Firm will be onsite at the Center on the fourth Tuesday of each month. Register for a complimentary 30-minute consultation and bring your legal questions and concerns, from designating a power of attorney or healthcare proxy to more detailed long-term planning.

Beginner and Intermediate Guitar Workshop

Facilitated by Joan Urejevich
Thursdays | 2:00–4:00 PM

Ready to strum your favorite classics? This beginner and intermediate group learns timeless hits from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s while exploring individual chords and the “why” behind each song’s structure.

Each class begins with a quick review of previous material, so new members are welcome to join at any point.

Intermediate and Advanced Guitar Workshop

Facilitated by Ray Gigliere
Wednesdays | 1:30–3:00 PM | September 23–December 9

Further develop your blues and folk guitar skills with instructor-guided fingerstyle lessons designed for intermediate players. No formal music-theory experience is required.

Participants must attend within the first two weeks of the workshop to join the class.

Movie Day: Roofman

Friday, September 25 | 1:30 PM | Registration Required

This month’s featured film is Roofman. Based on a true story, the film follows Army veteran Jeffrey Manchester, played by Channing Tatum, who turns to robbing McDonald’s restaurants by entering through their roofs.

Following a prison break, he secretly lives inside a Toys “R” Us for six months—until falling for Leigh, played by Kirsten Dunst, threatens to unravel his hidden life.

Book Club

Tuesday, September 29 | 3:00 PM | Registration Required

The September book selection is Shelterwood by Lisa Wingate.

Board Meeting

Wednesday, September 30 | 5:30 PM

Billiards Tournament

Last Wednesday of Every Month | Begins at Noon

Join our friendly group of billiards players for some good-natured competition. Players of every skill level are welcome to step up to the table, meet new people and join the fun—whether you are a regular player or participating for the first time.

Pitney Meadows Produce Pop-Up

Every Wednesday Beginning at 9:00 AM, While Supplies Last

Stop by to pick up free, fresh produce, thanks to Pitney Meadows Community Farm.

Beginning September 23, enjoy a 10- to 15-minute cooking demonstration alongside the produce pickup. A chef will share fast, delicious recipes using the fresh produce you are taking home. Pick up your healthy harvest, discover a tasty recipe and learn how to make the most of your fresh ingredients.

Distribution may continue into the first few weeks of October, depending on produce availability.

Country Line Dance Lessons

There is no charge for these programs, but participants must register in advance. Space is limited.

These classes were made possible by the New York State Office for the Aging and the Saratoga County Department of Aging and Youth Services.

Improver Country Line Dance Lessons with Kevin Richards

Wednesdays, September 23 and 30 | 2:30 PM | RSVP Required

Line-dance lessons for participants with previous experience who have attended a beginner program.

Beginner Country Line Dance Lessons with Kevin Richards

Wednesdays, September 23 and 30 | 3:30 PM | RSVP Required

Basic lessons for first-time participants and beginners. Learn from the very first step!

Center Closure

The Saratoga Senior Center will be closed on Monday, September 7, in observance of Labor Day.

Registration

To register for any of these programs or events, please visit the Center or call 518-584-1621.