ALBANY, N.Y. — Albany’s Hudson 400th Celebration of Discovery features a variety of children’s activities and programs, all designed to engage young people on a journey to learn more about New York’s Capital City during the Quadricentennial celebration.

“Our special website for children and educators, www.albany1609.com, has some fun activities for children and families, plus information about our special educational programs,” said Michele Vennard, president and CEO of the Albany County Convention & Visitors bureau which operates the Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center at the corner of Broadway and Clinton Avenue.

A new activity for children on the website is Historic Henry. At the website, children may download a drawing of Henry Hudson to color, paste on cardboard and cut out. A journal sheet accompanies Henry and the young explorers on four journeys to local attractions such as a park [...]

During the International Year of Astronomy 2009, Dudley Observatory will be sending a science educator to schools, museums, environmental education centers, and other venues to present hands-on programs designed to entice students and their families to explore their place in the universe.

The Stewart’s Holiday Match funds will be used for the development and presentation of programs to be used in conjunction with the celebration of the International Year of Astronomy 2009.

The Dudley Observatory wishes to thank Stewart’s Shops for their positive consideration to their request for a grant.

The Chamber of Southern Saratoga County has launched a 2009 Buy Local Directory to jump-start a regional economic recovery by encouraging the buying goods and services from local businesses.

“Everyone has the ability and responsibility to make a significant impact on the economic downturn by supporting their neighbor businesses that fuel the local economy”, said Peter L. Aust, president & CEO of the Chamber of Southern Saratoga County. “By a commitment to first trying to do business with the local companies listed in this directory, this area can continue to thrive and grow.”

The 96-page directory includes both an alphabetical and categorical listing of quality local businesses from accountants to window treatments. The publication also includes contact information for government officials, information on arts, entertainment, and recreation, community organizations, school districts, health services, and places of worship.

Copies of the [...]

The Chamber of Southern Saratoga County is offering a seminar series designed especially for individuals who are thinking about starting their own business or have just begun the process.

“Traditionally, when the economy appears uncertain, individuals with an entrepreneurial spirit decide to shape their own destinies and start a new business. The Chamber wants to give those new entrepreneurs the knowledge they need to avoid the costly mistakes that many people make when they are just starting out”, said Peter Aust, President & CEO of the Chamber of Southern Saratoga County.

The unique series consists of seven seminars on topics ranging from writing a business plan to monitoring cash flow, preparing budgets, and increasing profitability. The seminars have been developed with the input of both state and local business experts and will be presented by various professionals. StartUpSmart will end with a special [...]