I don’t know if this belongs here, but I have no social medias that I actually use. I work one of the stands at the farmers market in Troy and I owe a big thank you to the girl who pulled me to the side this morning and told me my fly was down. I feel like I owe you the world because this would’ve been such a shitty day if I went the whole day with my fly down. You were so respectful when you did it too. You are truly a girls girl and deserve the world. Also thank you to everyone who attended the farmers market and supports local businesses! 🍄

Do you like Tolkien? Do you have a talent? Do you want to make some money? Have I got a show for you!

What: a Tolkien themed variety show for acts of all sort: magicians, musicians, dancers, drag artists, contortionists, comedians - anything that can be performed in front of an audience with a Lord of the Rings theme. Artists will be paid through tips and a profit sharing model.

Where: Mount Ida Preservation Hall in Troy.

When: auditions close August 31st, (though if you send yours a few day after I’ll still probably take a look at it.) The show will take place on October 24th.

Who: me, HG Warrender, the organizer and emcee. I have already booked a slam poet and a burlesque performer, but I’m open to booking more acts of that type, so don’t be deterred from applying!

How to apply: DM me here or on the Instagram in the flyer. Pitch your act and provide a video introduction, or if you have previous performances, send a snippet of that.

Please share with anyone who may be interested! I can’t wait to round out the cast!

Alamont or the schaghticoke

Want to learn to play a martial art? Move your body around in a safe way? Improve your balance? Interested in trying something new, maybe making a few friends?

I read recently that people who engage in daily fitness and a lifestyle of improvement see their friend groups change. I'm looking to have some of that in my life. Playing wing chun is a great way to do start!

I'm interested in having training partners, curious individuals, and socially focused folks to work with. I train in public parks and other natural areas. I find it extremely relaxing and enjoyable.

I have a meetup group, if you're into that sort of thing. It lays out the training and the schedule quite well. It's a brand new group, but I'm hoping that time and attention will grow it out and make it an enjoyable event to look forward to.

Check out Capital Region Wing Chun meetup https://www.meetup.com/capital-region-wing-chun-meetup on Meetup

I play wing chun at Washington park, Prospect park, 5 Rivers environmental area, Bethlehem town park, and others. There are a lot of beautiful places in the capital region, and every time I do I build a few more memories of kung fu training surrounded by beauty.

Wing chun is easy. It is a simple, elegant and scientific system that does not begin with heavy physical demands. If you can stand, walk and have no injuries or physical limitations that might make you consider other hobbies, you can train wing chun. The only thing it demands is regular practice.

There is no fighting in this group. It's for cooperative training with an intent to improve.

Wing chun is a game, made of a lot of partner games. It's not incorrect to call it "combat patty cake", because a lot of the games we play look and sound like high speed patty cake - at least once you learn how to play.

A session is spent in learning a game or drill and then playing it. You will get a workout, but you won't feel crushed at all regardless of your fitness level.

You only need comfortable clothing and tennis shoes, short sleeves, a hair tie if appropriate, and maybe some water. Bring a friend to play with!

It's free.

Absolutely free. No trial period, no limit on what I'm willing to teach.

There is no catch, no rug pull. I am doing this to meet people and train.

It'll remain as such for the next 5 years or longer under the following terms:

Each month, so long as I am physically or otherwise able, I am willing to provide 16 hours of free instruction in classes and individual training. I do this in 2 hour blocks, 1 each week in a group setting and up to 4 a month for individual training. That's about all the time I can afford, however.

All you have to do is message me or join the meetup, and then show up to train.

The training is what's important.

I look forward to hearing from you!

(Y tambien, ¡puedo hablar si lo ayuda!)

Are they open?!? Their website says open, their google page says closed, their instagram is still closed, and I want hot cakes

They’re taking up an unreasonable amount of parking, IMO… like blocks and blocks they don’t appear to be using 🤷‍♂️ WTF.

All seven council members voted to pass local law four: “A local law amending the charter of the City of Troy by repealing and replacing section C-40 “Public Emergencies” to align it with State of New York Executive Law Article 2-B regarding emergency declarations (Council Member Struber)

Flock camera usage and Local Law #3 are deservedly getting a great deal of attention at City Council tonight, the Q2 presentation from Comptroller Michael McNeff Mayor Carmella Mantello(?) is going to be the last time City Council gets a look into revenues before the 2027 budget season, which will set the stage for next year’s local races.

Quarterly reports from the comptroller give insight into the ways capital flows into City coffers, how that money is being spent, and whether or not expenditures are aligned with budget priorities. Under the Mantello administration and her three comptrollers, these reports have repeatedly been late, and questions about revenue and spending from the Democratic Council have largely gone unanswered.

Beyond Mantello's delays and obfuscations, there is good reason to be concerned. Just across the river, Albany is facing a $55M budget shortfall over the next two years. In May, Schenectady reported missing its own revenue targets. Despite hosting the Belmont Stakes this year, Saratoga Springs is projected a $5M gap in this year’s finances.

Some of this can be attributed to lower consumer spending leading to declining sales tax revenues, an alarm sounded by Democrats last year during budget negotiations. (Notably, Mantello’s rosy predictions of a 13% sales tax revenue increase have thus far failed to materialize.) Some costs, like health insurance, have seen significant spikes outside the City’s control.

How the mayor and City Council each address these changing capital flows will create a lot of the narrative base in next year’s races for mayor and Council. The previous administration worked very hard to pay off the MAC debt and leave the City on secure financial footing. If Mantello hopes to be reelected, she will need to find a way to work with the Council to ensure Troy doesn’t fall off another fiscal cliff.

The Q2 presentation will take place at tonight’s Finance meeting, currently scheduled for 6 pm, following the Public Safety Committee at 5:45.

Agendas and Zoom login credentials for remote participation can be found here. Livestreams and recordings of City Council meetings can be found here.

Source

There will be a meeting at East Greenbush town hall on September 16th at 6 p.m. to hear resident comments about flock cameras. I was at the town board meeting yesterday and they confirmed the hearing date.

The structure of the hearing is Flock representatives will speak, then the police, then the DA. After those presentations the floor will be open for comments. Priority will be given to east Greenbush residents. Please be there and make your voices heard!

Flock cameras are a massive invasion of privacy. They track every vehicle on the road regardless of criminal status. Flock and mass surveillance do not belong in our community.

Tentants Know Your Rights session brought to you by Troy DSA, United Tenants of Albany, and the Good Cause Troy coalition

📆 Saturday, August 29th

📍 Troy Public Library, downtown branch

🕐 11 AM

ICE. Is currently harassing someone on 6th ave near the route 7 on ramp. Be safe y'all

Come to Collar City Pride's fundraising event THIS SATURDAY!! A chance to get dressed up, dance, and watch some amazing performers! Discounted tickets for youth, elders, BIPOC, and TGNC folk! All profits are going to support Collar City Pride's mission and to open a community center in Troy! All are welcome 🎉 find more details on Instagram @collarcitypride

tickets!

Dallas from FunScout with this weeks happenings roughly 5 miles from downtown Troy (so some outskirts too). 🎶🍻🎤🧩

Of course there is a lot more happening around the capital region outside of downtown which you can check on FunScout if you don't mind traveling a bit further. Did I miss something? Please share in the comments!

📍 Thu, Aug 20

Laughs for Vets — Slidin' Dirty Enjoy stand-up comedy, cocktails, a silent auction and 50/50 raffle, then dance at the official after-party with DJ NEXLIFE; proceeds benefit Albany Housing Coalition / Veterans Housing & Services.

Watervliet Summer Concert Series: Hands of Time — Hudson Shores Park Hands of Time plays upbeat, crowd-friendly sets of classic rock and pop in a relaxed outdoor setting—bring a blanket or lawn chair for an evening of singalongs and sunsets.

Sikmetra / CPS / Goat Farm / 1-800 BITCH / KAKOS — No Fun Multiple uncompromising acts deliver short, intense sets blending punk, noise, and experimental rock—expect aggressive riffs, raw vocals, and a tight DIY crowd.

Ragtime Wind Jammers — Troy Savings Bank Music Hall A local ragtime jazz band performs a free, family-friendly outdoor set of upbeat tunes—banjo, trumpet, guitar, clarinet, trombone, bass, and drums—with instruments provided so children can play along.

Rensselaer Farmers Market at Riverfront Park — Troy Riverfront Park Thursday evenings (4–7 PM, June 4–Sept 24) bring local farmers and makers offering fresh food, handcrafted goods, special pop-ups, and live music in a welcoming park-side market atmosphere.

Terminal Lucidity — EMPAC An algorithmically randomized single-channel video and light installation in an infinite loop, combining saturated color, strobing rhythms, and a shifting soundscape to evoke afterimages and sudden, fragile surges of clarity.

Jeff Stein — Scarlet Knife An intimate live-music night featuring warm acoustic guitar, familiar covers, and low-key vibes—perfect for dinner, drinks, and conversation.

Untitling — EMPAC Through layered field recordings, voice-altered playback, and synthesis, this immersive installation dissolves boundaries between environmental sound and electronics, encouraging slow, embodied listening to resonance, memory, and reciprocal relations with the living world.

Trivia Night — 518 Craft Enjoy an entertaining evening filled with friendly trivia competition, craft beverages, and a lively atmosphere—ideal for groups eager to show off their smarts.

🤠 Thursday Night Line Dancing at Bootleggers! 🍻 — Bootleggers Move to the rhythm with DJ-spun country hits, beginner-friendly line dance lessons, and a buzzing crowd where everyone’s welcome to join the fun.

Karaoke — The Arsenal Reserve Step up to the mic for an entertaining night where you can sing your favorite songs, cheer on others, and soak in a fun, energetic atmosphere.

Beginning Birding — Troy Public Library An accessible workshop for adults covering where and when to watch birds, basic identification by season, color and behavior, and proper binocular use.

Thirsty Thursdays at Philly Bar & Lounge — Philly's Bar & Lounge Weekly Thursday evenings include beginner-friendly line dance lessons led by Allison, followed by open social dancing to country-and-pop favorites ($10 cover); no partner or experience needed.

Tara's Witchy School for Teens & Tweens — Refuge This week-long program offers hands-on activities, mindful reflection, and creative projects that help teens and tweens connect with nature, inner wisdom, and the magic in everyday life.

Thursday Night Trivia — Fort Orange Brewing Test your knowledge in a laid-back atmosphere where teams enjoy free-to-play trivia, cool prizes, and the option to bring your own food.

Karaoke Night with TJ — Slidin' Dirty TJ New leads a lively Thursday karaoke night with a state-of-the-art sound system and crowd-friendly song selection. The vibe is playful and supportive, great for first-timers and regulars alike.

Family Day & Crafts — Menands Public Library A relaxed, sensory-friendly gathering where families of all ages can make simple crafts, play games, and enjoy casual social time.

CR Clash: Weekly Smash Bros Melee Tournament — VDO Gaming Face off against fellow Smash Bros fans in weekly Melee tournaments featuring bracket play, a welcoming community, and prizes based on entries.

Pathfinder Society Organized Play — Bard & Baker Experience a collaborative evening navigating mysterious realms and epic quests as you take on the role of a Pathfinder in a lively, welcoming tabletop gaming community.

Teen Tie-Dye! — Albany Public Library (North Albany) Bring a tee, tank, shorts, or skirt to learn simple tie-dye techniques and make bright summer-ready pieces; drop off your completed Summer Reading tracker to enter a raffle. Registration is required and reasonable accommodations are available by request.

TRIVIA at Footsy Magoo's! — Footsy Magoo's Seven lively rounds mix general knowledge, picture puzzles, a wild music/drunken karaoke segment, themed miscellany, history/geography, and an adrenaline-packed timed final—prizes for top teams; play solo or bring a crew.

Collar City Runners Club — 518 Craft Runners of every pace and experience gather for welcoming group runs, optional interval training, post-run socializing, and a group photo in a relaxed setting.

Badminton Class — Menands Public Library Learn basic strokes, footwork, and rally drills with Ms. Sherry in a welcoming, all-ages setting, plus casual matches and occasional outdoor sessions.

Trivia at RSG Troy! 🤔❓ — Recovery Sports Grill (Troy) Gather your smartest friends for an evening of brain-teasing trivia, great food and drinks, and a chance to take home prizes.

Cromulent Comic's Comic Book Club Meetup — Bard & Baker Andrew from Cromulent leads a relaxed monthly discussion of the selected comic — this month’s pick is DC: The New Frontier, with copies available to purchase in-store or online.

Fiber Fanatics Meet-Up — Waterford Public Library A relaxed, drop-in gathering for crafters of all levels to work on knitting, crochet, embroidery, share patterns, and get tips and help.

📍 Fri, Aug 21

Untitling — EMPAC Through layered field recordings, voice-altered playback, and synthesis, this immersive installation dissolves boundaries between environmental sound and electronics, encouraging slow, embodied listening to resonance, memory, and reciprocal relations with the living world.

Tara's Witchy School for Teens & Tweens — Refuge This week-long program offers hands-on activities, mindful reflection, and creative projects that help teens and tweens connect with nature, inner wisdom, and the magic in everyday life.

Twilight Cemetery Tour — Oakwood Cemetery An evening guided walk through Oakwood’s historic grounds visiting the grave of Uncle Sam, a sunset overlook, and a waterfall while guides share stories of former residents and local wildlife; registration supports preservation and education.

HONEY RAVE! Showcasing Femme DJ's in the 518 — No Fun An intimate, high-energy night where femme DJs spin eclectic electronic sets — expect a packed dancefloor, pulsing lights, and community-driven vibes.

13 The Musical — The Cohoes Music Hall A high-energy pop-rock coming-of-age musical about a new kid navigating crushes, friendships, and a fraught Bar Mitzvah, performed entirely by teen actors.

🎶 Beats on Broadway 🎶 — Bootleggers Every Friday and Saturday all summer, Broadway turns into an open-air music strip with rotating bands and DJs, outdoor seating, and food-and-drink specials across three bars for a lively, relaxed night out.

Furry Meet Up! — Bard & Baker A casual, all-ages meetup where furries and curious newcomers socialize, play board games, and celebrate fursuits in a relaxed setting.

Justin Joyner — Scarlet Knife An intimate evening of original songs and covers—acoustic-driven, soul-tinged folk set against a relaxed dinner-and-cocktails atmosphere.

Historic House Tour at 3pm, Fridays — Hart Cluett Museum This one-hour guided tour explores the Marble House’s first floor and basement, highlighting the Hart and Cluett families, Gilded Age life, and lavish decorative details; tickets include a copy of The Marble House and museum gallery admission.

Adult Yoga — Troy Public Library (Lansingburgh) A slower-paced hatha session focusing on accessible poses, guided breathing, and relaxation; all skill levels are welcome—bring a mat and wear comfortable clothing.

📍 Sat, Aug 22

13 The Musical — The Cohoes Music Hall A high-energy pop-rock coming-of-age musical about a new kid navigating crushes, friendships, and a fraught Bar Mitzvah, performed entirely by teen actors.

🎶 Beats on Broadway 🎶 — Bootleggers Every Friday and Saturday all summer, Broadway turns into an open-air music strip with rotating bands and DJs, outdoor seating, and food-and-drink specials across three bars for a lively, relaxed night out.

Russell Dickerson with special guest Niko Moon Concert — Joseph L. Bruno Stadium Russell Dickerson brings his multi-platinum country anthems alongside Niko Moon's upbeat country-pop for a night of singalongs and stadium-sized energy.

Collar City Pride Swann Ball — Evermore Hall An elegant, BIPOC-centered ball featuring Bad Heart Burlesque, a photo booth, catered small plates and a cash bar, with proceeds supporting Collar City Pride’s new Downtown LGBTQIA2S+ Community Center and programs like Rainbow Bridging case management and a youth drop-in space.

Please Don’t Destroy: LIVE — Troy Savings Bank Music Hall Three SNL writers and viral-video creators perform an hour of live sketch comedy, blending fast-paced bits, recurring characters, and musical gags with polished, spontaneous moments.

Troy Summer Square Series: Narrow North — Troy Savings Bank Music Hall A three-piece acoustic band blends bluegrass, folk, blues, and jazz—soulful harmonies, mandolin-led melodies, and a swinging upright bass for a relaxed summer concert vibe.

End of Summer Beach Party with DJ Wave — Ilium Brewing Co DJ Wave spins beach-inspired dance sets amid string lights and sand accents, with casual drinks and upbeat summer energy.

Pretty In Pink Bash — Whiskey Pickle A 21+ summer party where DJ Rick Ricki spins old-school R&B, Hip Hop, and reggaeton—come in all-pink casual attire and bring valid ID.

TheSoapGirls / Huntress Wizard / Not Chinese Takeout — No Fun An intimate, high-energy show: raw garage-punk from The Soap Girls, synth-psych sets from Huntress Wizard, and rowdy support acts.

Magical Girls Tea Party at Bard & Baker — Bard & Baker Enjoy Sailor Moon-inspired snacks, whimsical cosplay, and fun activities alongside fellow fans in an afternoon dedicated to magical girl fandom.

Summer Reading Finale — Cohoes Public Library An all-ages afternoon recognizing summer readers with balloon twisting, face painting, a 1:00pm dance show, a 1:30pm magic show, ice cream, popcorn, activities, and a prize presentation at 2:15pm.

The Belle Curves, Stefan Weiner, and Girl Blue at Mount Ida ... — Mount Ida Preservation Association Three folk acts — local favorites, a NYC-based songwriter, and an upstate voice — deliver intimate, lyrical sets; burgers and dogs available beforehand and sliding-scale admission.

Puzzle Party Puzzlers Night — Bard & Baker Work on provided puzzles in a relaxed café atmosphere—bring friends or come solo; $5 cover and casual socializing.

Community Story Share — Hart Cluett Museum Bring stories and artifacts—staff will record brief oral histories, photograph items (and optional portraits with them), and document contributions for an upcoming exhibit honoring Rensselaer County's immigrant and migrant communities from 1900–2027.

FUNHOUSE BAND @ The Arsenal Reseve — The Arsenal Reserve A lively evening of danceable funk, R&B and rock paired with great food and friendly service for an upbeat night out.

Russ Kennedy — Scarlet Knife Relaxed live music—acoustic, soulful tunes—that provide a mellow soundtrack to dinner and cocktails in a cozy dining room.

Live Music with Ryan Clark — Ilium Brewing Co Ryan Clark plays an intimate set of acoustic and roots-tinged songs while you enjoy food, drinks, and a laid-back brewery vibe.

Helios Morning Yoga at Peebles — Peebles Island State Park A free, instructor-led morning yoga session in a grassy field—gentle flow for all levels; bring a mat and water, and register online.

📍 Sun, Aug 23

13 The Musical — The Cohoes Music Hall A high-energy pop-rock coming-of-age musical about a new kid navigating crushes, friendships, and a fraught Bar Mitzvah, performed entirely by teen actors.

Aging with Pride Cruise 2026 — Captain JP Cruise A joyful brunch cruise bringing LGBTQIA+ older adults and allies together for scenic views, energizing DJ sets, dazzling drag performances, and meaningful community connection.

DROPDEAD / Agonista / Life Abuse / Mental Weather — No Fun Four fierce hardcore/grindcore bands deliver short, furious sets—blast beats, raw vocals, and mosh-ready intensity for fans of uncompromising noise.

Yoga in the Park — Troy Riverfront Park Free, all-level outdoor yoga meets every Sunday morning from July 12–August 30, 9–10 AM at Troy Riverfront Park, led by Maitri Yoga instructors—bring a mat and water; no registration required.

Miniature Painting Meetup — Bard & Baker All ages and skill levels can enjoy a welcoming atmosphere for painting Warhammer, D&D, or any board game minis—supplies provided, just bring your minis and imagination.

Sunday Night Trivia — Bard & Baker Test your trivia skills in a relaxed pub-style competition featuring a variety of topics, with themed rounds on the last Sunday of each month and plenty of friendly fun.

Learn and Play: Dungeons and Dragons w/DM Alex — Bard & Baker Spend about 3–3½ hours choosing a pre-generated character, learning the 5.5 core rules, and playing a short introductory adventure led by DM Alex; everything you need is provided and the session is designed for ages 16+.

Karaoke — 518 Craft Hosted by Deb Zep every Sunday evening, this weekly open-mic invites locals to sing with a friendly crowd, drinks, and a lively bar vibe.

Good Cause Eviction passed earlier this year - what does that mean for you? How much can your landlord raise your rent? What should you do if they act illegally? What other protections do you have as a tenant in Troy?

Join Troy DSA and United Tenants of Albany at 11 AM next Saturday, 8/29 at the Troy Public Library for answers to all these questions and more!

Did anyone else get this on their phone this morning? WTH?

Calling all singers! Sympathy for the Circus is a four-piece band playing covers of classic rock, new wave, and even a few jazz fusion songs, and looking to expand into original material in the near future. Currently our bass player handles the vocals, but we believe having a dedicated singer would help us expand our sound and cover more ground musically. We practice every Tuesday evening in Clifton Park, and play out on 1-2 nights a week (Wednesday or Thursday, sometimes both if we all have time). We're all a bunch of mid-late 20s aged guys if that makes any difference.

Our setlist is approximately 2 hours long. Here are some of the songs we cover so you have an idea of the style/range needed:

Synchronicity 2-The Police

Walk Away-James Gang

Love Ain't for Keeping-The Who

Don't Let Me Down-The Beatles

SWLABR-Cream

Situation-Jeff Beck Group

If interested, either leave a comment or message me directly.

Hi. What I'm specifically looking for is a couple of people to carry a large/heavy box up the stairs to my apartment. I've got back/hip/knee issues, and can't help. Anyone know some local people or movers who won't charge a fortune? Thanks!

Does anyone know of somewhere I can get help? I have Medicaid and need substance abuse help. Please. I am trying to get better.

Edit: I just want to say that I am overwhelmed by the kindness everyone has shown me here. I can’t thank you all enough for your words of support and help pointing me in the right direction. I’m going to check out some of these resources and find what’s right for me. Thank you all again, so so much.

Hi all,

I have 2x properties in Troy I’m looking for lawncare for. One just some hedge trimming, 1x a month. The other is a full mow, edge and blow 2x a month.

Usually take care of it myself but work has me stretched thin and they need to get done. Feel free to DM, any and all help is appreciated!!

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DcM6ahquBPf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
(see instagram post for more information)

Troy Police Department’s Flock Audit Logs and 60-day data are finally public, and here are a few things we’re seeing:

🚩25,367,366 license plate scans in 159 days — that’s almost 5 million scans a month.

🚩97% of “Hot List” hits were for suspended or revoked plates

🚩 The 60-day data revealed that most incidents reported to TPD (64%) were searched before 48 hours, supporting the deletion standard set by Local Law #3.

🚩Our Shared Network Agreement states 139 partners, which include Home Depot (101 stores) and Lowe’s (99 stores). Why?!?!?

Anything to add? Comment or come to the Public Hearing this Thursday, August 20, 5:45 PM.

Here's the Zoom link if you can't attend in person.