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Google finally confirmed that it has changed how quality is assessed in ranking after webmasters began noticing the difference. Since the beginning of the month the change in assessing quality by Google has been taking place Google has confirmed after an update called "The Quality Update." Much debate was going on at the Las Vegas Convention over whether this was "Mobilegeddon," or some other phantom update bundled together with the mobile algo burn in.
Some lawyers noticed negative changes in Google search engine results, especially the local packs, during the month prior to Google's confirmation of the update, and wondered if it was related to a Panda/and/or a Venice/Pigeon update. When questioned about it being a Panda or other type of update, Google said no, the search engine results were not caused by an update.
Due to the search engine companies denial, some reports were calling it the "Phantom Update" because whether the company admitted to an update or not there was a clear change for some website owners. Of course, Google has long engaged in disinformation campaigns in order to confuse "spammers," but as you and I know, they are the only ones who seem to benefit when there is a new algo change like this "Phantom." In any event, finally Google came out and said that while there was no spam related update, there were changes made to the core ranking algorithm.
So what the heck does that mean to a law firm, or solo? In short, the changes affect how it processes quality signals, but what they did not comment on was how quality is now assessed. My guess is that nothing has changed insofar as ranking factors, other than that Google has created some new winners, and some new losers by increasing the value of some signals and lowering the value of others. From past Google updates it is known that the search engine company uses a wide range of factors to determine the quality of a page, and they constantly change in significance of importance when an engineer, or employee at Google decides to throw the switch with a new rollout like this.
Previously when Google was questioned if there would be any updates coming such as Panda or Penguin, they did not mention the Quality Update. Some webmaster argue that because there was no warning with this update, there has probably been more harm done than there would have been, if webmasters were warned. But since none of the quality guidelines were changed, it is unclear how the new signal works and thus, a warning probably would have changed nothing.
Social Media Engagement?
Many lawyers speculate that social media engagement is becoming a major signal AGAIN, as it was back in the circa 2010 era. When Google ended the authorship rich snippets, and turned GPlus links to "no follow," we saw many lawyers flee Google Plus, exiting their first stab at SEO. Personally, the sites that I have seen get a bump this time around, are almost all heavily involved in Google Plus and Twitter. It could be that Google's new Twitter policy has something to do with this update as well.
The "Confusing" Update?
Some websites are speaking out about the update like Hubpages that believes Google is really just targeting How To pages and informational websites. I personally don't think that could be the reason. Why would Google target pages and content that it has said it wants (eg answers questions, etc.)? Though there are a large amount of legal websites for news and for other things like loans that have not seen a decline with the update, but just the opposite, so man is this ever confusing.
I for one think this should be called the "Confusing" update. After all, this almost seems like a Penguin rollback to a lot of us lawyers, but that is not what Google is admitting to here. Google claimed they did not target any class of websites or any specific websites with the update, instead it was an update to the ranking algorithm.
There is help though, even if it isn't Quality Update specific by Google for webmasters that feel they have been affected. As noted above, Google still swears it is all about great content, and that if you have it, you will get links, or votes, which can rank your site higher. Of course, many lawyers slammed by these constant and successive algorithms since April of 2012 disagree this is merely about quality and "natural," and believe that Google is always thinking of ways to create an environment of fear, uncertainty and doubt ("FUD") about the once stable organic results us consumer came to appreciate from the search engine giant.
The theory goes, that white hat, as well as black hat SEO's will throw up their hands and move to PPC. So far what we have seen in the real world, is that when there is a confusing update like this, the PPC bid prices rise high fast, as well as the associated reports of click fraud. Those who have experienced the way that Google handles click fraud reports, have opted to the friendlier, cheaper Bing and Yahoo! for a better value. The fact us busy lawyers have to watch our PPC bids and clicks like a hawk, and then when we catch a sham click, are forced to deal with Google and fight over it, is bad enough.
Most of our members have said that Google rarely honors a click fraud chargeback, when compared to Bing. After all, the party line is that click fraud is rare. What has your experience been with PPC on either of these search engines?
Do you feel that organic is just too difficult to make it worthwhile? What does the future hold for your marketing budget as a busty lawyer? COLT wants to know! In the meantime, you lawyers and your marketing agents need to focus on quality content and praying that the sites linking to you are not secretly hurting your search results in Google's eyes.
Posts by Michael Ehline
- A Difficult Question for Firms of Any Size
- Considering the Size and Growth of Your Office
- The Need for Modern Tech in a Modern World
- Running a Well-Oiled Machine
- Vacaville Case May Shift Police Brutality Precedent
- Lawsuit Over Police Brutality of a Senior
- Not the First Time Google Abused Such Power?
- PR, Social Media, Content Marketing & SEO – A World of Rapid Changes
- How Will Google's EU Fines Affect PPC Bids?
- EU Slaps Google with More Antitrust Allegations


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Hudson Valley Activities for Thursdays!
Orange County
Bear Mountain- Bear Mountain State Park, Open year-round. 8 am- sunset, Trailside Museums and Zoo
(open 10 am-4:30 pm, suggested donation $1, Closed Thanksgiving & Christmas), hiking, biking and cross-
country ski trails. An outdoor rink is open for PUBLIC ICE SKATING from late October to mid-March
(Pricing: ages 12 & up: $5; ages 4-11: $4; 3 & under: FREE; Non-skaters & Seniors: $2; Skate Rental: $4;
Skate Sharpening: $5). Merry-go-Round Schedule (9/5/17 - 3/31/17: Weekends & holidays only, 10 am -
5 pm, $1 per ride, children under 42 inches tall must be accompanied by an adult); The park also features
a large play field, picnic groves, lake and river fishing access (seasonal boating, paddle boats, re-opens
4/2018) and a pool (re-opens 6/2018). The Perkins Memorial Tower atop Bear Mountain affords spectacular
views of the park, the Hudson Highlands and Harriman State Park. Perkins Memorial Drive and Tower are
open from April to late November, weather permitting. Parking: $10 (no fee on weekdays 9/4/16-3/31/18),
Palisades Parkway or Route 9W North, Bear Mountain, NY 10911, 845-786-2701 ; (updated 11/2017)
Campbell Hall- Full Spectrum Art @ The Art Cottage of NY, 3:45-5 pm, Ages 6-11 & 12-18,
$65, encounter all the wide array of textures, styles and elements of art, work with decoupage,
oil pastels, charcoal pencils, and cartooning, 3020 State Route 207, 845-496-CRE8 (2738), ;
Chester- Castle Family Fun Center, THURSDAY HOURS for SEPT - MARCH: 3-8 pm. 50,000 sq ft. indoor/ outdoor family entertainment center ATTRACTIONS: Laser Tag: $6/$8.50; Roller Skating: $6-9; Roller skate rentals: $3.50; Roller blade rentals $4.50; Ballocity: $7.50/$9.50; Arcade games: $.65-$2.15; Laser Maze: $3.50-$5.50; Free Fall Ride: $4; Swing Ride: $4; Dragon Frenzy 360 Ride: $4; Bumper Cars: $5.50; Climbing Wall: $4; Go Karts (may be closed during the winter months and/or with inclement weather): $5.50/$6.50/$7.50; Driving Range: $6/$10/$14 & $2 club rental; Mini Golf (March-October): $6.75/$7.75; Batting Cage (March-October): $2/ 18 pitches. All attractions required the use of the "Castle Card". There is a $1 initial charge for new cards.
Purchase any dollar amount to put on your card. We require a minimum $10 Castle Card to be purchased by
any unaccompanied minor on Fridays and Saturdays starting at 6 pm..Castle Cards can be used at Jester's Restaurant & Pub except for gratuity. Visit link for information on special events, birthday parties, discounts, school trips & more. 109 Brookside Ave., Chester, NY 10918, 845-469-2116 ; (last updated 11/2017)
Chester- Rock Ridge Alpacas, Call for hours for FREE tours*, Located on a ridge, literally of rock and
boulders, Wayne has carved out what can be described as an "Alpaca Park". Just enough rock remains
for the herdsires to play King of the Mountain while the others race across the bridge to open spaces.
Sunlight dappled fields offer grazing, as mothers contentedly bask in the warmth and watch the cria play.
Marsha watches over the herd, noting interactions, planning the next breeding, enjoying the games. Locals
come by to visit their favorites, sharing in the excitement of the latest births. Come join The Olivers at
Rock Ridge Alpacas and experience a great way of life! *Free tour of the alpaca farm with a herd of 37
includes educational information on alpacas and is very entertaining. Alpacas range in age from newborn
through mature adults. Weekday hours a definite possibility, so call for an appointment Groups welcome!
Visit the shop full of alpaca yarn, fiber & beautiful garments. email: firstname.lastname@example.com,
845-469-6196, 229 Gibson Hill Road, Chester, NY 10918 ; (updated 11/2017)
Chester- Indoor Playplace @ McDonald's, 6-12 am, for children 4'tall & under, ages 3-12, RT 17M & 17,
845-469-2335 ;
Cuddebackville- D & H Canal Park, open every day from dawn to dusk, a 300-acre park
with a one mile section of the Delaware and Hudson Canal (1825-1898) and a number of
historic canal-era buildings, 26 Hoag Road, 845-754-8870, email: email@example.com ;
Florida- Toddler Drop-in & Play @ Capelli Sports Center, Tuesday-Friday*, FALL & WINTER 2017, 11 am-3 pm, $10/ caregiver, Calling all Moms, Dads, Grandmas, Grandpas, Nannies & babysitters looking for something to do
on a cold, wet fall/winter day with their little ones. Our toddler drop-in & play is full of fun with all types of
balls, ride on toys, parachutes, slides, scooters, tunnels, & lots of open space for running! Lunch room available
& Concession stand on site for snacks! PLEASE CALL PRIOR TO DROPPING IN, *Mondays are available
by appointment only for groups 15 or more- great day for Mom`s Groups! 1741 State Route 17A,
Florida, NY 10921, 845-651-0440, e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com, http://orange.capellisportcenter.com/sports-programs/drop-play ; (updated 12/2017)
Goshen- Harness Racing Museum and Hall of Fame, 10 am-5 pm, Dedicated to comprehensive,
active and authoritative support and promotion of the Standardbred industry through docu-
mentation and preservation of the history and traditions of this American-born sport,
240 Main St., 845-294-6330, Email: email@example.com; (updated 9/2016)
Goshen/ Monroe/ Chester- Heritage Trail, 11.5 Mile Linear Trail from Goshen to Monroe, Access
Points/Parking: Chester Depot Museum, Village of Chester; St. James Place, Village of Goshen: Park
and Ride Lot B, Village of Monroe., 845-615-3830, * VILLAGE OF CHESTER – CHESTER DEPOT
MUSEUM Off Exit 126 on Route 17, * VILLAGE OF GOSHEN – ST. JAMES PLACE Off Exit 124
on Route 17, * VILLAGE OF MONROE – PARK AND RIDE LOT B Off Exit 130 on Route 17 ;
Harriman- The Elk's Place, Indoor Playground, 10 am-5 pm, $18 for ages 4 & up, $15 under age 4, Wifi available, Our indoor play center houses a multi-level indoor playground, which includes climb towers, trampoline, slides, tunnels, and ball-blasting arena. 95 Maher Lane, Harriman, New York 10926, 844-Elks-Place ALSO, CLICK LINK FOR "DROP & SHOP" INFO ;
Highland Mills- Portfolio Preparation @ The Art Studio Woodbury, Thursdays
7:45-9:15 pm, 6 wks. $132, all supplies included, Art classes for teens who are
planning to study art after high school, 548 Rt. 32, 845-928-8823 ;
Highland Mills- Art Start @ The Art Studio Woodbury, Thursdays, 5-6 pm, $16/class paid monthly, includes supplies, This class is designed for children ages 4-5 years old. We will introduce your child to basic art concepts while having fun with painting, drawing and sculpture, Registration required, 548 Rt. 32, 845-928-8823 ;
Highland Mills- Children's Mix Medium @ The Art Studio Woodbury, Thursdays, 6:15-7:30 pm, ages 10+,
$20/class paid monthly, includes supplies, Your child will learn the basic principles of art such as composition, color, perspective, and shading. We will be using many mediums for drawing and painting such as oil pastels,
chalk pastels, pencil, water colors, acrylics, markers, charcoal and paints. The children are encouraged to
work at their level according to their individual strengths. Registration required, 548 Rt. 32, 845-928-8823 ;
Maybrook- Zumba @ the VFW, 6 pm, Zumba toning/Sentao & some kick-
boxing, contact Veronica Rodriguez for information @ 845-518-3024 ;
Middletown- Escape the Mystery Room @ Galleria at Crystal Run, STORE HOURS: Mon-Sat 10AM to 9PM,
Sunday 11AM to 6PM, $20/person, This is your chance to be a real-life detective. You and your team are in
a room for 45 minutes and you must find clues, solve puzzles and decipher hidden codes to Escape The
Mystery Room. 1 Galleria Drive Space A211, Middletown, NY 10941, 845-673-5177 ; (updated 2/2017)
Middletown- The Party Zone USA, Indoor Amusement Park & Arcade; Hours: Monday - Friday: 4- 8 pm,
Saturday: 11 am - 9 pm, Sunday: 11 am - 8 pm; Indoor Dragon Rollercoaster, Mechanical Bull Ride, Mozer
Spring Ride, Flying Bananas Ride, Large Bounce House Inflatables, Multiple Pool / Billard Tables & Huge
Arcade with 60 Video/Redemption/Riding Games; Click HERE for pricing; Click HERE for Birthday Party information; 360 Rt. 211E, 845-984-4366 ; (updated 3/2018)
Middletown- Build-A-Bear, 1 E Galleria Dr., Space B210, 845-695-1777, 10 am-9:30 pm ;
Middletown- Indoor Playplace @ McDonald's, 6-11 pm, for children 4'tall & under,
ages 3-12, 113 Dolson Ave., 845-469-2335 ;
Middletown- Middletown Teen Center @ Michael G. Perkins Community Center, FREE, ages 11-18,
Middletown residents only, School year hours: Monday-Thursday 6- 9 pm; Friday & Saturday 8-11
pm. Summer hours: Monday & Wednesday 6- 9 pm, and Friday & Saturday 8-11 pm. A safe place for
teens to socialize and be able to play pool, ping pong, video games, table games and exercise in our
full size gym and the fitness room. 845-346-4180, 47 Academy Avenue ;
Monroe- Smith Clove Park, 80 acres with pavilions, rest rooms, a skate park, hiking trails, a fitness
course, an illuminated football field, baseball fields, basketball courts, 3 playgrounds, handball courts,
indoor racquetball courts, tennis courts, roller hockey rink, softball field, a dog park, a volleyball court,
a pond to skate, a hill to sleigh ride and a 2600 square foot recreation building complete with an activity
room, a game room & a multi-purpose room, 845-783-4906, 133 Spring Street ;
Monroe- Museum Village, 11 am – 4 pm. Adults – $12; Seniors – $10; Children (4-12) – $8. Children under 4 and Veterans Free. Museum Village is dedicated to exploring and interpreting 19th century rural life as well as inspiring an appreciation for the evolution of industry and technology in America. Unique artifacts, learn about the blacksmith, wagon shop, candle shop, schoolhouse, livery, broom shop & more. 1010 State Route 17M, Monroe, NY 10950, 845-782-8248 ; (late June til early September; open weekends April to November) updated 2/2017
Monroe- Youth Irish Step Dancing Classes @ Monroe Irish Center, 4-6 pm, 845-783-0205, 10 North Main St. ;
Monroe- Toddlers Indoor Free Play @ Smith Clove Park, 9:45-11:15 am OR 1:15-2:45 pm, ages 2-3 with parent/caretaker, 845-783-9108, 133 Spring Street ;
Montgomery- Flow Theory Art & Craft Studio, Thurs & Fri 11 am-3 pm, Sat 12-6 pm & Sun 12-5 pm. Supplies available for use in the studio: paint, paper crafting, stamping, cutting tools, clay, embroidery machine, sewing machine, concrete & plaster crafting, wood burning & much more! Make a bracelet, a glass pendant, pepper/
fabric lamp, dream catcher and just about anything else you can think of to craft. $10/hour for a seat at
the table. 2 Union Street, Montgomery, NY 12549, call/text 845-444-1985 ; (updated 10/2017)
Montgomery- Winding Hills, 51 Camp Sites, Ranger Station, 40-acre Diamond Lake, 4-Acre Pond, Fishing, Boat House, Boating (car-top boats only), Playgrounds, Horseshoe Pits, Volleyball Court, Picnic Shelter, Comfort Stations, Benches, Picnic Tables, Nature Trails, Grills, Ice Skating, Ice Fishing, Snowmobile Trails and Parking.
845-615-3830, 2 Old Rt. 17K, dusk til dawn ;
Montgomery- Thomas Bull Memorial Park, 18 Hole Golf Course, Driving Range, Banquet Facility, Pro Shop,
Tennis Courts, Boat House, Ball Fields, Horse Riding Area/Stables, 5-Acre Pond, Fishing, Winter Sports Area,
Picnic Shelters, Picnic Tables, Benches, Exercise Area, Dog Park, Arboretum, Playgrounds, Volleyball Courts, Horseshoe Pits, Hill-Hold Historic Museum, Comfort Stations and Parking, 211 Rt. 416, 845-615-3830 ;
Montgomery- Indoor Playplace @ McDonald's, 5 am-11 am, for children 4'tall & under,
ages 3-12, 2083 Rt. 208, 845-457-9581 ;
Montgomery- Veteran's Memorial Park, 60 Bachelor St., playground, basket-
ball courts, dog park, recreation/senior center, ball fields, 845-457-9661 ;
Montgomery- Pleasure Ground Park, 60 Bachelor St., pavilion with picnic tables,
boat launch, walking trails, gazebo, on the Wallkill River, 845-457-9661 ;
New Windsor- Potter's Party, Business Hours: M-F: 9:30 am-6:30 pm; Sat: 10 am-5 pm; Sun:
By appointment only. Paint-Your-Own-Pottery. $10 per 1-1/2 hours (90 minutes) of studio time
the cost of the ceramic piece of your choice (prices range from $5 to $60). We will glaze and
fire your ceramic piece, Pick up your own one-of-a-kind creation in 1-2 weeks. Our standard studio
time is 1-1/2 hours (90 minutes). 845-534-3349, firstname.lastname@example.com,2314 State Rt. 32,
New Windsor, NY 12553, http://pottersparty.com/index.html ; (updated 5/2017)
New Windsor- The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor located at New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site, 10 am-5 pm, 374 Temple Hill Rd., 1-877-28HONOR/ 877-284-6667, handicapped accessible ;
New Windsor- Kids Yoga @ Rae of Light Yoga, Thursdays, 5:30-6:30 pm, Ages 3-8, We teach kids yoga
in a fun, age-appropriate way. Using music, books, games & stuffed animals, makes yoga fun for the little
ones. This is a great way to start them on a healthy path to continue their practice as they grow. With
Susan Walsh-Aulogia, SIGN UP ONLINE, 318 Blooming Grove Turnpike, Suite 900, New Windsor, NY
12553, (845) 527-3802, Email: firstname.lastname@example.com (updated 1/2017)
Newburgh- Chadwick Lake Park, open all-year, hours & activities vary seasonally. 845-564-0608,
A permit is required for entrance to Chadwick Lake Park. 1702 Route 300, Children's Playground,
Boating, Bocce ball, Basketball, Fishing, Roller hockey rink, walking trail around the lake, ice skating ;
Newburgh- Barnes & Noble Storytime, Join us Tuesdays & Thursdays at 11 am in the
Children's Department for a fun-filled Storytime and activities that children and
parents will love. 1245 Rt. 300, Newburgh, NY 12550, 845-567-0782 ; (updated 2/2017)
Newburgh- Indoor Playplace @ McDonald's, 5 am-11 pm, for children 4'tall & under,
ages 3-12, 187 N. Plank, 845-565-2327 ;
Newburgh- Cottage Gardens Spa Studio for Kids, 12-6 pm, Walk-in Services include Mini Mani
($10), Mini Pedi ($12) and Arts & Crafts ($6,$8), Playdate Packages also available, e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com, 190 South Plank Rd., 845-522-8869 ;
Newburgh – Homework Help @ Newburgh Free Library (Main Library - Storyhour Room), 4 - 6 pm,
Grades 1-6, FREE, Drop in, Registration is not required, Children in grades 1 - 6 receive homework
help from Newburgh School District teachers. Bilingual teachers are available. Youth Services
Department E-mail: email@example.com. 845-566-0460, 124 Grand Street ;
Otisville- Studio 2 Family Day Spa, 9 am-7 pm, We have an ENTIRE playroom for the kids so parents/ care-
givers can get services done while kids can be playing in the comfort of their own room! Our playroom has
books, toys, table and little chairs for little people. Turn on the TV for little ones and relax getting services
done! You can also treat your little one to a kiddie spa service too! 20 Main Street, 845-386-9699 ;
Port Jervis- City of Port Jervis Recreation Department's Youth Center, 3:30-7:30 pm, Kids can play
video games on our Wii, PS2 and PS3 systems or play ping pong, shuffle board, foosball or play
pool. Board games and card games are available. Kids can also watch movies on our BIG screen
TV or bowl in our Basement Bowling Alley, 134 Pike Street, 845-858-4000 x 6 ;
Port Jervis- Glass Factory Tours, M-F, 10:15, 12:30, 1:30, 845-856-5375, $5/$4, 39 Erie Street ;
Port Jervis- FREE Judo Lessons through the City of Port Jervis Recreation Department's Youth Center
@ Port Jervis Middle School, Tuesday and Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 pm, ages 7-18, Our Recreation Room is filled with hours of fun including our big screen TV, The Wii, Xbox and PS2, ping pong, foosball, pool table and plenty of card and board games. Recreation room is always supervised by staff. 134 Pike Street, 845-858-4045 ;
Walden- MOPS: Mothers of Pre-Schoolers @ Goodwill Church, 1st and 3rd Thursday,
throughout the school year, 9:30-11:30 am, 845-457-5959, 2135 State Route 208 ;
Walden- James W. Olley Community Park, playground, pavilion, picnic tables, gazebos, nature trail,
paddle boats, lake & beach, East Sherman Ave., 845-778-2655 ;
Walden- Bradley Park, baseball/softball fields, tennis courts, skate park, playground, Albany Ave., 845-778-2655 ;
Walden- Wooster Grove, playground, picnic tables, youth center, basketball courts, bandstand, East Main Street, 845-778-2655 ;
New Windsor- Potter's Party, 9:30 am-6:30 pm, How This works: 1. Choose your ceramic piece 2. Sign your
name anywhere or under the ceramic piece 3. Paint your ceramic piece in your own way – making it your own creation 4. We will glaze and fire your ceramic piece 5. Pick up your own one-of-a-kind creation in 1-2 weeks,
Our standard studio time is 1-1/2 hours (90 minutes), 2314 State Route 32, 845-534-3349 ;
New Windsor- Indoor Playplace @ McDonald's, 6 am-11 pm, for children 4'tall &
under, ages 3-12, 2639 N Y S, 845-561-9550 ;
Warwick- Open Mic @ Tuscan Cafe, 7 pm, 5 South Street, 845-987-2050, Email – firstname.lastname@example.com ;
Warwick- Children's Beginning Sewing @ Sewcology, 4-6 pm, ages 7-12, $20 includes worksheets
and sample materials. Please bring scissors and basic sewing supplies. There is a weekly supply list
for projects, please call or get the supply list online. 19 West Street, 845-987-8435 ;
Warwick- Fuller Mountain, 255-acre wooded ravine, parking area, information kiosk with maps of the
preserve's two trails, a moderate 1.75 mile round trip trail, fantastic vista overlooking the Warwick
Valley, an enchanting ¾ mile loop that meanders along & over Fuller's Brook, Use 70 Bowen Rd. for GPS ;
Warwick- Mixed Media Class @ Pcasso Pottery, Painting N Art Studio, 4:30-6 pm, $25, 7 West St.,
845-544-7017 ;
Warwick- Teen Center Program @ Warwick Valley Community Center, 2:30-5:30 pm
for grades 6-12, 11 Hamilton Ave., 845-986-6422 ;
Warwick- Drumming Circle @ Warwick Valley Community Center, 3rd Thursday of the month, $5,
Free coffee & tea, Use one of our drums or bring your own, 11 Hamilton Avenue, 845-986-6422 ;
Warwick- Warwick County Park, 18 Hole Golf Course, Banquet Facility, Pro Shop, Driving Range,
Nature Trails, Ball field, Picnic Shelter, Picnic Tables, Benches, Playground, Horseshoe Pits, Bocce
Courts, Shuffle Board Courts, Comfort Stations and Parking, 156 Route 17A, 845-615-3830 ;
Port Jervis- Glass Factory Tours, M-F, 10:15, 12:30, 1:30, 845-856-5375, $5/$4, 39 Erie Street ;
Port Jervis- FREE Judo Lessons through the City of Port Jervis Recreation Department's
Youth Center @ Port Jervis Middle School, Tuesday and Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 pm, grades 7-12,
There is a one-time cost of $45 for the students gii, 134 Pike St., 845-858-4000 x 6
Walden- MOPS: Mothers of Pre-Schoolers @ Goodwill Church, 1st & 3rd Thursday,
throughout the school year, 9:30-11:30 am, 845-457-5959, 2135 State Route 208 ;
Walden- James W. Olley Community Park, playground, pavilion, picnic tables, gazebos, nature trail,
paddle boats, lake & beach, East Sherman Ave., 845-778-2655 ;
Walden- Bradley Park, baseball/softball fields, tennis courts, skate park, playground, Albany Ave., 845-778-2655 ;
Walden- Wooster Grove, playground, picnic tables, youth center, basketball courts, band-
stand, East Main Street, 845-778-2655 ;
West Point Museum- Monday-Sunday, 10:30-4:15 pm, 845-938-3590, 2110 New South Post Road ;
Rockland County
Chestnut Ridge- Meadowlark Toys & Sunbridge Books, 10 am-5 pm, Offering a thoughtfully
curated selection of useful toys, books & gifts for Waldorf families, teachers and those
interested in the work of Rudolf Steiner, 817 Chestnut Ridge Road, 845-290-1572 ;
Nanuet- Chuck E. Cheese, 10 am-10 pm, 250 West Route 59, 845-627-2788 ;
Nanuet- Monster Mini Golf, 2-9 pm, $9/$8, 33 RT 304 (Across from Rockland Bakery), 845-624-6464 ;
New City- New City Batting Cages, 3-9 pm, 5 cages - slow pitch softball, fast pitch softball, 30 mph
baseball, 50 mph baseball, 70 mph baseball. Cages are outdoors - they are open weather permitting,
Individual tokens are $2.75 - each token gives 15 pitches, 90 N Main Street, 845-634-4977 ;
New City- Beginner Yoga @ Sanctuary Yoga Studios, 7:30-8:45 pm, $18, 132 Park Ave., 845-548-1090 ;
NYACK- Teen Aerial Yoga / All Levels @ Nyack Yoga, Thursdays, 3:30-4:30 pm, An aerial yoga class for all
levels that will explore the fun side of yoga lifted off the ground and into the air. Expect to learn how to
use the hammock to deepen traditional yoga poses, strengthen core and upper body, invert without spinal compression, increase body awareness in space (proprioception) and experience the fun of indoor flight. Instructor: Bella Cannizzaro, SIGN-UP ONLINE, (845)675-7135, Email: email@example.com,
42 Main Street, Nyack, NY 10960, http://www.nyackyoga42main.com/ (Updated 2/2017)
Nyack- Nyack Farmers Market, 8 am-2 pm, Outdoors April through November in the Main Street
parking lot, downtown Nyack/ Indoors December through March in the Nyack Center, 58 Depew ;
Nyack- Edward Hopper House Art Center, 12-5 pm, $7/5/2/16 & under free,
82 North Broadway, 845-358-0774 ;
Nyack- Chirp Cafe @ The Art Cafe, 6-8 pm, A music series on Thursday Nights at Art Cafe featuring
local singer & songwriters performing in an intimate setting, 845-353-4230, 65 South Broadway ;
Orangeburg- Open Ceramic & Mosaic Hours @ glaze, 11 am-9 pm, leave your ceramic piece for a week,
Pottery prices range from $10 - $65 and children's pieces range from $10 - $23. Mosaic prices start
at $11, 34 Orangetown Shopping Center, 845-359-9020 ;
Rockland County/Upper Grand View/ Orangetown- Clausland Mountain Park- 550 acres,
845-364-2670, take Clausland Mountain Road and make a right on Tweed Blvd. then a
right on Nike Lane. Bear left at the fork on Nike Lane. Park entrance is on the left ;
Suffern- Zumba® Kids Class @ Rockland Dance & Fitness Studio, 5:30-6:15 pm,
ages 7-12, SIGN-UP REQUESTED, 22 Lafayette Ave., 2nd Floor, 845-729-9413 ;
Valley Cottage- Bounce! Trampoline Sports, Thursday hours: 4-7 pm (call to double check hours & to reserve bounce space as possible), 30 minutes: $8/ 1 hour: $15/ 90 minutes: $20/ 2 hours: $25. Mandatory Bounce!
re-usable non-slip socks: $2. 845-268-4000, 612 Corporate Way, Valley Cottage, NY 10989 ; (updated 3/2017)
Valley Cottage- Toddler Time @ Bounce! Trampoline Sports, M, W, R, F: 1:30-4 pm, T: 10 am-4 pm, SUN: 9:30-10:30 am. (Unavailable during the summer and any school holidays). $10 per jumper; Guardian jumps for free. During Toddler Time your child gets use of our entire indoor jump house in a quieter environment just for
their age group. Bring friends and make a play date! In addition be sure to sign up for our emails to find out
about visits from special dress up characters! All bouncers are required to wear our special reusable non-slip socks which will be available for purchase at $2.00 per pair. Times are subject to change. Please check link
for up-dates. 845-268-4000, 612 Corporate Way, Valley Cottage, NY, 10989 ; (updated 3/2017)
West Nyack- Escape the Mystery Room @ The Palisades Center, Sun-Thur: 10 am-9 pm; Fri-Sat:
10 am-midnight. $20/person. Choose from a variety of rooms including Treasure Island (great for
families!), Escape from Alcatraz, Superhero's Adventure (great for kids!), Zombie Apocalypse &
more! This is your chance to be a real-life detective. You and your team are in a room for 45 minutes
and you must find clues, solve puzzles and decipher hidden codes to Escape The Mystery Room.
3681 Palisades Center, Drive, West Nyack, 10994, 845-358-1978 ; (updated 4/2017)
West Nyack- Autobahn Indoor Speedway, Come race our safe and fast electric Italian pro-karts at speeds up to 50 mph! Sun, Mon-Thur: 10 am- 11 pm/ Fri & Sat: 10 am-2 am, Single Races: $22.99 (12 laps for Adults; 10 laps
for Juniors). 5-Race Pack: $85 (includes Speedway license). 3-race pack: $45 Mon-Thurs & $55 Friday-Sunday & Holidays. An annual $7.95 Speedway License is required each year to race. This includes a free race the week
of your birthday ($23 value), a free head sock ($4 value), use of helmets, online scoring, mobile app & access to special offers. Located in the Palisades Center Mall, 2272 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack, 10994,
845-875-4829, http://www.autobahnspeed.com/locations/palisades-ny-indoor-go-karts/ ; (updated 8/2017)
West Nyack- Palisades Center Ice Rink, Adults: $9, $4 rentals= $13/ Children & Seniors: $7,
$4 rentals = $11, Clarkstown residents receive a $1 discount on admission! Click title for public
skating schedule, 4900 Palisades Center Dr., 845-353-4855 ;
West Nyack- 5-Wits, Mon-Thurs: 10 am-9:30 pm, Fri & Sat: 10 am-11:30 pm, Sun: 11 am-8 pm. Live-action,
cutting-edge entertainment venue that immerses you in realistic, hands-on experience. Similar to escape
rooms in that you must use teamwork to solve puzzles and challenges but 5-Wits claims to have higher
quality environments, special effects and more compelling storytelling. Choose from Deep Space,
Drago's Castle & Tomb. Ask about Dinner & Adventure deals. Single Ticket: $22.99/ 2-Adventure
Combo: $29.99/ 3-Adventure Combo: $34.99. 4270 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack, NY 10994,
845-955-WITS, email@example.com, http://5-wits.com/ ; (updated 8/2017)
West Nyack- Palisades Climb Adventure @ the Palisades Mall, 2-10 pm, $16.99 + tax, you must be at least
42″ ( 3'6″ ) with an adult or 48″ ( 4′ ) to participate, alone 4590 Palisades Center Drive, 834-727-3500 ;
West Nyack- Build-A-Bear, 3760 Palisades Center Drive, 845-353-1895, 10 am-9:30 pm, ;
West Nyack- Billy Beez @ the Palisades Center Mall, 10 am-7 pm, geared towards ages 3-12, ages 4 - 17:
$19.95/ ages 19 m- 3 y: $9.95/ 18m & under: Free/ Adult/Guardian (Age 18+): $4.95 (accompanied by child) /Games for Extra Fees: BeeNormous Adventure: $4.95 - 1 hour session, Climbing Wall: $4.95 for 20 minute session, a 25,000 square foot indoor playground, 1000 Palisades Center Drive, 845-535-9277 ;
West Nyack- Lucky Strikes Bowling @ The Palisades Center Mall, 12-11 pm, 12 lanes, 6 billiards tables, game room, 4662 Palisades Center Dr., 845-358-1602 ;
Westchester County & the Bronx
Ardsley- Life the Place to Be, 10 am-7 pm, Ages 9 & under: Soft Play Area is $12.50 includes
up to 3 guests (including adults), Ages 6+: Laser Tag & Laser Maze $5/ Rock Climbing $5/ Mini
Bowling $5/ LIFE Arcade Games will appeal to children of all ages (Pay One Price "POP" Bracelets
from $10-$30 ), Enjoy the cafe & free wifi, 2 Lawrence Street, 914-591-4400 ;
Bedford Hills- Bedford Hills Historical Museum, 11 am-2 pm, Located on the
lower level of the Bedford town house at 321 Bedford Road, 914-864-2097 ;
Briarcliff Manor- Energy Center Drop-In Hours @ Club Fit, 3-8 pm, ages 5+, Maximum stay is 3 hours. Children with a membership, free! Junior Guest Fee is $10. Kids love our Energy Gym and E-room! The gym features
"kid-size" basketball nets and room for supervised games and sports. In the E-room, a variety of activities
are offered such as board games, air hockey, and video games. 914-762-4445, 84 North State Road ;
Briarcliff Manor- A Maze in Pottery Paint-Your Pottery Studio, Thursday hours: 10am-8pm (half price studio fee 6-8 pm!!!). $8 studio fee + price of piece of pottery ($4-$25). 50+ non-toxic, lead free and food safe pottery under-glaze paints. The finished product is shiny, food, microwave & dishwasher safe, and ready for pick-up one week from the day you painted. * THURSDAYS ARE SENIOR DAY--- HALF-PRICE STUDIO FEE FOR SENIORS*, 914-502-0088, 76 North Slate Road, Briarcliff Manor, New York 10510 ; (updated 2/2017)
Baldwin Place- The Learning Express of Baldwin Place, 10 am-8 pm, a lively,
interactive shopping experience, 80 Route 6, 914-621-0012 ;
Bronx- Yoga for Kids @ Finer Studio, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays, 4:30-5:30 pm, Ages 8-11, $10, Instructor: Denise Rivera, 1710 Bronxdale Avenue, Bronx, NY 10462, Suite 2E, 347-293-7157; (updated 10/2017)
Bronx- Bronx Zoo, Open year round. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, New Year's Day & Martin Luther
King Day. Hours for April 1-November 5, 2017: 10 am-5 pm weekdays & 10 am-5:30 pm weekends. Hours change seasonally. GENERAL ADMISSION: Adult $19.95, Ages 3-12 $12.95, Ages 65+ $17.95; TOTAL EXPERIENCE TICKETS: Adult $36.95, Ages 3-12 $26.95, Ages 65+ $31.95. Ages 2 & under FREE! Military discounts available with valid military ID. TOTAL EXPERIENCE TIX include unlimited access to: JungleWorld, 4-D Theater,
Bug Carousel, Congo Gorilla Forest, Butterfly Garden, Wild Asia Monorail, and Zoo Shuttle ($6.00 entrance
fee per attraction with General Admission tickets). Picnic areas available. Family Zoo Membership available. TOTAL EXPERIENCE TIX AVAILABLE ONLINE (must by general admission at the gate). Some attractions
are only open seasonally. All attraction availability may be subject to weather, capacity, mechanical, and/or
animal-related issues. Always check signs at entry on day of visit. On WEDNESDAYS, General Admission is
by pay-what-you-wish donation. Car parking: $16. 2300 Southern Boulevard Bronx, New York 10460, firstname.lastname@example.com, (718) 220-5100, http://bronxzoo.com/ ; (updated 9/2017
Bronx- Bronx Historical Tour: Bronx Little Italy Group Bus Tour, Sightseeing Guide & Lunch, 10 am-4 pm,
$80 + tax, Bus Returns to 42nd & 5th Avenue, Tickets are limited please purchase your ticket online or
make an email reservation prior to the Tour date. Email: firstname.lastname@example.com, 646-831-1078 ;
Bronx- New York Botanical Garden, 10 am- 6 pm, parking $12, Grounds-only admission: $10 Adults/ $5 Students
& Seniors/ $2 Children ages 2-12/ free under age 2, All-Garden Pass: Includes admission to the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, Special Exhibitions, Everett Children's Adventure Garden, Rock Garden (April - October) &
Tram Tour. Prices may differ at certain peak times, 718-817-8700, 2900 Southern Blvd. ;
Chappaqua- Open Gym @ World Cup Gymnastics, 4-6 pm, (summer hours 4-5 pm), $14 for the first child, $12 for each additional sibling, Discount cards of 10 visits are available for $120, 170 Hunts Lane, 914-238-GYMS ;
Chappaqua- Horace Greeley House, tour 1-4 pm, books, photographs, costumes, maps, local diaries & merchants' records. Special collections include information about the Quakers, 100 King Street, 914-238-4666 ;
Chappaqua- Family Yoga sponsored by The Children's School of Yoga @ The Center for Aligned Healing,
5-5:45 pm, $15/$10, space is limited so call to reserve a spot: 914-579-2222 ;
Chappaqua- Pinecliff Sanctuary, a quarter mile wheelchair accessible boardwalk over and around a red maple swamp, open dawn til dusk, 914-666-6503, located at the end of Pinecliff Road, off Route 120-Quaker Street ;
Chappaqua- Pruyn Sanctuary 92-acres of open space and offers over two-miles of hiking trails through diverse habitats including a system of boardwalks through Gedney Swamp, Pruyn Sanctuary's butterfly and hummingbird garden offers you a beautiful display of native plants that benefit local wildlife, The best time to view butterflies is on warm, sunny summer days around noon 275 Millwood Road, open dawn til dusk, 914-666-6503 ;
Cortlandt Manor- Time for Tweens @ Time to Kiln, After-School Thursdays & Fridays, Open til 6 pm,
Prices of ceramic piece range from $12-$80, Tweens! They want to come and paint, fuse, make a candle
but your busy…just drop them off! We allow (well behaved) "Tweens" to come in pick a project of their
choice. As long as they have a project to work on and have an emergency phone number, we'll allow them
to stay and work on their project under our relaxed supervision. Parents and caregivers must come inside
at pick up. 3565 Crompond Road, 914-737-KILN (5456), e-mail: email@example.com
Cortlandt, Town of- Hudson Highlands Gateway Park, dawn-dusk, 4 trails over more than
4.9 miles, 352-acre site, hiking, birding, fishing & more, Sprout Brook Rd., Doris Lee Dr. ;
Cortlandt Manor- Steven Hebert Memorial Skate Park, closes @dusk, must have
a valid photo ID Skate Park Pass, located off Westbrook Drive, 914-734-1050 ;
Cortlandt- Sunset Park and Playground, playground for ages 5-12, a perfect retreat for younger children attending baseball games, the Sunset Playground overlooks the ball field, Located off Montrose Point Road ;
Cross River- Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, 8 am-dusk, this 4,315-acre park makes
Ward Pound Ridge Reservation the county's largest park with playground, museum,
fishing, camping, horseback riding & more, Rt. 35 & 121 South, $10 parking, 914-864-7317 ;
Croton- Rock Climbing Wall @ Cortlandt Youth & Recreation Center, For Grades 6-12 only, Tuesdays,
Wednesdays & Thursdays; 5– 8 pm, Saturdays 6 – 9 pm, Adult Supervision will be present at all times.
Youth must be wearing sneakers and appropriate clothing as well as be registered as a participant of
the Cortlandt Youth & Recreation Center in order to participate (Registration forms available online).
3 Memorial Drive, Croton, NY, 10520, 914-736-0498 ; (updated 2/2017)
Croton-on-Hudson- Town of Cortlandt Youth Center 3-8:30 pm, ages 11-18, next to the
Cortlandt Train Station, 3 Memorial Drive, 914-736-0498 ; hours change in summer
Croton-on-Hudson- Brinton Brook Sanctuary, 156 acres, hiking trails open dusk til dawn,
914-666-6503, gravel drive off of Rt. 9A, Alternative trails entrance with small parking
area at the top of Arrowcrest Drive just before the entrance to Hudson National Golf Club ;
Eastchester- Ciao! restaurant presents Magician Philip Klipper 6-8 pm during dinner, 914-779-4646,
5-7 John Albanese Place, Magician Philip Klipper will astound and delight the whole family with his
incredible sleight of hand at tableside. Hours/dates are subject to change; please check with restaurant ;
Elmsford- Elmsford Raceway Slot Car Racing @ the Greenburgh Multiplex, 344 Sawmill River Rd./
Rt. 9A, 914-592-5375, 12- 9:30 pm, Open class @ 7:30 pm ;
Elmsford- Preschool Playdate @ BounceU, 10-11:30 am, ages 7 & under, 150 Clearbrook Rd.,
914-874-5200, parents free ; Also, 4-5:30 pm, All Ages Open Bounce & Family Night Bounce, 6-8 pm ;
Elmsford- The Play Place, 9 am- 6 pm, Ages 12 mth - 4 yrs $10/ Ages 5yrs and up- $12/ Under 12 Months
Free with paid Sibling/ *2 Hr Play Time* Also, Tots Club, 9-11 am, ages 4 & under, $5, 175-11 Clearbrook Road (Behind Building 175 Clearbrook Rd), 914-347-5291 ; FREE MUSIC & MOVEMENT CLASSES FOR TODDLERS ON TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS WITH ADMISSION! 9:30-10:15 AM! Ages walkers- 4!
Elmsford- Just Kidz Hair Salon, 10 am-6 pm, located inside The Play Place, $19.99, get a hair-
cut and free play per child for $19.99 Monday -Friday, E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com,
11 Clearbrook Rd., 914-381-5438, http://justkidzhairsalon.com/ ;
Elmsford- Sportime USA, 11 am-9 pm, rides $3 each, batting cages $5/ for 40 pitches, laser tag $8, arcade, XD theater $5, Soft Adventure Kiddie Zone $6, spider climb $3/15 min., 914-592-2111, 380 Saw Mill River Road ;
Elmsford- Westchester Skating Academy, check schedule for public skating times, 91 Fairview Park Dr.,
914-347-8232 ;
Harrison- Prenatal Yoga & Meditation @ Full Circle Women's Health, Thursdays, 6-7:15 pm, Always
check with your midwife or doctor before beginning any physical exercise. 450 Mamaroneck Ave.
Suite 414, Harrison, NY, 10528, firstname.lastname@example.com, (914) 421-1500 ; (updated 3/2017)
Harrison- Mama & Baby Yoga @ Full Circle Women's Health, Tuesdays & Thursdays 11 am-12 pm & Sundays,
11:30 am-12:30 pm, Will help you stretch, strengthen and breathe while taking the time to bond with your
baby and get to know other new moms. Our classes offer a mix of toning movement for moms, yoga poses done
with your baby and infant massage. 450 Mamaroneck Avenue Suite 414, 914-421-1500 ; (updated 3/2017)
Hawthorne- Open Climb @ The Cliffs Climbing & Fitness, Mon - Thur: 3PM-6PM/ Friday: 3PM-8PM/ Saturday: 9AM-8PM/ Sunday: 9AM-6PM. $20 day pass. Climbing Shoes $5/ Harness $4/ Chalk Bag $2/ Package $10.
The Cliffs at Valhalla welcomes climbers of all ages! While each child is unique, we generally find that kids
are ready to start climbing around 5 years old. All climbers under the age of 18 must have a waiver filled
out by a parent or legal guardian. Kids can scale our walls in their sneakers or rent climbing shoes with their harness at the front desk. A harness rental is mandatory for participation in Open Climb Hours and using
auto-belays. A 2-hour Intro to Climbing class is also available for ages 14 & up during these hours for
$24 for members & $49 for n on-members (includes day pass & gear rental). 914.328.7625. e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com, GPS ADDRESS: 2 Commerce St., Hawthorne, NY 10532 ; (updated 3/2017)
Katonah- Lasdon Park Arboretum & Veteran's Memorial, Open 7 days per week, 8 am-4 pm, The Lasdon estate, originally called Cobbling Rock Farm, was acquired by William and Mildred Lasdon in 1939. The main house of
the estate was built in 1933 by Dr. Voislawsky after the original house was destroyed by a fire. The house is modeled after George Washington's home in Virginia. 2610 Amawalk Road/ Rt. 35, 914-864-7263 ;
Katonah – Stories and Crafts @ Katonah Village Library (Children's Room), Thursdays, 10:30 - 11:30am
(Also runs Mondays at 2 PM - please pick one - both days have the same stories and crafts. Weekly
program running consecutive Thursdays until 2/26), Ages 3 - 5 (kindergarteners welcome), FREE,
Drop in, Listen to stories, songs and do a related take-home craft, 914-232-3508, 26 Bedford Rd. ;
Katonah- Big Kid's Storytime @ Little Joe's Books, 4:30 pm, ages 3+, Miss Kathy is comes every Thursday
afternoon to read us the best stories Little Joe's Books has to offer, and sometimes she sneaks in some
super special stories of her very own! Store is open 5:50 am-5:30 pm, 914-232-7278, 25 Katonah Ave. ;
Katonah- Family Fun in the Learning Center @ Katonah Museum of Art, 10 am-5 pm, $10/ seniors,
$5/student, Members & Children (Under the Age of 12) Always Enter FREE, Kids and their adults
can explore, play, create, and discover, 134 Jay Street - Route 22, 914-232-9555 ;
Katonah- Tour the Historic Rosen House @ Caramoor, 10 am-4 pm, Take the Rosen House I Spy tour
with your kids. Explore the Gardens. Use the Scavenger Hunt to discover hidden secrets throughout
the grounds. Investigate In the Garden of Sonic Delights, contact email@example.com or call
914-232-5035 ext 221, 149 Girdle Ridge Rd., http://www.caramoor.org/visit/tour-caramoor/ ;
Katonah- Muscoot Farm, 10 am-4 pm, free admission & parking! hike, picnic, meet
the animals, 51 Rt. 100, 914-864-7282 ; open year-round
Larchmont- Pajama Story Time @ The Voracious Reader, 6:30 pm, best suited for ages 3-7,
join us in your jammies for stories, songs, coloring and snacks. The $5.00 fee per child may
be applied to any item in our book store or tea shop (including ICE CREAM!). Bring your
favorite stuffed animal or borrow one of ours! 1997 Palmer Avenue, 914-630-4581 ;
Larchmont- Plaster Palace Pottery, 11 am-9 pm, 2005 Palmer Ave., 914-670-8181, email@example.com ;
Larchmont- Public Skating @ Hommocks Park Ice Rink, 1-5:15 pm, 914-834-1069, $6-$8,
skate rental $4, 140 Hommocks Rd., ;
Mamaroneck- Archery Lessons @ Extreme Archery, 4-7 pm, $30/half-hour includes bow rental,
ages 10+, Call us to make an appointment. Please give us at least 24 hours notice, one-on-one
training, for all styles and levels, from beginners to advanced, 801 E. Boston Post Rd., 914-777-7500 ;
Montrose- Tommy Thurber Playground, playground geared towards ages 5-12, basket-
ball court, Benches are available to relax & have picnic lunch, Bonnie Hollow Lane ;
Mt. Kisco- Kids Eat & Play Free @ Spins Bowl, 5-8 pm, free kids meal with each adult entrée & $5 game
card, 333 N. Bedford Rd., 914-358-3600 ;
Mt. Kisco- Grand Prix New York, 3-10 pm: Arrive & Drive Go-Kart Racing, under age 18 we require
a copy of your legal guardian's Photo ID and a signed, Parental Consent Form, $8-$15/Bounce Houses
$10 bracelet/Spins Bowl $25 per lane per hour 3-6 pm & $40 per lane per hour 6 pm til close, shoe
rentals $5 / Arcade, load a card for game credits/Gaming Pavilion $10 all-day play for sim-racing/
914-241-3131, 333 North Bedford Rd., CLICK LINK FOR DAILY SCHEDULE ;
Mount Kisco- Choate Sanctuary, 32 acres with 1+ miles of walking trails through rolling hills with beautiful stone outcroppings, open dusk til dawn, 914-666-6503, Trails entrance is on Crow Hill Road just south of Red Oak Lane ;
Mt. Kisco- Open Gym @ Rockin' Jump Mt. Kisco, the Ultimate Trampoline Park, 3-9 pm, $15/hour,
$5 for each additional hour, Participants must jump barefootor buy our reusable ROCKIN' SOCKS
for $2, Signed waiver required, 333 North Bedford Rd., 914-743-5730 ;
Mt. Kisco- Westmoreland Sanctuary, 9 am -5 pm, a complex array of ecosystem and habitat
types, which support an abundance of wildlife species, established in 1957 as a not-for-profit
organization, 640 acres offer a variety of activities, 260 Chestnut Ridge Rd., 914-666-8448 ;
Mt. Kisco- Leonard Park, 10 am-9:30 pm, 120 acres and features many amenities, including a pool house with three swimming pools for adults, children and toddlers. It also has tennis courts, baseball fields, outdoor basketball courts, a tea house and an indoor recreation building that is multipurpose, 104 East Main St., 914-666-3059 ;
New Castle- Haas Sanctuary, Small open meadow, scenic rocks, one mile of trail, 14.5 acres, protected
by Saw Mill River Audubon. Park carefully along Sheather Road, open dusk til dawn, 914-666-6503 ;
New Rochelle- Thomas Paine Cottage, 10 am-5 pm, $5/Adults, $3/Children, The Thomas Paine Cottage
Museum and Sophia Brewster One-room Schoolhouse are owned and administrated by the Huguenot and
New Rochelle Historical Association. Our mission is to preserve and perpetuate the history of the City
of New Rochelle, with particular emphasis on its original Huguenot settlers and founding father Thomas
Paine. The Thomas Paine Cottage is the last building in North America that was owned by Thomas Paine
and is open to the public. 20 Sicard Avenue, e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com, 914-633-1776 ;
North Salem- Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden, 12-4 pm, promotion of the
transformation of Eastern Culture in the West through the efforts of artists & performers,
the Japanese Stroll Garden serves as a model for teaching people about the value of the
environment, horticultural design and Eastern traditions, 914-669-5033, 28 Deveau Road ;
Ossining- Joseph G. Caputo Community Center Game Room & Gymnasium, 4:30 - 9:50 pm,
ages 6+ Free with I.D. Card, A variety of activities including table tennis, billiards, video
games, board games, a large screen TV, computers to go online and check email, and WiFi
throughout the building are available to all residents free of charge. Ages 6 - 10 can stay at
Center until 8:30 pm/Ages 11-12 until 9 pm/Ages 13-17 until 9:50 pm, 95 Broadway, 914-941-3189 ;
Ossining- Teatown Lake Reservation, trails are open 365 days/year, from dusk til dawn; The Nature
Center is open Tuesday-Sunday, 9-5 pm, 914-762-2912, ext. 110, 1600 Spring Valley Road, free ;
Peekskill- BeanRunner Poetry Project @ Bean Runner Café, 6-6:45 pm is a poetry writing workshop & 7-9 pm is a poetry open-mic, free, open to public, first Thursday of every month, 201 South Division St., 914=737-1701 ;
Peekskill- 2nd Nature Skatepark: Peekskill, Sundays 11-9 ($15), Mon-Thur 3-9 ($12 except $10 Mondays), Fri 3-10 ($15) & Sat 11-10 ($15). Participants must sign a digital waiver. Anyone under 18 needs to have their parent or legal guardian sign the waiver for them. Lessons available. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skateparkny/ ,
1 Highland Industrial Park, Peekskill, NY, (914) 402-4624 ~ (updated 2/2017)
Pleasantville- Rockefeller State Park, dawn to dusk, Horseback Riding, Jogging, Walking,
Hiking, Bird Watching, 125 Phelps Way, 914-631-1470 ;
Pocantico Hills- Stone Barns Center, Wednesday-Sunday, 10 am- 5 pm, On weekdays, entrance to the property is FREE. Stop by the Farm Store and Visitor Center to pick up a map to explore the farm or to purchase fresh Stone Barns Center produce and meat. FREE "Getting Grounded" tour is offered Wed-Fri., 1-1:45 pm: See the farm and learn what we grow, how we grow it and why. While walking the field, pastures and greenhouse, engage with a Stone Barns staffer in conversation about resilient agriculture and innovation and experimentation on the farm. Find out why soil is key and what being a food citizen is all about. Tour recommended for Ages 14+. 630 Bedford Rd., 914-366-6200, GPS directions: 630 Bedford Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591 ; (updated 5/2017)
Pocantico Hills- Union Church of Pocantico Hills, 11 am-5 pm, $7, Visitors marvel at the colorful rose window created for the church by Henri Matisse. The design for the window was his last work of art before his death
in 1954. The commission, spearheaded by Nelson A. Rockefeller, honors the memory of his mother, Abby Aldrich Rockefeller. You are welcome to just gaze at the windows on your own or to take a tour. Tours run every 1/2 hour. Most visitors complete the experience in less than 30 minutes. The last tour begins a half-hour before closing. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before closing for a self-guided tour. 555 Bedford Road, 914-631-2069
e-mail: email@example.com; hours change seasonally
Purchase- Neuberger Museum of Art @ Purchase College State University of New York, 12-5 pm, $5/$3/
age 12 & under free, 735 Anderson Hill Rd., parking $6 at Purchase College Parking Lot #1, 914-251-6100 ;
Rye- Family Room Open @ Rye YMCA, 5:30 am-10 pm, Rye Y families* are encouraged to enjoy the redesigned Family Room, located next to the Child Watch room on the first floor. The Family Room is open whenever the
Y is open. Come play air hockey, ping pong, foosball or hang out on the couches with your family. Be on the
watch for continued improvements and updates in this new program area! Children 11 & under must be
supervised by an adult please. 21 Locust Avenue, 914-967-6363 http://www.ryeymca.org/programs/families/ ; * First Month New Member: $224.50/ $124.50 ongoing monthly draft/ $1594 annually for new members/
$1494 annual renewal rate (Family:2 adults with or without children, ages 0-17, or up to age 23 enrolled
in college and living in the same household)
Rye- Marshland's Conservancy, visitor center is open 9 am-4 pm, free admission & parking, aquarium exhibit,
picnic areas, 3 miles of trails are open dusk til dawn, walk, snowshoe, cross-country ski, birdwatch, botanize, photograph, sketch, study, meditate, discover, and escape, 220 Boston Post Road, 914-835-4466 ;
Rye- Rye Nature Center, the Visitor Center is open 10 am-4 pm, the grounds, trails, and playground are
open daily from dawn to dusk, 873 Boston Post Road, 914-967-5150, e-mail: email@example.com ;
Rye- Jay Heritage Center, A National Historic Landmark, 10 am- 5 pm, 210 Boston Post Rd., 914-698-9275 ;
Rye- Westchester Children's Museum, Wednesdays - Sundays, 10 am - 4 pm, $7/person; $6/seniors; FREE
for ages 12 months & under, for members & for active duty military personnel and their families within the
same household; $3 per person presenting an Electronic Benefits Transfer Card (EBT) and a valid form of
photo ID. Good for up to four individuals per EBT card; MetroNorth Discount Ticket Packages available;
Group rates available by appointment. WCM is a light-filled, colorful, vibrant learning space filled with
hands-on exhibits not found anywhere else in this region. The Museum offers experiences in physics,
science, art, technology, design, with places to climb, build, and explore…It is a place where the child
leads the process of discovery and learning while the adult shares the experience through their child's eyes. firstname.lastname@example.com, 100 Playland Parkway, Rye, NY 10580, 914-421-5050 ; (updated 10/2017)
Rye- Rye Playland, 11 am- 10 pm, $30*/$20/ free ages 2 & under, $10/spectator, $15 5-10 PM ON
TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS & THURSDAYS, * Westchester residents receive $5-off, Playland
Parkway, 914-813-7010 ; seasonal
Rye- Rye Playland Beach & Pool, 11 am- 6:30 pm, Beach rate: $4/$3/ ages 5 & under free, Add Pool: +$2
for Adults, +1 for Kids, Park Pass Holder with Pool Add-on: $5/ Adult, $3.50/ ages 5-11, Chair rental $3.
Umbrella rental $3, Locker rental $1, Playland Parkway, 914-813-7010 ; seasonal
Rye- Mini Golf @ Rye Playland, 10 am- 9 pm, $4 for 18 hole miniature golf course Per
person, per play, Group rates available. Playland Parkway, 914-813-7010 ; seasonal
Scarsdale- Paint Your Own Pottery, 11-7 pm, 914-472-7281, 969 Central Park Ave., in the Midway Shopping Center ;
Scarsdale- Weinberg Nature Center, Trailside Museum open 10 am-5 pm, trails & grounds open daily,
dusk til dawn, 455 Mamaroneck Road, 914-722-1289, e-mail: email@example.com ;
Sleepy Hollow- Kykuit: The Rockefeller Estate, Tours range from $23-$28, Grand Tours are $40, Explore & Experience the stunning six-story stone house, spectacular Hudson Valley views, expansive garden terraces, garden ornaments, and many fountains, Gov. Nelson A. Rockefeller's 20th century art and sculpture collection featuring works by Moore, Calder, Picasso, Warhol, and many others & the cavernous Coach Barn, filled with
classic autos, horse-drawn vehicles, and bits, bridles, and saddles, 381 North Broadway ; hours change seasonally
Tarrytown- Washington Irving's Sunnyside, Tours at 10:30 11, 11:30 am, 12:30 1:30, 2, 2:30, 3, 3:30 pm, $12/$10/$6/Members + Children under 3: FREE, Tours start every half hour, Explore & experience an
expansive landscape and gardens with stunning Hudson River views, Irving's life story as told by interpre-
ters in mid-19th century dress, a guided tour of Irving's home, charming picnic spots, 'Traveling Totes'
to borrow with engaging, hands-on family activities, located on West Sunnyside Lane, off Route 9 in the
village of Tarrytown. 914-631-8200 on weekdays or 914-591-8763 on weekends, May 2-November
Valhalla- Open Climb @ The Cliffs, Mon-Thur: 3-6 pm; Fri 3-8 pm; Sat 9 am-8 pm; Sun 9 am-6 pm. Day Pass:
$20/ One-Month Pass: $100/ Learn to Climb One-Month Package: $109/ 10-Visit Pass: $180. Rentals: Climbing Shoes $5/ Harness $4/ Chalk Bag $2/ Package $10. The Cliffs at Valhalla welcomes climbers of all ages! While each child is unique, we generally find that kids are ready to start climbing around 5 years old. All climbers under the age of 18 must have a waiver filled out by a parent or legal guardian. Kids can scale our walls in their sneakers
or rent climbing shoes with their harness at the front desk. A harness rental is mandatory for participation in
Open Climb Hours and using auto-belays. Staff are available to assist climbers. No experience necessary, firstname.lastname@example.com, GPS address: 2 Commerce St, Hawthorne, NY 914-328-7625 ; (updated 9/2017)
Verplanck- Lake Meahagh Park, picturesque views of the Hudson River, fishing,
picnicking & outdoor ice skating, located off Westchester Avenue & Kings Ferry Rd. ;
White Plains- Build-A-Bear, 125 Westchester Ave.@ The Westchester, 10 am-9 pm ;
White Plains- Westchester Golf Range, 8 am-5 pm, weather permitting, KIDS get FREE bucket
of colored balls with the purchase of the same size adult bucket! FREE USE of KIDS SIZE
CLUBS! Adult bucket prices: $11/7/5, 701 Dobbs Ferry Rd., 914-592-6553 ;
White Plains - Toddler Storytime @ Barnes & Noble @ City Center. Thursdays, 11 am, FREE, Join us for
Storytime in our Children's Department as we read popular picture books children love. Space is limited,
first come, first served. 914-397-2420, 230 Main Street, White Plains, NY 10601 ; (updated 2/2017)
Yonkers- Beczak Environmental Education Center Interpretive Center, 9 am-5 pm, free, donations appreciated, exhibits include: Permanent Tidal Tank, Garbage Gauge, Giant Sturgeon & more! 5 Alexander St., one block
North of Yonkers train station, contact: Jason Muller, Outreach Coordinator, 914-377-1900 x 16 ;
Yonkers- Legoland Discovery Center, 10 am-9:30 pm, free ages 2 & under, 39 Fitzgerald St., 866-243-0770 ;
Yonkers- Untermyer Park and Gardens, open 7 am-sunset, the walled garden is
open 7 am-sunset April 1st- December 1st, 914-512-4818, 945 N. Broadway ;
Yonkers- Hudson River Museum, 12-5 pm, Adults $6/ ages 3-18 $3/ Seniors (62+) and
Students with ID $4, wheelchair accessible, 511 Warburton Avenue, 914-963-4550 ;
Yonkers- Philipse Manor Hall, 12-5 pm, $5/$3/ under age 12 free, a museum of
history, art & architecture, GPS address: 29 Warburton Avenue, 914-965-4027 ;
Yorktown Heights- Visit Hilltop Hanover Farm, 10 am-4 pm, a working crop farm and environmental
education facility with three separate, inter-linked trails in 134 acres of forest which are open from
dawn to dusk, hike the farm's 3.5 miles of woodland trails, enjoy a picnic overlooking the property,
and visit our chickens and goats, Parking is free and located at trail heads on the east side of Hanover
Street. No Dogs allowed. Trail Maps available, 1271 Hanover Street, 914-962-2368 ;
Yorktown- Yorktown Museum, 11am-4 pm, Visit a recreated 18th century home and an early
Mohegan Indian settlement. Discover the Old Put Railroad and see how local farms operated,
enjoy fascinating and detailed miniatures914-962-2970, E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com,
located on the top floor of the Yorktown Community & Cultural Center, 1974 Commerce Street ;
Putnam County
Brewster- Open Gym @ Epic Studios, 7:30-9:30 pm, ages 8+, $20 for non-members, supervised
hours with gymnastic equipment but no instruction provided, 2031 Rt. 22, 845-519-8676 ;
Brewster- Public Skating Session @ Brewster Ice Arena, 9 am-2 pm*, $7/$5, skate
rental $3, walker rental $2, 845-279-2229, 63 Fields Lane ; * hours change seasonally
Carmel- Zumba @ Lake Carmel Arts Center, 6-6:55 pm, $10 walk-ins, $60/
10 classes, teens & adults, 640 Rt. 52, 845-228-2685, newcomers welcome ;
Carmel- Fahnestock State Park, open daily, dusk til dawn, over 14,000 acres boasts a Nature
Center, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, equestrian trails, XC skiing and snowshoeing, camping,
picnicking, boating $7/hr (seasonal) & more, vehicle entrance fee: $7, 1498 Rt. 301, 845-225-7207 ;
Cold Spring- Putnam History Museum, 11 am-5 pm, $5/$2/children free, limited time
offer: check in on Facebook & get in free, 63 Chestnut Street, 845-265-4010 ;
Cold Spring- Stonecrop Gardens, Open Monday-Saturday, 10 am-5 pm, Well-supervised children are welcome
to the garden, but we ask that parents closely oversee them and take precautions to ensure their safety, especially near the rock ledges and pools. No screaming, no running and climbing, no handling or feeding the
animals. Please note that many areas of the garden are inaccessible to strollers and wheelchairs. Picnicking is allowed in specified areas of the garden only. 81 Stonecrop Lane, 845-265-2000, Email: email@example.com ; (seasonal)
Mahopac- Westchester Putnam Pottery, 11 am-9 pm, choose your piece, paint your pottery or shape
your glass, pick-up your project in 7-14 days after firing. $7.50 studio fee + project, Average pricing
for glass fusing is $40-$50, 54 Miller Road, email@example.com, 845-628-2127 ;
Patterson- Open Play @ Liberty Paintball, 8:30 am-4:30 pm, 350 acres of varied
terrain, fields feature buildings, two and three story towers, helicopters, spaceships,
tanks, trenches and much more! 1 Thunder Ridge Road, 845-878-6300 ; open all year-round
Dutchess County
Beacon- Playdates @ Waddle n Swaddle, Thursdays, 1-2:30 pm, An opportunity for creative and collaborative play in a safe, supportive environment. Open to caregivers and their babies and toddlers (0 months to 3 years). No RSVP necessary. Store hours: 10 am-5 pm. 484 Main Street, Beacon, NY 12508, 845-831-5952 ; (updated 3/2017)
Beacon- Open Bowling @ Southern Dutchess Bowl, 2-10 pm, 629 Rt. 52, 845-831-3220 ;
Beacon- Echo Women's Boutique and Toystore, 10 am-7 pm, On one side, women's clothing, classic with a twist.
All kinds of unique items, handbags, jewelry, shoes, books. Lines from local designers as well. On the other side,
a collection of classic wooden toys, wind-up tin toys, eco-friendly and plush, art supplies and books. Organic baby clothes. Kids love to play with the display toys and explore! 470 Main Street, 845-440-0047;
Beacon- Dia:Beacon, January–March: Friday–Monday, 11 am–4 pm/ April–October: Thursday–Monday, 11 am–6 pm/
November–December: Thursday–Monday, 11 am–4 pm. closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Guided tours every Saturday & Sunday at 12:30 & 2 pm. Tours are free with admission. Reservations are not necessary but can be made in person at the admissions desk. $15 General/ $12 Students & seniors/ FREE for Dia members & children under 12. Dia:Beacon, Riggio Galleries is the museum for the Dia Art Foundation's collection of art from the 1960's to the present. The museum, which opened in 2003, is situated
on the banks of the Hudson River in Beacon, New York. Along with Dia's permanent collection, Dia:Beacon also presents temporary exhibitions. With 160,000 square feet (15,000 m2), it is one of the largest exhibition
spaces in the country for modern and contemporary art. Membership: $75 for individuals/ $125 for dual or family. Reduced admission and discounted Metro-North train fare with One-Day Getaway. Shuttle bus service from the Metro-North train station to Dia:Beacon and Main Street Beacon is available except on Sundays
and holiday Mondays. 3 Beekman Street, Beacon, NY, 12508, 845-440-0100,
https://www.diaart.org/visit/visit/diabeacon-beacon-united-states ; (updated 9/2017)
Beacon- Introduction to Glass/Paperweight Workshop @ Hudson Beach Glass, by appointment on the
hour, ages 16+, $75/ person, located on the 1st floor, 162 Main St., 845 440-0068 or e-mail Kathleen ;
Beacon- Glass Blowing Lessons @ Hudson Beach Glass, by appointment on the hour, ages 16+, $75/person/hour
or $150 for two hours located on the 1st floor, 162 Main Street, 845 440-0068 or e-mail Kathleen ;
Fishkill- Tae Kwon Do with Town of Fishkill Recreation, Mondays & Thursdays, 6-7 pm Ages 3 & up, A kick
for the whole family! $50/month for once a week; $65/month for twice a week; $10 discounts given for
additional family members, COMPLIMENTARY FIRST CLASS, Tae Kwon Do means the way of the hand
and foot. It is a traditional Korean martial art that not only provides major physical benefits, but also
offers a positive, healthy way of releasing everyday stress and tension. We pride ourselves on fun,
structured classes, taught in a safe and positive environment by professionally trained instructors.
Our carefully structured programs go far beyond punching, blocking and kicking. We use the Martial Arts
as a means of teaching Life Skills, in order to help improve all aspects of a student's life. For more
information: Contact Peggy Hyatt: 914-456-4764 or email: email@example.com; (updated 12/2017)
Fishkill- Extra Innings, 10 am-9 pm, Make a reservation to use one of the 8 multi-use batting tunnels,
Extra Innings is everything baseball and softball. You can use our tunnels, receive professional instruc-
tion, or buy equipment at our nationally recognized Pro Shop. 182 Old Route 9, 845-896-3340 ;
Hopewell Junction- Pick-Your-Own Fruit/Vegetables @ Fishkill Farms, 10 am-6 pm, Pick-your-own begins
in June with strawberries. July brings cherries and berries. Late July and August mark the harvest of juicy,
tree-ripe peaches and nectarines. Please allot yourself at least an hour to get out to the fields, pick crops,
and come back to pay. Picnicking allowed. We do have farm animals to observe, but not a petting zoo.
9 Fishkill Farm Rd., 845-897-4377 ; May-November
Hopewell Junction- Kindermusik for Babies & Toddlers: Sing & Play for 1's & 2's with Harmony Garden School of Music, Thursdays, 10:30 am, $65/month, FREE trial class available, Watch your toddler spread his wings as he discovers all that he can do! Surrounded by friends in a class that engages all his senses, he'll beam with confidence and pride as he runs, claps, and sings with his music class family! REGISTRATION REQUIRED,
2537 Route 52, Suite 9, Hopewell Junction, (845) 522-2737 ; (updated 2/2017)
Hopewell Junction- Kindermusik for Young Preschoolers: Wiggle & Grow for 2's & 3's Family Style!
with Harmony Garden School of Music, Thursdays, 9:30 am, $65/month, FREE trial class available,
Family style- Ages 0-5 welcome! Each week your child will love singing, dancing, and playing instruments
with you and her new friends. And you'll love helping her practice a wide variety of abilities such as gross
nd fine motor skills, turn-taking, social skills, and active listening. REGISTRATION REQUIRED,
2537 Route 52, Suite 9, Hopewell Junction, (845) 522-2737 ; (updated 2/2017)
Hyde Park- Beatriz Farrand Garden, 7 am- sunset, FREE, open to the public, As the earliest existing example of her private work, the garden at Bellefield is a striking illustration of Farrand's masterful design, presented in an intimate and accessible setting. As a living testament to Farrand's influential horticultural legacy – not only as a designer, but as the world's first female landscape architect – the garden provides an ideal platform to tell this pioneering woman's story through lectures, tours and educational programs. 4097 Albany Post Rd. ;
Hyde Park- Guided Tours of Vanderbilt Mansion, daily, 9-5, Tours at 9:15, 10, 12, 2 & 4 pm,
$8, Ages 15 & under free, also, grounds are free ;
Hyde Park- Guided Tours at Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, 9-5 pm,
$14/ ages 15 & under free, 845-229-5320 ;
Hyde Park- Val-Kill (Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site), Open 7 days/week, 9 am-5 pm, Last guided tour at
4 pm, Reservations are not generally needed for individuals, $10 ages 16+, Children 15 and under are FREE. Your visit to Val-Kill includes a 45 minute guided tour of Val-Kill cottage, a twelve minute orientation film on Eleanor Roosevelt called, "Close to Home," and exhibits. GROUNDS ARE FREE & open everyday from sunrise to sunset.
GPS address: 54 Valkill Park Road, Hyde Park, NY 12538. 845-229-9422 or 845-229-9115 x 2010
June - October
Hyde Park- Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, Open Daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas & New Years Day, 9 am-6 pm, The FDR Presidential Library and Museum & the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt offer an $18 joint admission ticket. The Home tour is guided by a park ranger and the Library tour is self guided. These tickets are valid for 2 days. A ticket to visit only the Presidential Library and Museum is available for $9/$6/ ages 15 & under FREE. The grounds and the Rose Garden, where Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt are buried, are FREE and open from sunrise to sunset. 1 (800) FDR-VISIT or 1 (800) 337-8474, 4079 Albany Post Road ;
Hyde Park- Hackett Hill Park, pool (12-6 pm, June 7-22/ 4-7 pm June 23-August 24), pavilion,
Hiking trails, camp sites for groups, sports fields, program building, Hackett House. This is
where the day camp is located. East Market St. between Rte. 9 & 9G, 845-229-8086 ;
Hyde Park- Skate Park @ Pinewood Park, April 15 - November 15, 9 am - Dusk, Helmets
are required to enter the skatepark, 9 am-3 pm, Pinewoods Road, 845-229-8086 ;
Lagrangeville- Joe Gamer Video Games & Lounge, 11 am-8 pm, lounge time
is $4.99/hr., $11.99/3hr or $19.99/month, 1097 Rt. 55, 845-454-0900 ;
Millbrook- Trevor Zoo, 8:30 am-5 pm, $5/$3, Seven endangered species reside at the Zoo:
LakeVictoria Cichlid, White-Naped Crane, Black and White Ruffed Lemur, Ring-Tailed Lemur,
Red Panda, Golden Lion Tamarin & the Red Wolf, Also 180+ exotic & indigenous animals on
over 6 acres e-mail: email@example.com, 845-677-3704, 131 Millbrook School Road ;
Millbrook- Merritt Bookstore, 9 am-6 pm, We strive to connect our customers with great and entertaining
works of literature written by the Hudson Valley's local authors as well as everybody's favorite global authors alike. We also offer a variety of toys, puzzles and games, 57 Front Street Box 918, 845- 677-5857 ;
Poughkeepsie- Dive In! @ The HVCC/ JCCDC, 10-11:30 am, open swim for ages 4 & under with caregiver in
heated pool, January-April, $5/child, caregiver/parent free, 845-471-0430, 110 South Grand Avenue ;
Poughkeepsie- Learn to Swim @ the Hudson Valley Community Center, Thursday Classes: 3:30 pm
Tot/4 pm Level 1/ 4:30 pm Level 3/ 5:15 Tot Plus. Lessons are monthly & Begin on the 1st of each month, Monthly fees: $60 for one student/ $110 Two students/$150 Three students. 3-month session:
$160 one student/ $300 two students/ $410 three students. Family membership: $40/month
or $450/year. $35 Registration Fee for all new families. REGISTER ONLINE, 845-471-0430, firstname.lastname@example.com, 110 South Grand Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12603 ; (updated 3/2017)
Poughkeepsie- Mid Hudson Children's Museum, Tuesday-Saturday: 9:30 am-5 pm, Sunday: 11 am-5 pm. $9,
Museum members and children under 1 year are FREE. Designed for young children, ages 0-6, and their
parents, caregiver and older siblings. With exhibits that focus on nature, science, literacy, art, music and
the local community, the museum provides an educationally rich environment through which children have
the opportunity to develop foundational skills, to engage in purposeful play, and to develop interpersonal connections. MHCM exhibits and programs get kids moving, exploring, building, pretending, collaborating,
creating and discovering. E-mail: email@example.com 75 North Water St., 845-471-0589 ; (updated 11/2017)
Poughkeepsie/ Highland- Walkway Over the Hudson, 7 am-sunset, 3 scenic overlooks, 1.28 miles long,
zhere are handicap designated parking spaces available on both ends of the bridge, 845-454-9649,
87 Haviland Rd., Highland/ 61 Parker Ave., Poughkeepsie ;
Poughkeepsie- Upper Landing Park, open 7 am til sunset, leashed pets welcome, bicycling welcome,
a beautiful setting to enjoy alongside the Hudson River, an engaging walk through over 300 years
of local history, and access to Walkway Over the Hudson's waterfront elevator. 83 North Water
Street, 845-790-6310, email: firstname.lastname@example.com CLICK LINK FOR PARKING INFO ;
Town of Poughkeepsie- Peach Hill Park, open dawn til dusk, 162-acre former orchard,
3.2 miles of trails lead to the town's highest point and spectacular panoramic views of
the Catskills, Hudson Highlands and Shawangunks, 845-485-3628, Edgewood Drive ;
Town Of Poughkeepsie- Dutchess County Rail Trail, open dawn til dusk, 845-298-4600 ;
Poughkeepsie- Teen Book Group @ Barnes & Noble, 7 pm, 2518 South Road, 845-485-2224 ;
Poughkeepsie- Open Freestyle Figure Skating @ Mid Hudson Civic Center's McCann Ice Arena, 2:15-4:30 pm, $11,
845-454-5800, 14 Civic Center Plaza ;
Poughkeepsie- Open Hockey @ Mid Hudson Civic Center's McCann Ice Arena, 12-2 pm, ages 16+, $12,
845-454-5800, 14 Civic Center Plaza ;
Poughkeepsie- Nursing Circle @ Waddle n Swaddle, Thursdays, 1-2 pm. Our FREE nursing circle is a support
group designed to help with common breastfeeding concerns. The topics include general coverage of
positioning, latch assessment, returning to work preparation, bottle introduction and adjusting to life with
a breastfeeding baby. Bring your baby to share and learn in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Expectant Mothers are welcome. Drop-in support group, RSVP not necessary. Most groups last an hour after the circle
is over for mom to mom support. Contact Jenn Sullivan, CBS via email: email@example.com or by phone:
845-240-8399. 32 Raymond Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603 ; (updated 3/2017)
Poughkeepsie- Build-A-Bear, 2001 South Rd., 845-296-1660, 10 am-9:30 pm ;
Poughkeepsie- Chuck E. Cheese, 1895 South Rd., 845-297-9500, 10 am- 10 pm ;
Poughkeepsie- Locust Grove, Visitor Center open 10 am-5 pm, Guided Mansion tours offered May-November at 10:15 am, 11:30 am, 12:45 pm, 2 pm & 3:15 pm with the following fees: $10 Adults, $6 Youths (6-18),
Gardens & Grounds open 8 am to dusk, year-round, 2683 South Road, 845-454-4500 ;
Poughkeepsie- Open Studio @ Art Centro, Thursdays, 1-8 pm, $5/hour/person or $100/month
(Personal tools required), For experienced ceramicists, students taking classes, and those who
want to explore clay independently to use our well-equipped studio, 485 Main St., 845-454-4525 ;
Poughkeepsie- Teen Room open @ Adriance Library, 2-8 pm, 93 Market St., 845-485-3445 ;
Poughkeepsie- Toddler Time @ Bounce! Trampoline Sports, Tuesdays & Fridays. 11 am – 12 pm;
Thursdays 1– 2 PM, For children up to 6 years old. $10 for parent & child combination, $8 for each
additional child. The children can enjoy all areas of our trampoline park, even the regular Bounce!
area! Please call in advance to check for schedule changes or check our homepage! 845-206-4555,
e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com, 2 Neptune Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 ; (updated 3/2017)
Poughkeepsie- Bounce! Trampoline Sports, 3-7 pm, $12/first hour, $10/each additional
hour, $18/90 minutes, Thursdays are also College Night- see website for discount, all
sessions must END on the hour, reserve jump time in advance via phone: 845-206-4555,
e-mail: email@example.com ; hours change beginning & end of school year
Poughkeepsie- Teen Resource Activity Center (T.R.A.C.) @ Family Partnership Center L07 & Gymnasium, M-R,
3-8:30 pm, We're bringing fun back to the community by providing food, recreation and opportunities for a promising future. ADVANCED REGISTRATION REQUIRED, 29 North Hamilton St., 845-452-1110 x 3505 ;
Poughkeepsie- K1 Speed Poughkeepsie, Indoor Go-Karting Center, 12-10 pm, Annual license: $6, Arrive & Drive
(1 walk-in race*, on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations.) for $19.99, WEEKDAY SPECIAL: 3
Races for $39, 2001 South Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601, Next to Regal Cinemas at the Poughkeepsie
Galleria, 845-297-5409 ; *1 Race= 14 Lap Standard Adult Race or 12 Lap Standard Junior Race
Poughkeepsie- Late Night @ The Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center, Thursday, April 27, 2017, 5-9 pm, FREE,
Enjoy extended gallery hours in an enlivened atmosphere with creative happenings every week. Late Night at
the Lehman Loeb is made possible by the generous support of the Jane W. Nuhn Charitable Trust. The Lehman Loeb Art Center's collections chart the history of art from antiquity to the present and comprise over 19,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, textiles, and glass and ceramic wares. Wheelchair accessible. 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604, (845) 437-5237 ; (updated 3/2017)
Red Hook- Greig Farm, 8 am-6 pm, pick your own fruits and vegetables, visit & feed the
pygmy goats behind Gigi Market (227 Pitcher Lane), and the Koi fish in the pond behind
Grandiflora Nursery (144 Pitcher Lane), 223 Pitcher Ln, 845-758-1234 ;
Red Hook- Art Class for Kids! Taught by Rowan Willigan @ The D'amby Project, THURSDAYS, 3:30- 4:30 pm, $20/ class, Ages 10 & up, Join me for this fun art class! Students will focus on multiple techniques and work
with a number of mediums. We'll explore watercolor, charcoal, collage, still-life and experimental creation.
All you need to bring is a sketch book and your imagination! REGISTRATION REQUIRED, 7270 South
Broadway, Red Hook, NY 12571, Email: firstname.lastname@example.com, www.rowanwilligan.com ; (updated 9/2017)
Red Hook- Tasty Tunes Open Mic @ Taste Budd's Cafe, 6:30-8:30 pm, Sign up for
2 songs or ten minutes between 6-6:30 pm, 40 West Market St., 845-758-6500 ;
Red Hook- Montgomery Place, Admission by Timed Tours Only: 10:30am, 12pm, 1:30pm, 3pm, $10,
Members + Children under 3: FREE, the 380 acres of scenic views, majestic old trees, and formal
gardens of Montgomery Place make it an ideal, tranquil spot for enjoying nature and landscape.
Grounds open year-round, 845-758-5461, GPS address: 26 Gardener Way ;
Red Hook- Kindermusik: Sing & Play* @ with Miss Beth & Friends Studio, Thursdays, 9/11/14- 5/28/15,
9:30-10:15 am, ages 1-2y4m, $62/month, REGISTRATION REQUIRED, e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com, 7362 South Broadway, 845-532-0726 ; * CHECK WEBSITE FOR MORE THURSDAY CLASSES
Rhinebeck- Community Story Time @ Waddle N' Swaddle, 11-11:30 am, bring your favorite books to share or
just come and listen! e-mail: email@example.com , 41 E. Market Street, Suite 4, 845-876-5952 ~
Rhinebeck- Land of Oz Toys & Gifts, 11 am-6 pm, 845-876-1918, Email: firstname.lastname@example.com,
41 East Market Street ;
Rhinebeck- Burger Hill Park, open 365 days/year, dog walking with leash, bird
watching & walking, from 9 am -dusk, 2.5 m from intersection of Rt. 9 & Rt. 9G ;
Rhinebeck- Toddler Storytime @ Starr Library, 10:15-10:45 am, stories, songs and crafts
with Ms. Cindy! 68 West Market St., 845-876-4030 ;
Rhinebeck- Preschool Storytime @ Starr Library, 11-11:45 am, stories, songs and crafts
with Ms. Cindy! 68 West Market St., 845-876-4030 ;
Rhinebeck- Wilderstein Historic Site, Grounds open daily 9 am-4 pm, Tours run every half hour between 12 & 3:30 pm May-October, The estate consists of 40 acres created over a century ago in the American Romantic Style by landscape architect Calvert Vaux who created an intricate network of carriage drives, walks, and trails adorned
with specimen trees and ornamental shrubs, 330 Morton Road, 845-876-4818
Rhinebeck- Craft Night @ Starr Library, 3rd Thursday of each month, 7 pm, 68 W. Market St., 845-876-4030 ;
Staatsburgh- Staatsburgh State Historic Site, 11 am-5 pm, last tour at 4 pm, $8 Adults, $6 Students/ Seniors, $10/$8 Special Theme Tours, Children 12 & under free A 79-room mansion overlooking the
Hudson River. A time capsule of the Gilded Age, Staatsburgh retains its original furnishings and
opulent décor. 845-889-8851, Old Post Road, April through October
Stanfordville- Knitting @ Stanford Free Library, 1st, 3rd & 5th Thursdays of each month, 7-8:30 pm,
Come join us for knitting, tea and conversation, All Levels Welcome, 845-868-1341, 14 Creamery Road ;
Wappingers Falls- Bowdoin Park, open all year, 9 am-5 pm, picturesque 301 acre park located
on the banks of the Hudson River, open areas for picnicking & an award-winning handicapped-
accessible playground area, 85 Sheafe Rd., 845-298-4600 ; hours through March 2015
Wappingers Falls- Artistic You, Walk-in hours 10:30 am-7 pm, sitting fees are $10/adult & $8/children,
ceramic pieces start at $7, in the Summerlin Plaza, 946 Rt. 376, Suite 10, 845-632-1671 ;
Wappingers Falls - Stony Kill Farm Environmental Center, 79 Farmstead Lane,
845-831-8780, grounds are open dusk til dawn, 365 days a year ;
Ulster County
Accord- Saunderskill Farms, Tuesday-Sunday 7 am-6 pm, July - Mid October: Pick your own raspberries, October Weekends: Pick your own Pumpkins begins, Tractor-Drawn Hay Rides, Horse-Drawn Hay Rides, weekends in October 1-4PM, Free Corn Maze, Hudson Valley Draft Horse Association Fall Harvest Day, Columbus Day Weekend Antique Tractor Pull, 5100 Rt. 209, 845-626-2676 (April-October, Bakery only November & December)
Accord- Skate Time 209, 3-6pm & 6-9 pm, Roller Skating Admission $8.75,
Roller Skate Rental $3, Skateboard Park Admission $10.75, Helmut Rental $3,
All Day Pass $24.75, 5164 Rt. 209 at Mettacahonts Road, 845-626-7971 ;
Gardiner- Great Fours & Fives Story Time @ Gardiner Library, 1:30-2:30, 845-255-1255, 133 Farmer's Turnpike ;
Gardiner- Family Game Night @ Gardiner Library, 6:30-7:30 pm; Also, Group Guitar Lessons
for Kids, 5:15-6:15 pm, $30/month for 2 classes (every other week- alternates with adult
classes- check schedule), all ages & abilities, 133 Farmers turnpike, 845-255-1255 ;
Gardiner- Co-ed Gymnastics Ages 13+ *@ Ultimate Gymnastics, 3:15-4:30 pm, $210/ 10 week semester, $25/class, annual insurance fee of $50 is payable in September & pro-rated as the year goes on,
28 Osprey Lane, e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com, 845- 255-5600 ; * Also, 4:30-5:30 pm
Girls 5-7/ 4:30-5:45 pm Girls 7-9 (advanced- invitation only)/ 5:40-6:40 pm Boys 5-7, Boys 7-9 &
Girls 9-13/ 6:45-7:45 pm Skills & Drills ($10)/6:45-8 pm Adult Tumbling (ages 13-100) ;
Gardiner/ New Paltz- Mohonk Mountain Preserve, Visitor Center and immediate grounds open 365 days/year (Visitor Center limited holiday hours), hikers pay $12 fee for day and bikers and climbers pay $17 fee for the day, children ages 12 & under are free and must be accompanied by an adult, 845-255-0919, 3197 U.S. 44/Rte. 55 ;
Highland- Franny Reese State Park, open dawn til dusk, 251 acres, magnificent view of the Hudson River,
bird watching, biking, hiking, dog walking, X-country skiing & snowshoeing, 845-255-0753, Haviland Rd. ;
Kerhonkson- Kelder's Farm & U-Pick, 10 am-6 pm, U-pick fruits and vegetables, Farm market, greenhouse, petting zoo, corn maze, mini-golf, jumping pillow, 845-626-7137, Email: firstname.lastname@example.com, 5755 Rt 209 ;
Kerhonkson- Lake Minnewaska Beach Open, 11:15 am - 6:45 pm, The beach at Lake Minnewaska will open today
for the swimming season. The small beach, which is located along the northwestern shore of Lake Minnewaska,
will be open seven days per week until Labor Day, staff and weather permitting. 5281 Route 44-55,
Kerhonkson, NY 12446, 845-255-0752 ; Saturday, June 20, 2015 through Labor Day
Kingston- Hudson River Maritime Museum, 11 am-5 pm, $7/Adult, $5/ Senior (62+), $5/ ages 5-18, FREE ages 4 & younger, active military & members, 845-338-0071, e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com, 50 Rondout Landing ; May-October
Kingston- Indoor Playplace @ McDonald's, 5-11 pm, for children 4'tall & under,
ages 3-12, 555 Albany Ave., 845-331-6794 ;
Kingston- 98.5 The Cat's Kids Club @ the Hudson Valley Mall, 1st Thursday of every month,
6-7:15 pm, Join us for music, games and fun! 1300 Ulster Avenue, 845-336-8000 ;
Kingston- Forsyth Nature Center, 7 am-5 pm, (9 am-5 pm holidays), 24 animal exhibits
and a dozen gardens, 157 Lucas Avenue, 845-339-3053 ;
Kingston- ¡Hora de Cuentos! / Bi-Lingual Family Story @ The Kingston Library, 4:30- 5:30 am, Children and their families are invited to enjoy stories, rhymes, songs & fun in English & Spanish, 55 Franklin St., 845-331-0507 ;
Kingston- The Senate House, 10 am-5 pm, $4/$3/ ages 12 & under free, Guided tours take you through
the kitchen, family room, and parlor of an 18th century Dutch home and end in the room where the first
New York State Senate met in 1777. Visitors will also learn about life in Kingston in the 18th century
and Kingston's role in the creation of the New York State government. 296 Fair Street, e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com, 845-338-2786 ; April 15 through October 31
Kingston- Hasbrouck Park, open dusk til dawn, 845-331-3701, on Delaware Ave., next to JFK Elementary ;
Kingston- Kingston Playspace, Free, Open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays
week after Thanksgiving, 9 am-2 pm, Murphy Midtown Center, 467 Broadway ;
Kingston- Fun-E Farm, Monday-Saturday hours: 10 am - 8 pm, The Fun-E Farm is home to a wide array of inflatable structures including bounce houses, obstacle courses, slides, interactive bubbles and toddler bounces!
Socks are required. Must sign waiver. No outside food or beverages. 1300 Ulster Ave., Hudson Valley
Mall, $9.99 for all day, http://www.fun-efarm.com/barnyard-bouncin/ ; (updated 4/2017)
Kingston- The Little Gym of Kingston's Thursday Class List, join at any time price will be prorated,
9:45 am: 19m-3y/ Beasts/Super Beasts; 10:30 am & 3 pm: 3-5y, Funny Bugs/Giggle Worms; 5:30 pm:
5-12y, Good Friends/Hot Shots/Flips; 1 pm: 3-4y, Mini Jacks; 4:30 pm: 4-6y, Hip-hoppers; 4pm: 4-6y Chopsticks; 1200 Ulster Ave., 845-382-1020 ;
Kingston- T. R. Gallo West Strand Park, Picnic Areas, Bathrooms (Seasonal), Waterfront Promenade,
Gazebo, Marina, Kayak Dock/Launch, Birdwatching, Urban Cultural Parks Visitor Center, located at
the foot of Broadway, 845-331-0080 ;
Kingston- Hutton Park, Pavilion, Bathrooms (Open Seasonally), Tennis Courts, Picnic Area, New Playground,
Baseball Diamond, Handball Court, Basketball Court, located on Grant St. & Clifton Avenue, 845-331-0080 ;
Kingston- Block Park, Pavilion, Bathrooms (Open Seasonally), Basketball Court, Picnic Area, Playground, Softball
Field, Handball Court, located on Abeel St. near the new Rondout Creek Waterfront Walkway, 845-331-0080 ;
Kingston- Loughran Park, Pavilion, Picnic Areas, Bathrooms (Seasonal), Tennis Courts, Basketball Court, Baseball Field, Playground, located on Manor Place and Charlotte Street, near Albany Avenue, 845-331-0080 ;
Modena- Storytime with Crafts @ Plattekill Public Library, 10:30 am, Rt. 32 with Miss Barbara, 845-883-7286 ;
New Paltz- New Paltz Play Space, 9-11 am, 1 Veterans Drive Tuesdays & Thursdays ;
New Paltz- Historic Huguenot Street, 10 am-5 pm, Guided Tour: $10/ Seniors & military $8/ free for
Members. In-the-Moment Tour: $15/ Members, seniors & military $12, a National Historic Landmark
District, Encompasses 30 buildings across 10 acres that was the heart of the original settlement,
including 7 stone houses that date to the early eighteenth century. 81 Huguenot Street, 845-255-1660 ;
re-opens May 2015
New Paltz- Cruisers Playgroup @ New Baby New Paltz, 10-1 pm, Ages 6-18m, $5 Drop-in/
first class free, 15 Plattekill Avenue, 845-750-4402, drop-in $5/ first class free ;
New Paltz- The Inner Wall, indoor climbing space, 12-9 pm, 845-255-7625, behind Rite Aid off of W. Main Street
Pine Hill- Belleayre Beach, 10 am-6 pm, $3/person, $10/carload ( less than 8 passenger van), Row boats:
$10/ hour or $20 for 4 hours, Pedal boats and kayaks: $10/ hour, We offer swimming, picnicking,
horseshoe pits, volleyball, basketball, row boat, pedal boat and kayak rentals, fishing and great
relaxation!! 845-254-5202, 33 Friendship Manor Road ; 6/20/15 through Labor Day
Rosendale- Rosendale Youth Center, 3-9 pm, for those under age 21, Closed Federal Holidays, FREE,
Offers a variety of recreational equipment for indoor enjoyment such as pool, table tennis,
foosball, video games, board games, computer games, a TV, DVD/VCR, stereo, toys & puzzles.
Sports equipment available for sign out to be used at the park include softball, tennis, volleyball,
teeball, basketball, badminton, football and jump ropes. 1055 Route 32, 845-658-8982 ;
Saugerties- OPUS 40 Sculpture Park & Museum, Thursdays=Sundays, 11 am-5 pm, $10 per adult/ $7 students
and seniors/ $3 school age children (age 6-12)/ Children under 6 free with an adult. Constructed by one man, Harvey Fite, using dry-key stone techniques adapted from the Mayans, Opus 40 is made from millions of pieces
of indigenous bluestone, laid by hand, creating a labyrinthine world of finely fitted stone, swirling with ramps and terraces constructed around pools and trees and fountains, rising out of bedrock a half mile deep. No dogs allowed. Picnicking on the grounds is welcome. 845-246-3400, 50 Fite Road, Saugerties, NY 12477
Saugerties- The Inquiring Mind Book Store and Cafe, Thursday hours: 11 am-9 pm, CHESS CLUB EVERY THURSDAY 7-8 PM, A large Selection of Books, Excellent Live Music, Free WiFi, Melissa & Doug Toys,
children's art supplies, Stationery and an amazing coffeehouse offering a wide variety of specialty coffees,
teas and desserts by Sugar Me Sweet Bakers, 65 Partition Street, 845-246-5775 ; (updated 4/2017)
Saugerties- Saugerties Playgroup, Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from
10 am to 1 pm, above the firehouse @ Donlon Auditorium, 43 Partition St. ;
Saugerties- Kiwanis Ice Arena's Public Skating, 6:30 am - 8:00 am, 10:15 am - 11:45 am, 12-1:30 pm,
1:45 pm-3:15 pm, $6/ $4/ ages 5 & under free, 845-247-2590, 6 Small World Avenue ;
Saugerties- creative youth studio @ fiber flame, 3:30-5 pm, ages 5+, $20/ 1 classes, $72/ 4 classes, $150/ 10 classes, (classes do not have to be consecutive), REIGSTRATION REQUIRED, 1776 Route 212, 845-679-6132 ;
Woodstock- The Golden Notebook, Woodstock's Indie Bookstore, 10 am-6 pm, 29 Tinker St., 845-679-8000 ;
Woodstock- Boxing Conditioning with Tom Pignone, 6-7 pm, $10/CLASS, $25 FOR 3, $100 FOR 12 CLASSES,
Tom's Boxing Conditioning class consists of a combination (no pun intended) of drills that build endurance,
strength and speed. While having fun it is also a means to gain confidence and learn the mechanics of the
sweet science of boxing. It's fun for male and female alike and all ages from about 12+, also on Tuesdays 6-7 pm
& Mondays 5:30-6:30pm, 20 Mountain View Ave., 845-679-090 1 ;
Woodstock- Woodstock Youth Center, 3-8 pm, ages 11-19, a variety of recreational and
educational opportunities, 6O Rock City Road, e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com, 845-679 2015 ;
Columbia County
Cairo- KidZone, Indoor Playground, 10 am-3 pm, $8/ parents free/ under 12 months free,
467 Main St., 518-622-8088 ;
Germantown- Third Thursday Bard Math Circle @ Germantown Library, 4-6 pm, Come explore hands-on math, puzzles and games, and challenging problems. The Bard Math Circle seeks to nurture mathematical appreciation
and understanding in students. Geared toward middle school and upper elementary students, but all are welcome! To learn more, visit http://www.bardmathcircle.org, 31 Palatine Park Road, 518-537-5800 ;
Ghent- The Fields Sculpture Park and Visitor Center @ OMI International Arts Center,
open daily, dawn til dusk, 518-392-4747, 1405 Rt. 22 ;
Hillsdale- Toddler "Wiggle" Time @ Roeliff Jansen Community Library, 10:30-11 am, ages 2-5,
stories, movement & music, 9091 Rt. 22, 518-325-4101 ;
Hudson- FASNY Museum of Firefighting, 10 am-5 pm every day, 117 Harry Howard Ave., 518-822-1875,
Adults $5, Children ages 5+ $2, under 5 free ;
Hudson- Olana State Historic Site, open year-round, 8 am to sunset, 250-acre integrated
environment of famed Hudson River School painter Frederic Edwin Church, The landscape,
esigned by Frederic Church, offers an extensive network of carriage drives to explore, visitor
center, mansion is open by guided tour, $5/vehicle on weekends May–October 10 am-4 pm,
All other times admission to the grounds is FREE, 518-828-0135, 5720 Route 9G ;
Hudson- $7 Thursdays @ Jump for Fun, 10 am-6 pm, $7, activities for children ages 1-12 & under 5':
varies due to the size and physical abilities of children, no outside food (except for severe food allergies),
Columbia Plaza, 350 Fairview Ave., 518-828-1982 ;
New Lebanon- Bright Beginnings Storytime & Play Group, 11 am-1 pm, ages 0-5, free,
open to all, 550 Rt. 20, 518-794-8844 ;
Stanfordville- Preschool Story Time for 4 year-olds @ Stanford Free Library,
9:30-10:15 am, REGISTRATION REQUIRED, 14 Creamery Rd., 845-868-1341 ;
Sullivan County & Greene County
Bethel- The Museum at Bethel Woods, 10 am-7 pm, Adults $15/ Seniors (65 and up) $13/
Youth (8–17) $11/ Children (3–7) $6/ Children under 3 are free, Vibrant, interactive exhibits,
programs, and events celebrate the 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair and the entire decade\
that it came to represent. 200 Hurd Road, 845- 583-2079
Catskill- Bailiwick Ranch, 10 am-6 pm, $15/ $10 for ages 4-12/ FREE ages 3 & under AND those
with MILITARY ID, A walk through park with a playground, Picnic area, Train rides, Exotic and
Domestic animals to pet and feed, Daily ed-zoo-cational Shows, Horseback Riding, Trail Rides,
Pony Rides, Paintball, 118 Castle Rd., 518-678-5665 ; May- October
Hunter- Scenic Skyride @ Hunter Mountain, July 1 - Sept. 7: Wednesday-Monday, 11am-4pm: Mon, Wed, Thurs
& Fri: 11am-4pm, Sat: 10am-5pm, Sun: 10am-4pm, Labor Day (Monday Sept. 7th): 10am-4pm, Sept 12 - Oct 18: Saturdays & Sundays: 10am-4pm, Columbus Day (Monday Oct 12th): 10am-4pm, Adult (ages 13+): $12/ Junior
(ages 7-12): $8/ Senior (age 65 and over): $10/ 6 and under: Free with paid adult/ NEW! Skyride Season Pass- $39, Open weather-permitting, Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 18.
No carried infants will be permitted. Children must be 36" or taller to ride the Skyride. Paid Festival
admission is required to enter the Festival grounds on the weekends of August 8-9 and August 15-16.
800-486-8376, 64 Klein Avenue, Hunter , NY 12442; Memorial Day-Columbus Day Weekends

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Apostle Paul wrote in his letter to the Romans: "…we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. —Romans 5:2-5
MPWM faithful reader, do you like pain? Do you like suffering? I certainly don't. I reach for pain relief meds at the slightest sign of a headache. How and why should we rejoice in our suffering? Suffering is uncomfortable and painful.
Do you think Paul was speaking only of himself, perhaps in third person? I think not. Based on my belief in the inspired authenticity of the Bible, I believe he's talking to Christian believers today. Reading Paul's letters, it's obvious that he had his share of suffering—painful experiences, troubles, trials and hardships.
In 2 Corinthians 11:24-27, Paul listed all he endured: 24 Five times I received at the hands of the Jews the forty lashes less one. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I was adrift at sea; 26 on frequent journeys, in danger from rivers, danger from robbers, danger from my own people, danger from Gentiles, danger in the city, danger in the wilderness, danger at sea, danger from false brothers; 27 in toil and hardship, through many a sleepless night, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure. 28 And, apart from other things, there is the daily pressure on me of my anxiety for all the churches.
(Can you believe the audacity to complain about having to wait in rush-hour traffic?) Also, in his letter to the church at Philippi, which was written during imprisonment, Paul expressed his desire to know Christ better by partnering with Him in his suffering. Enduring much suffering for the cause of Christ taught Paul to be content in all circumstances. He encouraged the Philippians to cultivate this same ability. (Philippians 3:10-11; 4:11).
The idea of Christians suffering today is frowned upon. The message of suffering is no longer on our list of sermon topics or Bible Study teaching series in the local church. On the rare occasions that the subject of suffering comes up it is directed toward foreign countries plagued by enormous hardships, persecution, and suffering. Yet, in America the reality of suffering, hardships and adversity among Christians is evident by the long prayer lines, many prayer requests. Since suffering is on the rise, perhaps now is the time to teach people how to rejoice and not lose hope during tough times.
The disadvantages and distresses of life are more prevalent in our time than during Apostle Paul and the early Christians lifetime. Why? It's a different world—larger population, different culture, along with changing socioeconomic factors. Without a doubt, life can be hard and painful…brutal in fact! The main point of emphasis Paul makes is that of our attitude during suffering. While going through the adversities of life, we must always have hope—an expectation that troubles won't last always. Having this hope gives us a reason to rejoice…envision better. Secondly, we are able to rejoice when we "know" there is purpose for our pain. Knowing that God is intentional in allowing us to experience the unpleasantness and vicissitudes of life should motivate us. Our motivation is based on our knowledge of God. Know this: whatever God allows is to empower us to be better, do better, live better, and have a better relationship with Him; living in harmony with His plan for our lives. Ultimately, suffering is a process that produces Christ's character in us.
How should I rejoice in suffering? By continuing to give God praise, being thankful and worshiping the Lord Jesus Christ in spite of hardships, trials and tribulation. Why should I rejoice? My hope (expectation) is solidified by my knowledge of what the outcome will be. (God always causes us to triumph in Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14). Although we have disappointments in life, hope and faith in God will not result in disappointment. He pours into us His love, which will sustain us through all life's ups and down.